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Ignite #2
Branded
Ignite Series, # 2: DJ & Phina
I wear my scars like a scarlet letter, reminding myself that I’m not worth the trouble.
I’ve spent seventeen years pushing men away, never allowing myself to believe in the fairytale…then, he walked back in.
Just like before, we explode when we’re together. I hate him for what he did to me, but I can’t stay away.
Eighteen days filled with passion and promises.
Nineteen letters filled with threats and foreboding.
It only takes twenty minutes for the numbers to all add up.
One thousand, two hundred seconds until everything changes and there’s no going back.
This is my story, and it’s going to leave a scar.
I wear my scars like a scarlet letter, reminding myself that I’m not worth the trouble.
I’ve spent seventeen years pushing men away, never allowing myself to believe in the fairytale…then, he walked back in.
Just like before, we explode when we’re together. I hate him for what he did to me, but I can’t stay away.
Eighteen days filled with passion and promises.
Nineteen letters filled with threats and foreboding.
It only takes twenty minutes for the numbers to all add up.
One thousand, two hundred seconds until everything changes and there’s no going back.
This is my story, and it’s going to leave a scar.
263 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 7, 2015
122 people are currently reading
2773 people want to read
About the author
Tara Sivec
71 books10.3k followersTara Sivec is a USA Today best-selling author, wife, mother, chauffeur, maid, short-order cook, baby-sitter, and sarcasm expert. She lives in Ohio with her husband and two children and looks forward to the day when all three of them become adults and move out.
After working in the brokerage business for fourteen years, Tara decided to pick up a pen and write instead of shoving it in her eye out of boredom. She writes in a wide range of genres including Romantic Comedy, Romantic Comedy/Mystery, Romantic Suspense, New Adult Drama, Contemporary Romance and Psychological Thriller. Her novel Seduction and Snacks won first place in the Indie Romance Convention Reader's Choice Awards 2013 for Best Indie First Book and she was voted Best Indie Author in the Indie Romance Convention Reader's Choice Awards 2014.
In her spare time, Tara loves to dream about all of the baking she'll do and naps she'll take when she ever gets spare time.
After working in the brokerage business for fourteen years, Tara decided to pick up a pen and write instead of shoving it in her eye out of boredom. She writes in a wide range of genres including Romantic Comedy, Romantic Comedy/Mystery, Romantic Suspense, New Adult Drama, Contemporary Romance and Psychological Thriller. Her novel Seduction and Snacks won first place in the Indie Romance Convention Reader's Choice Awards 2013 for Best Indie First Book and she was voted Best Indie Author in the Indie Romance Convention Reader's Choice Awards 2014.
In her spare time, Tara loves to dream about all of the baking she'll do and naps she'll take when she ever gets spare time.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 186 reviews
January 11, 2015
4.5 Painful Stars
Ouch.
Phina has had a painful childhood. And she has continued to have a painful adulthood. She figures that at least she is feeling something. Pain is a feeling. Better than the numb she needs to let out. So she hurts herself in lots of ways....including not letting herself get close to anyone other than her BFF. She doesn't think she deserves happy or peaceful.
Pain isn't just a tiny pinch and it shouldn't be administered to the innocent.
DJ is the guy who broke her heart in high school. And the worse part he doesn't even remember it. Now she has run into him again all these years later and he is a sexy paramedic. Just her luck, he couldn't be fat and balding.
DJ wants to make up for lost time. He has always had a thing for Phina and now he wants to do something about it. But Phina needs to hold herself back. She can't give him all of herself. That's too much to risk. She might have to let go of the some of the pain she has been holding on to. She can't risk letting him see too much of her and leaving her all over again.
I hate myself too much to allow anything good in my life.
DJ and Phina are volatile. They burn hot and hotter. They fight hard and love hard. DJ is a protective of her, but there are some pains even he can't take away. Some things he can't protect her from.
I want that man's anger. I want to feel it like a living breathing thing.
I really liked the first in this series and this a great second. Dax's story is up next. I'll be waiting for that one.
Ouch.
Phina has had a painful childhood. And she has continued to have a painful adulthood. She figures that at least she is feeling something. Pain is a feeling. Better than the numb she needs to let out. So she hurts herself in lots of ways....including not letting herself get close to anyone other than her BFF. She doesn't think she deserves happy or peaceful.
Pain isn't just a tiny pinch and it shouldn't be administered to the innocent.
DJ is the guy who broke her heart in high school. And the worse part he doesn't even remember it. Now she has run into him again all these years later and he is a sexy paramedic. Just her luck, he couldn't be fat and balding.
DJ wants to make up for lost time. He has always had a thing for Phina and now he wants to do something about it. But Phina needs to hold herself back. She can't give him all of herself. That's too much to risk. She might have to let go of the some of the pain she has been holding on to. She can't risk letting him see too much of her and leaving her all over again.
I hate myself too much to allow anything good in my life.
DJ and Phina are volatile. They burn hot and hotter. They fight hard and love hard. DJ is a protective of her, but there are some pains even he can't take away. Some things he can't protect her from.
I want that man's anger. I want to feel it like a living breathing thing.
I really liked the first in this series and this a great second. Dax's story is up next. I'll be waiting for that one.
March 2, 2015
A thrillingly explosive read, filled with all the best feels possible. It has incredibly fiery moments, literally and figuratively, sweet and swoony ones as well as achingly, heart breaking instances that made the book almost impossible to put down.
D.J. and Phena have been attracted to each other without the other knowing since they were in high school. Phina was D.J.’s dream girl and D.J. was Phina’s one chance at normal and happy. But one very drunken night D.J. can’t remember destroyed any possible future for them.
Years later DJ gets a second chance at having Phina and he would do just about anything to get it, including fulfilling one of her fantasies. She needs to be in control though, and she has a lot of rules for him including the fact that their time together is just a onetime thing. She thought it would serve him as punishment for the night he couldn’t recall, and that she would want nothing to do with him afterward. She thought wrong.
