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Carter Reed #1
Carter Reed
Emma decided to skip the gym and went home early. It was the last easy decision she made because she found her roommate being raped by the boyfriend. She had two choices. Call the cops and be killed by his family s mafia connections or kill him first and hope to survive. There was no choice to her. She killed the bastard first and went to the one person who could protect her. Carter Reed. He s a weapon for the rivaling mafia family, but he s also Emma s secret. Not only was he best friends with her brother, but she s the reason he became that weapon in the first place.
This book is not for the faint of heart.
This book is not for the faint of heart.
350 pages, Paperback
First published September 28, 2013
1504 people are currently reading
19176 people want to read
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October 5, 2013
Okay let me start by saying that I've had the pleasure of reading great books by Tijan before. Carter Reed however, didn't live up to my expectations.
We're first introduced to Emma. Who happens to arrive home early one day to find her room mate being raped, by her own boyfriend.
Emma only has seconds to make a decision - 1. Call the cops, and be killed by his family's mafia connections, or - 2. Kill him and hope for the best.
She of course picks #2. (I probably would too)
After all is said and done, she runs to the only person she knows (and hopes) will protect her. Carter Reed.
Now Carter is balls deep in the mob. He's a weapon. A very powerful one. He's also Emma's little secret.
Now the first half wasn't that bad! Overlooking little things that annoyed me, I enjoyed it. However after the story started progressing, I could no longer let those things slide.
Emma was the most self centred bitch I've ever had the displeasure of reading.
All she thought about was herself. I hate a pity party, and she was the star at that show.
She also cried WAY too much for my liking.
Sure, she just shot someone - She has a right to feel upset. Yes? Yes. She does. I though feel if she can sit around thinking about her vagina and wanting orgasms all day - she's not that sad. I don't know about you, but when I think of orgasms - I think of lollipops and rainbows. Ok not really. But do you see where I'm going?
Emma wasn't a good friend. She was able to keep her life somewhat together going out, working etcetera without a care in the world of what her traumatized friend was going through.
When she did find out however...ARRG! You know what? You read it. Hey you might even enjoy it.
Carter Reed . Apart from the first chapter in the book, he actually reminded me of a big grumpy teddy bear! SO SOFT - YET SO MAD! AWW.
How he could stand her blubbering mess and psychotic possessive behaviour, let alone love her - Is beyond me. Everyone needs love though, so whatever.
There's so much I want to say, but I know I've rambled on a little too much that I don't make sense. So instead I'll present you with a show of gifs!
How I interpreted this story
This is how I felt
The ONLY reason I'm giving this 2 whole stars is down to the fact I did enjoy the first half of this book.
April 20, 2015
5 Carter Reed stars!
She’s done it again… I’ve been Tijaned a second time around. I’ve read a few of Tijan’s books and all of them have that addictive quality. Once you start reading, you don’t want to put the book down. Carter Reed took up my entire day. I didn’t plan on listening to an audio book for 7+ hours that evening, but I just couldn’t stop. It’s safe to say that Carter is my new favorite Tijan boy (sorry Jesse). I’ve had this book sitting on my kindle since release day and I’m so happy I finally had the time to give it a go, but at the same time, I’m kicking myself for waiting so long!
Emma witnesses her best friend being raped. She can’t do nothing, she’s afraid the rapist will kill her friend so she kills him first. Big problem- she can’t go to the cops about it. The guy she killed has mob ties and she knows it would do no good. So she goes to a guy she hasn’t seen in ten years. Her dead brothers best friend, the one she’s supposed to trust. Carter Reed.
Once I heard those words come out of Carter Reed’s mouth, I knew I was a goner. I would declare war for you, Carter Reed. Carter is protective. He’s a killer, yes, but once you learn about his past, you won’t really see him that way. I know I didn’t. He’s a savior . He’s loyal, he’s fierce and he’s sexy as hell. There is no way to read this book and not fall hard for Carter Reed.
Once Emma finds Carter, she finds her salvation. The road isn’t easy for these two. There is a ton of drama along the way. Emma has to give up a lot from her old life to have Carter but primarily to keep safe. That is Carter’s number one priority. Emma’s safety. It always has been. He has done and will do anything for Emma.
Carter Reed is a suspenseful, passionate and fast paced book. It’s one that grabbed me from the beginning and didn’t let go. I loved both main characters, the story was interesting and compelling and the writing was great. Overall this was a huge win for me :D
Just a small disclaimer- before you start a Tijan book, just know that she has that ability to suck you in, make it so you don’t want to do anything else but read her book. You might not be able to stop once you start so read at your own risk. In all seriousness, Carter Reed is a book you won’t want to miss out on!
She’s done it again… I’ve been Tijaned a second time around. I’ve read a few of Tijan’s books and all of them have that addictive quality. Once you start reading, you don’t want to put the book down. Carter Reed took up my entire day. I didn’t plan on listening to an audio book for 7+ hours that evening, but I just couldn’t stop. It’s safe to say that Carter is my new favorite Tijan boy (sorry Jesse). I’ve had this book sitting on my kindle since release day and I’m so happy I finally had the time to give it a go, but at the same time, I’m kicking myself for waiting so long!
Emma witnesses her best friend being raped. She can’t do nothing, she’s afraid the rapist will kill her friend so she kills him first. Big problem- she can’t go to the cops about it. The guy she killed has mob ties and she knows it would do no good. So she goes to a guy she hasn’t seen in ten years. Her dead brothers best friend, the one she’s supposed to trust. Carter Reed.
“You don’t trust anyone, no one except Carter. Go to Carter. He’ll take care of you, Ems. I promise.”
Once I heard those words come out of Carter Reed’s mouth, I knew I was a goner. I would declare war for you, Carter Reed. Carter is protective. He’s a killer, yes, but once you learn about his past, you won’t really see him that way. I know I didn’t. He’s a savior . He’s loyal, he’s fierce and he’s sexy as hell. There is no way to read this book and not fall hard for Carter Reed.
Once Emma finds Carter, she finds her salvation. The road isn’t easy for these two. There is a ton of drama along the way. Emma has to give up a lot from her old life to have Carter but primarily to keep safe. That is Carter’s number one priority. Emma’s safety. It always has been. He has done and will do anything for Emma.
Carter Reed is a suspenseful, passionate and fast paced book. It’s one that grabbed me from the beginning and didn’t let go. I loved both main characters, the story was interesting and compelling and the writing was great. Overall this was a huge win for me :D
Just a small disclaimer- before you start a Tijan book, just know that she has that ability to suck you in, make it so you don’t want to do anything else but read her book. You might not be able to stop once you start so read at your own risk. In all seriousness, Carter Reed is a book you won’t want to miss out on!
Want to read
September 20, 2013 To be released Sept 30
TEASER:
"Tell me what happened." His plea was so soft.
I broke. This wasn't the stranger anymore. This was Carter, the boy I had grown up with. I flung my arms around him and pulled him down. Instead of fighting, I clung to him now.
He wrapped his arms around me and rolled to his side. He patted my back and tucked his head into the crook of my neck and shoulder. I felt his lips brush there as he repeated, "You have to tell me. I won't hurt you. I will protect you."
TEASER:
"Tell me what happened." His plea was so soft.
I broke. This wasn't the stranger anymore. This was Carter, the boy I had grown up with. I flung my arms around him and pulled him down. Instead of fighting, I clung to him now.
He wrapped his arms around me and rolled to his side. He patted my back and tucked his head into the crook of my neck and shoulder. I felt his lips brush there as he repeated, "You have to tell me. I won't hurt you. I will protect you."
October 6, 2018
What do you do when your roommate and best friend is raped by her boyfriend who just happens to be the son of the local mafia boss?
Well, for Emma the answer is easy. She comes back from her gym class early, goes directly for her gun and shoots him.
So far so good, or rather not so far and not so good. *lol*
*sigh*
What can I say about this book? *shakes head*
The first half read like an action movie and felt like “Fifty Shades of Grey” meets the mafia which actually was pretty entertaining and kept the book in my good graces, but right after we hit the halfway mark the book became soo damn boring, I couldn’t even bring myself to pick it up. XD
And that says a lot! When I need an entire month for about 125 pages this means that my interest hasn’t just deserted me but also ran an extra mile to hide in the endless hills of the faerie realm. In other words: I was bored out of my mind and read everything else than “Carter Reed”. *lol*
After giving this some serious thought I finally realised what didn’t work for me though. I mean it should have worked, but it didn’t so I really wanted to find out why I stopped enjoying this book. The answer is quite simple. It has an alpha male and a damsel in distress and it was supposed to be a sexy read. In the first half “Carter Reed” delivered exactly that, but in the second half to read on became quite strenuous. So what happened?
The guy got the girl!
Yep, that’s it! Let me elaborate! ;-)
I have no problem with alpha males or the kind of woman that’s a damsel in distress, but I have a major problem with the build-up of sexual tension and an anticlimactic release. (Oops what a choice of words. *facepalm*) Anyway! Half of the book Emma was like: “Ohhh boy Carter is so hot” and then they finally hit it off and everything goes to hell. Like excuse me but WTH?! All they did was to kiss each other which led to them ending up in bed. We go to the club, we party, we cry about our miserable life and lost friends and then we start all over again.
IF THEY AT LEAST WOULD HAVE HAD THE DECENCY TO HAVE SOME FABULOUS SEX!!! *lol*
But no! We don’t even get that, we get tension, tension, a kiss, a little bit of touching and groping and then it’s fade out. And this happens the rest of the entire book! Better one sex scene that is good than 20 that are bad. Where’s the point in writing such scenes when they bore you to death? *stifles a yawn*
And where did the plot go?
Out of the window, as it seems!
What happened to the almighty mafia boss who was supposed to want revenge? If I’d be a mafia boss and someone would have killed my only heir I’d be majorly pissed, I’d like to see blood and I would find a way to get to them. But nope, Emma is untouchable because she’s Carter Reeds. Sure! Completely logical!
Oh and don’t even get me started on self-blaming, forever crying Emma. I just can’t!!!
So yeah, I finally finished this book and I was actually relieved when I closed the last page.
The only reason “Carter Reed” gets 3 stars from me, is the simple fact that the book was really nice at the beginning. Unfortunately it didn’t stay that way. >_< I’m sorry to say it but in the end this really didn’t work out for me.
Not at all!
But hey, maybe this is still the perfect read for you?!
Who knows?
As for me, I'm done with oh so shmexy Carter Reed. ;-P
Well, for Emma the answer is easy. She comes back from her gym class early, goes directly for her gun and shoots him.
So far so good, or rather not so far and not so good. *lol*
*sigh*
What can I say about this book? *shakes head*
The first half read like an action movie and felt like “Fifty Shades of Grey” meets the mafia which actually was pretty entertaining and kept the book in my good graces, but right after we hit the halfway mark the book became soo damn boring, I couldn’t even bring myself to pick it up. XD
And that says a lot! When I need an entire month for about 125 pages this means that my interest hasn’t just deserted me but also ran an extra mile to hide in the endless hills of the faerie realm. In other words: I was bored out of my mind and read everything else than “Carter Reed”. *lol*
After giving this some serious thought I finally realised what didn’t work for me though. I mean it should have worked, but it didn’t so I really wanted to find out why I stopped enjoying this book. The answer is quite simple. It has an alpha male and a damsel in distress and it was supposed to be a sexy read. In the first half “Carter Reed” delivered exactly that, but in the second half to read on became quite strenuous. So what happened?
The guy got the girl!
Yep, that’s it! Let me elaborate! ;-)
I have no problem with alpha males or the kind of woman that’s a damsel in distress, but I have a major problem with the build-up of sexual tension and an anticlimactic release. (Oops what a choice of words. *facepalm*) Anyway! Half of the book Emma was like: “Ohhh boy Carter is so hot” and then they finally hit it off and everything goes to hell. Like excuse me but WTH?! All they did was to kiss each other which led to them ending up in bed. We go to the club, we party, we cry about our miserable life and lost friends and then we start all over again.
IF THEY AT LEAST WOULD HAVE HAD THE DECENCY TO HAVE SOME FABULOUS SEX!!! *lol*
But no! We don’t even get that, we get tension, tension, a kiss, a little bit of touching and groping and then it’s fade out. And this happens the rest of the entire book! Better one sex scene that is good than 20 that are bad. Where’s the point in writing such scenes when they bore you to death? *stifles a yawn*
And where did the plot go?
Out of the window, as it seems!
What happened to the almighty mafia boss who was supposed to want revenge? If I’d be a mafia boss and someone would have killed my only heir I’d be majorly pissed, I’d like to see blood and I would find a way to get to them. But nope, Emma is untouchable because she’s Carter Reeds. Sure! Completely logical!
Oh and don’t even get me started on self-blaming, forever crying Emma. I just can’t!!!
So yeah, I finally finished this book and I was actually relieved when I closed the last page.
The only reason “Carter Reed” gets 3 stars from me, is the simple fact that the book was really nice at the beginning. Unfortunately it didn’t stay that way. >_< I’m sorry to say it but in the end this really didn’t work out for me.
Not at all!
But hey, maybe this is still the perfect read for you?!
Who knows?
As for me, I'm done with oh so shmexy Carter Reed. ;-P
September 2, 2016
DNF 65%
But after reading one of the worst love scenes ever, I just couldn't go on. THERE WAS NO CHEMISTRY AT ALL BETWEEN THE HERO AND THE HEROINE!!!!
The only good thing about this book? Its cover. That's all I have to say. SORRY :(
August 27, 2025
First read 2/26/2020; 2nd time via audiobook 08/26/2025;
Carter Reed is not your average book boyfriend!
This was quite a book! It was definitely a wild ride from beginning to end. It was an awesome story with non-stop action. The characters were all developed very well and the world building was terrific the romance was sizzling hot.
This was a story about a young woman named Emma Martins who works at a hotel and lives with a friend named Mallory who makes bad choices in the men she dates. Emma comes home one night early because she decides to skip going to her gym. Emma finds her roommate Mallory getting brutally raped by her boyfriend, Jeremy Dunvan, who happens to be mob connected to the Bartel family.
Emma knows that Jeremy will most likely kill Mallory and probably her as well if he finds her in the apartment so she grabs a gun and kills him before he gets the chance. Not knowing what to do, the girls drive around until they end up at a friends place. Though Emma knows that Jeremy’s father Franco will be looking to kill her as soon as he finds out what she did.
Emma knows how dangerous Franco is since he put out a hit on her brother A.J. when they were younger and he was beaten to death with a bat right in front of her while she remained hidden behind a grate. Her brother always told her if she ever needed help to go to Carter Reed. So that is what Emma decides to do.
