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RED: A Love Story
Two lovers. One fate. One twist.
It will all hang on the roll of a die.
Marco is a seductive literature teacher embracing a life of unconventional pleasures to escape his past. His student Marisa hides behind a cheerful façade while struggling with the loss of her father and the estrangement of her mother.
Their mutual fondness of literature brings Marco and Marisa closer, and the two find in each other a soulmate. When their secret relationship comes to light, they are torn apart.
An unexpected encounter amidst mayhem brings them together again — two changed beings sharing unchanged feelings for each other.
To be reunited, however, Marco and Marisa must take a risk that can jeopardize their love forever.
RED is a tale of forbidden love that has received over two million hits on Wattpad. It was endorsed by journalist Debra Picket, a former columnist of The Chicago Sun-Times and contributor to CNN, as "an intriguing first novel – a thinking woman's 50 Shades of Grey.” Set in Brazil and the US, RED is an unusual contemporary romance featuring references to philosophy, psychology, music and literature. If you enjoy the works of Sylvain Reynard, you’ll love RED.
_________________________________
Note from the author: This novel can be read as a standalone. It ends exactly as I intended before deciding to turn it into a trilogy. You get your happy ending, and I leave your imagination take over and fill in the details.
It will all hang on the roll of a die.
Marco is a seductive literature teacher embracing a life of unconventional pleasures to escape his past. His student Marisa hides behind a cheerful façade while struggling with the loss of her father and the estrangement of her mother.
Their mutual fondness of literature brings Marco and Marisa closer, and the two find in each other a soulmate. When their secret relationship comes to light, they are torn apart.
An unexpected encounter amidst mayhem brings them together again — two changed beings sharing unchanged feelings for each other.
To be reunited, however, Marco and Marisa must take a risk that can jeopardize their love forever.
RED is a tale of forbidden love that has received over two million hits on Wattpad. It was endorsed by journalist Debra Picket, a former columnist of The Chicago Sun-Times and contributor to CNN, as "an intriguing first novel – a thinking woman's 50 Shades of Grey.” Set in Brazil and the US, RED is an unusual contemporary romance featuring references to philosophy, psychology, music and literature. If you enjoy the works of Sylvain Reynard, you’ll love RED.
_________________________________
Note from the author: This novel can be read as a standalone. It ends exactly as I intended before deciding to turn it into a trilogy. You get your happy ending, and I leave your imagination take over and fill in the details.
285 pages, Paperback
First published March 30, 2016
3 people are currently reading
558 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Collet
3 books45 followersNicole Collet is a Brazilian-born writer and translator with degrees in journalism and cultural management. She has edited and translated works from authors as diverse as Ken Follett, Nora Roberts and Machiavelli. Nicole’s writing invites readers to think about love in different ways, merging story with psychology, philosophy, music, and literature.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
March 6, 2017
I got this book in exchange for an honest review.
Marisa Constant is a teenager from Brazil. She still goes to school and one day she meets Marco Aurélio Fares (ancient Rome reference?), a 30 year old literature teacher that will substitute her old one. Starting from an innocent email and the mutual love for books and sexual practices, the two start building a relationship that is forbidden in the society they live in, being them teacher and student.
The fact that it is set in Brazil and almost all the names of the characters are like the ones here in my country and some references (I am Italian, hello!) got me close to this book when I started reading. Another thing that convinced me to read this book was the student-teacher kind of story. I really enjoy secret relationship that should not be happening, because they are sexy and intriguing. Marco and Marisa's relationship starts off in the first chapter with one of their BDSM role-play sessions and we see it unfold for most of the first part of the book. When BDSM was mentioned, I admit I wanted to drop this book. I have read 50SOG and liked it, but BDSM isn't a thing for my literature tastes. But I kept scrolling the pages of this book nonetheless, despite the BDSM element of the love story between the main characters, because after I finished reading I realized it is a way for Marco to "hide" and cover up his deepest feelings.
Returning to my previous point, I didn't like the BDSM at first but then I did because it was featured lightly and it is part of the story itself. I think it is an element that helps to shed some light on the personalities of the characters, although I would love if they have "normal" sex - that is, without the flogger or stuff like that. Marco more than Marisa was a character I could relate to.
Thanks to the climatic journey the two characters have, I can now understand why the author decided to write the story like that. It starts in the middle of the act almost, and we learn things quickly as the main characters are showed, but truly, we realize their personalities and their different shades chapter after chapter. I'm going to admit another thing: I thought this book looked messed up while I read, but then I realized the writer had planned the story carefully that only when you arrive at the end of part 1 you could understand. It was like she was "studying" Marco and Marisa and their dynamics, trying to explain the behaviors of the brain in certain situations that can happen in real life. Sure there were some predictable coincidences, but nowadays it is very rare to find a book that doesn't follow its genre's "guide lines". This being said, this book is different from any other New Adult book I have read until now.
Yes, you have your love story between young woman and a man who are broken inside and together they are whole. Yes you have your clichés but you can't find the usual phrases of romance books. Most of the time Marco and Marisa talk through quotations and mention philosophers, sociologists, psychologists, anthropologists - that is also my branch of study, except I am more in the linguistic field - and this is another form to avoid being exposed, being seen through. I found this relatable with myself as well and so far nobody had done it in such a way in a book I read, and I was surprised to find this book quite poetic. The style reminded me of Gabriel Garcia Marquez in some ways. The narrator was in third person so we only know what it tells us and could "manipulate" what it sees through his eyes, but this is more realistic because you picture the scene before you in your mind while you read, as if you were the spectator of a movie in a cinema. This is how it felt like when I read this book, it was like a cinematic experience. One thing I probably didn't like with this way of writing. Sometimes, I couldn't "feel" the character, it felt as if they didn't express their emotions clearly, but that could be an effect of the narrator and it is not necessary to connect with characters all the time if the story is enjoyable.
Last of all, I would thank the author for letting me read this book. I will wait for the continuation of what I reckon will be a trilogy, because this book was good but left me with sour taste in my mouth; I wanted to know more of what happened after the ending. Maybe my desire will be satisfied in Book 2. :)
Marisa Constant is a teenager from Brazil. She still goes to school and one day she meets Marco Aurélio Fares (ancient Rome reference?), a 30 year old literature teacher that will substitute her old one. Starting from an innocent email and the mutual love for books and sexual practices, the two start building a relationship that is forbidden in the society they live in, being them teacher and student.
The fact that it is set in Brazil and almost all the names of the characters are like the ones here in my country and some references (I am Italian, hello!) got me close to this book when I started reading. Another thing that convinced me to read this book was the student-teacher kind of story. I really enjoy secret relationship that should not be happening, because they are sexy and intriguing. Marco and Marisa's relationship starts off in the first chapter with one of their BDSM role-play sessions and we see it unfold for most of the first part of the book. When BDSM was mentioned, I admit I wanted to drop this book. I have read 50SOG and liked it, but BDSM isn't a thing for my literature tastes. But I kept scrolling the pages of this book nonetheless, despite the BDSM element of the love story between the main characters, because after I finished reading I realized it is a way for Marco to "hide" and cover up his deepest feelings.
Returning to my previous point, I didn't like the BDSM at first but then I did because it was featured lightly and it is part of the story itself. I think it is an element that helps to shed some light on the personalities of the characters, although I would love if they have "normal" sex - that is, without the flogger or stuff like that. Marco more than Marisa was a character I could relate to.
Thanks to the climatic journey the two characters have, I can now understand why the author decided to write the story like that. It starts in the middle of the act almost, and we learn things quickly as the main characters are showed, but truly, we realize their personalities and their different shades chapter after chapter. I'm going to admit another thing: I thought this book looked messed up while I read, but then I realized the writer had planned the story carefully that only when you arrive at the end of part 1 you could understand. It was like she was "studying" Marco and Marisa and their dynamics, trying to explain the behaviors of the brain in certain situations that can happen in real life. Sure there were some predictable coincidences, but nowadays it is very rare to find a book that doesn't follow its genre's "guide lines". This being said, this book is different from any other New Adult book I have read until now.
Yes, you have your love story between young woman and a man who are broken inside and together they are whole. Yes you have your clichés but you can't find the usual phrases of romance books. Most of the time Marco and Marisa talk through quotations and mention philosophers, sociologists, psychologists, anthropologists - that is also my branch of study, except I am more in the linguistic field - and this is another form to avoid being exposed, being seen through. I found this relatable with myself as well and so far nobody had done it in such a way in a book I read, and I was surprised to find this book quite poetic. The style reminded me of Gabriel Garcia Marquez in some ways. The narrator was in third person so we only know what it tells us and could "manipulate" what it sees through his eyes, but this is more realistic because you picture the scene before you in your mind while you read, as if you were the spectator of a movie in a cinema. This is how it felt like when I read this book, it was like a cinematic experience. One thing I probably didn't like with this way of writing. Sometimes, I couldn't "feel" the character, it felt as if they didn't express their emotions clearly, but that could be an effect of the narrator and it is not necessary to connect with characters all the time if the story is enjoyable.
Last of all, I would thank the author for letting me read this book. I will wait for the continuation of what I reckon will be a trilogy, because this book was good but left me with sour taste in my mouth; I wanted to know more of what happened after the ending. Maybe my desire will be satisfied in Book 2. :)
November 29, 2015
Book Releases 14,February,2016
"Red is the first color to appear in the spectrum of visible light, that is to say, its the first color we discern amongst all others. The tint of life and death. Cave men used it in their rupestral paintings to portray the hunt (the death of the prey that supports life), as well as to worship the gods. The red color had a sacred quality associated with the enigma of existence. Today it represents love and passion. It equally represents hate and suffering"
RED - A Love Story by Nicole Collet is a tale of forbidden love with an interesting interpretation of life events with ingenuity of using Sartre quotes. I really don't know if I can review it properly, it has so many emotional elements. This is not your typical romance book; it is intellectual, intense, honest, passionate and pure. This kind of depth isn't often found and it may not be for everyone to understand. I wanted to give it 3.5, but I am giving it 4 STARS !! for a well written plot.
It is a story of a young girl Marisa Constant aka Mari whose life changes when she meets her new literature professor Marco Aurélio Fares aka Marco. She gets fascinated with Marco’s grace and intelligence. Their mutual fondness of literature brings them closer and that is when a special bond is created between them. The relationship blooms passionately and watchfully avoiding the public eye. Marco has his own past, having gone through a nasty divorce he is still struggling with the scarred memories. Being with Marisa brings him peace.
After losing her father couple of months ago, Marisa is struggling with a strained relationship with her mother. Knowing that their relationship will add fuel to the fire, Marco decides to break up with Marisa to salvage her relationship with her mother without giving her appropriate reason.
Months pass by and they both struggle with the loss of love they suffered. Marisa gets in therapy and Marco tries to move on. Fate brings them together once again, when they both are trying to make a fresh start. Marisa needs answers, which Marco is not willing to provide and denies her once again, refusing to acknowledge how empty his life has been without her.
Will Marco forfeit his demons and not let his past cloud his present ?
Find out about their story !! Read RED-A love story !!!
“ARC graciously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.”
April 26, 2016
“It is said the prohibited is exciting. In their case it wasn’t.”
Red: A Love Story is a seductive tale about a forbidden romance between a student and a teacher, both whom are fond of poetry and books. Their love for words bonds them together and they find comfort with one another as they explore their fantasies.
“By giving me your love, you give back to me my own love, which I thought I was no longer able to feel.”
Red: A Love Story is told in purple prose and reads like poetry. It has been compared to 50 Shades of Grey – (I believe because of the extravagant/flowery text and BDSM). I loved Marco and Marisa and found their relationship fascinating.
This is not your typical romance novel for many reasons. The hero and heroine fall hard and fast and their relationship doesn’t develop as expected. ‘Love’ has little to do with what they feel for one another – or so they say. They’re under each other’s spell. She loves to experience new things and he likes to explore his fantasies. They are a match made in heaven, or hell – depending on how you look at it.
Marco is definitely a swoon-worthy character and he has met his match with young Marisa. Marco comes off as a womanizer and a player, but Marisa seems to mean more to him than the women of his past. They both leave indelible marks on one another’s soul.
I loved Marisa. She’s a strong female lead. Marisa is strong, yet sensitive. Confident, yet self-conscious. She is ‘every woman’. A very relateable character. My favorite scene was when Marisa was spying on Marco and “Edible” from the newsstand.:)
Overall, I enjoyed reading this book. If you are a lover of words, poetry, and romance – I highly suggest this promising new series. I also want to mention that I really like the cover of this book. Props to the cover designer! I am giving this novel four stars.
***In the interest of full disclosure, I received this novel in exchange for a fair, honest, and thoughtful book review: This in no way swayed my opinion.***
Full Review: https://aprillwood.wordpress.com/2016...
Red: A Love Story is a seductive tale about a forbidden romance between a student and a teacher, both whom are fond of poetry and books. Their love for words bonds them together and they find comfort with one another as they explore their fantasies.
“By giving me your love, you give back to me my own love, which I thought I was no longer able to feel.”
Red: A Love Story is told in purple prose and reads like poetry. It has been compared to 50 Shades of Grey – (I believe because of the extravagant/flowery text and BDSM). I loved Marco and Marisa and found their relationship fascinating.
This is not your typical romance novel for many reasons. The hero and heroine fall hard and fast and their relationship doesn’t develop as expected. ‘Love’ has little to do with what they feel for one another – or so they say. They’re under each other’s spell. She loves to experience new things and he likes to explore his fantasies. They are a match made in heaven, or hell – depending on how you look at it.
Marco is definitely a swoon-worthy character and he has met his match with young Marisa. Marco comes off as a womanizer and a player, but Marisa seems to mean more to him than the women of his past. They both leave indelible marks on one another’s soul.
I loved Marisa. She’s a strong female lead. Marisa is strong, yet sensitive. Confident, yet self-conscious. She is ‘every woman’. A very relateable character. My favorite scene was when Marisa was spying on Marco and “Edible” from the newsstand.:)
Overall, I enjoyed reading this book. If you are a lover of words, poetry, and romance – I highly suggest this promising new series. I also want to mention that I really like the cover of this book. Props to the cover designer! I am giving this novel four stars.
***In the interest of full disclosure, I received this novel in exchange for a fair, honest, and thoughtful book review: This in no way swayed my opinion.***
Full Review: https://aprillwood.wordpress.com/2016...
February 25, 2016
Nicole Collet gives us a thrilling, intriguing story. Very well written and pulls you in!
May 8, 2016
Why would I review my own book? I thought giving you an insider view would be useful.
I’ll give it 4 stars because it’s the average rating at the time I’m writing this, so I’ll go along with it to keep it as is. As much as I would love to rate it 5 stars to give it a boost, that wouldn’t be helpful, not to mention it would imply my book is “perfect.” It’s not. Seldom books are, since their authors are imperfect human beings.
Moreover, I can’t assume the book I wrote is the same book you are going to read or others have read. It’s not. You will bring to the table your own tastes, your current frame of mind and personal background. Those elements influence how you experience each book you read: the author writes, and the reader gives a book its final touch.
“RED: A Love Story” follows the forbidden love of Marco Aurélio Fares and his student Marisa Constant. They live life as best as they can yet deep down they’re broken souls. He’s been through a traumatic divorce, she’s just lost her father in an accident and was left to deal with an estranged mother. In each other’s arms, Marisa and Marco find solace and rediscover joy.
He carries traits of an alpha and beta hero, a handsome and brilliant man with a subtle sense of humor and unconventional tastes in bed. She’s sweet, adventurous and strong, an only child raised among adults and books. With Marco, Marisa explores her blossoming sexuality and the true meaning of love for the first time.
When life circumstances pull Marco and Marisa apart, they go their separate ways on a journey of self-discovery in order to heal and try a fresh start. Their special bond can’t be severed, though, and their feelings for each other still prevail even if they deny them. Once fate brings Marisa and Marco together again, they find themselves in a more complicated situation than at the beginning of their relationship. What happens in the end?
All I have to say is a love like theirs conquers it all.
“RED” is set in my hometown São Paulo, Brazil, and then moves to California where I lived for many years. It spans various locations in both countries: some are real, others are drawn from my imagination or nostalgic memories of places long gone.
Now telling the story is, well, just half of the story. What makes a book is not only the plot but the way it is told. That needs to be experienced firsthand in order for a reader to draw their opinion about a book.
“RED” has plenty of drama but humorous moments too, because life is not black and white. Readers tend to comment that it is a unique romance story with a poetic vein, colorful descriptions and realistic characters. That’s what I aimed at while writing it, and since the book is perceived to be that way, I assume that’s how it is. “RED,” like me, is a hopeless romantic.
Throughout the book you will find references to various subjects that will invite you to reflect on love and life. This may be just what you need. This may not be for you. Again, it all depends on your tastes and expectations. What one reader loves in a book may be precisely what another hates, and vice-versa.
Have you ever read a book that you enjoyed the first time and, on a second pass, found bland? Or the opposite: the first time you read the book it was okay but the second time around you discovered a gem that deeply touched you?
That’s how it goes. Books remain the same. You change.
Bottom line: If you’re reading this, it means you’re probably interested in reading “RED.” I urge you to take a look at the book sample here so you can decide if it speaks to you.
If it does... happy reading!
I’ll give it 4 stars because it’s the average rating at the time I’m writing this, so I’ll go along with it to keep it as is. As much as I would love to rate it 5 stars to give it a boost, that wouldn’t be helpful, not to mention it would imply my book is “perfect.” It’s not. Seldom books are, since their authors are imperfect human beings.
Moreover, I can’t assume the book I wrote is the same book you are going to read or others have read. It’s not. You will bring to the table your own tastes, your current frame of mind and personal background. Those elements influence how you experience each book you read: the author writes, and the reader gives a book its final touch.
“RED: A Love Story” follows the forbidden love of Marco Aurélio Fares and his student Marisa Constant. They live life as best as they can yet deep down they’re broken souls. He’s been through a traumatic divorce, she’s just lost her father in an accident and was left to deal with an estranged mother. In each other’s arms, Marisa and Marco find solace and rediscover joy.
He carries traits of an alpha and beta hero, a handsome and brilliant man with a subtle sense of humor and unconventional tastes in bed. She’s sweet, adventurous and strong, an only child raised among adults and books. With Marco, Marisa explores her blossoming sexuality and the true meaning of love for the first time.
When life circumstances pull Marco and Marisa apart, they go their separate ways on a journey of self-discovery in order to heal and try a fresh start. Their special bond can’t be severed, though, and their feelings for each other still prevail even if they deny them. Once fate brings Marisa and Marco together again, they find themselves in a more complicated situation than at the beginning of their relationship. What happens in the end?
All I have to say is a love like theirs conquers it all.
“RED” is set in my hometown São Paulo, Brazil, and then moves to California where I lived for many years. It spans various locations in both countries: some are real, others are drawn from my imagination or nostalgic memories of places long gone.
Now telling the story is, well, just half of the story. What makes a book is not only the plot but the way it is told. That needs to be experienced firsthand in order for a reader to draw their opinion about a book.
“RED” has plenty of drama but humorous moments too, because life is not black and white. Readers tend to comment that it is a unique romance story with a poetic vein, colorful descriptions and realistic characters. That’s what I aimed at while writing it, and since the book is perceived to be that way, I assume that’s how it is. “RED,” like me, is a hopeless romantic.
Throughout the book you will find references to various subjects that will invite you to reflect on love and life. This may be just what you need. This may not be for you. Again, it all depends on your tastes and expectations. What one reader loves in a book may be precisely what another hates, and vice-versa.
Have you ever read a book that you enjoyed the first time and, on a second pass, found bland? Or the opposite: the first time you read the book it was okay but the second time around you discovered a gem that deeply touched you?
That’s how it goes. Books remain the same. You change.
Bottom line: If you’re reading this, it means you’re probably interested in reading “RED.” I urge you to take a look at the book sample here so you can decide if it speaks to you.
If it does... happy reading!
February 23, 2016
RED by Nicole Collet was my first read by this author and I really enjoyed reading the book.
The story in this book is well written and developed, the plot is fast paced and will keep you intrigued throughout the whole book. The characters in this book are very well written and will suck you into their world and along for the ride of their lives, Marisa is a student at the end of high school and Marco is a teacher who is brought in mid year and as you can guess their paths are going to cross.
This book is divided into three parts, the first part of the book has Marissa and Marco meeting and falling for one another, meeting for secret rendez vous, and then they make the mistake of kissing in the lobby of Marissa place, where she still lives with her mother. This causes Marco to rethink things about their relationship. The second part of this book sees Marissa coming to terms with Marco's decisions, and trying to get past them. The ending of the second part was the most shocking part of this book, it will have you with your jaw on the ground. The third part of this book sees Marissa and her best friend headed to the states to take am English language course to better their English (the first two parts of this book are set in Spain), and little does Marissa know that the love of her life is headed to the same area at the same time, the whole time they are miles apart, but it takes them a while to finally cross paths. By the end of the book I am still left wondering what became of the Marco and Marissa.
RED by Nicole Collet was a really good read, I would be interested in reading more of them too see where they are ten years later. I would give RED 3/5 stars.
Reviewed on behalf of Once Upon and Alpha
The story in this book is well written and developed, the plot is fast paced and will keep you intrigued throughout the whole book. The characters in this book are very well written and will suck you into their world and along for the ride of their lives, Marisa is a student at the end of high school and Marco is a teacher who is brought in mid year and as you can guess their paths are going to cross.
This book is divided into three parts, the first part of the book has Marissa and Marco meeting and falling for one another, meeting for secret rendez vous, and then they make the mistake of kissing in the lobby of Marissa place, where she still lives with her mother. This causes Marco to rethink things about their relationship. The second part of this book sees Marissa coming to terms with Marco's decisions, and trying to get past them. The ending of the second part was the most shocking part of this book, it will have you with your jaw on the ground. The third part of this book sees Marissa and her best friend headed to the states to take am English language course to better their English (the first two parts of this book are set in Spain), and little does Marissa know that the love of her life is headed to the same area at the same time, the whole time they are miles apart, but it takes them a while to finally cross paths. By the end of the book I am still left wondering what became of the Marco and Marissa.
RED by Nicole Collet was a really good read, I would be interested in reading more of them too see where they are ten years later. I would give RED 3/5 stars.
Reviewed on behalf of Once Upon and Alpha
September 19, 2016
Thank you so much New Adult Book Club for letting me enter the riri and Nicole Collet for sending me a copy of your so original book. Thank you very very much I know this wasn't the story for me but it is for many many others.
So... Red: a love story... Don't get me wrong people this was a good story, very different but great, but it just wasn't for me. Let me tell you about it:
First of all I was very pleased because the story is based in a whole new atmosphere, and that is Brasil, then we had Marisa a Brazilian high school girl; and I new that this was going to be a little controversial cause of the student-teacher romance but I was open minded about it. We also have Marco-the teacher- who I'm not really sure where he is from but he is also in Brazil okay. Well at first of the story I stared having some problems understanding how the book was "constructed" I really didn't get it, but oh well, reading more in to the book I was slightly disappointed, I really didn't get the characters, I didn't feel for them but maybe that's just me.
I'm not trying to make this book look like it's the worse story ever. It's NOT, it jusy wasn't great for ME. I really tried giving this characters a chance but I wasn't really enjoying, anyways I did finished it and the whole story was pretty original guys, very original, I'll give it that haha.
So if you're brave enough maybe you should definitely give it a shot and please if you do, tell me your thoughts on it.
So... Red: a love story... Don't get me wrong people this was a good story, very different but great, but it just wasn't for me. Let me tell you about it:
First of all I was very pleased because the story is based in a whole new atmosphere, and that is Brasil, then we had Marisa a Brazilian high school girl; and I new that this was going to be a little controversial cause of the student-teacher romance but I was open minded about it. We also have Marco-the teacher- who I'm not really sure where he is from but he is also in Brazil okay. Well at first of the story I stared having some problems understanding how the book was "constructed" I really didn't get it, but oh well, reading more in to the book I was slightly disappointed, I really didn't get the characters, I didn't feel for them but maybe that's just me.
I'm not trying to make this book look like it's the worse story ever. It's NOT, it jusy wasn't great for ME. I really tried giving this characters a chance but I wasn't really enjoying, anyways I did finished it and the whole story was pretty original guys, very original, I'll give it that haha.
So if you're brave enough maybe you should definitely give it a shot and please if you do, tell me your thoughts on it.
February 15, 2016
Complimentary copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Marco and Marisa are teacher and student, a recipe for one of the original taboo romances. They share a love of classic literature, using the words of the past to express their feelings in the present. Their romance is a whirlwind; they fall fast and deeply, but Marisa’s past and relationship with her mother is a complication Marco doesn’t want to be a part of. When the couple is discovered and Marco’s reputation is on the line, he makes a decision based on his own history of heartbreak. Is their love as star-crossed as those they have read about?
Set in Brazil, Collet’s inclusion of the beauty of Sao Paolo makes for a vivid backdrop, however the narrative is often unnecessarily wordy. The storyline itself lacks direction at times and the book, noted as a standalone novel, ends on a lackluster note at best. There are two more volumes forthcoming and there is a rather obvious cliffhanger ending, leaving the reader to wonder what direction Collet will take next. Dubbed as a “thinking woman’s Fifty Shades of Grey”, any similarity between the two books is superficial at best. Perhaps future volumes will add the depth to the story it is currently lacking.
Marco and Marisa are teacher and student, a recipe for one of the original taboo romances. They share a love of classic literature, using the words of the past to express their feelings in the present. Their romance is a whirlwind; they fall fast and deeply, but Marisa’s past and relationship with her mother is a complication Marco doesn’t want to be a part of. When the couple is discovered and Marco’s reputation is on the line, he makes a decision based on his own history of heartbreak. Is their love as star-crossed as those they have read about?
Set in Brazil, Collet’s inclusion of the beauty of Sao Paolo makes for a vivid backdrop, however the narrative is often unnecessarily wordy. The storyline itself lacks direction at times and the book, noted as a standalone novel, ends on a lackluster note at best. There are two more volumes forthcoming and there is a rather obvious cliffhanger ending, leaving the reader to wonder what direction Collet will take next. Dubbed as a “thinking woman’s Fifty Shades of Grey”, any similarity between the two books is superficial at best. Perhaps future volumes will add the depth to the story it is currently lacking.
March 7, 2016
“Red is the bed where extremes are born. Blood flower dispersing it’s petals in the wind of time. Dusk, dawn, eclipse, sunray. Shadow and light. The first color captured by the eye. The last feeling to remain. Red.”
RED: A Love Story is an amazing debut novel starting on the streets of Brazil and diving into the mystical world of two lovers. It begins with an intense tryst and unravels in a way that is much deeper than just another attempt to reinvent 50 Shades of Grey. It is intellectually satisfying, a gush of fresh air in the romance genre.
This intricate student-teacher romance provides a unique punch of stirring emotions and wicked desires. In the cat and mouse game between the main characters Marisa and Marco, the author vividly describes every detail and evokes their passion. In short, reading RED was like living it.
RED: A Love Story is an amazing debut novel starting on the streets of Brazil and diving into the mystical world of two lovers. It begins with an intense tryst and unravels in a way that is much deeper than just another attempt to reinvent 50 Shades of Grey. It is intellectually satisfying, a gush of fresh air in the romance genre.
This intricate student-teacher romance provides a unique punch of stirring emotions and wicked desires. In the cat and mouse game between the main characters Marisa and Marco, the author vividly describes every detail and evokes their passion. In short, reading RED was like living it.
March 7, 2016
I’m so glad this book is finally being published! The sophistication in Collet’s writing and language, the character build-up and the plot make for a given success. The story is very engaging, tugging at the readers’ emotions, allowing them to explore and discover a side they were afraid of exploring or were yet to discover. Also, the author’s knowledge on the core themes is exceptional. Collet is so talented, and once I started reading RED I did not want to stop. I cannot wait till the book comes out and I will definitely place an order as soon as it's available, and so will all of my friends, as I have recommended this sweet read to them all. This book has allowed me to better understand myself and struck a few right cords. It was truly a delight and I’m genuinely happy to have read it.
March 8, 2016
RED is just rather amazing and the author is a gifted writer. I've never read a story that explains romance in a way so captivating. It's one of the best, most intricate and consuming books I've ever read. I can't wait to have a copy of it, as it’s one of my favourite books! It was just so damn hard to stop reading for even one second. I am so happy that FINALLY someone wrote about love in the way everyone feels it. Yes it's raw and there is a lot of lust. But there is so much more, and maybe nobody touches on it because it's hard to put the feelings into words. Which is why the author is an unbelievably clever writer. RED is unlike any love story I've ever read, it should have its own genre just because there's nothing like it!
March 8, 2016
A beautifully written story that validated my own journey through this thing called love. The Ups of finding someone you connect with and fall in love with, to the bitter truth and realization that comes with heartbreak. I was so into the book, i read it well into the night. There are a few books out there that i have read that gave me so much "feels" ( for lack of a better word), but this one made me smile, reminisce, realize and come to terms with my past. althought the relationship (teacher-student) is considered taboo,it didn't define the entire story and i never felt it go tacky. Her writing style reminds me of gabriel garcia marquez and I adore it.
March 15, 2016
Red captured my interest from the start. It's very well written and the plot is executed in an excellent manner! The descriptive & vivid details of this book allow you to follow along with the emotions of characters Marisa and Marco, as well as their complicated relationship and a look into what their love is like.
April 21, 2016
Red was awesome story. I really felt like I was in the book and I was going with Marco and Marisa on their journey of love. I felt like every ups and downs they had were also mine. Red is a great book and I recommend it.
March 17, 2016
Review originally posted on Bookish Things and More blog site. http://bookishthingsandmore.com/2016/...
April 14, 2016
PEPPER'S REVIEW
OK. Lovers. If you are looking for something totally unique, you need this book in your life. Nicole Collet has this crazy different literary writing that is unlike anything you are reading right now.
And it’s beautiful.
And smart as hell.
My review will not do it justice.
First - I just need you all to understand how much I have fallen for this author. Her banner to her website is of my all time favorite painting:
It's almost too much for me to handle sometimes...
Here at ARR, we are obsessed with teacher-student story lines. And this book is now on the top of my list. The story spans quite a bit of time, two countries, and one heartbreaking, maddening, and completely gorgeous love story.
The BEST part about this book, is my favorite thing to talk about in regard to meeting and knowing who you meet and know - and that's FATE. The right people, the wrong time. The wrong people, the right time. Life circumstances, other people's choices, how does it all really work? This subject is an endless set of goosebumps for me and I devoured how NiCol approached it. So god damn good.
I don't want to get into the storyline. As I never really do because I think you need to read the book. I will say that this book ends on a sick (good for me, maybe bad for you) cliffhanger that will leave you like:
Actually this book leaves you feeling every hugging emotion that ever emotioned ever. Especially this:
and so much of this:
and the whole time I'm yelling at Marisa and Marco like:
So much REAL life in this story.
Like I said, this review will not do this book justice because I'm just gushing. It's really so good and I'm DYING for book #2.
THANK YOU Nicole Collet for providing us with an ARC!!
May 22, 2016
RED: A LOVE STORY, BY NICOLE COLLET
PUBLISHER: SOMETHING OR OTHER PUBLISHING, LLC; MARCH 30, 2016
Author Nicole Collet has a long history involving language, including: Chinese, French, Portuguese, and English. The moment you being reading her novel, RED: A Love Story, it is impossible to ignore her love and grasp of language and beautiful words. Collet’s debut novel is part romance, part erotica and weaves a fabulous tale of love and self-discovery.
Marisa is 18 years old and finishing high school in Brazil, and becomes completely enamored when Marco becomes her new literature teacher. Marco is 29, divorced, handsome, and shares Marisa’s passion for words and literature. As suspected, it doesn’t take long until they can no longer fight the chemistry between them, despite the obstacles to their relationship. Marisa soon discovers that not only do they share a passion for language, they also share a passion for acting out erotic fantasies. This is what makes this such a unique story of a young woman falling in love and coming of age – Marisa is just as fascinated with exploring sexual fantasies as Marco, and as they explore one another, the bond between them deepens. Yes, there are times when I wasn’t happy while reading this, but only because things were not going how I wanted, lol! But what is a good novel without conflict and suspense??
Moving on, because I don’t like to or want to include any spoilers, this is truly not a typical romance/erotica novel. Each of Collet’s characters are unique and complex in their own way, some are likable, others are not! A wonderful thing about Marisa and her best friend Valentina, is that they are so incredibly intelligent! Sexual fantasy exploration or not, the author did a beautiful job portraying both of these young women as smart, attractive, and extremely well-read. While reading this novel, you will experience romance, humor, steamy love scenes, anger, sadness, and suspense. However, the beautiful writing and language is what will make you want to read this in one sitting and not stop until the last page. Keep in mind, also, that the author wrote this novel in both English and Portuguese, which makes it even more amazing. To say that I love this novel, is an enormous understatement. The characters, the plot, the writing style, and the language all left me wanting more from this author and has me very excited to read RED 2 when published. If you are looking for a fresh, new author to try – read Nicole Collet’s RED: A Love Story. Be prepared to fall in love with the author and this amazing story.
Want to learn more about Nicole Collet? Visit her webpage at: http://nicolecollet.com/
*I received this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review.
PUBLISHER: SOMETHING OR OTHER PUBLISHING, LLC; MARCH 30, 2016
Author Nicole Collet has a long history involving language, including: Chinese, French, Portuguese, and English. The moment you being reading her novel, RED: A Love Story, it is impossible to ignore her love and grasp of language and beautiful words. Collet’s debut novel is part romance, part erotica and weaves a fabulous tale of love and self-discovery.
Marisa is 18 years old and finishing high school in Brazil, and becomes completely enamored when Marco becomes her new literature teacher. Marco is 29, divorced, handsome, and shares Marisa’s passion for words and literature. As suspected, it doesn’t take long until they can no longer fight the chemistry between them, despite the obstacles to their relationship. Marisa soon discovers that not only do they share a passion for language, they also share a passion for acting out erotic fantasies. This is what makes this such a unique story of a young woman falling in love and coming of age – Marisa is just as fascinated with exploring sexual fantasies as Marco, and as they explore one another, the bond between them deepens. Yes, there are times when I wasn’t happy while reading this, but only because things were not going how I wanted, lol! But what is a good novel without conflict and suspense??
Moving on, because I don’t like to or want to include any spoilers, this is truly not a typical romance/erotica novel. Each of Collet’s characters are unique and complex in their own way, some are likable, others are not! A wonderful thing about Marisa and her best friend Valentina, is that they are so incredibly intelligent! Sexual fantasy exploration or not, the author did a beautiful job portraying both of these young women as smart, attractive, and extremely well-read. While reading this novel, you will experience romance, humor, steamy love scenes, anger, sadness, and suspense. However, the beautiful writing and language is what will make you want to read this in one sitting and not stop until the last page. Keep in mind, also, that the author wrote this novel in both English and Portuguese, which makes it even more amazing. To say that I love this novel, is an enormous understatement. The characters, the plot, the writing style, and the language all left me wanting more from this author and has me very excited to read RED 2 when published. If you are looking for a fresh, new author to try – read Nicole Collet’s RED: A Love Story. Be prepared to fall in love with the author and this amazing story.
Want to learn more about Nicole Collet? Visit her webpage at: http://nicolecollet.com/
*I received this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review.
April 15, 2016
An intellectual, well written, thought provoking romance with a forbidden romance and some elements of BDSM.
This was my first book by this author and I didn’t really know what to expect from this book accept it wouldn’t be just a typical romance and I was not wrong. There is a unique plot but I won’t say too much to avoid spoilers as it’s the kind of book you need to read to fully appreciate and understand.
The two main characters, Marisa & Marco, embark on a forbidden relationship as Marco is Marisa’s new teacher. However, it is quickly very clear that the connection these characters have is undeniable. Through their intellectual conversations, you can’t help but actually root for this couple but as the book evolves, we see elements of Marisa’s immaturity and also Marco’s insecurities after going through a divorce previously. Red: A Love Story incorporates some BDSM elements but is not overly graphic or heavy if you are new to the genre.
Red: A Love Story is not a light hearted, simple, read and won’t be to everyone’s taste, especially with the heavy literature content. For a change I enjoyed the book but it’s not the kind of book I would want to read for a quick, light hearted, simple romance kind of read. It’s the kind of book that is thought provoking and intriguing but refreshingly has an intelligence to it with both characters very intellectual. Red: A Love Story is three books split within the one book and incorporates some BDSM elements but is not overly graphic or heavy if you are new to the genre.
Red: A Love Story is a well written, relatively fast paced, romance with plenty of drama and twists, turns and cliffhangers everywhere in the three parts. The books is more descriptive heavy than conversational focused but don’t be necessarily put off as the content varies throughout and is relatively well balanced. Told from the third perspective, the book jump back and forth between the two main characters several times within the chapters. Nicole Collet has a brilliant ability to create vivid scenery descriptions in various ways and locations that as a reader you can clearly envision what is going on.
Overall, if you are looking for an intellectual, well written, thought provoking romance with a forbidden romance storyline, definitely give this book a read!
*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated for my review, and I was not required to write a positive review. The opinion expressed here is my own.
This was my first book by this author and I didn’t really know what to expect from this book accept it wouldn’t be just a typical romance and I was not wrong. There is a unique plot but I won’t say too much to avoid spoilers as it’s the kind of book you need to read to fully appreciate and understand.
The two main characters, Marisa & Marco, embark on a forbidden relationship as Marco is Marisa’s new teacher. However, it is quickly very clear that the connection these characters have is undeniable. Through their intellectual conversations, you can’t help but actually root for this couple but as the book evolves, we see elements of Marisa’s immaturity and also Marco’s insecurities after going through a divorce previously. Red: A Love Story incorporates some BDSM elements but is not overly graphic or heavy if you are new to the genre.
Red: A Love Story is not a light hearted, simple, read and won’t be to everyone’s taste, especially with the heavy literature content. For a change I enjoyed the book but it’s not the kind of book I would want to read for a quick, light hearted, simple romance kind of read. It’s the kind of book that is thought provoking and intriguing but refreshingly has an intelligence to it with both characters very intellectual. Red: A Love Story is three books split within the one book and incorporates some BDSM elements but is not overly graphic or heavy if you are new to the genre.
Red: A Love Story is a well written, relatively fast paced, romance with plenty of drama and twists, turns and cliffhangers everywhere in the three parts. The books is more descriptive heavy than conversational focused but don’t be necessarily put off as the content varies throughout and is relatively well balanced. Told from the third perspective, the book jump back and forth between the two main characters several times within the chapters. Nicole Collet has a brilliant ability to create vivid scenery descriptions in various ways and locations that as a reader you can clearly envision what is going on.
Overall, if you are looking for an intellectual, well written, thought provoking romance with a forbidden romance storyline, definitely give this book a read!
*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated for my review, and I was not required to write a positive review. The opinion expressed here is my own.
September 2, 2016
Color the Walls of Your Mind with Red
I am enjoying Red. The dialogue has such an authentic feel to it, and the undercurrents of sharp wit and intellect make the read a stellar engagement each time I fold the cover back to read. The rich world Nicole Collet builds for Red would make Carl Jung jealous and Freud drool. The story seeps into my psyche and takes me away with sensory clues wrapped around dialog that feels like becoming a part of the conversation. I especially enjoyed the way the book takes you inside Marisa's mind as she takes in Marco's features. Her attraction grows. Her need for Marco's attention climbs over the walls of her best friend's objections as he feeds her with intellectual stimulation. Marisa's life is at a crossroads as she deals with the loss of her father and the increasing strain on her relationship with her watchful mother. There is a cauldron of simmering emotions in the story, at times quiescent then boiling over, and always present as the author's mastery of the written word takes the reader on this sojourn of a young woman on the cusp of her transition from schoolgirl to a woman. Red is captivating, intelligent, witty, and for me a trigger for memories when love was fervent, and exploration of the wells of physical, mental, and spiritual pleasure all blended in a tempest that caused the first utterance of soul mate from my lips.
I am enjoying Red. The dialogue has such an authentic feel to it, and the undercurrents of sharp wit and intellect make the read a stellar engagement each time I fold the cover back to read. The rich world Nicole Collet builds for Red would make Carl Jung jealous and Freud drool. The story seeps into my psyche and takes me away with sensory clues wrapped around dialog that feels like becoming a part of the conversation. I especially enjoyed the way the book takes you inside Marisa's mind as she takes in Marco's features. Her attraction grows. Her need for Marco's attention climbs over the walls of her best friend's objections as he feeds her with intellectual stimulation. Marisa's life is at a crossroads as she deals with the loss of her father and the increasing strain on her relationship with her watchful mother. There is a cauldron of simmering emotions in the story, at times quiescent then boiling over, and always present as the author's mastery of the written word takes the reader on this sojourn of a young woman on the cusp of her transition from schoolgirl to a woman. Red is captivating, intelligent, witty, and for me a trigger for memories when love was fervent, and exploration of the wells of physical, mental, and spiritual pleasure all blended in a tempest that caused the first utterance of soul mate from my lips.
July 24, 2016
*** I received a copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.***
Red is a story about a forbidden romance between a Teacher and his high school student. Forbidden romances usually interest me, and the synopsis for this story had me quite intrigued. From page one I knew I was dealing with a author who had a way with writing in an intelligent manner. However, this story fell completely flat for me. I never really felt a connection with either of the main characters. I could never quite get a good handle on who Marisa was as a person. The dialogue in this story just didn't jive with the high school setting. To me it was almost as if the author kept a thesaurus within reach at all times, and used it for just about every word she wrote. Don't get me wrong, the author was very descriptive, but Marisa never came across as a high school senior, more like a graduate student. The book was also confusing at times, and would jump between present and past. Coupling that with the unrealistic dialogue, it just left me perplexed and disinterested, in fact, it took me twice as long to finish reading it, I just kept walking away from it.
Red is a story about a forbidden romance between a Teacher and his high school student. Forbidden romances usually interest me, and the synopsis for this story had me quite intrigued. From page one I knew I was dealing with a author who had a way with writing in an intelligent manner. However, this story fell completely flat for me. I never really felt a connection with either of the main characters. I could never quite get a good handle on who Marisa was as a person. The dialogue in this story just didn't jive with the high school setting. To me it was almost as if the author kept a thesaurus within reach at all times, and used it for just about every word she wrote. Don't get me wrong, the author was very descriptive, but Marisa never came across as a high school senior, more like a graduate student. The book was also confusing at times, and would jump between present and past. Coupling that with the unrealistic dialogue, it just left me perplexed and disinterested, in fact, it took me twice as long to finish reading it, I just kept walking away from it.
August 1, 2016
Red is an unique well written love story about forbidden love and the joy and heartache that comes with it.
Marisa an 18 year old student who has experienced a huge unexpected loss at such a young age. As she is getting ready to graduate high school she wants to please her overbearing mother but is finding it more and more difficult.
Marco a teacher who comes in for the last few months to teach her literature class finds Marisa's maturity and outlook on life refreshing especially after a difficult divorce. Marisa and Marco bring out something in each other the other person needs at that point in time but find it hard to sustain ad their lives take separate paths.
This is my first book by Nicole Collier and I find her writing to be unique and different. Set in Brazil then shifting to the US the author does a nice job taking you on a journey with Marco and Marisa. I will have to say that some of the story shifted very quickly that in some cases was difficult to follow but as I read more I got use to it.
Overall I did enjoy the story and I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
Marisa an 18 year old student who has experienced a huge unexpected loss at such a young age. As she is getting ready to graduate high school she wants to please her overbearing mother but is finding it more and more difficult.
Marco a teacher who comes in for the last few months to teach her literature class finds Marisa's maturity and outlook on life refreshing especially after a difficult divorce. Marisa and Marco bring out something in each other the other person needs at that point in time but find it hard to sustain ad their lives take separate paths.
This is my first book by Nicole Collier and I find her writing to be unique and different. Set in Brazil then shifting to the US the author does a nice job taking you on a journey with Marco and Marisa. I will have to say that some of the story shifted very quickly that in some cases was difficult to follow but as I read more I got use to it.
Overall I did enjoy the story and I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
April 13, 2016
A whirlwind of a story!!!
I dream in red!!!
In my mind of minds, I see the color Red as the deepest of fire.
Ms Collet takes the color red and turns it into forbidden love and rare emotions. The pure emotions and the honesty of her writing is something so rare that it touches my core. The story of Marisa Constant and Marco Aurelio Fares is one of struggle and loss, but you will find yourself cheering them on. Dreamers, this is my dream read for the season, and one I will read again!!!
Thank you Ms Collet for the pleasure ***
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review ****
I dream in red!!!
In my mind of minds, I see the color Red as the deepest of fire.
Ms Collet takes the color red and turns it into forbidden love and rare emotions. The pure emotions and the honesty of her writing is something so rare that it touches my core. The story of Marisa Constant and Marco Aurelio Fares is one of struggle and loss, but you will find yourself cheering them on. Dreamers, this is my dream read for the season, and one I will read again!!!
Thank you Ms Collet for the pleasure ***
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review ****
July 18, 2016
To be honest I am not quite sure how I feel about this book. It was difficult for me to read. Marco is a teacher and Marissa his student. Even though they know it's wrong they begin a relationship. There are some beautiful words of stories and poetry in this story. I found these parts beautiful. But the tale of these two lovers just did not work for me.
Marco was damaged by a previous relationship and felt the need for fantasy in the bedroom. I felt that Marissa was very immature and their relationship happened way too soon.
It just did not work for me.
Marco was damaged by a previous relationship and felt the need for fantasy in the bedroom. I felt that Marissa was very immature and their relationship happened way too soon.
It just did not work for me.
August 9, 2016
*****RECEIVED COPY FROM AUTHOR IN EXCHANGE FOR HONEST REVIEW*****I'm not usually a fan of forbidden romance like this one, but this book is a total exception to the rule. The characters are soooo hot and it's so well written it takes you to a journey that it's hard to put it down even when it has some little things/details that are in my view unnecessary to add to the story enjoyed it very much ... thank you Nicole for the opportunity of reading looking forward for more....... thank you Nicole for the opportunity of reading looking forward for more
September 17, 2016
I thoroughly enjoyed RED from cover to cover. The story is told in rich scenery where the senses are engaged the whole way through. There is clever wit, nervous tension, sublime desire, and loss. The reader is taken inside Marisa and Marco's thoughts as the story unfolds. I was captivated, entangled, a voyeur of twists and turns, surprises, and moments of burning desire quenched and rekindled. I loved it. All of it.
April 7, 2016
Red by Nicole Collet is very unique , brings a breath of fresh air among the clichéd romances ! Her writing style is so fantastic , pulls u in ! The story is pretty relatable with an eccentric royal touch to it ! The male character makes u want more n more ! It will obsess u posses u n stay with u forever !!
July 24, 2016
I was warned this wasn't your typical love story and it wasn't. How best to describe it? It felt like a literary erotic romance that reminded me of Laclos' Liaisons Dangereuses crossed with the Marquis de Sade's Justine. It reads like a Bossa nova song, smooth and lyrical and exquisitely written.
September 20, 2016
Loved it!
A beautiful love story... I would like to read more about Marisa and Marco... The quotes of this book are awesome!
A beautiful love story... I would like to read more about Marisa and Marco... The quotes of this book are awesome!
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