DJ says he doesn’t believe in monogamy or long term commitment and hopes he’ll be able to get Phina out of his system. But the truth is, he’s loved her since they were younger and he’s not about to let the fact that she hates him stop DJ from getting her.
But Phina is in danger and even though DJ would stand between her and anyone who dared threaten her, he can’t seem to keep her safe. That’s not stopping him from having her in his home and doing everything in his power to convince her she loves him too. Can he help her past her darkest secret?
Phina had a horrific childhood. Her mother left her at the hands of a sadistic father who blamed her and took out his frustrations with a lit cigarette on her skin. Even after he was put away in jail, so many years of mistreatment has left Phina with more than emotional scars, some at her own hand. Because her way of coping with pressure is burning herself.
I was transfixed with this story from the very start, even though I did guess correctly who was behind the ugly threats. But that didn’t didn’t make the thrill ride any less exciting. Because anyone who’s ever played Clue knows that the game doesn’t end or is less fun just by knowing who done it. You also need to know where and with what weapon. And in this gripping story… why? Add to that Tara Sivec’s ability to blend explosive chemistry, sass and excitement and we have a book you can’t put down.
I loved both DJ and Phina’s characters. He made my heart swoon…
She made my heart break…
But together they were sexy and sweet. Their push and pull made me laugh, fan myself and just melt with their provocative chemistry and love.
There are so many other parts and aspects of the book I would love to share with you. I haven’t even mentioned the secondary characters who round out this very moving story, so you’ll just have to jump in and see for yourself.
Branded is the second book in the Ignite trilogy which is interconnected by the characters from Burned, the first book in the series, but can be read as a standalone. This is a romantic suspense book that won’t disappoint. Told from alternating points of view between the main characters. No cheating. With a happy end.
4.5 incendiary stars
Amazon US -> http://amzn.to/1wK9jlK
More reviews * Stalk us on FaceBook * As well as Twitter
"She branded her name on my heart and I know I'll never be the same."
D.J. and Phena have been attracted to each other without the other knowing since they were in high school. Phina was D.J.’s dream girl and D.J. was Phina’s one chance at normal and happy. But one very drunken night D.J. can’t remember destroyed any possible future for them.
“My name is DJ Taylor and I’m a dick… That beautiful woman right there gave me the most amazing gift in the world and I shit all over it.”
Years later DJ gets a second chance at having Phina and he would do just about anything to get it, including fulfilling one of her fantasies. She needs to be in control though, and she has a lot of rules for him including the fact that their time together is just a onetime thing. She thought it would serve him as punishment for the night he couldn’t recall, and that she would want nothing to do with him afterward. She thought wrong.
“You’re an ass!”
“I’m your ass, my little Fireball, and you’re stuck with me.”
DJ says he doesn’t believe in monogamy or long term commitment and hopes he’ll be able to get Phina out of his system. But the truth is, he’s loved her since they were younger and he’s not about to let the fact that she hates him stop DJ from getting her.
I want her to need me, I want her to come to me when she has a problem and I want her to know me.
But Phina is in danger and even though DJ would stand between her and anyone who dared threaten her, he can’t seem to keep her safe. That’s not stopping him from having her in his home and doing everything in his power to convince her she loves him too. Can he help her past her darkest secret?
“You drive me crazy,” she says.
“The feeling is mutual. When do you want to go to your place and pack a bag?”
Phina had a horrific childhood. Her mother left her at the hands of a sadistic father who blamed her and took out his frustrations with a lit cigarette on her skin. Even after he was put away in jail, so many years of mistreatment has left Phina with more than emotional scars, some at her own hand. Because her way of coping with pressure is burning herself.
"The sting of burning flesh and the throb of pain makes me feel alive. My name is Seraphina Rosalia Giordano, and I like to Brand myself."
I was transfixed with this story from the very start, even though I did guess correctly who was behind the ugly threats. But that didn’t didn’t make the thrill ride any less exciting. Because anyone who’s ever played Clue knows that the game doesn’t end or is less fun just by knowing who done it. You also need to know where and with what weapon. And in this gripping story… why? Add to that Tara Sivec’s ability to blend explosive chemistry, sass and excitement and we have a book you can’t put down.
"Luckily, I've become a master at Phina-speak. I've learned that every time she says she hates me, it really means she loves me."
I loved both DJ and Phina’s characters. He made my heart swoon…
I would cry a thousand tears for this woman just to prove to her that she’s worth EVERYTHING.
She made my heart break…
I want the pain. I deserve the pain. I can’t breathe without the pain.
But together they were sexy and sweet. Their push and pull made me laugh, fan myself and just melt with their provocative chemistry and love.
“You put a mark on my heart that will never go away. You branded me with your love and I know it’s the only thing I’ll ever need to keep the pain away.”
There are so many other parts and aspects of the book I would love to share with you. I haven’t even mentioned the secondary characters who round out this very moving story, so you’ll just have to jump in and see for yourself.
Branded is the second book in the Ignite trilogy which is interconnected by the characters from Burned, the first book in the series, but can be read as a standalone. This is a romantic suspense book that won’t disappoint. Told from alternating points of view between the main characters. No cheating. With a happy end.
4.5 incendiary stars
Amazon US -> http://amzn.to/1wK9jlK
More reviews * Stalk us on FaceBook * As well as Twitter
Want to read
July 6, 2014 Woohoo!! Book #2 of the Ignite Trilogy by Tara Sivec!! I can't wait for DJ & Phina's story!!
My review of BOOK #1 ➜ http://bit.ly/1zgDlkC
At fifteen he branded my heart.
At sixteen he shattered it.
Seventeen years of pushing men away, never allowing myself to believe in the fairytale…then, he walked back in.
Just like before, we explode when we’re together. I know he only wants temporary, but my heart will burn forever.
Eighteen days filled with passion and promises.
Nineteen letters filled with threats and foreboding.
It only takes twenty minutes for the numbers to all add up.
One thousand, two hundred seconds until everything changes and there’s no going back.
