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Red Velvet Rapture
Want a bite?
Ally
The first time I saw Gabe in my sensual cupcake bakery, I had no idea who he was. All I knew was chiseled perfection like him could never really want a girl like me. That didn't stop me from craving and lusting after everything I could never have.
Success.
Gabe.
And I was trapped in a twisted frenemy relationship with my douche bag ex fiancee. I never would have dreamed who Gabe really was, what he wanted and why he wanted it.
Gabe
My f*cked up family taught me a lot. Take rather than give. Anything.
Everything.
Ally made me feel clean. Whole. I'd do anything to have her and even more to keep her. In spite of my past but more importantly ... because of it.
I took her tenuous control and worshiped her killer curves. I never suspected she'd steal my heart.
Please Note: This book ends with a cliffhanger. The story continues in Vanilla Vixen, Part Two of the Baked series.
Ally
The first time I saw Gabe in my sensual cupcake bakery, I had no idea who he was. All I knew was chiseled perfection like him could never really want a girl like me. That didn't stop me from craving and lusting after everything I could never have.
Success.
Gabe.
And I was trapped in a twisted frenemy relationship with my douche bag ex fiancee. I never would have dreamed who Gabe really was, what he wanted and why he wanted it.
Gabe
My f*cked up family taught me a lot. Take rather than give. Anything.
Everything.
Ally made me feel clean. Whole. I'd do anything to have her and even more to keep her. In spite of my past but more importantly ... because of it.
I took her tenuous control and worshiped her killer curves. I never suspected she'd steal my heart.
Please Note: This book ends with a cliffhanger. The story continues in Vanilla Vixen, Part Two of the Baked series.
80 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 12, 2015
28 people are currently reading
258 people want to read
About the author
Colleen Charles
152 books1,183 followersAfter 26 years in Corporate leadership at a Fortune 500, I discovered people within the organization lacked integrity. I’d always known deep in my soul that I was trying to fit a square peg in to a round hole since I’m the typical creative type. I miss my staff but I don’t miss the corporate world. It’s been said that the Universe will let you know if something isn’t right for you. The first time, it will hit you with a pebble. Then a brick. Then a boulder. Let’s just say that I got flattened. When my fifteen pound toy dog, Nigel, was threatened, I knew it was time to say goodbye.
It’s true.
Here’s what I found within the first thirty days of being free. Writing stories from my heart that readers love means more to me than working myself in to an early grave for people who only care about their bottom line.
My heart has never been more full and my soul has never been more satisfied.
I’ve never worked so hard in my life but it doesn’t even feel like work. It’s worth it. All of it. Because it’s about the joy that’s found within the journey. The highs and the lows because I get to write stories for all of you.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for reading, enjoying and recommending the stories that I write. When you share my work with others, nothing is more rewarding. Your word of mouth is my very best friend … that, and your reviews. There is nothing more important to me than all of you.
I love to hear from my readers and answer all communications personally. You can find me at:
It’s true.
Here’s what I found within the first thirty days of being free. Writing stories from my heart that readers love means more to me than working myself in to an early grave for people who only care about their bottom line.
My heart has never been more full and my soul has never been more satisfied.
I’ve never worked so hard in my life but it doesn’t even feel like work. It’s worth it. All of it. Because it’s about the joy that’s found within the journey. The highs and the lows because I get to write stories for all of you.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for reading, enjoying and recommending the stories that I write. When you share my work with others, nothing is more rewarding. Your word of mouth is my very best friend … that, and your reviews. There is nothing more important to me than all of you.
I love to hear from my readers and answer all communications personally. You can find me at:
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
February 10, 2016
Ally has the chance to make a dream come true by opening a cupcake bakery with a twist, a sensual theme. The eve before her opening an unexpected fire breaks out, saved by an unknown firefighter she goes about fixing her bakery and life. Then she meets mysterious Gabe, the chemistry is instant but Ally has issues with relationships and Gabe has his own secrets. As she becomes the target for trouble, she uncovers something that will stun her.
Quickly paced. I was surprised by the way the story developed. Ally has a bit of a chip on her shoulder and Gabe, even though Ally has shot him down, Gabe knows Ally is something special. Cliffhanger you wouldn't expect at the end. Look forward to next book.
Quickly paced. I was surprised by the way the story developed. Ally has a bit of a chip on her shoulder and Gabe, even though Ally has shot him down, Gabe knows Ally is something special. Cliffhanger you wouldn't expect at the end. Look forward to next book.
January 4, 2016
Ally opens her own bakery but a fire happens before opening day. She is rescued by a hot fireman. A new man comes into her life and her ex-boyfriend also begins coming around again.
I liked Ally. She is spunky and not willing to put up with other people telling her what to do. She is emotionally strong as problems beset her and bad news follows her. I wasn't happy with the cliffhanger ending because I have so many questions that I want answered now, especially about the ex-boyfriend, the cad.
The story moves along quickly. It is believable and realistic. I do have questions about the insurance investigator. He does not seem on the up-and-up. There is something sleazy about him. There are not many secondary characters for now. Those that are there move the story along.
I am waiting for the next book because I have an enquiring mind and it wants to know what is happening and why.
I liked Ally. She is spunky and not willing to put up with other people telling her what to do. She is emotionally strong as problems beset her and bad news follows her. I wasn't happy with the cliffhanger ending because I have so many questions that I want answered now, especially about the ex-boyfriend, the cad.
The story moves along quickly. It is believable and realistic. I do have questions about the insurance investigator. He does not seem on the up-and-up. There is something sleazy about him. There are not many secondary characters for now. Those that are there move the story along.
I am waiting for the next book because I have an enquiring mind and it wants to know what is happening and why.
February 6, 2016
Great book! You get into the main characters and hope they can sort it all out. They have wonderful chemistry and a VERY hot time together. The ending is a cliff hanger and you want the 2nd book immediately to find out what happens!
January 22, 2016
Great
Light,funny book a nd the second one was also.My only complaint I can't find part 3.
I hope you enjoy them also.
Light,funny book a nd the second one was also.My only complaint I can't find part 3.
I hope you enjoy them also.
November 10, 2019
4 stars
I received a free copy of the box set Baked by Colleen Charles and this review was given freely.
Red Velvet Rapture begins the steamy story of baker Allegra, her Jealous and abusive ex the police officer Matthew, and the secretive alpha male firefighter Gabe. A fire starting in the bakery's oven catches Allegra in between two strong and controlling men and causes the closure of her newly opened business. Ironically, this section of the story ends in a cliff hanger where infertile Allegra learns the man she is starting to trust has a pregnant significant other.
In Vanilla Vixen Kelly continues to be Allegra's life line providing stability and humor as Mathew and Faith continue to manipulate everyone around them. We also learn more about both Allegra's and Gabe's broken families. Unfortunately, the rift between Allegra and Gabe increases.
In Dark Decadence is full of action and drama including the truth regarding Faith's pregnancy, Allegra has one final encounter with Mathew and Allegra gets her happy ending.
I received a free copy of the box set Baked by Colleen Charles and this review was given freely.
Red Velvet Rapture begins the steamy story of baker Allegra, her Jealous and abusive ex the police officer Matthew, and the secretive alpha male firefighter Gabe. A fire starting in the bakery's oven catches Allegra in between two strong and controlling men and causes the closure of her newly opened business. Ironically, this section of the story ends in a cliff hanger where infertile Allegra learns the man she is starting to trust has a pregnant significant other.
In Vanilla Vixen Kelly continues to be Allegra's life line providing stability and humor as Mathew and Faith continue to manipulate everyone around them. We also learn more about both Allegra's and Gabe's broken families. Unfortunately, the rift between Allegra and Gabe increases.
In Dark Decadence is full of action and drama including the truth regarding Faith's pregnancy, Allegra has one final encounter with Mathew and Allegra gets her happy ending.
Read
August 11, 2018Oh for the love of God, why are the bad guys always whiny spoilt brats in Colleen Charles' novels. I've read four of her books today and they've all been the same.
I'm all for one book occasionally having a petulant ex boyfriend who is a spoilt brat but three is just tiresome.
I'm all for one book occasionally having a petulant ex boyfriend who is a spoilt brat but three is just tiresome.
January 31, 2018
Very good fast read
Not only was this book a nice fast read it left me wanting more. I can't wait to start the next part.
Not only was this book a nice fast read it left me wanting more. I can't wait to start the next part.
May 24, 2020
I read this book as HOT CAKES.
February 11, 2016
Are you ready to read an enticing new series that features decadent cupcakes and sexy romance?
In Baked: Red Velvet Rapture, the first installment in the Baked series, the reader follows the story of Ally Wilson, the owner of Temptations, a racy Minneapolis burlesque themed bakery that features sensual cupcakes like Red Velvet Rapture and Dark Decadence.
The night before the grand opening of the bakery, a fire breaks out in the kitchen, and as Ally is searching for her missing cat Codsworth, she passes out from the smoke only to be rescued by a mysteriously sexy fireman. After repairs are made, Ally opens her bakery, but the mystery of the faceless sexy fireman hero is still on her mind.
Gabe comes into the bakery and there is an instant attraction between him and Ally. Gabe tries to sweep Ally off her feet, but with her focus on the bakery and a past dysfunctional relationship, she refuses his advances until he finally wears her down.
Just when you think Ally and Gabe's relationship will blossom, Ally's ex-fiancee Matthew comes back into the picture and causes a lot of problems that could cost Ally everything, while Gabe has his own dark secrets to deal with. What will happen when temptation meets emotional and vengeful conflict?
In Baked, author Colleen Charles weaves a fast paced and intriguing romantic novella written in the first person narrative, that easily draws the reader into Ally and Gabe's story. The seductive bakery themed storyline is intertwined with an enticing mixture of mystery, tension, conflict, and passionate / sexy romanticism that captivates the reader's interest, while keeping them turning the pages and guessing what will happen next. You can't help but wonder what will happen as Ally, Gabe, and Matthew's worlds collide ... but alas ... there is a cliffhanger ending that leaves the reader wanting more, and eagerly anticipating the continuation of their story in Vanilla Vixen, Part Two of the Baked series.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book blast event hosted by Goddess Fish Promotions.
http://jerseygirlsizzlingbookreviews....
In Baked: Red Velvet Rapture, the first installment in the Baked series, the reader follows the story of Ally Wilson, the owner of Temptations, a racy Minneapolis burlesque themed bakery that features sensual cupcakes like Red Velvet Rapture and Dark Decadence.
The night before the grand opening of the bakery, a fire breaks out in the kitchen, and as Ally is searching for her missing cat Codsworth, she passes out from the smoke only to be rescued by a mysteriously sexy fireman. After repairs are made, Ally opens her bakery, but the mystery of the faceless sexy fireman hero is still on her mind.
Gabe comes into the bakery and there is an instant attraction between him and Ally. Gabe tries to sweep Ally off her feet, but with her focus on the bakery and a past dysfunctional relationship, she refuses his advances until he finally wears her down.
Just when you think Ally and Gabe's relationship will blossom, Ally's ex-fiancee Matthew comes back into the picture and causes a lot of problems that could cost Ally everything, while Gabe has his own dark secrets to deal with. What will happen when temptation meets emotional and vengeful conflict?
In Baked, author Colleen Charles weaves a fast paced and intriguing romantic novella written in the first person narrative, that easily draws the reader into Ally and Gabe's story. The seductive bakery themed storyline is intertwined with an enticing mixture of mystery, tension, conflict, and passionate / sexy romanticism that captivates the reader's interest, while keeping them turning the pages and guessing what will happen next. You can't help but wonder what will happen as Ally, Gabe, and Matthew's worlds collide ... but alas ... there is a cliffhanger ending that leaves the reader wanting more, and eagerly anticipating the continuation of their story in Vanilla Vixen, Part Two of the Baked series.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book blast event hosted by Goddess Fish Promotions.
http://jerseygirlsizzlingbookreviews....
February 11, 2016
LOVED, loved this book! Fast-paced, believable and highly addicting, this book is a down-to-earth, steamy read.
From page one, I was hooked on this book. The characters really pulled me in, especially with their real life issues. A few pages later, a hot fireman and a sooty Codsworth and I wasn’t able to put the book down, until I had finished. (Probably not best to start this read at 11pm..)
I liked that the characters were all very real and believable. They had great personalities, with a blend of all sorts of people, as well as having a variety of real problems and murky pasts. I found it easy to connect with them, as I found them interesting and I loved watching as the story unfolded and the characters grew to become something more.
When the main character start to deal with a mixture of a hot stranger and her (annoying) ex-fiance, I found myself giggling, smirking and even blushing, as their relationships unfolded. I liked that it was easy to connect with them and the problems they were facing as we’ve all been there or know someone who has.
The pace was brilliant. It kept me on my toes and really tossed me straight into what was happening. It was refreshing to have a read that just kept throwing lovely events at you, rather than something great followed by a lull that puts you off. The fact that it was constantly moving, made it really easy to want to read just one more page.
The overall storyline was both fun and interesting. Owning my own business myself, I found the story very real and easily believable, for a person just starting out, in their own business.
Overall, this was a brilliant read. I really enjoyed the start of their story and cannot wait to move to part two!
**I received this book in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion.
From page one, I was hooked on this book. The characters really pulled me in, especially with their real life issues. A few pages later, a hot fireman and a sooty Codsworth and I wasn’t able to put the book down, until I had finished. (Probably not best to start this read at 11pm..)
I liked that the characters were all very real and believable. They had great personalities, with a blend of all sorts of people, as well as having a variety of real problems and murky pasts. I found it easy to connect with them, as I found them interesting and I loved watching as the story unfolded and the characters grew to become something more.
When the main character start to deal with a mixture of a hot stranger and her (annoying) ex-fiance, I found myself giggling, smirking and even blushing, as their relationships unfolded. I liked that it was easy to connect with them and the problems they were facing as we’ve all been there or know someone who has.
The pace was brilliant. It kept me on my toes and really tossed me straight into what was happening. It was refreshing to have a read that just kept throwing lovely events at you, rather than something great followed by a lull that puts you off. The fact that it was constantly moving, made it really easy to want to read just one more page.
The overall storyline was both fun and interesting. Owning my own business myself, I found the story very real and easily believable, for a person just starting out, in their own business.
Overall, this was a brilliant read. I really enjoyed the start of their story and cannot wait to move to part two!
**I received this book in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion.
February 7, 2016
BAKED - Tempting first installment
4 stars
A sweet, funny read sprinkled with steamy hot scenes perfect to warm up wintery nights. This is my first time reading a book by Collen Charles but it won’t be the last. I’ve already downloaded the second part. There were a few (very few) editing issues, which didn’t take away my enjoyment of the story but distracted me a bit. For instance, ‘the door over the bell rang’ instead of ‘the bell over the door rang’; ‘a perfect gentlemen’ instead of ‘a perfect gentleman’; or using ‘she’ instead of ‘I’ or ‘them’ instead of ‘us’ in a couple of places – the story is told in first person, by the way. On the other hand, I received a review copy, which means it might have been edited afterwards. Either way these little details shouldn’t put you off from reading this very good first installment.
I don’t like reading spoilers consequently I don’t write them. I can safely say though that Baked is the promising beginning of what seems to be a good story. Since it is only the building part, I cannot evaluate how it unfolds but it has potential. The characters seem interesting, the sex scenes are well-written and steamy (even for an author of erotic books like me), and the plot is intriguing even though the ‘twists’ were predictable. I hope the author keeps the pace up and wraps the story up in a convincing way. However, the fact this is not a complete story, which means I don’t have the whole picture, is the reason I couldn’t give it five stars.
4 stars
A sweet, funny read sprinkled with steamy hot scenes perfect to warm up wintery nights. This is my first time reading a book by Collen Charles but it won’t be the last. I’ve already downloaded the second part. There were a few (very few) editing issues, which didn’t take away my enjoyment of the story but distracted me a bit. For instance, ‘the door over the bell rang’ instead of ‘the bell over the door rang’; ‘a perfect gentlemen’ instead of ‘a perfect gentleman’; or using ‘she’ instead of ‘I’ or ‘them’ instead of ‘us’ in a couple of places – the story is told in first person, by the way. On the other hand, I received a review copy, which means it might have been edited afterwards. Either way these little details shouldn’t put you off from reading this very good first installment.
I don’t like reading spoilers consequently I don’t write them. I can safely say though that Baked is the promising beginning of what seems to be a good story. Since it is only the building part, I cannot evaluate how it unfolds but it has potential. The characters seem interesting, the sex scenes are well-written and steamy (even for an author of erotic books like me), and the plot is intriguing even though the ‘twists’ were predictable. I hope the author keeps the pace up and wraps the story up in a convincing way. However, the fact this is not a complete story, which means I don’t have the whole picture, is the reason I couldn’t give it five stars.
February 9, 2016
I really enjoyed the setting/scene of this contemporary romance which revolves around a cupcake bakery owned by the heroine. However, this isn't your ordinary bakery and not your ordinary cupcakes. With cupcake names like "Red Velvet Rapture" and "Vanilla Vixen," I think you can guess what these cupcakes are selling besides their deliciously sweet taste. It was a lot of fun imagining the next flavour of cupcake that might be introduced while at the same time dreaming of their decadent appearances and sinfully rich tastes. This aspect of the story was definite icing on the cake, so to speak. The romance is just as delicious and the reader is definitely not deprived. This first book of the Baked series does end in something of a cliffhanger and leaves you with the realization that you will definitely be searching out book 2! A fun and unique romance and one worth reading.
February 16, 2016
Allegra “Ally” Wilson is an aspiring new business owner. Her dream is to open her own bakery, Temptations. She’s overcome a lot and is about to have her dream come true. The night before her scheduled opening, a fire breaks out in the bakery’s kitchen, delaying the opening.
Gabe Moreno is a firefighter who has his life changed the moment he rescues Ally from her burning building.
At times, I found Red Velvet to be a little confusing. I didn’t know where the story was taking me or exactly what the characters’ roles were. A couple of characters are definitely not likeable from the start. All of this made the story intriguing and left me wondering how ultimately everything will fit together.
Red Velvet is the first of a three book series and ends in one heck of a cliffhanger.
**Personal Purchase**
Rating: 3.5
Gabe Moreno is a firefighter who has his life changed the moment he rescues Ally from her burning building.
At times, I found Red Velvet to be a little confusing. I didn’t know where the story was taking me or exactly what the characters’ roles were. A couple of characters are definitely not likeable from the start. All of this made the story intriguing and left me wondering how ultimately everything will fit together.
Red Velvet is the first of a three book series and ends in one heck of a cliffhanger.
**Personal Purchase**
Rating: 3.5
July 6, 2016
Ally is starting a new life after a bad breakup. She has opened a bakery even after a bad start which include fire and being rescued by a mysterious fireman. Her bakery opens and customer start spreading the word. One customer who happens to come strolling in is Gabe, who also wants more then her cakes ;)
Poor Ally! that ex of hers is a right douchebag. Her self confidence over her body hasn't been helped with hid vile words. Why can't he just leave her alone? Now especially with someone like Gabe chasing her, but then it seems he is hiding things from her too. So much is happening all at once which is a bit dodgy with her ex being a cop. Now what is going to happen after the heartbreaking cliffhanger?
Poor Ally! that ex of hers is a right douchebag. Her self confidence over her body hasn't been helped with hid vile words. Why can't he just leave her alone? Now especially with someone like Gabe chasing her, but then it seems he is hiding things from her too. So much is happening all at once which is a bit dodgy with her ex being a cop. Now what is going to happen after the heartbreaking cliffhanger?
April 15, 2016
Awesome
This was a great short story about Ally who was trying to get herself out in front of her past and open up her life long dream of having a bakery. The day before Grand Opening a fire broke out and caused all kinds of set backs and trouble. One great smelling fireman saves her and her cat. One day Gabe walks into her business and tries to sweep her off her feet after a little persuasion Ally finally gives in. Then all heck breaks lose will Ally lose her Bakery and will her ex Matthew cause all kinds of trouble and what about Gabe.
This was a great short story about Ally who was trying to get herself out in front of her past and open up her life long dream of having a bakery. The day before Grand Opening a fire broke out and caused all kinds of set backs and trouble. One great smelling fireman saves her and her cat. One day Gabe walks into her business and tries to sweep her off her feet after a little persuasion Ally finally gives in. Then all heck breaks lose will Ally lose her Bakery and will her ex Matthew cause all kinds of trouble and what about Gabe.
January 27, 2016
4 Stars
This is part 1 in this Baked Series
I found that this journey between these two characters had plenty of mystery, calmness and a sense of wanting. What one wants doesn't always mean one gets and with this read this author brings the mystery and some depth to these two characters.
A bakery isn't just a bakery and an ex can be a pain in ones butt. lol
Short, good anytime read
Did I mention the sex is hot?
Happy Reading
This is part 1 in this Baked Series
I found that this journey between these two characters had plenty of mystery, calmness and a sense of wanting. What one wants doesn't always mean one gets and with this read this author brings the mystery and some depth to these two characters.
A bakery isn't just a bakery and an ex can be a pain in ones butt. lol
Short, good anytime read
Did I mention the sex is hot?
Happy Reading
February 7, 2016
This book was over to soon and with a pregnant other woman at the counter. Oh cliffhangers how I hate you. Book 2 looks to start of good I hope. Ally sounds like it was a good thing she got out of her last relationship when she did and is doing what she has dreamed of. However Gabe is a big mystery and the longer the book goes the more he has to hide it seems.
October 23, 2016
ARC received for review
Interesting start. Hot firefighter (why does he lie about that) and curvy baker. Plus their a crazy ex and then cliffy....
I hope the publisher fixed the punctuation before they released it. When someone talked it was _ Hi. I'm Gabe.|| not "Hi. I'm Gabe."
Interesting start. Hot firefighter (why does he lie about that) and curvy baker. Plus their a crazy ex and then cliffy....
I hope the publisher fixed the punctuation before they released it. When someone talked it was _ Hi. I'm Gabe.|| not "Hi. I'm Gabe."
January 25, 2016
I really got into the story of the book. But I didn't care for all the f_ _ _ words. So I will not buy the next book to find out what kind of guy Gabe is
January 26, 2016
Good read
The book was good I have never read anything by this author before but it was good will read more.
The book was good I have never read anything by this author before but it was good will read more.
May 26, 2016
Started out interesting, well written, then quickly fell apart. Very difficult to finish but I gave it a chance, then promptly removed from my kindle.
February 23, 2016
Disappointed
When I buy a book I expect to have a beginning a middle and an ending. The writing was good but it stopped in the middle. So that's the reason for the three stars.
When I buy a book I expect to have a beginning a middle and an ending. The writing was good but it stopped in the middle. So that's the reason for the three stars.
July 27, 2016
Book #147 - 2016
May 3, 2017
Definitely a page turner, I couldn't put it down and read it all in one sitting. I can't wait for the next one!!!
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews