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Switching Gears
A year after Micah Connolly walked out of Olivia Holden's life, Olivia see's her on the streets of New York, giving her a much needed second chance. The problem? Micah's not the same person she was a year ago. A lot has happened to Micah since then, she's no longer the quiet intern Olivia remembers. She's now darker, edgier, and carrying around a secret blacker than the leathers she prefers to wear. Olivia thought she preferred being the one in charge, until this new Micah shows her another path. Micah feels broken, dealing with her life the only way she knows how, she's begged off romance for more physical outlets...until Olivia finds her again and they start a passionate and challenging relationship that will only work if both of them are willing to redefine their lives. Switching Gears was originally released in 2013. This is the 2nd edition and has been improved upon and expanded. The original Switching Gears won a Goldie Award in 2014 for Lesbian Erotica...but there is so much more to this story. Passionate, sensual and transformative, this novel isn't your standard romance. Micah is tormented, dealing with her past has made her put up some serious barriers that have served her well, but now prevent her from completely giving in to the one woman she can't stay away from. Secrets have to be told, and the risk is great...but if Olivia and Micah can find their way, the rewards will be well worth it.
512 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 25, 2013
101 people are currently reading
401 people want to read
About the author
Rhavensfyre
26 books136 followersRhavensfyre is the collaborative pen name used by two writers, Roxanne and KL, who have been partners since 2000 and were finally legally married in Washington D.C. in 2012. They have a small farm in Pennsylvania where they raise and breed horses. KL is a horse trainer and has shown western pleasure in the past, now her focus is more on pleasure riding and breeding. She is an avid cyclist, and when she is not on four hooves she is on 2 wheels. Roxy works as a nurse by night and an artist by day. A military veteran, she has seen a good bit of the world and now enjoys the quiet country life immensely. “Switching Gears” is their first book.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
April 15, 2017
I give this 4.5 stars. It completely sucked me in from the very beginning. For whatever reason, I am always intrigued by these tortured soul characters and Micah is certainly that. I won't say this is an easy book to read as it deals with some heavy issues and it's at times heartbreaking to read about the things that have tortured Micah.
It's a rather long book (always a plus for me) but I found myself wanting to know more about what happened before this book began. Some things are explained but not all.
Bottom line: I loved this book. The characters of Olivia and Micah were two of my favorites and I rooted for them to have a happy ever after. It's a great piece of writing and it's certainly worth your time.
It's a rather long book (always a plus for me) but I found myself wanting to know more about what happened before this book began. Some things are explained but not all.
Bottom line: I loved this book. The characters of Olivia and Micah were two of my favorites and I rooted for them to have a happy ever after. It's a great piece of writing and it's certainly worth your time.
December 31, 2023
【4.75 Stars】
This is Rhavensfyre’s debut novel and the first book I’ve read from them. I picked it up due to the tags…haha! It was blazin’ hot and the scenes were well-written. I also liked how they were dispersed evenly throughout the book. Oftentimes an author may bombard the reader in the beginning with sex just to hook them or, just the opposite, they may build up to just dump all the scenes at the end to make up for the slow burn.
Micah’s character felt so deep and I enjoyed getting to know her each second. I thought there was so much that she went through. It was admirable and disappointing to know that this is not just what happens in fiction of course. Olivia felt a bit less layered, but I still liked her tough exterior. I did want to throttle both of the MC’s every time there was a conflict. I am not a fan of relationship miscommunication being an issue in romance books, but it is still realistic to some extent.
I wish more people knew about this book. It was not perfect by any means, but I flew through this in 24 hours. I felt like it droned on a bit too long… 500 pages…sheesh! I was impressed that Rhavensfyre kept me on the edge of my seat. I will totally be picking up the sequel ASAP on Kindle Unlimited and will be looking forward to reading more books by them!
TW: Self-harm, Homophobia
➢Happy reading!
This is Rhavensfyre’s debut novel and the first book I’ve read from them. I picked it up due to the tags…haha! It was blazin’ hot and the scenes were well-written. I also liked how they were dispersed evenly throughout the book. Oftentimes an author may bombard the reader in the beginning with sex just to hook them or, just the opposite, they may build up to just dump all the scenes at the end to make up for the slow burn.
Micah’s character felt so deep and I enjoyed getting to know her each second. I thought there was so much that she went through. It was admirable and disappointing to know that this is not just what happens in fiction of course. Olivia felt a bit less layered, but I still liked her tough exterior. I did want to throttle both of the MC’s every time there was a conflict. I am not a fan of relationship miscommunication being an issue in romance books, but it is still realistic to some extent.
I wish more people knew about this book. It was not perfect by any means, but I flew through this in 24 hours. I felt like it droned on a bit too long… 500 pages…sheesh! I was impressed that Rhavensfyre kept me on the edge of my seat. I will totally be picking up the sequel ASAP on Kindle Unlimited and will be looking forward to reading more books by them!
TW: Self-harm, Homophobia
➢Happy reading!
July 18, 2018
It’s been a year since Micah walked out of Olivia’s house and life for what felt like forever. Olivia finally has all her ducks in a row and life is good, it’s just missing one crucial element, Micah. Now Micah’s back and Olivia will do anything to make sure she never leaves again. For Micah, her life has never been easy but the past year has been the worst by far. She finds it hard to trust people or let them behind her emotional walls but one thing is certain, she has never stopped loving Olivia…
I forgot how much I loved this book. Rhavenfyre really drew me in from the beginning. It’s a fast paced dialogue which I really enjoyed because at no point was I wishing I could jump ahead. I also love the ‘Melting Ice Queen’ trope and in this book it was written beautifully but what made this book different was that Olivia’s stern and business like attitude started to dissipate from the beginning so it didn’t take long for her feelings to really shine through for Micah.
Micah has some real deep rooted emotional issues that Olivia actually helps her break through and I think it’s a testament to the authors that they could take Micah’s trauma and turn it into a strength. Micah and Olivia are polar opposites but they complement each other beautifully. The sex scenes in this book are incredibly hot and I think readers will be pleasantly surprised by how delicious they are.
I also loved Olivia’s daughter, Reggie. She was a bundle of cuteness especially in the moments when she shares page time with both Olivia and Micah. They are such an adorable little family unit.
I think this book was amazing and I’d love Rhavenfyre to write a short or sequel to Micah and Olivia’s story, not because the book needs it but because I just want more.
5 stars
I forgot how much I loved this book. Rhavenfyre really drew me in from the beginning. It’s a fast paced dialogue which I really enjoyed because at no point was I wishing I could jump ahead. I also love the ‘Melting Ice Queen’ trope and in this book it was written beautifully but what made this book different was that Olivia’s stern and business like attitude started to dissipate from the beginning so it didn’t take long for her feelings to really shine through for Micah.
Micah has some real deep rooted emotional issues that Olivia actually helps her break through and I think it’s a testament to the authors that they could take Micah’s trauma and turn it into a strength. Micah and Olivia are polar opposites but they complement each other beautifully. The sex scenes in this book are incredibly hot and I think readers will be pleasantly surprised by how delicious they are.
I also loved Olivia’s daughter, Reggie. She was a bundle of cuteness especially in the moments when she shares page time with both Olivia and Micah. They are such an adorable little family unit.
I think this book was amazing and I’d love Rhavenfyre to write a short or sequel to Micah and Olivia’s story, not because the book needs it but because I just want more.
5 stars
April 22, 2018
This was my 1st book written by Rhavensfyre, which I read a while ago but recently re-read it and I must say, 2nd read was even better than the 1st time! This time, though, I merged it with its mini-sequel, which I never knew about until recently, “Stepping Out.” Phew! Was it a sensually-stimulating, emotionally satisfying ride, indeed! I’m just glad I stumbled upon this book when I did as I was looking for books that would give me the same emotional satisfactory read as several of my fav authors’ have in the slow-burn, sensual/erotic, romance style that went over 300 pages’ long (not many of them in lesfic, for some reason!). Yes, I’m an avid reader who enjoys beautifully crafted words and stories written to feed my imagination, my mind. So when I find a book that gives me all that deliciousness, the more pages, the merrier. “Switching Gears” ticked all the boxes for me and sure enough, it’s been one of me lesfic romance favourites since my 1st read! :)
I absolutely was enamelled to the story that Rhavensfyre so deftly built around Olivia & Micah’s lives, particularly their past; how their lives got entwined again, and their journey toward a life together. Brilliant storytelling, organically paced, peeling off each of their struggles, inner conflict, secrets, layer by layer as the story switched gears between Olivia’s and Micah’s own trials & tribulations, soul-searching, along the pages. I loved Olivia. She was this older woman who was in love with her former intern but rejected her, but eventually accepted her sexuality, after Micah left, so when Micah returned into her midst, she really wanted to make it up for lost time with Micah, trying desperately to understand the stark changes with the younger woman who’d turned into this dark, tortured soul, who was still in love with Olivia but was still very much haunted by the event that caused her to change so drastically in 1 year since she walked out on the older object of her love. The level of love and passion they had for each other were always simmering underneath all the obstacles & barriers they both put before them for self-preservation/protection, but as their relationship grew, the dam finally broke, letting in all penned-up desire, fiery passion, undeniably deep-seated love both always had for each other. Crikey! Hot & steamy were an understatement! But each of their intimately erotic & sensual connection was realistically portrayed & very necessary to display as every milestone was reached in their journey of love, commitment and acceptance. Their intensity was deeply felt through the pages.
All in all, it was truly satiating and satisfying to ride together with Olivia & Micah, as a reader, experiencing and feeling their emotional journey and discovery of just how much they meant to each other. The ferocity of their romance, the intensity of their love & their steadfast affinity were utterly heart-rending, unbelievably intoxicating and oh-so triumphantly joyous to experience in the end!
I highly recommend this GEM of a debut book by Rhavensfyre. It’s a resounding MUST-READ, if you ask me! More importantly, the superb material garners re-reads…at least for me!
Well done, Rhavensfyre!
And, don’t forget the mini-sequel, “Stepping Out,” (my brief comment here) which must be read right after this incredible story!
2 words to describe Olivia & Micah’s night out: Hot. Steamy. *smirk*
Satisfaction guaranteed, peeps! :D
Definitely going to explore all the other books written by this dynamic duo under one of the most unique & cool pen names, Rhavensfyre!
I absolutely was enamelled to the story that Rhavensfyre so deftly built around Olivia & Micah’s lives, particularly their past; how their lives got entwined again, and their journey toward a life together. Brilliant storytelling, organically paced, peeling off each of their struggles, inner conflict, secrets, layer by layer as the story switched gears between Olivia’s and Micah’s own trials & tribulations, soul-searching, along the pages. I loved Olivia. She was this older woman who was in love with her former intern but rejected her, but eventually accepted her sexuality, after Micah left, so when Micah returned into her midst, she really wanted to make it up for lost time with Micah, trying desperately to understand the stark changes with the younger woman who’d turned into this dark, tortured soul, who was still in love with Olivia but was still very much haunted by the event that caused her to change so drastically in 1 year since she walked out on the older object of her love. The level of love and passion they had for each other were always simmering underneath all the obstacles & barriers they both put before them for self-preservation/protection, but as their relationship grew, the dam finally broke, letting in all penned-up desire, fiery passion, undeniably deep-seated love both always had for each other. Crikey! Hot & steamy were an understatement! But each of their intimately erotic & sensual connection was realistically portrayed & very necessary to display as every milestone was reached in their journey of love, commitment and acceptance. Their intensity was deeply felt through the pages.
All in all, it was truly satiating and satisfying to ride together with Olivia & Micah, as a reader, experiencing and feeling their emotional journey and discovery of just how much they meant to each other. The ferocity of their romance, the intensity of their love & their steadfast affinity were utterly heart-rending, unbelievably intoxicating and oh-so triumphantly joyous to experience in the end!
I highly recommend this GEM of a debut book by Rhavensfyre. It’s a resounding MUST-READ, if you ask me! More importantly, the superb material garners re-reads…at least for me!
Well done, Rhavensfyre!
And, don’t forget the mini-sequel, “Stepping Out,” (my brief comment here) which must be read right after this incredible story!
2 words to describe Olivia & Micah’s night out: Hot. Steamy. *smirk*
Satisfaction guaranteed, peeps! :D
Definitely going to explore all the other books written by this dynamic duo under one of the most unique & cool pen names, Rhavensfyre!
May 26, 2020
After reading this for the second time so I could leave a review, I also upped my original rating from four stars to five. Rhavensfyre has a gift of stringing words together that sometimes left me gobsmacked. If I knew how to highlight in a kindle book, I would, then I would show it off. My memory was fuzzy on the details of the story, but as soon as I dove back into it, everything came rushing to the forefront.
The story started with the two protagonist's reuniting after a year. Olivia, the hard-ass lawyer who was newly out of the closet, pining over Micah, a woman who she hadn't realized she had been missing until the day she saw her on the busy streets of New York. Then there was Micah, a dark mystery who transformed from a caterpillar to a flittering, unattainable butterfly who you wanted to possess and never let go, knowing in your heart and soul that a person like Micah could never be truly captured. Instead of telling us, the readers, all the sordid details of how these two women knew each other and why their reuniting was so cold and uncomfortable right up front, Rhavensfyre drew it out for us, slowly peeled back each layer, letting us slowly sink our teeth in. At first introductions, I did not care for Olivia and I immediately fell for Micah. I don't know, maybe because I'm a sucker for "bad bois" with a dark edge to them. However, Micah was not a "bad" anything, she just appeared that way on the surface as a way to protect her heart from pain. Micah had been dealt some sh*tty hands in life, and she handled some of those hands in a less than desirable way, all resulting with pain and/or scars to match. When it came to emotions, though, she had become a pro had building walls around her heart so she wouldn't have to feel the pain. Olivia, being a pro at getting what she wanted by negotiating, tried so very hard in the beginning to move, mold, persuade Micah to her liking, and that just slithered under my skin and sat there like a bad disease. Over time, Olivia learned that in order to keep Micah in her life she would have to relent her iron grip of ways of thinking and let Micah come to her. I slowly learned to like Olivia and at times laughed because Micah was like a hurricane that upset Olivia's pristine and ordered life. Definite opposites attract.
This was one of those stories that left me sore afterward because I had gotten so caught up in it that I forgot to move and stretch. Not once was I bored and not once was there any lulls in the story. At times I felt like I was reading a thriller with cliff hangers just from Micah's story alone. I had to know why, why, why! Why did this happen? How come that happened? Where did she go? Micah could do no wrong in my eyes, no matter her past, her cravings, her decision making, her words. Maybe because I could relate to some of her thought processes. Micah's mind was dark at times, but after reuniting with Olivia, a woman she had been in love with since the beginning, a new-found light wormed its way in Micah's life and heart. That didn't mean that the sexy, dark and brooding Micah with a body you melted against was gone, it just meant a happier, lighter Micah who still held a semblance of that aloof "devil-may-care" attitude merged with the old Micah.
In my opinion, this story was about forgiveness. Forgiveness to yourself and forgiveness of others and all their wrong-doings towards you. I believe it was also about identity. Micah went from, according to Olivia and my understanding, a femme intern at a lawyer firm in a power suit to a butch bike messenger in cargo shorts and t-shirt. Micah not only changed her appearance but her attitude as well. She always appeared confident in any decision she made, even if deep down she was floundering. I truly believe Micah suffered from some kind of PTSD from her past and I also believe she had some form of ADHD. All that combined made for a very dynamic character that not only left Olivia's head spinning but mine as well. Like I mentioned earlier, Micah was an unattainable butterfly, a beautiful/handsome, sexy, if not illegally sexy, butterfly.
Rhavensfyre brilliantly told us a tale about life breaking you down so bad, leaving you hopeless of standing back up on your own to overcoming all your weaknesses and rising above all the sh*t that dragged you down to live a healthy and happy life. Love was a huge factor, and Olivia and Micah's story was the kind of love story that some of us yearn for.
Grade-A-story-telling, book that I highly, highly, recommend.
P.S. I also couldn't help but feel a bit of the author, themselves, sprinkled throughout this amazing story ;)
The story started with the two protagonist's reuniting after a year. Olivia, the hard-ass lawyer who was newly out of the closet, pining over Micah, a woman who she hadn't realized she had been missing until the day she saw her on the busy streets of New York. Then there was Micah, a dark mystery who transformed from a caterpillar to a flittering, unattainable butterfly who you wanted to possess and never let go, knowing in your heart and soul that a person like Micah could never be truly captured. Instead of telling us, the readers, all the sordid details of how these two women knew each other and why their reuniting was so cold and uncomfortable right up front, Rhavensfyre drew it out for us, slowly peeled back each layer, letting us slowly sink our teeth in. At first introductions, I did not care for Olivia and I immediately fell for Micah. I don't know, maybe because I'm a sucker for "bad bois" with a dark edge to them. However, Micah was not a "bad" anything, she just appeared that way on the surface as a way to protect her heart from pain. Micah had been dealt some sh*tty hands in life, and she handled some of those hands in a less than desirable way, all resulting with pain and/or scars to match. When it came to emotions, though, she had become a pro had building walls around her heart so she wouldn't have to feel the pain. Olivia, being a pro at getting what she wanted by negotiating, tried so very hard in the beginning to move, mold, persuade Micah to her liking, and that just slithered under my skin and sat there like a bad disease. Over time, Olivia learned that in order to keep Micah in her life she would have to relent her iron grip of ways of thinking and let Micah come to her. I slowly learned to like Olivia and at times laughed because Micah was like a hurricane that upset Olivia's pristine and ordered life. Definite opposites attract.
This was one of those stories that left me sore afterward because I had gotten so caught up in it that I forgot to move and stretch. Not once was I bored and not once was there any lulls in the story. At times I felt like I was reading a thriller with cliff hangers just from Micah's story alone. I had to know why, why, why! Why did this happen? How come that happened? Where did she go? Micah could do no wrong in my eyes, no matter her past, her cravings, her decision making, her words. Maybe because I could relate to some of her thought processes. Micah's mind was dark at times, but after reuniting with Olivia, a woman she had been in love with since the beginning, a new-found light wormed its way in Micah's life and heart. That didn't mean that the sexy, dark and brooding Micah with a body you melted against was gone, it just meant a happier, lighter Micah who still held a semblance of that aloof "devil-may-care" attitude merged with the old Micah.
In my opinion, this story was about forgiveness. Forgiveness to yourself and forgiveness of others and all their wrong-doings towards you. I believe it was also about identity. Micah went from, according to Olivia and my understanding, a femme intern at a lawyer firm in a power suit to a butch bike messenger in cargo shorts and t-shirt. Micah not only changed her appearance but her attitude as well. She always appeared confident in any decision she made, even if deep down she was floundering. I truly believe Micah suffered from some kind of PTSD from her past and I also believe she had some form of ADHD. All that combined made for a very dynamic character that not only left Olivia's head spinning but mine as well. Like I mentioned earlier, Micah was an unattainable butterfly, a beautiful/handsome, sexy, if not illegally sexy, butterfly.
Rhavensfyre brilliantly told us a tale about life breaking you down so bad, leaving you hopeless of standing back up on your own to overcoming all your weaknesses and rising above all the sh*t that dragged you down to live a healthy and happy life. Love was a huge factor, and Olivia and Micah's story was the kind of love story that some of us yearn for.
Grade-A-story-telling, book that I highly, highly, recommend.
P.S. I also couldn't help but feel a bit of the author, themselves, sprinkled throughout this amazing story ;)
March 19, 2016
3.4 stars
I wasn't able to completely get absorbed into this book until I finally get up to 50% of it. The thing that annoyed me the most is probably how the two main characters sparked minor fights here and there randomly due to some childish assumptions and pointless pride.
This emotional rollercoaster tired me out quite a bit. Plus, the repetitive "intensity" description during these romance development makes it...doesn't look like a romance development but more of a "Oh you wanna fight?" kind of scenario.
One moment I thought these two are gonna be lovey dovey, another moment, they seemed to get offended by what the other person said.
After the 50% mark, that's when the story starts to get interesting and the hot-and-cold instants are lessen.
Perhaps I am not much of an angst person. Regardless, the love scenes are very well written. The storyline is compelling. The two main characters got their own intriguing moments.
At the end of the book, I wasn't able to completely say that wow, I really like this book, but more of a "a nice read."
I wasn't able to completely get absorbed into this book until I finally get up to 50% of it. The thing that annoyed me the most is probably how the two main characters sparked minor fights here and there randomly due to some childish assumptions and pointless pride.
This emotional rollercoaster tired me out quite a bit. Plus, the repetitive "intensity" description during these romance development makes it...doesn't look like a romance development but more of a "Oh you wanna fight?" kind of scenario.
One moment I thought these two are gonna be lovey dovey, another moment, they seemed to get offended by what the other person said.
After the 50% mark, that's when the story starts to get interesting and the hot-and-cold instants are lessen.
Perhaps I am not much of an angst person. Regardless, the love scenes are very well written. The storyline is compelling. The two main characters got their own intriguing moments.
At the end of the book, I wasn't able to completely say that wow, I really like this book, but more of a "a nice read."
November 3, 2019
I was so totally unprepared for what this book would do to me. Foolish woman that I am, I thought I knew the caliber of Rhavensfyre's work. I adored their novellas and was looking forward to devouring more of their work. I had seen what others had to say about Switching Gears in various chats, read the reviews and even had the privilege of speaking with the authors. I had no doubt that I was in for a great read. I was prepared for a sultry, steamy, make your pules throb in anticipation erotic tale. I was blown away!
I expected white hot, down and dirty sex. I expected to ache in all the best places and I expected to be driven half out of my mind with pure lust. SG delivered and so much more.
What I did not expect was the emotional ride this tale would take me on. I did not expect to be so caught up in Micah and Olivia. I did not expect to, well for lack of better words, identify with parts of both of these complex women. I didn't expect to feel, really feel, the frustration Olivia went through or the intense pain and lack of being able to feel that Micah struggled so intensely to overcome or the insecurities they both faced while fighting for their love. There were parts of this story that had me in tears, my heart breaking for these FICTIONAL characters!
I didn't expect the sweet and tender moments that made me long to be in anothers arms. I didn't expect to laugh at Olivia's daughter's antics. I didn't expect to be so completely contented at the story's end. This is one of my favorite books, one that I am sure I will read again and again.
Before reading I had commented to a friend that I really wanted to find a really well written erotic romance story. KL and Roxanne gave me so much more than I could have dreamed for. It is no wonder this novel is a Golden Crown Literary Society award winner!
I expected white hot, down and dirty sex. I expected to ache in all the best places and I expected to be driven half out of my mind with pure lust. SG delivered and so much more.
What I did not expect was the emotional ride this tale would take me on. I did not expect to be so caught up in Micah and Olivia. I did not expect to, well for lack of better words, identify with parts of both of these complex women. I didn't expect to feel, really feel, the frustration Olivia went through or the intense pain and lack of being able to feel that Micah struggled so intensely to overcome or the insecurities they both faced while fighting for their love. There were parts of this story that had me in tears, my heart breaking for these FICTIONAL characters!
I didn't expect the sweet and tender moments that made me long to be in anothers arms. I didn't expect to laugh at Olivia's daughter's antics. I didn't expect to be so completely contented at the story's end. This is one of my favorite books, one that I am sure I will read again and again.
Before reading I had commented to a friend that I really wanted to find a really well written erotic romance story. KL and Roxanne gave me so much more than I could have dreamed for. It is no wonder this novel is a Golden Crown Literary Society award winner!
March 2, 2014
Micah Connolly tried so hard to please everyone over the years. Her family, her friends and now Olivia Holden. But, she doesn’t seem to have succeeded so far.
When Micah heard her grandmother had died, she was heartbroken. She turned to Olivia for comfort, but unfortunately, Olivia sent out mixed messages, even their first kiss was a disaster. Micah knew she had to go and sort out her grandmother’s affairs and her will. This led to a misunderstanding between the two women and after a heated exchange, Micah ran off and didn’t return.
One year later, Olivia was still regretting sticking to a complex set of rules that made her lose Micah, the one woman she loves.
When Olivia sees Micah again riding a bicycle through the busy New York streets, she’s determined they will meet again and secretly arranges through Micah’s boss to be loaned to her company. Their reunion isn’t a happy one. Micah has changed. She’s hiding a deep, dark and devastating secret which if revealed, she feels may send Olivia running forever. Will Micah take the chance and trust Olivia?
Micah is also dampening down parts of herself which she feels Olivia wouldn’t like. But, a cat and mouse game of power between the two women begins to play out. Micah is both pleased and fearful. She has a hard choice to make.
With her past still coming back to haunt her, Micah knows it’s make or break time. She must make her choices. The risks have their own rewards, but will Micah be destroyed in the process?
This is Rhavensfyre’s debut novel. It’s well written, gritty, hard hitting and a page turner from the first page right through to it’s dramatic conclusion. This story is unlike any other I’ve read. It’s not a light hearted read, in fact it is an emotionally charged, hard read in parts. A mixture of romance, drama, heartache, heartbreak, physical and mental abuse, but with a light hearted streak running through it that eases the pain of Micah’s turbulent life a bit. Flowing throughout the book is the tender, bittersweet romance between Micah and Olivia. All the way through I was hoping against hope these two women would be able to work things out and get their happy ever after. Whether they do or not, you will have to read the book to find out. Their journey is amazing.
The two main characters, Micah and Olivia are both flawed in different ways. Whilst Micah is the fragile one, really struggling and suffering, Olivia has some demons of her own too. But, she is the stronger of the two. I really admire her, she is my favorite character. Micah, I felt really sorry for. All her life, she’s missed out on love and when she finally finds it, she can’t trust it. This is where Olivia has to be patient, to gain Micah’s trust.This book is a really superb read. A sequel wouldn’t be out of the question either. These characters are well formed and solid and I’d love to read more about them.
I am looking forward to reading more from Rhavensfyre in the near future. But, can they top this debut novel? Hopefully, they will. I’ll definitely re-read this book.
When Micah heard her grandmother had died, she was heartbroken. She turned to Olivia for comfort, but unfortunately, Olivia sent out mixed messages, even their first kiss was a disaster. Micah knew she had to go and sort out her grandmother’s affairs and her will. This led to a misunderstanding between the two women and after a heated exchange, Micah ran off and didn’t return.
One year later, Olivia was still regretting sticking to a complex set of rules that made her lose Micah, the one woman she loves.
When Olivia sees Micah again riding a bicycle through the busy New York streets, she’s determined they will meet again and secretly arranges through Micah’s boss to be loaned to her company. Their reunion isn’t a happy one. Micah has changed. She’s hiding a deep, dark and devastating secret which if revealed, she feels may send Olivia running forever. Will Micah take the chance and trust Olivia?
Micah is also dampening down parts of herself which she feels Olivia wouldn’t like. But, a cat and mouse game of power between the two women begins to play out. Micah is both pleased and fearful. She has a hard choice to make.
With her past still coming back to haunt her, Micah knows it’s make or break time. She must make her choices. The risks have their own rewards, but will Micah be destroyed in the process?
This is Rhavensfyre’s debut novel. It’s well written, gritty, hard hitting and a page turner from the first page right through to it’s dramatic conclusion. This story is unlike any other I’ve read. It’s not a light hearted read, in fact it is an emotionally charged, hard read in parts. A mixture of romance, drama, heartache, heartbreak, physical and mental abuse, but with a light hearted streak running through it that eases the pain of Micah’s turbulent life a bit. Flowing throughout the book is the tender, bittersweet romance between Micah and Olivia. All the way through I was hoping against hope these two women would be able to work things out and get their happy ever after. Whether they do or not, you will have to read the book to find out. Their journey is amazing.
The two main characters, Micah and Olivia are both flawed in different ways. Whilst Micah is the fragile one, really struggling and suffering, Olivia has some demons of her own too. But, she is the stronger of the two. I really admire her, she is my favorite character. Micah, I felt really sorry for. All her life, she’s missed out on love and when she finally finds it, she can’t trust it. This is where Olivia has to be patient, to gain Micah’s trust.This book is a really superb read. A sequel wouldn’t be out of the question either. These characters are well formed and solid and I’d love to read more about them.
I am looking forward to reading more from Rhavensfyre in the near future. But, can they top this debut novel? Hopefully, they will. I’ll definitely re-read this book.
December 29, 2013
Wow! Be patient with this book because the pace is slow. At times I was impatient because I wanted to know some details sooner rather than later in the story. But I was drawn into the world of Micah and Olivia....
March 13, 2023
Could only last to 77% till I gave up.
I did not like Micah at all and had no idea what Olivia saw in her to let her walk all over her. I get she’s traumatised and has issues but that doesn’t give you the right to emotionally abuse your partner, that you say you “love”. It felt like Olivia was constantly fighting her nature to meet Micah at where she is but she never got anything back from Micah but attitude or threats of leaving when Micah felt any negative emotions. And Micah constantly used the fact she could leave and never come back to force Olivia into accepting her frankly shitty behaviour and reactions to Olivia asking her hard questions or Olivia trying to initiate intimacy with Micah. For example, after running out in the middle of the night and refusing to pick up calls or answer texts from Olivia (Olivia left Micah in the bathroom cause Micah didn’t want Olivia to join her for a bath), Micah shows up to work the next day, and when Olivia understandably is annoyed with her, and says “I don’t want you here right now”, why is Micah responding like this ““Are you sure about that? Think very carefully.” The warning tone in her voice brought Olivia up short”. Warning tone?? She’s threatening Olivia with her leaving and then thinks she “won”, won what?? Being emotionally abusive?
I did not root for this relationship and thought Olivia deserved so much better Micah.
And not to be a nitpicky asshole but there was so much “the other woman”, “the older woman”, “the younger woman”, “the taller woman”, and the “smaller woman” when discussing the main characters.
I did not like Micah at all and had no idea what Olivia saw in her to let her walk all over her. I get she’s traumatised and has issues but that doesn’t give you the right to emotionally abuse your partner, that you say you “love”. It felt like Olivia was constantly fighting her nature to meet Micah at where she is but she never got anything back from Micah but attitude or threats of leaving when Micah felt any negative emotions. And Micah constantly used the fact she could leave and never come back to force Olivia into accepting her frankly shitty behaviour and reactions to Olivia asking her hard questions or Olivia trying to initiate intimacy with Micah. For example, after running out in the middle of the night and refusing to pick up calls or answer texts from Olivia (Olivia left Micah in the bathroom cause Micah didn’t want Olivia to join her for a bath), Micah shows up to work the next day, and when Olivia understandably is annoyed with her, and says “I don’t want you here right now”, why is Micah responding like this ““Are you sure about that? Think very carefully.” The warning tone in her voice brought Olivia up short”. Warning tone?? She’s threatening Olivia with her leaving and then thinks she “won”, won what?? Being emotionally abusive?
I did not root for this relationship and thought Olivia deserved so much better Micah.
And not to be a nitpicky asshole but there was so much “the other woman”, “the older woman”, “the younger woman”, “the taller woman”, and the “smaller woman” when discussing the main characters.
November 8, 2015
A brilliant superb creation.
SG is steaming hot with a storyline so captivating. The story about two very strong women and so opposite to each other. It's a journey of gaining trust, taking chances, determination, stubbornness, lust, desire, passion and unconditional love. It's about risks and rewards. The two women, Micah and Olivia have a history together and their reunion is a struggle with a lot of issues. Micah had a tough story hidden, a devastating secret. There is so much tension between them. Both are exposing their weaknesses, making a lot of mistakes but nevertheless, their relationship is growing. I was completely hooked on Micah and Olivia and their story. It was a powerplay of attracting and repelling. I had a hard time putting it down even though I had also read the first edition, even several times. Now that I've finished SG I'm missing Micah and Olivia so badly. SG is absolutely worthy of a golden award. Do not hesitate and start reading SG. You will not be disappointed and the result will be that you want to read SG again and again.
SG is steaming hot with a storyline so captivating. The story about two very strong women and so opposite to each other. It's a journey of gaining trust, taking chances, determination, stubbornness, lust, desire, passion and unconditional love. It's about risks and rewards. The two women, Micah and Olivia have a history together and their reunion is a struggle with a lot of issues. Micah had a tough story hidden, a devastating secret. There is so much tension between them. Both are exposing their weaknesses, making a lot of mistakes but nevertheless, their relationship is growing. I was completely hooked on Micah and Olivia and their story. It was a powerplay of attracting and repelling. I had a hard time putting it down even though I had also read the first edition, even several times. Now that I've finished SG I'm missing Micah and Olivia so badly. SG is absolutely worthy of a golden award. Do not hesitate and start reading SG. You will not be disappointed and the result will be that you want to read SG again and again.
August 28, 2014
I just finished Switching Gears and I found it to be an excellent read. I will definitely read this book more than once. There were times when I had to fan myself because a scene was so HOT!! I enjoyed the main characters Micah and Olivia. They were realistic and believable in their journey to each other. The story flowed beautifully as both women allowed themselves to switch gears. Thanks Rhavensfyre, I look forward to reading more from both of you.
August 29, 2016
I was a little put off by Micah's difficult and immature character but the further I read, the more I was totally into this book. Anyone with parents resembling Micah's (personal experience) can resort to all kinds of coping mechanisms. Olivia was the perfect woman, nothing wrong with her. The book is deep, real, sexy and unforgettable. A great read. Hope the author re-visits Micah and Olivia again.
March 19, 2019
Page turner
I found myself trying to read this during every break that I had to myself. This a pretty powerful book filled with a great deal of life lessons. I felt like it elicited every single emotion you can think of. There are also some pretty steamy sciences throughout to enjoy. It's not just a romance which is what I enjoyed about it.
I found myself trying to read this during every break that I had to myself. This a pretty powerful book filled with a great deal of life lessons. I felt like it elicited every single emotion you can think of. There are also some pretty steamy sciences throughout to enjoy. It's not just a romance which is what I enjoyed about it.
September 28, 2023
blew me away….
Gosh, I picked this book at random to read. I purchased a few books by the author a while ago and never got around to reading them. I spend a lot of time reading Radclyffe, Robin Roseau, Mardria Portuondo, Harper Bliss, Michele Telford, and etc. They’re writing style and content is quite exceptional. I was utterly surprised as I read this book. This author was an unexpected gift.
I saw the page count and new I was in like Flynn. I knew there was going to quite the story telling filled with angst, complexities of the human spirit in life and in love. I had no idea what happened between Olivia and Micah. But when Micah showed up at Olivia’s office and tried to get away before Olivia saw her…I just knew this was going to be a great story and an even better romantic tale of two women. I was not disappointed.
The story mainly centers around Micah, the younger woman and her past, present and future. Olivia is an older woman, established, strong, intelligent, and steadfast. These two worlds comes colliding into one another at breakneck speed. This collision course partly sets off such turmoil in the Micah’s life that almost damaged her beyond repair. Her story is quite heart wrenching and only a woman like Olivia can chip away at the marble without breaking the woman contained in it.
Outwardly, Micah seems and comes across as quite immature. But that couldn’t be further from the truth. Age-gap romance can be tricky to write. And what I love about this one is that Olivia remained a 38 y/o attorney, wearing age appropriate clothing, using age appropriate language, and the whole time you knew she remained uniquely her and her age. That is hard to do for some authors. Olivia felt very authentic. Same goes for Micah, she enjoyed the things that were also age appropriate, but a young woman older than her chronological age. She was very mature in her level of intelligence and her “cocky” appeal. And this is how they work or some say “click.” They both allowed the other to be who they are, but pushed the other to be better in the most gentle of ways. It showed in the quality of their love. It made a believer out of me. This coupling felt real. The love felt real. I was totally invested in them having a HEA.
Now, I can’t wait to read this authors other books. Because I could not put this one down.
Gosh, I picked this book at random to read. I purchased a few books by the author a while ago and never got around to reading them. I spend a lot of time reading Radclyffe, Robin Roseau, Mardria Portuondo, Harper Bliss, Michele Telford, and etc. They’re writing style and content is quite exceptional. I was utterly surprised as I read this book. This author was an unexpected gift.
I saw the page count and new I was in like Flynn. I knew there was going to quite the story telling filled with angst, complexities of the human spirit in life and in love. I had no idea what happened between Olivia and Micah. But when Micah showed up at Olivia’s office and tried to get away before Olivia saw her…I just knew this was going to be a great story and an even better romantic tale of two women. I was not disappointed.
The story mainly centers around Micah, the younger woman and her past, present and future. Olivia is an older woman, established, strong, intelligent, and steadfast. These two worlds comes colliding into one another at breakneck speed. This collision course partly sets off such turmoil in the Micah’s life that almost damaged her beyond repair. Her story is quite heart wrenching and only a woman like Olivia can chip away at the marble without breaking the woman contained in it.
Outwardly, Micah seems and comes across as quite immature. But that couldn’t be further from the truth. Age-gap romance can be tricky to write. And what I love about this one is that Olivia remained a 38 y/o attorney, wearing age appropriate clothing, using age appropriate language, and the whole time you knew she remained uniquely her and her age. That is hard to do for some authors. Olivia felt very authentic. Same goes for Micah, she enjoyed the things that were also age appropriate, but a young woman older than her chronological age. She was very mature in her level of intelligence and her “cocky” appeal. And this is how they work or some say “click.” They both allowed the other to be who they are, but pushed the other to be better in the most gentle of ways. It showed in the quality of their love. It made a believer out of me. This coupling felt real. The love felt real. I was totally invested in them having a HEA.
Now, I can’t wait to read this authors other books. Because I could not put this one down.
March 31, 2023
This book starts very promising with an excellent premise.
Up to 10% of the book I felt complete enthralled by both characters and the incredibly charged sexual tension which was so sensual it was scorching hot without them actually having anything more than looks and simple touches.
From then on however the book completely lost me. Both characters run hot and cold constantly with a behavior so immature I actually had to stop and read some scenes again and again. Especially Olivia is like a whole different character. She is needy, disrespecting of very obvious barriers that made me actually cringe. It was very frustrating because when the book begins she is very fascinating character.
This story felt like it was a fanfic and then somehow it was not given the time it deserved for all these deep rooted issues Micah especially had to be resolved. Micah is constantly being pushed to give things she is not ready for and she acts out and the next second she caves.
The authors speak of a past that we are not aware of and yet we get very little glimpses of it so we can feel things as we should.
All these fights the characters have start seemingly from nothing and they are being resolved so fast that it gave me a whiplash.
I think this book simply needed more time because it has the potential to be a really amazing and dramatic tale. Could have very well been a two part effort.
Up to 10% of the book I felt complete enthralled by both characters and the incredibly charged sexual tension which was so sensual it was scorching hot without them actually having anything more than looks and simple touches.
From then on however the book completely lost me. Both characters run hot and cold constantly with a behavior so immature I actually had to stop and read some scenes again and again. Especially Olivia is like a whole different character. She is needy, disrespecting of very obvious barriers that made me actually cringe. It was very frustrating because when the book begins she is very fascinating character.
This story felt like it was a fanfic and then somehow it was not given the time it deserved for all these deep rooted issues Micah especially had to be resolved. Micah is constantly being pushed to give things she is not ready for and she acts out and the next second she caves.
The authors speak of a past that we are not aware of and yet we get very little glimpses of it so we can feel things as we should.
All these fights the characters have start seemingly from nothing and they are being resolved so fast that it gave me a whiplash.
I think this book simply needed more time because it has the potential to be a really amazing and dramatic tale. Could have very well been a two part effort.
April 23, 2018
3.25
It was a good read, I liked it and I especially liked the difference between the MC´s but they are so right for one another. And maybe if you consider reading this you should know that there is a lot of sex and some explicit, don´t get me wrong it was hot but I didn´t know that I should expect this. I stopped reading sometimes when I was on the train because I got paranoid :D
And maybe there should be a little trigger warning because there is mentioning of self harm.
The only reason that this is not an 4 Star or more is the push and pull throughout the book, I was tired of it that I started to skip some. It´s just my personal opinion but I couldn´t believe that the one of the MC´s acted the way she did even when she knew it would cause trouble.
Other than that great plot and belivable Character development most of the time.
It was a good read, I liked it and I especially liked the difference between the MC´s but they are so right for one another. And maybe if you consider reading this you should know that there is a lot of sex and some explicit, don´t get me wrong it was hot but I didn´t know that I should expect this. I stopped reading sometimes when I was on the train because I got paranoid :D
And maybe there should be a little trigger warning because there is mentioning of self harm.
The only reason that this is not an 4 Star or more is the push and pull throughout the book, I was tired of it that I started to skip some. It´s just my personal opinion but I couldn´t believe that the one of the MC´s acted the way she did even when she knew it would cause trouble.
Other than that great plot and belivable Character development most of the time.
December 27, 2018
Spectacular
“How do you heal wounds that don’t bleed? How do you cover up scars that mark your soul?”
“The thought of letting go like that scared the shit out of her. You can’t hide then; walls get ripped down in that moment when another person touches you that intimately.”
“When are you going to learn that blood doesn’t make a family? Love does.”
OMG!!!! What a book!!! Absolutely restores faith & hope in true love!! It broke my heart, pissed me the hell off & reduced me to tears, riding the emotional rollercoaster from the prolgue to the epilogue of finding & rediscovering the friendship, safety, power, pain & pleasure in real love!!!
…Can't fathom the words that can even begin to explain my emotions & feelings… IJS— I SO LOVE THIS BOOK!!!!
“How do you heal wounds that don’t bleed? How do you cover up scars that mark your soul?”
“The thought of letting go like that scared the shit out of her. You can’t hide then; walls get ripped down in that moment when another person touches you that intimately.”
“When are you going to learn that blood doesn’t make a family? Love does.”
OMG!!!! What a book!!! Absolutely restores faith & hope in true love!! It broke my heart, pissed me the hell off & reduced me to tears, riding the emotional rollercoaster from the prolgue to the epilogue of finding & rediscovering the friendship, safety, power, pain & pleasure in real love!!!
…Can't fathom the words that can even begin to explain my emotions & feelings… IJS— I SO LOVE THIS BOOK!!!!
August 22, 2018
Great story - NC-17 and a great story to boot - Win Win
This is one of those books that could have gone south quickly but the writer kept the story well paced and characters complex and relatable. It is dark, don’t get me wrong but love is a strong theme throughout. Love and self acceptance.
The resolution of Main character’s issue was a bit to pat but then again it was also understandable.
Worth the read.
This is one of those books that could have gone south quickly but the writer kept the story well paced and characters complex and relatable. It is dark, don’t get me wrong but love is a strong theme throughout. Love and self acceptance.
The resolution of Main character’s issue was a bit to pat but then again it was also understandable.
Worth the read.
May 10, 2018
Fantastic, emotional, edge cutting story WOW
The journey you go through with the two main characters in this book grips you from beginning to end i don't want to spoil it for anyone else but it is a MUST READ from Emotional, Happy, Enjoyment, Sadness and a whole heap of sexiness 5++++
The journey you go through with the two main characters in this book grips you from beginning to end i don't want to spoil it for anyone else but it is a MUST READ from Emotional, Happy, Enjoyment, Sadness and a whole heap of sexiness 5++++
September 16, 2018
An open door can lead to love
This was a great read. Between the hurt that wasn't ready to surface to the riveting love story, this book held my interest through it's entirety. The thoughts of what was once lost and then rekindled in an undying love will keep you wanting to know what will happen next.
This was a great read. Between the hurt that wasn't ready to surface to the riveting love story, this book held my interest through it's entirety. The thoughts of what was once lost and then rekindled in an undying love will keep you wanting to know what will happen next.
April 5, 2019
A True Love Story!
Finally a story that has a pulled in beginning and a real ending. The chemistry between Micah and Olivia came through and was felt through the pages. The roller coaster ride this story took me on could only have a happy ending. Sometimes it is all we crave. The exquisite details pulled the whole story together and I appreciated the writers effort. Well Done!
Finally a story that has a pulled in beginning and a real ending. The chemistry between Micah and Olivia came through and was felt through the pages. The roller coaster ride this story took me on could only have a happy ending. Sometimes it is all we crave. The exquisite details pulled the whole story together and I appreciated the writers effort. Well Done!
February 11, 2020
I rated Changing Gears a 5 because it was so skillfully written . The characters were
easy to believe in and I wanted them to grow out of their uncertainties and
and love themselves. It was easy for me to care about both of them. And most
of all I wanted them to get t0gether. That said...the problems were dark and
edgy. Not something I like to read about and I won't be rereading this book although I was completely hooked from start to finish. Rhavensfyre is a
talented writer.
easy to believe in and I wanted them to grow out of their uncertainties and
and love themselves. It was easy for me to care about both of them. And most
of all I wanted them to get t0gether. That said...the problems were dark and
edgy. Not something I like to read about and I won't be rereading this book although I was completely hooked from start to finish. Rhavensfyre is a
talented writer.
November 25, 2018
💖WOW💖
Momentous ! Mentally Gripping ! Emotionally Strangling ! This story was one colossal emotional roll ! WOW ! Holy Shit . I'm not going to share any type of spoiler ! That would definitely be wrong ! All I'm saying is don't overlook this book !.
Momentous ! Mentally Gripping ! Emotionally Strangling ! This story was one colossal emotional roll ! WOW ! Holy Shit . I'm not going to share any type of spoiler ! That would definitely be wrong ! All I'm saying is don't overlook this book !.
March 29, 2019
Eye opening.
This novel showed me two interesting women. I enjoyed the growth shown and the need to work on the power balance.
The sex scenes were not my style but done well and reading them helps me understand some aspects of lesbian culture better.
This novel showed me two interesting women. I enjoyed the growth shown and the need to work on the power balance.
The sex scenes were not my style but done well and reading them helps me understand some aspects of lesbian culture better.
May 28, 2020
This is a great love story of determination and sheer willingness to heal the one you love. Very good. My husband was a little upset that I could not put the book down long enough to have a conversation with him.
July 25, 2021
Left with unanswered questions
It took me about a week to get through this book. I am still left with a few questions.
Switching Gears wasn't horrible, it just didn't pull me in.
I feel like there was more darkness than light.
It took me about a week to get through this book. I am still left with a few questions.
Switching Gears wasn't horrible, it just didn't pull me in.
I feel like there was more darkness than light.
March 2, 2019
Absolutely incredible
This is a book I come back to time and again. I don't think I'll ever tire of reading it. As someone who can relate to Micah, this story gives me hope.
This is a book I come back to time and again. I don't think I'll ever tire of reading it. As someone who can relate to Micah, this story gives me hope.
December 3, 2020
Excellent book really enjoyed it.
February 25, 2021
Honestly, I couldn't finish it. Mostly I found the dialogue a bit much. Micah proclaiming "Oh Gods"... plural... during the intimate scenes was over the top for me.
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