This is my story, and it’s going to leave a scar.
RELEASE DATE: FALL 2014
My review of BOOK #1 ➜ http://bit.ly/1zgDlkC
At fifteen he branded my heart.
At sixteen he shattered it.
Seventeen years of pushing men away, never allowing myself to believe in the fairytale…then, he walked back in.
Just like before, we explode when we’re together. I know he only wants temporary, but my heart will burn forever.
Eighteen days filled with passion and promises.
Nineteen letters filled with threats and foreboding.
It only takes twenty minutes for the numbers to all add up.
One thousand, two hundred seconds until everything changes and there’s no going back.
This is my story, and it’s going to leave a scar.
RELEASE DATE: FALL 2014
January 12, 2015
I received a free copy to read and review for The Wicked Reads Review Team
3 Stars!
Branded is the second book in the Ignite Trilogy. I loved Burned the first book. I'm a bit sad that I didn't love this one. Every book I've read by Tara Sivec has been a 5 Star read for me.
Phina has a spitfire take control personality, but deep down she's still the young girl that was abused as a child. DJ is the quintessential playboy not looking for anything but one-nighters. These two went to high school together, a past that isn't real clear in the beginning, but resurfaces further into the book. They reconnect when DJ moves back to his hometown. One drunken night has these two questioning their feelings for one another and throwing their world upside down. Phina is looking for revenge for the past. DJ is trying to get Phina out of head for good.
I was simply interested in the beginning, Phina had an abusive childhood, it was raw, something I love in my books. Her self-loathing was relatable. DJ was hilarious, your typical man whore, it was fun reading him battle with his conflicting emotions over Phina.
As the story unfolds Phina's past comes back to haunt her and anyone close to her.
I want suspense, a bit of mystery in my books, but I had it all figured out. Sadly, that made the story fall flat. There wasn't anything keeping me interested at that point. Phina & DJ's past was told not felt. And I found myself rolling my eyes when they said 'I love you.' I don't want to say insta love but it certainly felt that way, even though that was certainly not the case. Had their past been fully developed, I probably would've felt more secure in their relationship.
The banter, angry sex, and hilarious one-liners were what kept me reading on and ultimately finishing the book. I'm disappointed because I don't like giving my negative thoughts in reviews, but I needed to explain my 3 Star rating.
I'll continue to read Tara because she's an amazing author, this one just didn't cut it for me.
3 Stars!
Branded is the second book in the Ignite Trilogy. I loved Burned the first book. I'm a bit sad that I didn't love this one. Every book I've read by Tara Sivec has been a 5 Star read for me.
Phina has a spitfire take control personality, but deep down she's still the young girl that was abused as a child. DJ is the quintessential playboy not looking for anything but one-nighters. These two went to high school together, a past that isn't real clear in the beginning, but resurfaces further into the book. They reconnect when DJ moves back to his hometown. One drunken night has these two questioning their feelings for one another and throwing their world upside down. Phina is looking for revenge for the past. DJ is trying to get Phina out of head for good.
I was simply interested in the beginning, Phina had an abusive childhood, it was raw, something I love in my books. Her self-loathing was relatable. DJ was hilarious, your typical man whore, it was fun reading him battle with his conflicting emotions over Phina.
As the story unfolds Phina's past comes back to haunt her and anyone close to her.
I want suspense, a bit of mystery in my books, but I had it all figured out. Sadly, that made the story fall flat. There wasn't anything keeping me interested at that point. Phina & DJ's past was told not felt. And I found myself rolling my eyes when they said 'I love you.' I don't want to say insta love but it certainly felt that way, even though that was certainly not the case. Had their past been fully developed, I probably would've felt more secure in their relationship.
The banter, angry sex, and hilarious one-liners were what kept me reading on and ultimately finishing the book. I'm disappointed because I don't like giving my negative thoughts in reviews, but I needed to explain my 3 Star rating.
I'll continue to read Tara because she's an amazing author, this one just didn't cut it for me.
January 24, 2015
Branded (Ignite #2) by Tara Sivec, Second in a series of interconnected standalones
Contemporary romance
4.5 Stars
Burned by Tara Sivec was one of my Favorite Books of 2014. So when Branded came out, I jumped on it right away, looking forward to another mix of hot, suspenseful, unputdownable Tara Sivec. This time it's about DJ and Phina and takes place right after Burned.
DJ and Phina were both in Burned. They are the best friends of the original characters, so while Branded can stand alone, you will get it a lot more if you read Burned first. DJ had been crazy about Phina since high school, but when the fireman/paramedic sees her again, all she does is express total hatred for him, though he doesn't know why. Still, there is a major undercurrent of lust between the two that can't be denied.
"I fucking HATE you!"
Phina had a really rough childhood, growing up with a dad who would burn her with cigarettes. Though he's been in jail for years, Seraphina still brands herself as a way of coping with the rough times in her life.
"I can feel the rage simmering just below the surface, building up inside of me, making me crave the burn. I know that eventually, I'll be forced to light a cigarette and add a few more ugly marks to my skin just to relieve the pressure."
This is Phina's ugly, shameful secret. She thinks she is not good enough for anyone, and that nobody will ever accept her as she is. She never lets any man get close enough to her, because she never wants to have to take her panties off in the light where they could see her burns. But she likes sex, and DJ, in an effort to have her any way he could, offered to fulfill her wildest fantasy, and he did.
"I always wanted to know what it was like to be with two men at once, and he gave me that fantasy."
DJ can't handle it. Thinking back on that night just fills him with rage. She has pushed him away since, and that was the only way she would have him, but his jealousy is eating away at him. He knows she is fucked up, but he can't stay away. She is nasty and hates him for an unknown reason, but he still can't stay away, and refuses to give up.
"She was full of fire and piss and vinegar even back then. Now all of that fire is intermingled with something dark and twisted. It should make me want to run in the opposite direction, but I'm a fireman. We like to race right into the flames, not giving a shit if we got burned. Something tells me if I spend any more time with Phina, she's going to leave me with more than a few scars."
