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GRIT Sector 1: Elias

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I thought I was safe.
I FOUGHT TO KEEP THEM ALIVE.
I thought I was good.
THERE WAS NO GOOD LEFT HERE.
I thought I was just a girl.
I WAS MORE THAN JUST A MAN.
I didn't see it coming.
I SHOULD HAVE SEEN IT COMING.
Destiny had brought us together.
HISTORY WOULD TEAR US APART.

Twenty-first century London - daytime
Freedom is non-existent.
Self-expression is confined to sunlight hours.
Happiness is on a schedule.
Safety is a temporary fixture.

Twenty-first century London - nighttime.
Blood cascades over cobbled stones.
Criminals emerge from the shadows.
The depraved, the deviant, the morally corrupt, own the streets.
Happiness comes in the form of final breaths.
Safety is found in the shrills of death.

A love story emerges inside the barricades.
A story played out many times before...
But not like this.
It's evolution of tradition.
It's insanity fighting to break the cycle.
It's history's repetition with hope for a better outcome.

Can love survive in a drowning capital?
What if the good guys aren't the good guys?
What if the heroes have become the villains?

Trixie Ashford has been living a lie.
Elias Blackwood has been creating it.

It is their destiny to meet.
It will be their downfall to fall in love...

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About the author

Rebecca Sherwin

20 books236 followers
Rebecca is a London born and bred mother, writer and psychology student. She is the mother of a superhero (who is currently growing his hair like Thor!) and spends her days with her nose stuck in a textbook, her fingers tapping away at the keys…or she’s building forts and eating gummy bears.

She is the author of dark psychological romance. An avid reader and lover of stories that keep you guessing, Rebecca writes tales that will challenge your perceptions and toy with your emotions. Her stories invite you to open your mind and dig deeper into the meanings of the lives of each and every character you meet. She entices you into their world – to feel with them, grow with them, to love with them.
She asks you to become a part of them and allow them to become a part of you.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
Profile Image for Di Covey/TwistedBookReviews.
1,115 reviews215 followers
June 14, 2016
I ate this book like it was my last supper. I inhaled until the last word was read.

I went in completely blind, reading the blurb after I had finished. I wouldn't know how to categorize this... I'll give it my best shot. Dark Romance applies, there's some scenes that readers may find offensive. Mystery. Suspense. A futuristic vibe with hints of historical. Secret Society meets The Dark Knight. Completely and utterly addictive. I'm in awe, the plot; interesting, intricate, multilayered, exceptional to the very end.

I ABSOLUTELY LOVED THIS BOOK!!!

Even though I could write a ten page review on why this book is on my favorites list, and you have to read it, and it's amazing, and all that. I can't go into great detail because of spoilers. Just know, this is completely different from other dark romances, I felt like the story was just more, more everything. It's carefully plotted, giving little hints all through. My mind was reeling, I was grinding my teeth in fear of what was to come. The beginning had a "Gotham" feel, modern London is more dangerous than ever, at the night the boogie men out to play, most are smart enough to stay inside, others not so much. The stage was set on violence and death. Now, before I go on, this isn't a dystopian, it's modern day London, just darker. Haha!

"The Queen and her Parliament had enforced the curfew as a way of trying to protect the public from the evil that ran wild under the cover of night."

There's a few prominent families who rule.. Hundreds of years of traditions and sadistic trainings. Rules, regulations, and heavily guarded secrets within these "Sectors." Elias is the next in line to become "The One." Years of conditioning have left him void of real emotion. When he meets Trixie, his world is turned upside down and all the rules are thrown out the window. I wish I could tell you more, but I just can't. Can Elias rule the empire or will Trixie be his downfall? She's a spitfire, destined to make her own path. Rules be dammned.

“What is it you’ve never had, Elias? Someone who doesn’t want to throw it all at you? Someone who wants you to take it, while she begs you to leave her in one piece when you’re done? Someone who won't just respect your place and stay quiet in the corner until they’re summoned? Someone who will make every action worth it? Someone who will teach you things you never knew about yourself, while you teach them all of the ways you’re a monster?”

The chemistry was instant. There wasn't any telling to be had in this story, you felt it. No timer for this ticking time bomb. Boom! I was blown into pieces. The push and pull between Elias and Trixie had me grinding my teeth. I didn't know if I wanted to keeping reading or wipe the sweat off my face. Intense. Hot. All Consuming.

"I wanted to drive deeper, I wanted to pound harder; I wanted to lose my breath and steal hers; I wanted my soul to leave my body so I could commandeer hers...I wanted it all. She gave me everything and I gave her everything back, but everything wasn't enough."

God, I have 10 more where that came from. I'm sweating again. Before you get bored with my essay. The end is one of my favorite parts. The darkness succeeds in sucking another soul. And I smiled like a sociopath. It's not a cliffhanger, but you are most definitely going to want more. More of everything.

READ THIS BOOK!!! I felt every emotion possible, I was in London battling my conflicting thoughts, I lived this story.
Profile Image for Olga therebelreader.
894 reviews767 followers
November 19, 2016
It was just okay for me so I gave it 2 stars. It's just that the whole book was pretty damn boring and I really didn't get it (the whole shadow thing). The characters were irritating for the most part. I did not connect to Elias or Trixie and their relationship seemed forced and awkward. Not interested in continuing with this series and I'm surprised I finished this book.
Profile Image for Fatima.
889 reviews352 followers
July 11, 2016
Oh my heavens ! Soooo not what I was expecting ... The first 30% came across a tad bit confusing. But I loved the fact that the author kept it that way so we could literally be in Trixie's shoes and sense what she was feeling . Loved what a mind fuck this was in terms of character behaviors . The reason this didn't get a complete 5 star for me was because of the ending . I was kinda expecting a bigger push for Trixie when it came down to her accepting the GRIT way of life . I felt it was a little rushed.

But on the whole , a fantastic gritty read !
Profile Image for S.H. Timmins.
Author 9 books123 followers
June 8, 2016
My Review of Elias (GRIT Sector 1) by Rebecca Sherwin

Sherwin has outdone herself this time. This story was so flawless in its entirety and seamlessly wove a story that was disturbing, yet beautifully depicted. She gradually introduced revelations, tantalizing the reader with just enough to satisfy while leaving them desperate for more. Each page revealed a deeper plot with greater development. A truly remarkable achievement.
I was enraptured and entranced by this possible world that Sherwin created. My heart raced, it ached and it sighed. My mind was blissfully engaged with the excellence of her written words, while my emotions were on a roller coaster of epic proportions. A cleverly written book that I would recommend to anyone who loves a heart-pounding, mind-blowing story that will have you turning each page faster than the last. Congratulations, Rebecca Sherwin.


Elias Blackwood. The master of a kingdom. The man of the town. The monster in the dark.
Trixie Ashford. An average girl who is trying her best to survive in a city where death lurks in the shadows. A destiny she didn't know she had, nor one she wants.
In a city where the depraved rule the streets, a power struggle between the dark and the light is waging. Evil doesn't always court the night, though. Trixie soon discovers that the true monsters of the city are not the ones lurking in the shadows, but far closer than she ever knew. Elias Blackwood is a devil in disguise. He will force her to acknowledge her own demons and question everything she thought she knew. What happens when your moral compass becomes confused and you begin to see that horrors committed for reasons that are questionable, could be for the greater good? Or are they?

I intentionally left this review vague as not to spoil the story for readers. It is a story that needs to be revealed when read, one shocking word at a time.
Profile Image for Catherine Bibby (Rochelle's Reviews).
947 reviews35 followers
June 8, 2016
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.

Anyone who is a fan of Rebecca Sherwin knows that when you open one of her books, you should be prepared for anything. The only thing for certain is that she will take you on a dark and twisted journey that is sure to make you forget all about household chores. All you will be able to do is concentrate on her amazing characters and their sinister world and dark desires. Rebecca shows us a London unlike any we have ever experienced before and introduces us to Elias Blackwood and Trixie Ashford and draws us in with her vivid imagery and picture of depravity. It is a tale that is sure to confuse, enthrall, and overheat every reader from the first word to the last.

Elias Blackwood is a man of great discipline both mentally and physically. Elias has many facets of his personality that gives the reader a myriad of emotions from falling head over heels, terrified and biting our nails, to down on our knees ready to submit. He is powerful in both looks and intelligence and the perfect warped mate for our challenging Trixie. Elias is a beautiful, sadistic, chivalrous enigma that leaves women enamored and wanting.

Trixie Ashford's world is turned completely on it's head from the moment she meets Elias and drinks in his good looks and cold detached demeanor. She knows there is more than meets the eye with him and she is more than a little curious. But when the questions are answered, everything she knows comes crumbling down around her and she must decide if Elias is friend or foe, lover or adversary. Trixie is inquisitive, with rigid morals, and has a sick fascination to the darker side that keeps her in constant danger in this corrupt world. You can't help but fear for her life.

Rebecca Sherwin delivers another masterpiece painted on a whole new canvas with a world that bleeds secrets, deception, and passion that is sure to leave it's mark on the reader. Elias and Trixie are a swirl of carnal desires, twisted morals, and family loyalties that have our imaginations and libidos soaring. I highly recommend for a story that will leave your soul chained to this perverse alternate reality and an unquenchable thirst for more.
Profile Image for Laura Lee.
957 reviews174 followers
June 5, 2016
I've finished this book a couple days ago and still find myself thinking of it. That means alot to me when a book still has me thinking of it days later. This book is a fresh and new idea which pulls you in from the get go. Unlike a cookie cutter book, this book had me turning the pages one right after another just to get more into finding out what GRIT is.
Elias is a super hot and total Alpha man! Trixie has been surviving her life as others deemed it should be. Together, they will make the perfect team!!!

This book would have ranked a 5 star from be if it hadnt been the first half of the book. I found it to be a bit confusing. Just very vague and not explaining anything. But the last half of the book totally made up for it! I would rate this book a 4.5 stars and cant wait to read more of this series!!! This book though, can be read as a standalone.
Profile Image for Iona Fincati.
281 reviews1 follower
November 1, 2016
I was reading this book, and thinking - what just happened!! The author will write a few lines, and I won't know who said what , and then all of a sudden something is happening, and Im left wondering how we got to that. I did a lot of re-reading over the paragraphs to be sure I hadn't missed something, but no, that was how most of the book went. There's no beautiful build up to the attraction between Elias and Trixie, it just is'- all of a sudden. And the plot goes nowhere, SLOWLY. I can honestly say I didn't finish the book as I got bored and my mind kept drifting.
Profile Image for Tanaka K.
898 reviews7 followers
June 14, 2016
You will be remembered not for what you do in your lifetime but how you inspire others in theirs. Elizabeth Ashford 1890.

Ever had a book that made your heart quicken?
Ever had a book that mindfucked your brain to point of no return?
Ever had a book that slowly made you lose your senses?
Well, GRIT Sector 1: Elias was certainly the book that made me feel all the above. Written by the talented Rebecca Sherwin, Elias is a book about the dangerous world of London and the people who control it. The setting is not your typical London setting or even the London as you know. This book totally blew me away. I was so captivated by it.

I finished reading this book four days ago and I just could not find the right words to actually review this book. I mean this book had me in shambles and It took me a while to rally come up with the right words to articulate and to really show how much I loved this book. Elias was truly a masterpiece. It was unique and written with so much intrigue and dram that truly sucked me in. I praise Rebecca for a writing a story that completely highlighted the danger, intrigue, action and also a dark tale that had me on the edge my seat through the entire time I was reading. This book was completely unique and I loved every single moment of it even though it let me with a cliffhanger that I have not recovered yet from. Seriously this book truly delivered a world class of emotions from me.

I did not want to divulge too much about this spectacular book. All I have to say if you are reading this review, drop everything and buy this book and just read this book. Prepare for an amazing ride. I loved the writing of this book because it created a vivid picture in my mind of the scenes. It was beautiful and very detailed which I truly gravitate towards usually. Most scenes were truly engaging and complex and had you really thinking on what is going. The plot was unpredictable. Rebecca always has a way of digging deep and extracting a true and unique storyline. She also has a way of attracting your eye and thus resulting in paying attention to the story, it truly shows the mark of a talented writer.

The characters in this book were unconventional and very unique. They had me so captivated and truly on the edge of my seat to know more about them. Some were dangerous and showed different sides to themselves that almost got me so confused. N this book I was introduced to two characters that left me breathless. Those were Trixie Ashford and Elias Blackwood. The amount of sexual chemistry these two was both hot and believable. Trixie so strong, different, unconventional and sometimes so naïve truly complimented Elias Blackwood who was dangerous and mysterious. He was commanding and controlling to point of being aloof. Both characters truly were a fit.

“Trixie was a challenge wrapped up in an enigma with frustrating bow on top and that confetti stuff that made you want to puke.”


“Elias was fascinating. He was sharp and he was aloof, but I didn’t believe it for a second.”


I loved them together. Both so different but yet they were the perfect couple with amazing chemistry. It made the book become so enchanting because of the unique characters.

Overall GRIT Sector: Elias is truly an amazing book filled with danger and also a dark story that ignited a fire inside me. I cannot wait for the second book and what happens next.

ARC kindly provided by author Rebecca Sherwin in exchange for an honest review. Thank you Rebecca for the opportunity.
Author 2 books157 followers
August 9, 2016
“He changed all the rules. He was so close I could taste the peppermint, alcohol and tobacco-infused carbon dioxide he exhaled...it captured me. Like I had rough and punishing rope threaded around my body, I was bound to Elias. I had no choice over that. Just the thought of his lips on me, his breath travelling over all the curves and valleys of my body, was warm and intoxication and beyond immoral. It was wrong. Forbidden. So why did it feel so right?”

Rebecca Sherwin has created a darkly fascinating world where what seems safe can hurt you, and what hurts may just be an all-consuming desire that will force you to keep turning those pages.
Elias and Trixie’s relationship is intoxicatingly intense. It makes you wonder exactly how far you would trust the one you love, and to what lengths you would go to protect them.
Trixie Ashford walks on the dark side. She takes the long way home in the dark, knowing full well the dangers that linger after the sun sets in this other worldly London. She’s got a smart mouth that tends to get her into trouble and she’s a tough cookie. When she meets Elias, she’s captivated by him- by his rough exterior and dark qualities. Soon, she learns that in order to be with Elias, she has to fight her own turmoil as he taunts and corrupts her into loving something she thinks she hates.
Elias Blackwood is definitely a dark, hot mystery. Slightly sadistic in his reprieve of Trixie, and yet he’s got a soft spot for her. He can be fearsome and loathsome and yet as a reader, you can’t help but want more of him. Because he’s not just vile monster, he’s also gentle and kind, considerate and sensitive. His vulnerability with Trixie is what gets to you. As he does these unspeakable things to her, getting aroused as he toys with her, tortures her slowly into breaking, you can’t help but like the bastard.
Rebecca places you in this twisted world of contradictions, grips you, and takes you on a darkly compelling ride that keeps you on the edge, wondering what in the world will happen next.
Profile Image for Hopelessly Addicted To Books .
3,624 reviews151 followers
September 20, 2016
This is one of the must confusing books I've ever read, I went in blind knowing nothing about it at all. I wasn't really sure what was happening for the first half but the more I read the more I learned. Set in a London you won't recognises and run by a organisation called GRIT nothing is as it seems. Elias what a confusing man he is, he has more mood swings than a hormonal teenager but then he's given the job of teaching Trixie everything about her heritage. The sexual chemistry between them is off the charts, the more I read the more I wanted to know. It's one of the most unique stories I've read, it took me out of comfort zone and kept me wanting more. If your looking for something that little bit different then this is for you.

****Reviewed For Sweet Spot Sisterhood Blog****
Profile Image for Tracie Podger.
Author 54 books658 followers
May 31, 2016
Having read all of Rebecca Sherwin's work I have to say this is her best yet. The story is so well constructed and has an amazing and unique storyline. Elias Blackwood is a man set in his ways with an important role to play within the city of London. Trixie Ashford comes into his life and shakes that all up. The chemistry between them is electric. This is a dark story of a life unknown for Trixie and a life needing change for Elias. As is her usual style, Rebecca weaves a tale of intrigue and suspense, of lust and love. The story is so well written, the pace kept me turning the page and needing to know what happened next. Highly recommended.
Profile Image for Kim.
616 reviews46 followers
Want to read
October 23, 2016
The beginning threw me. Like I don't want to read about that kind of evil. I might dive in again but not at this time.
Profile Image for Tracey Nelson.
171 reviews9 followers
January 31, 2017
Ugh. If I have to go through 50 percent of a book and still have no idea what the hell I'm reading? I'm bowing out.
Profile Image for Magwan.
680 reviews6 followers
October 29, 2017
Tense romance

A time where living in the sun comes to an end and a life in darkness smothers you.
Trix a carefree girl with her life ahead of her but her family have other plans. Set in London where by day people embrace the light but as soon as night falls the criminals take over the city.
Enter Elias who takes trix under his wing and then teaches her lessons of grit.
Its twisted, dark and just so blinking gripping. It's not an easy read because the characters just leap off the page. I hated the ending got to be honest I wanted her to be the exception. That's because I believed in her.
Its hard to describe this book because its so unconventional, vigilantes stoked in antiquated practices who are no better than those they claim are evil.
Profile Image for AnessaRenee Reviews.
311 reviews10 followers
October 16, 2016
I loved this book. The beginning of the book can seem confusing at first but I loved that the author kept us in the dark. Made us feel as confused as Trixie and let us walk in her shoes for awhile. Keep reading I promise you will fall into the trap this author is laying out. There are some parts that can be dark so be warned this isn't a sappy romance and I loved it all. Elias is an alpha male 100%. He will confuse you and make you question his motives but trust me you will fall for him. Well at least I did. Trixie will have to try and hold onto what she believes is right. In a world where you no longer know who the hero and villains are that's not always easy.i loved the setting of this story. It seemed like a beautiful blend of so many things but yet at the same time it worked beautifully. *Reviewed for Sweet Spot Sisterhood*
Profile Image for Emmbooks .
297 reviews16 followers
February 26, 2017
as Rebecca Sherwin is a new to me author, I had zero expectations when i started this. what i found kinda blew me away.

Grit is a darkish read with a futuristic twist. There is a deliciously gothic feeling there that I've not read before.

Elias & Trixie are wonderfully complex. There are layers and layers to these two, and the mystery surrounding them is what kept me glued to the pages.

despite there being a ton of information to take on board it never felt overwhelming, there are secrets piled on secrets so obviously not everything is clear cut and dried, but thats just what added to my enjoyment.

i'm dying to get started on book 2 already!

5 stars.
Profile Image for Alison.
483 reviews27 followers
June 14, 2016
5 Stars!!!

I was given this book in turn for an honest review.

London has a dark, mysterious, deathly side; one you enter at your OWN RISK! Be prepared to explore London as Elias and Trixie show you their world, it's not for the faint-hearted.

Grit: Sector 1 Elias by Rebecca Sherwin is outstanding; it's like no other book I have ever read. Rebecca has shown her true talent with this master piece and it is nothing short of 5 Star excellence!

In a dark twisted way you will not only fall completely in love with this dark, dangerous and power city Rebecca Sherwin has brought to life you will fall head over heels for Elias Blackwood. He is in no way your average man or average book boyfriend, he is a complete enigma.

Elias Blackwood is a gentleman in every sense of the word, however he has many sides to him and each and every one will appeal to some part of you. You shouldn't love him, but YOU WILL! You should dislike some of his actions, but YOU WON'T! He will infuriate you and send you crazy and still you will fall for the enigma that is Elias Blackwood; a mysterious, intriguing, dangerous and powerful man.

Trixie is the character that brings about the element of fun and adventure to this amazing story. She wasn't the type of woman to sit back and watch the world go by, she had a sense for adventure and discovery, for justice! She is the perfect match for Elias and without a doubt she brings this man to life. She challenges him in all the right ways and in return he shows her a tough and strong side, she wasn't completely a where she had.

Grit is a world you won't expect, a world you won't see coming. I loved every single moment of this shockingly twisted, scary and crazy world. Rebecca doesn't give anything away easy and keeps you hanging on her every word for what lies ahead. The suspense builds with every page turn and when the revelations are discovered you will be left in a state of shock and awe begging for so much more.

Without any doubt I have been left begging and demanding the next book in the series. This book doesn't finish on the kind of cliff hanger that will make you angry or annoyed; it's a cliff hanger of desire. A desire to discover more of the world that Elias and Trixie live in, a desire for the story to continue, a desire to discover the whole truth and a desire to fight right along with them.

If you're a fan of thriller and suspense filled books with an element of mystery and adventure you need to read Grit: Sector 1: Elias by Rebecca Sherwin.

Without any doubt this book will be in my top five reads of 2016!
Profile Image for Lou.
328 reviews4 followers
August 23, 2016
Where in the name of all that is holy do I start with this review?! This book has left me absolutely gobsmacked, it has taken me days to sit down and write a review. Even now it's 4.30pm and I originally sat down at 10.30am to start this post, I'm still not convinced I'm 100% happy with what I've decided to type but I have to write something. I only hope that I can do this outstanding book justice.

Here goes...

I have read everything that Rebecca has written, and I would read anything without even reading the blurb first. But with GRIT I had read the teasers that Rebecca had posted on Facebook and the blurb, all of which had me practically begging to get my hands on Elias. When I did I wasn't disappointed.

This book; this fantastic book is NOT under any circumstances for the feint hearted!!! There are some disturbing scenes; which made me question Rebecca's sanity! :) But my word are they good.

I found the characters to be multi layered, twisted and complex. They are depraved, warped and so very real. Elias and Trixie have a twisted and warped relationship which at times seems so fragile and almost doomed. The other members of their families are all key parts but whilst some seem sweet and good they all share in a very twisted lifestyle, others are just out right mindfucks!!

The plot weaves an intricate web of secrets, lies and twisted truths. All the while feeding you the important pieces of a complex and intriguing puzzle, which holds your attention until the bitter end. The plot is smooth and well paced, it follows a unique path that has been skilfully laid out by; the oh so very warped/disturbed; Miss Sherwin.

Rebecca has obviously invested a lot of time, effort, energy, emotion and probably blood too into writing this book, I believe that it is clear to us readers just how much by the way her writing flows seamlessly from page to page. The emotion is evident in the way the characters act and behave, how they come to life and develop (or become more deviant).

GRIT Sector 1: Elias has been an very different but very enjoyably warped read and I'm incredibly pleased that I have been able to read it ahead of release day!

Bravo Miss Sherwin! In my eyes this was an outstanding book! Well done and by the way; where is the next book in this series?? *taps fingers and waggles eyebrows* :) :) <3 <3
Profile Image for A Book Lover's Emporium Book Blog.
2,816 reviews171 followers
June 15, 2016
Man oh man, can this author write!! I have read some books by this author and thought they were great and this is no exception. This book has 63 chapters and it only took me a day to read, with next to no interruptions, I was in my element. You definitely get more than your money's worth with this book! This is a darker read so like the author says, there are no butterflies or rainbows to be found in this book!
You are always wondering and guessing what's going to happen, Rebecca has a way of writing that has you intrigued from page one, I love how she builds the story; it makes you feel like you're right in there with the characters. Hell this book makes you feel all sorts!!
London is on curfew / lock down, you’ll be safe on the streets in day light but come night time you'll be frightened for your life and you'd be right to be, you'd be extremely lucky to stay alive if you were out in the darkness!
Trixie Ashford is a strong character; she's defiant, curious and she has a lot of spirit. I love her determination and stubbornness. Trixie finds out she's not the person she thought she was, she's been living a lie and never knew!
Elias Blackwood has been asked to take Trixie home after being at work 'after dark' (and he is hot, oh my days he is hot!) Trixie thought he was going to kill her, not make sure she got home safe but once she realised he was going to chaperone her home, things were talked about that made her curious, more so than she already was. They both infuriated each other, her with her questions and him being unable to answer. The attraction between them is undeniable but in Elias's head forbidden! A little while after their meeting it is decided by the leader of GRIT that it’s time for Trixie to find out who she really is.
GRIT is the organisation that was set up years ago and continues, through the generations. They're the good guys; they bring justice to those that commit the crime that goes on through the night; that would make them heroes….wouldn't it?
What will happen when Trixie finds out the truth?
I haven't been able to stop thinking about this book and what's going to happen in the next one I could really do with it now! I urge you to one click this to find out for yourself what does happen when the truth is revealed about GRIT and what they stand for. Then you can decide for yourself if they are heroes or not.
5 Brilliant Stars!!
Profile Image for Hopelessly Devoted.
109 reviews11 followers
June 14, 2016
My Review
This is not a story for the feint of heart. It isn't a fairy tale and Elias isn't your traditional knight in shining armour...but then, thankfully, Sherwin isn't your traditional author. This Story disproves and blows every theory out of the ocean on how romance should be....and yet? I defy anyone to get to the end without needing a fan to cool off their scorched pants and a box of tissues to dry their eyes!
There are moments of such profound clarity and unblinkering love that you are quite literally blown away...combine that with a side order of some seriously kinky f0okery and a psychological trip down the rabbit hole with a storyline as dark as the night sky......and you've GOT to be onto a winner!
Normally this would be the section where i'd fill you in on the story but it's a closely guarded secret and frankly...i like my lady parts the way they are and Rebecca is a fully paid up member of psychos'r'us....it's just not worth the risk.
Let me tell you one thing...Trixie? Trixie is a screwed up potty mouthed ''lady'' who will win your heart! She has more sides to her than a brilliant cut diamond. Under direct light she appears to be one thing....oh but throw her into the moonlight and watch her brilliance create her own sparkle. She's lost and independent, shes strong and she's innocent, shes sexy and shes pure. shes every contradiction you can possibly imagine...but above all else? shes totally and utterly captivating. I'm the first to admit that i rarely connect and enjoy the heroine...they generally bore me and i see them as a way to set a scene with the men. But Trixie, well, she stole my heart almost as much as my darling Elias.
Sherwin has created something truly unique here! She's created an alternate universe. A place where nothing is ever black and white....everything is grey. Where morality is more of a question than a certainty, and where everything you KNOW to be Right....well....leave all of that at the door.
As a previous fan of Rebecca's work, I had really high expectations that, i'll be honest here, i didn't know if she'd be able to meet. I was blown away! -holding my hands up here- THIS, this right here? This is now firmly lodged into my top 5 of all time.
Thank you Rebecca.
5 stars
Profile Image for Pam.
1,707 reviews17 followers
June 30, 2016
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This is my first ever Rebecca Sherwin read and I jumped in with both feet. I had no idea of the dark and twisted mind she has. Still a couple of days later I don't know how to write my review and do the book the justice it deserves. You will not find a dull moment while reading. There is so much going on from the mystery and intrigue of the underground work that comes out at night, the history behind GRIT; how it came about and where it has evolved to today, and lastly to a forbidden love that thrives through hatred and pain.

Elias has been shaped his entire life to be what is needed as part of GRIT. He is of strong beliefs and fiercely loyal to his family. He wears many hats and with those hats comes many different facades. Sometime it is very hard to know when you are facing the real... Elias. He has the opportunity to have everything he has hoped for but in one foul swoop, life as he knows it changes. How will he handle that change? Will he be able to work with the new findings and make the GRIT even stronger than before?

Upon first meetings of Trixie she appears to be weak and naive. Lost in her fantasy land that provided good in the outside world. The more she finds out about the people she calls family and the business that they run, the more she feels like a stranger in her own home. How did she find herself amongst these people. What can she do to get out? But does she really want out. As lessons are taught and truths are given, Trixie has to search for her inner strength. She is honestly the strongest woman. Can she come to terms with all she has learned.

Will she be left to fend for herself or has she found her knight to swoop in and save her. Where did her simple life go? Is she strong enough to do what is being asked of her?

I honestly can't wait to find out what is next for us. I will be watching closely for the next book in the GRIT series and more from Rebecca Sherwin.

Advanced copy provided in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Lady Living  In Bookland.
481 reviews19 followers
September 12, 2016
Trixie and Elias were thrown together and their sexual chemistry was seriously hot! But with Trixie's parentage to become known to her and what life Elias has within his safe haven (which is far from safe given his role) surrounding his family and the prestigious GRIT.

But Trixie is an amazing 21st century, admirable and respectable woman....and let's face it - pretty damn lucky to get Elias!! But she took no crap and was seriously grounded when it came to learning all that was being filtered to her.

Excerpt:
None of the things I'm going to teach you will be pretty. Some will hurt, some will confuse, some will question everything you know, and others will test you. They'll ask you to look inside deep inside yourself and revaluate everything you hold on your moral compass...I need you to choose to do this with me.

As her learning and attraction with Elias continued and grew as did her responsibilities to be a part of GRIT. Be a part of the family surrounding her. And Elias wanted her by his side...as well as a few other members of the family.

Excerpt:
I control the empire. It's an institution for what would be the criminally insane, I guess. I deal with the most heinous crimes, the sickest criminals and the most doomed psychopaths. I take charge of the ones with no way back.

A dark read, but also seriously hot! From reading about pain versus pleasure in all aspects of their professional and personal relationship. But it was seriously well written and the chapter headings were simply stunning (because I'm a geek like that and like my formatting prettified!) ;)
An amazing start to what I can hope will be a brilliant series! Already looking forward to the second book.

Final excerpt:
Sometimes love is a curse. Sometimes it is a weapon. Sometimes it is a disease that eats you alive and drowns you in your own selfishness until you've lost everything you once regarded as important. Love is not enough here

5*
Profile Image for Jodie Scott.
236 reviews6 followers
September 4, 2016
ARC received in exchange for an honest review
GRIT:Sector 1: Elias

I was chuffed when Rebecca approached me to review this book. I've read other works by her and loved them but I honestly didn't know what to expect with this one as my fellow blogger hogs anything that comes in by this author!

I may not have known what to expect but I didn't expect what I got! What I got was a unique darkened fairytale type story that is designed and created for those of us that don't always get the HEA that some stories give the perception of. It also shows that we can find happiness as long as we accept what we are given and don't expect more than what we are.

This is book 1 and it leaves you on a kind of cliffhanger. I'm quite glad I read the book rather late as I know book 2 is due for release soon so not too long to wait. There may be triggers for some so read with the warning that happiness comes in all shapes and forms and are not necessarily ‘your’ type of happiness.

There are so many characters to look out for in this story and a lot of them we have only just touched upon. The detailing of characters is phenomenal and I honestly feel like I know them inside and out!
The story line has set a standard! It's unique in its telling. This book has given us a great understanding of what the family are about and what is expected of its members! The story flows brilliantly and the twists along the way are fantastic. There is so much going on in this story and it keeps your mind wanting more and more. I finished this book within 24 hours of starting it. I read at every given opportunity and LOVED every single word that I read. I honestly cannot wait to read the next installation of this story.

I would like to thank the author for the chance to read this amazing work that you have produced. Don't ever stop doing what you do! It's unique, different, brilliant and down right fantastic!

I rate this story 5 stars!
Profile Image for Stacey .
661 reviews17 followers
July 23, 2016
Wow. Just wow. I have read some of the Twisted dark romance series by this author, but this was so different, even more twisted!

Trixie Ashford. Orphaned at the age 5 but taken in by another family and now living with her grandmother Ruby, who holds her own secrets. On a curfew after nightfall in the city of London, along with the rest of the population. Except for GRIT. Trixie is a feisty character and though I shouldn't after knowing what happened to her, I like that she puts herself in danger and takes no shit!

Elias Blackwood. Ruler of GRIT Sector 1. He is one of those characters that you really should hate but can't help but love - there is something about Rebecca's writing that just makes you love each and every one of her dark twisted males!

The tension between the two of them is unbearable, though it's a bit taboo, you really kinda want them to get it on as although they are polar opposites, they are much of the same and made for each other. When they do get it on - just, wow. Totally explosive and I wanted more and more.

There are a lot of other characters in this book and unlike some books, I found I developed some sort of deep feelings for each and every one.

The story was toe curling at points but I just could not stop reading. Rebecca seems to have that kind of effect on me it seems! ;)

I could actually write an (even longer) essay on this book, but I don't want to give much away! If you like dark dystopia reads this is for you. I cannot wait for part 2 after that ending!

5 explosive stars!
Profile Image for Lily (Hopelessly Devoted 2 Books) Wallis.
175 reviews6 followers
June 14, 2016
★★★★★
I am so glad that the author has kept the nature of this story secret, I went in blind and I can’t imagine experiencing it any other way so this review will be vague to keep that mystery intact.

Elias is... Well, he’s everything... He has so many sides to him and I don’t think for one second that we’ve seen all of him yet, some parts are perfect others not so much but every single facet of his personality is necessary. Trixie is so strong, she isn’t your average leading lady, I loved that about her and I don’t think we’ve seen what she’s capable of yet either. Both Elias and Trixie are totally unique, I’ve read a lot of books and I’ve never come across any characters like them. There are plenty of other characters around too, some you’ll love and others you’ll despise but they all have a role to play and are in one way or another vital to the story.

I don’t usually mention this in reviews but I just have to with this one, this is one of the most beautifully formatted books I’ve ever seen, it’s written from both Elias and Trixie’s POVs and each of them have their own unique chapter heading that is quite simply phenomenal, Rebecca has clearly gone the extra mile and it has paid off because every page, from the front cover to the back is truly stunning!

I can’t wait to see where this series goes from here, I am well and truly hooked on this world, these characters and their stories. Thank you Rebecca for a mind blowing start to what I’m sure will be an amazing series! :)
Profile Image for Elaine.
134 reviews
June 13, 2016

Rebecca Sherwin is the undoubtable queen of mind games. Period.

She builds up the story without throwing you so much as a piece of grissle let alone a juicy bone. There are so many questions that need answering; you ask them all. You know she's going to feed the answers to you through a kinked straw or that annoying tap, drip, drip, drip! It's got all the makings of a Harlequin romance right? Not!!Girl knows what she's doing. She gives you just enough on one page to make you constantly turn to the next, then the next, then the next. I think it's called a page turner ;) it's brilliant. Genius! The London she has created is a terrifying place to be, it's like the Hotel California - you can never leave. But not everything is as it first appears.

Elias Blackwood is at the centre of the organisation known as GRIT and is tasked with revealing its history to Trixie Ashford using whatever means, no matter how torturous, to get the story across. He's handsome, sexy and sadistic. She's beautiful, stubborn and a reluctant student. The chemistry between the two burns from the pages as he schools her about the organisation.

To sum up, GRIT is sexy, brutal and brilliantly written. It's full of WTF moments which I've come to expect from this author. Rebecca has a knack for dark, psychological story telling and I loved every minute of it. Without a doubt, my number 1 read this year.

Profile Image for Vickie.
1,652 reviews63 followers
June 15, 2016
I'm stuck between rating this 4 or 4.5 stars.
Wow talk about thrown down the rabbit hole. I went into this completely blind and I don't know what I was expecting but it wasn't this.
Set in London, it's not the London we know. Segregated from the rest of the country, it's now run by GRIT.
Grit operates using four principles... Glory, Revenge, Integrity and Trust.
Elias Blackwood is part of Grit and when he's tasked with passing on his knowledge to Trixie, his world is thrown on its axis. Trixie has been completely oblivious to her family's dealings and business and she struggles to believe what Elias is telling her. Then throw in a ton of sexual chemistry and it's an explosion waiting to happen.
Elias confuses Trixie (and me). His moods seem to be constantly shifting so she never knows which Elias she's going to get.
Now I admit this book is probably not something I would have read had I known what it was about BUT having read it I've got to say it's a very well written book that did succeed in sucking me in. I did spend most of the first half having little clue what was happening but the details start to come and it started to make sense. The details and character development and description is brilliant and I had to keep reading just to see what would happen between Elias and Trixie. If you're looking for something a little bit different and hot, I highly recommend this. I know I'll definitely be reading the next book in this series.
Profile Image for Maria Lazarou.
Author 45 books53 followers
May 30, 2016
Do you ever have a book that has you so addicted that everything that you need to be doing gets put aside? Well this is one of those books for me.

We meet Elias, a man with so many different personas, that you never know which one is the real him. He holds many secrets, and has been groomed to take over an empire that is centuries old. It is tradition in his family for the leader to rebel of some sort, and his rebellion is not what some of his family want for him.

Trixie is a young woman that suffered loss at a very young age, but was taken in by a wealthy family that has hidden secrets. Secrets that are turned into lessons given by someone that she meets. Elias invokes so many things in Trixie, passion, love, lust and also hate. The secrets that she learns make her question a lot of things in her life and revelations are made that will concern her future. Choices have to be made that will determine where her life will lead.

This book is a dark read, and it will also have you questioning your own sanity. It is a read that will have you so entranced, that you will forget everything around you.

I have questioned Rebecca's sanity whilst writing this book, but I hope that this insanity continues into the next in the series.

I will be stalking her until I can get my hands on the next book, so be warned Rebecca.

If you love dark reads then this is most definitely the read for you.

****Copy received in exchange for an honest and unbiased review*****
Profile Image for Lucii Dixon.
1,104 reviews54 followers
May 31, 2016
I've been warring with the star rating for the last hour and although the ending had me wanting to rate it 5, the beginning had to come into it also.

I spent most of the time reading this confused, I wasn't sure if this was paranormal or just a dark romance. I honestly thought Elias was a vamp at first. This is so different to anything the author has written before and it shows how talented she really is, she can write just about anything and it would be great.

I'm still quite confused on what GRIT really do, who they are and what they stand for because it kept changing and the line between honesty and lies was blurred for me...but maybe it's my migraine causing me to not take everything in properly? I don't know, I can only comment on how this made me feel after finishing it with complete honesty.

It was super descriptive and I felt I knew every inch of the places where the characters were, but it's the confusion and the questions I'm still asking myself that have me not reaching for that final star.

I liked the characters, I loved the Trixie challenged Elias when it's something he's not used to, I loved the bond they formed out of f***ed up situations. But most of all, I LOVED the ending. I think I may have sighed with relief on Trixies behalf.

All in all, great book...very imaginative and it seemed so very real, but the confusion I'm stuck in is why this is rated a 4 for me.
Profile Image for Kerry-Ann.
140 reviews10 followers
June 5, 2016
When I finished this novel, I had to literally take time to take it in. I thought to myself…”What have I just read?”

I love a book that makes you think. That makes you ask questions. This novel will make you do that in spades. You will question human nature, morality and thought.

Elias is such a contradiction. He comes across at first as a man who does and takes what he wants with no second thought. However, during the course of this novel, you see his vulnerable side and begin to realise what has actually made him who he is.

Trixie is a fabulous leading lady. When we first meet her, you think she is weak. But oh no! She is strong and fierce and is a woman after my own heart. She is determined and will protect and fight for what she believes in and who she loves with all she has.

Rebecca Sherwin is one of my favourite authors…EVER. She writes novels that grip you from Page 1, that make you want to scream in frustration. But you never want to put it down! And in my personal opinion, this is her best work yet!!!

If you are after a story that will make you forget everything else and suck you into a world that makes you question the world we live in today, then this is just what you are after.

I cannot recommend this book enough and am anxiously awaiting the next instalment from this incredibly talented and twisted author!

FIVE FANTASTIC STARS!
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