Emma knows, like everyone in the city that Carter Reed is a powerful mob figure in the Mauricio crime family. He has killed a lot of people to get where he is and now he owns a lot of restaurants, clubs and other businesses. So Emma goes to one of his most popular clubs to see if she can meet with him.
I won’t give away any more than that but to say that Carter Reed is quite a guy and when he takes an interest in a girl he doesn’t go half way. Emma is scared of Carter at first but she also feels safe with him which is what she needs. The action in the book is thrilling and the romance is hot. I absolutely loved it.
Audiobook Review:
I generally don’t listen to books done in solo narration, but the next book has dual narrators, so I decided to give this one a try. It was narrated by Lucy Rivers who has a good voice and I didn’t mind much that it was only her. As for the story, I did like the story as much as the first time I read this book. The characters are likable and I definitely liked the fact that Carter is such a capable guy and that he had been protecting Emma for a long time. I also liked that fact that his businesses are all legit despite his mafia ties and penchant for murder.
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Carter Reed is not your average book boyfriend!
This was quite a book! It was definitely a wild ride from beginning to end. It was an awesome story with non-stop action. The characters were all developed very well and the world building was terrific the romance was sizzling hot.
This was a story about a young woman named Emma Martins who works at a hotel and lives with a friend named Mallory who makes bad choices in the men she dates. Emma comes home one night early because she decides to skip going to her gym. Emma finds her roommate Mallory getting brutally raped by her boyfriend, Jeremy Dunvan, who happens to be mob connected to the Bartel family.
Emma knows that Jeremy will most likely kill Mallory and probably her as well if he finds her in the apartment so she grabs a gun and kills him before he gets the chance. Not knowing what to do, the girls drive around until they end up at a friends place. Though Emma knows that Jeremy’s father Franco will be looking to kill her as soon as he finds out what she did.
Emma knows how dangerous Franco is since he put out a hit on her brother A.J. when they were younger and he was beaten to death with a bat right in front of her while she remained hidden behind a grate. Her brother always told her if she ever needed help to go to Carter Reed. So that is what Emma decides to do.
Emma knows, like everyone in the city that Carter Reed is a powerful mob figure in the Mauricio crime family. He has killed a lot of people to get where he is and now he owns a lot of restaurants, clubs and other businesses. So Emma goes to one of his most popular clubs to see if she can meet with him.
I won’t give away any more than that but to say that Carter Reed is quite a guy and when he takes an interest in a girl he doesn’t go half way. Emma is scared of Carter at first but she also feels safe with him which is what she needs. The action in the book is thrilling and the romance is hot. I absolutely loved it.
Audiobook Review:
I generally don’t listen to books done in solo narration, but the next book has dual narrators, so I decided to give this one a try. It was narrated by Lucy Rivers who has a good voice and I didn’t mind much that it was only her. As for the story, I did like the story as much as the first time I read this book. The characters are likable and I definitely liked the fact that Carter is such a capable guy and that he had been protecting Emma for a long time. I also liked that fact that his businesses are all legit despite his mafia ties and penchant for murder.
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September 8, 2016
♦ 4 PASSIONATE AND ACTION-PACKED STARS. ♦
After having read a few of Tijan's previous NA series, I'd already become a fan of her work and typical writing style. So, when I read the synopsis of Carter Reed and discovered that it was going to be something very different than most of her previous work, I was very curious and anxious to find out how the story would turn out. Needless to say, my expectations were very high, and I can honestly say, the story did not disappoint. But maybe my expectations were just a little bit too high, because I felt the storyline lacking a few times (with over dramatics and some characteristics to both of the main characters that didn't add up) and there was just something missing for me to give it a 5 star rating.
♦
The story starts out, quite literally, with a bang.
When Emma unexpectedly returns home early, she never expected her life to change as drastically as it did...
The moment she finds her roommate and best friend Mallory being raped by her violent jerk of a boyfriend, Jeremy Dunvan. With no other way to protect both herself and her best friend, she decides to shoot him. But, Jeremy is also the son one of the city's most vicious mafia leaders and of course his father will want to revenge his son by finding his murderer and make them suffer. Therefore Emma and Mallory have to go into hiding and leave everything they know behind.
With no one else to turn to, Emma decides to confide in the one person who might actually be able to help her out the mess her once uncomplicated life has turned into: ♦ Carter Reed. ♦
Everyone knows Carter Reed. Or at least, evryone knows of him. He's a notorious member of one of the most powerful mob families in the city, or even the country. He's also known as the Cold Killer. With a reputation as a coldhearted, charismatic hitman who never missed his target, he is both feared and admired by a great amount of people. To Emma, Carter is an old family friend and he used to be her deceased older brothers's best friend.
If there's one person who can keep her safe, it's probably Carter...
But what happens when her supposed friends betray her trust? And when the head of Carter's rivaling mafia clan has decided to hunt her down no matter what? Will even Carter's protection be enough to keep her safe?
As the story progresses, Emma discovers just how much she really means to Carter and exactly how far he's willing to go to protect what's his...
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
All in all, Carter Reed was a fun, exciting, hot and fast paced read with a lot of suspense and action. There's just something about Tijan's books that once I've started reading them, makes me want to keep reading until the very last page. Her books are addictive, easy to read and often portray strong, kick-ass heroines and bad boy heros with a soft spot in their heart that makes them irresistible. Therefore, I would highly recommend giving this story, and the rest of Tijan's books, a try!
Also worth mentioning. Carter Reed is a standalone with a HEA.
"You did all that for me?"
"I would declare war for you,"
December 9, 2014
5 Carter was lethal Stars
I was having lunch with my bestie and had told her how crazy it was that I had never read a book by Tijan. After she picked her jaw up off the floor she said, “I would declare war for Carter Reed.” She was completely serious and said it with such passion. After I stopped laughing I asked her what it was about. She said a mob book and brother’s best friend and I was sold. I started this audiobook in my car on the way home and was hooked.
The story begins with Emma witnessing her best friend being raped by her boyfriend, who also happens to be the son of a mob boss. She tries to stop things, but when that fails she is left with one option: kill or be killed. Even though Emma had the best of intentions and was heroic it leads to trouble for her. Emma and her brother were orphaned as a children, and her older brother raised her until he died. Alone, in trouble, and nowhere to go she turns to Carter Reed.
Carter Reed was her brother’s best friend and promised him he would take care of her if something happened to him, but Emma hasn’t seen Carter in years. Despite that she decides to go out on a limb and ask for help.
Carter Reed isn’t a regular guy, no he is a made man in another mob family. Carter doesn’t take prisoners, he is all in and will do anything to protect Emma.
(that’s for you Chris)
The story is told primarily in Emma’s POV, but we do get a few scenes in Carter’s. This allows us to see what is actually going on behind the scene with the mob. This book is action packed, but still has a sexy and sweet romance. Yes, because this is Carter Reed and he is capable of being both.
This book blew me away. There is a perfect balance of heart, action, and sexiness. There are very few books where things end I am like I wish this or I would change that - with this one there is nothing I would change. Emma had her weak moments, but for the most part this girl was fierce. I loved how she was willing to fight and die for Carter, he would never allow this, but her willingness had me loving her for Carter. Now Carter…don’t even get me started. I absolutely loved him he is sexy, protective and loving.
As if you can’t tell I loved this and highly recommend it!
I was having lunch with my bestie and had told her how crazy it was that I had never read a book by Tijan. After she picked her jaw up off the floor she said, “I would declare war for Carter Reed.” She was completely serious and said it with such passion. After I stopped laughing I asked her what it was about. She said a mob book and brother’s best friend and I was sold. I started this audiobook in my car on the way home and was hooked.
The story begins with Emma witnessing her best friend being raped by her boyfriend, who also happens to be the son of a mob boss. She tries to stop things, but when that fails she is left with one option: kill or be killed. Even though Emma had the best of intentions and was heroic it leads to trouble for her. Emma and her brother were orphaned as a children, and her older brother raised her until he died. Alone, in trouble, and nowhere to go she turns to Carter Reed.
Carter Reed was her brother’s best friend and promised him he would take care of her if something happened to him, but Emma hasn’t seen Carter in years. Despite that she decides to go out on a limb and ask for help.
Carter Reed isn’t a regular guy, no he is a made man in another mob family. Carter doesn’t take prisoners, he is all in and will do anything to protect Emma.
(that’s for you Chris)
The story is told primarily in Emma’s POV, but we do get a few scenes in Carter’s. This allows us to see what is actually going on behind the scene with the mob. This book is action packed, but still has a sexy and sweet romance. Yes, because this is Carter Reed and he is capable of being both.
This book blew me away. There is a perfect balance of heart, action, and sexiness. There are very few books where things end I am like I wish this or I would change that - with this one there is nothing I would change. Emma had her weak moments, but for the most part this girl was fierce. I loved how she was willing to fight and die for Carter, he would never allow this, but her willingness had me loving her for Carter. Now Carter…don’t even get me started. I absolutely loved him he is sexy, protective and loving.
As if you can’t tell I loved this and highly recommend it!
August 20, 2014
Andreea is not impressed. Andreea is fucking angry, disappointed and downright frustrated.
What's up with that rating average? And how is it possible that this book has so many 5-star reviews that fangirl over the awesomeness that is Carter Reed? I wanted to be one of those fangirls that couldn't stop gushing about it, but I ended up wondering IF I EVEN READ THE SAME BOOK. Prepare for a lot of shouty capitals, ranting and exasperating quotes. Bare with me here, because I might need therapy.
Let me give you the main reason why I absolutely hated Carter Reed. The main character, Emma Martins. She was an absolute pain in the ass. My jaw just dropped at just how stupid and dumb she could be. I was at the point where I was praying she was faking it, because I couldn't comprehend someone being so naive and weak.
“Mike nodded for me to go in so I did.” Oh, you petulant little thing. DO YOU EVEN HAVE A BRAIN?
“Who are you texting?”
My head jerked up and I almost dropped my phone as Theresa frowned at me. Her eyes fell to my phone and warmth surged to my cheeks as I fumbled to keep my screen hidden. I knew I was redder than red.” Way to keep it cool.
She's so immature that I wanted to smack her upside down, not to mention strangle her when she actually thought she has a say in all that was happening. She really believed she has the right to fucking complain! NEWS FLASH, HONEY -- the Mob is trying to kill you and you wanted protection; now sit on your goddamn butt and don't put yourself in danger just because you feel like it, or because you're "feeling lonely" or because you "need to help" or because you're so childishly stubborn. ARGHHH.
“He spoke to me like I was two.” You are.
“I flushed. I was an idiot sometimes.” No, you're always an idiot.
“I’m sorry. I wasn’t thinking.” Damn right, you weren't. You have no idea what thinking feels like.
“I don’t want to stay away,” I mumbled. I felt ridiculous.” You are that as well.
“I wasn’t helpless and he needed to start telling me what was going on. This was my life too.” Tell that to the priest.
“Warmth burst inside of me, but I tried to tone it down. I was becoming one of those gushy types. I hated those types, but I whispered back, “I’m glad you’re coming back.” Hy-po-crite.
“I didn’t know what was going on, but I knew he was going to leave me there. Something came up and he needed to handle whatever it was, but I didn’t want to be left behind.”
STOP WHINING!!!
I might add that she’s also shallow and self-centered:
“My eyes went wide. She downgraded? I could never afford a place like this, not with the salary I earned as Mr. Hudson’s assistant. Then I comprehended the rest of what she had said. “Oh, I’m so sorry about your parents.” Nice save, dumbass.
Emma resembled a two-year old. At least mentally speaking, because physically she had the body of a horny teenager bimbo in the making.
She's trapped in her own little world and she barely talks. Everyone throws questions at her and they're left unanswered because it seems she doesn't have the normal capability of having a conversation.
Proof #1:
“What?” Carter looked at me.
I must’ve made some sound. “Oh, it’s nothing.” It wasn’t worth talking about.
He reached for my hand again and raised it for a soft kiss. “Emma, tell me.”
The knots in my stomach loosened at his touch, but I shook my head. This was embarrassing in a small way. “It’s really nothing.”
Proof #2:
“He asked, “What happened?”
I sighed. He always knew. “Nothing.”
“Emma.”
“Nothing,” my voice rose.
He took my arm and pulled me close. “What happened?”
“Nothing.”
Proof #3:
“Emma?”
I became aware of his voice. The phone had fallen into the covers and I grabbed it. “Sorry.”
“Are you okay?”
“I’m fine.”
“Emma.”
“I am,” I rushed out. “When are you coming back?”
“I’ll be back tomorrow night.”
“Good.” I took a deep breath. “That’s good.”
“Are you sure you’re okay?”
“I’m good.”
But now that I think about it, she's not just self-centered. She's Carter-centered. Everything comes back to him and it's quite pathetic how easily she falls for him. If she's not over analyzing her decisions (which she should, because they truly suck), then she's fantasizing about Carter.
“I needed Carter. That made sense to me so that’s what I held onto.” Amazing logic, by the way.
“This creature who held my hand was mine, as I was his. I belonged to him and I gasped in silence as I felt his claim sink into my blood. It went deep to the bones. Everything in me belonged to him, and as I followed him through his club, I knew that I was becoming addicted to him.” Fan-tastic, I'm telling you. She barely knows the guy.
“That was normal, to indulge after a hard week at work and laugh with your friends over a glass of wine. This was all normal. I could be normal.
Carter wasn’t normal, but I couldn’t only have him in my life now.” Why does it all have to come back to him?! Whyyyyy?
“I had three friends who I considered family, but now it was Carter. It was quickly becoming all about him.” Duh. Obviously.
“Twenty-four hours earlier and I would’ve been pleading for her life. She was innocent. She was pure. She meant no harm. But now I had changed. Theresa had become a friend, but everything shifted last night. Carter was my lover. He was my family. He was my only ally. And because of that, because she held a threat to his life, I told him, “I can’t lose you.” Kill me now. Pleeeease, end my mysery.
Carter (the character) could've been the best thing in this book. But instead of being a great character, he was double-faced and manipulative. I suppose he had his good times and I admired him for his power, confidence and cunning mind, but that didn't balance the fact that he turned into a sappy love struck guy by the end of the book. How he could've fallen in love with the idiot extraordinaire is beyond me. And are you actually trying to tell me he was whipped about Emma all this time and he didn't make a damn move? ARE YOU SHITTING ME?
“He tilted my head back and pressed a kiss underneath my chin as he murmured, “I have always loved you.” Another kiss. “I will always love you, Emma. There’s been no other for me.” His hand slid to the back of my neck and his lips moved back to mine. “Now, do you love me?”
I grinned against him, unable to hold it in. “You know I do.” I just threw up in my mouth a bit.
Another thing that dumbfounded me was how Emma kept whining about Carter's new demeanor towards her and how "he's not the same Carter anymore." Well, no shit, Sherlock. He joined the FREAKING MOB. What the heck would you expect? Rainbows and sunshine coming out of his ass?! Ugh.
The secondary characters were flat, undeveloped and plain stupid -- damn, it's like they take life advice from each other. I couldn't connect with any of them. Ben -- infuriatingly dumb and a complete wacko. Theresa -- too quirky and judgemental. Noah -- he sounded like an insecure thirteen year old most of the time. Amanda -- a ridiculous excuse for a friend, but I grew to tolerate her. Mallory -- amazingly naive if she thought having a boyfriend as dangerous as hers would leave her unscathed.
“You’re not here trying to get her money, are you?” Great ice-breaker.
This is my first book by Tijan and I seriously hope it's her worst one, because otherwise, if it's one of her great stuff, I'm bound to swear off any other stories she's created. The writing style is, simply put, bad. There are so many repetitive sequences and cringe-worthy lines. I don't know, maybe being inside Emma's brain (small as a pea) triggered my need to turn back to basic second-grade understanding skills, but I doubt that this whole issue couldn't have been avoided my some spot-on editing. I bet the book would've been half its current size and maybe I would've granted another star to my rating. Maybe.
“He didn’t like it. It happened too fast for his liking.”
“I just admitted to myself that there was something between us. I sucked in my breath and my hands started to tremble. My stomach churned and formed knots, but I had to admit that something was growing between Carter and me.”
Seriously, it's like I'm double reading everything.
I wanted this story to be thrilling and romantic, but it was neither. The premise had so much potential for an action-driven plot, when in reality the story unfolded at a slow pace, with a few bang bang scenes thrown at random to ensure that we haven't forgotten this book is about the Mob. I WAS BORED. Actually, let me say it again:
I was stuck inside Emma's insipid thoughts and the sexy times between her and Carter, although they got me a bit hot and bothered, were vomit inducing after a while because of how unrealistic the chemistry was.
“There were a few more that I didn’t know about until later, but I still killed them. I killed all of them. For you.” How romantic.
I hoped I'd be able to love this book so much, but instead I hated it. I'm not one to bash someone's work and I'm usually really indulgent when it comes to books. I overlook a lot for the sake of enjoying a story, but when it's this horrendous I have to acknowledge that this book wasn't for me. In the beginning, I entertained the idea that I'll give it a 4 stars rating. Then it dropped to 3. Then to 2. And now to 1. *sigh* It's my first one star rating and I'm sad to give it to Carter Reed, but it still doesn't change the fact that I want to throw it out the window even after I finished it.
Carter Reed turns out to be my biggest literary disappointment EVER. I was sure I was going to love it because it had all the right ingredients, but then I actually read it and I'm now left here with a severe headache (I think even my brain is hurting), countless highlighted quotes to account for my dislike and a general impression of WHAT THE ACTUAL FUCK?! If the book got a bunch of serious editing and Emma a personality change, this book would've been ten times better. If.
I'd say ENJOY! but I don't really recommend it, so...
P.S.: This is my Carter. Pretty good eye candy, don’t you think?
What's up with that rating average? And how is it possible that this book has so many 5-star reviews that fangirl over the awesomeness that is Carter Reed? I wanted to be one of those fangirls that couldn't stop gushing about it, but I ended up wondering IF I EVEN READ THE SAME BOOK. Prepare for a lot of shouty capitals, ranting and exasperating quotes. Bare with me here, because I might need therapy.
Let me give you the main reason why I absolutely hated Carter Reed. The main character, Emma Martins. She was an absolute pain in the ass. My jaw just dropped at just how stupid and dumb she could be. I was at the point where I was praying she was faking it, because I couldn't comprehend someone being so naive and weak.
“Mike nodded for me to go in so I did.” Oh, you petulant little thing. DO YOU EVEN HAVE A BRAIN?
“Who are you texting?”
My head jerked up and I almost dropped my phone as Theresa frowned at me. Her eyes fell to my phone and warmth surged to my cheeks as I fumbled to keep my screen hidden. I knew I was redder than red.” Way to keep it cool.
She's so immature that I wanted to smack her upside down, not to mention strangle her when she actually thought she has a say in all that was happening. She really believed she has the right to fucking complain! NEWS FLASH, HONEY -- the Mob is trying to kill you and you wanted protection; now sit on your goddamn butt and don't put yourself in danger just because you feel like it, or because you're "feeling lonely" or because you "need to help" or because you're so childishly stubborn. ARGHHH.
“He spoke to me like I was two.” You are.
“I flushed. I was an idiot sometimes.” No, you're always an idiot.
“I’m sorry. I wasn’t thinking.” Damn right, you weren't. You have no idea what thinking feels like.
“I don’t want to stay away,” I mumbled. I felt ridiculous.” You are that as well.
“I wasn’t helpless and he needed to start telling me what was going on. This was my life too.” Tell that to the priest.
“Warmth burst inside of me, but I tried to tone it down. I was becoming one of those gushy types. I hated those types, but I whispered back, “I’m glad you’re coming back.” Hy-po-crite.
“I didn’t know what was going on, but I knew he was going to leave me there. Something came up and he needed to handle whatever it was, but I didn’t want to be left behind.”
STOP WHINING!!!
I might add that she’s also shallow and self-centered:
“My eyes went wide. She downgraded? I could never afford a place like this, not with the salary I earned as Mr. Hudson’s assistant. Then I comprehended the rest of what she had said. “Oh, I’m so sorry about your parents.” Nice save, dumbass.
Emma resembled a two-year old. At least mentally speaking, because physically she had the body of a horny teenager bimbo in the making.
She's trapped in her own little world and she barely talks. Everyone throws questions at her and they're left unanswered because it seems she doesn't have the normal capability of having a conversation.
Proof #1:
“What?” Carter looked at me.
I must’ve made some sound. “Oh, it’s nothing.” It wasn’t worth talking about.
He reached for my hand again and raised it for a soft kiss. “Emma, tell me.”
The knots in my stomach loosened at his touch, but I shook my head. This was embarrassing in a small way. “It’s really nothing.”
Proof #2:
“He asked, “What happened?”
I sighed. He always knew. “Nothing.”
“Emma.”
“Nothing,” my voice rose.
He took my arm and pulled me close. “What happened?”
“Nothing.”
Proof #3:
“Emma?”
I became aware of his voice. The phone had fallen into the covers and I grabbed it. “Sorry.”
“Are you okay?”
“I’m fine.”
“Emma.”
“I am,” I rushed out. “When are you coming back?”
“I’ll be back tomorrow night.”
“Good.” I took a deep breath. “That’s good.”
“Are you sure you’re okay?”
“I’m good.”
But now that I think about it, she's not just self-centered. She's Carter-centered. Everything comes back to him and it's quite pathetic how easily she falls for him. If she's not over analyzing her decisions (which she should, because they truly suck), then she's fantasizing about Carter.
“I needed Carter. That made sense to me so that’s what I held onto.” Amazing logic, by the way.
“This creature who held my hand was mine, as I was his. I belonged to him and I gasped in silence as I felt his claim sink into my blood. It went deep to the bones. Everything in me belonged to him, and as I followed him through his club, I knew that I was becoming addicted to him.” Fan-tastic, I'm telling you. She barely knows the guy.
“That was normal, to indulge after a hard week at work and laugh with your friends over a glass of wine. This was all normal. I could be normal.
Carter wasn’t normal, but I couldn’t only have him in my life now.” Why does it all have to come back to him?! Whyyyyy?
“I had three friends who I considered family, but now it was Carter. It was quickly becoming all about him.” Duh. Obviously.
“Twenty-four hours earlier and I would’ve been pleading for her life. She was innocent. She was pure. She meant no harm. But now I had changed. Theresa had become a friend, but everything shifted last night. Carter was my lover. He was my family. He was my only ally. And because of that, because she held a threat to his life, I told him, “I can’t lose you.” Kill me now. Pleeeease, end my mysery.
Carter (the character) could've been the best thing in this book. But instead of being a great character, he was double-faced and manipulative. I suppose he had his good times and I admired him for his power, confidence and cunning mind, but that didn't balance the fact that he turned into a sappy love struck guy by the end of the book. How he could've fallen in love with the idiot extraordinaire is beyond me. And are you actually trying to tell me he was whipped about Emma all this time and he didn't make a damn move? ARE YOU SHITTING ME?
“He tilted my head back and pressed a kiss underneath my chin as he murmured, “I have always loved you.” Another kiss. “I will always love you, Emma. There’s been no other for me.” His hand slid to the back of my neck and his lips moved back to mine. “Now, do you love me?”
I grinned against him, unable to hold it in. “You know I do.” I just threw up in my mouth a bit.
Another thing that dumbfounded me was how Emma kept whining about Carter's new demeanor towards her and how "he's not the same Carter anymore." Well, no shit, Sherlock. He joined the FREAKING MOB. What the heck would you expect? Rainbows and sunshine coming out of his ass?! Ugh.
The secondary characters were flat, undeveloped and plain stupid -- damn, it's like they take life advice from each other. I couldn't connect with any of them. Ben -- infuriatingly dumb and a complete wacko. Theresa -- too quirky and judgemental. Noah -- he sounded like an insecure thirteen year old most of the time. Amanda -- a ridiculous excuse for a friend, but I grew to tolerate her. Mallory -- amazingly naive if she thought having a boyfriend as dangerous as hers would leave her unscathed.
“You’re not here trying to get her money, are you?” Great ice-breaker.
This is my first book by Tijan and I seriously hope it's her worst one, because otherwise, if it's one of her great stuff, I'm bound to swear off any other stories she's created. The writing style is, simply put, bad. There are so many repetitive sequences and cringe-worthy lines. I don't know, maybe being inside Emma's brain (small as a pea) triggered my need to turn back to basic second-grade understanding skills, but I doubt that this whole issue couldn't have been avoided my some spot-on editing. I bet the book would've been half its current size and maybe I would've granted another star to my rating. Maybe.
“He didn’t like it. It happened too fast for his liking.”
“I just admitted to myself that there was something between us. I sucked in my breath and my hands started to tremble. My stomach churned and formed knots, but I had to admit that something was growing between Carter and me.”
Seriously, it's like I'm double reading everything.
I wanted this story to be thrilling and romantic, but it was neither. The premise had so much potential for an action-driven plot, when in reality the story unfolded at a slow pace, with a few bang bang scenes thrown at random to ensure that we haven't forgotten this book is about the Mob. I WAS BORED. Actually, let me say it again:
I was stuck inside Emma's insipid thoughts and the sexy times between her and Carter, although they got me a bit hot and bothered, were vomit inducing after a while because of how unrealistic the chemistry was.
“There were a few more that I didn’t know about until later, but I still killed them. I killed all of them. For you.” How romantic.
I hoped I'd be able to love this book so much, but instead I hated it. I'm not one to bash someone's work and I'm usually really indulgent when it comes to books. I overlook a lot for the sake of enjoying a story, but when it's this horrendous I have to acknowledge that this book wasn't for me. In the beginning, I entertained the idea that I'll give it a 4 stars rating. Then it dropped to 3. Then to 2. And now to 1. *sigh* It's my first one star rating and I'm sad to give it to Carter Reed, but it still doesn't change the fact that I want to throw it out the window even after I finished it.
Carter Reed turns out to be my biggest literary disappointment EVER. I was sure I was going to love it because it had all the right ingredients, but then I actually read it and I'm now left here with a severe headache (I think even my brain is hurting), countless highlighted quotes to account for my dislike and a general impression of WHAT THE ACTUAL FUCK?! If the book got a bunch of serious editing and Emma a personality change, this book would've been ten times better. If.
I'd say ENJOY! but I don't really recommend it, so...
P.S.: This is my Carter. Pretty good eye candy, don’t you think?
February 25, 2014
GUILTY PLEASURE READ AND NOTHING MORE!!!
Another addictive read by an author I can't seem to get enough of. Like I've said before, her books are my addiction, my crack, and my exception. They will always be 5-star reads for me.
Having said that, I will say this is my least favorite of her books (my favorite is Broken and Screwed 2). Tijan's plots are always a bit convoluted and disjointed, but this book took things to a whole new level. My goodness! I spent the majority of this book with what I assume was a perplexed look on my face. I couldn't for the life of me keep up with some of the random and evasive parts of the plot. This was me while reading this book.
Still, I can't help but give 5 stars to a book that normally would have been a 2-star read for me. As confused as I was at times, I still loved EVERY SINGLE SECOND I spent reading this addictive story.
Every reader needs a crack author and Tijan is mine. I love the feelings and emotions she evokes, even the confusing ones, when I read one of her books. The rewards outweigh the negatives for me.
Another addictive read by an author I can't seem to get enough of. Like I've said before, her books are my addiction, my crack, and my exception. They will always be 5-star reads for me.
Having said that, I will say this is my least favorite of her books (my favorite is Broken and Screwed 2). Tijan's plots are always a bit convoluted and disjointed, but this book took things to a whole new level. My goodness! I spent the majority of this book with what I assume was a perplexed look on my face. I couldn't for the life of me keep up with some of the random and evasive parts of the plot. This was me while reading this book.
Still, I can't help but give 5 stars to a book that normally would have been a 2-star read for me. As confused as I was at times, I still loved EVERY SINGLE SECOND I spent reading this addictive story.
Every reader needs a crack author and Tijan is mine. I love the feelings and emotions she evokes, even the confusing ones, when I read one of her books. The rewards outweigh the negatives for me.
September 30, 2013
Jointly reviewed for :http://totallybookedblog.com/
Jenny: So this is the first time ever that we have marked a book to read based solely on a cover. Hey, don’t judge us. Have you seen that cover? Yep, this was one book we were dying to read and it would be an understatement to say it didn’t let us down, wouldn’t it G?
I absolutely LOVED Carter Reed. I was hooked from the first page and my life pretty much went on hold until I turned that last page. I was completely absorbed in every word of this author’s wonderful story. I adored her writing and she is definitely on my “to buy” list for the future! And words completely fail me about the hero Carter Reed.
‘I felt like the prey being caught by the predator’ – Emma
Wow! I’m devoid of speech thinking about how utterly delicious and dangerous this man was! He had such a presence and was such a force. What an amazing job this author did with this character. Every nuance, every word, every movement from this man could be felt through her prose. Needless to say I’ve met my new book boyfriend. I know you loved this one too G!
Gitte: Oh, are we admitting to being fickle in public Jenny hahaha yes we did indeed mark this to be read, because ‘have you seen this cover??’ And then to find that the story went above and beyond that, well, wow what an absolute treat. I loved this book. I didn’t put it down unless I absolutely had to. I was completely addicted and this Author completed that fantastic hat trick with drama, passion and brilliant characters. Yeah…Carter Reed, what a man. I’m actually speechless as words fail me too when trying to describe just how perfect he is. No doubt Jenny, new book boyfriend alert!!!
“I would declare war for you.” – Carter
Jenny: We’ll only briefly touch on the story because we really don’t want to give a lot away. For us, the enjoyment of this book was being surprised along the way, having our hearts racing, experiencing the suspense, the emotion and I have to say, it’s been a while since I’ve been so completely intoxicated with the sexual chemistry between two characters. Sizzling doesn’t even begin to describe it. Every look, every touch and every word between these two passionate characters made me want more!
‘God, how could I want this man? He was cold, detached. He killed others.’ - Emma
Emma is on the run. Something went down and she’s in all sorts of trouble. The type that could get her killed. The only person she trusts is her brother’s best friend Carter Reed who has now risen through the ranks of the Mob to become one it’s most valued and dangerous members. Emma fears Carter on some levels but her brothers last words keep ringing in her head…….
“You don’t trust anyone, no one except Carter. Go to Carter. He’ll take care of everything. He’ll take care of you, Ems. I promise.” – AJ
Emma has had to learn to be resilient. She’s a survivor. Emma wasn’t afforded the most stable of lives and the vicious murder of her brother some years earlier still haunts her to this day. But Emma realises her only chance of survival rests in the hands of Carter Reed and so she seeks him out.
“I was going to die. It was a matter of time.’ – Emma
And wow! This story really does take off at that point. So much unfolds and you're taken on a heart racing rollercoaster ride that's for sure! Emma remembers Carter from her younger years but he has now become a force in the Mob. Carter Reed. Where to begin to describe the strikingly handsome, cool and calculated man? Danger, sensuality and sex emanates from every pore of Carter Reed. This man is feared and respected, yet he does have one weakness and that is Emma. Gitte, you really did feel every intense, passionate and emotional moment that passed between Emma and Carter didn’t you?
Gitte: I agree Jenny, it would be such a shame for this story to be spoilt for readers as the build-up and pacing is brilliant. The seductive passion, angst, drama and intrigue is palpable. I was so invested from the start, and not having any idea where this story was going to go, had me inhaling every word. My emotions were so high on this journey that I enjoyed every second of it. The chemistry between Emma and Carter is quite frankly so intense I felt every ounce of it. My pulse raced when Emma’s did because Carter’s presence is just so all encompassing, I mean, how you could function when this hot, intense and dangerous man traps you with just a look? Well….I was a goner no doubt about it, my face flushed and I got all tingly, he only had to enter a room or give someone a look and I went all swoony! He was a killer. A ghost in the shadows who was trained to pure perfection. The cold killer. GAH!! I want to go re-read some scenes now!!!
“A different look settled over him, a cold mask covered his face. He was no longer the Carter I knew, the one who held me and kissed me. This was the one who killed, and as that sunk in, everything changed. Time slowed until every second passed in rhythm with my heartbeat.” – Emma
As for Emma, I really loved her character too. She was so very vulnerable because of her childhood and what had happened to her brother. Then she goes and commits the ultimate crime but with the purest of intentions setting up the story when she runs to find Carter Reed afterwards.
“I have been protecting you since you were a child, Emma. I’m not going to stop now.” – Carter
Now, despite this vulnerability, Emma had pure strength, she’s a survivor. Yes she felt guilt and conflicted emotions over the sudden path her life has taken, but in a situation where a loved one is threatened, this girl does not hesitate. She pulls her big girlie knickers on and gets the job done. There was nothing weak, annoying or needy about her. Brilliant heroine that’s for sure!
“Four days ago, I thought my life was ending. Everything had taken a 180 degree turn.” – Emma
“You’re different Ems. We can’t be normal. You’re not normal anymore. I think what you did changed you too…It’s like a part of you died.” – Amanda
Jenny: I agree. I could re-read some of those scenes in a heartbeat and Emma was indeed a kick ass heroine. I loved the storyline, I loved the characters, the secondary characters added so much to the story and I was completely bowled over by this authors writing style. I really don’t know what else I can say about this book without prattling on forever. Definitely a favourite of 2013. You know that feeling when a book is coming to an end and you’re torn between racing to finish and trying to savour every single delicious, heart stomping moment? Well, yeah, that me with Carter Reed. I was dreading coming to the end because I knew I would want more and I did! An absolute winner! I LOVED IT! How would you sum this one up G? Hmmm do you think we should include the text messages we were sending whilst we were reading?
“You’re mine, Emma. You always have been. I won’t let you go.” Carter
Gitte: Well, this book sure had us burning up our mobile line Jenny! I absolutely loved this story, everything about it. The storyline, the characters and the emotions that I felt whilst reading. The writing was spot on and I’ve got no complaints whatsoever except I just didn’t want it to end and I was gutted to leave Carter behind. Mind you there’s no chance of him ever leaving my heart because he sure made his mark on me!
“This,” he growled in a whisper against my lips. “This is what I wanted that night. I couldn’t contain myself and I had to taste you, but tonight is the night I really have you. You’re mine, Emma. You always have been.” – Carter
Without question this Author has become a one click for me. Carter Reed the book and Carter Reed the man…pure PERFECTION!
Text messages between us throughout Carter Reed
J: I have the screaming hots for Carter Reed. This book is bloody awesome! Love it.
G: I’ve had a shit day. Thank God for Carter Reed! That man is seriously HOT. LOVE this book!!!
J: Me too!! Loving it. I can’t put it down. I haven’t moved since I started it. I really need to eat! This man is definitely a knickers changer. Effing LOVE him and LOVE this book so much!
G: You can eat later Jubs. This book is like an addiction…keep reading food can wait!! Where are you in Carter other than the obvious lol
J: I know! I’m seriously addicted at 47%. Where are you? Geez how hot is the sexual tension and sexual chemistry between Emma and Carter?
G: I’m about 40%. OMG lucky Emma, the tension and chemistry is killing me but I LOVE it!
J: Definitely hot and heavy and such a good story! I’m so into this.
G: Yeah wow FAB story! And that man is bloody delicious.
J: He sure bloody is! Hellooo new book boyfriend.
G: This book is just what I needed. Love this story so much!!!
J: Me too. This book was perfectly timed. It’s awesome! I don’t want it to end. Did I say I loved Carter?
G: Me neither, I don’t want to let go of Carter!!
J: Okay, I haven’t eaten or moved since starting this book and just finished it. I have to say it…….I fucking LOVE CARTER REED. I want more!!
G: I’m at 90% and fuck a duck I bloody love this man and wish I was being watched over by him all day and umm at night lmao
J: Ha! That doesn’t even sound creepy lol Oh geez, we’re going to be suffering a major book hangover after this!! Debrief tomorrow at 5pm my G! Be sure to grab a coffee and I’ll call you because we need to discuss this book and this man!!!
G: It’s a date Jubs! Book hangover is an understatement!!
ARC Supplied by Author in exchange for an honest review
Jenny: So this is the first time ever that we have marked a book to read based solely on a cover. Hey, don’t judge us. Have you seen that cover? Yep, this was one book we were dying to read and it would be an understatement to say it didn’t let us down, wouldn’t it G?
I absolutely LOVED Carter Reed. I was hooked from the first page and my life pretty much went on hold until I turned that last page. I was completely absorbed in every word of this author’s wonderful story. I adored her writing and she is definitely on my “to buy” list for the future! And words completely fail me about the hero Carter Reed.
‘I felt like the prey being caught by the predator’ – Emma
Wow! I’m devoid of speech thinking about how utterly delicious and dangerous this man was! He had such a presence and was such a force. What an amazing job this author did with this character. Every nuance, every word, every movement from this man could be felt through her prose. Needless to say I’ve met my new book boyfriend. I know you loved this one too G!
Gitte: Oh, are we admitting to being fickle in public Jenny hahaha yes we did indeed mark this to be read, because ‘have you seen this cover??’ And then to find that the story went above and beyond that, well, wow what an absolute treat. I loved this book. I didn’t put it down unless I absolutely had to. I was completely addicted and this Author completed that fantastic hat trick with drama, passion and brilliant characters. Yeah…Carter Reed, what a man. I’m actually speechless as words fail me too when trying to describe just how perfect he is. No doubt Jenny, new book boyfriend alert!!!
“I would declare war for you.” – Carter
Jenny: We’ll only briefly touch on the story because we really don’t want to give a lot away. For us, the enjoyment of this book was being surprised along the way, having our hearts racing, experiencing the suspense, the emotion and I have to say, it’s been a while since I’ve been so completely intoxicated with the sexual chemistry between two characters. Sizzling doesn’t even begin to describe it. Every look, every touch and every word between these two passionate characters made me want more!
‘God, how could I want this man? He was cold, detached. He killed others.’ - Emma
Emma is on the run. Something went down and she’s in all sorts of trouble. The type that could get her killed. The only person she trusts is her brother’s best friend Carter Reed who has now risen through the ranks of the Mob to become one it’s most valued and dangerous members. Emma fears Carter on some levels but her brothers last words keep ringing in her head…….
“You don’t trust anyone, no one except Carter. Go to Carter. He’ll take care of everything. He’ll take care of you, Ems. I promise.” – AJ
Emma has had to learn to be resilient. She’s a survivor. Emma wasn’t afforded the most stable of lives and the vicious murder of her brother some years earlier still haunts her to this day. But Emma realises her only chance of survival rests in the hands of Carter Reed and so she seeks him out.
“I was going to die. It was a matter of time.’ – Emma
And wow! This story really does take off at that point. So much unfolds and you're taken on a heart racing rollercoaster ride that's for sure! Emma remembers Carter from her younger years but he has now become a force in the Mob. Carter Reed. Where to begin to describe the strikingly handsome, cool and calculated man? Danger, sensuality and sex emanates from every pore of Carter Reed. This man is feared and respected, yet he does have one weakness and that is Emma. Gitte, you really did feel every intense, passionate and emotional moment that passed between Emma and Carter didn’t you?
Gitte: I agree Jenny, it would be such a shame for this story to be spoilt for readers as the build-up and pacing is brilliant. The seductive passion, angst, drama and intrigue is palpable. I was so invested from the start, and not having any idea where this story was going to go, had me inhaling every word. My emotions were so high on this journey that I enjoyed every second of it. The chemistry between Emma and Carter is quite frankly so intense I felt every ounce of it. My pulse raced when Emma’s did because Carter’s presence is just so all encompassing, I mean, how you could function when this hot, intense and dangerous man traps you with just a look? Well….I was a goner no doubt about it, my face flushed and I got all tingly, he only had to enter a room or give someone a look and I went all swoony! He was a killer. A ghost in the shadows who was trained to pure perfection. The cold killer. GAH!! I want to go re-read some scenes now!!!
“A different look settled over him, a cold mask covered his face. He was no longer the Carter I knew, the one who held me and kissed me. This was the one who killed, and as that sunk in, everything changed. Time slowed until every second passed in rhythm with my heartbeat.” – Emma
As for Emma, I really loved her character too. She was so very vulnerable because of her childhood and what had happened to her brother. Then she goes and commits the ultimate crime but with the purest of intentions setting up the story when she runs to find Carter Reed afterwards.
“I have been protecting you since you were a child, Emma. I’m not going to stop now.” – Carter
Now, despite this vulnerability, Emma had pure strength, she’s a survivor. Yes she felt guilt and conflicted emotions over the sudden path her life has taken, but in a situation where a loved one is threatened, this girl does not hesitate. She pulls her big girlie knickers on and gets the job done. There was nothing weak, annoying or needy about her. Brilliant heroine that’s for sure!
“Four days ago, I thought my life was ending. Everything had taken a 180 degree turn.” – Emma
“You’re different Ems. We can’t be normal. You’re not normal anymore. I think what you did changed you too…It’s like a part of you died.” – Amanda
Jenny: I agree. I could re-read some of those scenes in a heartbeat and Emma was indeed a kick ass heroine. I loved the storyline, I loved the characters, the secondary characters added so much to the story and I was completely bowled over by this authors writing style. I really don’t know what else I can say about this book without prattling on forever. Definitely a favourite of 2013. You know that feeling when a book is coming to an end and you’re torn between racing to finish and trying to savour every single delicious, heart stomping moment? Well, yeah, that me with Carter Reed. I was dreading coming to the end because I knew I would want more and I did! An absolute winner! I LOVED IT! How would you sum this one up G? Hmmm do you think we should include the text messages we were sending whilst we were reading?
“You’re mine, Emma. You always have been. I won’t let you go.” Carter
Gitte: Well, this book sure had us burning up our mobile line Jenny! I absolutely loved this story, everything about it. The storyline, the characters and the emotions that I felt whilst reading. The writing was spot on and I’ve got no complaints whatsoever except I just didn’t want it to end and I was gutted to leave Carter behind. Mind you there’s no chance of him ever leaving my heart because he sure made his mark on me!
“This,” he growled in a whisper against my lips. “This is what I wanted that night. I couldn’t contain myself and I had to taste you, but tonight is the night I really have you. You’re mine, Emma. You always have been.” – Carter
Without question this Author has become a one click for me. Carter Reed the book and Carter Reed the man…pure PERFECTION!
Text messages between us throughout Carter Reed
J: I have the screaming hots for Carter Reed. This book is bloody awesome! Love it.
G: I’ve had a shit day. Thank God for Carter Reed! That man is seriously HOT. LOVE this book!!!
J: Me too!! Loving it. I can’t put it down. I haven’t moved since I started it. I really need to eat! This man is definitely a knickers changer. Effing LOVE him and LOVE this book so much!
G: You can eat later Jubs. This book is like an addiction…keep reading food can wait!! Where are you in Carter other than the obvious lol
J: I know! I’m seriously addicted at 47%. Where are you? Geez how hot is the sexual tension and sexual chemistry between Emma and Carter?
G: I’m about 40%. OMG lucky Emma, the tension and chemistry is killing me but I LOVE it!
J: Definitely hot and heavy and such a good story! I’m so into this.
G: Yeah wow FAB story! And that man is bloody delicious.
J: He sure bloody is! Hellooo new book boyfriend.
G: This book is just what I needed. Love this story so much!!!
J: Me too. This book was perfectly timed. It’s awesome! I don’t want it to end. Did I say I loved Carter?
G: Me neither, I don’t want to let go of Carter!!
J: Okay, I haven’t eaten or moved since starting this book and just finished it. I have to say it…….I fucking LOVE CARTER REED. I want more!!
G: I’m at 90% and fuck a duck I bloody love this man and wish I was being watched over by him all day and umm at night lmao
J: Ha! That doesn’t even sound creepy lol Oh geez, we’re going to be suffering a major book hangover after this!! Debrief tomorrow at 5pm my G! Be sure to grab a coffee and I’ll call you because we need to discuss this book and this man!!!
G: It’s a date Jubs! Book hangover is an understatement!!
ARC Supplied by Author in exchange for an honest review
September 11, 2014
"You're mine, Emma. You always have been. I won't let you go.”
Fantastic book with a gripping storyline, dark, gritty, filled with action, twists and danger. Sooo to all you action lovers this one is for you! It kinds of has a bit of everything in it, it is hot, heartbreaking, heart racing, action-filled and much more.
What would you do if you caught your roommates boyfriend raping her? What if it was you next?
When Emma walks into her apartment having skipped going to the gym her day goes from bad to worse.Catching her roommates boyfriend raping her she panics and does something she cant take back.She kills him.
The boyfriend is no other than the son of a mobster. She couldnt call the police unless she wanted to be hunted and killed and she coulnt let her roommate/ best friend die in the hands of this monster.So she does what she thinks is best she kills him.
what would you do if you had the mob looking for you? They would come for you and they would kill you.
Its kind of a no-win situation either way she would have been hunted and killed so after leaving his body in her apartment she runs with her friend. When panic, fear and paranoia sets in she needs to get help.. fast.
"You don't trust anyone, no one except Carter. Go to Carter. He'll take care of everything. He'll take care of you, Ems. I promise."
With her brothers last words ringing in her ears she sets out to find Carter Reed he is the only one that can help her now.
Carter Reed was Emma's brother AJ's best-friend and when AJ was murdered he went on a rampage and killed everyone involved in his death.He turned into a killer, its what he is known for cold-hearted killer but Emma knew him before he changed will he still be willing to help her?
Carter Reed is bloody HOT! Gorgeous, strong, protective, passionate, dangerous and edge oh whats not to love?
It was adorable.
Then I grinned to myself. Carter Reed was not adorable. Hot and dangerous, but not adorable..
I loved how he would do anything for Emma to make sure she is safe and protected. He has always been the protector so having Emma around and her worrying about him is so different. He is broken in more ways than one suffering loss and much more bad things that happened to him in the past he is used to taking care of himself. Being with Emma heals his wounds but will it all work out? How long will he keep her protected?
Emma has always been alone since she lost her brother AJ and Carter went off killing.She had no one, she has very few friends and its mostly her looking after them. she always needed someone to look after her and Carter does that. Carter fills the gaps, fills the loneliness and makes her feel whole again.
This is mostly in Emma's POV with small parts in Carter POV. I wanted more of Carter it was like his POVs were randomly placed and short.I would have loved to find out more about him, what he was thinking when they came to his POV is was more of an overall summary it wasn't just his thought you saw what the people around him were thinking too. I some what liked it but I needed more his life was a lot more interesting.
"I've been protecting you since I joined the Mauricio Family. You were why I joined them in the first place."
I was disappointed that there weren't many deep convos between Emma and Carter they didn't discuss the past much , well not his past. I wanted to know sooo much more! I wanted it to be a series because well..I love series and getting to know the characters better.
This book needed an epilogue! Unless this is going to turn into a serie? ;) It needed something to round it all off it felt like the book just left you hanging and I was flipping through the pages and thinking..whattt? thats it? nooooooo :(
Oh btw did anyone else notice that Emma "gasps" alot? :DD
Overall this was a great book with some unexpected turns it kept me guessing.Its fast- paced and captivating I was intrigued from the moment I read the synopsis.This is the first Tijan book I have read and well after reading it I will be checking out her other books!
**ARC provided by the author for an honest review**
Check out my blog for more reviews!
http://zakirrahsbookblog.blogspot.co.uk/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Zakirr...
Fantastic book with a gripping storyline, dark, gritty, filled with action, twists and danger. Sooo to all you action lovers this one is for you! It kinds of has a bit of everything in it, it is hot, heartbreaking, heart racing, action-filled and much more.
What would you do if you caught your roommates boyfriend raping her? What if it was you next?
When Emma walks into her apartment having skipped going to the gym her day goes from bad to worse.Catching her roommates boyfriend raping her she panics and does something she cant take back.She kills him.
The boyfriend is no other than the son of a mobster. She couldnt call the police unless she wanted to be hunted and killed and she coulnt let her roommate/ best friend die in the hands of this monster.So she does what she thinks is best she kills him.
what would you do if you had the mob looking for you? They would come for you and they would kill you.
Its kind of a no-win situation either way she would have been hunted and killed so after leaving his body in her apartment she runs with her friend. When panic, fear and paranoia sets in she needs to get help.. fast.
"You don't trust anyone, no one except Carter. Go to Carter. He'll take care of everything. He'll take care of you, Ems. I promise."
With her brothers last words ringing in her ears she sets out to find Carter Reed he is the only one that can help her now.
Carter Reed was Emma's brother AJ's best-friend and when AJ was murdered he went on a rampage and killed everyone involved in his death.He turned into a killer, its what he is known for cold-hearted killer but Emma knew him before he changed will he still be willing to help her?
Carter Reed is bloody HOT! Gorgeous, strong, protective, passionate, dangerous and edge oh whats not to love?
It was adorable.
Then I grinned to myself. Carter Reed was not adorable. Hot and dangerous, but not adorable..
I loved how he would do anything for Emma to make sure she is safe and protected. He has always been the protector so having Emma around and her worrying about him is so different. He is broken in more ways than one suffering loss and much more bad things that happened to him in the past he is used to taking care of himself. Being with Emma heals his wounds but will it all work out? How long will he keep her protected?
Emma has always been alone since she lost her brother AJ and Carter went off killing.She had no one, she has very few friends and its mostly her looking after them. she always needed someone to look after her and Carter does that. Carter fills the gaps, fills the loneliness and makes her feel whole again.
This is mostly in Emma's POV with small parts in Carter POV. I wanted more of Carter it was like his POVs were randomly placed and short.I would have loved to find out more about him, what he was thinking when they came to his POV is was more of an overall summary it wasn't just his thought you saw what the people around him were thinking too. I some what liked it but I needed more his life was a lot more interesting.
"I've been protecting you since I joined the Mauricio Family. You were why I joined them in the first place."
I was disappointed that there weren't many deep convos between Emma and Carter they didn't discuss the past much , well not his past. I wanted to know sooo much more! I wanted it to be a series because well..I love series and getting to know the characters better.
This book needed an epilogue! Unless this is going to turn into a serie? ;) It needed something to round it all off it felt like the book just left you hanging and I was flipping through the pages and thinking..whattt? thats it? nooooooo :(
Oh btw did anyone else notice that Emma "gasps" alot? :DD
Overall this was a great book with some unexpected turns it kept me guessing.Its fast- paced and captivating I was intrigued from the moment I read the synopsis.This is the first Tijan book I have read and well after reading it I will be checking out her other books!
**ARC provided by the author for an honest review**
Check out my blog for more reviews!
http://zakirrahsbookblog.blogspot.co.uk/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Zakirr...
October 13, 2013
4,5 Sexy Badass Stars!
Emma did something very bad (and dangerous) in order to save her best-friend.
But now she is a target to the one of the most powerful Mafia families and she needs some kind of protection and there’s only one person she knows that she can give that to her: Carter Reed.
Carter Reed was her brother’s best-friend that joined the rival Mafia family in order to revenge Emma’s brother murder. Now he is a dangerous professional badass that made a huge fortune working to the mafia. He’s powerful, everyone’s afraid of him and he decides that he’s going to save Emma.
Not only because she was her best-friend little sister, but also because for a long time they were his only family and he always had feelings for her.
And her for him, so yeah, you know where this is going.
(There’s actually no need for these gifs. I just think Jensen’s hot!)
This was a really great book. I was not particularly fan of Tijan (I mean, Fallen Crest High is a pretty good book, but not a life-changing one.), but she really set the pace on this one.
It is hot, sweet, STEAMY with lots of action and killing and extremely well written.
If you’re into books that will grab you from page one and not let you do anything else before finishing it, with very cool characters and an awesome story line, well… you better read this one.
Emma did something very bad (and dangerous) in order to save her best-friend.
But now she is a target to the one of the most powerful Mafia families and she needs some kind of protection and there’s only one person she knows that she can give that to her: Carter Reed.
Carter Reed was her brother’s best-friend that joined the rival Mafia family in order to revenge Emma’s brother murder. Now he is a dangerous professional badass that made a huge fortune working to the mafia. He’s powerful, everyone’s afraid of him and he decides that he’s going to save Emma.
Not only because she was her best-friend little sister, but also because for a long time they were his only family and he always had feelings for her.
And her for him, so yeah, you know where this is going.
(There’s actually no need for these gifs. I just think Jensen’s hot!)
This was a really great book. I was not particularly fan of Tijan (I mean, Fallen Crest High is a pretty good book, but not a life-changing one.), but she really set the pace on this one.
It is hot, sweet, STEAMY with lots of action and killing and extremely well written.
If you’re into books that will grab you from page one and not let you do anything else before finishing it, with very cool characters and an awesome story line, well… you better read this one.
November 27, 2013
Carter Reed.....YUMMMMMMM
Carter is affiliated with mob and I don't mean loosely affiliated he's the REAL DEAL!!!! When Emma finds herself in a bad situation I say BAD lightly because what I really mean is murder, she needed help and that came in the fabulous package of Carter Reed!!!
“You did all of that for me? I would declare war for you.”
They have known each other since they were children he was her brother's best friend. However it's been years since she's seen the enigmatic Carter. What will happen, will he help her, will he protect her?!?!?!?!?!!?
Well YEA....DUH!!!!!!!
“I have been protecting you since you were a child, Emma. I’m not going to stop now.”
My thoughts
Wellllllllllll.....I think this could of been magnificent!!! Now don't get me wrong I did enjoy it but I wanted to FEEL it and I didn't quite get there. I needed or wanted to see more of Carter's ruthless side, I wanted him to bring the THUNDER...all that badassness...I wanted him unleashed!!! YUMMMMM!! I mean it happened a couple times but I would of liked more!!! I'm GREEDY what can I say!!!
I would of also liked for Emma to be more sure of herself but her character basically stayed consistent so I was ok with her in the end.....other than I think she's a bitch because, well, she got Carter Reed!!! Damn her:))))
So to sum it up I wanted to see more of Carter and get in his head...we got a few chapters in his POV but there should of been MORE!!! LOVED LOVED his character!!!!
This author is fantastic......I have liked every book by her so FAR!!!!!
I may add more to this but this is all for now:)
Carter is affiliated with mob and I don't mean loosely affiliated he's the REAL DEAL!!!! When Emma finds herself in a bad situation I say BAD lightly because what I really mean is murder, she needed help and that came in the fabulous package of Carter Reed!!!
“You did all of that for me? I would declare war for you.”
They have known each other since they were children he was her brother's best friend. However it's been years since she's seen the enigmatic Carter. What will happen, will he help her, will he protect her?!?!?!?!?!!?
Well YEA....DUH!!!!!!!
“I have been protecting you since you were a child, Emma. I’m not going to stop now.”
My thoughts
Wellllllllllll.....I think this could of been magnificent!!! Now don't get me wrong I did enjoy it but I wanted to FEEL it and I didn't quite get there. I needed or wanted to see more of Carter's ruthless side, I wanted him to bring the THUNDER...all that badassness...I wanted him unleashed!!! YUMMMMM!! I mean it happened a couple times but I would of liked more!!! I'm GREEDY what can I say!!!
I would of also liked for Emma to be more sure of herself but her character basically stayed consistent so I was ok with her in the end.....other than I think she's a bitch because, well, she got Carter Reed!!! Damn her:))))
So to sum it up I wanted to see more of Carter and get in his head...we got a few chapters in his POV but there should of been MORE!!! LOVED LOVED his character!!!!
This author is fantastic......I have liked every book by her so FAR!!!!!
I may add more to this but this is all for now:)
December 22, 2014
”I would declare war for you.”
This story started off with a bang but thereafter was missing something. Perhaps a better back story or Carter's pov from the past? The I love Yous felt like they were out of nowhere for where these two were and are with one another. It could be that added depth from the characters was needed but I just wasn’t connected with the two main characters in the slightest.
Emma is on the run after killing a mobster and goes to her deceased brother’s best friend Carter Reed for protection. Sadly, I found the story boring in parts compared to the other books I have read by this author but I read on to see how things would play out. Overall this was an okay read for me.
Thank you Bev for the gift!!
This story started off with a bang but thereafter was missing something. Perhaps a better back story or Carter's pov from the past? The I love Yous felt like they were out of nowhere for where these two were and are with one another. It could be that added depth from the characters was needed but I just wasn’t connected with the two main characters in the slightest.
Emma is on the run after killing a mobster and goes to her deceased brother’s best friend Carter Reed for protection. Sadly, I found the story boring in parts compared to the other books I have read by this author but I read on to see how things would play out. Overall this was an okay read for me.
Thank you Bev for the gift!!
October 1, 2013
4.5--I Couldn't Stop Reading--Stars!!!
This one really starts with a bang!! *pun intended* Emma walks in on her roomate Mallory getting raped by her boyfriend with mafia connections and decides to take matters in to her own hands.
Freaking out and on the run, Emma and her roomate Mallory end up at their friend Ben's house. Trying to find a way out the mess, Emma turns to Carter Reed...childhood friend, BFF to her dead brother AJ and aka The Cold Killer. Carter Reed has his own mafia ties....to the rival mafia family.
Carter Reed:
Can I just say, I LOVED Carter! From the moment Emma seeks him out he goes balls to the wall to protect her. And finding out he's been protecting her and watching out for her this whole time...
I don't even know what else to say about this book....other than I literally could not stop reading. Emma becoming entwined with Carter and his lifestyle. Carter trying to protect Emma from the lingering threats.....can Carter protect her? What will happen to her friends? I had to know how it was going to all play out.
I think my ONLY complaint about the book would be that the sex is somewhat fade to black. The sexual chemistry and tension between Carter and Emma was definitely HOT but when it came time to actually doing the deed I wish it would have been a bit more descriptive....especially with a protective, alpha male like Carter.
I also just want to thank Tijan for writing a standalone book. I'm a huge Tijan fan but she likes to write the series....and normally she jumps from series to series. So I was so happy that this was a standalone. And that cover.....
Overall:
Read it and love it people!!!
This one really starts with a bang!! *pun intended* Emma walks in on her roomate Mallory getting raped by her boyfriend with mafia connections and decides to take matters in to her own hands.
Freaking out and on the run, Emma and her roomate Mallory end up at their friend Ben's house. Trying to find a way out the mess, Emma turns to Carter Reed...childhood friend, BFF to her dead brother AJ and aka The Cold Killer. Carter Reed has his own mafia ties....to the rival mafia family.
Carter Reed:
Can I just say, I LOVED Carter! From the moment Emma seeks him out he goes balls to the wall to protect her. And finding out he's been protecting her and watching out for her this whole time...
I don't even know what else to say about this book....other than I literally could not stop reading. Emma becoming entwined with Carter and his lifestyle. Carter trying to protect Emma from the lingering threats.....can Carter protect her? What will happen to her friends? I had to know how it was going to all play out.
I think my ONLY complaint about the book would be that the sex is somewhat fade to black. The sexual chemistry and tension between Carter and Emma was definitely HOT but when it came time to actually doing the deed I wish it would have been a bit more descriptive....especially with a protective, alpha male like Carter.
I also just want to thank Tijan for writing a standalone book. I'm a huge Tijan fan but she likes to write the series....and normally she jumps from series to series. So I was so happy that this was a standalone. And that cover.....
Overall:
Read it and love it people!!!
April 27, 2015
Excerpt and more posted HERE
5 Dangerous Stars
I loved Carter Reed. From start to finish, it was everything I look for in an alpha-damsel-in-distress read. If you like what I like, then you will love this book. It’s also has the same feel to Killing Sarai (to me at least)
NOW, I have to put that big fat Disclaimer - > This book has received a lot of 4 star reviews. Let me tell you why this book isn’t a home run for everyone. I LOVE damsel in distress books and Emma isn’t the strongest heroine, but I love her. Read the blurb and read the reviews. You will know if this is right for you.
Emma witnesses her roommate getting raped and she kills the attacker. The attacker happens to be a part of the mob. Emma can’t go to the cops and she knows it’s only a matter of time before she will be killed. She goes to Carter Reed to help her. Carter is the best friend of Emma’s brother and she hasn’t seen Carter in ten years. Carter Reed isn’t the same boy she remembers growing up with, but she needs someone to protect her.
First off, I picked up this book because of two things, Tijan and the cover. Yeah, cover snob, whatever, but that’s me. Then I read the blurb and I was like oh yeah. The book starts off with a HUGE BANG, it’s kind of slap-you-in-face kind of thing and it’s good. You slowly form a relationship with Emma and kind of get to know her as a character. She’s a little stubborn, wish-washy, but really loyal and determined. I usually don’t like wish washy girls, but it adds tension to the story.
And of course the reason for the whole book. Mr. SEXY CARTER REED. SWOON Major overload. I love him, I want him and damn. He’s a book boyfriend and lord, I have a major crush on him. I know, I’m getting carried away, but you get the point. He’s a killer and a brute, what more could you ask for? I like everything about his character, from his past hardships, how he handles tough situations and the way he reacts to Emma. You will love him, I promise.
Carter Reed has some fast pace moments, but mostly there’s a lot of character and story development. There aren’t any flash-backs and there are bits of Carter’s POV sprinkled in, which I really liked. Mostly, it’s a book about a girl in trouble and she seeks help. There are a lot of obstacles and things thrown at Emma and Carter to keep you on your toes. The story isn’t really steamy, yes there are some nice parts, but you can tell it’s not a major focal point, but there is plenty of sexual tension.
There isn’t an epilogue, which doesn’t bother me, but I know a lot of readers like it, but there is an ending. For now, it’s a standalone novel, but I cross my fingers that Tijan will write a second book and make it a series.
AMAZON 99 CENTS SALE
5 Dangerous Stars
Carter was lethal. His body was craved and molded to perfection.
I loved Carter Reed. From start to finish, it was everything I look for in an alpha-damsel-in-distress read. If you like what I like, then you will love this book. It’s also has the same feel to Killing Sarai (to me at least)
NOW, I have to put that big fat Disclaimer - > This book has received a lot of 4 star reviews. Let me tell you why this book isn’t a home run for everyone. I LOVE damsel in distress books and Emma isn’t the strongest heroine, but I love her. Read the blurb and read the reviews. You will know if this is right for you.
Emma witnesses her roommate getting raped and she kills the attacker. The attacker happens to be a part of the mob. Emma can’t go to the cops and she knows it’s only a matter of time before she will be killed. She goes to Carter Reed to help her. Carter is the best friend of Emma’s brother and she hasn’t seen Carter in ten years. Carter Reed isn’t the same boy she remembers growing up with, but she needs someone to protect her.
No other man had made me feel as he had and being back at Octave opened the floodgates. I wanted him even more.
First off, I picked up this book because of two things, Tijan and the cover. Yeah, cover snob, whatever, but that’s me. Then I read the blurb and I was like oh yeah. The book starts off with a HUGE BANG, it’s kind of slap-you-in-face kind of thing and it’s good. You slowly form a relationship with Emma and kind of get to know her as a character. She’s a little stubborn, wish-washy, but really loyal and determined. I usually don’t like wish washy girls, but it adds tension to the story.
And of course the reason for the whole book. Mr. SEXY CARTER REED. SWOON Major overload. I love him, I want him and damn. He’s a book boyfriend and lord, I have a major crush on him. I know, I’m getting carried away, but you get the point. He’s a killer and a brute, what more could you ask for? I like everything about his character, from his past hardships, how he handles tough situations and the way he reacts to Emma. You will love him, I promise.
His eyes were dark with lust and need. I knew he saw the same in me, but I didn’t care any longer. I needed him…
No matter what path Carter would take us, I’d go with him. I was becoming him… I’d always follow.
Carter Reed has some fast pace moments, but mostly there’s a lot of character and story development. There aren’t any flash-backs and there are bits of Carter’s POV sprinkled in, which I really liked. Mostly, it’s a book about a girl in trouble and she seeks help. There are a lot of obstacles and things thrown at Emma and Carter to keep you on your toes. The story isn’t really steamy, yes there are some nice parts, but you can tell it’s not a major focal point, but there is plenty of sexual tension.
There isn’t an epilogue, which doesn’t bother me, but I know a lot of readers like it, but there is an ending. For now, it’s a standalone novel, but I cross my fingers that Tijan will write a second book and make it a series.
AMAZON 99 CENTS SALE
April 28, 2015
2.5 stars
Oh... why?? Why?? Did I have to jump on the Carter Reed bandwagon just because I saw somewhere that a sequel was coming up soon? I steered clear of this book when it first came out two years ago, despite all the hype because my gut kept telling me to stay away.
Now two years later, my reckless, impressionable self throws herself all in, without bothering to check any reviews first and judge whether it was going to be worth my while.
Well, in short, this book was just... weird...
The story started out pretty ok, standard contrived clichéd story about this chick who is forced to commit a crime and seek help from the uber powerful, dangerous, panty-melting mob dude. Ok, I can roll with that.
But I think what really threw me off was the writing. It wasn't descriptive enough. It felt jumpy, amateurish and as deep and complex as a two by four. You know what kind of writing it is? That ham-fisted kind that begs you, just begs you to SEE THINGS THE AUTHORS WAY. SEE, CARTER REED IS OH SO HOT, OH SO DANGEROUS, I'M TOO LAZY TO SHOW YOU WHY OR HOW, JUST BELIEVE MEEEE!! SEE EVERYBODY WANTS TO HUMP HIM, AND LOOK... GUNS! AND A SHIT-TON OF GUARDS WITH EAR PIECES. HE'S OH SO WRONG, BUT OH SO RIGHT. HE'S A KILLER BUT MY PANTIES MELT. And if I read about this chick's throbbing lady bits one more time I was going to murder my perfectly nice new iPhone 6+ and for that I would have hated this author for-the-fuck-ever. I was confused about why people seemed to say such random things. I was confused about locations, spaces, people's ages, looks, occupations, Emma's bitchiness. It was all so odd.
Halfway through the book that sinking feeling of dread bloomed fully and I realized just how little I gave a damn for any of these characters. Emma annoyed me with her melodramatics, there were too many seemingly useless secondary characters. Theresa was all over the place and seemed psycho to me. I expected her to end up being a killer but alas, nothing that interesting happened. She was just this weird as hell character that served no real interesting purpose. And WTF with Amanda, I mean what was the point of all these people?
If this author had spent a little more time putting Carter on the page instead of weird-shady Theresa, this would have been much more interesting. Also, the insta-lust and insta-love are pretty heavy in this book. You get cheated out of a true organic development of the story because it turns out . Yeah, right. *rolls eyes* I didn't feel the love declarations. In fact I didn't feel anything while reading this book except a boredom edging on desperation.
As for the POVs, what the hell was that? It was so jarring to switch between Emma's first person POV to Carter's 3rd person POV. Why couldn't she keep the POVs consistent? It made Carter seem more remote and it seemed to serve no real purpose.
Despite this rant, this book was semi-decent, in that I didn't have any humongous issues that would prevent me from recommending it. It was absolutely not my cup of tea and it's the perfect example of what I've become to dread in the romance genre: An over-hyped, mediocre book with a flimsy, contrived plot, underdeveloped characters and a cheesy underlining. Having said that, if you loved this one, I'm happy for you and it's no negative reflection on you. This is just my sincere opinion. I thought it was irritatingly mediocre. A much better book that this really reminded me of was Crow's Row by Julie Hockley.
I have a horrible track record with mafia books. I've only loved the Evan Arden series by Shay Savage (GENIUS and amazingly done male POV) And Sempre by JM Darhower (very romantic). So I'm rapidly losing faith in this mob enforcer, mob killer, assassin, mafia romance genre. I hope something else comes along that makes me change my mind.
I was so glad when this book was over I literally sighed and said FINALLY!!!
2.5 stars.
Oh... why?? Why?? Did I have to jump on the Carter Reed bandwagon just because I saw somewhere that a sequel was coming up soon? I steered clear of this book when it first came out two years ago, despite all the hype because my gut kept telling me to stay away.
Now two years later, my reckless, impressionable self throws herself all in, without bothering to check any reviews first and judge whether it was going to be worth my while.
Well, in short, this book was just... weird...
The story started out pretty ok, standard contrived clichéd story about this chick who is forced to commit a crime and seek help from the uber powerful, dangerous, panty-melting mob dude. Ok, I can roll with that.
But I think what really threw me off was the writing. It wasn't descriptive enough. It felt jumpy, amateurish and as deep and complex as a two by four. You know what kind of writing it is? That ham-fisted kind that begs you, just begs you to SEE THINGS THE AUTHORS WAY. SEE, CARTER REED IS OH SO HOT, OH SO DANGEROUS, I'M TOO LAZY TO SHOW YOU WHY OR HOW, JUST BELIEVE MEEEE!! SEE EVERYBODY WANTS TO HUMP HIM, AND LOOK... GUNS! AND A SHIT-TON OF GUARDS WITH EAR PIECES. HE'S OH SO WRONG, BUT OH SO RIGHT. HE'S A KILLER BUT MY PANTIES MELT. And if I read about this chick's throbbing lady bits one more time I was going to murder my perfectly nice new iPhone 6+ and for that I would have hated this author for-the-fuck-ever. I was confused about why people seemed to say such random things. I was confused about locations, spaces, people's ages, looks, occupations, Emma's bitchiness. It was all so odd.
Halfway through the book that sinking feeling of dread bloomed fully and I realized just how little I gave a damn for any of these characters. Emma annoyed me with her melodramatics, there were too many seemingly useless secondary characters. Theresa was all over the place and seemed psycho to me. I expected her to end up being a killer but alas, nothing that interesting happened. She was just this weird as hell character that served no real interesting purpose. And WTF with Amanda, I mean what was the point of all these people?
If this author had spent a little more time putting Carter on the page instead of weird-shady Theresa, this would have been much more interesting. Also, the insta-lust and insta-love are pretty heavy in this book. You get cheated out of a true organic development of the story because it turns out . Yeah, right. *rolls eyes* I didn't feel the love declarations. In fact I didn't feel anything while reading this book except a boredom edging on desperation.
As for the POVs, what the hell was that? It was so jarring to switch between Emma's first person POV to Carter's 3rd person POV. Why couldn't she keep the POVs consistent? It made Carter seem more remote and it seemed to serve no real purpose.
Despite this rant, this book was semi-decent, in that I didn't have any humongous issues that would prevent me from recommending it. It was absolutely not my cup of tea and it's the perfect example of what I've become to dread in the romance genre: An over-hyped, mediocre book with a flimsy, contrived plot, underdeveloped characters and a cheesy underlining. Having said that, if you loved this one, I'm happy for you and it's no negative reflection on you. This is just my sincere opinion. I thought it was irritatingly mediocre. A much better book that this really reminded me of was Crow's Row by Julie Hockley.
I have a horrible track record with mafia books. I've only loved the Evan Arden series by Shay Savage (GENIUS and amazingly done male POV) And Sempre by JM Darhower (very romantic). So I'm rapidly losing faith in this mob enforcer, mob killer, assassin, mafia romance genre. I hope something else comes along that makes me change my mind.
I was so glad when this book was over I literally sighed and said FINALLY!!!
2.5 stars.
March 6, 2017
internal debate begins ...... I loved Carter Reed's character but hmmmmmm I'm missing that something something.
review to come <3333
review to come <3333
April 30, 2015
My very first Tijan book and now I'm addicted, will never look back lol
Wow first book I've read from this author and I am in love! I can't believe I am just now reading this. I've had it on my TBR and just never had time to start this. I am so glad I did. Loved it from the first chapter. This book has everything I look in books. Plenty of suspense, action, love and the fact that I have no idea what's happening next just keeps me going. Emma was a great character I really loved how thought and strong she was perfect match for Carter. Amazing five stars story! If you haven't read this stop and read This now!!!
Wow first book I've read from this author and I am in love! I can't believe I am just now reading this. I've had it on my TBR and just never had time to start this. I am so glad I did. Loved it from the first chapter. This book has everything I look in books. Plenty of suspense, action, love and the fact that I have no idea what's happening next just keeps me going. Emma was a great character I really loved how thought and strong she was perfect match for Carter. Amazing five stars story! If you haven't read this stop and read This now!!!
February 2, 2018
Buddy read with Audrey Thunder
Audrey was being coward, she escaped her 'responsibility' to finished this! LOL
Let me tell you this.
During the reading, this main character, Emma, given me a headache. Twice. Twice of migraine.
She was so annoying. Drama queen, too demanding, pushy, and acted like a spoiled little princess when it comes to Carter's "service".
I mean...c'mon...you'd killed people, you abandoned your stressful friends, and let them hunted by the mob, while you're looking for a shelter , to another mob. When a mob happened to be your long lost friend of a brother. And after you set eyes on his "perfect GQ profile", you forgot about the murder you've done, and lusting after him. And it seemed that you can't stop your throbbing vagina....for him!
That's Emma, everybody.
Why did I finish this anyway....it's all for Carter, he's a hottie...and I found my self a bit fond of him. Feels like wanted to throw Emma to the gator, and keep him for my self....
#evil woman
And about Carter? I think he's a lot more nauseated by her. It proved that he's disappeared so many times, even Emma begged him to stay.
This mob guy, was just like Bruce Wayne.
One time he jump in and out the car (at night), and then disappeared a few days (maybe he's hiding in his bat cave? like Audrey told me, gagged him self.....)...and when Emma started to trapped in danger (right, just when she's in danger)...he was just popped...just like that...from Greece, NY, Japan...wherever....just name it.
Don't get me wrong...for a mobster, he's kinda nice guy, he's too lame for someone like him...
Even when she pursued him (yup! pursued him!) to say "I love you"....I didn't see one tiny little spark between them. It was just about Emma's hungry vagina. Sigh.
This can be a good story, if...there's NOT too many confusing scene along the story.
I dunno...Maybe I'm in minority here....but this book just made me dizzy and frowning all the time...and rolling eyes....and questioning....Really?...Really?...Seriously?
This one failed me. Really sorry.
Audrey was being coward, she escaped her 'responsibility' to finished this! LOL
Let me tell you this.
During the reading, this main character, Emma, given me a headache. Twice. Twice of migraine.
She was so annoying. Drama queen, too demanding, pushy, and acted like a spoiled little princess when it comes to Carter's "service".
I mean...c'mon...you'd killed people, you abandoned your stressful friends, and let them hunted by the mob, while you're looking for a shelter , to another mob. When a mob happened to be your long lost friend of a brother. And after you set eyes on his "perfect GQ profile", you forgot about the murder you've done, and lusting after him. And it seemed that you can't stop your throbbing vagina....for him!
That's Emma, everybody.
Why did I finish this anyway....it's all for Carter, he's a hottie...and I found my self a bit fond of him. Feels like wanted to throw Emma to the gator, and keep him for my self....
#evil woman
And about Carter? I think he's a lot more nauseated by her. It proved that he's disappeared so many times, even Emma begged him to stay.
This mob guy, was just like Bruce Wayne.
One time he jump in and out the car (at night), and then disappeared a few days (maybe he's hiding in his bat cave? like Audrey told me, gagged him self.....)...and when Emma started to trapped in danger (right, just when she's in danger)...he was just popped...just like that...from Greece, NY, Japan...wherever....just name it.
Don't get me wrong...for a mobster, he's kinda nice guy, he's too lame for someone like him...
Even when she pursued him (yup! pursued him!) to say "I love you"....I didn't see one tiny little spark between them. It was just about Emma's hungry vagina. Sigh.
This can be a good story, if...there's NOT too many confusing scene along the story.
I dunno...Maybe I'm in minority here....but this book just made me dizzy and frowning all the time...and rolling eyes....and questioning....Really?...Really?...Seriously?
This one failed me. Really sorry.
October 2, 2013
Carter Reed by Tijan
5 stars!!
“This,” he growled in a whisper against my lips. “This is what I wanted that night. I couldn’t help myself and I had to taste you, but tonight is the night I really have you. You’re mine, Emma. You always have been.”
Tijan has done it again, this author has never failed me. I absolutely loved this book and I absolutely adore Carter Reed. Seriously, you could not help but fall in love with this man.
Emma has been on her own for a while, when she was younger she was shuffled from foster home to foster home but she always had her brother AJ for company. Unfortunately, AJ became embroiled with the mob and was murdered for his troubles so Emma had to quickly adapt to being alone. For years she had got on with her life and was doing really well for herself. She had a flat with a girlfriend and a good job.
One night that all changed and Emma would be forever worrying about her actions, she was scared and alone and was panicking. What should she do, should she run, stay, fight or die even?? Sounds melodramatic but once you read and see what her situation is, you become frightened for her. One thing that keeps coming to the forefront of her thoughts was something her brother said.
“No matter who knocks on the door, you don’t answer it. You don’t trust anyone, no one except Carter. Go to Carter. He’ll take care of you, Ems. I promise.”
Emma knew Carter from when she was younger, she had secretly crushed on the guy for as long as she could remember but he was AJ’s best friend, but more like a brother. When they were in foster care he was always with them, they were inseperable. But she was so wary, he was well known, he had worked his way up the ranks in the mob and was a force to be reckoned with. He was intimidating, people ran when he walked in a room, but he was extremely resourceful, powerful and a well respected business man…but mostly, he was extremely hot!! Smoking hot!! Pantie combusting, smoking hot!! Emma had always felt a connection to him but it was something that was never acted upon and she was wary of being able to cope with seeing him again.
“I know who you are, Carter. I’m the only one who knows you.”
Carter Reed oozes sex appeal, he is extremely good looking, well built and ripped (he is a trained fighter). He is also extremely private. He knows he draws attention but tries to slink into the background...he doesn’t want to be noticed. He is dangerous, he is cool and he is calculating, he doesn’t have a conscience and he only has one Achilles Heel…Emma! Carter has always loved and wanted Emma, but he needed her to want him, he was a patient man, he would bide his time. He knew that she was the one for him and was willing to wait. He knew the day would come and now that she had come to him, he was not willing to let her go.
“I have always loved you.” Another kiss. “I will always love you, Emma. There’s no other for me.”
I can’t say too much about the story as it would spoil it and this is one of those books that you have to start and savour for yourself. Tijan has done an amazing job of drawing the reader in and the build up throughout this book is captivating, I could not put it down. The book is packed with emotion, you will experience it all from anger, fear, angst, passion and love. The chemistry between Carter and Emma is seriously off the charts and it radiates from the page, you are totally sucked in to their relationship and you can’t help but will them on through their battles and their relationship. This was one dynamic duo that I was truly rooting for.
“I looked without thinking and was caught by his gaze. He had captured me, my body and mind. As a sob rose in my throat, my body betrayed me. It softened underneath his holds. The fight was leaving me and it was being replaced with desire.”
I know I have rambled about Carter, well who wouldn’t…he is totally A-MA-ZING!! But I will have to say that Emma is one of the best female leads that I have read about for a long time, she wasn’t whiney, when she had good reason to be., she picked herself up, dusted herself off and went with the flow. No matter what was thrown at her, she dealt and played a blinding hand. It was great to read about such a strong woman. The change in her throughout the book was totally believable, she moulded to her new life brilliantly and seamlessly without moaning. She had a few moments, but that was a minor adjustment.
All I can say is Carter, you can watch over me anytime and I really mean anytime!! He has just climbed into my top book boyfriends and I really hope that this is not the end of Carter Reed. I could read about him FOR-EV-ER…I am even willing to beg Tijan for more…(although can you finish Fallen Crest first ;-) I am missing Mason too!!)
Amazing book, totally loved it and highly recommended. No woman should go without a bit of Carter Reed in her life!!
Phew…seriously…Carter, Carter oi…I’m over here…yes…here!!!
Well played Tijan, another fantastic read!
www.theromancecover.com
5 stars!!
“This,” he growled in a whisper against my lips. “This is what I wanted that night. I couldn’t help myself and I had to taste you, but tonight is the night I really have you. You’re mine, Emma. You always have been.”
Tijan has done it again, this author has never failed me. I absolutely loved this book and I absolutely adore Carter Reed. Seriously, you could not help but fall in love with this man.
Emma has been on her own for a while, when she was younger she was shuffled from foster home to foster home but she always had her brother AJ for company. Unfortunately, AJ became embroiled with the mob and was murdered for his troubles so Emma had to quickly adapt to being alone. For years she had got on with her life and was doing really well for herself. She had a flat with a girlfriend and a good job.
One night that all changed and Emma would be forever worrying about her actions, she was scared and alone and was panicking. What should she do, should she run, stay, fight or die even?? Sounds melodramatic but once you read and see what her situation is, you become frightened for her. One thing that keeps coming to the forefront of her thoughts was something her brother said.
“No matter who knocks on the door, you don’t answer it. You don’t trust anyone, no one except Carter. Go to Carter. He’ll take care of you, Ems. I promise.”
Emma knew Carter from when she was younger, she had secretly crushed on the guy for as long as she could remember but he was AJ’s best friend, but more like a brother. When they were in foster care he was always with them, they were inseperable. But she was so wary, he was well known, he had worked his way up the ranks in the mob and was a force to be reckoned with. He was intimidating, people ran when he walked in a room, but he was extremely resourceful, powerful and a well respected business man…but mostly, he was extremely hot!! Smoking hot!! Pantie combusting, smoking hot!! Emma had always felt a connection to him but it was something that was never acted upon and she was wary of being able to cope with seeing him again.
“I know who you are, Carter. I’m the only one who knows you.”
Carter Reed oozes sex appeal, he is extremely good looking, well built and ripped (he is a trained fighter). He is also extremely private. He knows he draws attention but tries to slink into the background...he doesn’t want to be noticed. He is dangerous, he is cool and he is calculating, he doesn’t have a conscience and he only has one Achilles Heel…Emma! Carter has always loved and wanted Emma, but he needed her to want him, he was a patient man, he would bide his time. He knew that she was the one for him and was willing to wait. He knew the day would come and now that she had come to him, he was not willing to let her go.
“I have always loved you.” Another kiss. “I will always love you, Emma. There’s no other for me.”
I can’t say too much about the story as it would spoil it and this is one of those books that you have to start and savour for yourself. Tijan has done an amazing job of drawing the reader in and the build up throughout this book is captivating, I could not put it down. The book is packed with emotion, you will experience it all from anger, fear, angst, passion and love. The chemistry between Carter and Emma is seriously off the charts and it radiates from the page, you are totally sucked in to their relationship and you can’t help but will them on through their battles and their relationship. This was one dynamic duo that I was truly rooting for.
“I looked without thinking and was caught by his gaze. He had captured me, my body and mind. As a sob rose in my throat, my body betrayed me. It softened underneath his holds. The fight was leaving me and it was being replaced with desire.”
I know I have rambled about Carter, well who wouldn’t…he is totally A-MA-ZING!! But I will have to say that Emma is one of the best female leads that I have read about for a long time, she wasn’t whiney, when she had good reason to be., she picked herself up, dusted herself off and went with the flow. No matter what was thrown at her, she dealt and played a blinding hand. It was great to read about such a strong woman. The change in her throughout the book was totally believable, she moulded to her new life brilliantly and seamlessly without moaning. She had a few moments, but that was a minor adjustment.
All I can say is Carter, you can watch over me anytime and I really mean anytime!! He has just climbed into my top book boyfriends and I really hope that this is not the end of Carter Reed. I could read about him FOR-EV-ER…I am even willing to beg Tijan for more…(although can you finish Fallen Crest first ;-) I am missing Mason too!!)
Amazing book, totally loved it and highly recommended. No woman should go without a bit of Carter Reed in her life!!
Phew…seriously…Carter, Carter oi…I’m over here…yes…here!!!
Well played Tijan, another fantastic read!
www.theromancecover.com
September 27, 2013
4.5 Carter Reed Stars!
I have enjoyed Tijan's stories in the past and this one was no exception.
Just reading from the first chapter alone, I know it's going to be good. The blurb pretty much revealed that. I know going in what was going to happen but boy, the way it was written was just fantastic. Every emotion that Emma was feeling was so tangible. It felt like I was there myself watching all those horrible things as they unfold.
Emma came home early only to find her best friend being raped by her douche-bag boyfriend. Emma did what she had to do and killed the bastard in order to save her friend. The only problem was her best friend's boyfriend was the son of a powerful mob boss. So now, Emma, along with her friend was forced to hide knowing that there will surely be retribution for what she has done.
Fortunately for Emma, she has someone on her side. Someone who is even more fearsome and more powerful than those who are seeking her life--Carter Reed. Carter Reed grew up with Emma and her older brother AJ. And it was Carter Reed who avenged her brother's death at the hands of the same rival mob and it was Carter Reed who, unbeknownst to Emma, continued to protect her.
Carter Reed is mysterious, powerful and connected. Emma went to him for protection. For Emma, being with him stirred up memories and feelings she had long since buried. Emma fought against those feelings knowing that Carter is as dangerous as her enemies, if not, even more so because he has the power to hurt her not only physically but emotionally as well.
This book had the right amount of action, drama, betrayal and intrigue. But at the heart of it all is a love story. Carter and Emma. We get some snippets from their children and we get a glimpsed of Carter's childhood and how it affected him. We also get to know Emma's brother through her own memories which pretty much intertwines with Carter's.
The pacing was great. The characterizations were excellent. And it was definitely one of those books that you shouldn't start at 11 pm because you're going to be up all night finishing it. Some parts are brutal and very difficult to read but still very interesting and very vital to the whole story.
The secondary characters were brilliantly written. Each of them played vital roles to the story. One thing about Tijan's characters is that you'll never know what they're going to do next. You think you know a character, you like them and then suddenly, boom! They just surprise the heck out of you. Some good and some bad.
The only reason I didn't give this 5 stars is the fact that the ending left me wanting. I wanted more. Yes, there is an HEA but I must admit I wanted a little bit of those cheesy and gooey stuff I call an epilogue. But I have a feeling we're going to see more of Carter and Emma. I certainly want to see them playing a role in Noah and Theresa's story. Assuming there is going to be one. But what the heck! A girl can hope, right?
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
"You did all of that for me?"
"I would declare war for you."
I have enjoyed Tijan's stories in the past and this one was no exception.
Just reading from the first chapter alone, I know it's going to be good. The blurb pretty much revealed that. I know going in what was going to happen but boy, the way it was written was just fantastic. Every emotion that Emma was feeling was so tangible. It felt like I was there myself watching all those horrible things as they unfold.
Emma came home early only to find her best friend being raped by her douche-bag boyfriend. Emma did what she had to do and killed the bastard in order to save her friend. The only problem was her best friend's boyfriend was the son of a powerful mob boss. So now, Emma, along with her friend was forced to hide knowing that there will surely be retribution for what she has done.
“You don’t trust anyone, no one except Carter. Go to Carter. He’ll take care of everything. He’ll take care of you, Ems. I promise.” – AJ
Fortunately for Emma, she has someone on her side. Someone who is even more fearsome and more powerful than those who are seeking her life--Carter Reed. Carter Reed grew up with Emma and her older brother AJ. And it was Carter Reed who avenged her brother's death at the hands of the same rival mob and it was Carter Reed who, unbeknownst to Emma, continued to protect her.
Carter Reed is mysterious, powerful and connected. Emma went to him for protection. For Emma, being with him stirred up memories and feelings she had long since buried. Emma fought against those feelings knowing that Carter is as dangerous as her enemies, if not, even more so because he has the power to hurt her not only physically but emotionally as well.
This book had the right amount of action, drama, betrayal and intrigue. But at the heart of it all is a love story. Carter and Emma. We get some snippets from their children and we get a glimpsed of Carter's childhood and how it affected him. We also get to know Emma's brother through her own memories which pretty much intertwines with Carter's.
The pacing was great. The characterizations were excellent. And it was definitely one of those books that you shouldn't start at 11 pm because you're going to be up all night finishing it. Some parts are brutal and very difficult to read but still very interesting and very vital to the whole story.
The secondary characters were brilliantly written. Each of them played vital roles to the story. One thing about Tijan's characters is that you'll never know what they're going to do next. You think you know a character, you like them and then suddenly, boom! They just surprise the heck out of you. Some good and some bad.
The only reason I didn't give this 5 stars is the fact that the ending left me wanting. I wanted more. Yes, there is an HEA but I must admit I wanted a little bit of those cheesy and gooey stuff I call an epilogue. But I have a feeling we're going to see more of Carter and Emma. I certainly want to see them playing a role in Noah and Theresa's story. Assuming there is going to be one. But what the heck! A girl can hope, right?
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
December 15, 2014
Carter Reed begins with a bang. It is a book that sucks you in right from the first page and doesn't release it's hold on you until the last word is read. Damn, I love a good book with action, romance, and lots of steam!
Emma comes home and finds her roommate being raped by her so called "boyfriend". Emma is no stranger to violence and she arms herself and takes action.
"We should call the police, but no—I had killed someone. No, I had killed Jeremy Dunvan. We couldn’t call anyone."
Emma realizes right away that she is in trouble. She and Mallory run to a friend's apartment. Emma needs help. She remembers that her deceased brother's best friend is very powerful. She can trust him.
“No matter who knocks on the door, you don’t answer it. You don’t trust anyone, no one except Carter. Go to Carter. He’ll take care of everything. He’ll take care of you, Ems. I promise.”
Emma goes to Carter for help.
Carter
Carter was AJ's best friend. Carter is her friend. Carter is also a killer.
"Carter Reed was a killer. He was connected to the mob. I never knew how important he was to the Mauricio Family, but I knew he was powerful."
Carter doesn't hesitate to take care of Emma.
“I’ll take care of you.” Relief soared through me and my body gave way. But before I slid to the floor in a crumbled heap again, he caught my arm and hoisted me to his lap."
Events move at hyper speed throughout this book. The severity of Emma's situation increases her need for Carter. He makes her feel safe. He takes care of her. He has been taking care of her for many years. Carter has been loving Emma from afar.
“You did all of that for me?” “I would declare war for you.” He stole my breath, again. It was becoming difficult to breathe around this man. I always felt like I was having a heart attack, and this was no exception."
Overall, I found Carter Reed to be a quick and action packed read. I thoroughly enjoyed the supporting characters and how they played into the story. The build up between Carter and Emma was quick. Because of their previous relationship and history, it doesn't take these two long to connect. Emma needs time to figure out who she is. However, she is sure about her place with Carter. Carter was an amazing hero. He was strong, caring, protective, passionate, loving, and HOT! I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys action in their romance books! I sincerely hope there is a follow up for this one!
"I was weak with too many strong feelings sweeping inside of me, too many and too powerful for me to name, but as I gazed up at him, I saw his strength. As I lay in his arms and as he turned for me once more during the night, our bodies moved together as one and I felt my own strength awaken inside of me. I had grown addicted to this beautiful man. He was mine. I would always love this man."
Emma comes home and finds her roommate being raped by her so called "boyfriend". Emma is no stranger to violence and she arms herself and takes action.
"We should call the police, but no—I had killed someone. No, I had killed Jeremy Dunvan. We couldn’t call anyone."
Emma realizes right away that she is in trouble. She and Mallory run to a friend's apartment. Emma needs help. She remembers that her deceased brother's best friend is very powerful. She can trust him.
“No matter who knocks on the door, you don’t answer it. You don’t trust anyone, no one except Carter. Go to Carter. He’ll take care of everything. He’ll take care of you, Ems. I promise.”
Emma goes to Carter for help.
Carter
Carter was AJ's best friend. Carter is her friend. Carter is also a killer.
"Carter Reed was a killer. He was connected to the mob. I never knew how important he was to the Mauricio Family, but I knew he was powerful."
Carter doesn't hesitate to take care of Emma.
“I’ll take care of you.” Relief soared through me and my body gave way. But before I slid to the floor in a crumbled heap again, he caught my arm and hoisted me to his lap."
Events move at hyper speed throughout this book. The severity of Emma's situation increases her need for Carter. He makes her feel safe. He takes care of her. He has been taking care of her for many years. Carter has been loving Emma from afar.
“You did all of that for me?” “I would declare war for you.” He stole my breath, again. It was becoming difficult to breathe around this man. I always felt like I was having a heart attack, and this was no exception."
Overall, I found Carter Reed to be a quick and action packed read. I thoroughly enjoyed the supporting characters and how they played into the story. The build up between Carter and Emma was quick. Because of their previous relationship and history, it doesn't take these two long to connect. Emma needs time to figure out who she is. However, she is sure about her place with Carter. Carter was an amazing hero. He was strong, caring, protective, passionate, loving, and HOT! I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys action in their romance books! I sincerely hope there is a follow up for this one!
"I was weak with too many strong feelings sweeping inside of me, too many and too powerful for me to name, but as I gazed up at him, I saw his strength. As I lay in his arms and as he turned for me once more during the night, our bodies moved together as one and I felt my own strength awaken inside of me. I had grown addicted to this beautiful man. He was mine. I would always love this man."
December 29, 2022
Absolutely loved Carter in this book - Emma eh not as much. Still a highly enjoyable thrilling hot romance with all the "protect her at all cost" vibes. Cant wait to read more from Tijan for sure....
Read
February 9, 2015Sometimes I get carried away by all of the excitement generated by status updates. Little teases of quotes from the characters dot my update page calling out to me... “see how that sounds... enticing... sexy... "
I will make an instant buy and go for it.
This was that type of purchase. The cover was hot.
The tease from my friends, more than hot.
Click clicked and started the read.
My first impression was positive... I was duly shocked by the opening scene. Dramatic things were happening and I got the set up and situation.
Yet after the set up; the layout of the story and sense of the main characters, I didn't connect the way I normally do. I understood he was the brooding dark powerful yet broken inside man... but I had wanted more....I wanted more communication; ahmmm like the tease I got on my updates. I wanted a woman equal to match him. I wanted her to be smart and even though the situation she was in was complex, I wanted her to react with more logic and sense.
Didn't happen. Not for me, but maybe it will for you.
I will still be excited and teased by my updates with my click click finger ready to go :D
I will make an instant buy and go for it.
This was that type of purchase. The cover was hot.
The tease from my friends, more than hot.
Click clicked and started the read.
My first impression was positive... I was duly shocked by the opening scene. Dramatic things were happening and I got the set up and situation.
Yet after the set up; the layout of the story and sense of the main characters, I didn't connect the way I normally do. I understood he was the brooding dark powerful yet broken inside man... but I had wanted more....I wanted more communication; ahmmm like the tease I got on my updates. I wanted a woman equal to match him. I wanted her to be smart and even though the situation she was in was complex, I wanted her to react with more logic and sense.
Didn't happen. Not for me, but maybe it will for you.
I will still be excited and teased by my updates with my click click finger ready to go :D
January 20, 2016
Dear Carter,
I am writing you this letter in hope you will read it on time! I need your help! I need you to be my savior!
No, I am not in life threatening situations like Emma is, I did not kill anybody connected to mafia, but still I crave you to be my knight in shiny armor, to come and swoop me and take us to our HEA!
You can lock me and boss me all you want, I will never say no to you.
Expecting your arrival at midnight under that tree in my hometowns garden where I first laid my eyes on you and knew it was love at first sight, when I smelled your skin, your cover that got me mesmerized till I got home.
Always yours, V.
I am writing you this letter in hope you will read it on time! I need your help! I need you to be my savior!
No, I am not in life threatening situations like Emma is, I did not kill anybody connected to mafia, but still I crave you to be my knight in shiny armor, to come and swoop me and take us to our HEA!
You can lock me and boss me all you want, I will never say no to you.
Expecting your arrival at midnight under that tree in my hometowns garden where I first laid my eyes on you and knew it was love at first sight, when I smelled your skin, your cover that got me mesmerized till I got home.
Always yours, V.
March 24, 2017
Soooo, I read this because of my ongoing love affair with Cole Mauricio.
I enjoyed it, but not to same extent as Cole. I loved the group dynamic between Cole, Em, and Carter and felt it best to start from the beginning. I'm really glad I did, because I enjoyed the story. The action and suspense were great! I had a few minor issues, but overall this was a solid read.
I'd also recommend the audiobook version. The narration was good.
On to Book 2.
I rate it: 3.75 Stars
I enjoyed it, but not to same extent as Cole. I loved the group dynamic between Cole, Em, and Carter and felt it best to start from the beginning. I'm really glad I did, because I enjoyed the story. The action and suspense were great! I had a few minor issues, but overall this was a solid read.
I'd also recommend the audiobook version. The narration was good.
On to Book 2.
I rate it: 3.75 Stars
June 24, 2019
Unbelievable wonderful and dangerously good. I love Carter. Bad boy one second controlling the next. He has always love her. But now she is in trouble. He will stop at nothing to save her.
September 27, 2013
I am in such a blissful book hangover!! This is my fifth book by Tijan and what she promises, she delivers with a bang! It’s been three days since I’ve read it and I couldn’t even bring myself to start another…I’m just so consumed by the characters, the romance, the plot and the setting---> LOVE the whole dangerous, mysterious, sexy mafia background!! Seriously, is there anything this author can’t write?!?!
The opening scene literally stole my breath. And not in a “oh my gosh, it’s sooo beautiful and swoon-worthy way.” It was intense, it was gritty, it was provocative, and right then and there, my heart went out to Emma. The horrifying scene she took in, the decision she needed to make, and her tenacity and fierceness in handling the situation truly impressed me.
With everything to run from and nowhere else to go, Emma turns to her late brother’s best friend Carter Reed, now a wealthy, lethal and powerful man in the mafia family. It’s been ten years since they last met, and Carter has evolved from the sweet, innocent boy he was before.
“He had sculpted his body into a weapon. He had done it on purpose.”
“Shit. He was perfect. And he was a killer.”
Absolutely. But a loyal, passionate, and driven one to be exact. No matter the time, location, or circumstance, his number one priority is Emma, and always has been Emma.
“You did all of that for me?”
“I would declare war for you.”
The story really is compelling and attention-grabbing, all the way. While some of the events that happened I wasn’t so convinced of its believability, for the most part, the action, the drama, the passion, the angst, I could all feel seep into me. The “mafia intrigue” by itself kept my heart racing throughout the book, and kept me guessing to Emma and Carter’s future. I literally had no idea what was going to happen next, who would (possibly) die, and what the mafia had in store for them. Even Carter didn’t have a firm grasp on their future, but the one thing he knew for certain was his love for Emma, and the lengths he’d go through to protect her.
“And I will always worry, but it’s because I love you. I will never control you, Emma. You can make your own decisions and go where you want and I will never say otherwise. But I need you to know that if I worry about you, it’s because I love you. I want you safe. I will always want you safe, no matter who you are with or what you’re doing.”
I didn’t want to finish this book. I wanted to take my sweet time savoring Tijan’s fluent and seductive writing, but before I knew it, eight hours passed and I was on the final page of Carter Reed. I could probably prattle on and on about all the marvelous qualities this book possesses. No doubt about it, Tijian has always been a 1-click author for me, and Carter Reed, both the book and the man, only cements that fact.
4.5+ WHAT-AN-ASTOUNDING-THRILL-RIDE STARS!!!
The opening scene literally stole my breath. And not in a “oh my gosh, it’s sooo beautiful and swoon-worthy way.” It was intense, it was gritty, it was provocative, and right then and there, my heart went out to Emma. The horrifying scene she took in, the decision she needed to make, and her tenacity and fierceness in handling the situation truly impressed me.
With everything to run from and nowhere else to go, Emma turns to her late brother’s best friend Carter Reed, now a wealthy, lethal and powerful man in the mafia family. It’s been ten years since they last met, and Carter has evolved from the sweet, innocent boy he was before.
“He had sculpted his body into a weapon. He had done it on purpose.”
“Shit. He was perfect. And he was a killer.”
Absolutely. But a loyal, passionate, and driven one to be exact. No matter the time, location, or circumstance, his number one priority is Emma, and always has been Emma.
“You did all of that for me?”
“I would declare war for you.”
The story really is compelling and attention-grabbing, all the way. While some of the events that happened I wasn’t so convinced of its believability, for the most part, the action, the drama, the passion, the angst, I could all feel seep into me. The “mafia intrigue” by itself kept my heart racing throughout the book, and kept me guessing to Emma and Carter’s future. I literally had no idea what was going to happen next, who would (possibly) die, and what the mafia had in store for them. Even Carter didn’t have a firm grasp on their future, but the one thing he knew for certain was his love for Emma, and the lengths he’d go through to protect her.
“And I will always worry, but it’s because I love you. I will never control you, Emma. You can make your own decisions and go where you want and I will never say otherwise. But I need you to know that if I worry about you, it’s because I love you. I want you safe. I will always want you safe, no matter who you are with or what you’re doing.”
I didn’t want to finish this book. I wanted to take my sweet time savoring Tijan’s fluent and seductive writing, but before I knew it, eight hours passed and I was on the final page of Carter Reed. I could probably prattle on and on about all the marvelous qualities this book possesses. No doubt about it, Tijian has always been a 1-click author for me, and Carter Reed, both the book and the man, only cements that fact.
4.5+ WHAT-AN-ASTOUNDING-THRILL-RIDE STARS!!!
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