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The Bliss King #1
Captive
“The irony of my scarred, tattooed, gun toting, global drug empire running kidnapper, who goes by the nickname Lord Ruin, the Bliss King, telling me I’m safe is not lost on me.”
When ghostwriter Greer Gibson woke wearing silk pyjamas, in a room she didn’t recognise, she figured she’d done it again. Picked up a stranger in a local bar and gone to a city hotel with him.
Except she had no memory of doing that, the room was an expansive suite on a tropical island, she didn’t own silk pyjamas, and she was locked in.
Lek Hetherington needs a talented writer. But the best in the business, Greer Gibson, is booked out for years. That’s just a shoulder shrug for an underworld figure who rules over a global drug empire from his island hideaway.
Lek gets what he wants, even if he has to take it by force.
Captive is book 1 of 4 in The Bliss King.
When ghostwriter Greer Gibson woke wearing silk pyjamas, in a room she didn’t recognise, she figured she’d done it again. Picked up a stranger in a local bar and gone to a city hotel with him.
Except she had no memory of doing that, the room was an expansive suite on a tropical island, she didn’t own silk pyjamas, and she was locked in.
Lek Hetherington needs a talented writer. But the best in the business, Greer Gibson, is booked out for years. That’s just a shoulder shrug for an underworld figure who rules over a global drug empire from his island hideaway.
Lek gets what he wants, even if he has to take it by force.
Captive is book 1 of 4 in The Bliss King.
184 pages, ebook
First published April 27, 2015
2 people are currently reading
112 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
June 17, 2015
***I received a complimentary ARC from the publisher through Netgalley.com in exchange for honest feedback.***
I liked this book much more than I thought I would. I honestly didn't think that there was any "new" take on the kidnapper/captive sub-genre, but I was pleasantly surprised. Yes, there are many similarities to other captivity-themed erotic stories out there. However, this story still felt completely different than all the others I've read.
Lek, a drug lord that rules an entire underworld unknown to most people, wants Greer to write his story. He knows she's the best ghostwriter around and is dead set on having her. Nobody else will do.
Greer is in high demand and at the height of her career. People wait years to have her write their stories. Her success has afforded her the ability to be highly selective in the jobs she takes. She doesn't have the time or inclination to write the story of some over-the-top self-declared drug kingpin, no matter how irresistible she finds him.
When Greer doesn't accept the job offered by Lek, brushing him off with a referral to other available ghostwriters, she couldn't have expected what came next in her wildest dreams. Lek's not a man used to being shot down, in any manner, and he had a back-up plan in case the feisty writer didn't comply with his wishes. One way or another, she was taking this job.
Once she wakes up from her drug-induced haze, Greer slowly comes to terms with her situation. She isn't sure whether to hate or lust after her captor, who seems to show her kindness at every turn. Resigned to writing his story, Greer finds herself cherishing her stolen moments with this man that is both feared and loved by those that surround him.
Telling his story, means opening himself up like he never has before. Lek clearly has an ulterior motive for wanting this story told. It is a story that many would kill to keep quiet. Subtle references are made to the book being a pivotal turning point and righting the wrongs of the past. However, this is not fully explained in this first book in the series.
It is clear that Lek never wanted the life he lives, being brought into it as a child slave. Similarly, his "adoptive" siblings, Tas and Aran, have had this life forced upon them from a young age. What is not clear, is to what extent they've grown accustomed to this lifestyle and whether or not they have come to loathe it as Lek has. Whatever this series has in store for readers down the road, I have a feeling that these loyalties will be put to the test.
Finally, let me just say that Lek and Greer do finally get it on! This is not one of those books that keeps you riding a hormonal roller coaster for hours on end, only to fail to deliver...and we all know how damn infuriating that can be! These two had great chemistry in a love/hate sort of way. When they finally connected, it was surprisingly sentimental and heart-wrenching. I loved it!
The book does end with a cliffhanger, which is to be expected in the first of a series. I did feel that the closing scene was a bit rushed. A couple more pages there to reduce confusion and to transition between events would have been helpful. However, I'm sure the next book will offer greater clarity. Lek's fears have come to fruition and I will be buying the next book ASAP to see where the story goes from here. Overall, a great start to a new series.
I liked this book much more than I thought I would. I honestly didn't think that there was any "new" take on the kidnapper/captive sub-genre, but I was pleasantly surprised. Yes, there are many similarities to other captivity-themed erotic stories out there. However, this story still felt completely different than all the others I've read.
Lek, a drug lord that rules an entire underworld unknown to most people, wants Greer to write his story. He knows she's the best ghostwriter around and is dead set on having her. Nobody else will do.
Greer is in high demand and at the height of her career. People wait years to have her write their stories. Her success has afforded her the ability to be highly selective in the jobs she takes. She doesn't have the time or inclination to write the story of some over-the-top self-declared drug kingpin, no matter how irresistible she finds him.
When Greer doesn't accept the job offered by Lek, brushing him off with a referral to other available ghostwriters, she couldn't have expected what came next in her wildest dreams. Lek's not a man used to being shot down, in any manner, and he had a back-up plan in case the feisty writer didn't comply with his wishes. One way or another, she was taking this job.
Once she wakes up from her drug-induced haze, Greer slowly comes to terms with her situation. She isn't sure whether to hate or lust after her captor, who seems to show her kindness at every turn. Resigned to writing his story, Greer finds herself cherishing her stolen moments with this man that is both feared and loved by those that surround him.