But when Phina starts getting threats and notes sent to her, of course, alpha-man DJ needs to take care of her, no matter how much her self hatred makes her push him away.
Likes:
•I absolutely LOVED DJ.
•The banter.
•Lots of Collin and Finnley from the first book.
•Hot angry sex.
•Amazing chemistry between the couple.
•I never fully guessed what was going on.
•The happy/sad twist.
•The alternating POV's with slight overlap. Often this can bug me, but I really like to see both feelings about the same scene, and Tara never made it seem like your read something twice.
•Dax. I can't wait to read more about him.
•It seemed to be very well researched.
Dislikes:
•It is a little too much like Burned.
•I would have liked to see them channel a little of the need for pain into sex. I thought Tara was going there, but it didn't.
•Not as hot as the first.
Rating: 4.5 stars, 4.25 heat
The Down & Dirty:
While I didn't love Branded as much as Burned, it was still an amazing read from Tara Sivec. It wasn't quite as epic, and was a bit too similar to Burned to earn it another 5 star rating in my book, but I still loved DJ and Phina's story. While Burned was more erotic romance, I think this is more contemporary. I just love a book where true love can help heal a damaged person, and Tara did a beautiful job of doing just that. There was a lot of Tara's specialties in Branded: some funny lines, sexy times, loads of suspense and romance. I can't wait for Dax's story, next.
Purchase Branded by Tara Sivec
Amazon | BN.com
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January 13, 2015
4 Hot as Hell Stars!
Review by Lisa Kane
Branded is the second book in Tara Sivec's Ignite trilogy. Phina is the best friend of Finnley and DJ is Collin's best friend. Their story was told in Burned and it was a great one! All four of them knew each other in high school, but have only recently reconnected. DJ and Phina had crushes on each other in high school, but one drunken night ruined everything between them.
It's 15 years later and DJ spots Phina in a bar. She's had way too much to drink and the two of them play a fantasy challenge game. She admits she would love to have a threesome but only if one of the guys holds her and watches while the other goes down on her. DJ takes the challenge to heart, and tells her he can make that fantasy come true. While he doesn't want another man with her, if that is the only way he can have her, he'll take it. But then the tragedy between Finnley and her ex husband occurred and DJ had to deal with that fall out. But after the dust settled, he made sure to follow through with her fantasy and arranged to have a friend of his, Dax, here. He and Dax have had a couple of threesomes before. He is discreet and a true manwhore. He's a rising detective and doesn't lack for women sharing one night with him.
Phina had lots of conditions for their one night. No full nudity for her. No sex with the guy observing. No actual intercourse. But as fantastic as the night was, Phina wants nothing to do with either one of them again. Of course she is lying to herself. She wants DJ , she just won't let herself pursue her wants. This was a revenge of hers, for what happened between them in high school. DJ was so drunk that night, he doesn't even remember what happened.
But the two can't seem to stay away from each other. Cue the suspenseful music! It seems someone else knows about their night together. Both start to receive weird notes and messages. Phina is called a whore in all of them. She has a violent history. Her mother left her and her father when she was little. Her father was a mean, abusive man who enjoyed using her as a human ash tray. Her body is scarred from his cigarette burns. He went to jail after she testified about something she saw him do, but he is close to being released from prison. Phina has mental scarring from his abuse. As she got older she wanted to be the one in control, so she resorts to some really destructive behavior when things become too much for her. But no one knows this but her therapist. But she hasn't engaged in this activity in a while, looking at Finnley and her scarring from her burns makes her feel guilty for the way she deals with her pain.
Things are steamy and close to igniting between Phina and DJ. But there is real danger surrounding them. The three of them, DJ, Phina and Dax try to figure out who is behind all of this. But then a real catastrophe strikes. Who will make it out alive?
This second installment also has a hero who is a firefighter. The interaction withFinnley and Collin from Burned keeps the continuity flowing in this story. While Finnley's ex provided most of the dangerous angst in the first book, in this story, the reader has to guess who is behind everything. That mystery aside, this is primarily a story about a broken girl and the guy who just wants a second chance. The third one, Scorched, will be Dax's story.
She branded her name on my heart and I know I'll never be the same.
Review by Lisa Kane
Branded is the second book in Tara Sivec's Ignite trilogy. Phina is the best friend of Finnley and DJ is Collin's best friend. Their story was told in Burned and it was a great one! All four of them knew each other in high school, but have only recently reconnected. DJ and Phina had crushes on each other in high school, but one drunken night ruined everything between them.
It's 15 years later and DJ spots Phina in a bar. She's had way too much to drink and the two of them play a fantasy challenge game. She admits she would love to have a threesome but only if one of the guys holds her and watches while the other goes down on her. DJ takes the challenge to heart, and tells her he can make that fantasy come true. While he doesn't want another man with her, if that is the only way he can have her, he'll take it. But then the tragedy between Finnley and her ex husband occurred and DJ had to deal with that fall out. But after the dust settled, he made sure to follow through with her fantasy and arranged to have a friend of his, Dax, here. He and Dax have had a couple of threesomes before. He is discreet and a true manwhore. He's a rising detective and doesn't lack for women sharing one night with him.
Phina had lots of conditions for their one night. No full nudity for her. No sex with the guy observing. No actual intercourse. But as fantastic as the night was, Phina wants nothing to do with either one of them again. Of course she is lying to herself. She wants DJ , she just won't let herself pursue her wants. This was a revenge of hers, for what happened between them in high school. DJ was so drunk that night, he doesn't even remember what happened.
But the two can't seem to stay away from each other. Cue the suspenseful music! It seems someone else knows about their night together. Both start to receive weird notes and messages. Phina is called a whore in all of them. She has a violent history. Her mother left her and her father when she was little. Her father was a mean, abusive man who enjoyed using her as a human ash tray. Her body is scarred from his cigarette burns. He went to jail after she testified about something she saw him do, but he is close to being released from prison. Phina has mental scarring from his abuse. As she got older she wanted to be the one in control, so she resorts to some really destructive behavior when things become too much for her. But no one knows this but her therapist. But she hasn't engaged in this activity in a while, looking at Finnley and her scarring from her burns makes her feel guilty for the way she deals with her pain.
Things are steamy and close to igniting between Phina and DJ. But there is real danger surrounding them. The three of them, DJ, Phina and Dax try to figure out who is behind all of this. But then a real catastrophe strikes. Who will make it out alive?
This second installment also has a hero who is a firefighter. The interaction withFinnley and Collin from Burned keeps the continuity flowing in this story. While Finnley's ex provided most of the dangerous angst in the first book, in this story, the reader has to guess who is behind everything. That mystery aside, this is primarily a story about a broken girl and the guy who just wants a second chance. The third one, Scorched, will be Dax's story.
She branded her name on my heart and I know I'll never be the same.
Read
January 16, 2015review to come! :-)
January 16, 2015
4.5 Scorching Stars!!
January 13, 2015
"She branded her name on my heart and I know I'll never be the same."
I have read A LOT of Tara Sivec books and loved them all so when I say that Branded is undoubtedly my absolute favorite book of hers so far that is saying a ton! Branded was angsty, dramatic and so very sexy! I fell in love with DJ and my heart felt so deeply for Phina. I highly encourage any fan of Tara's comedic books to give her Romantic Suspense books a try because you will definitely not be disappointed.
"My name is Seraphina Rosalia Giordano, and I like to Brand myself."
Phina has been dealt an impossible hand in life, a mom who walked out, a dad who resented her and took his anger out on her with the help of a cigarette to her skin. Years of abuse have left her so emotionally damaged that now as an adult her way to deal with stress is to burn herself. It's her secret and she will never let anyone know.
"I want the pain. I deserve the pain. I can't breathe without the pain."
DJ has loved Phina since high school and now that she is back in his life he is not going to let something as simple as her hating him stop him from making her his. But nothing is ever that easy because Phina is in danger and as much as he tries DJ cannot seem to keep her completely safe.
There are way too many things in this book I loved to mention them all but I will go over a few highlights for me. First there is Tara's writing, she is an amazing story teller who knows how to mix drama and wit into a story you just cannot put down.
"Luckily, I've become a master at Phina-speak. I've learned that every time she says she hates me, it really means she loves me,"
Then there is the dynamic between DJ and Phina, she hates him but loves him and cannot stay away. Having her tell him how much she hates him while running her hands all over him makes for supreme sexiness mixed with wit that makes you want to text your friend so they can enjoy it too!
"I want to see him again. I want to touch him again. And I fucking hate that I want all of these things I have no business craving."
Branded much like Burned was a book I just could not put down and now I am completely dying for the next book in the series because if the trend continues each book just seems to get better and better.
~miranda
I have read A LOT of Tara Sivec books and loved them all so when I say that Branded is undoubtedly my absolute favorite book of hers so far that is saying a ton! Branded was angsty, dramatic and so very sexy! I fell in love with DJ and my heart felt so deeply for Phina. I highly encourage any fan of Tara's comedic books to give her Romantic Suspense books a try because you will definitely not be disappointed.
"My name is Seraphina Rosalia Giordano, and I like to Brand myself."
Phina has been dealt an impossible hand in life, a mom who walked out, a dad who resented her and took his anger out on her with the help of a cigarette to her skin. Years of abuse have left her so emotionally damaged that now as an adult her way to deal with stress is to burn herself. It's her secret and she will never let anyone know.
"I want the pain. I deserve the pain. I can't breathe without the pain."
DJ has loved Phina since high school and now that she is back in his life he is not going to let something as simple as her hating him stop him from making her his. But nothing is ever that easy because Phina is in danger and as much as he tries DJ cannot seem to keep her completely safe.
There are way too many things in this book I loved to mention them all but I will go over a few highlights for me. First there is Tara's writing, she is an amazing story teller who knows how to mix drama and wit into a story you just cannot put down.
"Luckily, I've become a master at Phina-speak. I've learned that every time she says she hates me, it really means she loves me,"
Then there is the dynamic between DJ and Phina, she hates him but loves him and cannot stay away. Having her tell him how much she hates him while running her hands all over him makes for supreme sexiness mixed with wit that makes you want to text your friend so they can enjoy it too!
"I want to see him again. I want to touch him again. And I fucking hate that I want all of these things I have no business craving."
Branded much like Burned was a book I just could not put down and now I am completely dying for the next book in the series because if the trend continues each book just seems to get better and better.
~miranda
March 27, 2016
Tara sivec is the best.
March 29, 2020
I read book 1 in this series a few years ago, but I never actually got around to reading book 2 even though it has been sitting on my kindle for years. In an effort to finally finish some series, this seemed liked a good place to start.
While I liked the two main characters in this (especially DJ) and I always like the in-your-face writing of Ms Sivec, I just couldn't get engaged in the story at all and I think that is mainly because the whole ending seemed exceedingly obviously from about 10% in (and it played out EXACTLY like that with zero surprises). The plot was just not well thought out and what made it worse was I think the author thought she was fooling everyone with the red herrings. She wasn't and when it played exactly like I thought it would it was just a big disappointment as it was such a cliche and implausible way to go.
There was no real story. No real plausibility. In the end it was all just a bit bland - and I think the author does better when she tones it back a little (like Fisher's Light) rather than this over the top chaotic, implausible plot lines. So while it was an okay read, it is not one I would read again which is a shame as it had potential with an interesting beginning and some interesting characters.
Reading Challenge
Aussie Reader's Annual A-Z Character Challenge: Read a book with a lead character with a name starting with D (DJ).
While I liked the two main characters in this (especially DJ) and I always like the in-your-face writing of Ms Sivec, I just couldn't get engaged in the story at all and I think that is mainly because the whole ending seemed exceedingly obviously from about 10% in (and it played out EXACTLY like that with zero surprises). The plot was just not well thought out and what made it worse was I think the author thought she was fooling everyone with the red herrings. She wasn't and when it played exactly like I thought it would it was just a big disappointment as it was such a cliche and implausible way to go.
There was no real story. No real plausibility. In the end it was all just a bit bland - and I think the author does better when she tones it back a little (like Fisher's Light) rather than this over the top chaotic, implausible plot lines. So while it was an okay read, it is not one I would read again which is a shame as it had potential with an interesting beginning and some interesting characters.
Reading Challenge
Aussie Reader's Annual A-Z Character Challenge: Read a book with a lead character with a name starting with D (DJ).
January 9, 2019
Branded started off so well but I think having the same main chick in your trilogy on her deathbed twice in two books is just a little too dramatic for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 23, 2017
A fine mix of suspense and passion.
January 12, 2015
3.5 stars....
I enjoyed the 2nd book in the Ignite series - Branded. Who doesn't love mystery, love, suspense and hot sex?!
My heart broke for Phina, who seemingly has the perfect life, body; she is super smart and has complete confidence. But not everything is as it seems as underneath this exterior Phina likes pain. With pain comes control. Phina experienced things as a child that no child should ever go through; her mother is long gone and her father is behind bars by her own hand.
Phina likes sex as much as the next person and when DJ walks back into her life, not having seen each other since high school, heat and attraction is present in every encounter between these two that you can't help but wonder what happened to sever there relationship from the past. Phina does express a lot of anger towards DJ despite this attraction and I wish that I understood it more. I felt their physical attraction but I just wanted more from them about their history, and of course about the emotional connection that they felt for one another. For me, it felt more about the physical and I wanted to connect with them on another level. Don't get me wrong, the sex is completely HOT but often times for me, I like a mix of both physical and emotional love to really tie me into a story.
With regards to the mystery piece of the story, I love suspense and I love thinking about different scenarios as it adds more interest and another layer to the story. I did have an inkling of a feeling of who it could be and of course I am not going to tell as you will have to learn this for yourself :)
All in all, I enjoyed this book. I am glad that Phina will ultimately get the happy that she deserves. I was also happy to see the characters back from book 1. I love Tara Sivec books and unfortunately this one didn't work for me as book 1 (BURNED) did but I will continue to read her books as she is a must click author for me <3
I enjoyed the 2nd book in the Ignite series - Branded. Who doesn't love mystery, love, suspense and hot sex?!
My heart broke for Phina, who seemingly has the perfect life, body; she is super smart and has complete confidence. But not everything is as it seems as underneath this exterior Phina likes pain. With pain comes control. Phina experienced things as a child that no child should ever go through; her mother is long gone and her father is behind bars by her own hand.
Phina likes sex as much as the next person and when DJ walks back into her life, not having seen each other since high school, heat and attraction is present in every encounter between these two that you can't help but wonder what happened to sever there relationship from the past. Phina does express a lot of anger towards DJ despite this attraction and I wish that I understood it more. I felt their physical attraction but I just wanted more from them about their history, and of course about the emotional connection that they felt for one another. For me, it felt more about the physical and I wanted to connect with them on another level. Don't get me wrong, the sex is completely HOT but often times for me, I like a mix of both physical and emotional love to really tie me into a story.
With regards to the mystery piece of the story, I love suspense and I love thinking about different scenarios as it adds more interest and another layer to the story. I did have an inkling of a feeling of who it could be and of course I am not going to tell as you will have to learn this for yourself :)
All in all, I enjoyed this book. I am glad that Phina will ultimately get the happy that she deserves. I was also happy to see the characters back from book 1. I love Tara Sivec books and unfortunately this one didn't work for me as book 1 (BURNED) did but I will continue to read her books as she is a must click author for me <3
April 9, 2017
3/5 stars!
Branded is the second book in the Ignite series. I am a huge Tara fan and she is an automatic one-click for me. This time we get Phina and DJ’s story. What a ride it was!
This is a story of a broken woman who has had a really rough past. Not feeling worthy of love, she hides behind the façade of being a b*tch and completely closed off. The abuse she suffered makes her question her self worth and she denies herself any type of happiness. She self-harms to numb the thoughts that are constantly running through her mind—it’s a release from the pressure and the anger she feels inside—so heartbreaking.
DJ has always loved Phina. They share a long history and he’d give anything for one night with her. He gives into her unusual requests in order to have that night with her—but that’s all it is—one night.
With danger lurking around her, DJ refuses to keep her too far out of his sight. He vows to protect and watch over her, leaving her little choice in the matter. They wind up spending lots of time together as they try to unravel the mystery surrounding her.
The love/hate relationship they share creates a lot of sexual tension and my kindle was smokin!!! The heat between these two was off the charts!
Although I figured out where the story was going prior to the reveal, I still enjoyed DJ and Phina’s story. Of course Tara throws in lots of funny moments as well and I love some of the expressions she uses. Some of her phrases I now use in my every day vocabulary. Overall, it was a good read and I’m really looking forward to Scorched, Dax and Harley’s story.
Branded is the second book in the Ignite series. I am a huge Tara fan and she is an automatic one-click for me. This time we get Phina and DJ’s story. What a ride it was!
This is a story of a broken woman who has had a really rough past. Not feeling worthy of love, she hides behind the façade of being a b*tch and completely closed off. The abuse she suffered makes her question her self worth and she denies herself any type of happiness. She self-harms to numb the thoughts that are constantly running through her mind—it’s a release from the pressure and the anger she feels inside—so heartbreaking.
“Pain isn’t just a tiny pinch and it shouldn’t be administered to the innocent. It is a living, breathing thing that latches on and spreads like poison ivy, making you claw at your skin and want to scream at the top of your lungs.”
DJ has always loved Phina. They share a long history and he’d give anything for one night with her. He gives into her unusual requests in order to have that night with her—but that’s all it is—one night.
With danger lurking around her, DJ refuses to keep her too far out of his sight. He vows to protect and watch over her, leaving her little choice in the matter. They wind up spending lots of time together as they try to unravel the mystery surrounding her.
The love/hate relationship they share creates a lot of sexual tension and my kindle was smokin!!! The heat between these two was off the charts!
Although I figured out where the story was going prior to the reveal, I still enjoyed DJ and Phina’s story. Of course Tara throws in lots of funny moments as well and I love some of the expressions she uses. Some of her phrases I now use in my every day vocabulary. Overall, it was a good read and I’m really looking forward to Scorched, Dax and Harley’s story.
March 22, 2015
Well... hmm... I did enjoy the story, I just didn't get it. I mean I got it, it just seemed so far-fetched. Or maybe I'm just not totally understanding the deranged mind? That's a good thing, right? ;-)
I definitely enjoyed DJ and Phina's story. I liked hearing why she hated him so much. I was a little heartbroken for them both that he hadn't remembered it for 15 years. Or maybe he remembered parts, but thought it was just dreams, not that it really happened. I'm glad that DJ kept pressing to figure it out, and I loved that even as Phina kept saying she hated him, her body didn't quite go along with that statement.
I had a real inkling of who was causing problems very early on. It surprised me that nobody in the story put two and two together. At the same time, there seemed to be a logical culprit whom nobody could find.
I guess here was my biggest problem with the story -- and really, don't read this because it kinda spoils the whole thing...
Besides that, it was a great story. The way they came together and were so completely in love (after resisting for so long) was really sweet. The epilogue was great, too. Love epilogues!
I definitely enjoyed DJ and Phina's story. I liked hearing why she hated him so much. I was a little heartbroken for them both that he hadn't remembered it for 15 years. Or maybe he remembered parts, but thought it was just dreams, not that it really happened. I'm glad that DJ kept pressing to figure it out, and I loved that even as Phina kept saying she hated him, her body didn't quite go along with that statement.
I had a real inkling of who was causing problems very early on. It surprised me that nobody in the story put two and two together. At the same time, there seemed to be a logical culprit whom nobody could find.
I guess here was my biggest problem with the story -- and really, don't read this because it kinda spoils the whole thing...
Besides that, it was a great story. The way they came together and were so completely in love (after resisting for so long) was really sweet. The epilogue was great, too. Love epilogues!
January 5, 2015
OMG! My co-blogger Miranda has totally turned me on to Tara's books and while I love her funny books and I really enjoyed the first book in this series, Burned, I need to let everyone know that Branded is my absolute favorite book ever by her. I am in such hardcore love with Phina and DJ. This book blew me away!
DJ and Phina's relationship goes way back to highschool and Phina is still holding a hella grudge against DJ for something he doesn't even remember. (and that is the problem)
"I fucking HATE you!"
Phina is seriously in hate with DJ and DJ is seriously in lust with Phina. He has had a taste of her and he cannot seem to get enough of her, but Phina has secrets. A lot of them. Some of them so embarrassing and horrifying that she will do anything to keep them hidden. Even if it means not letting the man she loves all the way in. DJ refuses to give up. He wants all of Phina.
"I FUCKING LOVE THE SHIT OUT OF YOU!"
Ok, so the main reason I loved this book so extremely much was DJ. He is amazing. He is a hot paramedic/fireman. He is so alpha and possessive it drove me insane. He is just the epitome of a hot alpha book boyfriend and I could read a million books about him. He and Phina were smoking hot. So damn smoking hot!
"Say my fucking name when you come,"
Combine the hotness that DJ with an action packed plot, some mental illness, and who done it mystery and you have a home run. I cannot wait for more from this series. I am already in love with Dax and I know that his story is going to be amazeballs!
~Amie
Co-bloggerette @ Red Cheeks Reads
DJ and Phina's relationship goes way back to highschool and Phina is still holding a hella grudge against DJ for something he doesn't even remember. (and that is the problem)
"I fucking HATE you!"
Phina is seriously in hate with DJ and DJ is seriously in lust with Phina. He has had a taste of her and he cannot seem to get enough of her, but Phina has secrets. A lot of them. Some of them so embarrassing and horrifying that she will do anything to keep them hidden. Even if it means not letting the man she loves all the way in. DJ refuses to give up. He wants all of Phina.
"I FUCKING LOVE THE SHIT OUT OF YOU!"
Ok, so the main reason I loved this book so extremely much was DJ. He is amazing. He is a hot paramedic/fireman. He is so alpha and possessive it drove me insane. He is just the epitome of a hot alpha book boyfriend and I could read a million books about him. He and Phina were smoking hot. So damn smoking hot!
"Say my fucking name when you come,"
Combine the hotness that DJ with an action packed plot, some mental illness, and who done it mystery and you have a home run. I cannot wait for more from this series. I am already in love with Dax and I know that his story is going to be amazeballs!
~Amie
Co-bloggerette @ Red Cheeks Reads
October 18, 2016
4.5 Stars
Usually, the first book in a series is the best one. This is not the case. This book surpassed the first one by a long shot. Why not a 5 star rating? I, truthfully, can't put that into words. The only thing I can come up with is that while this is a GREAT book, it just didn't sit and simmer in my head for too long after I read it. My 5 star ratings are usually books that I just can't let go of. Although I loved this book, for whatever reason, it didn't linger with me.
This book is equally disturbing and heart breaking and soul warming.... In more ways than one! Phina has suffered some serious events in her life. Her self-destruction is understandable and heart breaking. As much as she wants to move forward, her past will always haunt her, literally.
This is the story of a woman who refuses to allow someone to love her because she can't come to terms with her past. Yet, the object of her affection will do anything to show her that she is worthy of being happy. This story is full of twists and turns you never saw coming. And the stalker? I somewhat figured it out a little early, but not too early. But Tara was really good at making me second guess my thoughts.
This is one of those stories I couldn't put down. I wanted the conclusion so bad, I could taste it. The conclusion I got wasn't quite what I was expecting, but it was a bit git-wrenching. It was bittersweet, and unlike the first book, I was pleased with the ending. Maybe there is a reason for that, which you will see when you read this book!
