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Club Altura #1

Carnal Risk

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Powerful CEO, Garrett Emerson's, life and corporation are built on a foundation of risk taking and top secret priorities. He works hard, but plays even harder. When tragedy strikes, the charismatic and sexy billionaire takes the gamble of his life by bringing a beautiful consultant into his inner sanctum, exposing her to his exclusive society of extreme athletes who are adventurous both in business and pleasure. Inexplicably drawn to the intriguing woman, Garrett teaches her to face her fears, bringing them both to new levels of ecstasy.

Selby Reynolds, a high profile technology specialist, reluctantly accepts an engagement at Emerson Industries. Discovering secrets and uncovering clues to a murder, she's swept into Garrett's dangerous but seductive life of luxury. Captivated by the world renowned capitalist and adventurer, she's convinced he could crush her heart. As he pushes her sexual limits and their erotic play intensifies, Selby finds it impossible to resist the one man who turns her darkest fantasies into a reality.

When Selby's life is threatened by a killer, carnal lessons of trust are put to the test, forcing them to choose who is friend and who is foe. Can Selby give her heart to a man who revels in the excitement of flirting with death? Will they prevail against an enemy who threatens to tear apart Garrett's world, including the fragile connection with the woman he seeks to claim as his own?

Warning: This book contains several erotic love scenes and is intended for adult readers only.
*This is a full length contemporary erotic romance novel.*

295 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 28, 2015

889 people are currently reading
1948 people want to read

About the author

Kym Grosso

70 books1,707 followers
Kym Grosso is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the erotic paranormal series, The Immortals of New Orleans, and the contemporary erotic suspense series, Club Altura. In addition to romance novels, Kym has written and published several articles about autism, and is passionate about autism advocacy. She is also a contributing essay author in Chicken Soup for the Soul: Raising Kids on the Spectrum.

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5 stars
697 (44%)
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530 (33%)
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244 (15%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 189 reviews
Profile Image for Alaina.
7,345 reviews203 followers
November 16, 2018
the smut was good.

Carnal Risk was one of those audios that was thrown at me. What I mean is.. my twin was like.. READ THIS WITH ME .. and I just said yes without hesitation. Doesn't take much for me to read or listen to a book.. plus it had smut. Not a hard book to say yes to.

In it, you will meet Garrett and Selby. Ugh, I loved them but every time I heard Selby's name.. I just wanted to roll my eyes. Did her parents forget the H in Shelby?? Yes, that was constantly on my mind.

Anyhoo, the smut was good. Probably the only thing that kept me interested in this book. This book also gives you some good twists and turns. The entire time I wanted to know Selby's secret and I was already predicting that Garrett would assume/find out before she told him. This book also kind of reminded me of other books. For example, 50 shades.. not the smut but with the story line. She runs away and shit. Garrett comes back into her life. He grovels. They get back together.

Other than that, it was an interesting book that kind of kept you on your toes. I'd probably dive into the second book of this series.. but not this month. I have WAY too many books to dive into.
Profile Image for Jos.
1,831 reviews140 followers
September 15, 2016
4.5 Stars

I really liked this book a lot. My only issue is that there is so much going on that it can get a bit overwhelming at times but still very good. This isn't just about erotic romance its so much more. There is mystery, suspense, the storyline and characters are intriguing and oh yeah the men are TOTAL ALPHA with their women.

I loved the erotic nature that this story has to it and actually would have liked to have had a bit more "naughty", lol. They all belong to Club Altura which even though we don't know a whole lot on it because it's not the main focus of the stories I am still intrigued by it. I think I would like to see the envelop pushed a bit more, nothing too crazy BUT these stories have the potential to get a bit wild and I would like to see more of that.

This story touched briefly and I mean way too brief for me, lol, on voyeurism and I think the author could have played those 2 scenes up just a tad bit more for my liking, wink, wink.

All in all, a very interesting and different erotic romance series. Yes, I have already pre-ordered the next book on Lars and can't wait not see what is in store for him!!!!!!
Profile Image for Steph.
1,406 reviews2 followers
May 24, 2015
** Beta Read for Kym Grosso **

This book was fantastic!
It wasn't super long, so nothing was dragged out and there were (for me) no boring parts at all and the author managed to keep the romance moving along at a believable pace.

Garret is amazing!! He's super confidant and even though he's domineering and a bit bossy, it wasn't in an annoying way.
But I also loved that we got to see different sides to him. Him cooking, being fun and having a laugh.

Even though I hate to say it, I wasn't a huge fan of the name Selby. I'm not even sure why. I just kept calling her Shelby and it got a bit annoying. But hey, you can't love every single name.
I loved her ability to push herself out of her comfort zone. I liked that she was a singer and danced for Garrett at the start, she was amazing. Her business savvy just makes her even more likable.
There were a few scenes here and there that made me look at her like she's a little bit weak, which was a shame, but overall she's brilliant. I loved the way she dealt with their relationship and Garrett's strong personality.

Oh and there's an really great storyline (as always) here too.

Overall this was another fantastic book by a truly wonderful author and I cannot wait to read the next book :D
Profile Image for Felicia.
598 reviews
November 19, 2018
This book was just very all over the place for me. If it wasn't for the good smut I feel like I wouldn't have been as interested.

Selby works for a friend of hers named Lars. She's a super qiz when it comes to computers. She also sings burlesque in her spare time. She's super pretty and really reserved because she went through some shit when she was young.

Lars brings his friend Garrett to Selby's show and it turns out that Lars wants Selby to help Garrett out with filling a position at his company after Garrett's best friend is killed when they are sky diving (horrible way to go man).

Garrett's company makes things that the government uses in the army and such so a lot of their projects are top secret. Well, people are dying who work for Garrett's company so the whole story line is them trying to find the killer.

Well, at least that's what I think. This book was soo all over the place that I really was so confused for about 70% of this book. I really had no idea wtf was going on. And the only thing that kept me interested was the super good smut.

OH! AND! There was this random like sex club aspect to the book that I feel was randomly thrown in there? I don't fucking know. -.-

Meh. Don't think I'll continue with this series...
Profile Image for Sonia N..
996 reviews65 followers
February 3, 2020
Intriguing Romance

I enjoyed reading this storyline. Corporations and espionage, nonstop action and steamy love scenes 🔥❤️
Gorgeous Garrett is a handsome young man, and a self made billionaire. Shelby Reynolds works for his friend, Lars corporation. She is referred to Garret after a tragedy at his company.
Well, fireworks are instantaneous for them. But, Shelby is hiding a secret from Garrett.
A fast paced and well written storyline. It has everything I love about Kym Grosso’s writing.
The characters, mystery and romance were very addictive.
Profile Image for Sandy S.
8,240 reviews207 followers
June 9, 2015
4.5 stars

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 2, 2015

Powerful CEO, Garrett Emerson’s, life and corporation are built on a foundation of risk taking and top secret priorities. He works hard, but plays even harder. When tragedy strikes, the charismatic and sexy billionaire takes the gamble of his life by bringing a beautiful consultant into his inner sanctum, exposing her to his exclusive society of extreme athletes who are adventurous both in business and pleasure. Inexplicably drawn to the intriguing woman, Garrett teaches her to face her fears, bringing them both to new levels of ecstasy.

Selby Reynolds, a high profile technology specialist, reluctantly accepts an engagement at Emerson Industries. Discovering secrets and uncovering clues to a murder, she’s swept into Garrett's dangerous but seductive life of luxury. Captivated by the world renowned capitalist and adventurer, she’s convinced he could crush her heart. As he pushes her sexual limits and their erotic play intensifies, Selby finds it impossible to resist the one man who turns her darkest fantasies into a reality.

When Selby’s life is threatened by a killer, carnal lessons of trust are put to the test, forcing them to choose who is friend and who is foe. Can Selby give her heart to a man who revels in the excitement of flirting with death? Will they prevail against an enemy who threatens to tear apart Garrett’s world, including the fragile connection with the woman he seeks to claim as his own?

••••••••••

REVIEW: 4.5 stars--CARNAL RISK is the first full –length installment in Kym Grosso’s adult, contemporary Club Altura erotic, romantic suspense series focusing on the members of an exclusive association of extreme sports fanatics at Club Altura. This is CEO Garrett Emerson, and executive recruiter / information systems expert Selby Reynolds’s storyline. Emerson Industries specializes in high finance and secret operations including contracts with government, military and the civilian sectors.

Told from dual third person perspectives CARNAL RISK follows the investigation into the death of Garrett Emerson’s friend and business associate Evan-ex military and Emerson Industry CTO, and a man whose latest jump was his last. When Garrett’s best friend Lars suggests a technology specialist to look into Evan’s latest business ventures, Garrett is quick to find himself falling for the beautiful Selby Reynolds who holds secrets of her own. What ensues is Garrett’s pursuit of Selby, and the prospect that the killer could be one of their own. As the storyline builds, lives will be threatened and destroyed all pointing to the missing information that resulted in Evan’s gruesome death.

Selby has issues with anxiety; an horrific incident as a child has forced Selby to take stock of what it is she wants in life, and getting sexually involved with self-made billionaire CEO Garrett Emerson was never in the plans. Selby was hired to look for missing information but her attraction to Garrett finds our heroine falling for a man she knows nothing about. Their desire for one another is immediate; Garrett is quick to claim Selby as his own. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and exploratory; Garrett is a man who likes a little kink in the bedroom, hallway, balcony, outdoors………

The secondary and supporting characters include many of Garrett’s business associates, friends and club members. Lars is Selby’s best friend and a close associate of Garrett Emerson. It is Lars who will bring Selby into Garrett’s life. We are introduced to extreme sport enthusiasts and Garrett’s inner sanctum at Emerson Industries: VP of Aqua Operations and champion surfer Seth Harris, Head of Scientific Division Chase Abbott, CFO Nate Killian and Head Legal Counsel Ryder Tremblay: Club Altura members Beckett and Cormac- the twins- as well as the local DA who is helping with the investigation both in front and behind the scenes. Lars storyline will be released in 2016.

CARNAL RISK is an erotic tale of friendship, betrayal, money and greed. There are moments of action, suspense, mystery and intrigue shrouded in a secret world of extreme sports and pleasure seeking enthusiasts. Our introduction to Club Altura is exotic and alluring with an aura of power and sex; membership is exclusive; the thrill of the chase a must; a fear of flying is not an option. The storyline premise is exciting and inviting; the characters engaging, charismatic and compelling; the romance is sexual, seductive and intense. Stimulate your senses as you free fall into the world of billionaires and thrill seeking alpha males.

Copy supplied by the author.

www.thereadingcafe.com
Profile Image for Becky.
1,926 reviews65 followers
July 5, 2016
Amazing!! That's what this book was. It has a beautifully told story of mystery, intrigue and romance. Not to mention hot off the charts sex with a dirty talking H.
Garrett is a brilliant male lead and Selby was his equal. Together with all the side characters made this a super read. Add in the suspense of who done it and who the bad guy is, made this a top read for me. P.s. if I don't figure out who the baddy is makes it a great story in my book.
HEA, epilogue, lead into the next book...Lars can't wait. Recommended Read!
Profile Image for Fiordiligii.
1,797 reviews26 followers
February 21, 2016
This is not a bad book, I was just too bored to continue reading. Also, I don't find an adrenaline junkie as hero all that attractive. Knowing what does constant thrill and adrenaline seeking to the human body is kind of turning me off from the whole set up. DNF
Profile Image for Metalkarin.
472 reviews22 followers
July 16, 2019
Kym Grosso is fast becoming one of my favorite authors.



She builds a solid story with strong characters, interesting plot, sizzling chemistry and a little bit of suspense added to the mix.
The pace and flow is good and - as far as I can tell - well written and edited. There’s nothing to keep me from enjoying the story and turning pages as I’m eager to find out how the story will end.
Profile Image for Twin Sisters Rockin' Book Reviews.
884 reviews93 followers
May 31, 2015
Overall Rating: 4.5 Rockin’ ★★★★☆

When you are a daredevil and an adrenalin junkie the risk is never enough, even if death is a distinct possibility! For billionaire entrepreneur Garrett Emerson the more dangerous the risk, the better! In this new series by author Kym Grosso, we are introduced to this panty dropping, danger seeking, alpha male and the woman that raises his blood pressure alone with other body parts. Carnal Risk, book one in the Club Altura Romance series will trigger the readers adrenalin flow, as well. Once again this amazing author constructs a world of intrigue and romance that captures her readers and traps them within the story she has created.
Deceit...Secrets...Danger!


Garrett Emerson is a self-made man, with one fault. He loves to push the envelope when it comes to danger and gets off on it. It does not just involve the high he gets from participating in extreme sports, but also from getting down and dirty by pushing his sexual pleasures to the next level! His life changes when he fines a new source for a high and adrenalin rush, her name is Selby.


Selby Reynolds has secrets. Secrets that when reveled will shoot down any interest Garrett Emerson might have had in her! The woman that everyone sees on the outside, the confidant woman is not who she really is. He is a risk taker and she is just the opposite, secure in things that she does well, not exploring things outside her comfort zone. That is until she meets Garrett Emerson and it seems he knows how to push the correct buttons to get her to step outside the box.
Someone is killing Emerson employees and now their eyes are on Selby. Will Selby and Garett unravel the mystery before it is too late?


Hero: Garrett Emerson 4.5 stars
Heroine: Selby Reynolds 4.5 stars
Steam: 4.5 stars
Plot: 4.5 stars
Cliffhanger: No

Would I recommend this book: Yes! When a book has hot, hunky alpha males and a smart sexy female that do whatever is necessary to get the job done, then it is a great read. This book sizzles with intense attraction while dealing with ‘a who done’ question!


Would I recommend this author: Yes! Ms. Grosso’s paranormal series is a favorite read for me, one that I have reread many times. Her new venture into contemporary romance is worth reading as well. Characters are charismatic and the storyline is original and unique in concept. Cannot wait to read the next in this series!

***Received an ARC of this book from the Author in exchange for an honest review***

CARNAL RISK
Kym Grosso
Profile Image for Lydia's Bookshelf.
1,020 reviews188 followers
June 30, 2015
If you are a fan of Romantic Suspense | Erotic Suspense novels, drop everything and one-click CARNAL RISK now. I absolutely loved it and loved even more the fact that it kept me guessing who did what and why all throughout the book. Quite the page turner! I needed to know what would happen next, and it’s always an amazing feeling when an author manages to evoke such curiosity from me as a reader.

Garret was YUMMY. Heck, Lars was pretty yummy too, so suffice it to say I enjoyed reading about the secondary characters just as much as the main (huge plus for me!). Garret was beyond successful and quite the alpha…did I mention he was yummy? *Wink!* His business was rather unusual and very secretive. In fact, in order to work for him, you needed clearance. So, when his friend and co-worker dies mysteriously, all hell breaks loose.

Selby was a BADASS heroine. She was super intelligent and her line of work was pretty darn cool too. She handled top secret projects that required high clearance as well. So you can see how Garrett and Selby come together. Lars hires Selby to find a replacement for Evan, Garrett’s friend. An easier-said-than-done task, you see. Garrett was convinced Evan’s “accidental” death was anything but an accident, so he was very hesitant where anything Evan-related was concerned.

Now, I won’t go into any more of the details concerning the storyline because it’s FULL of twists and turns, ones you need to experience yourself. The suspenseful side of this book really kept me turning the pages and the romantic and HOT side, kept me swooning all through the very last page. Garret and Selby’s story is one a HIGHLY recommend if you’re anything like me and love an amazing romantic suspense! I cannot wait for the next installment in this series! Kym Grosso, I’M A FAN.

4.5 stars!
Profile Image for BleuBelle.
665 reviews184 followers
December 13, 2016
I found the plot rather ridiculous. The first meeting at the bar? Yeah, no way. I don't buy the reason for Lars why he introduced them in this setting. I just rolled my eyes.
Lars needs Shelby to work for Garrett. Shelby accepts rather reluctantly. So she's at this new company, needs to do some things (don't ask me what, I didn't get it) and is thrown into a board meeting where she has to prove herself. That's all right and I guess nothing new. She excels at it. But guess what? That's not enough. Because apparently she's an outsider. Do you know why? Because she doesn't crave adrenaline, at all. She just wants to live her life save and doesn't need this crap. So Garrett has some "ground rules" and needs her to really "feel" what they feel, because only then can she do her best. Come on! She's only there for 2 weeks, to search for a replacement. No way can anyone become part of it in such a short time.
I don't really know what Garrett wants her to do (it has something to do with a bathing suit) but it felt ridiculous. It wasn't professional at all. I don't really know what's that all about, but it's mentioned so many times, but without any explanations (I've only read about 30%).
And to top it all of I really didn't connect with the MC. I felt like I was watching a really, really bad movie, with bad actors, very cheesy and unoriginal lines and an unbelievable plot.

It's just not for me.
Profile Image for S.M. Harshell.
Author 5 books46 followers
June 11, 2015
**I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.**

Garrett Emerson knows hard work. He's built his company to what it is today. While he works hard, he plays even harder. He's an adrenaline junkie. He loves doing those things that make his heart race. He loves the rush, the feeling that he's alive. When his best friend, Evan, falls to his death while sky diving Garrett knows that with Evan's experience this was no accident.

Garrett needs help finding a replacement for Evan at Emerson Enterprises. His friend Lars suggests a loan of sorts, he'll send him Shelby, and IT and recruiter, from his company DLar-Tech to help him get back on his feet. Garrett knows he needs the help and agrees. Garrett needs to show Shelby what the company is all about, but showing her her fears can turn into excitement. Can Shelby keep her past hidden? Can Garrett keep his promise to Lars to not touch Shelby?

The cover was the pull before I even read the blurb, but the story kept me there. I loved the sexiness, the suspense, Garrett's alpha ways.

Wicked Reads Review Team
Profile Image for Amy.
693 reviews
June 11, 2016
Carnal Risk
Kym Grosso
3.5 stars

Garrett Emerson has built his empire taking risks. He has thrown himself into his corporation but still likes to play when the time is right. Bringing Selby into his company is the biggest gamble he has ever taken. Teaching her the ways of his world is going to be fun.

Selby Reynolds is a sought after technology specialist. Not sure of the next assignment she accepts a position at Emerson Industries. Selby discoveries things she shouldn’t and gets caught up in dangerous secrets she wasn’t supposed to know. Garrett is pulling her into places she hasn’t ever dreamed of being. When Selby becomes a target Garrett is the only one she can trust but the games have just begun.

This was a very fast read and it was decent but just not my choice of genre. There was suspense and things that kept me guessing but there was also a lot of smexy time. Again that’s okay but I like a deeper story and the characters … well I couldn’t make the connection to them. However if you like this style of story then this one is certainly for you. Click it up and let me know what you think!

Thank you for the ARC! Review to post to Ramblings From Beneath The Sheets.
Profile Image for Ruthie Taylor.
3,723 reviews40 followers
June 11, 2015
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads

I am very excited that this is the first of a series, because I love the premise, and there is clearly a lot more mileage in stories about the Club Altura members.

The dual POV worked well, and the overlapping of incidents made for interesting takes on the same scenario. It was steamy hot and possibly best read when in private. I thought that the espionage plot was well dealt with too, and added depth to the story. I have to say I would jump out of a plane for Garrett, however scared I might be! Lots of hotness, and then lots of humanity too. Will be on my reread list.

Wicked Reads Review Team
Profile Image for J. Grayland.
Author 7 books127 followers
December 20, 2015
This is the romantic suspense story of Garrett an adrenaline junkie and powerful billionaire who also happens to be an Alpha dominant male. Garrett hires tech specialist Selby to help find hidden secrets from his deceased friend Evan and they fall in love. The story line was mediocre and the characters very predicable, the sex was hot. Narrated by Ryan West who has the perfect voice for an Alpha male.
3 reviews
February 10, 2016
Really? Majority really liked this literary porn. I thought that the dialogue was ridiculous. Girl meets boy. Girl falls for boy. Boy does something stupid. Girl hates boy. Boy ask for forgiveness. Girl puts up VERY mild resistance. Girl forgives boy. Girl and boy immediately have sex. Lots of sex but stupid story and unbelievable dialogue. It's a big zero for me
Profile Image for Heather / Obsessed With Myshelf.
483 reviews85 followers
June 8, 2015
So, this is not a sex club book. I don’t know why I had that in my head after reading the blurb, but I did, so I think maybe others might too. That’s not a bad thing, it’s just a fact thing.

There IS a club involved: Club Altura. However, I’m still not sure I know what the hell Club Altura is really all about – other than that it’s Garrett’s private club for people who like to push limits – but I also didn’t care. I do know that this is one hell of a steamy love story with a side of danger.

Selby and Garrett succumb to a massive case of instalove that had me giddy from the start. Technology expert and smart as fuck Selby has Garrett, the CEO who cowers for no one, begging at her feet. I like. I like a lot. Selby’s a bit of a contradiction as she fears doing anything that would push outside the box – except for that whole risque singing performance. Pretty hot, girl. She also she uses her fears to keep her in a safe, warm bubble. Unfortunately, getting together with Garrett punctures a whole in that bubble and her life goes from safe and secure to hiding from a serial killer. Oops. Life is hard, woman up.

The suspense is great and I loved that side of the storyline. However, while the characters were all clearly passionate about “high risk” activities, I actually didn’t see them doing all that much of them except for jumping out of a plane a few times and surfing (is surfing high risk?). They also didn’t actually work that much, but I’ll forgive that because, serial killer. Note, my only high risk behavior while reading this book was almost spilling water on my kindle. Now THAT would have been a major buzzkill.

Other than the times that I wanted to wrap my hands around Garrett’s neck and shake him, I mostly wanted to wrap my hands around his other appendages and squeeze. Mmmmhmmm, he’s that hot. He’s clearly a little dominant, but I didn’t get an official “Dom” vibe from him, and that was a-ok with me. You do you, Garrett. YOU DO YOU. It was hard not to love Garrett with Stuart Freaking Reardon on the cover of this book. I mean, you put that picture there and my hands start getting grabby. It’s involuntary. [GOOD CHOICE, KYM].

I was at the edge of my seat and the steam of some of the scenes had me almost slipping off. It’s a pretty quick read (by my standards, fwiw) and pretty enjoyable. The characters were well developed and I had a good time trying to figure out who the mole was. Suspense. Danger. Hot sex. Need I say more?

Overall, a good romantic suspense with a redeeming hero who falls hard & fast. I’ll explore my fears with Garrett anytime. 3.75 stars.

[I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review]
this review looks prettier on my blog: http://obsessedwithmyshelf.com/2015/0...
Profile Image for Lita Thomas.
1,567 reviews27 followers
October 5, 2016
Carnal Risk by Kym Grosso Garrett is not only the CEO of Emerson Enterprises but an extreme sport junkie. On one such outing he loses his best friend when on a jump the friend’s parachute malfunctions and he plummets to his death. Knowing it was no accident Garrett falls into a depression. Trying to get Garrett’s head back in the game Lars, a friend and business associate invites Garrett to see a singer. The singer has stirred something in Garrett but the real surprise comes when Lars informs him she is a replacement for Evan their friend who died in the parachute accident. Resistant at first of Selby working at his company Garrett soon comes to let her in, not only at work but also in his personal life. Already suspicious of Evan’s death certain events now has Garrett worried it has something to do with his company. This is a tale of intrigue with a dash of finding ones-self along with a lot of hot sex. A story that keep me wanting to read more to find out what would happen next between Garrett and Selby also who was the person behind all of the accidents and deaths? I was given a copy of the book for an honest review. I give this story 4 stars.
Profile Image for Shelby.
584 reviews8 followers
June 10, 2015
*I received a free copy to read & review for Wicked Reads Review Team*

Carnal Risk is the first book in the Club Altura series, I was hooked by the yummy cover and I actually enjoyed the story!!
I'm sure you can empathize, choosing a book by it's cover is never a guarantee of a good book ;)

Garrett Emerson is a self-made billionaire and CEO of Emerson Industries, he's also an adrenaline junkie that appreciates the finer things in life such as: sky diving, base jumping, etc. While sky-diving with his best-friend, an unfortunate "accident" occurs, leading to Evan's untimely death. Not only his best-friend, but also CTO with a hand in many different projects, Evan's passing affects all aspects of Emerson Industries day-to-day business including secret government contracts and top-secret research.

Selby Reynolds, has been loaned by her boss and Garrett's close friend Lars (of DLar-Tech), to temporarily step into Even's position and find his permanent replacement. Not an adrenaline junkie, Selby is more conservative then any other Emerson employee, but just as adept at technological issues.

Together, the chemistry between Garrett and Selby is explosive. There weren't any lulls in this story. Non-stop action between the suspense angle (was Evan's death an accident?), the dare-devil antics, and steamy romance kept me on the edge of my seat and wanting more. For once, I've read and enjoyed a billionaire romance that broke the mold!
I was slightly confused on the significance of Club Altura, itself. A couple of scenes took place there and I got the general gist of it, but other then a meeting of like-minded dare-devils I never really understood the importance.
Nonetheless, this was an excellent story that contained humor, action, adventure, and steamy romance - it was an all-around interesting story!
Wicked Reads Review Team
Profile Image for Jacque.
998 reviews22 followers
July 2, 2015
Well that was certainly a good book. Carnal Risk was a exciting read. The beginning chapter had my jaw on the floor and all the exciting adventures pretty much kept it there.

Usually somewhere along the lines I will find myself annoyed with MCs in the story. This isn't the case here. Garrett and Selby were two very likable characters. Despite Garrett being a billionaire he comes off as being very down to earth. Selby is very intelligent and, despite her many phobia issues, a very tough lady. It's very obvious that there is a instant attraction between them. Their interactions in and out of the bedroom are highly entertaining. Who knew almost drowning from surfing could be a aphrodisiac!

Now before you think this is just another romance, there a mystery to solve as well. Someone has murdered Garrett's close friend and co-worker, Evan, the reasons why have yet to be discovered. Selby is brought in to help cover for and find a replacement for Evan. There's quite a bit of intrigue on guess the whodunit. Was it one of the many great secondary characters? Why was he killed? So many questions to be answered. I kept flipping back and forth on who was the killer and then... GASP! No way! I didn't see that coming. Quite the shocker let me tell you.

I fell in love with Kym Grosso's PNR story and have been recommending her books for a while. The first book in her new contemporary romance series, Club Altera, is shaping up to be just as good. Anyone looking for a author who can multitask in several genres, needs to be reading Ms. Grosso. Now I've reached the hard part in a series, waiting for the next book!

I received this book from the JeepDiva for the express purposes of an honest review. The opinions and rating of this review are solely mine.
Stars - 4, Flames - 4
Profile Image for Avid Reader.
1,752 reviews
October 2, 2016
Carnal Risk (Club Atura #1) by Kym Grosso
4 stars
M/F Erotic, mystery
Triggers: Murder
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.

This was a fast paced, well written, complete HEA story. The characters were somewhat under developed, in my opinion, but overall, they all meshed well and had decent chemistry. I don't really know what Club Altura has to do with the story other than it's a group of very wealthy individuals who all like adrenaline inducing activities.

Selby is a shy, somewhat skittish, but brilliant hacker (who is on the correct side of the law). I liked her personality and thought that she was super strong, independent, takes no crap from anyone type of woman. Despite her reservations of working under/with Garrett, she knows that she can help.

Garrett is somewhat too cynical for me. He is upset about his friend, which is understandable, but in the end, I just thought he was boorish and a spoiled brat. While I knew, going in, that he was going to be a character who was used to getting his way, the manner in which he defied Lars didn't really make it seem like he was a very good friend. And, while I can understand that there are sensitive things that his company works with, his friend Lars' company is similar, so all of the secrecy throughout the book on the projects seemed too hyper-vigilant.

In the end, while I figured out the "who done it" part fairly quickly, I enjoyed seeing it all play out. Also, even though I thought that Selby and Garrett had great chemistry, she caved too easily - it didn't match her independent, ass-kicking character she started as, which was disappointing.

I look forward to the next books.
Profile Image for Jamie Guellar.
495 reviews8 followers
August 15, 2016
Carnal Risk (Club Altura Book 1) is my first read from Kym Grosso, and I was not disappointed. I loved it! It had some suspense, intrigue and steamy hot sex. Kym definitely has a way with words, I literally read this book in one day. So many twists and turns, I was afraid if I put the book down I would miss something. Garret Emerson is the CEO of Emerson Enterprises and loves extreme sports. When his friend dies in a skydiving accident, he is convinced to contract Selby Reynolds to find a replacement. What can I say about Garret, he's intense and kinky as hell. Not looking to get involved, but his attraction to Selby is something he can't walk away from. . . Selby Reynolds isn't looking for romance. She has her own issues with anxiety and fear of heights. She's definitely not a big risk taker. I liked Selby, she has her issues, but she deals with them. When her boss/best friend talks her into taking a job, she fights her attraction to her new boss. BI liked everything about this book, right down to the secondary characters. Selby and Garret's chemistry was off the charts hot! The romance was hot, sexual and really intense. Now that I've been introduced to Kym Grosso's books, I want more! Bring on Wicked Rush! Lars has me intrigued. If your looking for a book that has thrill seeking alpha males, suspense and a whole lot more then I recommend you read this book.
Profile Image for Mary Mooney.
2,539 reviews59 followers
February 19, 2016
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads, so here is my review. This book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end. Self-made billionaire Garrett Emerson has lost Evan, a close friend and he knows that it was not an accident. His longtime friend Lars wants to help him heal and move on. He wants to loan Shelby Reynolds, the best IT person around, to Garrett to help find Evan's replacement. When they meet the sparks fly and he wants her but he is not sure what the other feelings are. While Garrett is an adrenaline junkie, Shelby is scares of almost everything. Can she trust Garrett to show her what she is missing or will she be to scared to try? Will Garrett follow his feeling and keep her close? While they are working to get things in order to hire Evan's replacement, another friend and employee of Garrett's is attached and dies. They have to find out who is after his company and why? But the why is the easy part as they have government contracts that are top secret as well as no so secret stuff going on. Will the find out who the killer is before anyone else gets hurt or worse? If you are looking for a great story with lust, love ans killer suspense, then this one is for you. This is a first for me from Kym Grosso and I can't wait for more from her. Looking forward to Lars' story coming 2016.





Wicked Reads Review Team
Profile Image for Lacy.
147 reviews24 followers
June 2, 2015
Carnal Risk, is a erotic thriller with many twist and turns that grabs you from the beginning.

Garrett Emerson is a CEO who loves to take risk in all things, life, and business. He lives in a world that is not for everyone.

Selby Reynolds is a smart technology specialist, who gets pushed into Garrett's company by a mutual friend, Lars (you will love Lars).

Selby soon learns there is so much more to Garrett than she ever imagined. His fast paced lifestyle and erotic appetites has her head spinning. Garrett wants to protect Selby and bring all of her sexual fantasies to life by bringing her into his world and introducing her to Club Altura.

This book is fast paced, From the moment Garrett meets Selby, he wants her but with the recent murder of his partner and the lifestyle he lives, he tries to stop his personal desires for her. Garrett has many secrets because of his company's involvement with highly classified projects, that may have played a part in his business partners death. Garrett and Selby find themselves thrown in the middle of a cat and mouse game with both of their lives put in danger. Selby is also keeping secrets that she now fears will cause Garrett not to trust her.

If you love steamy alpha males, strong female characters, with a thrilling mystery to solve, Carnal Risk is a book for you.

Profile Image for Michelle.
3,174 reviews36 followers
February 26, 2016
3-3.5 stars. Selby Reynolds, a technology expert, meets Garrett Emerson because she works for her friend Lars, who is also friends with Garrett. Garrett's Chief Technology Officer for his company, his best friend Evan, recently passed and Garrett needs someone to fill his role. Selby is a rule follower and doesn't step out of her comfort zone too often, never mind seek thrilling activities or put herself at risk. Club Altura is not a sex club, but rather a group founded by Garrett of people who all engage in those type of high adrenaline activities, which can include sex. Selby isn't someone who fits the profile of someone who would belong in that group. Regardless, Garrett and Selby cannot deny their attraction or chemistry to each other as Garrett tries to unravel Selby's inner fears and push her towards opening up more and being receptive to those activities. Selby has secrets that could change how Garrett sees her and possibly ruin what they have developing between one another. This book is part romance, part romantic suspense. There's nothing not to like about this story, I just couldn't quite engage in it or with the characters and found myself skimming through several parts of it. Otherwise, the storyline is interesting and the characters have depth, it just wasn't something I felt particularly invested in.
Profile Image for Rose.
1,453 reviews14 followers
June 2, 2015
This book is fantastic!!!! This is Kym Grosso’s first foray into contemporary erotic romance & she hit it out of the park!!!!

Garrett Emerson is the CEO of Emerson Enterprises, a multi-million dollar company. He loves all types of extreme sports. It’s not just a hobby for him, it’s a way of life. When his best friend & CTO of his company, Evan Tredioux, dies in a skydiving accident he is convinced to bring in Selby Reynolds, an executive recruiter & information systems expert, to find Evan’s replacement.

Selby Reynolds doesn’t do risk. The only excitement she allows in her life is her white-hat hacking & singing in a burlesque club on occasion. When her best friend & boss shows up at her club with another man she doesn’t realize that it is billionaire playboy owner of Emerson Enterprises, Garrett Emerson, that she gives the show of a lifetime to.

These two have really great chemistry. This book has everything; adventure, suspense, great sex, this thing has it all!!!!! Get in on the fun from the beginning on what looks to be a fanfreakingtastic new series!!!!

I wish I could give it 10 stars!!!!!
Profile Image for Jules The Book Junkie Reviews.
1,600 reviews96 followers
February 24, 2020
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Carnal Risk by Kym Grosso is a full-length, stand-alone, erotic thriller. It is the first book in her latest (non-paranormal) series.

Garrett Emerson is a self-made billionaire and an adrenaline junkie. He and his friends formed the Club Altura for high-flying businessmen. Sydney Reynolds is a quiet and risk adverse IT guru who recently got her MBA.

Upon the death of Garrett's close friend and colleague, Evan, he meets Sydney through a mutual friend, Lars. Sydney is the answer to Garrett's problem. He needs an IT director and a HR guru to fill Evan's empty set. He doesn't mind that she's easy on the eyes either. Once they start working together, not only do sparks fly, but so do the clues pointing to Evan's death not being an accident. Garrett and Sydney grow closer as they suss out motives and clues to Evan's murder.

Carnal Risk is a fast paced thriller that will keep readers engaged from the first page to the last!

NC-17 content--for mature readers only.
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