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Ruthless People #0.5
Declan + Coraline
You Don’t Find Love, It Finds You.
Declan + Coraline takes place two years before the start of the Ruthless People. Twenty-three-year-old Coraline Wilson is fresh out of college and just wants to experience life to the fullest for the first time. On her journey towards self-discovery, she ends up meeting twenty-seven-year-old Declan Callahan. They fall for each other hard and fast . . . but their families may prove to be problematic . . .
Declan + Coraline takes place two years before the start of the Ruthless People. Twenty-three-year-old Coraline Wilson is fresh out of college and just wants to experience life to the fullest for the first time. On her journey towards self-discovery, she ends up meeting twenty-seven-year-old Declan Callahan. They fall for each other hard and fast . . . but their families may prove to be problematic . . .
170 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 8, 2015
139 people are currently reading
4236 people want to read
About the author
J.J. McAvoy
35 books5,708 followersI’m a twenty-year-old something born in Montreal, Canada but currently living in Virginia for school. I would tell you want my major is however after two years I still have no idea what I’m doing.
So I’m a writer (duh that’s how you found me), movie enthusiast, and self-proclaimed chef. I love music even though I can’t sing or dance to save my life. (That doesn’t necessarily stop me but you’ve been warned.)
I started Ruthless People the summer of 2013 in hopes of giving myself a new type of love and crime drama. I never knew so many people thought like me! I feel truly blessed to have fans like you all! Writing is my true love and having you all enjoy my words is a dream come true.
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So I’m a writer (duh that’s how you found me), movie enthusiast, and self-proclaimed chef. I love music even though I can’t sing or dance to save my life. (That doesn’t necessarily stop me but you’ve been warned.)
I started Ruthless People the summer of 2013 in hopes of giving myself a new type of love and crime drama. I never knew so many people thought like me! I feel truly blessed to have fans like you all! Writing is my true love and having you all enjoy my words is a dream come true.
I'm on
Tumblr
and
Youtube
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 343 reviews
August 15, 2017
★★★★★! Declan + Coraline, book 0.5 of 4. Declan & Coraline’s romance 2 years prior to Ruthless People!
“Do you hear yourself? This is what an amazing fuck sounds like.”
Released by popular demand Declan + Coraline is a prelude to the Ruthless People trilogy. It can be read first, but might be even more enjoyable if read after
book 3.
Book 0.5: Declan + Coraline
Book 1: Ruthless People
Book 2: Untouchables
Book 3: American Savages
Book 4: A Bloody Kingdom
“We were the standard,
the hope, and the law.”
~ The Callahans
Declan + Coraline (part 0.5) takes place 2 years prior to Ruthless People and opens up to when Declan A. Callahan, Liam’s cousin and key member of the Callahan clan first meets heiress, banker and recent college graduate Coraline E. Wilson, Cora.
We get to follow Declan and Cora through ups and downs as they get to know each other and learn about family secrets and painful pasts. Though worlds apart these two souls have more in common than you might think. We also get to meet the rest of the Callahan clan, including a very single and cocky Liam Callahan and even have a cameo by The Boss herself…
Nine words to describe Declan A. Callahan: Loyal, commanding, determined, suave, candid, ruthless, complex, flawed and vulnerable.
Nine words to describe Coraline E. Wilson, Cora: Smart, lonely, meek, naïve, loyal, trusting, dependable and easy-going .
For me, having read book 1-3 first and already being familiar with Declan and Coraline, this novella was icing on the cake, and therefore a 5-star.
Brilliant story-telling! Excellent character development! Scorching sex scenes by a very commanding, assertive and dirty-talking Declan! It’s the final piece in the puzzle of what‘s been an epic 6-star family saga. Kudos JJ!
“I’ve taught you how to fuck. I’ve taught you how to make love. Now I need to teach you the full extent of foreplay.”
***
Hero rating: 5 stars
Heroine rating: 4.5 stars
Sexual tension rating: 5 stars
Sex scenes rating: 5+ stars
Sex scenes frequency: 4.5 stars
Plot rating: 5 stars
Dialogue rating: 5 stars
Storytelling rating: 5+ stars
Story ending rating: 5 stars
*******************************************
Overall rating: 5 stars
Would I recommend this series: Yes, absolutely.
Would I re-read this series: Yes, absolutely.
Would I read future books by this author: Yes.
BETA copy provided to me by author J.J. McAvoy in exchange for honest feedback & review.
March 25, 2015
4.5 "PS I will always love you" stars
Declan Callahan
Declan was literally struck deaf, dumb and on his ass. From the moment he saw her, he knew it was her the one he's been looking for, the one he's been warned about, the one who would make him fall...
Coraline Wilson
Fresh out of college, she returns home that doesn't feel like a home. With her parent's gone, she's left with the only family she has left. I could take their abuse, but I couldn’t take the loneliness. She's too busy with her head in the cloud she doesn't see what's right in front of her face. He's too far out of her league, more experienced, exciting and intriguing. What could he possibly want with someone like her.
He sweeps her off her feet, even though he knows he should stay away. A good girl like her doesn't need the attention of a monster like him. But damned if he isn't going to be selfish for once in his life. With his every touch, kiss and caress, they are both introduced to the real Caroline. The one who's been hiding deep down, the one who can be bold, who smiles, laughs and knows how to have fun. The one who can seduce and bring a man to his knees...
Falling for him is inevitable, needing him, wanting him... He's almost the perfect man. As happy as they both are, their family proves to be another battle. When all the cards are on the table, is love enough to turn your head away from the ugliness of reality ???
Declan + Coraline was such a treat, and made me love Caroline even more. This story takes place two years prior to Ruthless People, but can be enjoyed at any time. I always had a soft spot for her, she was always the sweet one in the other books, and she still is very much sweet, but now she has some added spice to her. But the man I fell in love with is Being Declan, out from under Liam's wings, he shined. Playing the ever charming, loving anti-hero. His world is so dark I am so glad he found his light.
I wish this was a longer read, only because I am selfish and want more of Declan and Coraline. I wanted to see their story through, find out more about the life she left behind; hoping we get to see Declan her family in their place, or worse. Awesome read, and recommended if your a fan of Ruthless People or just in the mood for an anti-hero who falls hard and fast for the one her loves!
“Protect, live, and die for her.” It was the Callahan way.
Declan Callahan
"My name is Declan Callahan, and I enjoy fine wine, finer women, and sex.”
Declan was literally struck deaf, dumb and on his ass. From the moment he saw her, he knew it was her the one he's been looking for, the one he's been warned about, the one who would make him fall...
Coraline Wilson
"Be this happy all the time, Coraline.”
Fresh out of college, she returns home that doesn't feel like a home. With her parent's gone, she's left with the only family she has left. I could take their abuse, but I couldn’t take the loneliness. She's too busy with her head in the cloud she doesn't see what's right in front of her face. He's too far out of her league, more experienced, exciting and intriguing. What could he possibly want with someone like her.
“Coraline, the story doesn’t end when the clock strikes midnight. That’s when it starts and we have to make our own magic.”
He sweeps her off her feet, even though he knows he should stay away. A good girl like her doesn't need the attention of a monster like him. But damned if he isn't going to be selfish for once in his life. With his every touch, kiss and caress, they are both introduced to the real Caroline. The one who's been hiding deep down, the one who can be bold, who smiles, laughs and knows how to have fun. The one who can seduce and bring a man to his knees...
“You came here sweet and innocent…you will leave dirty and sinful…I won’t stop until you hear me in your dreams, Coraline,”
Falling for him is inevitable, needing him, wanting him... He's almost the perfect man. As happy as they both are, their family proves to be another battle. When all the cards are on the table, is love enough to turn your head away from the ugliness of reality ???
Declan + Coraline was such a treat, and made me love Caroline even more. This story takes place two years prior to Ruthless People, but can be enjoyed at any time. I always had a soft spot for her, she was always the sweet one in the other books, and she still is very much sweet, but now she has some added spice to her. But the man I fell in love with is Being Declan, out from under Liam's wings, he shined. Playing the ever charming, loving anti-hero. His world is so dark I am so glad he found his light.
I wish this was a longer read, only because I am selfish and want more of Declan and Coraline. I wanted to see their story through, find out more about the life she left behind; hoping we get to see Declan her family in their place, or worse. Awesome read, and recommended if your a fan of Ruthless People or just in the mood for an anti-hero who falls hard and fast for the one her loves!
March 25, 2015
5 Steal My Heart Stars
You have to love when an author gives you a novella about extra characters in a series. Well, after reading American Savages, I was happy to jump straight into the novella Declan + Coraline.
These two are together when Ruthless People begin. We know their love and commitment towards each other but we don't know their story. They play an important part in the trilogy and they forage themselves into your heart.
Everything about Declan- his loyalty, his strength, and his determination, comes from his family. His joy, his happiness and his love comes from Coraline. And for Coraline, she is given all those things from Declan and the Callahan family. Not her family but his.
I loved his instant attraction to her. He knew she was what was missing in his life and his steadfast determination to win her over was beautiful and hot!! Cora wasn't easily swayed. She had hang ups and her family was not warm and embracing, thus making Cora one who didn't believe in happy endings. But Declan sets out to prove to Cora that she can be happy and especially with him. But what happens when Cora finds out who Declan really is? She is not Irish, she knows nothing of his "life", so can she be happy with what he is and what he does or does she run? I'm sure you can guess that she runs for awhile but eventually she knows that only Declan makes her feel happy and safe. I love that Evelyn and Liam are instrumental in helping her see the light. The family rallies around Declan, the way that only family does when they are committed to one another.
I loved getting to know Declan and Cora better. They are a couple that you will fall in love with as you read the Ruthless People Series and once you read their beginning you can't help but love them more!!
ARC graciously provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
You have to love when an author gives you a novella about extra characters in a series. Well, after reading American Savages, I was happy to jump straight into the novella Declan + Coraline.
These two are together when Ruthless People begin. We know their love and commitment towards each other but we don't know their story. They play an important part in the trilogy and they forage themselves into your heart.
Everything about Declan- his loyalty, his strength, and his determination, comes from his family. His joy, his happiness and his love comes from Coraline. And for Coraline, she is given all those things from Declan and the Callahan family. Not her family but his.
I loved his instant attraction to her. He knew she was what was missing in his life and his steadfast determination to win her over was beautiful and hot!! Cora wasn't easily swayed. She had hang ups and her family was not warm and embracing, thus making Cora one who didn't believe in happy endings. But Declan sets out to prove to Cora that she can be happy and especially with him. But what happens when Cora finds out who Declan really is? She is not Irish, she knows nothing of his "life", so can she be happy with what he is and what he does or does she run? I'm sure you can guess that she runs for awhile but eventually she knows that only Declan makes her feel happy and safe. I love that Evelyn and Liam are instrumental in helping her see the light. The family rallies around Declan, the way that only family does when they are committed to one another.
I loved getting to know Declan and Cora better. They are a couple that you will fall in love with as you read the Ruthless People Series and once you read their beginning you can't help but love them more!!
ARC graciously provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
August 16, 2015
3.5 that was nice STARS
Well, that was quite interesting. You guys probably know how much I love the Ruthless People series and going back to before it all happened and seeing how Declan and Coraline came together was very entertaining.
Both characters were already on my favourites list, but having a whole book about them is something else. We get to see their whole history, where they came from and how they ended up being an integral part of the Callahan family.
It's a fun and quick read, with the usual fluid writing style I was already accustomed to with Ms. McAvoy. Of course there are a lot of Callahan shenanigans going on. After all, what would a book in the Ruthless People Series be without a little blood shed and mayhem, right?
All in all, a good addition to the series and for fans of Caroline and Declan a welcome treat. I give it 3.5 stars and that's not a bad thing, I just find rating novellas really hard sometimes because of the length. The moment I was getting into the flow of things it ended. But that's not to say the story wasn't well rounded or unfinished, just a little short. I always want more.
But as a bonus for all the Liam fans out there, we get to see Mr. Callahan without Bloody Melody and it's FUN! ;D
“You have always thought of the family before anything else, even yourself. Now all you want is a woman? I don’t care if she’s black, purple, green, Irish or not. You should have what you want.”
Well, that was quite interesting. You guys probably know how much I love the Ruthless People series and going back to before it all happened and seeing how Declan and Coraline came together was very entertaining.
Both characters were already on my favourites list, but having a whole book about them is something else. We get to see their whole history, where they came from and how they ended up being an integral part of the Callahan family.
It's a fun and quick read, with the usual fluid writing style I was already accustomed to with Ms. McAvoy. Of course there are a lot of Callahan shenanigans going on. After all, what would a book in the Ruthless People Series be without a little blood shed and mayhem, right?
All in all, a good addition to the series and for fans of Caroline and Declan a welcome treat. I give it 3.5 stars and that's not a bad thing, I just find rating novellas really hard sometimes because of the length. The moment I was getting into the flow of things it ended. But that's not to say the story wasn't well rounded or unfinished, just a little short. I always want more.
But as a bonus for all the Liam fans out there, we get to see Mr. Callahan without Bloody Melody and it's FUN! ;D
September 18, 2015
I knew I would like their story but I was not expecting this...to feel so connected to Declan and Coraline and to love their story sooooo muchhhh :D
I only wish that I could have read their story before starting this series because I would have definitely looked at the differently throughout the books.
What to expect?
Well if you haven't started the Ruthless People series expect to fall in love with the Callahan clan an their story and to keep reading until you've burned through all the books and keep wanting more...
Already a fan?
Then you're getting a glimpse into the life of (almost) all the characters in the series, but especially Declan and Coraline. How they meet, what comes between them and how they find their way back to each other.
And I can't forget the hot sex...especially the "melt you're panties" car sex that they have for their first time :D
With this book my journey with this series ends but for you it just beginning and I truly hope you'll love this series just as much as I did.
July 1, 2018
It was fine but they are not Melody and Liam. Though it's funny to see them be this crazy in love and then imagine how they were like at the beginning of the Ruthless people.
Generally, I know that Declan and Coraline are really popular and most people love them. However, they never really clicked for me. They sometimes worked as separate persons but I never understood them as a couple.
Generally, I know that Declan and Coraline are really popular and most people love them. However, they never really clicked for me. They sometimes worked as separate persons but I never understood them as a couple.
September 29, 2024
♦ 4.5 "PS-I Love You" Stars! ♦
So, the other day I was re-reading McAvoy's Black Rainbow (which I loved) and then I remembered I still had this series to read. I wanted to write a review of the whole series (as I normally do) but after reading this, Declan + Coraline deserves a single review because this was A-MAZING! Also, because I have seen that the other three books are about Liam (Declan's brother, so exciting!!!) and it is better to have the other three together in the review.
This is the story of two people who (according to Declan) live in the same planet but not in the same world. I totally agree but still, they belong together. This novella is about Declan Callahan (a hottie misterious and very rich man) and Coraline Wilson (the heiress of the Wilson family, obviously a quite powerful family as well).
“Declan, I am not Cinderella.”
“Good, because I’m not Prince Charming. I prefer black.”
J. J. McAvoy is a fantastic writer. I love the style and the building of the story and its characters. I discovered a beautiful love story between two people who are fighting to be together because the others around them consider they musn't be together (because of the racial difference and obviously because, as the reader sees, the Callahan's family is not quite as good as we tought). There is some drama as well because the couple is surrounded by stupid, unemotional people who don't care about the feelings of this fabulous characters. I could not stand Cora's family, really, I can't even..
But, Declan and Coraline have amazing chemistry, they are super cute and sexy! OMG Declan is so smokin' and sweet at the same time! They have beautiful (and even funny) moments together and a lot of sexy times, YAAAAAAS! (His emails melted my heart really, and the references to PS I Love You OMG, how not love him?)
“I rather tell you about me. My name is Declan Callahan, and I enjoy fine wine, finer women, and sex.”
I wanted him so bad.
“If you want to woo a girl, don’t you usually say something romantic?”
“It seemed pretty romantic to me since I have everything I enjoy right here.”
Damn, he was good.
“We aren’t having sex.”
“Baby, we’ve been having sex from the moment I walked into your office,” he whispered.
See what I mean? Yeah, Declan has some "very good" skills ;)
So, my rating for McAvoy's novella is 4.5 STARS because I really enjoyed this dark but sweet story and I really can't wait to read about Liam! I will start right now. If you are into erotic romance with suspense in it, I am sure you will love this, totally recommend!
CHECK OUT MY BLOG HERE:
So, the other day I was re-reading McAvoy's Black Rainbow (which I loved) and then I remembered I still had this series to read. I wanted to write a review of the whole series (as I normally do) but after reading this, Declan + Coraline deserves a single review because this was A-MAZING! Also, because I have seen that the other three books are about Liam (Declan's brother, so exciting!!!) and it is better to have the other three together in the review.
This is the story of two people who (according to Declan) live in the same planet but not in the same world. I totally agree but still, they belong together. This novella is about Declan Callahan (a hottie misterious and very rich man) and Coraline Wilson (the heiress of the Wilson family, obviously a quite powerful family as well).
“Declan, I am not Cinderella.”
“Good, because I’m not Prince Charming. I prefer black.”
J. J. McAvoy is a fantastic writer. I love the style and the building of the story and its characters. I discovered a beautiful love story between two people who are fighting to be together because the others around them consider they musn't be together (because of the racial difference and obviously because, as the reader sees, the Callahan's family is not quite as good as we tought). There is some drama as well because the couple is surrounded by stupid, unemotional people who don't care about the feelings of this fabulous characters. I could not stand Cora's family, really, I can't even..
But, Declan and Coraline have amazing chemistry, they are super cute and sexy! OMG Declan is so smokin' and sweet at the same time! They have beautiful (and even funny) moments together and a lot of sexy times, YAAAAAAS! (His emails melted my heart really, and the references to PS I Love You OMG, how not love him?)
“I rather tell you about me. My name is Declan Callahan, and I enjoy fine wine, finer women, and sex.”
I wanted him so bad.
“If you want to woo a girl, don’t you usually say something romantic?”
“It seemed pretty romantic to me since I have everything I enjoy right here.”
Damn, he was good.
“We aren’t having sex.”
“Baby, we’ve been having sex from the moment I walked into your office,” he whispered.
See what I mean? Yeah, Declan has some "very good" skills ;)
So, my rating for McAvoy's novella is 4.5 STARS because I really enjoyed this dark but sweet story and I really can't wait to read about Liam! I will start right now. If you are into erotic romance with suspense in it, I am sure you will love this, totally recommend!
CHECK OUT MY BLOG HERE:
June 25, 2019
My first choice -always- will be Liam Callahan but somebody just slap me please cause I need more Declan Callahan in my life! Wow, I FREAKING LOVED THIS BOOK SO MUCH!!! And I wish this book were longer cause I just can’t get enough of him… I really loved Declan & Coraline's story. I devour it and I really enjoyed every minute... :)
If you already read the 3 books of Ruthless People series then you definitely should Declan & Coraline story too. And if you haven’t read the Ruthless People series yet, my God people stop wasting time and go meet Liam & Mel & Declan & Coraline asap!!! Believe me, you’re missing too much, yep TOO MUCH!!! After you’re enter Callahan family you’ll thank me later because Liam & Declan Callahan will blow your mind ehem and maybe your body too!!!. ;)
------------------------------
“Do you hear yourself? This is what an amazing fuck sounds like.”
“I’ve taught you how to fuck. I’ve taught you how to make love. Now I need to teach you the full extent of foreplay.”
OH MY GOODNESS!!!! YESSS DECLAN YESS! I NEED MORE, I WANT MORE... :D
If you already read the 3 books of Ruthless People series then you definitely should Declan & Coraline story too. And if you haven’t read the Ruthless People series yet, my God people stop wasting time and go meet Liam & Mel & Declan & Coraline asap!!! Believe me, you’re missing too much, yep TOO MUCH!!! After you’re enter Callahan family you’ll thank me later because Liam & Declan Callahan will blow your mind ehem and maybe your body too!!!. ;)
------------------------------
“Do you hear yourself? This is what an amazing fuck sounds like.”
“I’ve taught you how to fuck. I’ve taught you how to make love. Now I need to teach you the full extent of foreplay.”
OH MY GOODNESS!!!! YESSS DECLAN YESS! I NEED MORE, I WANT MORE... :D
July 27, 2018
I loved spending more time with Declan and Coraline Callahan.
Getting to know them better and finding out how their story began and what shenanigans they both got up to and the car sex HOT :) and Declan has his own brand of sexiness going on "a man in black on a Harley" sigh, makes me want to re read the Ruthless People trilogy so I can get to know Declan again.
It was great getting more Liam as I loved the banter between Declan and Liam, I would go as far as to say they were cute together.
Getting to know them better and finding out how their story began and what shenanigans they both got up to and the car sex HOT :) and Declan has his own brand of sexiness going on "a man in black on a Harley" sigh, makes me want to re read the Ruthless People trilogy so I can get to know Declan again.
It was great getting more Liam as I loved the banter between Declan and Liam, I would go as far as to say they were cute together.
July 10, 2021
So, I was in a rather peculiar mood and decided to gave this novella a chance and overall it wasn't bad. In fact, it kept me engaged until the end. I actually liked McAvoy's Prince's Bride trilogy and she's an amazing author.
Mafia romances are really not my cuppa because most tend to glamorize/sanitize this violent world and the heroines tend to be written like silly ingenues who have no idea what they're stepping into because the hero is just so HAWT and so dominant that all gray matter just evaporates. It's like, do any of these heroines EVER use the internet?
Anyway, the pros:
1) Coraline is Black and independently wealthy due to her father's investment bank. That doesn't happen in most books. I like when my heroines are equally matched in some way.
2) Coraline is awkward. I'm okay with that. Not every Black heroine needs to be sassy. I'm okay with quiet and nerdy. Just don't be a pushover.
3) Declan doesn't try to be anything less than what he is. His ruthlessness isn't minimized yet when saw the woman he wanted he pursued her without taking away her autonomy. I'm not a big fan of insta-love either but okay.
4) The Callahan males rules - take care of their women, protect them and fight for them.
The cons:
1) This TROPE:
"While I was tall, dark, and all boobs, she was short, caramel skinned, and had an ass for days. Last time we’d gone out, I was literally pushed to the curb while two guys tried to ask her out." Coraline comparing herself to Imani, her cousin (yes, Imani...again).
I honestly don't care that this book was written in 2015. I was mad about this line back then and I will forever remain salty as hell at this played out "dark-skin equals not good enough/sad sack/pity party" characterization that is just as bad as the preference for 'caramel-butterscotch-honey-colored' heroines with light eyes and "good" hair.
Newsflash: Not every dark-skinned woman feels put upon despite the fucked-up messages the media (including books like this one) keeps putting out. Coraline had plenty of other issues like her dysfunctional aunt, uncle and cousin to dwell on. Her skin shade is the LAST thing she needed to be concerned with.
2) The "bad past relationship that means no sex until hawt guy du jour comes along" trope.
It would be great if a heroine has a healthy and happy sex life BEFORE she meets Mr. Right. Hell, even an enjoyable masturbation scene before and during the courtship. In this case Coraline goes from "oh my gawd I'm boring" to getting busy in the front seat of Declan's car and I'm like "huh"?
Overall, this was well-written and though part of a larger series, reads like a stand-alone.
Mafia romances are really not my cuppa because most tend to glamorize/sanitize this violent world and the heroines tend to be written like silly ingenues who have no idea what they're stepping into because the hero is just so HAWT and so dominant that all gray matter just evaporates. It's like, do any of these heroines EVER use the internet?
Anyway, the pros:
1) Coraline is Black and independently wealthy due to her father's investment bank. That doesn't happen in most books. I like when my heroines are equally matched in some way.
2) Coraline is awkward. I'm okay with that. Not every Black heroine needs to be sassy. I'm okay with quiet and nerdy. Just don't be a pushover.
3) Declan doesn't try to be anything less than what he is. His ruthlessness isn't minimized yet when saw the woman he wanted he pursued her without taking away her autonomy. I'm not a big fan of insta-love either but okay.
4) The Callahan males rules - take care of their women, protect them and fight for them.
The cons:
1) This TROPE:
"While I was tall, dark, and all boobs, she was short, caramel skinned, and had an ass for days. Last time we’d gone out, I was literally pushed to the curb while two guys tried to ask her out." Coraline comparing herself to Imani, her cousin (yes, Imani...again).
I honestly don't care that this book was written in 2015. I was mad about this line back then and I will forever remain salty as hell at this played out "dark-skin equals not good enough/sad sack/pity party" characterization that is just as bad as the preference for 'caramel-butterscotch-honey-colored' heroines with light eyes and "good" hair.
Newsflash: Not every dark-skinned woman feels put upon despite the fucked-up messages the media (including books like this one) keeps putting out. Coraline had plenty of other issues like her dysfunctional aunt, uncle and cousin to dwell on. Her skin shade is the LAST thing she needed to be concerned with.
2) The "bad past relationship that means no sex until hawt guy du jour comes along" trope.
It would be great if a heroine has a healthy and happy sex life BEFORE she meets Mr. Right. Hell, even an enjoyable masturbation scene before and during the courtship. In this case Coraline goes from "oh my gawd I'm boring" to getting busy in the front seat of Declan's car and I'm like "huh"?
Overall, this was well-written and though part of a larger series, reads like a stand-alone.
March 22, 2015
4 STARS
So enjoyed this novella! Loved getting to see Declan and Coraline meet, get to know each other and fall in love. This could be read before the Ruthless Peoples series however, I think reading after is better. It makes their struggles and victory all that more sweet in the Ruthless People series.
This was a sweet gift from Ms. McAvoy for those of us lamenting the end of this series and the Callahans. This takes place 2 years before Liam and Melody unite. Being able to meet Declan, a very arrogant, cocky and single Liam, as well as the rest of the clan was loads of fun. And JJ even gives us a cameo of Bloody Melody!! Great story, rich, complex, flawed characters and sizzling sex between dominant and dirty talking Declan and coming into her own, Coraline.
ARC generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
So enjoyed this novella! Loved getting to see Declan and Coraline meet, get to know each other and fall in love. This could be read before the Ruthless Peoples series however, I think reading after is better. It makes their struggles and victory all that more sweet in the Ruthless People series.
This was a sweet gift from Ms. McAvoy for those of us lamenting the end of this series and the Callahans. This takes place 2 years before Liam and Melody unite. Being able to meet Declan, a very arrogant, cocky and single Liam, as well as the rest of the clan was loads of fun. And JJ even gives us a cameo of Bloody Melody!! Great story, rich, complex, flawed characters and sizzling sex between dominant and dirty talking Declan and coming into her own, Coraline.
ARC generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
hell-fucking-no
March 23, 2015Hell no. I'm currently reading Melody & Liam's book and we get a chapter in Coraline & Declan's POV as well. After finding out that he was secretly lusting after MELODY, his cousins wife, and picturing MELODY in his mind as his WIFE gave him a blow job. There's no fucking chance in hell I will touch this book. Fucking disgusting. And why? All because his wife doesn't enjoy killing people the way Melody does. Hey asshole, you knew that about her before you married her you disgusting pig!
to me that's emotional cheating, which is honestly worse to me.
to me that's emotional cheating, which is honestly worse to me.
March 31, 2016
Oh my. I love the diversity in this novella and I swooned over it. This is a great start and I can't wait to dive in to a new mafia / assassin stories. Declan Callahan and Coraline Wilson have an awesome chemistry and I'm drawn to them. Overall, it's a great short read. <3
I'm surely gonna look forward to read Ruthless People. Bring on the assassins!
I'm surely gonna look forward to read Ruthless People. Bring on the assassins!
January 5, 2021
Reto PopSugar 2021 #18: Un libro sobre un tema que te apasione.
A-Z Challenge Character Edition 2021: D
¡¡Primer lectura del año!! y fue un chascooooo🤭😂
Bueno para ser sincera, no tenía muchas expectativas con este libro por dos razones, la primera: no conocía la pluma de la autora (y eso siempre es algo a tener en cuenta), y segundo: es una precuela, por ende, una historia corta sin más, con el único objetivo de que los lectores conozcamos a estos personajes y "entendamos" su historia luego.
Así que sí, no fue la gran cosa.
Entiendo que, al ser una historia corta, no se profundice mucho sobre los personajes en sí pero la verdad es que luego del 60% del libro todo pasaba tan deprisa que no podés concentrarte en nada porque todo sucede y se resuelve de la nada.
No sé, no me convenció. Me hubiera gustado ver, por parte de Coraline, qué hacía con sus tíos y la estúpida de su prima. Y por parte de Declan, que profundizara más en su vida como mafioso irlandés que es.
Quiero creer que todo esto se conoce mejor en la saga principal, así que todavía guardaré mis esperanzas😅.
A-Z Challenge Character Edition 2021: D
¡¡Primer lectura del año!! y fue un chascooooo🤭😂
Bueno para ser sincera, no tenía muchas expectativas con este libro por dos razones, la primera: no conocía la pluma de la autora (y eso siempre es algo a tener en cuenta), y segundo: es una precuela, por ende, una historia corta sin más, con el único objetivo de que los lectores conozcamos a estos personajes y "entendamos" su historia luego.
Así que sí, no fue la gran cosa.
Entiendo que, al ser una historia corta, no se profundice mucho sobre los personajes en sí pero la verdad es que luego del 60% del libro todo pasaba tan deprisa que no podés concentrarte en nada porque todo sucede y se resuelve de la nada.
No sé, no me convenció. Me hubiera gustado ver, por parte de Coraline, qué hacía con sus tíos y la estúpida de su prima. Y por parte de Declan, que profundizara más en su vida como mafioso irlandés que es.
Quiero creer que todo esto se conoce mejor en la saga principal, así que todavía guardaré mis esperanzas😅.
April 15, 2025
Prologue ⭐️
One of my favorite tropes out there is mafia romance. 🖤
I’ve read all Cora Reilly and because I have no reviews for J.J. McAvoy’s books and I crave some bad, ruthless mobsters, here I am, starting to re-read the Ruthless People series.
It appears I’ve skipped Declan & Coraline’s story. I knew them from the other books in the series, but didn’t know how their relationship started.
"My name is Declan Callahan, and I enjoy fine wine, finer women, and sex.”
Declan is Liam’s cousin. He was raised by Sedric and Evelyn after his parents died.
Coraline’s parents are also gone and she returns home from studying economics at Stanford, to run the bank her father left her.
J.J. McAvoy tried to convince me that this was love at first sight for Declan. He saw her, lost his words, saw her again in a club, then in church and decided that he needs to have this woman. It was funny, because naïve Coraline had no idea who he was (only heard good things about the Callahan family 😂🙄) and she turned her back on him a couple of times before agreeing to more.
Another funny thing: once she said yes, she also fucked him in his car, minutes after their first date. 🤔
Don’t get me wrong, it was hot as hell, plus, I know I couldn’t have resisted Declan either, so I’m not one to judge, but, this is actually why I hate novellas. It’s hard to create a complete story. Everything is on fast-forward.
I think I gave the 4⭐️ just because I wished for more. They deserved a full story, more everything. More chasing, more love, more action. More!
“I soon found myself heading towards him like the Titanic towards an iceberg.”
I truly enjoyed reading it. I loved them together, I loved Declan and how protective he was, how he owned his feelings and attraction to her, how he stood up to Sedric fighting for his woman. I liked Coraline for being smart, sassy and cautious once she found out who he really was.
Here’s the thing. If you love mafia romance, there’s no way you can skip Ruthless People series. Therefore, you have to start by picking out this novella. Even if I’ve already read the next books, i’m still super excited for what’s to come.
Bring it on, Ms. McAvoy! 🖤
It would be an absolute honor to have you as my guest on my blog too. Stop by anytime you want :)
One of my favorite tropes out there is mafia romance. 🖤
I’ve read all Cora Reilly and because I have no reviews for J.J. McAvoy’s books and I crave some bad, ruthless mobsters, here I am, starting to re-read the Ruthless People series.
It appears I’ve skipped Declan & Coraline’s story. I knew them from the other books in the series, but didn’t know how their relationship started.
"My name is Declan Callahan, and I enjoy fine wine, finer women, and sex.”
Declan is Liam’s cousin. He was raised by Sedric and Evelyn after his parents died.
Coraline’s parents are also gone and she returns home from studying economics at Stanford, to run the bank her father left her.
J.J. McAvoy tried to convince me that this was love at first sight for Declan. He saw her, lost his words, saw her again in a club, then in church and decided that he needs to have this woman. It was funny, because naïve Coraline had no idea who he was (only heard good things about the Callahan family 😂🙄) and she turned her back on him a couple of times before agreeing to more.
Another funny thing: once she said yes, she also fucked him in his car, minutes after their first date. 🤔
Don’t get me wrong, it was hot as hell, plus, I know I couldn’t have resisted Declan either, so I’m not one to judge, but, this is actually why I hate novellas. It’s hard to create a complete story. Everything is on fast-forward.
I think I gave the 4⭐️ just because I wished for more. They deserved a full story, more everything. More chasing, more love, more action. More!
“I soon found myself heading towards him like the Titanic towards an iceberg.”
I truly enjoyed reading it. I loved them together, I loved Declan and how protective he was, how he owned his feelings and attraction to her, how he stood up to Sedric fighting for his woman. I liked Coraline for being smart, sassy and cautious once she found out who he really was.
“I wasn’t sure where this bold Coraline was coming from. It was like he was pulling this out of me, or I was feeding off of the energy he was emanating. For the first time in my life, I felt sexy…desired.”
Here’s the thing. If you love mafia romance, there’s no way you can skip Ruthless People series. Therefore, you have to start by picking out this novella. Even if I’ve already read the next books, i’m still super excited for what’s to come.
Bring it on, Ms. McAvoy! 🖤
It would be an absolute honor to have you as my guest on my blog too. Stop by anytime you want :)
September 13, 2020
I would have enjoyed it more if I didn't read Ruthless People first. In that book, the hero here, lusted after his sister in law (heroine of that book), he wouldn't cheat on the heroine of this book because of duty. She changes herself, learns to fight for him. He fell out of love because she isn't the same anymore, something like that and it gave me a very sour taste.
However, if you read this book before the sequel, you probably will enjoy it more because this book is actually fun.
However, if you read this book before the sequel, you probably will enjoy it more because this book is actually fun.
October 11, 2020
Love these two!
May 26, 2017
2,6 Instalovey STARS
So I´ve keep an eye on Ruthless People for at least a month now, since I´ve seen so many people rave about this series I decided to read it now, because Mafia books are one of my fave things ever. I was actually going to skip this novella and just start with the 1st book, but I decided that 170 pages was short enough. But oh, how I wish I had just listened to myself. I´m just gonna say that it was not enjoyable, but luckily the 1st book is WAY better than this.
This is set 2 years prior the series starts, and tells the story of Declan Callahan and Coraline Wilson.
Declan is Liam´s cousin and right-hand, so we at least get to see a little of the MC of the series and who he is. Declan is part of the most powerful irish family in the world, because the Callahans rule in Chicago and lots of other places, thanks to being good at playing the mafia game.
Coraline, in contrast, has just graduaded Stanford and has come back to Chicago to take charge of the bank her dad founded. Having lost both her parents young, Cora grew up with her uncle and aunt, who only care about her money, but she grew into a full of life, nice good girl.
Tired of not enjoying life, Cora goes out one night to have fun, but in this mysticful night, she will cross paths with a sexy, green-eyed man that will turn her life 180º degrees. As for Declan, he will find himself struggling between, falling for a girl who makes him forget the nightmares that chase him every night and the reality of the situation, he is in the mafia and nothing will ever change that.
This was highly instalovey, which really ruined it for me. At one point in the beginning it had charm, even with the insta-love situation, so I was able to move forward. But pass the 50% mark or so, it just got ridiculous and I felt like the story was one-diamensioned. It also felt like it was hurried, which I´m not blaming the 170 pages for, I´ve read novellas with less pages that feel so well crafted that the story is develops as if it was 350 pages instead. Adding to this, there were so many editing errors, which didn´t help at all to this already "meh reading experience."
As far as Declan and Cora´s relationship, there were good scenes; they share some pretty steamy moments as well and scenes where they seem interesting, but by the end I felt like they were together because they had to, not because they actually had a bond. This two also share a good amount of fun banter and when they were just having fun, things worked. Sadly, this lost strength with everypage leading to the end of the book.
Overall, I think the author tried to tell the story of two characters in this series, but didn´t synchronize/connect well with them to be able to write with depth. This definitely had potential, but it was ruined by the insta-love and the lack of depth in the story and characters. I´d not recommend this, but I do recommend the 1st book of the series because it´s really good.
"There´s nowhere you can be that isn´t where you´re meant to be..."
So I´ve keep an eye on Ruthless People for at least a month now, since I´ve seen so many people rave about this series I decided to read it now, because Mafia books are one of my fave things ever. I was actually going to skip this novella and just start with the 1st book, but I decided that 170 pages was short enough. But oh, how I wish I had just listened to myself. I´m just gonna say that it was not enjoyable, but luckily the 1st book is WAY better than this.
This is set 2 years prior the series starts, and tells the story of Declan Callahan and Coraline Wilson.
Declan is Liam´s cousin and right-hand, so we at least get to see a little of the MC of the series and who he is. Declan is part of the most powerful irish family in the world, because the Callahans rule in Chicago and lots of other places, thanks to being good at playing the mafia game.
Coraline, in contrast, has just graduaded Stanford and has come back to Chicago to take charge of the bank her dad founded. Having lost both her parents young, Cora grew up with her uncle and aunt, who only care about her money, but she grew into a full of life, nice good girl.
Sometimes...well most times, I felt as though everyone else was doing amazing things with their lives, while I was stuck on the sidelines. When I was twelve, I told myself, "Just wait until you´re sixteen, then the fun will start". At sixteen, I said I couldn´t wait for my eighteen birthday because then my life would surely begin. Before I knew it, it was my tweenty-first birthday. And now that I was tweenty-three, I´d all but given up.
Tired of not enjoying life, Cora goes out one night to have fun, but in this mysticful night, she will cross paths with a sexy, green-eyed man that will turn her life 180º degrees. As for Declan, he will find himself struggling between, falling for a girl who makes him forget the nightmares that chase him every night and the reality of the situation, he is in the mafia and nothing will ever change that.
This was highly instalovey, which really ruined it for me. At one point in the beginning it had charm, even with the insta-love situation, so I was able to move forward. But pass the 50% mark or so, it just got ridiculous and I felt like the story was one-diamensioned. It also felt like it was hurried, which I´m not blaming the 170 pages for, I´ve read novellas with less pages that feel so well crafted that the story is develops as if it was 350 pages instead. Adding to this, there were so many editing errors, which didn´t help at all to this already "meh reading experience."
As far as Declan and Cora´s relationship, there were good scenes; they share some pretty steamy moments as well and scenes where they seem interesting, but by the end I felt like they were together because they had to, not because they actually had a bond. This two also share a good amount of fun banter and when they were just having fun, things worked. Sadly, this lost strength with everypage leading to the end of the book.
Overall, I think the author tried to tell the story of two characters in this series, but didn´t synchronize/connect well with them to be able to write with depth. This definitely had potential, but it was ruined by the insta-love and the lack of depth in the story and characters. I´d not recommend this, but I do recommend the 1st book of the series because it´s really good.
March 11, 2015
To say I loved this would be a grave understatement. I liked Declan and Coraline, but after reading this and seeing just how they fell in love, it made me to fall in love with them. This series is not one to be missed and if you haven't started it yet, I highly suggest you drop everything and read it ASAP.
March 21, 2015
4.5 stars
it's so much easier to read about the horrors - and joy - of the past when you already know the conclusion.
it's so much easier to read about the horrors - and joy - of the past when you already know the conclusion.
April 12, 2015
This is my first ever read by author JJ McAvoy, and I overall enjoyed it! From what I understand, Declan+Coraline is the prequel to her popular series Irish mafia series Ruthless People. From the way this story reads, it can be considered as a standalone as the other installments in the series focus primarily on Declan’s cousin/brother Liam Callahan.
Declan Callahan and Coraline Wilson are polar opposites in every since of the word. He is a privileged, yet ruthless Irish mobster, while Coraline is a docile black American princess. They do have a few things in common though: They’re both wealthy in their own right (although by very different yet not uncommon means); As young kids, they both lost their parents violently; and they are wildly attracted to one another. The chemistry is off the charts falling off the page crazy good!
Without giving away the entire story, Declan lives by the family code, and it’s simply family first. Bros over hoes. Business before pleasure. Do.not.fall.in.love. Well you know what? Coraline bust all that bull wide open cause she had ol boy SPRUNG from the first time he laid eyes on that ass-literally! Coraline comes off as a little naïve which is understandable given her sheltered upbringing and living with her mooching aunt, uncle, and cousin. She sees the good in everything and everybody, whereas Declan is bow down or lay down. There’s also the cultural factor to contend with. The Callahan’s creed is “we stick to your own”. Will Coraline be accepted not only because she’s not Irish, but also because she’s black? Will the truth of Declan’s lifestyle and family history destroy what he and Coraline are trying to build? Or will she woman up and fight for her man?
This story could have been great if it were fleshed out a little more. The author admittedly wrote this after being pressured by fans to give Declan and Coraline their own story which leads me to believe that they really struck a chord with some in the Liam stories. I just wish it were a little longer and Coraline a little stronger…
Declan Callahan and Coraline Wilson are polar opposites in every since of the word. He is a privileged, yet ruthless Irish mobster, while Coraline is a docile black American princess. They do have a few things in common though: They’re both wealthy in their own right (although by very different yet not uncommon means); As young kids, they both lost their parents violently; and they are wildly attracted to one another. The chemistry is off the charts falling off the page crazy good!
Without giving away the entire story, Declan lives by the family code, and it’s simply family first. Bros over hoes. Business before pleasure. Do.not.fall.in.love. Well you know what? Coraline bust all that bull wide open cause she had ol boy SPRUNG from the first time he laid eyes on that ass-literally! Coraline comes off as a little naïve which is understandable given her sheltered upbringing and living with her mooching aunt, uncle, and cousin. She sees the good in everything and everybody, whereas Declan is bow down or lay down. There’s also the cultural factor to contend with. The Callahan’s creed is “we stick to your own”. Will Coraline be accepted not only because she’s not Irish, but also because she’s black? Will the truth of Declan’s lifestyle and family history destroy what he and Coraline are trying to build? Or will she woman up and fight for her man?
This story could have been great if it were fleshed out a little more. The author admittedly wrote this after being pressured by fans to give Declan and Coraline their own story which leads me to believe that they really struck a chord with some in the Liam stories. I just wish it were a little longer and Coraline a little stronger…
October 17, 2024
was it necessary to make me this mad at 7 in the morning
it’s been a while since i read the first book in this series but i really don’t think i needed to read this novella 😭
it’s been a while since i read the first book in this series but i really don’t think i needed to read this novella 😭
July 29, 2018
"Declan + Coraline" was a amazing mafia read but sadly the grammatical errors/double or missing words throughout the course of the story took away from the story .
Declan didn't go against the 'code' until he met her - Coraline Elizabeth Wilson aka Cora who otherwise was a bright diamond compared to all the other women who threw themselves at him. So as his cocky brother Liam would say, “Stay away from the good girls. We either break them, or they break us. Don’t forget who you are and what you do,” he said before he hung up. I hated it when he got serious."
But Declan wants her regardless and states, “Coraline, our story doesn’t end when the clock strikes midnight. That’s when it starts and we have to make our own magic.” - Declan Callahan
3.8 to 4.2 stars
Declan didn't go against the 'code' until he met her - Coraline Elizabeth Wilson aka Cora who otherwise was a bright diamond compared to all the other women who threw themselves at him. So as his cocky brother Liam would say, “Stay away from the good girls. We either break them, or they break us. Don’t forget who you are and what you do,” he said before he hung up. I hated it when he got serious."
But Declan wants her regardless and states, “Coraline, our story doesn’t end when the clock strikes midnight. That’s when it starts and we have to make our own magic.” - Declan Callahan
3.8 to 4.2 stars
February 9, 2019
The plot was actually good and the only reason i kept reading tbh, the instalove is what made me hate so much. i loved the whole “forbidden” romance part but i felt like it was soooo cheesy and it felt as if i was reading a hallmark christmas movie. a friend suggested i read ruthless people and i decided to read this first to get an idea of the story but now i don’t even want to read ruthless people because i found this so bad
May 8, 2020
Well that turned dark....I didn't expect it to be this dark at the end. Great introduction to a series! Can't wait to read what's next.
February 18, 2017
“We all have a past, Coraline. Get to know me first before you decide who I am.”
Declan Callahan, a privileged and ruthless member of the Irish mafia, and Coraline Wilson, a meek black spoiled rich girl. Both wealthy, although by very different means and both lost their parents at a young age in a violentmatter. The attraction for each other is hot and deep.
Declan and Coraline embark on a stormy relationship and when Coraline learns who Declan really is, will she let her heart or mind speak?
The men of this family are loyal to the very end. They don’t just love their women, they worship them. Anything you could ever want in life, he will not stop until he gives it you.
Declan Callahan, a privileged and ruthless member of the Irish mafia, and Coraline Wilson, a meek black spoiled rich girl. Both wealthy, although by very different means and both lost their parents at a young age in a violentmatter. The attraction for each other is hot and deep.
Declan and Coraline embark on a stormy relationship and when Coraline learns who Declan really is, will she let her heart or mind speak?
The men of this family are loyal to the very end. They don’t just love their women, they worship them. Anything you could ever want in life, he will not stop until he gives it you.
March 12, 2015
The book was great. Hot. Romantic. Beautiful. Sexy and a little bit emotional but I still don't get why the fuck Declan wanted Melody later on!? Dude she was your sister in law. Asshole.
That just seems way to unfair to Caroline. I just can't understand it!
That just seems way to unfair to Caroline. I just can't understand it!
March 28, 2023
Дружини... вони завжди були тими, хто давав нам силу, необхідну для того, щоб продовжувати йти далі.
«Захищати, жити і померти за неї.» – Це був шлях Калаганів.
Це було прекрасно❤️
«Захищати, жити і померти за неї.» – Це був шлях Калаганів.
Це було прекрасно❤️
October 18, 2019
Lately, I have been reading all my old books on my Kindle and cleaning it up a little. One of my favorite authors happens to be J.J McAvoy and I had read the majority of this series and yes, unfortunately out of order but I decided to read the two earlier Ruthless People books I had remaining on my kindle. I have to admit that Declan + Coraline's story was my favorite and when chatting to my friend Rachael who also loves this series, she was like of course you liked them - she was a Liam and Melody girl. There is just something about this couple as though they live in terrible worlds and bad things happen, the pair of them aren't completely closed off or jaded as Declan though his parents were murdered in front of him and he has killed people for The Callahans, unlike Liam who was stone-cold - Declan has a warmth about him. Coraline is the same, though both parents killed and she was raised by her ungrateful uncle and treated like an ATM machine she still has this caring nature unlike of course Neal's wife Olivia or Liam's wife Melody. Declan + Coraline is their love story and how they came to meet and for Declan it was love at first sight but for Coraline - her heart was closed off and so she made Declan work for it but they got their in the end. I am now looking forward to jumping right ahead to Bloody Kingdom and the Children of Vice series since I have caught up with the remaining books in the Ruthless People Series. Fans of Contemporary Romance, Romantic Suspense and Mobster books will love Declan + Coraline's epic love story by J.J McAvoy.
May 20, 2015
I loved this book!
I have been looking for a book like this... it is what I imagine an interracial relationship to be like.... any other books I read was just terrible.. this one was so good!
The story starts with Coraline stepping into a diner to fix her umbrella.. Declan sees her and is instantly attracted.. when he goes to approach shes gone... he vows never to let her slip by again...
Coraline is a college grad who has taken over her fathers company.. she lives with her aunt and uncle who are terrible people... just awful.. and she lives a pretty boring life... shes is strong... but her weakness is not having a good family and good people around her... stepping into that diner changed her life...
Declan is a bad boy... with a tender heart... hes good at what he does.. but is missing love (in my opinion)... When he sees Coraline.. he has to have her... when they meet again he knows shes different and doesn't want to let go... he knows its a bad idea because of his life style but he chooses to be selfish (which I love)... he's somewhat vulnerable throughout the book.. very open... I liked that he didn't care.. he just wanted Coraline... and what was best for her... nothing else mattered... but he wasn't over the top about it.. Declan was one of the best male characters Ive encountered... he's alphaish.. thoughtful.. loyal.. not over bearing.. and sexy... all in one..
The path of their relationship is somewhat fairytaleish.. the little things he does for Coraline is sweet.. the skydiving.. dancing in the park.. church... and how he helped her after her cousin was an idiot..
and the car sex.. OMG.. the car sex...
And the kissing..
so good! They are a sexy couple.. I loved how Coraline came alive with his touch.. like this inner kitten just came out of nowhere and she went with it..
112's "Anywhere" comes to mind with this couple.. I loved them together.. LOVED! Loved them.. loved the story! all of it!
Declan + Coraline is well written.. I couldn't put it down.. from start to finish... it took you on ride you want to keep taking.. this is the first book I have read by this author and I look forward to finishing the series... I don't think they will disappoint..
Well Done! WELL DONE
I have been looking for a book like this... it is what I imagine an interracial relationship to be like.... any other books I read was just terrible.. this one was so good!
The story starts with Coraline stepping into a diner to fix her umbrella.. Declan sees her and is instantly attracted.. when he goes to approach shes gone... he vows never to let her slip by again...
Coraline is a college grad who has taken over her fathers company.. she lives with her aunt and uncle who are terrible people... just awful.. and she lives a pretty boring life... shes is strong... but her weakness is not having a good family and good people around her... stepping into that diner changed her life...
Declan is a bad boy... with a tender heart... hes good at what he does.. but is missing love (in my opinion)... When he sees Coraline.. he has to have her... when they meet again he knows shes different and doesn't want to let go... he knows its a bad idea because of his life style but he chooses to be selfish (which I love)... he's somewhat vulnerable throughout the book.. very open... I liked that he didn't care.. he just wanted Coraline... and what was best for her... nothing else mattered... but he wasn't over the top about it.. Declan was one of the best male characters Ive encountered... he's alphaish.. thoughtful.. loyal.. not over bearing.. and sexy... all in one..
"She was it. She was what I'd been looking for. I couldn't let her get away."
The path of their relationship is somewhat fairytaleish.. the little things he does for Coraline is sweet.. the skydiving.. dancing in the park.. church... and how he helped her after her cousin was an idiot..
and the car sex.. OMG.. the car sex...
And the kissing..
so good! They are a sexy couple.. I loved how Coraline came alive with his touch.. like this inner kitten just came out of nowhere and she went with it..
112's "Anywhere" comes to mind with this couple.. I loved them together.. LOVED! Loved them.. loved the story! all of it!
Declan + Coraline is well written.. I couldn't put it down.. from start to finish... it took you on ride you want to keep taking.. this is the first book I have read by this author and I look forward to finishing the series... I don't think they will disappoint..
Well Done! WELL DONE
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