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Be A Doll: A Carter Manor Novel
At Carter Manor, women were groomed to become the perfect next trophy wife for the most influential and powerful men in the world.
Polished, educated, and disciplined... they met every criteria.
Or did they?
LILA
After escaping two prospective husbands, I knew I didn't have much of a choice anymore but to play by the rules if I didn't want to end up back in the streets.
Upon meeting him I expected an older disgusting man, but he proved me wrong.
He was young, handsome... and despicable.
His cold hearted behavior and condescension caused me to lose my carefully built appearance of sophistication, but somehow, it made me win a husband who enjoyed toying with me until he could break the last pieces of who I used to be. I wouldn't let him.
I hated him.
At least I did at first, until I had a peek underneath his walls and discovered the kind of pain he shouldered.
MATHIS
I never thought I'd get married and even less that I would be purchasing my wife, but for my business I would do anything.
At the Manor, I was sure I'd find bland women so polished that nothing of their own personality was left. But one candidate couldn't hide the fire in her.
I was drawn, ready to toy with her, to tease her until she folded for me and let me take her to make her fully mine and not in name only.
I didn't want love, I didn't want her to be in my living space and I certainly didn't want her to see who I really was under the facade I had spent years shaping myself to be, but that was exactly what was happening.
She fascinated me.
Her strength made me want her in the most all-consuming way.
Now I wondered who possessed whom.
***Standalone novel for readers over 18***
Polished, educated, and disciplined... they met every criteria.
Or did they?
LILA
After escaping two prospective husbands, I knew I didn't have much of a choice anymore but to play by the rules if I didn't want to end up back in the streets.
Upon meeting him I expected an older disgusting man, but he proved me wrong.
He was young, handsome... and despicable.
His cold hearted behavior and condescension caused me to lose my carefully built appearance of sophistication, but somehow, it made me win a husband who enjoyed toying with me until he could break the last pieces of who I used to be. I wouldn't let him.
I hated him.
At least I did at first, until I had a peek underneath his walls and discovered the kind of pain he shouldered.
MATHIS
I never thought I'd get married and even less that I would be purchasing my wife, but for my business I would do anything.
At the Manor, I was sure I'd find bland women so polished that nothing of their own personality was left. But one candidate couldn't hide the fire in her.
I was drawn, ready to toy with her, to tease her until she folded for me and let me take her to make her fully mine and not in name only.
I didn't want love, I didn't want her to be in my living space and I certainly didn't want her to see who I really was under the facade I had spent years shaping myself to be, but that was exactly what was happening.
She fascinated me.
Her strength made me want her in the most all-consuming way.
Now I wondered who possessed whom.
***Standalone novel for readers over 18***
360 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 17, 2017
About the author
Stephanie Witter
17 books729 followersStephanie Witter, in her twenties, lives in France where she comes up with book ideas on her laptop, notebook or phone. When she's not writing the day away, she likes visiting museums or shopping to add another nail polish to her already huge collection. She's also unable to resist the appeal of new books, even when she knows she can't possibly have the time to read yet another one. She's happy to have a to-read pile so high she can never put a dent into it even if she tries her best.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
January 14, 2017
Title: Be A Doll
Author: Stephanie Witter
Category: Romance
Series or Standalone: Standalone
POV: Dual
Plot: 5
Characters: 5
HEA: Not telling
I love Stephanie Witter's writing and I think this is her best work to date.
Lila is a young woman who has been educated in Carter Manor. Carter Manor is a place where women are groomed to become wives to the most wealthy men in the world.
Lila needs to accept her latest candidate or else her life in the Manor won't be so easy.
Mathis is a powerful man; he is also a cold human being and he hides his emotions behind a stone mask. There is something that tortures him and when he decides that he wants Lila as his wife, she will come face to face with his demons. This is a marriage of expedience; so that Mathis can get what he wants out of Lila.
Their life together is not easy and Lila is certain that Mathis is a selfish, despicable man...But is he?
As they spend time together, they will come closer but will Mathis allow her behind his stone wall?
I loved how refreshing the storyline was; Lila is a strong heroine, one that hasn't got it easy in life but she pushes on. Mathis is not what he seems and readers need to have faith in him!
There is scorching chemistry, passion, secrets and ultimately, love.
I highly recommend this book. Do not miss it!
5 Stars!
February 7, 2017
"Mark my words, Lila. You’ll be mine in all ways you can imagine.’’
BE A DOLL by Stephanie Witter, a refreshingly different arranged marriage romance, was absolutely delightful!!
I was intrigued by the premise of a doll-making factory which molds young women into the perfect trophy wives. As the story opens, we are transported through the wrought-iron gates that lead to the two centuries old ancient stone erected Carter Manor, an institution that has helped countless gentlemen through the years find a good, proper wife. Here, young women were taught everything necessary to be deemed respectable in order to embrace matrimonial life with the wealthiest men around the world.
