What do you think?
Rate this book
Clandestine Affairs #1
Instigation
Breaking up is hard to do.
Three years after her life changed forever, Gabriella Latham finally has it all. Killer job [if working for her boyfriend counts]. Killer closet [even if she doesn't technically own any of it]. Killer boyfriend [who refuses to let her leave him, even when she tries]. Unfortunately for her, the last part isn't hyperbole. She just doesn't know it yet.
Adrian Morningstar was a dream come true. No one had ever loved her more, and for the first time, in longer than she could remember, she was no longer alone. He was the Prince Charming to her Cinderella, until suddenly he became the Beast with whom she could not escape.
Until him.
When Rafe Matthews is hired to oversee the guest home construction of one of the most powerful businessmen in the country, he finally has his in. Nothing will get in the way of what he sets out to do.
Until her.
Watching from the shadows, he's drawn to the beautiful, isolated woman of the house. His curiosity is piqued and he has to have her. She may be taken by the boss, but that's not enough to stop him. Or her.
Nothing is quite as it seems, and this is only the beginning.
Passions ignite. Tempers flare. Secrets kill.
Three years after her life changed forever, Gabriella Latham finally has it all. Killer job [if working for her boyfriend counts]. Killer closet [even if she doesn't technically own any of it]. Killer boyfriend [who refuses to let her leave him, even when she tries]. Unfortunately for her, the last part isn't hyperbole. She just doesn't know it yet.
Adrian Morningstar was a dream come true. No one had ever loved her more, and for the first time, in longer than she could remember, she was no longer alone. He was the Prince Charming to her Cinderella, until suddenly he became the Beast with whom she could not escape.
Until him.
When Rafe Matthews is hired to oversee the guest home construction of one of the most powerful businessmen in the country, he finally has his in. Nothing will get in the way of what he sets out to do.
Until her.
Watching from the shadows, he's drawn to the beautiful, isolated woman of the house. His curiosity is piqued and he has to have her. She may be taken by the boss, but that's not enough to stop him. Or her.
Nothing is quite as it seems, and this is only the beginning.
Passions ignite. Tempers flare. Secrets kill.
176 pages, Paperback
First published April 20, 2015
About the author
Tessa Teevan
44 books1,599 followersTessa is a twenty-something book junkie who's also obsessed with sports. She's a research analyst by day, writer by night, and married to her best friend for over a decade. If she's not writing, you can probably find her curled up with her Kindle and a glass of wine or cheering on the Reds, Bengals, and Buckeyes!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
April 7, 2015
*****FOUR STARS*****
{ARC Generously Provided by Author in Exchange for an Honest Review}
(BR with Mel)
Last night, she showed the purity of her heart and the depth of her strength. She's so much more than I ever expected, and as I watch her, I realize I've never wanted anyone more. I never will.
Gabriella Latham is a young woman who has suffered great loss and finds herself trying to start a new life in a new city, but feels utterly alone. Until she meets a handsome stranger in a coffee shop. Adrian Morningstar is gorgeous and a bit of a bad boy. He quickly sweeps Gabriella off her feet.
She soon moves into his mansion and quits her receptionist job to become his personal assistant. Adrian takes care of her as if she were his princess. Several months later, Gabriella is realizing that she really doesn't know the man she's been living with. Adrian has turned into a cold stranger and he's almost always away on business trips. When he is home he is cruel to her and she suspects he may be cheating as well.
In comes Rafe Matthews. He's the sexy contractor Adrian hires to build the addition he wants on his estate. After being treated so callously by Adrian, Gabriella finds herself drawn to Rafe. Rafe is making it clear that he is very into her as well.
Gabriella was not a likable heroine to me. I found her to be very weak and a little too easy. Even though Adrian had been a huge disappointment to her, I still think she fell into Rafe's arms a little too quickly for my taste. I guess if you get rejected enough times, you may turn into someone who is desperate for affection. That was my take on her. She also doesn't seem to learn from her past mistakes and is just a tab bit too naive.
Rafe seems a little too good to be true and I couldn't help but be a little suspicious of him. There's definitely a huge secret that he is hiding. I also got the same feeling about Adrian. I didn't fall for Adrian from the start because he seemed like a douche, but towards the end I started to wonder about him. I wondered if there was a reason behind his cruelty. Maybe my heart was opening up the tiniest bit for him.
So even though one man may appear to be a certifiable asshole, things may not be what they seem.The story ends on a HUGE cliffy. I was trying to solve the mystery by the end of this but now I feel like we're left with more questions. I don't know who to trust, and who is the right man for our heroine.
{ARC Generously Provided by Author in Exchange for an Honest Review}
(BR with Mel)
Last night, she showed the purity of her heart and the depth of her strength. She's so much more than I ever expected, and as I watch her, I realize I've never wanted anyone more. I never will.
Gabriella Latham is a young woman who has suffered great loss and finds herself trying to start a new life in a new city, but feels utterly alone. Until she meets a handsome stranger in a coffee shop. Adrian Morningstar is gorgeous and a bit of a bad boy. He quickly sweeps Gabriella off her feet.
She soon moves into his mansion and quits her receptionist job to become his personal assistant. Adrian takes care of her as if she were his princess. Several months later, Gabriella is realizing that she really doesn't know the man she's been living with. Adrian has turned into a cold stranger and he's almost always away on business trips. When he is home he is cruel to her and she suspects he may be cheating as well.
In comes Rafe Matthews. He's the sexy contractor Adrian hires to build the addition he wants on his estate. After being treated so callously by Adrian, Gabriella finds herself drawn to Rafe. Rafe is making it clear that he is very into her as well.
Gabriella was not a likable heroine to me. I found her to be very weak and a little too easy. Even though Adrian had been a huge disappointment to her, I still think she fell into Rafe's arms a little too quickly for my taste. I guess if you get rejected enough times, you may turn into someone who is desperate for affection. That was my take on her. She also doesn't seem to learn from her past mistakes and is just a tab bit too naive.
Rafe seems a little too good to be true and I couldn't help but be a little suspicious of him. There's definitely a huge secret that he is hiding. I also got the same feeling about Adrian. I didn't fall for Adrian from the start because he seemed like a douche, but towards the end I started to wonder about him. I wondered if there was a reason behind his cruelty. Maybe my heart was opening up the tiniest bit for him.
So even though one man may appear to be a certifiable asshole, things may not be what they seem.The story ends on a HUGE cliffy. I was trying to solve the mystery by the end of this but now I feel like we're left with more questions. I don't know who to trust, and who is the right man for our heroine.
April 19, 2015
I’ve read all of Tessa’s books, and this is so different from anything else she's done. I applaud her going out of the box and writing something different. Instigation had a little romance, but more than anything it packed tons of heat and suspense!
Gabriella (Brie) is a woman who was alone in the world. After she lost her parents, she had no one. Then she met Adrian. She fell in love and thought that was it- she’d never be alone again. Slowly but surely, her life wrapped up in his. The identity she had molded into who he wanted her to be. But things have changed in their relationship in a big way, and now she’s ready. Ready to get her life back, to get her self back.
Gabriella has one big project to help Adrian complete- she needs time to get her mind and affairs in order, so while he’s on business, she agrees to help oversee construction on his home. There is where Rafe enters the picture. Rafe Matthews runs Matthews Construction. He’s going to be working side by side with Brie this summer. There is something about Rafe that pulls Brie to him. They are drawn to each other. She feels that unlike Adrian, Rafe sees the real her.
One man wanted to own me like a cheap toy, his until he was ready to discard me. The other looked at me as if he could see the old me. The real Gabriella.
At the end of this story, I was like WHAT IS GOING ON HERE??? There was tons of mystery- honestly, I’m not sure what’s going on with any of these characters. I do know I’m intrigued and as soon as book 2 is available I will be picking it up to find out! Thankfully, we don’t have very long to wait!
April 21, 2015
4.5 Stars
[image error]
This is my first book by Tessa Teevan and at first I thought it was a bit sappy for my tastes until she kicked in the mysterious aspect and then she had me hooked. Although the main character is pretty weak I liked the idea of this older orphan falling for the rich alluring man who swoops in and seems to take care of her.
”My very own American Prince Charming. He wanted to take care of me, and I wanted to let him. What a fool I was.”
The story got interesting when Adrian starts to change on Bri and then takes off for a few weeks. The author adds a third character to the mix, Rafe. Rafe comes in and Bri is all over his hot construction ass. We are privy to a few Rage pov chapters which made things very juicy. Sadly for me it was pretty mind boggling Bri’s fall for Rafe and all his declarations.
”For as long as you want me, I’m yours.”
It seems that both these guys know a lot more about Bri than she does especially where her parent’s murder is concerned. The story ends on a fantastic cliffhanger!!!
”Yeah, boss. It’s done.”
”I need answers, and I need them quickly.”
Overall, Tessa Teevan delivered an exciting read although I’m hoping our heroine will evolve a bit in the next book and in case I didn’t mention it- TEAMADRIAN all the way!!
[image error]
This is my first book by Tessa Teevan and at first I thought it was a bit sappy for my tastes until she kicked in the mysterious aspect and then she had me hooked. Although the main character is pretty weak I liked the idea of this older orphan falling for the rich alluring man who swoops in and seems to take care of her.
”My very own American Prince Charming. He wanted to take care of me, and I wanted to let him. What a fool I was.”
The story got interesting when Adrian starts to change on Bri and then takes off for a few weeks. The author adds a third character to the mix, Rafe. Rafe comes in and Bri is all over his hot construction ass. We are privy to a few Rage pov chapters which made things very juicy. Sadly for me it was pretty mind boggling Bri’s fall for Rafe and all his declarations.
”For as long as you want me, I’m yours.”
It seems that both these guys know a lot more about Bri than she does especially where her parent’s murder is concerned. The story ends on a fantastic cliffhanger!!!
”Yeah, boss. It’s done.”
”I need answers, and I need them quickly.”
Overall, Tessa Teevan delivered an exciting read although I’m hoping our heroine will evolve a bit in the next book and in case I didn’t mention it- TEAMADRIAN all the way!!
April 20, 2015
4 "Make Me Yours" Stars!
(ARC provided by author)
(BR with Patty)
Gabriella Latham aka Brie is a 22 yr. old woman living in Philadelphia. She is lonely since she lost her parents, and struggles to get by. She meets a gorgeous, wealthy, sophisticated businessman named Adrian Morningstar. He is everything she's ever wanted in a man, and she falls fast and hard for him.
