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The Shadows Series
When sensually-inspired art student, Charlie Williams, is sought out for erotic pleasure and fantasy, she jumps at the chance to escape her haunted and agonizing past—not realizing that she just secured an even more terrifying future.
Led into a world of danger and betrayal, she finds secrets she was never meant to uncover. One of those secrets is Cameron Hardy. He could be the answer she’s always been looking for, or her final mistake.
The deal offers security.
The money promises financial freedom.
But is it too good to be true?
The Shadows Series includes book one, Seductive Shadows, and book two, Seductive Secrecy.
Led into a world of danger and betrayal, she finds secrets she was never meant to uncover. One of those secrets is Cameron Hardy. He could be the answer she’s always been looking for, or her final mistake.
The deal offers security.
The money promises financial freedom.
But is it too good to be true?
The Shadows Series includes book one, Seductive Shadows, and book two, Seductive Secrecy.
534 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 22, 2013
31 people are currently reading
464 people want to read
About the author
Marni Mann
62 books7,109 followersUSA Today Bestselling author Marni Mann knew she was going to be a writer since middle school. While other girls her age were daydreaming about teenage pop stars, Marni was fantasizing about penning her first novel. She crafts sexy, titillating stories that weave together her love of darkness, mystery, passion, and human emotions. A New Englander at heart, she now lives in Sarasota, Florida, with her husband and their Yellow Lab. When she’s not nose deep in her laptop, working on her next novel, she’s scouring for chocolate, sipping wine, traveling, or devouring fabulous books.
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WEBSITE: www.MarniSMann.com
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/MarniMannAuthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
April 8, 2014
I am a sucker for rich, powerful anti-heroes who change their wicked ways for the love of a woman. Unfortunately the heroine is usually some weak, spineless female who can't do anything but sulk over her sad, lonely life despite being unworldly beautiful. Marni Mann's series The Shadow Series is anything but the usually 50 Shades pastiche. Granted, Charlie is a beautiful girl. An aspiring artist with a sad past and and low self-esteem. When she becomes a glorified prostitute to get out of debt, she finds she is intrigued by the "work" and how her taste for sex somehow has empowered her. Or has it? But Charlie does anything but sulk. She's too busy observing others and working on her "careers" to wallow in self-pity.
As a talented art student by day and seductress by night, she tries to understand how the two can coincide. Soon she finds herself working with a sexy, stimulating and well-known artist-- and finds herself questioning her choices and how she can make a relationship between the two even possible. When her dangerous "career choice" brings her to the realization of just how dangerous a predicament she is in, she thinks her best choice might be just to run. But how?
I thought the series well paced and the characters likeable. I thought despite the awful situation Charlie was in, she was remarkably strong and was thrilled when she realized just how strong she could be.
Excellent beach read! And if a vacay is not in your sights, download it sooner-- as this is a great escape
As a talented art student by day and seductress by night, she tries to understand how the two can coincide. Soon she finds herself working with a sexy, stimulating and well-known artist-- and finds herself questioning her choices and how she can make a relationship between the two even possible. When her dangerous "career choice" brings her to the realization of just how dangerous a predicament she is in, she thinks her best choice might be just to run. But how?
I thought the series well paced and the characters likeable. I thought despite the awful situation Charlie was in, she was remarkably strong and was thrilled when she realized just how strong she could be.
Excellent beach read! And if a vacay is not in your sights, download it sooner-- as this is a great escape
April 17, 2014
Excellent story over all ! I realy enjoyed following Charlie's journey and how she ultimately learned to forgive herself for her failings and move on . This only got 4 stars because I had a real difficult time believing the connection she had with Cameron initially . I felt like the roles of Dallas and Cameron should have been switched . There were also a couple of other minor things that bugged me . Like how it went on and on about her and Jay at the mansion but yet it was Ryder that she supposedly connected with and thier time together was never mentioned while she was working there . I get that it was meant as a plot twist , but just didn't care for it . Other than those things , it was a realy good story ! I would definitly recommend it as a good read .
January 2, 2014
The Shadows Series Marni Mann
Review from Jeannie Zelos Book Reviews
I love erotic romance – when its well written. Sadly after the success of Fifty Shades of Grey ( which I really enjoyed ) there's been an explosion of what seems like poorly written, quickly dashed off, “erotic” novels from writers hoping to cash in on the genre's popularity. It takes more than a few sex scenes pulled together with a thin plot to make a successful and interesting novel though. Unfortunately wading through the multitudes of dross available its possible to miss gems like this one. That's a real shame for keen readers of the genre.
The Shadows Series is a well written, two part novel. It has some sensual, spicy, very erotic sex and love scenes, but these are melded together and contained within a fascinating plot, involving two people with damaged childhoods, a high class brothel and its clients, danger and murders, and it's set around artists and the art world.
Charlie seeks escape from her damaged past, both physical and emotional. We get to see her inner musings, and understand why she reacts as she does, why she tries to blot everything out with meaningless sex. It takes her into a world of danger though, where among the surface beauty and satisfaction danger lurks..life threatening danger. Charlie is on a voyage of discovery, and she can't get the future she needs and deserves until she accepts, forgives herself and heals the damage from her past.
She's very artistic and takes part time classes alongside her job as a high class prostitute at the Mansion. At school she meets an encouraging Professor who tutors her class. He's very encouraging, sees her talent and helps shape her career. She also meets the enigmatic and attractive Cameron, a fellow student, though already a successful artist. He's another person trying to escape from his past, but though he has succeeded well with his art he's still fighting his memories. He and Charlie work together on art projects set by the Professor, and he becomes a huge encouraging focus in her life, getting her to work in his studio alongside him. She thinks there's mutual attraction after a while, wants him sexually, but won't while she's working at the Mansion. She has a really good, long time friend Dallas, and feels guilty for sleeping with him while working there, she won't make that mistake again.
So Charlie, what a sad life she's had, and how hard she tries to escape. I can see why she was so taken with the idea of the Mansion, all that pampering, the constant reiteration that they would be “family” to her, the way they seemed to care about all of her life, not just while she was working and of course the money. More than she could ever earn elsewhere, gave her security and freedom doing something she would be doing anyway. Everything has a price though and when she wants to leave....well it's not so easy. Dallas, he was her lover and friend, he wanted more from her than just sex but accepted that she didn't feel that way for him and he was a real friend to her, always there when she needed him, and helped her even when it caused him pain. Then Cameron – well, he's just sex on legs...but also very closed emotionally. Neither he or Dallas know of Charlie's other work until she wants to leave it and danger hits....
Part two picks up about six months later. I'm glad that interim part of the mansion closing, and the events that surrounded it wasn't gone into in detail. It would have taken the focus off the main plot IMO and it works better this way. The mansion has been closed down, but Charlie is still worried about danger, if someone who was a client recognises her, if someone drops her name in the wrong place...she's still fearful, but now ensconced in a relationship with Cameron and working hard on it. Its not without trials though – he's trying to help her escape from her past, he knows about the mansion now, and the way it all links up with her attitude to sex, and he's trying to get her past that. He has his own shadows to overcome though. Just when it looks brighter for them, when they are making progress with each other and their relationship, when her art is finally taking off and setting up to be a good career, it all goes wrong. Shadows from the past come back to haunt them both, and its gets really, really emotive, desperately sad. It made me very tearful – though maybe oddly that’s what makes a book such a success for me. I need the downs to be really deep and dark, for the characters to really hit bottom and feel devastated – then when it comes right I feel so happy for them. If its all happy, happy, one paced sweetness with no lows - for me that's just dull.
So, a sensual riveting read, lots of hot, well written, sexy, erotic scenes, lots of highs and deep, dark lows, danger and sadness, and edge of seat wondering what on earth can happen next, wrapped up in a novel with a good solid plot, makes for a book that was perfect for me. One I’ll happily re read. A massive 538 pages for just £3.49.
Stars: five – fabulous solid read.
ARC supplied by Book Enthusiast Promotions
Review from Jeannie Zelos Book Reviews
I love erotic romance – when its well written. Sadly after the success of Fifty Shades of Grey ( which I really enjoyed ) there's been an explosion of what seems like poorly written, quickly dashed off, “erotic” novels from writers hoping to cash in on the genre's popularity. It takes more than a few sex scenes pulled together with a thin plot to make a successful and interesting novel though. Unfortunately wading through the multitudes of dross available its possible to miss gems like this one. That's a real shame for keen readers of the genre.
The Shadows Series is a well written, two part novel. It has some sensual, spicy, very erotic sex and love scenes, but these are melded together and contained within a fascinating plot, involving two people with damaged childhoods, a high class brothel and its clients, danger and murders, and it's set around artists and the art world.
Charlie seeks escape from her damaged past, both physical and emotional. We get to see her inner musings, and understand why she reacts as she does, why she tries to blot everything out with meaningless sex. It takes her into a world of danger though, where among the surface beauty and satisfaction danger lurks..life threatening danger. Charlie is on a voyage of discovery, and she can't get the future she needs and deserves until she accepts, forgives herself and heals the damage from her past.
She's very artistic and takes part time classes alongside her job as a high class prostitute at the Mansion. At school she meets an encouraging Professor who tutors her class. He's very encouraging, sees her talent and helps shape her career. She also meets the enigmatic and attractive Cameron, a fellow student, though already a successful artist. He's another person trying to escape from his past, but though he has succeeded well with his art he's still fighting his memories. He and Charlie work together on art projects set by the Professor, and he becomes a huge encouraging focus in her life, getting her to work in his studio alongside him. She thinks there's mutual attraction after a while, wants him sexually, but won't while she's working at the Mansion. She has a really good, long time friend Dallas, and feels guilty for sleeping with him while working there, she won't make that mistake again.
So Charlie, what a sad life she's had, and how hard she tries to escape. I can see why she was so taken with the idea of the Mansion, all that pampering, the constant reiteration that they would be “family” to her, the way they seemed to care about all of her life, not just while she was working and of course the money. More than she could ever earn elsewhere, gave her security and freedom doing something she would be doing anyway. Everything has a price though and when she wants to leave....well it's not so easy. Dallas, he was her lover and friend, he wanted more from her than just sex but accepted that she didn't feel that way for him and he was a real friend to her, always there when she needed him, and helped her even when it caused him pain. Then Cameron – well, he's just sex on legs...but also very closed emotionally. Neither he or Dallas know of Charlie's other work until she wants to leave it and danger hits....
Part two picks up about six months later. I'm glad that interim part of the mansion closing, and the events that surrounded it wasn't gone into in detail. It would have taken the focus off the main plot IMO and it works better this way. The mansion has been closed down, but Charlie is still worried about danger, if someone who was a client recognises her, if someone drops her name in the wrong place...she's still fearful, but now ensconced in a relationship with Cameron and working hard on it. Its not without trials though – he's trying to help her escape from her past, he knows about the mansion now, and the way it all links up with her attitude to sex, and he's trying to get her past that. He has his own shadows to overcome though. Just when it looks brighter for them, when they are making progress with each other and their relationship, when her art is finally taking off and setting up to be a good career, it all goes wrong. Shadows from the past come back to haunt them both, and its gets really, really emotive, desperately sad. It made me very tearful – though maybe oddly that’s what makes a book such a success for me. I need the downs to be really deep and dark, for the characters to really hit bottom and feel devastated – then when it comes right I feel so happy for them. If its all happy, happy, one paced sweetness with no lows - for me that's just dull.
So, a sensual riveting read, lots of hot, well written, sexy, erotic scenes, lots of highs and deep, dark lows, danger and sadness, and edge of seat wondering what on earth can happen next, wrapped up in a novel with a good solid plot, makes for a book that was perfect for me. One I’ll happily re read. A massive 538 pages for just £3.49.
Stars: five – fabulous solid read.
ARC supplied by Book Enthusiast Promotions
November 24, 2014
Seductive Shadows is a gritty and provocative story of one girl's journey of self discovery. Written in the first person narrative, author Marni Mann weaves an enticing, dark, and emotional tale that delves into the life of Charlie, a twenty-three year old art student. Charlie has had a troubled life, through her passion for art, she tries to escape her abusive past with a neglectful and alcoholic mother, and the memory of a tragic accident that occurred five years ago, but the past still haunts her, leaving her scarred and unable to love. Charlie uses art as a way to channel her emotions and sexual acts as a way to forget her past. Charlie accepts a position in a high class brothel that allows her to hide behind a mask as Cee, her alter-ego that enables her to leave Charlie behind. When she meets a fellow artist named Cameron, she finds someone who she can trust and love. Cameron encourages Charlie to take the journey toward self-discovery in order to move forward with her life.
Seductive Shadows is so much more than an erotic tale, it is a riveting story that takes the reader to a deeper and emotional level as it delves into a flawed person's journey to come out of the recesses of her dark shadowy past and into the light in search of herself. The author does a wonderful job of creating layers upon layers within this story, alternating between flashbacks to the past with the present, she entices the reader with intriguing twists and turns as each of the layers are uncovered. You can't help but feel for Charlie as her story unfolds. From her troubled life with her mother, to the tragedy and loss of her best friend, to the choices she has made in her life, it is easy for the reader to relate and understand Charlie, feel her pain, and cheer as her journey leads her towards self-discovery and moving forward in her life. This story deserves to have a sequel, it's open-ended and surprising conclusion leaves the reader wanting more. I would love to be able to continue to follow Charlie and Cameron's story, I know they have more to tell the readers.
Seductive Shadows is a thrilling and provocative story, it is captivating and thought-provoking, it is simply a must read.
***
In Seductive Secrecy, Charlie and Cameron's story picks up where it left off in the first book of the series, Seductive Shadows. Author Marni Mann easily draws the reader back into Charlie and Cameron's relationship. This couple has a complicated relationship full of troubling pasts, dark secrets, personal demons, and complex issues that keeps drawing them back into the shadows. While their relationship is intense and once again tested, this passionate couple is truly perfect for each other, and their ability to sustain their love, overcome obstacles, heal, and move forward is oh so worth the read!
Seductive Secrecy is an amazing story about two broken souls who find each other, and conquer the shadowy obstacles that life keeps throwing their way in order to help them to grow, heal and find a way to stay together.
The Shadow Series is a gritty, emotional, and intense series that is a must read!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author / publisher in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Chick Lit Plus Blog Tours.
http://jerseygirlsizzlingbookreviews....
Seductive Shadows is so much more than an erotic tale, it is a riveting story that takes the reader to a deeper and emotional level as it delves into a flawed person's journey to come out of the recesses of her dark shadowy past and into the light in search of herself. The author does a wonderful job of creating layers upon layers within this story, alternating between flashbacks to the past with the present, she entices the reader with intriguing twists and turns as each of the layers are uncovered. You can't help but feel for Charlie as her story unfolds. From her troubled life with her mother, to the tragedy and loss of her best friend, to the choices she has made in her life, it is easy for the reader to relate and understand Charlie, feel her pain, and cheer as her journey leads her towards self-discovery and moving forward in her life. This story deserves to have a sequel, it's open-ended and surprising conclusion leaves the reader wanting more. I would love to be able to continue to follow Charlie and Cameron's story, I know they have more to tell the readers.
Seductive Shadows is a thrilling and provocative story, it is captivating and thought-provoking, it is simply a must read.
***
In Seductive Secrecy, Charlie and Cameron's story picks up where it left off in the first book of the series, Seductive Shadows. Author Marni Mann easily draws the reader back into Charlie and Cameron's relationship. This couple has a complicated relationship full of troubling pasts, dark secrets, personal demons, and complex issues that keeps drawing them back into the shadows. While their relationship is intense and once again tested, this passionate couple is truly perfect for each other, and their ability to sustain their love, overcome obstacles, heal, and move forward is oh so worth the read!
Seductive Secrecy is an amazing story about two broken souls who find each other, and conquer the shadowy obstacles that life keeps throwing their way in order to help them to grow, heal and find a way to stay together.
The Shadow Series is a gritty, emotional, and intense series that is a must read!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author / publisher in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Chick Lit Plus Blog Tours.
http://jerseygirlsizzlingbookreviews....
July 31, 2014
We don't all know what we want to read right off the bat -- regardless if we are 'readers' or not -- and I think there is a special kind of warmth you experience when you realize you're reading a book that is your kind of book. Unfortunately (for me) there are very few books like this -- that are just kind of perfect -- but on the other hand, fortunately, I found two in one series. :)
The Shadows Series by Marni Mann tells the story of one woman's darkness, developed by a lifetime of pain that was forced upon her by the one woman who is supposed to love her more than anyone else. The backstory in book one, Seductive Shadows, is vivid, and it hurts. It hurts the reader in the depths of your soul, where it is as dark as the streets of Boston. I've never come across such a character as Charlie, who, throughout just two books, has grown from a damaged, dark girl to someone who still has the darkness within, but can live alongside it happily, beside the man she loves. The chemistry that is between these two is unparalleled -- even in a genre such in erotica --Mann's passionate lyrics shock you with intensity. It is a beautiful series that I would recommend every fan of romance pick up.
The Shadows Series by Marni Mann tells the story of one woman's darkness, developed by a lifetime of pain that was forced upon her by the one woman who is supposed to love her more than anyone else. The backstory in book one, Seductive Shadows, is vivid, and it hurts. It hurts the reader in the depths of your soul, where it is as dark as the streets of Boston. I've never come across such a character as Charlie, who, throughout just two books, has grown from a damaged, dark girl to someone who still has the darkness within, but can live alongside it happily, beside the man she loves. The chemistry that is between these two is unparalleled -- even in a genre such in erotica --Mann's passionate lyrics shock you with intensity. It is a beautiful series that I would recommend every fan of romance pick up.
August 16, 2015
I really did enjoy this series!! These characters have a lot in common. These factors changed through out the story and had twists and turns. Some came out of left field and slapped me upside the head! WHAT!! Charlie and Cameron...this was something of an emotional roller coaster. Ups and downs and a lot of "What!" This is a Must read! Strong characters with hot bodies! Picture perfect! Not bad I say...not bad at all!
I received this ARC from the publisher via Net Galley for my honest review. Thank You Net Galley!!
I received this ARC from the publisher via Net Galley for my honest review. Thank You Net Galley!!
March 29, 2014
This is actually two books bought as the series. I certainly found this book intriguing. It was pretty unique. But I also felt there was a fair amount of things missing from the books. There's a very important six months time-span between book one and book two. Not much was said about that time. Plus there were other details left hanging and/or weren't addressed. So although I liked these books, I also found them a bit frustrating.
March 6, 2014
I was given these books for an honest review.
This book has a very hot cover! The cover caught my eye and then I opened the book and holy crap! I was instantly drawn in! This book keeps you guessing with all the great twists and turns. It had some great sizzling sex scenes. It was emotionally draining and there is some madness. Oddly enough I liked it! Grab a copy and tell me what you think!
This book has a very hot cover! The cover caught my eye and then I opened the book and holy crap! I was instantly drawn in! This book keeps you guessing with all the great twists and turns. It had some great sizzling sex scenes. It was emotionally draining and there is some madness. Oddly enough I liked it! Grab a copy and tell me what you think!
June 23, 2014
This book made me laugh, cry and smile. It is well written. The author did an amazing job building the folks in the book. I would have given 6 stars if I could. No spoilers for this review thank you for these awesome books
March 17, 2014
Amazing Story
wow is all I can say! so much of the emotions in this story actually felt real. not forced or made up. I was completely vested and could not put it down till I finished both books. I highly recommend these books!
wow is all I can say! so much of the emotions in this story actually felt real. not forced or made up. I was completely vested and could not put it down till I finished both books. I highly recommend these books!
May 19, 2014
I Loved this series! Well worth the read!
Official review to come!
Official review to come!
June 23, 2014
Great read!
The story kept me on the edge of my seat through both books! So many twists and turns. There were so many moments I cried and laughed and even smiled.
The story kept me on the edge of my seat through both books! So many twists and turns. There were so many moments I cried and laughed and even smiled.
February 7, 2017
This story was intriguing and the layers peeled back slowly but once you started peeling them you didn't want to stop! I really enjoy this authors writing--nothing is rushed and the description is spot on! This story has a lot of sizzle to it also--I loved it and would highly recommend
November 2, 2023
What a ride! This is such a wonderful book! It’s full of ups and downs, twists and turns, and it pulls at your emotions. I love it!
June 29, 2014
This was an amazing series with so much romance and erotica. I felt this story to be very well written.
With so much going on in this series you just couldn't see anything go wrong! Lots of love, sex, mystery and heart wrenching angst.
You are find love when you don't expect it, a well written journey of a girl who feels lost and alone. She eventually opens up her heart and finds love. She thought the comfort she felt for one person was love, but she later realized that it wasn't and she knew she couldn't be satisfied with just that, so she went and found true love.
Charlie is an aspiring artist who feels low of herself, even though she's a very beautiful woman. She will find that her life changes when she starts working at the Mansion. She started earning sums of money that she never thought possible in a week's worth.
Charlie has also started working with Cameron, a sexy famous artist. He brings out the best in her and she starts opening up to him and feels like she connects with him.
She can't speak to anyone about her line of work and she her life becomes a bit dangerous and she knows it's going to be pretty hard for her to get away from.
Even though Charlie faces danger, she finds a way to leave the line of work that endangered her and becomes an artist.
This series turns out beautifully as her the love evolves between Charlie and Cameron. So much twists and turns and angst are in this series.
I really have to say this was an amazing series and was very happy with the ending. Totally my kind of read and if you like to read about love, sex, ingtrigue, mystery .... then this is the book for you!
Totally worth your time :)
I was provided with the book by Book Enthusiast Promotions for an Honest Review
With so much going on in this series you just couldn't see anything go wrong! Lots of love, sex, mystery and heart wrenching angst.
You are find love when you don't expect it, a well written journey of a girl who feels lost and alone. She eventually opens up her heart and finds love. She thought the comfort she felt for one person was love, but she later realized that it wasn't and she knew she couldn't be satisfied with just that, so she went and found true love.
Charlie is an aspiring artist who feels low of herself, even though she's a very beautiful woman. She will find that her life changes when she starts working at the Mansion. She started earning sums of money that she never thought possible in a week's worth.
Charlie has also started working with Cameron, a sexy famous artist. He brings out the best in her and she starts opening up to him and feels like she connects with him.
She can't speak to anyone about her line of work and she her life becomes a bit dangerous and she knows it's going to be pretty hard for her to get away from.
Even though Charlie faces danger, she finds a way to leave the line of work that endangered her and becomes an artist.
This series turns out beautifully as her the love evolves between Charlie and Cameron. So much twists and turns and angst are in this series.
I really have to say this was an amazing series and was very happy with the ending. Totally my kind of read and if you like to read about love, sex, ingtrigue, mystery .... then this is the book for you!
Totally worth your time :)
I was provided with the book by Book Enthusiast Promotions for an Honest Review
May 29, 2014
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I’m still trying to gather my thoughts about this book. I liked it. It was good and kept my attention. When I got to the end of the first book, I had to keep reading. I needed to know how it would end. I liked the first book a lot more than the second. It was much more believable. I found Charlie to be a heartless person. I know she was just protecting herself, but the way she used sex to feel was a turn off for me. The situation she found herself in was all of her making. She put herself in the Mansion so she could get paid to have sex so she could feel. I did like that she respected Cameron enough to tell him the truth before starting a relationship with him.
The second book was hard for me to get through. It took me awhile to even figure out what was going on. The time between the first and second book had the fall of the Mansion and we were given very little about that time. I found Charlie to be phony with all her flashbacks and remorse for working at the Mansion. Again, she put herself in that position and didn’t seem to mind at the time. The relationship developing between Charlie and Cameron was enough to keep me reading. My heart broke when all of the secrets of the Mansion came out (Thunder). I did like the ending, other than that one little shocker. Overall, it was a pretty good read that had a definite conclusion and didn’t leave me hanging.
3.5 Bombs
Reviewed by Tracy
I’m still trying to gather my thoughts about this book. I liked it. It was good and kept my attention. When I got to the end of the first book, I had to keep reading. I needed to know how it would end. I liked the first book a lot more than the second. It was much more believable. I found Charlie to be a heartless person. I know she was just protecting herself, but the way she used sex to feel was a turn off for me. The situation she found herself in was all of her making. She put herself in the Mansion so she could get paid to have sex so she could feel. I did like that she respected Cameron enough to tell him the truth before starting a relationship with him.
The second book was hard for me to get through. It took me awhile to even figure out what was going on. The time between the first and second book had the fall of the Mansion and we were given very little about that time. I found Charlie to be phony with all her flashbacks and remorse for working at the Mansion. Again, she put herself in that position and didn’t seem to mind at the time. The relationship developing between Charlie and Cameron was enough to keep me reading. My heart broke when all of the secrets of the Mansion came out (Thunder). I did like the ending, other than that one little shocker. Overall, it was a pretty good read that had a definite conclusion and didn’t leave me hanging.
3.5 Bombs
Reviewed by Tracy
August 20, 2015
Seductive Shadows
I'm still having to really wrap my head around this one. It's a dark, VERY deep, somewhat self destructive read.
It is a page turner of sorts.. That will leave you guessing. But it was nothing like I expected it to be.
Even at the "grand cliff hanging finale" I just feel blah about it. Like is that it?
It wasn't as "dark" as I expected it to be. And while very sexual (not sunshine and rainbows), its wasn't at all "moving".
I guess the best way to describe it is dull. Not a bad read, but not awe inspiring either. Don't expect to feel emotional in anyway other than maybe pity.
Seductive Secrecy
This is the second book in the Shadows series and I found it to be pretty bland as well as the first, with the exception of the ending.
The ending was by far the best part of this book.
I felt a little let down by this series personally.. I kept waiting for something big to happen and when it finally did, the book was over.
While the writing itself was engaging, the plot was just dull. I really expected Ryder to play a bigger role in this story once he was introduced, but he didn't.
While I shelved the first book as "dark" this one is not. Lots of painting.. lots of sex.. and that pretty much the whole book.
It just fell flat, for me.
** I received a digital copy of these books in exchange of my honest review**
I'm still having to really wrap my head around this one. It's a dark, VERY deep, somewhat self destructive read.
It is a page turner of sorts.. That will leave you guessing. But it was nothing like I expected it to be.
Even at the "grand cliff hanging finale" I just feel blah about it. Like is that it?
It wasn't as "dark" as I expected it to be. And while very sexual (not sunshine and rainbows), its wasn't at all "moving".
I guess the best way to describe it is dull. Not a bad read, but not awe inspiring either. Don't expect to feel emotional in anyway other than maybe pity.
Seductive Secrecy
This is the second book in the Shadows series and I found it to be pretty bland as well as the first, with the exception of the ending.
The ending was by far the best part of this book.
I felt a little let down by this series personally.. I kept waiting for something big to happen and when it finally did, the book was over.
While the writing itself was engaging, the plot was just dull. I really expected Ryder to play a bigger role in this story once he was introduced, but he didn't.
While I shelved the first book as "dark" this one is not. Lots of painting.. lots of sex.. and that pretty much the whole book.
It just fell flat, for me.
** I received a digital copy of these books in exchange of my honest review**
August 4, 2015
4.5 STARS
Seductive Shadows (Shadow Series #1) is so much more than an erotic tale, it is a journey that takes the reader to an emotional roller-coaster through a dark shadowy past and into the light in search of herself.
The author does a wonderful job developing the story, alternating between flashbacks to the past with the present, she entices the reader with intriguing twists and turns as phases of the story are uncovered. You can't help but feel for Charlie, and as her story unfolds you watch her go from lost and loneliness, to the possibility of a better life.
Seductive Shadows is a thrilling and provocative story, it is captivating, it is a must read. I found myself having a hard time putting the book down needing to know what was going to happen next!
Seductive Secrecy by Marni Mann (Shadows Series #2), took my breath away! Is erotic and sensual. Charlie and Cameron's story picks up where it left off in the first book of the series. This couple has a complicated relationship, dark secrets, and personal demons. Their relationship is intense and it will be tested again.
I highly recommend this series. Marni Mann just became a writer that I will automatically buy!
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher thru Net Galley for an honest review
Seductive Shadows (Shadow Series #1) is so much more than an erotic tale, it is a journey that takes the reader to an emotional roller-coaster through a dark shadowy past and into the light in search of herself.
The author does a wonderful job developing the story, alternating between flashbacks to the past with the present, she entices the reader with intriguing twists and turns as phases of the story are uncovered. You can't help but feel for Charlie, and as her story unfolds you watch her go from lost and loneliness, to the possibility of a better life.
Seductive Shadows is a thrilling and provocative story, it is captivating, it is a must read. I found myself having a hard time putting the book down needing to know what was going to happen next!
Seductive Secrecy by Marni Mann (Shadows Series #2), took my breath away! Is erotic and sensual. Charlie and Cameron's story picks up where it left off in the first book of the series. This couple has a complicated relationship, dark secrets, and personal demons. Their relationship is intense and it will be tested again.
I highly recommend this series. Marni Mann just became a writer that I will automatically buy!
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher thru Net Galley for an honest review
December 1, 2015
The blurb comes with a warning:
This is not your mother's romance ...
(they were not kidding around!)
Jesus H. ONACRACKER! ... These two books are incredibly intense. When I read them, I was completely tuned into them. Nothing took my attention from them. I was twitchy thru the entire story!
I am SO glad that I got to read these two stories as a set now and not as individual books back in 2013 when they were first published because I would have wanted to kill someone if I had. There is no possible way I could have read the beginning of Charlie and Cameron in Seductive Shadows without immediately going straight to Seductive Secrecy ...
I am in awe of Marni Mann and her story-telling skills. This story was intense, provocative, epic, dark but also fresh and full of love. Charlie and Cameron do not have an easy road of it and this book is indeed NOT your mother's romance, but it IS a truly spectacular romance. Altho for my anxiety, I am glad the story of Charlie and Cameron came to a conclusion, I was still sad to let these two go ....
Exceptional story that I would recommend for anyone!
Copy provided by Booktrope via NetGalley
Jesus H. ONACRACKER! ... These two books are incredibly intense. When I read them, I was completely tuned into them. Nothing took my attention from them. I was twitchy thru the entire story!
I am SO glad that I got to read these two stories as a set now and not as individual books back in 2013 when they were first published because I would have wanted to kill someone if I had. There is no possible way I could have read the beginning of Charlie and Cameron in Seductive Shadows without immediately going straight to Seductive Secrecy ...
I am in awe of Marni Mann and her story-telling skills. This story was intense, provocative, epic, dark but also fresh and full of love. Charlie and Cameron do not have an easy road of it and this book is indeed NOT your mother's romance, but it IS a truly spectacular romance. Altho for my anxiety, I am glad the story of Charlie and Cameron came to a conclusion, I was still sad to let these two go ....
Exceptional story that I would recommend for anyone!
Copy provided by Booktrope via NetGalley
November 18, 2015
Wow,I have never read a book that I've emotionally connected with on certain levels.
As I began reading this story, some of my darkness peeked through. Though, I knew my father and he was the alcoholic. He could and did become abusive, but only to my mother and certain children, I was one on occasion. But the manipulating and emotional abuse that I took from my mother; who wasn't an alcoholic, was so much worse. Hiding my pain in much similarities as Charlie was my way of dealing. Only I didn't sell myself with prostitution, I gave my body freely to any boy/guy that showed interest.
I cried through most of this story. I'm sorry she lost her father to a physics, bit I'm every as pleased that she got her happy ending with Cameron. Through the entire story, since he entered; I just knew his character was worth falling in love with. As for Ryder, another victim in this tragic eye opening and self-confident finding story; also finds his happiness and love that's as everlasting as Cameron and Charlie's love.
As I began reading this story, some of my darkness peeked through. Though, I knew my father and he was the alcoholic. He could and did become abusive, but only to my mother and certain children, I was one on occasion. But the manipulating and emotional abuse that I took from my mother; who wasn't an alcoholic, was so much worse. Hiding my pain in much similarities as Charlie was my way of dealing. Only I didn't sell myself with prostitution, I gave my body freely to any boy/guy that showed interest.
I cried through most of this story. I'm sorry she lost her father to a physics, bit I'm every as pleased that she got her happy ending with Cameron. Through the entire story, since he entered; I just knew his character was worth falling in love with. As for Ryder, another victim in this tragic eye opening and self-confident finding story; also finds his happiness and love that's as everlasting as Cameron and Charlie's love.
September 10, 2015
I really enjoyed these two books and was surprised at the emotions I felt while reading it. When I first started I couldn't help but wonder why Charlie (main character) is so into sex. I admit I was concerned that this was nothing more than a well disguised porn novel without a plot. It wasn't until half way through the first book did I realize how incredibly wrong I was. It eventually became obvious that Charlie is self medicating her pain away by using sex.
The second book drew more of an emotional response from me....this is entirely about Charlie's journey in discovering who she really is. I love that Cameron is there with her every step of the way and doesn't give up on her. The book had tons of twists that were unexpected and that I admit I was a little unprepared for.
Overall a great read especially if you want to get lost in a book for awhile.
The second book drew more of an emotional response from me....this is entirely about Charlie's journey in discovering who she really is. I love that Cameron is there with her every step of the way and doesn't give up on her. The book had tons of twists that were unexpected and that I admit I was a little unprepared for.
Overall a great read especially if you want to get lost in a book for awhile.
July 18, 2016
3.5 Stars...
I really didn't know what to expect when I started reading this book, so now that I've finished it I'm finding it really hard to describe how I feel about it... Overall the story was decent but I didn't love it... I never felt a connection with Charlie/Cee or Cameron; and it was hard for me to get involved in their story... I did enjoy the passion/love that Charlie and Cameron developed for one another, the descriptions of their art and seeing Charlie finally growing a backbone towards the end; but other than that I felt like the story line was all over the place... The twist and turns were interesting, but kinda felt over the top...
This wasn't a bad book, it just isn't something I see myself reading again...
I really didn't know what to expect when I started reading this book, so now that I've finished it I'm finding it really hard to describe how I feel about it... Overall the story was decent but I didn't love it... I never felt a connection with Charlie/Cee or Cameron; and it was hard for me to get involved in their story... I did enjoy the passion/love that Charlie and Cameron developed for one another, the descriptions of their art and seeing Charlie finally growing a backbone towards the end; but other than that I felt like the story line was all over the place... The twist and turns were interesting, but kinda felt over the top...
This wasn't a bad book, it just isn't something I see myself reading again...
September 25, 2015
This story gave me a book hangover. I cannot stop thinking about it. I still have some questions about things that happened in this story. There were moments where I actually did not like either main character and wanted to knock some sense into them by hitting them with the book. There were some steamy sex scenes, lots of angst, some mystery, but there were a few plot twists and "oh crap" moments in this book.I was completely engrossed in this book and didn't want to put it down. I look forward to reading more by this author. Possibly Ryker's or Dallas's story?!
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher for an honest review.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher for an honest review.
October 24, 2014
This was a dark read I must say, however it was a page turner, I wanted to see what came next. The characters and troubled past and that is putting it mildly, but it was that past that helped them thru to find peace with everything that happened only to find light at the end. The HEA was fitting and well deserved.
April 7, 2015
Great character development!
The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars is because right after the climax of the first book started, the author skipped over details of how it all happened and started the second book with little detail. It could easily have been a three book collection. I did love how the author made you feel for the characters! Very impressed!
The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars is because right after the climax of the first book started, the author skipped over details of how it all happened and started the second book with little detail. It could easily have been a three book collection. I did love how the author made you feel for the characters! Very impressed!
September 3, 2015
I received this on NetGalley - and the initial few chapters didn't do much to pull me in. As the story evolves, the writing gets tighter and the plot thickens and becomes more than just a story about sex. There is growth of the characters, and I think the author as well as the books progress. Fun reads, loved how the art becomes a character of its own through the story.
October 22, 2015
This is one of those reads you will be thinking about even when you aren’t reading it. Charlie has a past that haunts her and uses art and sex to escape. She meets Cameron at the brothel she works at and sparks fly. This is a dark and edgy ready with plenty of drama and suspense not to mention hot sex scenes. An intense erotic read!
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March 29, 2016I'm DNFing at 5%. I know it's early and usually I push through, but I'm just not into the book. It looks like book two might be better, but I'm not sure I'm willing to push through book one. Maybe another time. I'm just not feeling it right now.
October 11, 2014
Tortured tale of the truly fucked...damn that made me cry like a baby and I only got through book 1...wrapped it up enough for me to end there cause, that was some heavy shit. Dont need to know how the plan to finish that up....I can let it go here...something light and fluffy next please...
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