The Ground Rules

The Rule Breakers #1

by Roya Carmen

1. Don’t sleep around.
2. Don’t kiss and tell.
3. Be nice.
4. Don’t text or call.
5. Don’t fall in love.

The rules were simple...until they weren't.


I have everything I ever thought I could want: a nice home, a job I love, two beautiful girls, and my husband, Gabe - my high school sweetheart who still rocks my world. If you ask anyone to describe me they would say, "Oh, Mirella? She's such a nice girl." And that’s true...until a mysterious, peculiar man and his beautiful wife enter our lives.

Weston and Bridget Hanson are no ordinary couple—they’re stunning, enigmatic, and sexy as hell. During the course of one unexpected evening, my ordinary world is turned upside down. How could it not be when Weston and Bridget propose the unthinkable? And when the unthinkable is so very tempting, giving in becomes inevitable

It sounds so logical and simple. Just five rules and we can all have what we desire. But the heart doesn't follow rules, and now passion, jealousy, and confusion threaten to tear everything apart.

Two beautiful couples. Five simple rules. One hot mess.

Genres: Romance, Erotica, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary, Adult, New Adult, Marriage

288 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 2, 2015

About the author

Busy mom, romance writer, artist & designer, book-aholic, nature lover, and hopeless romantic.

Author of The Ground Rules trilogy, and the Riverstone series.

For all the latest updates, friend me on Facebook or Twitter or Instagram!

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...
Twitter: @royacarmen
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/royacarmen/
Wattpad: @royastories

Reviews

[Jennifer Kyle · Rating 5 out of 5]

”What if we hadn’t been in that closet playing dress-up? What if Claire hadn’t picked out that dress? What if it hadn’t fit? What if…”

This was such an exciting, sexy, taboo, deliciously torturous, addicting story that I just ate up from the beginning to end. Roya Carmen’s writing was addicting her characters were relatable and the “Couple Exchange” was simply off the hook. What I wouldn’t do for Bridget, Gabe and Weston’s povs.

Mirella and Gabe are high school sweethearts, married with two beautiful little girls who head out for a night on the town just the two of them. What they didn’t plan for was a hot Ken and Barbie type to offer them to share their restaurant reservation for four with them. This story is told in Mirella’s pov so we are gifted with how taken she is with Weston Hanson right from the start and how Gabe is taken with Bridget Hanson and how nice it was to have a new couple friend.

”Trust me, Ella, a man knows when a guy wants to fuck his wife.”

Once the night is over our couple hears back from Weston and Bridget Hanson and soon they find that this married power couple with children of their own are into swapping partners with a nonnegotiable set of ground rules: 1. Don’t sleep around. 2. Don’t kiss and tell. 3. Be nice. 4. Don’t text or call. 5. Don’t fall in love.



Mirella has second and third thoughts since she has only ever been with her husband and feels a pull more than physical with Weston.

”As much as I wanted to end this, I’m still willing to put everything on the line- my sanity, my marriage my heart.”

I mean seriously what if he’s horrible in the sack? Let’s not forgot how eager Gabe is to agree with the arrangement. I loved Mirella and Weston’s dates together, dinners, learning about one another and of course their physical attraction.

”I wish you were mine, he’d said before we’d made love. A wicked itch I just can’t seem to scratch, he’d said after. It was me who chose you…”



I tried to take Gabe’s word for his relationship with Bridget that it’s just sex as agreed upon but ugh one never knows right! Having only Mirella’s pov gives a reader her acceptance that Gabe is happy with the arrangement and willing to call it off whenever his wife wants. Mirella is lying to her husband because she starts to fall in love with Weston. Could her feelings be reciprocated? Where does that leave Gabe and Bridget and is their relationship “just sex”? Is this arrangement truly over?



This story was so damn addicting I didn’t want this story to end and I may go mad waiting on the next book. One click my friends this was refreshingly different and so well done!

[Brandi · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars



The Ground Rules was such a fresh story, I have never read anything quite like it. It's unconventional, a bit taboo, and utterly addicting. Gabe and Mirella have been happily married for 20 years, with two beautiful daughters, they have a simple, but happy life. Yet, a simple night on the town sets forth a series of events that changes their lives as they know it. When their dinner reservation falls through, they find themselves sharing dinner with Weston and Bridget, a glamours, wealthy couple. Attraction sparks, and the proposal that follows, shocks Mirella, yet she finds herself very tempted.

There's a fork in the road. If I go one way, my life stays as it is, wonderful and simple. If I choose the other path, my life could possibly get really complicated.

Couple swapping. Sex. No emotional attachments, sounds easy enough right? (I just have to say, I am a jealous woman. No way in hell I could ever do this. lol) . Intrigued by the arrangement the couple offers, Mirella and Gabe - decide to give it a shot.



This book was a non-stop anxiety fest. In a way, it felt like watching a train wreck in slow motion. I knew it was coming, the angst and crash, I just didn't know when it would happen. Is it possible to have a sexual relationship with someone without becoming emotionally attached? Will Mirella and Gabe's marriage survive this arrangement? This was definitely a unique read, and I'm looking forward to seeing where the story goes.

Told in Mirella's POV, this is book 1 out of 3.



So excited to have won a copy of this book! A big thank you to Allison and Jasmine over at Reading Escapade Book Blog, you ladies are awesome! xx

[✦❋Arianna✦❋ · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5~5 Stars!!



From the moment I’ve read the blurb I knew this book will be a great read. With such unique, original premise I didn’t expect something else. “The Ground Rules” was like nothing I’ve read before. It was taboo, it was intense, it was provocative and it was a very gripping read. I love taboo reads. I found them very intriguing and this one didn’t disappoint.

A very refreshing read, “The Ground Rules” tells the story of a married couple, Mirella and Gabe. They are high school sweethearts married for almost twenty years. They have successful careers, a great marriage and two beautiful little girls. Their life is not necessarily boring, but it’s not as adventurous as it used to be when they were younger, without any worries and responsibilities.

Their life change for the better...maybe...when they meet Bridget and Weston Hanson, a ‘Barbie and Ken’ couple, very attractive and rich who are mesmerizing. They meet in a restaurant when The Hansons are willing to share their table with them. They start to get to know each other and Mirella is glad they met them. After all, they don’t have many couple friends. What she doesn’t like too much is how attracted she is with Weston, a man who’s not her husband.

“I don’t trust you,”(…) . “You’ll take me to this wonderful place and somehow manage to kiss me.”
He cocks his head, a huge smile on his face. I am amusing him thoroughly.
“And if you kiss me, Weston...I’ll completely fall apart.”

She never betrayed Gabe in any way so she feels bad for feeling this way. Gabe is attracted with Bridget as well, but it doesn’t matter because they part ways thinking they will never met again the glamourous couple. But they are wrong, because Weston and Bridget contact them and make them an offer they can’t refuse. Even if they know there’s a possibility ‘this thing’ could complicate everything, they can’t deny how intriguing everything is. The offer? To swing their partners. There will be pre-planned dates and they will have to respect some rules.

1. Don’t sleep around.

2. Don’t kiss and tell.

3. Be nice.

4. Don’t text or call.

5. Don’t fall in love.

“The waves of ecstasy hit me, and it’s so good, it’s almost painful. He moans into my mouth loudly, reaching his own climax. His fingers dig into the flesh of my cheeks, but the pain feels wonderful.
I will never get enough of this.”

This was a book who was supposed to feel wrong, but well...it didn’t. It was forbidden, erotic and maybe realistic as well. I’m glad I waited two days to write this review, because when I finished it I didn’t know how to feel about it or how to rate it. Told entirely from Mirella’s point of view, “The Ground Rules” was wow...so different. I enjoyed her POV a lot, but I have to admit there were numerous times when I really wished the book was written in multiple POVs. Yes, not dual, multiple because I had to know how this ‘strange experience’ affect all these characters. Anyway...Mirella is very easy to like. Yes, obviously she has her own flaws, but overall she was a great character. She’s a great mother, friend and even wife. Her character is well developed and her inner conflict is very well done. I really felt what she felt…most of the time.

Weston was the most intriguing character IMO, even if we don’t get his POV. But through Mirella’s eyes we get to know him enough. He’s rigid and pragmatic, cold and detached from everything, but he also is considerate and sweet. He’s definitely not perfect, but he’s perfect for Mirella. He’s a better match that Gage IMO. I admit there were times when he was frustrating as hell, but I liked him.

I loved their dates and their sweet moments together. Their attraction is palpable and the sex scenes between them are great. For the most part I liked the pace of the story, but at times felt a little too slow for my liking. Anyway…the plot was smart and the angst was there. But for some reason it didn’t feel too much.

I really can't say anything else, because this is a book you have to experience for yourself.

Overall, this was a fantastic, addicting read and I can’t wait to read the next books in the series, especially after I read ‘that excerpt’.

“Why lavender?”
“You know why.”

[Dilek VT · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 well-earned stars... And maybe more... a lot more...

This book is about two couples and their adventure of couple swapping or couple exchange as they call it.

***********************************************

The rules are simple...until they aren't.

1. Don’t sleep around.
2. Don’t kiss and tell.
3. Be nice.
4. Don’t text or call.
5. Don’t fall in love.



Well, my heart is a mess now.

I never thought "a couple swapping book" would do that effect on me, but it did, I am undone. It was heart-wrenching, full of emotions as well as hotness.



I read it in a constant state of panic wondering where their crazy decision will lead them. It was utterly addictive. The book kept me on edge, it kept me spellbound...

My heart was about to explode all through the book. It was as if the writer was reaching my heart through the pages of the book and squeezing the life out of it...

***********************************************

I felt as tortured as the main character, Mirella.

I cried where she cried, I smiled where she smiled, mimicking her feelings.

It was as if everything was happening in front of me for real.

At one point, when everything got out of control, it was as unbearable for me as it was for them.



Wow, such good writing!

I am dumbfounded and speechless, overwhelmed by so many different emotions...

This is an original, out of the box and an utterly different story of love. Do read it. It is not a dirty couple swapping book. It is highly emotional and so very-well written.

Never in my life had I craved that much for the second book in the series. It is right in front of me on my kindle and I am as scared to touch it as I want to consume it.

I guess I need some fresh air...

***********************************************

I don’t know how things will evolve from here in the second and third books so I want to write my whole review after I complete the series.



For the first book, I can just say this, though:

It is perfect. It is flawless.

It is like nothing I have read before. It is something else.

***********************************************

A very dangerous territory and a risky plot to write about!

“Couple swapping” is a subject – a very delicate issue when chosen for the plot of a book.

There is this “thin line���, you know. You are definitely walking on "thin ice" as a writer. If not skilfully handled, it may just end up as something cheesy, or even obnoxious.

Well, here the success of this book lies in how dear Roya Carmen handles it, in how she deals with it. This amazing writer did an amazing job out of it and this book touches your heart, creating all sorts of feelings.

***********************************************

I started this book out of mere curiosity and it took me by surprise. It by far exceeded my expectations and it owned me.

I would like to thank the author for this beautiful book that has taken me to a very unforgettable journey.

***********************************************

The plot:

In the book we have two couples and their story is told from Mirella's point of view and this goes on like that until the end of the series.

The swapping arrangement first seems hot and attractive to them and they think they can handle it. There are rules to follow or otherwise things get complicated.

(* Addition after finishing the series: We learn the real reasons behind needing and accepting such an arrangement in Book 2 & 3.)

Unexpectedly, two of these four people begin to develop an emotional bond towards each other. Theirs is an unconventional love story because falling in love with a man in a swapping arrangement does not happen every day!

When it is only lust and physical pleasure, as in the case of the other couple, this arrangement sort of works, but when feelings are involved, as in the case of the second couple, then it becomes too painful...

So, their fantasy starts to become a painful one.

***********************************************

I will not be able to look at lavender roses in the same way ever again. They will always remind me of this story.... and these words:

"Why lavender?"
"You know why..."



I highly recommend that you read this book... I know it is far from safe but it is really worth reading. It is not a dirty/naughty book just for fun, it is deep and it is unique...

***********************************************

Which team?

P.S. I have read some reviews and seen that people are choosing sides.

I am on #Team Weston. That has been so from the very beginning (to be specific, since the moment he said "You know why..") and I doubt if that will ever change no matter what he does.

(* Addition after reading Book 3: .Still #Team Weston)

***********************************************

OK, I reiterate: Don't miss this series... They will blow your mind!

***********************************************

Now, take a closer peek...

“This is what we’re going to do.” He is all business. The walls have been built up again. “You will meet me at my office,” he explains and then pauses for a moment, “…or I can come to you if you wish.” I listen to him, not saying a word. “We’ll meet in a neutral environment, and I promise I won’t lay a finger on you.”

***

God…this guy is so out of my league.
Which is fine.
Because I certainly don’t have any intentions.
It’s just a little crush.
Okay…a big crush…I admit it.

I am not obsessed. Well, maybe a little. A little wee bit.

***

“I chose them,” he corrects me, his eyes are dark and absolutely devastating. “I chose the flowers.”

This is where I should offer a simple thank you, but my intuition tells me we’re having a between-the-lines conversation. I bite my lip and after a long, intense moment I ask, my voice quavering, “Why lavender?”

He doesn’t answer me. He doesn’t even look at me. Instead, he fiddles with his place setting, readjusting the cutlery just so. The man is driving me insane. I seriously start to think he might be missing some synapses in his brain, particularly in the lobe responsible for social interaction skills. Or something like that… And just as I look away, he says, so softly, I barely hear him. “You know why.”

***

“I just have never felt a connection with another man…before.”
“Before?” he asks quietly. He knows too well what I’m trying to say. I turn my head away. I can’t look at him. He inches closer. “I want to see you again,” he breathes against the shell of my ear.
I can’t do this. I so desperately want to. But I can’t. I can’t do this to Gabe. I turn to look at him. His beautiful eyes are fixed on me, threatening to melt my resolve.

***

His lips sweep over mine, and I open my mouth for him. My whole body warms. This is the kiss I’ve been waiting for. Ever since the one in that little Italian hole-in-the-wall, I’ve been waiting for this kiss—uninhibited, passionate. I could do this all night. Just this…might be enough. If we just kissed, I might not jeopardize my marriage, I might not fall so hard. If we just kissed…

***

I’ve had a taste, and now I can’t do without.



I’m not used to this. Gabe is not like this. His style is fast and furious—he plows on through and hopes I can catch up with him. Weston, on the other hand, likes to take things slowly. He likes to explore. He likes to tease. He likes to hear me beg. I had never realized being with another man could bring such a different experience. And I eat it up. I love being teased, taunted, and brought to the edge of desire. I love being explored and adored and handled softly.

***

“You do that,” he says, kissing the tip of my nose. I kind of like when he does that. He seems obsessed with my nose. It’s sweet. “Why do you do that?”
“Do what?”
“Kiss my nose and stuff?”
He smiles, staring at my nose for what seems like an eternity. I almost start to feel insecure—I don’t exactly have the daintiest of noses. “It’s that adorable freckle right here,” he taps it with the tip of his finger, “I love it.”
I laugh out loud. “I hate it. I’ve always hated it,” I confess. “I hate them all. But that one…it’s the biggest. And smack in the middle of my nose. I hate it the most.”
“I think every single freckle on your face is exactly where it belongs. Especially that one.”
I think I’m going to melt.



“Mirella,” he says softly, grabbing a hold of my wrist.
I jerk my arm away. “Do not touch me.”
He backs away. “I’m sorry.”
I can’t count how many times he’s said he’s sorry now—and it’s starting to wear on me. “You never loved me,” I whisper, still aware the girls are sitting not far away.
He sighs and closes his eyes. “Mirella…” he says softly.
“You’ve destroyed me,” I cry. I see what I’ve been searching for in his eyes…pain.
“The way I feel about you is the reason I had to do this.” His words get to me. “I’m falling in love with you,” he says, his eyes not leaving mine. “And I told myself I would break things off as soon as I could, if it ever came to that.”
It’s what I’ve wanted to hear all along, but somehow, it doesn’t change a thing now.

[Allison ❤️Will Never Conquer Her TBR❤️ · Rating 5 out of 5]

***Our blog is giving away 3 ebook copies now! Giveaway ends 7/1/15 6PM EST. (FB link at bottom of review)

4.5 Swinging Stars!






When a close friend on Goodreads was reading this book a few days ago, the blurb caught my interest immediately. Only when she texted me how awesome it was, did I stop and drop everything to read it. Sometimes I just can't wait! And this book did NOT disappoint. Thanks, Jen babe...fist bump! Oh, my kids say I'm not supposed to SAY fist bump. But I digress...







The Ground Rules was just different.. Refreshingly different. When we read some 100+ romance novels a year, it takes different to set a book apart from the rest. This one succeeded in spades!



Gabe and Mirella are a happily married (almost 20 years) couple in Chicago. Both career people with two sweet daughters. When their reservation on a special date night got screwed up, they instead find themselves dining with a very wealthy, astute, GORGEOUS Ken and Barbie couple...Weston and Bridgett. They graciously offered their table of four to share and hit if off right away. Strangely enough, both couples also have a crazy attraction for one another. And so the swinging story begins...







When Weston and Bridget contact Gabe and Mirella with a proposition, they're both thrown back. It's so unusual yet they both find themselves surprisingly intrigued and up for it. Gabe and Mirella are very happily married but mixing things up a bit can stir up the excitement, right? Not to mention the strict rules to keep everything clear... Pre-planned dates. No communication outside of such dates. Meaningless sex. No strings attached. Weston is very clear regarding their proposition. Almost clinical...but Mirella can't resist her attraction to the gorgeous, serious, suited man.

The Rules-
“One is monogamy, the second is discretion, the third is respect, the fourth is appropriate contact, and finally, we have emotional detachment.”

The Ground Rules was completely in Mirella's point of view and I really wished we could've gotten her husband Gabe's POV also. I felt 100% engrossed in her and Weston's story, their growing attachment, yet I felt Gabe and Bridgett were off somewhere in the distance. I was dying to know how his dates were going.





This book was seriously an angsty tug of war with emotions versus physical draw- an intense desire to be with with another person from deep within your bones yet knowing your heart MUST stay detached. Knowing you have permission to do the deed yet not fall emotionally attached. Is it possible?


I do have to admit, I was often thinking to myself who was watching their two sets of children while each couple is out gallivanting with each other. It's a lifestyle I'm not familiar with yet I find fascinating in a taboo kind of way. Because of that, I found myself devouring the book when I really really have a million other things I need to be doing...like sleep. But sleep be damned, this was a damn good book! And a hawt book, I might add!







I'd highly recommend The Ground Rules for fans of a bit of unconventional freakiness in their love stories. I mean, the subject of couple swapping is a bit...taboo, don't-cha think? It's not a swoontastically romantic book, but more so a book about finding that person your body craves to it's core yet your bound to another...even when you have permission to embrace the physical. Can you avoid the emotional? Can your heart stay detached when your heart is promised to your husband you DO truly love?


Read it and find out...





The Ground Rules is book one in a trilogy. Had I known that I probably would've held off. Duets keep my interest. Trilogies don't. Oh well- hooked now. It doesn't end in a true cliffy yet leaves the reader anxious for more...

[Hulya Kara Yuksel · Rating 5 out of 5]

"I wish you were mine."



Oh my goodness... What the hell I just read? Arrgggh!!! Don't get me wrong I read a lot of dark romance books (which they were included kidnapping, torture etc type of books) but none of them fucked my mind just like this book... It's so fucking hard to choose side... Mirella married with love of her life but on the other hand she's feeling attraction to another man. She and her husband Gabe are agreeing couple swapping with Weston and Bridget. Both sides are knowing what are the rules and this is just sex. Nothing more nothing less but here is the million dollars question for you. When you contact with another human being with your body how can you shut down your emotions?
So yeah, this is so fucked up!!! :-/


"You’re like a wicked itch I just can’t seem to scratch enough."

Oh Weston, you broke my heart so bad... :(



Ps. Dilek, thank you so much for the recommendation darling. <3

[Jess-i-ca · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 - What the Actual Fuck - Stars

I just read a book technically about cheating.....



AND I Liked it!!





Mirella


and Gabe



have a great marriage with great sex. They were high school sweethearts and have been married for quite some time.

But they are approached by a couple they met,

Bridget



and her husband, Weston



regarding a "couple exchange"




Can Gabe and Mirella's marriage handle this? Can they have sex with other people without anything getting in the way??



Or is it a totally bad idea that will lead to disaster??




I really really really need the next book....Like Stat...Please write it fast. :)

[Amy | Foxy Blogs · Rating 4 out of 5]

”For me, it all started with a pink dress.”
A sexy pink dress leads to a night out for the married couple of Gabe & Mirella. Through a series of events they are situated with another married couple, Bridget & Weston, who are both elegant and sophisticated. The story is told through Mirella’s point of view. Her and Gabe have a solid relationship and have been together since they were teens. Their family consist of them and their two young daughters. They make a perfectly happy little family.

”Lust at first sight.”
Let’s call a spade a spade - these four had the hots for each other at first sight. The sexual attraction was high and not in the orgy type of way but instead in the “couple exchange” type of way. Bridget & Weston have an open marriage and have done a 'couple exchange' in past with 2 other couples.

”...big dirty secret.”
Well, to make this arrangement work - rules are created for the purpose of keeping everyone’s sanity.
1. Don’t sleep around. | 2. Don’t kiss and tell. | 3. Be nice. | 4. Don’t text or call. | 5. Don’t fall in love.
On paper it makes sense. Unfortunately, Mirella, isn’t good about keep rules and leaving their dirty secret SECRET. Her feelings for Weston leaves her an emotional wreck.

”This is about sex. Plain and simple.”
The Ground Rules has a lot of sex in it. At some points I got a little bored with all the sex. *ssshhhh, I know I’m in the minority* I was intrigued with the premise of this story because in September I’ll be celebrating 20 years with my husband. I wanted to see how good-girl Mirella dealt with blurring the lines in her marriage.

When I saw the cover of this book I hesitated to read it because I thought it was possibly two women on the cover. A friend assured me it’s not two woman and this is definitely a story about m/f relationships.

‘The Ground Rules’ delivers a taboo story that will have you wanting the next book.

SERIES:
Untitled Untitled
A trilogy

**Won this book on Agents of Romance. Thank you, Agents, for the book. **

[Dee Montoya · Rating 5 out of 5]

**** 4.5 Fascinating Stars*****



This is the kind of book that will get under your skin, take over you mind and prevent you from doing or thinking about anything else for the duration of the read. Just WOW!!!!!!

Gabe and Mirella have been together a long time, they were high school sweethearts and now are married with children. Their lives are busy with work and raising their two beautiful girls, they don't have much time for dates or adult time but their sex life is very active because even after eighteen years, these too still have the hots for each other.

One night, Gabe and Mirella manage to get away to enjoy dinner and a show, and while waiting for their table at the restaurant, they meet a very intriguing couple. Both husband and wife are gorgeous and smart and the four of them clicked right away. Weston and Bridget Hanson want more than a friendship with Mirella and Gabe, they want to share a sexual experience where they date each other's spouse, an open marriage arrangement where the four participants agree and play by the rules.

1. Don’t sleep around.

2. Don’t kiss and tell.

3. Be nice.

4. Don’t text or call.

5. Don’t fall in love.



The rules were simple...until they weren't.


They say rules are meant to be broken but when any of these people try to change the game, there will be consequences, will they be ready to accept them?

I loved how unique and real this book felt. It is told from Mirella's POV, and I thought that was a brilliant move on the author's part, because she was the most approachable character of them all and it made me feel that much closer to the story. I cannot wait to read the next two books in this trilogy. Even though this first book doesn't end on a cliffhanger, there's still a lot of questions that were left unanswered and I would love to have a clearer picture inside the future of both couples. Romance, steam and thrill this book has it all, don't miss out on it!

[Lisa *-* GiViNg It To YoU * LoCk StOcK & TwO SmOkiNg BaRrELs · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 YoU HaVe To BrEaK ThE RuLeS SoMeTiMeS StArS

Man, that was fly!!




I absolutely LoVeD this read.

Couple Swapping....oh you just know it's gonna get complicated!!

Great Read....thoroughly recommend

[Mindy Lou's Book Review · Rating 1 out of 5]

Now that I have had time to digest this book, I think I need to update my review. I'm kind of an emotional reader. I can very easily get mad on behalf of a fictional character. After reading this book...I just wanted to punch someone, mainly Gabe. Kudos to this author because even though I hated this book, the author definitely got a reaction out of me and it lingered for days.

I don't necessarily need rainbows and sunshine, but I do need to know that my couples are it for each other. I can even get on board with a heroine changing partners if the one they end up with is the true Hero. My issue in this first book is that I have no idea if that is where this is headed or not. I'm pretty ticked off with all the characters. Maybe to the point that I won't be happy no matter how this ends. The behavior of all the characters didn't portray love to me at all and I have no one to root for. To sum it up, that's the issue. I don't want to root for any of them.

I'm doing a group reading on this series and if it wasn't for that, I most likely would have dropped this series. I will admit to a curiosity about where the author is taking this as well. To be continued...

[Alexis *Reality Bites* · Rating 4 out of 5]

Spoiler Free Review
4 STARS out of 5
Genre: Adult Romance (Erotica)
Series: Book 1 in series

This book. This book. This book. THIS. BOOK.
In The Ground Rules two married couples seemingly meet by chance. They soon become friends and later decide to swap partners to spice it up to gain some fun and experience in the form of sexual gratification.

These are the ground rules
1. Don’t sleep around.
2. Don’t kiss and tell.
3. Be nice.
4. Don’t text or call.
5. Don’t fall in love.



The rules are simple...until they aren't.




This book started off a two star read and slowly inched its way to four solid stars. Now, I should let you know that I started the book in the afternoon after seeing it as a recommendation in a thread on Facebook. I then finished it that night. So yeah, I was definitely glued to my kindle; only stopping to cook dinner and get some play time in with the kids before bed. Then I was back ALL UP IN THIS BOOK! I had to know how it ends!

While out on a date night married high school sweethearts Mirella and Gabe find themselves dining with a couple their opposite; rich and sophisticated compared to their middle class rough around the edges. Dinner goes well with Gabe completely at ease chatting with Bridget, hitting it off in a flirtatious yet innocent fashion. Mirella and Weston however have an...uneasy start. That is until Weston tells Mirella a few things he's noticed about her simply from observing.

At the end of the night both couples go their separate ways yet Mirella can't stop thinking about Weston.
When the opportunity presents itself for the foursome to unite again they willingly go. However it's the call for a private meeting that takes place where things become more apparent. Desires surface. The Ground Rules are set. They couple swap. Rules are broken. Hearts are tested. Marriages are tried.

The Writing: In all honesty I found the writing to be fair. It didn't stand out in any spectacular way, yet it didn't fall short. It just sort of hovered in the middle. If that makes any sense to anyone but me.. Personally, I'm positive that the plot itself carried most of the weight. It intrigues you. You want to know; where is this going? How will it end? Will it destroy people; if so is there a way to restore what was lost?

The Characters:
Mirella- I'm sorry I could not stand her. I wish we had multiple pov's she was kind of bland to me; but that’s just me. After the tease for book two I really wish I’d gotten THAT persons pov as well as Mirella’s. Just sayin.
Gabe- love him!!! I'd give anything to be in his head, to get just a snippet.
Weston- peculiar yet he slowly pulls you in. He kept me reading. Plain and simple, Weston had me by the palms! If he was on the scene I did not want to put my book down!
Bridget- I want to know more. I don't really know her.

My Sweet and Sour
My Sweet- The tease given at the end…



Let's just say I'm off to cyber find the author to discuss a few things, like say how soon she can get me book two! NEED. WANT. MUST. HAVE. NOW.

My Sour- having Mirella's pov. Wish we got more from the other characters.

Notes share: Below is a few notes I wrote in my kindle while reading!
-Weston and Bridget breeze in with an air of polished sophistication.
-Weston is intriguing. That alone pulls on my attention!

Final Thoughts:
I surprisingly enjoyed it! I failed to hold a strong connection with Mirella. I wish I got both her and Weston’s pov. I have no idea why I never fully connected. I'd like to add that this book is NOT for everyone. Read at your own risk.


Cliffhanger??? No. But more is to come.
HEA??? I…it was a HFN ending for me. There is more to the story according to the preview for the next book. Sooo we shall see.

My Ratings
Writing Style- The writing was cool. Like I said the plot and the idea carried the weight. Well that and Weston ;)
POV Told in her(Mirella’s) pov, I was not happy about that. I failed to connect strongly with her.
Plot/Storyline- A date night for two married couples turns into a mate swap. Only feelings take control for two of the mates. Rules are broken.
Steam Factor-( Lo-Med-Hi) I say High. On a scale of 1-10 I say 8
Entertainment Level-(On a scale of Lo-Med-Hi) I say High
Overall- I enjoyed it!!!

Now go forth and read. Then come tell us about it on Goodreads!

[Sharon ∞❥ is an emotional book junkie ❥∞ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 - 4.5 ★'s

I just knew that when my little ears perked up at hearing my friends talk about how emotional this book was that I was going to give it a chance. And I'm happy to say they were not wrong but I just had no idea how strong my feelings would be!

Gabe and Mirella have been together since high school, got married and have two wonderful kids. Their life is great, their sex life is great...there are no serious problems. But then they meet Weston and Bridget when they go out on a date and it turns their whole life upside down.

Weston and Bridget have an open marriage and they want Gabe and Mirella to participate in a couple "exchange". Meaning they go on dates...and have sex with each other's respective spouses. But, oh yes, there are rules! Right there you just know that those rules will be broken!



This is where things got intense for me. Mirella went back and forth about going forward with this and Gabe seemed to be "too" okay with it, even looking forward to it. I would have loved to get his POV about things...then, maybe I would feel better about it.

Eventually, Mirella does go forward and the lines become a bit blurred. I wish there was more discussion on the whys of things and much more discussion between Gabe and Mirella.

I'm torn about my feelings towards Mirella. Part of me wishes she never went through with it and the other part understands her feelings.

There is an interesting ending and an even more intriguing excerpt for the next book of which, unfortunately, there is no release date at this time. Hopefully, we don't have to wait too long!



Favorite quote:

♥ ♦ The Rules: ♦
1. Don’t sleep around.
2. Don’t kiss and tell.
3. Be nice.
4. Don’t text or call.
5. Don’t fall in love.

[Kika · Rating 5 out of 5]

***5 'COUPLE SWAPPING' STARS***



God, I loved this book!

And not because it was the most well-written book i've ever read or the most intriguing story (because it wasn't), but because it was so refreshingly different, a new kind of taboo.

This is it guys... 1-click it, this is a must read...

Just so we're clear this is not the best book you'll ever read. But, for me, it was one of the most disturbing ones... No, it had nothing to do with violence, kinky sex, BDSM, rape, slavery, murder... It was disturbing on an emotional level.

Okay, okay, let me explain...

Mirella and Gabe have been together for almost 20 years (since high school) and they've been happily married with two adorable daughters. They have the kind of marriage people envy and it's not a facade, it's real! They go on date nights, spend quality time with their kids and have a healthy sex life... Yes, everything is perfect!



And then they meet Weston and Bridget... An other happily married couple but with rather "eccentric" lifestyle... They're into couple swapping, or as Weston calls it, 'couple exchange'. This is not something they do often, they've only been involved with two other couples in the past, but this is what they're into. So, they proposition Mirella and Gabe and they're both intrigued, but there are rules...



What all four of them don't know is that they are about to open Pandora's box because some of them will get emotionally involved - even though the rules frown upon it - but they're only human and feelings will get in the way of their 'arrangement'.

What was disturbing to me was that these people were cheating without really cheating! But they were cheating! They had sex with other people and they all knew about it. How can they be okay with that? How can they maintain their happy marriages when they know that their spouse is fucking another person??? God, it was nerve-wracking to watch the aftermath of this... thing! Around 70% i hid my e-reader under the pillow and refused to read any further!!! Of course i was sending evil glares towards the pillow the whole time until i broke and grabbed my e-reader again...

I guess i could be overreacting... But hey, I'm being honest here... this is how this story made me feel.

And what was the deal with that excerpt in the end???



Man, i can't wait to read the next book...

[Jan · Rating 5 out of 5]

*****5 Surreal Stars*****

I went into this blind.
It was a gamble in desperation for something fresh AND I had no expectation as there were no reviews by the time I started.
KILL.ME.NOW. It paid off.
So far, the best book of the year for me.
It pushed all my buttons in a bad way.
I forgot the laundry, I over cooked dinner, I want to tell my colleagues at the canteen at work to shut up and let me read, I ignored my kids and last but not least, I refused to watch the last SOA’s season with my hubby which really pissed him off.
It gave me butterflies in my tummy and that weird feeling that my heart is going to jump out of mouth because of the TENSION.
Ohhh sweet slow burn tension and Holy hotness…
I got caught in a daze by the writing which was captivating and rich in pretty details from the first page.
It reminds me Arsen in a way that I cannot explain because there is no cheating here.
It’s a surreal situation. “Barbie and Ken” are in an open marriage and make an indecent proposal to Mirella and Gabe. They accepted. They agreed to the rules. They thought it would be fun.
However, it didn't work quite that way.



AMAZING debut!

[Kirsten · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 -Rules were made to be broken- stars!

Temptation is tricky...

The Ground Rules was the type of book that kept my stomach in knots almost through its entirety. For some reason this one struck a big chord with with me, and I will probably develop an ulcer from all the anxiety I experienced.

Happy and content couple Mirella and Gabe were high school sweethearts who married and had two wonderful daughters. Life is good. When the two decide to have a fancy date night, all of that changes when they meet a gorgeous successful couple, Weston and Bridget, while out at dinner.

After spending some time together and getting to know one another, Weston and Bridget bring forth a proposition. A couple exchange a.k.a swapping spouses. The encounters are to only be sexual in nature, and there are rules that they would need to adhere to.



Mirella and Gabe are obviously attracted to the other couple. They are seriously contemplating taking them up on their offer.



When the pair agree to go forward with the arrangement, new feelings start to bloom and rules start to break.



With the lust, the jealousy, and other issues, how will the couples come out unscathed?



This was way harder to read than I initially thought. I thought this book would be kind of fun with drama, sexy, and interesting. I've never read a book that had this topic before, and it was very unique. I am surprised how invested I became with it, and it sure fucked with me.

Everything takes place from Mirella's POV. I'm still not sure if this was a good or bad thing. It was kind of nice not knowing exactly what was going through Gabes mind (or anyone else's), but other times, I was desperate to know what they were thinking.

I think the part that got me the most, was trying to separate myself from the equation. It was almost impossible not to put myself in Mirella's shoes, as some of our similarities were almost uncanny. I highly recommend not to do this. I felt myself getting sick with feelings of jealousy, anger, and just as strangely guilt, and I had no reason to have these. They are fictional characters, but for some reason, I couldn't not have those reactions. I guess I'll put some of that blame on the writing, as it was done in such a way that you couldn't help but get so involved.

Another thing about this that had me torn, was the fact that Mirella's husband Gabe is such a great guy. It would've been so much less stressful if he was a total douche, but he wasn't. It did help a little that Bridget was a little degrading to Weston. She seemed to always make fun of his nerdy ways, and it came off a little cruel. You felt bad for Weston, but also would hope that Gabe wouldn't fall for her.

You may not agree with all of the decisions that were made, but it sure turned into an intriguing story that I may classify as unputdownable. The anticipation for the "exchange" to occur in the beginning, down to the rest of the gut-wrenching anxiety through the remainder was exhausting, but worth it.

This is one time were I am glad that all of the books are not out yet. As much as I'm dying to find out what happens next, I am spent!!! The break until the next book arrives is much needed. I'm looking forward to seeing where this foursome is going, but the current state of my head and heart are mush.

If you are in need of a change of pace from the typical romance story, I would recommend giving this a shot. Just remember to detach yourself slightly from it, and try not to judge the paths that were taken.
Even though I was in a constant mess, I really enjoyed this one!

[Michelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 - 3.5 Stars!
I think this book would of worked better for me if there was more than one POV. I didn't like only being in Mirella's head. I wanted...no needed more POV's.
I also felt like we got very little reactions out of Gabe when it was clear that rules were broken.

[Angela (Reading Frenzy Book Blog) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sleep? Who needs sleep? This book was so engrossing I finished it in one sitting. My emotions are all over the place though, and I’m still trying to figure out how I feel about it.

35 year-old Mirella seems to have it all: a loving marriage to Gabe, her hunky high school sweetheart, two wonderful little girls, and a fulfilling job. Although she loves her family, one day Mirella realizes she’s in a rut. She’s been so wrapped up in parenting that she no longer has a life of her own. (If you’re a mom of toddlers, I’ll bet you can relate to that feeling.) She misses the fun and spontaneity that she and Gabe used to have, so they decide to spend a night out on the town. Circumstances lead to an encounter with Weston and Bridget Hanson, a stunning and wealthy married couple. What begins as a friendly dinner with the Hansons develops into a mutual attraction between the two couples. Weston and Bridget soon present Mirella and Gabe with a proposition—a couple swap with firm ground rules in place to protect both marriages. After some discussion, Mirella and Gabe decide this might be just what they need to spice up their marriage. However, as Mirella’s feelings for Weston grow stronger, some rules are in danger of getting broken.

I felt this book was extremely thought-provoking. Is any amount of dissatisfaction worth jeopardizing your marriage? How do people switch spouses and not get jealous? It’s a slippery slope between couple swapping and cheating. At what point have you crossed the line?

The writing is exceptional, and I love how Roya Carmen managed to evoke such a myriad of complex emotions in me. The story is told entirely from Mirella’s point of view, and being inside her mind was both exhilarating and frustrating. I found her to be a sympathetic character most of the time, and yet sometimes she’s irrational and selfish. It doesn’t help that both men in her life keep sending her mixed signals. I could barely contain my frustration with Weston and his push/pull of Mirella’s affection. Gabe is no prince either. He often comes across as a smug ass who is overly flirtatious one minute and jealous the next. They aren’t always appealing, but I’m fascinated by complex characters. What I wouldn’t give to have a peak inside the other characters’ minds, as well as to know what’s going on during Gabe and Bridget’s dates. Perhaps we’ll get some alternate points of view when the story continues to unfold in the next book, The Ground Rules Rewritten.

[Donna ~ The Romance Cover · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Ground Rules by Roya Carmen
5 stars!!

“Trust me, Ella, a man knows when a guy wants to fuck his wife.”

I originally gave this book 4.5 stars, but even days later I haven’t been able to stop thinking about it, talking about, pimping it, so I have added that extra half, this is definitely deserving of a five star read. I can’t tell you how I felt while reading this book, the blurb did it for me, I was pulled in, hook, line and sinker and from the first word to the last I was hooked, entranced and totally consumed by this story. In all the books I have read I cannot remember ever reading about “a couple exchange.” A mutual agreement between two couples to exclusively swap partners on a regular basis. Personally I couldn’t do it, I couldn’t deal with the emotional side, although as the blurb states, I would have already broken one of the rules.

How can something that feels so wrong actually read so right? This is because of the author’s voice, those emotions that she manages to elicit effortlessly while totally consuming you with a story that draws you in so deep, time ceases to exist. Before I knew it I had finished the book, looked at the clock and it was 3.30am, it is not often that happens, this girl needs her sleep.

“I get it. You’re not mine. You never will be.”

Mirella and Gabe were childhood sweethearts, are married and have two daughters. They have a healthy sex life but the usual parenting gets in the way of couple time. Feeling a little low Mirella suggests a date night and because Gabe was the lovely husband he was, he sets up a date at a posh restaurant and really goes to town. It is here that they meet Bridget and Weston. Gabe’s reservation gets lost and Bridget and Weston’s other friends are a no show so they decide to share a table and here a friendship is born.

