I did what I had to do to save her. I sold my soul to survive. I fell in love with the devil himself. I'm Aurora James, and this is my story.
DANGEROUS. MENACING. FORMIDABLE.
He is darkness and danger; I am his light. He is cold and ruthless; I am his warmth. He is a heartless pimp; I am his whore. And this is our beginning.
Jessica is the author of the Love Square series. She grew up in Central New York, where she spends her days as a Security Analyst at an IT consulting company. In her free time, she enjoys reading books and developing ideas for her own stories. Writing is her secret passion that she's been fostering since elementary school, when she wrote her first book about a puppy. It has always been a dream of hers to be able to share her stories with the world.
Jessica currently lives in New York with her husband, daughter, and two dogs.
This is one of those stories that suck you in from the first page. The book is gritty but filled with raw emotions and perfectly imperfect characters. Alyssa is a single mother and very poor. Not having another choice, she decides to sell her body for money. Xavier O'Brian is a ruthless man with a very seedy business. His brothel is successful and infamous. When a desperate Alyssa winds up on his doorstep, he sees nothing but a body he can use to make his business more profitable. What he doesn't expect is to be attracted to his new merchandise. Her life is changed, her name is altered and now Alyssa is fighting her attraction for her...pimp. The book dives deep into the gritty circles of prostitution without demonizing the profession. It also doesn't idolise it. The story is raw and emotional and I was taken into one hell of a ride. This book is a must. Do not miss it. 5 Stars from me. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
This was a total unexpected but wonderful surprise for me.
Alyssa is a single mum who has hit rock bottom. To survive and provide for her daughter Sophie she ends up getting a job at a strip club as Aurora James.
Xavier is the owner of the club. He's ruthless and comes across as heartless until he's with Aurora. He wants her to himself but knows he can't touch her. I loved how the author portrayed him as a hot, possessive alpha male.
I loved this unique storyline. The sex scenes were hot and steamy. Great secondary characters added to the story.
With plenty of twists and turns I found this to be an addictive read. Be warned there's a cliffhanger :(
What the junk! Why did I turn the last page … why? I should have left it lie and walked away with the happily ever after .. but NO! I had to turn the page.
Xavier O Brien and The Den. Good lord heaven help us all. And then there is Ghost. Yup love him too and Marx I cannot forget about him. This story … is awesome! In short summary without spoilers you get three incredibly hot men. Their relationship is different to say the least. Ghost works for Xavier and Marx is a client. I have no idea why I was so taken with him but dang it I am and was and want to know more. I cant tell you why but something tells me we NEED to know more about him. Xavier is dark and dangerous just like we love them to be. He is lost and angry all at the same time. A man who knows his business. There are threats hanging in the air ... threats that keep him closed off. Xavier cannot be distracted because distraction makes him weak and weakness gets those he loves killed. Ghost is loyal and an enormous hunk of man just like we wish for. You will find out a very interesting tidbit of information about him through the book so read carefully and don't miss it. The business Xavier runs is upscale and his girls are protected. But there is more to the story and you will find out what in time but trust me when I say you don’t want to .. leave it alone! Dream up your happy and run for the hills!
Alyssa Swanson is a single mom struggling to provide for her four year old daughter Sophie. Her neighbor Ruth helps out when she can but its not enough anymore. She has to do something more. After heading down to a seedy club and realizing she cannot work for the scum who just tried to have her “perform” in order to obtain a job, she finds herself at The Den thanks to the scumbags bartender giving her a name and address of a much better place. Ghost knows this woman is trouble the minute he lays eyes on her but owing a favor to the person who sent her is just that. Xavier is brutal upon meeting Alyssa and sends her immediately to meet her first client .. Marx.
As events unfold Xavier finds himself forbidding any client or allowing anyone to request now Aurora for anything more than he says is allowed. No man will touch what is his. WHAT?!?! Oh yeah and the getting’ gets really good. Alyssa Swanson is no more and Aurora James is born.
I cannot tell you how great this story is. Dive in head first and prepare yourself. I could not put it down. And then boom … just when I think everything is fantastic … BAM .. then okay no its okay everything is going to be alright … WHAM …. And then …. Yeah … Waiting … that is all I can do Jessica! Get to writing ….. you have just run over me with a two ton truck. Oh and by the way .. Im going to need Ghost and Marx’s story as well. Click this up … you will absolutely LOVE this one.
I was provided an ARC for an honest review. Review to appear on Ramblings From Beneath The Sheets. Thank you Jessica and bring on book two. 2016 is tooooo long to wait!
even after 1 week of reading this book i really don't know how to rate it. First 100 pages i hated Aurora, she was such gredy whore, i wanted to throw my Kindle from frustration.I understand that she wanted to make money for her little Sophie but she wanted to whore herself even when Xavier pay her double just for her to dance. And that scene with women was not necessary, sorry but i don't like my heroine to be slut.in one time i wanted Xavier to fine better, because he deserve it. And then the last 90 pages i fell in love with Xavier and Aurora. For me the best in book was Xavier, i loved his possession,his dominece, his alpha way. The book ended with cliff and I can't wait for book 2 i just really hope after that epilogue i will not hate Xavier.I really can't give 5 stars.