Telling his story, means opening himself up like he never has before. Lek clearly has an ulterior motive for wanting this story told. It is a story that many would kill to keep quiet. Subtle references are made to the book being a pivotal turning point and righting the wrongs of the past. However, this is not fully explained in this first book in the series.
It is clear that Lek never wanted the life he lives, being brought into it as a child slave. Similarly, his "adoptive" siblings, Tas and Aran, have had this life forced upon them from a young age. What is not clear, is to what extent they've grown accustomed to this lifestyle and whether or not they have come to loathe it as Lek has. Whatever this series has in store for readers down the road, I have a feeling that these loyalties will be put to the test.
Finally, let me just say that Lek and Greer do finally get it on! This is not one of those books that keeps you riding a hormonal roller coaster for hours on end, only to fail to deliver...and we all know how damn infuriating that can be! These two had great chemistry in a love/hate sort of way. When they finally connected, it was surprisingly sentimental and heart-wrenching. I loved it!
The book does end with a cliffhanger, which is to be expected in the first of a series. I did feel that the closing scene was a bit rushed. A couple more pages there to reduce confusion and to transition between events would have been helpful. However, I'm sure the next book will offer greater clarity. Lek's fears have come to fruition and I will be buying the next book ASAP to see where the story goes from here. Overall, a great start to a new series.
April 27, 2015
Greer is a very talented and very busy ghost-writer.
She's booked out for the next two years.
But Lek can't wait that long. He needs her to tell his family's story.
He 'accidentally' runs into her at the airport and politely asks her to work for him...
But if she's not coming of her own free will - he will have to force her.
Which is exactly what he does....he kidnaps her and brings her to his home.
To a fictional island near Myanmar.
He's the local drug-lord and rich beyond imagination.
I was a murderer, a crook, a notorious drug baron; an underworld king, tribal overlord and slave owner.
The biggest problem for Greer is not only that she's scared he will kill her....but that she's soooo incredibly attracted to him...ever since she first saw him at the airport - so it can't really be the Stockholm syndrome thing.
. . .I don't sit in cafes wondering if I might be drooling over a stranger. Am I drooling? It's entirely possible. He is the gold standard of drool worthiness.
And Lek is just as attracted to her - but he tries to deny it.
He doesn't need another woman to make his life even harder than it already is...
Then there are his 'siblings' he has to worry about: Aran and Tas - the only family he has left.
And they're both not without their own troubles....
With every minute Greer spends in the presence of these three exotic people, she's getting more and more interested in their life-stories..... she decides to write the book Lek so badly wants her to write.
But even though everything in Lek's world looks like Paradise, it's as far from that as you can possibly get.....
WHAT WiLL HAPPEN WiTH GREER & LEK???
WiLL SHE BE ABLE TO ESCAPE?
DOES SHE EVEN WANT TO???
WiLL THERE BE A HEA???
WiLL THERE BE A CLiFFHANGER???
NOPE..... I'm not telling you ☺
OK, yes - there will be a Cliffy - but book #2 will be out really soon ☺
_____________________
I REALLY LOVED THE BOOK!
I had no idea what to expect when I started reading.
I kind of imagined something really dark though. And it's not dark at all...Yes, of course, Greer is kidnapped and Lek is a drug-lord....but just the location alone is the total opposite of dark ☺
I usually don't like it when my books don't have a 'real' location - a real city, that I can imagine myself in...but even though this island doesn't exist, you can really see it in your mind - and feel the heat and hear the sounds. I really loved that.
And I loved Lek & Greer and Lek's family: Tas & Aran.
We hear a lot about how the drug is grown and harvested and who and how and what and where and it's all realllly interesting and a bit disturbing to read.
But even though Lek is what he is - we still want him and Greer to one day find their HEAs with each other...I really hope that will happen - but until then...LOTS of things - dangerous things - will stand in their way....
CAPTIVE was an amazingly beautiful and dark and funny and sexy first book in a new series. You will sooo fall in love with Lek & Aran!
And now please Ainslie - hurry - I need to read book #2 asap!!!!!
May 6, 2015
I received a free copy of this book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book was seriously hot.
To be honest, this isn't my normal genre. I get slightly uncomfortable reading tons of naughty scenes, like I'm the one doing naughty things in public (even though I'm just reading about naughty things in public). This book was intended to be naughty, but it didn't really get down to the nitty/gritty till the end. There was definitely a lot teasing, steamy and sexual tension, and just when you thought "now it's on!" they break apart and almost leave you wanting more. At times, I found myself frustrated, I could only imagine the characters. If that is what AA Paton was trying to accomplish, well done!
As far as the story goes, it was interesting learning about the background of characters, the drug empire, their lives leading up to the present, their current surroundings, etc. I would like to use the phrase, it was written beautifully but it wasn't. Although well written, it was an ugly place to be, and it was perfectly executed.
Greer, the main female MC, was one tough cookie. Somewhat insecure in certain aspects, but very confident in others. I liked her most of the time, but there was a moment when I could just imagine her as a spoiled rotten little tween, throwing a temper tantrum because she didn't get her way. In a sense, she has redeemed herself since then.
Lek, her love interest, was an interesting character. You could tell he was haunted by his past, present, and future. It was nice to see he had a chance at a silver lining. Considering he was a criminal to the core, I respected him in a way. I don't think there really was a point that I didn't like him.
As for the supporting characters of Tasanee and Aran, I really enjoyed them both, each in their own way. I feel they really tied the storyline together.
I will recommend this book if someone is looking for something along these lines. I cannot say just yet if I will continue on in the series, but holy hell - with that cliffhanger, I'm not sure I can stay away.
Since this is an advanced reading copy, I would definitely suggest it is proofread prior to official production.
This book was seriously hot.
To be honest, this isn't my normal genre. I get slightly uncomfortable reading tons of naughty scenes, like I'm the one doing naughty things in public (even though I'm just reading about naughty things in public). This book was intended to be naughty, but it didn't really get down to the nitty/gritty till the end. There was definitely a lot teasing, steamy and sexual tension, and just when you thought "now it's on!" they break apart and almost leave you wanting more. At times, I found myself frustrated, I could only imagine the characters. If that is what AA Paton was trying to accomplish, well done!
As far as the story goes, it was interesting learning about the background of characters, the drug empire, their lives leading up to the present, their current surroundings, etc. I would like to use the phrase, it was written beautifully but it wasn't. Although well written, it was an ugly place to be, and it was perfectly executed.
Greer, the main female MC, was one tough cookie. Somewhat insecure in certain aspects, but very confident in others. I liked her most of the time, but there was a moment when I could just imagine her as a spoiled rotten little tween, throwing a temper tantrum because she didn't get her way. In a sense, she has redeemed herself since then.
Lek, her love interest, was an interesting character. You could tell he was haunted by his past, present, and future. It was nice to see he had a chance at a silver lining. Considering he was a criminal to the core, I respected him in a way. I don't think there really was a point that I didn't like him.
As for the supporting characters of Tasanee and Aran, I really enjoyed them both, each in their own way. I feel they really tied the storyline together.
I will recommend this book if someone is looking for something along these lines. I cannot say just yet if I will continue on in the series, but holy hell - with that cliffhanger, I'm not sure I can stay away.
Since this is an advanced reading copy, I would definitely suggest it is proofread prior to official production.
June 16, 2017
**** 3.5 Stars ****
Well, this was interesting.
Greer is one of the most desired ghost writers. If you put your name down on her waiting list, it'll take almost 2 years for her to get to you.
Lek doesn't want to wait. He is the Bliss King, the biggest drug lord. Why should he wait? He needs Greer to write a book for him as soon as possible. So he does what any drug lord would do... kidnap the damn girl.
"I planned on using her to save my life, but she'd likely by my ruin."
We don't really know what the purpose of the book is for, but we know that the book is very important. Lek treats her with respect and kindness (usually). He would kill anyone that would bring her harm. Greer later realizes that she would do anything for Lek.
"Buh oh, when he touched me. Was this how Stockholm syndrome started, with wanting to be ravaged by your captor?"
He is a good man that was forced into this lifestyle. Even though he has many women at his disposal, he is the loneliest man on Earth.
"I was the chained dragon by birth, enslaved by history, master of unintended consequences, and lord of mayhem, and I needed Greer to break my tether."
I loved the plot and the characters. I just had a tough time reading because the wording was... interesting. I plan on finishing the series someday... just not sure when.
Well, this was interesting.
Greer is one of the most desired ghost writers. If you put your name down on her waiting list, it'll take almost 2 years for her to get to you.
Lek doesn't want to wait. He is the Bliss King, the biggest drug lord. Why should he wait? He needs Greer to write a book for him as soon as possible. So he does what any drug lord would do... kidnap the damn girl.
"I planned on using her to save my life, but she'd likely by my ruin."
We don't really know what the purpose of the book is for, but we know that the book is very important. Lek treats her with respect and kindness (usually). He would kill anyone that would bring her harm. Greer later realizes that she would do anything for Lek.
"Buh oh, when he touched me. Was this how Stockholm syndrome started, with wanting to be ravaged by your captor?"
He is a good man that was forced into this lifestyle. Even though he has many women at his disposal, he is the loneliest man on Earth.
"I was the chained dragon by birth, enslaved by history, master of unintended consequences, and lord of mayhem, and I needed Greer to break my tether."
I loved the plot and the characters. I just had a tough time reading because the wording was... interesting. I plan on finishing the series someday... just not sure when.
May 11, 2015
Paton slaps you with an intensity from the very beginning of book one, enticing and pulling you further and further into the story with each and every sentence. The intensity and detail in chapter one is palpable and hooks you immediately.
The first notable point of difference in Captive is the distinct first person narrative. Lek is a serious no-nonsense man for whom first-person POV works exceptionally well bordering as an almost confessional-style of storytelling that adds immense depth to this character immediately. Similarly, Greer is a feisty and assertive character with a softer, more vulnerable side that does shine through.
The storyline itself is a side-step from Paton’s usual contemporary romances however only as far as sub-genre is concerned. All other elements of the storytelling, structure and character development are classic Paton.
Overall, The Bliss King: Captive is a mammoth tale of grief, revenge, power and control that marks a definite change in sub-genre for Paton but still offers the page-turnability that Paton is renowned for.
– J’aimee Brooker, AusRom Today
The first notable point of difference in Captive is the distinct first person narrative. Lek is a serious no-nonsense man for whom first-person POV works exceptionally well bordering as an almost confessional-style of storytelling that adds immense depth to this character immediately. Similarly, Greer is a feisty and assertive character with a softer, more vulnerable side that does shine through.
The storyline itself is a side-step from Paton’s usual contemporary romances however only as far as sub-genre is concerned. All other elements of the storytelling, structure and character development are classic Paton.
Overall, The Bliss King: Captive is a mammoth tale of grief, revenge, power and control that marks a definite change in sub-genre for Paton but still offers the page-turnability that Paton is renowned for.
– J’aimee Brooker, AusRom Today
April 27, 2015
ARC received from author for an honest review
I had no idea what to expect when Ms Paton offered this book for us to read - all that she said was that it was "very different" from everything else she has written. Now, given that everything I have read of hers so far has been "different", this was no help to me!!
But I like different.
Bliss King #1 has a paranormal-ish kind of feel to it when you first start reading. I had Queen's Bohemian Rhapsody running through my head "Is this the real life? Is this just fantasy?"
But as you read on, you realise that it isn't a paranormal book.
It is not the normal start to a relationship - kidnapper and kidnappee, but for Lek and Greer, it is what it is, and it works for them. Through everything, you just want them to say "f&*k it all, I want this".
Kidnappers, drug lords - sounds all kinds of dark and terrible doesn't it? But it doesn't feel that way at all. I think it is the tropical Asian island setting, the creatures, the heat that makes it feel lighter.
Lek is what he is, and he knows it. He doesn't pretend to be anything else, and even as he tries to push Greer away, he wants her near. She gets him, and gets to him.
So no matter how bad the things he had done, has done, you just want him and Greer to get together.
Just as things were really starting to come together - BAM! It ended. I knew it was part one of four, so I was not surprised at having a cliffhanger ending.
BUT there is not long until the next part of the series is released, so the wait won't be too terrible!
I had no idea what to expect when Ms Paton offered this book for us to read - all that she said was that it was "very different" from everything else she has written. Now, given that everything I have read of hers so far has been "different", this was no help to me!!
But I like different.
Bliss King #1 has a paranormal-ish kind of feel to it when you first start reading. I had Queen's Bohemian Rhapsody running through my head "Is this the real life? Is this just fantasy?"
But as you read on, you realise that it isn't a paranormal book.
It is not the normal start to a relationship - kidnapper and kidnappee, but for Lek and Greer, it is what it is, and it works for them. Through everything, you just want them to say "f&*k it all, I want this".
Kidnappers, drug lords - sounds all kinds of dark and terrible doesn't it? But it doesn't feel that way at all. I think it is the tropical Asian island setting, the creatures, the heat that makes it feel lighter.
Lek is what he is, and he knows it. He doesn't pretend to be anything else, and even as he tries to push Greer away, he wants her near. She gets him, and gets to him.
So no matter how bad the things he had done, has done, you just want him and Greer to get together.
Just as things were really starting to come together - BAM! It ended. I knew it was part one of four, so I was not surprised at having a cliffhanger ending.
BUT there is not long until the next part of the series is released, so the wait won't be too terrible!
April 4, 2015
I knew going into this book that it was a risk for me. I'm a fan of Stockholm syndrome books. I thought the premise sounded good. But immediately when I started the book it was nothing but a drag for me. I got to 16% before I had to admit defeat. Which for a book of just over 100 pages says something in and of itself.
I hate head hopping (where the voice is switch from one person to another). It is gimmicky and rarely works. In this case it totally did not work for me. Both characters were barely distinguishable from the other. Overly long time spent in there heads with not much dialog.
Character names were just randomly flung at you leaving you to say, "Wait..what who is this person they are talking about". There is little actual world building. You are given names of places and leadership but little to no explination of how this world works. Oh and speaking of character names the only "normal" name was Rebecca who changed her name to something like Rattana or some such name.
The main female character is established as smart but basically a horny slut who has no problem with getting drunk and sleeping with random married men. There is insta-lust between the FMC and the MMC. The male main character is portrayed as someone with no scruples. He has no problem killing etc....but the one odd moral he seems to have is he wont kick a puppy. So murdering humans is ok but kicking a puppy is waaay over the line of evil (note I am an animal lover and don't condone violence to animals. I just find it funny this guy's set of morals).
Also there were some weird awkward turns of phrase that had me scratching my head and saying, "huh". For instance I still don't understand this one - "like the ground pepper of ash".
The one positive thing I can say is that I love the cover of the book.
This is 1 star out of 5 stars.
*I recieved a free copy of this ebook from Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion
I hate head hopping (where the voice is switch from one person to another). It is gimmicky and rarely works. In this case it totally did not work for me. Both characters were barely distinguishable from the other. Overly long time spent in there heads with not much dialog.
Character names were just randomly flung at you leaving you to say, "Wait..what who is this person they are talking about". There is little actual world building. You are given names of places and leadership but little to no explination of how this world works. Oh and speaking of character names the only "normal" name was Rebecca who changed her name to something like Rattana or some such name.
The main female character is established as smart but basically a horny slut who has no problem with getting drunk and sleeping with random married men. There is insta-lust between the FMC and the MMC. The male main character is portrayed as someone with no scruples. He has no problem killing etc....but the one odd moral he seems to have is he wont kick a puppy. So murdering humans is ok but kicking a puppy is waaay over the line of evil (note I am an animal lover and don't condone violence to animals. I just find it funny this guy's set of morals).
Also there were some weird awkward turns of phrase that had me scratching my head and saying, "huh". For instance I still don't understand this one - "like the ground pepper of ash".
The one positive thing I can say is that I love the cover of the book.
This is 1 star out of 5 stars.
*I recieved a free copy of this ebook from Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion
May 18, 2015
I received a copy of The Bliss King: Captive from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I was drawn to this book initially because of the cover. Then I was intrigued by the synopsis. Lek is a bad guy, murder, drug lord and worse than the typical bad boy story character too. Greer is a highly sought writer. Lek needs her to write for him and arranges to run into her at the airport. She isn’t interested in his offer so he kidnaps her and takes her to Myanmar. There is an instant mutual attraction between them, he denies it naturally. Greer begins learning about Lek’s family and in turn wants to write their story.
I really did enjoy the book but it did seem awkward at times. Some things had me saying them over and over trying to take them in the right context. Another unusual aspect in writing style is that the point of view switches back and forth between the Greer and Lek. You get an in depth look at what goes on in each of their heads as well as dialogue form each. This could increase the reading difficulty for some. I didn’t mind too much. I was able to mentally change characters and actually found it helpful in understanding the characters. Then the cliffhanger. My only problem with cliffhangers is that I read a lot of books and I usually have to go back and read a previous book in a series to be able to get into the new one. However, I intend to continue with the series.
This review, or links to this review, may also be found on my profile pages as follows:
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Amazon http://www.amazon.com/gp/profile/A3RJ...
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Pintrest http://www.pinterest.com/baltimore333/
Twitter https://twitter.com/chb548s
Google+ https://plus.google.com/u/0/107592987...
I was drawn to this book initially because of the cover. Then I was intrigued by the synopsis. Lek is a bad guy, murder, drug lord and worse than the typical bad boy story character too. Greer is a highly sought writer. Lek needs her to write for him and arranges to run into her at the airport. She isn’t interested in his offer so he kidnaps her and takes her to Myanmar. There is an instant mutual attraction between them, he denies it naturally. Greer begins learning about Lek’s family and in turn wants to write their story.
I really did enjoy the book but it did seem awkward at times. Some things had me saying them over and over trying to take them in the right context. Another unusual aspect in writing style is that the point of view switches back and forth between the Greer and Lek. You get an in depth look at what goes on in each of their heads as well as dialogue form each. This could increase the reading difficulty for some. I didn’t mind too much. I was able to mentally change characters and actually found it helpful in understanding the characters. Then the cliffhanger. My only problem with cliffhangers is that I read a lot of books and I usually have to go back and read a previous book in a series to be able to get into the new one. However, I intend to continue with the series.
This review, or links to this review, may also be found on my profile pages as follows:
Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/2...
Amazon http://www.amazon.com/gp/profile/A3RJ...
Amazon UK https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/profile/A...
Pintrest http://www.pinterest.com/baltimore333/
Twitter https://twitter.com/chb548s
Google+ https://plus.google.com/u/0/107592987...
May 12, 2015
Certainly a little wilder, a little less real world, than Paton's delicious romances, however, just as enjoyable. You are instantly drawn into the exciting and compelling world of Bliss King, Drug Lord, Lek Hetherington. As with all Paton's books, the story is refreshingly original with strong engaging characters, Greer is a very successful Ghost Writer, who finds her world turned upside when she is kidnapped by Lek. Lek Hetherington an orphan who inherits the family business needs Greer to write his story, a true record of the family history.
Your transported into the cutthroat world of underground crime, drugs lords, murder and intrigue and a good dash of romance. A captivating read from beginning to it's cliffhanger end, where you're left itching to get your hands on Stolen the 2nd book in the series, so you can continue on this thrilling adventure.
Your transported into the cutthroat world of underground crime, drugs lords, murder and intrigue and a good dash of romance. A captivating read from beginning to it's cliffhanger end, where you're left itching to get your hands on Stolen the 2nd book in the series, so you can continue on this thrilling adventure.
July 22, 2015
Power-packed and amazing, this book is the sexiest thing I've read since Rhyll Biest's Unrestrained.
Slightly unhinged from the word go, it just gets more and more crazy. Like shaking a centipede in a jar then letting it out to see what happens.
I will say one word in the negative about this book. I wish it was written in first person, present tense the entire way through. It starts this way but it's not consistent and when it slipped to first person, past tense it annoyed me because the language can't keep up with all the centipede-writhing crazy going on.
It speaks volumes about the power and escapism in this story, and my supreme faith in this author's writing, that I loved it so much regardless.
Captive is so beautifully set up for the next book in the series, Stolen (which I happen to have on my Kindle) I'll start reading right away.
Slightly unhinged from the word go, it just gets more and more crazy. Like shaking a centipede in a jar then letting it out to see what happens.
I will say one word in the negative about this book. I wish it was written in first person, present tense the entire way through. It starts this way but it's not consistent and when it slipped to first person, past tense it annoyed me because the language can't keep up with all the centipede-writhing crazy going on.
It speaks volumes about the power and escapism in this story, and my supreme faith in this author's writing, that I loved it so much regardless.
Captive is so beautifully set up for the next book in the series, Stolen (which I happen to have on my Kindle) I'll start reading right away.
March 13, 2015
Hold onto your hats!!! The Bliss King opened up a whole new world. AA Paton is a genius of fast paced action, steaming romance and strong, gritty characters. A standout genre, a story so unique that AA Paton deserves an originality award. Cleverly plotted, excellently executed. I'm completely hooked!!
August 25, 2018
Orphan, abused child, slave, drug mule, enforcer, murderer, slaver, crime boss, kingpin, Lord Ruin, The Bliss King. Quite a journey. The premise was enticing. The start was strong with prose somewhat lush, lyrical, almost poetic. The atmosphere conjuring up visions of Coppola’s Heart of Darkness with Lek as the beleaguered Colonel Kurtz – isolated from civilization, up to no good in the jungle, worshiped by the natives. Greer on the surface was a decent heroine: strong, independent, accomplished, not some blushing virgin chasing babies and luuurve (or so I thought). The scene was set to deliver greatness. And then…. not so much.
Again, the premise was good. A conflicted, morally ambiguous drug lord having a mid-life crisis, an attack of conscience, a “what’s it all about Alfie” moment. Lek Hetherington didn’t start out intending to be a crime boss, it’s just where his journey lead. After 11 years a lot has happened to make him question his choices and the empire he presides over. He wants to shake things up although we are not privy to exactly how or why. We do get a glimpse into his 2 partners, “siblings” and fellow formerly abused orphan/slaves. Aran his brother and Tas his sister. The 3 of them have some serious family drama and fucked up dynamics going on between them.
But back to Lek’s plan to apparently blow the whole thing wide open. He’s hiring a ghostwriter to…. tell his story. Or A story. Again, not sure why. But Lek is used to getting what he wants and for a task this important he wants the best. The fact that the best is previously engaged and unavailable for the next several years is an inconvenience but not a deterrent. Not when you’re a crime boss used to operating outside the conventions of civilized society. Lek wants prolific and highly respected ghostwriter Greer Gibson to write his story. If she thinks she’s too busy, that’s nothing that a drugged needle to the neck and a surreptitious ride on a private jet to the remote island of Amman Rai, off the coast of Myanmar in the middle of Southeast Asia can’t solve. Of course, the man isn’t trying to be an asshole, he’s just trying for expediency. Greer wakes up in a sumptuous suite with all her needs met and the announcement that she’s being paid a cool 10 mil for her new gig. 2 weeks of her time, that’s all he needs. She was just confused about being unavailable.
From the very first meeting there was insta-lust between Greer and Lek; and I can’t blame her for being entranced by her surroundings and the mystery she gets almost immediately plunked in the middle of. I mean she’s a writer after all….and it’s starting to look like Lek has one hell of a story to tell. I can even understand her willingness to go with her attraction to him. It may be a case of Stockholm Syndrome; and other than the whole kidnapping and detaining against your will thing – he treats her very well. But then things go a little sideways. The romance between Lek and Greer…. I’m not sure if it never takes off or just fizzles quickly. The characters spend a lot of time in their heads, which isn’t necessarily problematic (refer to lyrical lush prose) but also isn’t conducive to the characters interacting and developing a relationship. Insta-lust I get. How that transitioned into love in a matter of days…. I’m befuddled.
I also had a bit of a dislike for the characters which frustrated me with their “romance”. Lek is one of those “I want you but I’m a very BAD man, and you’re a very GOOD girl and you don’t belong in my dirty, scary world”, SO I’m resisting you! But I can’t! But just for a night! But I will push you away for your own good (and play asshole-ish, emotionally manipulative games because it is the RIGHT thing to do!) As opposed to…if you love someone, how about treating that person like an actual, half way intelligent cognizant, autonomous adult; capable of walking and chewing gum at the same time and TALK TO HER. Tell her the truth to include what her life would be like if she chose to be in a relationship with you, be very candid about the risks and dangers…. then trust her to make her own decisions about her life and RESPECT those decisions. Lek and his protective “I know what’s best for you and I will stoically suffer in silence” …. I’m too old to find that shit romantic anymore. And Greer!! Lord woman; have an ounce of self-respect! She admits she isn’t even sure if he loves her, she thinks he just wants her for sex and she’s still willing to epic-ly throw herself at him while he’s trying to push her away at every turn. Girl, take the 10 million and give it up! Obviously, a lot of personal preference involved here, but The Bliss King sadly started ticking all my “annoyance” boxes.
The story ends on a cliffhanger and I’m glad that I somehow managed to acquire the second book in the series because I am going to stick it out and see what happens. Not sure yet if it’s good or bad that I will never see books 3 and 4 because for some inexplicable reason (the books seemed to be getting good reviews) the author pulled them from Amazon, it’s like they never existed, and I cannot find out why (which is causing me no end of grief because I am supremely nosey!)
Again, the premise was good. A conflicted, morally ambiguous drug lord having a mid-life crisis, an attack of conscience, a “what’s it all about Alfie” moment. Lek Hetherington didn’t start out intending to be a crime boss, it’s just where his journey lead. After 11 years a lot has happened to make him question his choices and the empire he presides over. He wants to shake things up although we are not privy to exactly how or why. We do get a glimpse into his 2 partners, “siblings” and fellow formerly abused orphan/slaves. Aran his brother and Tas his sister. The 3 of them have some serious family drama and fucked up dynamics going on between them.
But back to Lek’s plan to apparently blow the whole thing wide open. He’s hiring a ghostwriter to…. tell his story. Or A story. Again, not sure why. But Lek is used to getting what he wants and for a task this important he wants the best. The fact that the best is previously engaged and unavailable for the next several years is an inconvenience but not a deterrent. Not when you’re a crime boss used to operating outside the conventions of civilized society. Lek wants prolific and highly respected ghostwriter Greer Gibson to write his story. If she thinks she’s too busy, that’s nothing that a drugged needle to the neck and a surreptitious ride on a private jet to the remote island of Amman Rai, off the coast of Myanmar in the middle of Southeast Asia can’t solve. Of course, the man isn’t trying to be an asshole, he’s just trying for expediency. Greer wakes up in a sumptuous suite with all her needs met and the announcement that she’s being paid a cool 10 mil for her new gig. 2 weeks of her time, that’s all he needs. She was just confused about being unavailable.
From the very first meeting there was insta-lust between Greer and Lek; and I can’t blame her for being entranced by her surroundings and the mystery she gets almost immediately plunked in the middle of. I mean she’s a writer after all….and it’s starting to look like Lek has one hell of a story to tell. I can even understand her willingness to go with her attraction to him. It may be a case of Stockholm Syndrome; and other than the whole kidnapping and detaining against your will thing – he treats her very well. But then things go a little sideways. The romance between Lek and Greer…. I’m not sure if it never takes off or just fizzles quickly. The characters spend a lot of time in their heads, which isn’t necessarily problematic (refer to lyrical lush prose) but also isn’t conducive to the characters interacting and developing a relationship. Insta-lust I get. How that transitioned into love in a matter of days…. I’m befuddled.
I also had a bit of a dislike for the characters which frustrated me with their “romance”. Lek is one of those “I want you but I’m a very BAD man, and you’re a very GOOD girl and you don’t belong in my dirty, scary world”, SO I’m resisting you! But I can’t! But just for a night! But I will push you away for your own good (and play asshole-ish, emotionally manipulative games because it is the RIGHT thing to do!) As opposed to…if you love someone, how about treating that person like an actual, half way intelligent cognizant, autonomous adult; capable of walking and chewing gum at the same time and TALK TO HER. Tell her the truth to include what her life would be like if she chose to be in a relationship with you, be very candid about the risks and dangers…. then trust her to make her own decisions about her life and RESPECT those decisions. Lek and his protective “I know what’s best for you and I will stoically suffer in silence” …. I’m too old to find that shit romantic anymore. And Greer!! Lord woman; have an ounce of self-respect! She admits she isn’t even sure if he loves her, she thinks he just wants her for sex and she’s still willing to epic-ly throw herself at him while he’s trying to push her away at every turn. Girl, take the 10 million and give it up! Obviously, a lot of personal preference involved here, but The Bliss King sadly started ticking all my “annoyance” boxes.
The story ends on a cliffhanger and I’m glad that I somehow managed to acquire the second book in the series because I am going to stick it out and see what happens. Not sure yet if it’s good or bad that I will never see books 3 and 4 because for some inexplicable reason (the books seemed to be getting good reviews) the author pulled them from Amazon, it’s like they never existed, and I cannot find out why (which is causing me no end of grief because I am supremely nosey!)
June 29, 2015
Great Read!
I thoroughly enjoyed the first installment of "The Bliss King." I've already ordered the rest of the series. Looking forward to more Lek!
I thoroughly enjoyed the first installment of "The Bliss King." I've already ordered the rest of the series. Looking forward to more Lek!
May 2, 2015
blown away by this one
February 4, 2018
Greer is a high demand ghost writer that has made a good way for herself with her career. When someone wants their story told, they want Greer to do it for them. People often wait years for her to be able to tell their stories too. With Greer being so highly sought after, she can be selective with who she chooses to take on when writing their story.
When Greer is approached to write the life story of Lek, she knows that he is not one of her main interests. Lek is a drug lord that she has no use in telling his story, no matter how attractive he may be. She is not going to do it. Little does Greer know, Lek does not take no for an answer. Lek drugs Greer and kidnaps her. She is going to write his story.
Lek has been a part of the slave underworld since he was a child himself. He has an adopted sister and brother that have been a part of it for as long as they can remember as well. This is not what Lek wanted for his life. Telling his story to Greer for her to report is going to make him open himself up and tell things that most people would keep to themselves. This needs to be done though.
When Greer and Lek start spending more and more time together, sparks begin to fly between them and things get pretty steamy with them at some points in this story. You will get your romance fix for sure!
I think that this book is a good start to a new series by AA Paton. I look forward to seeing what happens in the next books since this one is a cliffhanger.
When Greer is approached to write the life story of Lek, she knows that he is not one of her main interests. Lek is a drug lord that she has no use in telling his story, no matter how attractive he may be. She is not going to do it. Little does Greer know, Lek does not take no for an answer. Lek drugs Greer and kidnaps her. She is going to write his story.
Lek has been a part of the slave underworld since he was a child himself. He has an adopted sister and brother that have been a part of it for as long as they can remember as well. This is not what Lek wanted for his life. Telling his story to Greer for her to report is going to make him open himself up and tell things that most people would keep to themselves. This needs to be done though.
When Greer and Lek start spending more and more time together, sparks begin to fly between them and things get pretty steamy with them at some points in this story. You will get your romance fix for sure!
I think that this book is a good start to a new series by AA Paton. I look forward to seeing what happens in the next books since this one is a cliffhanger.
January 23, 2016
Early in the year, but already definitely one of the best of the year for me, I'm sure of it. Probably one of the best of all time.
The descriptions and covers don't do these books justice, and I'm sure my words won't either, but truly what a ride! This book played out like a movie in my brain as I read it and that's one of the best best things, the world and the emotions all felt so fantastically real.
A few of my favorite things...
Lush and imaginative at every turn with painstaking attention to detail and possibilities to provide storyline that don't just feel thrown in for the sake of angst.
Beautiful, multi-layered characters that I won't soon forget.
A love story that burns up the pages, both in addictiveness and heat!
The plotline, I do love a reluctant partner situation and a bad guy who isn't 100% evil, seriously I found this series looking up villains that fall in love, haha!! I'm a fruitloop. But this is an example of this done well, or to my standards anyway. It's a hard line to walk, maintaining the wickedness and having some level of softness when it comes to the heroine.