These two couples are complete opposites, Mirella and Gabe are your usual middle class couple, Mirella was a primary school teacher. Weston and Bridget are powerful and super rich and they exude class. Over the course of the meal it is obvious that they all get on really well, also they are all more than interested in each other’s spouses. It seems that Mirella and Gabe have left a lasting impression on Bridget and Weston.

“I think both of us know, deep inside...our relationship is about to change.”

Bridget and Weston reach out to Mirella and Gabe and it seems that they are no wallflowers when it comes to their sex lives, summoning Mirella to a meeting it is here that the “Couple Exchange,” is put on the table and after much discussion and hesitation, Mirella and Gabe agree thinking that this could spice up their love life. Mirella was reticent at first, she has only ever been with Gabe, but the allure of Weston was too strong, he is the first man she has been attracted to since Gabe, she felt it needed to be explored.

“I still want him. As much as I wanted to end this, I’m still willing to put everything on the line – my sanity, my marriage, my heart.”

This book is written from Mirella’s POV, you go through her thoughts and emotions in detail, her apprehension, her reticence, her panic, her pro’s, her con’s, she truly was troubled. It is through this POV though that you understand that calling that Weston had to her, at first he seems aloof and guarded but as their dates progress the real Weston makes his appearance and through those little glimmers you get to see the man underneath and I loved him. I certainly felt that it is Bridget that wears the trousers in their relationship, for some reason I just felt that he could just be him when he was with Mirella, slowly but surely he lets his walls down, until he remembers the rules.

“You are a man of contradictions.”
“You are the king of delayed gratification.”

I can’t really talk much about this one, you just need to put your big girl panties on and dive in. This is the first book in a trilogy and at the end you are just left wanting more. I would love to get into Weston’s head and also Gabe’s. What do these men really think? Are they truly happy? Are they really as blasé about this as they appear to be? I feel the Weston ripples and we know what Mirella thinks, she has broken so many rules already.

“I want this to last forever.”

The palpitations, the will they won’t they, the is it or isn’t it, that attraction, all consuming, addictive, the unique storyline all made for a fantastic read. You cannot help but get involved; you cannot help but want the unexpected. I really need to know what Weston really thinks, this is eating at me, he is so hot and cold, he has that push and pull, and his actions say one thing one minute and the total opposite the next. It is these actions and reactions that are so confusing, but is this a sign of what is really going through his mind. Is he just as conflicted as his thoughts and actions? Gahhhhh, I seriously need more, like NOW!! I NEED to know what happens, this next book cannot come soon enough. Roya Carmen what have you done to me!! So, so good, get 1clicking and join the crazy train, my shoulder is here should you feel the need to discuss...also read the excerpt for book 2 at the end...ha ha ha, now you have read it, you can thank me (insert evil laugh!)

“I’m in love with two men. I am royally messed up.”

www.theromancecover.com

[Sara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow. This. Was hard to put down! It was OH MAH GAWD!!

Gabe and Mirella- high school loves we married young and had two children. Both seem like they are still very much in love, but after 20 years they've lost the sexual steam. Gabe is still in very good shape, his wife very much attracted to him. Mirella feels like she has extra curves, who doesn't after children??, but Gabe is still satisfied by her.

Weston and Bridget- about the same age as Gabe and Mirella, married, also with 2 kids,wealthy and ok with an open marriage. Weston is a hot geek and Bridget is often referred to as "barbie" like.

A chance meeting at a restaurant. An offer all 4 parties couldn't walk away from. 5 simple?? Rules. And one cluster fuck of an outcome.

Read this book without reading a bunch of reviews. Go in blind.

Although I couldn't be in an open marriage, this was so hard to put down. There are so many questions you have just with them swapping partners. As things continue, feelings change, feelings are questioned and I am reading with my jaw hanging open.

Thank GAWD this wasn't in dual pov's cause I honestly think it would have been too much. Keeping me guessing was actually more fun. Maybe I didn't really want to know what the other 3 were thinking...
I have so much I could ramble on about. The questions, my concerns and I can't wait to read the next book. Which I hope is not too far away.

[Linathebookaddict · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG! Sweet baby Jesus! This has to be one of the most unique storylines ever! I don't know if I should be shocked, ashamed or excited! Darn it all. I am all of those things!
I will admit that I started this book because I desperately needed to break out of my funk! So, I abandoned my pile of ARCs for a few hours and this gem has certainly captivated me. It will be even more difficult to get back to those ARCs, but I am taking my chances.
SO, this book! We have four main characters, four players, but we get the story from Mirella's POV.
Mirella is happily married to gorgeous Gabe but she has secretely always felt out of his league.
She is a kindergarten teacher and he owns a business with handcrafted furniture.
One pink dress will change their entire lives. They go to a fancy restaurant and that is where they meet a gorgeous couple that seems to have popped right out of a magazine cover.
Weston and Bridget are the essense of beauty and elegance. Bridget is out-going while Weston is more shy and distant.
When they meet, Mirella is certain that they could never have anything in common...How wrong she was. Gabe catches Birdget's eye and Weston seems curious about Mirella.



When the couples start a tentative friendship, Weston seems all the more interested for Mirella.

"Was he your first love?" He seems preoccupied with my relationshp with Gabe, but I don't mind the questions.
"Yes."
We are clearly no longer looking at art.
He walks towards me."Have you ever been with anyone else?" His line of questioning has now officially gone too far. "I'm sorry,"I blurt out as I try to pull myself away from him.
"That's a very personal question."


When he comes forward with a very interesting offer, she is shocked, momentarily repulsed but very curious.
Weston and Bridget are very interested to swap partners but there are rules. It is just sex and there will be no emotional attachment. No jelaousy and no emotions.
When Gabe & Mirella agree, they will come to realize that it is not so easy. Jelaousy is always a factor and emotional detachment will prove to be nearly impossible. Weston's cynical response to their unorthodox deal, leaves a lot to be desired.

He turns his gaze away. "Next time I'd like to lie beside you for five minutes or so."
I snort. "Oh...is that the acceptable post-coital resting time?" I can't believe him. I want to give him a social decorum.
"Is that listed on your manual?"

The writing sucked me in from the start! The pages flew by and I cannot wait to see where the author will take this in the next book.
The storyline is unique to say the least and I liked how the author divided our heroine's feelings. She loves her husband but she also cares a lot for Weston. As a character I liked her and I liked being inside her head, even if at times she acted a bit like a horny teenager! Well, I don't blame her since both her interests were more than just attractive. I also liked that she was a bit shy and oblivious of her charm.
I liked Gabe, even though he did decide to share his wife a bit too easy in my opinion. But he loves her.
Weston...I have to read the next book to truly have a solid opinion but let me tell you that he is a very complex and interesting character.
Very curious about the next book!!!

★★★4.5 Stars★★★

[Reanell Tisdale · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 'couple swapping' stars!

I saw Ground Rules posted in a couple book groups I'm in on Facebook and decided it sounded like something I needed to read. So I bought it and DEVOURED IT!

Ground Rules stars out with us meeting Mirella and Gabe, a happily married couple with 2 children. They do a date night and with a mishap with reservations fate stepped in and introduced them to Weston and Bridget. Bridget and Weston are a wealthy couple who intrigue both Gabe and Mirella. So much in fact Gabe encourages Mirella to think about Weston to get turned on. <-----HOLY HELL!

Mirella has an active crush on Weston and is shocked when she receives lavender roses with a card with his number. When Mirella calls, he wants to meet with her and says it needs to be just her. Mirella doesn't know what to expect but when she finds out, she's absolutely shocked! Couple swapping!

When she talks to Gabe about it, he seems intrigued but lets the decision lie with Mirella. She finally agrees and they all meet for the "Ground Rules" there are five to be exact. And the exchange begins.

Mirella struggles at first and can't decide how to react. Eventually she lets herself go and goes with it. They aren't allowed to discuss what happens on their 'dates' with each other(that's one of the rules). We only get Mirella's view so we don't get any interaction between Bridget and Gabe. And I can only imagine how hot that is because Mirella and Weston are explosive together.
But what happens when the rules begin to be broken by the one who made the rules?


When this book ended....I screamed.....NO!!!!! That can't be it?! I NEED THE REST RIGHT NOW?! And then the little snippet of book 2 in the back.....HOLY EFFIN SHIT! That's one hell of a teaser!!! I know some readers don't like cliffhangers, but me, I like to be surprised. And for my emotions to be all over the place with a CH is good to me. It means the author made me so invested in the characters that I didn't want it to end. And I was 100% invested in this book!

The writing was fantastic and every single character was likable. With this having 2 couples I figured I would have a favorite.....but I didn't. I liked all 4 the same. I really liked the plot to this one, it's something different and I haven't read before. So don't just take my word for it...BUY IT....DEVOUR IT!

[Formerly Known as Spoiler W · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is about sex. Plain and simple.


Riiiiiiiiight.


The story follows a happily married couple(Gabe and Mirella) who meet another happily married couple(Weston and Bridget) at a restaurant. Strangers at first then their relationships becomes more when an, dare I say, indecent proposal is proposed. Basically, Weston and Bridget have an open marriage but it's kept secret. They both find Gabe and Mirella attractive and want to have seperate relations with them(no orgy here people though I wouldn't have been opposed to it). Gabe and Mirella discuss the proposal and what they find is that they're aroused by the idea or as Mirella says...

We're horny...it's that simple.

The title of the book is that. There are The Ground Rules for them to proceed with their arrangement. But you know how it goes...rules are meant to be broken. As the story is told only through Mirella's POV, we see how her connection to Weston becomes more. How emotions are played out and the consequences of them.

What drew me in the story is the realness of it. I got it. I got how Mirella could have started falling in love with Weston. It wasn't that she was neglected or unloved by Gabe. Their married life wasn't bad. It was great actually before they came into the "wife swapping". It's just that her relationship with Weston was different. The sex scenes with Mirella and Gabe were hot but also with Weston. We just got more of her and Weston and you see the connection with Weston more than with Gabe. Makes sense? Is there a wrong or right with Weston and Mirella and their feelings to each other? For me, I say no. What she was feeling for him gave me heart palpitations, I guess cause it was all new. Just different. What's happening with Gabe and Bridget and is there any feelings there? I don't know and I want to know.

I liked the way the story left off. It was completed in my opinion. I see there will be a book two and have no idea how the author will take the story in any direction but mos def I'll be reading it.

[Carvanz · Rating 3 out of 5]

I went into this book not really knowing anything about it except that two married couples have an affair with each other and that it was causing a terrific response all over my Goodreads feed. When two wonderfully evil friends suggested buddy reading it and the queen of evil, having read it already, encouraged everyone to dig in, I agreed I’d take the plunge. I was unable to start when they did and so I tried to avoid all comments until I could catch up. Man, things were not looking pretty over in buddy read land. I however, had my own personal thoughts on the book.

First, it never shocked and awed me. Does that mean I’m jaded? I hope not. I don’t want to consider myself unable to be moved by something most people find unpleasant. I definitely had feelings though. I didn’t really like Gabe at all in the beginning but as the book moves forward I found him just mediocre. Bridget, his sex partner, is rarely in the book after these couples do the official swap. I liked Mirella and Weston until Mirella started to get on my nerves with her constant thoughts that Gabe was the man she wanted to spend the rest of her life with. If so, what the heck was she doing falling in love with Weston?! Weston seems a little weak at times and despite the fact that he created the rules he’s quick to break them. Then he backtracks and wants to act like it’s no big deal. Overall, this couple had just too much back and forth.

While this was fast paced, steamy, and angsty, usually something I’d really enjoy, it was not really my cup of tea. However, I must confess I am curious as to how this is all going to work out. I’m feeling like we might be getting into menage territory which is really not my thing, but I’m going to attempt book 2 anyway.

Heroine POV
As far from safe as the safety gang can get
No abuse

[Raj · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review to come!

[Elaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 not what I expected Stars



What if I had never worn that pink dress!!





What happens when a loving married couple Gabe and Mirella meet by chance a real life Barbie and Ken alis Weston and Bridget....



Gabe and Mirella are your average couple, 2 beautiful children. A happy family life. They don't go out much together and Mirella feels that they need to make more of an effort, she needs to make more of an effort.
Dressed up in her vintage pink fifties dress they take in a meal and a show.

A mix up that evening leads them sharing a restaurant table with Weston and Bridget.
Two gorgeous wealthy people, Bridget is taken with Gabe and Mirella feels some kind of connection with Weston.
By the end of the evening they say their goodbyes and go their separate ways...
But a call from Weston with a proposition changes everything .....
Just remember the rules


1. Don’t sleep around.

2. Don’t kiss and tell.

3. Be nice.

4. Don’t text or call.

5. Don’t fall in love.

My thoughts....
I really enjoyed this and was quite taken back with how much I did. Its well written and told from Mirellas POV.

It's a storyline that sometimes can make you feel uncomfortable at times, whys, if's....
It was a believable story and getting it told in Mirellas POV made you feel a lot more for these couples as the story unfolded.
I really couldn't put it down.
I've since heard that it will be a trilogy so I'm excited to see whats next.
There is NO cliffy at the end so it can be read as a standalone

[Nikki ღ Navareus · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hands down, THE BEST story I have read this year. I loved very single second of living Mirella's experience through her eyes, and I was heartbroken to have it end when I finished it. Roya Carmen brought this story to life and it has torn me in so many pieces. I literally felt every single emotion that Mirella went through, from intrigue, fear, regret, guilt, ecstasy, love, devastation and pain. And I loved Gabe as much as Weston. Mirella was a lucky girl indeed to have the love of these two gorgeous men. I will definitely be reading this one again.

[Jessy (Jessy's Book Club) · Rating 2 out of 5]

You like the sound of a book, you check it on Goodreads and there are 5 stars galore. You check it on Amazon and find more 5 stars, everyone agrees that this book is amazing! So you settle down with it and the confusion sets in, did you get the right book? How can you be the only person in the world not feeling the book? There has to be something wrong.

And you get where I’m going with this, but first a synopsis. Mirella and Gabe have been together forever. They have a good marriage – they love each other, they have two wonderful children and their sex life is still going strong. One night they meet a couple, Weston and Bridget. This new couple is very well together, clearly rich and oh so very hot. The new couple proposes an arrangement, not exactly swinging, more like a couple swap. There are rules:

1. Don’t sleep around.
2. Don’t kiss and tell.
3. Be nice.
4. Don’t text or call.
5. Don’t fall in love

These rules are in place to make sure there’s never any jealousy between the married couples. But of course the rules start being broken one by one. Bridget is clearly into Gabe.. and vice versa… but it’s Mirella and Weston who slowly dip their toes into the forbidden waters… and find that they love it.

So here’s the thing… there are people who will never read a book that has cheating in it, or a love triangle et cetera… I’ve always thought that if a book makes me feel… then the book has accomplished what it set out to do. Then The Ground Rules came around. Everyone lauded it as angsty… but I have to say I was angry the entire time…. or rolling my eyes. I mean, for someone with a loving husband and two lovely kids, Mirella behaved abhorrently… like a lovestruck teenager. I don’t claim to always make the right decisions but when it comes to my marriage and my child, I certainly will try. And I feel she didn’t.

As much as I want to end this, I’m willing to put everything on the line – my sanity, my marriage, my heart.

Gah! She just jumped in headfirst into something that would clearly hurt her husband and children. She hardly thought of them… even when she knew how badly it would hurt them. I’m of the opinion that if something leads you to hurt those you love, then you should cut it off. As soon as she realised that things were getting deeper with Weston, she should have stopped the deal. It would hurt her for some time but surely it would save those she loves… right?

I’m probably coming off as very judgmental, I tried not to judge her, but I’ve honestly never thought theses things end well. I have friends who swing… and though I would never do it (tempting as it may be) I’ve always thought at least they’re not hurting anyone… but the arrangement in The Ground Rules was just a mess to begin with. All that jealousy that should have been a red flag – ignored.

Gah! This book was just not for me. Mirella behaved like a teenager… she ignored responsibility, she lashed out… I just did not like her at all. Also how long did it take her to realize what the proposition was?

Suddenly, it all falls together. My heart drops. I feel nauseous. I’m no idiot – I’ve put two and two together.

I actually laughed out loud. Took her forever to put two and two together! She also just couldn’t make up her mind. I’m indecisive, but jeez Mirella drove me nuts! One minute the proposition puts ‘the look of horror’ on her face, and in the same sentence she just wants ‘to go straight to bed.’ I mean, make up your mind woman!

Sigh… this book made me angry. I suppose the fact that it brought out such a strong emotion means something… but I’ve never differed this much with other reviews. I might be alone in my thoughts… but well..

2.5 stars.

More reviews at Jessy's Book Club

[Saunders · Rating 1 out of 5]

So the blurb:

She has everything she wanted - a nice home, a job she loved (kindergarten teacher) and two beautiful girls and of course her husband Gabe (dont forget him) her long time lover - high school sweetheart and the only man who she has known and he still rocks her world.

Enter Weston and Bridget. Sexy and enigmatic couple (didnt get that)they like to "play" and they target Mirella and Gabe to play with.

So it begins with a set of rules that articulate the set of behaviours for their sexual game.

You don't sleep around.
You don't kiss and tell.
always be nice.
always text or call
BUT a definite no no. Don't fall in love.

Simple really but the one thing that was missing from this set of rules was forget your marriage vows and adultery with consent is ok.

This plot is not new fresh or original. It's been done before and even though it began as a business like agreement and it began to become "something more" to me (and them) it was totally emotionless. No steam when they eventually got down to the dirty. I didnt get the fun, excitement or desire. There was nothing.

Sexual gratification already existed in their marriage (according to the plot) so why did they need more?

The story was too one sided based predominately on Weston and Mirella. we get nothing from Gabe and Bridget which was needed.

I also found it very difficult to believe that Gabe and Mirella, portrayed as such a loving and couple in a monogamous relationship would consider venturing down this path. Would you enter into a cold and business like arrangement for sexual gratification when you already had it? BUT even if you did would you go home to the "love of your life" and say nothing especially when Mirella couldn't keep her mouth shut. I found this hard to believe.

Mirella? I disliked her character passionately . A mecurial character. She gave me whiplash the amount of times she changed her mind. Going from being ashamed to a sexual delinquent. I got bored with the whole "I love Gabe so much. He is the one" to "Weston I have never been kissed quite like this before with so much raw emotion, such hunger. I feel my entire core melting" to "I need to break up with Weston I love Gabe so much" " Weston I've never wanted a man so more" WHIPLASH and it went on.

Overall, reading this book was like a re-run of the same movie over and over again. The storyline, the writing, the plot and especially the characters completely left me vacant but if you love swinging/cheating themes then you will like this one.

[Gail - Slitty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let me tell you, no, let me WARN you that this this book isn’t for the faint of heart. I purchased it based upon the recommendation from two readers whose opinions I greatly respect, and one had provided a link to the book. I purchased the book without reading the synopsis, and to tell the truth, I’m not sure that I would have purchased it had I read the description. I didn’t think that I could either relate or understand a subject considered taboo or the unthinkable to many, or that it would it would be written so exquisitely that I could feel a connection to the couple, Mirella and Gabe. I had to put away my own feelings and ideas and step into the shoes of Mirella, and if a reader isn’t able to put aside her own preconceived ideas of a happy or successful marriage bond, please don’t buy this book. I implore you to leave and click another book because I don’t want to see this book to receive low ratings because a reader thought it was trashy or over the top, this book deserves to be read and appreciated by a reader who can be flexible with another person’s POV. If you do decide to make the plunge and read this book, I’m going to warn you to have either: 1. a significant other who doesn’t mind if you wake them in the middle of the night for a romp, 2. someone who makes late night booty calls, or 3. have BOB ready with an extra supply o batteries. Yes, the story is just that hot. I didn’t expect it to raise the temperature in my girly places, and so when I finished at 4 am this morning, I didn’t have any of the 3 options listed above, and I found myself trying to jog in a rural area where there aren’t any street lamps, and failed miserably, so I ended up eating two 16 oz. Hershey bar that I had purchased for s’mores for my youngest’s sleepover for tonight. The one criticism that I have regarding The Ground Rules is that the author or Amazon should place a dang warning label that this book could cause diabetes, heart palpitations, or excessive wear and tear on either a sexual partner or BOB.

Putting aside the tabooish subject matter that author Roya Carmen bravely tackled, the book is superbly written. This book is so much more than pushing boundaries, the author’s writing style is pure gold. The manner in which she describes the simplest gesture just reels in the reader. For example, and this by far isn’t my favorite line in the story, but it is the first passage in which I realize that the author rises above the ordinary: “Gabe stops dead in his tracks and looks at me. Suddenly his beautiful hazel eyes are serious-they look almost black in the darkness. He grabs my wrist and pulls me to him. The heel of my shoe scrapes the sidewalk, and I look up at him, suddenly alarmed. “Trust me Ella, a man knows when a guy wants to **** his wife.” It’s the little things by the author that makes this book one big successful story.

I’m not going to tell you that I was in love with these characters from the beginning to the end, first of all, they have such an idyllic life, that why in the world would they consider the offer. Reading Mirella’s POV, you know that she is in trouble even while thinking about the proposal. I found myself pleading with her to just say “no”, and not only am I worried that Mirella is in her over her head, but I worry about her losing Gabe to Bridget, who is the modern day version of a Sharon Stone succubus. Just as I think that Mirella is listening to me and the voice in her head, it becomes apparent during her meeting with Weston that I underestimated the voice of Mirella’s vagina. Dang her vagina’s voice because that voice remained all quiet during Mirella’s and Gabe’s contemplating the proposition, letting me and Mirella’s common sense think that we were guiding her towards the right decision. Then as soon as Mirella and Weston meet in private, BAM, that freakin’ vagina begins screaming “YASSSS, DO IT, DO IT, DO IT, DO IT! LOOK AT HIM, DO IT. IF NOT FOR ME, DO IT FOR ALL THE OTHER VAGINAS IN THE WORLD!” I was so unprepared for this, I should have brought a megaphone, and I feel defeat as Mirella cannot hear me or her common sense over the screaming and yelling of her vagina.

The splendor in this story is that my boundaries are constantly being pushed, even though I want Gabe and Mirella to say “No, thank you”, I cannot bring myself to become sanctimonious and judge them. I find myself mentally giving Mirella advice, and even though she doesn’t listen to me, I cannot give up on her. Mirella and I have bonded, and I have to see her to the end, because I suspect this will not end well for her, and friends don’t walk away during the tough moments. Then there is the matter with Gabe, unlike most books where the spouse/S.O. has undesirable traits that the reader can understand or be sympathetic as to why the heroine would consider such an offer, but Gabe isn’t like that. Gabe is everything that Mirella or the rest of us gals could hope for in a spouse, and I’m worried that Bridget the Succubus is going to brain-wash him with her golden-plated vagina, and I’m fretting as I’m reading when he ignores Mirella as he latches onto Bridget. I thought I would never say this because I usually dislike books that are rewritten to give the male’s POV, but this is one time that I’m dying to know what Gabe is thinking and feeling, because I so feel him when he has bouts of jealousy and hurt, plus the nosy Mrs. Kravitz in me wants to read how the meetings unfolded between he and Bridget.

There are so many emotions going on for me; one minute I’m disappointed in Mirella, then I’m worried that she is going to lose Gabe, and then there are scenes that contain such intimacy that I feel uncomfortable, as if I’m engaging in voyeurism. I know that I sound a bit crazy, but this book just sucked me in like an F5 tornado, and if you can read this while remaining detached, my hat’s off to you.

Bottom line: this book earned each of the 5 stars that I rated it. The author, Roya Carmen, tackled a difficult subject and mastered it throughout the story, her writing is unrushed and allows the couple to process the proposition not just once, but throughout the story. The characters are complex, and the reader is constantly in angst; from cheering for Mirella and Gabe, feeling guilt for enjoying the intimacy and sex, to being shocked at the initial proposal and set of rules. I highly suggest this to the reader who can set aside her personal beliefs, and follow this very likeable couple on a game-changing journey.