Jessica Ingro is a raw and gritty writer. She does the rainbows and flowers, but they come after the hard and rough storm she takes, not only her characters, but her readers through. She does not sugarcoat a damn thing and that is one of the many things I appreciate about Ingro and her writing. After all the heartbreak and despair comes the happiness. Even for a pimp and his prostitute.
Alyssa (Aurora) is a single mom down on her luck when her husband is sent to prison. With no source of income, she turns to stripping to keep a roof over her and her daughter. When the first place she seeks out puts her in a perilous situation, she is given the address of another that turns out to be her luck at the end of the rainbow, so to speak. Met with resistance at first from the secretive and short-tempered owner she is given the chance. Now known as Aurora, she trying to make her mark in this exclusive club, but little does she know the man behind it all is starting to fall for her. Even though he doesn't want to, he just can't get Aurora James out of his head. And little does he know, she can't get Xavier O'Brien out of hers.
For me, the author hit this book out of the park. This is the first installment of a two part series. I wasn't sure what I was going to come away with after reading this. A pimp and a prostitute falling in love and me being smitten with the BOTH of them. Lord save me. Jessica is not afraid to go there. But as we know these "occupations" have a bad connotation to their name. With the strong writing style I forgot what they hell their title's were. It was two stubborn ass people trying to fight all possibilities of them falling in love with each other. Two people who would rather spit nails than think their is something more to their relationship than what's in front of them. I don't think you could get any better than Aurora and Xavier. For what Aurora is going through, I tip my hat to her. Look any can say I would never do that or put myself in that situation, blah, blah. You can't knock someone until you find yourself in that same person's shoes. The author's write her female characters with a set of balls. No meek mouses here. Dare I say she is one of my favorite female characters from Jessica Ingro? Too soon to say, but she may be knocking Tori from "Urban Love Prophecy" right out of the top spot. Now Xavier O'Brien... *checking my lady parts* Sorry wanted to make sure my panties are still in tact when I say his name. Basically your panties disintegrate every time he is around or you say his name. He is ROUGH around the edges, a man with POWER and woman by the name of Aurora James was able to bring him to his knees. He is delectable, but this man has a past with secrets that is bubbling to the surface. Can not wait to see how his character develops in the next book.
I loved this book. Do I recommend it? Absolutely, I recommend it to anyone who reads with an open mind. This series is not a walk in the park if you can get past that then you are just fine. My only gripe was the Epilogue. You went from a high to such a twist with the Epilogue it's pretty heartbreaking. You'll see. Out of a 5, I'm giving this book a 4.5 Stars. I need the next book like, say, TOMORROW! Well done Ms. Ingro!
Mama's Dirty Little Reads received a complimentary copy of Aurora James from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
If there’s one thing you can always expect from this author’s work it’s that she knows how to keep you hooked from beginning to end. This story was no different.
Alyssa Swanson is a single mom struggling to make ends meet. Her daughter, Sophie is her world and she will stop at nothing to give her everything. But her life has never been that simple. Despite the jobs here and there she needs to make more money. Fast. While going to a sketchy place looking for a job, she encounters another. Although unconventional, it’s thrilling, sexy, and alluring. And Alyssa knows she must take it. Despite what it means she must do, she is willing to give up a part of herself to get ahead in life. When she meets the boss, Xavier O’Brien she is stunned. Never expecting someone like him to run that kind of business. One look at him, she knew everything in her life was about to change.
Xavier is a mystery. Devastatingly handsome, but off limits. At least that’s what everyone tells Alyssa. But she can’t seem to stay away. There is something about him that pulls her in. And Xavier feels the same energy when in the same space as Alyssa. But he knows he can’t touch her. So that means no else can either. He puts up barriers so that customers can look but they can't get too close. He will never admit it to himself or Alyssa that he is doing something he thought he’d never do. He is falling. Hard.
The connection between Alyssa and Xavier is electric. It’s intense, addicting, The author places you right there in their moments of passion. Your heart beats as the story unfolds. I found the writing to be captivating. It flowed well and made it easy to get lost within the pages. The love in this story is raw but so heartfelt. These are two flawed people that find the missing pieces to their jagged edges in each other.
Aurora James is unlike anything I have ever read. This is no fairytale or good girl gone bad story. This story is of Aurora James and how she came to be. How she falls for the one man she is not supposed to have. Despite Alyssa’s choice of job, you understand her struggle and the need to feed and clothe her and her daughter. The need to provide. You begin to identify with her. You fall as she falls for Xavier. You feel her struggle in loving a man that cannot belong to her. And can we talk about the ending? I was left speechless. I literally kept tapping my kindle as that could not have been it. There is so much left to Alyssa and Xavier’s story and I am so happy we have more of them to look forward to. I cannot wait for what’s to come.
This book was completely unexpected. The only thing I've ever read by Jessica Ingro before this was Take Me There, which is a compilation of taboo love/sex stories. So I knew she was good at writing sex, what I didn't expect was for this story-line to hook me from page one and leave me cussing and screaming at the cliffhanger. Yes, there is a cliffhanger. Take note of that, because no one told me when I read it. I had no idea until the end, and then it was too late to save myself.
Alyssa is a single mother whose husband is in jail and she can barely afford to put food on the table for her little girl, Sophie. She's at the end of her rope and decides to shove down her pride and do whatever it takes to take care of her daughter. She gets a job at an upscale strip club that also happens to be a place men can pay to have sex.
Xavier owns the place and finds himself wanting to help her out the first time he meets her. The problem is, he can't stand the thought of anyone having sex with her so he does his best to make sure that doesn't happen. He doesn't want to taint her with his secrets, so he can't have her to himself but he can make damn sure that no one else has her either. All while ensuring she has the money she needs to give her daughter a good life.
Alyssa is given a stage name of Aurora James and considers this her new identity, the newer and stronger version of herself. She can't help to be drawn to Xavier, but his mixed signals are enough to drive her crazy. He isn't able to deny his attraction from her forever. He may tell her that it's only a sexual relationship, but the way he cares for both her and Sophie makes it clear that he's feeling something stronger than sexual desire.
Xavier's worst nightmares come true when his enemies find out she's important to him. This is exactly why he didn't want to be involved with her in the first place. Now he has fight for her and Sophie's lives and hope he doesn't fail them like he feels he did to loved ones in his past. He finds that Aurora is stronger than he thought she was though and her love for him won't diminish just because he has a darker side.
Don't expect an HEA, because there isn't one. Everything's up in the air when the book ends. The only thing I know for sure is Xavier loves Aurora just as much, if not more than she loves him. I believe he will go to the ends of the earth to have her and Sophie be in his heart and his life.
This is the first book, the next book Xavier O'Brien is set to release early 2016. Sometimes, I like to wait to read a book until the next one is out, and this is one of those I kind of wish I did. Not because there is anything wrong with it, but you know when you stop reading a book and you want to jump into the next, like immediately and then you are all like, NOOOO I have to wait.
Us book nerds, we're an impatient bunch aren't we??
This story is unique and fresh. Xavier is all kinds of brooding male. And he is bad ass without saying "I'm badass" he just is. I like when an author can do that. *NICE
Alyssa/Aurora is a struggling single mother who becomes desperate enough to make a better life for herself that she makes extremely difficult decisions, decisions that I as the reader felt she made with little regard. I wanted her to have more of an internal battle, but it was like once she went with it, she really went with it.
I liked the plot so much that I said to myself, I am not going to get caught up on the moral high ground and the choices Aurora makes. Jessica writes in such a way that you really want to put all of that aside and go with it.
THE SEX: Yowzer- can I say f/f with a strap on that was kinda tastefully done, if strap on sex can be tasteful?
MMM and when things finally heat up with Aurora and X-OH MY-
All and all I really enjoyed this read and look forward to finding out what happens next, after all, with an epilogue like that who wouldn't want to dive right into the next book.
Though I found the character a little unbelievable in what she would be capable of doing, I enjoyed this novel a great deal.
Alyssa Swanson is having a bad time after her husband and his drug addiction led to his sentence in jail and her moving out of their home because he wasn’t making payments - instead he was buying drugs. She feels like she has no other options than to become a stripper to make money to feed her daughter.
Xavier O’Brien owns a strip club, but the trick is that the girls don’t really just strip. It’s a high end prostitution gig. He’s also what most would call an evil man and he doesn’t believe in relationships and he doesn’t let anyone get too close.
The immediate attraction between Alyssa and Xavier is hot. Their ssexual tension is intense. She wants it. He fights it. He doesn’t believe it to be true. She feels differently:
I wasn’t a fanciful woman by any stretch of the imagination, but every girl at some point in her life had notions of the white knight riding in to sweep her off her feet. Xavier might not have been a white knight to, but he felt an awful lot like a dark night to me. He made me feel safe and cherished, even if he didn’t realize it.
I really enjoyed this story. The twists and turns. The bad guy you don't see coming. The good guys you wouldn’t expect to be good. It’s a wonderful story of love with a lot of drama involved.
This is definitely a book for those who like reading lots of sex scenes. A newly single mom trying to find a way to provide for her young child turns to the only profession she can think of that will help her get money fast. After going to a strip club where the establishment is falling apart and run down she leaves not knowing what to do next. A business card in hand with an address and the possibility of a new place to try she returns home to her neighbor and daughter. Her kind hearted neighbor helps her find a place to work cleaning but the last straw is her car breaking down. While trying to go get groceries to feed her daughter and self the car breaks down and she is hit with a sad reality when she hears her daughter crying because she is hungry. She takes the card set out to see if she can find a way to make more money. Taking the new job and a new name - Aurora James soon is able to provide for her daughter while trying to keep her growing want for her boss at bay. Little did she know that he was keeping her from making extra money by not letting anyone touch her. A hot steamy relationship builds and wow.. you need to read this book I must say this is a hot book, I went from chapter 2 to hating that I hit the end. I can not wait for the next book. REVIEWER FOR Bloggin' With M.Brennan
There are some authors that I wish would write a 1,000-page book, but then I remember that I still wouldn't be able to get enough. I read this book entirely too fast. It's a story that I fell in love with. Jessica Ingro always gives us an incredibly sexy story with just the right amount of drama and angst. I thought Alyssa was an incredibly strong woman. Having to struggle just to feed her daughter, she's accepted what she has to do, even if she doesn't like her new career choice. Hoping to get the job, she sets out on the interview only to be attacked by the guy. She's just about given up hope when someone gives her a new lead. Xavier is dark, brooding, and secretive. He doesn't show emotion or let people get close to him. He's seen what can happen to those closest to you. But when Alyssa shows up looking for a job he's almost knocked on his ass. Only problem is, her never touched the merchandise. I seriously can not get enough once I start a new book by Ms. Ingro. She does such a phenomenal job of painting the scene for what is always an exciting story. If you've never read one of her books, you need to start now. You'll be obsessed and find yourself eagerly waiting for her next book to be released.
This author is absolutely brilliant. I have read quite a few books by her and each time she continues to amaze me. Every time I read a book, I remember exactly why I keep coming back. But this book right here is definitely my all time favorite by her. It was intense, edgy, passionate, and totally pushed my boundaries. This book was hot, sexy, and oh so sinful. Ms. Ingro gave us quite a unique storyline with so many twists and turns... yeah you are in for quite a ride that will leave you breathless.
This is the beginning of Alyssa's story. Full of suspense, steam and passion, Alyssa or "Aurora's" story will grab you. She is struggling and just trying to survive. And it is not easy and only going to get harder. But she will speak to you. She will make you feel. She will have your heart pumping. She will push your boundaries. And when you meet Xavier, hold onto your panties ladies because we should come with a warning all on his own. The brooding alpha male is in a category all on is own. This book was amazing and I am currently on the edge of my seat waiting for more!
There are some authors that I wish would write a 1,000-page book, but then I remember that I still wouldn't be able to get enough. I read this book entirely too fast. It's a story that I fell in love with. Jessica Ingro always gives us an incredibly sexy story with just the right amount of drama and angst. I thought Alyssa was an incredibly strong woman. Having to struggle just to feed her daughter, she's accepted what she has to do, even if she doesn't like her new career choice. Hoping to get the job, she sets out on the interview only to be attacked by the guy. She's just about given up hope when someone gives her a new lead. Xavier is dark, brooding, and secretive. He doesn't show emotion or let people get close to him. He's seen what can happen to those closest to you. But when Alyssa shows up looking for a job he's almost knocked on his ass. Only problem is, her never touched the merchandise. I seriously can not get enough once I start a new book by Ms. Ingro. She does such a phenomenal job of painting the scene for what is always an exciting story. If you've never read one of her books, you need to start now. You'll be obsessed and find yourself eagerly waiting for her next book to be released.
Let me start by saying this is the 7th book I have read by this author and Jessica has never let me down. If anything her writing seems to just keep getting better and better.
This book had me literally on the edge of my seat, holding my breath and wishing it wouldn't end. I devoured it in two short sessions because I was unable to set it down.
This book was sexy, wicked, intriguing, Raw, I could not get enough of it this book just sucked me in from page one I read this all in one setting I could not put it down.
Aurora, I just loved and respected her character she was willing to do anything for the one she loved she was beautiful, sweet, caring life hasn't been all that far to her she has a lot going on in her life but then she meets her sexy boss and things change what are you to do when the one man you want is the one man you should stay clear of. Her connection with Xavier, was strong, fiery, intense her character development was very well written.
Oh Xavier, you sexy, raw, intense, man I could not get enough of him he was A dark, intense character you will love to hate and hate to love he is at war with himself and his felling he has A heart of gold and puts up wall i just really loved his character you just felt what's he felt this is A must read.
Raw, sexy, gritty, dangerous and emotional are awesome words to explain this book, but once you start reading it sucks you in so far that you never want to come out! Aurora is a single mom who has fallen on very hard times to the point that she has to take a job that she never thought she would ever do! Her life changes more than she could ever expect it could! Sexy as sin Xavier is a very dangerous bad boy that runs a not so legal strip joint! And when he first lays eyes on Aurora everything changes for him! DONT MESS WITH WHAT IS X's! Great read and I can't wait to find out more of Aurora and Xavier's story!
I'm pretty sure this book had me completely from just the description alone! Such a unique premise, I couldn't wait to read it and I was not let down.
This follows the story of Aurora and Xavier... Probably the most dysfunctional and odd pairing I have read about. I realized quite quickly that I was going to have to put judgements aside to read this book because their behavior is unsettling and I didn't want to like them. But I opened my mind as the story progresses and I was rooting for them both.
I can't wait to see where book 2 will take us. I hope we don't have to wait too long!
*I was given an arc of this book from the COPA Crew in exchange for my very honest review*
My mouth hung open as I took in the sight of the man standing in the doorway.
He was easily six foot three, with black hair and piercing blue eyes that seemed as if they saw right through me. His facial features were hard and masculine, like that of a gladiator—strong jaw, straight nose, high cheekbones. And good lord, he was built. His muscles were barely contained by the blue dress shirt that covered his upper body. And through his black suit pants, I could see large, muscular thighs.
“Please don’t tell me this is the situation,” he said to Ghost in an infuriated tone.
“Sure is.” Ghost’s grin stretched across his face and if I knew any better, I’d say he thought the whole situation was amusing, which only served to take me from self-pity to straight out pissed off. Nothing about a single mother struggling to make ends meet was funny in my opinion.
I narrowed my eyes and opened my mouth to curse when the man shut the door behind him, drawing my attention back towards him. He really was a fine specimen of eye candy. Muscles in my lower belly clenched at the unbidden thought of his large body over mine.
“Why the fuck did you bother me with this?” the man snapped, clearly pissed off and not finding the situation amusing either.
“She wants to dance out front,” Ghost explained.
“All the girls dance out front,” the man replied in agitation.
“She only wants to dance out front,” Ghost further explained.
A bark of disbelief came from the man’s lips, and he turned his full attention to me.
“What makes you think you’re better than the other girls here?”
“I… I don’t,” I stammered. His gaze was hard and his eyes were cold as they raked over my body with precision.
“Then bend over and show me what you’re working with or get the fuck out.”
The color drained from my face at his harsh words, even as those muscles tightened again in anticipation. This was insane. No way could I possibly be this turned on by a stranger who was a complete asshole.
And in the end isn’t that exactly what Kevin ended up being? A stranger and complete asshole? My inner voice taunted me.
“Who do you think you are coming in here and demanding me to bend over like I’m nothing more than a piece of meat?” I demanded. I was in full-on defensive mode. I hated being talked about like I wasn’t in the room, and I despised being treated like a piece of shit.
He closed the distance between us until he was so close his breath caressed the skin on my cheek. My heart galloped wildly in my chest at being this close to him. I had to fight the urge to lean forward, bury my nose in his neck and sniff his collar when his woodsy scent wafted around me.
“Don’t you ever question who the fuck I am. I’m motherfucking God as far as you’re concerned. No one steps into my den and shows me disrespect. No one. You got that?” His tone held a razor-sharp edge that I felt lash at my skin with each word.
“Yes,” I squeaked out, my head bobbing up and down in concurrence. If I’d thought Ghost was scary before, he had nothing on this man. He was on a whole other level from scary. The word scary would be closer to describing a tiny little bunny than it would be to describing him.
Coherent thoughts flew out of my head when I felt his hand on my hip. His touch was a hot brand against my skin, making my breath come in harsh pants. His proximity was breaking down all my defenses and making me feel like a bitch in heat.
The material of my thong tightened against my skin right before I heard the material rip. I looked down in disbelief at the torn lace dangling from his large hand.
Holy shit. He destroyed my underwear… with one hand.
Alyssa is flat broke. She has used up every available resource for her and her 4-year-old daughter, and if things don’t change soon they will be sleeping in the car. Alyssa realizes when she cannot put food on the table that she is truly desperate and will do anything for money.
I had failed the one person who loved me unconditionally. I had failed as a mother. There was only one thing left for me to do.
The one thing left to do is sell herself. Call it a paid escort, prostitute, private dancer…etc. Alyssa has sunk to the very bottom but the money is good and she sees herself finding a way out of the bottomless pit her husband left her in. Doesn’t hurt matters any that her boss is serious eye candy. Whoo wee…Xavier could melt icicles in Antarctica with his hotness factor. Xavier has a rule though…don’t touch the merchandise.
Alyssa thinks she doesn’t have what it takes to bring the clients in, but Xavier has also made up rules unbeknown to Alyssa. Nobody is allowed to touch her merchandise. Xavier sees that Alyssa doesn’t belong in this lifestyle. It’s not just an erotic dance club, it’s a ruthless lifestyle that Xavier leads and a dangerous one. As much as he wants to break his rule and have Alyssa as his own, he knows nothing good will come by giving in to his desires.
Aurora exuded everything Xavier didn’t – innocence and light. It would be over his dead body before he let this life consume her, making her a cold and jaded shell of who she’s meant to be. She was better than this world. Better than him.
One can’t fight fate forever though, right? There’s a reason why Alyssa was placed in front of Xavier begging for a job. It’s only a matter of time before Xavier gives in to what he wants, and he wants Alyssa as his own.
I would definitely do what Xavier says. He is not a man that will negotiate. Everything is on his terms and he lets everybody see that he is the one in control. Too many enemies are looking for his weakness.
Alyssa has a visitor from her past that gave me the heeby jeebies the moment he was introduced. He just doesn’t fit well in the story and I think he has a devious boss and co-worker that will bring more danger to the story in the next installment. Yes, there is another installment but that just means we get to see more of Xavier and Alyssa. I did feel that there wasn’t a lot of interaction between the two main characters and hopefully in the next installment we can see Xavier and Alyssa interact more on a daily basis and away from the club.
One part that made me weak in the knees was his interaction with her little daughter. Xavier claims princes don’t exist…I beg to differ.
I once read that it takes just four minutes to fall in love. I knew without a doubt that was false. Because in less than a minute, I fell head over heels, crazy in love with Xavier. That’s all it took – thirty seconds of him giving my daughter the kind of affection she only got from me…
This is Jessica Ingro at her unfaltering best. The book is one that leaves nothing to chance, it gives nothing away either and you will be thankful for that. I think I would say this is more than a novel it was an experience. Single mother Alyssa has reached the end of her tether and with few options left – heck who and I kidding – she has completely run out of options when she turns to the locals trip club as her only means of feeding her child. Her desperation was palpable at this point and it is a situation that while I may not entirely understand, I can empathise with completely because as a mother you do what you need to do to take care of your child – she took the avenue open to her and she should be commended for being that strong. Now the club of course offers more than just what is on show – it offers to cater for every carnal pleasure and takes no prisoners in the dishing up the most devious of requests. From the minute Xavier (the owner of the club) lays eyes in Alyssa he feels drawn to her, he wants to help her to help herself but does he go too far? There is just something about her that has him reluctant to share her with anyone, not that he has had her himself at this point. His past is holding him back, tugging on leash that he can’t yet break free from but what he is feeling for Alyssa is tugging on his heartstrings… something has to give and I have a feeling that it ain’t going to be pretty when it does. Keeping the punters away is a task that he manages but all the time he does he has to make sure that her reason for working at his club, to earn money to care for her daughter is not forgotten, he is more than willing to make sure that she doesn’t lose out financially because he can’t bear the thought of her with anyone else. Under her stage persona Alyssa is reborn – a bigger and badder version of herself but it is a wonderful façade to hide behind. Xavier only has so much restraint but when it finally snaps, can he give her all of him or will it be just for the sex as he continues to profess. Alyssa knows this man better that he knows himself, she can see what lies behind those smouldering eyes and she knows he feels the same as she does – what they have going on is so much more that what is happening between the sheet. But can Xavier stop his past from ruining what he might have in the future and does he deserve a future with Alyssa and Sophie? When his enemies come sniffing round can he keep them safe or does his fate have more in store for them all. Can Alyssa show him that no matter how strong he thinks he is, she can play with the big boys too… this woman may just be able to stand tall with her man. No-one messes with a mamma bear – her daughter is caught up in this and hell will freeze over before she sits back and lets her man fight alone. Now I was happily ticking along with this completely caught up, thinking these pair were just what I needed on a Sunday afternoon and then – bam – right between the eyes – Jessica landed the killer blow – a Cliffy that knocked the wind from my sails!!!
No really, OMG! I knew that this book was going to be good because who doesn’t like a good old fashioned love story about a whore and a pimp? I tease, but I was super excited about this one! Ingro is one of those authors I stalk because she kills it at erotica and dirty talking and alpha men. I really wasn’t quite sure what to expect, the synopsis is perfectly vague in the ‘I must read this’ kind of way.
This is a story about how an ordinary woman is pushed into a world she never expected to enter into. With one disaster after another Alyssa has to make hard choices to make ends meet — she ends up on The Den’s doorstep begging for a job. Being a stripper wasn’t what she wanted, but the quick money was desperately needed. When things at The Den aren’t quite as they appear she has yet another hard choice to make.
You didn’t like someone like Xavier. You either stayed far away from him in the interest of self-preservation, considering he could cut you down with just a look, or you worshiped at his feet hoping for any scraps he might give you.
Xavier is intrigued by Alyssa from the beginning. He hates the thought of her losing the light in her eyes like so many of his other girls have. The calming numbness that keeps them pushing forward … but she is determined and so the metamorphosis starts and Alyssa is no more.
“That’s where you’re wrong. I own this body. I say who has access to it. You’re mine.”
I couldn’t get enough of this book. As each chapter ended I was literally begging the real world to stay away for just one more. One more chapter, page, paragraph, heck even one more sentence!! I was very sad to see it end, but then there is a lovely prologue to book two that shows us Xavier isn’t done telling his tale. Thank goodness for that. I love that this book is a complete story all on it’s own, but knowing there is going to be more? I could have jumped for joy. Now I’m not so patiently waiting…
“If you can beat back his demons, you’ll know the richest kind of love.”
Aurora James is the perfect balance of romance, suspense, and erotica. Xavier completely won me over — definitely one of those anti-heroes that have to redeem themselves throughout. Man he was a growly alpha man. If you learn anything about him at all it’s that you don’t cross him and you especially don’t mess with anything that he calls his. Five Thrilling Stars and Five Whorishly Drenched Panties.
I was hooked on this book by page two. Two things you can always count on with Jessica Ingro…….she will capture your attention and heart early and she will leave you in a mess of emotion by the last page. She didn’t disappoint me with this one either. I absolutely loved the concept of Alyssa Swanson. She is a single mother to the most adorable little girl you have ever read about. Her husband is in jail and she has always been at home with her daughter but now she has to make a living for them. After some bad luck she ends up at a club, applying to be a dancer/stripper. Things didn’t go so well in the first interview and she stood her ground and left. She was then directed to the Den, a place where she could earn money in a cleaner environment and be protected from the patrons. The mental struggle she went through was heart wrenching. She never dreamed she would be a stripper when she took those dance classes when she was younger, but now she has a little girl who is crying herself to sleep because she is hungry. A mother’s love is what drove her to the Den and soon her first client was a man who had some strange demands but paid very well. Xavier is the owner of the Den and while he has some dangerous skeletons in his closet he makes sure his club is run by rules and the ladies are protected. They might be money makers for him and prostitutes to society but they deserve to be kept safe. He changes Alyssa’s name to Aurora and soon his desire for her takes control of his common sense. Their story is a rocky one, tough guy falls for single mom. The gap to bridge this relationship is huge. Jessica gives us suspense, love, hot passion and some steamy scenes. She also creates a world that is easy for the reader to invest in. The ending…..Oh Lord why didn’t I expect this from her? It will leave you wanting to scream at the author and demand to know why? I just love how Jessica can make these fictional characters come to life. I stayed up so late reading this book that the next day I started to make excuses for not going to the grocery store……until I heard that little baby girl crying because she was hungry in the book. This is what she does to her readers, we are left thinking about life and the value of people. In this one she made me realize that life creates careers for some women not the other way around. This book will stay with me for a long time for the simply because the author made this real, gave me a story that I could put myself in had it been me left in Aurora’s situation. I can hardly wait for the next book.
HOLY WOW! Jessica Ingro has outdone herself with this one! Aurora James absolutely blew me away and I am on the edge of my seat waiting for the next book in the series! I have read all of Jessica’s previous books, and am in love with each of them. However I think I have a new favorite with Aurora James; the story, the characters, the writing – it’s all just amazing. I found myself truly unable to put this book down.
Aurora James is the story of Alyssa Swanson, a newly single mom who will do whatever it takes to keep her young daughter and herself afloat. They’ve endured much hardship and deserve a life better than what they’ve been dealt, and it is with great strength and endurance that Alyssa takes the only path she can find to lead them to a better life. Her story is an emotional journey, one that often found me with tears in my eyes. I found myself able to understand her decision to do what she had to do, and I admired her strength and courage. And then there is Xavier. He’s hot, he’s rich, he’s smart, he’s scary and he’s got a big big heart. As Alyssa/Aurora’s “boss” he is tough but he sees in her all the good there is. And together these two are just wow! Holy hotness! In typical Jessica Ingro fashion, the hotness factor is off the charts with this book! In the best way possible! The chemistry between these two is sizzling and yet it’s real, it’s emotional, and it’s intense. And what’s even better is that all the secondary characters are so well-written and developed as well; I really felt as if I got to know all of them and would love to learn even more about their backgrounds, and where they will go in the future.
This book is quite possibly Jessica Ingro’s best work to date. Her writing is phenomenal; from page one I was hooked, not only on the storyline but on the words as well. They drew me in and from there I could not let go. And the ending! Oh wow!! It’s a cliff, fair warning but it’s a good one that will be worth the wait for sure.
I HIGHLY recommend Aurora James! Don’t delay! This is one amazing ride you won’t want to miss! Thank you Jessica Ingro for your truly incredible writing and for bringing these characters to life.
What the what?! Why I ask why?? Total twist on the last page and so did not expect that based upon how it was going. Your good Jessica and gotta say is it 2016 yet cause I need more of this please? Before I continue on about this awesome book we gotta see more on Marx and Ghost pretty please. There is something about these two supporting characters that they need their own story.
Alyssa is a struggling mom with a 4 year old and they are down to literally nothing to eat, if not for her neighbor, Ruth the poor little girl and Alyssa would starve most times. Her husband is in jail so she is left to pick up the pieces and keep a roof over their heads. She has a decision to make to save her little girl so she turns to selling her soul against her better wishes.
Xavier owns an upscale gentleman's club, The Den and Alyssa becomes his whore. Her first night she is paired with Marx and oh man if this story was written a different way, I think Alyssa and Marx could have had something special happening. Xavier decides that Alyssa is now Aurora so she becomes her alter ego. Xavier does everything in his power to control who and what Aurora can do while working. She becomes off limits so Ghost spends most of his time preventing havoc from occurring. Ghost truly lives up to his name cause you sometimes never know he is in your presence.
Xavier and Aurora are made for each other and typically he doesn't go with his workers, but there is something about Aurora that pulls her in to him. They are perfect for each other, two complete opposites who can't help wanting each other. The only thing I didn't like is if you like this person, why continue calling her Aurora. You should be calling her Alyssa not Aurora especially if you love this person. Aurora is her alter ego and should be left while working only.
There are so many twists and of course hot sex in this book. Don't be deterred by the whore part so not what you expect and you will miss out on this awesome read. This was the first book I read by this author and it won't be the last.
I've come to expect three things from Jessica Ingro's writing -- a taboo story featuring a relationship that pushes the boundaries of what's "normal", an intensely erotic connection between the hero and heroine, and characters who are going to make me both love and hate them. Aurora James lives up to all of my expectations and more. If you're looking for a tender love story, Jessica Ingro's novels are not that. She knows how to write a story that will get under your skin, set you on fire, and leave you wanting more.
Aurora is a single mother who has found herself at rock bottom. In order to provide the necessities for her daughter, she vows to go to any lengths to get money. Yes, any lengths. I loved her character because her foundation is built upon a genuine love for her child. Her devotion pushes her to let her moral compass stray. My initial reaction to her employment choices may have been to judge, but you can't fault the heroine for the path she's chosen when all other options proved to be empty.
Enter the hero. Or at times villain. Xavier really tested me as I delved deeper into their story. The connection between Aurora and Xavier is tumultuous but addictive. They can't deny their desires, but Aurora does her best to not mix business and pleasure. I really don't want to get into the plot specifics because that would spoil the story for readers. I will, however, deliver this warning -- this ending is going to make you regret reading the last page. I am still in shock and DYING to get more from Jessica Ingro. Her words are both infuriating and alluring, which is why she is a favorite author of mine.
No matter what the title of the story, if the author is Jessica Ingro, readers can expect a story that lures them in, commands their attention, entices them out of their comfort zone, and exposes them to a raw, gritty world where the right decision is never easy. Pick up your copy of Aurora James today!
Holy hell! This killed me. KILLED ME! It's going to be a long wait for the next book. A LONG WAIT!
Let me start off by saying this book is not for the faint of heart. But it's a story about two characters who have been broken by events in their lives. Aurora was forced to turn to a job that ensured her daughter had food in her belly, while Xavier lived a life that might somehow make up for family being gone.
When we first meet Xavier, it's hard to believe Aurora could manage to find one redeeming quality in the man. But the more we got to know him, the more we understood what he tough exterior hide and protected him from. And we saw what it was that Aurora did and why she trusted herself and her daughter with this very tough, often scary man.
Considering the world these two characters lived in, the violence was to be expected. However, the source of some of that violence surprised me. Given the way this book ended, I know there is so much more to this story and how someone from Aurora's past is connected to Xavier's.
I loved the author's Concierge series and was completely blown away with this completely different storyline. The characters were engaging, despite not always being likable, and the storyline had me captivated right from the start.
According to the back of this book, the next book, Xavier O'Brien, will be out in 2016. I can say I'm honestly going to go nuts until we get the next book. The epilogue has me wondering what the hell happened and what the fall out is going to be (because if you've read this story, you know there will be fall out).
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Let me start by saying this is the 7th book I have read by this author and Jessica has never let me down. If anything her writing seems to just keep getting better and better.
This book had me literally on the edge of my seat, holding my breath and wishing it wouldn't end. I devoured it in two short sessions because I was unable to set it down.
Alyssa is trying to get by after falling on hard times when her husband goes away, leaving her to raise their daughter. Left without options she finds herself in an unlikely profession.
Xavier, with his tough exterior and even tougher heart, weakens from her touch and the brush of her lips. Knowing danger lurks around him, he has to do what it takes to keep her safe, even if that means letter her go.
" My body ached with need almost immediately and I felt myself growing wet with the hungry way he looked at me."
This is not your typical love story with the perfect fairytale ending. There is no knight in shining armour swooping in to rescue the princess, well not in the conventional sense.
The storyline flowed perfectly, the pace in which the story progressed felt right, and the ending of book 1 left me wanting more. The characters were well developed and easy to fall in love with.
Overall, another fantastic read by Jessica Ingro....I shall patiently wait til the new year to see where the story of "Aurora" and Xavier goes.
This book grabbed me and didn't let go! Alyssa aka Aurora is a mom down on her luck. Her husband, a drug addict, is in prison for theft. She is left with nothing, he didn't even pay the rent. She is down to her last bag of ramen noodles and feeling very desperate. After a horrifying interview at a strip club, a bartender gives her a name and address for a job. Little does she know how much her life will change when she walks into The Den and comes face to face with Xavier.
Aurora is one of those characters you can't help but love, she is strong, funny, and doesn't take anyone's crap. She has been through so much in her life, but she never lets it stop her, she has to make a good life for her daughter. For all her light, Xavier is dark, and he craves her light. Xavier is an intense, brooding, dangerous alpha, but underneath it all he has a heart and a vulnerability that makes you fall in love with him.
***ARC provided in exchange for an honest review!*** Xavier and Aurora try in vain to fight their growing attraction, and when they finally give in? BOOM! The loves scenes are so hot, they almost melted my Kindle. I have to say I enjoyed all of the sex scenes in this book, the one's with Marx were very nice indeed.
The supporting character are AMAZING! I hope to read Ghost, Marx and Candy's story one day. All of the characters, even the evil ones, added so much to the story!
This book was a pleasant surprise, it's the first book I have ever read by Jessica Ingro, but it won't be my last. This book is fantastic and I just loved it! Can't wait for more of Xavier and Aurora's story!
First off let me say if you have never read one of Jessica Ingro, books you are missing out on so much. This women has amazingly wicked talent of telling stories!!!! I took this ARC on because I have always loved everything Jessica has put out for her readers. Let me tell you this one is no less proof of her talent. I was taken in from the first page and refused to lay this book down. You are taken into the life of Alyssa, her only goal is to take the best care of her daughter, Sophie. Husband in jail leaves her no choice to take a job at an upscale strip club that has special perks for those wanting to pay extra. She is given the job by Xavier owner and operator of the strip club. He can’t seem to get her out of his mind and has a fierce drive to protect her. He sees the women he employee change and refuse to let this happen to Alyssa who becomes known as Aurora James. Xavier refuse to see where the attraction between the two of them can go because of his enemies, yet he refuse to let anyone else touch her. How long can he resist the want of caring for Alyssa and her daughter that you will have to read to find out? I loved the way that this story burned up the pages. I was beyond ready to strangle Xavier at time and then I wanted to pull him in and show him that he could be loved. This is one read that is going to have you yelling and screaming at all involved, too get their heads on straight!!! The Cliffhanger in this read is to die for. Jessica you have surpassed yourself with the story. I am looking forward to the next book.
I was provided a copy of the book by the Author for an honest review.
Wow holy smoke, I just finished reading this book, and have to say that I love it, love the characters, but now I can't wait for the next book, this book had me guessing of what would happen next, and to bad can't say much, so this is why I'm going to keep this short since I don't want to give anything away.
The story begging with Alyssa (A.K.A.) Aurora James. Alyssa is a single mother of a four year old girl, she is going through so much at the moment, she just got fire from her job, don't have money for food, and don't have no more options but to go an address they gave her, when she show up at the place, and saw how it was the bartender saw her running, and gave her a paper with an address, that's when she decide to go, that's when she met Xavier, the owner of the Den, when Xavier met her he knew he had to have her, that's when their life turn upside down.
I love the way how Xavier and Aurora are with each other,love it how Xavier is being overprotective, and possessive with her, love it how he don't allow for no one else to touch her, love how Aurora stand up to Xavier,and how she accepted him just the way he is, and the Sex Scene Are Go potty.
I really love and enjoy reading this book, Author Jessica Ingro THANKS for introducing me to this awesome characters and this amazing book love it.