What do you think?
Rate this book
Stare Down #3
Stare Him Down
When he agreed to walk away from the lifestyle for her, he never expected she’d subversively push him back into it. Until she did…
After tragedy stole the only man James Barrington looked up to, his perfect and orderly life hit a brick wall. One minute he was the right-hand man to the owner of the company, and in the next he was the boss fighting to stop a hostile takeover the only way he knew how. He needed to marry his late mentor’s over-protected daughter, Michaela Donavan, and stay married to her until the threat to the company was averted.
While they were together, James had no intention of disrespecting his in-name-only wife by remaining entrenched in the lifestyle. For the time being he was prepared to walk away from his Dom-like pursuits. He had to. Michaela was the opposite of everything he embodied. She was soft, where he was hard. Gentle, when he favored rough. She was refined and elegant. The epitome of a virtuous woman, and he wasn’t going to do anything to change that. Circumstances may have forced them to enter into a marriage of convenience in order to keep her father’s legacy alive, but the moment that legacy was secured they’d both be free to go their separate ways.
Michaela knew this may be her only opportunity to finally get the one man she has always fantasized about. She’s spent years studying him. Idolizing him. Wanting him in a way she wanted no other. And now? Well, her father always told her to seize whatever good came out of the bad, and Michaela was ready to do just that. Heartbroken over what happened, and faced with the task of saving the company, she sees James’ sensible offer as the perfect solution. A way to achieve two things she desired most at one time. James may consider this a marriage of necessity for the short term, but she’s determined to covertly change his mind on the matter.
Suddenly, his modern-day marriage of convenience is anything but convenient when this powerful Dom discovers his supposedly vanilla wife isn’t vanilla at all.
After tragedy stole the only man James Barrington looked up to, his perfect and orderly life hit a brick wall. One minute he was the right-hand man to the owner of the company, and in the next he was the boss fighting to stop a hostile takeover the only way he knew how. He needed to marry his late mentor’s over-protected daughter, Michaela Donavan, and stay married to her until the threat to the company was averted.
While they were together, James had no intention of disrespecting his in-name-only wife by remaining entrenched in the lifestyle. For the time being he was prepared to walk away from his Dom-like pursuits. He had to. Michaela was the opposite of everything he embodied. She was soft, where he was hard. Gentle, when he favored rough. She was refined and elegant. The epitome of a virtuous woman, and he wasn’t going to do anything to change that. Circumstances may have forced them to enter into a marriage of convenience in order to keep her father’s legacy alive, but the moment that legacy was secured they’d both be free to go their separate ways.
Michaela knew this may be her only opportunity to finally get the one man she has always fantasized about. She’s spent years studying him. Idolizing him. Wanting him in a way she wanted no other. And now? Well, her father always told her to seize whatever good came out of the bad, and Michaela was ready to do just that. Heartbroken over what happened, and faced with the task of saving the company, she sees James’ sensible offer as the perfect solution. A way to achieve two things she desired most at one time. James may consider this a marriage of necessity for the short term, but she’s determined to covertly change his mind on the matter.
Suddenly, his modern-day marriage of convenience is anything but convenient when this powerful Dom discovers his supposedly vanilla wife isn’t vanilla at all.
333 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 31, 2016
6 people are currently reading
448 people want to read
About the author
Riley Murphy
33 books406 followersRiley Murphy writes sexy, humorous, and emotional romance, happy ending guaranteed. An optimist, she believes life is awesome, people are complicated, but in a good way, and we should never stop learning. Riley currently has a whole mess of grandkids who are keeping her very busy! When Riley's not working she enjoys oil painting, designing furniture-who knew? And, traveling to see those grandbabies every chance she gets.
If Riley wasn't a writer, she'd be an international spy with top-level security so she could have a peek at Area 51 and decide for herself if those green guys are for real. Failing that she'd likely go with chicken sexer. Riley loves her characters and she hopes you do too. For more information about all of Riley's books and upcoming releases you can visit her at www.AuthorRileyMurphy.com
If Riley wasn't a writer, she'd be an international spy with top-level security so she could have a peek at Area 51 and decide for herself if those green guys are for real. Failing that she'd likely go with chicken sexer. Riley loves her characters and she hopes you do too. For more information about all of Riley's books and upcoming releases you can visit her at www.AuthorRileyMurphy.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
June 8, 2016
***4 "Fucking Mona Lisa Smile" stars***
To be honest with you, I'm not into erotica romances with Doms and subs... but when i read the blurb from this one, i thought to give it a try and damn, i was so right!!!!
This is not your usual erotica book... Yep, the hero was a Dom and the heroine turned out a feisty submissive, but their story was more than that!!!
Damn, this was freakin' delicious and so damn funny!!!I couldn't stop laughing...
The heroine was so feisty and so sneaky and she wasn't backing up to anything...
And the hero... Damn, he was sooo hot and intelligent and also funny!!!
But let me tell you some more about Mickey and James...
Well, i will start by saying that this book had a big prologue with all the things that happened between Michaela and James before the present...
When those two met for the first time, Michaela was only sixteen years old and James much older than her... i think nearly 8years... and he was working in her father's business...
Michaela fell for James almost from the beginning, but James never faltered, even though that he wasn't indifferent to her... She was just too young for him and his lifestyle wasn't fitting to a girl like her. So all those years manage to stay away from her...
Don't fool yourselves!!! All those years they had too many encounters between them... Bad and good moments, funny moments... and then came the present and everything changed between them!!!
A tragic accident happened and James lost his mentor, a man that loved deeply with all his heart...
Michaela lost a father and stayed all alone behind...
Now, she had to be the leader on the company and the things are not very good!!!
So a crazy idea is forming into her head...
She will succeed two things with one action...
If she and James get married, they will be able to save the company and she will have as her husband the man of her dreams...
So, James and Mickey are getting married...
"No clubs.
No subs.
No connections with the lifestyle while he played in a different way and took on the role of Michaela's upstanding, faithful, and utterly vanilla husband without any of the benefits.
Brilliant."
The thing is that James believes that this marriage has a purpose and he is insisting that he is not going to touch Mickey... They will stay together for as long as they have to and then each of them will take a separate road... Michaela is not for this kind of life that he has a preference into...
But, Michaela, has other plans and since James is so stubborn, she has to make him see her in a different way...
Poor, man!!! He didn't know what hit him with all those shits that Michaela was pulling to him...
She was provoking him all the time and her strange behavior was showing that she wasn't clueless about his lifestyle...
He was a young healthy man, how long could he resist to his beautiful wife???
"Unbelievable. His innocent in-name-only wife was a class 'A' mindfucker who'd been cerebrally raping him for nearly two months.
He wasn't going to lie. The Master in him was outraged, yet suitably impressed all at once."
But except all this seductive game, Michaela was keeping some secrets of her own....
What will happen when James will find out the truth???
Will they manage to work things out and stay together???
Will succeed the experiment with Michaela as a submissive wife, since she is a feisty little thing???
"Michaela had cut him, but he wasn't sure how deep it went.
Was it a flesh wound or a lethal blow?"
Well, i liked very much James and Mickey!!!
There was chemistry between them in all the levels...
Their sexy scenes was very intense and hot...
And damn it, they were both so sassy and funny!!!
I couldn't stop laughing with them!!!! Especially with Michaela!!!
I even like when James was pissed off with her and he was punishing her...
"Sir. Do yourself a favor and remember these three phrases over the next little while. Yes, sir. No, sir. Thank you, sir."
"What about, I'm sorry, sir?"
"Pointless. I don't want to her you say you're sorry. I want you to be sorry. And you will be. Trust me."
Michaela was very intelligent girl. She was sassy, determined, feisty, with pure and good heart.
She was trying to do only good and i admire her for that reason...
She had a big obsession with James and she could do anything to win his heart...
And damn, her ways were so clever and so hilarious at the same time...
I liked that she never backed up on what she really wanted...
She fell in love with James when she was still a child and she was waiting patiently all those years to make him hers and she was restless... She didn't leave anything to chance...
"There was something different about him. Something special. More unique than just good lucks and a killer body.
Barrington was a puzzle.
She loved puzzles..."
James was serious, ambitious, clever and very sexy man!!!
He loved his job and he appreciated very much Michaela's dad.. The same went for the older man...
At some point, he promised him that he will never drag his daughter to his lifestyle and he kept his promise even though that he loved to make her his...
But then everything changed and he found himself to live under the same roof with the temptation and she was making his life miserable with all those things that she was doing to him...
So, it was a matter of time to let himself loose to do whatever he wanted to her and she let him...
and then everything went to hell!!!
What i like very much to James was that even though that he was a Dom, he was so caring and gentle with Michaela!!!
"There wasn't another woman on the planet brave enough to pull this kind of shit on him...
Why couldn't he let this go?
She's your kryptonite.
She's vanilla.
She's Bran's daughter.
...He never should have started this with her. He'd made a promise to Bran."
As i told you in the beginning, i couldn't believe that i would enjoy this book that much, but i did!!! And I'm so glad that i decide to read it after all!!!
It was a lovely story that had many things inside...
Also i have to say that the title was so perfect....
Michaela was staring James down all the damn time and that was hilarious!!!!
***ARC kindly provided via NetGalley for the exchange of an honest review***
To be honest with you, I'm not into erotica romances with Doms and subs... but when i read the blurb from this one, i thought to give it a try and damn, i was so right!!!!
This is not your usual erotica book... Yep, the hero was a Dom and the heroine turned out a feisty submissive, but their story was more than that!!!
Damn, this was freakin' delicious and so damn funny!!!I couldn't stop laughing...
The heroine was so feisty and so sneaky and she wasn't backing up to anything...
And the hero... Damn, he was sooo hot and intelligent and also funny!!!
But let me tell you some more about Mickey and James...
Well, i will start by saying that this book had a big prologue with all the things that happened between Michaela and James before the present...
When those two met for the first time, Michaela was only sixteen years old and James much older than her... i think nearly 8years... and he was working in her father's business...
Michaela fell for James almost from the beginning, but James never faltered, even though that he wasn't indifferent to her... She was just too young for him and his lifestyle wasn't fitting to a girl like her. So all those years manage to stay away from her...
Don't fool yourselves!!! All those years they had too many encounters between them... Bad and good moments, funny moments... and then came the present and everything changed between them!!!
A tragic accident happened and James lost his mentor, a man that loved deeply with all his heart...
Michaela lost a father and stayed all alone behind...
Now, she had to be the leader on the company and the things are not very good!!!
So a crazy idea is forming into her head...
She will succeed two things with one action...
If she and James get married, they will be able to save the company and she will have as her husband the man of her dreams...
So, James and Mickey are getting married...
"No clubs.
No subs.
No connections with the lifestyle while he played in a different way and took on the role of Michaela's upstanding, faithful, and utterly vanilla husband without any of the benefits.
Brilliant."
The thing is that James believes that this marriage has a purpose and he is insisting that he is not going to touch Mickey... They will stay together for as long as they have to and then each of them will take a separate road... Michaela is not for this kind of life that he has a preference into...
But, Michaela, has other plans and since James is so stubborn, she has to make him see her in a different way...
Poor, man!!! He didn't know what hit him with all those shits that Michaela was pulling to him...
She was provoking him all the time and her strange behavior was showing that she wasn't clueless about his lifestyle...
He was a young healthy man, how long could he resist to his beautiful wife???
"Unbelievable. His innocent in-name-only wife was a class 'A' mindfucker who'd been cerebrally raping him for nearly two months.
He wasn't going to lie. The Master in him was outraged, yet suitably impressed all at once."
But except all this seductive game, Michaela was keeping some secrets of her own....
What will happen when James will find out the truth???
Will they manage to work things out and stay together???
Will succeed the experiment with Michaela as a submissive wife, since she is a feisty little thing???
"Michaela had cut him, but he wasn't sure how deep it went.
Was it a flesh wound or a lethal blow?"
Well, i liked very much James and Mickey!!!
There was chemistry between them in all the levels...
Their sexy scenes was very intense and hot...
And damn it, they were both so sassy and funny!!!
I couldn't stop laughing with them!!!! Especially with Michaela!!!
I even like when James was pissed off with her and he was punishing her...
"Sir. Do yourself a favor and remember these three phrases over the next little while. Yes, sir. No, sir. Thank you, sir."
"What about, I'm sorry, sir?"
"Pointless. I don't want to her you say you're sorry. I want you to be sorry. And you will be. Trust me."
Michaela was very intelligent girl. She was sassy, determined, feisty, with pure and good heart.
She was trying to do only good and i admire her for that reason...
She had a big obsession with James and she could do anything to win his heart...
And damn, her ways were so clever and so hilarious at the same time...
I liked that she never backed up on what she really wanted...
She fell in love with James when she was still a child and she was waiting patiently all those years to make him hers and she was restless... She didn't leave anything to chance...
"There was something different about him. Something special. More unique than just good lucks and a killer body.
Barrington was a puzzle.
She loved puzzles..."
James was serious, ambitious, clever and very sexy man!!!
He loved his job and he appreciated very much Michaela's dad.. The same went for the older man...
At some point, he promised him that he will never drag his daughter to his lifestyle and he kept his promise even though that he loved to make her his...
But then everything changed and he found himself to live under the same roof with the temptation and she was making his life miserable with all those things that she was doing to him...
So, it was a matter of time to let himself loose to do whatever he wanted to her and she let him...
and then everything went to hell!!!
What i like very much to James was that even though that he was a Dom, he was so caring and gentle with Michaela!!!
"There wasn't another woman on the planet brave enough to pull this kind of shit on him...
Why couldn't he let this go?
She's your kryptonite.
She's vanilla.
She's Bran's daughter.
...He never should have started this with her. He'd made a promise to Bran."
As i told you in the beginning, i couldn't believe that i would enjoy this book that much, but i did!!! And I'm so glad that i decide to read it after all!!!
It was a lovely story that had many things inside...
Also i have to say that the title was so perfect....
Michaela was staring James down all the damn time and that was hilarious!!!!
***ARC kindly provided via NetGalley for the exchange of an honest review***
July 15, 2016
4.5 stars!
ARC kindly provided by CrushStar Multimedia LLC via Netgalley in exchange of an honest review.
This is the story of Michaela and James, a girly crash growing to love!
This is the third book of a series but it can definitely be read as standalone. The plot is moving nicely with few twists and surprises and all information needed are provided in a nice way. The writing is really nice and Ms. Murphy touched me deep in my heart! Many truths were said among the heroes and I loved each of them! Thank Ms. Murphy!
Michaela is a great heroine! I totally love her commitment and actions in order to achieve her goal. She made me laugh and cry! There is no stop to this girl and that's her beauty!
James is also a great hero! I love his honesty and feeling of right! James is also sensitive but in a manly way! I also like his darker side although it wasn't that dark after all!
Their chemistry was amazing! From the very beginning of this book there were sparks that became flames and then fire! Ms. Murphy wrote a beautiful erotic story without losing the connection of the heroes or the romance in it!
The end of the story was also really nice! I really enjoyed the conclusion of the story and I look forward reading something else of Ms. Murphy! As I've said, she touched so deep in my heart that I need more of her writing.
I definitely recommend this book to everyone who loves an erotic romance!
ARC kindly provided by CrushStar Multimedia LLC via Netgalley in exchange of an honest review.
This is the story of Michaela and James, a girly crash growing to love!
This is the third book of a series but it can definitely be read as standalone. The plot is moving nicely with few twists and surprises and all information needed are provided in a nice way. The writing is really nice and Ms. Murphy touched me deep in my heart! Many truths were said among the heroes and I loved each of them! Thank Ms. Murphy!
Michaela is a great heroine! I totally love her commitment and actions in order to achieve her goal. She made me laugh and cry! There is no stop to this girl and that's her beauty!
James is also a great hero! I love his honesty and feeling of right! James is also sensitive but in a manly way! I also like his darker side although it wasn't that dark after all!
Their chemistry was amazing! From the very beginning of this book there were sparks that became flames and then fire! Ms. Murphy wrote a beautiful erotic story without losing the connection of the heroes or the romance in it!
The end of the story was also really nice! I really enjoyed the conclusion of the story and I look forward reading something else of Ms. Murphy! As I've said, she touched so deep in my heart that I need more of her writing.
I definitely recommend this book to everyone who loves an erotic romance!
March 7, 2018
If you follow me on twitter you might have noticed my “battle” with Riley Murphy and Holly Blackstone last weekend. I was lucky enough to get my hands on a copy of “Stare Him Down” and I could not stop teasing the Author while reading it.
#laughing Oh My God – that book was really fun.
I really take this as education because so far my ventures into the world of BDSM were always marked by serious (ly hot but still SERIOUS ) guys like Holly Blackstone’ “Stuart” or serious (ly damaged hot) guys like Jodi Ellen Malpas’ Jesse – just to name my favorites.
One thing that seems to be the overall opinion is that the guys always have to have something dark around them or a secret that forces them into the world of BDSM. They are tormented souls needing an outlet.
And then I met James… and I am seriously grinning now just thinking of the moment it became obvious to me why the book has the title “Stare Him Down”. I spit tea twice because I was laughing during reading - one time (Sorry I have to repeat that line) because of the phrase “cerebrally raping”.
I even told the author I will hold her personally responsible in case I choke on my tea during reading. My advice would be “be careful what you are drinking or eating during reading”
There were some really interesting turns in the story (OH YES this book really HAS an actual story around the subject of the relationship of the leading characters quite a surprise if you compare that to some other novels) and I really did not anticipate this plot when I started reading.
This is the third book of a series of standalone novels. I did not read the first two as I was assured by the author that it is not necessary to know them to understand the story. And it really is not – only – as a reader you feel thrown right in the middle of the story and I assume there might be some more explanations on the background if I had read the previous books – but I cannot be sure.
Anyway – as the story unfolds – the reader slowly starts to understand where the characters are coming from and mostly what their intentions are. Heck – I would even go so far to say that I unraveled one mystery quite early.
But in the end I felt like that was only to bait the reader because there will be something along the road that no one will anticipate. Something that really surprised me but on the other hand was already totally obvious and right in front of you – but you will only notice when you pass that moment of recognition and look back than to reflect.
Well I guess I am going to get that bouncing tail ready for Ms. Murphy for that cyber meeting with my favorite DOM’s #laughing
June 14, 2016
What a brilliant read! This book was hot, exciting and filled with little surprises. The author took a story that most of us have considered in a fantasy world and brought it to life. We were thrown into the marriage of convenience story, with a sexy and unforgettable tale.
I loved the story. I felt the author really knew how to bring it to life, giving us something to both enjoy and crave. As soon as I put the kindle down for the night, I was eager to know what happened next, and often used every little moment I could to sneak in a few pages.
The characters were excellent. Riley really made them believable and easy to connect with. They were given plenty of detail, background and personality to make them real, which I loved. This made it so easy to fall right into the read and really feel as if I were there, watching this hot, and unexpected romance really unfolded.
The pace was perfect. It was fast enough to really keep thins exciting, but I liked that there was also plenty f time given to let the romance unfold. This was necessary, as it built up the excitement and gave it a true feel of a story that was unexpected and a surprise to our hottie, lead man.
Overall, I thought this was a brilliant read. It was hot, exciting and fun to dive right in to. If you are a fan of sexy reads, with a few twists, and some really hot moments, then this is for you!
**I received this book for free in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion.
I loved the story. I felt the author really knew how to bring it to life, giving us something to both enjoy and crave. As soon as I put the kindle down for the night, I was eager to know what happened next, and often used every little moment I could to sneak in a few pages.
The characters were excellent. Riley really made them believable and easy to connect with. They were given plenty of detail, background and personality to make them real, which I loved. This made it so easy to fall right into the read and really feel as if I were there, watching this hot, and unexpected romance really unfolded.
The pace was perfect. It was fast enough to really keep thins exciting, but I liked that there was also plenty f time given to let the romance unfold. This was necessary, as it built up the excitement and gave it a true feel of a story that was unexpected and a surprise to our hottie, lead man.
Overall, I thought this was a brilliant read. It was hot, exciting and fun to dive right in to. If you are a fan of sexy reads, with a few twists, and some really hot moments, then this is for you!
**I received this book for free in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion.
May 31, 2016
4.5 Stars
I got this book from net gallery for an honest review.
OMG this book was fantastic and funny.
I was laughing so much, I practically had tears in my eyes.
James is a Dom but he's not an overbearing one which was quite refreshing. He's attracted to Mickey but he can't bring himself to drag her into his BDSM lifestyle.
I had to admire Michaela's tenacity in driving James completely bonkers. My favourite part was when James is trying to fall asleep in his bed but is disturbed by the sound of a vibrator and Michaela making sexy noises. Mickey definitely succeeds in driving him crazy and just when he thinks it's safe, the vibrator starts again lol.
I loved James, he's a sweet, caring yet patient Dom and Mickey definitely maxed out his patience.
Mickey, is strong willed, feisty and determined to become James's submissive. This girl goes to serious lengths, when she brings home a Mistress to talk to James to demonstrate what she would like done to her.
The book has an interesting yet creative narrative which was refreshing. The primary focus is the gradual development of James and Mickey's love story but there's also some suspense and mystery. I loved the book but found that it dragged on in some places e.g. mystery surrounding the red phone. Regardless, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and its definitely worth a read.
I got this book from net gallery for an honest review.
OMG this book was fantastic and funny.
I was laughing so much, I practically had tears in my eyes.
James is a Dom but he's not an overbearing one which was quite refreshing. He's attracted to Mickey but he can't bring himself to drag her into his BDSM lifestyle.
I had to admire Michaela's tenacity in driving James completely bonkers. My favourite part was when James is trying to fall asleep in his bed but is disturbed by the sound of a vibrator and Michaela making sexy noises. Mickey definitely succeeds in driving him crazy and just when he thinks it's safe, the vibrator starts again lol.
I loved James, he's a sweet, caring yet patient Dom and Mickey definitely maxed out his patience.
Mickey, is strong willed, feisty and determined to become James's submissive. This girl goes to serious lengths, when she brings home a Mistress to talk to James to demonstrate what she would like done to her.
The book has an interesting yet creative narrative which was refreshing. The primary focus is the gradual development of James and Mickey's love story but there's also some suspense and mystery. I loved the book but found that it dragged on in some places e.g. mystery surrounding the red phone. Regardless, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and its definitely worth a read.
May 31, 2016
I was given an ARC from NetGalley for an honest review.
OMG I loved this book! I was drawn in from the beginning.
James is an intense, focused, Dom. He is hired into Michaela’s father’s pharmaceutical company right out of college. He works up to VP at a young age. Michaela’s father looks at him like the son he never had, except he doesn’t approve of his “lifestyle”.
Michaela is the only child of Bran Donovan. She is a socially awkward, intelligent, focused woman. She fell in love with James at a young age.
Watching the relationship grow between James and Michaela over the years was interesting and frustrating. You know why James said and did the things he did to hold her off for so long. Michaela never gave up and became quite inventive. When James finally caved, it was awesome.
I stayed up way too late to finish this book as I couldn’t put it down.
OMG I loved this book! I was drawn in from the beginning.
James is an intense, focused, Dom. He is hired into Michaela’s father’s pharmaceutical company right out of college. He works up to VP at a young age. Michaela’s father looks at him like the son he never had, except he doesn’t approve of his “lifestyle”.
Michaela is the only child of Bran Donovan. She is a socially awkward, intelligent, focused woman. She fell in love with James at a young age.
Watching the relationship grow between James and Michaela over the years was interesting and frustrating. You know why James said and did the things he did to hold her off for so long. Michaela never gave up and became quite inventive. When James finally caved, it was awesome.
I stayed up way too late to finish this book as I couldn’t put it down.
May 12, 2016
Another absolutely fabulous book from Riley Murphy. I received an advanced copy yesterday and couldn't stop reading. The heroine is intelligent, but quirky. Feisty, but not obnoxious. And the hero is the kind of man that every woman dreams of. Michaela and James' love story is the focus of the book with a little mystery on the side. The couples from the first two books in the series make appearances, however it isn't necessary to read them to enjoy or understand this one, but who wouldn't? One of my favorite parts involved the friendship between the three Doms. It involves costumes that include tights and a famous green giant. You've got to read this one, you're gonna love it.
June 1, 2016
Full review: http://krissysbooknook.com/2016/06/st...
Review:
Something about this cover pulled me in.
The hot dude with all of his tats made me think of one of Jay Crownover's Marked Men so I clicked on the cover to read the blurb on Netgalley.
I was a little disappointed that this was a BDSM read as my reading experience in the world of Doms and Subs is limited to Fifty Shades of Grey. However, the marriage of convenience plot line was too interesting for me to pass up.
The first part of this book gives you a detailed look in to the back story between our main characters. Having this past explained in great detail was very helpful to understand exactly how and why certain key elements of this book came to be.
Our heroine.. err sub, Michaela, is the daughter of our hero's..err Dom, James, boss. Michaela fosters a teenage crush on James that develops into a full blown obsession as she grows in to adulthood. James has a slight interest in Michaela but is headstrong to keep her at arm's length. (He is a control freak after all.) ;) lol
They have several events through the years where they nearly get together but for one reason or another it doesn't pan out. Until...
Something happens and they get married to help "save" the company.
James, ever in control, does his best to resist his tempting new wife, but her tricks and schemes eventually wear him down. She takes well to his lifestyle and then the fun really begins. ;)
This book is filled with ultra steamy scenes, some a bit too much for me, but overall this was a truly enjoyable read! The subject matter was written tastefully in my opinion and the real star of this book was the story!
I give Stare Him Down 4 out of 5 Krissy Stars!
I mean, I'm not running to my nearest adult superstore to buy supplies, but I'm also not opposed to reading another book in this genre. ;)
Xo- K
*ARC provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 4, 2016
Stare Him Down, Riley Murphy
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Romance,Erotica
I’d not read Stare 1 and 2, but as its one of those series where the characters are connected but the actual books are stand alone I didn’t think that would matter.
I really, really wanted to like this, it sounded so intriguing – and having read samples of Stare 1 and 2, Riley’s writing style and subject matter seemed just what I love. However I’ve reluctantly given up at halfway through.
I’m just not connecting with this story, have started and restarted a few times trying but... I don’t understand James really, though I do like him as a person. He just seems to have a bit too much hidden, be a little too mysterious – maybe there’s something in earlier books that would make me understand that better though, I don’t know.
My biggest issue though is with Michaela . I just don’t like her, find her selfish, self absorbed, and immature. She seems to use people in the way they she pushes them to be where she wants, to do what she wants regardless of their inclinations, and of course James isn’t one for being pushed. She doesn’t care though – she’s made up her mind she wants him and that's all she’s bothered about, getting him for herself. I cant find anywhere where she considerers what he may want, just herself and her own selfish desires.
Maybe I’m misreading her, but this meant I really disliked her and sadly for me to enjoy a story I need to like, to connect with the characters.
I didn’t really follow why her dad felt he needed to take such drastic action either...its really OTT, and added to my dislike of Michaela meant I just couldn’t finish.
I’d still like to read Stare 1 and 2 as its not the writing style, just these particular group of characters and plots that don't work for me.
Stars: two, a bust for me, but of course will be perfect for others. Horses for courses....
ARC supplied by Netgalley and publisher
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Romance,Erotica
I’d not read Stare 1 and 2, but as its one of those series where the characters are connected but the actual books are stand alone I didn’t think that would matter.
I really, really wanted to like this, it sounded so intriguing – and having read samples of Stare 1 and 2, Riley’s writing style and subject matter seemed just what I love. However I’ve reluctantly given up at halfway through.
I’m just not connecting with this story, have started and restarted a few times trying but... I don’t understand James really, though I do like him as a person. He just seems to have a bit too much hidden, be a little too mysterious – maybe there’s something in earlier books that would make me understand that better though, I don’t know.
My biggest issue though is with Michaela . I just don’t like her, find her selfish, self absorbed, and immature. She seems to use people in the way they she pushes them to be where she wants, to do what she wants regardless of their inclinations, and of course James isn’t one for being pushed. She doesn’t care though – she’s made up her mind she wants him and that's all she’s bothered about, getting him for herself. I cant find anywhere where she considerers what he may want, just herself and her own selfish desires.
Maybe I’m misreading her, but this meant I really disliked her and sadly for me to enjoy a story I need to like, to connect with the characters.
I didn’t really follow why her dad felt he needed to take such drastic action either...its really OTT, and added to my dislike of Michaela meant I just couldn’t finish.
I’d still like to read Stare 1 and 2 as its not the writing style, just these particular group of characters and plots that don't work for me.
Stars: two, a bust for me, but of course will be perfect for others. Horses for courses....
ARC supplied by Netgalley and publisher
July 19, 2016
5 Stare Stars
Holy freaking Moly, this was a first for me by this author and wow. I am hooked.
James Barrington, wow yummy goodness. I can say that just look at the cover!
He is a stand offish kind of fella. With a different lifestyle then what is classified as the "norm".
He is not ashamed (or should he be ) of his lifestyle he embraces it. So when he sets his eyes on Michaela Donovan he knows he can’t have her one because she is to young but she is also the boss’s daughter. But he got a few glimpses of her growing up and he couldn't shake her from his thoughts.
Michaela grows up to be an incredible women, one she can be proud of but she is insecure as well. But when she sets her sights on James.. He is toast. Or will be she won’t let his standoffish way detour her. She fights for what she wants. She believes he is a sheep in wolf's clothing. The is some a softer side to him.
There are things Michaela can’t or won’t tell James and he is getting right upset about it but because it was from before he doesn’t have to like it but he accepts it.
“A man shouldn’t have to ask for the truth from a woman. If its’s deserved it should be freely given to him.” – James
This quote stuck with me from the time he said it to the end. Because for them it’s pretty much a truth, I believe anyways.
I think what I enjoyed most was how Michaela didn’t jump in blind, she did the work. So she was naive sure but not so much as in experienced. I wondered if James appreciated it.
Over all I can’t get enough of this book I want more, more, more. I was sad it ended. It really has you thinking, not everything is as it appears.
I loved the duel narrations, esp. for books like these. Keeps you sucked it, I didn’t want to put it down not at all.
*All my Reviews are 100% honest and my own.*
Holy freaking Moly, this was a first for me by this author and wow. I am hooked.
James Barrington, wow yummy goodness. I can say that just look at the cover!
He is a stand offish kind of fella. With a different lifestyle then what is classified as the "norm".
He is not ashamed (or should he be ) of his lifestyle he embraces it. So when he sets his eyes on Michaela Donovan he knows he can’t have her one because she is to young but she is also the boss’s daughter. But he got a few glimpses of her growing up and he couldn't shake her from his thoughts.
Michaela grows up to be an incredible women, one she can be proud of but she is insecure as well. But when she sets her sights on James.. He is toast. Or will be she won’t let his standoffish way detour her. She fights for what she wants. She believes he is a sheep in wolf's clothing. The is some a softer side to him.
There are things Michaela can’t or won’t tell James and he is getting right upset about it but because it was from before he doesn’t have to like it but he accepts it.
“A man shouldn’t have to ask for the truth from a woman. If its’s deserved it should be freely given to him.” – James
This quote stuck with me from the time he said it to the end. Because for them it’s pretty much a truth, I believe anyways.
I think what I enjoyed most was how Michaela didn’t jump in blind, she did the work. So she was naive sure but not so much as in experienced. I wondered if James appreciated it.
Over all I can’t get enough of this book I want more, more, more. I was sad it ended. It really has you thinking, not everything is as it appears.
I loved the duel narrations, esp. for books like these. Keeps you sucked it, I didn’t want to put it down not at all.
*All my Reviews are 100% honest and my own.*
July 2, 2016
I received a free e-copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Although this is the third book in the Stare Down series, it works as a standalone novel. James Barrington has a large part of his life that he tries to keep hidden from most folks who know him ... he's a Dom. Which also means he cannot fall for the boss's daughter, which (of course) is just what he does. The book revolves around the tug of war between James and Michaela (she's loved him for years, but he always rejects her). Woven around and through the romance thread is corporate intrigue and money going missing.
The premise of the story is promising, and I looked forward to sinking my teeth into this one. Unfortunately, I just didn't connect with any of the characters, and the plot became stale and repetitive. By halfway through, I felt bored to tears with it. There are only so many variations on girl chases guy and guy chases girl away. Add to that the cardboard-cut-out nature to the characterisation, and it all just falls flat. I wanted to love this book, I really did, but I just couldn't.
Perhaps not reading books one and two means I've missed some of the character development; I don't know. Other readers may well love this book, but it just wasn't for me. I didn't connect with the situation, the plot arc, or the people. One thing done well is that, although the POV switches between James and Michaela, they each get their own section, which avoids head-hopping. Also, there are some humorous elements in there. Both strong pluses.
Although this is the third book in the Stare Down series, it works as a standalone novel. James Barrington has a large part of his life that he tries to keep hidden from most folks who know him ... he's a Dom. Which also means he cannot fall for the boss's daughter, which (of course) is just what he does. The book revolves around the tug of war between James and Michaela (she's loved him for years, but he always rejects her). Woven around and through the romance thread is corporate intrigue and money going missing.
The premise of the story is promising, and I looked forward to sinking my teeth into this one. Unfortunately, I just didn't connect with any of the characters, and the plot became stale and repetitive. By halfway through, I felt bored to tears with it. There are only so many variations on girl chases guy and guy chases girl away. Add to that the cardboard-cut-out nature to the characterisation, and it all just falls flat. I wanted to love this book, I really did, but I just couldn't.
Perhaps not reading books one and two means I've missed some of the character development; I don't know. Other readers may well love this book, but it just wasn't for me. I didn't connect with the situation, the plot arc, or the people. One thing done well is that, although the POV switches between James and Michaela, they each get their own section, which avoids head-hopping. Also, there are some humorous elements in there. Both strong pluses.
February 8, 2017
This was a strange book for me. Parts of it was really good and you get sucked into the story about, James and Michaela. James must take over the company he runs with her father after her father tragedy. Finding things out about the company that makes him fear in losing the company out right or through a takeover she comes up with an idea of marriage in order to combine their stocks to hold off a takeover. What James does not know is that Michaela has been in love with him for a very long time. He does not feel worthy of her and for some reason does not fully trust her either about the business. The one thing he did give up was being a Dom, he does not want Michaela anywhere near that part of him. He is surprised when he finds out that is what she wants and when he agrees he goes a little over the top for me at times for someone he is supposed to care about. I don’t care about the life style what he does to her a few times is degrading and disrespectful to the person you are supposed to be in love with. The rest of the story you find out about their company and some twist and turns show up at the end with a surprise. There are plenty of sex scenes. Overall not a bad book. I got this book from netgalley. I gave it 3 stars. Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com
June 13, 2016
When I start a book by Riley Murphy, my expectations are set pretty high.. and once again, I was not disappointed! James and Michaela have known each other for year, she has been after him for quite a while and she finally gets her man... but not quite..
Stare Him Down starts after they are married but not in a relationship.. I found myself rooting for Michaela to win the challenges James sets before her - for both of them.. James seems to not know quite what to do with his wife.. and Michaela uses that to help her cause.
James is also trying to figure out what is going on with her father's company and he know Michaela knows something.. she does, but it's not what he thinks.
As the story progresses we get to hear from Aries, Jaxx, Bailey and Gunn and they add a bit of humor to every situation.
Riley's inner dialogue is always awesome and adds a dimension to the story that keeps you wanting more.
As I got to the end.. and the lightbulb moment occurred.. it shifted a lot in the story for me!! and added a direction that, although I hadn't guessed at it, suddenly was clear as a bell.
Great job Riley.. as always!
Stare Him Down starts after they are married but not in a relationship.. I found myself rooting for Michaela to win the challenges James sets before her - for both of them.. James seems to not know quite what to do with his wife.. and Michaela uses that to help her cause.
James is also trying to figure out what is going on with her father's company and he know Michaela knows something.. she does, but it's not what he thinks.
As the story progresses we get to hear from Aries, Jaxx, Bailey and Gunn and they add a bit of humor to every situation.
Riley's inner dialogue is always awesome and adds a dimension to the story that keeps you wanting more.
As I got to the end.. and the lightbulb moment occurred.. it shifted a lot in the story for me!! and added a direction that, although I hadn't guessed at it, suddenly was clear as a bell.
Great job Riley.. as always!
June 3, 2016
*ARC provided via netgalley for an honest review*
Rating: 2 stars
Unfortunately this one was almost a DNF for me & normally I can get through any book. I found the h Michaela to be very manipulative and not genuine. Even though at the end of the book you do discover a reason behind this, I didn't feel the relationship & development was enough. As for our H, he was marginally better, but even then he wasn't a character I could connect with.
The plot was completely drawn out, and this is what probably lost me the most. I was skimming towards the end which sort of sums this one up.
Unfortunately not a winner for me :(
Rating: 2 stars
Unfortunately this one was almost a DNF for me & normally I can get through any book. I found the h Michaela to be very manipulative and not genuine. Even though at the end of the book you do discover a reason behind this, I didn't feel the relationship & development was enough. As for our H, he was marginally better, but even then he wasn't a character I could connect with.
The plot was completely drawn out, and this is what probably lost me the most. I was skimming towards the end which sort of sums this one up.
Unfortunately not a winner for me :(
April 30, 2017
Boy does this book sizzle!! The relationship between James and Mickey is intense and at times absolutely breathtaking. Mickey is a strong capable woman who surrenders herself beautifully to James. And yet, she holds a secret from him, one that could destroy what they have together. James, despite everything, gives her his unconditional support. The question is, will how he feels about her be enough? I really loved this book. The sex scenes were scorching and emotionally moving. This was my first book by this author and I will be snatching up any of her other work. I received an ARC in return for an honest review.
May 15, 2016
**********************MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS*******************
James is quite the possessive man, “never talk to me about other guys when we’re naked, and even when we’re dressed. When you share details regarding the guys from your past, those highlights better involve clothes and distance.” I really liked Micheala, and he strength at times, "she didn’t look at him when she loudly whispered, “I’m trying to get out more. Socialize. I’m taking baby steps here.” I really liked this book but I was left wondering why she slept in the guest room most of the time?
June 8, 2016
I loved the relationship between James and Mickey. He is a Dom and she realizes that after they are married if she wants to keep her husband, she needs to change and becomes a Sub. There is humor in this book that made it more than a "50 Shades" wannabe. I enjoyed the characters and reading this novel.
I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
July 24, 2016
James.......yummy. What a great story. Laughter, drama, suspense. I'm not used to laughing while reading BDSM, but my mind supplied so many expression for James while dealing with Michaela/Mike/Beauty. This was my first Riley Murphy book, but it won't be the last!
June 15, 2016
This is a great read. The story had me hooked from beginning to end. I loved the characters as well as the story. This read is both fun and steamy. Loved it!
January 28, 2020
Received an ARC from NetGalley for an honest review.
So here's the thing. I didn't read the first two and I felt like I was at a bit of a disadvantage for it, even though those stories were about different H/h. Once I caught on, I enjoyed the story of Mike/Mickey and James - a submissive who's trying to entice her husband (in name only) to be the Dom she knows he is. The love scenes are hot, but there are some issues with this one, especially about trust. Trust is such a huge part of a D/s relationship and I had a hard time seeing that in this relationship. A decent read, but just something missing.
So here's the thing. I didn't read the first two and I felt like I was at a bit of a disadvantage for it, even though those stories were about different H/h. Once I caught on, I enjoyed the story of Mike/Mickey and James - a submissive who's trying to entice her husband (in name only) to be the Dom she knows he is. The love scenes are hot, but there are some issues with this one, especially about trust. Trust is such a huge part of a D/s relationship and I had a hard time seeing that in this relationship. A decent read, but just something missing.
June 30, 2016
3.5 out of 5 stars
"Stare Him Down" by Riley Murphy is part of the ‘Stare Down’ erotic romance series and follows the interactions between Michaela Donovan and James Barrington, the man who becomes a significant player at her father’s company. Michaela’s interest in James is complicated by their respective relationships with her father, Bran, not to mention James’ proclivities toward BDSM. It turns out that James is not the only one holding secrets, and the ones that Michaela is hiding may be too much for him to accept, particularly in the one woman who appeals so strongly to the Dom in him.
This sizzling story combines a mystery that follows machinations in the business world and a slowly evolving sensual relationship between two individuals who vacillate between showing their true desires and acting according to conventional rules. I initially was frustrated with the time progression as little scenes are presented showing encounters between the main characters over a series of years but I did like watching the shift in dynamics between them. There are deliciously spicy scenes depicted but sometimes it felt like being given a glimpse through a keyhole as the sensuality intensifies vividly and suddenly dials back to the pragmatic. The wonderfully comedic scenes counteract some of the intense emotionalism (the vision of three Doms in costume comes to mind). I confess to still being a bit confused about what was truly going on in the company and would have liked a little more comeuppance for one particular character, as well as a better explanation for the exceedingly extravagant purchase at the end of the story other than as a very expensive carrot. This was an entertaining and sexy story that is part of a series yet can be read as a stand alone.
A copy of this title was provided for review
"Stare Him Down" by Riley Murphy is part of the ‘Stare Down’ erotic romance series and follows the interactions between Michaela Donovan and James Barrington, the man who becomes a significant player at her father’s company. Michaela’s interest in James is complicated by their respective relationships with her father, Bran, not to mention James’ proclivities toward BDSM. It turns out that James is not the only one holding secrets, and the ones that Michaela is hiding may be too much for him to accept, particularly in the one woman who appeals so strongly to the Dom in him.
This sizzling story combines a mystery that follows machinations in the business world and a slowly evolving sensual relationship between two individuals who vacillate between showing their true desires and acting according to conventional rules. I initially was frustrated with the time progression as little scenes are presented showing encounters between the main characters over a series of years but I did like watching the shift in dynamics between them. There are deliciously spicy scenes depicted but sometimes it felt like being given a glimpse through a keyhole as the sensuality intensifies vividly and suddenly dials back to the pragmatic. The wonderfully comedic scenes counteract some of the intense emotionalism (the vision of three Doms in costume comes to mind). I confess to still being a bit confused about what was truly going on in the company and would have liked a little more comeuppance for one particular character, as well as a better explanation for the exceedingly extravagant purchase at the end of the story other than as a very expensive carrot. This was an entertaining and sexy story that is part of a series yet can be read as a stand alone.
A copy of this title was provided for review
July 21, 2016
Michaela (Mickey/Mike) wants James, and she'll do whatever it takes - be the woman he wants - to get him. James works for her father, and when they first meet, she's in her teens still. The story spans a few years, but 'Mike' never looses sight of her goal - despite knowing James is a highly respected Dom. She's determined to be his sub, no matter what.
James looks after Michaela, and invites her to call him whenever she needs help. Over the years, she happily taunts and teases him. James knows Michaela thinks she wants him, but does not want such a vanilla girl subjected to his lifestyle. He prefers she remain an innocent.
Michaela seems fairly childish throughout, but that may be a reflection on my age and upbringing. I was glad of the way James handled their relationship. He could have scared her away, easily, possibly scarring her for life. Fortunately for him, Michaela had done her homework on the lifestyle and was determined to join him.
Not knowing what I was getting myself into, when an ARC of the audiobook was offered up in exchange for an honest review, I apparently jumped head first into the deep end! I've not previously read a book that more than hinted at BDSM, so my first reaction was 'oh crap!' I stuck with it, and I'm very glad I did! Yeah, there was some adult content, but there was more to the story than just sex sex sex. THANK HEAVENS! I like books that actually tell a story, and this one certainly did.
While the genre is not normally my cup of tea, I didn't find it to be over-the-top and off-putting. In fact, I bought the Kindle version of the book. I was really impressed with the book, and would definitely read another by this author. I really liked the choice of readers for the audiobook, too. Wen and Kai do a great job portraying the characters!
James looks after Michaela, and invites her to call him whenever she needs help. Over the years, she happily taunts and teases him. James knows Michaela thinks she wants him, but does not want such a vanilla girl subjected to his lifestyle. He prefers she remain an innocent.
Michaela seems fairly childish throughout, but that may be a reflection on my age and upbringing. I was glad of the way James handled their relationship. He could have scared her away, easily, possibly scarring her for life. Fortunately for him, Michaela had done her homework on the lifestyle and was determined to join him.
Not knowing what I was getting myself into, when an ARC of the audiobook was offered up in exchange for an honest review, I apparently jumped head first into the deep end! I've not previously read a book that more than hinted at BDSM, so my first reaction was 'oh crap!' I stuck with it, and I'm very glad I did! Yeah, there was some adult content, but there was more to the story than just sex sex sex. THANK HEAVENS! I like books that actually tell a story, and this one certainly did.
While the genre is not normally my cup of tea, I didn't find it to be over-the-top and off-putting. In fact, I bought the Kindle version of the book. I was really impressed with the book, and would definitely read another by this author. I really liked the choice of readers for the audiobook, too. Wen and Kai do a great job portraying the characters!
August 3, 2016
Overall: 4 / 5
Amount of sex - 4 / 5
How explicit - 3 / 5
BDSM elements - 3 / 5
Romance - 3.5 / 5
Guest reviewer JM here. I am reviewing Riley Murphy book – Stare Him Down. First off, I am a big fan of the BDSM aspect of the book. The book was set up a little different than I have read before. The history part of the book was very long spanning several years. It then launched into a more traditional style of story telling. The book shifts the point of view shifted between the two main characters James and Michaela, which I liked. There was a lot of anticipation in the history of James and Michaela, and it finally got down to the huba huba action once the history of the two is over and it started moving along.
The story was interesting – James is a prominent Dom and Michaela is the boss’s daughter who is really into James way before it is appropriate. We explore where James and Michaela become friends before they get together when Michaela is a teen and then in college. Michaela plays mind games throughout the book trying to snare the reluctant, only because she is the boss’s daughter, James. This kinda bugged me as I didn’t like her trying to trick James into things. The book has a few surprises that did keep me guessing and did move at a steady pace. I am not giving a lot of plot here because I don’t want to give any spoilers because the principal section of the book took a surprising turn and is the main thrust of the book.
There is a lot of talk of sub training technique in the story, but not necessarily a lot of detail about sex. The lack of detail is why it only got three and a half stars of explicit because there is more technique than actual play in my opinion. Now don’t get me wrong there is plenty of steamy stuff.
Overall, I enjoyed the book. James and Michaela are intriguing and dynamic. **ARC received in exchange for an honest review
Amount of sex - 4 / 5
How explicit - 3 / 5
BDSM elements - 3 / 5
Romance - 3.5 / 5
Guest reviewer JM here. I am reviewing Riley Murphy book – Stare Him Down. First off, I am a big fan of the BDSM aspect of the book. The book was set up a little different than I have read before. The history part of the book was very long spanning several years. It then launched into a more traditional style of story telling. The book shifts the point of view shifted between the two main characters James and Michaela, which I liked. There was a lot of anticipation in the history of James and Michaela, and it finally got down to the huba huba action once the history of the two is over and it started moving along.
The story was interesting – James is a prominent Dom and Michaela is the boss’s daughter who is really into James way before it is appropriate. We explore where James and Michaela become friends before they get together when Michaela is a teen and then in college. Michaela plays mind games throughout the book trying to snare the reluctant, only because she is the boss’s daughter, James. This kinda bugged me as I didn’t like her trying to trick James into things. The book has a few surprises that did keep me guessing and did move at a steady pace. I am not giving a lot of plot here because I don’t want to give any spoilers because the principal section of the book took a surprising turn and is the main thrust of the book.
There is a lot of talk of sub training technique in the story, but not necessarily a lot of detail about sex. The lack of detail is why it only got three and a half stars of explicit because there is more technique than actual play in my opinion. Now don’t get me wrong there is plenty of steamy stuff.
Overall, I enjoyed the book. James and Michaela are intriguing and dynamic. **ARC received in exchange for an honest review
September 27, 2016
What did you love best about Stare Him Down?
I loved everything about this book. How a female is willing to work through everything and work towards getting what she wants even with people telling her that she shouldn't. How it shows the beauty of a BDSM relationship that people don't see or aren't willing to see when they glance over the lifestyle. I just love so much about this book that I can't just give one answer.
What other book might you compare Stare Him Down to and why?
There aren't other books that this can be compared to because I've never found anything quite like it. That's a good thing because you don't want to read the same thing over and over with different titles and slightly changed story lines.
What does Kai Kennicott and Wen Ross bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?
They bring the story to life more than just reading the book alone could do. They give you all the emotions of the books through their voice and paint such a wonderful picture with the story that you just get lost in their words.
Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?
Throughout almost the entire book I was either laughing or smiling at the antics of Mickey throughout the story. I loved the character she brought to the story and how she just came across as a normal person throughout the entire story instead of someone who sounded scripted.
Any additional comments?
As I've said before I just loved this entire story and it was a really amazing story to listen to. I loved how it just all flowed so smoothly and how it brought the story to life in my mind as if I was really there or watching a movie
I loved everything about this book. How a female is willing to work through everything and work towards getting what she wants even with people telling her that she shouldn't. How it shows the beauty of a BDSM relationship that people don't see or aren't willing to see when they glance over the lifestyle. I just love so much about this book that I can't just give one answer.
What other book might you compare Stare Him Down to and why?
There aren't other books that this can be compared to because I've never found anything quite like it. That's a good thing because you don't want to read the same thing over and over with different titles and slightly changed story lines.
What does Kai Kennicott and Wen Ross bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?
They bring the story to life more than just reading the book alone could do. They give you all the emotions of the books through their voice and paint such a wonderful picture with the story that you just get lost in their words.
Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?
Throughout almost the entire book I was either laughing or smiling at the antics of Mickey throughout the story. I loved the character she brought to the story and how she just came across as a normal person throughout the entire story instead of someone who sounded scripted.
Any additional comments?
As I've said before I just loved this entire story and it was a really amazing story to listen to. I loved how it just all flowed so smoothly and how it brought the story to life in my mind as if I was really there or watching a movie
July 19, 2016
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.
This is book three in the Stare Down series, and I have not read the other books. I didn't feel I was missing anything in this book that could have come from the others, so I'm assuming that these can be read as stand alones.
What I WAS missing though, was a connection between either character and myself. It might have been the long build up, that took over 40% of the book. It might have been that Michaela was only 16 in that first scene. And I really hate not being able to say why a book doesn't quite work for me. I just didn't like either of them very much.
I would also have liked more hints and clues to Michaela's *issue* (can't really call it what it is because that would be spoiler-ish) or maybe they were there and I just didn't pick them up. But it just felt that was chucked in. I got lost with what was going on with Michaela's dad and the takeover/missing money thing.
I DID love that they both had a say and that they worked it all out.
Sorry this is short, but I find these 3 stars reviews the hardest to write.
3 stars
This is book three in the Stare Down series, and I have not read the other books. I didn't feel I was missing anything in this book that could have come from the others, so I'm assuming that these can be read as stand alones.
What I WAS missing though, was a connection between either character and myself. It might have been the long build up, that took over 40% of the book. It might have been that Michaela was only 16 in that first scene. And I really hate not being able to say why a book doesn't quite work for me. I just didn't like either of them very much.
I would also have liked more hints and clues to Michaela's *issue* (can't really call it what it is because that would be spoiler-ish) or maybe they were there and I just didn't pick them up. But it just felt that was chucked in. I got lost with what was going on with Michaela's dad and the takeover/missing money thing.
I DID love that they both had a say and that they worked it all out.
Sorry this is short, but I find these 3 stars reviews the hardest to write.
3 stars
August 17, 2016
Stare Him Down was surprising to me in a few ways. One, it wasn't nearly as graphic as I expected. I found myself wishing for a bit more description in the sex scenes actually. Two, it sort of dumped me into the story without much of a backstory. But I was able to get through it with a bit more understanding after awhile of reading.
But, I did enjoy it and found myself really liking James. He was dom through and through, but kind and loved Michaela unconditionally. I had a bit more of a time connecting with Michaela, but considering what was revealed about her toward the end, it wasn't surprising.
All in all, I liked Stare Him Down and found it surprisingly sweet and took on a topic not often found in romances these days.
I received an ARC through NetGalley for an honest review.
But, I did enjoy it and found myself really liking James. He was dom through and through, but kind and loved Michaela unconditionally. I had a bit more of a time connecting with Michaela, but considering what was revealed about her toward the end, it wasn't surprising.
All in all, I liked Stare Him Down and found it surprisingly sweet and took on a topic not often found in romances these days.
I received an ARC through NetGalley for an honest review.
July 16, 2019
Omg Riley Murphy what have you done to me...
Is it so wrong im tempted to go buy a cat custome right now???
Ok sooo lets begin Michaela is amazing I love her a strong intelligent woman who has overcome difficulties but does not let her stop going after then man she loves...
James o sweet sir how i wish I could be your sub if even for a night. James seems like a typical alpha male who happens to be a dom, but hes more complex than that, he takes love trust and loyalty to heart and when he decides to love be prepared.
What I love about Riley Murphy books is there is always a mystery amongst the budding romance and the dom/sub relationship. She leads you on this amazing journey of a who what where when and why as she shows you this BEAUTIFUL side of dom/sub relationships.
Another 5 star read for Miss Riley
Is it so wrong im tempted to go buy a cat custome right now???
Ok sooo lets begin Michaela is amazing I love her a strong intelligent woman who has overcome difficulties but does not let her stop going after then man she loves...
James o sweet sir how i wish I could be your sub if even for a night. James seems like a typical alpha male who happens to be a dom, but hes more complex than that, he takes love trust and loyalty to heart and when he decides to love be prepared.
What I love about Riley Murphy books is there is always a mystery amongst the budding romance and the dom/sub relationship. She leads you on this amazing journey of a who what where when and why as she shows you this BEAUTIFUL side of dom/sub relationships.
Another 5 star read for Miss Riley
June 15, 2016
I wanted to like this book. I really did but I just found I could not connect with either the MC or FC. I found Michaela to be whiny, manipulative, childish and extremely selfish. Not once to did she stop to think that perhaps James might not want her! I also found the blurb to be a little confusing. I thought the FC was suppose to be innocent and that James would 'bring' out the submissive in her but that's not what it was at all! I also didn't understand the whole father situation going on. His big secret was a bit ridiculous!
Of course this is just my personal opinion and many others have loved this book so take my review with a grain of salt. Perhaps if I had read the other books in the series I might have a better understanding of the characters and their choices.
Of course this is just my personal opinion and many others have loved this book so take my review with a grain of salt. Perhaps if I had read the other books in the series I might have a better understanding of the characters and their choices.
June 3, 2016
Stare Him Down was a good read but I wanted more from this couple.
Michael's and James danced around each other for years. The cat and mouse game that they played was getting tiring. She basically stalked him for several years before she tricked him into marriage.
The pair didn't make any physical connection until midway through the book. When they finally connected I found it to be sweet. It was good but light on the Alpha Dom for me. I had a hard time with feeling an emotional connection between this couple too.
Based on other reviews I'm in the minority on this book. If you've liked the series dontt hesitate to read it.
I received a copy for a honest review..
Michael's and James danced around each other for years. The cat and mouse game that they played was getting tiring. She basically stalked him for several years before she tricked him into marriage.
The pair didn't make any physical connection until midway through the book. When they finally connected I found it to be sweet. It was good but light on the Alpha Dom for me. I had a hard time with feeling an emotional connection between this couple too.
Based on other reviews I'm in the minority on this book. If you've liked the series dontt hesitate to read it.
I received a copy for a honest review..
June 7, 2016
Book Three in the Series and what a book this was!
The story of James and Mickey and just WOW! This book has it all, James trying to hide his true nature/inclination and Mickey trying her best to pull that out. They were so natural together.
I thought this book had it all, two great developed primaries, a great storyline, the backstory fit and worked well and the whole book just flowed. I had a hard time putting it down. I enjoyed watching the game between these two and the spark. Plot was great, characters fully developed and this book has all the steam and spark you could hope for with a great storyline to go with it. Nice work Riley!!
**arc from Net Galley and publisher in exchange for an honest review**
The story of James and Mickey and just WOW! This book has it all, James trying to hide his true nature/inclination and Mickey trying her best to pull that out. They were so natural together.
I thought this book had it all, two great developed primaries, a great storyline, the backstory fit and worked well and the whole book just flowed. I had a hard time putting it down. I enjoyed watching the game between these two and the spark. Plot was great, characters fully developed and this book has all the steam and spark you could hope for with a great storyline to go with it. Nice work Riley!!
**arc from Net Galley and publisher in exchange for an honest review**
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews