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Acquisition #1
Counsellor
In the heart of Louisiana, the most powerful people in the South live behind elegant gates, mossy trees, and pleasant masks. Once every ten years, the pretense falls away and a tournament is held to determine who will rule them. The Acquisition is a crucible for the Southern nobility, a love letter written to a time when barbarism was enshrined as law.
Now, Sinclair Vinemont is in the running to claim the prize. There is only one way to win, and he has the key to do it -- Stella Rousseau, his Acquisition. To save her father, Stella has agreed to become Sinclair's slave for one year. Though she is at the mercy of the cold, treacherous Vinemont, Stella will not go willingly into darkness.
As Sinclair and Stella battle against each other and the clock, only one thing is certain: The Acquisition always ends in blood.
Full disclosure: This book is a dark romance with elements of BDSM, slavery, violence, and super-hot sex. It is the first of a series and ends on a cliffhanger. If you're good with these caveats, enjoy!
Titles in the Acquisition Trilogy
Available NOW-- Magnate, Book 2 of the Acquisition Series
Coming April 2016 -- Sovereign, Book 3 of the Acquisition Series
Now, Sinclair Vinemont is in the running to claim the prize. There is only one way to win, and he has the key to do it -- Stella Rousseau, his Acquisition. To save her father, Stella has agreed to become Sinclair's slave for one year. Though she is at the mercy of the cold, treacherous Vinemont, Stella will not go willingly into darkness.
As Sinclair and Stella battle against each other and the clock, only one thing is certain: The Acquisition always ends in blood.
Full disclosure: This book is a dark romance with elements of BDSM, slavery, violence, and super-hot sex. It is the first of a series and ends on a cliffhanger. If you're good with these caveats, enjoy!
Titles in the Acquisition Trilogy
Available NOW-- Magnate, Book 2 of the Acquisition Series
Coming April 2016 -- Sovereign, Book 3 of the Acquisition Series
306 pages, Paperback
First published September 28, 2015
852 people are currently reading
4347 people want to read
About the author
Celia Aaron
62 books4,344 followersCelia Aaron is a recovering attorney and USA Today bestselling author. Upstart crow. Cat person. Thanks for reading.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 571 reviews
April 3, 2017
★★★★★! Counsellor, book 1 of 3. A woman is caught in a deprived game of power, sex & violence steeped in tradition & hidden amidst Louisiana’s elite!
“I knew how to get her there, to drag her down into darkness and twist her beyond recognition.”
Books in Acquisition series should be read in order:
Book 0.5: Sinclair
Book 1: Counsellor
Book 2: Magnate
Book 3: Sovereign
Counsellor (book 1) opens up to artist Stella Rousseau’s world falling apart. In order to save her father from prison she agrees to surrender her life to the eldest Vinemont brother for one year.
Sworn to secrecy, Counsellor at law and businessman Sinclair Vinemont, Sin is an heir to a dark legacy, a game called The Acquisition that he will participate in with Stella as his plaything.
Nothing could have prepared them for their respective parts in this sinister and violent game.
Lines quickly get blurred when lies are told, loyalties are questioned, emotions enter the picture in a tournament steeped in old-world tradition set amidst the glamorous Louisiana elite.
One year, two players, three brothers and unknown forces manipulating from the sidelines.
Seven words to describe Sinclair Vinemont: Sinister, conflicted, private, elusive, possessive, depraved and ruthless.
Seven words to describe Stella Rousseau: Dutiful, naïve, caring, reflective, determined, strong and spirited.
Counsellor told from dual POVs is a fast paced dark tale with a mixture of mystery, suspense, violence and erotica as Stella journey to uncover the truth of why she was acquired. Story ends abruptly leading right book 2, Magnate for the continuation of their story.
Depraved, sinister and complex plot! Off-the-charts sexual tension and situations! Raw, rough and angry sex! Excellent story-telling!
***
Hero rating: 5 stars
Heroine rating: 4 stars
Sexual tension rating: 5 stars
Sex scenes rating: 4.5 stars
Sex scenes frequency: 4.5 stars
Plot rating: 5 stars
Dialogue rating: 5 stars
Storytelling rating: 5 stars
Story ending rating: N/A
*********************************************
Overall rating: 5 stars
Would I recommend this series: Yes.
Would I re-read this series: Yes.
Would I read future books by this author: Yes.
ARC provided to me by author Celia Aaron in exchange for an honest review.
February 10, 2017
It annoys me when a seemingly ridiculous premise for an entire series isn't even semi-explained by the end of book one.
Plus, it seems she starts book two with Lucius. Which doesn't interest me.
I won't be continuing.
Plus, it seems she starts book two with Lucius. Which doesn't interest me.
I won't be continuing.
February 10, 2017
3.5 Stars!!
"Counsellor" is the first installment in Celia Aaron’ s new series entitled “Acquisition”. While the premise - acquisitions as a tradition - is not original, I have to say I enjoyed this first book. It was dark enough to label it as a dark read, it was full of depravity which I enjoyed and it had some suspense elements that made this an entertaining read.
Meet Sinclair Vinemont - a district attorney from a powerful southern family. He’s old money, single and has a successful career. From the moment he meets Stella Rousseau he knows she has to be his new Acquisition, (practically a slave to him and his family). Stella is an artist and all she cares about is her father. Her life is shattered when her only remaining family goes on trial for fraud.
The prosecutor is no other than Sinclair. Sinclair makes Stella an offer she can’t refuse - if she wants her father to live save and secure, she has to be his, body and soul for one year.
As the story unfolds, Stella tries to learn the rules of this sick "game" and meet everyone’s expectations and Sinclair tries to stay unaffected by Stella, but lines are easily crossed since the connection between them seems to be stronger than anyone thought.
I enjoyed this one, but I can’t say I loved it. Like I mentioned above there are some similarities with other series. A little too many IMO. However, the story is well written and kept my attention enough. Written in dual pov, this tale has both angst and drama to keep you entertained.
Sinclair is a hero (or more exactly antihero- so far) that you will hate for the most part. He’s arrogant, ruthless and depraved and all he wants (at first) is to win this sick tradition – The Acquisition.
He’s cold and unforgiven at times, he humiliates Stella more than once, but he’s also protective and even caring with her. Stella is portrayed almost entirely as a strong heroine. I liked that and also her determination to find a solution to escape this strange situation she’s in. She’s naïve and impulsive at times, so she finds herself more than once in some nasty situations. Both characters’ backgrounds are well done, which I appreciated. We get to know both of them really well, how they think, they fears and also their flaws.
I also enjoyed the dynamic between these two characters. The love-hate relationship was well done, intriguing and their chemistry was fantastic.
The story was fast-paced, the writing engaging and the supporting characters fascinating.
Overall, a great, enjoyable read!
"Counsellor" is the first installment in Celia Aaron’ s new series entitled “Acquisition”. While the premise - acquisitions as a tradition - is not original, I have to say I enjoyed this first book. It was dark enough to label it as a dark read, it was full of depravity which I enjoyed and it had some suspense elements that made this an entertaining read.
“I've never been a good man.
My darkness is neither restrained nor buried. It lives right at the surface. The only thing that hides it is my mask.”
Meet Sinclair Vinemont - a district attorney from a powerful southern family. He’s old money, single and has a successful career. From the moment he meets Stella Rousseau he knows she has to be his new Acquisition, (practically a slave to him and his family). Stella is an artist and all she cares about is her father. Her life is shattered when her only remaining family goes on trial for fraud.
“Salvation had a price—the highest one imaginable—and I knew she would pay it the moment I first laid eyes on her.”
The prosecutor is no other than Sinclair. Sinclair makes Stella an offer she can’t refuse - if she wants her father to live save and secure, she has to be his, body and soul for one year.
As the story unfolds, Stella tries to learn the rules of this sick "game" and meet everyone’s expectations and Sinclair tries to stay unaffected by Stella, but lines are easily crossed since the connection between them seems to be stronger than anyone thought.
“His touch, his insistent kiss marked me deeper, surer than any lash ever could. I was betraying myself. I knew it. I didn’t care. I didn’t want anything other than him, his hands, his body, his kiss. I had never felt more alive.”
I enjoyed this one, but I can’t say I loved it. Like I mentioned above there are some similarities with other series. A little too many IMO. However, the story is well written and kept my attention enough. Written in dual pov, this tale has both angst and drama to keep you entertained.
Sinclair is a hero (or more exactly antihero- so far) that you will hate for the most part. He’s arrogant, ruthless and depraved and all he wants (at first) is to win this sick tradition – The Acquisition.
“I was screwed. I had to stop thinking about her as a her. She was an Acquisition—my Acquisition—and nothing more.”
He’s cold and unforgiven at times, he humiliates Stella more than once, but he’s also protective and even caring with her. Stella is portrayed almost entirely as a strong heroine. I liked that and also her determination to find a solution to escape this strange situation she’s in. She’s naïve and impulsive at times, so she finds herself more than once in some nasty situations. Both characters’ backgrounds are well done, which I appreciated. We get to know both of them really well, how they think, they fears and also their flaws.
I also enjoyed the dynamic between these two characters. The love-hate relationship was well done, intriguing and their chemistry was fantastic.
The story was fast-paced, the writing engaging and the supporting characters fascinating.
Overall, a great, enjoyable read!
January 24, 2016
Taboo, Dark And Sexy!
With a storyline reminiscent of Pepper Winter's 'Indebted' series, the 'Acquisition' series tells the story of an ages-old twisted tradition and the girl that must be subjected to several trials over the course of a year of captivity. Stella agrees to become Sinclair Vinemont's acquisition for one year, in exchange for her father's freedom from prosecution. Signing on to be his slave, she has no idea of what the future holds for her, but she knows that she'd do anything to spare her father imprisonment.
Quickly, Stella begins to work her way into the heart of Sinclair. He tries to keep his distance, because he knows that he will have to break her over the course of the Acquisition trials. Yet, he cannot avoid the growing feelings that he has for Stella.
The completion of the first trial leaves Stella scarred and forever changed. We are offered a glimpse of this sexually depraved secret society and a hint of the trials yet to come. One of three chosen competitors, Sinclair is determined to come out of this year's Acquisition trials the victor. The winner becomes the next Sovereign, holding the elite title for the next ten years and assuming leadership of the families.
While Stella and Sinclair spend the rest of the book in an emotional tug of war, his attempts to push her away may have finally worked. The story ends with an unforgivable revelation, pushing Stella too far. The dynamics between the two are irrevocably changed.
Overall, I really enjoyed this dark, erotic story. Although it wasn't overwhelmingly dark, there were a few scenes that will make you cringe. While the story is largely implausible, it proves to be entertaining and intriguing. I am dying to see where this story leads and what further trials are in store. I will begin the second book in this series immediately.
With a storyline reminiscent of Pepper Winter's 'Indebted' series, the 'Acquisition' series tells the story of an ages-old twisted tradition and the girl that must be subjected to several trials over the course of a year of captivity. Stella agrees to become Sinclair Vinemont's acquisition for one year, in exchange for her father's freedom from prosecution. Signing on to be his slave, she has no idea of what the future holds for her, but she knows that she'd do anything to spare her father imprisonment.
Quickly, Stella begins to work her way into the heart of Sinclair. He tries to keep his distance, because he knows that he will have to break her over the course of the Acquisition trials. Yet, he cannot avoid the growing feelings that he has for Stella.
The completion of the first trial leaves Stella scarred and forever changed. We are offered a glimpse of this sexually depraved secret society and a hint of the trials yet to come. One of three chosen competitors, Sinclair is determined to come out of this year's Acquisition trials the victor. The winner becomes the next Sovereign, holding the elite title for the next ten years and assuming leadership of the families.
While Stella and Sinclair spend the rest of the book in an emotional tug of war, his attempts to push her away may have finally worked. The story ends with an unforgivable revelation, pushing Stella too far. The dynamics between the two are irrevocably changed.
Overall, I really enjoyed this dark, erotic story. Although it wasn't overwhelmingly dark, there were a few scenes that will make you cringe. While the story is largely implausible, it proves to be entertaining and intriguing. I am dying to see where this story leads and what further trials are in store. I will begin the second book in this series immediately.
January 12, 2016
3.75 ~ 4 STARS
”One year, two players, three brothers and unknown forces manipulating from the sidelines.”
This story is very well written however I did find the idea a bit similar to a book series that I barely finished the first book of. That being said, things took a very interesting and crazy turn at the end which has me intrigued enough to read the next book of this three book series.
I liked all the characters more than enough to read on even if the idea whether it be debts or acquisitions as a tradition among prominent families still doesn’t wow me. The heroine, Stella’s motivation was relatable to me by saving father from a life in prison in exchange of giving a year to the arrogant, District Attorney, Sinclair Vinemont.
”She had no idea what was in store. I wasn’t even sure how far I’d go, but I knew I had to win. Losing wasn’t an option.”
Overall, this is a fast paced, quick entertaining read that is intriguing enough to recommend and seeing where the author takes Stella next!
”How would he win this competition? What would victory entail? My death?”
”One year, two players, three brothers and unknown forces manipulating from the sidelines.”
This story is very well written however I did find the idea a bit similar to a book series that I barely finished the first book of. That being said, things took a very interesting and crazy turn at the end which has me intrigued enough to read the next book of this three book series.
I liked all the characters more than enough to read on even if the idea whether it be debts or acquisitions as a tradition among prominent families still doesn’t wow me. The heroine, Stella’s motivation was relatable to me by saving father from a life in prison in exchange of giving a year to the arrogant, District Attorney, Sinclair Vinemont.
”She had no idea what was in store. I wasn’t even sure how far I’d go, but I knew I had to win. Losing wasn’t an option.”
Overall, this is a fast paced, quick entertaining read that is intriguing enough to recommend and seeing where the author takes Stella next!
”How would he win this competition? What would victory entail? My death?”
December 9, 2016
DNF - 47%
W.T.F!!!
I had a bad feeling going into the book because of the the sadistic demeanor of the main male character. I thought this to be some twisted Beauty & the Beast, where the Beast traps Beauty using her father. But, no! Oh, no! This is so much more than that. The man is a complete arse, but the author starts slipping every now and then what a tormented soul he is and how it's all about duty. Duty my arse!
And branding? Seriously?! What are women, cattle?! I've had my fair share of branding with Story of O, and it was enough to last me a lifetime.
*Copy provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
"They will mark you." He ran his fingers across the skin at the nape of my neck, making a vivid heat tear through my body from the points of contact. "Here."
His other hand snaked under my cloak and around to the open back of my dress. His fingers played at my exposed skin. "And here."
W.T.F!!!
I had a bad feeling going into the book because of the the sadistic demeanor of the main male character. I thought this to be some twisted Beauty & the Beast, where the Beast traps Beauty using her father. But, no! Oh, no! This is so much more than that. The man is a complete arse, but the author starts slipping every now and then what a tormented soul he is and how it's all about duty. Duty my arse!
And branding? Seriously?! What are women, cattle?! I've had my fair share of branding with Story of O, and it was enough to last me a lifetime.
*Copy provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 5, 2017
Modern Slavery in the Old South
This is one of these rare books that I DISLIKE/HATE all the characters, main and secondary.
But it still keeps my attention and my curiosity until the very end.
But I still love it and I want to start reading straight away the second book of the series
– although I know it will be pure torture for my poor soul.
Let’s see the players:
Sinclair Vinemont – He needs a willing slave to play with and to present her as his Acquisition at the ruling society of Louisiana. He is “tall, dark and psychotic”. Well, I always believed that wolf will always be the bad guy because we have never heard his side of the story. In this book we have the bad wolf’s point of view, but really this just made me dislike him more. Okay he knows what will happen. Ok he feels guilty. Ok he lusts for the girl. So what? He is just a pawn. (Am I the only one who noticed that Vinemont somehow rhymes with Lord Voldemort?)
Stella Rousseau – The willing victim, the martyr. Just a naïve girl who really has no clue about the people around her and their intentions. A girl who still falls for the bad guy, because deep down she is a masochist. She knows what Sinclair is capable of and she still offers him her soul. She sees signs about the rest of the people who are ruling her life and she still offers her life TO them, offers her life FOR them like she is a sacrifice lamb.
Mr Rousseau, the dad – What a ruthless, disgusting excuse for a father. There are hidden truths about him that come into light at the end of the book. Stella is still there for him. WTF! Why? I would have run away like hell hounds were after me.
Dylan, the stepbrother – Too persistent, although not wanted. I still don’t get what his role is. But he is definitely annoying.
Renee, the personal maid – She has her secrets and she had her deal of suffering. But her role is to soothe the victim and make her feel comfortable without revealing too much. There is no excuse for this.
Rest of the house staff – Hear Nothing, See Nothing, Say Nothing. What can I say about them?
Rebecca Vinemont, the mother- How can a mother teach her first born son how to become a tyrant? What a psycho twisted situation! I don’t care if she suffers about what she did. I don’t care that she lost her soul at the process. She was responsible for the innocent souls of her children. Another poor excuse for a mother!
Lucius Vinemont , the second brother – I think he is the most stomach-turning human being in the book. Please, please big bother let me play. I will be a good torturer. I am sure I can be a better sadist than you and our precious family will win.
Teddy Vinemont, the third brother – Okay he is young, brainless and a student. But he hears a lot, sees a lot, and says something. And then he goes fucks the maid and forgets about everything. Let’s party!
The ruling society of Louisiana – Let’s find an excuse (any kind of excuse) for a nice, long, old-fashioned orgy. Let’s see some blood on the side. Let’s see some torture. Just yuck!
That being said, I am starting book two…
This is one of these rare books that I DISLIKE/HATE all the characters, main and secondary.
But it still keeps my attention and my curiosity until the very end.
But I still love it and I want to start reading straight away the second book of the series
– although I know it will be pure torture for my poor soul.
Let’s see the players:
Sinclair Vinemont – He needs a willing slave to play with and to present her as his Acquisition at the ruling society of Louisiana. He is “tall, dark and psychotic”. Well, I always believed that wolf will always be the bad guy because we have never heard his side of the story. In this book we have the bad wolf’s point of view, but really this just made me dislike him more. Okay he knows what will happen. Ok he feels guilty. Ok he lusts for the girl. So what? He is just a pawn. (Am I the only one who noticed that Vinemont somehow rhymes with Lord Voldemort?)
Stella Rousseau – The willing victim, the martyr. Just a naïve girl who really has no clue about the people around her and their intentions. A girl who still falls for the bad guy, because deep down she is a masochist. She knows what Sinclair is capable of and she still offers him her soul. She sees signs about the rest of the people who are ruling her life and she still offers her life TO them, offers her life FOR them like she is a sacrifice lamb.
Mr Rousseau, the dad – What a ruthless, disgusting excuse for a father. There are hidden truths about him that come into light at the end of the book. Stella is still there for him. WTF! Why? I would have run away like hell hounds were after me.
Dylan, the stepbrother – Too persistent, although not wanted. I still don’t get what his role is. But he is definitely annoying.
Renee, the personal maid – She has her secrets and she had her deal of suffering. But her role is to soothe the victim and make her feel comfortable without revealing too much. There is no excuse for this.
Rest of the house staff – Hear Nothing, See Nothing, Say Nothing. What can I say about them?
Rebecca Vinemont, the mother- How can a mother teach her first born son how to become a tyrant? What a psycho twisted situation! I don’t care if she suffers about what she did. I don’t care that she lost her soul at the process. She was responsible for the innocent souls of her children. Another poor excuse for a mother!
Lucius Vinemont , the second brother – I think he is the most stomach-turning human being in the book. Please, please big bother let me play. I will be a good torturer. I am sure I can be a better sadist than you and our precious family will win.
Teddy Vinemont, the third brother – Okay he is young, brainless and a student. But he hears a lot, sees a lot, and says something. And then he goes fucks the maid and forgets about everything. Let’s party!
The ruling society of Louisiana – Let’s find an excuse (any kind of excuse) for a nice, long, old-fashioned orgy. Let’s see some blood on the side. Let’s see some torture. Just yuck!
That being said, I am starting book two…
December 30, 2015
*Live! Amazon US * Amazon UK
Councellor takes the reader on a journey of depravity, suspense and drama. This dark romance kept me wondering, questioning and completely engrossed in the story telling from the beginning to the very end. Told in the first person and from the alternating perspective of Stella and Sinclair the story emerges through the easy flowing narrative that paints crystal clear pictures in the mind evoking feelings of angst ridden anticipation. It presents a hedonistic world in the deep south of Louisiana where depraved traditions rear their ugly head every ten years, revealing people's dark proclivities and giving the rich and powerful of the community the outrageous legislation to act out their depravity and play by crazy, crazy rules.
The finely tuned anti hero embraces his honour bound traditions whilst depicting human, endearing qualities that made me want to love him, despite his perceived cruelness, his actions and his intent. Both protagonists have a strong back story. Stella Rousseau's tragic past and current family circumstance shapes her existence and will, no doubt, give her the strength to endure her present. A present where she becomes Sinclair's Acquisition, a pawn in a tournament steeped in ritualistic barbarism and used to decide who will rule the territory. It's a tournament that throws two characters together and depicts grim elements but Celia Aaron's writing made it so I could not look away; I became addicted to this story.
The dynamic between the protagonists is electric and developed at an intense and satisfying speed but one stumbling block came, for me, towards the end. I feel that in reality that one of them would have questioned something specific that happened, human nature and fear would have caused one of them to at least think something in relation to a circumstance. I'm being evasive and cannot reveal the exact occurrence because I don't wish to spoil the story and believe it may lead to a development within the context or there may be a specific reason, I'm yet to uncover, why the author wrote this scene and the surrounding moments the way she did. Whatever the result of this small matter, it’s something that did not take away from my overall enjoyment and exhilaration of reading this dark and somewhat forbidden romance.
Councellor kept me guessing to the end. The suspense laced through is engaging, the debauchery gut wrenching at times but I was transfixed to the story arc, addicted to the happenings with no idea how it would play out or indeed why some things have to be...... but underlining it all I felt that the characters have clear impetus and I'm curious to discover exactly what the driving force is, what are the consequence of failing to win? I felt the twisted discomfort of the characters, their unease. The anticipation of uncovering the layers of this Beauty and the Beast style story is high, I cannot wait for the second part slated for release in January and the third scheduled for April. There is a cliff hanger but, in my opinion, that's one of the elements that can make a series great so I'd highly recommend book lovers of dark and twisted reads with layers of intrigue and suspense begin their Acquisition experience without delay.
Advanced copy received, via NetGalley for my honest review thoughts
*Teasers made by JxxxPinklady with stock images purchased from deposit photos*
Councellor takes the reader on a journey of depravity, suspense and drama. This dark romance kept me wondering, questioning and completely engrossed in the story telling from the beginning to the very end. Told in the first person and from the alternating perspective of Stella and Sinclair the story emerges through the easy flowing narrative that paints crystal clear pictures in the mind evoking feelings of angst ridden anticipation. It presents a hedonistic world in the deep south of Louisiana where depraved traditions rear their ugly head every ten years, revealing people's dark proclivities and giving the rich and powerful of the community the outrageous legislation to act out their depravity and play by crazy, crazy rules.
The finely tuned anti hero embraces his honour bound traditions whilst depicting human, endearing qualities that made me want to love him, despite his perceived cruelness, his actions and his intent. Both protagonists have a strong back story. Stella Rousseau's tragic past and current family circumstance shapes her existence and will, no doubt, give her the strength to endure her present. A present where she becomes Sinclair's Acquisition, a pawn in a tournament steeped in ritualistic barbarism and used to decide who will rule the territory. It's a tournament that throws two characters together and depicts grim elements but Celia Aaron's writing made it so I could not look away; I became addicted to this story.
The dynamic between the protagonists is electric and developed at an intense and satisfying speed but one stumbling block came, for me, towards the end. I feel that in reality that one of them would have questioned something specific that happened, human nature and fear would have caused one of them to at least think something in relation to a circumstance. I'm being evasive and cannot reveal the exact occurrence because I don't wish to spoil the story and believe it may lead to a development within the context or there may be a specific reason, I'm yet to uncover, why the author wrote this scene and the surrounding moments the way she did. Whatever the result of this small matter, it’s something that did not take away from my overall enjoyment and exhilaration of reading this dark and somewhat forbidden romance.
Councellor kept me guessing to the end. The suspense laced through is engaging, the debauchery gut wrenching at times but I was transfixed to the story arc, addicted to the happenings with no idea how it would play out or indeed why some things have to be...... but underlining it all I felt that the characters have clear impetus and I'm curious to discover exactly what the driving force is, what are the consequence of failing to win? I felt the twisted discomfort of the characters, their unease. The anticipation of uncovering the layers of this Beauty and the Beast style story is high, I cannot wait for the second part slated for release in January and the third scheduled for April. There is a cliff hanger but, in my opinion, that's one of the elements that can make a series great so I'd highly recommend book lovers of dark and twisted reads with layers of intrigue and suspense begin their Acquisition experience without delay.
Advanced copy received, via NetGalley for my honest review thoughts
*Teasers made by JxxxPinklady with stock images purchased from deposit photos*
June 23, 2017
2.75/5
Dark, twisted, sick, but not romantic whatsoever.
It was obvious that this story was dark—I can’t argue with that. But I've read something darker already and they were far better than this one. There were some disturbing scenes for me, but then again, they didn't make me cringe or shudder the way other books I've read in the same genre did.
The major problem I had with this book was that I couldn’t connect to both main characters, Sinclair and Stella, especially Stella. Of course, I know she’s strong and brave, and I admired her for that. But aside from her bravery, I don’t think there’s much else I can say or think of her.
And well, what to say about Sinclair? He’s vicious, malicious, sick, and disgusting. He’s become one of the most hated characters I’ve ever come across with. Whatever he’s done to Stella, he deserves tenfold! I HATE THIS MAN!
To be honest, this book had so much potential, but just poorly delivered. It was almost good; somehow I think it could have been better though.
I'll probably continue reading the next installment since I still don't get any answers to a ton of questions I had while reading this. Anyway, despite my issues with this book, the narrative was very engrossing that I couldn’t put it down and ended up finishing the entire story in one sitting.
Overall, this was an ok read. Nothing mind-blowing though.
Dark, twisted, sick, but not romantic whatsoever.
It was obvious that this story was dark—I can’t argue with that. But I've read something darker already and they were far better than this one. There were some disturbing scenes for me, but then again, they didn't make me cringe or shudder the way other books I've read in the same genre did.
The major problem I had with this book was that I couldn’t connect to both main characters, Sinclair and Stella, especially Stella. Of course, I know she’s strong and brave, and I admired her for that. But aside from her bravery, I don’t think there’s much else I can say or think of her.
And well, what to say about Sinclair? He’s vicious, malicious, sick, and disgusting. He’s become one of the most hated characters I’ve ever come across with. Whatever he’s done to Stella, he deserves tenfold! I HATE THIS MAN!
To be honest, this book had so much potential, but just poorly delivered. It was almost good; somehow I think it could have been better though.
I'll probably continue reading the next installment since I still don't get any answers to a ton of questions I had while reading this. Anyway, despite my issues with this book, the narrative was very engrossing that I couldn’t put it down and ended up finishing the entire story in one sitting.
Overall, this was an ok read. Nothing mind-blowing though.
January 7, 2016
5 “Blow My Mind” Stars
Sometimes you get a book and the unexpected happens......it takes you on a wickedly dark and sexually sinister ride. The storyline is full of depravity yet there is a touch of possible love and redemption. Counsellor is a book that will make you breathless and draw you in.....into the tangled web of manipulation, lies, sex and depravity.
Sinclair Vinemont.........his name says it all. Handsome, controlling, powerful, his nickname is Sin, need I say more. Stella Rousseau.......the epitome of the south. She is beautiful, strong, and protects the ones she loves. But she is no match against Sinclair, the man who has an agenda, the man who needs an Acquisition. For one year, Stella would be Sinclair’s Acquisition and all that it entails. But being an Acquisition comes with rules and expectations that can only come from the secret society deeply embedded in the backwoods bayou of Louisiana aristocracy.
This story is one that will blow your mind. It is written beautifully and magically. The web that the author has created is beyond your imagination. I had no idea where the story was going but when I found out it was diabolically wicked and disturbing and wonderful. It intrigued me and stupefied me. I loved the hate and lust attraction Sinclair and Stella had towards one another. It drives the story yet pulls it apart as well. But the underlying tone of possible redemption keeps you riveted and mesmerized.
I am waiting on baited breath for the next book, Magnate. After learning of things to come and the major twist at the end………I NEED MAGNATE NOW!!!!
Advanced copy received via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
Sometimes you get a book and the unexpected happens......it takes you on a wickedly dark and sexually sinister ride. The storyline is full of depravity yet there is a touch of possible love and redemption. Counsellor is a book that will make you breathless and draw you in.....into the tangled web of manipulation, lies, sex and depravity.
Sinclair Vinemont.........his name says it all. Handsome, controlling, powerful, his nickname is Sin, need I say more. Stella Rousseau.......the epitome of the south. She is beautiful, strong, and protects the ones she loves. But she is no match against Sinclair, the man who has an agenda, the man who needs an Acquisition. For one year, Stella would be Sinclair’s Acquisition and all that it entails. But being an Acquisition comes with rules and expectations that can only come from the secret society deeply embedded in the backwoods bayou of Louisiana aristocracy.
This story is one that will blow your mind. It is written beautifully and magically. The web that the author has created is beyond your imagination. I had no idea where the story was going but when I found out it was diabolically wicked and disturbing and wonderful. It intrigued me and stupefied me. I loved the hate and lust attraction Sinclair and Stella had towards one another. It drives the story yet pulls it apart as well. But the underlying tone of possible redemption keeps you riveted and mesmerized.
I am waiting on baited breath for the next book, Magnate. After learning of things to come and the major twist at the end………I NEED MAGNATE NOW!!!!
Advanced copy received via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
January 20, 2019
Came to know about this book in one of my group. Two friends planned the BR and I hopped on the wagon.
It is a dark book about the tradition of Acquisition in rich southern families where the winners gets to rule over other families. So a lot of power and other things are at stake. A member from different families take part in this once in a decade and what follows is trials full of gore and debauchery.
One of the issue that I had this book was insta-lust that the couple felt for each other. I can understand the attraction at the boy's part but the girl is going through so much without even being told the why of whole tradition.
Book sort of ended on a cliffhanger, of course I had to read the next book.
It is a dark book about the tradition of Acquisition in rich southern families where the winners gets to rule over other families. So a lot of power and other things are at stake. A member from different families take part in this once in a decade and what follows is trials full of gore and debauchery.
One of the issue that I had this book was insta-lust that the couple felt for each other. I can understand the attraction at the boy's part but the girl is going through so much without even being told the why of whole tradition.
Book sort of ended on a cliffhanger, of course I had to read the next book.
February 4, 2017
A book about buying and owning a person a year, and then beating them at balls. It's a modern day slavery book trying to be bdsm cool and fool you into thinking because there's sex it's sexy. It's not. Horrid book.
December 21, 2017
Not for the faint of heart .
Not quite sure yet what I think of the first book in the acquisition series, it was well written and a page turner but I found the violence of the ball a hard pill to stomach, I will read most things and not get upset but I found the whipping to an extent that it took weeks to heal and that Stella was permanently scarred very disturbing it was not consensual and was more a form of torture , I also can't suss out Lucius is he a sleaze or genuinely liking Stella and don't get me started on Sin Mr multiple personality , I realise there is some deep dark reason pushing him to compete for sovereign, but that he could stand there and also permanently scar Stella for this astounds me, am so not warming to him and can't get my head round how Stella is, he also had the nerve to ask her at the ball if his brother had hurt her when he knew what was in store for her. I'm in shock, and its only gonna get worse, i will read the next book because I want to see what happens with Stella and in my opinion she should have thrown her dad to the wolves, still should she needs to run fast and far from these psycho's.
Not quite sure yet what I think of the first book in the acquisition series, it was well written and a page turner but I found the violence of the ball a hard pill to stomach, I will read most things and not get upset but I found the whipping to an extent that it took weeks to heal and that Stella was permanently scarred very disturbing it was not consensual and was more a form of torture , I also can't suss out Lucius is he a sleaze or genuinely liking Stella and don't get me started on Sin Mr multiple personality , I realise there is some deep dark reason pushing him to compete for sovereign, but that he could stand there and also permanently scar Stella for this astounds me, am so not warming to him and can't get my head round how Stella is, he also had the nerve to ask her at the ball if his brother had hurt her when he knew what was in store for her. I'm in shock, and its only gonna get worse, i will read the next book because I want to see what happens with Stella and in my opinion she should have thrown her dad to the wolves, still should she needs to run fast and far from these psycho's.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 9, 2016
*** Copy kindly provided by the publisher Patchwork Press - Cooperative, via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. ***
It had been some time since I read a dark erotic book and I enjoyed this one. It wasn’t as dark as I thought it would be but still an enjoyable read. I give it 4 stars.
During the last 250 years the rich have been ruled by a Sovereign. This Sovereign is chosen every 10 years. Now tall and handsome district attorney Sinclair Vinemont, firstborn in his family, is 1 of the 3 candidates. He needs to present his chosen Acquisition on the brutal, humiliating, Acquisition trials. Stella Rousseau’s father faces prison time. To save her father from suffering in prison Sinclair makes a deal with her. Signing his contract will bind her to him for 1 year in which he owns her body and soul. Will Sinclair be able to keep it strict business? What will new revealed betrayal do to Stella?
It took me some time to connect with the characters but now I admire Stella’s strength. Even though this is something Sinclair HAD to do I can’t like him yet. I hope that changes after the next 2 books. In the beginning I had a problem with Stella’s behavior. Even though she’s a captive and should fear and hate him she’s still able to laugh and masturbates while thinking about him in her first night in his house ??
I really liked the youngest brother Teddy in this book but I hate Lucius but still I want to read the next book in this series where we’ll get lots more of Lucius…
It had been some time since I read a dark erotic book and I enjoyed this one. It wasn’t as dark as I thought it would be but still an enjoyable read. I give it 4 stars.
During the last 250 years the rich have been ruled by a Sovereign. This Sovereign is chosen every 10 years. Now tall and handsome district attorney Sinclair Vinemont, firstborn in his family, is 1 of the 3 candidates. He needs to present his chosen Acquisition on the brutal, humiliating, Acquisition trials. Stella Rousseau’s father faces prison time. To save her father from suffering in prison Sinclair makes a deal with her. Signing his contract will bind her to him for 1 year in which he owns her body and soul. Will Sinclair be able to keep it strict business? What will new revealed betrayal do to Stella?
It took me some time to connect with the characters but now I admire Stella’s strength. Even though this is something Sinclair HAD to do I can’t like him yet. I hope that changes after the next 2 books. In the beginning I had a problem with Stella’s behavior. Even though she’s a captive and should fear and hate him she’s still able to laugh and masturbates while thinking about him in her first night in his house ??
I really liked the youngest brother Teddy in this book but I hate Lucius but still I want to read the next book in this series where we’ll get lots more of Lucius…
November 5, 2015
**Counsellor generously provided via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.**
5+ In the heart of every man is a darkness." Stars
I am jumping for joy over here. I requested Counsellor from NG not having heard anything about it but finding the cover and blurb intriguing. Well intriguing isn't quite a good enough word. I LOVED this book. Fans of darker, erotic romance who enjoy the wickedly twisted minds of authors who push boundaries with excellent story telling will love this book.
Set in the heart of the deep South in the Louisiana bayou amongst the snakes, gators, and creepy crawlers lies another, special breed of monsters. A pretentious, elite governing body of families who abide by an old code set forth by their ancestors. In consideration of preserving the plot and answers given in the book I cannot go into detail. However, I will say the depth of depravity illustrated in this book proving the debauched nature of these governing bodies is fascinating.
Sinclair Vinemont, our hero - or rather our anti-hero, dutifully fulfills his role in the Acquisition trials. He secures an acquisition, our heroine Stella Rousseau, in a rather cunning, elicit fashion to prove his worth in the sick games of the ruling rich.
"He was a gorgeous villain, a predator dressed up as a man."
With an ominous tone shining in the brilliant writing of Celia Aaron, Sinclair Vinemont exquisitely seduces the reader right along with Stella into his world of fear-inducing darkness. He does this effortlessly because Celia Aaron so eloquently demonstrates the fascination with the beauty of danger in human nature. He strikes at the most opportune moments never relenting the power he wields. He's calculating, cold, and willing to risk his soul to the wicked out of some sense of loyalty and tradition.
But isn't there something about those cold bad boys, that when written well, always hold us with rapture? In Celia Aaron's case with this man that's definitely the case. I fell a little in love with Vinemont even with his plight still shrouded in mystery - a gray area so large because only small clues are dropped throughout the story.
And Stella, who's living in her own kind of darkness, tries desperately to save what's left in her life by falling prey to this cold monster in Vinemont. She becomes his slave, owned by the animal she sees through the ice clouding his eyes. Much to Sinclair's dismay, the fiery slave challenges him every step of the way while contrarily obeying him at the same time. Feeding his beast inside she clamors her way through barriers that cannot be demolished through such a precarious time as the Acquisition trials. His futile resistance makes that much more desirable. She's fiesty, loyal, and perfectly curious to hook readers further.
Told from the alternating first person points of view of Sinclair and Stella, Counsellor leads us through a journey of the depraved and the woman for whom makes the dark desires come true. As Stella is a means to an end in the games Sinclair is forced to play a inevitable romance blossoms. Their connection visceral. But with lies, manipulations, an arrogant brother who wants more from the slave, and a really big power trip in play the ultimate destruction of both characters is imminent.
I cannot recommend the story enough. Celia Aaron writes with a foreboding yet melodious quality that hooks you from the very first word to the very last. I couldn't put Counsellor down. And yes, worriers of the cliffhanger, there is one. But it's PERFECTLY executed. Aaron gives you something to hold onto yet she leaves you almost breathless wanting more of this twisted, fascinating story. The hook at the end opens up so many new questions for which I can't wait to know the answers.
December 27, 2015
“4.25 Stars”
Sinclair Vinemont is a district attorney from a powerful and wealthy southern family. He commands a room with his ebony hair, dark blue eyes and statuesque physique. For generations, his family enjoyed the benefits of prestige but it wasn’t easily earned and with such affluence comes certain obligations.
“The mask I wear is purely the act of a predator. Theater. Pageantry. Deceptive and lethal. It allows me to get close and closer still until it is time to strike.”
Stella Rousseau is in the midst of a transitional period, as her life was put on hold due to life changing events. Since then, she didn’t return to NYU to finish her degree in art, but stayed at home with her father and stepbrother. As Stella is ready to resume her normal life, her father goes on trial for fraudulent mismanagement of investments. The prosecuting attorney is no other than Sinclair Vinemont and he will use his power and resources to get Stella’s father convicted.
Sinclair isn’t only interested in a conviction and he makes an offer to Stella that would help save her father from living the remainder of his life in prison. The offer is that Stella must spend one year with Sinclair living as a slave in his home and under his control. While Stella doesn’t completely understand Sin’s motivations or the potential consequences of her acquiescence, she is a loyal daughter and willingly accepts the offer to help her father.
At first, Stella settles into a grand antebellum mansion on a sprawling estate. She is assigned a luxurious room with everything she could possibly need, including coveted art supplies. While it seems as though she can tolerate these terms quite well, she slowly starts to learn more about why she was acquired and how depraved the most wealthy and powerful can be.
“I didn’t want to hear about anyone else touching what was mine. After tonight, they would be erased. I would fuck her so completely that I was her first, her last, her everything. My cum on her— in her— would mark her as mine.”
Sinclair only complicates the matter, as he can be very charming and protective times, but he is very clear that the stakes are high and it is in Stella’s best interest to play according to the rules. To complicate the issue, Stella was only supposed to be a pawn, but Sinclair felt an attraction to her from the beginning. Knowing what events lay ahead, Sin must keep his distance in order to win, but cannot restrain himself from claiming Stella. As the rules become clearer, Stella exercises the one choice still within her power that has a powerful impact.
This is my first book by Celia Aaron and I was entranced from the beginning. Her style of writing is eloquent but she can also deliver exacting dialogue cloaked in mystery. I am absolutely drawn to Sinclair’s flawed character and there is so much more to discover about Sin, his family and the Acquisition. Stella is likable and isn’t a pushover, as she is willing to give what she gets. The character development is layered and the secondary characters add significant dimension to the plot. I enjoyed the dark elements and the only reason I didn’t give 5 stars is because I expected more darkness to occur with slightly less staging in this first installment. Nonetheless, I thoroughly enjoyed this original plot and cannot wait for Magnate, book two in this series.
Acquisition Series:
Sinclair Vinemont is a district attorney from a powerful and wealthy southern family. He commands a room with his ebony hair, dark blue eyes and statuesque physique. For generations, his family enjoyed the benefits of prestige but it wasn’t easily earned and with such affluence comes certain obligations.
“The mask I wear is purely the act of a predator. Theater. Pageantry. Deceptive and lethal. It allows me to get close and closer still until it is time to strike.”
Stella Rousseau is in the midst of a transitional period, as her life was put on hold due to life changing events. Since then, she didn’t return to NYU to finish her degree in art, but stayed at home with her father and stepbrother. As Stella is ready to resume her normal life, her father goes on trial for fraudulent mismanagement of investments. The prosecuting attorney is no other than Sinclair Vinemont and he will use his power and resources to get Stella’s father convicted.
Sinclair isn’t only interested in a conviction and he makes an offer to Stella that would help save her father from living the remainder of his life in prison. The offer is that Stella must spend one year with Sinclair living as a slave in his home and under his control. While Stella doesn’t completely understand Sin’s motivations or the potential consequences of her acquiescence, she is a loyal daughter and willingly accepts the offer to help her father.
At first, Stella settles into a grand antebellum mansion on a sprawling estate. She is assigned a luxurious room with everything she could possibly need, including coveted art supplies. While it seems as though she can tolerate these terms quite well, she slowly starts to learn more about why she was acquired and how depraved the most wealthy and powerful can be.
“I didn’t want to hear about anyone else touching what was mine. After tonight, they would be erased. I would fuck her so completely that I was her first, her last, her everything. My cum on her— in her— would mark her as mine.”
Sinclair only complicates the matter, as he can be very charming and protective times, but he is very clear that the stakes are high and it is in Stella’s best interest to play according to the rules. To complicate the issue, Stella was only supposed to be a pawn, but Sinclair felt an attraction to her from the beginning. Knowing what events lay ahead, Sin must keep his distance in order to win, but cannot restrain himself from claiming Stella. As the rules become clearer, Stella exercises the one choice still within her power that has a powerful impact.
This is my first book by Celia Aaron and I was entranced from the beginning. Her style of writing is eloquent but she can also deliver exacting dialogue cloaked in mystery. I am absolutely drawn to Sinclair’s flawed character and there is so much more to discover about Sin, his family and the Acquisition. Stella is likable and isn’t a pushover, as she is willing to give what she gets. The character development is layered and the secondary characters add significant dimension to the plot. I enjoyed the dark elements and the only reason I didn’t give 5 stars is because I expected more darkness to occur with slightly less staging in this first installment. Nonetheless, I thoroughly enjoyed this original plot and cannot wait for Magnate, book two in this series.
Acquisition Series:
February 29, 2016
3,75 STARS!!!
I was down the rabbit hole, everything topsy-turvy and wrong, because his touch-god, his touch it was like I'd been starving for it this entire time but didn't know it.
To save her father from prison, Stella accepts Sinclair's offer.
"But if I do agree-"
"Then you are mine, for one year. To do with as I please when I please. You will live with me at the Vinemont estate. You will do as you're told. You will serve me and whoever else I want. I will own you, body and soul."
Little does she knows what she signed for.
Sinclair is using her as a tool to win trials and becoming a new Sovereign.
Welcome to the secret society where only the richest and most powerful people are invited. This year the Vinemonts are chosen to participate in the Acquisition. As firstborn, Sinclair has the "honor" to compete against others for the title Sovereign. There are 4 trials.
Each trial has the same bent-in accordance with tradition- but the sovereign can choose to add little twist to "enhance" the experience.
In this book, the first trial or The Acquisition Ball was completed.
Sovereign is the most powerful person.
"The Sovereign wields that much power?"
"More than you can ever imagine. Who do you think decides the winning Acquisition?"
What do I think about this book?
I like Stella. With everything what happen to her, she kept being strong.
I left the pain flow into me, trapping it inside a box in my heart.I'd store it up, feed it, make it grow stronger until it turned into range. Then I would let it out and bring Vinemont and the rest of these accursed people to their knees.
So Sinclair.....
Sinclair is district attorney. He is working on a case against Stella's father and that is how they met.
The perfect man except for the ice I knew coated his heart.
Don't let yourself be fooled by his appearance. All that anger and arrogance is a mask he is using to protect himself.
I wanted her to do it again, to knock my mask off so she could see the real me.
Why only 4 stars?
Because I already read it. Not this book, but something similar. Debt Inheritance, The Estate series. But despite it all, it was still a good and enjoyable story.
I was down the rabbit hole, everything topsy-turvy and wrong, because his touch-god, his touch it was like I'd been starving for it this entire time but didn't know it.
To save her father from prison, Stella accepts Sinclair's offer.
"But if I do agree-"
"Then you are mine, for one year. To do with as I please when I please. You will live with me at the Vinemont estate. You will do as you're told. You will serve me and whoever else I want. I will own you, body and soul."
Little does she knows what she signed for.
Sinclair is using her as a tool to win trials and becoming a new Sovereign.
Welcome to the secret society where only the richest and most powerful people are invited. This year the Vinemonts are chosen to participate in the Acquisition. As firstborn, Sinclair has the "honor" to compete against others for the title Sovereign. There are 4 trials.
Each trial has the same bent-in accordance with tradition- but the sovereign can choose to add little twist to "enhance" the experience.
In this book, the first trial or The Acquisition Ball was completed.
Sovereign is the most powerful person.
"The Sovereign wields that much power?"
"More than you can ever imagine. Who do you think decides the winning Acquisition?"
What do I think about this book?
I like Stella. With everything what happen to her, she kept being strong.
I left the pain flow into me, trapping it inside a box in my heart.I'd store it up, feed it, make it grow stronger until it turned into range. Then I would let it out and bring Vinemont and the rest of these accursed people to their knees.
So Sinclair.....
Sinclair is district attorney. He is working on a case against Stella's father and that is how they met.
The perfect man except for the ice I knew coated his heart.
Don't let yourself be fooled by his appearance. All that anger and arrogance is a mask he is using to protect himself.
I wanted her to do it again, to knock my mask off so she could see the real me.
Why only 4 stars?
Because I already read it. Not this book, but something similar. Debt Inheritance, The Estate series. But despite it all, it was still a good and enjoyable story.
zzz_dnf
November 16, 2015DNF @ 23%
I tried to get into the story, tried really hard to find something I can grasp onto to suck me in and take me away, but sadly I couldn't find it. I know others have loved this story and I am a little jealous that they did and not me. We all have our hit or misses and it has nothing to do with the authors style of skill, just my own lack of connection with the lead characters. I was so lost to the rhyme or reason's of the MC's, their choices and their deals, that it pretty much was a lost cause for me to continue on. Oh well, just gotta suck it up and move on. I encourage you all to take a chance, since this is more of a me issue vs. a book issue.
ARC kindly provided by the author, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
I tried to get into the story, tried really hard to find something I can grasp onto to suck me in and take me away, but sadly I couldn't find it. I know others have loved this story and I am a little jealous that they did and not me. We all have our hit or misses and it has nothing to do with the authors style of skill, just my own lack of connection with the lead characters. I was so lost to the rhyme or reason's of the MC's, their choices and their deals, that it pretty much was a lost cause for me to continue on. Oh well, just gotta suck it up and move on. I encourage you all to take a chance, since this is more of a me issue vs. a book issue.
ARC kindly provided by the author, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Read
January 21, 2016DNF at 30%!
This book feels like another series I haven't even finished so there is no way I'm getting into this one.
As soon as Sinclair got Stella to his house to sign the contract I started getting vibes like I've read something like this before. So similar that I had no problems guessing which series it was like.
Three brothers (one seems nice and one seems more evil), a crooked judge, a step brother who I bet starts trouble because he loves Stella, Sinclair likes to ride when he's anxious (instead of horses its cars) and there are quilts in her room like people before her have sewn them!
Yea sorry but I'm off to find something else:(
This book feels like another series I haven't even finished so there is no way I'm getting into this one.
As soon as Sinclair got Stella to his house to sign the contract I started getting vibes like I've read something like this before. So similar that I had no problems guessing which series it was like.
Three brothers (one seems nice and one seems more evil), a crooked judge, a step brother who I bet starts trouble because he loves Stella, Sinclair likes to ride when he's anxious (instead of horses its cars) and there are quilts in her room like people before her have sewn them!
Yea sorry but I'm off to find something else:(
January 1, 2016
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is the first book on a Read for Review that made me actually feel sick. It was vile beyond description. If negative stars were possible, that would be an option exercised.
LET ME SAY THIS CLEARLY: IF YOU HAVE ANY SEMBLANCE OF EMPATHY, COMPASSION, OR HUMAN DECENCY, DO NOT READ THIS BOOK! DO NOT READ IT. DO NOT EVEN CONSIDER IT.
This book caused me to break so many of my "reviewer rules."
I do not read other reviews before I write my own....rule broken
I read each book twice, once for content, once for character.....rule unable to be followed.
I do not read a review book quickly....I finished this one in under 90 minutes.
I do not form opinions until I am at least 50% through a book...my opinion was set in stone at 15%
Plot: A Louisiana prosecutor uses his position to enslave (not like in a traditional BDSM sense but actual human trafficking) the daughter of a man he is threatening to send to prison for what is likely a death sentence for a white collar crime (there is no sense that he actually broke any laws). The girl agrees and her life becomes a living hell that the author attempts and fails to make seem erotic.
Characters: Sinclair, corrupt prosecutor and slave master. Stella, daughter of man on trial and Sinclair's plaything. Other ancillary characters failed to make any impression because they were merely satellites to Sinclair and his twisted games. Because the characters are cardboard caricatures, there is nothing to say positively about how they are drawn. Sinclair is bare-bones wickedness, Stella is every stereotype of feminine naivety yet sexually performs like a trained monkey.
What I liked about it: If i had to pick something, it would be that, in some small way, Stella gets to give a gigantic fuck-you to Sinclair in the end.
What I did not like (buckle up, ladies and gentleman, because here we go):
1. Un-erotic in extremis. Isn't the primary point of erotica and romance novels to titillate and arouse? At no point in this book did I feel even a twinge of eroticism. Instead, I felt violent revulsion and disgust. If others find it erotic, I do not want to know them.
2a. Abuse of power. When you set your story in a real place, rules of reality apply. Stella merely could have recorded the conversation, taken the contract to the Attorney General and Sinclair along with the judge would have been the ones in prison, Sinclair becoming the prison pet of some very nasty people.
2b. Related to the abuse of power is the stereotyping of Southern politicians. When I read the description of both Sinclair and the judge, my first thought was that the writer had seen "All the King's Men" a few too many times and decided to combine that with deviant sexuality.
3. Blood and violence are NOT arousing. The beating he administers was hellish and regardless of the lack of *graphic* detail, a reader with even a twinge of empathy would be disgusted.
4. Irredeemable darkness. In no way does anything Sinclair says or does make me believe he actually values Stella as anything more than a slave. (Here, I look to other reviewers and marvel that they saw the opposite.)
5. Tedious. Tease your reader a little but get the damned plot somewhere. The "slavish" obsession with every detail of her abuse and his enjoyment of it was simultaneously disturbing and distracting.
6. The "cliff-hanger." Just end the damned story here.
7. The attempt to redeem "human trafficking" as somehow a romance theme. The author has clearly never worked with those who have been abused in this way. There is no redemption for those who traffic in flesh.
Here again, I violate one of my rules: This book made me long for the intellectual depth of the 50 Shades series. When Sinclair outright admits to enslaving others, I was prepared to quit this book. Dubious consent? Sure, that works. Slavery in a fantasy world (Sleeping Beauty trilogy, Gorean works, fan-fictions? These are unreal and the reader can recognize things as un-real). But this was set in real time and place, real people, and that was not acceptable for me. Even as I write this review, I am struggling with the feeling of having been befouled by this thing.
What would I recommend? Therapy for anyone who thinks slavery is erotic, criminal investigation for those who think human trafficking is a "romance novel" genre. I certainly would not recommend reading this book.
I have authors I count as friends who have had their books removed from booksellers for questionable qualities, and believe me when I say NOTHING they wrote approaches this in terms of of the evil, the darkness, the deviant nature, or the disturbingly detailed way the author writes of the complete debasement of another human being for the pleasure of others. I deleted this book immediately before I wrote this sentence, and, if I could, I would take something to remove any memory of it from me.
But perhaps what disturbs me most? The nonchalant way this twisted mess is presented as though it is just a "dark romance." I cannot convey the horror I felt as I read it. A person with even a slight amount of empathy would cringe in disgust from this book. But alas, we have a sequel.....which I would not read if paid.
This is the first book on a Read for Review that made me actually feel sick. It was vile beyond description. If negative stars were possible, that would be an option exercised.
LET ME SAY THIS CLEARLY: IF YOU HAVE ANY SEMBLANCE OF EMPATHY, COMPASSION, OR HUMAN DECENCY, DO NOT READ THIS BOOK! DO NOT READ IT. DO NOT EVEN CONSIDER IT.
This book caused me to break so many of my "reviewer rules."
I do not read other reviews before I write my own....rule broken
I read each book twice, once for content, once for character.....rule unable to be followed.
I do not read a review book quickly....I finished this one in under 90 minutes.
I do not form opinions until I am at least 50% through a book...my opinion was set in stone at 15%
Plot: A Louisiana prosecutor uses his position to enslave (not like in a traditional BDSM sense but actual human trafficking) the daughter of a man he is threatening to send to prison for what is likely a death sentence for a white collar crime (there is no sense that he actually broke any laws). The girl agrees and her life becomes a living hell that the author attempts and fails to make seem erotic.
Characters: Sinclair, corrupt prosecutor and slave master. Stella, daughter of man on trial and Sinclair's plaything. Other ancillary characters failed to make any impression because they were merely satellites to Sinclair and his twisted games. Because the characters are cardboard caricatures, there is nothing to say positively about how they are drawn. Sinclair is bare-bones wickedness, Stella is every stereotype of feminine naivety yet sexually performs like a trained monkey.
What I liked about it: If i had to pick something, it would be that, in some small way, Stella gets to give a gigantic fuck-you to Sinclair in the end.
What I did not like (buckle up, ladies and gentleman, because here we go):
1. Un-erotic in extremis. Isn't the primary point of erotica and romance novels to titillate and arouse? At no point in this book did I feel even a twinge of eroticism. Instead, I felt violent revulsion and disgust. If others find it erotic, I do not want to know them.
2a. Abuse of power. When you set your story in a real place, rules of reality apply. Stella merely could have recorded the conversation, taken the contract to the Attorney General and Sinclair along with the judge would have been the ones in prison, Sinclair becoming the prison pet of some very nasty people.
2b. Related to the abuse of power is the stereotyping of Southern politicians. When I read the description of both Sinclair and the judge, my first thought was that the writer had seen "All the King's Men" a few too many times and decided to combine that with deviant sexuality.
3. Blood and violence are NOT arousing. The beating he administers was hellish and regardless of the lack of *graphic* detail, a reader with even a twinge of empathy would be disgusted.
4. Irredeemable darkness. In no way does anything Sinclair says or does make me believe he actually values Stella as anything more than a slave. (Here, I look to other reviewers and marvel that they saw the opposite.)
5. Tedious. Tease your reader a little but get the damned plot somewhere. The "slavish" obsession with every detail of her abuse and his enjoyment of it was simultaneously disturbing and distracting.
6. The "cliff-hanger." Just end the damned story here.
7. The attempt to redeem "human trafficking" as somehow a romance theme. The author has clearly never worked with those who have been abused in this way. There is no redemption for those who traffic in flesh.
Here again, I violate one of my rules: This book made me long for the intellectual depth of the 50 Shades series. When Sinclair outright admits to enslaving others, I was prepared to quit this book. Dubious consent? Sure, that works. Slavery in a fantasy world (Sleeping Beauty trilogy, Gorean works, fan-fictions? These are unreal and the reader can recognize things as un-real). But this was set in real time and place, real people, and that was not acceptable for me. Even as I write this review, I am struggling with the feeling of having been befouled by this thing.
What would I recommend? Therapy for anyone who thinks slavery is erotic, criminal investigation for those who think human trafficking is a "romance novel" genre. I certainly would not recommend reading this book.
I have authors I count as friends who have had their books removed from booksellers for questionable qualities, and believe me when I say NOTHING they wrote approaches this in terms of of the evil, the darkness, the deviant nature, or the disturbingly detailed way the author writes of the complete debasement of another human being for the pleasure of others. I deleted this book immediately before I wrote this sentence, and, if I could, I would take something to remove any memory of it from me.
But perhaps what disturbs me most? The nonchalant way this twisted mess is presented as though it is just a "dark romance." I cannot convey the horror I felt as I read it. A person with even a slight amount of empathy would cringe in disgust from this book. But alas, we have a sequel.....which I would not read if paid.
November 16, 2015
Sinclair Vinemont, our anti-hero, belongs to an old and long line of aristocratic ancestry. An ancestry so old, they belong to the most affluent and prestigious, and they govern themselves via a Sovereign. Sinclair a lawyer by day, and at night when the mask comes off, their is only darkness, their is only a Vinemont.
As the eldest Vinemont, and as per traditions, it is Sinclair's duty to participate and fulfil the role within the Acquisition. This is where our forlorn heroine comes into play. Stella Rousseau, is acquired in a one year contract, in order to aid her father's escape from life imprisonment. Sinclair is her only hope, but soon, we will see that he becomes her worst enemy.
Preparations for the Acquisition Trials become a mass of emotional and physical torture for Stellar. She soon discovers the true nature of Sinclair Vinemont. And his darkness and the lines of tradition supersedes any and all feelings he has for Stellar.
In trying to play the game, for her own salvation, her main mission to lure Vinemont into caring for her, thus seeking her own self preservation, but instead... She became enamoured with him. Now, her heart was the one caught in a trap.
This story captured me from the start. The masterful display of savagery and the intimacy of want, all warring together, in an intense and sadistic story of ancestral brutality among the elitist.
*ARC provided via NetGalley for an honest review* Thanks!
As the eldest Vinemont, and as per traditions, it is Sinclair's duty to participate and fulfil the role within the Acquisition. This is where our forlorn heroine comes into play. Stella Rousseau, is acquired in a one year contract, in order to aid her father's escape from life imprisonment. Sinclair is her only hope, but soon, we will see that he becomes her worst enemy.
Preparations for the Acquisition Trials become a mass of emotional and physical torture for Stellar. She soon discovers the true nature of Sinclair Vinemont. And his darkness and the lines of tradition supersedes any and all feelings he has for Stellar.
In trying to play the game, for her own salvation, her main mission to lure Vinemont into caring for her, thus seeking her own self preservation, but instead... She became enamoured with him. Now, her heart was the one caught in a trap.
This story captured me from the start. The masterful display of savagery and the intimacy of want, all warring together, in an intense and sadistic story of ancestral brutality among the elitist.
*ARC provided via NetGalley for an honest review* Thanks!
August 20, 2016
I've got many of Celia Aaron's books on my tbr list and figured it was about time I gave one of them a try.
So...
I didn't love it. But I also didn't hate it. I was intrigued by its blurb and the fact that many readers had shelved it as 'Dark', but it was just okay for me.
I'm simpy not emotionally invested in this series. Yet.
I feel like I got a lot of information but not enough. Does that make sense? The Acquisition trials were reminiscent of other stories I've read (ex. Indebted series), but because this is the first book, I'm holding out hope that more of the author's originality will appear further on. The story was well written. The intimate scenes were hot. I'm just not committed to the characters.
Speaking of the characters, it was hard to connect with them. I really liked Sinclair Vinemont and I especially liked how the author has shown his many layers through his POV. But I'm still unaware of his motives and it bothers me. As for Stella...
I couldn't stand Stella. She made me want to roll my eyes, kiss my teeth, go on a rampage, and throat punch her. It bothers me when I can't sympathize with the 'victim'. Isn't that the whole purpose of putting her in this type of captive situation??? I want to feel for her but this character has made it impossible. She does not scream strength. She is not inspiring. She was irritating, insipid, and irrational. She got on my nerves from the get go and she doesn't seem to want to get off.
I'm off to read book 2: Magnate. Hopefully the author pulls Stella's head out of her ass.
XO
So...
I didn't love it. But I also didn't hate it. I was intrigued by its blurb and the fact that many readers had shelved it as 'Dark', but it was just okay for me.
I'm simpy not emotionally invested in this series. Yet.
I feel like I got a lot of information but not enough. Does that make sense? The Acquisition trials were reminiscent of other stories I've read (ex. Indebted series), but because this is the first book, I'm holding out hope that more of the author's originality will appear further on. The story was well written. The intimate scenes were hot. I'm just not committed to the characters.
Speaking of the characters, it was hard to connect with them. I really liked Sinclair Vinemont and I especially liked how the author has shown his many layers through his POV. But I'm still unaware of his motives and it bothers me. As for Stella...
I couldn't stand Stella. She made me want to roll my eyes, kiss my teeth, go on a rampage, and throat punch her. It bothers me when I can't sympathize with the 'victim'. Isn't that the whole purpose of putting her in this type of captive situation??? I want to feel for her but this character has made it impossible. She does not scream strength. She is not inspiring. She was irritating, insipid, and irrational. She got on my nerves from the get go and she doesn't seem to want to get off.
I'm off to read book 2: Magnate. Hopefully the author pulls Stella's head out of her ass.
XO
January 13, 2016
4 stars!
I really enjoyed this!
This was a fast paced, gritty read with a super arrogant,alpha, ass and mouthy h who would do anything for her father.
We immediately learn that Stella's father is on trial for some very crooked/shady investments. Stella is devastated that her father will probably have to go to prison and hates the prosecutor (insert Sinclair Vinemont) that seems to stop at nothing to put him away.
Vinemont proposes a 'deal' that will have Stella sign herself over to him..anything/everything he wants from her..for 1 year. As the story progresses we find out that Vinemont (who-btw- I kept picturing as a Harry Potter character because of the name) had to acquire an 'acquisition' for a series of trials, therefore there is way more to this than an obsession with breaking Stella.
So- I enjoyed this- of course just when it got going a cliffy from hell left me dying to read the next.
IMO, this read A LOT like another series so I had a hard time creating a new story line in my head. The writing is good, with the beginning of well developed characters-
I always love a hard ass, arrogant bastard when you know he has a good side... We see Sinclair slowly opening himself to Stella more than the required acquisition trials and then...well.... it gets all fucked up!
I was left with a shit load of questions... I absolutely will read the next book because I NEED answers and am hoping for the HEA i need.
Author kindly gave me a copy of this book for BDSM group R2R!
I really enjoyed this!
This was a fast paced, gritty read with a super arrogant,alpha, ass and mouthy h who would do anything for her father.
We immediately learn that Stella's father is on trial for some very crooked/shady investments. Stella is devastated that her father will probably have to go to prison and hates the prosecutor (insert Sinclair Vinemont) that seems to stop at nothing to put him away.
Vinemont proposes a 'deal' that will have Stella sign herself over to him..anything/everything he wants from her..for 1 year. As the story progresses we find out that Vinemont (who-btw- I kept picturing as a Harry Potter character because of the name) had to acquire an 'acquisition' for a series of trials, therefore there is way more to this than an obsession with breaking Stella.
So- I enjoyed this- of course just when it got going a cliffy from hell left me dying to read the next.
IMO, this read A LOT like another series so I had a hard time creating a new story line in my head. The writing is good, with the beginning of well developed characters-
I always love a hard ass, arrogant bastard when you know he has a good side... We see Sinclair slowly opening himself to Stella more than the required acquisition trials and then...well.... it gets all fucked up!
I was left with a shit load of questions... I absolutely will read the next book because I NEED answers and am hoping for the HEA i need.
Author kindly gave me a copy of this book for BDSM group R2R!
January 15, 2017
I'm completely speechless. Talking about an epic one of a kind dark read. Celia Aaron only continues to amaze me with her one of a kind mind fuckery! Sinfully hot but then comes the pain and all the puzzle pieces of hidden truths comes out. I will say this much about Sinclair he's positively evil and I'm not sure if there's any redeeming qualities.
He has more secrets than the federal goverment and a life right out of nightmares, and his foul brother Lucius? Why worry about one venomous snake when you could have two nipping at your heels!
As for the story itself.....damn good! Omg, loved it, stayed up all night just to feed the curiosity need! Yeah, I'm getting the next in the series!
January 19, 2016
4.5 stars
Really enjoying this series. I'll try and do a more detailed review at the end of part III (not a fan of reviewing installments).
Just a quick heads up: if you picked this book up based on the blurb and saw the warning, don't take it lightly. Take this series for what it is - over the top, dark and twisted erotica. At the end of the day, this is fiction. Don't over-analyze it. Enjoy it.
April 4, 2018
Do you like the Indebted series by Pepper Winters? You'll want to pick up this book!
dnf
December 18, 2019Dnf @ 66% 🙄
January 21, 2016
4.5 stars
What an amazing book! What an amazing story! The story has definitely dark elements but I don't know if it's really dark. It's definitely twisted! I really loved it! The plot is full of surprises and twists! I couldn't put this book down and when I did, I couldn't put it out of my head! The writing is fabulous! The story is said by dual POV (Sin's and Stella's) and it's excellently done! I have to give my congratulations to Ms. Aaron for the amazing writing! The book has everything that I love in a good book. There was mystery, suspense, tension, darkness and of course two amazing heroes! Stella and Sin! But be aware that the book is not for the fade of heart! It's really strong and its twists may be triggers for some.
Stella is a young woman with a soft heart but with amazing strong survival instincts! I honestly love her! She doesn't give up or give in! She is truly amazing! She doesn't hide behind her finger and she speaks her mind! I can speak for hours about her but I cannot give you too many information. You have to go blind in this book!
Sinclair is also an amazing character but not to fall in love with! He is the bad one in the story! Yes, he is! And he says it himself. I wanted to love him but he didn't let me with his actions and words and that was a very pleasant difference in an erotica book!
The end of the book is a cliffhanger. The last chapters were so intense...fantastic! And then the book stopped! I was voiceless! Simply...! I cannot wait to take the next one in my hands!
I definitely recommend this book to everyone who loves a good dark and twisted erotica book!
What an amazing book! What an amazing story! The story has definitely dark elements but I don't know if it's really dark. It's definitely twisted! I really loved it! The plot is full of surprises and twists! I couldn't put this book down and when I did, I couldn't put it out of my head! The writing is fabulous! The story is said by dual POV (Sin's and Stella's) and it's excellently done! I have to give my congratulations to Ms. Aaron for the amazing writing! The book has everything that I love in a good book. There was mystery, suspense, tension, darkness and of course two amazing heroes! Stella and Sin! But be aware that the book is not for the fade of heart! It's really strong and its twists may be triggers for some.
Stella is a young woman with a soft heart but with amazing strong survival instincts! I honestly love her! She doesn't give up or give in! She is truly amazing! She doesn't hide behind her finger and she speaks her mind! I can speak for hours about her but I cannot give you too many information. You have to go blind in this book!
Sinclair is also an amazing character but not to fall in love with! He is the bad one in the story! Yes, he is! And he says it himself. I wanted to love him but he didn't let me with his actions and words and that was a very pleasant difference in an erotica book!
The end of the book is a cliffhanger. The last chapters were so intense...fantastic! And then the book stopped! I was voiceless! Simply...! I cannot wait to take the next one in my hands!
I definitely recommend this book to everyone who loves a good dark and twisted erotica book!
February 14, 2017
I'm not even sure what to say about this one.
Did I end up enjoying it? Yes, but I'm not quite sure how because Sinclair is a dickhead. I do have to say that the name Vinemont is used 294 times in this book. I can't stand it when a word is repeated over and over again. But I pushed on and it was worth it. Stella and Sinclair's sexy times were hot and the story line was interesting, now I have to bloody wait ages for the next one.
What bollocks
Did I end up enjoying it? Yes, but I'm not quite sure how because Sinclair is a dickhead. I do have to say that the name Vinemont is used 294 times in this book. I can't stand it when a word is repeated over and over again. But I pushed on and it was worth it. Stella and Sinclair's sexy times were hot and the story line was interesting, now I have to bloody wait ages for the next one.
What bollocks
January 22, 2016
The similarities between this and Pepper Winter's Indebted series were astounding.
The similarities: *****major spoilers*****
Acquisition: The eldest in each generation had to acquire an acquisition i.e. person they will abuse.
Indebted: The eldest in each generation had a debt inheritance i.e. person they will abuse.
Acquisition: The acquisition had to go through torturous trials.
Indebted: The indebted had to go through torturous debts.
Acquisition: Stella became an acquisition to prevent her father and stepbrother from being hurt.
Indebted: Nila was remained indebted to prevent her father and brother from being hurt.
Acquisition: Sinclair was reluctant to be involved but did it for power.
Indebted: Jethro was reluctant to be involved but did it for power.
Acquisition: Sinclair had feelings for Stella but shouldn't.
Indebted: Jethro had feelings for Nila but shouldn't.
Acquisition: Stella had to stand naked in the dining room in front of Sinclair's brothers.
Indebted: Nila had to be naked and serve Jethro's male family members along with other men.
Acquisition: Sinclair was not supposed to have sex with Stella but did anyway.
Indebted: Jethro was not supposed to have sex with Nila but did anyway.
Acquisition: Sinclair beat her with a whip causing her back to be scarred.
Indebted: Jethro beat her with a whip causing Nila's back to be scarred.
Acquisition: Sinclair's brother Teddy was nice and friendly to Stella.
Indebted: Jethro's brother Kes was nice and friendly to Nila.
Acquisition: Stella was somewhat torn between trusting Sinclair or Lucian.
Indebted: Nila was somewhat torn between wanting Jethro or Kes.
Acquisition: Stella's father gave her to Sinclair.
Indebted: Nila's father knew she'd be taken and didn't prevent it.
This book wasn't as far fetched as the Indebted series, but it wasn't nearly as dark or entertaining. Sinclair and Stella lacked the chemistry of Nila and Jethro. Sinclair was just an asshole. It's beyond me why Stella was interested in him. It had a love triangle vibe since Sinclair and his brother were fighting over her. The end was stupid. I hate pointless drama.
The similarities: *****major spoilers*****
Acquisition: The eldest in each generation had to acquire an acquisition i.e. person they will abuse.
Indebted: The eldest in each generation had a debt inheritance i.e. person they will abuse.
Acquisition: The acquisition had to go through torturous trials.
Indebted: The indebted had to go through torturous debts.
Acquisition: Stella became an acquisition to prevent her father and stepbrother from being hurt.
Indebted: Nila was remained indebted to prevent her father and brother from being hurt.
Acquisition: Sinclair was reluctant to be involved but did it for power.
Indebted: Jethro was reluctant to be involved but did it for power.
Acquisition: Sinclair had feelings for Stella but shouldn't.
Indebted: Jethro had feelings for Nila but shouldn't.
Acquisition: Stella had to stand naked in the dining room in front of Sinclair's brothers.
Indebted: Nila had to be naked and serve Jethro's male family members along with other men.
Acquisition: Sinclair was not supposed to have sex with Stella but did anyway.
Indebted: Jethro was not supposed to have sex with Nila but did anyway.
Acquisition: Sinclair beat her with a whip causing her back to be scarred.
Indebted: Jethro beat her with a whip causing Nila's back to be scarred.
Acquisition: Sinclair's brother Teddy was nice and friendly to Stella.
Indebted: Jethro's brother Kes was nice and friendly to Nila.
Acquisition: Stella was somewhat torn between trusting Sinclair or Lucian.
Indebted: Nila was somewhat torn between wanting Jethro or Kes.
Acquisition: Stella's father gave her to Sinclair.
Indebted: Nila's father knew she'd be taken and didn't prevent it.
This book wasn't as far fetched as the Indebted series, but it wasn't nearly as dark or entertaining. Sinclair and Stella lacked the chemistry of Nila and Jethro. Sinclair was just an asshole. It's beyond me why Stella was interested in him. It had a love triangle vibe since Sinclair and his brother were fighting over her. The end was stupid. I hate pointless drama.
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