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American Beauty #1
Thirty Nights
Thirty nights. Two hearts. One fate.
American Beauty, Book 1
After her parents’ tragic deaths, Elisa Snow wanted nothing more than to escape her past. Eighteen and alone, she fled her quaint English village and moved to the United States. A starving science student by day and an artist’s muse by night, Elisa has slowly built a new life. She never dreamed she would lose everything again.
She’s one week from graduation when her visa is unexpectedly denied. Given thirty days to leave the country, she must face the one thing she cannot survive again—saying goodbye and leaving her home. Yet within minutes of her world shattering, she meets a man with the power to piece it back together.
After finishing his tour of duty in Iraq, Aiden Hale traded battlefields for boardrooms, becoming one of the most successful venture capitalists in the nation. But all his wealth can’t buy him reprieve from the horrific memories of war. The only thing that gives him peace is a painting of Elisa.
Drawn together by their invisible wounds, they begin a passionate affair as they race against the clock to defy their pasts—and fight for their future.
Earlier versions of this book were posted on the author’s blog under the titles of The Master’s Muse and 30 Nights of Snow, using the pen name Ani Surnois, and has since been extensively edited.
Product Warnings: Contains a blistering exploration of desire, sacrifice and redemption…and love’s power to equalize us in ways laws cannot.
American Beauty, Book 1
After her parents’ tragic deaths, Elisa Snow wanted nothing more than to escape her past. Eighteen and alone, she fled her quaint English village and moved to the United States. A starving science student by day and an artist’s muse by night, Elisa has slowly built a new life. She never dreamed she would lose everything again.
She’s one week from graduation when her visa is unexpectedly denied. Given thirty days to leave the country, she must face the one thing she cannot survive again—saying goodbye and leaving her home. Yet within minutes of her world shattering, she meets a man with the power to piece it back together.
After finishing his tour of duty in Iraq, Aiden Hale traded battlefields for boardrooms, becoming one of the most successful venture capitalists in the nation. But all his wealth can’t buy him reprieve from the horrific memories of war. The only thing that gives him peace is a painting of Elisa.
Drawn together by their invisible wounds, they begin a passionate affair as they race against the clock to defy their pasts—and fight for their future.
Earlier versions of this book were posted on the author’s blog under the titles of The Master’s Muse and 30 Nights of Snow, using the pen name Ani Surnois, and has since been extensively edited.
Product Warnings: Contains a blistering exploration of desire, sacrifice and redemption…and love’s power to equalize us in ways laws cannot.
322 pages, Paperback
Published November 17, 2015
43 people are currently reading
2114 people want to read
About the author
Ani Keating
2 books241 followersAni Keating is a wife, daughter, and sister, living in the City of Roses (aka Portland, Oregon). Her first novel, Thirty Nights, is a sexy and heart-tugging story about love’s power to save us even at our darkest moment.
***UPDATE*** NINETY DAYS, the sequel to Thirty Nights and Book 2 in the American Beauty series, is in the works!! :-) We don't have a release date yet but I will update this as soon as we do. THANK YOU everyone for your amazing support of Thirty Nights. Love, Ani
You can follow Ani and learn more about her at:
Website: www.anikeating.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AniKeating
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ani.surnois
***UPDATE*** NINETY DAYS, the sequel to Thirty Nights and Book 2 in the American Beauty series, is in the works!! :-) We don't have a release date yet but I will update this as soon as we do. THANK YOU everyone for your amazing support of Thirty Nights. Love, Ani
You can follow Ani and learn more about her at:
Website: www.anikeating.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AniKeating
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ani.surnois
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 157 reviews
November 21, 2015
::: FULL REVIEW NOW POSTED :::: 4.5 stars!
SQUEEEE!!!! Thirty Nights was everything I could want in a romance: well-written, intelligent, sexy, and addictive. It made my heart race and my palms tingle, it made me swoon and feel and totally fall in LOVE with this couple!! There’s chemistry, mystery, and seduction. It’s beautifully erotic, sensual and smouldering, but tasteful. I loved every single word and can’t wait for the next book. This is a new TOP FAVORITE!!
This story captured that same “spark” (as I like to call it) that Twilight, Fifty Shades, and Crossfire have (to me at least). There’s this intense attraction between hero and heroine, coupled with circumstances which could easily keep them apart, but that ultimately serve to bring them closer. It's pure book crack!
The hero is now a CEO but is also a former Marine (who saw combat) with PTSD. He has eidetic memory which means he remembers every single thing he went through in perfect detail, which naturally is intensely traumatic. The heroine is a brilliant scientist fresh out of college. This series is their love story.
First thing, check out the blurb. It was what made me want to read the book!
C'mon!! Doesn't that intrigue you?! It sure intrigued me!
First thing I want to note openly is that, like so many before it, this book originally used to be fanfiction (of Fifty Shades) so there are some similarities to books we’ve previously read. I was cautious at first because I wanted to be sure it wasn't too similar, and it’s NOT. It definitely stands on it’s own. The reason the blurb doesn't really sound familiar is because the story is different. Fanfiction just means "inspired by" so this is definitely it's own unique story even though you will naturally notice subtle similarities here and there (just like the ones between Fifty & Twilight). There will always be similarities between similar types of stories (Twilight, Fifty Shades, Crossfire, Blackstone, Driven, In Flight, etc) but the bottom line is that Thirty Nights, this one, stands on it's own within that category. I absolutely loved it and I’m so incredibly excited to have a new and amazing series within this “type” of romance to fall in love with.
The first thing that impressed me when I started reading this book was the writing. This author's writing style is beautiful and flows effortlessly. I was easily swept away in the story and lost track of how quickly I was flipping the pages. Here's a quick example...
I can't even tell you how much I loved this "feeling" of this story. I loved the way Elisa and Aiden slowly got to know each other -- they were both keeping so many secrets, and guarding painful pieces of themselves from each other but as their trust and love for each other grew, little bits of their walls began to come down. It made my heart race and kept me wildly addicted to the story.
Because Elisa had only thirty days left in the US, there was a sense of urgency knowing that they were falling in love on borrowed time. The countdown was on and I was desperate to find out how they'd get through it.
It was incredibly wonderful to read about such a strong heroine. Even though Aiden was a badass former Marine and now a powerfully successful businessman, Elisa was strong and absolutely brilliant in her own right working as a scientist who'd made a significant breakthrough invention. I loved that she held her own against him. It balanced the scales in a way that I really appreciated.
If you've been following my reviews for a while, you'll know that I have a weakness for tormented heroes. Don't ask why but guys with secret pain are literally the key to my heart. And Aiden was about as tortured as they come. But I especially loved the explanation for why. Being a former soldier eidetic memory meant that he vividly and accurately remembered everything he ever read, saw, heard, tasted, experienced, and felt. Naturally given some of the more horrific memories in his past on the battlefield, this led to an extremely painful form of PTSD. And yes, while some of his behaviour could certainly be labelled extreme under normal circumstances, once you understood the reason, it made perfect sense, explained the way he was and why he held certain view points. It brought a complexity to his character that intrigued me to no end and tugged all my heart-strings.
Another of my most favorite types of romance are ones that have military heroes in them. The sacrifice, the bravery, the strength and honor, all of the elements that makes up these courageous yet badass men really draws me in every time. So with Aiden being both a former Marine and deeply tormented made him literally exactly the kind of book hero I fall for most strongly.
OMG. And there was this part of the story towards the end that was so heartwarming!!!!! I remember I literally squee'd out loud! Gah. I really loved this book you guys. I really really did.
For those of you looking for a steamy romance, this one will certainly deliver in that regard. It's incredible sexy -- the pull between Elisa and Aiden is almost tangible and this heat factor is certainly high (although, no BDSM). It is however both descriptive and very tasteful. Beautifully erotic and sensual.
This is the first book in a series. Yes, there's a cliffhanger. Wait, don't run away! Despite that, I still loved it and do not regret reading it even though I literally hate cliffhangers and 99% of the time will flatly refuse to read a book that has one. This just happens to fall into that rare 1% of books that I loved enough to be happy I read it now. You're left with a big 'reveal' moment that'll make you gasp, but there's also the distinct feeling that you know they'll be okay. At least, that was my impression. The author is working on the sequel now and plans to have it out around Springtime or possibly before. The second book will be a direct continuation of this one. And the third book will be a standalone spin-off about another couple.
Bottom line is that I absolutely loved this book. It's sexy, addictive, emotional, absorbing, well-written, and the kind of story that I didn't want to stop reading. If you're a fan of Fifty Shades and Crossfire, then I highly recommend this as a great series with a similar feeling, but a new story to fall in love with.
Rating: 4.5+ stars. Contemporary Adult romance.
_______________________________________
For more of my reviews, book news and updates:
✦ Main blog: Aestas Book Blog
✦ Facebook Blog Page
✦ Twitter
✦ Subscribe by email
“Once I love, I love forever."
SQUEEEE!!!! Thirty Nights was everything I could want in a romance: well-written, intelligent, sexy, and addictive. It made my heart race and my palms tingle, it made me swoon and feel and totally fall in LOVE with this couple!! There’s chemistry, mystery, and seduction. It’s beautifully erotic, sensual and smouldering, but tasteful. I loved every single word and can’t wait for the next book. This is a new TOP FAVORITE!!
This story captured that same “spark” (as I like to call it) that Twilight, Fifty Shades, and Crossfire have (to me at least). There’s this intense attraction between hero and heroine, coupled with circumstances which could easily keep them apart, but that ultimately serve to bring them closer. It's pure book crack!
The hero is now a CEO but is also a former Marine (who saw combat) with PTSD. He has eidetic memory which means he remembers every single thing he went through in perfect detail, which naturally is intensely traumatic. The heroine is a brilliant scientist fresh out of college. This series is their love story.
First thing, check out the blurb. It was what made me want to read the book!
Thirty nights. Two hearts. One fate.
After her parents’ tragic deaths, Elisa Snow wanted nothing more than to escape her past. Eighteen and alone, she fled her quaint English village and moved to the United States. A starving science student by day and an artist’s muse by night, Elisa has slowly built a new life. She never dreamed she would lose everything again.
She’s one week from graduation when her visa is unexpectedly denied. Given thirty days to leave the country, she must face the one thing she cannot survive again—saying goodbye and leaving her home. Yet within minutes of her world shattering, she meets a man with the power to piece it back together.
After finishing his tour of duty in Iraq, Aiden Hale traded battlefields for boardrooms, becoming one of the most successful venture capitalists in the nation. But all his wealth can’t buy him reprieve from the horrific memories of war. The only thing that gives him peace is a painting of Elisa.
Drawn together by their invisible wounds, they begin a passionate affair as they race against the clock to defy their pasts—and fight for their future.
C'mon!! Doesn't that intrigue you?! It sure intrigued me!
First thing I want to note openly is that, like so many before it, this book originally used to be fanfiction (of Fifty Shades) so there are some similarities to books we’ve previously read. I was cautious at first because I wanted to be sure it wasn't too similar, and it’s NOT. It definitely stands on it’s own. The reason the blurb doesn't really sound familiar is because the story is different. Fanfiction just means "inspired by" so this is definitely it's own unique story even though you will naturally notice subtle similarities here and there (just like the ones between Fifty & Twilight). There will always be similarities between similar types of stories (Twilight, Fifty Shades, Crossfire, Blackstone, Driven, In Flight, etc) but the bottom line is that Thirty Nights, this one, stands on it's own within that category. I absolutely loved it and I’m so incredibly excited to have a new and amazing series within this “type” of romance to fall in love with.
The first thing that impressed me when I started reading this book was the writing. This author's writing style is beautiful and flows effortlessly. I was easily swept away in the story and lost track of how quickly I was flipping the pages. Here's a quick example...
“A tall man, dressed in a tailored charcoal suit, white shirt and cobalt-blue tie, is standing a few feet from her desk, scrutinizing a painting. His dark brown hair is swept back in casual waves. His eyes burn an intense sapphire blue. On the corner of his right eye is an inch-long scar, bleached by time. Beautiful in its savagery. Like something sharp could not resist his beauty but ricocheted at the last minute, desperate to mark him as it’s own, yet unable to define him."
I can't even tell you how much I loved this "feeling" of this story. I loved the way Elisa and Aiden slowly got to know each other -- they were both keeping so many secrets, and guarding painful pieces of themselves from each other but as their trust and love for each other grew, little bits of their walls began to come down. It made my heart race and kept me wildly addicted to the story.
Because Elisa had only thirty days left in the US, there was a sense of urgency knowing that they were falling in love on borrowed time. The countdown was on and I was desperate to find out how they'd get through it.
It was incredibly wonderful to read about such a strong heroine. Even though Aiden was a badass former Marine and now a powerfully successful businessman, Elisa was strong and absolutely brilliant in her own right working as a scientist who'd made a significant breakthrough invention. I loved that she held her own against him. It balanced the scales in a way that I really appreciated.
“Well, if you want to buy it for a million dollars net of taxes, I would sell it to you today,” I offer because I already know the answer.
He chuckles. “A million dollars for an unfinished invention? That’s a steep price, considering that I do nothing with science. No offence to your accomplishments, of course.”
“None taken, Mr. Hale. How much would you sell your dreams for?”
If you've been following my reviews for a while, you'll know that I have a weakness for tormented heroes. Don't ask why but guys with secret pain are literally the key to my heart. And Aiden was about as tortured as they come. But I especially loved the explanation for why. Being a former soldier eidetic memory meant that he vividly and accurately remembered everything he ever read, saw, heard, tasted, experienced, and felt. Naturally given some of the more horrific memories in his past on the battlefield, this led to an extremely painful form of PTSD. And yes, while some of his behaviour could certainly be labelled extreme under normal circumstances, once you understood the reason, it made perfect sense, explained the way he was and why he held certain view points. It brought a complexity to his character that intrigued me to no end and tugged all my heart-strings.
“Can you ever forget?”
He smiles without his dimple and brushes his finger against my cheek…
“No, Elisa. I cannot.”
Another of my most favorite types of romance are ones that have military heroes in them. The sacrifice, the bravery, the strength and honor, all of the elements that makes up these courageous yet badass men really draws me in every time. So with Aiden being both a former Marine and deeply tormented made him literally exactly the kind of book hero I fall for most strongly.
I scroll through the texts he sent me during the party: ‘be safe’, ‘don’t stand under the heavy picture frames’ and my favorite, ‘here is a floor plan of the safety exits’.
I read his military orders, part laughing, part choking. His fear for my safety is palpable — so intense and unrelenting, as though his own life depends on it.
OMG. And there was this part of the story towards the end that was so heartwarming!!!!! I remember I literally squee'd out loud! Gah. I really loved this book you guys. I really really did.
For those of you looking for a steamy romance, this one will certainly deliver in that regard. It's incredible sexy -- the pull between Elisa and Aiden is almost tangible and this heat factor is certainly high (although, no BDSM). It is however both descriptive and very tasteful. Beautifully erotic and sensual.
“Let the time stand still, Elisa.”
This is the first book in a series. Yes, there's a cliffhanger. Wait, don't run away! Despite that, I still loved it and do not regret reading it even though I literally hate cliffhangers and 99% of the time will flatly refuse to read a book that has one. This just happens to fall into that rare 1% of books that I loved enough to be happy I read it now. You're left with a big 'reveal' moment that'll make you gasp, but there's also the distinct feeling that you know they'll be okay. At least, that was my impression. The author is working on the sequel now and plans to have it out around Springtime or possibly before. The second book will be a direct continuation of this one. And the third book will be a standalone spin-off about another couple.
Bottom line is that I absolutely loved this book. It's sexy, addictive, emotional, absorbing, well-written, and the kind of story that I didn't want to stop reading. If you're a fan of Fifty Shades and Crossfire, then I highly recommend this as a great series with a similar feeling, but a new story to fall in love with.
“From the moment you fell asleep in my arms on our first night, I’ve been trying to deserve you… I knew you were in trouble and I knew no matter what it was, I’d try to save you. From anything, especially myself.”
Rating: 4.5+ stars. Contemporary Adult romance.
_______________________________________
For more of my reviews, book news and updates:
✦ Main blog: Aestas Book Blog
✦ Facebook Blog Page
✦ Subscribe by email
January 11, 2016
Thirty Nights. Two Hearts. One Fate. Four Point Seven Five *****
Wow!! Wow!! Wow!! Thirty Nights is Extraordinary work!! Just Brilliant!
“She walks in beauty like, the night
Of cloudless climes and starry skies;
And all that’s best of dark and bright
Meet in aspect and her eyes;
Thus mellowed to that tender light
Which heaven to gaudy day denies.”
After her parents’ tragic deaths, Elisa Snow wanted nothing more than to escape her past. Eighteen and alone, she fled her quaint English village and moved to the United States. A starving science student by day and an artist’s muse by night, Elisa has slowly built a new life. She never dreamed she would lose everything again.
She’s one week from graduation when her visa is unexpectedly denied. Given thirty days to leave the country, she must face the one thing she cannot survive again—saying goodbye and leaving her home. Yet within minutes of her world shattering, she meets a man with the power to piece it back together.
After finishing his tour of duty in Iraq, Aiden Hale traded battlefields for boardrooms, becoming one of the most successful venture capitalists in the nation. But all his wealth can’t buy him reprieve from the horrific memories of war. The only thing that gives him peace is a painting of Elisa.
Drawn together by their invisible wounds, they begin a passionate affair as they race against the clock to defy their pasts—and fight for their future.
“You hear love is strong, love is kind….. but love does not fight wars,
does not write laws, does not change them..
As to the earthly needs, love is impotent..”
Elisa is beautiful, adorable, a bit geeky but most of all loved. She has a family that took her in and treated her as one of their own when she was in a dark place. The Solises might not be flesh and blood but they loved her and helped her in building a stronger character. But she only has thirty days left for her to stay and lose her family once again.
Once I love, I love forever!
Aiden Hale is powerful not just financially but physically and emotionally. He is definitely addictive, a sort of enigmatic persona. He’s got the vigilance of a military men, his posture is always guarded, and has a mysterious aura to himself. His memory is the cause of his torment and he can’t do anything about it. But one look at Elisa’s painting and he feels a calmness he hasn’t felt in a very longtime. Which he now craves!
“From the moment you fell asleep in my arms on our first night I’ve been trying to deserve you.. I knew u were in trouble and I knew no matter what it was I’d try to save you. From anything, specially myself.”
When their world collide, they are instantly attracted to each other but their secrets have the power to tear them apart..
A kiss is a secret told to the mouth..
It was everything I was craving in a book recently! It made my heart race, sob and bounce, all in that short span of starting and ending this book. {Ah.. I love a tormented Hero!!}
It was sensual, smoldering, intelligent, sexy, intense, and most of all it was beautiful.
The writing was mind-blowing, that effortlessly swept me away. I was overwhelmed by joy in the beginning for starting such an amazing book but in the end devastation took place!! But I loved every heartfelt word!
“Love hurts the most when, it knows the least.”
Definitely a MUST READ and recommended to everyone who loves Austen’s, or rather a poetic touch in the writing.
***Warning***
It's a part of a series and it's end is wicked Cliffy! But it's totally worth the wait...
Also, it might have been a fanfic of Fifty Shades , previously but it is NOTHING like that.
Wow!! Wow!! Wow!! Thirty Nights is Extraordinary work!! Just Brilliant!
“She walks in beauty like, the night
Of cloudless climes and starry skies;
And all that’s best of dark and bright
Meet in aspect and her eyes;
Thus mellowed to that tender light
Which heaven to gaudy day denies.”
After her parents’ tragic deaths, Elisa Snow wanted nothing more than to escape her past. Eighteen and alone, she fled her quaint English village and moved to the United States. A starving science student by day and an artist’s muse by night, Elisa has slowly built a new life. She never dreamed she would lose everything again.
She’s one week from graduation when her visa is unexpectedly denied. Given thirty days to leave the country, she must face the one thing she cannot survive again—saying goodbye and leaving her home. Yet within minutes of her world shattering, she meets a man with the power to piece it back together.
After finishing his tour of duty in Iraq, Aiden Hale traded battlefields for boardrooms, becoming one of the most successful venture capitalists in the nation. But all his wealth can’t buy him reprieve from the horrific memories of war. The only thing that gives him peace is a painting of Elisa.
Drawn together by their invisible wounds, they begin a passionate affair as they race against the clock to defy their pasts—and fight for their future.
“You hear love is strong, love is kind….. but love does not fight wars,
does not write laws, does not change them..
As to the earthly needs, love is impotent..”
Elisa is beautiful, adorable, a bit geeky but most of all loved. She has a family that took her in and treated her as one of their own when she was in a dark place. The Solises might not be flesh and blood but they loved her and helped her in building a stronger character. But she only has thirty days left for her to stay and lose her family once again.
Once I love, I love forever!
Aiden Hale is powerful not just financially but physically and emotionally. He is definitely addictive, a sort of enigmatic persona. He’s got the vigilance of a military men, his posture is always guarded, and has a mysterious aura to himself. His memory is the cause of his torment and he can’t do anything about it. But one look at Elisa’s painting and he feels a calmness he hasn’t felt in a very longtime. Which he now craves!
“From the moment you fell asleep in my arms on our first night I’ve been trying to deserve you.. I knew u were in trouble and I knew no matter what it was I’d try to save you. From anything, specially myself.”
When their world collide, they are instantly attracted to each other but their secrets have the power to tear them apart..
A kiss is a secret told to the mouth..
It was everything I was craving in a book recently! It made my heart race, sob and bounce, all in that short span of starting and ending this book. {Ah.. I love a tormented Hero!!}
It was sensual, smoldering, intelligent, sexy, intense, and most of all it was beautiful.
The writing was mind-blowing, that effortlessly swept me away. I was overwhelmed by joy in the beginning for starting such an amazing book but in the end devastation took place!! But I loved every heartfelt word!
“Love hurts the most when, it knows the least.”
Definitely a MUST READ and recommended to everyone who loves Austen’s, or rather a poetic touch in the writing.
***Warning***
It's a part of a series and it's end is wicked Cliffy! But it's totally worth the wait...
Also, it might have been a fanfic of Fifty Shades , previously but it is NOTHING like that.
August 8, 2019
Review posted at: https://beautyandthebeastlybooks.word...
WOW. This book was BEYOND amazing! I was already awed while reading it but after I finished I was speechless!! I have the BIGGEST book hangover now!!!
I finished Thirty Nights in a few hours after I started and it’s gone straight to my Favorite Books of 2015 list! No doubt. At all.
Thirty Nights was such a powerful story and I couldn’t put it down and kept counting the pages because I never wanted it to end! Yes, it ends in a cliffy (and by the time I reached 90% I just knew we’d need a second book), but I wouldn’t trade reading it for the first time for anything! I’d read it all again, cliffy or no cliffy. It’s THAT good!
This is the kind of book I live to find! It has angst, it has romance, it has good (excellent) writing… It’s book perfection! The story just GRIPS you in a way you don’t want to let go! It’s beautiful and raw and I want to read it all over again right now, because it brought me such good feelings! I just want to curl up and hold it!
Plus I want to be Ani Keating’s new best friend, just so I can get the scoop on my Aiden, yes, I said MY hahaha!
I can’t wait for the sequel, but this is the kind of book I don’t even mind that it ended in a cliffhanger, because I’m just glad I read it in the first place! I just want to experience it all over again! Ani Keating has a real talent for making us FEEL her story. The way she tells you brings you not only to the characters reality, but also to their feelings. I could feel the story between Aiden and Isa pulsing through the pages of my e-reader!
Thirty Nights has a few of my favorite things in a book: a billionaire? Check! Angst? Check! A good story behind the characters? Check! A heroine that is strong but shows vulnerability without being a doormat? CHECK! Although it has a lot of the things I enjoy in books, it’s completely different than anything I’ve read. Some elements I’ve seen in other books, but they are told in a different way and Ani’s talented writing skills brings the story to life without any effort. At least that’s how it felt. I just couldn’t NOT fall in love with this story and its characters. It was effortless to appreacite her writing..
This year I’ve been VERY picky and I was looking at my list of Favorites for last year (HERE) and I couldn’t avoid comparing this year’s books with last year’s and I have to say last year I found more amazing books…so finding a new favorite is SO GOOD!
Thirty Nights brought me all the amazing feels I crave when I start a new book and for that alone I’m very thankful to Ani Keating! This story felt so real and so compelling! I mean, I could feel Aiden’s struggle to accept his reality and the fact he could love someone, that he was deserving of it. He has a devastating past and to overcome it is no easy task. His past involves some traumatic events but as I said, it was told in a fresh way, with a different way than other books with a similar premisse. Aiden has some serious things going on for thim besides his past. He only wishes he could forget some of the things that happened to him and some of the things he felt and feels and experiences. So that mixed up with this troubled past of his, makes up for a very different kind of billionaire-with-a-hard-past story. I LOVED that this seemed like just another billionaire CEO with issues in his past, BUT it was completely different! It was refreshing and I have to say, Aiden’s past sounds a LOT more real than many flawed CEO’s I’ve read (and as you know, I love me some CEO books).
The same way with Isa’s struggles. She is a genious, a accomplished chemist despite her young age and unexperienced in so many ways, but despite all that, she is NO doormat. She is strong and resilient and so completely loyal to the ones she love! She really is an AMAZING heroine! Congratulations to Ani for writing such compelling characters, flawed but strong, characters that complement each other completely.
The story is also centered on one of Isa’s biggest struggles so far in her life and I really liked the background it provided. This is more than a boy-meets-girl story. It has great content and a message and an actual story involved!
Isa’s geekness is ADORABLE and I LOVE how Aiden not only accepts it, but is also so taken by it. They had some pretty cute moments together. Some pretty HOT ones too! They really feel right together and I even love when Aiden made an ass of himself, because having making up for it was amazing. Made me swoon and my heart melt and made all the pain worth it! I now want to see more of that! Aiden and Isa truly belong together and the fact it’s not just rainbows and butterflies with them makes the story even more real! It’s always so welcoming to see characters working for their love and to overcome their issues!
Now, Aiden TOTALLY made me SWOON! Come on, the roses!!! From the little tips Ani kept giving us I figured out most of his past, but when he finally reveals it it devastated me, so I could really understand him! And his flaws and his past only made me swoon over him even more, I literally wanted to get inside the story and just hug him!! This story had my heart caught in my throat, some parts of it GUTTED me!
And now I’m even more curious about Aiden’s past after the way it ended. I REALLY want to see how the story will unfold!I mean, Isa has a LOT to overcome now but so does Aiden! And it seems like loving each other is just the beginning of a very hard road ahead of those two and I can’t wait to see their journey continuing and how Aiden and Isa will understand each other and accept their faults!
I really can’t wait for the next book, but even with the cliffhanger I’m COMPLETELY satisfied with this story. It was beyond perfect! It’s hard to explain and you’ll need to read it to experience Ani Keating’s writing, but after what I experienced, I just want MORE. She got me HOOKED on her writing and I’ll be anxiously waiting for more of her work!
WOW. This book was BEYOND amazing! I was already awed while reading it but after I finished I was speechless!! I have the BIGGEST book hangover now!!!
I finished Thirty Nights in a few hours after I started and it’s gone straight to my Favorite Books of 2015 list! No doubt. At all.
Thirty Nights was such a powerful story and I couldn’t put it down and kept counting the pages because I never wanted it to end! Yes, it ends in a cliffy (and by the time I reached 90% I just knew we’d need a second book), but I wouldn’t trade reading it for the first time for anything! I’d read it all again, cliffy or no cliffy. It’s THAT good!
This is the kind of book I live to find! It has angst, it has romance, it has good (excellent) writing… It’s book perfection! The story just GRIPS you in a way you don’t want to let go! It’s beautiful and raw and I want to read it all over again right now, because it brought me such good feelings! I just want to curl up and hold it!
Plus I want to be Ani Keating’s new best friend, just so I can get the scoop on my Aiden, yes, I said MY hahaha!
I can’t wait for the sequel, but this is the kind of book I don’t even mind that it ended in a cliffhanger, because I’m just glad I read it in the first place! I just want to experience it all over again! Ani Keating has a real talent for making us FEEL her story. The way she tells you brings you not only to the characters reality, but also to their feelings. I could feel the story between Aiden and Isa pulsing through the pages of my e-reader!
Thirty Nights has a few of my favorite things in a book: a billionaire? Check! Angst? Check! A good story behind the characters? Check! A heroine that is strong but shows vulnerability without being a doormat? CHECK! Although it has a lot of the things I enjoy in books, it’s completely different than anything I’ve read. Some elements I’ve seen in other books, but they are told in a different way and Ani’s talented writing skills brings the story to life without any effort. At least that’s how it felt. I just couldn’t NOT fall in love with this story and its characters. It was effortless to appreacite her writing..
This year I’ve been VERY picky and I was looking at my list of Favorites for last year (HERE) and I couldn’t avoid comparing this year’s books with last year’s and I have to say last year I found more amazing books…so finding a new favorite is SO GOOD!
Thirty Nights brought me all the amazing feels I crave when I start a new book and for that alone I’m very thankful to Ani Keating! This story felt so real and so compelling! I mean, I could feel Aiden’s struggle to accept his reality and the fact he could love someone, that he was deserving of it. He has a devastating past and to overcome it is no easy task. His past involves some traumatic events but as I said, it was told in a fresh way, with a different way than other books with a similar premisse. Aiden has some serious things going on for thim besides his past. He only wishes he could forget some of the things that happened to him and some of the things he felt and feels and experiences. So that mixed up with this troubled past of his, makes up for a very different kind of billionaire-with-a-hard-past story. I LOVED that this seemed like just another billionaire CEO with issues in his past, BUT it was completely different! It was refreshing and I have to say, Aiden’s past sounds a LOT more real than many flawed CEO’s I’ve read (and as you know, I love me some CEO books).
The same way with Isa’s struggles. She is a genious, a accomplished chemist despite her young age and unexperienced in so many ways, but despite all that, she is NO doormat. She is strong and resilient and so completely loyal to the ones she love! She really is an AMAZING heroine! Congratulations to Ani for writing such compelling characters, flawed but strong, characters that complement each other completely.
The story is also centered on one of Isa’s biggest struggles so far in her life and I really liked the background it provided. This is more than a boy-meets-girl story. It has great content and a message and an actual story involved!
Isa’s geekness is ADORABLE and I LOVE how Aiden not only accepts it, but is also so taken by it. They had some pretty cute moments together. Some pretty HOT ones too! They really feel right together and I even love when Aiden made an ass of himself, because having making up for it was amazing. Made me swoon and my heart melt and made all the pain worth it! I now want to see more of that! Aiden and Isa truly belong together and the fact it’s not just rainbows and butterflies with them makes the story even more real! It’s always so welcoming to see characters working for their love and to overcome their issues!
Now, Aiden TOTALLY made me SWOON! Come on, the roses!!! From the little tips Ani kept giving us I figured out most of his past, but when he finally reveals it it devastated me, so I could really understand him! And his flaws and his past only made me swoon over him even more, I literally wanted to get inside the story and just hug him!! This story had my heart caught in my throat, some parts of it GUTTED me!
And now I’m even more curious about Aiden’s past after the way it ended. I REALLY want to see how the story will unfold!I mean, Isa has a LOT to overcome now but so does Aiden! And it seems like loving each other is just the beginning of a very hard road ahead of those two and I can’t wait to see their journey continuing and how Aiden and Isa will understand each other and accept their faults!
I really can’t wait for the next book, but even with the cliffhanger I’m COMPLETELY satisfied with this story. It was beyond perfect! It’s hard to explain and you’ll need to read it to experience Ani Keating’s writing, but after what I experienced, I just want MORE. She got me HOOKED on her writing and I’ll be anxiously waiting for more of her work!
November 23, 2015
Thirty Nights (American Beauty #1) by Ani Keating
4.5 stars!!
Sometimes I trawl Amazon in search of something that just catches my eye and this simplistic cover did just that, however, what was contained within the jacket was definitely not simple. This story got me from the beginning, from the first page I was hooked and on the last page I was devastated…I need book 2 NOW!!!
Elisa was a beautiful character on the inside and out. She was a geek through and through but an adorable geek. She was a protégé in Science, particularly chemistry and was happiest when inventing things and putting her scientific knowledge to good use. She was extremely bright but also extremely sad. Having lost her family four years ago she had fled the UK and transferred her educational scholarship to a University in the US. Now she is due to graduate and the US Government have once again turned down her green card, it seems her escape is coming to an end. With no family in the UK it seems as if Elisa is going to be on her own once again with only her demons and ghosts for company.
Elisa was a woman tormented by her past and her only means of bringing herself down from her panic attacks was reciting the periodic table, another adorable character trait, but she also had a heart of gold. Having come to America knowing no-body an illegal Mexican family had taken her under their wing and this “family unit,” were close, tight and extremely loyal.
Aiden was an enigma, he was extremely guarded, hesitant and observant. He had that air of mystery around him but also an aura of despondency. There was a lot we didn’t know about him in the beginning other than that he was extremely rich, extremely powerful and a philanthropist. As this book progresses though we are slowly drip fed the real Aiden, it is beautiful, it is tragic and my heart broke for him on more than one occasion. As his character is slowly opened up on every page I loved him all the more, there is nothing more endearing than a broken man and this man is extremely broken, but there is nothing more beautiful than a broken man slowly putting himself back together.
When Elisa and Aiden’s paths cross it was obvious there was an instant attraction but these two were so different it was hard for them to see it for more than what it was…at first. With Elisa’s impending departure and Aiden’s problems this story was never going to be easy and easy it wasn’t…but endearing it was.
This is no cookie cutter romance, this book is so much more and it is this “meat” that makes this book un-put-down-able. While it obviously centres around Elisa and Aiden the added sub plots of immigration, science, poetry and the military really brings this story together and wraps up this book in a totally engaging plot.
I absolutely fell in love with this book and these characters. Elisa and Aiden were perfect for each other; they were truly soul mates. Just being in each other’s company was centring and grounding for both of them, they knew each other’s flaws and they learned how to get round them and deal with them. My heart broke for Aiden, for a man with a heart of gold he had so much to deal with. His sufferance tore at my emotions as did his constant belittling of himself. He couldn’t see the man beneath his issues…thank god Elisa could and was slowly winning him round.
This was Elisa and Aiden versus the world and there was nothing Aiden wouldn’t do to keep her.
For a debut book this was one amazing journey and hard to believe was written by a newbie. With character depth and character connection in spades you cannot help but be moved by Elisa and Aiden’s story. As I said above, I need book two now!!
www.theromancecover.com
4.5 stars!!
“She walks in beauty, like the night of cloudless climes and starry skies; and all that’s best of dark and bright meet in her aspect and her eyes.”
Sometimes I trawl Amazon in search of something that just catches my eye and this simplistic cover did just that, however, what was contained within the jacket was definitely not simple. This story got me from the beginning, from the first page I was hooked and on the last page I was devastated…I need book 2 NOW!!!
“I don’t want the fantasy anymore…I want the real girl.”
Elisa was a beautiful character on the inside and out. She was a geek through and through but an adorable geek. She was a protégé in Science, particularly chemistry and was happiest when inventing things and putting her scientific knowledge to good use. She was extremely bright but also extremely sad. Having lost her family four years ago she had fled the UK and transferred her educational scholarship to a University in the US. Now she is due to graduate and the US Government have once again turned down her green card, it seems her escape is coming to an end. With no family in the UK it seems as if Elisa is going to be on her own once again with only her demons and ghosts for company.
“Isaac Newton was wrong. Not all bodies at rest, stay at rest. There are bodies – torn, ravaged-from-within bodies – that shudder in stillness, perhaps even in death.”
Elisa was a woman tormented by her past and her only means of bringing herself down from her panic attacks was reciting the periodic table, another adorable character trait, but she also had a heart of gold. Having come to America knowing no-body an illegal Mexican family had taken her under their wing and this “family unit,” were close, tight and extremely loyal.
“You hear that love is strong, love is kind. But love does not fight wars, does not write laws, does not change them. As to these earthly needs, love is impotent.”
Aiden was an enigma, he was extremely guarded, hesitant and observant. He had that air of mystery around him but also an aura of despondency. There was a lot we didn’t know about him in the beginning other than that he was extremely rich, extremely powerful and a philanthropist. As this book progresses though we are slowly drip fed the real Aiden, it is beautiful, it is tragic and my heart broke for him on more than one occasion. As his character is slowly opened up on every page I loved him all the more, there is nothing more endearing than a broken man and this man is extremely broken, but there is nothing more beautiful than a broken man slowly putting himself back together.
“I like brutes, I’m finding. Seriously misunderstood creatures.”
When Elisa and Aiden’s paths cross it was obvious there was an instant attraction but these two were so different it was hard for them to see it for more than what it was…at first. With Elisa’s impending departure and Aiden’s problems this story was never going to be easy and easy it wasn’t…but endearing it was.
“Love hurts the most when it knows the least.”
This is no cookie cutter romance, this book is so much more and it is this “meat” that makes this book un-put-down-able. While it obviously centres around Elisa and Aiden the added sub plots of immigration, science, poetry and the military really brings this story together and wraps up this book in a totally engaging plot.
“A kiss is a secret told to the mouth.”
I absolutely fell in love with this book and these characters. Elisa and Aiden were perfect for each other; they were truly soul mates. Just being in each other’s company was centring and grounding for both of them, they knew each other’s flaws and they learned how to get round them and deal with them. My heart broke for Aiden, for a man with a heart of gold he had so much to deal with. His sufferance tore at my emotions as did his constant belittling of himself. He couldn’t see the man beneath his issues…thank god Elisa could and was slowly winning him round.
This was Elisa and Aiden versus the world and there was nothing Aiden wouldn’t do to keep her.
“I haven’t changed my mind. I capitulated.”
For a debut book this was one amazing journey and hard to believe was written by a newbie. With character depth and character connection in spades you cannot help but be moved by Elisa and Aiden’s story. As I said above, I need book two now!!
“Once I love, I love forever!”
www.theromancecover.com
March 2, 2018
For a debut novel, I think Ms. Keating did a pretty damn good job sucking me in with this book.
Both the main characters, Elisa Snow and Aiden Hale, have been dealt a pretty crappy hand in their pasts, but equally, they are fighting hard to move on and ditch that emotional baggage.
The synopsis gives you the jest of what this story is all about, and I'll say that now, knowing this ends in a tiny cliffy, the set up of their back stories and there characters is only the beginning of what I think will be a bumpy ass ride to a hopeful happily ever after.
It's been a few days since I've finished this, and as soon as I finished it, this book was getting a lower rating from me and that is ALL thanks to Aiden.
I had a serious case of whiplash because of him, and as a result of said whiplash, Aiden love, you really need to snap out of it!
however..... because my black heart hasn't completely hardened to stone, I will give him the benefit of the doubt NOT to fuck it all up.
I'm glad that I waited a few days to review this because I honestly thought that I would not be able to handle Aidens yo-yoing personality, but then I thought about the cause of his Jekyll & Hyde personality, and that is one of the reasons as to why I will eagerly await the continuation of their story.
Side note:Where this book ends,it leaves it wide open for a sequel, and I am hoping that there is a continuation, because if not, I am deducting a whole star for that Ms. Keating ;p
Final honest rating: 4whiplashing stars
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March 9, 2016
Wow, this story is wonderful and unique! Ani Keating is an amazingly talented debut author. Her writing is beautiful, emotional, poetic and even funny at times, with perfect character development.
Eliza Snow left England after her parents passed away in a tragic accident and has been living for four years in Portland on a student visa. She has found there a close-knit group of friends she considers her new family. All her dreams are shattered when she is denied a work visa and will have to leave the U.S. 30 days after her graduation. Eliza is an adorable science geek, in a desperate situation.
The moment Aiden Hale, a wealthy and powerful venture capitalist, sets eyes on her, he is enthralled. Their situation are worlds apart but their connection is instant. Aiden turns Eliza's quiet life upside down and wants to help her.
Aiden is a complex and secretive character, probably too intelligent for his own good ! He is tender and generous, but also tense and distant at times. As the story progressed, my heart broke for him. A former Marine, veteran of the Irak war, he suffers a severe case of PTSD and cannot allow himself to get emotionally involved with Eliza. He sees himself as a killer, volatile and dangerous.
When she discovers the extent of his trauma, Eliza makes it her life mission to save him from his demons.
But the clock is ticking for both of them and Aiden might resort to desperate measures to keep Eliza by his side.
"You hear that love is strong, love is kind. But love does not fight wars, does not write laws, does not change them. As to these earthly needs, love is impotent."
I highly recommend this amazing story, and I need book 2 now !
4,5 "Once I love, I love forever" stars !
Eliza Snow left England after her parents passed away in a tragic accident and has been living for four years in Portland on a student visa. She has found there a close-knit group of friends she considers her new family. All her dreams are shattered when she is denied a work visa and will have to leave the U.S. 30 days after her graduation. Eliza is an adorable science geek, in a desperate situation.
The moment Aiden Hale, a wealthy and powerful venture capitalist, sets eyes on her, he is enthralled. Their situation are worlds apart but their connection is instant. Aiden turns Eliza's quiet life upside down and wants to help her.
Aiden is a complex and secretive character, probably too intelligent for his own good ! He is tender and generous, but also tense and distant at times. As the story progressed, my heart broke for him. A former Marine, veteran of the Irak war, he suffers a severe case of PTSD and cannot allow himself to get emotionally involved with Eliza. He sees himself as a killer, volatile and dangerous.
When she discovers the extent of his trauma, Eliza makes it her life mission to save him from his demons.
But the clock is ticking for both of them and Aiden might resort to desperate measures to keep Eliza by his side.
"You hear that love is strong, love is kind. But love does not fight wars, does not write laws, does not change them. As to these earthly needs, love is impotent."
I highly recommend this amazing story, and I need book 2 now !
4,5 "Once I love, I love forever" stars !
December 6, 2015
Hi everyone,
This is Ani -- author of Thirty Nights. :-) I didn't know how else to post this so I'm posting it as a review. First, thank you so much to everyone who has read my book, has left a comment, has liked it, or has spread the word. I appreciate all your support! Second, I wanted to answer one of your questions. Some of you have asked whether there is a Book 2, and the answer is ABSOLUTELY YES (that's why there is a #1 in the title and a series name, American Beauty, meaning this is Book 1 in the American Beauty series). :-) I am currently writing Book 2, and have posted some information on it in my website, anikeating.com. There is also a small sneak peek in my website (it's **small** because I have to comply with publishing requirements :-)). Anyway, I'm working hard on Book 2, and we are hoping to have it finished in early Spring 2016 and in your hands soon after. In the meantime, you can always ask me questions in Twitter/Facebook or at my email on my website. THANK YOU again for all your support, and happy reading! xo, Ani
This is Ani -- author of Thirty Nights. :-) I didn't know how else to post this so I'm posting it as a review. First, thank you so much to everyone who has read my book, has left a comment, has liked it, or has spread the word. I appreciate all your support! Second, I wanted to answer one of your questions. Some of you have asked whether there is a Book 2, and the answer is ABSOLUTELY YES (that's why there is a #1 in the title and a series name, American Beauty, meaning this is Book 1 in the American Beauty series). :-) I am currently writing Book 2, and have posted some information on it in my website, anikeating.com. There is also a small sneak peek in my website (it's **small** because I have to comply with publishing requirements :-)). Anyway, I'm working hard on Book 2, and we are hoping to have it finished in early Spring 2016 and in your hands soon after. In the meantime, you can always ask me questions in Twitter/Facebook or at my email on my website. THANK YOU again for all your support, and happy reading! xo, Ani
February 1, 2016
¡Me encantó! Un libro perfecto y que terminó de una forma que me quede con WTF?, estoy deseando que ya saque el siguiente porque va a ser un suplicio esperarlo..... Se lo recomiendo a todo el mundo, me da ganas de darle una bofetada al prota para que despierte pero "lo entiendo" al mismo tiempo, y la prota me encantó!
December 30, 2015
5- Tik-Tok - Stars
https://veronikasreaderfeeder.wordpre... (quotes, playlist, extras :))
I really loved this book! I had to get used to the writing style at the beginning and maybe it wasn’t perfect, but I think from a debut author it is absolutely understandable and despite all of this it still could enchant me, so I couldn’t give less than 5 stars for this book. The author touched two very important subjects, the immigration and the mental state of the returning solders.
Tik-Tok, Tik-Tok
30 days (or 30 nights). Elisa gets this much time to leave the United States after her student visa ends. 30 days. She gets only this time to say goodbye to her life she built up for four years, after her parents died in a tragic car accident and she left England, where she no longer had anyone.
Elisa majored in chemistry at Reed College, and she is only one week from graduation when her visa is unexpectedly denied. In her free time she model for her best friend Javier, who is a highly talented artist but he needs to ghost-paint, because he and his family sneaked across the Mexican border illegally ten years ago, so he is undocumented. Elisa is not recognizable on the paintings, especially because she also has to work under the table, because she is not allowed to work with her student visa.
One day a rich, mysterious man comes to the gallery and buys every single painting of Elisa. The billionaire Aiden Hale has a really special memory. He can never forget. He has eidetic memory so he can’t forget anything he ever saw, taste, smelled and he also remembers every emotion he ever felt. So when – thanks to the faith – Elisa and Aiden meet again the same week, he immediately recognizes her from the paintings just from a few details.
To tell the truth, firstly I couldn’t like Aiden’s character so much. He was too strong, too stormy, too intensive for me. But as the story progressed I realized that he is unfolded in so many layers, and the author created a really complex character. Her relationship with Isa was really passionate and far from easy, but I liked it. But to be honest I was happy because not the “marriage for the green card” was the solution for Elisa’s problem.
I think the writing style already had a huge progress in this book, and the author could sneak in some beautiful metaphors and quotes to the story. But one thing really bothered me: the cliffhanger at the end of the book. :D Especially that we don’t know when the next part will come (maybe in spring). Anyway I highly recommend this beautiful and heart-wrenching story and I can’t wait the next one! :)
For more of my reviews please visit my blog:
https://veronikasreaderfeeder.wordpre...
https://www.facebook.com/veronikasrea...
https://veronikasreaderfeeder.wordpre... (quotes, playlist, extras :))
I really loved this book! I had to get used to the writing style at the beginning and maybe it wasn’t perfect, but I think from a debut author it is absolutely understandable and despite all of this it still could enchant me, so I couldn’t give less than 5 stars for this book. The author touched two very important subjects, the immigration and the mental state of the returning solders.
Tik-Tok, Tik-Tok
30 days (or 30 nights). Elisa gets this much time to leave the United States after her student visa ends. 30 days. She gets only this time to say goodbye to her life she built up for four years, after her parents died in a tragic car accident and she left England, where she no longer had anyone.
Elisa majored in chemistry at Reed College, and she is only one week from graduation when her visa is unexpectedly denied. In her free time she model for her best friend Javier, who is a highly talented artist but he needs to ghost-paint, because he and his family sneaked across the Mexican border illegally ten years ago, so he is undocumented. Elisa is not recognizable on the paintings, especially because she also has to work under the table, because she is not allowed to work with her student visa.
One day a rich, mysterious man comes to the gallery and buys every single painting of Elisa. The billionaire Aiden Hale has a really special memory. He can never forget. He has eidetic memory so he can’t forget anything he ever saw, taste, smelled and he also remembers every emotion he ever felt. So when – thanks to the faith – Elisa and Aiden meet again the same week, he immediately recognizes her from the paintings just from a few details.
To tell the truth, firstly I couldn’t like Aiden’s character so much. He was too strong, too stormy, too intensive for me. But as the story progressed I realized that he is unfolded in so many layers, and the author created a really complex character. Her relationship with Isa was really passionate and far from easy, but I liked it. But to be honest I was happy because not the “marriage for the green card” was the solution for Elisa’s problem.
I think the writing style already had a huge progress in this book, and the author could sneak in some beautiful metaphors and quotes to the story. But one thing really bothered me: the cliffhanger at the end of the book. :D Especially that we don’t know when the next part will come (maybe in spring). Anyway I highly recommend this beautiful and heart-wrenching story and I can’t wait the next one! :)
For more of my reviews please visit my blog:
https://veronikasreaderfeeder.wordpre...
https://www.facebook.com/veronikasrea...
November 22, 2015
***DNF 50%***
July 19, 2016
I hate cheesy writing. I truly hate it. Makes me roll my eyes so hard I feel like they're gonna stay stuck.
November 22, 2015
After Isa loses her parents at the age of 18, she sets off to the USA in order to start a new life. She’s a brilliant science student on the verge of greatness and she works as an artist’s model for some extra money. She’s about to graduate but learns that her latest attempt at a work visa has been denied and she’ll have to go back to England. She’s built herself a new life in America and some semblance of a family so naturally the news is a big blow to the precarious happiness she’s assembled for herself.
Aiden is an ex-marine and combat veteran who now works as an extremely successful venture capitalist. He suffers from severe PTSD and lives his life largely in isolation. When he sees a painting of Isa, he’s filled with a calm that he has long since learned to live without. He tries to hold onto these feelings by needing to own the painting and pursues Isa herself.
The book started out really well for me. I loved the first interactions and Aiden’s brusque and guarded behaviour but somewhere amongst all the perfect man trying to seduce the beautiful virgin and the grand gestures and all the money flying around and the pretty words, I grew bored with their story.
It wasn’t until the halfway mark that I finally got some action again. And boy, did I get some. Aiden turned into a complete asshole and the book was injected with some much needed angst and drama. There were also a host of secondary characters who I totally loved; they weren’t mere one dimensional pieces off of which the MCs got to play and I got really invested in everyone’s stories.
Now, I didn’t know this going into the novel, but this originally started out at Fifty Shades fanfic. From the start and throughout I could definitely see the similarities (they were minor) but even with that said I thought the book was very well written and there were elements in it that were refreshingly different. If the Fifty tropes are your kind of thing I would definitely suggest that you give this book a try. Be warned though, as it ends with a severe cliffy
(ARC provided by author via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review)
Aiden is an ex-marine and combat veteran who now works as an extremely successful venture capitalist. He suffers from severe PTSD and lives his life largely in isolation. When he sees a painting of Isa, he’s filled with a calm that he has long since learned to live without. He tries to hold onto these feelings by needing to own the painting and pursues Isa herself.
The book started out really well for me. I loved the first interactions and Aiden’s brusque and guarded behaviour but somewhere amongst all the perfect man trying to seduce the beautiful virgin and the grand gestures and all the money flying around and the pretty words, I grew bored with their story.
It wasn’t until the halfway mark that I finally got some action again. And boy, did I get some. Aiden turned into a complete asshole and the book was injected with some much needed angst and drama. There were also a host of secondary characters who I totally loved; they weren’t mere one dimensional pieces off of which the MCs got to play and I got really invested in everyone’s stories.
Now, I didn’t know this going into the novel, but this originally started out at Fifty Shades fanfic. From the start and throughout I could definitely see the similarities (they were minor) but even with that said I thought the book was very well written and there were elements in it that were refreshingly different. If the Fifty tropes are your kind of thing I would definitely suggest that you give this book a try. Be warned though, as it ends with a severe cliffy
(ARC provided by author via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review)
May 9, 2016
4.5 stars.
This read was a breath of fresh as the storyline was unusual and captured a unique immigration situation alongside two very compelling characters. This book engaged my attention completely and I found myself wrapped up in Elisa and Aiden's world.
Elisa is a brilliant scientist in the making, at the end of her degree programme but graduation spells the end of her permission to remain in the US. She has reasons for not wanting to return to the UK. Elisa has found family in some fellow immigrants and this book paints a compassionate picture of their life and desire to remain. Elisa poses for an artist to supplement her living expenses and Aiden Hale buys some of the paintings. Aiden is a wonderful, flawed character, I was drawn to him and wanted to dig deeper to know how he ticked. This book ended in a way that was most unexpected.
Ani Keating has shown such creative ability in her storyline and the easy flow of writing just adds to the experience. The character development was detailed, so that I really got to understand their thinking, desires and aspirations. I am excited at reading more from this author and even more at knowing more about Aiden and Elisa.
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher.
Reviewed for Jo&IsaLoveBooks Blog.
This read was a breath of fresh as the storyline was unusual and captured a unique immigration situation alongside two very compelling characters. This book engaged my attention completely and I found myself wrapped up in Elisa and Aiden's world.
Elisa is a brilliant scientist in the making, at the end of her degree programme but graduation spells the end of her permission to remain in the US. She has reasons for not wanting to return to the UK. Elisa has found family in some fellow immigrants and this book paints a compassionate picture of their life and desire to remain. Elisa poses for an artist to supplement her living expenses and Aiden Hale buys some of the paintings. Aiden is a wonderful, flawed character, I was drawn to him and wanted to dig deeper to know how he ticked. This book ended in a way that was most unexpected.
Ani Keating has shown such creative ability in her storyline and the easy flow of writing just adds to the experience. The character development was detailed, so that I really got to understand their thinking, desires and aspirations. I am excited at reading more from this author and even more at knowing more about Aiden and Elisa.
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher.
Reviewed for Jo&IsaLoveBooks Blog.
December 7, 2015
After seeing this recommend several times from a popular blog I decided it was time to dive in. I am so happy I did. The story is fresh and unique. The characters flawed so all you can do is root for them but still put together enough you feel everything they do. The writing is fantastic and the story takes on two pretty serious issues in today's world with finesse.
Elise has risen to the top of one of my favorite heroines of all time. She is strong and resilient, yet still loving and compassionate. She has been dealt some pretty crappy cards in life but somehow still manages to see the beauty in life. You will also find she is completely selfless by the end of the story.
Aiden is guarded but you see many times throughout that he wants to let those guards down. He has a unique ability along with trauma that doesn't allow this though and it will be interesting to see how the rest of his story plays out. Will he let those guards down? Will he get the help he so desperately needs?
This story ends with more questions unanswered than answered and I will be impatiently waiting to the next installation of this series.
Elise has risen to the top of one of my favorite heroines of all time. She is strong and resilient, yet still loving and compassionate. She has been dealt some pretty crappy cards in life but somehow still manages to see the beauty in life. You will also find she is completely selfless by the end of the story.
Aiden is guarded but you see many times throughout that he wants to let those guards down. He has a unique ability along with trauma that doesn't allow this though and it will be interesting to see how the rest of his story plays out. Will he let those guards down? Will he get the help he so desperately needs?
This story ends with more questions unanswered than answered and I will be impatiently waiting to the next installation of this series.
May 30, 2019
BE WARNED! READ THIS IS IF YOU'RE CURIOUS ABOUT THE STATUS OF BOOK 2: "NINETY DAYS"
**THIS BOOK WAS A 5-STAR READ -- NOW I GIVE IT 1-STAR FOR AUTHOR BAILING ON BOOK 2**
Prior to this book's release, I heard phenomenal hype about it and 1-clicked it immediately. It was one of the best romance books I've EVER read and anticipation for the second book was absolutely unbearable. Along with many other fans, I waited and waited and waited for the sequel. We all fell prey to author's continual promises and postings on her website -- one after another after another-- about all kinds of "my dog ate my homework" type excuses for the constant delays and failure to produce a sequel or even offer an expected release date. Eventually it became clear the author was just stringing us along -- publisher problems, trouble getting set up with a new publisher, delay ... delay ... delay. To keep us hooked, she posted teasers of the sequel, NINETY DAYS, and even a chapter from the hero's POV just to keep us fully invested and waiting breathlessly. And oh how it worked. We pined and pined and pined. One day, I'd had enough and realized that we'd all been "had". As a result, I sent the author a scathing email calling her out on her many ridiculous and insincere excuses, blatant disregard for her fans, and certain likelihood that the sequel would never see the light of day ... and she KNEW it. I implored her to take pity on us and just tell us the truth once and for all about the sequel's status. Either cough it up or let us go. Needless to say, I never heard from her again and I assume that she finally realized that the jig was up because then she completely ghosted her fans. Her social media is now full of political comments. No shame for deserting us either, as though we don't know that she's alive and well and no longer lying to her fans. No more excuses have been forthcoming, and her fans started posting not so nice things and coming to the same unavoidable conclusion about being dumped. it's a real shame because her reputation as an author is pretty much wrecked with fans, and I'm not sure if she'll ever write again after this fiasco.
The book came out 3 years ago, but I see that Amazon still sells 3rd party copies of it. I'm writing this "review" to warn anyone thinking about buying it from any source. There is and never will be a sequel. I'm not sure whether it was better to have had the pleasure of reading it and not getting the endng, or not reading it at all. This same thing happened with Gail McHugh's terrific book AMBER TO ASHES and there will not be a second book there either, even though Amazon continues to sell the first book from Simon & Schuster.
My goal is to simply to warn any potential buyers that you will be left with a cliffhanger and no story resolution. It's not the first time readers have been shafted by an author who fails to complete a series, but I hope it will the last and maybe this will spare even one person from reading a wonderful book for which there is no end, or at least know upfront what you're getting into first.
**THIS BOOK WAS A 5-STAR READ -- NOW I GIVE IT 1-STAR FOR AUTHOR BAILING ON BOOK 2**
Prior to this book's release, I heard phenomenal hype about it and 1-clicked it immediately. It was one of the best romance books I've EVER read and anticipation for the second book was absolutely unbearable. Along with many other fans, I waited and waited and waited for the sequel. We all fell prey to author's continual promises and postings on her website -- one after another after another-- about all kinds of "my dog ate my homework" type excuses for the constant delays and failure to produce a sequel or even offer an expected release date. Eventually it became clear the author was just stringing us along -- publisher problems, trouble getting set up with a new publisher, delay ... delay ... delay. To keep us hooked, she posted teasers of the sequel, NINETY DAYS, and even a chapter from the hero's POV just to keep us fully invested and waiting breathlessly. And oh how it worked. We pined and pined and pined. One day, I'd had enough and realized that we'd all been "had". As a result, I sent the author a scathing email calling her out on her many ridiculous and insincere excuses, blatant disregard for her fans, and certain likelihood that the sequel would never see the light of day ... and she KNEW it. I implored her to take pity on us and just tell us the truth once and for all about the sequel's status. Either cough it up or let us go. Needless to say, I never heard from her again and I assume that she finally realized that the jig was up because then she completely ghosted her fans. Her social media is now full of political comments. No shame for deserting us either, as though we don't know that she's alive and well and no longer lying to her fans. No more excuses have been forthcoming, and her fans started posting not so nice things and coming to the same unavoidable conclusion about being dumped. it's a real shame because her reputation as an author is pretty much wrecked with fans, and I'm not sure if she'll ever write again after this fiasco.
The book came out 3 years ago, but I see that Amazon still sells 3rd party copies of it. I'm writing this "review" to warn anyone thinking about buying it from any source. There is and never will be a sequel. I'm not sure whether it was better to have had the pleasure of reading it and not getting the endng, or not reading it at all. This same thing happened with Gail McHugh's terrific book AMBER TO ASHES and there will not be a second book there either, even though Amazon continues to sell the first book from Simon & Schuster.
My goal is to simply to warn any potential buyers that you will be left with a cliffhanger and no story resolution. It's not the first time readers have been shafted by an author who fails to complete a series, but I hope it will the last and maybe this will spare even one person from reading a wonderful book for which there is no end, or at least know upfront what you're getting into first.
January 13, 2020
5+++ Stars
Occasionally you come across a book that just makes you silently applaud the author and that book for me is Thirty Nights. I was blown away by its beauty, its intelligence and its all-round magic. From Baci to Byron, and the periodic table in between, this is a story that will stay with me for a very long time.
I was immediately sold on the story from seeing the cover and reading the synopsis. I loved the complexity of the story and its characters. From the personal and emotional battles experienced by them, you can’t help but feel their pain and read on in the hope that their connection finds a way to succeed in a battle against bureaucracy.
First we meet Elisa Snow who is studying in the US as a chemist, after losing her parents in tragic circumstances. After her Visa application is denied, she is forced to consider returning to the UK and to a place that is no longer part of her life. With no family in the UK and her closest friends in the US, Elisa is devastated and knowing she has very few options available to her, starts to wonder what will happen to her and her wish to realise her father’s dreams.
As well as working in a lab, Elisa is also a muse to her illegal immigrant artist friend, Javier. Javier is able to bring out Elisa’s beauty on canvas and it’s his art that captures the attention of wealthy businessman, Aiden Hale. Aiden sees something in the artwork that ingrains itself in his psyche and after purchasing the paintings, sets his sights on finding out exactly who the muse is.
Aiden doesn’t expect the muse to be none other than aspiring chemist Elisa Snow. After visiting her Professor and witnessing a presentation from Elisa, Aiden knows that she is “La Virgen” and offers her a proposition.
Both Aiden and Elisa have secrets which cause them great pain but together they are able to live in the moment and after spending more time together they soon become bewitched with each other, that is until Aiden breaks their bond in order to protect Elisa. Elisa is not one to be deterred though and sets out to find out exactly what demons Aiden is trying to protect her from.
Despite Aiden's tormented background, together they embark on a journey of love and hope and despite the darkness in their lives, they soon become permanently part of each other's soul. Aiden is determined to help Elisa to remain a US citizen but it’s not an easy fight, especially when Javier is likely to be placed in danger by their association.
I really can’t express how much I loved this story. I really did feel the power of Aiden and Elisa’s connection and despite their emotional baggage, they were beautifully paired. You can’t help but feel for Aiden and all that he has suffered and continues to suffer. His story will make you cry rivers of tears as you witness a strong man be broken by who he is and what he has become. Elisa is his strength though and she alone can help him find peace. That is until Aiden breaks her heart.
I don’t know where Ani Keating has been hiding her writing magic but she really is a truly talented and extremely knowledgeable, or at least well researched, individual. Her law background is apparent in the story but her science knowledge must also be commended, as does her passion for Byron and Baci!
This story has become one of my all-time favourite reads and I will definitely read it again.
Copy provided by Netgalley in return for an honest review.
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Occasionally you come across a book that just makes you silently applaud the author and that book for me is Thirty Nights. I was blown away by its beauty, its intelligence and its all-round magic. From Baci to Byron, and the periodic table in between, this is a story that will stay with me for a very long time.
I was immediately sold on the story from seeing the cover and reading the synopsis. I loved the complexity of the story and its characters. From the personal and emotional battles experienced by them, you can’t help but feel their pain and read on in the hope that their connection finds a way to succeed in a battle against bureaucracy.
First we meet Elisa Snow who is studying in the US as a chemist, after losing her parents in tragic circumstances. After her Visa application is denied, she is forced to consider returning to the UK and to a place that is no longer part of her life. With no family in the UK and her closest friends in the US, Elisa is devastated and knowing she has very few options available to her, starts to wonder what will happen to her and her wish to realise her father’s dreams.
As well as working in a lab, Elisa is also a muse to her illegal immigrant artist friend, Javier. Javier is able to bring out Elisa’s beauty on canvas and it’s his art that captures the attention of wealthy businessman, Aiden Hale. Aiden sees something in the artwork that ingrains itself in his psyche and after purchasing the paintings, sets his sights on finding out exactly who the muse is.
Aiden doesn’t expect the muse to be none other than aspiring chemist Elisa Snow. After visiting her Professor and witnessing a presentation from Elisa, Aiden knows that she is “La Virgen” and offers her a proposition.
Let me look at you. Not your paintings tonight. You.
Both Aiden and Elisa have secrets which cause them great pain but together they are able to live in the moment and after spending more time together they soon become bewitched with each other, that is until Aiden breaks their bond in order to protect Elisa. Elisa is not one to be deterred though and sets out to find out exactly what demons Aiden is trying to protect her from.
Despite Aiden's tormented background, together they embark on a journey of love and hope and despite the darkness in their lives, they soon become permanently part of each other's soul. Aiden is determined to help Elisa to remain a US citizen but it’s not an easy fight, especially when Javier is likely to be placed in danger by their association.
I really can’t express how much I loved this story. I really did feel the power of Aiden and Elisa’s connection and despite their emotional baggage, they were beautifully paired. You can’t help but feel for Aiden and all that he has suffered and continues to suffer. His story will make you cry rivers of tears as you witness a strong man be broken by who he is and what he has become. Elisa is his strength though and she alone can help him find peace. That is until Aiden breaks her heart.
There is something endless about his eyes - like you enter through them and perhaps never come out.
I don’t know where Ani Keating has been hiding her writing magic but she really is a truly talented and extremely knowledgeable, or at least well researched, individual. Her law background is apparent in the story but her science knowledge must also be commended, as does her passion for Byron and Baci!
This story has become one of my all-time favourite reads and I will definitely read it again.
Copy provided by Netgalley in return for an honest review.
Release Event: http://www.jezabellgirlandfriends.com...
Review Requests: http://www.jezabellgirlandfriends.com...
Email: jezabellgirlandfriends@gmail.com
Web: http://jezabellgirlandfriends.com
FB: http://facebook.com/jezabellgirlandfr...
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November 20, 2015
“Because this whole journey was worth it just to meet you. Even if it is only now.”
It's been a while since I came across a book that really caught me by surprise. When I read the blurb I got an inkling, a funny feeling in my tummy. I was excited but didn't set any expectation. And boy was I surprised.
Holy hell, this book was amazing! It was smart, well written, funny, romantic, sexy, with enough drama to stress you out, a swoon worthy hero and a female lead that you'll actually love! Everything you'd want in a romance read. It was brilliant and bloody perfect!
At first I was a bit unsure about the book since as you read along you'll recognize certain parallels with Fifty, BDSM not included (I got burned a lot of times already with wannabees) but this book and the characters have their own mettle and charm that will endear them to you.
This book felt close to home. I'm an immigrant who married an American citizen. We've been together now for 9 years but 2 out those 9 years we've been separated (long distance and reversed time zone sucks but we made it work!). He went back to the US, we save money, file the mountain of paper works and waited. After two years here I am, happily married.
Anyways,
I NEED THE NEXT BOOK, LIKE RIGHT NOW! GAHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!
P.S. This book also made me feel smart. I googled the shit out of it. Ha.
December 3, 2015
A word of warning in your approach to this book – a cliffhanger lies ahead and there is no suggestion of a release date for the sequel. However, this author’s magnetic debut makes the wait worthwhile as we follow Elisa Snow and Aiden Hale’s journey to find a calm and peace in their lives, along with an everlasting love and partnership.
Taking a chance on new authors became a challenge for me in 2015. Between scouring Amazon and Goodreads, reading book blurbs and reviews, along with being drawn in by a few refreshing and intriguing book covers, I’ve stumbled on some especially good reads with a few that even made my list of favorites for this year.
From the distinctive cover to the blurb to the very last word, the marvelously drawn characters will grab hold and keep you spinning with their emotional story and a few surprises as well. Multi-layered in its approach to storytelling, Keating has hit the nail on the head with a mesmerizing and rollercoaster ride rolled into this tale.
Readers won’t be disappointed in the sizzle and heat in this story either. There are definitely some swoon worthy and vividly written encounters. Their relationship is realistic and believable – defined by something deeper than just the sex.
As the final pages come into view, readers are left wringing their hands and begging for answers on what direction the author plans to take this couple. Curiosity might kill this kitty cat before I get my answers regarding the rest of the story of Aiden’s past. At this point it seems a long way to happy-ever-after for these two – even though the love for one another has been established.
P.S. Dear Ani Keating: Please could we have the second book sooner rather than later? Please!
Taking a chance on new authors became a challenge for me in 2015. Between scouring Amazon and Goodreads, reading book blurbs and reviews, along with being drawn in by a few refreshing and intriguing book covers, I’ve stumbled on some especially good reads with a few that even made my list of favorites for this year.
From the distinctive cover to the blurb to the very last word, the marvelously drawn characters will grab hold and keep you spinning with their emotional story and a few surprises as well. Multi-layered in its approach to storytelling, Keating has hit the nail on the head with a mesmerizing and rollercoaster ride rolled into this tale.
Readers won’t be disappointed in the sizzle and heat in this story either. There are definitely some swoon worthy and vividly written encounters. Their relationship is realistic and believable – defined by something deeper than just the sex.
As the final pages come into view, readers are left wringing their hands and begging for answers on what direction the author plans to take this couple. Curiosity might kill this kitty cat before I get my answers regarding the rest of the story of Aiden’s past. At this point it seems a long way to happy-ever-after for these two – even though the love for one another has been established.
P.S. Dear Ani Keating: Please could we have the second book sooner rather than later? Please!
November 26, 2015
Wow... Wow... Wow.... I knew there was gonna be a cliffhanger, but I read one reviewer say she did not regret reading this despite the fact. I REGRET IT! Because I have one major book hangover right now and the only cure is book two, which I have no idea when will be out!
With that being said, I devoured this book! I was invested from the first chapter. There wasn't anything I did not love about this book.
I agree that there are definite similarities to Fifty Shades and the Crossfire series. But whereas Anastasia is annoying to the extreme, Elisa is endearingly nerdy and independent. However, they do share one cliche trade: the whole virgin thing... Gah! Luckily, it was not a big deal in the story. Like Eva from the crossfire series, Elisa is a very strong character who fights for the H, when he has no faith in himself. But she is never a doormat. I loved the fact that Elisa is Mensa-smart and a scientist. The relationship between the two is equal and Aidan is in awe of her intellect.
Aidan is at first sight the stereotypical flawed and traumatised Hero, and I was just waiting for the inevitable "my mum was a crack whore who sold me for a pack of cigarettes, therefore I can only gain pleasure by flogging submissives with a wooden spatula" speech to commence. So I was pleasantly surprised when the reason for his traumas is a lot more realistic, relatable and most of all believable. Gideon and Christian, move over for Aidan Hale!
So, like I said, it ends on a cliffy... And I NEED NEED NEED book two asap! I have a feeling American Beaty could be a top fave series of mine.
With that being said, I devoured this book! I was invested from the first chapter. There wasn't anything I did not love about this book.
I agree that there are definite similarities to Fifty Shades and the Crossfire series. But whereas Anastasia is annoying to the extreme, Elisa is endearingly nerdy and independent. However, they do share one cliche trade: the whole virgin thing... Gah! Luckily, it was not a big deal in the story. Like Eva from the crossfire series, Elisa is a very strong character who fights for the H, when he has no faith in himself. But she is never a doormat. I loved the fact that Elisa is Mensa-smart and a scientist. The relationship between the two is equal and Aidan is in awe of her intellect.
Aidan is at first sight the stereotypical flawed and traumatised Hero, and I was just waiting for the inevitable "my mum was a crack whore who sold me for a pack of cigarettes, therefore I can only gain pleasure by flogging submissives with a wooden spatula" speech to commence. So I was pleasantly surprised when the reason for his traumas is a lot more realistic, relatable and most of all believable. Gideon and Christian, move over for Aidan Hale!
So, like I said, it ends on a cliffy... And I NEED NEED NEED book two asap! I have a feeling American Beaty could be a top fave series of mine.
November 30, 2015
When I read the blurb for this book, I was intrigued. I
had never read anything by this author before so I decided
to give it a try.
WOW!! This book had it all. What I liked most about this
book was the chemistry between Aidan and Elisa. I just didn't
read it, I felt it. I felt so many emotions while reading
this book, I had a really hard time putting it down.
To say Aidan is a "tortured hero" would be a vast understatement.
He was, but he was just so much more. At times I felt like
I was really inside his head. The mystery that surrounded him
just made him more appealing to me.
Elisa is my very favorite kind of heroine. She is smart, kind,
loving, and just totally bad ass (in her strong, but nerdy way)
She was a fixer, and she does not ever give up on her man!
This book just had so many surprises and just when I thought I
knew where the story was taking me, it took me somewhere else.
I have rated this book 5 stars, because it was that good. BUT I have
to say that there is a part 2. I don't feel that Thirty Nights
ended on a cliffy, but I realize some do feel that way. Let me
just say that there is more to this story, and I can hardly
wait!!!!
had never read anything by this author before so I decided
to give it a try.
WOW!! This book had it all. What I liked most about this
book was the chemistry between Aidan and Elisa. I just didn't
read it, I felt it. I felt so many emotions while reading
this book, I had a really hard time putting it down.
To say Aidan is a "tortured hero" would be a vast understatement.
He was, but he was just so much more. At times I felt like
I was really inside his head. The mystery that surrounded him
just made him more appealing to me.
Elisa is my very favorite kind of heroine. She is smart, kind,
loving, and just totally bad ass (in her strong, but nerdy way)
She was a fixer, and she does not ever give up on her man!
This book just had so many surprises and just when I thought I
knew where the story was taking me, it took me somewhere else.
I have rated this book 5 stars, because it was that good. BUT I have
to say that there is a part 2. I don't feel that Thirty Nights
ended on a cliffy, but I realize some do feel that way. Let me
just say that there is more to this story, and I can hardly
wait!!!!
December 6, 2015
This is a NA romance that deals a lot with PTSD (a common theme for these books) and immigration (something I've not seen). We get a protective, alpha, "broken" hero and the virgin orphan (also a very common character trait these days). Her being a virgin didn't bother me too much, because it made since for her situation.
I really enjoyed this one. I liked that it talks a lot about immigration in the US. My Grandmother and Father both migrated here from England when he was a kid so I know there is a lot more into getting a green card than the average person realizes. Many people assume it is very easy and that all immigrants only come from Mexico with the sole intent to mooch off the system and/or sell drugs. Though this does happen too much, it isn't like that in all cases and I love any book that could possibly shed more light on the situation for others.
My only complaint is that I didn't realize that there would be a cliffhanger. Had I known I would have waited until the next comes out to read it. I did like it though and can't wait for the next to see these two awesome people get there HEA.
I really enjoyed this one. I liked that it talks a lot about immigration in the US. My Grandmother and Father both migrated here from England when he was a kid so I know there is a lot more into getting a green card than the average person realizes. Many people assume it is very easy and that all immigrants only come from Mexico with the sole intent to mooch off the system and/or sell drugs. Though this does happen too much, it isn't like that in all cases and I love any book that could possibly shed more light on the situation for others.
My only complaint is that I didn't realize that there would be a cliffhanger. Had I known I would have waited until the next comes out to read it. I did like it though and can't wait for the next to see these two awesome people get there HEA.
November 24, 2015
A Baci quote seems fitting - "In dreams as in love, all is possible - Janos Arany" Thank you for sharing your American dream with us Ani. The story of Elisa and Aiden is simply beautiful. I love the changes that you made from the original and I can't wait to see what you do next. Here is one more Baci in closing - "Love doesn't make the workd go round. Love makes the ride worthwile. - F.P. Jones
March 28, 2016
2 stars at a push
One of the dullest, slowest, most pointless books I've read to date.
Good Lord, this book was hard work.
I battled through complete boredom in order to star rate and review as below...
Neither H or h held any interest for me, he especially left me cold. Unfortunately it's less than 24hrs after finishing and I can't even remember their names - so H and h will have to do.
Furthermore, hmmmm...
Nope, that's all I've got.
One of the dullest, slowest, most pointless books I've read to date.
Good Lord, this book was hard work.
I battled through complete boredom in order to star rate and review as below...
Neither H or h held any interest for me, he especially left me cold. Unfortunately it's less than 24hrs after finishing and I can't even remember their names - so H and h will have to do.
Furthermore, hmmmm...
Nope, that's all I've got.
August 26, 2016
Absolutely loved this book although it ends with a cliffhanger ☹️☹️
November 20, 2015
Perfection.
January 27, 2016
HOLY FUCK!
WOW!
CANT BREATHE
*screams with excitement*
WHY DIDN'T I READ THIS BOOK BEFORE!???
WHAT A DAMN CLIFFHANGER. PLIS SOMEONE HELP ME. I MIGHT DIE WITH SUSPENSE. :')
WOW!
CANT BREATHE
*screams with excitement*
WHY DIDN'T I READ THIS BOOK BEFORE!???
WHAT A DAMN CLIFFHANGER. PLIS SOMEONE HELP ME. I MIGHT DIE WITH SUSPENSE. :')
August 2, 2017
I am extremely sad that I read this book blind, meaning I didn't know it was a series and has been on indefinite hold since no talk about the next book in the series has been discussed, which is so freaking painful, because the story ended on such a major cliffhanger and I would want to know what happened next.
Sooo like this story is very sweet and just a tad bit problematic, just a lit bit, like some decisions just had me shaking my head.
Sooo like this story is very sweet and just a tad bit problematic, just a lit bit, like some decisions just had me shaking my head.
November 19, 2015
Thirty Nights is a riveting tale of family, forgiveness and the healing power of love. The story was absolutely mesmerizing and I am so glad I took a chance on this author’s debut book.
Elisa was brilliant and I adored her geek-chic personality. From her citing of the period table of elements to her passion for knowledge, I could not help but love Elisa. She demonstrated courage and determination, no small
feat given the tragedy and circumstance she encountered in her young life.
Aiden was a charming enigma that ultimately won me over. I was frustrated with him at times but completely enamored by his story and my heart ached for him. Though I have no experience with PTSD, I felt the author was cognizant of the very sensitive nature of the subject and brought a degree of awareness to the complexities of life for a soldier after war.
Overall, the characters were likeable, the story was intense and I was completely consumed by Thirty Nights. The chemistry between Elisa and Aiden was palpable and their collective experiences added depth to the characters and the story. There were a few instances where the story dragged but overall the pace was steady and full of page turning drama. This was my first book from Ani Keating and I am pleased to say it won’t be my last. Book 2 of the American Beauty Series is scheduled for release spring 2016.
Overall Rating 4 Stars
I was provided a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
**NOTE** It’s no secret the book market is saturated which makes it extremely difficult for authors to get their books visibility. The alluring cover is absolutely the reason I took a chance on this book. Not only is it beautiful, it completely captures the essence of this story and I applaud the author and publisher for selecting the perfect cover.
Elisa was brilliant and I adored her geek-chic personality. From her citing of the period table of elements to her passion for knowledge, I could not help but love Elisa. She demonstrated courage and determination, no small
feat given the tragedy and circumstance she encountered in her young life.
Aiden was a charming enigma that ultimately won me over. I was frustrated with him at times but completely enamored by his story and my heart ached for him. Though I have no experience with PTSD, I felt the author was cognizant of the very sensitive nature of the subject and brought a degree of awareness to the complexities of life for a soldier after war.
Overall, the characters were likeable, the story was intense and I was completely consumed by Thirty Nights. The chemistry between Elisa and Aiden was palpable and their collective experiences added depth to the characters and the story. There were a few instances where the story dragged but overall the pace was steady and full of page turning drama. This was my first book from Ani Keating and I am pleased to say it won’t be my last. Book 2 of the American Beauty Series is scheduled for release spring 2016.
Overall Rating 4 Stars
I was provided a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
**NOTE** It’s no secret the book market is saturated which makes it extremely difficult for authors to get their books visibility. The alluring cover is absolutely the reason I took a chance on this book. Not only is it beautiful, it completely captures the essence of this story and I applaud the author and publisher for selecting the perfect cover.
November 21, 2015
An ARC was provided and received in exchange for an honest review.
4.5 "I can never forget My Mr. Hale" STARS
Thirty Nights was an amazing romantic suspense. It sucked me in right away and did not let up. This looks like it may be Ani Keating's first book, however she weaves this story like a seasoned author. The characters are well developed and the story is interesting with a few twists.
I loved Elisa & Aiden. They are very intellectual characters with lots of quirks that make them even more adorable. Elisa Snow lost her parents and is from England. She is here on a student visa that has expired and she has been denied another visa. She has 30 days starting on the day she graduates college. Aiden Hale is not your typical billionaire. He is gorgeous, of course but was previously a marine who now suffers from PTSD. He not only remembers but relives each moment of his life due to an eidetic memory. They have incredible chemistry, the seduction and sex are off the charts hot. With Aiden & Elisa both having such secrets, they decide to have an embargo for 24 hours to get to know each other and still give each other space. They are both tormented and plagued with nightmares but give each other peace from their anguish and suffering when they are together.
This is book 1 and does end on a cliffhanger. I tried to find out when book 2 was releasing but could not find any info. No information easily found for book 2 is the reason for deducting 1/2 star, as I want it NOW!! Yes, this book was that good.
4.5 "I can never forget My Mr. Hale" STARS
Thirty Nights was an amazing romantic suspense. It sucked me in right away and did not let up. This looks like it may be Ani Keating's first book, however she weaves this story like a seasoned author. The characters are well developed and the story is interesting with a few twists.
I loved Elisa & Aiden. They are very intellectual characters with lots of quirks that make them even more adorable. Elisa Snow lost her parents and is from England. She is here on a student visa that has expired and she has been denied another visa. She has 30 days starting on the day she graduates college. Aiden Hale is not your typical billionaire. He is gorgeous, of course but was previously a marine who now suffers from PTSD. He not only remembers but relives each moment of his life due to an eidetic memory. They have incredible chemistry, the seduction and sex are off the charts hot. With Aiden & Elisa both having such secrets, they decide to have an embargo for 24 hours to get to know each other and still give each other space. They are both tormented and plagued with nightmares but give each other peace from their anguish and suffering when they are together.
This is book 1 and does end on a cliffhanger. I tried to find out when book 2 was releasing but could not find any info. No information easily found for book 2 is the reason for deducting 1/2 star, as I want it NOW!! Yes, this book was that good.
August 5, 2016
This book was amazing. It had heart and I was never bored, the words were beautiful and the romance was strong. I need to read the sequel as soon as possible because I need answers.
I could easily relate to Elisa. She's a smart english girl that is about to graduate college and wants to stay and live in the USA. But her dreams and hopes are easily shattering since the place she called home for 4 years wants her out and back in England.
I could easily relate to Elisa. She's a smart english girl that is about to graduate college and wants to stay and live in the USA. But her dreams and hopes are easily shattering since the place she called home for 4 years wants her out and back in England.
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