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Rough Love #1
Torment Me
Chere isn’t happy with her life as a high-class escort, but she can’t seem to find the motivation to change. Then she takes on a mysterious new client who won’t share his name, or even allow her to see what he looks like. Their first session is a headlong tumble into tantalizing sensation and fearsome control that leaves Chere picking up emotional pieces she didn’t know she had.
“W” is roughly seductive, and dominant to the core. His demands shock her as much as they turn her on, and soon the line between bad choices and emotional fulfillment becomes alarmingly blurred…
Note: This book is super rough. There’s love, but it’s rough. Hence, Rough Love series. This full-length novel is book one of a three-part storyline that culminates in Happily Ever After. But, full disclosure, it’s going to be a rough ride.
“W” is roughly seductive, and dominant to the core. His demands shock her as much as they turn her on, and soon the line between bad choices and emotional fulfillment becomes alarmingly blurred…
Note: This book is super rough. There’s love, but it’s rough. Hence, Rough Love series. This full-length novel is book one of a three-part storyline that culminates in Happily Ever After. But, full disclosure, it’s going to be a rough ride.
212 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 30, 2015
170 people are currently reading
2824 people want to read
About the author
Annabel Joseph
70 books2,217 followersAnnabel Joseph is a NYT and USA Today bestselling BDSM erotic romance author. She writes mainly contemporary romance, although she has been known to dabble in the medieval and Regency eras. She is recognized for writing emotionally intense BDSM storylines, and strives to create characters that seem real--even flawed--so readers are better able to relate to them.
Annabel also writes non-BDSM erotic romance under the name Molly Joseph. You can sign up to receive Annabel's newsletter here: http://wordpress.us7.list-manage.com/...
Some of Annabel's favorite authors are Laura Kinsale, Judith McNaught, Jo Beverley, Flannery O'Connor, Molly Weatherfield, and Anneke Jacob.
Annabel Joseph loves to hear from her readers at annabeljosephnovels(@)gmail.com.
Annabel also writes non-BDSM erotic romance under the name Molly Joseph. You can sign up to receive Annabel's newsletter here: http://wordpress.us7.list-manage.com/...
Some of Annabel's favorite authors are Laura Kinsale, Judith McNaught, Jo Beverley, Flannery O'Connor, Molly Weatherfield, and Anneke Jacob.
Annabel Joseph loves to hear from her readers at annabeljosephnovels(@)gmail.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 237 reviews
April 3, 2017
★★★★ ¼! Torment Me, book 1 of 3. Escort’s violent, toxic & co-dependent BDSM relationship with the mysterious “W”!
“I don’t want your pretty whore tricks. I want to use you. I want your body to be mine.”
Books in the Rough Love Trilogy should be read in order:
Book 1: Torment Me
Book 2: Taunt Me
Book 3: Trust Me
Torment Me (book 1) opens up to escort Chere meeting a new client, the mysterious “W” for the first time. Violence, manipulation, simulated and non-simulated rape and sadism, such as BDSM without safe words is not what Chere expected but it stirs something in her where she cannot stay away.
The story takes us of a journey of a dysfunctional client-escort relationship driven by the volatile “W”. There are moments with hints of tenderness and care only for “W” to revert back to his sadistic ways; demanding exclusivity, obedience and trust giving little of himself.
As “W” breaks her, binds her to him makes her wish for more… is there even a chance at a breakthrough to his heart?
I want to learn more about “W” and I cannot wait for his fall into whipped. Eight words to describe W: Secretive, manipulative, detached, calculated, remote, commanding, possessive and callous.
Eight words to describe Chere: Nurturing, loyal, reflective, broken, insecure, dependent, meek and despondent.
Torment Me, told from Chere’s POV is a candid glimpse into a toxic, codependent and unconventional affair. It’s dark, violent and shocking driven by the enigmatic “W”. But mostly it’s Chere’s journey of self-discovery and growth both sexually as well as life.
Having read book 1 and knowing where book 2 starts off I have to say: brilliant! I cannot wait to read book 2: Taunt Me for the continuation of their journey.
Gripping! Sexy! Dark! Dysfunctional!
“I fucking paid for you, and I want to play with you. I don’t want to talk anymore.”
***
Hero rating: 4 stars
Heroine rating: 4.5 stars
Sexual tension rating: 4 stars
Sex scenes rating: 4 stars
Sex scenes frequency: 4.5 stars
Plot rating: 4.5 stars
Dialogue rating: 4 stars
Storytelling rating: 4.5 stars
Story ending rating: N/A
**********************************************
Overall rating: 4.25 stars
Would I recommend this series: Yes.
Would I re-read this series: Maybe later.
Would I read future books by this author: Yes.
October 21, 2015
4.5 Stars
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This is my first book by this author and I’ve totally been missing out on some really great writing. I thought I was done with the whole BDSM scene but this book brought me back with its addicting writing and great characters. I was on edge throughout the story and found it equally nerve wrecking and captivating.
”Don’t touch that mask until you hear the door close,” he said. “The fantasy’s better, that way.”
The plot is so much more than an escort/client BDSM relationship. I loved the writing, the pace, and the mystery of all that is W. Chere meets a new client at the Weston Hotel both blindfolded. Their identities concealed W uses domination and pain and as feisty as our heroine is, she is drawn to him.
Chere craves W and even more than her sexual desire for him. She wants to know what he looks like, his name, what he does for a living. So when offered an opportunity of W being her only client, her curiosities have her agreeing.
”His kisses mended my soul, at least a little. He might not tell me his name, but he kissed me like a lover every single time.”
Chere supports her abusive, drug addicted, artist, boyfriend, Simon. Through her interactions with W, she finds the strength in herself to make some big decisions. Her feelings for W leave her constantly confused.
”I didn’t understand how he could make me feel sexy and wonderful, and so horribly devastated at the same time. He’d given me more than any other client, and yet he refused to give me anything at all.”
The story ends with a cliffhanger. Through all the pain and terror, W is generous to Chere and I am totally bind sighted by the ending.
”Good luck, starshine? What the fuck?”
I am however excited to see where the author brings the story in the next installment due out November 10th.
"Violence and poetry.
Choking and kissing.
Degradation and caring."
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This is my first book by this author and I’ve totally been missing out on some really great writing. I thought I was done with the whole BDSM scene but this book brought me back with its addicting writing and great characters. I was on edge throughout the story and found it equally nerve wrecking and captivating.
”Don’t touch that mask until you hear the door close,” he said. “The fantasy’s better, that way.”
The plot is so much more than an escort/client BDSM relationship. I loved the writing, the pace, and the mystery of all that is W. Chere meets a new client at the Weston Hotel both blindfolded. Their identities concealed W uses domination and pain and as feisty as our heroine is, she is drawn to him.
Chere craves W and even more than her sexual desire for him. She wants to know what he looks like, his name, what he does for a living. So when offered an opportunity of W being her only client, her curiosities have her agreeing.
”His kisses mended my soul, at least a little. He might not tell me his name, but he kissed me like a lover every single time.”
Chere supports her abusive, drug addicted, artist, boyfriend, Simon. Through her interactions with W, she finds the strength in herself to make some big decisions. Her feelings for W leave her constantly confused.
”I didn’t understand how he could make me feel sexy and wonderful, and so horribly devastated at the same time. He’d given me more than any other client, and yet he refused to give me anything at all.”
The story ends with a cliffhanger. Through all the pain and terror, W is generous to Chere and I am totally bind sighted by the ending.
”Good luck, starshine? What the fuck?”
I am however excited to see where the author brings the story in the next installment due out November 10th.
November 1, 2015
Title: Torment Me
Series: Rough Love, #1
Author: Annabel Joseph
Release date: 13th October, 2015
Cliffhanger: Yes
HEA:
Chere is a tragic character with a questionable lifestyle, even so, I can’t seem to help but champion her. Life has treated her poorly and with a CV that boasts stripping as well as a ten year history in the High Class Escort Industry, she is well versed in selling herself short.
On a day like any other, Chere sets out to meet a new client. Like most clients, he expects discretion. Unlike most, he goes to extreme lengths to ensure his identity is not revealed and this involves her being blindfolded at all times.
Meeting at the W Hotel, Chere is an unwitting moth to “W’s” raging flame. W is the kind of character that makes Christian Grey look positively amateur. He demonstrates his kinks; Dominance, control and pain without care or hesitation. As sure as I am that Chere will run for the hills, her lack of self preservation sees her intrigued enough to meet him again and again.
“You’re mine, Chere,” he said quietly.”And I can make you feel good, or I can make you feel bad.”
There are two kinds of bastard in my book. The type of bastard that makes you lusty and the type of bastard that’s a goddamn son of a bitch. “W” firmly falls in the second category. He’s harsh and uncompromising and a compelling character to read about. Just when i’m convinced he's a character without redemption he surprises me.
Torture Me by Annabel Joseph is both an intriguing and captivating read. This book stayed with me long after it was finished and i’m sincerely awaiting the next instalment to this twisted tale.
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December 22, 2016
Chere Rouzier is a high-class call girl that lives in New York City. Without having many options or much guidance, Chere viewed her job as an escort to be lucrative in that she could pay her bills and help support her boyfriend’s spiraling art career. It isn’t until she meets the nameless and faceless client she refers to as W that she slowly begins to unravel and question her lifestyle and own needs.
“You don’t get to know my name. You don’t get anything from me but what I want to give you. Cock, yes. But first, a little pain.”
Known to be exacting and a sadist, W isn’t looking to form emotional attachments and hires Chere for a session to fulfill his particular sexual predilictions. Upon discovering her unknown submissive side with the combination of her need to fight before total surrender, he is intrigued by her spark and continues to reserve sessions with her.
“You’re so juicy from having your pussy whipped, it’s dripping onto the bed. You’re making a fucking mess, you little pain slut.”
As Chere and W’s time together passes, Chere realizes how she craves what only W can give making her quite the lovely masochist. While their sessions are sexually intense, both mentally and physically, Chere begins to gain the courage to make changes in other aspects of her life. As she takes these steps, W asserts himself and views his actions as protective yet he still isn’t willing to give more unless Chere is willing to accept all of his terms.
“You can see me, starshine. You can see all of me.”
What transpires between Chere and W is complex. On the surface, you have these two characters that unite so perfectly on a basic primal level, but they also have their own emotional vulnerabilities that trap insecurities. I admired Chere’s inner strength and fight and was so glad she made a certain decision. As for W, well, he is walking sex but he also has a deeper range that I enjoyed.
“That’s what he said, but all I really absorbed was “I can make you feel.”
In reading Torment Me, I was simply glued to the pages to see what would happen next between Chere and W! The writing just simply captured me, as told from Chere’s point of view, but also with engaging dialogue. What Chere and W share isn’t necessarily romantic to some, with their rough BDSM play and degradation, but reading how they connect kept me riveted.
The author’s style of writing is forthright and sexy with an edgy sense of humor, which is a win-win for me. I cannot wait to see how the story continues in book two! For those who haven’t read Annabel Joseph’s books yet, I highly recommend Torment Me!
Rough Love series:
*Note:
I won this book in Shh… ♟ Dispelling the MYTHS about BDSM Giveaway ♟!! Thank you!! https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
March 10, 2016
** 5+ TORMENTED STARSHINE!!! **
This man insisted to be called "W" when Chere asked his name. And Chere isn't supposed to give her name. Overall, their relationship based on escort/customer with hardcore BDSM. Yeah, W is kinky fuck and rough but he always do aftercare. W is very different from other 'Dom' from Ms. Joseph's book. He isn't act like *cough* a jerk so far. When they did hardcore scenes, my heart was beating so fast. W such an enigma. He's a sadist but could be a gentle lover. He always give me roller-coaster emotion. Whatever he did to her, it feels different until they reach with some agreement to trust each other.
Like Chere, I was confused with W. Everything happened so fast. Of course, she's afraid. But something beyond her attraction towards this man made her doing it again. She couldn't say no when he want meet again. He never revealed himself even they together. W hates Chere's girly emotional shit (he said). Yeah, I admit Chere isn't really strong woman and quite emotional. Chere lives like a 'doormat' for her boyfriend, Simon. She thought she love Simon and will take care of him but he never changed. When W came into her life, Chere started to change. She's thinking about her own future, which is good.
The sex... Oh gosh. It was amazing and unbelievable. They just met a couple times but... speechless. Every time they did it, from intense BDSM until rough sex always left me breathless. W has very insane power towards Chere. He's very intimidating man. W like Chere's fiery spirit. She always honest and couldn't fake anything with him. Chere know their relationship isn't healthy as an escort/customer. When he asked for exclusivity, I think that's the turning point for them. Somehow W cared about her. He just couldn't let her go.
I have no words for W. I fallin' in love with him. He's so imperfectly perfect in kinky way. When everything started to become beautiful, and there is the cliffhanger. WHATTT!!! Ugh. Overall, I really enjoyed their dynamic together even mostly they only have sex, W radiated something else. He's a man of action. Also he's fuckin' romantic. The poetry... I'm melting.
Her heart breaks in a smile—and she is lustUgh this is the best so far. I read (almost)everything from Annabel Joseph. She's one of my fave BDSM author. For real. She never write Dom wannabe and that's what I'm searching for. Torment Me was such a guilty pleasure and I enjoyed it very much.
Mine also, little painted poem of God.
This man insisted to be called "W" when Chere asked his name. And Chere isn't supposed to give her name. Overall, their relationship based on escort/customer with hardcore BDSM. Yeah, W is kinky fuck and rough but he always do aftercare. W is very different from other 'Dom' from Ms. Joseph's book. He isn't act like *cough* a jerk so far. When they did hardcore scenes, my heart was beating so fast. W such an enigma. He's a sadist but could be a gentle lover. He always give me roller-coaster emotion. Whatever he did to her, it feels different until they reach with some agreement to trust each other.
“When you’re mine, only mine, we can do this all the time,” he said. “I can gag you and hurt you and make you come and come and come until you can’t stand it. We can fluid bond, and go bareback, and I’ll come in you over and over, until my cum’s dripping out of you like a fucking waterfall. I’d like that, Chere. You suit me perfectly, and I hate to share. I’ll pay not to share you.”
Like Chere, I was confused with W. Everything happened so fast. Of course, she's afraid. But something beyond her attraction towards this man made her doing it again. She couldn't say no when he want meet again. He never revealed himself even they together. W hates Chere's girly emotional shit (he said). Yeah, I admit Chere isn't really strong woman and quite emotional. Chere lives like a 'doormat' for her boyfriend, Simon. She thought she love Simon and will take care of him but he never changed. When W came into her life, Chere started to change. She's thinking about her own future, which is good.
The sex... Oh gosh. It was amazing and unbelievable. They just met a couple times but... speechless. Every time they did it, from intense BDSM until rough sex always left me breathless. W has very insane power towards Chere. He's very intimidating man. W like Chere's fiery spirit. She always honest and couldn't fake anything with him. Chere know their relationship isn't healthy as an escort/customer. When he asked for exclusivity, I think that's the turning point for them. Somehow W cared about her. He just couldn't let her go.
No one else had ever made me feel the way he made me feel, and I feared no one else in my life ever would.
I have no words for W. I fallin' in love with him. He's so imperfectly perfect in kinky way. When everything started to become beautiful, and there is the cliffhanger. WHATTT!!! Ugh. Overall, I really enjoyed their dynamic together even mostly they only have sex, W radiated something else. He's a man of action. Also he's fuckin' romantic. The poetry... I'm melting.
March 13, 2016
I wanted to love this book given I thought it was everything I ever want in a good- Rough sex, ass hole, bdsm story.... Eh, it fell super short.
It took way too long for me to get into and really commit to the actual story. 'W' was a total psycho and I would've given anything to see him in a little more human nature. I wanted to strangle the h for putting herself through the nonsense of everything that was her life... And fuck me why did she keep going back to W...
Maybe book 2 will help my hard feelings but I'm not exactly jumping right into it.
I received this copy from NovelReviewers.com in exchange for an honest review.
It took way too long for me to get into and really commit to the actual story. 'W' was a total psycho and I would've given anything to see him in a little more human nature. I wanted to strangle the h for putting herself through the nonsense of everything that was her life... And fuck me why did she keep going back to W...
Maybe book 2 will help my hard feelings but I'm not exactly jumping right into it.
I received this copy from NovelReviewers.com in exchange for an honest review.
July 5, 2017
This was some hardcore erotica and BDSM let me tell you that. But what really captured and fascinated me was Chere and W. Chere was a broken and flawed woman in a destructive relationship with an addict. Her childhood had been filled with neglect and abuse. She'd never known love and never been reaffirmed, that that she was good enough just as she was. She was only with her boyfriend because she didn't think she deserved better. Their relationship was filled and based on abuse, drugs and both of them being dependent on one another.
When Chere met her client W something profoundly changed with and within her. That journey Chere went on was very enthralling and also thrilling. She started as a punching bag for her boyfriend, afraid of her body's reaction and its craving for W's sadistic and twisted scenes but grew into a strong and confident woman. She embraced her want and need to feel and experience something real for once in her life and W provided that for her. He was her escape.
W was and still is a mystery. He came of as he himself told Chere, as a sadist but he also had a soft and caring side. Yes, he showed it rarely but it was there. Their scenes together were so strong, erotic and also a little twisted. I felt their chemistry cause it was insanely hot.
Annabel Joseph has created two very intriguing characters and their story is so compelling, that I can't wait to read the sequel. Her prose is raw, honest and poignant. The pace of the story was fantastic, keeping me on edge from start to finish. Definitely a series to read.
4 BadAssDirtyPoetryStars
When Chere met her client W something profoundly changed with and within her. That journey Chere went on was very enthralling and also thrilling. She started as a punching bag for her boyfriend, afraid of her body's reaction and its craving for W's sadistic and twisted scenes but grew into a strong and confident woman. She embraced her want and need to feel and experience something real for once in her life and W provided that for her. He was her escape.
W was and still is a mystery. He came of as he himself told Chere, as a sadist but he also had a soft and caring side. Yes, he showed it rarely but it was there. Their scenes together were so strong, erotic and also a little twisted. I felt their chemistry cause it was insanely hot.
Annabel Joseph has created two very intriguing characters and their story is so compelling, that I can't wait to read the sequel. Her prose is raw, honest and poignant. The pace of the story was fantastic, keeping me on edge from start to finish. Definitely a series to read.
4 BadAssDirtyPoetryStars
April 29, 2017
Reading this one was like trying to avert my eyes from a ten car pile-up on the freeway. I know that I shouldn't look because I'm going to see something awful, but the Little Miss Nosey Parker in me can't seem to resist. Well, Little Miss Nosey certainly got an eye-full (or I guess a mind-full) with this book. And what did I take away from it? Umm? If you hit absolute rock bottom, sadists will start to look appealing?
All kidding aside, even if its contents left me shaking my head, this book was really well-written. I felt bad for Chere and how her life had turned out; her self-hatred, her low self-esteem, her desperation. I believed her feelings for W were real. I hoped she could pull herself up and away from not only him and his degradation, but also from Simon. In short, the author definitely made me care for her even if I wasn't able to understand her or her actions.
Also, the author was able to walk the line of one of my major pet peeves: the secret masochist and how he/she is magically paired with the sadist of their dreams. I think the author did a good job in this respect, because I'm still unsure if Chere really was a masochist or she was just so starved for approval and affection that she kept going back to W.
But be warned, this book contains a ton of violence, including a heart-stopping/blood curdling rape scene. If it's the job of an author to evoke emotions in readers, Annabel Joseph was definitely successful - just beware which emotions they are.
All kidding aside, even if its contents left me shaking my head, this book was really well-written. I felt bad for Chere and how her life had turned out; her self-hatred, her low self-esteem, her desperation. I believed her feelings for W were real. I hoped she could pull herself up and away from not only him and his degradation, but also from Simon. In short, the author definitely made me care for her even if I wasn't able to understand her or her actions.
Also, the author was able to walk the line of one of my major pet peeves: the secret masochist and how he/she is magically paired with the sadist of their dreams. I think the author did a good job in this respect, because I'm still unsure if Chere really was a masochist or she was just so starved for approval and affection that she kept going back to W.
But be warned, this book contains a ton of violence, including a heart-stopping/blood curdling rape scene. If it's the job of an author to evoke emotions in readers, Annabel Joseph was definitely successful - just beware which emotions they are.
June 18, 2020
4.5 what-a-ride stars
Currently reading
May 7, 2021⬇️ - This!!! He most definitely is not!
I can't even... I mean... My mind is blown.
I can't decide if W.'s screwing the heroine or me!
I'm turning into one sick kitty!
Rough, rough, rough!
I can't even... I mean... My mind is blown.
I can't decide if W.'s screwing the heroine or me!
I'm turning into one sick kitty!
Rough, rough, rough!
October 24, 2015
Torment Me (Rough Love #1) by Annabel Joseph
4.5 stars!!
It is not often that a BDSM book grabs my attention, but a friend recommended this book and I trust her so I dived in blind. This book really grabs your attention from the start, while we have the BDSM aspect ever present we also have equal parts of suspense and intrigue and it is this that keeps those pages turning. You cannot help but get invested in this story.
Annabel Joseph weaves a tale of mystery as we delve into the story of Chere and our mystery man, who Chere has named “W.” Our mystery man also goes by the pseudonym of EE Cummings. His privacy and anonymity is of paramount importance and this man literally gives nothing away.
Chere is a high class escort and one night she has a new client, she has to meet him at the Weston hotel and she needs to be blindfolded. This initial first scene is captivating. Chere is hesitant, nervous, scared as well as excited. Having been robbed of one of her senses she is extremely on edge and once “W” gets going it seems that she is soon discovering a side to herself that she never knew existed.
“W” is an alpha and a sadist but he knows his way around the female body and shows Chere pleasure and peaks that she has never reached before. We all know that there is a fine line between pleasure and pain and is this line that Chere finds herself forever crossing and enjoying. While that fear was ever present, everything around her and within her was heightened and while she knew she should have been afraid and mortified her body definitely betrayed her mind.
Chere is living with her drug addicted artist of a boyfriend and she is the main bread winner as he is in a constant state of a high and cannot seem to put paint to canvas. Her home life is a wreck and the more meetings that Chere and “W” have the more she looks back at what she is missing. There is one major rule in escorting, “do not fall in love,” sometimes though this is easier said than done.
Our “W” is a man of poetry and it is through these words that we get a little glimpse of the man under the mask and I am loving what I see. I am sure he must have a good reason for his proclivities and his need for anonymity and this all piles on that intrigue that flows so readily throughout this book. Even at the end of this book, we still know nothing, not even his name…who does that!!! But “W” is generous to a fault and it is these little insights that help us paint a picture of the man behind the façade, he is obviously deep, he obviously cares and he is extremely protective.
I am desperate for more, at the end I had so many theories, so many possibilities and my mind has been running rampant since finishing. I need to know the who’s, what’s and why’s. We don’t have long to wait though as the next instalment is due November 10th and I have already pre-ordered. This is a fast paced story that I read in no time, no time to catch a breath, just devoured it. November 10th cannot come quick enough.
www.theromancecover.com
4.5 stars!!
“He made no sense. Violence and poetry. Choking and kissing. Degradation and caring.”
It is not often that a BDSM book grabs my attention, but a friend recommended this book and I trust her so I dived in blind. This book really grabs your attention from the start, while we have the BDSM aspect ever present we also have equal parts of suspense and intrigue and it is this that keeps those pages turning. You cannot help but get invested in this story.
Annabel Joseph weaves a tale of mystery as we delve into the story of Chere and our mystery man, who Chere has named “W.” Our mystery man also goes by the pseudonym of EE Cummings. His privacy and anonymity is of paramount importance and this man literally gives nothing away.
“He was the Resurrection Man. Or the Erection Man.”
Chere is a high class escort and one night she has a new client, she has to meet him at the Weston hotel and she needs to be blindfolded. This initial first scene is captivating. Chere is hesitant, nervous, scared as well as excited. Having been robbed of one of her senses she is extremely on edge and once “W” gets going it seems that she is soon discovering a side to herself that she never knew existed.
“He’d given me more than any other client, and yet refused to give me anything at all.”
“W” is an alpha and a sadist but he knows his way around the female body and shows Chere pleasure and peaks that she has never reached before. We all know that there is a fine line between pleasure and pain and is this line that Chere finds herself forever crossing and enjoying. While that fear was ever present, everything around her and within her was heightened and while she knew she should have been afraid and mortified her body definitely betrayed her mind.
“…and I realized that the only reason I ever pulled away from him was to be pulled back.”
Chere is living with her drug addicted artist of a boyfriend and she is the main bread winner as he is in a constant state of a high and cannot seem to put paint to canvas. Her home life is a wreck and the more meetings that Chere and “W” have the more she looks back at what she is missing. There is one major rule in escorting, “do not fall in love,” sometimes though this is easier said than done.
Our “W” is a man of poetry and it is through these words that we get a little glimpse of the man under the mask and I am loving what I see. I am sure he must have a good reason for his proclivities and his need for anonymity and this all piles on that intrigue that flows so readily throughout this book. Even at the end of this book, we still know nothing, not even his name…who does that!!! But “W” is generous to a fault and it is these little insights that help us paint a picture of the man behind the façade, he is obviously deep, he obviously cares and he is extremely protective.
“Shakespeare. Jesus Christ. He was bringing out the big guns.”
I am desperate for more, at the end I had so many theories, so many possibilities and my mind has been running rampant since finishing. I need to know the who’s, what’s and why’s. We don’t have long to wait though as the next instalment is due November 10th and I have already pre-ordered. This is a fast paced story that I read in no time, no time to catch a breath, just devoured it. November 10th cannot come quick enough.
“Love lies. Love flies. Love dies.”
www.theromancecover.com
October 27, 2015
I've changed my mind and decided that I would be upgrading my rate.
It deserves 5 Stars!
So different from the same old same old BDSM topic.
I loved it all: both characters,the refreshing way BDSM is presented in the story making this plot unique and the mystery that kept me in agony.
November 9, 2015
Note: This book is super rough. There’s love, but it’s rough. Hence, Rough Love series. This full-length novel is book one of a three-part storyline that culminates in Happily Ever After. But, full disclosure, it’s going to be a rough ride.
Sounds like my kind of book ;)
March 11, 2016
Chere is an ex-stripper, turned escort supporting a dead beat, druggy artist boyfriend. She meets "W" for the first time in a hotel and they have very rough sex with dubious content. W tied her up, slapped her around and didn't let her say no. I do not enjoy this type of set up. W didn't let Chere have a safe word, they didn't discuss anything before engaged in sexual slavery or breath play. This felt very unsafe to me and I felt uncomfortable reading this. Chere has low self esteem, feels unworthy and W doesn't do anything to help Chere. She went from one abusive relationship to another. Chere never engaged in BDSM play before and W tree her into the deep end. The sex scenes were scary, not sexy and Chere was abused the whole story. Not for me.
March 10, 2019
4.5 stars, rounded up!!
**Read for the 2019 CYTBR Challenge**
I’ll probably review the series, because it doesn’t seem right to do it now, when the story is so unresolved for me. But I will say that I really liked it, mostly because it was original and intense. People are messy, their stories messier, and these two? Hot fucking messes. Aside from one major scene, though, W wasn’t all that sadistic, and even then, he didn’t completely understand what he’d done. He was selfish and arrogant, but he did care, just in his own way. Hell, sadly, he was kind of the only one who did, which I think is why I kept forgiving him... just like Chere.
Pretty hype to see how this is all going to go down... if anyone wants to know more, just ask. For now, I’m diving into book 2!!
**Read for the 2019 CYTBR Challenge**
I’ll probably review the series, because it doesn’t seem right to do it now, when the story is so unresolved for me. But I will say that I really liked it, mostly because it was original and intense. People are messy, their stories messier, and these two? Hot fucking messes. Aside from one major scene, though, W wasn’t all that sadistic, and even then, he didn’t completely understand what he’d done. He was selfish and arrogant, but he did care, just in his own way. Hell, sadly, he was kind of the only one who did, which I think is why I kept forgiving him... just like Chere.
Pretty hype to see how this is all going to go down... if anyone wants to know more, just ask. For now, I’m diving into book 2!!
October 19, 2023
1st Read October 13, 2015
This was so fucked up! I loved it!!!
2nd read February 29- March 1, 2016
I haz finished it again...
This was so fucked up! I loved it!!!
2nd read February 29- March 1, 2016
I haz finished it again...
July 4, 2017
“Do you want me to kiss you?” He said it so quietly I could barely hear.
“Yes, Sir.”
“Yes, Sir.”
June 22, 2025
In my dark romance era! 🖤
November 12, 2015
I had to calm down before I wrote my review because the ending made me so angry. Yes, I get that it has a sequel, but still. I won't ruin it for you, but I will post the warning: Prepare to have your heart ripped out.
Once I got past that and calmed down from wanting to one star it in a raging hissy fit, I had to admit... it was good. To make me feel that intense of an emotion at all is testament to how talented of a writer Ms. Joseph is. Yes, I was angry and sad and frustrated and all that, but it was so much better than the "eh, whatever" I usually feel when I read a book. THAT is why I five starred it.
On a more superficial note, the sex was blazing hot, and W was such a dominating force to be reckoned with, I couldn't wait to read more of his "sessions." We know almost nothing about him, and still, his character comes to life. You want to know him, and just like Cher, you'll beg for any tiny scrap he'll throw at you.
Once I got past that and calmed down from wanting to one star it in a raging hissy fit, I had to admit... it was good. To make me feel that intense of an emotion at all is testament to how talented of a writer Ms. Joseph is. Yes, I was angry and sad and frustrated and all that, but it was so much better than the "eh, whatever" I usually feel when I read a book. THAT is why I five starred it.
On a more superficial note, the sex was blazing hot, and W was such a dominating force to be reckoned with, I couldn't wait to read more of his "sessions." We know almost nothing about him, and still, his character comes to life. You want to know him, and just like Cher, you'll beg for any tiny scrap he'll throw at you.
July 16, 2020
2.5 ★
It was a quick read and I did like the dark side but it wasn't enough.
It was a quick read and I did like the dark side but it wasn't enough.
December 30, 2015
TORMENT ME (ROUGH LOVE PART ONE)
FIRST OFF THIS BOOK IS NOT FOR THE FAINT OF HEART!!
Chere is a high class paid escort. She goes on dates with many men and pretty much likes her job.. that is until one day her agent (aka) pimp, tells her she has a date and she has to meet him in the hotel of his choosing and blindfolded she is a bit a skeptical about this new client of hers but well , a girl has got to do what she s got to do . she has to go to the W and meet her new client she doesn’t know anything what so ever about him the way he looks.his name , nothing . when she finally interacts with him in the hotel he gets her off guard he is totally not what she was expecting.
He is tough ,demanding,forceful and a real douche!!! . But she loves and hates the way he treats her .
W the famous W is sex on a stick ,he is all yummy and then some . He is a major jerk and he knows it but he has money , a hot awesome body ,and he knows exactly what he likes and he does whatever the F*** he wants , with who ever he wants and he is fixed on his high class paid escort . he loves to drive her crazy with mad crazy loving hurting awesome yummy excruciating torturous sex .
MY POV….
I was scared !! like wholly crap this guy is going to kill this girl WTF !! is she crazy why does she keep going back to this hot psycho person (OH YAH FOR THE CRAZY HOT YUMMY ORGASMS DUH) . I thought the chick was out of her mind. CHERE , I felt that she really liked what W was doing to her because I mean it was crazy scary but it was also hot as hell .
“ I think youre most beautiful and alluring when you are all trussed up like a hostage . OPEN YOUR LEGS)
“stay where I put you . Be a good girl. I like good girls.”
Scary huh!! But yummy hot scary.
W , well what women doesn’t love a hot yummy alpha right!! I did like him like a lot he had me all hot and bothered and at the same time screaming like a mad women you Ass**** . but again we all love our men to be a bit of a jerk sometime !! as long as he loves and is crazy possessive over us . That’s exactly how W was crazy possessive with a lot of a manic sadist in him. I felt like I was developing a double personality with his character I was all into him and as fast as you can say ASS**** I was hating his guts .
“ are you still breathing ? he asked I paid for two hours ,and am using two hours , whether you passed out or not “
“ don’t be a angry hooker. I adore you”
double personality I tell you. Well I pretty much enjoyed this book it mind F**** me in many ways . I totally recommend it .
4 sadist need love too stars
FIRST OFF THIS BOOK IS NOT FOR THE FAINT OF HEART!!
Chere is a high class paid escort. She goes on dates with many men and pretty much likes her job.. that is until one day her agent (aka) pimp, tells her she has a date and she has to meet him in the hotel of his choosing and blindfolded she is a bit a skeptical about this new client of hers but well , a girl has got to do what she s got to do . she has to go to the W and meet her new client she doesn’t know anything what so ever about him the way he looks.his name , nothing . when she finally interacts with him in the hotel he gets her off guard he is totally not what she was expecting.
He is tough ,demanding,forceful and a real douche!!! . But she loves and hates the way he treats her .
W the famous W is sex on a stick ,he is all yummy and then some . He is a major jerk and he knows it but he has money , a hot awesome body ,and he knows exactly what he likes and he does whatever the F*** he wants , with who ever he wants and he is fixed on his high class paid escort . he loves to drive her crazy with mad crazy loving hurting awesome yummy excruciating torturous sex .
MY POV….
I was scared !! like wholly crap this guy is going to kill this girl WTF !! is she crazy why does she keep going back to this hot psycho person (OH YAH FOR THE CRAZY HOT YUMMY ORGASMS DUH) . I thought the chick was out of her mind. CHERE , I felt that she really liked what W was doing to her because I mean it was crazy scary but it was also hot as hell .
“ I think youre most beautiful and alluring when you are all trussed up like a hostage . OPEN YOUR LEGS)
“stay where I put you . Be a good girl. I like good girls.”
Scary huh!! But yummy hot scary.
W , well what women doesn’t love a hot yummy alpha right!! I did like him like a lot he had me all hot and bothered and at the same time screaming like a mad women you Ass**** . but again we all love our men to be a bit of a jerk sometime !! as long as he loves and is crazy possessive over us . That’s exactly how W was crazy possessive with a lot of a manic sadist in him. I felt like I was developing a double personality with his character I was all into him and as fast as you can say ASS**** I was hating his guts .
“ are you still breathing ? he asked I paid for two hours ,and am using two hours , whether you passed out or not “
“ don’t be a angry hooker. I adore you”
double personality I tell you. Well I pretty much enjoyed this book it mind F**** me in many ways . I totally recommend it .
4 sadist need love too stars
February 23, 2017
This is book 1 of the Rough Love series, where we meet Chere, a beautiful but guilable high class prostitute, and W sadist extraordinaire. This book is told from Chere's POV and covers a number of very intense meetings in luxury hotels. Their meetings/scenes are intense, high-strung, violent, raw, crude and more.
It is a complicated, passionate story of two people hopping the emotional, derailed roller coaster.
I can see that this book could set you off easily, especially if you are familiar with sexual abuse, because there are some non-consensual, utterly demeaning scenes. This book has content that takes place with dubious consent and you should heed the warning.
On to book 2!
This book is part of a series that has to be read in order:
November 24, 2022
DNF
no safe word, no discussion, everything h says is basically background noise to H, he doesn’t care about her safety and comfort in the situation.
The moment she said no, he should have stopped. This was basically repeated rape with a sprinkle of “your body wants it” and you know what, fuck that and that mindset.
no safe word, no discussion, everything h says is basically background noise to H, he doesn’t care about her safety and comfort in the situation.
The moment she said no, he should have stopped. This was basically repeated rape with a sprinkle of “your body wants it” and you know what, fuck that and that mindset.
March 11, 2016
4 Rough Love-stars!!
September 6, 2018
**4-1/2 Stars**
Wow! This book is A LOT--it's infuriating, it's dark, it's sexy, it's extremely intense, and I loved every minute of it!
Chere, a highly-paid escort for the most exclusive agency in the city, is especially experienced in role-play, and as Miss Kitty, she can make any man's fantasies come true. However, she meets her match with 'W', her mysterious new client who's a sadist through and through and will tolerate nothing less than being in charge.
When Chere's with W, she's introduced to a whole new world that she in no way wants--but want and need are two very different things. Then when it all becomes a bit too real, she starts to question what it is that she really does want, along with who she really is and where her life should be going.
As always, if I want to be assured of an excellent, unputdownable read that's extremely well written and edited, I can count on Annabel Joseph to come through. I was right there with Chere from being nervous, even scared, to feeling incredulous (How DARE he?!!), to then moving into completely pissed off while falling for W in a big way. But heed the warnings because A.J. isn't kidding when she says the love is rough. This definitely isn't for the faint of heart. Very little is too dark or intense for me, and I even had to read through my fingers once or twice.
In the end, no matter how rough it got, W stole my heart and I HAVE to read on to get some questions about him answered (there's definitely a story there). Thank goodness the entire series has already been released! On to book two...
Id rather have the dream of you
With faint stars glowing
I'd rather have the want of you
The rich, elusive taunt of you
Wow! This book is A LOT--it's infuriating, it's dark, it's sexy, it's extremely intense, and I loved every minute of it!
Chere, a highly-paid escort for the most exclusive agency in the city, is especially experienced in role-play, and as Miss Kitty, she can make any man's fantasies come true. However, she meets her match with 'W', her mysterious new client who's a sadist through and through and will tolerate nothing less than being in charge.
When Chere's with W, she's introduced to a whole new world that she in no way wants--but want and need are two very different things. Then when it all becomes a bit too real, she starts to question what it is that she really does want, along with who she really is and where her life should be going.
As always, if I want to be assured of an excellent, unputdownable read that's extremely well written and edited, I can count on Annabel Joseph to come through. I was right there with Chere from being nervous, even scared, to feeling incredulous (How DARE he?!!), to then moving into completely pissed off while falling for W in a big way. But heed the warnings because A.J. isn't kidding when she says the love is rough. This definitely isn't for the faint of heart. Very little is too dark or intense for me, and I even had to read through my fingers once or twice.
In the end, no matter how rough it got, W stole my heart and I HAVE to read on to get some questions about him answered (there's definitely a story there). Thank goodness the entire series has already been released! On to book two...
Id rather have the dream of you
With faint stars glowing
I'd rather have the want of you
The rich, elusive taunt of you
September 22, 2017
4,75 stars!
This is a dark book that may contain triggers for some of you. Please take the warning into consideration.
This is the story of Chere.
I honestly don't know how to make justice this book. The plot is really interesting, darkish, kinky, mysterious and with few twists! The book is written only by Chere's POV and makes everything stronger! Ms. Joseph took a fantasy and made a heartbreaking story! This is exactly how I was feeling when I was reading this book! I have to point out brilliant way that Ms. Joseph names the chapters! It was perfectly done and it kept me on edge.
Chere is such a lost soul. She is stronger than she gives credit to herself and all she needs is a small push to make big decisions. I like her. She has fears and insecurities but she still stands on her feet and fight for herself! I don't always understand her but she doesn't understand herself either so it makes sense.
W is a mystery! I get that this is the purpose but I don't like him. I feel like Chere, confused and conflicted about his wants and motives! For the moment he doesn't make sense and I think this is really the success of this book. The hero isn't good or bad but he is really present!
Their interactions were really intense. I felt conflicted by them too. I couldn't understand which part was real and which part was fake and who cared and how they felt. Everything was difficult for me to comprehend and still, I couldn't put down this book and I was aching together with the heroine to find out how everything will end. I believe that a book should be able to keep you interested until the very last page, even if you don't always agree with what is happening, and this purpose was definitely achieved with Torment Me.
The end of the book broke my heart a bit. It felt harsh and painful. I don't know, maybe I am a bit dramatic here. Nevertheless I wil start immediately the next one as I need to find out what happens next!
This is a dark book that may contain triggers for some of you. Please take the warning into consideration.
This is the story of Chere.
I honestly don't know how to make justice this book. The plot is really interesting, darkish, kinky, mysterious and with few twists! The book is written only by Chere's POV and makes everything stronger! Ms. Joseph took a fantasy and made a heartbreaking story! This is exactly how I was feeling when I was reading this book! I have to point out brilliant way that Ms. Joseph names the chapters! It was perfectly done and it kept me on edge.
Chere is such a lost soul. She is stronger than she gives credit to herself and all she needs is a small push to make big decisions. I like her. She has fears and insecurities but she still stands on her feet and fight for herself! I don't always understand her but she doesn't understand herself either so it makes sense.
W is a mystery! I get that this is the purpose but I don't like him. I feel like Chere, confused and conflicted about his wants and motives! For the moment he doesn't make sense and I think this is really the success of this book. The hero isn't good or bad but he is really present!
Their interactions were really intense. I felt conflicted by them too. I couldn't understand which part was real and which part was fake and who cared and how they felt. Everything was difficult for me to comprehend and still, I couldn't put down this book and I was aching together with the heroine to find out how everything will end. I believe that a book should be able to keep you interested until the very last page, even if you don't always agree with what is happening, and this purpose was definitely achieved with Torment Me.
The end of the book broke my heart a bit. It felt harsh and painful. I don't know, maybe I am a bit dramatic here. Nevertheless I wil start immediately the next one as I need to find out what happens next!
December 15, 2015
5 rich and dominant and sadistic stars
Noting the blurb, I was slightly skipping going into this. I love the anticipation of a twisted, sadistic yet captivating character, and I was definitely not disappointed here.
Chere is stuck in a rut, living with her artistic, yet drug addled boyfriend, Simon, supporting his barren art career. She does so by entertaining high-class clients as an elite escort.
A secretive client insists on a mask, no names and very little talking, when they first meet. She is upended by the level of his domination, and fearless force, but finds it strangely ignites something within her.
Before long, their regular meetings cause Chere to question herself. He still hasn’t disclosed his name, but his powerful compulsion to consume her body, is now climbing close to her soul.
The warning for this book is not to be taken lightly. Mr Resurrection Man can perform choke jobs consecutively. His sadistic nature is embedded deep, and he appears to have no remorse when in the throws of a scene. Safe words? What the fuck are those? He is the most sadistic character I have ever been attracted to, and I’m slightly disturbed by that.
The end came too soon, and I’m wishing I’d listened when I reminded myself that part 3 wasn’t out until next year.
Noting the blurb, I was slightly skipping going into this. I love the anticipation of a twisted, sadistic yet captivating character, and I was definitely not disappointed here.
Chere is stuck in a rut, living with her artistic, yet drug addled boyfriend, Simon, supporting his barren art career. She does so by entertaining high-class clients as an elite escort.
A secretive client insists on a mask, no names and very little talking, when they first meet. She is upended by the level of his domination, and fearless force, but finds it strangely ignites something within her.
Before long, their regular meetings cause Chere to question herself. He still hasn’t disclosed his name, but his powerful compulsion to consume her body, is now climbing close to her soul.
”He made no sense. Violence and poetry. Choking and kissing. Degradation and caring."
The warning for this book is not to be taken lightly. Mr Resurrection Man can perform choke jobs consecutively. His sadistic nature is embedded deep, and he appears to have no remorse when in the throws of a scene. Safe words? What the fuck are those? He is the most sadistic character I have ever been attracted to, and I’m slightly disturbed by that.
The end came too soon, and I’m wishing I’d listened when I reminded myself that part 3 wasn’t out until next year.
”He’d taken me from too-much to too-fucking-much.”
October 30, 2015
4.5 Must-Have-the-Next-One, Rough Love stars!
Annabel Jospeph's prose makes her Rough Love world so real that I was completely pulled into this dark romance and the character of Chere... As if it was I who was so tightly bound and sensually assaulted by the enigmatic "W", as if it were MY limits that were shattered leaving me wondering what my limits are, as if it was ME who was addicted to his attention and devastated by his absence...
Oh, I am addicted, all right--to Ms. Joseph's genius. Thank goodness the sequel to Torment Me will be out in November. I have preordered and impatiently await Taunt Me. If you love dark and INTENSE romance, I highly recommend Torment Me.
Warning, contains intense bdsm with dubious-consensual scenes, pain play, and humiliation.
Annabel Jospeph's prose makes her Rough Love world so real that I was completely pulled into this dark romance and the character of Chere... As if it was I who was so tightly bound and sensually assaulted by the enigmatic "W", as if it were MY limits that were shattered leaving me wondering what my limits are, as if it was ME who was addicted to his attention and devastated by his absence...
Oh, I am addicted, all right--to Ms. Joseph's genius. Thank goodness the sequel to Torment Me will be out in November. I have preordered and impatiently await Taunt Me. If you love dark and INTENSE romance, I highly recommend Torment Me.
Warning, contains intense bdsm with dubious-consensual scenes, pain play, and humiliation.
March 6, 2016
That was the most riveting story I've read in a long while.
I felt so conflicted about the relationship or whatever the hell that was
between "W" and Chere. On one hand I was horrified, and on the other
hand I was fascinated by what went on every time they got together.
And I'm usually not into escort/hooker h's, for the simple reason that I just can't relate at all to the character, but I loved Chere. I cried with her, I worried about her, and I stayed up till 2 in morning caz I just couldn't put her story down at all. I'm immediately going to read the next book caz that ending was a doozy! Well done Ms. Joseph!
I felt so conflicted about the relationship or whatever the hell that was
between "W" and Chere. On one hand I was horrified, and on the other
hand I was fascinated by what went on every time they got together.
And I'm usually not into escort/hooker h's, for the simple reason that I just can't relate at all to the character, but I loved Chere. I cried with her, I worried about her, and I stayed up till 2 in morning caz I just couldn't put her story down at all. I'm immediately going to read the next book caz that ending was a doozy! Well done Ms. Joseph!
March 19, 2016
Chere and W are pure yummy together. For some reason, my reader has this book as still out on loan to a friend, so I've lost all of my notes. Doesn't matter - I remember drooling for W in this one and can't wait to get back into this series again.
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