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Betrayed
Ashley James was through with men. But, she was also a professional. How she ended up working for the first man to break her heart while in the middle of a nasty breakup with the current man who'd broken her heart, she didn't know. One of life's cruel jokes, she guessed. Well, the joke was on life. Her job was the one thing that made sense in her life. And, she wasn't going to let stupid men take that from her. If her ex, Nick Connor was her client, so be it. She would do this job just as competent as she always did...as soon as she mustered the courage to get out of her car and go into Nick's office.
Nick Connor thought he'd never see Ashley James again. She'd disappeared without a trace after he'd messed up and hurt her all those years ago. He thought he'd lost the only woman he'd ever loved. Now fate had brought them back together. Only, she's ending a long term relationship and men aren't exactly on her list of favorite people. And, he is definitely at the top of her "people she hates" list. He may not know what to do, but there's no way he'll let her get away from him a second time.
Nick Connor thought he'd never see Ashley James again. She'd disappeared without a trace after he'd messed up and hurt her all those years ago. He thought he'd lost the only woman he'd ever loved. Now fate had brought them back together. Only, she's ending a long term relationship and men aren't exactly on her list of favorite people. And, he is definitely at the top of her "people she hates" list. He may not know what to do, but there's no way he'll let her get away from him a second time.
149 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 23, 2016
13 people want to read
About the author
Marla Josephs
11 books33 followersMarla Josephs leads a busy life in Northern California with her husband and children. When everyone in the family isn't working or studying hard they are traveling and playing hard. She is an avid reader, and post reviews of her favorites on a review site with other reviewers, http://thenextgreatreadbookreview.blo...
Now that her kids are older, she is very excited to be able to finally put her writing front and center. She's released several books in her Alexander Ranch series. She also adding to her Reluctant series.
Now that her kids are older, she is very excited to be able to finally put her writing front and center. She's released several books in her Alexander Ranch series. She also adding to her Reluctant series.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
July 20, 2018
4.5 Second Chance Stars!
Nick and Ashley were friends turned lovers in High School. When college separates them, doubt and a misunderstanding tears them apart breaking both their hearts. Now years later, they meet again unexpectantly when they begin to work together. They have never forgotten each other and that has affected all their relationships. Ashley is tired of giving her heart only to be betrayed over and over. She feels broken and unable to really love. But she can't deny the heat and passion she feels with Nick. Nick is excited to see Ashley again and is determined to not lose his chance to win back the only woman he has ever loved. Nick and Ashley have matured and become successful, but old hurts cause old reactions, are they strong enough to fight for each other the second time? Nick and Ashley are great characters and I really grew to care for them, even when they frustrated me at times. Ms. Josephs is wonderful at building a world that is genuine, and honest, with complex characters, witty banter and steamy passion.
DC Cole continues to bring this world to life. I love how he can move effortlessly between characters making them so distinct and dynamic.
I really enjoyed this sweet, heartwarming and passionate story of forgiveness, learning to trust, and second chances.
Nick and Ashley were friends turned lovers in High School. When college separates them, doubt and a misunderstanding tears them apart breaking both their hearts. Now years later, they meet again unexpectantly when they begin to work together. They have never forgotten each other and that has affected all their relationships. Ashley is tired of giving her heart only to be betrayed over and over. She feels broken and unable to really love. But she can't deny the heat and passion she feels with Nick. Nick is excited to see Ashley again and is determined to not lose his chance to win back the only woman he has ever loved. Nick and Ashley have matured and become successful, but old hurts cause old reactions, are they strong enough to fight for each other the second time? Nick and Ashley are great characters and I really grew to care for them, even when they frustrated me at times. Ms. Josephs is wonderful at building a world that is genuine, and honest, with complex characters, witty banter and steamy passion.
DC Cole continues to bring this world to life. I love how he can move effortlessly between characters making them so distinct and dynamic.
I really enjoyed this sweet, heartwarming and passionate story of forgiveness, learning to trust, and second chances.
August 27, 2016
This was a very enjoyable read. I was intrigued from the first page. The story was believable and I felt that it progressed at a good pace.
Ashley is a good strong character and I totally agreed with the way she felt about both her current ex, Zach and her past ex, Nick. Very different cases of cheating.
I was slightly disappointed with the abrupt ending of the epilogue, but not enough to stop me from loving the story.
Poor Ashley is thrust back into her teenage memories when she goes to meet a new client with her boss. Little did she know that it was her ex of ten years ago. Nick knew Ashley wouldn't be happy to see him, he was desperate to see her again as she cut him right out of her life when she dumped him. They have to work closely together and it is a strain for both of them.
What a predicament.
Will Nick manage to get Ashley to listen to him explain their reason for breaking up or will she never forgive him?
You'll have to read it to find the answer.
Ashley is a good strong character and I totally agreed with the way she felt about both her current ex, Zach and her past ex, Nick. Very different cases of cheating.
I was slightly disappointed with the abrupt ending of the epilogue, but not enough to stop me from loving the story.
Poor Ashley is thrust back into her teenage memories when she goes to meet a new client with her boss. Little did she know that it was her ex of ten years ago. Nick knew Ashley wouldn't be happy to see him, he was desperate to see her again as she cut him right out of her life when she dumped him. They have to work closely together and it is a strain for both of them.
What a predicament.
Will Nick manage to get Ashley to listen to him explain their reason for breaking up or will she never forgive him?
You'll have to read it to find the answer.
September 3, 2016
4.5 Amazing Stars! Ashley decided she was done with men after her current boyfriend cheated on her. Well, what a surprise she receives when she goes to meet a new client and ends up meeting her ex, Nick who broke her heart. Nick was in love with Ashley in high school, then he messed that up, now he wants to win her back. Can Nick win back the girl of his dreams back or will she be lost forever? This was a well written and very enjoyable read by Ms. Josephs. The characters are very likable and are well developed. The story flowed and I was hooked from the beginning. This is the third book in the Reluctant Series and can be read as a stand alone novel. You must read this book and series!
I received this book as an ARC for an honest review. This book was read and reviewed by Annamaria for Alpha Book Club.
Plot: 4.5
Chemistry: 4.5
Pacing: 4.5
Ending: 4.5
Character Development: 4.5
I received this book as an ARC for an honest review. This book was read and reviewed by Annamaria for Alpha Book Club.
Plot: 4.5
Chemistry: 4.5
Pacing: 4.5
Ending: 4.5
Character Development: 4.5
September 6, 2016
Nick and Ashley have a past, one she can't seem to let go of and one he wants to explain. Nearly 10 years go by before they cross paths again. Nick is her new client, to say she is surprised is an under statement. She is hired to help him out with his business. When he hears her name is just hopes it is the same person. So he knows and she does not. When they start working together the past inevitably comes up.
I liked the story line, but felt there was just a little too much playback on what happened. You can only reminisce so much about what happened and if things could have been different. They each played the what if card a little too much. They are both stubborn people. I think if there weren't so many flashbacks and more about the right now I would have enjoyed it a little better.
September 18, 2017
Very entertaining, engaging and enjoyable story. Even though this is the 3rd book in the series, it can definitely be read as a standalone book.
Steamy romance, betrayal and forgiveness all rolled into a second chance at love story.
For a shorter story this was a really good one. The story flowed easily not forced like so many shorter stories. The relationship between Nick and Ashley progressed naturally. Believable and likable characters with a realistic story. Nick is determined to get back the love of his life. You couldn't help but root for Nick and Ashley to work it out. A final HEA in the future, maybe?
D.C. Cole did a really good job with the narration. Nice voice. Clearly spoken. Nice even pace. Perfect voice for Nick. Good character voices. He made the characters and story come to life. Very enjoyable
I was voluntarily provided this free review copy audiobook by the author, narrator or publisher
Steamy romance, betrayal and forgiveness all rolled into a second chance at love story.
For a shorter story this was a really good one. The story flowed easily not forced like so many shorter stories. The relationship between Nick and Ashley progressed naturally. Believable and likable characters with a realistic story. Nick is determined to get back the love of his life. You couldn't help but root for Nick and Ashley to work it out. A final HEA in the future, maybe?
D.C. Cole did a really good job with the narration. Nice voice. Clearly spoken. Nice even pace. Perfect voice for Nick. Good character voices. He made the characters and story come to life. Very enjoyable
I was voluntarily provided this free review copy audiobook by the author, narrator or publisher
October 8, 2017
4.5 stars! I love second chance romance stories and BETRAYED was a story that was fast paced and highly addictive! I was fully engrossed in the story and characters, and was rooting for their much deserved HEA!
I loved Ashley and Nick and they are my favourite couple in this series by Marla Joseph's. I loved that their connection and chemistry was still palpable despite their years apart! And oh I fell so hard for Nick! I adored how patient he was with Ashley.
DC Cole narrates with so much emotion and he did an outstanding job of bringing these characters to life!
I loved Ashley and Nick and they are my favourite couple in this series by Marla Joseph's. I loved that their connection and chemistry was still palpable despite their years apart! And oh I fell so hard for Nick! I adored how patient he was with Ashley.
DC Cole narrates with so much emotion and he did an outstanding job of bringing these characters to life!
January 6, 2018
AUDIOBOOK edition
A story of second chances, talk about being in the right place at the right time.
I bet it was quite a shock seeing each other after so many years apart. First loves are unforgettable and I am glad they got their 2nd chance to make things right. Sweet AND hot, Nick and Ashley's story is worth listening to especially with DC Cole as the voice telling it. His voice is one of my top five, with his signature sexy rasp, intense and passionate, I wish I can give more than 5 stars. Time well spent.
A story of second chances, talk about being in the right place at the right time.
I bet it was quite a shock seeing each other after so many years apart. First loves are unforgettable and I am glad they got their 2nd chance to make things right. Sweet AND hot, Nick and Ashley's story is worth listening to especially with DC Cole as the voice telling it. His voice is one of my top five, with his signature sexy rasp, intense and passionate, I wish I can give more than 5 stars. Time well spent.
March 14, 2018
Audiobook version:
This series has been awesome! Each book follows a different character but nicely ties in together. I loved the men in this series! They each have been drool worthy in their own way. Nick was no different. Marla gave us such well developed characters that i absolutely fell in love with. The writing was fabulous- Stories intense... I was hooked from the 1st page. I highly recommend this series!
Narration was fabulous for all books- The were performed with feeling, clear and a pleasure on the ears. I'm sure i will be re-reading this one.
This series has been awesome! Each book follows a different character but nicely ties in together. I loved the men in this series! They each have been drool worthy in their own way. Nick was no different. Marla gave us such well developed characters that i absolutely fell in love with. The writing was fabulous- Stories intense... I was hooked from the 1st page. I highly recommend this series!
Narration was fabulous for all books- The were performed with feeling, clear and a pleasure on the ears. I'm sure i will be re-reading this one.
March 20, 2018
Short, enjoyable, entertaining read. Betrayed is a new kind of second chance romance that is so relateable that you will feel like you are going through the same emotions as the characters. I loved everything about this book up until the very end. I personally feel like the ending could have been better and I hope the author continues the series so that I can see what is next for this couple. Just like in the previous book, you will get to see a little of what is happening with the characters from the previous books.
June 22, 2018
Nick comes face to face with his hs girlfriend after almost a decade...and she will be working for him...albeit temporarily. Will she be able to forgive him cheating on her? Especially since she’s trying to get out of a ling term relationship with a cheating ex. Nick has his work cut out for him...is he up for the challenge? Was so excited to read Nick’s story! It was everything that I expected...lil drama, smexy times, funny times and eventually an HEA. Also cameos of the folks from the earlier books. Now I need Alexa’s story...hint hint to the author :)
October 17, 2017
loved the book, very realistic and had a really good flow to it. i understood Ashley and could connect but sometimes i would really want to smack her. but than again this couls happen in real life all the turmoil of emotions. the only minus i would give is with the ending for me it just seems rushed but overall it did not minimize the overall impression of the book. oh and btw Nick really feels like an ok guy who was on the wrong place at the wrong time :).
March 19, 2017
**** Listened to audiobook*****
Cole gives a flawless performance. Bringing a little something extra to the book. I enjoyed the story very much over all. I did think it was completely predictable but sometimes it's not about the outcome it's about the journey. This is one of those cases. It is a quick listen with second chance romance. Connections and feeling are so important and sometimes you should strive to know all the facts before you form an opinion. That is what this couple has to face.
Cole gives a flawless performance. Bringing a little something extra to the book. I enjoyed the story very much over all. I did think it was completely predictable but sometimes it's not about the outcome it's about the journey. This is one of those cases. It is a quick listen with second chance romance. Connections and feeling are so important and sometimes you should strive to know all the facts before you form an opinion. That is what this couple has to face.
March 19, 2017
The audiobook Betrayed is everything that a lighthearted contemporary romance novel should be! Ashley James and Nick Connor were first friends and then high school lovers. Ready to head off to separate colleges Nick gets caught with his pants down, Literally! How thoughtful of someone to captured the moment for all prosperity. When the picture is texted to Nick, this top jock is in the race of his life to get to Ashley before the infamous picture. Unfortunately, for probably the first time in Nick’s life he loses the race.
Years later it deja vu, all over again when Ashley’s live in boyfriend turns out to be a serial cheater and Ashley’s officially out for the count.
Of course, that’s when fate brings her first love back into her life. What I like about Betrayed is a wounded Ashley makes no bones about the fact that she’s angry, with both men. She’s not going to just "get over" the betrayal.
I enjoy author Marla Joseph’s writing style, she gives her character's common sense. Case in point, although Ashley is hurt, she’s intelligent enough to discern the moral differences between Nick and her scumbag ex.
Betrayed is narrated by D. C. Cole, he has a gruff voice, but his range in conveying emotion for both male and female characters is awesome and I actually found his reading style soothing! The production quality is clear throughout this audiobook.
This audiobook was given to me at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review, thanks, Audiobook Boom!
Years later it deja vu, all over again when Ashley’s live in boyfriend turns out to be a serial cheater and Ashley’s officially out for the count.
Of course, that’s when fate brings her first love back into her life. What I like about Betrayed is a wounded Ashley makes no bones about the fact that she’s angry, with both men. She’s not going to just "get over" the betrayal.
I enjoy author Marla Joseph’s writing style, she gives her character's common sense. Case in point, although Ashley is hurt, she’s intelligent enough to discern the moral differences between Nick and her scumbag ex.
Betrayed is narrated by D. C. Cole, he has a gruff voice, but his range in conveying emotion for both male and female characters is awesome and I actually found his reading style soothing! The production quality is clear throughout this audiobook.
This audiobook was given to me at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review, thanks, Audiobook Boom!
December 1, 2016
2nd Chance @ Love Romance w/Hot Narrator. I was provided this audiobook at no charge by the author, publisher and/or narrator in exchange for an unbiased review. Marla Josephs has written another real to life and realistic romance story. This story can be read/listened to as a stand-a-lone or continuation in a series. This was my first experience with DC Cole as a narrator, and loved his voice and ability to bring the characters and story to life. He has a very sexy and smokey/gravely voice. I enjoyed the story and narration very much and encourage others to give this up and coming author a try.
December 11, 2016
Second Chances..
Ashley decided she was done with men after her current boyfriend cheated on her.
Well, what a surprise when she accepts a new client and ends up meeting her ex, Nick, who broke her heart years ago.
Nick was in love with Ashley in high school, then he messed that up, now he wants to win her back.
Overall, an ok read about second chances.
D. C. Cole did well with the narration as usual.
Note:
"This audio book was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review."
October 2, 2016
He broke her heart years ago and now he was her client. Could she keep her feeling out of her professional life or would they spill over into it? He lost her once but now that fate gave him a second chance he would move heaven and earth to have her give him that chance to be with him again. But can he heal her broken heart?
I received an advanced copy of this book for an honest review. This is book 3 of A Reluctant Series by the author.
I received an advanced copy of this book for an honest review. This is book 3 of A Reluctant Series by the author.
December 17, 2016
This is an amazing story of second chances and love. I loved how this book drew me in and the characters were great in how they made me feel their emotions throughout the book. Ms. Josephs definitely has a way with her words. This was a page turner that I could not put down. From the first page to the last I was completely captivated by this story. The flow, the words, the characters everything was just so beautifully written and brought to life.
January 18, 2017
I received this audiobook for feee for an honest review.
I liked the storyline and Nick and Zach's characters played out very nicely. Ashley on the other hand thinks it's okay to continue hating Nick but not tell him and gives him opposite signals. Bad bad Ashley! The book ends abruptly as does the epilogue.
Final opinion; not a bad story or narrator.
I liked the storyline and Nick and Zach's characters played out very nicely. Ashley on the other hand thinks it's okay to continue hating Nick but not tell him and gives him opposite signals. Bad bad Ashley! The book ends abruptly as does the epilogue.
Final opinion; not a bad story or narrator.
April 16, 2017
This series is a must read for those who like a good romance with a believable back story. This one, like Reluctant brings us a the chance to read a book that you can become completely engrossed in and feel like you are right there with the characters, feeling their love, their frustrations, their sadness and their happiness.
This is the third book of the series, but can be read as a standalone. There is a little intermingling of characters, but nothing is brought to the story that is was needed to be known prior to picking up this book. Ashley James, after 10 years has a chance encounter with her first love, Nick Connor. There is so much that you can relate to in this book, from the high school relationships of being friends, hanging out and falling in love, to the feel of betrayal and hurt, mending your heart and moving on. I personally love second chance romances and found this one to be all of the emotions you can imagine wrapped up in one. The hero, Nick Connor, was easy to fall for, I know I did. Not sure if it was Nick himself, or DC Cole's narration of him, but I was willing to give him that second chance early on. Ashley, on the other hand, was extremely skeptical of becoming involved again. Coming off of a 5 year relationship that her ex was caught cheating on her, Ashley was overly cautious and so guarded at times that I wanted to scream. Definitely signs of a great character development when you can become engrossed in the character. There was definitely chemistry and hot sex, but she was not giving in too easily. Luckily, we had Nick's patient manner. We get to interact with a wonderful cast of supporting characters. Love Tony and his wife, he is quite the character, and we meet Nick's sister Alexa and him mom(such a loving soul). I know I spent the afternoon with this group and feel like I was right there with them and ending up with my happy ending!
DC Cole...the man can read a story, that is for sure. He gives such intensity and emotion to his narrations that you can't help but feel what the characters are feeling. This particular team of superb writing by Marla Josephs and narration by DC Cole could not have been a better match.
This is the third book of the series, but can be read as a standalone. There is a little intermingling of characters, but nothing is brought to the story that is was needed to be known prior to picking up this book. Ashley James, after 10 years has a chance encounter with her first love, Nick Connor. There is so much that you can relate to in this book, from the high school relationships of being friends, hanging out and falling in love, to the feel of betrayal and hurt, mending your heart and moving on. I personally love second chance romances and found this one to be all of the emotions you can imagine wrapped up in one. The hero, Nick Connor, was easy to fall for, I know I did. Not sure if it was Nick himself, or DC Cole's narration of him, but I was willing to give him that second chance early on. Ashley, on the other hand, was extremely skeptical of becoming involved again. Coming off of a 5 year relationship that her ex was caught cheating on her, Ashley was overly cautious and so guarded at times that I wanted to scream. Definitely signs of a great character development when you can become engrossed in the character. There was definitely chemistry and hot sex, but she was not giving in too easily. Luckily, we had Nick's patient manner. We get to interact with a wonderful cast of supporting characters. Love Tony and his wife, he is quite the character, and we meet Nick's sister Alexa and him mom(such a loving soul). I know I spent the afternoon with this group and feel like I was right there with them and ending up with my happy ending!
DC Cole...the man can read a story, that is for sure. He gives such intensity and emotion to his narrations that you can't help but feel what the characters are feeling. This particular team of superb writing by Marla Josephs and narration by DC Cole could not have been a better match.
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