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Taking It Off: A Novel
Can’t get enough Magic Mike? Let bestselling author Claire Kent introduce you to Matt Stokes, the sexy-as-sin male stripper and club owner who knows what it really means to bare everything. Preschool teacher Elizabeth Marks isn’t exactly thrilled to be attending a college friend’s bachelorette party at a male strip joint. The sights—screaming women, half-naked hunks—are just as sleazy as she expected, with one the man standing at the back, radiating sensual heat despite being fully clothed. When Elizabeth takes refuge outside, he chases her down and dares her to stay. It turns out that her mystery man is the owner—and, as tonight’s headliner, the one guy Elizabeth wouldn’t mind seeing naked. Matt Stokes lives his life one day, one dance at a time. But as he challenges Elizabeth to get in touch with the passionate, impulsive woman behind her prim façade, she brings out another side of him as well. This girl isn’t just another pretty face—or paying customer—and Matt can’t help wanting more. Onstage, he’s used to exposing his body. Now Matt will have to expose his heart. Because when it comes to real love, that’s the one striptease that matters.Praise for Taking It Off “[Taking It Off brings] together two unlikely but completely compatible protagonists. Readers can also bank on more going on between the sheets than on the stage, which makes for a sexy and titillating read.”—Library Journal “It’s hot, and it’s filled with sexy strippers, steamy sex and some romance thrown in to boot!”—Thoughts of a Blonde Includes a special message from the editor, as well as an excerpt from another Loveswept title.
258 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 24, 2015
58 people are currently reading
681 people want to read
About the author
Claire Kent
41 books2,122 followersClaire has been writing romance novels since she was twelve years old. After teaching English at the university level for several years, she started writing full-time under two different pen names. She lives in Virginia.
Her early books are sexy contemporary romances filled with heat and real emotion, but with the Hold series she transitioned to science fiction romance. Her current books are steamy post-apocalyptic romance set in the near future after a global catastrophe. They feature smart, resilient women trying to survive in a new chaotic world and falling in love with strong, gruff, taciturn men.
Claire also writes softer contemporary romances as Noelle Adams,
Her early books are sexy contemporary romances filled with heat and real emotion, but with the Hold series she transitioned to science fiction romance. Her current books are steamy post-apocalyptic romance set in the near future after a global catastrophe. They feature smart, resilient women trying to survive in a new chaotic world and falling in love with strong, gruff, taciturn men.
Claire also writes softer contemporary romances as Noelle Adams,
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 193 reviews
October 25, 2015
2 weak stars. DNF @50%. Review posted October 25, 2015
grunting, grunts, grunting, grunts, grunt, grunts, grunted, grunted, grunts, grunts, grunting, grunted, grunt, grunts, grunt, grunted, grunting, grunted, grunts, grunt, grunt, grunts
Definitely too many grunts.
The cover is hot. Unfortunately, that's the only thing I liked about Taking It Off.
There was just something sexy and kind of deep about him, as if there were layers to his personality that were waiting to be peeled back.
One first look from afar at her future love interest at a sleazy and not so well-lit strip joint, and she knew there was something deep about him. Absurd doesn't even begin to cover it. *smh*
“But that’s what I’m trying to say. The life you want doesn’t exist. The real world can never look like that. It’s always hard and dirty and messy and complicated, and it can never fit into any sort of plan.”
Overly dramatic, much? Excuse me but I digress. Life isn't always dirty, messy and complicated.
*double head desk* She doesn't owe her anything. Elizabeth is as much a dumb and disgusting bitch as the Awful.
“I want to fuck you. I want to fuck you until you can’t remember your name—and you can’t remember anyone else’s name but mine. I want to show you why you don’t want to be touching anyone’s body but mine.”
THIS^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Why can't we get past this ridiculously trite and hackneyed dialogue? If that's supposed to be great dirty talk, then I'm the Pope.
Typical vapid adult romance that reads like New Adult. I neither liked the annoying heroine nor the hero and the storyline bored me. He is broken *pets* and she has other hangups. Blunt and unoriginal dialogue and formulaic writing that didn't hold my attention. Naive heroine who acts uptight and is harping about the same over and over and over and over and over during the first 29%, and then suddenly when her friend and sheds off all her inhibitions and starts enjoying the grinding and bumping at sleazy Bare Assets. Oh joy. Not. Add in bad smexin', poor and stilted dance moves, some ridiculousdrama argument (both were acting immature) and I was done. One didn't have to be a genius to know where the plot was heading. Her rich daddy decided
Good grief.
I dug the premise because I think this could have been very interesting and really good, but the execution fell totally flat for me. Taking It Off is a subpar and uninteresting book among a million others. Once read and easily forgotten. I'm disappointed because Claire Kent is more miss than hit for me lately. Hence I guess it's time to move on. It happens that authors whose work I enjoyed in the past just don't do it for me anymore nowadays.
All quotes are taken from the pre-published copy and may be altered or omitted in the final copy
**ARC courtesy of Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept Romance in exchange for an honest review**
grunting, grunts, grunting, grunts, grunt, grunts, grunted, grunted, grunts, grunts, grunting, grunted, grunt, grunts, grunt, grunted, grunting, grunted, grunts, grunt, grunt, grunts
Definitely too many grunts.
The cover is hot. Unfortunately, that's the only thing I liked about Taking It Off.
There was just something sexy and kind of deep about him, as if there were layers to his personality that were waiting to be peeled back.
One first look from afar at her future love interest at a sleazy and not so well-lit strip joint, and she knew there was something deep about him. Absurd doesn't even begin to cover it. *smh*
“But that’s what I’m trying to say. The life you want doesn’t exist. The real world can never look like that. It’s always hard and dirty and messy and complicated, and it can never fit into any sort of plan.”
Overly dramatic, much? Excuse me but I digress. Life isn't always dirty, messy and complicated.
*double head desk* She doesn't owe her anything. Elizabeth is as much a dumb and disgusting bitch as the Awful.
“I want to fuck you. I want to fuck you until you can’t remember your name—and you can’t remember anyone else’s name but mine. I want to show you why you don’t want to be touching anyone’s body but mine.”
THIS^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Why can't we get past this ridiculously trite and hackneyed dialogue? If that's supposed to be great dirty talk, then I'm the Pope.
Typical vapid adult romance that reads like New Adult. I neither liked the annoying heroine nor the hero and the storyline bored me. He is broken *pets* and she has other hangups. Blunt and unoriginal dialogue and formulaic writing that didn't hold my attention. Naive heroine who acts uptight and is harping about the same over and over and over and over and over during the first 29%, and then suddenly when her friend and sheds off all her inhibitions and starts enjoying the grinding and bumping at sleazy Bare Assets. Oh joy. Not. Add in bad smexin', poor and stilted dance moves, some ridiculous
Good grief.
I dug the premise because I think this could have been very interesting and really good, but the execution fell totally flat for me. Taking It Off is a subpar and uninteresting book among a million others. Once read and easily forgotten. I'm disappointed because Claire Kent is more miss than hit for me lately. Hence I guess it's time to move on. It happens that authors whose work I enjoyed in the past just don't do it for me anymore nowadays.
All quotes are taken from the pre-published copy and may be altered or omitted in the final copy
**ARC courtesy of Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept Romance in exchange for an honest review**
November 19, 2015
♥ ♥ ♥ 3.5 STARS ♥ ♥ ♥
I'm not going to lie, that cover and that blurb totally got me that I just had to read this one. While in the end I did like the book, I unfortunately did not love it as I had hoped that I would.
Elizabeth is a preschool teacher that comes from a wealthy family. She is quite the introvert and uptight. She dreams of finding the man of her dreams and settling down to start a family. Unfortunately, that hasn't happened for her yet. In the beginning of the book, she goes to a strip club where her friend is having her bachelorette party. Right of the back she lets you know how much she hates being there. She doesn't find anything remotely sexy about scantily clad men grinding around and on women. She can not wait to get out of there. And that right there, was what put me off of Elizabeth. I thought she was too prudish for my taste which is why I just couldn't connect with her.
Then she sees Matt across the room, and she is instantly consumed by lust for him. There is something different and mysterious about him that lures her in. She resists, however, and tries to ignore what she feels. Matt notices her as well, and ends up challenging her to give the club a second try. She is to come to his club Bare Assets twice a week for a whole month so she can watch all the shows from start to finish. Elizabeth doesn't like backing down from a challenge so she agrees. Each moment she is in his club, the attraction between them seems to grow in intensity until they can't hold back. Matt isn't her dream man, but she will allow herself to loosen up a bit and enjoy him. Meanwhile, Matt knows he will never be good enough for someone like Elizabeth, but he too will let himself have her, even if their time is limited.
I'd say this was a good easy read. There wasn't an over abundance of drama, but there were a few scenes. I never really got to connect to Elizabeth, but I was pretty happy with her growth, and how she began to accept herself as she was without always thinking what others would think. Matt I was able to connect more with through his POV. I felt bad for his upbringing and hated how he viewed himself. He was a pretty great guy and had done well for himself considering. He was also really freaking sexy, not point denying it. I had a bit of trouble feeling a real chemistry between these two that was beyond lust, though. When they got together, it was explosive. They were going at it like bunnies. There was just so much sex, and it was hot don't get me wrong, but I wanted more focus on their relationship. It almost seemed like every chapter had to have sex in it which I think is why it sometimes felt like the book was dragging on a bit. I didn't care for any of the secondary characters, well except for Robbie, he was awesome. I hated Elizabeth's friend Melissa the most and I felt like her story line was pretty unnecessary. The last part of the book was definitely a lot better for me. This is where I began to enjoy it. Overall, it was a good read and worth reading to meet Matt and Robbie. They were the best part of the book for me.
Thanks to Sultan for the wonderful Buddy Read.
August 2, 2024
3.5 "Clothes Off" Stars!
ARC provided via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I first requested this book, obviously, for the cover LOL Then I read the summary and it caught my attention. But, unfortunately, it was not as good as I expected.
Taking It Off is a stand-alone novel written by Claire Kent and it tells the story of Matt Stokes (a smokin' hot stripper and owner of the club that happens to have some issues with the past and his mother) and Elizabeth Marks (a woman who has had the benefit of having rich parents, has a very good job and meets THE man in a different environment from the one she wanted).
It was one thing to tell himself —and tell Robbie— that he knew exactly what he was doing. And it was another to try to stop himself from feeling like Elizabeth was exactly what he wanted.
What he’d always wanted.
The antithesis of what he’d hated about his life for so long.
I enjoyed the plot and the love story, it was different because it introduces another theme to me: strip clubs. However, there were several aspects that did not connect with me. Matt is a hot hottie but does he need to ask something at the end of every sentence? There is quite a lot of repetition (don't you?, wouldn't you?, haven't you?, bla, bla, bla..) and that's why the writing, for me, was not the best.
Still, there were some sweet and dirty-talking moments that us readers can enjoy a lot ;) And the stripping is pretty hot too! haha
“Do you ever,” she began, swallowing hard over the words but unable to stop herself from saying them, “want something so badly that it terrifies you?”
“Oh yeah,” he breathed. “All the time.”
Therefore, my rating for Taking It Off is 3.5 STARS. I enjoyed the plot and the characters but I did not like the writing a lot and that I consider it's a really important aspect to have in mind. Still, if you want to have a light read with a hot stripper, you can give this one a try! :)
CHECK OUT MY BLOG HERE:
ARC provided via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I first requested this book, obviously, for the cover LOL Then I read the summary and it caught my attention. But, unfortunately, it was not as good as I expected.
Taking It Off is a stand-alone novel written by Claire Kent and it tells the story of Matt Stokes (a smokin' hot stripper and owner of the club that happens to have some issues with the past and his mother) and Elizabeth Marks (a woman who has had the benefit of having rich parents, has a very good job and meets THE man in a different environment from the one she wanted).
It was one thing to tell himself —and tell Robbie— that he knew exactly what he was doing. And it was another to try to stop himself from feeling like Elizabeth was exactly what he wanted.
What he’d always wanted.
The antithesis of what he’d hated about his life for so long.
I enjoyed the plot and the love story, it was different because it introduces another theme to me: strip clubs. However, there were several aspects that did not connect with me. Matt is a hot hottie but does he need to ask something at the end of every sentence? There is quite a lot of repetition (don't you?, wouldn't you?, haven't you?, bla, bla, bla..) and that's why the writing, for me, was not the best.
Still, there were some sweet and dirty-talking moments that us readers can enjoy a lot ;) And the stripping is pretty hot too! haha
“Do you ever,” she began, swallowing hard over the words but unable to stop herself from saying them, “want something so badly that it terrifies you?”
“Oh yeah,” he breathed. “All the time.”
Therefore, my rating for Taking It Off is 3.5 STARS. I enjoyed the plot and the characters but I did not like the writing a lot and that I consider it's a really important aspect to have in mind. Still, if you want to have a light read with a hot stripper, you can give this one a try! :)
CHECK OUT MY BLOG HERE:
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November 8, 2015DNF @ 25%
I hate to DNF a book, especially an arc I'm expected to review, but this is really not working for me. When prim, proper and judgmental as hell Elizabeth decided to go completely against character and rub one out in the parking lot of an office complex, not just once but multiple times after Matt's hot dancing, I was pretty much done. It was supposed to be sexy but instead it came off as ridiculous. My last straw was Elizabeth's father going on and on about her fine moral character and how she'd never act inappropriately. You know, like hooking up with a male stripper. And somehow her father wants her to enter politics? Why again? She's an introverted child development teacher or something. Yeah, no. I can see where this is going and it's a ride I don't need to take. I'm disappointed because I've loved pretty much everything else I've read from Claire Kent, but I suppose that old "first time for everything" rings true for me here.
ARC provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
I hate to DNF a book, especially an arc I'm expected to review, but this is really not working for me. When prim, proper and judgmental as hell Elizabeth decided to go completely against character and rub one out in the parking lot of an office complex, not just once but multiple times after Matt's hot dancing, I was pretty much done. It was supposed to be sexy but instead it came off as ridiculous. My last straw was Elizabeth's father going on and on about her fine moral character and how she'd never act inappropriately. You know, like hooking up with a male stripper. And somehow her father wants her to enter politics? Why again? She's an introverted child development teacher or something. Yeah, no. I can see where this is going and it's a ride I don't need to take. I'm disappointed because I've loved pretty much everything else I've read from Claire Kent, but I suppose that old "first time for everything" rings true for me here.
ARC provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
October 24, 2015
Taking it off is a nicely done book from every aspect. There is a fine writing style, some reasonable build up, solid character development and an intriguing storyline. But, are all those elements enough to make a story truly unforgettable? Well, yes and no.
Of course a book that is meticulously produced has a few plus signs and you can definitely tell right from the first chapter that this is the case in here. Everything is professionally done, from the editing and the narrative style, to the right word count- yes there is one, so the story won't be too stretched out.
So why the 3,5 rating? Mostly for the lack of passion and character. Although everything is fine, fine doesn't always cut it. Sometimes you have to risk a little bit to make something better and in my opinion the author decided to forego on the gambling and kept it all simple and beautiful with just a touch of drama.
And although that's great it wasn't enough for me. I didn't particularly liked the main heroine, Elizabeth and even though i loved the hero, Matt, his story was left aside and mostly untold which was a shame, because he was the character that had something to add in the arc not Elizabeth.
All in all it was good but the style was a bit cold, the premise with the snobby girl, overused and the relationship between the main characters lacked on chemistry and spark. Maybe not exactly a winner but not bad at all.
THOUGHTS ABOUT THE BOOK
- I prefered Matt's POV.
- Too many sex scenes. Oh, too many..
- I couldn't connect with Elizabeth.
- I liked Robbie.
- It definitely has a Magic Mike feeling.
- I didn't like her friends.
ARC provided via Netgalley in exchange of an honest review. Thank you!
Of course a book that is meticulously produced has a few plus signs and you can definitely tell right from the first chapter that this is the case in here. Everything is professionally done, from the editing and the narrative style, to the right word count- yes there is one, so the story won't be too stretched out.
So why the 3,5 rating? Mostly for the lack of passion and character. Although everything is fine, fine doesn't always cut it. Sometimes you have to risk a little bit to make something better and in my opinion the author decided to forego on the gambling and kept it all simple and beautiful with just a touch of drama.
And although that's great it wasn't enough for me. I didn't particularly liked the main heroine, Elizabeth and even though i loved the hero, Matt, his story was left aside and mostly untold which was a shame, because he was the character that had something to add in the arc not Elizabeth.
All in all it was good but the style was a bit cold, the premise with the snobby girl, overused and the relationship between the main characters lacked on chemistry and spark. Maybe not exactly a winner but not bad at all.
THOUGHTS ABOUT THE BOOK
- I prefered Matt's POV.
- Too many sex scenes. Oh, too many..
- I couldn't connect with Elizabeth.
- I liked Robbie.
- It definitely has a Magic Mike feeling.
- I didn't like her friends.
ARC provided via Netgalley in exchange of an honest review. Thank you!
August 1, 2021
Every book I’ve read by this author is so unique. Not only do they have original storylines, the feels and depth of them are each so different. I never know what I’m going to get each time I open one up.
Matt and Elizabeth couldn’t come from more different backgrounds. Due to a challenge Matt gives her, they are soon caught up in a hot and torrid affair that pushes Elizabeth past all boundaries she has lived within. What I especially loved was the way his challenge backfired on him. He had a lot of trouble to deal with and there really wasn’t a clear path ahead for them as a couple. The resolution had me tearing up and cheering them on.
Warning: The chemistry between these two characters lit the pages of this book up like an inferno. And I loved every moment of it!
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
Matt and Elizabeth couldn’t come from more different backgrounds. Due to a challenge Matt gives her, they are soon caught up in a hot and torrid affair that pushes Elizabeth past all boundaries she has lived within. What I especially loved was the way his challenge backfired on him. He had a lot of trouble to deal with and there really wasn’t a clear path ahead for them as a couple. The resolution had me tearing up and cheering them on.
Warning: The chemistry between these two characters lit the pages of this book up like an inferno. And I loved every moment of it!
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
October 18, 2015
Taking It Off brings us the story of Miss Perfect, Elizabeth Marks and Mr. Stripper, Matt Stokes. Elizabeth didn’t see what all the fuss was about, forced to Bare Assets for her friend’s bachelorette party, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to hide her distain. Until an attractive guy in the crowd catches her eye, but he’s not one in a G-string, at least not yet.
Matt Stokes knew she was out of her league. Just watching her being uncomfortable amongst all the thrusting should have been all the signs he needed to walk away. But he couldn’t. Not without first issuing a challenge. And the first step in Matt’s arsenal in winning is to take the stage.
I struggled to really like Elizabeth at the start of this story, she was uptight and really just had no real personality. Now, that was part of her whole character and part of what we needed to see in order to watch her journey of self-discovery. However, I did find it hard to connect to her at all. I didn’t feel bad for her, or pity her... I just sort of felt indifferent. Matt Stokes, who is pretty damaged - but in a put together sort of way had potential to suck me in with his sob story of a crap life, but there wasn’t much time spent lingering in his past to really have it pack the kind of punch it could have.
As Elizabeth continues with the challenge by attending the weekly shows at the strip club, her attraction to Matt increases until they can’t keep their hands off of each other. Slowly he is breaking through her chilled exterior and waking up her inner sex kitten. But when the reality of their differences come crashing around them, they both have a choice to make. Take a chance or walk away.
This was a fun read. One of those that sort of did the trick but doesn’t wow you. I enjoy Claire Kent’s writing and her Escort novel is still one of my favorite reads. This had hot moments when Matt got Elizabeth to let go completely but I really wanted a taste of an emotional connection with these two that I just didn’t feel 100%.
Matt Stokes knew she was out of her league. Just watching her being uncomfortable amongst all the thrusting should have been all the signs he needed to walk away. But he couldn’t. Not without first issuing a challenge. And the first step in Matt’s arsenal in winning is to take the stage.
I struggled to really like Elizabeth at the start of this story, she was uptight and really just had no real personality. Now, that was part of her whole character and part of what we needed to see in order to watch her journey of self-discovery. However, I did find it hard to connect to her at all. I didn’t feel bad for her, or pity her... I just sort of felt indifferent. Matt Stokes, who is pretty damaged - but in a put together sort of way had potential to suck me in with his sob story of a crap life, but there wasn’t much time spent lingering in his past to really have it pack the kind of punch it could have.
As Elizabeth continues with the challenge by attending the weekly shows at the strip club, her attraction to Matt increases until they can’t keep their hands off of each other. Slowly he is breaking through her chilled exterior and waking up her inner sex kitten. But when the reality of their differences come crashing around them, they both have a choice to make. Take a chance or walk away.
This was a fun read. One of those that sort of did the trick but doesn’t wow you. I enjoy Claire Kent’s writing and her Escort novel is still one of my favorite reads. This had hot moments when Matt got Elizabeth to let go completely but I really wanted a taste of an emotional connection with these two that I just didn’t feel 100%.
October 28, 2015
ARC received by NetGalley
3 STARS
Genre: Erotic Romance
Cover: 6/10
Writing: 7/10
Heroine: 4/10
Hero: 5/10
Humour: 1/10
Hotness: 5/10
Romance: 7/10
Extra book Details: Heroine & Hero POV; 1st person. Stand alone.
Taking it Off is an Erotic Romance with opposites attract lead characters and a parental angst background storyline.
The whole beginning was a major turn off for me. The heroine who snubs the strippers, the hero with the presumptuous attitude. The tiring use of 'my parents made me this way, they are such bad influential parents' as a storyline to fuel the characters angst and life-problems.
I just got tired of the fact the book was nothing new, special or entirely loveable.
My main issue was the heroine being wholeheartedly unrelateable to me. She was from wealth, with a stick up her ass when it comes to sex, but of course, she works with kids.. so you know, she's good. She pretty much left me cold.
I'm trying hard to come up with something that stood out as good in this book to justify my 3 star rating. But really, for me, who has read far better in the genre; it was an average read. My 3rd average read from this author, which means, i'm out.
November 9, 2015
3.75 what lies beneath the surface is what is most important stars. Elizabeth is what I like to call Miss Prim and Proper while Matt is what I like to call "Mr. Bad Boy." The two, on the surface, couldn't be anymore different but what is on the surface isn't always the whole story. Their first meeting was definitely an interesting one and ensured both parties were hungry for more.
Elizabeth is from money and her father is running for public office. While she's always had material things, emotional support was not found in her home. She's expected to be in the appropriate circles, date the right kinds of people, and so on. She's forced to be a part of the political campaign even as an adult who wants nothing more than to live her own life. Her meeting with Matt and watching him dance did things to her she didn't' realize could actually happen. He draws her to him and once she has a taste.....she's addicted.
Matt's life was the opposite of Elizabeth's. His mother is a drug addict and he had to work himself up nothing to own his own business and support not only himself but also his mother. He was once a stripper, but stopped dancing when it lost the good feeling for him after opening up his own strip club. Elizabeth both intrigues and puzzles him while making him lust after her. Having her once wasn't enough and he can't help but notice he wants more than he's ever wanted with her.
Reality sucks and that isn't more true than when Elizabeth loses her job due to the press getting footage of her outside of Matt's strip club pinned between him and a car. She decides to end things with Matt, no matter how painful or wrong it feels to do so. The two have to find their way to be together and Elizabeth has to dig deep to see what is worth the risk and who brings her happiness.
Elizabeth is from money and her father is running for public office. While she's always had material things, emotional support was not found in her home. She's expected to be in the appropriate circles, date the right kinds of people, and so on. She's forced to be a part of the political campaign even as an adult who wants nothing more than to live her own life. Her meeting with Matt and watching him dance did things to her she didn't' realize could actually happen. He draws her to him and once she has a taste.....she's addicted.
Matt's life was the opposite of Elizabeth's. His mother is a drug addict and he had to work himself up nothing to own his own business and support not only himself but also his mother. He was once a stripper, but stopped dancing when it lost the good feeling for him after opening up his own strip club. Elizabeth both intrigues and puzzles him while making him lust after her. Having her once wasn't enough and he can't help but notice he wants more than he's ever wanted with her.
Reality sucks and that isn't more true than when Elizabeth loses her job due to the press getting footage of her outside of Matt's strip club pinned between him and a car. She decides to end things with Matt, no matter how painful or wrong it feels to do so. The two have to find their way to be together and Elizabeth has to dig deep to see what is worth the risk and who brings her happiness.
December 1, 2015
DNF @ 50%
I had high hopes for Taking It Off. The storyline looked a little different and I've read and enjoyed several of Claire Kent's alter ego Noelle Adams' books in the past. Unfortunately it's hard to become overly invested in a story when it consists of:
Woman reluctantly visits strip club
Meets sexy guy who owns strip club
Visits strip club
Has sex
Visits strip club
Has sex
Visits strip club
Has sex
I have to admit by the end of the first chapter I was a little bit in love with Elizabeth. She was a woman after my own heart--brutally honest in her reasoning as to why she didn't want to be at the strip club and why strippers don't float her boat and this I totally related to because I am that woman. But it soon became a bit of a slog, she seemed to lose her edge, her friends irritated the hell out of me and by the halfway mark I needed more than sex to keep my interest.
The author's writing is sound, the early story development showed promise and whilst I did like Matt, nothing really stood out about him. Had the storyline been stronger sooner then I may well have persevered, but unfortunately on this occasion I wasn't invested enough to see them get their HEA.
Copy received courtesy of Loveswept via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
I had high hopes for Taking It Off. The storyline looked a little different and I've read and enjoyed several of Claire Kent's alter ego Noelle Adams' books in the past. Unfortunately it's hard to become overly invested in a story when it consists of:
Woman reluctantly visits strip club
Meets sexy guy who owns strip club
Visits strip club
Has sex
Visits strip club
Has sex
Visits strip club
Has sex
I have to admit by the end of the first chapter I was a little bit in love with Elizabeth. She was a woman after my own heart--brutally honest in her reasoning as to why she didn't want to be at the strip club and why strippers don't float her boat and this I totally related to because I am that woman. But it soon became a bit of a slog, she seemed to lose her edge, her friends irritated the hell out of me and by the halfway mark I needed more than sex to keep my interest.
The author's writing is sound, the early story development showed promise and whilst I did like Matt, nothing really stood out about him. Had the storyline been stronger sooner then I may well have persevered, but unfortunately on this occasion I wasn't invested enough to see them get their HEA.
Copy received courtesy of Loveswept via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
November 18, 2015
Elizabeth has always been the good girl, doing what her parents expect of her and striving for her perfect life with a future perfect husband and future perfect kids. When she goes to a bachelorette party at a strip club, she is disgusted by all the gyrating and pelvic thrusting - she doesn't understand how anyone could get turned on by that. Until, her eyes meet a handsome stranger by the bar and she feels an instant attraction. Elizabeth doesn't know that the handsome stranger is actually the owner of the club and stripper Matt. Matt sees the real Elizabeth hidden under the perfect girl she pretends to be and he challenges her to let loose a little.
I really enjoyed this story. At first, I kind of hated Elizabeth. She was really closed-minded and came across as a big snob but the more the story went on, it was easier to like her. This was super hot with A LOT of super steamy scenes. Elizabeth and Matt had amazing chemistry in the bedroom (or in the car, beside the car, in the office, etc..) There were a couple minor things I didn't like but overall I really enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more by this author!
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
I really enjoyed this story. At first, I kind of hated Elizabeth. She was really closed-minded and came across as a big snob but the more the story went on, it was easier to like her. This was super hot with A LOT of super steamy scenes. Elizabeth and Matt had amazing chemistry in the bedroom (or in the car, beside the car, in the office, etc..) There were a couple minor things I didn't like but overall I really enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more by this author!
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
December 10, 2015
DNR.
Didn't like the characters at all. Couldn't get through this....
Didn't like the characters at all. Couldn't get through this....
January 10, 2017
This was so hot!
Ok ok, it was a bit over the top and everything was well, not too realistic. But who cares?!?! This was damn hot!
If you want sexy, fast, easy read, you've found your book!
Ok ok, it was a bit over the top and everything was well, not too realistic. But who cares?!?! This was damn hot!
If you want sexy, fast, easy read, you've found your book!
Read
April 3, 2017The cover? Love!! The book? It's a wrap at 23%! Elizabeth is rubbing one off too many times for me. I've rolled my eyes more times than I can count. This book is just not for me.
October 11, 2024
If Claire Kent writes it, chances are I will read it and love it.
There isn't a lot that CK can do wrong. I loved this one! Matt wasn't her typical MMC that I have read it other books. He does make some mistakes that made me want to shake him. But I still loved the story. Elizabeth is tight-laced people pleaser while Matt is a cocky semi-retired stripper and club owner. I did get a bit frustrated that Matt was so pushy for her to come back and almost demand that she love the club/ stripping in order to really feel free. But I think it was more of him projecting and looking for validation. I do like that Matt owns up to feelings and earns Elizabeth's trust.
I'm pretty hesitant to pick up books where the characters work as a stripper. But I did like that Matt was retired and didn't relish in this work. We see more into his past and realized why he is working in the club. I did love that from the very beginning, Matt only had eyes for Elizabeth.
Overall, it was a fun story that was focused on the couple. I'm so glad she re-released this story on KU.
There isn't a lot that CK can do wrong. I loved this one! Matt wasn't her typical MMC that I have read it other books. He does make some mistakes that made me want to shake him. But I still loved the story. Elizabeth is tight-laced people pleaser while Matt is a cocky semi-retired stripper and club owner. I did get a bit frustrated that Matt was so pushy for her to come back and almost demand that she love the club/ stripping in order to really feel free. But I think it was more of him projecting and looking for validation. I do like that Matt owns up to feelings and earns Elizabeth's trust.
I'm pretty hesitant to pick up books where the characters work as a stripper. But I did like that Matt was retired and didn't relish in this work. We see more into his past and realized why he is working in the club. I did love that from the very beginning, Matt only had eyes for Elizabeth.
Overall, it was a fun story that was focused on the couple. I'm so glad she re-released this story on KU.
March 16, 2016
ARC received for review
Good girl goes to a bachelorette party at a strip club and is bored. Then she meets the owner/sometimes stripper. "Relationship" goes on for a month with lots of hot sex. They break up in the middle of scandal, and then later start back up a syrup-y sweet relationship with a happily ever after. Her one friend, Melissa, I just wanted to smack in the head.
Good girl goes to a bachelorette party at a strip club and is bored. Then she meets the owner/sometimes stripper. "Relationship" goes on for a month with lots of hot sex. They break up in the middle of scandal, and then later start back up a syrup-y sweet relationship with a happily ever after. Her one friend, Melissa, I just wanted to smack in the head.
July 6, 2025
Before she started writing her dystopian series Claire Kent wrote contemporary romances. A few of which I have loved!
Though this isn’t my most favourite of her contemporaries that she’s written, this was still an enjoyable read.
Though this isn’t my most favourite of her contemporaries that she’s written, this was still an enjoyable read.
January 3, 2025
Taking It Off by Claire Kent brings to readers the story of 26 year old Elizabeth Marks, art therapist working at an exclusive preschool in Boston, and Matt Stokes, owner of a male strip club called Bare Assets, a man with a tough past. Elizabeth comes from a wealthy and influential family, a father who is involved in politics, and as a result, Elizabeth struggles with meeting the expectations of her parents and balancing the desire for a structured, picture-perfect life. Matt who inherits the strip club from his father, is a man who went through a difficult upbringing, which includes dealing with mother’s addiction.
Elizabeth and Matt crosses paths when she reluctantly attends her college roommate’s bachelorette party held at Bare Assets. Given Elizabeth’s nature, she is uncomfortable with the club’s atmosphere and the performers, but notices Matt who stands apart from the others, in his role of overseeing the events as it happens at the bar. When Matt, after a brief conversation with Elizabeth challenges her to return to the club twice a week for a month to see if her feelings for the club changes, this serves to be the foundation of the relationship that burgeons to life between them.
While Elizabeth and Matt could not be more different from each other in terms of upbringing and status in life, Elizabeth is nevertheless drawn to the raw masculinity that is Matt. While Matt has long since given up performing at the club, he nevertheless puts up a show when it comes to Elizabeth.Both believe that their “just-for-sex” affair would be amount to nothing, and when it starts to transform into something more and tangible, each reacts differently to the change.
With the increasing emotional intensity of their encounters, both are forced to face the fact that even though they are as different as two people can be, there is no denying that they somehow fit and mesh well with each other. Elizabeth who starts out as a perfectionist, bound by familial and societal expectations, who grows into someone willing to explore her desires and challenge her boundaries made me admire her in spades. Her struggle to balance personal aspirations with external pressures makes her relatable and her vulnerability and moments of self-doubt adds depth to her character.
I also loved the fact that she is able to hold her own in difficult situations, especially when standing up to Matt during conflicts, and her inner determination to prioritize what is meaningful for her. Matt, despite his tough exterior and rough background, reveals the side of him that is caring, especially when it comes to dealing with his mother’s addiction, adding a layer to his otherwise strong, and at times cold and aloof nature that acts as an emotional front. Matt’s playful, confident nature which challenges Elizabeth makes him compelling and sexy, all in one.
While Matt is the one with the tough exterior, that in fact makes him more vulnerable and susceptible to the package that Elizabeth presents, totally different from the women he typically engages with. Her kindness, intelligence, and vulnerability lures him in, and it is not long before he starts to see her as more than temporary fling. Matt therefore, has his work cut out for him when it comes to convincing Elizabeth to let go of her vision of a picture perfect life and give them a chance over her preconceived notions of what she wants in a partner.
The chemistry between Matt and Elizabeth is fiery and I loved how they are able to push each other out of their comfort zones in bed and out of it. The combination of Matt’s rawness and Elizabeth’s refinement creates a dynamic that is intriguing and emotionally charged, giving the story the angst factor it deserved.
This story, while not as polished as the Ms. Kent’s more recent works, is still engaging. The narrative however, does miss out on fully exploring how Elizabeth’s parents perceive the relationship and what ultimately becomes of Matt’s situation with his mother, which could have added further depth to the story.
Highly recommended for fans of contemporary romances that bring together refined, classy heroines and rugged, rough-around-the-edges heroes who unexpectedly become the best thing that ever happened to them.
Final Verdict: Taking It Off by Claire Kent delivers a steamy and emotionally charged romance that bridges the divide between two vastly different worlds.
Rating = 4/5
For more reviews and quotes, please visit A Maldivian's Passion for Romance
Elizabeth and Matt crosses paths when she reluctantly attends her college roommate’s bachelorette party held at Bare Assets. Given Elizabeth’s nature, she is uncomfortable with the club’s atmosphere and the performers, but notices Matt who stands apart from the others, in his role of overseeing the events as it happens at the bar. When Matt, after a brief conversation with Elizabeth challenges her to return to the club twice a week for a month to see if her feelings for the club changes, this serves to be the foundation of the relationship that burgeons to life between them.
While Elizabeth and Matt could not be more different from each other in terms of upbringing and status in life, Elizabeth is nevertheless drawn to the raw masculinity that is Matt. While Matt has long since given up performing at the club, he nevertheless puts up a show when it comes to Elizabeth.Both believe that their “just-for-sex” affair would be amount to nothing, and when it starts to transform into something more and tangible, each reacts differently to the change.
With the increasing emotional intensity of their encounters, both are forced to face the fact that even though they are as different as two people can be, there is no denying that they somehow fit and mesh well with each other. Elizabeth who starts out as a perfectionist, bound by familial and societal expectations, who grows into someone willing to explore her desires and challenge her boundaries made me admire her in spades. Her struggle to balance personal aspirations with external pressures makes her relatable and her vulnerability and moments of self-doubt adds depth to her character.
I also loved the fact that she is able to hold her own in difficult situations, especially when standing up to Matt during conflicts, and her inner determination to prioritize what is meaningful for her. Matt, despite his tough exterior and rough background, reveals the side of him that is caring, especially when it comes to dealing with his mother’s addiction, adding a layer to his otherwise strong, and at times cold and aloof nature that acts as an emotional front. Matt’s playful, confident nature which challenges Elizabeth makes him compelling and sexy, all in one.
While Matt is the one with the tough exterior, that in fact makes him more vulnerable and susceptible to the package that Elizabeth presents, totally different from the women he typically engages with. Her kindness, intelligence, and vulnerability lures him in, and it is not long before he starts to see her as more than temporary fling. Matt therefore, has his work cut out for him when it comes to convincing Elizabeth to let go of her vision of a picture perfect life and give them a chance over her preconceived notions of what she wants in a partner.
The chemistry between Matt and Elizabeth is fiery and I loved how they are able to push each other out of their comfort zones in bed and out of it. The combination of Matt’s rawness and Elizabeth’s refinement creates a dynamic that is intriguing and emotionally charged, giving the story the angst factor it deserved.
This story, while not as polished as the Ms. Kent’s more recent works, is still engaging. The narrative however, does miss out on fully exploring how Elizabeth’s parents perceive the relationship and what ultimately becomes of Matt’s situation with his mother, which could have added further depth to the story.
Highly recommended for fans of contemporary romances that bring together refined, classy heroines and rugged, rough-around-the-edges heroes who unexpectedly become the best thing that ever happened to them.
Final Verdict: Taking It Off by Claire Kent delivers a steamy and emotionally charged romance that bridges the divide between two vastly different worlds.
Rating = 4/5
For more reviews and quotes, please visit A Maldivian's Passion for Romance
November 25, 2015
Matt owns a strip club and Elizabeth is there for the obligatory bride shower. She doesn't dig the scene at all until she catches a glimpse of him. They make a bet and she agrees to show for a month. They get to know eachother and connect sensually. I definitely see the attraction but I'm not sure that it goes very deep. Still an enjoyable read.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
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June 15, 2016ARC provided by the author and Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept via Netgalley in exchanged for an honest review.
December 21, 2015
A fülszöveg a Magic Mike-hoz hasonlítja a történetet, amit nem láttam, úgyhogy nem ez alapján választottam ezt a könyvet (és nem is a borító alapján ;)), egyszerűen nekem elég volt az írónő neve hozzá. ;)
Elizabeth normák szerint éli az életét. Jómódú családból származik, és olyan világban nőtt fel, ahol úgy nevelték, hogy a társadalmi elvárások nagyon is számítanak. Csak azért megy el egy nőknek való sztriptízbárba, mert az egyik barátnője lánybúcsúját tartják. Az előadást üresnek, hamisnak és felszínesnek tartja, miközben cseppet sem tud feloldódni… de kiszúrja azt a pasit a helyiségben, aki fel van öltözve, és felöltözve is sokkal dögösebb, mint az összes többi levetkőzve.
Matt Stokes-nak nem volt könnyű élete soha. Meg kellett küzdenie a mindennapi megélhetésért, miközben a mai napig megpróbálja támogatni az anyját, aki ezt meg sem érdemli. Már nagyon fiatalon az apja klubjában kezdett el dolgozni táncosként, majd ő lett a tulajdonos. Matt a klub – és saját maga – védelme érdekében szabályokat állít fel, amit mindenkinek kötelező betartani. Az egyik ilyen szabály, hogy vendégekkel nem randizunk soha. Matt-nek sikerült betartania a szabályt… egészen mostanáig.
Beszédbe elegyednek, és a férfi fogadást ajánl Elizabeth-nek: az elkövetkező 1 hónapban jöjjön el heti kétszer, és garantáltan meg fog változni a véleménye és élvezni fogja a show-t. Hogy biztos lehessen abban, a lány tényleg el fog jönni és tartja a szavát, olyat tesz, amit már nagyon rég: újra színpadra áll, és táncol – látszólag az egész közönségnek, valójában csak Elizabeth-nek…
Az elkövetkező hetek ezekről a találkákról szólnak. A fogadás azonban csak látszólag szól az előadások élvezeti faktoráról, valójában nagyon is a felszín alá kell nyúlni. Elizabeth ledöbben attól, hogy a férfi milyen gyorsan átlát rajta. Nem csoda, hogy nem találta még meg álmai férfiját, mivel egy álomképet kerget, ahogy erre Matt rátapint. Eltervezve éli az életét, nem enged soha az ösztöneinek, nem él a pillanatnak. Matt pedig elhatározza, hogy ezt az álarcot mindenképpen levarázsolja a lányról, és segít neki felfedezni önmagát és a benne rejlő, számára még ismeretlen rejtett tartalékait… Rávilágítja Elizabeth-et, hogy az általa elképzelt álomvilág sem kevésbé felszínes, mint a showműsor, és olyan nincs, hogy tökéletes élet.
A lány közben, minél inkább belebonyolódik a Matt-tel való kapcsolatába és felfedezi, hogy a barátai általa tökéletesnek hitt élete közel sem tökéletes, annál inkább feloldódik, és annál kevésbé érdekli, ami korábban nagyon is, hogy másoknak tökéletesen megfeleljen. Így aztán nem csak Matt lesz nyertes a fogadás megnyerésével, de a lány is, hiszen sikerül megtalálnia önmagát.
Mire eljutnak oda, hogy saját maguk számára bevallják az érzéseiket, nem biztos, hogy mindketten elég bátrak ahhoz, hogy kockáztatni merjenek… Matt bár az első pillanattól kezdve kiismerte a lányt és a félelmeit, eljön az a pont, mikor a saját démonaival is meg kell küzdenie ahhoz, hogy hinni tudjon magában és a kapcsolatukban, és az már nem olyan könnyű, mint másokról véleményt formálni…
A helyzetüket bonyolítja, hogy Elizabeth apja kormányzó akar lenni, így ahogy az várható, a családtagjait is előveszik… a média pedig, mint tudjuk, nagyon gusztustalan tud lenni.
Úgy érzem, az írónő ez a könyve hasonlít a legjobban az Escorted-hoz, és bár annak szintjéhez azért nem ér fel, de közelít hozzá.
Talán nem tökéletes könyv, de engem nem érdekelnek az esetleges hibák, és az sem, hogy a gr-en mennyire le van pontozva, az élvezeti faktor nálam 5 csillagos volt. Nem kell nagy mélységeket keresni a karakterekben, de az érzelmi fejlődés jól látható mindkét fél részéről, és ennél több nekem nem kell. A cím pedig nagyon találó, és ebben az esetben kétértelmű; valójában arra utal, hogy vessük le az érzelmi gátlásainkat. Már ha jól értettem az én nem tökéletes angolommal. ;)
Elizabeth normák szerint éli az életét. Jómódú családból származik, és olyan világban nőtt fel, ahol úgy nevelték, hogy a társadalmi elvárások nagyon is számítanak. Csak azért megy el egy nőknek való sztriptízbárba, mert az egyik barátnője lánybúcsúját tartják. Az előadást üresnek, hamisnak és felszínesnek tartja, miközben cseppet sem tud feloldódni… de kiszúrja azt a pasit a helyiségben, aki fel van öltözve, és felöltözve is sokkal dögösebb, mint az összes többi levetkőzve.
Matt Stokes-nak nem volt könnyű élete soha. Meg kellett küzdenie a mindennapi megélhetésért, miközben a mai napig megpróbálja támogatni az anyját, aki ezt meg sem érdemli. Már nagyon fiatalon az apja klubjában kezdett el dolgozni táncosként, majd ő lett a tulajdonos. Matt a klub – és saját maga – védelme érdekében szabályokat állít fel, amit mindenkinek kötelező betartani. Az egyik ilyen szabály, hogy vendégekkel nem randizunk soha. Matt-nek sikerült betartania a szabályt… egészen mostanáig.
Beszédbe elegyednek, és a férfi fogadást ajánl Elizabeth-nek: az elkövetkező 1 hónapban jöjjön el heti kétszer, és garantáltan meg fog változni a véleménye és élvezni fogja a show-t. Hogy biztos lehessen abban, a lány tényleg el fog jönni és tartja a szavát, olyat tesz, amit már nagyon rég: újra színpadra áll, és táncol – látszólag az egész közönségnek, valójában csak Elizabeth-nek…
Az elkövetkező hetek ezekről a találkákról szólnak. A fogadás azonban csak látszólag szól az előadások élvezeti faktoráról, valójában nagyon is a felszín alá kell nyúlni. Elizabeth ledöbben attól, hogy a férfi milyen gyorsan átlát rajta. Nem csoda, hogy nem találta még meg álmai férfiját, mivel egy álomképet kerget, ahogy erre Matt rátapint. Eltervezve éli az életét, nem enged soha az ösztöneinek, nem él a pillanatnak. Matt pedig elhatározza, hogy ezt az álarcot mindenképpen levarázsolja a lányról, és segít neki felfedezni önmagát és a benne rejlő, számára még ismeretlen rejtett tartalékait… Rávilágítja Elizabeth-et, hogy az általa elképzelt álomvilág sem kevésbé felszínes, mint a showműsor, és olyan nincs, hogy tökéletes élet.
A lány közben, minél inkább belebonyolódik a Matt-tel való kapcsolatába és felfedezi, hogy a barátai általa tökéletesnek hitt élete közel sem tökéletes, annál inkább feloldódik, és annál kevésbé érdekli, ami korábban nagyon is, hogy másoknak tökéletesen megfeleljen. Így aztán nem csak Matt lesz nyertes a fogadás megnyerésével, de a lány is, hiszen sikerül megtalálnia önmagát.
Mire eljutnak oda, hogy saját maguk számára bevallják az érzéseiket, nem biztos, hogy mindketten elég bátrak ahhoz, hogy kockáztatni merjenek… Matt bár az első pillanattól kezdve kiismerte a lányt és a félelmeit, eljön az a pont, mikor a saját démonaival is meg kell küzdenie ahhoz, hogy hinni tudjon magában és a kapcsolatukban, és az már nem olyan könnyű, mint másokról véleményt formálni…
A helyzetüket bonyolítja, hogy Elizabeth apja kormányzó akar lenni, így ahogy az várható, a családtagjait is előveszik… a média pedig, mint tudjuk, nagyon gusztustalan tud lenni.
Úgy érzem, az írónő ez a könyve hasonlít a legjobban az Escorted-hoz, és bár annak szintjéhez azért nem ér fel, de közelít hozzá.
Talán nem tökéletes könyv, de engem nem érdekelnek az esetleges hibák, és az sem, hogy a gr-en mennyire le van pontozva, az élvezeti faktor nálam 5 csillagos volt. Nem kell nagy mélységeket keresni a karakterekben, de az érzelmi fejlődés jól látható mindkét fél részéről, és ennél több nekem nem kell. A cím pedig nagyon találó, és ebben az esetben kétértelmű; valójában arra utal, hogy vessük le az érzelmi gátlásainkat. Már ha jól értettem az én nem tökéletes angolommal. ;)
December 16, 2015
I’ll admit that the cover is what caught my eye and after reading the description I figured I’d give the book a try. I mean who doesn’t like a story about the girl who’s always done the right thing finally cutting loose and finding herself thanks to a bad boy who isn’t totally a bad boy? And then add in the fact that he’s a stripper, well a partially retired one, but still so I had to check it out. And while it was an enjoyable read with some steamy moments as well as sweet ones it didn’t totally rock my world, I just liked it.
Elizabeth was a little difficult to warm up to, though I could understand where she was coming from. She is the definition of Miss Prim and Proper: always doing the right thing by taking the socially and morally acceptable route in all situations which would be fine if she truly believed in it instead of following the path that her parents set for and doing it only to please them. That need to please has dictated her entire existence and while I wanted to shake her and tell her to pull the stick out, I couldn’t help be give her the benefit of the doubt because of how she was raised.
Matt on the other hand I liked immediately. Confident, insightful, charming, sexy and just has that it factor that makes you take notice of him. And though he isn’t entirely happy with where he is at in his life, he still makes it work.
Their courtship is a bit unorthodox and has a bit of an erotic romance bent to it as Matt gets under her skin and forces Elizabeth to question her long held beliefs as to what she wants her life to be. I did enjoy watching as Elizabeth breaks out of the cage she put herself in and the bantering, if you will, between her and Matt was actually fun at times. But I do wish we’d gotten more of Matt and his own transformation, not that we don’t experience it, it’s just that much of the book focuses on Elizabeth and her metamorphosis and I thought Matt’s own metamorphosis had more to it and it would have been nice to witness him working his own demons out more.
The writing was done well and while there were some plot twists you could see coming, there were a few that were definite surprises. The pacing though was a bit off for me. The beginning started out strong but it lagged a bit in the middle and once the scandal broke things felt a bit rushed, but in the end everything that needed to be addressed and tied up were and the conclusion was satisfying.
The Bottom Line: Though this book didn’t rock my world it was still an enjoyable read.
~ ARC provided by Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review ~
Elizabeth was a little difficult to warm up to, though I could understand where she was coming from. She is the definition of Miss Prim and Proper: always doing the right thing by taking the socially and morally acceptable route in all situations which would be fine if she truly believed in it instead of following the path that her parents set for and doing it only to please them. That need to please has dictated her entire existence and while I wanted to shake her and tell her to pull the stick out, I couldn’t help be give her the benefit of the doubt because of how she was raised.
Matt on the other hand I liked immediately. Confident, insightful, charming, sexy and just has that it factor that makes you take notice of him. And though he isn’t entirely happy with where he is at in his life, he still makes it work.
Their courtship is a bit unorthodox and has a bit of an erotic romance bent to it as Matt gets under her skin and forces Elizabeth to question her long held beliefs as to what she wants her life to be. I did enjoy watching as Elizabeth breaks out of the cage she put herself in and the bantering, if you will, between her and Matt was actually fun at times. But I do wish we’d gotten more of Matt and his own transformation, not that we don’t experience it, it’s just that much of the book focuses on Elizabeth and her metamorphosis and I thought Matt’s own metamorphosis had more to it and it would have been nice to witness him working his own demons out more.
The writing was done well and while there were some plot twists you could see coming, there were a few that were definite surprises. The pacing though was a bit off for me. The beginning started out strong but it lagged a bit in the middle and once the scandal broke things felt a bit rushed, but in the end everything that needed to be addressed and tied up were and the conclusion was satisfying.
The Bottom Line: Though this book didn’t rock my world it was still an enjoyable read.
~ ARC provided by Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review ~
November 29, 2015
Kindly provided with an ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.....
5 "Strip Me Bare" Stars from me !!!
Holly crap I was all over this book. If I would have had the baby oil and Matt here in person I would have died a happy death !!!
Moving on to the proper review now my perverted nature is out in the open !!
This is Elizabeth and Matt's story. Elizabeth (like me *cough*) is wary about going to a strip club. Its sooooo not her thing, but being the dutiful person she is.......off she strut's as part of a bachelorette party to a male strip club. Here she meets Matt, he's the owner of said club and strips when he wants to. He can see Elizabeth is NOT enjoying the flesh on show, so he intervenes.......sneaky !!
Matt can tell Elizabeth comes from rather a demanding background and he does his best to free her of life's restrictions......free me Matt I cried to my kindle !.
Elizabeth tries to break her boundaries and be the women she wants to be with Matt's encouragement.....but can two people from very different world and up bringing's really work in the long run. Is passion enough ?.......or maybe LOVE will be enough ?. There is guts, drama and a lot of push and pull in this relationship, so you've been warned. Oh, yes and lets not forget SMOKIN' HOT ROMANCE !!!!
I would say.......you'll have to read it and see.
Well done Claire. Bless you for the duel POV !!!
Many thanks Netgalley for this opportunity.
Later peeps xx
5 "Strip Me Bare" Stars from me !!!
Holly crap I was all over this book. If I would have had the baby oil and Matt here in person I would have died a happy death !!!
Moving on to the proper review now my perverted nature is out in the open !!
This is Elizabeth and Matt's story. Elizabeth (like me *cough*) is wary about going to a strip club. Its sooooo not her thing, but being the dutiful person she is.......off she strut's as part of a bachelorette party to a male strip club. Here she meets Matt, he's the owner of said club and strips when he wants to. He can see Elizabeth is NOT enjoying the flesh on show, so he intervenes.......sneaky !!
Matt can tell Elizabeth comes from rather a demanding background and he does his best to free her of life's restrictions......free me Matt I cried to my kindle !.
Elizabeth tries to break her boundaries and be the women she wants to be with Matt's encouragement.....but can two people from very different world and up bringing's really work in the long run. Is passion enough ?.......or maybe LOVE will be enough ?. There is guts, drama and a lot of push and pull in this relationship, so you've been warned. Oh, yes and lets not forget SMOKIN' HOT ROMANCE !!!!
I would say.......you'll have to read it and see.
Well done Claire. Bless you for the duel POV !!!
Many thanks Netgalley for this opportunity.
Later peeps xx
October 27, 2015
ARC Provided by NetGalley
What an Awesome Story! I mean who doesn't want a book about a stripper... LoL I enjoyed this story so much, I loved Matt and his sexiness and the sexual tension between him and Elizabeth was so HOT! The only thing that I didn't like was Elizabeth's friends. I mean seriously what kind of friends are these. Even Katie whom is suppose to be her best friend, was just making her feel more guilty for not moving in with her parents.
Other than that, I loved how Elizabeth was looking for this stable guy who fits into her picture of the perfect guy, but then she had it all along with Matt.
What an Awesome Story! I mean who doesn't want a book about a stripper... LoL I enjoyed this story so much, I loved Matt and his sexiness and the sexual tension between him and Elizabeth was so HOT! The only thing that I didn't like was Elizabeth's friends. I mean seriously what kind of friends are these. Even Katie whom is suppose to be her best friend, was just making her feel more guilty for not moving in with her parents.
Other than that, I loved how Elizabeth was looking for this stable guy who fits into her picture of the perfect guy, but then she had it all along with Matt.
November 24, 2015
2 stars
I truly wanted to love this book, I mean just look at that cover, RIGHT?
But unfortunately Taking It Off just wasn't for me.
I failed to connect with the characters and the storyline was just OK.
I can see this book connecting with a lot of readers who enjoy having lot's of sexy times in their books, I just didn't feel it. Maybe there's something wrong with me lol
Thank you to Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept via NetGalley for the advance copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
I truly wanted to love this book, I mean just look at that cover, RIGHT?
But unfortunately Taking It Off just wasn't for me.
I failed to connect with the characters and the storyline was just OK.
I can see this book connecting with a lot of readers who enjoy having lot's of sexy times in their books, I just didn't feel it. Maybe there's something wrong with me lol
Thank you to Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept via NetGalley for the advance copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
November 10, 2025
2017 = 2 stars / It's okay.
2023 = skimmed to write a review
A wealthy, reserved woman discovers how to relax and be herself after meeting a super sexy man at a strip club. It's a story of opposites attracting, leading to happiness and personal growth, with plenty of erotic sex scenes along the way.
🇹🇭🇪 🇨🇭🇦🇷🇦🇨🇹🇪🇷🇸:
Elizabeth is an art therapist, highly-educated, an overachiever, and repressed.
She has high standards for romantic relationships.
She was looking for an educated, attractive professional who would fit into her social circle, wouldn't be intimidated by her family's affluence, and was basically moral and upstanding.
Matt is a tattooed former stripper who owns a strip club, and the caretaker of his drug-addicted mother. He's not used to letting people in.
🇹🇭🇪 🇵🇱🇴🇹:
Elizabeth goes to a strip club for a bachelorette party, and finds it all vulgar and not sexy.
Matt catches her eye while there. She's ridiculously attracted to him.
Matt convinces Elizabeth to visit the strip club twice a week for a month. After a special onstage performance that turns her on, they’re drawn together and start a sex-only relationship fueled by their mutual attraction.
🇹🇭🇪 🇨🇴🇳🇫🇱🇮🇨🇹:
A video of the MCs having sex in the parking lot makes the news. Elizabeth’s dad, running for governor, is not happy. She becomes estranged from her parents and loses her job. Then she shuts down for a while.
Later, they reunite, but Elizabeth wants a committed relationship, while Matt hesitates. They separate for a few weeks. During that time, Elizabeth gets a new job and a new place to live. Eventually, Matt comes back, and they become a couple. In the epilogue, they finally say “I love yous.”
🇼🇭🇦🇹 🇮 🇩🇮🇩🇳'🇹 🇱🇮🇰🇪:
☹ For a book about a retired stripper/club owner and tons of sex, it wasn't that sexy.
✕ The repetitive sex scenes felt fake.
𝗛𝗲𝗿 𝗽𝘂𝘀𝘀𝘆 𝗰𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗵𝗲𝘀/𝘁𝗵𝗿𝗼𝗯𝘀/𝘀𝗽𝗮𝘀𝗺𝘀 𝗮 𝗹𝗼𝘁:
● her pussy clenched at the words and the tone of his voice.
● her pussy clenching every time he pushed against her.
● Her pussy was throbbing so urgently...
● her pussy started to clench hard...
● Her pussy clamped down hard around his cock...
● Elizabeth's pussy clenched hard...
● Her pussy clenched hard...
● Her pussy spasmed and clamped down on his fingers...
𝗣𝗹𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗴𝗿𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴:
● She was grunting softly...
● her pants turned to breathy grunts...
● both of them were grunting as they f'd hard and primitive as animals.
● her soft grunts became ragged and helpless.
● She was beyond forming words, was only making strange grunts...
● he was grunting with his rhythm.
𝗦𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗰𝗹𝗮𝘄𝗶𝗻𝗴:
● Her fingernails dug into his skin...
● she dug her fingernails into his back
● Her fingernails clawed at the hard muscles of his back and her breasts were bouncing wildly...
𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗙'𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗶𝘀 𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗱:
● he wanted to F her hard.
● "I want you to take me hard."
● He was rutting like an animal now, fast and hard...
● F'ing her hard and fast.
● He made a rough sound as he came hard and violently...
● He pushed into her hard and fast...
● their bodies built up a hard, fast rhythm they couldn't control...
● He was thrusting so hard and deep now that it actually hurt a little...
While the ending was the best part, I found the sex scenes unsatisfying. I prefer a few tender, loving moments, which were missing. Even in the epilogue, after they’re in love, the sex was still rough and there was no sweet intimacy.
Porny sex scenes aren't for me.
2023 = skimmed to write a review
A wealthy, reserved woman discovers how to relax and be herself after meeting a super sexy man at a strip club. It's a story of opposites attracting, leading to happiness and personal growth, with plenty of erotic sex scenes along the way.
🇹🇭🇪 🇨🇭🇦🇷🇦🇨🇹🇪🇷🇸:
Elizabeth is an art therapist, highly-educated, an overachiever, and repressed.
She has high standards for romantic relationships.
She was looking for an educated, attractive professional who would fit into her social circle, wouldn't be intimidated by her family's affluence, and was basically moral and upstanding.
Matt is a tattooed former stripper who owns a strip club, and the caretaker of his drug-addicted mother. He's not used to letting people in.
🇹🇭🇪 🇵🇱🇴🇹:
Elizabeth goes to a strip club for a bachelorette party, and finds it all vulgar and not sexy.
Matt catches her eye while there. She's ridiculously attracted to him.
Matt convinces Elizabeth to visit the strip club twice a week for a month. After a special onstage performance that turns her on, they’re drawn together and start a sex-only relationship fueled by their mutual attraction.
🇹🇭🇪 🇨🇴🇳🇫🇱🇮🇨🇹:
A video of the MCs having sex in the parking lot makes the news. Elizabeth’s dad, running for governor, is not happy. She becomes estranged from her parents and loses her job. Then she shuts down for a while.
Later, they reunite, but Elizabeth wants a committed relationship, while Matt hesitates. They separate for a few weeks. During that time, Elizabeth gets a new job and a new place to live. Eventually, Matt comes back, and they become a couple. In the epilogue, they finally say “I love yous.”
🇼🇭🇦🇹 🇮 🇩🇮🇩🇳'🇹 🇱🇮🇰🇪:
☹ For a book about a retired stripper/club owner and tons of sex, it wasn't that sexy.
✕ The repetitive sex scenes felt fake.
𝗛𝗲𝗿 𝗽𝘂𝘀𝘀𝘆 𝗰𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗵𝗲𝘀/𝘁𝗵𝗿𝗼𝗯𝘀/𝘀𝗽𝗮𝘀𝗺𝘀 𝗮 𝗹𝗼𝘁:
● her pussy clenched at the words and the tone of his voice.
● her pussy clenching every time he pushed against her.
● Her pussy was throbbing so urgently...
● her pussy started to clench hard...
● Her pussy clamped down hard around his cock...
● Elizabeth's pussy clenched hard...
● Her pussy clenched hard...
● Her pussy spasmed and clamped down on his fingers...
𝗣𝗹𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗴𝗿𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴:
● She was grunting softly...
● her pants turned to breathy grunts...
● both of them were grunting as they f'd hard and primitive as animals.
● her soft grunts became ragged and helpless.
● She was beyond forming words, was only making strange grunts...
● he was grunting with his rhythm.
𝗦𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗰𝗹𝗮𝘄𝗶𝗻𝗴:
● Her fingernails dug into his skin...
● she dug her fingernails into his back
● Her fingernails clawed at the hard muscles of his back and her breasts were bouncing wildly...
𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗙'𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗶𝘀 𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗱:
● he wanted to F her hard.
● "I want you to take me hard."
● He was rutting like an animal now, fast and hard...
● F'ing her hard and fast.
● He made a rough sound as he came hard and violently...
● He pushed into her hard and fast...
● their bodies built up a hard, fast rhythm they couldn't control...
● He was thrusting so hard and deep now that it actually hurt a little...
While the ending was the best part, I found the sex scenes unsatisfying. I prefer a few tender, loving moments, which were missing. Even in the epilogue, after they’re in love, the sex was still rough and there was no sweet intimacy.
Porny sex scenes aren't for me.
November 22, 2015
http://www.blue-moon.fr/spip.php?arti...
Je suis une lectrice totalement acquise à Claire Kent ou Noelle Adams. Sous le premier pseudo, elle écrit des romances plus épicées, ce qui est le cas ici. Le sujet peut paraître léger mais il ne l’est définitivement pas et c’est une romance très touchante qu’elle nous offre entre un propriétaire d’un club de strip-tease pour femmes, ancien strip-teaser lui-même.
Si vous avez envie de retrouver Magic Mike, ce n’est pas vraiment un livre pour vous. Il y aura assez peu d’évocations du spectacle donné par de superbes jeunes hommes très bien de leur personne alors que de nombreuses scènes se déroulent dans ce club. C’est la première surprise de ce livre qui est en réalité plus profond que ça. Matt dirige donc un club qui lui vient de son père et gère sa mère tant bien que mal. Elle se drogue et est un poids permanent dans sa vie. Matt est fatigué de ce monde. Quant à Elizabeth, l’héroïne, elle va se retrouver dans ce club pour assister à l’enterrement de vie de jeune fille d’une amie et s’y ennuyer profondément. Issue d’une famille aisée, elle mène une vie plutôt rangée et n’aime pas trop ce milieu.
La roman va donc rapidement tourner à la rencontre entre deux personnes socialement très différentes. Matt est intéressée par Elizabeth et un peu vexé de son rejet immédiat. Il va la mettre au défi de revenir et de se lâcher un peu. C’est la raison pour laquelle, beaucoup de moments du livre sont dans ce club, en plein spectacle. La vision qu’en donne Claire Kent est intéressante. Pour une fois, nous n’avons pas affaire à la femme objet mais à l’homme objet et ce n’est pas plus agréable d’ailleurs et elle martèle le message que l’attraction, au moins pour certaines personnes, ne peut as résider uniquement dans un corps exposé dans des scènes très sensuelles. C’est plutôt convainquant.
Le reste est du pur Claire Kent ou Noelle Adams. La relation se construit lentement à partir de rien ou presque. Matt est particulièrement attachant. Il est réservé, blasé de la vie, pas du tout sûr de lui alors qu’il a accompli pas mal de choses dans sa vie et qu’il peut s’appuyer sur des atouts physiques évidents. Elizabeth est une héroïne plus commune dans l’oeuvre de l’auteure. Equilibrée, bien dans sa peau et sa vie, elle ne semble pas avoir besoin de changer quoi que ce soit sauf que Matt va bousculer ses certitudes.
La romance est érotique, les scènes nombreuses et très bien écrites. Si elles sont explicites, ce qui domaine c’est l’impression de tendresse et d’intensité qui se dégage peu à peu car les deux héros sont très vite au-delà de la simple relation physique. Tout évolue à un rythme soutenu mais cohérent.
C’est un bon cru de l’auteure qui avec un sujet apparemment racoleur fait une très belle histoire d’amour beaucoup plus sensible qu’on pouvait s’y attendre.
Je suis une lectrice totalement acquise à Claire Kent ou Noelle Adams. Sous le premier pseudo, elle écrit des romances plus épicées, ce qui est le cas ici. Le sujet peut paraître léger mais il ne l’est définitivement pas et c’est une romance très touchante qu’elle nous offre entre un propriétaire d’un club de strip-tease pour femmes, ancien strip-teaser lui-même.
Si vous avez envie de retrouver Magic Mike, ce n’est pas vraiment un livre pour vous. Il y aura assez peu d’évocations du spectacle donné par de superbes jeunes hommes très bien de leur personne alors que de nombreuses scènes se déroulent dans ce club. C’est la première surprise de ce livre qui est en réalité plus profond que ça. Matt dirige donc un club qui lui vient de son père et gère sa mère tant bien que mal. Elle se drogue et est un poids permanent dans sa vie. Matt est fatigué de ce monde. Quant à Elizabeth, l’héroïne, elle va se retrouver dans ce club pour assister à l’enterrement de vie de jeune fille d’une amie et s’y ennuyer profondément. Issue d’une famille aisée, elle mène une vie plutôt rangée et n’aime pas trop ce milieu.
La roman va donc rapidement tourner à la rencontre entre deux personnes socialement très différentes. Matt est intéressée par Elizabeth et un peu vexé de son rejet immédiat. Il va la mettre au défi de revenir et de se lâcher un peu. C’est la raison pour laquelle, beaucoup de moments du livre sont dans ce club, en plein spectacle. La vision qu’en donne Claire Kent est intéressante. Pour une fois, nous n’avons pas affaire à la femme objet mais à l’homme objet et ce n’est pas plus agréable d’ailleurs et elle martèle le message que l’attraction, au moins pour certaines personnes, ne peut as résider uniquement dans un corps exposé dans des scènes très sensuelles. C’est plutôt convainquant.
Le reste est du pur Claire Kent ou Noelle Adams. La relation se construit lentement à partir de rien ou presque. Matt est particulièrement attachant. Il est réservé, blasé de la vie, pas du tout sûr de lui alors qu’il a accompli pas mal de choses dans sa vie et qu’il peut s’appuyer sur des atouts physiques évidents. Elizabeth est une héroïne plus commune dans l’oeuvre de l’auteure. Equilibrée, bien dans sa peau et sa vie, elle ne semble pas avoir besoin de changer quoi que ce soit sauf que Matt va bousculer ses certitudes.
La romance est érotique, les scènes nombreuses et très bien écrites. Si elles sont explicites, ce qui domaine c’est l’impression de tendresse et d’intensité qui se dégage peu à peu car les deux héros sont très vite au-delà de la simple relation physique. Tout évolue à un rythme soutenu mais cohérent.
C’est un bon cru de l’auteure qui avec un sujet apparemment racoleur fait une très belle histoire d’amour beaucoup plus sensible qu’on pouvait s’y attendre.
November 22, 2015
I haven't seen the movie Magic Mike (I know, I'm an anomaly among romance readers) but I was intrigued by the good girl/bad boy premise of this story. Elizabeth is a special needs teacher for elementary school, daughter of a man on a political trajectory and an all around good girl. When a bachelorette party leads to a strip club, she rolls her eyes, but toughs it out, not at all interested in the men on stage or the raucous atmosphere. But the owner of the club, Matt, sees in her a woman just waiting for the chance to lose the stiff facade and get down and dirty - and he wants it to be with him. Now mostly out of the stripping mode, he's willing to dance for Elizabeth if it will get her to notice him. And notice him she does. A bet, a dare, and a week later, Elizabeth returns to the strip club determined to prove to Matt that he's so not her type. But one things leads to another and suddenly she's having the hottest sex of her life! But is sex all there is between them or can the intimacy they develop sexually turn into a real relationship?
I quite enjoyed this story. I've always liked Claire Kent's writing and I know to expect lots of hot scenes and this one definitely has those. I actually would have been just as satisfied with the story if there were less sex scenes (I know! so bizarre to say that!) as they kind of blended into each other after a while. But what I really liked was seeing Matt and Elizabeth have to come to terms with the parts of themselves that they've hidden away for so long. For Elizabeth it's doing things for herself, like dating a man whom her family wouldn't approve of, just because she can. And for Matt, it's realizing that if he wants to have something with Elizabeth for the long term, he'll have to really think about what he wants in the future and not just live with the status quo. Both of them have complicated relationships with their families that affect how they interact with each other, and what expectations they have for each other. I really liked having both points of view told, getting into Matt's head was particularly interesting. The motivations for why he chose this career and his feelings about it now versus as a younger man are delved into and make it clear he's just not a pretty face with a killer body. The behind the scenes look at the strip club was quite neat to read about too. I found it an entertaining and sexy read. 4 stars.
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
I quite enjoyed this story. I've always liked Claire Kent's writing and I know to expect lots of hot scenes and this one definitely has those. I actually would have been just as satisfied with the story if there were less sex scenes (I know! so bizarre to say that!) as they kind of blended into each other after a while. But what I really liked was seeing Matt and Elizabeth have to come to terms with the parts of themselves that they've hidden away for so long. For Elizabeth it's doing things for herself, like dating a man whom her family wouldn't approve of, just because she can. And for Matt, it's realizing that if he wants to have something with Elizabeth for the long term, he'll have to really think about what he wants in the future and not just live with the status quo. Both of them have complicated relationships with their families that affect how they interact with each other, and what expectations they have for each other. I really liked having both points of view told, getting into Matt's head was particularly interesting. The motivations for why he chose this career and his feelings about it now versus as a younger man are delved into and make it clear he's just not a pretty face with a killer body. The behind the scenes look at the strip club was quite neat to read about too. I found it an entertaining and sexy read. 4 stars.
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
June 29, 2017
3,5 stars
This is the third book that I read from Claire Kent and although I did enjoy the story, it didn’t had the same emotional effect on me like ‘Escorted’ or ‘Hold’. I think that part of the reason for that is simple because I read this story too soon after those two fantastic stories. Sometimes it’s better to wait because you always compare, don’t you?
Preschool teacher Elizabeth Marks has always been a good girl and woman. Because the last thing that she wants to do is disappoint other people, especially her parents.
But then one night Elizabeth meets Matt Stokes, he’s the owner of the male strip joint where a friend of Elizabeth is celebrating her bachelorette party. Elizabeth didn’t know that Matt was the owner when they spoke but he did make a big impression on her and when he left her, he left with a challenge for her!
Matt was intrigued by the quiet woman, who so clearly wasn’t enjoying all the naked men before her. And when they spoke, he couldn’t stop himself from challenging her to come back to the male strip joint frequently for one month. He hoped but never expected her to accept it.
But Elizabeth does accept his challenge and with each visit she’s letting more and more of her guard down but Matt never thought that the same would happen to him! Things are getting really hot and emotional between them but both of them don’t know what to do with it. Both are convinced that they are looking for different things in life, that they aren’t perfect for each other.
But sometimes perfect isn’t what you need. Sometimes your heart want totally different things then your mind.
But that isn’t the only problem that they face, there’s also Elizabeth parents and her father political carrier. A scandal from his only daughter is the last thing that they want.
Is Elizabeth ready to choose for herself and can Matt open his heart to love again?
‘Taking it off’ is a good story. I liked the strip scenes where Matt try to seduce Elizabeth and the sex scenes were hot. I liked both characters and the fact that the story was told in both POV’s.
I will definitely read more stories from Claire Kent.
This is the third book that I read from Claire Kent and although I did enjoy the story, it didn’t had the same emotional effect on me like ‘Escorted’ or ‘Hold’. I think that part of the reason for that is simple because I read this story too soon after those two fantastic stories. Sometimes it’s better to wait because you always compare, don’t you?
Preschool teacher Elizabeth Marks has always been a good girl and woman. Because the last thing that she wants to do is disappoint other people, especially her parents.
But then one night Elizabeth meets Matt Stokes, he’s the owner of the male strip joint where a friend of Elizabeth is celebrating her bachelorette party. Elizabeth didn’t know that Matt was the owner when they spoke but he did make a big impression on her and when he left her, he left with a challenge for her!
Matt was intrigued by the quiet woman, who so clearly wasn’t enjoying all the naked men before her. And when they spoke, he couldn’t stop himself from challenging her to come back to the male strip joint frequently for one month. He hoped but never expected her to accept it.
But Elizabeth does accept his challenge and with each visit she’s letting more and more of her guard down but Matt never thought that the same would happen to him! Things are getting really hot and emotional between them but both of them don’t know what to do with it. Both are convinced that they are looking for different things in life, that they aren’t perfect for each other.
But sometimes perfect isn’t what you need. Sometimes your heart want totally different things then your mind.
But that isn’t the only problem that they face, there’s also Elizabeth parents and her father political carrier. A scandal from his only daughter is the last thing that they want.
Is Elizabeth ready to choose for herself and can Matt open his heart to love again?
‘Taking it off’ is a good story. I liked the strip scenes where Matt try to seduce Elizabeth and the sex scenes were hot. I liked both characters and the fact that the story was told in both POV’s.
I will definitely read more stories from Claire Kent.
December 2, 2015
Read the full review on Bookaholics Not-So-Anonymous.
Note: This ARC was provided by Loveswept in exchange for an honest review.
Taking It Off is a standalone contemporary romance from bestselling author Claire Kent and is about a buttoned-up teacher named Elizabeth Marks who finds herself lusting over, and later, falling for strip club owner Matt Stokes. While Matt was a nice guy trying to create a life for himself beyond the strip club and the memories it held for him, Elizabeth was a far more difficult main character to like. She came off as someone who thought a tad too highly of herself and had a tendency of looking down on the activities of people who didn't quite meet up to her standards of propriety. Though she certainly dropped her panties rather quickly for Matt, so obviously, he was right in testing her prudish way of thinking. No one else really stood out, except maybe for Robbie, the bartender at Bare Assets and a sounding board for Matt.
There's a lot of sex that goes on between Matt and Elizabeth, and shocker of all shockers, I found myself wishing there were fewer scenes involving them getting it on. Why? I wanted more of the story to pull me in, because I had high hopes for this book, what with it's enticing blurb and all. I wanted to be able to become invested in both Matt and Elizabeth, so that I could truly cheer them on as they tried to make their way to the happily-ever-after we all know is coming. The thing was, as much as I though Matt was a good guy, he wasn't enough for me to truly fall in love with the back. It just had an overall feeling of lacking something essential, and, admittedly, my mind wandered a lot while I was reading the story, starting and stopping numerous times. Taking It Off was okay but it did leave me wanting, so I'm giving it three stars. ♥
Note: This ARC was provided by Loveswept in exchange for an honest review.
Taking It Off is a standalone contemporary romance from bestselling author Claire Kent and is about a buttoned-up teacher named Elizabeth Marks who finds herself lusting over, and later, falling for strip club owner Matt Stokes. While Matt was a nice guy trying to create a life for himself beyond the strip club and the memories it held for him, Elizabeth was a far more difficult main character to like. She came off as someone who thought a tad too highly of herself and had a tendency of looking down on the activities of people who didn't quite meet up to her standards of propriety. Though she certainly dropped her panties rather quickly for Matt, so obviously, he was right in testing her prudish way of thinking. No one else really stood out, except maybe for Robbie, the bartender at Bare Assets and a sounding board for Matt.
There's a lot of sex that goes on between Matt and Elizabeth, and shocker of all shockers, I found myself wishing there were fewer scenes involving them getting it on. Why? I wanted more of the story to pull me in, because I had high hopes for this book, what with it's enticing blurb and all. I wanted to be able to become invested in both Matt and Elizabeth, so that I could truly cheer them on as they tried to make their way to the happily-ever-after we all know is coming. The thing was, as much as I though Matt was a good guy, he wasn't enough for me to truly fall in love with the back. It just had an overall feeling of lacking something essential, and, admittedly, my mind wandered a lot while I was reading the story, starting and stopping numerous times. Taking It Off was okay but it did leave me wanting, so I'm giving it three stars. ♥
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