Adrian is almost too good to be true, and is like her prince charming sent to rescue her and give her the world. Brie was so happy with Adrian, and thought she'd found the man of her dreams. He lavished her with attention & love, and she felt she was finally where she belonged.
Then he suddenly begins to change. Her charming loving man begins to disappear, and is replaced by an arrogant, distant man full of secrecy. As Adrian becomes more controlling and possessive, Brie feels isolated & like she is an object to him. This other side of him that runs so hot & cold confuses and scares her. The man she adored is like a stranger to her.
With Adrian's behavior all over the place, Brie loses trust in him, and her feelings start to change. She feels weak & alone. She doesn't connect with him anymore, and wants out, but Adrian doesn't want to let her go. Brie is completely reliant on him and feels trapped in the life she's built with him.
Adrian is constantly out of town & very mysterious. Brie is still in his home but feels like they are through, and is trying to figure out what she wants. In the meantime a sexy guy named Rafe Matthews shows up to do work on Adrian's property. He owns Matthews Construction, and he's the epitome of every woman's hot construction worker fantasy. He is absolutely beautiful, and so kind to her. They quickly grow very close, and she finds him new & exciting. She feels like he is her fresh start, but wonders if it's too soon.
-He made me feel special. Desired. Wanted.
-I've become fixated on him.
-I want to be his.
Both Adrian & Rafe have secrets and are clearly hiding something. The book ends on a cliffy, and I'm not sure which man I want Brie to be with. Yes, Rafe appears to be the logical choice, but I am not counting out Adrian yet. I feel like there's so much we don't know, and I can't wait to find out all the secrets surrounding these two men! :))
LIVE & .99 today only!
http://www.amazon.com/Instigation-Cla...
(ARC provided by author)
(BR with Patty)
Gabriella Latham aka Brie is a 22 yr. old woman living in Philadelphia. She is lonely since she lost her parents, and struggles to get by. She meets a gorgeous, wealthy, sophisticated businessman named Adrian Morningstar. He is everything she's ever wanted in a man, and she falls fast and hard for him.
Adrian is almost too good to be true, and is like her prince charming sent to rescue her and give her the world. Brie was so happy with Adrian, and thought she'd found the man of her dreams. He lavished her with attention & love, and she felt she was finally where she belonged.
Then he suddenly begins to change. Her charming loving man begins to disappear, and is replaced by an arrogant, distant man full of secrecy. As Adrian becomes more controlling and possessive, Brie feels isolated & like she is an object to him. This other side of him that runs so hot & cold confuses and scares her. The man she adored is like a stranger to her.
With Adrian's behavior all over the place, Brie loses trust in him, and her feelings start to change. She feels weak & alone. She doesn't connect with him anymore, and wants out, but Adrian doesn't want to let her go. Brie is completely reliant on him and feels trapped in the life she's built with him.
Adrian is constantly out of town & very mysterious. Brie is still in his home but feels like they are through, and is trying to figure out what she wants. In the meantime a sexy guy named Rafe Matthews shows up to do work on Adrian's property. He owns Matthews Construction, and he's the epitome of every woman's hot construction worker fantasy. He is absolutely beautiful, and so kind to her. They quickly grow very close, and she finds him new & exciting. She feels like he is her fresh start, but wonders if it's too soon.
-He made me feel special. Desired. Wanted.
-I've become fixated on him.
-I want to be his.
Both Adrian & Rafe have secrets and are clearly hiding something. The book ends on a cliffy, and I'm not sure which man I want Brie to be with. Yes, Rafe appears to be the logical choice, but I am not counting out Adrian yet. I feel like there's so much we don't know, and I can't wait to find out all the secrets surrounding these two men! :))
LIVE & .99 today only!
http://www.amazon.com/Instigation-Cla...
Read
May 1, 2016Release day: 4/20!!
Teaser Trailer made by the amazing Michelle Tan from Four Chicks Flipping Pages---> I cannot wait for y'all to meet Adrian, Gabriella, and Rafe!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...
Teaser Trailer made by the amazing Michelle Tan from Four Chicks Flipping Pages---> I cannot wait for y'all to meet Adrian, Gabriella, and Rafe!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature...
April 22, 2015
3,5 Instigating Stars.
Brie met Adrian after dealing with a great loss and in a very dark moment of her life. For a while he was everything she needed and the perfect prince charming. Until he changed to a cold, mysterious cheater and not the man she once loved. In the day she decides to end things for good and he goes on a business trip. Then she meets Rafe, the constructor that are building something Adrian wants in the mansion, and something they feel attracted to each other.
But as feelings grow between them, so does the questions. When everything is suspicious and starts to feels dangerous, and Brie doesn’t know who to trust anymore, does she stills follow her heart?
After all, who is Rafe? And who is the man she married? And what is everyone hiding?
Tessa Teevan is an author whose books I usually love, so it's safe to say that I jumped on this one without hesitation.
Despite not loving it, it was still a pretty enjoyable reading. My main problem with this book was not being able to connect with neither of the characters, and well, two distinctive scenes that put me a little off.
Overall, I believe that Tessa did a wonderful job writing a romantic suspense book: the story was addictive and kept me on my toes from the beginning. When I finished all I could thought was that I needed answers!! About everything and everyone involved!
Will I read the next installment? Definitely.
The book was intriguing and I’m really curious to see how this story will unravel, so I’ll definitely keep up with this series.
If you’re in the mood for a steamy romantic with a suspenseful background, give this series a try! ;)
Rating: 3,5 Stars.
Characters Development: I had trouble connecting with all the characters and to be completely honest, I didn’t. Adrian from the very beginning had something dark about him, like it was all made for him to be bad guy. I don't believe he is as bad as he's being portrayed and that there's some big secret about him.
Brie… well, Brie was a doormat. There is no other way to say it. She was just… there. I understand that she was in a complicated situation and that’s the only reason I didn’t completely hate her, but the fact the she didn’t take action over her own life, and how she was easily manipulated by everyone around her put me off.
Rafe, well, I didn’t dislike him but I also didn’t love him. He was sexy and I liked how caring and protective of Brie he was but things progressed so fast that sometimes I had second doubts about his true personality. (Well, maybe that’s the point.)
Steam: Hot. Too much, actually. The amount of sex was too damn high. (And here’s a thing I never thought of saying!)
Sensible Subjects:
Love Triangle:
Cheating:
HEA:
Brie met Adrian after dealing with a great loss and in a very dark moment of her life. For a while he was everything she needed and the perfect prince charming. Until he changed to a cold, mysterious cheater and not the man she once loved. In the day she decides to end things for good and he goes on a business trip. Then she meets Rafe, the constructor that are building something Adrian wants in the mansion, and something they feel attracted to each other.
But as feelings grow between them, so does the questions. When everything is suspicious and starts to feels dangerous, and Brie doesn’t know who to trust anymore, does she stills follow her heart?
After all, who is Rafe? And who is the man she married? And what is everyone hiding?
Tessa Teevan is an author whose books I usually love, so it's safe to say that I jumped on this one without hesitation.
Despite not loving it, it was still a pretty enjoyable reading. My main problem with this book was not being able to connect with neither of the characters, and well, two distinctive scenes that put me a little off.
Overall, I believe that Tessa did a wonderful job writing a romantic suspense book: the story was addictive and kept me on my toes from the beginning. When I finished all I could thought was that I needed answers!! About everything and everyone involved!
Will I read the next installment? Definitely.
The book was intriguing and I’m really curious to see how this story will unravel, so I’ll definitely keep up with this series.
If you’re in the mood for a steamy romantic with a suspenseful background, give this series a try! ;)
Rating: 3,5 Stars.
Characters Development: I had trouble connecting with all the characters and to be completely honest, I didn’t. Adrian from the very beginning had something dark about him, like it was all made for him to be bad guy. I don't believe he is as bad as he's being portrayed and that there's some big secret about him.
Brie… well, Brie was a doormat. There is no other way to say it. She was just… there. I understand that she was in a complicated situation and that’s the only reason I didn’t completely hate her, but the fact the she didn’t take action over her own life, and how she was easily manipulated by everyone around her put me off.
Rafe, well, I didn’t dislike him but I also didn’t love him. He was sexy and I liked how caring and protective of Brie he was but things progressed so fast that sometimes I had second doubts about his true personality. (Well, maybe that’s the point.)
Steam: Hot. Too much, actually. The amount of sex was too damn high. (And here’s a thing I never thought of saying!)
Sensible Subjects:
Love Triangle:
Cheating:
HEA:
April 20, 2015
ARC provided by author in exchange of honest review
[image error]
When Tessa Teevan first told me that she was going to write a serial, I was like "YES, I can't wait!!" And then she told me it will be a romantic suspense and will have a major cliffhanger. My immediate reaction was like "OMG WHAT!!! Tessa Teevan is going to write a romantic suspense and there is going to be a cliffhanger!!!" If you are familiar with her work, then you would know this is not the typical romance stories that we are used to from her. Two thoughts were running through my mind. First, I was secretly jumping up and down because I was waiting for Tessa to branch out and trust me this author has so many amazing ideas for story lines that I knew what ever book genre she does decide to write, she will outshine. And my second thought was how fast can she write this story because I wanted this book STAT!!
Well we don't have to wait long because Instigation is finally here. And what a wickedly brilliant, consuming, and sinfully sexy story it was. Tessa Teevan completely surprised and shocked me with this book. And it was a good shock. The writing and story line was addicting and brimming with steam and suspense. The characters were written to be so mysterious and intriguing that you were immediately drawn to what secrets would be revealed and exposed. Instigation was the unfolding of truths that chronicles the lives of Adrian Morningstar, Gabriella Latham, and Rafe Matthews. Two men. One woman. Secrets that surrounds their lives. A truth awaiting to be reveal. And one emotional dangerous sexual awakening for a woman rediscovering and taking back her life. Are second chances worth the risk when the dangers of love becomes a game of cat and mouse?
Adrian Morningstar is an enigma of a man. So when Brie first met Adrian, she was intrigued when this sexy and alluring man that took notice of her. Attraction was buzzing between these two and instantly she was in a whirlwind affair with Adrian who literally swept her off her feet. He lavished her with gifts and trips. Adrian Morningstar was her prince charming in her fairy tale story or was he?
Rafe Matthews is another alpha male who made his presence well known to Brie. He wanted her. He knew he could be the one to make her see that she is a woman who needs to be worshiped and treated like a human not a possession. Not a woman who is being controlled and dominated. Not a woman who is afraid to USE HER WORDS. So when Brie and Rafe begins their romantic affair, he awakens a new burning sexual side in her allowing her to take charge in her personal life. So when one door closes and another opens, Brie finally begins to find her happiness and love in Rafe or will she. The appearance of Rafe Matthews was it planned or fated? Will Brie find herself in the same predicament of falling in love with men who have secrets? When the truth is about to be revealed as to who really Adrian and Rafe are, will it be too late for Brie?
Okay if you are reading this review and asking yourself if there is cheating involved. Don't worry there is no cheating. I think I will be shocked if Tessa ever wrote a book that had cheating in it. If you are asking yourself, if there is a cliffhanger. And my answer would be YES. There is a major cliffhanger and it will have you begging her for the next installment STAT. Do I have a favorite between Adrian and Rafe? Yes, I do. And I know the obvious answer of the majority would be #TeamRafe but Tessa knows that my loyalty lies with #TeamAdrian. So now you must be wondering if there is a love triangle for the heart of Brie...I don't want to spoil it for the readers but to ease your mind and curiosity just know like I said there is no cheating and do you honestly think Tessa would do that to her readers. She wouldn't torture and be cruel to her readers like that.
In the words of my favorite character, Adrian, he is known for saying the beloved phrase in the book: "USE YOUR WORDS." So I will use my words and tell you, GO READ INSTIGATION. Go experience and take a chance with this book. Be prepared for one deadly, sinfully, seductive romantic suspense that will have you gasping for more. I will just say that Tessa upped up the sexiness and steam in this book. It was a burning inferno between Rafe and Brie. The sexual chemistry was pure carnal, raw desire that was so rousing, bawdy, and titillating. I have nothing but high praises for Tessa for branching out in this new genre and I can't wait for the next installment as to what will become of Brie, Adrian, and Rafe. All I know is that after that cliffy ending, I am hooked and it has me wondering who is the true instigator? So my only advice is to INHALE, EXHALE, BREATHE, and HOLD ON TIGHT as Tessa take's her readers on one romantic suspenseful ride.
Tessa Teevan
[image error]
Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages
[image error]
When Tessa Teevan first told me that she was going to write a serial, I was like "YES, I can't wait!!" And then she told me it will be a romantic suspense and will have a major cliffhanger. My immediate reaction was like "OMG WHAT!!! Tessa Teevan is going to write a romantic suspense and there is going to be a cliffhanger!!!" If you are familiar with her work, then you would know this is not the typical romance stories that we are used to from her. Two thoughts were running through my mind. First, I was secretly jumping up and down because I was waiting for Tessa to branch out and trust me this author has so many amazing ideas for story lines that I knew what ever book genre she does decide to write, she will outshine. And my second thought was how fast can she write this story because I wanted this book STAT!!
Well we don't have to wait long because Instigation is finally here. And what a wickedly brilliant, consuming, and sinfully sexy story it was. Tessa Teevan completely surprised and shocked me with this book. And it was a good shock. The writing and story line was addicting and brimming with steam and suspense. The characters were written to be so mysterious and intriguing that you were immediately drawn to what secrets would be revealed and exposed. Instigation was the unfolding of truths that chronicles the lives of Adrian Morningstar, Gabriella Latham, and Rafe Matthews. Two men. One woman. Secrets that surrounds their lives. A truth awaiting to be reveal. And one emotional dangerous sexual awakening for a woman rediscovering and taking back her life. Are second chances worth the risk when the dangers of love becomes a game of cat and mouse?
Adrian Morningstar is an enigma of a man. So when Brie first met Adrian, she was intrigued when this sexy and alluring man that took notice of her. Attraction was buzzing between these two and instantly she was in a whirlwind affair with Adrian who literally swept her off her feet. He lavished her with gifts and trips. Adrian Morningstar was her prince charming in her fairy tale story or was he?
Rafe Matthews is another alpha male who made his presence well known to Brie. He wanted her. He knew he could be the one to make her see that she is a woman who needs to be worshiped and treated like a human not a possession. Not a woman who is being controlled and dominated. Not a woman who is afraid to USE HER WORDS. So when Brie and Rafe begins their romantic affair, he awakens a new burning sexual side in her allowing her to take charge in her personal life. So when one door closes and another opens, Brie finally begins to find her happiness and love in Rafe or will she. The appearance of Rafe Matthews was it planned or fated? Will Brie find herself in the same predicament of falling in love with men who have secrets? When the truth is about to be revealed as to who really Adrian and Rafe are, will it be too late for Brie?
Okay if you are reading this review and asking yourself if there is cheating involved. Don't worry there is no cheating. I think I will be shocked if Tessa ever wrote a book that had cheating in it. If you are asking yourself, if there is a cliffhanger. And my answer would be YES. There is a major cliffhanger and it will have you begging her for the next installment STAT. Do I have a favorite between Adrian and Rafe? Yes, I do. And I know the obvious answer of the majority would be #TeamRafe but Tessa knows that my loyalty lies with #TeamAdrian. So now you must be wondering if there is a love triangle for the heart of Brie...I don't want to spoil it for the readers but to ease your mind and curiosity just know like I said there is no cheating and do you honestly think Tessa would do that to her readers. She wouldn't torture and be cruel to her readers like that.
In the words of my favorite character, Adrian, he is known for saying the beloved phrase in the book: "USE YOUR WORDS." So I will use my words and tell you, GO READ INSTIGATION. Go experience and take a chance with this book. Be prepared for one deadly, sinfully, seductive romantic suspense that will have you gasping for more. I will just say that Tessa upped up the sexiness and steam in this book. It was a burning inferno between Rafe and Brie. The sexual chemistry was pure carnal, raw desire that was so rousing, bawdy, and titillating. I have nothing but high praises for Tessa for branching out in this new genre and I can't wait for the next installment as to what will become of Brie, Adrian, and Rafe. All I know is that after that cliffy ending, I am hooked and it has me wondering who is the true instigator? So my only advice is to INHALE, EXHALE, BREATHE, and HOLD ON TIGHT as Tessa take's her readers on one romantic suspenseful ride.
Tessa Teevan
[image error]
Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages
April 20, 2015
4.5 Rafe Instigated Me Stars!
*ARC provided per author in exchange for honest review*
**please note quotes used may differ from published work**
Instigation starts a new series for author Tessa Teevan and while it is quite the departure from her previous books it is no less than stellar. This romantic suspense is the story of a young beauty Gabriella Latham and how she fell into the arms of the wealthy Adrian Morningstar who is both powerful and sexy. The story is fast and takes on the modern day Cinderella of sorts...until it isn't. Lust and want quickly turn to need and control. Gabriella may have everything she ever wanted yet she has absolutely nothing until Rafe Matthews appears in her home.
I cannot say that this romance is a triangle. It is more of two relationships....one of the past and one of the future that are seemingly intertwined in a web of mystery and lies. Teevan delivers a fast paced intimate tale where control is sexy yet seems so off. With an air of malevolence, Adrian keeps Gabriella on his arm yet out of his mind. She is provided for materialistically, yet the one time dashing prince seems to be lost in his own world taking from Gabriella what he believes to be his and controlling what little of herself is left...
Mysterious phone calls, out of town trips lasting weeks, blood stained laundry, woman's lingerie...nothing is as it seems with Adrian. Gabriella needs to find herself...it is time to walk away. But how? Could the help she needs be so close as the new contractor? Rafe Matthews appears in her life at the perfect time. Who is this man? Why is she so trusting of a stranger? Perhaps it is the stark contradictions to Adrian...Rafe is comfort, security, and passion. After merely existing in a man's world she is finally living her life and filling another man's deepest desires. Could love be this easy?
Oh this book! I never thought I would read a book with one woman seemingly in a relationship with two men. Or is she? I cannot decipher what is truth and what is lies. I cannot determine if one man's coldness is truly and act of affection or if another's passion is just a means to an end. The only thing I know for sure is that there is so much more to Gabriella's story...if only she can survive long enough to understand it!
*ARC provided per author in exchange for honest review*
**please note quotes used may differ from published work**
Instigation starts a new series for author Tessa Teevan and while it is quite the departure from her previous books it is no less than stellar. This romantic suspense is the story of a young beauty Gabriella Latham and how she fell into the arms of the wealthy Adrian Morningstar who is both powerful and sexy. The story is fast and takes on the modern day Cinderella of sorts...until it isn't. Lust and want quickly turn to need and control. Gabriella may have everything she ever wanted yet she has absolutely nothing until Rafe Matthews appears in her home.
I cannot say that this romance is a triangle. It is more of two relationships....one of the past and one of the future that are seemingly intertwined in a web of mystery and lies. Teevan delivers a fast paced intimate tale where control is sexy yet seems so off. With an air of malevolence, Adrian keeps Gabriella on his arm yet out of his mind. She is provided for materialistically, yet the one time dashing prince seems to be lost in his own world taking from Gabriella what he believes to be his and controlling what little of herself is left...
Mysterious phone calls, out of town trips lasting weeks, blood stained laundry, woman's lingerie...nothing is as it seems with Adrian. Gabriella needs to find herself...it is time to walk away. But how? Could the help she needs be so close as the new contractor? Rafe Matthews appears in her life at the perfect time. Who is this man? Why is she so trusting of a stranger? Perhaps it is the stark contradictions to Adrian...Rafe is comfort, security, and passion. After merely existing in a man's world she is finally living her life and filling another man's deepest desires. Could love be this easy?
Oh this book! I never thought I would read a book with one woman seemingly in a relationship with two men. Or is she? I cannot decipher what is truth and what is lies. I cannot determine if one man's coldness is truly and act of affection or if another's passion is just a means to an end. The only thing I know for sure is that there is so much more to Gabriella's story...if only she can survive long enough to understand it!
April 21, 2015
3.5 Nothing-is-what-it-Seems Stars
This is my second Tessa Teevan book. I read Combust and loved it. I gave Combust five stars. I also think she is an adorable and is a sweet author. Tessa Teevan is known for her lighter romance books. Instigation is darker. I wouldn’t call it a dark read, just not as light as she usually writes.
I read Instigation blindly, meaning I didn’t read the summary prior to starting it. A few things about me, I do not like prologues, love triangles or highly narrative writing. So my review is based on those items.
Instigation, to cause by incitement.
Instigation, to urge, provoke, or incite to some action or course
Gabriella fell in love with perfect Adrian. Adrian is successful, rich and very charismatic. Gabriella doesn’t have any family and I believe that is why she craves affection so badly. Gabriella and Adrian go into the relationship fairly quickly. So, Gabriella quits her job and shacks it up with Adrian.
Everything seemed perfect.
Then, Gabriella meets Rafe. Rafe has a contract to work on Adrian’s home. While Adrian is away *gasp* Gabriella is to work closely with Rafe to make sure the project is done correctly.
We all know where this is going
But, like I said, not everything is what it seems.
When Rafe and Gabriella first meet, it’s just like Adrian where there’s an instant attraction and lust. Again, I think it’s because Gabriella craves affection so badly. Rafe and Gabriella enter this intense relationship. It’s really emotional and you question where it will go.
You will also question who Rafe is. Yes, he’s there to work on the house, but there seems to be something he’s hiding. It’s not told outright, but just an underlying feeling I get when I read.
What really worked for me is the whole mystery element to the book. I’m a suspenseful junkie. I was reading like mad, trying to figure out what will happen with Gabriella, what Adrian has planned and who Rafe is. Instigation is very narrative. A lot of the time I am being told what has happened. I prefer to read dialogue and scenes, but this is a personal preference.
I liked Adrian. He’s very dominate and kind of ruthless. Of course I like the mean Hero. I like how aggressive he is towards Gabriella and its borderline abusive. I wanted to read more of this. I wanted to know why Adrian is the way he is and how he can act one way and act another. He’s a huge enigma to me.
Gabriella isn’t an easy Heroine to read. She has many conflicting issues and that will happen in a love triangle. Her need for affection can be somewhat self-sabotaging to me. I feel like this girl has a lot of issues and she is very desperate for love. I know a lot of readers will love her.
When the book shifts, it throws you in this crazy roller coaster and it gets INTENSE. A lot is thrown at you and it will leave you feeling a little bit whipped lashed, but in a good way.
AN ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review
AMAZON
This is my second Tessa Teevan book. I read Combust and loved it. I gave Combust five stars. I also think she is an adorable and is a sweet author. Tessa Teevan is known for her lighter romance books. Instigation is darker. I wouldn’t call it a dark read, just not as light as she usually writes.
I read Instigation blindly, meaning I didn’t read the summary prior to starting it. A few things about me, I do not like prologues, love triangles or highly narrative writing. So my review is based on those items.
Instigation, to cause by incitement.
Instigation, to urge, provoke, or incite to some action or course
Gabriella fell in love with perfect Adrian. Adrian is successful, rich and very charismatic. Gabriella doesn’t have any family and I believe that is why she craves affection so badly. Gabriella and Adrian go into the relationship fairly quickly. So, Gabriella quits her job and shacks it up with Adrian.
Everything seemed perfect.
Then, Gabriella meets Rafe. Rafe has a contract to work on Adrian’s home. While Adrian is away *gasp* Gabriella is to work closely with Rafe to make sure the project is done correctly.
We all know where this is going
But, like I said, not everything is what it seems.
When Rafe and Gabriella first meet, it’s just like Adrian where there’s an instant attraction and lust. Again, I think it’s because Gabriella craves affection so badly. Rafe and Gabriella enter this intense relationship. It’s really emotional and you question where it will go.
You will also question who Rafe is. Yes, he’s there to work on the house, but there seems to be something he’s hiding. It’s not told outright, but just an underlying feeling I get when I read.
What really worked for me is the whole mystery element to the book. I’m a suspenseful junkie. I was reading like mad, trying to figure out what will happen with Gabriella, what Adrian has planned and who Rafe is. Instigation is very narrative. A lot of the time I am being told what has happened. I prefer to read dialogue and scenes, but this is a personal preference.
I liked Adrian. He’s very dominate and kind of ruthless. Of course I like the mean Hero. I like how aggressive he is towards Gabriella and its borderline abusive. I wanted to read more of this. I wanted to know why Adrian is the way he is and how he can act one way and act another. He’s a huge enigma to me.
Gabriella isn’t an easy Heroine to read. She has many conflicting issues and that will happen in a love triangle. Her need for affection can be somewhat self-sabotaging to me. I feel like this girl has a lot of issues and she is very desperate for love. I know a lot of readers will love her.
When the book shifts, it throws you in this crazy roller coaster and it gets INTENSE. A lot is thrown at you and it will leave you feeling a little bit whipped lashed, but in a good way.
AN ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review
AMAZON
April 20, 2015
Get your copy today! LIVE!!! Only .99 through release day
Instigation (Clandestine Affairs, Book 1)
This book is unlike anything Tessa has ever written. It has suspense, steam, and some anger inducing moments.
It kept me guessing the whole time and I still have no clue what it is going on and yet I LOVE that!!
Pick up your copy today!
Instigation (Clandestine Affairs, Book 1)
This book is unlike anything Tessa has ever written. It has suspense, steam, and some anger inducing moments.
It kept me guessing the whole time and I still have no clue what it is going on and yet I LOVE that!!
Pick up your copy today!
April 21, 2015
Totally different from anything I've read by Tessa Teevan ~ Loved it as well!
WOW so this one came totally out of left field!!
Plot, Style of writing and Vibe..
Definitely unexpected...
Full Review Here...
Talk about left hanging....
Need the next one NOW!!!
www.bookaholicconfessions.com
http://dianas-confessions.blogspot.com/
WOW so this one came totally out of left field!!
Plot, Style of writing and Vibe..
Definitely unexpected...
Full Review Here...
Talk about left hanging....
Need the next one NOW!!!
www.bookaholicconfessions.com
http://dianas-confessions.blogspot.com/
November 26, 2015
Actual Rating: 4.5 Stars!
What an exciting read! This book had my curiosity from the very first page. I was hooked, wanting to know what would happen next. Instigation follows the story of Gabriella, Adrian and Rafe. Gabriella thought she had found the perfect man: handsome, rich, attentive. Adrian was everything she thought she wanted. Until one day, things started to change. No longer was Adrian the perfect boyfriend. Gone is the amazing attentive man, in his place is an edgy, cold, distant man. How much will Gabriella be willing to put up with??
Rafe is hired to do a construction job for Adrian, but finds himself drawn to Gabriella. But, things aren’t exactly how they seem. Rafe has a job to do and nothing will stop him from getting this job down. The only problem, he can’t get Gabriella out of his head. Gabriella will suddenly find herself torn between two men. Will Gabriella finally have enough of Adrian’s behavior? Can Gabriella trust Rafe’s motives??
Instigation might be a short read, but man does it pack a punch. This book has it all: romance, intrigue, action, suspense and drama. I was on the edge of my seat, trying to solve the riddle of what was going on in this story. There were so many great twists and turns and I have so many questions. Who’s motives are true? Who is The Boss? These are just some of the questions that I have. This book does end on a cliffhanger, but boy is it a good one! I can not wait to see where this story will go next!
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
*My review can also be seen at: www.onceuponabookblog.com
What an exciting read! This book had my curiosity from the very first page. I was hooked, wanting to know what would happen next. Instigation follows the story of Gabriella, Adrian and Rafe. Gabriella thought she had found the perfect man: handsome, rich, attentive. Adrian was everything she thought she wanted. Until one day, things started to change. No longer was Adrian the perfect boyfriend. Gone is the amazing attentive man, in his place is an edgy, cold, distant man. How much will Gabriella be willing to put up with??
Rafe is hired to do a construction job for Adrian, but finds himself drawn to Gabriella. But, things aren’t exactly how they seem. Rafe has a job to do and nothing will stop him from getting this job down. The only problem, he can’t get Gabriella out of his head. Gabriella will suddenly find herself torn between two men. Will Gabriella finally have enough of Adrian’s behavior? Can Gabriella trust Rafe’s motives??
Instigation might be a short read, but man does it pack a punch. This book has it all: romance, intrigue, action, suspense and drama. I was on the edge of my seat, trying to solve the riddle of what was going on in this story. There were so many great twists and turns and I have so many questions. Who’s motives are true? Who is The Boss? These are just some of the questions that I have. This book does end on a cliffhanger, but boy is it a good one! I can not wait to see where this story will go next!
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
*My review can also be seen at: www.onceuponabookblog.com
May 8, 2015
WHAT IN THE EVER LOVING........
Holy god damn!!!!!!!!!!! This book, Tessa's writing, the characters, the plot, the EVERYTHING! I just can't! And THAT ENDING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! My poor kindle is still suffering a concussion! GODDAMIT! I just.....I need the second book.....STAT!!!! (Full review to come)
Holy god damn!!!!!!!!!!! This book, Tessa's writing, the characters, the plot, the EVERYTHING! I just can't! And THAT ENDING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! My poor kindle is still suffering a concussion! GODDAMIT! I just.....I need the second book.....STAT!!!! (Full review to come)
April 27, 2015
5 Rafe Stars
ARC received from the lovely author for an honest review
Review also posted on Mara's Bookshelf
Still only $0.99!
I’m going to start this review by saying that this is unlike any of the previous books written by Tessa Teevan. From sweet and funny to charming and sexy and now, suspenseful and intriguing, Instigation is a sure book that will leave you hanging on to every word that Tessa Teevan writes.
Gabriella “Brie” Latham is a young woman who has no one in her life. Being an only child didn’t help especially with her parents passing away. She’s left alone and wandering through her life. Brie, 22 years old, fresh out of college, looking for a job, and uprooted from her hometown an hour outside of Chicago to Philadelphia. I couldn’t imagine myself being in her shoes and how she was portrayed made my heart ache. Even in just the first pages, I can already feel how lonely she might be and how much she is struggling.
But that was until she met the alluring Adrian Morningstar.
Adrian Morningstar is a knight in shining armour. An answered prayer. A prince charming. While Gabriella was spending her time on her computer in a coffeeshop, looking for a job, in comes Adrian who helps Gabriella with her coffee. He was a prince charming, alright. He charmed the hell out of the unsuspecting young woman. Good-looking and seductive, how is that not going to attract beautiful and lonesome? Adrian used all of his charms to his advantage. It worked. It worked for me as well, if that counts! He made me smile and swoon until I wasn’t anymore. There are secrets and deception. Does he know from the start who Gabriella is? Why did he approach her that day at the coffeeshop? What are his plans for her? And why now?
“My mind reels, wondering if everything between us has been a lie. It couldn’t be, could it?”
After years of being with Adrian, the earlier days a whirlwind of romance and then when that whirlwind slowed down it became mostly of Brie conforming to what Adrian wants her to be. She stopped working as a receptionist and became Adrian’s assistant, they live together, Adrian provides for her. It’s safe to say that everything she has, Adrian gave her. Remember when I mentioned earlier that even from the start, her loneliness is palpable? That is the reason I can sympathise with her and her decisions. It’s understandable. It may not be how you or I will go about life but it worked for her at the beginning. I wanted to be her friend, someone she can at least talk to and someone who can give her advice or some friendly reminders. She didn’t have that and Adrian was there to be her person.
