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Beautifully Damaged #3
Beautifully Decadent
Avery Collins has just landed her dream job, pastry chef for the posh-Manhattan restaurant Clover. Her new boss, Trace Montgomery, even helped with securing her an affordable place to live: a beautifully restored carriage house owned by his friend, Rafe McKenzie—a man that makes her catch her breath and stirs her imagination. Trouble is, he's involved with someone, his father is being released after 25 years in prison and Avery is just his tenant. Exploring the attraction that sizzles whenever they're together would be the icing on the cake, but Avery knows all too well that you can't have everything. Of course, what's cake without icing?
Rafe McKenzie's world shattered at nine when his father Liam—the only parent he knew—was arrested and convicted for armed robbery. Growing up in the system, Rafe managed to survive his childhood and now has a job he enjoys, a house he's restoring and a tight circle of friends. He's even working on reconciling with his dad, both eager to put the past in the past.
Happy for the income a tenant would bring, Rafe agrees to rent his carriage house to Clover's new pastry chef. When Avery Collins pulls up his drive, she's not at all what he's expecting. Funny, sexy and as sweet as her desserts, it doesn't take long for things between them to heat up. Just when it seems as if they'll have their cake and eat it too, the past comes back with deadly intent leaving Rafe to figure out who's pulling the strings before his world shatters again.
This book is part of a series, but it can be read as a standalone.
Due to strong language and sexual content, this book is not intended for readers under the age of 18.
Rafe McKenzie's world shattered at nine when his father Liam—the only parent he knew—was arrested and convicted for armed robbery. Growing up in the system, Rafe managed to survive his childhood and now has a job he enjoys, a house he's restoring and a tight circle of friends. He's even working on reconciling with his dad, both eager to put the past in the past.
Happy for the income a tenant would bring, Rafe agrees to rent his carriage house to Clover's new pastry chef. When Avery Collins pulls up his drive, she's not at all what he's expecting. Funny, sexy and as sweet as her desserts, it doesn't take long for things between them to heat up. Just when it seems as if they'll have their cake and eat it too, the past comes back with deadly intent leaving Rafe to figure out who's pulling the strings before his world shatters again.
This book is part of a series, but it can be read as a standalone.
Due to strong language and sexual content, this book is not intended for readers under the age of 18.
342 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 28, 2016
213 people are currently reading
1683 people want to read
About the author
L.A. Fiore
31 books2,766 followersA top 11 Amazon Bestselling author, LA Fiore, wife, mom, identical twin, hybrid author, and extraterrestrial, is a fan of the fermented grape and a dabbler in storytelling. She believes in a happily ever after, but she likes to make her readers work for it. When she's not writing, she can usually be found in the garden or hanging on the deck with her family and friends. She lives in Bucks County, Pennsylvania with her husband, two kids and their four fur babies.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 196 reviews
February 22, 2019
Is it possible to gain weight through reading a book ? I bet you are saying “NO” – impossible !! – but that is just your answer because you have not read Beautifully Decadent (Beautifully Damaged #3) by L.A. Fiore – already looking at the cover made me hungry … and the title is just so fitting to the content that it almost hurts.
It is no secret that I love the books by this author … So I got totally impatient waiting on the next book from her to be released … Yeah – it is one in the series of “beautiful damaged” – which I was sure would guarantee me total reading pleasure – I just had no idea at that time that this kind of pleasure also went right through my stomach too.
Oh – the books are basically standalone novels in that series but as the characters of the first two books make an appearance I would suggest to read them in the right order. It is not absolute necessary to enjoy this book but more to guarantee that you will not spoiler yourself into the endings of the other books.
Avery and Rafe were just wonderfully developed – there is nothing more that I could say. Ms. Fiore really worked her magic to create another set of interesting characters. I am already hoping for a forth book so I will be able to meet them all again.
But this author not only develops her characters to the dot – no also the setting in which they are placed. During reading I was envisioning Rafe’s house and also the carriage house that Avery was renting.
BUT what was even worse … I felt myself craving baked goods… without conscious thought I was digging into cupcakes during reading jus to get the real feeling and I found myself googling recipes for cakes and cookies while I read about them.
SO yes believe me it is possible to gain weight during reading this romance novel … but you can also believe me when I tell you – you will love every second of it and not regret any calorie.
June 14, 2016
4.25 totally goofy stars
OK, so I seriously enjoyed this book, and its been a motherfucking long time since I have enjoyed something this much. I was laughing so hard that I had to bite my arm to keep people from sending me to mental asylum. Because god was this book hilarious.
So, enough with my reaction. To the actual review now. I just want to say that despite the last two books, I had been very excited to read more about Rafe and his love interest.
We meet Avery Collins, a 28 year old pastry chef who wants to get the job in Clover- Trace's restaurant. Of all the characters in all the books, I found her the most complete, because the girl did not take herself seriously. She was a goof to the world, and she was a goof in her head and she knew it too. So because her deserts are so damn good, she gets the job, and Trace helps her find a house.
Now you must remember Rafe from the first book. He was the one who was giving Ember all the good advice, and it was actually good to see that he practiced what he preached.
So as it so happens, the house she rents belongs to Rafe, and lets just say that he is hot enough to make her forget everything. Now usually I won't enjoy the insta love, but she was so ridiculous, that it had me laughing my ass off.
Rafe at this time was going through his own set of problems: an ex-con father who was released after 25 years, a crazy girlfriend, and a manic step-father- so Avery's idiosyncrasies were more of a stress relief for him.
Slowly and steadily, they both fell for each other, and it was almost magical, because the author makes the reader fall in love right along with them too.
And all the side characters, they were more than just perfect. I adored Avery's sister Nat. That girl was a brain surgeon, and seriously fucking amazing.
In the end, I have to say this was most definitely my most favorite book in the entire series, not just because of the characters, but also because of the author. Her writing in this one was impeccable, and amazing. The story was captivating, without being too dramatic, and left me hungry- mentally and physically (because a girl can only survive so much reading about cupcakes and pies).
{ARC provided via netgalley for an honest review}
OK, so I seriously enjoyed this book, and its been a motherfucking long time since I have enjoyed something this much. I was laughing so hard that I had to bite my arm to keep people from sending me to mental asylum. Because god was this book hilarious.
So, enough with my reaction. To the actual review now. I just want to say that despite the last two books, I had been very excited to read more about Rafe and his love interest.
We meet Avery Collins, a 28 year old pastry chef who wants to get the job in Clover- Trace's restaurant. Of all the characters in all the books, I found her the most complete, because the girl did not take herself seriously. She was a goof to the world, and she was a goof in her head and she knew it too. So because her deserts are so damn good, she gets the job, and Trace helps her find a house.
“I love sweet things, love creating sweet things that morphed into imaging new sweet things.”
Now you must remember Rafe from the first book. He was the one who was giving Ember all the good advice, and it was actually good to see that he practiced what he preached.
So as it so happens, the house she rents belongs to Rafe, and lets just say that he is hot enough to make her forget everything. Now usually I won't enjoy the insta love, but she was so ridiculous, that it had me laughing my ass off.
"My face was pressed up against the glass but honest to God, what was it with Rafe and his friends? It was like the fairy godmother that worked this area had gone overboard, hitting them a few extra times with her beauty wand."
Rafe at this time was going through his own set of problems: an ex-con father who was released after 25 years, a crazy girlfriend, and a manic step-father- so Avery's idiosyncrasies were more of a stress relief for him.
"It was clear what I was doing, I was spying on the neighbors, but since he asked a stupid question, I gave him a stupid answer.
Turning my head, I was greeted to the sight of Rafe standing with his hands on his hips. I said, “I’m doing my interpretation of a spider. Do you want to join me?”
Slowly and steadily, they both fell for each other, and it was almost magical, because the author makes the reader fall in love right along with them too.
And all the side characters, they were more than just perfect. I adored Avery's sister Nat. That girl was a brain surgeon, and seriously fucking amazing.
"I think she’s a zombie and she uses her occupation as a way to eat. I could be wrong, since I’ve never been in the operating room with her, but it’s the only thing that makes sense to me."
In the end, I have to say this was most definitely my most favorite book in the entire series, not just because of the characters, but also because of the author. Her writing in this one was impeccable, and amazing. The story was captivating, without being too dramatic, and left me hungry- mentally and physically (because a girl can only survive so much reading about cupcakes and pies).
{ARC provided via netgalley for an honest review}
"Being with Rafe felt decadent—indulgent and addictive."
July 11, 2016
If I could use one word to describe this book it would be: delicate.
Fine, exquisite, intricate, airy, elegant and graceful are all synonyms that can be applied to this book.
Fine like Rafe…because holy shit, L.A. Fiore gave good hero with this book. He was altogether mysterious, possessive, jealous, aloof, cocky and incredibly sweet. Plus, I mean, who can resist and artistic man who his good with his hands?
Exquisite like the slow burn romance that developed between Rafe and Avery. From strangers to friends to lovers, the sexual tension and chemistry between them was always present and more than just a little enjoyable to read about.
Intricate like the plot that developed in this suspenseful romance with its many layers. There was so much going in this book with each character having to deal with relationships, both with friends and lovers and also family. And underneath all of that there is an insidious danger following along that promises to blow up at any moment.
Airy because of the humour that often broke the tension. The interactions with friends, Avery’s penchant for getting herself into sticky situation and her sister, Nat, who had a mouth on her that guaranteed embarrassment for anyone near her all made for a good few giggles and snorting laughter.
Elegant and graceful like the writing of this book. With all its many layers and different plot lines and all the seemingly insignificant details throughout this book; it all flowed wonderfully with a pace that was perfect. I was hooked from start until suspenseful finish and I closed this book with a giant smile on my face. Absolutely recommended if you like your romance with a slow burn and an element of suspense.
(ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review)
Fine, exquisite, intricate, airy, elegant and graceful are all synonyms that can be applied to this book.
Fine like Rafe…because holy shit, L.A. Fiore gave good hero with this book. He was altogether mysterious, possessive, jealous, aloof, cocky and incredibly sweet. Plus, I mean, who can resist and artistic man who his good with his hands?
Exquisite like the slow burn romance that developed between Rafe and Avery. From strangers to friends to lovers, the sexual tension and chemistry between them was always present and more than just a little enjoyable to read about.
Intricate like the plot that developed in this suspenseful romance with its many layers. There was so much going in this book with each character having to deal with relationships, both with friends and lovers and also family. And underneath all of that there is an insidious danger following along that promises to blow up at any moment.
Airy because of the humour that often broke the tension. The interactions with friends, Avery’s penchant for getting herself into sticky situation and her sister, Nat, who had a mouth on her that guaranteed embarrassment for anyone near her all made for a good few giggles and snorting laughter.
Elegant and graceful like the writing of this book. With all its many layers and different plot lines and all the seemingly insignificant details throughout this book; it all flowed wonderfully with a pace that was perfect. I was hooked from start until suspenseful finish and I closed this book with a giant smile on my face. Absolutely recommended if you like your romance with a slow burn and an element of suspense.
(ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review)
June 27, 2016
***ARC Provided by the Publisher and NetGalley***
3.5 Stars
Beautifully Decadent is my first L.A. Fiore novel. I liked her writing style, the characters were believable and the dialog realistic. I did have issues with the pacing.
Avery is a pastry chef at a Manhattan restaurant. Rafe is a friend of her new boss and her new landlord. The attraction between the 2 of them is instant, but the reasons that they both have to not indulge are at the forefront of their minds. As a reader, you understand this. Unfortunately, this is enforced repeatedly throughout about the first 50% of the story, to the point that each time they *almost* indulged and then pulled away started to annoy me.
As a result of my annoyance at the push and pull at the beginning, I was not able to fully engage with the romantic relationship, which is a shame. I liked the characters individually and their attraction was palpable, so the payoff should have been amazing, yet I found myself thinking “it’s about time” and not really enjoying the relationship.
This is the 3rd story in a standalone trilogy and while it was a standalone, there are enough appearances of the previous characters that I was interested in reading their stories, and I likely will. There was definitely enough here to interest me in the story, even though I was frustrated by the pacing.
The secondary characters were engaging, the story line with Rafe’s father added an interesting element and depth to the story without pulling you out of the central story, which is always good.
I recommend this book and author.
3.5 Stars
Beautifully Decadent is my first L.A. Fiore novel. I liked her writing style, the characters were believable and the dialog realistic. I did have issues with the pacing.
Avery is a pastry chef at a Manhattan restaurant. Rafe is a friend of her new boss and her new landlord. The attraction between the 2 of them is instant, but the reasons that they both have to not indulge are at the forefront of their minds. As a reader, you understand this. Unfortunately, this is enforced repeatedly throughout about the first 50% of the story, to the point that each time they *almost* indulged and then pulled away started to annoy me.
As a result of my annoyance at the push and pull at the beginning, I was not able to fully engage with the romantic relationship, which is a shame. I liked the characters individually and their attraction was palpable, so the payoff should have been amazing, yet I found myself thinking “it’s about time” and not really enjoying the relationship.
This is the 3rd story in a standalone trilogy and while it was a standalone, there are enough appearances of the previous characters that I was interested in reading their stories, and I likely will. There was definitely enough here to interest me in the story, even though I was frustrated by the pacing.
The secondary characters were engaging, the story line with Rafe’s father added an interesting element and depth to the story without pulling you out of the central story, which is always good.
I recommend this book and author.
June 28, 2016
What’s this story about? Avery is a new pastry chef. She just landed her dream job at a high-end restaurant in Manhattan. Since she is new in town, so her kind & handsome boss Trace set her up with his friend Rafe who rented a carriage house for her to stay. He seems to be basically unavailable and has baggage. She is new in town, eager to make new friends. Can she resist the handsome landlord?
What I like about this book is all the baking fun. I also enjoyed the hilarious banters between the characters – the author totally nailed that rom com. I adore the main characters Rafe and Avery. Rafe is strong, sexy, kind and good with his hands . Avery is super talented with baking. I was craving junk reading about all the cooking. Avery is beautiful, sweet, fun, and quirky. I love how their relationship was slow building and how they gradually fell in love. After that, the chemistry is totally sizzling. Their love story is sickly romantic.
At the beginning of the book I was a bit confused. The first couple chapters with all the hype of meeting/stalking the new boss Trace – it was as though there was something going on with Trace and Avery or Trace and Nat. I think the reason for my confusion is because I did not read the first two books otherwise I would have known he is married and therefore not the one!
I had a hard time keeping up with all the support characters. There were also many side stories with these supportive characters e.g. Rafe’s father came from jail, Avery’s father who she suddenly meets, the crazy ex-girlfriend and the kidnapping at the end. Again, not reading the first few books was such a disadvantage for me. I have to say that ultimately the author did a great job pulled it all together in the end – there were no loose ends so to speak. This book is a standalone - I just wish I read the others as well.
Over all, I enjoyed the sweet, fun, romantic love story. It was a nice short, light-hearted read with just a touch of drama which is refreshing for me.
Thank you NG for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
What I like about this book is all the baking fun. I also enjoyed the hilarious banters between the characters – the author totally nailed that rom com. I adore the main characters Rafe and Avery. Rafe is strong, sexy, kind and good with his hands . Avery is super talented with baking. I was craving junk reading about all the cooking. Avery is beautiful, sweet, fun, and quirky. I love how their relationship was slow building and how they gradually fell in love. After that, the chemistry is totally sizzling. Their love story is sickly romantic.
At the beginning of the book I was a bit confused. The first couple chapters with all the hype of meeting/stalking the new boss Trace – it was as though there was something going on with Trace and Avery or Trace and Nat. I think the reason for my confusion is because I did not read the first two books otherwise I would have known he is married and therefore not the one!
I had a hard time keeping up with all the support characters. There were also many side stories with these supportive characters e.g. Rafe’s father came from jail, Avery’s father who she suddenly meets, the crazy ex-girlfriend and the kidnapping at the end. Again, not reading the first few books was such a disadvantage for me. I have to say that ultimately the author did a great job pulled it all together in the end – there were no loose ends so to speak. This book is a standalone - I just wish I read the others as well.
Over all, I enjoyed the sweet, fun, romantic love story. It was a nice short, light-hearted read with just a touch of drama which is refreshing for me.
Thank you NG for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 7, 2017
4 Solid SWEET Stars!!!!!
I really liked this book a lot! I loved catching up with all of our favorite secondary characters, previous couples and their families and loved getting to know some new players in town:)
What I love about these stories are that they are so much more than just romance!!!! The stories are written superbly with a great mystery/suspense vibe that flows seamlessly throughout.
I LOVED Rafe and I LOVED Avery but to me I just wasnn't full onboard with their chemistry as a couple. I just couldn't connect with the sexual chemistry between them. For me, Rafe was so alpha and sexy and Avery for me just didn't match up to what I pictured for Rafe. Maybe it was the description of her, yeah call me shallow BUT I just wasn't feeling her in a sexy way. I felt Rafe was too much of a man for her character. Another thing, I hate, and when I say hate I mean I loathe when an author casts a sis/friend of the heroine and in this case it was her sister....to describe the sis as being svelte and super model, etc and then to me it felt like Avery was too plain Jane. So many authors do this with a friend and/or sis of heroine, they make the heroine of the story "inferior" and for me I can't get that initial description out of my head, it's a bit of a turn-off for me. I am a HUGE visual person and I want to have a clear pic of my H and h and if I am not feeling the visual then it holds me back from fully investing if that makes sense. As a character I though Avery was awesome, it was just the description of her that didn't make me fall for her in a sexual sort of way of that makes sense. She was pretty near perfect outside of the physical disconnect I felt about her.
All in all, another very good story. Yes, Ember and Trace are still my favorites. Sometimes its hard coming out of the gate with some GREAT characters and then to have to follow up with other couples sometimes it's hard because for me I always compare and in this case, yes I can't help but to compare to the first couple. But all the couples are great and the storyline and writing is fantastic. For me in this book I just didn't connect or feel invested fully with Rafe and Avery's relationship in the sexual way and the sexual way ONLY outside of that, it was perfect. BUT I am so glad that they found their happiness together and loved the Epilogue, as usual..... This author writes a great wrap-up!!!!!!
Looking forward to what's next from Author L.A. Fiore, she is definitely a great writer!!!!
I really liked this book a lot! I loved catching up with all of our favorite secondary characters, previous couples and their families and loved getting to know some new players in town:)
What I love about these stories are that they are so much more than just romance!!!! The stories are written superbly with a great mystery/suspense vibe that flows seamlessly throughout.
I LOVED Rafe and I LOVED Avery but to me I just wasnn't full onboard with their chemistry as a couple. I just couldn't connect with the sexual chemistry between them. For me, Rafe was so alpha and sexy and Avery for me just didn't match up to what I pictured for Rafe. Maybe it was the description of her, yeah call me shallow BUT I just wasn't feeling her in a sexy way. I felt Rafe was too much of a man for her character. Another thing, I hate, and when I say hate I mean I loathe when an author casts a sis/friend of the heroine and in this case it was her sister....to describe the sis as being svelte and super model, etc and then to me it felt like Avery was too plain Jane. So many authors do this with a friend and/or sis of heroine, they make the heroine of the story "inferior" and for me I can't get that initial description out of my head, it's a bit of a turn-off for me. I am a HUGE visual person and I want to have a clear pic of my H and h and if I am not feeling the visual then it holds me back from fully investing if that makes sense. As a character I though Avery was awesome, it was just the description of her that didn't make me fall for her in a sexual sort of way of that makes sense. She was pretty near perfect outside of the physical disconnect I felt about her.
All in all, another very good story. Yes, Ember and Trace are still my favorites. Sometimes its hard coming out of the gate with some GREAT characters and then to have to follow up with other couples sometimes it's hard because for me I always compare and in this case, yes I can't help but to compare to the first couple. But all the couples are great and the storyline and writing is fantastic. For me in this book I just didn't connect or feel invested fully with Rafe and Avery's relationship in the sexual way and the sexual way ONLY outside of that, it was perfect. BUT I am so glad that they found their happiness together and loved the Epilogue, as usual..... This author writes a great wrap-up!!!!!!
Looking forward to what's next from Author L.A. Fiore, she is definitely a great writer!!!!
February 13, 2018
I adored this story! Usually it's the Hero that draws me in and make no mistake, Rafe was delicious but it was Avery that stole the show in this one. She was quirky, sassy and just plain ole adorable. The way Rafe responded to Avery whenever she was being her quirky self was just..for lack of a better word, adorable! There was a lot of laugh out loud moments. Even the dog was entertaining!
I loved getting a hefty dose of the couples from book 1 and 2 in the series. Their books were more serious, so to get to see them as loving families with kids was great. This book had a bit of seriousness towards the end but overall it was fun and entertaining. I'm a huge fan of L.A. Fiore and would recommend her books to everyone.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I loved getting a hefty dose of the couples from book 1 and 2 in the series. Their books were more serious, so to get to see them as loving families with kids was great. This book had a bit of seriousness towards the end but overall it was fun and entertaining. I'm a huge fan of L.A. Fiore and would recommend her books to everyone.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 2, 2019
Another amazing book written by author, L.A. Fiore! OMG, I just loved Rafe and Avery! Such great chemistry, and she was a “goof”. And, he was hot! A little bit of mystery. A lot of family and friends.And, an ex girlfriend that was super annoying and not trust-worthy at all.
More to come...
More to come...
June 30, 2016
Title: Beautifully Decadent
Author: L.A. Fiore
Series: Beautifully Damaged
Release Date: June 28, 2016
Genre(s): Contemporary Romance
Page Count: 380
Heat Level: 4 flames out of 5
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
Blurb:
Review:
“Reaching for his face, I swear I almost lost consciousness because the man was smiling at me in the naughtiest way. If there was any question as to whether he heard what it was Loki and I were discussing, there wasn’t anymore.”
5 decadent stars!!! Dirty, naughty and downright sexy!
Rafe is slowly starting to get his life back together after living in the foster system since he was nine when his dad was sent to prison. Now that he’s getting back on his feet, his father is being released from prison which could change everything, but he’s ready to work on his relationship with his dad. But there’s a slight problem. The adorable Avery, who’s renting out his carriage house. She’s perfect and everything he could want in a girl, but his life is too complicated for a relationship right now. And no matter how hard he tries to fight it, he give into temptation. But not everything can be as perfect as we all want it, when Rafe’s past comes back to haunt him.
I was sucked in the minute I started reading it. There’s some books where I need to take a break and walk away, but not this one!! I had to keep reading…. I needed to know what was going to happen next!! I love Rafe and his determination to makes him so sexy! I loved how his and Avery’s relationship starts and develops, it’s not rushed or instalove, it’s developed over time!! Loved!
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Melissa from Alpha Book Club
Author: L.A. Fiore
Series: Beautifully Damaged
Release Date: June 28, 2016
Genre(s): Contemporary Romance
Page Count: 380
Heat Level: 4 flames out of 5
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
Blurb:
Avery Collins has just landed her dream job, pastry chef for the posh-Manhattan restaurant Clover. Her new boss, Trace Montgomery, even helped with securing her an affordable place to live: a beautifully restored carriage house owned by his friend, Rafe McKenzie—a man that makes her catch her breath and stirs her imagination. Trouble is, he's involved with someone, his father is being released after 25 years in prison and Avery is just his tenant. Exploring the attraction that sizzles whenever they're together would be the icing on the cake, but Avery knows all too well that you can't have everything. Of course, what's cake without icing?
Rafe McKenzie's world shattered at nine when his father Liam—the only parent he knew—was arrested and convicted for armed robbery. Growing up in the system, Rafe managed to survive his childhood and now has a job he enjoys, a house he's restoring and a tight circle of friends. He's even working on reconciling with his dad, both eager to put the past in the past.
Happy for the income a tenant would bring, Rafe agrees to rent his carriage house to Clover's new pastry chef. When Avery Collins pulls up his drive, she's not at all what he's expecting. Funny, sexy and as sweet as her desserts, it doesn't take long for things between them to heat up. Just when it seems as if they'll have their cake and eat it too, the past comes back with deadly intent leaving Rafe to figure out who's pulling the strings before his world shatters again.
Review:
“Reaching for his face, I swear I almost lost consciousness because the man was smiling at me in the naughtiest way. If there was any question as to whether he heard what it was Loki and I were discussing, there wasn’t anymore.”
5 decadent stars!!! Dirty, naughty and downright sexy!
Rafe is slowly starting to get his life back together after living in the foster system since he was nine when his dad was sent to prison. Now that he’s getting back on his feet, his father is being released from prison which could change everything, but he’s ready to work on his relationship with his dad. But there’s a slight problem. The adorable Avery, who’s renting out his carriage house. She’s perfect and everything he could want in a girl, but his life is too complicated for a relationship right now. And no matter how hard he tries to fight it, he give into temptation. But not everything can be as perfect as we all want it, when Rafe’s past comes back to haunt him.
I was sucked in the minute I started reading it. There’s some books where I need to take a break and walk away, but not this one!! I had to keep reading…. I needed to know what was going to happen next!! I love Rafe and his determination to makes him so sexy! I loved how his and Avery’s relationship starts and develops, it’s not rushed or instalove, it’s developed over time!! Loved!
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Melissa from Alpha Book Club
February 7, 2017
It's been a long while since I've read anything out of this series, and boy did I miss it. This one follows LA Fiore's signature recipe (pun intended) for this series: alpha male plus swoony romance and dash of intrigue and suspense thrown in. I was in need of something a bit different, and Rafe certainly hit the spot.
March 25, 2017
4.5 stars
With our blog's Dark & Seductive signing coming up, I've made a new goal to read as many of the authors attending as possible, and so that's how this book was added to my TBR list. And I'm so happy it did. I thoroughly enjoyed this book from beginning to end, and I'm looking forward to reading more from her - a major plus with a new "to me" author.
There's so much I loved about this story:
The building relationship between Avery and Rafe - it is not overnight, but the process of it all was so sweet.
Speaking of sweats, I was so hungry reading this book, everything Avery baked sounded devine, and I loved how recipes for some of the food was included at the end. I may have to attempt to make something.
The home Rafe was building showed he was just as talented as Avery, and I liked how he made her a part of the process.
Finally, I loved the whole cast of side characters. Looks like I need to go back and read their books at some point.
Of course, there were a number of people I hated in the story. Some family members needed to stop being so selfish and get their heads out of their asses. But I liked that the author didn't have a perfect ending to everything. Felt more real.
This is one of those stories where I wish I could jump inside the pages and be part of it all. So if you are looking for a sweet, contemporary romance, with a bit of drama, this is an obvious recommend from me.
For more reviews, visit
With our blog's Dark & Seductive signing coming up, I've made a new goal to read as many of the authors attending as possible, and so that's how this book was added to my TBR list. And I'm so happy it did. I thoroughly enjoyed this book from beginning to end, and I'm looking forward to reading more from her - a major plus with a new "to me" author.
There's so much I loved about this story:
The building relationship between Avery and Rafe - it is not overnight, but the process of it all was so sweet.
Speaking of sweats, I was so hungry reading this book, everything Avery baked sounded devine, and I loved how recipes for some of the food was included at the end. I may have to attempt to make something.
The home Rafe was building showed he was just as talented as Avery, and I liked how he made her a part of the process.
Finally, I loved the whole cast of side characters. Looks like I need to go back and read their books at some point.
Of course, there were a number of people I hated in the story. Some family members needed to stop being so selfish and get their heads out of their asses. But I liked that the author didn't have a perfect ending to everything. Felt more real.
This is one of those stories where I wish I could jump inside the pages and be part of it all. So if you are looking for a sweet, contemporary romance, with a bit of drama, this is an obvious recommend from me.
For more reviews, visit
March 24, 2017
This is Rafe and Avery's story. Avery is my favorite Fiore heroine so far. I adored her. She has the sass, strength, and fortitude of the other females in this series, but the humor she brings pushes her to the top of my favorites list.
Although some of the same themes run through this book (which is understandable since we're dealing with the same group of friends), this book is tamer with the mystery, action, and intrigue. It's still there, but it takes a backseat to the romance, a point that was overshadowed and reversed in Lucien's story with Darby.
However, just like the other books, so many characters grace the pages that sometimes it's hard to keep track of all of them. It was easier in this book since many of them are from former stories. Some were talked about like I should know who they are (Jax?), and I still have no clue.
I am going to take a break from the Fiore books. Although I love her style, I think I will resume my smut-laden, strictly-romance books for a while.
Although some of the same themes run through this book (which is understandable since we're dealing with the same group of friends), this book is tamer with the mystery, action, and intrigue. It's still there, but it takes a backseat to the romance, a point that was overshadowed and reversed in Lucien's story with Darby.
However, just like the other books, so many characters grace the pages that sometimes it's hard to keep track of all of them. It was easier in this book since many of them are from former stories. Some were talked about like I should know who they are (Jax?), and I still have no clue.
I am going to take a break from the Fiore books. Although I love her style, I think I will resume my smut-laden, strictly-romance books for a while.
September 29, 2017
This was cute but I struggled to finish it. I found the beginning a bit boring and the romance a bit hokey and OTT. The suspenseful plot twist helped some but overall the book felt too cliche. Although the author tried, the humor was weak too. Reminded me of my 5yo telling me jokes backwards and then laughing is butt off. Cute but not that funny. The author does get brownie points for the recipes at the end though. That was a fun touch...
June 25, 2018
Audiobook Review
Overall 4 stars
Narration 5 stars
Story 4 stars
This was an entertaining slow burn romance with elements of suspense. It's the third in the series (I have not read/listened to the previous 2 books), but it can be enjoyed as a standalone. Characters from the previous books do appear though.
Aaron Shedlock and Tracy Marks were wonderful as Rafe and Avery. I enjoyed both their female and male voices and they were perfect for their characters. Tracy Marks pulled off quirky and goofy Avery so wonderfully, while Aaron Shedlock was just the right amount of sexy and rugged in his performance as Rafe. The pacing of the story was a bit slow in the beginning and it took a bit before I felt really invested in the characters. I loved the running theme of family (by blood or by choice) and the strong connection between Rafe, Trace, and Lucien. I did question Avery's intelligence a few times (clumsy and careless are two different things!), but overall, this was an entertaining book. The story definitely had my mouth watering a few times with all the dessert talk too!
Overall 4 stars
Narration 5 stars
Story 4 stars
This was an entertaining slow burn romance with elements of suspense. It's the third in the series (I have not read/listened to the previous 2 books), but it can be enjoyed as a standalone. Characters from the previous books do appear though.
Aaron Shedlock and Tracy Marks were wonderful as Rafe and Avery. I enjoyed both their female and male voices and they were perfect for their characters. Tracy Marks pulled off quirky and goofy Avery so wonderfully, while Aaron Shedlock was just the right amount of sexy and rugged in his performance as Rafe. The pacing of the story was a bit slow in the beginning and it took a bit before I felt really invested in the characters. I loved the running theme of family (by blood or by choice) and the strong connection between Rafe, Trace, and Lucien. I did question Avery's intelligence a few times (clumsy and careless are two different things!), but overall, this was an entertaining book. The story definitely had my mouth watering a few times with all the dessert talk too!
June 11, 2016
So, where do I start with how much I ADORED this book?
With how much I adored both Rafe and Avery separately and together?
With how much I loved the slow, sweet, sexy and hilarious way Avery and Rafe’s relationship grew?
With how much I adored Rafe and Avery’s friends and family (Well, almost all of them) and how every time they appeared in the book only enhanced the story?
Or with how I’ve gained at least 20 lbs just by reading this book?
Okay, maybe that last one is not something to adore, but if one is able to gain weight just by reading about food it would happen to me. But once I started this book only passing out and having to adult had me (reluctantly) putting it down, and even then I ended up sneaking in reading time via my phone app because it was just that good.
Avery’s passion for baking was the draw. She lives and breathes her craft and her desire to constantly challenge herself was something I absolutely admired. Her lack of ego and how much joy she got out of making others happy with her creations made her someone I wanted to see succeed. On top of all of this talent she has a vibrant personality, a huge heart and is so genuine and comfortable in her own skin that she has no issue making fun of herself and the situations she gets herself into.
Rafe did not have an easy childhood and while it may have made him a little more standoffish with people, it didn’t make him bitter. He’s taken his love of woodworking and turned it into a career he is passionate about and has carved out a little slice of heaven all his own. He has something of that tall, dark, sexy, silent type thing going on, but when you get him to relax you find that he has a wickedly sexy and sly sense of humor that could charm the pants off of anyone.
I loved the slow, sexy, sweet and fun way Avery and Rafe’s relationship grew.. The physical attraction was there, but with Avery working for Trace, Avery being Rafe’s tennant and Rafe seeing someone nothing was acted upon immediately. Instead they got to know each other first as tenant and landlord, then as friends and found that they genuinely liked each other. From there things grew and with a little help from friends and family they finally took a leap of faith. Their bantering and flirting was fun and silly and the smexy times were smokin’ hot. But what I liked the most was that they acted like adults. They didn’t play games and actually communicated with each other, which may not seem like a huge thing but I loved how open and honest they were with each other and it just made me root for them to get their HEA that much more.
Note: There is no cheating.
This was my first book by L.A. Fiore and it won’t be the last! I enjoyed everything from the writing style to the well written supporting cast of characters (Sister Margaret was hilarious) in fact I’m doing a re-read right now as I’m writing this review because I enjoyed it that much. Though this is the third book in the series it can be read as a standalone. I never felt lost or in confused when the couples from the previous books came out to play because I got to learn about them right along with Avery.
~ ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review ~
With how much I adored both Rafe and Avery separately and together?
With how much I loved the slow, sweet, sexy and hilarious way Avery and Rafe’s relationship grew?
With how much I adored Rafe and Avery’s friends and family (Well, almost all of them) and how every time they appeared in the book only enhanced the story?
Or with how I’ve gained at least 20 lbs just by reading this book?
Okay, maybe that last one is not something to adore, but if one is able to gain weight just by reading about food it would happen to me. But once I started this book only passing out and having to adult had me (reluctantly) putting it down, and even then I ended up sneaking in reading time via my phone app because it was just that good.
Avery’s passion for baking was the draw. She lives and breathes her craft and her desire to constantly challenge herself was something I absolutely admired. Her lack of ego and how much joy she got out of making others happy with her creations made her someone I wanted to see succeed. On top of all of this talent she has a vibrant personality, a huge heart and is so genuine and comfortable in her own skin that she has no issue making fun of herself and the situations she gets herself into.
Rafe did not have an easy childhood and while it may have made him a little more standoffish with people, it didn’t make him bitter. He’s taken his love of woodworking and turned it into a career he is passionate about and has carved out a little slice of heaven all his own. He has something of that tall, dark, sexy, silent type thing going on, but when you get him to relax you find that he has a wickedly sexy and sly sense of humor that could charm the pants off of anyone.
I loved the slow, sexy, sweet and fun way Avery and Rafe’s relationship grew.. The physical attraction was there, but with Avery working for Trace, Avery being Rafe’s tennant and Rafe seeing someone nothing was acted upon immediately. Instead they got to know each other first as tenant and landlord, then as friends and found that they genuinely liked each other. From there things grew and with a little help from friends and family they finally took a leap of faith. Their bantering and flirting was fun and silly and the smexy times were smokin’ hot. But what I liked the most was that they acted like adults. They didn’t play games and actually communicated with each other, which may not seem like a huge thing but I loved how open and honest they were with each other and it just made me root for them to get their HEA that much more.
Note: There is no cheating.
This was my first book by L.A. Fiore and it won’t be the last! I enjoyed everything from the writing style to the well written supporting cast of characters (Sister Margaret was hilarious) in fact I’m doing a re-read right now as I’m writing this review because I enjoyed it that much. Though this is the third book in the series it can be read as a standalone. I never felt lost or in confused when the couples from the previous books came out to play because I got to learn about them right along with Avery.
~ ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review ~
June 28, 2016
Beautifully Decadent is the third book in the Beautifully Damaged series but can easily be read as a standalone. The couples from the previous two books are featured but new readers would be able to pick up on what has happened in their stories but I would strongly recommend reading simply because this series is brilliant!
Avery Collins is delighted when she lands a job with top restaurateur Trace Montgomery and even more so when he arranges her accommodation in a beautiful carriage house. Even more amazing is her new landlord, hot and sexy as hell, Rafe McKenzie. When they first meet there is no denying the inkling of attraction between them but Rafe is involved with someone and he is also coming to terms with his Dad being released from prison after twenty-five years inside. Avery also needs to focus on her new job but she can’t help letting her eyes wander up and down sexy Rafe whenever she sees him.
The story then evolves bringing both Rafe and Avery in close proximity when an unexpected threat appears on the horizon for both of them. I liked this element of suspense which along with the build-up of the intensity between the pair and the off the charts chemistry was an all involving script that was hard to put down. In fact I read the book in more or less one sitting as it could not be left. You know the just one more page? For me it was one more and then another and then more chapters until I reached the end.
The secondary characters were amazing too and although Trace, Ember, Lucien and Darcy were centre stage in the previous books, their involvement here was key to pull the whole series together. I loved Avery’s Mom and stepdad and her sister was a blast. I liked how her struggles with her relationship with her father echoed similarly to Rafe, in that they both had absent fathers but the one who could have been there wasn’t and the one who couldn’t now was. Good analogy of their separate insecurities.
I love when an ex is brought into the mix to stir up trouble and Rafe’s ex was a typical example for this. It was good how all the differing elements were all brought together to weave a suspenseful and involving read. There was plenty of hot and passionate interludes between Rafe and Avery and I liked how the reader was taken on a gradual ride to reach the explosion that was bound to go off between them both. Made the believability factor all the more stronger.
Another amazing episode in the series and although the mystery and suspense was a lot more simplistic in this book it was still a winner and a definite must read I would highly recommend. Five stars.
Avery Collins is delighted when she lands a job with top restaurateur Trace Montgomery and even more so when he arranges her accommodation in a beautiful carriage house. Even more amazing is her new landlord, hot and sexy as hell, Rafe McKenzie. When they first meet there is no denying the inkling of attraction between them but Rafe is involved with someone and he is also coming to terms with his Dad being released from prison after twenty-five years inside. Avery also needs to focus on her new job but she can’t help letting her eyes wander up and down sexy Rafe whenever she sees him.
The story then evolves bringing both Rafe and Avery in close proximity when an unexpected threat appears on the horizon for both of them. I liked this element of suspense which along with the build-up of the intensity between the pair and the off the charts chemistry was an all involving script that was hard to put down. In fact I read the book in more or less one sitting as it could not be left. You know the just one more page? For me it was one more and then another and then more chapters until I reached the end.
The secondary characters were amazing too and although Trace, Ember, Lucien and Darcy were centre stage in the previous books, their involvement here was key to pull the whole series together. I loved Avery’s Mom and stepdad and her sister was a blast. I liked how her struggles with her relationship with her father echoed similarly to Rafe, in that they both had absent fathers but the one who could have been there wasn’t and the one who couldn’t now was. Good analogy of their separate insecurities.
I love when an ex is brought into the mix to stir up trouble and Rafe’s ex was a typical example for this. It was good how all the differing elements were all brought together to weave a suspenseful and involving read. There was plenty of hot and passionate interludes between Rafe and Avery and I liked how the reader was taken on a gradual ride to reach the explosion that was bound to go off between them both. Made the believability factor all the more stronger.
Another amazing episode in the series and although the mystery and suspense was a lot more simplistic in this book it was still a winner and a definite must read I would highly recommend. Five stars.
July 26, 2016
4.5 stars
This was my first L.A. Fiore book and it won’t be my last. This was a pretty fantastic read in my opinion. It was sweet, sexy, fun, and had a nice suspense plot through it. It is definitely for lovers of goofball heroines and hunky alpha male heroes.
Avery Collins is going after her dream job; the pastry chef at Clover. The owner Trace (the hero from book one) is blown away by her interview and hires her. Avery is also trying to find a place to live so she doesn’t have to commute and Trace quickly puts her in touch with his friend Rafe McKenzie. Rafe has a carriage house on his property for rent and Avery soon moves in.
I seriously loved Avery, I mean really loved her. She was so funny and adorable and I want to be her friend. She is awkward, funny, and as Rafe calls her; a goof. Avery is instantly smitten with Rafe and I can’t say I blame her. He is tall with long black hair and he is kind of aloof at first. SWOON!! There were so many cute scenes (tree climbing) that had me laughing. I particularly loved her drooling over Rafe (binocular stalking) and his friends. Rafe can’t help but be drawn to Avery and her adorable ways and they slowly fall for each other. I liked the pacing of their romance because you kind of fell in love with them as they were falling in love. Avery hasn’t really put much effort into finding a guy because of her career but she does want to find her HEA. Rafe has had a sad upbringing and isn’t really looking for love either but he doesn’t stand a chance with Avery.
All of the side characters were fabulous. I definitely plan to go back and read book one and two in the series to catch up on the other couples. I loved Avery’s relationship with her sister and they were hilarious. I also loved Rafe’s father and was happy he got a second chance.
This was just a fun slow burn romance that had me laughing and kept a smile on my face until the end. And this book made me super hungry and the illustrations were really cool. Well Done!
* COPY received in exchange for an honest review *
This was my first L.A. Fiore book and it won’t be my last. This was a pretty fantastic read in my opinion. It was sweet, sexy, fun, and had a nice suspense plot through it. It is definitely for lovers of goofball heroines and hunky alpha male heroes.
Avery Collins is going after her dream job; the pastry chef at Clover. The owner Trace (the hero from book one) is blown away by her interview and hires her. Avery is also trying to find a place to live so she doesn’t have to commute and Trace quickly puts her in touch with his friend Rafe McKenzie. Rafe has a carriage house on his property for rent and Avery soon moves in.
I seriously loved Avery, I mean really loved her. She was so funny and adorable and I want to be her friend. She is awkward, funny, and as Rafe calls her; a goof. Avery is instantly smitten with Rafe and I can’t say I blame her. He is tall with long black hair and he is kind of aloof at first. SWOON!! There were so many cute scenes (tree climbing) that had me laughing. I particularly loved her drooling over Rafe (binocular stalking) and his friends. Rafe can’t help but be drawn to Avery and her adorable ways and they slowly fall for each other. I liked the pacing of their romance because you kind of fell in love with them as they were falling in love. Avery hasn’t really put much effort into finding a guy because of her career but she does want to find her HEA. Rafe has had a sad upbringing and isn’t really looking for love either but he doesn’t stand a chance with Avery.
All of the side characters were fabulous. I definitely plan to go back and read book one and two in the series to catch up on the other couples. I loved Avery’s relationship with her sister and they were hilarious. I also loved Rafe’s father and was happy he got a second chance.
This was just a fun slow burn romance that had me laughing and kept a smile on my face until the end. And this book made me super hungry and the illustrations were really cool. Well Done!
* COPY received in exchange for an honest review *
June 26, 2016
I will never be able to get enough of L.A. Fiore’s writing. She has this unique way of pulling you into her stories and wrapping you up in her characters without you even realizing that it has been done. Her writing is so authentic that you feel like you are physically present in every scene and just when you think you know where she is going with a story she throws you a curveball that you never saw coming. She certainly outdid herself with Beautifully Decadent.
After Avery Collins lands her dream job, she is forced to find a place to live that is closer to work. When her new boss turns her on to a potential place, she is thrilled that things are falling into place as she’d hoped. Well that is until she meets her new landlord. Rafe McKenzie has had a life of trials and tribulations. After being placed in the system at an early age, he is eager to finish restoring his dream home, and for he and his father to start rebuilding their lives after so many years apart. However, when things are too good to be true, they generally are.
Avery and Rafe were phenomenal. Avery with her sass and quirkiness, I could not help but bond with her immediately. She was so sweet and her energy and enthusiasm were so infectious that she became so much more than just another fictional character to me. Rafe, Rafe, Rafe. Where do I even begin? This guy was absolute, sexy, swoon worthy male perfection, and he is this way without even realizing it. Humble, sweet and drop dead gorgeous. This is the type of guy that every woman on the planet dreams of finding.
Witty and enduring, Beautifully Decadent will seduce readers with its charming characters and captivating words. You will not be able to help from immersing yourself into this story that you will want to read it over and over again.
After Avery Collins lands her dream job, she is forced to find a place to live that is closer to work. When her new boss turns her on to a potential place, she is thrilled that things are falling into place as she’d hoped. Well that is until she meets her new landlord. Rafe McKenzie has had a life of trials and tribulations. After being placed in the system at an early age, he is eager to finish restoring his dream home, and for he and his father to start rebuilding their lives after so many years apart. However, when things are too good to be true, they generally are.
Avery and Rafe were phenomenal. Avery with her sass and quirkiness, I could not help but bond with her immediately. She was so sweet and her energy and enthusiasm were so infectious that she became so much more than just another fictional character to me. Rafe, Rafe, Rafe. Where do I even begin? This guy was absolute, sexy, swoon worthy male perfection, and he is this way without even realizing it. Humble, sweet and drop dead gorgeous. This is the type of guy that every woman on the planet dreams of finding.
Witty and enduring, Beautifully Decadent will seduce readers with its charming characters and captivating words. You will not be able to help from immersing yourself into this story that you will want to read it over and over again.
July 28, 2016
**ARC generously provided for an honest review.***
The only hard and fast rule for this book is to approach it like a trip to the grocery store. Do not go in there hungry. As a public service, I strongly advise not to read any of this book while you are the slightest bit famished. Every time I would sit down and get into it, I would have to pause for a snack. All the talk of pastries, confections, cupcakes, cheesecakes, cookies and offerings lathered in chocolate had my head delightfully spinning with want. Avery Collins is a pastry chef. I love her character! Someone that spends her life making sweet delicacies should have a personality like Avery. The entire book we root for her. Rafe her landlord is perfect too. Too many perfect, beautiful people in this book? Maybe. I didn't mind so much because I love the reoccurring theme of familial closeness, and choosing who you want that family to be. There are appearances by those we cannot get enough of in the previous books. I also enjoyed the cleverly written laugh out loud moments. There is a well placed plot twist and suspense that I found a little confusing and had to re-read to keep track of what was actually happening. Overall a fun summer read, earning and extra 1/2 a star because the author shared some of Avery and Rafe's recipes! 3.5 stars.
The only hard and fast rule for this book is to approach it like a trip to the grocery store. Do not go in there hungry. As a public service, I strongly advise not to read any of this book while you are the slightest bit famished. Every time I would sit down and get into it, I would have to pause for a snack. All the talk of pastries, confections, cupcakes, cheesecakes, cookies and offerings lathered in chocolate had my head delightfully spinning with want. Avery Collins is a pastry chef. I love her character! Someone that spends her life making sweet delicacies should have a personality like Avery. The entire book we root for her. Rafe her landlord is perfect too. Too many perfect, beautiful people in this book? Maybe. I didn't mind so much because I love the reoccurring theme of familial closeness, and choosing who you want that family to be. There are appearances by those we cannot get enough of in the previous books. I also enjoyed the cleverly written laugh out loud moments. There is a well placed plot twist and suspense that I found a little confusing and had to re-read to keep track of what was actually happening. Overall a fun summer read, earning and extra 1/2 a star because the author shared some of Avery and Rafe's recipes! 3.5 stars.
June 2, 2016
"ARC kindly provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review"
'4,5' Pure stars from me!!
The third installment in the Beautifully damaged series didn't disappoint had a pure vibe, filled with passion, enjoyable dialogues, suspense and an interesting steady pace plot both characters were very realistic and they suited very well as a couple. Avery came in Rafe's life bringing a new meaning with her funny and passionate personality in contrast to Rafe's more "controlled" (if i can say that) personality but yet ready to give many things/emotions to her.
Beautifully decadent raised the level higher (it was very high from the beginning of the series) the narration was as beautiful as the story, i was turning the pages with a constant smile in my face because it gave me very sweet emotions. I loved that previous characters from two first books were mentioned in it giving a good connections between the series. I really enjoy reading L.A Fiore's books and i can't wait to see what else the author will create.
"And then he kissed me, so sweetly. Yep being with Rafe was decadent so beautifully decadent."
'4,5' Pure stars from me!!
The third installment in the Beautifully damaged series didn't disappoint had a pure vibe, filled with passion, enjoyable dialogues, suspense and an interesting steady pace plot both characters were very realistic and they suited very well as a couple. Avery came in Rafe's life bringing a new meaning with her funny and passionate personality in contrast to Rafe's more "controlled" (if i can say that) personality but yet ready to give many things/emotions to her.
Beautifully decadent raised the level higher (it was very high from the beginning of the series) the narration was as beautiful as the story, i was turning the pages with a constant smile in my face because it gave me very sweet emotions. I loved that previous characters from two first books were mentioned in it giving a good connections between the series. I really enjoy reading L.A Fiore's books and i can't wait to see what else the author will create.
"And then he kissed me, so sweetly. Yep being with Rafe was decadent so beautifully decadent."
July 17, 2016
This series is fan bloody tastic. I am hoping there are more books in this series (please)??
March 10, 2017
Decadently Sweet with a dash of mystery!
Avery and Rafe were fricking adorable!
Beautifully Decadent takes place three years after Lucien and Darcy's story (Beautifully Forgotten). His buddies Trace and Lucien have been happily married with adorable toddlers. For three orphans that formed an everlasting bond, their little family of three has grown exponentially. Rafe is still living the single life and working hard on making furniture.
I knew from his introduction in Beautifully Damaged that Rafe was the more laid back of the three so when goofy, spacey and sweet Avery comes into town and gets hired on as Trace's new Pastry Chef and needs a place to live...it was just inevitable.
Their chemistry was undeniable and she was so carefree about everything there weren't any games to be played. Her loose tongue has her desires and attraction just flowing from her lips at times. And when she and her sister got together, it was pure entertainment. Together they were so fun!
Being the lighter story in this series, this was sweet love and just enough mystery to keep you gripped to the pages.
I'm so happy to have seen the St Agnes trio each get their much deserved happily ever afters.
Avery and Rafe were fricking adorable!
Beautifully Decadent takes place three years after Lucien and Darcy's story (Beautifully Forgotten). His buddies Trace and Lucien have been happily married with adorable toddlers. For three orphans that formed an everlasting bond, their little family of three has grown exponentially. Rafe is still living the single life and working hard on making furniture.
I knew from his introduction in Beautifully Damaged that Rafe was the more laid back of the three so when goofy, spacey and sweet Avery comes into town and gets hired on as Trace's new Pastry Chef and needs a place to live...it was just inevitable.
Their chemistry was undeniable and she was so carefree about everything there weren't any games to be played. Her loose tongue has her desires and attraction just flowing from her lips at times. And when she and her sister got together, it was pure entertainment. Together they were so fun!
Being the lighter story in this series, this was sweet love and just enough mystery to keep you gripped to the pages.
I'm so happy to have seen the St Agnes trio each get their much deserved happily ever afters.
FAVORITE QUOTES:
Stepping from the barn, the sight that greeted me had a smile pulling at my mouth, even as envy burned through me. The fact that I was envious of my dog was seriously messed
I was attracted to her, absolutely, you’d have to be a eunuch not to be, but her personality was almost sexier.
And it was while I stood in my front yard with my dad, looking at Avery doing a fair interpretation of a Beverly Hillbilly with orange paint, the color of a fucking traffic cone, streaking her hair that I realized I was in love with her.
“We’ll eat this cupcake.” He said, holding the cupcake to my lips again. “And then I’ll eat you.” “This is a good plan.” A softness came into his expression, a sort of reverence. Love looked back at me as did tenderness and awe. “Mine.”
My heart really should have split it was so full. And then he kissed me, so sweetly. Yep, being with Rafe was decadent so beautifully decadent.
April 9, 2017
Really enjoyed this book .. good to connect with the characters from the previous 2 books in this series. Loved rafe and Avery and how they connected .. had the mystery funny and sexy moments ..the only reason I'm not giving a 5 star is the fact that for me the description of averys recipes went on abit but that's just me .. but I did really enjoy it x
June 28, 2020
Quite nice... But
It started great, i liked main characters.
This heroine was a tough cookie.
Hero was toxic relationship and he waited too much time for my taste to end it.
Both was faithful from the time they were together.
But
Then author didn't know how to end this story.
There is some thriller... Suspense...
It was too long for me.
Skipped a lot.
It started great, i liked main characters.
This heroine was a tough cookie.
Hero was toxic relationship and he waited too much time for my taste to end it.
Both was faithful from the time they were together.
But
Then author didn't know how to end this story.
There is some thriller... Suspense...
It was too long for me.
Skipped a lot.
February 26, 2018
Amazing!
December 28, 2019
I was going through my kindle and found this story that I didn't get around to read and review. I had previously read the other two books in the Beautifully Damaged series, which is the reason I requested this title. How, it became lost to me until now I don't know.
I finally read it and I liked it. I regret the time lapse between reading book #2 and this book as many details of the series were forgotten to me. Because of this it took me a bit of time for me to get on page with all the characters.
Avery Collins has just got a job with Trace Montgomery. Since she's new to the area she needs a place to stay. Thankfully Trace and his meddling ways guides her to Rafe McKenzie. A win win situation he needs money to help with his renovations and Avery needs a place to stay. Trace knew this could be a good match and knew intervention needed to happen for stubborn Rafe and his love life.
I really liked Rafe and Avery together. I liked Avery's quirky way and how Rafe felt like that was endearing. Of course things weren't easy for these two which kept me intrigued. I wanted to punch Rafe's ex in the face she was written so well that I hated her instantly. I was also happy to see the others from book 1 & 2 and that Avery fit in so well with everyone.
It was well paced and kept me in suspense. And now I want to use some of Avery's cooking tricks into my recipes.
I finally read it and I liked it. I regret the time lapse between reading book #2 and this book as many details of the series were forgotten to me. Because of this it took me a bit of time for me to get on page with all the characters.
Avery Collins has just got a job with Trace Montgomery. Since she's new to the area she needs a place to stay. Thankfully Trace and his meddling ways guides her to Rafe McKenzie. A win win situation he needs money to help with his renovations and Avery needs a place to stay. Trace knew this could be a good match and knew intervention needed to happen for stubborn Rafe and his love life.
I really liked Rafe and Avery together. I liked Avery's quirky way and how Rafe felt like that was endearing. Of course things weren't easy for these two which kept me intrigued. I wanted to punch Rafe's ex in the face she was written so well that I hated her instantly. I was also happy to see the others from book 1 & 2 and that Avery fit in so well with everyone.
It was well paced and kept me in suspense. And now I want to use some of Avery's cooking tricks into my recipes.
June 27, 2016
I can’t get enough of L.A. Fiore’s Beautifully Damaged series! Each book has a fantastic blend of steam, suspense, and drama, and Fiore’s heroes and heroines share an electric connection that grows and deepens as they spend more time together and explore their feelings despite the scars of their past.
Beautifully Decadent is the perfect title for Rafe McKenzie and Avery Collins’ story. As a pastry chef, Avery creates deliciously orgasmic desserts while Rafe is an amazing woodworker who constructs beautiful and versatile pieces that add an artistic flair to any room.
From the start, Rafe and Avery are drawn to each other, but a relationship between them is a bit tricky because not only does Rafe have a girlfriend, but Avery is Rafe’s tenant and mixing business with pleasure always seems to complicate things in a less than ideal way. Regardless of the risks, though, their feelings don’t stop growing for one another, and once Rafe is free to explore his feelings for Avery, which all of his friends seem to be pushing him towards, he can’t help but savor everything about her because not only does she create sweet treats, but her quirkiness, sass, and caring ways makes Rafe want to stop going through the motions and create a home with Avery and his dog, Loki.
Trace, Lucien, and Rafe are alpha to the core and the fact that they all have each other’s backs demonstrates how tight their bond has been since they met as kids. All three men have had to deal with difficult childhoods, but they’ve persevered, and they’ve become successful and now have the chance to share their lives with someone who truly knows the kind of men they are and revel in their protective and loving ways.
Avery is such a fantastic heroine – her goofiness only endears people to her and the fact that she doesn’t see how truly amazing she is reinforces just how special she is and why it’s impossible for Rafe not to claim her and give her all of him.
I love the fact that L.A. Fiore continues to illustrate the connection between Trace, Lucien, and Rafe as well as the love between Trace and Ember and Lucien and Darcy in Rafe and Avery’s story. Rafe has been exposed to what the happy couples share, and regardless of his need to keep people at a distance, it’s clear he wants that kind of relationship for himself; he just needed to find someone who could sneak her way past his barriers, and Avery does just that from the very beginning.
Fiore allows readers to experience every aspect of Rafe and Avery’s relationship. They start out as friends, getting to know one another in a way that Rafe doesn’t usually allow, and then as Rafe realizes that he’s unwilling to allow any other man to claim Avery, he makes it his mission to get the girl while protecting her from harm when the past comes into the present.
I absolutely adored Beautifully Decadent; it’s so easy to get swept into the world that Fiore creates and remain a captive audience as readers witness the growing affection between Rafe and Avery as well as the drama that they encounter because Fiore vividly shows all aspects of the storyline and allows us to almost taste Avery’s delectable treats and feel the sexual tension between Rafe and Avery as well as the connection they share once they give into their desires.
I can’t get enough of Fiore’s Beautifully Damaged series, and I can’t wait to see what other characters, L.A. creates for this incredible world she’s constructed.
A complimentary copy was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
4.5 Poison Apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
Beautifully Decadent is the perfect title for Rafe McKenzie and Avery Collins’ story. As a pastry chef, Avery creates deliciously orgasmic desserts while Rafe is an amazing woodworker who constructs beautiful and versatile pieces that add an artistic flair to any room.
From the start, Rafe and Avery are drawn to each other, but a relationship between them is a bit tricky because not only does Rafe have a girlfriend, but Avery is Rafe’s tenant and mixing business with pleasure always seems to complicate things in a less than ideal way. Regardless of the risks, though, their feelings don’t stop growing for one another, and once Rafe is free to explore his feelings for Avery, which all of his friends seem to be pushing him towards, he can’t help but savor everything about her because not only does she create sweet treats, but her quirkiness, sass, and caring ways makes Rafe want to stop going through the motions and create a home with Avery and his dog, Loki.
Trace, Lucien, and Rafe are alpha to the core and the fact that they all have each other’s backs demonstrates how tight their bond has been since they met as kids. All three men have had to deal with difficult childhoods, but they’ve persevered, and they’ve become successful and now have the chance to share their lives with someone who truly knows the kind of men they are and revel in their protective and loving ways.
Avery is such a fantastic heroine – her goofiness only endears people to her and the fact that she doesn’t see how truly amazing she is reinforces just how special she is and why it’s impossible for Rafe not to claim her and give her all of him.
I love the fact that L.A. Fiore continues to illustrate the connection between Trace, Lucien, and Rafe as well as the love between Trace and Ember and Lucien and Darcy in Rafe and Avery’s story. Rafe has been exposed to what the happy couples share, and regardless of his need to keep people at a distance, it’s clear he wants that kind of relationship for himself; he just needed to find someone who could sneak her way past his barriers, and Avery does just that from the very beginning.
Fiore allows readers to experience every aspect of Rafe and Avery’s relationship. They start out as friends, getting to know one another in a way that Rafe doesn’t usually allow, and then as Rafe realizes that he’s unwilling to allow any other man to claim Avery, he makes it his mission to get the girl while protecting her from harm when the past comes into the present.
I absolutely adored Beautifully Decadent; it’s so easy to get swept into the world that Fiore creates and remain a captive audience as readers witness the growing affection between Rafe and Avery as well as the drama that they encounter because Fiore vividly shows all aspects of the storyline and allows us to almost taste Avery’s delectable treats and feel the sexual tension between Rafe and Avery as well as the connection they share once they give into their desires.
I can’t get enough of Fiore’s Beautifully Damaged series, and I can’t wait to see what other characters, L.A. creates for this incredible world she’s constructed.
A complimentary copy was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
4.5 Poison Apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
June 30, 2016
Excellent series
Following the previous stories, from Trace and Lucien's lead, Rafe's story was filled with mystery and suspense, as well as an incredibly sweet love story. I truly loved this series and recommend it to anyone looking for a good thrill, as well as a good romance story.
Rafe was Trace and Lucien's friend who just needed his HEA too. I hold him fondly since the first time I read Beautifully Damaged for he was Trace's best friend and confident. Since in the first version of that book Lucien was actually, for only one date, a possible love interest for Ember due to Trace's pigheadedness. That fell to nothing since Lucien could tell Ember loved Trace, and actually funded a project she had in mind to make Trace's dream come true, even from the first version of the story and they all quickly became friends. But in reading the second version of this book, it makes much more sense that they are like the Three Amigos instead of making Trace and Lucien competition, even more so since they had to have each other's backs, growing up in St. Agnes. So after reading the new version of Beautifully Damaged and Beautifully Forgotten being Lucien's story, it was only logical that Rafe would get to tell his tail too.
I'm really hoping Kyle (Trent in the first version) gets his story too. I'm very intrigue with the fact that he hanged out on the wrong side of the tracks in his youth, really something I wasn't expecting from Ember's laid-back, music loving friend.
Following the previous stories, from Trace and Lucien's lead, Rafe's story was filled with mystery and suspense, as well as an incredibly sweet love story. I truly loved this series and recommend it to anyone looking for a good thrill, as well as a good romance story.
Rafe was Trace and Lucien's friend who just needed his HEA too. I hold him fondly since the first time I read Beautifully Damaged for he was Trace's best friend and confident. Since in the first version of that book Lucien was actually, for only one date, a possible love interest for Ember due to Trace's pigheadedness. That fell to nothing since Lucien could tell Ember loved Trace, and actually funded a project she had in mind to make Trace's dream come true, even from the first version of the story and they all quickly became friends. But in reading the second version of this book, it makes much more sense that they are like the Three Amigos instead of making Trace and Lucien competition, even more so since they had to have each other's backs, growing up in St. Agnes. So after reading the new version of Beautifully Damaged and Beautifully Forgotten being Lucien's story, it was only logical that Rafe would get to tell his tail too.
I'm really hoping Kyle (Trent in the first version) gets his story too. I'm very intrigue with the fact that he hanged out on the wrong side of the tracks in his youth, really something I wasn't expecting from Ember's laid-back, music loving friend.
July 6, 2016
Another great read by L.A. Fiore. It gives you not only love and romance but some mystery, suspense, and have you laughing in many different parts. L.A.'s Characters suck you in and will keep you captivated all the way to the end. I loved this book as much as the first two.
I loved how you get the re-occurrence of the first two books characters in this one. It was also not a fast paced 2 day oh I love you kind of book. Rafe and Avery build up their relationship starting with friendship that slowly turns into more. But this just adds to the story even more with the build up of sexual tension between them.
Without giving anything away I will end this with YOU NEED TO READ THIS SERIES. It will keep you guessing left and right as well as give you a few twists that will have you wondering if whiplash is possible while reading.
I loved how you get the re-occurrence of the first two books characters in this one. It was also not a fast paced 2 day oh I love you kind of book. Rafe and Avery build up their relationship starting with friendship that slowly turns into more. But this just adds to the story even more with the build up of sexual tension between them.
Without giving anything away I will end this with YOU NEED TO READ THIS SERIES. It will keep you guessing left and right as well as give you a few twists that will have you wondering if whiplash is possible while reading.
July 5, 2016
Sexy and sweet just what you need and crave in a book. Avery and Rafe the couple that you will root for. The passion you will beg for and the story is what you dream about.
Dealing with a father that could care less about his children Avery lives a life that is hard. When she meets Rafe she realizes that her life now included a passion she would have to fight. Her morals high and Rafe in a relationship with another woman makes her life stressful because she finds that she need to not only fight her feelings but also falling in love.
Rafe is a good man, filled with passion and sexy appeal that would make this book addicting. A must read that will be molded to your heart you won't want to put it down and you will mourn it loss at the end.
Dealing with a father that could care less about his children Avery lives a life that is hard. When she meets Rafe she realizes that her life now included a passion she would have to fight. Her morals high and Rafe in a relationship with another woman makes her life stressful because she finds that she need to not only fight her feelings but also falling in love.
Rafe is a good man, filled with passion and sexy appeal that would make this book addicting. A must read that will be molded to your heart you won't want to put it down and you will mourn it loss at the end.
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