Usually, the first book in a series is the best one. This is not the case. This book surpassed the first one by a long shot. Why not a 5 star rating? I, truthfully, can't put that into words. The only thing I can come up with is that while this is a GREAT book, it just didn't sit and simmer in my head for too long after I read it. My 5 star ratings are usually books that I just can't let go of. Although I loved this book, for whatever reason, it didn't linger with me.
This book is equally disturbing and heart breaking and soul warming.... In more ways than one! Phina has suffered some serious events in her life. Her self-destruction is understandable and heart breaking. As much as she wants to move forward, her past will always haunt her, literally.
This is the story of a woman who refuses to allow someone to love her because she can't come to terms with her past. Yet, the object of her affection will do anything to show her that she is worthy of being happy. This story is full of twists and turns you never saw coming. And the stalker? I somewhat figured it out a little early, but not too early. But Tara was really good at making me second guess my thoughts.
This is one of those stories I couldn't put down. I wanted the conclusion so bad, I could taste it. The conclusion I got wasn't quite what I was expecting, but it was a bit git-wrenching. It was bittersweet, and unlike the first book, I was pleased with the ending. Maybe there is a reason for that, which you will see when you read this book!
January 12, 2015
What to say about DJ and Phina...well one word is combustible. These two packed such a punch in the chemistry department and when they finally stop resisting the temptation, they will totally blow your socks off. We met DJ and Phina in the previous book,Burned, but I had no idea that these two had this kind of history together. For as fun and outgoing as Phina seemed in the first book, Branded shows a far more darker side that lurks beneath the polished surface. DJ was sexy, but I did find that he could also be exceedingly jealous and a tad dense at times too. Pina put up so much resistance to their involvement, and I found his relentless pursuit of her to be admirable. Now I think this story was a bit predictable at times, but I also think that the power of this couple overshadowed any of that. I'm not going to ruin the story for anyone with any big reveals, but suffice to say that I think this was one sizzling story from Tara. It was infused with her trademark wit, but also had an intensity to it that was really quite remarkable. So my suggestion is to read it, and I'm pretty sure you'll love it as much as I did. :)
January 16, 2015
**I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.**
This series is a completely different Tara Sivec than I am used to reading and I am loving it. She has proven she can write the funny, sexy, lovable characters but now she shows she can go deeper and breach subject matter that has been essentially untouched. Branded was an emotional read. To watch Phina grow and with the help of DJ strengthen throughout was heartfelt. She tore at my heart and build it back up throughout this read. You know it was a good read when you get to that last page and take that deep cleansing breath!
Can't wait to see the emotional ride Book #3 takes me on.
This series is a completely different Tara Sivec than I am used to reading and I am loving it. She has proven she can write the funny, sexy, lovable characters but now she shows she can go deeper and breach subject matter that has been essentially untouched. Branded was an emotional read. To watch Phina grow and with the help of DJ strengthen throughout was heartfelt. She tore at my heart and build it back up throughout this read. You know it was a good read when you get to that last page and take that deep cleansing breath!
Can't wait to see the emotional ride Book #3 takes me on.
January 29, 2015
I feel like I should have liked this one better than I did. I get why Phina hated herself and why she treated herself like crap, but it didn't mean that I liked it. I even understood her underlying anger at DJ, but I got tired of their fighting. I liked DJ, but he was so clueless and suffer from foot in mouth disease. I picked out the bad guy early on, kept waiting for everyone else to clue in, so when the big reveal happened I found myself saying "About time!". Even with all my issues, I was glad to see the happy ending, loved that Phina took a place with bad memories and changed it. Loved even more that Phina and DJ are happy and planning a life together.
January 16, 2015
Only 4 stars from me I so wanted this to be another 5 star Tara Sivec read but I just did.not.like Phina! I tried and tried I just couldn't. She got on my nerves more times than not and her poor pitiful me crap drove me nuts. I guess I like my female leads more kick ass and tough with very little woe is me. That said I LOVE all the other characters and the story is great even though I totally had it all figured out lol It's well written and I look forward to the next in the series. For those reasons it gets a 4 star rating from me.
January 12, 2015
Branded by Ms. Sivec is a phenomenal read. You can’t help but love this damaged heroine who makes herself tougher with ever obstacle she faces. The plot is sexy, exciting and different then anything else out there. I love when an author sheds light on difficult topics but handles it all with genuine finesse. The research involved in this story shows the dedication to the reader’s experience.
I adored this book about DJ and Phina and I can’t wait for the next one. Highly recommended!
I adored this book about DJ and Phina and I can’t wait for the next one. Highly recommended!
March 18, 2016
Tara Sivec never fails to brand my heart with her erotically suspense filled stories, but this one, following in tradition with Burned, ups the game tenfold. Just when you think your heart can't possibly hurt any more, she takes it to a whole other level. Full review to follow...
January 15, 2015
I absolutely love everything Tara writes especially her lead characters, the heros are just perfect. I'm definitely an old fashioned gal and I like my men sexy, honourable with a touch of alpha. The story was captivating and exciting!!! Loved this book!!
January 18, 2015
Loved it! The story was tense, dark, romantic, hot - everything rolled up into to a great novel. Ms. Sivec perhaps out did herself again, but then, there's the next book coming up in this series, Scorched! I highly recommend any of Tara Sivec's books - you will not be disappointed.
January 17, 2015
I don't know how Tara Sivec does it, but I'm so glad she does! Thanks again Tara, for another great read!!
May 9, 2015
DJ and Phina drove insane throughout this book. Its extremely frustrating but yet so full of angst and totally amazing.
August 12, 2015
Suspenseful read. Loved the different POVs - big thing for me when I read different POVs in a story, they need to have a different voice. Completely different voices in Branded.
July 26, 2015
5+++ Scorching Stars
Hands down, one of my best read this year! I can't wait for Dax' story!!
#highlyrecommended
Hands down, one of my best read this year! I can't wait for Dax' story!!
#highlyrecommended
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