When the sparks started to dwindle and Brie started to realise things haven’t been the way it is for a while now. Something has changed and now she wants out. But how can she leave? Where will she go? What will she do? She has nothing. She has no one. She has nowhere else to go. And I wanted to just drag her out of Adrian's house already! It pains me how much she wants to get out already but can't because of Adrian.
Not until Rafe literally popped in her life.
Unexpectedly.
Yet a welcome distraction
… and a possible escape.
“Never again will I fall for a pretty face. Or well, in this case, a ruggedly handsome one.”
Rafe slightly creeped me out at first. No, really. It may be hot but that first meeting was awkward. But unlike with Adrian who made me smile at first and made me want to punch him eventually, Rafe creeped me out but made me smiling as the book progresses. He’s a mysterious guy with his own agenda but even with that, he genuinely cares for Brie. He wanted to take care of her, help her, and not just by making her dependent on him like what I felt Adrian did but by making sure she can stand with her own two feet and providing her support and even friendship. I loved him for that!
Rafe is such a sweetheart. I will always think of him fondly as that creep from the start but he's the creep who made me giddy and feel hopeful for Brie. Although, Tessa did a turn and got me thinking who the heck Rafe really is.
Tessa Teevan managed to bring out all these contradicting emotions from me with these 3 characters and their story! I didn’t know who to root for, who to dislike, whether I should be happy about that one thing or be frustrated because of the other. And these emotions? The author pulled it off. It left me on the edge of my seat and thinking “What the hell is going on in here?!” and Adrian? I’m thinking Tessa has a soft spot for making not-likeable characters a lovable one (*ehem* Branson Wellington *ehem*). I think Adrian has something to tell us and I'm waiting to find out what it is!
Stars: 5 stars
Recommended to: If you like stories that make you think, with a bit of suspense… this is Tessa Teevan’s wonder book! Go get this!
POV: First person. Alternating POV.
Series: Yes. The Clandestine Affairs Book 1 of 3.
Extra Comment: Yes, this ends in a cliffhanger. No, you don’t have to wait long before the continuation comes out!
April 24, 2015
*Complimentary ARC received from author*
I’m a little torn about this one…
I like it quite a bit, really. The premise sounded interesting. Gabriella was with one man until things started to change, then she met another man…
The opening immediately makes you wonder what the heck is going on. Shortly after, you can tell there’s definitely more there than meets the eye. It gets more interesting as Rafe is introduced, making you wonder some more what his angle is.
I enjoyed how everything is being laid out. The mystery is slowly opening up. It’s making me question where everyone fits in. I wonder how those 2 men fit into the puzzle, and why they’re doing the things they’re doing. For sure, I’m hooked in with the suspense and mystery I’ve been given a glimpse of so far.
Where I struggled is Gabriella/Brie. I am not able to fully connect with her somehow. I don’t appreciate what appear to be her co-dependent thoughts. Her past may have contributed to that, and granted, there really are women like her, but unfortunately, I’m not getting how her identity seems to be attached to which ever man is in her life. I wish she can come to those conclusions about herself without a man’s aid. That’s what it felt like to me the whole time. I didn’t agree with most of her decisions/actions. But interestingly enough, if not for her unintelligent actions, she wouldn’t have been in the situation she’s in, and where would have the story gone then?
Adrian and Rafe are 2 interesting fellas. Obviously, one is meant to be the hero. Regardless of who the hero is, given how I like a dark read every now and then, I’m just as curious about the one not meant to be a hero, because I found, when done right, those men are the ones who make you question your boundaries. This then brings me to my next point, that this story line is a great vehicle potentially to be a really dark read. If so, it could go down really spectacularly and be one heck of a mind-screw. Somehow, I don’t think this won’t be that dark. Either way, I’m curious. I have started formulating my own theories. There'll be 2 more books in the series, I wonder if I’m right. And yes, it ends on quite a cliffie but it's a cliffie I actually liked.
As it stands, my reaction is a bit on the tepid side, mostly because of Gabriella/Brie. But like I said, I’m curious, very curious…
I’m a little torn about this one…
I like it quite a bit, really. The premise sounded interesting. Gabriella was with one man until things started to change, then she met another man…
The opening immediately makes you wonder what the heck is going on. Shortly after, you can tell there’s definitely more there than meets the eye. It gets more interesting as Rafe is introduced, making you wonder some more what his angle is.
I enjoyed how everything is being laid out. The mystery is slowly opening up. It’s making me question where everyone fits in. I wonder how those 2 men fit into the puzzle, and why they’re doing the things they’re doing. For sure, I’m hooked in with the suspense and mystery I’ve been given a glimpse of so far.
Where I struggled is Gabriella/Brie. I am not able to fully connect with her somehow. I don’t appreciate what appear to be her co-dependent thoughts. Her past may have contributed to that, and granted, there really are women like her, but unfortunately, I’m not getting how her identity seems to be attached to which ever man is in her life. I wish she can come to those conclusions about herself without a man’s aid. That’s what it felt like to me the whole time. I didn’t agree with most of her decisions/actions. But interestingly enough, if not for her unintelligent actions, she wouldn’t have been in the situation she’s in, and where would have the story gone then?
Adrian and Rafe are 2 interesting fellas. Obviously, one is meant to be the hero. Regardless of who the hero is, given how I like a dark read every now and then, I’m just as curious about the one not meant to be a hero, because I found, when done right, those men are the ones who make you question your boundaries. This then brings me to my next point, that this story line is a great vehicle potentially to be a really dark read. If so, it could go down really spectacularly and be one heck of a mind-screw. Somehow, I don’t think this won’t be that dark. Either way, I’m curious. I have started formulating my own theories. There'll be 2 more books in the series, I wonder if I’m right. And yes, it ends on quite a cliffie but it's a cliffie I actually liked.
As it stands, my reaction is a bit on the tepid side, mostly because of Gabriella/Brie. But like I said, I’m curious, very curious…
April 22, 2015
3.5 intriguing stars!
One of the things that attracted me to this book was this statement in the blurb..."Nothing is quite as it seems, and this is only the beginning." I knew this book is going to play with my head and my emotions and I was right because at the end of this book, I had more questions than answers.
The book opens with heart-stopping prologue, which opens a whole slew of questions. Chapter one goes back to the time when Gabriella meets Adrian. A handsome and wealthy patron of the coffee shops where she works. They strike up a conversation and sparks fly between them. Their attraction and coming together was inevitable. Slowly but surely, Gabriella became dependent on Adrian for everything--her shelter, food, to the clothes she wears--basically, every aspect of her life became controlled by Adrian. Then the relationship started to go sour. Gabriella wanted to leave him but she had no means to do so.
Enter Rafe Matthews, a contractor that Adrian hired to do some additions to their house. Rafe is immediately attracted to Gabriella and wanted to protect her form Adrian. Gabriella for her part became entranced with Rafe. He was clearly forbidden and with Adrian being away and acting like an ass, Gabriella had the perfect excuse to pursue something with Rafe. So they start a physical relationship which is quickly becoming dangerous as secrets that Adrian is hiding came to the fore.
This was my favorite part of the book. I like the ambiguity, the secrets that the readers and Gabriella isn't yet privy to. Adrian is painted as the bad guy and Rafe is the savior but as the book moves along, things started to get muddy. I wasn't quite sure who was telling the truth the anymore. I have my theories but at this point, only Tessa Teevan knows. Which brings me to my biggest with the book...Gabriella.
I wish she was more self aware. I wish she played an active role in her own life. First, she allowed Adrian to completely control her life. And just when I thought she was finally going to be smart about her life choices, she went in, head first, into another relationship with a guy she barely knows even though Adrian told her he has eyes and ears everywhere. I wanted her to take charge of her life but it didn't happen. She didn't even question Rafe. She just accepted his word for it. Their relationship had no build-up. She didn't even fight it. So that was a let down since I do like my stories with more build up, more tension.
On the other hand, the suspense aspect of the story is killing me especially after that last chapter. I need the next book now. I want to know what happened. And oh my gosh, the questions...who is Rafe? Who is Adrian? What is their connection to Gabriella and her past? So many questions that I hope we'll have the answers to in the next book.
ARC provided by the author via Love Between the Sheets in exchange for an honest review...
One of the things that attracted me to this book was this statement in the blurb..."Nothing is quite as it seems, and this is only the beginning." I knew this book is going to play with my head and my emotions and I was right because at the end of this book, I had more questions than answers.
The book opens with heart-stopping prologue, which opens a whole slew of questions. Chapter one goes back to the time when Gabriella meets Adrian. A handsome and wealthy patron of the coffee shops where she works. They strike up a conversation and sparks fly between them. Their attraction and coming together was inevitable. Slowly but surely, Gabriella became dependent on Adrian for everything--her shelter, food, to the clothes she wears--basically, every aspect of her life became controlled by Adrian. Then the relationship started to go sour. Gabriella wanted to leave him but she had no means to do so.
Enter Rafe Matthews, a contractor that Adrian hired to do some additions to their house. Rafe is immediately attracted to Gabriella and wanted to protect her form Adrian. Gabriella for her part became entranced with Rafe. He was clearly forbidden and with Adrian being away and acting like an ass, Gabriella had the perfect excuse to pursue something with Rafe. So they start a physical relationship which is quickly becoming dangerous as secrets that Adrian is hiding came to the fore.
This was my favorite part of the book. I like the ambiguity, the secrets that the readers and Gabriella isn't yet privy to. Adrian is painted as the bad guy and Rafe is the savior but as the book moves along, things started to get muddy. I wasn't quite sure who was telling the truth the anymore. I have my theories but at this point, only Tessa Teevan knows. Which brings me to my biggest with the book...Gabriella.
I wish she was more self aware. I wish she played an active role in her own life. First, she allowed Adrian to completely control her life. And just when I thought she was finally going to be smart about her life choices, she went in, head first, into another relationship with a guy she barely knows even though Adrian told her he has eyes and ears everywhere. I wanted her to take charge of her life but it didn't happen. She didn't even question Rafe. She just accepted his word for it. Their relationship had no build-up. She didn't even fight it. So that was a let down since I do like my stories with more build up, more tension.
On the other hand, the suspense aspect of the story is killing me especially after that last chapter. I need the next book now. I want to know what happened. And oh my gosh, the questions...who is Rafe? Who is Adrian? What is their connection to Gabriella and her past? So many questions that I hope we'll have the answers to in the next book.
ARC provided by the author via Love Between the Sheets in exchange for an honest review...
April 20, 2015
This novel was not at all what I expected, and that is exactly why I thought this story was great. It started off in the typical guy meets girl instant world romance, but it turned out to be so much more then I could have ever imagined it being.
I knew something was going to be amiss when I read the prologue, and oh did it intrigue the heck out of me! We have Gabriella the lead heroine in the story whom is struggling to find herself years after her parents both died. She is lonely, working a mediocre job with no friends or social life. One day she meets a very mysterious man named Adrian, a wealthy attractive guy full of secrets. While Gabriella, is to me, in a weakened state emotionally he picks up on that, and sweeps her off her feet. It happens a little quickly for my liking, but it kind of has to due to the momentum of where the story is building. I am not one for instant love, but I understood why it needed to be done to keep up pace. I was very angry with Adrian in the beginning. Without revealing too much let’s just say the secrets and lies told had me wanting to choke him. I wanted Gabriella to run as far away as she could get. He is a love to hate kind of guy, alas he has his reasons, and I can’t wait to find them out.
In the interim between living with Adrian. Yes she moves in with him. What do you expect, when she is broken and lonely? He is out of town a lot for business, which she can never attend, due to a shady circumstance. I know you are saying to yourself way to be vague Anjee, but I can’t reveal anything or it will take away from everything. Moving forward Adrian has to leave for a month. Meanwhile another man with a whole other bunch of possibilities that you guessed it! Has secrets as well comes into Gabriella’s life.
Rafe is in the construction business doing a job for Adrian. Without going into too much detail let’s just say Rafe is not what he seems. He too sees Gabriella’s vulnerability and is quick to make her love him. The whole story is so complex with its twists and turns not even I have figured it out. Oh but I have my theories already working in my brain.
My last impressions were of course WTF. At least that is what I messaged the author. I had so many questions, and I won’t even know the whole truth until later, which kills my soul. Hopefully I am right on the money about my theories, and I can’t wait to discuss this one with my book friends. Trust me if you like whirlwind romance with a heavy dose of conspiracy theory go read this right now! 4.5 stars
I knew something was going to be amiss when I read the prologue, and oh did it intrigue the heck out of me! We have Gabriella the lead heroine in the story whom is struggling to find herself years after her parents both died. She is lonely, working a mediocre job with no friends or social life. One day she meets a very mysterious man named Adrian, a wealthy attractive guy full of secrets. While Gabriella, is to me, in a weakened state emotionally he picks up on that, and sweeps her off her feet. It happens a little quickly for my liking, but it kind of has to due to the momentum of where the story is building. I am not one for instant love, but I understood why it needed to be done to keep up pace. I was very angry with Adrian in the beginning. Without revealing too much let’s just say the secrets and lies told had me wanting to choke him. I wanted Gabriella to run as far away as she could get. He is a love to hate kind of guy, alas he has his reasons, and I can’t wait to find them out.
In the interim between living with Adrian. Yes she moves in with him. What do you expect, when she is broken and lonely? He is out of town a lot for business, which she can never attend, due to a shady circumstance. I know you are saying to yourself way to be vague Anjee, but I can’t reveal anything or it will take away from everything. Moving forward Adrian has to leave for a month. Meanwhile another man with a whole other bunch of possibilities that you guessed it! Has secrets as well comes into Gabriella’s life.
Rafe is in the construction business doing a job for Adrian. Without going into too much detail let’s just say Rafe is not what he seems. He too sees Gabriella’s vulnerability and is quick to make her love him. The whole story is so complex with its twists and turns not even I have figured it out. Oh but I have my theories already working in my brain.
My last impressions were of course WTF. At least that is what I messaged the author. I had so many questions, and I won’t even know the whole truth until later, which kills my soul. Hopefully I am right on the money about my theories, and I can’t wait to discuss this one with my book friends. Trust me if you like whirlwind romance with a heavy dose of conspiracy theory go read this right now! 4.5 stars
August 8, 2015
"Use your words."
Holy Freaking Crap!!!
From the prologue alone I was immediatly hooked to this story! It was suspensful and mysterious. You had to know what led Gabriella to the situation she was currently in.
Gabriella was a girl that had a tragic past and seemed to have a future that was going nowhere. That was until she met Adrian Morningstar. He made her feel wanted, desired, and no longer alone.
"My very own American Prince Charming. He wanted to take care of me, and I wanted to let him. What a fool I was."
Their relationship was a whirlwind. It was hot and steamy, and then, everything changed. I will tell you that I was on the edge of my seat for every part of their relationship! I kept waiting for something to go wrong. Is that weird?! They were too perfect!! Gahhh!
"My Adrian was gone, and I had no idea how to find him again."
Enter Rafe Matthews. Good lawd! Just the description of this rugged man was enough to make me want to know more about him. He was a mystery right from the start. Tessa does an amazing job at keeping the interest in Rafe even though you secretly are cursing her for not giving up info on him yet! Grr Tessa. Just grr!
Rafe has his eyes set on Gabriella and he doesn't plan on letting anything, or anyone, stand in his way.
"Unknown to him, he may think he's teaching her a lesson, but in reality, he's just getting her ready for me."
My goodness the sexiness was off the charts when these two were introduced to each other! The way he calls her "Brie"!! Swoon! He was everything that she missed in her life. He was giving her back everything she no longer had with Adrian. He made her feel safe.
"One man wants to own me like a cheap toy, his until he's ready to discard me. The other looks at me as if he can see the old me. The real Gabriella. Or, in this case, Brie."
This story had me hook, line, and sinker! I'm a lover of love triangles. Even though this story doesn't really come off as one, in my mind, it does. Brie might be in complete lust with Rafe, but her mind still goes back to Adrian. She can't help but be curious as to what truly happened. What made him change so much?
"What am I going to do? And just which one of them is the devil and who, if anyone, will be my savior?"
I was not expecting the cliffy at the end of this story, but wow!!! This book was full of hot and steamy moments and enough suspense to leave you holding your breath! I can't wait for the continuing story!! I have so many questions left unanswered. What really happened with Adrian? Why is something from Gabriella's past haunting her today? And the biggest question of all...Who the heck is Rafe Matthews?!
Ahhh!! I need book two right now!!!
"We're often blind to the true nature of those we care about the most. After all, the devil himself was once an angel."
Holy Freaking Crap!!!
From the prologue alone I was immediatly hooked to this story! It was suspensful and mysterious. You had to know what led Gabriella to the situation she was currently in.
Gabriella was a girl that had a tragic past and seemed to have a future that was going nowhere. That was until she met Adrian Morningstar. He made her feel wanted, desired, and no longer alone.
"My very own American Prince Charming. He wanted to take care of me, and I wanted to let him. What a fool I was."
Their relationship was a whirlwind. It was hot and steamy, and then, everything changed. I will tell you that I was on the edge of my seat for every part of their relationship! I kept waiting for something to go wrong. Is that weird?! They were too perfect!! Gahhh!
"My Adrian was gone, and I had no idea how to find him again."
Enter Rafe Matthews. Good lawd! Just the description of this rugged man was enough to make me want to know more about him. He was a mystery right from the start. Tessa does an amazing job at keeping the interest in Rafe even though you secretly are cursing her for not giving up info on him yet! Grr Tessa. Just grr!
Rafe has his eyes set on Gabriella and he doesn't plan on letting anything, or anyone, stand in his way.
"Unknown to him, he may think he's teaching her a lesson, but in reality, he's just getting her ready for me."
My goodness the sexiness was off the charts when these two were introduced to each other! The way he calls her "Brie"!! Swoon! He was everything that she missed in her life. He was giving her back everything she no longer had with Adrian. He made her feel safe.
"One man wants to own me like a cheap toy, his until he's ready to discard me. The other looks at me as if he can see the old me. The real Gabriella. Or, in this case, Brie."
This story had me hook, line, and sinker! I'm a lover of love triangles. Even though this story doesn't really come off as one, in my mind, it does. Brie might be in complete lust with Rafe, but her mind still goes back to Adrian. She can't help but be curious as to what truly happened. What made him change so much?
"What am I going to do? And just which one of them is the devil and who, if anyone, will be my savior?"
I was not expecting the cliffy at the end of this story, but wow!!! This book was full of hot and steamy moments and enough suspense to leave you holding your breath! I can't wait for the continuing story!! I have so many questions left unanswered. What really happened with Adrian? Why is something from Gabriella's past haunting her today? And the biggest question of all...Who the heck is Rafe Matthews?!
Ahhh!! I need book two right now!!!
"We're often blind to the true nature of those we care about the most. After all, the devil himself was once an angel."
July 8, 2015
Title: Instigation (Clandestine Affairs #1)
Author: Tessa Teevan
Rating: 2.75 stars
POV: Dual
HEA:
Heat/Steam3/5
Cliffhanger: . yes.
Taboo Subject Matter .abuse.
Cheating:
Sex w/ OW/OM:
Love Triangle
Too much sex and not enough character and plot development. Nothing is happening for most of the book other than tons of sex. I found the heroine quite annoying and a weak loser who always needed a man to take care of her.
Want to Read
January 30, 2015That prologue in the back of "Intoxicate (Explosive #4) was a big tease... :(
C'mon Springtime!!
C'mon Springtime!!
Read
March 8, 2015Brilliant. Consuming. Insanely Addicting.
Full review to come.
Full review to come.
February 2, 2021
Gabriella was list and alone after the deaths of her parents. Then a man came into her life making life worth living.
Adrian had a job to do but one look at the list girl he knew in his heart he had to protect her.
After two years of a whirlwind romance Brie realized Adrian had changed. She had had enough.
Rafe had a job to do but one look at the beautiful woman in tears he knew in his heart he wanted more.
Brie must decide whether she truly wants to leave Adrian or start a future with Rafe.
Mystery, suspense and steamy scenes!
Already hooked on this series!
Adrian had a job to do but one look at the list girl he knew in his heart he had to protect her.
After two years of a whirlwind romance Brie realized Adrian had changed. She had had enough.
Rafe had a job to do but one look at the beautiful woman in tears he knew in his heart he wanted more.
Brie must decide whether she truly wants to leave Adrian or start a future with Rafe.
Mystery, suspense and steamy scenes!
Already hooked on this series!
April 19, 2015
Instigation by Tessa Teevan is easily a 5 star read. Tessa really blew me away with her writing ability here! The storyline is quite complex and truthfully brilliant in its originality and twists. I wasn’t quite sure what to expect for these characters when I read the synopsis but I think any expectations I had were blown away. This isn’t your typical insta-love fairytale romance, this story has depth and really sucks you right in and keeps you guessing as to what is going to happen. I found myself highly invested in the world of Gabriella, Adrian and Rafe. The author gave us great backstory leading up to the preset situation Gabriella finds herself in, all which lead me to highly dislike Adrian, however, I am kind of wondering if his behavior isn’t necessarily of his own choosing but rather forced on him in some way. Rafe is quite complex in himself and thus far I am a champion for him and Brie, but I do have questions about his motives, which were kind of alluded to in the conclusion. The ending is a huge cliffy and holy crap it left me dying to know what is going to happen next. I need part two now!! I’m hooked! Tessa is definitely one of my go to authors and this book is an easy one-click.
April 20, 2015
Solid 4.5 stars. Loved this side of Tessa and I need MORE!
I loved Instigation! This was very different from what Tessa normally writes and it works! This book is full of suspense and steamy sex! I have to admit I am torn between Adrian and Rafe. Which I understand makes me completely crazy! But that is okay!
There is some kind of secret that Adrian has been keeping from Brie and I don't think it is what we have been lead to believe! I feel like he has some explaining to do.
While I loved Rafe, I just don't trust him too much either! I don't know that I have "fell" for him yet! EEK! But I do think he has the potential to win me over. Right now I am pulled between the two and the secrets need to come out!
I really like Brie though.She's been through some shit and has started just going through the motions of living. I really like seeing her fight her way back to herself and I cannot wait to see what else is in store for her, Rafe, and Adrian! I needed book 2 like yesterday!!
***ARC provided via author in exchange for an HONEST Review***
I loved Instigation! This was very different from what Tessa normally writes and it works! This book is full of suspense and steamy sex! I have to admit I am torn between Adrian and Rafe. Which I understand makes me completely crazy! But that is okay!
There is some kind of secret that Adrian has been keeping from Brie and I don't think it is what we have been lead to believe! I feel like he has some explaining to do.
While I loved Rafe, I just don't trust him too much either! I don't know that I have "fell" for him yet! EEK! But I do think he has the potential to win me over. Right now I am pulled between the two and the secrets need to come out!
I really like Brie though.She's been through some shit and has started just going through the motions of living. I really like seeing her fight her way back to herself and I cannot wait to see what else is in store for her, Rafe, and Adrian! I needed book 2 like yesterday!!
***ARC provided via author in exchange for an HONEST Review***
April 8, 2015
"He doesn't kiss me like he owns me. He kisses me as if he cherishes me, not as if I am some stranger he just encountered."
Tessa Teevan takes her brilliant mind to a whole new level in this suspense filled story that will have you holding your breath one minute and screaming a few pages later.
Tessa keeps you hooked and you won't want to stop. I cannot wait for more!
5 stars!!!
September 11, 2015
LOVED!
April 20, 2015
When I started reading this book, I knew just from the synopsis that it was going to be something different than I had read before. I was ready for that because I love me something different. I also knew it was going to be something very different than anything I’d ever read from Tessa Teevan before. That had me very curious, as I’ve LOVED all of her other books, and I was curious how this one would be.
I knew all of that going into Instigation, but I did not realize how wholly enrapturing this story and its phenomenal characters would be. From the instant I started the prologue, I was hooked. Once I started I couldn’t stop until I reached the end, and when I reached the end of this remarkable book, I was practically dying for more.
When you read Instigation, when you experience the immense pull of this book you will hit the ground running and you will not stop until the very end. Literally.
That is only part of what made this book an exceptional read. The story that Tessa Teevan thoughtfully wrote was unique, enthralling, and pushed the boundaries just enough to make me love every single word of it.
Instigation has a ton of mystery and suspense weaving its way through the story. Each chapter gives you one more piece to the puzzle, and in the end of this book you will still be trying to figure out some of those pieces, but that’s what made this book so phenomenal to read. Wanting to figure out more to the intricate puzzle that is this story and its dynamic characters just pulled me right into the thick of this book because I had to know what was going on. This book has suspense by the bucket load, and that adds another wonderful layer to what you’re reading.
This book is a tad darker, a little edgier, and it pushes the limits in the right amount of ways. I loved that I got this from one of my favorite authors, as it was something very different than I’ve ever read from her before. The edge that this book allows you to experience helps bring the story to life as you read it, and you are going to love how that edge pushes these characters, and in turn pushes you as the reader as you take it all in.
Gabriella’s character was magnificent. Over the course of Instigation you will get to see many different sides to her. You see her in the beginning before she met Adrian, you see what she became after meeting him, and then you get to see her as she slowly but surely finds her real self again. As this story unfolds so does Gabriella’s character, and getting to know the real Gabriella was outstanding. She has such a realness to her, and you really understand and feel everything that she does because of how this author writes her character. The real side to her is breathtaking and fantastically written, and it just exemplified the true strength and tenacity of her character.
Rafe’s character completely enraptured me throughout this entire book. Not only did he melt my heart repeatedly and bring a certain kind of blush to my cheeks, there were so many dynamic layers to him. You don’t fully understand his motives or what’s really going on with him, but you do know he’s drawn to Gabriella like a moth to a flame. He cannot stay away from her, and you will feel how much care, and passion, and desire he has for her on practically every page. Even though there is a serious amount of mystery surrounding his intentions, there is a goodness to him that shines through in the way that he is towards Gabriella. His protectiveness, his desire to push her to find herself, and his want to take away the darkness in her life just exemplified a lot about his character.
Adrian’s character was one that I was very intrigued by. I didn’t necessarily love him or even like him at all. I was so fascinated by his character because of all the stages you see his character go through in Instigation. It was so enjoyable while reading this book to try to figure out what in the world was going on with him, what he was up to, and how that all connected into the story. Adrian is most definitely no Boy Scout, and there’s a serious level of eccentricity, crazy, and darkness to him, but I could not get enough of trying to figure him out in this story.
Let me tell you that you will get tons and tons of passion and heat in this book. The instant Rafe and Gabriella are together it fires off the page and it just pulls you into their story more because of the depth and shear passion behind what they feel for one another. You will feel the connection between them in your bones, and that will just amplify everything they are feeling and doing and thinking. The passion and heat that Gabriella and Rafe share brings the significance of their relationship to an extraordinary level.
You really do hit the ground running when reading this book, and I can’t say enough how much that works for the story being told between these fantastic pages. When you read Instigation your pulse will race, your breath will catch, and your heart will be pounding like crazy at times as you experience the twisting and turning events of the book. How this book comes to be through all of those seamlessly placed and created events just makes this book the outstanding thing that it is.
This is the first book in the series, so it gives you plenty of questions, a few answers, and plenty of more questions, but that’s what made this book. That leaves you more than ready for more from these characters, and this author sets up this series exceptionally. It was fantastic to learn parts of the past and to see how things came to be, but it was even more invigorating to have more questions come up as I read this book. Instigation is the foundation of what’s to come, and you get the right amount of the past and present of these characters. This author could not have done a better job creating a solid beginning to what is sure to be an epic story.
I really enjoyed that Instigation was told mostly in Gabriella’s point of view as that solidified my love of her character, but I also loved that Rafe’s point of view was added in at some very specific points that illuminated a lot. This author clearly put a lot of thought into when we got to step into his handsome head. Both of their points of views were distinctive and worked superbly together as they weaved their way through the story. You learn so much from them both and get to experience so much, and that was just the best.
Instigation was another extraordinary read by Tessa Teevan. I absolutely love this author’s style of writing, and this book just reiterated that tenfold. I loved every phenomenal word she gave me, what it allowed me to experience with these very unique characters, and what it let me feel and think and experience as I dove into all the mystery and suspense that is Instigation.
This book will make you think and wonder and question like crazy, and that’s what makes it so good because it allows you to become fully enraptured into the world of this book with these characters. You will not be able to stop thinking about any of it, you’ll be wondering where it’s all going to go, and you’ll be racking your brain trying to put it all together. Getting to experience all of that during and after reading this book is nothing short of exceptional, and it gives you a truly unforgettable read with the perfect amount of romance, passion, mystery, darkness, and edge.
I loved every single distinctive and wondrous piece Instigation, and I cannot freaking wait to get my hands on the next piece of this thrilling series.
I knew all of that going into Instigation, but I did not realize how wholly enrapturing this story and its phenomenal characters would be. From the instant I started the prologue, I was hooked. Once I started I couldn’t stop until I reached the end, and when I reached the end of this remarkable book, I was practically dying for more.
When you read Instigation, when you experience the immense pull of this book you will hit the ground running and you will not stop until the very end. Literally.
That is only part of what made this book an exceptional read. The story that Tessa Teevan thoughtfully wrote was unique, enthralling, and pushed the boundaries just enough to make me love every single word of it.
Instigation has a ton of mystery and suspense weaving its way through the story. Each chapter gives you one more piece to the puzzle, and in the end of this book you will still be trying to figure out some of those pieces, but that’s what made this book so phenomenal to read. Wanting to figure out more to the intricate puzzle that is this story and its dynamic characters just pulled me right into the thick of this book because I had to know what was going on. This book has suspense by the bucket load, and that adds another wonderful layer to what you’re reading.
This book is a tad darker, a little edgier, and it pushes the limits in the right amount of ways. I loved that I got this from one of my favorite authors, as it was something very different than I’ve ever read from her before. The edge that this book allows you to experience helps bring the story to life as you read it, and you are going to love how that edge pushes these characters, and in turn pushes you as the reader as you take it all in.
Gabriella’s character was magnificent. Over the course of Instigation you will get to see many different sides to her. You see her in the beginning before she met Adrian, you see what she became after meeting him, and then you get to see her as she slowly but surely finds her real self again. As this story unfolds so does Gabriella’s character, and getting to know the real Gabriella was outstanding. She has such a realness to her, and you really understand and feel everything that she does because of how this author writes her character. The real side to her is breathtaking and fantastically written, and it just exemplified the true strength and tenacity of her character.
Rafe’s character completely enraptured me throughout this entire book. Not only did he melt my heart repeatedly and bring a certain kind of blush to my cheeks, there were so many dynamic layers to him. You don’t fully understand his motives or what’s really going on with him, but you do know he’s drawn to Gabriella like a moth to a flame. He cannot stay away from her, and you will feel how much care, and passion, and desire he has for her on practically every page. Even though there is a serious amount of mystery surrounding his intentions, there is a goodness to him that shines through in the way that he is towards Gabriella. His protectiveness, his desire to push her to find herself, and his want to take away the darkness in her life just exemplified a lot about his character.
Adrian’s character was one that I was very intrigued by. I didn’t necessarily love him or even like him at all. I was so fascinated by his character because of all the stages you see his character go through in Instigation. It was so enjoyable while reading this book to try to figure out what in the world was going on with him, what he was up to, and how that all connected into the story. Adrian is most definitely no Boy Scout, and there’s a serious level of eccentricity, crazy, and darkness to him, but I could not get enough of trying to figure him out in this story.
Let me tell you that you will get tons and tons of passion and heat in this book. The instant Rafe and Gabriella are together it fires off the page and it just pulls you into their story more because of the depth and shear passion behind what they feel for one another. You will feel the connection between them in your bones, and that will just amplify everything they are feeling and doing and thinking. The passion and heat that Gabriella and Rafe share brings the significance of their relationship to an extraordinary level.
You really do hit the ground running when reading this book, and I can’t say enough how much that works for the story being told between these fantastic pages. When you read Instigation your pulse will race, your breath will catch, and your heart will be pounding like crazy at times as you experience the twisting and turning events of the book. How this book comes to be through all of those seamlessly placed and created events just makes this book the outstanding thing that it is.
This is the first book in the series, so it gives you plenty of questions, a few answers, and plenty of more questions, but that’s what made this book. That leaves you more than ready for more from these characters, and this author sets up this series exceptionally. It was fantastic to learn parts of the past and to see how things came to be, but it was even more invigorating to have more questions come up as I read this book. Instigation is the foundation of what’s to come, and you get the right amount of the past and present of these characters. This author could not have done a better job creating a solid beginning to what is sure to be an epic story.
I really enjoyed that Instigation was told mostly in Gabriella’s point of view as that solidified my love of her character, but I also loved that Rafe’s point of view was added in at some very specific points that illuminated a lot. This author clearly put a lot of thought into when we got to step into his handsome head. Both of their points of views were distinctive and worked superbly together as they weaved their way through the story. You learn so much from them both and get to experience so much, and that was just the best.
Instigation was another extraordinary read by Tessa Teevan. I absolutely love this author’s style of writing, and this book just reiterated that tenfold. I loved every phenomenal word she gave me, what it allowed me to experience with these very unique characters, and what it let me feel and think and experience as I dove into all the mystery and suspense that is Instigation.
This book will make you think and wonder and question like crazy, and that’s what makes it so good because it allows you to become fully enraptured into the world of this book with these characters. You will not be able to stop thinking about any of it, you’ll be wondering where it’s all going to go, and you’ll be racking your brain trying to put it all together. Getting to experience all of that during and after reading this book is nothing short of exceptional, and it gives you a truly unforgettable read with the perfect amount of romance, passion, mystery, darkness, and edge.
I loved every single distinctive and wondrous piece Instigation, and I cannot freaking wait to get my hands on the next piece of this thrilling series.
Want to Read
January 20, 2021🎁 FREE on Amazon today (1/20/2021)! 🎁
April 23, 2015
**BETH'S REVIEW**
Gabriella Latham’s life tragically changed one night three years ago when her parents were killed in a robbery gone wrong. She was left alone, heartbroken with nothing or no one. In trying to move on, she moves to Philadelphia, a place she thinks will help her feel closer to her parents. She lands a receptionist position and lives a life where she is barely surviving on what little she makes. All that changes the moment she meets Adrian Morningstar, who whisks her off her feet, romances her and lavishes her with nice things. As time passes she is more and more drawn in until she is completely dependent on him. But as quickly as she has been swept off her feet, it all changes with one phone call from Adrian’s estranged father. When her returns from visiting his father he is changed and she no longer feels wanted or desired, she is only a possession of him, one he refuses to ever let go. She sees the signs of him being unfaithful but tries to ignore them until she no longer can. She tries to leave but he quickly shows her she has no one, nowhere to go and no money, he has her right where he wants her. That is until she meets Rafe, the contractor hired to handle the guest house constructions Adrian is having done and Gabriella is the only one Adrian trusts to oversee the construction while he is away on business. Rafe is her white knight that has come to save her and she can’t deny her feelings for him. But both men have a lot of secrets that she is unaware of and could change everything she knows and feels.
Instigation pulled me in right away, the prologue sucked me and left me sitting on the edge of my seat right till the very end. This book was full of some great angst and suspense that had me not wanting to put it down. To say this story is a love triangle with cheating is a true statement but I will say that it doesn’t play out like not the normal love triangle and even though there was cheating for me didn’t have the full cheating feel to it because of the circumstances that she was planning to leave and Adrian was already cheating. I normally don’t care for triangles and cheating and it tends to turn me off a book but must say it was done well in this one.
I really loved Gabriella’s character, she was a great strong heroine, who in a time of tragedy and sadness in her life found herself in a relationship with a man who said and did all the right things. But Upon showing his true colors, she realized what she had gotten herself into and how she allowed herself to be manipulated to be that weak women he wanted her to be. I loved though that upon recognizing that she fought back to not allow him to make her be that person anymore and I loved that even though her first attempt to walk away from him failed, she wasn’t going to give up.
Adrian was the perfect guy, the rich businessman that treated her like a princess, saying and doing everything that all women dream about, how could Gabriella not fall in love with him and allow him to whisk her away from the life she was living and alienating herself. But all that changes, he becomes that man you no longer swoon over and fall in love with, he is now that lying, cheating asshole you love to hate. I must so though as much as I hated Adrian, I had my moments I found myself wanting to see that man he once was with Gabriella and had pity for him as he seemed like he wanted to be that man but his father wouldn’t allow it.
Rafe was absolutely dreamy, hot construction guy that you can’t help but fantasize about. The chemistry between him and Gabriella was instant and completely off the charts, when these two were in the same room, things heated up and heated up pretty fast. I loved that from that first moment he wanted to save her from the daily hell she was living with Adrian, he was caring and gentle, he put her needs first never wanting to push her but letting her know he would always be there for her, by her and would save her from her hell. But like Adrian, there is more to Rafe’s story and I can’t wait to see what that will be in the next book.
Overall I found this to be a really enjoyable read, it had a great mix of sexy moments mixed in with some really sad and touching ones as well as ones full of angst and suspense. This is my first time reading this author and I must say I did enjoy her writing and the suspense in the storyline kept me engaged, but there were a few spots that it did fall flat for me. I must say the sex scenes were very hot and quite panty wetting but after the first few it did feel like they were getting to be a bit repetitive and find myself skimming the remaining ones. It was definitely a book I had to hold on tight as I was constantly waiting for the other shoe to drop with Adrian and I was left seriously hanging with that ending. I cannot wait for Escalation and I need it like now.
Gabriella Latham’s life tragically changed one night three years ago when her parents were killed in a robbery gone wrong. She was left alone, heartbroken with nothing or no one. In trying to move on, she moves to Philadelphia, a place she thinks will help her feel closer to her parents. She lands a receptionist position and lives a life where she is barely surviving on what little she makes. All that changes the moment she meets Adrian Morningstar, who whisks her off her feet, romances her and lavishes her with nice things. As time passes she is more and more drawn in until she is completely dependent on him. But as quickly as she has been swept off her feet, it all changes with one phone call from Adrian’s estranged father. When her returns from visiting his father he is changed and she no longer feels wanted or desired, she is only a possession of him, one he refuses to ever let go. She sees the signs of him being unfaithful but tries to ignore them until she no longer can. She tries to leave but he quickly shows her she has no one, nowhere to go and no money, he has her right where he wants her. That is until she meets Rafe, the contractor hired to handle the guest house constructions Adrian is having done and Gabriella is the only one Adrian trusts to oversee the construction while he is away on business. Rafe is her white knight that has come to save her and she can’t deny her feelings for him. But both men have a lot of secrets that she is unaware of and could change everything she knows and feels.
Instigation pulled me in right away, the prologue sucked me and left me sitting on the edge of my seat right till the very end. This book was full of some great angst and suspense that had me not wanting to put it down. To say this story is a love triangle with cheating is a true statement but I will say that it doesn’t play out like not the normal love triangle and even though there was cheating for me didn’t have the full cheating feel to it because of the circumstances that she was planning to leave and Adrian was already cheating. I normally don’t care for triangles and cheating and it tends to turn me off a book but must say it was done well in this one.
I really loved Gabriella’s character, she was a great strong heroine, who in a time of tragedy and sadness in her life found herself in a relationship with a man who said and did all the right things. But Upon showing his true colors, she realized what she had gotten herself into and how she allowed herself to be manipulated to be that weak women he wanted her to be. I loved though that upon recognizing that she fought back to not allow him to make her be that person anymore and I loved that even though her first attempt to walk away from him failed, she wasn’t going to give up.
Adrian was the perfect guy, the rich businessman that treated her like a princess, saying and doing everything that all women dream about, how could Gabriella not fall in love with him and allow him to whisk her away from the life she was living and alienating herself. But all that changes, he becomes that man you no longer swoon over and fall in love with, he is now that lying, cheating asshole you love to hate. I must so though as much as I hated Adrian, I had my moments I found myself wanting to see that man he once was with Gabriella and had pity for him as he seemed like he wanted to be that man but his father wouldn’t allow it.
Rafe was absolutely dreamy, hot construction guy that you can’t help but fantasize about. The chemistry between him and Gabriella was instant and completely off the charts, when these two were in the same room, things heated up and heated up pretty fast. I loved that from that first moment he wanted to save her from the daily hell she was living with Adrian, he was caring and gentle, he put her needs first never wanting to push her but letting her know he would always be there for her, by her and would save her from her hell. But like Adrian, there is more to Rafe’s story and I can’t wait to see what that will be in the next book.
Overall I found this to be a really enjoyable read, it had a great mix of sexy moments mixed in with some really sad and touching ones as well as ones full of angst and suspense. This is my first time reading this author and I must say I did enjoy her writing and the suspense in the storyline kept me engaged, but there were a few spots that it did fall flat for me. I must say the sex scenes were very hot and quite panty wetting but after the first few it did feel like they were getting to be a bit repetitive and find myself skimming the remaining ones. It was definitely a book I had to hold on tight as I was constantly waiting for the other shoe to drop with Adrian and I was left seriously hanging with that ending. I cannot wait for Escalation and I need it like now.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews