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The Rule Breakers #2
The Ground Rules Rewritten
Five simple rules. And it was very simple…until it wasn’t.
It could have been much worse. We weren’t thinking straight and had put everything on the line – risking our marriages. So when Weston ended the arrangement, it was for the best – for all of us. But I was still heartbroken. I thought I’d shatter into a million pieces. I didn't, I survived. Not only did I survive, I came out stronger and ready to move on with my life.
But then…
Weston reaches out to me. With a few soft words, a gentle touch and a lingering gaze, he crumbles all my efforts.
Neither Gabe nor I want to start this again, and we are determined to to fight the temptation. But Weston and Bridget are not taking no for an answer, and the pull between all of us is still so strong.
I tell myself I can handle it this time. This time, I am in the driver’s seat. This time, I am rewriting the ground rules.
It could have been much worse. We weren’t thinking straight and had put everything on the line – risking our marriages. So when Weston ended the arrangement, it was for the best – for all of us. But I was still heartbroken. I thought I’d shatter into a million pieces. I didn't, I survived. Not only did I survive, I came out stronger and ready to move on with my life.
But then…
Weston reaches out to me. With a few soft words, a gentle touch and a lingering gaze, he crumbles all my efforts.
Neither Gabe nor I want to start this again, and we are determined to to fight the temptation. But Weston and Bridget are not taking no for an answer, and the pull between all of us is still so strong.
I tell myself I can handle it this time. This time, I am in the driver’s seat. This time, I am rewriting the ground rules.
260 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 20, 2015
46 people are currently reading
836 people want to read
About the author
Roya Carmen
37 books501 followersBusy mom, romance writer, artist & designer, book-aholic, nature lover, and hopeless romantic.
Author of The Ground Rules trilogy, and the Riverstone series.
For all the latest updates, friend me on Facebook or Twitter or Instagram!
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Twitter: @royacarmen
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Wattpad: @royastories
Author of The Ground Rules trilogy, and the Riverstone series.
For all the latest updates, friend me on Facebook or Twitter or Instagram!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...
Twitter: @royacarmen
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/royacarmen/
Wattpad: @royastories
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 244 reviews
October 12, 2015
4.5 Stars
Roya Carmen gifted an addicting story with book one of this trilogy. Her writing and storyline was not only intriguing but ulcer inducing. This second book is once again told completely in Mirella’s POV. I do feel that after reading this book I have a stronger grasp on where Weston, Gabe and Mirella stand. I’m still however in the dark about Bridgette Hansen’s feelings. I’m happy to report that this second book in the trilogy was just as well done and you can tell that the author isn’t winging it but has a clear cut idea on how things will end for these two families. I only wish I knew!
This book starts off where we last left the couples as Weston and Bridgette have called off the swap arrangement. Weston is having second thoughts. He knows his feelings are dangerous but being without Mirella is driving him mad.
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Mirella’s under the impression that if she keeps her heart out of things with Weston she can call the shots and keep this pragmatic man in her bed.
"This time, I was going to be in the driver's seat.
This time I was making the rules.
Or so I thought.
We didn't learn from our mistakes.
We just made them all over again."
The couples start back up again but this time Mirella and Weston are aware of their feelings for each other and well Gabe (I felt like I got to know him more in this book) is total alpha, slightly rough in the sack, speaks his mind and loves his wife. Things get interesting when Weston offers Gabe and Mirella a week vacation with him and Bridgette in Hawaii. Weston pulls out all the stops to love Mirella in the only position he has available and Gabe, he lets Weston know who Mirella belongs to.
”Us four, together for a week. Could go well, or could possibly go horribly.”
As the story progresses so does Weston’s attachment to Mirella and a reveal is made about him and Bridgette that gives some insight as to what made this couple open their marriage. The story even has a trip to NYC and I think my imagination was more dangerous than what was given in the book and had me reading at a fast pace to see what came next. The sex scenes were all well done and I was in a constant state of panic throughout the read. I was always wondering how far these characters will go and what or who is the best choice for them.
I truly love both these guys each one so very different and wonderful in their own right. Gabe is a bad boy with a boat load of confidence. While Weston is controlled intelligence and is just as sexy but has a vulnerability that I find so very alluring.
The story does indeed end in a cliffhanger just when you think the arrangement has finally ended… well you know I won’t say not even in a spoiler. I’m anxiously awaiting the last book of this series and hoping that the author gifts other POVS at some point in the future.
*ARC provided by Roya Carmen in exchange for an honest review*
Roya Carmen gifted an addicting story with book one of this trilogy. Her writing and storyline was not only intriguing but ulcer inducing. This second book is once again told completely in Mirella’s POV. I do feel that after reading this book I have a stronger grasp on where Weston, Gabe and Mirella stand. I’m still however in the dark about Bridgette Hansen’s feelings. I’m happy to report that this second book in the trilogy was just as well done and you can tell that the author isn’t winging it but has a clear cut idea on how things will end for these two families. I only wish I knew!
This book starts off where we last left the couples as Weston and Bridgette have called off the swap arrangement. Weston is having second thoughts. He knows his feelings are dangerous but being without Mirella is driving him mad.
[image error]
Mirella’s under the impression that if she keeps her heart out of things with Weston she can call the shots and keep this pragmatic man in her bed.
"This time, I was going to be in the driver's seat.
This time I was making the rules.
Or so I thought.
We didn't learn from our mistakes.
We just made them all over again."
The couples start back up again but this time Mirella and Weston are aware of their feelings for each other and well Gabe (I felt like I got to know him more in this book) is total alpha, slightly rough in the sack, speaks his mind and loves his wife. Things get interesting when Weston offers Gabe and Mirella a week vacation with him and Bridgette in Hawaii. Weston pulls out all the stops to love Mirella in the only position he has available and Gabe, he lets Weston know who Mirella belongs to.
”Us four, together for a week. Could go well, or could possibly go horribly.”
As the story progresses so does Weston’s attachment to Mirella and a reveal is made about him and Bridgette that gives some insight as to what made this couple open their marriage. The story even has a trip to NYC and I think my imagination was more dangerous than what was given in the book and had me reading at a fast pace to see what came next. The sex scenes were all well done and I was in a constant state of panic throughout the read. I was always wondering how far these characters will go and what or who is the best choice for them.
I truly love both these guys each one so very different and wonderful in their own right. Gabe is a bad boy with a boat load of confidence. While Weston is controlled intelligence and is just as sexy but has a vulnerability that I find so very alluring.
The story does indeed end in a cliffhanger just when you think the arrangement has finally ended… well you know I won’t say not even in a spoiler. I’m anxiously awaiting the last book of this series and hoping that the author gifts other POVS at some point in the future.
*ARC provided by Roya Carmen in exchange for an honest review*
October 13, 2015
4.5 Stars
Book 2 in The Ground Rules Trilogy picks up right where we left Mirella, the swapping arrangement with the Hansen’s has ended and she is trying to move forward, but when Weston starts reaching out to her, will she be able to resist the pull?
Mirella convinces herself that she can control her heart this time, she will make the rules and no one will get hurt, she knows she is playing with fire, but she cannot resist having Weston again. With Gabe's approval, the couples start back swapping. But things are more complicated this time, deep feelings and a few secrets are revealed, all while Weston and Mirella's attachment to one another grows. Throw in an interesting 'couples' vacation in Hawaii, tons of hot sex, jealously and angst so palpable at times I had to remind myself to take a breath, this was an addicting read.
I'm not sure I can express my emotions through this experience with Mirella, most of the time she frustrates the hell out of me, but this unique story has a pull on me. I couldn't stop reading if I wanted to. And I honestly don't know what I want to happen with these couples, it's like watching a train wreck. I may be partial to Gabe, but then his horny ass is all about sexing up Bridget, and Weston is so intense, I can't help but like him too. I have no idea how I feel, and although the cliffhanger ending was a bit predictable, I am looking forward to seeing how it will play out.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review*
October 24, 2015
4.5 Stars!!
Holy sh#t! This was awesome! It was exactly what I expected to be after reading the first installment in the series. “The Ground Rules Rewritten” was intriguing, intense, emotional and last but not least steamy. So what to expect reading this? Well, expect some of this – jealousy, angst and one cliffhanger that will make you waiting anxiously the next installment.
This second installment picks up right where the first installment ends. Mirella tries to move forward after Weston broke her heart. She still thinks about him, not every second of the day, but still...she didn't forget him. She’s trying to find peace, comforted in some way by the reality - she never belonged to Weston, she always belonged to Gabe. She haven’t heard from him in months, so when Weston starts reaching out to her she can’t resist the pull.
Mirella and Gabe agree to resume the sexual arrangement with Weston and Bridget, but this time Mirella is determined not to get involved emotionally like she did in the past. She wants to make the rules, new rules convincing herself that she can control the situation. As much as Mirella and Weston try stay away from each other emotionally, the simply can’t and as much Mirella wants to respects the rules she forgets about them when Weston is involved.
Things get interesting when Weston and Bridget offer Mirella and Gabe a week vacation in Hawaii with them. Secrets are revealed and everything gets complicated.
As I said above, this story was intense as f@ck. And I honestly loved every minute of it. I couldn’t get enough of the story or this four characters. Needless to say I read it in one sitting. With every chapter I wondered what will happen next, how far will Mirella and Weston go, how much Gabe loves his wife and so on. I honestly don’t know how to feel about Mirella. I can’t say I related with her in any way. She frustrated me at times, but I also sympathize with her. Weston is more open with Mirella in this installment. He’s finally letting Mirella in. I enjoyed his character here. He was sweet and caring, maybe a little obsessive at some point, but I have to say once again he won me over. I must admit I loved Gabe a little more than Weston. He was more appealing IMO. I loved his bad boy side and the way she loves Mirella. Because despite everything he does love her. I also appreciate the fact that he never pushed Mirella to do what she wasn’t ready to do at some point or another. The dynamics between the characters were fantastically done and the sex scenes were hot and intense.
What I would have liked is Bridget’s character to be more developed. I wanted to know what she felt in some situations and what she thought about this strange arrangement.
The story ends with a cliffhanger. I can’t say I didn’t see it coming, but I have to say it made things more interesting. It goes without saying I‘m dying to read the third and final installment in the series! Can’t wait!
Holy sh#t! This was awesome! It was exactly what I expected to be after reading the first installment in the series. “The Ground Rules Rewritten” was intriguing, intense, emotional and last but not least steamy. So what to expect reading this? Well, expect some of this – jealousy, angst and one cliffhanger that will make you waiting anxiously the next installment.
“We were practically strangers, from two different worlds, brought together by this mutual attraction we all had for one another.”
This second installment picks up right where the first installment ends. Mirella tries to move forward after Weston broke her heart. She still thinks about him, not every second of the day, but still...she didn't forget him. She’s trying to find peace, comforted in some way by the reality - she never belonged to Weston, she always belonged to Gabe. She haven’t heard from him in months, so when Weston starts reaching out to her she can’t resist the pull.
“You need to understand,” he says, turning to look at me. “I’m not like you. I’m rather compulsive…obsessive even.”
“I remember everything about you. Everything. You’re not fading. I’m afraid you’ll never fade. You’re all I can think about. You’re still all I can see.”
Mirella and Gabe agree to resume the sexual arrangement with Weston and Bridget, but this time Mirella is determined not to get involved emotionally like she did in the past. She wants to make the rules, new rules convincing herself that she can control the situation. As much as Mirella and Weston try stay away from each other emotionally, the simply can’t and as much Mirella wants to respects the rules she forgets about them when Weston is involved.
“This time I was making the rules. Or so I thought. We didn’t learn from our mistakes. We just made them all over again.”
Things get interesting when Weston and Bridget offer Mirella and Gabe a week vacation in Hawaii with them. Secrets are revealed and everything gets complicated.
As I said above, this story was intense as f@ck. And I honestly loved every minute of it. I couldn’t get enough of the story or this four characters. Needless to say I read it in one sitting. With every chapter I wondered what will happen next, how far will Mirella and Weston go, how much Gabe loves his wife and so on. I honestly don’t know how to feel about Mirella. I can’t say I related with her in any way. She frustrated me at times, but I also sympathize with her. Weston is more open with Mirella in this installment. He’s finally letting Mirella in. I enjoyed his character here. He was sweet and caring, maybe a little obsessive at some point, but I have to say once again he won me over. I must admit I loved Gabe a little more than Weston. He was more appealing IMO. I loved his bad boy side and the way she loves Mirella. Because despite everything he does love her. I also appreciate the fact that he never pushed Mirella to do what she wasn’t ready to do at some point or another. The dynamics between the characters were fantastically done and the sex scenes were hot and intense.
What I would have liked is Bridget’s character to be more developed. I wanted to know what she felt in some situations and what she thought about this strange arrangement.
The story ends with a cliffhanger. I can’t say I didn’t see it coming, but I have to say it made things more interesting. It goes without saying I‘m dying to read the third and final installment in the series! Can’t wait!
October 31, 2015
3.5 - 4 ★'s
Meh...that's how I feel about this book and it's especially disconcerting because I was so looking forward to it. That doesn't mean it wasn't good because it was.
Let me explain...I think a big part of it was I was initially attracted to the first book because of it being different. I was also curious about how something like this could work out in the long run with a couple sharing their mates with another couple. Both couples are married and both have children...what kind of HEA could there be?
After what Weston did in the last book, Mirella is determined not to fall for him again. (He's the other man) She tries things differently and pushes away her feelings. I liked how she was in this book because she was looking to the future. Many times both Weston and Mirella come to the same conclusion, they both don't want to leave their families.
And I liked Gabe, Mirella's husband, better in this book. He's also thinking about his wife and his family. The only that still bothers me is that he is still flirting...ugh!
But a huge problem is that we don't really know what's going on with Gabe and Bridget, Weston's wife. Gabe does tell Mirella a little and we even get some history on Weston and Briget's marriage but we're still left in the dark.
Of course, there's a twist but we all knew that was coming. Ugh...it's a huge roadblock but it could be really bittersweet. I don't know...I'm torn! Maybe that's the intent! ;)
So I guess there will be NO answers until the last book*, whenever that comes out. Until then...we wait!
*Luckily, we at least get an excerpt!
Favorite quote:
♥ “Your body might be marked as his…but you’ll always be mine.”
(Prior to Review)
it's frustrating sitting here waiting for this book to release! (i know the author's frustrated too!) But im just sitting here...waiting! i really dont want to start another book! ~sigh~
Meh...that's how I feel about this book and it's especially disconcerting because I was so looking forward to it. That doesn't mean it wasn't good because it was.
Let me explain...I think a big part of it was I was initially attracted to the first book because of it being different. I was also curious about how something like this could work out in the long run with a couple sharing their mates with another couple. Both couples are married and both have children...what kind of HEA could there be?
After what Weston did in the last book, Mirella is determined not to fall for him again. (He's the other man) She tries things differently and pushes away her feelings. I liked how she was in this book because she was looking to the future. Many times both Weston and Mirella come to the same conclusion, they both don't want to leave their families.
And I liked Gabe, Mirella's husband, better in this book. He's also thinking about his wife and his family. The only that still bothers me is that he is still flirting...ugh!
But a huge problem is that we don't really know what's going on with Gabe and Bridget, Weston's wife. Gabe does tell Mirella a little and we even get some history on Weston and Briget's marriage but we're still left in the dark.
Of course, there's a twist but we all knew that was coming. Ugh...it's a huge roadblock but it could be really bittersweet. I don't know...I'm torn! Maybe that's the intent! ;)
So I guess there will be NO answers until the last book*, whenever that comes out. Until then...we wait!
*Luckily, we at least get an excerpt!
Favorite quote:
♥ “Your body might be marked as his…but you’ll always be mine.”
(Prior to Review)
it's frustrating sitting here waiting for this book to release! (i know the author's frustrated too!) But im just sitting here...waiting! i really dont want to start another book! ~sigh~
October 21, 2015
5 "It's our turn to make the rules" Stars!
I freaking LOVED this installment in The Ground Rules trilogy by Roya Carmen. After the "spouse swapping" break-up at the end of book one, Mirella finds herself painfully missing Weston. Yet with each passing day it gets easier. Until Weston starts reaching out again. Weston is a pull she can't seem to resist so she and Gabe mutually decide to resume the open marriage deal. They'll have more control over the rules this time. Yet with this change of dynamics, it appears to make them weaker instead of stronger. Rules are gradually being broken as she isn't fully disclosing to Gabe her deep-seated feelings she has for Weston. She doesn't necessarily cheat on him. She's conscious about always being open and "honest" about what she does with Weston yet she leaves out one tiny detail..she's in love with two men. Yet Mirella is determined to make this 100% about sex...no secrets. No making love.
Did I mention how much I loved this installment? Weston captured by heart hook, line, and sinker here. He's always been the rather reserved man (in comparison to the dirty talking alpha Gabe) yet in this book, we get a more open, honest and yet sad side to him. I didn't feel like the first book had much of a love story, but here, I felt that angsty tug of war of emotions deep in my gut. And I ate it up!
The Ground Rules Rewritten found me feverishly turning the pages for some kind of resolution to this couples-swapping relationship dilemma. Gabe readily admits he enjoys f*cking Bridget so it's all good, right? Tit for tat and all that jazz. But when a planned trip to Hawaii with just the two couples challenges their preset rules of no funny business, things get a bit tough- controlling their desires. And let me say, my experience in Hawaii with snorkeling lessons wasn't quite as enjoyable as Mirella's!
So what's it gonna be? Hot, dominating, tatooed, perfect husband Gabe? He's unwilling to give up on his wife Mirella and aside from his arrogant lady prowess and flirtation, is PERFECTION.
Or the wealthy, suited man that truly loves her too, dotes on her, and fits her like a glove in the bedroom?
Kudos to Roya Carmen for delivering a refreshingly different plot that has my naughty inner-Allisonlicking eating this book up. How sinfully kinky- swapping spouses. I can't seem to get enough of it. Love triangles and emotional cheating be damned- this book is hot! I'd at first worried it wouldn't keep my interest for three whole books yet Roya Carmen trickle feeds the story as if you're reading a diary in the pen of Mirella. The lines are getting blurry and who does she choose? Her loving dominating husband and intact family? Or the man who has set her world on fire and her heart has grown to need wholeheartedly? I found myself vacillating back and forth the entire book and I seriously hope Ms Carmen makes one of these men do something assholish to make me mad because I don't know who she should choose! Family or love?
Two words for Roya Carmen- GET WRITING. I need the last installment pronto!
Advanced copy received by author in exchange for my honest review.
I freaking LOVED this installment in The Ground Rules trilogy by Roya Carmen. After the "spouse swapping" break-up at the end of book one, Mirella finds herself painfully missing Weston. Yet with each passing day it gets easier. Until Weston starts reaching out again. Weston is a pull she can't seem to resist so she and Gabe mutually decide to resume the open marriage deal. They'll have more control over the rules this time. Yet with this change of dynamics, it appears to make them weaker instead of stronger. Rules are gradually being broken as she isn't fully disclosing to Gabe her deep-seated feelings she has for Weston. She doesn't necessarily cheat on him. She's conscious about always being open and "honest" about what she does with Weston yet she leaves out one tiny detail..she's in love with two men. Yet Mirella is determined to make this 100% about sex...no secrets. No making love.
Did I mention how much I loved this installment? Weston captured by heart hook, line, and sinker here. He's always been the rather reserved man (in comparison to the dirty talking alpha Gabe) yet in this book, we get a more open, honest and yet sad side to him. I didn't feel like the first book had much of a love story, but here, I felt that angsty tug of war of emotions deep in my gut. And I ate it up!
The Ground Rules Rewritten found me feverishly turning the pages for some kind of resolution to this couples-swapping relationship dilemma. Gabe readily admits he enjoys f*cking Bridget so it's all good, right? Tit for tat and all that jazz. But when a planned trip to Hawaii with just the two couples challenges their preset rules of no funny business, things get a bit tough- controlling their desires. And let me say, my experience in Hawaii with snorkeling lessons wasn't quite as enjoyable as Mirella's!
So what's it gonna be? Hot, dominating, tatooed, perfect husband Gabe? He's unwilling to give up on his wife Mirella and aside from his arrogant lady prowess and flirtation, is PERFECTION.
Or the wealthy, suited man that truly loves her too, dotes on her, and fits her like a glove in the bedroom?
Kudos to Roya Carmen for delivering a refreshingly different plot that has my naughty inner-Allison
Two words for Roya Carmen- GET WRITING. I need the last installment pronto!
Advanced copy received by author in exchange for my honest review.
October 20, 2015
****4.5 Irresistible Stars****
(ARC Kindly Provided by Author <3)
The most accurate way I can describe this book is by saying it's deliciously addicting. When you read this novel you will battle with both your morals and emotions. You might not agree or be able to relate with the characters and their behaviors, but I promise you, the emotional tug and intensity of the story will completely pull you under, making it impossible to stop reading. I enjoyed it tremendously.
Mirella is picking up the pieces after the heartbreak Weston caused her. He was like a hurricane that came and left just as quickly causing major devastation in her life, but with the help of her husband and best friend she's pulling through. Just when everything is starting to settle, the gorgeous and enigmatic Weston starts reaching out to her again.
Mirella is very skeptical about letting Weston into her life again. But when her husband Gabe shares his thoughts about wanting to try it again, the foursome decides to resume their sexual arrangement .
This time Mirella is determined to keep her heart and emotions out of the equation. She just wants to enjoy the sex and nothing else. On this second attempt they change some of the rules to try to give Mirella and Gabe more control since it was Weston and Bridget who had the upper hand the last time. The relationship is supposed to be more casual and relaxed this second time around. They can talk to each other directly without the assistance of Weston's secretary. They can travel together and even try to hang out as friends, but its easier said than done and the emotions and the jealousy will get very intense, making the relationships dangerous and the rules harder to follow.
I really loved Gabe in this second installment. He is definitely more my style with his Alpha Male personality, but I also get the appeal of Weston, and understood Mirella's struggle. We see a different side of every character. The ones that seemed so strong at the beginning are starting to crumble, making the dynamics change and infusing a lot of intensity to the plot. So don't worry because this book is NOT more of the same, but completely different and totally thrilling.
In The Ground Rules: Rewritten, Roya Carmen brings it up a notch; everything feels more passionate and deliciously elicit this second time around, making it hard for the reader to pick a side. I was team Gabe more often than not, but Weston's more vulnerable side was very present and he definitely made me swoon for him on more than one occasion. The only complaint I have is that I would like to learn more about Bridget. She's the only character who still remains a mystery in my eyes. I crave to know what drives her, what she wants and how she loves.
At this point I really don't know how this story will end. After that cliffhanger that definitely complicated things, I'm very eager and curious to know who will end up with who, and whose marriage will ultimately survive. I give props to Roya Carmen once again for creating such a deliciously sinful story and I highly recommend it to anybody who's not afraid to delve into a world where love is not enough and lust makes you break the rules.
My The Ground Rules: Rewritten music playlist:
*Morning Sun by Robin Thicke
*Song For A friend by Andreya Triana
*Lay me Down by Sam Smith
*When It Comes To Us by Frances
*Last Request by Paolo Nutini
(ARC Kindly Provided by Author <3)
The most accurate way I can describe this book is by saying it's deliciously addicting. When you read this novel you will battle with both your morals and emotions. You might not agree or be able to relate with the characters and their behaviors, but I promise you, the emotional tug and intensity of the story will completely pull you under, making it impossible to stop reading. I enjoyed it tremendously.
Mirella is picking up the pieces after the heartbreak Weston caused her. He was like a hurricane that came and left just as quickly causing major devastation in her life, but with the help of her husband and best friend she's pulling through. Just when everything is starting to settle, the gorgeous and enigmatic Weston starts reaching out to her again.
Mirella is very skeptical about letting Weston into her life again. But when her husband Gabe shares his thoughts about wanting to try it again, the foursome decides to resume their sexual arrangement .
This time Mirella is determined to keep her heart and emotions out of the equation. She just wants to enjoy the sex and nothing else. On this second attempt they change some of the rules to try to give Mirella and Gabe more control since it was Weston and Bridget who had the upper hand the last time. The relationship is supposed to be more casual and relaxed this second time around. They can talk to each other directly without the assistance of Weston's secretary. They can travel together and even try to hang out as friends, but its easier said than done and the emotions and the jealousy will get very intense, making the relationships dangerous and the rules harder to follow.
I really loved Gabe in this second installment. He is definitely more my style with his Alpha Male personality, but I also get the appeal of Weston, and understood Mirella's struggle. We see a different side of every character. The ones that seemed so strong at the beginning are starting to crumble, making the dynamics change and infusing a lot of intensity to the plot. So don't worry because this book is NOT more of the same, but completely different and totally thrilling.
In The Ground Rules: Rewritten, Roya Carmen brings it up a notch; everything feels more passionate and deliciously elicit this second time around, making it hard for the reader to pick a side. I was team Gabe more often than not, but Weston's more vulnerable side was very present and he definitely made me swoon for him on more than one occasion. The only complaint I have is that I would like to learn more about Bridget. She's the only character who still remains a mystery in my eyes. I crave to know what drives her, what she wants and how she loves.
At this point I really don't know how this story will end. After that cliffhanger that definitely complicated things, I'm very eager and curious to know who will end up with who, and whose marriage will ultimately survive. I give props to Roya Carmen once again for creating such a deliciously sinful story and I highly recommend it to anybody who's not afraid to delve into a world where love is not enough and lust makes you break the rules.
My The Ground Rules: Rewritten music playlist:
*Morning Sun by Robin Thicke
*Song For A friend by Andreya Triana
*Lay me Down by Sam Smith
*When It Comes To Us by Frances
*Last Request by Paolo Nutini
October 20, 2015
The Ground Rules Rewritten (The Ground Rules Trilogy #2) by Roya Carmen
4.5 stars!!!
It took me a while to put pen to paper or fingers to keyboard after reading this one, by the end I was emotionally spent and in floods of tears. All I can say is that I love Weston, yes he always seemed aloof and strange and let’s be honest, a little weird, but in this book we get to know the real Weston and I love everything I see. He is so misunderstood and in this instalment, Roya Carmen really lets us into the enigma that is Weston.
At the end of The Ground Rules the arrangement had been ended by Weston and Bridget, but that may have been a tad hasty and it is not long before Weston realises that he wants the arrangement put firmly back in place again. It seems our Weston is rather enamoured with Mirella and being without her is driving him insane. Mirella was devastated when Weston ended it, yes she had broken the rules, but the way she was dismissed hurt deep and it was something that I didn’t think she could come back from. However, we should not dismiss the persuasiveness of Weston.
So, the arrangement is back on and from here I really cannot say anything, because literally everything is a spoiler. As I said above, Roya Carmen really delivers with this book, for a man that I didn’t really connect with in book one, she certainly made up for it in this book. Finally, those layers of façade are eroded and we see the heart and soul of Weston and at times, it hurt, like really bad. I always knew that there had to be more to the man and I was right, something had to have made him the way he was and it seems our Mr Cool, Calm and Collected has a lot hidden underneath his designer suits.
Weston’s fixation for Mirella however is reciprocated. As hard as Mirella has tried to move on even she cannot forget Weston, no matter how hard she has tried and it is not long before all those old feelings come flooding back and together… these two were dynamite. Mirella is adamant that she can keep this all about sex and be the one in control of her feelings but once those layers have been stripped back these two cannot help but break the rules and you just know deep down that nothing good can come of it.
While one of the plot twists I saw coming a mile off, the impact it made when it was delivered far from lost its punch. This is no filler book, it is obvious that Roya Carmen has meticulously planned this trilogy and this angsty ride is just a taste of what is to come.
We do get a lot more insight into Gabe as well; he is far from a bit player in this book. He is an alpha and is certain of his masculinity and the love he has for his wife; he stamps his mark on Mirella throughout this book in more ways than one. Their chemistry together is undeniable, however, I cannot help but feel that Mirella and Weston are more suited and I have to say, I never, ever thought that would happen.
So here I am now, stuck between a rock and a hard place, Gabe on one hand and Weston on the other. The scales are tipping precariously, but in whose favour will they fall at the end? This is the second book I have read on the trot where there is not a front runner for me and this is most unusual. Usually, you have a clear cut line as to whose team you are on, but with this, I just don’t know. My heart aches for both of them, but knowing what I now know about Weston maybe his is just a wee bit more favourable.
Bridget doesn’t really feature much in this book but she is always there on the periphery. This book once again is Mirella’s point of view but I would love it if we could get a few chapters in other viewpoints. I would love to know what is actually going through Bridget’s head at times, she seems so cut off, but what does she really think? And Gabe…is he really okay with this all? He seems to have no problem in dismissing his feelings, apart from when it comes to Mirella and Weston, but what goes through his head when he is with Bridget?
Once again, kudos to Roya Carmen on delivering another fantastic read on a topic that doesn’t really get covered and that she has so vividly brought to life. With emotions running high and many tears I devoured this book and to say I am eagerly awaiting book 3 is an understatement. I need this book…pronto!!
www.theromancecover.com
4.5 stars!!!
“We didn’t learn from our mistakes. We just made them all over again.”
It took me a while to put pen to paper or fingers to keyboard after reading this one, by the end I was emotionally spent and in floods of tears. All I can say is that I love Weston, yes he always seemed aloof and strange and let’s be honest, a little weird, but in this book we get to know the real Weston and I love everything I see. He is so misunderstood and in this instalment, Roya Carmen really lets us into the enigma that is Weston.
At the end of The Ground Rules the arrangement had been ended by Weston and Bridget, but that may have been a tad hasty and it is not long before Weston realises that he wants the arrangement put firmly back in place again. It seems our Weston is rather enamoured with Mirella and being without her is driving him insane. Mirella was devastated when Weston ended it, yes she had broken the rules, but the way she was dismissed hurt deep and it was something that I didn’t think she could come back from. However, we should not dismiss the persuasiveness of Weston.
So, the arrangement is back on and from here I really cannot say anything, because literally everything is a spoiler. As I said above, Roya Carmen really delivers with this book, for a man that I didn’t really connect with in book one, she certainly made up for it in this book. Finally, those layers of façade are eroded and we see the heart and soul of Weston and at times, it hurt, like really bad. I always knew that there had to be more to the man and I was right, something had to have made him the way he was and it seems our Mr Cool, Calm and Collected has a lot hidden underneath his designer suits.
“It’s a done deal, Mirella. I’m splattered on the pavement. I’m a mess.”
Weston’s fixation for Mirella however is reciprocated. As hard as Mirella has tried to move on even she cannot forget Weston, no matter how hard she has tried and it is not long before all those old feelings come flooding back and together… these two were dynamite. Mirella is adamant that she can keep this all about sex and be the one in control of her feelings but once those layers have been stripped back these two cannot help but break the rules and you just know deep down that nothing good can come of it.
“He’s under my skin now, like an intolerable virus I just can’t get rid of. How I wish I had a cure. But as is my understanding, there are no cures for viruses, they just need to run their course. I simply need to wait and be patient.”
While one of the plot twists I saw coming a mile off, the impact it made when it was delivered far from lost its punch. This is no filler book, it is obvious that Roya Carmen has meticulously planned this trilogy and this angsty ride is just a taste of what is to come.
We do get a lot more insight into Gabe as well; he is far from a bit player in this book. He is an alpha and is certain of his masculinity and the love he has for his wife; he stamps his mark on Mirella throughout this book in more ways than one. Their chemistry together is undeniable, however, I cannot help but feel that Mirella and Weston are more suited and I have to say, I never, ever thought that would happen.
“He pulls his lips from mine, and trails a finger along my cheek. “Your body might be marked as his…but you’ll always be mine.”
So here I am now, stuck between a rock and a hard place, Gabe on one hand and Weston on the other. The scales are tipping precariously, but in whose favour will they fall at the end? This is the second book I have read on the trot where there is not a front runner for me and this is most unusual. Usually, you have a clear cut line as to whose team you are on, but with this, I just don’t know. My heart aches for both of them, but knowing what I now know about Weston maybe his is just a wee bit more favourable.
Bridget doesn’t really feature much in this book but she is always there on the periphery. This book once again is Mirella’s point of view but I would love it if we could get a few chapters in other viewpoints. I would love to know what is actually going through Bridget’s head at times, she seems so cut off, but what does she really think? And Gabe…is he really okay with this all? He seems to have no problem in dismissing his feelings, apart from when it comes to Mirella and Weston, but what goes through his head when he is with Bridget?
“You’re not fading. I’m afraid you’ll never fade. You’re all I can think about. You’re still all I can see.”
Once again, kudos to Roya Carmen on delivering another fantastic read on a topic that doesn’t really get covered and that she has so vividly brought to life. With emotions running high and many tears I devoured this book and to say I am eagerly awaiting book 3 is an understatement. I need this book…pronto!!
www.theromancecover.com
February 13, 2018
"The Rule Breakers” trilogy provides insight to a very rarely touched subject, couple swapping, and shows us how complicated and damaging it can be despite seeming to be an attractive and hot fantasy at the beginning.
***********************************************
The writing is monumental. The story feels so very real and so very convincing that you really feel torn apart for each and every one of them...
***********************************************
As the first one in the trilogy does, this second book also invokes extremely strong feelings. I feel choked up over the high emotions it has created...
Love, anticipation, confusion, hate, passion, anger, sorrow, suffering, anxiety, shock...
(Now, I am about to start the last book in the series but I am sensing things will be way more complicated from now on and I don't know how I will recover from this series... )
***********************************************
This second book starts from the moment the first book ended.
There might be spoilers from now on if you haven't read Book 1 yet, so read carefully.
Don't read this review at all if you haven't finished the first book in the series. I try not to give away much, but sometimes a few things must be told to make a point...
***********************************************
This second book starts with Mirella trying to get over Weston after he abruptly ended the swapping arrangement.
Just as she was feeling better, and “almost” forgetting the pain of losing him, he calls and says he is going mad without her. He confesses that he ended things because he had fallen in love with her and he was afraid that things would get more complicated. Now, he wants the arrangement back because however hard he tried, he couldn’t forget her.
Mirella is so weak towards Weston. As soon as she sees him, she craves for him. But she doesn’t agree on the arrangement first, being scared for another heartache.
***********************************************
After a few events take place, the arrangement is settled back a second time. Only this time the rules are rewritten.
This time, Mirella tries to take things lightly, pretending that there is no love but it is all about physical pleasure.
She thinks she can handle things... all of them think they can handle this time, but they don’t know they are heading for their ruin.
***********************************************
The writer takes passion, love, lust, sexual tension and angst to a whole new level in this second book.
I thought the first book was hot but now I must say that the steam of this second book is beyond belief.
In this book, we learn a lot of new information:
We learn the reason of Weston’s open marriage decision.
We learn more about Gabe and what goes on his mind.
We also learn that Mirella loves Weston but she doesn’t want to lose Gabe. She loves both men!
***********************************************
They play with fire during that holiday in Hawaii...
There was a point in this book where I was scared to death that things would get weirder and I was saying to myself, “Oh no orgy, please” because I really feared they were going there.
(Well, thank God, it did not!)
***********************************************
Later, surprisingly, things got all romantic and emotional in New York holiday and my heart melted for Weston even more if that was possible....
So, wow, one moment sexual tension and steam is unbelievable, and another moment the feelings and emotions rip my heart.
I was a total mess reading this book.
An emotional mess...
Again...
Oh Ms. Carmen!!!
***********************************************
Also, in this book jealousy is another issue. Gabe did something that infuriated me! And Mirella let him do it, which infuriated me more.
I will never forget the pain in this sentence:
“Your body might be marked as his… but you’ll always be mine.”
***********************************************
All through the book, I was still #teamweston and still had a strong dislike for Gabe...
In this book, I was a bit angry with Mirella but still wanting the best solution for her...
***********************************************
This second book ends with an awful twist that leaves you with a lump in your throat. If you don’t have the third book, you should buy it and make it ready because you can’t sit still after how this second book ends.
Don’t miss this series, they are definitely an “out of the box” read!
***********************************************
The writing is monumental. The story feels so very real and so very convincing that you really feel torn apart for each and every one of them...
***********************************************
As the first one in the trilogy does, this second book also invokes extremely strong feelings. I feel choked up over the high emotions it has created...
Love, anticipation, confusion, hate, passion, anger, sorrow, suffering, anxiety, shock...
(Now, I am about to start the last book in the series but I am sensing things will be way more complicated from now on and I don't know how I will recover from this series... )
***********************************************
This second book starts from the moment the first book ended.
There might be spoilers from now on if you haven't read Book 1 yet, so read carefully.
Don't read this review at all if you haven't finished the first book in the series. I try not to give away much, but sometimes a few things must be told to make a point...
***********************************************
This second book starts with Mirella trying to get over Weston after he abruptly ended the swapping arrangement.
Just as she was feeling better, and “almost” forgetting the pain of losing him, he calls and says he is going mad without her. He confesses that he ended things because he had fallen in love with her and he was afraid that things would get more complicated. Now, he wants the arrangement back because however hard he tried, he couldn’t forget her.
Mirella is so weak towards Weston. As soon as she sees him, she craves for him. But she doesn’t agree on the arrangement first, being scared for another heartache.
***********************************************
After a few events take place, the arrangement is settled back a second time. Only this time the rules are rewritten.
This time, Mirella tries to take things lightly, pretending that there is no love but it is all about physical pleasure.
She thinks she can handle things... all of them think they can handle this time, but they don’t know they are heading for their ruin.
***********************************************
The writer takes passion, love, lust, sexual tension and angst to a whole new level in this second book.
I thought the first book was hot but now I must say that the steam of this second book is beyond belief.
In this book, we learn a lot of new information:
We learn the reason of Weston’s open marriage decision.
We learn more about Gabe and what goes on his mind.
We also learn that Mirella loves Weston but she doesn’t want to lose Gabe. She loves both men!
***********************************************
They play with fire during that holiday in Hawaii...
There was a point in this book where I was scared to death that things would get weirder and I was saying to myself, “Oh no orgy, please” because I really feared they were going there.
(Well, thank God, it did not!)
***********************************************
Later, surprisingly, things got all romantic and emotional in New York holiday and my heart melted for Weston even more if that was possible....
So, wow, one moment sexual tension and steam is unbelievable, and another moment the feelings and emotions rip my heart.
I was a total mess reading this book.
An emotional mess...
Again...
Oh Ms. Carmen!!!
***********************************************
Also, in this book jealousy is another issue. Gabe did something that infuriated me! And Mirella let him do it, which infuriated me more.
I will never forget the pain in this sentence:
“Your body might be marked as his… but you’ll always be mine.”
***********************************************
All through the book, I was still #teamweston and still had a strong dislike for Gabe...
In this book, I was a bit angry with Mirella but still wanting the best solution for her...
***********************************************
This second book ends with an awful twist that leaves you with a lump in your throat. If you don’t have the third book, you should buy it and make it ready because you can’t sit still after how this second book ends.
Don’t miss this series, they are definitely an “out of the box” read!
October 28, 2015
WOW. JUST LOVED IT....REVIEW TO COME!!
October 26, 2015
Swapping stories I have read in the past have always been so ridiculous, smutty, and cheap. No character development, no feeling, and really not much of a story, just sex. Well, that has all changed with Roya Carmen's Ground Rules stories. She's gone and done it again, and fucking blown me away. I read this baby from start to finish yesterday, all in one sitting, and I'm dying to know what happens next. The wait for book 3 is going to be tortuous for me, to say the least.
The Ground Rules Rewritten was beautiful. I've been on Team Gabe since the first book. I loved the entire story, but yeah, I was happy the way the first book ended. Everybody back where they belonged and things could start to repair. Why on earth would anyone want anything more, when they had such a fiercely protective, faithful, loving, horny as hell, absolutely gorgeous husband like Gabe? Well, after reading this story, I could start to see why. Learning Weston and Bridget's history, changed things. Weston didn't come off as a guy with such a stick up his ass in this story. My feelings towards Weston thawed immensely when he revealed his sad past. And seeing how similar Mirella and Weston truly are, I can see how they could totally fall in love. Everything in this story was absolutely believable to me, and Roya Carmen once again elicited so many feelings from me in this story, it was crazy. I've fallen absolutely in love with her storytelling.
One more thing. The sex in this story was brilliantly scorching, even better than the first story, and I didn't think that was possible. Took my breath away. Man, I love this author so much. I wish she has 20 different stories out now. I'd buy them all!
August 16, 2017
I really don't know how I feel about this book. I was very angry with the first book, but this one didn't create as much of a reaction with me. I think it's because the focus was more on Mirella, which is who I have established as the main character.
Gabe, her husband and Bridget, Weston's wife, was a big part of my anger in book 1. Gabe is still a douche of a husband with his eagerness with Bridget and the constant flirting with other women, but it was toned down a fraction. He actually started to fight for his wife and yet it may be a little too late for me to care.
Weston isn't much better. He and Mirella do seem more compatible but I don't really see how he can truly love Mirella if he wants to keep her in this role. I do feel like I have some answers to my questions from the first book but those answers just tell me that these two couples should not be married to each other.
I'm invested now and I do want to see how this ends.
Gabe, her husband and Bridget, Weston's wife, was a big part of my anger in book 1. Gabe is still a douche of a husband with his eagerness with Bridget and the constant flirting with other women, but it was toned down a fraction. He actually started to fight for his wife and yet it may be a little too late for me to care.
Weston isn't much better. He and Mirella do seem more compatible but I don't really see how he can truly love Mirella if he wants to keep her in this role. I do feel like I have some answers to my questions from the first book but those answers just tell me that these two couples should not be married to each other.
I'm invested now and I do want to see how this ends.
November 3, 2015
4 - 4.5 Stars!!
WARNING: POSSIBLE SPOILERS AHEAD!
This book picks up from the end of Book 1, and explores Weston pursuing Mirella. Please note that this is the second book in a trilogy and most definitely ends with an incredible cliffhanger! I found this book to be incredibly gripping, dealing with a taboo subject in an erotic, almost romantic way.
Ms. Roya's writing is charming and playful at times and almost addictive. I was absolutely fascinated by Weston and Gabe and was kept on the edge of my seat waiting for their marriages and their relationships to crash and burn.
”We didn’t learn from our mistakes. We just made them all over again."
I found myself thinking about these characters even when I wasn't reading, which to me, is the sign of a good book. Mirella and Weston go back to their arrangement but Mirella lays down the new rule: their relationship is to be only physical, with no emotional attachment. Weston falling in love with her is what got them into trouble the first time around.
"I shouldn't have let this all this get so out of control."
This book is still told only from Mirella's POV but it delves more into describing Gabe and Weston's feelings. Bridget, however, is still very much a mystery. I would love to know more about her. In Book 2, the two couples try to have a "normal" relationship, which does require a suspended sense of reality, but I loved the way Ms. Roya explored the boundaries of their relationships. I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop here, either by Gabe ending the open marriage arrangement or by Weston falling in love with Mirella all over again. I was not disappointed! This is an incredibly addictive story, and I can't wait for the next book in this trilogy. I am dying to read more about Gabe and Weston, two very passionate, sexy characters who each deserve their own book!
(ARC provided by the author in return for an honest review.)
WARNING: POSSIBLE SPOILERS AHEAD!
This book picks up from the end of Book 1, and explores Weston pursuing Mirella. Please note that this is the second book in a trilogy and most definitely ends with an incredible cliffhanger! I found this book to be incredibly gripping, dealing with a taboo subject in an erotic, almost romantic way.
Ms. Roya's writing is charming and playful at times and almost addictive. I was absolutely fascinated by Weston and Gabe and was kept on the edge of my seat waiting for their marriages and their relationships to crash and burn.
”We didn’t learn from our mistakes. We just made them all over again."
I found myself thinking about these characters even when I wasn't reading, which to me, is the sign of a good book. Mirella and Weston go back to their arrangement but Mirella lays down the new rule: their relationship is to be only physical, with no emotional attachment. Weston falling in love with her is what got them into trouble the first time around.
"I shouldn't have let this all this get so out of control."
This book is still told only from Mirella's POV but it delves more into describing Gabe and Weston's feelings. Bridget, however, is still very much a mystery. I would love to know more about her. In Book 2, the two couples try to have a "normal" relationship, which does require a suspended sense of reality, but I loved the way Ms. Roya explored the boundaries of their relationships. I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop here, either by Gabe ending the open marriage arrangement or by Weston falling in love with Mirella all over again. I was not disappointed! This is an incredibly addictive story, and I can't wait for the next book in this trilogy. I am dying to read more about Gabe and Weston, two very passionate, sexy characters who each deserve their own book!
(ARC provided by the author in return for an honest review.)
November 22, 2016
I need to take a break from this series... And I guess I need to prepare myself by mentally & emotionally to read 3rd book...
Dammit. I can feel it already, this is going to hurt like a motherfcker! :(
Dammit. I can feel it already, this is going to hurt like a motherfcker! :(
November 10, 2015
4.5 stars
4 stars? 4.5 stars? I’ve gone back and forth several times, and I still can’t get this book out of my head. Here’s the thing. The Ground Rules concludes with a resolved plot. Notice I didn’t say it was as happily satisfying as a hot fudge sundae, but Roya Carmen doesn’t leave the reader hanging. Why then would she open up the same can of worms and write a second book? I thought it was unnecessary, unless she planned to continue the story by adding another character’s point of view. I mean, what on God’s green Earth could make these people willingly re-enter the same couple swapping arrangement that almost jeopardized their marriages the first time around? Like some overly-curious voyeur though, I couldn’t say away from The Ground Rules Rewritten.
I had so many questions. Does Mirella really think she can distance herself emotionally this time? Puh-leeze. Is she having a midlife crisis because she’s only ever had one lover? Is Mirella some kind of nymphomaniac having her cake and eating it too by being adored by two men? What does Weston give her that Gabe doesn’t? Obviously, Mirella is being selfish and should stay away from Weston, right? Right??
My questions centered around Mirella, and while they might be great discussion questions for a book club, what I discovered is this. The story continues to be told strictly from Mirella’s point of view, but for me the book is mostly – and most interestingly – about the exploration of Weston’s character—and wow, what colors and depths there are to discover. The more I uncovered, the more I wanted to know. His psychology very much ties in with his desire for the arrangement with Mirella. What’s still unclear to me, however, is why Mirella is playing with fire when she has a good marriage. I need to understand her motivations better, and my inability to do so is my main reason for fluctuating between 4 stars and 4.5 stars. In the end, it’s my compassion for Weston that tips the scales for me. I love that flawed guy.
It should be said that this book is sexy and steamy beyond belief. However, it’s not mommy porn. The Ground Rules Rewritten is a hallmark for erotica. Yes, there’s explicit sex, but the sex scenes are beautifully written, and they further an intriguing plot driven by realistic and complex characters. Roya Carmen’s writing is fluid, and the story is captivating.
Be warned though. The book ends on the mother of all cliffhangers. I have no idea why the author chose to extend the story yet again, or how she plans to create enough plot to fill a third book, but I’m trusting her to deliver another thought-provoking, engaging installment.
4 stars? 4.5 stars? I’ve gone back and forth several times, and I still can’t get this book out of my head. Here’s the thing. The Ground Rules concludes with a resolved plot. Notice I didn’t say it was as happily satisfying as a hot fudge sundae, but Roya Carmen doesn’t leave the reader hanging. Why then would she open up the same can of worms and write a second book? I thought it was unnecessary, unless she planned to continue the story by adding another character’s point of view. I mean, what on God’s green Earth could make these people willingly re-enter the same couple swapping arrangement that almost jeopardized their marriages the first time around? Like some overly-curious voyeur though, I couldn’t say away from The Ground Rules Rewritten.
I had so many questions. Does Mirella really think she can distance herself emotionally this time? Puh-leeze. Is she having a midlife crisis because she’s only ever had one lover? Is Mirella some kind of nymphomaniac having her cake and eating it too by being adored by two men? What does Weston give her that Gabe doesn’t? Obviously, Mirella is being selfish and should stay away from Weston, right? Right??
My questions centered around Mirella, and while they might be great discussion questions for a book club, what I discovered is this. The story continues to be told strictly from Mirella’s point of view, but for me the book is mostly – and most interestingly – about the exploration of Weston’s character—and wow, what colors and depths there are to discover. The more I uncovered, the more I wanted to know. His psychology very much ties in with his desire for the arrangement with Mirella. What’s still unclear to me, however, is why Mirella is playing with fire when she has a good marriage. I need to understand her motivations better, and my inability to do so is my main reason for fluctuating between 4 stars and 4.5 stars. In the end, it’s my compassion for Weston that tips the scales for me. I love that flawed guy.
It should be said that this book is sexy and steamy beyond belief. However, it’s not mommy porn. The Ground Rules Rewritten is a hallmark for erotica. Yes, there’s explicit sex, but the sex scenes are beautifully written, and they further an intriguing plot driven by realistic and complex characters. Roya Carmen’s writing is fluid, and the story is captivating.
Be warned though. The book ends on the mother of all cliffhangers. I have no idea why the author chose to extend the story yet again, or how she plans to create enough plot to fill a third book, but I’m trusting her to deliver another thought-provoking, engaging installment.
December 15, 2015
4.5 Romance…without rules stars
I’ve been impatiently waiting for this one, and I was not disappointed.
Carrying on from the destruction at the end of book 1, the inevitable happens, and relations pick up and march on.
”We didn’t learn from our mistakes. We just made them all over again."
Without saying too much about the storyline, I can say that the characters were truly explored in this instalment.
We get to delve into the personalities of both Weston and Gabe, who are both as bewitching as each other. I wouldn’t want to be in Mirella’s shoes purely from the fact that I would be the greediest tramp ever. Seriously, how is this all going to end?
It oozes sensuality, is overrun with emotions, and is destined for nothing but devastation. Given the ending, I am already twitching impatiently for the finale.
Bloody loved it!
NOTE: At least I have an insight into Weston's POV, lovingly shared by Totally Booked <3
http://totallybookedblog.com/?s=westo...
August 18, 2017
This is definitely the series you’re gonna love to hate. There is so much going on with these characters you’re never sure who to cheer for. I love Mirella. I hate Mirella. I absolutely adore Weston. Weston makes me furious! Gabe is too hot to be true. Gabe is a douche. See. It’s a crazy merry go round and I really should just jump off while the opportunity presents itself, but dang is it addicting!
Mirella has agreed to start things back up again but this time it’s going to be by her rules. I thought this was kind of silly since Weston didn’t follow the rules to first time around, neither did Mirella for that matter. Now the rules are being revamped, except they pretty much stay the same. At least the same as the broken rules from before. Craziness abounds here my friends!
And I can’t wait to get into book 3!
Heroine POV
Not safe…at all.
No apparent triggers except to beware of men who act like total douchebags…just sayin’.
Buddy read with GR friends who shouldn’t lead other friends into the psycho world of couple swapping oops, sharing.
Mirella has agreed to start things back up again but this time it’s going to be by her rules. I thought this was kind of silly since Weston didn’t follow the rules to first time around, neither did Mirella for that matter. Now the rules are being revamped, except they pretty much stay the same. At least the same as the broken rules from before. Craziness abounds here my friends!
And I can’t wait to get into book 3!
Heroine POV
Not safe…at all.
No apparent triggers except to beware of men who act like total douchebags…just sayin’.
Buddy read with GR friends who shouldn’t lead other friends into the psycho world of couple swapping oops, sharing.
October 20, 2015
The Ground Rules Rewritten is one of few books I SERIOUSLY could not flipping wait to get on my Kindle. I devoured the first book, The Ground Rules about as quick as I devour a large glass of wine. As soon as I had finished the first book, I pretty much stalked Roya Carmen’s Facebook page religiously until I got the deets on the second book. Well, finally the wait ended and I was blessed with an ARC of The Ground Rules Rewritten. I may have actually screamed when I got the email at a restaurant. No, I swear...I really did.
The second book starts shortly after the first book ends. The couples pick up their arrangement again after Weston pursues Mirella. Though Mirella is quick to point out that this newly-amended arrangement is going to be purely physical, that there will be no emotional entanglements. Unfortunately, this really does not bode well for Mirella and Weston once the arrangement picks back up again. After a few shared trips, these two, end up falling for each other. Again. Even harder.
In the last book, I felt a bit cheated with the lack of knowledge when it came to Gabe and Bridget and how their “relationship” was going. Though you still don’t get a POV from anyone besides Mirella, I felt that you got to understand the inner workings of Gabe a bit more. The relationship between Weston and Mirella brought out this very jealous, very alpha-like character in Gabe. There was a part where my heart actually hurt for him when he finally admitted his feelings to Mirella regarding the arrangement. Trust me, I totally get where Gabe is coming from but at times I felt like he enjoyed the attention he was getting not only from Bridget but other women.
"I shouldn't have let this all this get so out of control."
The reader also gets to find out more about Weston. He admits to Mirella what brought him and Bridget to this sort of understanding in their relationship. You also see that Weston is not the perfect, controlled man that he presents outwardly. There is a sad, broken man just trying to find happiness again.
The storyline and the impeccable writing kept me entranced the entire time. At one point I didn't even realize I was at 80% and was none too happy that I only had a sliver of the book left. I will say that I just wanted Mirella to literally come to her senses and figure out who she wants. She seemed a bit wishy-washy to me and it was a bit maddening. I get that she has Weston, this powerful, handsome, intriguing man falling for her and vice-versa, but she also has a wonderful connection with her husband Gabe who loves her more than anything. With that being said, I am Team Weston…but that’s just me.
"Your body might be marked as his...but you'll always be mine."
This book also has me questioning myself too. Why do I love this story so much? It's literally about two people that are sorta cheating on their spouses in the open and at some point the lines get a bit blurred. Am I jealous? Is this something that I am into? Why am I so conflicted? I finally calmed my racing mind down and realized that I think there are people that are meant to be together and without a doubt I think Mirella and Weston are supposed to be together. I may be wrong but I have a very strong gut feeling about it. Though I may totally be wrong about how it ends up and I'm just pacifying myself.
I will say that there is a doozy of a cliffhanger and it will leave you salivating. Full-on pick your jaw up off the floor, get your heart to calm the f*ck down sort of cliffhanger. Shall the stalking commence!
The second book starts shortly after the first book ends. The couples pick up their arrangement again after Weston pursues Mirella. Though Mirella is quick to point out that this newly-amended arrangement is going to be purely physical, that there will be no emotional entanglements. Unfortunately, this really does not bode well for Mirella and Weston once the arrangement picks back up again. After a few shared trips, these two, end up falling for each other. Again. Even harder.
In the last book, I felt a bit cheated with the lack of knowledge when it came to Gabe and Bridget and how their “relationship” was going. Though you still don’t get a POV from anyone besides Mirella, I felt that you got to understand the inner workings of Gabe a bit more. The relationship between Weston and Mirella brought out this very jealous, very alpha-like character in Gabe. There was a part where my heart actually hurt for him when he finally admitted his feelings to Mirella regarding the arrangement. Trust me, I totally get where Gabe is coming from but at times I felt like he enjoyed the attention he was getting not only from Bridget but other women.
"I shouldn't have let this all this get so out of control."
The reader also gets to find out more about Weston. He admits to Mirella what brought him and Bridget to this sort of understanding in their relationship. You also see that Weston is not the perfect, controlled man that he presents outwardly. There is a sad, broken man just trying to find happiness again.
The storyline and the impeccable writing kept me entranced the entire time. At one point I didn't even realize I was at 80% and was none too happy that I only had a sliver of the book left. I will say that I just wanted Mirella to literally come to her senses and figure out who she wants. She seemed a bit wishy-washy to me and it was a bit maddening. I get that she has Weston, this powerful, handsome, intriguing man falling for her and vice-versa, but she also has a wonderful connection with her husband Gabe who loves her more than anything. With that being said, I am Team Weston…but that’s just me.
"Your body might be marked as his...but you'll always be mine."
This book also has me questioning myself too. Why do I love this story so much? It's literally about two people that are sorta cheating on their spouses in the open and at some point the lines get a bit blurred. Am I jealous? Is this something that I am into? Why am I so conflicted? I finally calmed my racing mind down and realized that I think there are people that are meant to be together and without a doubt I think Mirella and Weston are supposed to be together. I may be wrong but I have a very strong gut feeling about it. Though I may totally be wrong about how it ends up and I'm just pacifying myself.
I will say that there is a doozy of a cliffhanger and it will leave you salivating. Full-on pick your jaw up off the floor, get your heart to calm the f*ck down sort of cliffhanger. Shall the stalking commence!
February 25, 2016
God why is Weston so hot? This picks up from the break up in #1. The arrangement is no longer. Gabe and Mirella are living their normal lives with their two girls but Weston weighs heavily on her mind still. Eventually after months, Weston reaches out to her and requests another meeting which she discusses wither husband. She is reluctant and Gabe isn't too happy and would prefer no contact between the two. They both feel it really isn't something they should resume again, it could get very dangerous as it started to in book #1.
After being asked to join Weston and Bridget again for a meeting, they agree out of curiosity. Some rules have been changed. Before you know it, we're reading round two between these spouse borrowing couples. Very dangerous indeed changing some of those rules. Nerd knows what he's doing and oh me oh my.... I want him! Just a little taste damn it.
What I really love is Gabe and Mirella are still in love and have a wonderful sex life even though we know nothing about Gabe's thoughts and feelings about Bridget because Mirella is telling the story I feel Gabe is not attached to her in any way... IMO.
I am so torn, I love both men... I hate how "carefree" Gabe is with his behavior but damn it would be so hard. Husband should be #1 and this whole situation is simply a huge f*** up! I am so looking forward to how this ends but no doubt it's going to hurt!
October 26, 2015
This story did not work for me. The writing/wording/phrases was repititive. I gained nothing from this. Although some of the sex scenes were pretty damn good, it didn't help the story line. Then there's the ending...*insert eye roll*
I'll definitely read book three because I'm already invested in the story and characters but it won't be at the top of my TBR pile.
*Purchased*
I'll definitely read book three because I'm already invested in the story and characters but it won't be at the top of my TBR pile.
*Purchased*
July 4, 2018
Oh diablos, mi pobre corazón...
Como sea que termine, yo voy a acabar con el corazón roto, lo se. Los amo a los dos.
Aunque con ese final; que lo vi venir desde que a ella le dio "the flu", supongo que me deja adivinar como va a terminar, y pensar que así tenia que ser, que es el destino.
Directo al tercero.
Como sea que termine, yo voy a acabar con el corazón roto, lo se. Los amo a los dos.
Aunque con ese final; que lo vi venir desde que a ella le dio "the flu", supongo que me deja adivinar como va a terminar, y pensar que así tenia que ser, que es el destino.
Directo al tercero.
November 6, 2015
Now that I'm over my Ground Rules story high I was able to detect the flaws, especially about the writing. I think I've read the phrase "hint of a smile" a hundred times! In fact let me check... OK, not a hundred but fifteen times. It felt like a hundred though...
And the ending..? Predictable... I was sure she was .
I'll definitely read the next book because i'm too invested in the story now, but hopefully it will be better written and better edited.
And the ending..? Predictable... I was sure she was .
I'll definitely read the next book because i'm too invested in the story now, but hopefully it will be better written and better edited.
October 2, 2016
THREE REWRITTEN STARS
Please understand that this book is written wonderfully with a clear voice and that fucking Sex God, Weston makes up for it. This is just a case where my preference doesn't quite sit with the content of this book.
My Heart: You knew this was gonna happen!
My Brain: Shut the fuck up...Just...Shut up.
I literally fucking hate this. I don't hate the book, but... the cheating dammit. I don't know if I'm being understood as to the magnitude in which I hate cheating. I have such a hatred for that shit, that I don't even want your fucking excuses. You're simply a fucking asshole whose too scared and selfish to break it off.
My motto: "If you want to cheat? Don't - Just break up and then fuck up. Simple."
The story doesn't waste any time in picking up right where it left off. I was already drowning but was swiftly pushed deeper as I began this read. I was still kidding myself that I can get through it. I mean, It's not cheating. Fuck! But lying to myself doesn't make it the truth. I needed to face reality and really a truly, Mirella made it so easy for me to break away from that fucked up illusion from the previous book. Now that was well played. I swear my heart still stutter painfully when thinking about how stupid I was.
Oh Mirella. I loved you so much in book one. Mirella was so real, so true and went in blindly yet with determination. Her constant battle of what she's feeling, with what she should express. Along with having to accept and fight the feelings of knowing her husband lays with another woman? She had this grace about her, never letting it tear her apart no matter how much she was fighting to keep it inside.
Then we enter this read.
Gone was the backbone I thought Mirella had. She never stuck to her foolish rules about being the boss in the re-established arrangement. The way she constantly does thing, bask in it then suddenly talk about how embarrassed she was and ashamed. I'm all...Bitch, shut the fuck up! You wanted that cock, you got it. Stop pussying around and saying this, doing something else and then reflecting on... something entirely. She became so indecisive and such an annoying character. I felt like she felt she was something else.
I slowly stated to despise her. It began to grow when I felt she was doing Gabe wrong. Now, first off, there's a mutual agreement to do what the fuck ever. But after, now that feelings are in the mix, we have lies entering the agreement, have comparison, then throw in a pinch of jealousy and/or lack of it (I'm being modest).
What do I get?
Cheating
What does Nesha hate? CHEATING!
I get it, why read the book if I hate it. Well, fuck off. I wanted to, it was my pain to endure. That, and I hate not finishing a series. Here lies the dilemma in my fucked up reading cycle. Shrugs
What kind of irked me was how Gabe just took everything. He'd be against her meeting up with that Sex God, then the moment the Golden Pussy is thrown in his face, he doesn't care. He was borderline a fucking pig but because it was in Mirella's POV I never got to indulge in his side other than to speculate.
Mirella and Sex God did so much things, said some shit and acted so blatant, you'd have to be fucking dead and rotting to not get the point. Yet Gabe and Golden Pussy just seems...unfazed. That part was frustrating and unrealistic.
Mirella and Sex God has some hot chemistry, I won't lie. They're playing a dangerous game and I enjoy it all. The stuff they do behind closed door...I felt they fit so perfect together. I mean, can someone say Big Love? I'd accept honesty if it could all work out because Gabe is equally hot. He's fucking amazing. I'm a little angst whore though and I'd like to see how things span out for the four of them - but I spoiled that shit for myself so the next read is on hold or I might want to jump in the book and fuck them all up (literally fuck the Sex God and Gabe though. Hey we could even have a 3-sum, and I may allow Golden Pussy to get in on the fun. Le Chuckles.)
My Heart: "It fucking hurts...
Please understand that this book is written wonderfully with a clear voice and that fucking Sex God, Weston makes up for it. This is just a case where my preference doesn't quite sit with the content of this book.
My Heart: You knew this was gonna happen!
My Brain: Shut the fuck up...Just...Shut up.
I literally fucking hate this. I don't hate the book, but... the cheating dammit. I don't know if I'm being understood as to the magnitude in which I hate cheating. I have such a hatred for that shit, that I don't even want your fucking excuses. You're simply a fucking asshole whose too scared and selfish to break it off.
My motto: "If you want to cheat? Don't - Just break up and then fuck up. Simple."
The story doesn't waste any time in picking up right where it left off. I was already drowning but was swiftly pushed deeper as I began this read. I was still kidding myself that I can get through it. I mean, It's not cheating. Fuck! But lying to myself doesn't make it the truth. I needed to face reality and really a truly, Mirella made it so easy for me to break away from that fucked up illusion from the previous book. Now that was well played. I swear my heart still stutter painfully when thinking about how stupid I was.
Oh Mirella. I loved you so much in book one. Mirella was so real, so true and went in blindly yet with determination. Her constant battle of what she's feeling, with what she should express. Along with having to accept and fight the feelings of knowing her husband lays with another woman? She had this grace about her, never letting it tear her apart no matter how much she was fighting to keep it inside.
Then we enter this read.
Gone was the backbone I thought Mirella had. She never stuck to her foolish rules about being the boss in the re-established arrangement. The way she constantly does thing, bask in it then suddenly talk about how embarrassed she was and ashamed. I'm all...Bitch, shut the fuck up! You wanted that cock, you got it. Stop pussying around and saying this, doing something else and then reflecting on... something entirely. She became so indecisive and such an annoying character. I felt like she felt she was something else.
I slowly stated to despise her. It began to grow when I felt she was doing Gabe wrong. Now, first off, there's a mutual agreement to do what the fuck ever. But after, now that feelings are in the mix, we have lies entering the agreement, have comparison, then throw in a pinch of jealousy and/or lack of it (I'm being modest).
What do I get?
Cheating
What does Nesha hate? CHEATING!
I get it, why read the book if I hate it. Well, fuck off. I wanted to, it was my pain to endure. That, and I hate not finishing a series. Here lies the dilemma in my fucked up reading cycle. Shrugs
What kind of irked me was how Gabe just took everything. He'd be against her meeting up with that Sex God, then the moment the Golden Pussy is thrown in his face, he doesn't care. He was borderline a fucking pig but because it was in Mirella's POV I never got to indulge in his side other than to speculate.
Mirella and Sex God did so much things, said some shit and acted so blatant, you'd have to be fucking dead and rotting to not get the point. Yet Gabe and Golden Pussy just seems...unfazed. That part was frustrating and unrealistic.
Mirella and Sex God has some hot chemistry, I won't lie. They're playing a dangerous game and I enjoy it all. The stuff they do behind closed door...I felt they fit so perfect together. I mean, can someone say Big Love? I'd accept honesty if it could all work out because Gabe is equally hot. He's fucking amazing. I'm a little angst whore though and I'd like to see how things span out for the four of them - but I spoiled that shit for myself so the next read is on hold or I might want to jump in the book and fuck them all up (literally fuck the Sex God and Gabe though. Hey we could even have a 3-sum, and I may allow Golden Pussy to get in on the fun. Le Chuckles.)
My Heart: "It fucking hurts...
October 27, 2015
Holy crap! That cliffhanger just about killed me! This book....gah.....but yes I loved it!
Things get crazy again with these two couples, but there are some amazingly hot (and I mean hot) sex scenes!
I kinda predicted what would happen but damn....what the hell!
I was a little unhappy with Mirella at times because she appears to have a really great thing with Gabe. Why venture elsewhere? But of course we get no POV from Gabe (which I really want....*hint hint Roya*) so I'm not sure what's going on with him and Bridget.
Weston got a little crazy obsessive in this one, but we learn more about his relationship with Bridget which was quite eye opening.
Looking forward to the next book.......just wish I didn't have to wait until Jan/Feb!!!!!!
Things get crazy again with these two couples, but there are some amazingly hot (and I mean hot) sex scenes!
I kinda predicted what would happen but damn....what the hell!
I was a little unhappy with Mirella at times because she appears to have a really great thing with Gabe. Why venture elsewhere? But of course we get no POV from Gabe (which I really want....*hint hint Roya*) so I'm not sure what's going on with him and Bridget.
Weston got a little crazy obsessive in this one, but we learn more about his relationship with Bridget which was quite eye opening.
Looking forward to the next book.......just wish I didn't have to wait until Jan/Feb!!!!!!
March 7, 2016
4,5 ★
Misma puntuación que el anterior pero esta vez más tirando al 4 que al 5. Si no se están llevando máxima puntuación es porque a la vez que me gusta mucho la historia, me queda la sensación que no se está explotando del todo el aspecto emocional. Este libro acaba en cliffhanger y aunque lo he visto venir a leguas, a pesar de que la autora ha querido despistar, no me voy a quejar porque lo que pasa al final lo he estado deseando desde que empecé la historia. Da la sensación que mi ansia de drama va a verse satisfecha en el tercer y último libro pero mejor no me adelanto no sea que luego me lleve un chasco.
Btw, pedazo bookhangover que me va a quedar después de esto xDDD
Misma puntuación que el anterior pero esta vez más tirando al 4 que al 5. Si no se están llevando máxima puntuación es porque a la vez que me gusta mucho la historia, me queda la sensación que no se está explotando del todo el aspecto emocional. Este libro acaba en cliffhanger y aunque lo he visto venir a leguas, a pesar de que la autora ha querido despistar, no me voy a quejar porque lo que pasa al final lo he estado deseando desde que empecé la historia. Da la sensación que mi ansia de drama va a verse satisfecha en el tercer y último libro pero mejor no me adelanto no sea que luego me lleve un chasco.
Btw, pedazo bookhangover que me va a quedar después de esto xDDD
January 18, 2016
Alrighty. I can kinda keep this simple: I went on loving Weston. My distaste for Gabe took on a whole new fiery passion. The only development that was new was that I started to dislike our heroine, Mirella . But this was a good read and it ended on a cliffhanger that suggests the third book will be really interesting.
March 10, 2016
More like 2.5 stars and with that not so surprisingly cliffhanger ending. I guess I'm the oddball out on this book/series...
October 28, 2015
It's a train wreck yet I couldn't put it down. It infuriates me to no end. This was essentially the same book as the first and I saw the ending from a mile away. Team Gabe.
October 15, 2015
4.5 Stars!
Review by Lisa Kane
This series evokes such strong emotions in me. On the one hand I am opposed to open marriages. I think they may fill a void in the short term, but I think any good they do is eventually outweighed by the bad in the end. And to be honest, I'm not so sure that this series won't end the same way. But I can't stop reading about this train wreck. The characters are so beautifully flawed and so multi layered that it is impossible for me not to turn the pages to see what they are going to do. I might add that they break my heart with their thoughts and their actions. Fortunately, the story is told from Ella's POV only, I could not stand reading about her husband, Gabe's POV when he is having sex with Bridgett, Weston's wife. No can do, won't even try and go there. It's bad enough when he admits he really likes having sex with her; I have to skim over those parts.
When the first book ended, Bridgett and Weston broke things off with Gabe and Ella. Ella had crossed the line; broken one of the hard fast rules and admitted to Weston she was in love with him. He shut things down after that and he and his wife callously cut off the other couple like they were unwanted employees. Ella was blindsided, threw a briefcase at his head and was determined not to let this rip out her heart. Gabe, being a typical guy, got over it in about a day. I get the feeling he isn't as emotionally involved with Bridgett as Ella is with Weston. He has a dark, kinky side and I think Bridgett fulfills some needs he has that Ella isn't willing to-but again, I'm not going to think about that too much.
I try not to think about Weston. When I get emotional, I do. Getting over him has been hard, but I'm almost there. I've been picking up the pieces, one at a time, and damn, were they heavy.
It's three months later, the Christmas holidays are around the corner and Ella receives a beautiful, expensive broach in her mail box. No card. But she and Gabe both know who it's from. Then the calls and texts start. No way is Ella going to give Weston another chance to break her heart. She refuses him at every turn. But then he makes a strategic move and has Bridgett contact Gabe. Oh, this is going to get interesting. Gabe admits to Ella that he has missed the sex with Bridgett (can't take these parts!) but he will leave it up to her if she wants to start their relationship all over again.
Of course there would be no story if they didn't decide to open up this Pandora's box again. This time, Ella swears it will be on her terms, she has no interest in being at Weston's beck and call. She will call the shots or there will be no deal. Of course, the road to hell is paved with the best of intentions...
Just as before, she falls under Weston's spell, only this time it seems he is the one desperate for her. He reveals heartbreaking info about his life with Bridgett and why they fell into the life of an open marriage. Gabe is enjoying his time with Bridgett, but is feeling insecure about Weston. It's obvious that he can provide so many more things for Ella than Gabe ever could-he's no fool, he knows she is infatuated with Weston. Not sure if he realizes just how deep her feelings go.
"How do you feel about that Mirella?" he asks me, his tone serious. "Another woman enjoying your husband?"
His question catches me off guard. I know we're not supposed to be talking about this. But I contemplate his question, regardless.
"Well, I've been enjoying you," I point out. "Immensely," I add with a sly smile. "And I guess that's the idea, isn't it? We're sharing and we're both benefiting."
This one has some steamy, guilty pleasures in it. There is one scene in particular that will get those juices flowing-it seems Weston likes to watch and Ella and Gabe provide quite the show. I needed kitchen mitts to handle my Kindle for that scene!
The dynamics are shifting in this one-Weston interacts with Ella's kids and the families are co-mingling. Ella is unsettled with all of this and is falling again. Hard.
"No one would see it unless you're wearing a slinky bikini. It would be just for us."
I look up at him. "Weston would see it."
He looks away. "Yes, exactly, he wou-"
"You don't own me, Gabe," I snap. "Stop treating me like property."
HIs gaze fixes mine. "I know I don't own you, Ella. But you are mine in a sense. You doing this for me would show me you're in it for the long run."
I close my eyes."But I am."
"Can you guarantee that? Can you tell me we'll be together five years from now? Can you tell me you won't be in Hawaii, sipping pina coladas with Weston?"
So once again, decisions are made in hopes that in the end it will avoid hurt and heartbreak. But she may have misjudged the depth of Weston's feelings for her. Not to mention this latest book ends on the mother of all cliffy's. How this is going to play out-I have no idea but I NEED that last book!
He pulls his lips from mine, and trails a finger along my cheek. "Your body might be marked as his...but you'll always be mine."
Review by Lisa Kane
This series evokes such strong emotions in me. On the one hand I am opposed to open marriages. I think they may fill a void in the short term, but I think any good they do is eventually outweighed by the bad in the end. And to be honest, I'm not so sure that this series won't end the same way. But I can't stop reading about this train wreck. The characters are so beautifully flawed and so multi layered that it is impossible for me not to turn the pages to see what they are going to do. I might add that they break my heart with their thoughts and their actions. Fortunately, the story is told from Ella's POV only, I could not stand reading about her husband, Gabe's POV when he is having sex with Bridgett, Weston's wife. No can do, won't even try and go there. It's bad enough when he admits he really likes having sex with her; I have to skim over those parts.
When the first book ended, Bridgett and Weston broke things off with Gabe and Ella. Ella had crossed the line; broken one of the hard fast rules and admitted to Weston she was in love with him. He shut things down after that and he and his wife callously cut off the other couple like they were unwanted employees. Ella was blindsided, threw a briefcase at his head and was determined not to let this rip out her heart. Gabe, being a typical guy, got over it in about a day. I get the feeling he isn't as emotionally involved with Bridgett as Ella is with Weston. He has a dark, kinky side and I think Bridgett fulfills some needs he has that Ella isn't willing to-but again, I'm not going to think about that too much.
I try not to think about Weston. When I get emotional, I do. Getting over him has been hard, but I'm almost there. I've been picking up the pieces, one at a time, and damn, were they heavy.
It's three months later, the Christmas holidays are around the corner and Ella receives a beautiful, expensive broach in her mail box. No card. But she and Gabe both know who it's from. Then the calls and texts start. No way is Ella going to give Weston another chance to break her heart. She refuses him at every turn. But then he makes a strategic move and has Bridgett contact Gabe. Oh, this is going to get interesting. Gabe admits to Ella that he has missed the sex with Bridgett (can't take these parts!) but he will leave it up to her if she wants to start their relationship all over again.
Of course there would be no story if they didn't decide to open up this Pandora's box again. This time, Ella swears it will be on her terms, she has no interest in being at Weston's beck and call. She will call the shots or there will be no deal. Of course, the road to hell is paved with the best of intentions...
Just as before, she falls under Weston's spell, only this time it seems he is the one desperate for her. He reveals heartbreaking info about his life with Bridgett and why they fell into the life of an open marriage. Gabe is enjoying his time with Bridgett, but is feeling insecure about Weston. It's obvious that he can provide so many more things for Ella than Gabe ever could-he's no fool, he knows she is infatuated with Weston. Not sure if he realizes just how deep her feelings go.
"How do you feel about that Mirella?" he asks me, his tone serious. "Another woman enjoying your husband?"
His question catches me off guard. I know we're not supposed to be talking about this. But I contemplate his question, regardless.
"Well, I've been enjoying you," I point out. "Immensely," I add with a sly smile. "And I guess that's the idea, isn't it? We're sharing and we're both benefiting."
This one has some steamy, guilty pleasures in it. There is one scene in particular that will get those juices flowing-it seems Weston likes to watch and Ella and Gabe provide quite the show. I needed kitchen mitts to handle my Kindle for that scene!
The dynamics are shifting in this one-Weston interacts with Ella's kids and the families are co-mingling. Ella is unsettled with all of this and is falling again. Hard.
"No one would see it unless you're wearing a slinky bikini. It would be just for us."
I look up at him. "Weston would see it."
He looks away. "Yes, exactly, he wou-"
"You don't own me, Gabe," I snap. "Stop treating me like property."
HIs gaze fixes mine. "I know I don't own you, Ella. But you are mine in a sense. You doing this for me would show me you're in it for the long run."
I close my eyes."But I am."
"Can you guarantee that? Can you tell me we'll be together five years from now? Can you tell me you won't be in Hawaii, sipping pina coladas with Weston?"
So once again, decisions are made in hopes that in the end it will avoid hurt and heartbreak. But she may have misjudged the depth of Weston's feelings for her. Not to mention this latest book ends on the mother of all cliffy's. How this is going to play out-I have no idea but I NEED that last book!
He pulls his lips from mine, and trails a finger along my cheek. "Your body might be marked as his...but you'll always be mine."
October 24, 2015
Good Golly Miss Molly.....I had to stop what I was reading to start this one and I devoured it.I felt like I needed a shower and confession afterwards.I'd give it 4.5 stars and why won't GR let me shade in half a star.....so I digress :)
So I found myself feeling different towards the characters in this book,than I did in the first.......Mirella seemed way more needy to me and attention seeking.I don't profess to know why people share their spouses.I know that I don't feel like sharing is caring in this sense.
I felt for Weston in this book and for things that were revealed about his past.I think he was genuine in his love and wanting to please Mirella.I found him a bit stand offish and a rule follower in the first book.I think this book showed a bit more of his tender side...........later followed by his stalker side :)
Gabe.......oh Gabe......I liked you way better in the first book.I mean you're hot and devoted to your wife supposedly,and a good dad,but what is good for the goose should be good for the gander,but it doesn't seem so with him.So little is known about what goes on behind closed doors with him and Bridget,yet he can't stand Mirella off with Weston.To me she is way more upfront with him and what she is feeling and doing with Weston than he is with her........and it irritates me.
Bridget.......so little is known about her,other than she is a workaholic and may appeal to Gabe's rougher side in the bedroom.I so want something from their POV,even a scene would be nice.Why did she leave the room the night of the little show Gabe and Mirella put on????? Did Weston make her? Or did she not want to watch?
I don't get this whole thing,but I'm sucked right into it and then there was the ending.............Ruh Roh......I can't see this ending well and I've got terrible flashbacks to Arsen Mia Asher.......I may never recover from that or this.
Kudos to Roya for writing such a book about something that I think happens way more than we know and probably right under our noses.It lets me live a bit of a life,I'd never want.
Be gentle with us in Book 3 please
I don't know how you can start this series without seeing it to completion........too many things need to be worked out.
So I found myself feeling different towards the characters in this book,than I did in the first.......Mirella seemed way more needy to me and attention seeking.I don't profess to know why people share their spouses.I know that I don't feel like sharing is caring in this sense.
I felt for Weston in this book and for things that were revealed about his past.I think he was genuine in his love and wanting to please Mirella.I found him a bit stand offish and a rule follower in the first book.I think this book showed a bit more of his tender side...........later followed by his stalker side :)
Gabe.......oh Gabe......I liked you way better in the first book.I mean you're hot and devoted to your wife supposedly,and a good dad,but what is good for the goose should be good for the gander,but it doesn't seem so with him.So little is known about what goes on behind closed doors with him and Bridget,yet he can't stand Mirella off with Weston.To me she is way more upfront with him and what she is feeling and doing with Weston than he is with her........and it irritates me.
Bridget.......so little is known about her,other than she is a workaholic and may appeal to Gabe's rougher side in the bedroom.I so want something from their POV,even a scene would be nice.Why did she leave the room the night of the little show Gabe and Mirella put on????? Did Weston make her? Or did she not want to watch?
I don't get this whole thing,but I'm sucked right into it and then there was the ending.............Ruh Roh......I can't see this ending well and I've got terrible flashbacks to Arsen Mia Asher.......I may never recover from that or this.
Kudos to Roya for writing such a book about something that I think happens way more than we know and probably right under our noses.It lets me live a bit of a life,I'd never want.
Be gentle with us in Book 3 please
I don't know how you can start this series without seeing it to completion........too many things need to be worked out.
October 14, 2015
Storyline 5
Angst 3
Panty Scorching 4.5
Tissues 2
Value 4.5
Overall Rating 4.5
Kindle eARC
Guest Reviewed by: Lindsey
First of all HUGE CLIFFHANGER!!! Holy freakin hell what an ending. I was finally settling with the reality of what was going on and boom! I'm fucked. This is the second Ground Rules book and it's just as bad ass as the first one.
This book is just crazy good. You're waiting on pins and needles through out the whole book for all hell to break loose but when it does its not from the direction you think will happen. Wayyyy different direction. But I loved it!!!!
If you've read the first book then you know all about the swinging and extreme sexual tension that goes down. If you haven't read the first one stop here. There will be mention of things that happen from the first book. Mirella, Gabe, Bridgett, and Weston are reunited and it's awesome. Yes, I know the swinger subject is a little taboo but holy shit is it hot in these books. Rules are made and should be followed, but as you know from book one.... it doesn't happen like that sometimes. In my book rules are made to be broken and Weston can smash them so damn well. ;) how could you blame Mirella for wanting to go back for more??? I sure as hell dont. She's got her cake and eating it too.
Only the rules this time are a little more aggreable. But they still get smashed to pieces. The heart wants what the heart wants but sometimes you just can't have it. I was on my toes from start to finish wondering how this would play out. I am freakin shocked beyond belief and in desperate need for book three. Roya Carman kicks ass and I love her writing. The sexy ass men she writes are swoon worthy each in their own different way. The woman are not whiney and predictable. They are each different and beautiful in their own ways. You get to learn so much more of the characters in this book more than the first and get an understanding of why they chose this particular life style. I can't say enough good things about this book. I loved it from start to finish. I fell for the characters even more. Don't miss out with this series. It's incredible!!!
Angst 3
Panty Scorching 4.5
Tissues 2
Value 4.5
Overall Rating 4.5
Kindle eARC
Guest Reviewed by: Lindsey
First of all HUGE CLIFFHANGER!!! Holy freakin hell what an ending. I was finally settling with the reality of what was going on and boom! I'm fucked. This is the second Ground Rules book and it's just as bad ass as the first one.
This book is just crazy good. You're waiting on pins and needles through out the whole book for all hell to break loose but when it does its not from the direction you think will happen. Wayyyy different direction. But I loved it!!!!
If you've read the first book then you know all about the swinging and extreme sexual tension that goes down. If you haven't read the first one stop here. There will be mention of things that happen from the first book. Mirella, Gabe, Bridgett, and Weston are reunited and it's awesome. Yes, I know the swinger subject is a little taboo but holy shit is it hot in these books. Rules are made and should be followed, but as you know from book one.... it doesn't happen like that sometimes. In my book rules are made to be broken and Weston can smash them so damn well. ;) how could you blame Mirella for wanting to go back for more??? I sure as hell dont. She's got her cake and eating it too.
Only the rules this time are a little more aggreable. But they still get smashed to pieces. The heart wants what the heart wants but sometimes you just can't have it. I was on my toes from start to finish wondering how this would play out. I am freakin shocked beyond belief and in desperate need for book three. Roya Carman kicks ass and I love her writing. The sexy ass men she writes are swoon worthy each in their own different way. The woman are not whiney and predictable. They are each different and beautiful in their own ways. You get to learn so much more of the characters in this book more than the first and get an understanding of why they chose this particular life style. I can't say enough good things about this book. I loved it from start to finish. I fell for the characters even more. Don't miss out with this series. It's incredible!!!
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