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The Devoted Men #1
Charming Olivia
Charming Olivia is the first of three novels in the Geary Brothers Series
Olivia Gage is a top selling clean romance novelist, but wants to write erotica. Jack Geary leads the lifestyle that Olivia wants to write about. They start talking after a sarcastic written conversation over a review of a corset that he made and a book she wrote.
Over time, they become friends and then he persuades her to spend a week with him. He reasons with her that if she hasn’t experienced erotica first hand then how is she going to write about it.
Charming Olivia is the week she spends with him, each night a different subject, whips & ropes, threesomes, MM sex club and so on. He is determined to talk her out of her clothes and into his bed. Olivia is determined that he is not going to lay a finger on her until she confesses the truth.
Over the year that he has been in contact with her, he has told her exactly what he wants to do to her. She tells him she is married and that is why she won’t succumb to his charms but she is not telling the full truth. Once Olivia reveals what the truth is to Jack, she stands no chance.
Absolutely 18+
Olivia Gage is a top selling clean romance novelist, but wants to write erotica. Jack Geary leads the lifestyle that Olivia wants to write about. They start talking after a sarcastic written conversation over a review of a corset that he made and a book she wrote.
Over time, they become friends and then he persuades her to spend a week with him. He reasons with her that if she hasn’t experienced erotica first hand then how is she going to write about it.
Charming Olivia is the week she spends with him, each night a different subject, whips & ropes, threesomes, MM sex club and so on. He is determined to talk her out of her clothes and into his bed. Olivia is determined that he is not going to lay a finger on her until she confesses the truth.
Over the year that he has been in contact with her, he has told her exactly what he wants to do to her. She tells him she is married and that is why she won’t succumb to his charms but she is not telling the full truth. Once Olivia reveals what the truth is to Jack, she stands no chance.
Absolutely 18+
254 pages, ebook
First published January 15, 2015
79 people are currently reading
460 people want to read
About the author
Grace Harper
80 books185 followersBorn and raised in Wales, in a sleepy town just outside Cardiff, Grace developed a love of stationery at a very early age. She still can’t pass a pen shop without nipping in for a quick look around.
Writing and publishing since 2012, Grace has many books in her back catalog, all in the Romance genre. They range from Rock Star Romance to Small Town Romance and Family Sagas. Be warned, her books have a high heat level!
In a nutshell?
21st Century Romance – Writing about understated powerful women. Understated love stories with a powerful message, each and every time.
Sign up to Grace's newsletter: http://eepurl.com/5-eXX
Like Grace at Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GraceHarperR...
Visit Grace's Website: https://graceharperbooks.com/
Writing and publishing since 2012, Grace has many books in her back catalog, all in the Romance genre. They range from Rock Star Romance to Small Town Romance and Family Sagas. Be warned, her books have a high heat level!
In a nutshell?
21st Century Romance – Writing about understated powerful women. Understated love stories with a powerful message, each and every time.
Sign up to Grace's newsletter: http://eepurl.com/5-eXX
Like Grace at Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GraceHarperR...
Visit Grace's Website: https://graceharperbooks.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
March 10, 2016
4.5 stars
ARK kindly provided by Gavon Publishing via Netgalley in exchange of an honest review.
This is the story of Olivia and Jack. Olivia is speaking on the phone with Jack for over a year but they have never met until now. Olivia agrees to meet him in order to gather information for her next book.
I really loved this story! I have to admit that it wasn't at all what I was expecting but I liked it. It started as a sexy read but it became a really emotional book. The plot has a fast pace and a couple of surprises that I didn't see coming. The writing is amazing! I love the way Ms. Harper writes! Olivia and Jack really took form in my head and in my heart because of Ms. Harper. The book is written from a dual POV and it's really nicely done. The only reason that I didn't give 5 full stars is the way I see a connection and not an issue in the storyline. .
Olivia is an amazing woman. I love how proud and strong she is. I love how good she stands on her feet. And I love that she is true to her heart! She is sincere to herself and to Jack and I really love her!
Jack is also an amazing guy. It took me a bit of time to realize how warm his heart is, how caring he is. Not only for Olivia, but for everyone he interacts with. I was expecting someone selfish but when I realized that he treated everyone (including his play-dates) with respect and care, I was happily surprised! He actually had me with the "hello"!
Their interactions were beautiful. Olivia and Jack are made for each other even if they didn't know about it. I loved they way they were touching each other as it was the most nature thing in the world without trying to gain something out of it but only for the sake of the contact.
The end of the story was so intense and so beautiful! I loved it! I couldn't put down this book and now that I've read it, I miss Olivia and Jack already. I would have loved an epilogue also...just to have a small glimpse of their future. I actually cannot wait to take the next book of the series in my hands and I hope that Olivia and Jack will be there somewhere too.
I definitely recommend this book to everyone who would like to read a beautiful, erotic, love story!
ARK kindly provided by Gavon Publishing via Netgalley in exchange of an honest review.
This is the story of Olivia and Jack. Olivia is speaking on the phone with Jack for over a year but they have never met until now. Olivia agrees to meet him in order to gather information for her next book.
I really loved this story! I have to admit that it wasn't at all what I was expecting but I liked it. It started as a sexy read but it became a really emotional book. The plot has a fast pace and a couple of surprises that I didn't see coming. The writing is amazing! I love the way Ms. Harper writes! Olivia and Jack really took form in my head and in my heart because of Ms. Harper. The book is written from a dual POV and it's really nicely done. The only reason that I didn't give 5 full stars is the way I see a connection and not an issue in the storyline. .
Olivia is an amazing woman. I love how proud and strong she is. I love how good she stands on her feet. And I love that she is true to her heart! She is sincere to herself and to Jack and I really love her!
Jack is also an amazing guy. It took me a bit of time to realize how warm his heart is, how caring he is. Not only for Olivia, but for everyone he interacts with. I was expecting someone selfish but when I realized that he treated everyone (including his play-dates) with respect and care, I was happily surprised! He actually had me with the "hello"!
Their interactions were beautiful. Olivia and Jack are made for each other even if they didn't know about it. I loved they way they were touching each other as it was the most nature thing in the world without trying to gain something out of it but only for the sake of the contact.
The end of the story was so intense and so beautiful! I loved it! I couldn't put down this book and now that I've read it, I miss Olivia and Jack already. I would have loved an epilogue also...just to have a small glimpse of their future. I actually cannot wait to take the next book of the series in my hands and I hope that Olivia and Jack will be there somewhere too.
I definitely recommend this book to everyone who would like to read a beautiful, erotic, love story!
July 13, 2018
****ARC was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.****
It was ok
This is a story of Olivia who is a 'clean' romance writer but wants to start writing more erotica books. She meets Jack online. He owns a lingerie company is a major playboy and into the BDSM lifestyle. After a year of chatting, he finally convinces her to spend a week with him so she can learn from him and use the experience to write her erotic books.
There were a few things that bothered me. Jack has his playdates with others while Olivia watched to gain experience during that week. While he's with other women she still falls for him? And we're supposed to think that Jack was already attracted to Olivia online even before they met in person, but it was easy for him to be with other women? I just really couldn't get past that. I think the dual POV in this book between Jack and Olivia was supposed to make us feel Jack's attraction for her, but it really just made his character seem more confusing between his feeling and his actions and therefore I really just thought he was a jerk. And Olivia, even though her story was heartbreaking, was a bit of a weak character. She really wants to write erotica romance, but she really doesn't want to experience this herself? Then why bother meeting with Jack then?
I do have to say the sexy scenes in the book were hot, which is why I'm giving this 3 stars instead of 2, but I thought the ending was a little rushed.
March 3, 2016
I received an eARC, from NetGalley and the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.
This is book one in the "Geary Brothers" series. This was a hot, emotional and sometimes tissues are needed. Olivia Gage is a top selling romance writer but her books are pretty 'clean'. Olivia is want to get into writing romance erotic books. Olivia starts a friendship with Jack Geary who commented on a review she had left. When they finally meet the after he talks her into spending a week with him. Things get pretty steamy/hot. Great book to read and can't wait for the next book to come.
This is book one in the "Geary Brothers" series. This was a hot, emotional and sometimes tissues are needed. Olivia Gage is a top selling romance writer but her books are pretty 'clean'. Olivia is want to get into writing romance erotic books. Olivia starts a friendship with Jack Geary who commented on a review she had left. When they finally meet the after he talks her into spending a week with him. Things get pretty steamy/hot. Great book to read and can't wait for the next book to come.
August 3, 2016
For the past year Olivia has been speaking with Jack, either online via his business website, through emails, on the phone, or text messaging him, now she has finally agreed to meet with him in order to get some help with her next book. Olivia is a romance writer and would like to venture into erotica but she has no knowledge of the BDSM aspect she wishes to write about and that is where Jack can help her.
Jack is into the BDSM lifestyle and has been for quite a while, he has many lovers and they each know that there are others in his life and he is not looking for anything more than a "play-date." While Olivia is visiting Jack he takes her on his play-dates so she can witness first hand (from a voyeur's perspective) what BDSM is about. The thing I liked most about Jack is that he has a softer more vulnerable side that he lets Olivia see and no one else.
I struggled at first with this book because Olivia mentions quite a few times that she is a married woman and it isn't until about 47% through the story that we find out more about her husband, but during that time Jack continuously tries to put the moves on her and Olivia finds herself fantasizing about what he would do with her if she gave him the chance. There is NO CHEATING in this book, I know that is a big NO-NO for a lot of readers so I need to put that out there without giving any of the story away.
Jack's brother Elijah is a lot like his brother and I know there is more to their story than we have been told so far and I look forward to reading more about them in the next two books of the trilogy.
***I have received this book from Gavon Publishing through netgalley in exchange for my honest review*** https://www.netgalley.com/
Jack is into the BDSM lifestyle and has been for quite a while, he has many lovers and they each know that there are others in his life and he is not looking for anything more than a "play-date." While Olivia is visiting Jack he takes her on his play-dates so she can witness first hand (from a voyeur's perspective) what BDSM is about. The thing I liked most about Jack is that he has a softer more vulnerable side that he lets Olivia see and no one else.
I struggled at first with this book because Olivia mentions quite a few times that she is a married woman and it isn't until about 47% through the story that we find out more about her husband, but during that time Jack continuously tries to put the moves on her and Olivia finds herself fantasizing about what he would do with her if she gave him the chance. There is NO CHEATING in this book, I know that is a big NO-NO for a lot of readers so I need to put that out there without giving any of the story away.
Jack's brother Elijah is a lot like his brother and I know there is more to their story than we have been told so far and I look forward to reading more about them in the next two books of the trilogy.
***I have received this book from Gavon Publishing through netgalley in exchange for my honest review*** https://www.netgalley.com/
March 27, 2016
I received a copy of this book for free through NetGalley
3.5 stars
Check it out
I really enjoyed this book and the chemistry between the two main characters was off the charts. The only reason I'm not giving this a 4 star rating is because I felt that Olivia and Jack went from lusting after each other to being madly in love a little too quickly for me. There are some heartbreaking secrets revealed in this as well that give the characters a little more depth.
3.5 stars
Check it out
I really enjoyed this book and the chemistry between the two main characters was off the charts. The only reason I'm not giving this a 4 star rating is because I felt that Olivia and Jack went from lusting after each other to being madly in love a little too quickly for me. There are some heartbreaking secrets revealed in this as well that give the characters a little more depth.
May 15, 2016
The basic premise of the story is that Olivia is a writer who wants to venture into writing erotic stories. The only problem is that she has no experience in this realm, and meets someone virtually who thinks she should experience it to write it. Jack invites Olivia to come "view" his lifestyle before she takes the leap to writing in this genre.
I have to say that I really liked 50% of the book - and then the story seemed to go in an odd direction like the author had been written into a corner.
I could overlook the run-on sentences - and there were a lot and they were distracting. Up until the middle I was willing to ignore them since I was enjoying the story and the sex scenes were definitely steamy. Olivia was a great heroine with an interesting back-story and Jack was a dark, brooding hero. Together they were exactly what every story needs. Elijah, the bartender, was introduced and I was really liking the direction of the story. I was even thinking that Elijah would make a great second story.
Then the story took a weird position and everything went into high gear. It went from a whole "hands off" policy to "everything is now forgiven so let's do it". I just didn't buy it. Then once the big announcement was made, it made me question the rest of the book. Things were said at the beginning of the book that didn't mesh with where the story had gone. This was when I started to notice the grammatical errors more and they really started to annoy me.
** Spoilers ahead **
Once Olivia says she is no longer a widow, it made me question other conversations. At the beginning of the book, Olivia says something about her husband being very upset if he knew where she was going. Present tense. At this point, her husband is dead so the tense was all wrong. There were also other conversations where she made it sound like he was alive. This happened even when she was having the "big reveal" picnic with Jack. The tense was all wrong
Better editing was definitely needed with this book. Maybe that would have helped save the story because up until then, I was definitely enjoying it. Editing would have helped with the run-on sentences and the tenses of the conversations.
I have to say that I really liked 50% of the book - and then the story seemed to go in an odd direction like the author had been written into a corner.
I could overlook the run-on sentences - and there were a lot and they were distracting. Up until the middle I was willing to ignore them since I was enjoying the story and the sex scenes were definitely steamy. Olivia was a great heroine with an interesting back-story and Jack was a dark, brooding hero. Together they were exactly what every story needs. Elijah, the bartender, was introduced and I was really liking the direction of the story. I was even thinking that Elijah would make a great second story.
Then the story took a weird position and everything went into high gear. It went from a whole "hands off" policy to "everything is now forgiven so let's do it". I just didn't buy it. Then once the big announcement was made, it made me question the rest of the book. Things were said at the beginning of the book that didn't mesh with where the story had gone. This was when I started to notice the grammatical errors more and they really started to annoy me.
** Spoilers ahead **
Once Olivia says she is no longer a widow, it made me question other conversations. At the beginning of the book, Olivia says something about her husband being very upset if he knew where she was going. Present tense. At this point, her husband is dead so the tense was all wrong. There were also other conversations where she made it sound like he was alive. This happened even when she was having the "big reveal" picnic with Jack. The tense was all wrong
Better editing was definitely needed with this book. Maybe that would have helped save the story because up until then, I was definitely enjoying it. Editing would have helped with the run-on sentences and the tenses of the conversations.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 29, 2016
That's the strangest happily ever after story I've ever read.
Olivia Cage was a novelist who wanted to write about BDSM but was struggling with the sex scenes. She's been chatting with Jack for over a year. He was the owner of a lingerie company and an A-list womanizer. He invited her to his house to see him in action.
He thought that he would easily take her to bed and teach her the pleasures of sex. But Olivia made herself clear that she was off limits and that was something he never expected.
He lusted for her, wanted her and couldn't get her out of his head. She was getting under his skin and he was happy with that.
"I want nothing more than to put you in my pocket and take you home. I have an intense desire to take care of you."
While she was watching him give multiple orgasms to his dates, Olivia fell in love with Jack but she wasn't allowed to enjoy what he offered. She had a hidden secret that she refused to share with anybody especially Jack.
But again love comes unnoticed and makes people change their lifestyles, their beliefs and give them the strength to overcome their pains.
The book was so full of erotic scenes but between the pages there was a great love story building between Jack and Olivia.
Book provided by NetGalley.
Olivia Cage was a novelist who wanted to write about BDSM but was struggling with the sex scenes. She's been chatting with Jack for over a year. He was the owner of a lingerie company and an A-list womanizer. He invited her to his house to see him in action.
He thought that he would easily take her to bed and teach her the pleasures of sex. But Olivia made herself clear that she was off limits and that was something he never expected.
He lusted for her, wanted her and couldn't get her out of his head. She was getting under his skin and he was happy with that.
"I want nothing more than to put you in my pocket and take you home. I have an intense desire to take care of you."
While she was watching him give multiple orgasms to his dates, Olivia fell in love with Jack but she wasn't allowed to enjoy what he offered. She had a hidden secret that she refused to share with anybody especially Jack.
But again love comes unnoticed and makes people change their lifestyles, their beliefs and give them the strength to overcome their pains.
The book was so full of erotic scenes but between the pages there was a great love story building between Jack and Olivia.
Book provided by NetGalley.
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October 11, 2016
Olivia Gage is a mainstream novelist who wants to spice things up by writing erotica. Having no real life experience in the subject, she develops an online friendship with a man whose sexual exploits would make any woman’s toes curl. Jack Geary has a taste for BDSM and is more than willing to fill Olivia’s head with tales of his conquests. He is graphic in his descriptions and that sets her imagination ablaze. If she comes to see him, he’ll show her that he’s very experienced in all things sexual, which will give her enough material to write those erotic stories.
What starts as innocent banter quickly turns into a wicked flirtation. Jack wants to meet Olivia in the flesh to see if she lives up to the images that have been running through his head. Though they play a cat and mouse game for over a year, a meeting is finally set. Sparks fly and their attraction is undeniable, but Olivia aims to keep Jack at arm’s length. It’s her intent to keep this meeting strictly professional. Jack adheres to her rules and sets out to educate his apt pupil, giving Olivia a front row seat to his sexual prowess. But all this looking but not touching is driving them both crazy, and their resolves are beginning to crumble. Will Olivia and Jack break the rules and succumb to their desires or will the secrets they each hold cause them to walk away without ever knowing if it could’ve been real?
This story was cute, sexy and then it became so steamy it may fog up your windows. The sex scenes were well written and HOT, HOT, HOT! I loved Jack and Olivia. Their progression from the friend zone into maybe something more was interesting to watch. Jack wasn’t the cookie cutter elusive, brooding, male billionaire. The author took a flawed male character and actually made him likeable. I also loved that Olivia stuck to her guns no matter how hard Jack persuade her to do otherwise. The only part I didn’t totally get was when Olivia cut all ties with Jack after she returned home. Though I’m sure the author had her reasons, it didn’t seem like something Olivia would do. That aside, this book was awesome and I highly recommend it.
***ARC received from NetGalley - Reviewed for The Romance Reviews***
What starts as innocent banter quickly turns into a wicked flirtation. Jack wants to meet Olivia in the flesh to see if she lives up to the images that have been running through his head. Though they play a cat and mouse game for over a year, a meeting is finally set. Sparks fly and their attraction is undeniable, but Olivia aims to keep Jack at arm’s length. It’s her intent to keep this meeting strictly professional. Jack adheres to her rules and sets out to educate his apt pupil, giving Olivia a front row seat to his sexual prowess. But all this looking but not touching is driving them both crazy, and their resolves are beginning to crumble. Will Olivia and Jack break the rules and succumb to their desires or will the secrets they each hold cause them to walk away without ever knowing if it could’ve been real?
This story was cute, sexy and then it became so steamy it may fog up your windows. The sex scenes were well written and HOT, HOT, HOT! I loved Jack and Olivia. Their progression from the friend zone into maybe something more was interesting to watch. Jack wasn’t the cookie cutter elusive, brooding, male billionaire. The author took a flawed male character and actually made him likeable. I also loved that Olivia stuck to her guns no matter how hard Jack persuade her to do otherwise. The only part I didn’t totally get was when Olivia cut all ties with Jack after she returned home. Though I’m sure the author had her reasons, it didn’t seem like something Olivia would do. That aside, this book was awesome and I highly recommend it.
***ARC received from NetGalley - Reviewed for The Romance Reviews***
September 15, 2016
***ARC PROVIDED BY THE AUTHOR IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW***
Grace Harper was a new author to me but i was quite keen to read “Charming Olivia’ as the club made it sound quite an entertaining and steamy read and that was exactly what it was. 4 stars for this book as i really enjoyed the read.
As a straight laced romance novelist Olivia has decided she wants to venture out into writing more of an erotica genre of books. There is a problem though and quite a significant one at that, she doesn't have much erotic experience when it comes to sex so she doesn't know what to write to make it believable. This is where her online friend Jack comes into it.
Jack is into erotica and loves his lifestyle. He is very much into BDSM and offers Olivia the chance to come and watch and learn for a week. Although unsure about doing this to start off with she relents as she knows she needs some experience to pull off the writing the was she wants to. She is strict about the not getting involved and he is keen to have her.
Jack and Olivia were great characters and not what I was expecting to be honest. I had somehow assumed Jack to be uncaring and arrogant when he was anything but. It’s not often that you get pulled into believing that someone can fall for a person while watching them touch and pleasure others but thats what happens. Olivia and jack are so right for each other but she wants to keep him at arms length.
This was a steamy story but was also full of emotional moments that i just hadn't expected really and I thoroughly enjoyed that. Told from a dual point of view allowing you to get to know the characters better. There are some secrets and surprises that i wont say as don't want to spoil it but there is plenty going on to keep your attention and make you want to have more from the series. Always great to find a new author that you enjoy like this and for them to have a writing style that captivates you so am thrilled to have done just that. Definitely recommend this read and will be looking out for the rest of the series.
Reviewed by Louise G.
Grace Harper was a new author to me but i was quite keen to read “Charming Olivia’ as the club made it sound quite an entertaining and steamy read and that was exactly what it was. 4 stars for this book as i really enjoyed the read.
As a straight laced romance novelist Olivia has decided she wants to venture out into writing more of an erotica genre of books. There is a problem though and quite a significant one at that, she doesn't have much erotic experience when it comes to sex so she doesn't know what to write to make it believable. This is where her online friend Jack comes into it.
Jack is into erotica and loves his lifestyle. He is very much into BDSM and offers Olivia the chance to come and watch and learn for a week. Although unsure about doing this to start off with she relents as she knows she needs some experience to pull off the writing the was she wants to. She is strict about the not getting involved and he is keen to have her.
Jack and Olivia were great characters and not what I was expecting to be honest. I had somehow assumed Jack to be uncaring and arrogant when he was anything but. It’s not often that you get pulled into believing that someone can fall for a person while watching them touch and pleasure others but thats what happens. Olivia and jack are so right for each other but she wants to keep him at arms length.
This was a steamy story but was also full of emotional moments that i just hadn't expected really and I thoroughly enjoyed that. Told from a dual point of view allowing you to get to know the characters better. There are some secrets and surprises that i wont say as don't want to spoil it but there is plenty going on to keep your attention and make you want to have more from the series. Always great to find a new author that you enjoy like this and for them to have a writing style that captivates you so am thrilled to have done just that. Definitely recommend this read and will be looking out for the rest of the series.
Reviewed by Louise G.
March 13, 2020
3.5 STARS
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I have mixed feelings about this book. On the one hand I really enjoyed the characters, and the plot, and the way this story was written, but on the other hand I disliked certain scenes, and felt that this book was very poorly edited, which led to many parts being very confusing.
The Characters: I really thoroughly enjoyed every character in this book. I enjoyed how every character had dimensions to them. But I especially enjoyed how the main characters both held themselves back as so not to cheat. I also appreciated how Jack was kind, sweet, and caring while also being a very temping and seductive man.
The Writing: As I mentioned earlier this book could have used a lot of editing. Many sentences were run-ons, and could've used a period or semicolon to be understood properly without having to be reread several times. In that same vein, I also disliked how the chapters and paragraphs were split up as I felt they broke the flow of the story-line. Another issue was that at times, minor character's names would be changed mid-scene which was very disorienting. Lastly, I felt that at times the dialogue was very formal, but that could just be because it was written by a British author.
The Plot: I really liked the plot, but I found that it wasn't exactly what I was expecting, as I expected most of the smutty encounters to be between the two main characters, and that wasn't the case for most of the book, even though their every conversation was steamy.
Overall I really enjoyed this book, and would both read more by this author and recommend her. But I would warn you to make sure you're comfortable with the content first.
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I have mixed feelings about this book. On the one hand I really enjoyed the characters, and the plot, and the way this story was written, but on the other hand I disliked certain scenes, and felt that this book was very poorly edited, which led to many parts being very confusing.
The Characters: I really thoroughly enjoyed every character in this book. I enjoyed how every character had dimensions to them. But I especially enjoyed how the main characters both held themselves back as so not to cheat. I also appreciated how Jack was kind, sweet, and caring while also being a very temping and seductive man.
The Writing: As I mentioned earlier this book could have used a lot of editing. Many sentences were run-ons, and could've used a period or semicolon to be understood properly without having to be reread several times. In that same vein, I also disliked how the chapters and paragraphs were split up as I felt they broke the flow of the story-line. Another issue was that at times, minor character's names would be changed mid-scene which was very disorienting. Lastly, I felt that at times the dialogue was very formal, but that could just be because it was written by a British author.
The Plot: I really liked the plot, but I found that it wasn't exactly what I was expecting, as I expected most of the smutty encounters to be between the two main characters, and that wasn't the case for most of the book, even though their every conversation was steamy.
Overall I really enjoyed this book, and would both read more by this author and recommend her. But I would warn you to make sure you're comfortable with the content first.
July 19, 2016
2.5 stars...
I have so many mixed feelings about this book even days after finishing it. I struggled with Olivia watching Jack with other women. The author wants you to believe that Jack is attracted to her from even before they actually met, yet he doesn't seem to have a problem sleeping with other women right in front of her?
The other part that I struggled with was that Olivia wants to see all this because she wants to write erotic books but she doesn't want to be part of it. If that's the case, why not just watch porn? I would think that would be much easier and less awkward than being in the same room while others are having sex.
I wanted to know more about the history between Jack and Olivia. They communicate via email and text messages for over a year, yet we never get to read about that part of their history. I think it could have helped to feel the connection to the characters.
The end of the story really bothered me; Olivia's reaction in the final chapter seemed completely out of character. She acted as if she didn't care about Jack's feelings and behaved very selfishly; her carefree attitude seemed very out of character for her. Jacks' feelings towards Olivia seemed to go from lust to love incredibly fast which is where I think having some more of their back story would have helped.
** ARC received from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review **
I have so many mixed feelings about this book even days after finishing it. I struggled with Olivia watching Jack with other women. The author wants you to believe that Jack is attracted to her from even before they actually met, yet he doesn't seem to have a problem sleeping with other women right in front of her?
The other part that I struggled with was that Olivia wants to see all this because she wants to write erotic books but she doesn't want to be part of it. If that's the case, why not just watch porn? I would think that would be much easier and less awkward than being in the same room while others are having sex.
I wanted to know more about the history between Jack and Olivia. They communicate via email and text messages for over a year, yet we never get to read about that part of their history. I think it could have helped to feel the connection to the characters.
The end of the story really bothered me; Olivia's reaction in the final chapter seemed completely out of character. She acted as if she didn't care about Jack's feelings and behaved very selfishly; her carefree attitude seemed very out of character for her. Jacks' feelings towards Olivia seemed to go from lust to love incredibly fast which is where I think having some more of their back story would have helped.
** ARC received from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review **
February 22, 2016
Sorry to say, this book just did not do it for me. I love a good sexy romance. Graphic descriptions of sex or BDSM scenes don't bother me at all. In fact BDSM romance is one of my favorite genres, but this book just didn't click for me. A good portion of the book seemed to jump from one sex scene to another with little plot involved.
I just couldn't connect with the heroine and I felt that overall the story was weak in the romance/plot department. I found the heroine annoying, and even learning about her 'tragic' past didn't endear her to me. I also didn't fall for the hero at all, which is a must. I want to fall in love with the hero of the story or at the very least like him. Sadly for the first half of the book Jack seemed like a bit of a sleaze to me.
From a writing standpoint, technically there were quite a few punctuation and grammatical errors that that a good editor should have caught. I find errors like this annoying, but if I am pulled into the story I can easily overlook things like this, unfortunately in this case I just wasn't invested enough in the story to ignore it.
Sorry to say I wouldn't recommend this title to friends and would likely not bother with the next book in this series.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
I just couldn't connect with the heroine and I felt that overall the story was weak in the romance/plot department. I found the heroine annoying, and even learning about her 'tragic' past didn't endear her to me. I also didn't fall for the hero at all, which is a must. I want to fall in love with the hero of the story or at the very least like him. Sadly for the first half of the book Jack seemed like a bit of a sleaze to me.
From a writing standpoint, technically there were quite a few punctuation and grammatical errors that that a good editor should have caught. I find errors like this annoying, but if I am pulled into the story I can easily overlook things like this, unfortunately in this case I just wasn't invested enough in the story to ignore it.
Sorry to say I wouldn't recommend this title to friends and would likely not bother with the next book in this series.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
November 26, 2015
My first read by Grace Harper and I was thoroughly entertained. Olivia, a best selling author gets into an online friendship with Jack, who is far more sexually experienced than she is. When she decides she wants to brace out to write erotica, she wants to experience some scenarios to make her writing feel real, so Jack invites her to come and stay in his city for a week. During that time, he puts on some sexual displays for Olivia, who is reluctant to get involved in them herself. She watches Jack have sex with another woman, then have a menage with two other women and naturally her curiosity and need to be on the receiving end starts to grow. Both characters have pasts that affect them and interfere with the obvious chemistry and attraction they share. There were some very sexy, steamy scenes and also some heart warming tender and emotional ones. I wasn't reduced to tears, but I did feel both characters pain. I'd happily read more by this author. I was provided with a copy by the author for an honest review.
August 31, 2015
Wow. What a truly heartbreakingly beautiful tale.
Tissues will be needed (I'm sure it's not hormones ;) )
This book sucked me in.
It's like no other book I've read.
Olivia is a romance writer looking to branch out in to erotica.
An well she may have found some one to help her in the most unlikely of places.
Who knew reviews could bring friendship and companionship as well as a ready made muse ;)
Cecily is Olivia's best friend and confidant.
The only person who knows the battle Olivia has been through.
Jack is out of this world cocky but daymn it has the package to back it up. ( can I get a mail order jack or Elijah please or stick me in a jack Elijah sandwich I'm not picky :D )
This book is amazing.
Yes I may have cried a bit (possibly a lot) grace has a fabulous style of writing like spectacular. I can't wait to read more from her.
I will come back and edit my review in a few days when I've had chance to think xx
Tissues will be needed (I'm sure it's not hormones ;) )
This book sucked me in.
It's like no other book I've read.
Olivia is a romance writer looking to branch out in to erotica.
An well she may have found some one to help her in the most unlikely of places.
Who knew reviews could bring friendship and companionship as well as a ready made muse ;)
Cecily is Olivia's best friend and confidant.
The only person who knows the battle Olivia has been through.
Jack is out of this world cocky but daymn it has the package to back it up. ( can I get a mail order jack or Elijah please or stick me in a jack Elijah sandwich I'm not picky :D )
This book is amazing.
Yes I may have cried a bit (possibly a lot) grace has a fabulous style of writing like spectacular. I can't wait to read more from her.
I will come back and edit my review in a few days when I've had chance to think xx
July 20, 2016
I'll never be able to get behind a book whose main character sleeps with someone else, I don't find that sexy or entertaining. In fact, the entire probability of this being something that someone who claims to be "in love" with would be able to do and so blasé. Grammer errors and typos in addition to the cheating/multiple partners aspect written this way just didn't do it for me. I've read many stories where the multiple partner situation works, but only when they struggle with it, and ultimately discover that the feelings of love they have just discovered means they're unable to do so ever again with anyone else. Except of course when it's a mutual thing they're both 100% into. Because of these factors I can only rate Charming Olivia by Grace Harper 3.5 STARS. I would however be interested in reading another book by this author based on the writing style and interesting plot and creativity factors.
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for a honest review.
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for a honest review.
August 17, 2017
As shown on Books and Boys Book Blog.
Grace Harper was a new author to me but i was quite keen to read “Charming Olivia’ as the club made it sound quite an entertaining and steamy read and that was exactly what it was. 4 stars for this book as i really enjoyed the read.
As a straight laced romance novelist Olivia has decided she wants to venture out into writing more of an erotica genre of books. There is a problem though and quite a significant one at that, she doesn't have much erotic experience when it comes to sex so she doesn't know what to write to make it believable. This is where her online friend Jack comes into it.
Jack is into erotica and loves his lifestyle. He is very much into BDSM and offers Olivia the chance to come and watch and learn for a week. Although unsure about doing this to start off with she relents as she knows she needs some experience to pull off the writing the was she wants to. She is strict about the not getting involved and he is keen to have her.
Jack and Olivia were great characters and not what I was expecting to be honest. I had somehow assumed Jack to be uncaring and arrogant when he was anything but. It’s not often that you get pulled into believing that someone can fall for a person while watching them touch and pleasure others but thats what happens. Olivia and jack are so right for each other but she wants to keep him at arms length.
This was a steamy story but was also full of emotional moments that i just hadn't expected really and I thoroughly enjoyed that. Told from a dual point of view allowing you to get to know the characters better. There are some secrets and surprises that i wont say as don't want to spoil it but there is plenty going on to keep your attention and make you want to have more from the series. Always great to find a new author that you enjoy like this and for them to have a writing style that captivates you so am thrilled to have done just that. Definitely recommend this read and will be looking out for the rest of the series.
Grace Harper was a new author to me but i was quite keen to read “Charming Olivia’ as the club made it sound quite an entertaining and steamy read and that was exactly what it was. 4 stars for this book as i really enjoyed the read.
As a straight laced romance novelist Olivia has decided she wants to venture out into writing more of an erotica genre of books. There is a problem though and quite a significant one at that, she doesn't have much erotic experience when it comes to sex so she doesn't know what to write to make it believable. This is where her online friend Jack comes into it.
Jack is into erotica and loves his lifestyle. He is very much into BDSM and offers Olivia the chance to come and watch and learn for a week. Although unsure about doing this to start off with she relents as she knows she needs some experience to pull off the writing the was she wants to. She is strict about the not getting involved and he is keen to have her.
Jack and Olivia were great characters and not what I was expecting to be honest. I had somehow assumed Jack to be uncaring and arrogant when he was anything but. It’s not often that you get pulled into believing that someone can fall for a person while watching them touch and pleasure others but thats what happens. Olivia and jack are so right for each other but she wants to keep him at arms length.
This was a steamy story but was also full of emotional moments that i just hadn't expected really and I thoroughly enjoyed that. Told from a dual point of view allowing you to get to know the characters better. There are some secrets and surprises that i wont say as don't want to spoil it but there is plenty going on to keep your attention and make you want to have more from the series. Always great to find a new author that you enjoy like this and for them to have a writing style that captivates you so am thrilled to have done just that. Definitely recommend this read and will be looking out for the rest of the series.
June 19, 2018
Well I was enjoying the book just fine until they were in the gay bar .............
"I was totally confused with how I was feeling, aroused, embarrassed and a little ashamed. I had been brought up in an environment that didn't condone same-sex relationships."
Seriously???????? You just spent the night before watching two women have sex, three people have sex and your trying to find out about BDSM, but you have an internal struggle going on with what you are seeing between men.
This passage not only enough to make me stop reading the story, but enough to write this review.
"I was totally confused with how I was feeling, aroused, embarrassed and a little ashamed. I had been brought up in an environment that didn't condone same-sex relationships."
Seriously???????? You just spent the night before watching two women have sex, three people have sex and your trying to find out about BDSM, but you have an internal struggle going on with what you are seeing between men.
This passage not only enough to make me stop reading the story, but enough to write this review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 8, 2017
A different book to say the least. I love how it ended though:) Lots of twists and turns. I am not sure how I felt about the experiences that Jack had her sit through and how if he had feelings for her that he was still able to go through with the experiences anyways.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
August 31, 2020
This was a lovely story filled with humour, emotional in parts and a blooming love between Jack and Olivia. Quite enjoyable!
September 15, 2016
Olivia Gage is a best selling author of clean romance, but she wants to change things up and write erotica. The only problem is that she's only ever had vanilla sex. Over the past year, she's become close with an online friend named Jack Geary. And he tells her that until she has experienced erotica, she won't be able to write about it well. So he invites her to spend the week with him, and he'll arrange "play dates" for her to watch, that match the items on her list which intrigue her. Olivia is very wary about meeting him face to face, but her best friend forces her to go. Olivia makes it clear that there is no touching her. And as determined as she is for no touching, he's just as determined to make her his. When she finally reveals her secret, will she be able to still keep Jack at arms length?
So I have to start by saying, OMG WAS THIS STORY HOT HOT HOT! It's so HOT, that I'll most likely say it again and again. The character development is great, with an entertaining cast of secondaries that make the story even better. Tangible chemistry leaked out of my kindle, leading to different levels of SCORCHIN' HOT HOT HOT sexy scene goodness, and finally EXPLODES into serious FIERY FLAMES that will leave all panties in its path as piles of ashes. Grace Harper's easy writing style caught my attention from the beginning, and kept it until the last. Her HOT sexy scenes had me sweating bullets. Her talent in writing a flawed male character that I didn't resent, after some of his questionable choices, is amazing! My issue was the rushed ending, because I felt like there was a question or two that weren't answered. Nonetheless, I will be reading more by this author in the future!
So I have to start by saying, OMG WAS THIS STORY HOT HOT HOT! It's so HOT, that I'll most likely say it again and again. The character development is great, with an entertaining cast of secondaries that make the story even better. Tangible chemistry leaked out of my kindle, leading to different levels of SCORCHIN' HOT HOT HOT sexy scene goodness, and finally EXPLODES into serious FIERY FLAMES that will leave all panties in its path as piles of ashes. Grace Harper's easy writing style caught my attention from the beginning, and kept it until the last. Her HOT sexy scenes had me sweating bullets. Her talent in writing a flawed male character that I didn't resent, after some of his questionable choices, is amazing! My issue was the rushed ending, because I felt like there was a question or two that weren't answered. Nonetheless, I will be reading more by this author in the future!
July 9, 2016
**Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for honest review.**
Actual rating: 3.5
Charming Olivia was a pretty good read!
The blurb was enough to peek my interest. They say you should write what you know. Well, our Olivia wants to write erotica and doesn't have very much experience with erotic sex. In comes Jack Geary, a man with a lot of experience with matters of the heart bodies.
From the beginning, there is a mysterious cloud that surrounds Olivia in regards to her husband. We learn that she has one, early on, but very little is explained about him until further into the book. In all honesty, I thought the marriage angle was overplayed a bit too much. I began to predict that Olivia's mysterious husband had died or didn't actually exist and was just an excuse to avoid intimacy with Jack. I won't tell you what the answer was. You'll have to read it to find out.
But even though the leading lady refuses to break her vows, there is still plenty of sex happening in this book. And it is...
At first, I wasn't sure about Jack. His sexual escapades were aplenty and I began to wonder if this was going to be a romance story or just an erotica novel. But eventually, we get a first-hand look into Jack's mind (from his POV) and the softer side is shown.
The ending, however, irritated the heck out of me! After falling in love, you would think that a happily-ever-after was in the works. But instead, a stubborn character was trying to sabotage everything. The whole time, my head was screaming:
There were some noticeable typos and several spots where commas were used instead of the appropriate period. I was able to overlook that but just in case the author were to read this, I recommend running the manuscript through Grammarly (or the like) and it will catch most of them for you. :)
In closing...
Charming Olivia was a quick read with likable characters and lots of steam. I am certainly interested in reading about the other Geary men in the series. I hope one of them is Elijah, because I am already loving that guy. 3.5 suns!
Full review on blog: http://uptildawnbookblog.blogspot.com/2016/07/review-charming-olivia-by-grace-harper.html
Actual rating: 3.5
Charming Olivia was a pretty good read!
The blurb was enough to peek my interest. They say you should write what you know. Well, our Olivia wants to write erotica and doesn't have very much experience with erotic sex. In comes Jack Geary, a man with a lot of experience with matters of the heart bodies.
From the beginning, there is a mysterious cloud that surrounds Olivia in regards to her husband. We learn that she has one, early on, but very little is explained about him until further into the book. In all honesty, I thought the marriage angle was overplayed a bit too much. I began to predict that Olivia's mysterious husband had died or didn't actually exist and was just an excuse to avoid intimacy with Jack. I won't tell you what the answer was. You'll have to read it to find out.
But even though the leading lady refuses to break her vows, there is still plenty of sex happening in this book. And it is...
At first, I wasn't sure about Jack. His sexual escapades were aplenty and I began to wonder if this was going to be a romance story or just an erotica novel. But eventually, we get a first-hand look into Jack's mind (from his POV) and the softer side is shown.
The ending, however, irritated the heck out of me! After falling in love, you would think that a happily-ever-after was in the works. But instead, a stubborn character was trying to sabotage everything. The whole time, my head was screaming:
There were some noticeable typos and several spots where commas were used instead of the appropriate period. I was able to overlook that but just in case the author were to read this, I recommend running the manuscript through Grammarly (or the like) and it will catch most of them for you. :)
In closing...
Charming Olivia was a quick read with likable characters and lots of steam. I am certainly interested in reading about the other Geary men in the series. I hope one of them is Elijah, because I am already loving that guy. 3.5 suns!
Full review on blog: http://uptildawnbookblog.blogspot.com/2016/07/review-charming-olivia-by-grace-harper.html
September 15, 2025
I received an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The truth is that I didn't know the author at all and had never read any of her books. The fact is that this was a different kind of reading but still fantastic!
The story starts by introducing us Olivia, a mature woman who is also a romance novelist for quite some time. One of her goals is to improve her writing style so she starts writing erotic books. However, she lacks knowledge about it. And it's here that Jack Geary shows up.
After a year talking to each other over the phone, Olivia decides to meet Jack personally after all his persistence. Jack is the kind of man who Olivia wants to write about. So, she accepts the meeting in return for erotic experiences that she would witness.
One week is the time that both of them decide being enough for Olivia to get as much information as she needs from the erotic world. However, Olivia has a troubled past in terms of love and starts feeling guilty when she seems to be falling in love with Jack.
Over days, Olivia realizes that Jack is not who she thought he was. He's a caring and careful man, even with those women with whom he spends just one night. Meanwhile, Jack confesses that his past is very similar to Olivia's.
The interaction between these two is something special. Their relationship may be recent and they must not know a lot about each other, but the trust, the respect and the informality reign between then.
The ending was somehow unexpected but truly beautiful and sweet. When I least expected, Jack makes a decision who made him someone better and true to his feelings.
This was a book that I read without stopping and I'm not even sorry. One aspect that I would like to see/read would be an epilogue, since the ending wasn't something concrete. Overall, this was a good reading and I'm considering reading the next book of the trilogy!
The truth is that I didn't know the author at all and had never read any of her books. The fact is that this was a different kind of reading but still fantastic!
The story starts by introducing us Olivia, a mature woman who is also a romance novelist for quite some time. One of her goals is to improve her writing style so she starts writing erotic books. However, she lacks knowledge about it. And it's here that Jack Geary shows up.
After a year talking to each other over the phone, Olivia decides to meet Jack personally after all his persistence. Jack is the kind of man who Olivia wants to write about. So, she accepts the meeting in return for erotic experiences that she would witness.
One week is the time that both of them decide being enough for Olivia to get as much information as she needs from the erotic world. However, Olivia has a troubled past in terms of love and starts feeling guilty when she seems to be falling in love with Jack.
Over days, Olivia realizes that Jack is not who she thought he was. He's a caring and careful man, even with those women with whom he spends just one night. Meanwhile, Jack confesses that his past is very similar to Olivia's.
The interaction between these two is something special. Their relationship may be recent and they must not know a lot about each other, but the trust, the respect and the informality reign between then.
The ending was somehow unexpected but truly beautiful and sweet. When I least expected, Jack makes a decision who made him someone better and true to his feelings.
This was a book that I read without stopping and I'm not even sorry. One aspect that I would like to see/read would be an epilogue, since the ending wasn't something concrete. Overall, this was a good reading and I'm considering reading the next book of the trilogy!
February 23, 2016
This book was not at all what I expected! Grace Harper has a nice writing style and can make even scenes that would have otherwise been unacceptable, acceptable!
Having that said, I sort of knew this book wasn't something I usually read ... but I just wanted to know how someone (a writer, Olivia) can get attracted to a man (Jack) who she wanted to accompany for sex education!
I understand that online connections can be reliable and a year is a good time to judge a person ... at the end of the day, we listen to our heart and it is almost always right!
I did not like the vivid sex scenes with other men / women though it was part of the education and am not sure how someone can watch (Olivia) or perform (Jack) with others sexually with or without the other watching! I completely don't understand how this can work considering Olivia was attracted to Jack and vice versa ... I understand Olivia was initially off the limits for Jack so may be he was Ok to perform ... but Olivia knew that wasn't the case ... so how she participated is still a mystery to me!
They both had a similar past - both lost their better halves, both widowed and understood what it meant to the other. I would have liked more assurance from Jack's side, though he shared his story also to assure her that he can stay committed, it would have been a lot better was there more assurances, considering what she watched.
Though it looked like Romance was missing, Jack always took care of Olivia, even when he was performing with others and ensured she was comfortable, taken care of and looked out for her at all times. Their relationship progressed slowly and Jack did make sure to let know Olivia know he cared about her, at all times.
**Was provided an ARC by Net Galley and Gavon Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
Having that said, I sort of knew this book wasn't something I usually read ... but I just wanted to know how someone (a writer, Olivia) can get attracted to a man (Jack) who she wanted to accompany for sex education!
I understand that online connections can be reliable and a year is a good time to judge a person ... at the end of the day, we listen to our heart and it is almost always right!
I did not like the vivid sex scenes with other men / women though it was part of the education and am not sure how someone can watch (Olivia) or perform (Jack) with others sexually with or without the other watching! I completely don't understand how this can work considering Olivia was attracted to Jack and vice versa ... I understand Olivia was initially off the limits for Jack so may be he was Ok to perform ... but Olivia knew that wasn't the case ... so how she participated is still a mystery to me!
They both had a similar past - both lost their better halves, both widowed and understood what it meant to the other. I would have liked more assurance from Jack's side, though he shared his story also to assure her that he can stay committed, it would have been a lot better was there more assurances, considering what she watched.
Though it looked like Romance was missing, Jack always took care of Olivia, even when he was performing with others and ensured she was comfortable, taken care of and looked out for her at all times. Their relationship progressed slowly and Jack did make sure to let know Olivia know he cared about her, at all times.
**Was provided an ARC by Net Galley and Gavon Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
February 21, 2016
The Geary Brothers Book 1, Grace Harper
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Romance, erotica
I’ve mixed feelings over this, as an erotic novel it’s great, lots of hot and steamy scenes but as a romance...well, I felt that part of the story got overtaken by the sex. That's fine for many readers but I need a solid story backing up the sex and didn’t feel I had it here.
I liked both Jack and Olivia as characters, but didn’t really feel their online connections would have been strong enough to make her meet and agree to all the things she did. After all he is a total stranger, we all know online people can be and are anyone, truth can be found online but so can far too many lies.
The attraction when they met was terrific and I could feel that, but maybe its just me I couldn’t watch a man I was attracted to be with other lovers and not feel a twinge of jealousy. I’d got the idea that Olivia was going to be a participant, but (at least to begin) she’s more of a voyeur. I was puzzled too – she was happy to watch two women and be aroused (Jack was also taking part) but the next night surprised at how watching two men aroused her, and comments that she didn’t think seeing two gay men having sex would be so sensual. What's the difference to the two ladies?
I was puzzled by the married aspect, and didn’t see what was coming there – I was totally up the wrong track ;-) but I like being surprised. Its good as an erotic novel, but like I said the story aspect fell down for me. That’s personal though as always, and this will be perfect for others. We all want different things. Its first in a series so if you like this there’s more to look out for, but for me I’ll pass.
Stars: Three and a half
ARC supplied by Netgalley and publishers.
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Romance, erotica
I’ve mixed feelings over this, as an erotic novel it’s great, lots of hot and steamy scenes but as a romance...well, I felt that part of the story got overtaken by the sex. That's fine for many readers but I need a solid story backing up the sex and didn’t feel I had it here.
I liked both Jack and Olivia as characters, but didn’t really feel their online connections would have been strong enough to make her meet and agree to all the things she did. After all he is a total stranger, we all know online people can be and are anyone, truth can be found online but so can far too many lies.
The attraction when they met was terrific and I could feel that, but maybe its just me I couldn’t watch a man I was attracted to be with other lovers and not feel a twinge of jealousy. I’d got the idea that Olivia was going to be a participant, but (at least to begin) she’s more of a voyeur. I was puzzled too – she was happy to watch two women and be aroused (Jack was also taking part) but the next night surprised at how watching two men aroused her, and comments that she didn’t think seeing two gay men having sex would be so sensual. What's the difference to the two ladies?
I was puzzled by the married aspect, and didn’t see what was coming there – I was totally up the wrong track ;-) but I like being surprised. Its good as an erotic novel, but like I said the story aspect fell down for me. That’s personal though as always, and this will be perfect for others. We all want different things. Its first in a series so if you like this there’s more to look out for, but for me I’ll pass.
Stars: Three and a half
ARC supplied by Netgalley and publishers.
September 25, 2016
Sexy, sweet, and oh so, romantic...
What started out as an intense erotic adventure for Olivia, ended as a very sweet, sexy romance. Author Olivia Gage has decided to start writing erotica, but needs examples, and lots of experience to help broaden her research. Who else can offer that expertise than Jack Geary, the consummate playboy and player.
Olivia’s initial letter to Jack about a corset she bought from his lingerie company has lead to a year long conversation, albeit via texting, one that has become a comfortable, exciting friendship. Jack’s experience in the lifestyle of of kinky and casual sex would broaden Olivia’s sexual knowledge and help her leap into writing erotica. I enjoyed Jack and Olivia’s friendship and lively banter between them. I loved Jack’s character, not as a player, but as someone who genuinely cares, he���s quite the gentleman as things are revealed. He’s really more than he seems. And wow, the secrets that Olivia and Jack are keeping from each other brought a whole deluge of emotional heartbreak. I can’t imagine surviving such hardships. My heart ached for both of them with what they separately endured, but I think those events made them closer together. I couldn’t help but cheer for them towards the end. Elijah, Jack’s brother and Cecily, Olivia’s best friend, were great supporting characters.
Charming Olivia is a sexy, sweet romantic story, and is the first book in the Geary series. Ms. Harper created two main characters that are endearing. Written in dual POVs , readers are able to immerse fluidly into the thoughts, motivations, and experience Olivia and Jack like you are right there with them. Nicely done.
A copy provided by Gavin Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
What started out as an intense erotic adventure for Olivia, ended as a very sweet, sexy romance. Author Olivia Gage has decided to start writing erotica, but needs examples, and lots of experience to help broaden her research. Who else can offer that expertise than Jack Geary, the consummate playboy and player.
Olivia’s initial letter to Jack about a corset she bought from his lingerie company has lead to a year long conversation, albeit via texting, one that has become a comfortable, exciting friendship. Jack’s experience in the lifestyle of of kinky and casual sex would broaden Olivia’s sexual knowledge and help her leap into writing erotica. I enjoyed Jack and Olivia’s friendship and lively banter between them. I loved Jack’s character, not as a player, but as someone who genuinely cares, he���s quite the gentleman as things are revealed. He’s really more than he seems. And wow, the secrets that Olivia and Jack are keeping from each other brought a whole deluge of emotional heartbreak. I can’t imagine surviving such hardships. My heart ached for both of them with what they separately endured, but I think those events made them closer together. I couldn’t help but cheer for them towards the end. Elijah, Jack’s brother and Cecily, Olivia’s best friend, were great supporting characters.
Charming Olivia is a sexy, sweet romantic story, and is the first book in the Geary series. Ms. Harper created two main characters that are endearing. Written in dual POVs , readers are able to immerse fluidly into the thoughts, motivations, and experience Olivia and Jack like you are right there with them. Nicely done.
A copy provided by Gavin Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 31, 2017
I requested this from NetGalley’s erotica section, and boy is it erotica. So much so that it overshadows much of the plot that I almost missed it. While there is a plot, it wasn’t one I was interested in. I am tired of the women with “tragic pasts” that have been hurt in some way.
What I appreciated about this novel is that it shows that people are able to separate love and sex. I think our society is so caught up in the idea that only people who are in love should have sex and if there isn’t love involved, then there is something wrong with those people taking part (i.e. sluts, perverts, etc.) That’s not the case at all. Adults should be allowed to explore their sexuality without judgement and be able to enjoy themselves. That is what this novel is about: two people (one more so than the other) discovering their sexuality.
It was an idea I could definitely get behind and that is why I enjoyed this novel so much. While I am a highly monogamous person in my own relationship, I fully support those who aren’t. I am not saying I condone cheating; that is a completely different ballpark. I just understand that monogamy isn’t the only way and people should be able to have a happy healthy sex life without being by judge.
To get back to the story. Harper is a talented writer who knows how to write steamy scenes and a plotline present enough to keep the story moving. Her characters weren’t my favorite but they were realistic enough with their own flaws and quirks. The best part was the variety and open-mindedness of the erotic.
What I appreciated about this novel is that it shows that people are able to separate love and sex. I think our society is so caught up in the idea that only people who are in love should have sex and if there isn’t love involved, then there is something wrong with those people taking part (i.e. sluts, perverts, etc.) That’s not the case at all. Adults should be allowed to explore their sexuality without judgement and be able to enjoy themselves. That is what this novel is about: two people (one more so than the other) discovering their sexuality.
It was an idea I could definitely get behind and that is why I enjoyed this novel so much. While I am a highly monogamous person in my own relationship, I fully support those who aren’t. I am not saying I condone cheating; that is a completely different ballpark. I just understand that monogamy isn’t the only way and people should be able to have a happy healthy sex life without being by judge.
To get back to the story. Harper is a talented writer who knows how to write steamy scenes and a plotline present enough to keep the story moving. Her characters weren’t my favorite but they were realistic enough with their own flaws and quirks. The best part was the variety and open-mindedness of the erotic.
March 20, 2016
After reading the book blurb, I thought that the heroine was going to be participating in the week of the erotic events she was doing research for, not watching it happen. I had issue with the hero saying he had feelings for her and wanting her, but he still slept with other women while she watched in these sexcapades, and when he was away. The author went into detail of him sleeping with another woman while he was away on business. I know they are not together, but I don't like reading about my hero sleeping with other women while pursuing the heroine. It makes me think badly about the hero. I am left feeling like he is cheating and I do not like cheating in my books. The fact that the hero had more sex and kinkier sex, with other women then he did with the heroine kind of irritated me as well. I understand the situation, but it still doesn't work for me. I had thought this book was going to be different then it was. These two characters has a strong connection for a year, it takes a week to cement those feelings and realize it is love. They get their happy ending, after they set some things straight. I was engrossed in this story and the steamy sex scenes, even though I had some issues with it. This book was a good read overall.
ARC received from publisher for an honest review.
ARC received from publisher for an honest review.
September 23, 2016
I was not sure what I was going to get into for this book. Olivia had been emailing/texting Jack for a year. I was not sure what to think of this since Olivia is married. I am not a believer in cheating and thought that I was going to absolutely hate this book. There are things that end up getting explained as you go along and I will not tell you what those things are.
Olivia is a writer and interested in branching out into the erotica genre and Jack is willing to help her. I like Olivia for the most part. She is a typical young woman. She works and has her friends. I do have to give her props for being willing to step so far out of her comfort zone and go to Jack. She told him some of the scenes that she would like to write about and then watched as he had them acted out for her. It was really kind of HOT and I don't think that I could have done it. I thought Jack was just going to be a jerk at first. He actually ended up being caring and sweet. He was concerned with Olivia's well being in the situations that he had her watch.
I was happy with the story line. There was more going on than what you imagine at the beginning and I liked the characters. I am giving this book 4.4 stars out of 5. There are some majorly HOT scenes and do not recommend reading this one in public. It could get awkward.
Olivia is a writer and interested in branching out into the erotica genre and Jack is willing to help her. I like Olivia for the most part. She is a typical young woman. She works and has her friends. I do have to give her props for being willing to step so far out of her comfort zone and go to Jack. She told him some of the scenes that she would like to write about and then watched as he had them acted out for her. It was really kind of HOT and I don't think that I could have done it. I thought Jack was just going to be a jerk at first. He actually ended up being caring and sweet. He was concerned with Olivia's well being in the situations that he had her watch.
I was happy with the story line. There was more going on than what you imagine at the beginning and I liked the characters. I am giving this book 4.4 stars out of 5. There are some majorly HOT scenes and do not recommend reading this one in public. It could get awkward.
July 29, 2015
Olivia is a romance writer, but she only writes clean romance. She wants to write erotica but doesn't know where to start having never experienced it for herself.
Jack has the life that Olivia wants to write about. They start talking after she leaves a review on a corset she brought from his company.
They talk through text, emails and social media for about a year before they finally meet.
Olivia goes to visit Jack for a week to experience what his lifestyle is like. There is a instant attraction between both of them. But can Olivia overcome her past and move on with her life?
I really enjoyed this book. The story was great and the characters are relatable. The story had some things happen that I was not expecting. Olivia's past made me tear up. She has had it hard the past couple of years. But Jack hasn't had it easy either, he knew what pain Olivia was going through because he had experienced it himself.
Overall it was a great book. The story flowed well, and I felt like I could be friends with the characters.
The sex scenes are super hot, and had me needing a hot shower after everyone of them. The sex wasn't repetitive, and it was nice having something different every time.
I'm excited to read the author's other books!
Jack has the life that Olivia wants to write about. They start talking after she leaves a review on a corset she brought from his company.
They talk through text, emails and social media for about a year before they finally meet.
Olivia goes to visit Jack for a week to experience what his lifestyle is like. There is a instant attraction between both of them. But can Olivia overcome her past and move on with her life?
I really enjoyed this book. The story was great and the characters are relatable. The story had some things happen that I was not expecting. Olivia's past made me tear up. She has had it hard the past couple of years. But Jack hasn't had it easy either, he knew what pain Olivia was going through because he had experienced it himself.
Overall it was a great book. The story flowed well, and I felt like I could be friends with the characters.
The sex scenes are super hot, and had me needing a hot shower after everyone of them. The sex wasn't repetitive, and it was nice having something different every time.
I'm excited to read the author's other books!
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