The one thing I could say to nitpick are the editing issues (wrong word choice, a few words that were clearly meant to be deleted or inserted and weren't and therefore threw a sentence off). This series could use a bit of polishing, but for me it didn't detract from the overall story and it's depth and beautiful prose enough to take off a star or anything. I would LOVE to see it properly published though or learn some more about the author because I'm a serious fan!!
The descriptions and covers don't do these books justice, and I'm sure my words won't either, but truly what a ride! This book played out like a movie in my brain as I read it and that's one of the best best things, the world and the emotions all felt so fantastically real.
A few of my favorite things...
Lush and imaginative at every turn with painstaking attention to detail and possibilities to provide storyline that don't just feel thrown in for the sake of angst.
Beautiful, multi-layered characters that I won't soon forget.
A love story that burns up the pages, both in addictiveness and heat!
The plotline, I do love a reluctant partner situation and a bad guy who isn't 100% evil, seriously I found this series looking up villains that fall in love, haha!! I'm a fruitloop. But this is an example of this done well, or to my standards anyway. It's a hard line to walk, maintaining the wickedness and having some level of softness when it comes to the heroine.
The one thing I could say to nitpick are the editing issues (wrong word choice, a few words that were clearly meant to be deleted or inserted and weren't and therefore threw a sentence off). This series could use a bit of polishing, but for me it didn't detract from the overall story and it's depth and beautiful prose enough to take off a star or anything. I would LOVE to see it properly published though or learn some more about the author because I'm a serious fan!!
January 12, 2016
I wasn't sure what to expect with this book. It was different. Lek kidnaps Greer because he wants his story written. He is a drug lord and wants to make a change after a tragedy that happens. (I recommend reading book 5, The Bliss King: Fix, first. It takes place 4 years prior to this book, it can be read before or after the series, I chose to read it before).
As Greer tries to understand why she is there and what the story is she doesn't know whether to believe what she is hearing or if this is some sort scam. Lek agrees to show her to get her to understand.
There is a lot to this book. The details of the places that they were in and the feelings that Greer felt at each location were very descriptive. There was a lot of information to take in. It was easy to actually picture these places in my head while reading.
I like Greer. She did her best to be strong and not show Lek when she was scared or unsure. Lek is a bit more complicated. They both fight the feelings they start to have for each other and then there is the cliffhanger.
This was a great story, I have actually already read the next book and it was even better then the first. This is also the first set of books I have read by this author and will look for more.
Received from NetGalley for honest review.
As Greer tries to understand why she is there and what the story is she doesn't know whether to believe what she is hearing or if this is some sort scam. Lek agrees to show her to get her to understand.
There is a lot to this book. The details of the places that they were in and the feelings that Greer felt at each location were very descriptive. There was a lot of information to take in. It was easy to actually picture these places in my head while reading.
I like Greer. She did her best to be strong and not show Lek when she was scared or unsure. Lek is a bit more complicated. They both fight the feelings they start to have for each other and then there is the cliffhanger.
This was a great story, I have actually already read the next book and it was even better then the first. This is also the first set of books I have read by this author and will look for more.
Received from NetGalley for honest review.
August 9, 2015
"I was provided with a free copy of this book so I could give an honest review."
Hmmmm... where should I start with this review. I'm very torn. There were parts that i absolutely loved about this book. If you are fan of crime/mystery/romance/erotic type books - this one is right up your alley and will leave you wanting more. Perhaps I wasn't in the right frame of mind when I read this book - I just couldn't engage with plot. I found myself confused and re-reading parts when I found my thoughts drifting away from the story line. But - having said that.... I really did overall like the book. When I finished, even though I told myself I wouldn't go any further with the series... I actually put the next book on my to read list for later. I might even go back and read the first one again to see if I'd feel differently about it.
Overall.... I would still definitely recommend this book to anyone looking for something a little different, with a lot of twists and turns and high octane emotion.
Enjoy!
Hmmmm... where should I start with this review. I'm very torn. There were parts that i absolutely loved about this book. If you are fan of crime/mystery/romance/erotic type books - this one is right up your alley and will leave you wanting more. Perhaps I wasn't in the right frame of mind when I read this book - I just couldn't engage with plot. I found myself confused and re-reading parts when I found my thoughts drifting away from the story line. But - having said that.... I really did overall like the book. When I finished, even though I told myself I wouldn't go any further with the series... I actually put the next book on my to read list for later. I might even go back and read the first one again to see if I'd feel differently about it.
Overall.... I would still definitely recommend this book to anyone looking for something a little different, with a lot of twists and turns and high octane emotion.
Enjoy!
May 1, 2015
Copy courtesy of Netgalley
This was not what I was expecting. The first couple of pages read as a paranormal. It's not, but there are a lot of mythical references . The island of Nagar is based on legend and mystery. Lek is a drug dealer and he kidnaps Greer who is a ghostwriter to tell his story. The story started off fine. It kind of dragged for me. I didn't really connect to the characters. I did enjoy the stories and legends.
This was not what I was expecting. The first couple of pages read as a paranormal. It's not, but there are a lot of mythical references . The island of Nagar is based on legend and mystery. Lek is a drug dealer and he kidnaps Greer who is a ghostwriter to tell his story. The story started off fine. It kind of dragged for me. I didn't really connect to the characters. I did enjoy the stories and legends.
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