"Be a doll? A doll. Yes, that’s exactly what I was. A doll, someone who didn’t think with her head, but followed someone else’s whims and orders. I was supposed to sit there and look pretty. That was all my life was reduced to. Carter Manor was a damn doll factory."
Well, clearly Lila Hodge, the beautiful, cornflower blue-eyed heroine of the story, did not get enough lessons in docility because even though she has been taught how to be a well mannered, high society woman, she is far from Stepford Wife material! Which has not earned her brownie points with the stern head mistress, Mrs. Stein who plucked her from the streets four years earlier, after she ran away from the last abusive foster family.
"I was a lost twenty-year-old woman. I had no roof over my head, no car, and no bank account. I had nothing. Not even friends or a degree to my name. "
Mrs. Stein offered her the "chance in a lifetime " by spiriting her off to Carter Manor but Lila proved to be too stubborn and headstrong for her own good and now her headmistress would love nothing more than to throw her out on her derrière after unsuccessfully being matched with a spouse thus far. Everything hinges on her interview going well with the newest candidate--Mathis Grimes--a rich, powerful CEO from an influential family looking for an arranged marriage solely for business purposes. They immediately get off on the wrong foot and she forms an instant dislike to her arrogant perspective groom. She yearns to "claw his eyes out and wipe the condescending smile from his mouth," but the angrier she gets the more he enjoys goading her.
"You can’t hide the fire in you, it’s burning through your eyes, Miss Hodge."
And there is a kernel of truth in that because a part of her is inexplicably drawn to Mathis's dark, aristocratic good looks, his powerful imposing presence...and his predatory animal magnetism unleashes traitorous desires in her.
"Mathis Grimes was a confusing, cold, manipulative man I couldn’t understand and on top of that, he was also a lot more interesting than I’d like him to be. For someone who had been sheltered for years that precise cocktail could very well be dangerous."
As imagined the interview is an epic fail so she is understandably shocked when Mathis chooses her as his temporary wife and tells her to make the necessary arrangements for them to be married in two months time. What ensues is a fierce battle of wills between this obstinate couple who grudgingly come to see that there may be more to one another than meets the eye.
"You’re not just a polished future bride, just like I’m not just a coldhearted businessman. But if you’re wondering if I’m going to be some romantic sap in this partnership, I won’t. And I’ll love taming your wildness.’’
Of course his feisty bride is NOT about to bend to his will! And when they wed in a high society wedding, Lila is resplendent in her custom made gown but hardly a blissfully in love bride. Mathis is a man who exerted control in all aspects of his life and despite her amorous groom's repeated attempts at seduction, she refuses to consummate the marriage because she doesn't see herself succumbing to temptation with such an incorrigible bastard.
"Everything about this man made me think of a predator trying to find the first opening to attack."
But Mathis was not backing down because he knew he needed to get his fiery “little wife” out of his system once and for all. A women who heated his blood like no other! He wanted total surrender and by God he would have it!
“You’re my wife. Even if you don’t want to acknowledge it, you’re mine, Lila. Mine.’’
They both keep their walls erected, but as much as Lila reviles her new husband, he somehow manages to strip her bare with just one smoldering look. As their stormy passion reaches a fever pitch, can bitter animosity morph into the love of a lifetime?
Omgeee! This tempestuous romance is SINFULLY DELICIOUS!! This book is pulsating with love-hate chemistry, and the sexual tension between this couple, who fight their feelings every step of the way, is so intense you can feel it down to your marrow!!! This is definitely a slow boiling romance, but when they finally succumb to their raging inferno of passion it is COMBUSTIBLE!!!!!
There is nothing more TANTALIZING for me then a book with a broody, tortured hero and Mathis truly embodies a rakishly handsome, dark lord of the manor ...in many ways a throwback to the Regency genre that I so love! The more we learn about the profoundly broken man who hides his true self behind his wicked come-ons and airs of cold indifference, the more he burrowed himself inside my heart. He harbors a world of pain and grief inside him and, as it turns out, he provokes his bride not to be cruel but for the simple reason that inciting her fire warms the cold parts that lurk within his anguished soul. And when Lila sees glimpses of the real man behind the bluster, her fierce longing to fix the broken parts of him somehow fills the cracks in her own fissured heart. Together they bring light and joy back into one another's desolate worlds
Although I liked Lila's scrappy personality and backbone of steel, I WILL admit it took me a little while to warm to her. But as the book progressed and her sharp edges softened, she did grow on me and I came to see her ice queen persona was just a protective mechanism stemming from her own tragic past.
This is my first book by the gifted Stephanie Witter and I found her style very enticing! There is a sophisticated old world charm to her writing that suits the story well, and I was also drawn to her vibrant, descriptive prose. She paints a beautiful tapestry with her words so it feels as if you are right there in the scene--not an impartial bystander---and the raw, visceral emotion she evokes bled from the page and seeped into my own throbbing heart. I was powerfully moved throughout and the ending incited tears of joy!!!
My final takeaway? There is a fine line between love and hate, indifference and red hot lust. Granted, there were many times through it when I wanted to CLOBBER them both (especially Mathis!) for being so impossibly stubborn. But in the end, the evolution of Lila and Mathis's undeniably complex relationship, from cold, contrary strangers merely going through the motions, to a deeply devoted couple who finally surrender, heart, body and soul, to their all-consuming love was truly BREATHTAKING to behold!
4 TEMPESTUOUS Stars!!
BE A DOLL by Stephanie Witter, a refreshingly different arranged marriage romance, was absolutely delightful!!
I was intrigued by the premise of a doll-making factory which molds young women into the perfect trophy wives. As the story opens, we are transported through the wrought-iron gates that lead to the two centuries old ancient stone erected Carter Manor, an institution that has helped countless gentlemen through the years find a good, proper wife. Here, young women were taught everything necessary to be deemed respectable in order to embrace matrimonial life with the wealthiest men around the world.
"Be a doll? A doll. Yes, that’s exactly what I was. A doll, someone who didn’t think with her head, but followed someone else’s whims and orders. I was supposed to sit there and look pretty. That was all my life was reduced to. Carter Manor was a damn doll factory."
Well, clearly Lila Hodge, the beautiful, cornflower blue-eyed heroine of the story, did not get enough lessons in docility because even though she has been taught how to be a well mannered, high society woman, she is far from Stepford Wife material! Which has not earned her brownie points with the stern head mistress, Mrs. Stein who plucked her from the streets four years earlier, after she ran away from the last abusive foster family.
"I was a lost twenty-year-old woman. I had no roof over my head, no car, and no bank account. I had nothing. Not even friends or a degree to my name. "
Mrs. Stein offered her the "chance in a lifetime " by spiriting her off to Carter Manor but Lila proved to be too stubborn and headstrong for her own good and now her headmistress would love nothing more than to throw her out on her derrière after unsuccessfully being matched with a spouse thus far. Everything hinges on her interview going well with the newest candidate--Mathis Grimes--a rich, powerful CEO from an influential family looking for an arranged marriage solely for business purposes. They immediately get off on the wrong foot and she forms an instant dislike to her arrogant perspective groom. She yearns to "claw his eyes out and wipe the condescending smile from his mouth," but the angrier she gets the more he enjoys goading her.
"You can’t hide the fire in you, it’s burning through your eyes, Miss Hodge."
And there is a kernel of truth in that because a part of her is inexplicably drawn to Mathis's dark, aristocratic good looks, his powerful imposing presence...and his predatory animal magnetism unleashes traitorous desires in her.
"Mathis Grimes was a confusing, cold, manipulative man I couldn’t understand and on top of that, he was also a lot more interesting than I’d like him to be. For someone who had been sheltered for years that precise cocktail could very well be dangerous."
As imagined the interview is an epic fail so she is understandably shocked when Mathis chooses her as his temporary wife and tells her to make the necessary arrangements for them to be married in two months time. What ensues is a fierce battle of wills between this obstinate couple who grudgingly come to see that there may be more to one another than meets the eye.
"You’re not just a polished future bride, just like I’m not just a coldhearted businessman. But if you’re wondering if I’m going to be some romantic sap in this partnership, I won’t. And I’ll love taming your wildness.’’
Of course his feisty bride is NOT about to bend to his will! And when they wed in a high society wedding, Lila is resplendent in her custom made gown but hardly a blissfully in love bride. Mathis is a man who exerted control in all aspects of his life and despite her amorous groom's repeated attempts at seduction, she refuses to consummate the marriage because she doesn't see herself succumbing to temptation with such an incorrigible bastard.
"Everything about this man made me think of a predator trying to find the first opening to attack."
But Mathis was not backing down because he knew he needed to get his fiery “little wife” out of his system once and for all. A women who heated his blood like no other! He wanted total surrender and by God he would have it!
“You’re my wife. Even if you don’t want to acknowledge it, you’re mine, Lila. Mine.’’
They both keep their walls erected, but as much as Lila reviles her new husband, he somehow manages to strip her bare with just one smoldering look. As their stormy passion reaches a fever pitch, can bitter animosity morph into the love of a lifetime?
Omgeee! This tempestuous romance is SINFULLY DELICIOUS!! This book is pulsating with love-hate chemistry, and the sexual tension between this couple, who fight their feelings every step of the way, is so intense you can feel it down to your marrow!!! This is definitely a slow boiling romance, but when they finally succumb to their raging inferno of passion it is COMBUSTIBLE!!!!!
There is nothing more TANTALIZING for me then a book with a broody, tortured hero and Mathis truly embodies a rakishly handsome, dark lord of the manor ...in many ways a throwback to the Regency genre that I so love! The more we learn about the profoundly broken man who hides his true self behind his wicked come-ons and airs of cold indifference, the more he burrowed himself inside my heart. He harbors a world of pain and grief inside him and, as it turns out, he provokes his bride not to be cruel but for the simple reason that inciting her fire warms the cold parts that lurk within his anguished soul. And when Lila sees glimpses of the real man behind the bluster, her fierce longing to fix the broken parts of him somehow fills the cracks in her own fissured heart. Together they bring light and joy back into one another's desolate worlds
Although I liked Lila's scrappy personality and backbone of steel, I WILL admit it took me a little while to warm to her. But as the book progressed and her sharp edges softened, she did grow on me and I came to see her ice queen persona was just a protective mechanism stemming from her own tragic past.
This is my first book by the gifted Stephanie Witter and I found her style very enticing! There is a sophisticated old world charm to her writing that suits the story well, and I was also drawn to her vibrant, descriptive prose. She paints a beautiful tapestry with her words so it feels as if you are right there in the scene--not an impartial bystander---and the raw, visceral emotion she evokes bled from the page and seeped into my own throbbing heart. I was powerfully moved throughout and the ending incited tears of joy!!!
My final takeaway? There is a fine line between love and hate, indifference and red hot lust. Granted, there were many times through it when I wanted to CLOBBER them both (especially Mathis!) for being so impossibly stubborn. But in the end, the evolution of Lila and Mathis's undeniably complex relationship, from cold, contrary strangers merely going through the motions, to a deeply devoted couple who finally surrender, heart, body and soul, to their all-consuming love was truly BREATHTAKING to behold!
4 TEMPESTUOUS Stars!!
January 15, 2017
This was my first book by Stephanie Witter and I really enjoyed it.
Lila has been groomed to be the perfect little Stepford wife during her stay at Carter Manor. Carter Manor is known to have trophy wife's available for the elite and since Lila has already said no twice shes almost at the end of her stay because she's nearing the age of 25. Knowing the next man she's introduced to she will have to say yes.
Mathis is looking for the perfect trophy wife but, isn't interested in all the lifeless pictures he's seeing until spotting Lilas, he recognizes the fire in her eyes and it intrigued.
The constant push and pull from them was what I liked the most. Mathis loved to ignite her anger and she was so strong for someone who was taught to be submissive to her husband. She was suppose to be seen and not heard but, still put up a fight.
Mathis has a lot of unresolved grief he's dealing with that makes him the cold man he is but, I enjoyed seeing him and Lila thaw each other out.
I voluntarily reviewed a ARC of this book
Lila has been groomed to be the perfect little Stepford wife during her stay at Carter Manor. Carter Manor is known to have trophy wife's available for the elite and since Lila has already said no twice shes almost at the end of her stay because she's nearing the age of 25. Knowing the next man she's introduced to she will have to say yes.
Mathis is looking for the perfect trophy wife but, isn't interested in all the lifeless pictures he's seeing until spotting Lilas, he recognizes the fire in her eyes and it intrigued.
The constant push and pull from them was what I liked the most. Mathis loved to ignite her anger and she was so strong for someone who was taught to be submissive to her husband. She was suppose to be seen and not heard but, still put up a fight.
Mathis has a lot of unresolved grief he's dealing with that makes him the cold man he is but, I enjoyed seeing him and Lila thaw each other out.
I voluntarily reviewed a ARC of this book
March 21, 2017
I really liked the previous book I read from this author so this was v disappointing. It's been a few weeks since I read it so I don't remember enough to properly review it, but what I do remember is that it felt like reading insta-love in suuuuuper slow motion. They're basically always together for most of the book, all hot and cold (his coldness in particular didn't serve to build up their connection or the angst, imo, more like bored me and annoyed me) but at a certain point, i realised that this isn't a slow build-up...it's 2 people that are basically in love in a week, only it takes the length of a novel to get to the end of that week. At one point I was even impressed with how the heroine was saying no to him, only to realise dozens of pages later that actually, it's not that impressive when all her "i'm never going to sleep with you" spiel takes place over the course of a couple of days. Way to stick to your guns, lady. The hero was even worse, never making up his mind and making a complete transformation in under 30 days.
Safety: safe, both celibate after meeting (her a lot longer than him because she was in that doll house, but at least she wasn't a virgin, woop woop)
Safety: safe, both celibate after meeting (her a lot longer than him because she was in that doll house, but at least she wasn't a virgin, woop woop)
February 26, 2017
Amazing Read
This was an amazing read that I didn't want to put down. Mathis and Lila's story was nice and fresh. I enjoyed going on this journey with them. I have to be honest, it was a tad frustrating but you had to go through all those emotions while they shed their insecurities and broke down their walls. It made the ending that much sweeter. What a great read!
This was an amazing read that I didn't want to put down. Mathis and Lila's story was nice and fresh. I enjoyed going on this journey with them. I have to be honest, it was a tad frustrating but you had to go through all those emotions while they shed their insecurities and broke down their walls. It made the ending that much sweeter. What a great read!
January 15, 2017
Be A Doll is a new romance novel by Author Stephanie Witter. It is an unexpected enemies-to-lovers book with a refreshing take on billionaire romance.
"In this world, my world for the past four years, I had been taught to become a future trophy wife."
Lila was rescued from the streets by Carter Manor, groomed into a demure and plastic woman and made ready for her marriage to a proper man. What she didn’t see coming was Mathis Grimes. He is haughty, arrogant, and demanding. In spite of her instruction at Carter Manor, she refuses to cave into what seems to be his exhausting requirements, insisting that she be treated with respect. These two personalities clash, crash, and cause a connection that may burn the world in the process.
"Sometimes a kiss was just a kiss. Sometimes a kiss announced changes. That time, the kiss was my downfall."
There is a new billionaire in town, and Mathis sex-on-a-stick-my-words-will-make-your-body-hum Grimes is his name! I loved that Lila turned him into an eloquent, lust-filled male. Turn-for-turn, Lila and Mathis were equally qualified partners in their game of marriage. They were both strong self-thinkers and motivated for success, however that achievement may come.
"You're like fireworks, Lila. You burn bright, you shine ardently, and you explode loud."
The transitions from hate to lust to love were wonderfully fashioned, making it believable and tangible, the words flowing flawlessly. And when the sparks did fly, they illuminated the sky like the forth of July. I am serious when I say that these scenes were HOT!!! Like hide from the public and enjoy the bliss of such sensual writing hot!
In a story that could have been coldly told or darkly relayed, Author Stephanie Witter introduced family and feelings that tugged at my heartstrings and kept me constantly connected. This was a story with hard edges kept safe between soft linings. It was intense in its emotional and physical connections and kept me on edge for more. A unique, hot, and sexy escape that I loved.
"You'll be mine in all ways you can imagine."
"In this world, my world for the past four years, I had been taught to become a future trophy wife."
Lila was rescued from the streets by Carter Manor, groomed into a demure and plastic woman and made ready for her marriage to a proper man. What she didn’t see coming was Mathis Grimes. He is haughty, arrogant, and demanding. In spite of her instruction at Carter Manor, she refuses to cave into what seems to be his exhausting requirements, insisting that she be treated with respect. These two personalities clash, crash, and cause a connection that may burn the world in the process.
"Sometimes a kiss was just a kiss. Sometimes a kiss announced changes. That time, the kiss was my downfall."
There is a new billionaire in town, and Mathis sex-on-a-stick-my-words-will-make-your-body-hum Grimes is his name! I loved that Lila turned him into an eloquent, lust-filled male. Turn-for-turn, Lila and Mathis were equally qualified partners in their game of marriage. They were both strong self-thinkers and motivated for success, however that achievement may come.
"You're like fireworks, Lila. You burn bright, you shine ardently, and you explode loud."
The transitions from hate to lust to love were wonderfully fashioned, making it believable and tangible, the words flowing flawlessly. And when the sparks did fly, they illuminated the sky like the forth of July. I am serious when I say that these scenes were HOT!!! Like hide from the public and enjoy the bliss of such sensual writing hot!
In a story that could have been coldly told or darkly relayed, Author Stephanie Witter introduced family and feelings that tugged at my heartstrings and kept me constantly connected. This was a story with hard edges kept safe between soft linings. It was intense in its emotional and physical connections and kept me on edge for more. A unique, hot, and sexy escape that I loved.
"You'll be mine in all ways you can imagine."
February 7, 2017
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MY REVIEW 4.5 stars (ARC provided)
Stephanie has proven she can write all kinds of stories in the romance genre. I have read several of her books and they all have been different and good. This book she takes us to Carter Manor a house full of beautiful woman that primps them to become respectful and suitable wives.
Lila is a feisty and fiery girl; she speaks her mind and hasn’t let the primping and coercing of the Manor change her personality. She has one more chance for a suitor to choose her before she is thrown back onto the streets.
Mathis needs a wife to seem like a respectable business man, but also to appease his mother. He seeks out Lila at Carter Manor and there is something about her he can’t deny.
As new husband and wife Lila and Mathis have to find a way to live together and make this arrangement work. It’s not that easy though, they both have struggles, they both are stubborn, and they both are strong. Their personalities clash but bring out a great story of angst and passion.
I loved Lila! She was such a great character, head strong but yet compassionate. She spoke her mind which I loved. It took me a while to like Mathis but as the book went on we got glimpses of his past and why he is the person he is today. You see him slowly breaking down his walls.
I really enjoyed this story, it had great detail but never felt drug out or slow. Another winning book for Stephanie Witter! I’m anxious to read her next.
MY REVIEW 4.5 stars (ARC provided)
Stephanie has proven she can write all kinds of stories in the romance genre. I have read several of her books and they all have been different and good. This book she takes us to Carter Manor a house full of beautiful woman that primps them to become respectful and suitable wives.
Lila is a feisty and fiery girl; she speaks her mind and hasn’t let the primping and coercing of the Manor change her personality. She has one more chance for a suitor to choose her before she is thrown back onto the streets.
Mathis needs a wife to seem like a respectable business man, but also to appease his mother. He seeks out Lila at Carter Manor and there is something about her he can’t deny.
As new husband and wife Lila and Mathis have to find a way to live together and make this arrangement work. It’s not that easy though, they both have struggles, they both are stubborn, and they both are strong. Their personalities clash but bring out a great story of angst and passion.
I loved Lila! She was such a great character, head strong but yet compassionate. She spoke her mind which I loved. It took me a while to like Mathis but as the book went on we got glimpses of his past and why he is the person he is today. You see him slowly breaking down his walls.
I really enjoyed this story, it had great detail but never felt drug out or slow. Another winning book for Stephanie Witter! I’m anxious to read her next.
February 3, 2017
*** ARC kindly provided by the author for an honest review. ***
Sometimes when you can’t put down a book, you read it in one sitting, and all you want is to peel every layers until the end. I started reading Be A Doll and I knew that it was going to be that way.
Not only the storyline was quite original, but the most significant thing was how incredible the author could bring such tension in one book. This intensity never ceased to burn, like a constant reminder of Mathis and Lilia’s duality. It was just powerful and transcendent.
Mathis was looking for a wife to save his business. When the idea of The Carter Manor came up, a place when you can pick a woman almost in a catalog, someone well mannered, trained to be the obedient and perfect wife. Cold, distant and acting most of the time like a jerk, this business arrangement was the perfect opportunity. No string attached just for appearances.
While reading this story this character won me over. Mathis was playing his character perfectly, hiding all the scars and shattered soul to the world. Behind the well-educated and successful businessman and cold-hearted man, this man was full of anger, regrets and acting more than living. Until he found his match at The Carter Manor, Lila, who wasn’t what he was looking for it the fire and wildness pulled him in ways he never felt before.
Lila was definitely one of a kind. After rough years, The Manor was the escape, the promise of a future, even if the concept was kind of sordid to me.
She was untamed, fierce and could stand for her own. She was the perfect opposite of the woman she had to be, even with all the training in the world, she couldn't hide her true self. She was to me a force of nature who like Mathis, acting more than living to survive, no feelings or attachment.
The two of them? An incredible chemistry, foreplay as its best. They were mutually hating each other but the constant sexual tension between these two?? Totally hot. But it was more, so much more.
Every touch, every fights, every interaction increased the intensity of their relationship.
What was supposed to be a business arrangement turned into something more. Throughout the story, the characters were pushing each other’s buttons. Especially Mathis, who enjoyed to toy her, to awake the fire like no one else.
Gradually, some glimpse of the real man he really was surfaced, for someone who used to have his private life, his little woman of his, intoxicated him and was invading every inch of this space, life and soul. This part was totally nailed by the author, it was off the charts!
There was definitely something going on with his book, a chemistry like no one else. Sometimes it was almost too real to me, like I was really experiencing it. Passionate, raw and intense.
For a book lover like me, it was the greatest reward, to read a book that could make you feel so much.
I savored and treasured each moment, battles and fights. The duality between Mathis and Lila brought the story to another level, even if they were from opposite worlds, they were no different inside; great at acting more than living, nailing the art of sarcasm and challenging each other. It needed to see one loneliness and tortured soul burning with regrets and deception to recognize another one.
A few hours after finishing it, I could feel it in my bones again, Be A Doll was still on my mind. I was stunned and this book totally took me by surprise. I wasn’t expecting to be so much entranced and bewitched. I almost highlighted the last chapter! Insane, right? I freaking swooned at each moment.
Be A Doll is a definitely to me, one of the best books I’ve ever read since the beginning of the year. The magic was operating so efficiently, there was something in the air, this little something that made this book so special. Never I have fallen truly, madly, deeply, in love with a story so quickly. I have a new book boyfriend and his name is Mathis Grimes.
*** ARC kindly provided by the author for an honest review. ***
Sometimes when you can’t put down a book, you read it in one sitting, and all you want is to peel every layers until the end. I started reading Be A Doll and I knew that it was going to be that way.
Not only the storyline was quite original, but the most significant thing was how incredible the author could bring such tension in one book. This intensity never ceased to burn, like a constant reminder of Mathis and Lilia’s duality. It was just powerful and transcendent.
Mathis was looking for a wife to save his business. When the idea of The Carter Manor came up, a place when you can pick a woman almost in a catalog, someone well mannered, trained to be the obedient and perfect wife. Cold, distant and acting most of the time like a jerk, this business arrangement was the perfect opportunity. No string attached just for appearances.
While reading this story this character won me over. Mathis was playing his character perfectly, hiding all the scars and shattered soul to the world. Behind the well-educated and successful businessman and cold-hearted man, this man was full of anger, regrets and acting more than living. Until he found his match at The Carter Manor, Lila, who wasn’t what he was looking for it the fire and wildness pulled him in ways he never felt before.
Lila was definitely one of a kind. After rough years, The Manor was the escape, the promise of a future, even if the concept was kind of sordid to me.
She was untamed, fierce and could stand for her own. She was the perfect opposite of the woman she had to be, even with all the training in the world, she couldn't hide her true self. She was to me a force of nature who like Mathis, acting more than living to survive, no feelings or attachment.
The two of them? An incredible chemistry, foreplay as its best. They were mutually hating each other but the constant sexual tension between these two?? Totally hot. But it was more, so much more.
Every touch, every fights, every interaction increased the intensity of their relationship.
What was supposed to be a business arrangement turned into something more. Throughout the story, the characters were pushing each other’s buttons. Especially Mathis, who enjoyed to toy her, to awake the fire like no one else.
Gradually, some glimpse of the real man he really was surfaced, for someone who used to have his private life, his little woman of his, intoxicated him and was invading every inch of this space, life and soul. This part was totally nailed by the author, it was off the charts!
There was definitely something going on with his book, a chemistry like no one else. Sometimes it was almost too real to me, like I was really experiencing it. Passionate, raw and intense.
For a book lover like me, it was the greatest reward, to read a book that could make you feel so much.
I savored and treasured each moment, battles and fights. The duality between Mathis and Lila brought the story to another level, even if they were from opposite worlds, they were no different inside; great at acting more than living, nailing the art of sarcasm and challenging each other. It needed to see one loneliness and tortured soul burning with regrets and deception to recognize another one.
A few hours after finishing it, I could feel it in my bones again, Be A Doll was still on my mind. I was stunned and this book totally took me by surprise. I wasn’t expecting to be so much entranced and bewitched. I almost highlighted the last chapter! Insane, right? I freaking swooned at each moment.
Be A Doll is a definitely to me, one of the best books I’ve ever read since the beginning of the year. The magic was operating so efficiently, there was something in the air, this little something that made this book so special. Never I have fallen truly, madly, deeply, in love with a story so quickly. I have a new book boyfriend and his name is Mathis Grimes.
April 10, 2017
Great book.
This is my 1st Stephanie Witter book and i loved it.
The fire in her the ice in him.
It was a great combanation.
I really hope that there is more stories about the Girls from the Manor.
And about the H's little sister.
Great read
This is my 1st Stephanie Witter book and i loved it.
The fire in her the ice in him.
It was a great combanation.
I really hope that there is more stories about the Girls from the Manor.
And about the H's little sister.
Great read
Want to Read
April 9, 2017
January 31, 2017
I loved this story.. I wish it took place over a longer period of time but glad the epilogue went a year out.. Hope to see more of maybe Meghan and Chance..
March 11, 2017
First book by this author. Really enjoyed it!
February 5, 2017
Wow!, Be a doll was like a stressful, angsty, foreplay build up to the the big O
At Carter Manor, women were groomed to become the perfect next trophy wife for the most influential and powerful men in the world.
Polished, educated, and disciplined... they met every criteria.
Or did they?
Lila was rescued from living on the streets she was broken with no-where to go and faced with a proposition that she couldn't refuse, three meals a day, life in a manor and a future with a rich husband at the end of her training.
Lila wasn't quite the trophy wife, yes she was trained she knew her place but she was anything but submissive, she had fire and grit and that's what Mathis saw in her, maybe he even saw his match. I really liked Lila she had backbone and was a great character.
Mathis needed a wife to help with business contracts he needed to look the part of a family man to seal deals, a rich but a powerful man with tight scheduled doesn't have time to court and romance so he does the best thing and that's buy one like he does everything else.
Mathis is a shrewd business man, handsome and life with Lila soon begins to tear away layers of the hardness and barriers he never thought he would let anyone see but they didn't come down without a fight and their relationship had explosive moments followed by hot intense passionate moments too.
Be a doll is so hot the build up to this intense and fiery relationship had me gripping my kindle until the couple found release but after ever simmer the fiery pot began to bubble again it was fantastic and gripping not because of any drama that surrounded the couple these two could light up a room with the sparks they had flying off each other all on their own. Both Mathis and Lila were so much in denial that this was more than a business transaction and so frustrations turned to lust and the games began neither backing down.
Be a doll was intense,exciting and exhilarating read that I couldn't put down. Told in dual pov's with heartfelt backstory's and brilliant characters and a plot that's like a fireball rolling towards a hea.
Arc gratefully received for review purposes
http://www.bbbf-sizzlereads-bestbookb...
NOW LIVE!
Amazon US / https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MT9PAZF
Amazon UK / https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01MT9PAZF
Amazon AU / https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B01MT9PAZF
Amazon CA / https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B01MT9PAZF
At Carter Manor, women were groomed to become the perfect next trophy wife for the most influential and powerful men in the world.
Polished, educated, and disciplined... they met every criteria.
Or did they?
Lila was rescued from living on the streets she was broken with no-where to go and faced with a proposition that she couldn't refuse, three meals a day, life in a manor and a future with a rich husband at the end of her training.
Lila wasn't quite the trophy wife, yes she was trained she knew her place but she was anything but submissive, she had fire and grit and that's what Mathis saw in her, maybe he even saw his match. I really liked Lila she had backbone and was a great character.
Mathis needed a wife to help with business contracts he needed to look the part of a family man to seal deals, a rich but a powerful man with tight scheduled doesn't have time to court and romance so he does the best thing and that's buy one like he does everything else.
Mathis is a shrewd business man, handsome and life with Lila soon begins to tear away layers of the hardness and barriers he never thought he would let anyone see but they didn't come down without a fight and their relationship had explosive moments followed by hot intense passionate moments too.
Be a doll is so hot the build up to this intense and fiery relationship had me gripping my kindle until the couple found release but after ever simmer the fiery pot began to bubble again it was fantastic and gripping not because of any drama that surrounded the couple these two could light up a room with the sparks they had flying off each other all on their own. Both Mathis and Lila were so much in denial that this was more than a business transaction and so frustrations turned to lust and the games began neither backing down.
Be a doll was intense,exciting and exhilarating read that I couldn't put down. Told in dual pov's with heartfelt backstory's and brilliant characters and a plot that's like a fireball rolling towards a hea.
Arc gratefully received for review purposes
http://www.bbbf-sizzlereads-bestbookb...
NOW LIVE!
Amazon US / https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MT9PAZF
Amazon UK / https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01MT9PAZF
Amazon AU / https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B01MT9PAZF
Amazon CA / https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B01MT9PAZF
April 18, 2017
Enthralling, seductive and 5 star worthy!
BE A DOLL by Stephanie Witter was her first read for me and I truly enjoyed it.
With the sub-gen being based on "marriage of convenience" and after reading the blurb, I was totally taken by surprise with this read. It was completely unique to others with a similar theme and the story basis refreshing.
Mathis was a beautifully broken strong and totally swoon worthy character with deep issues stemming from his childhood. With business being at the forefront, he needed a wife to succeed in winning his latest venture. This takes him to Carson Manor, where they breed girls into the perfect stepford wife.
Lila, a beautiful doll with her own personal demons is just what Mathis is looking for. Well maybe not, but the fire within her soul speaks to him in ways no other woman has ever been able to. Her brazen tongue and unwillingness to be controlled sparks something within him and he can't help but you with her just to get a reaction that stirs something within and makes him so hard for her it hurts.
The banter between Mathis and Lila is constant, and a game they both enjoy equally, even if I found it to be a bit much after a while. It's foreplay to the extremely sexy chemistry these two have going on and when they finally let the walls down, it was so friggin hot!
The story behind these two characters is although trying, a good one. Neither have loved before and both are struggling with feelings they have started to feel towards each other. But as soon as Mathis recognises a feeling as perhaps love, his mask is put firmly back in place and self sabotage begins.
The first half of this book was a little exhausting with the repeated overplay of back and forth between the two. But once they let emotions take over, it sizzle and I loved every moment. The sex was so sexy, some of the best read and the attraction kept me on edge. I loved this read and would have liked to see more from Mathis and Lila. It seemed like as soon as these two sorted themselves out it ended :(
I definitely recommend this read and ask that you hang in there, the ending is so worth it.
BE A DOLL by Stephanie Witter was her first read for me and I truly enjoyed it.
With the sub-gen being based on "marriage of convenience" and after reading the blurb, I was totally taken by surprise with this read. It was completely unique to others with a similar theme and the story basis refreshing.
Mathis was a beautifully broken strong and totally swoon worthy character with deep issues stemming from his childhood. With business being at the forefront, he needed a wife to succeed in winning his latest venture. This takes him to Carson Manor, where they breed girls into the perfect stepford wife.
Lila, a beautiful doll with her own personal demons is just what Mathis is looking for. Well maybe not, but the fire within her soul speaks to him in ways no other woman has ever been able to. Her brazen tongue and unwillingness to be controlled sparks something within him and he can't help but you with her just to get a reaction that stirs something within and makes him so hard for her it hurts.
The banter between Mathis and Lila is constant, and a game they both enjoy equally, even if I found it to be a bit much after a while. It's foreplay to the extremely sexy chemistry these two have going on and when they finally let the walls down, it was so friggin hot!
The story behind these two characters is although trying, a good one. Neither have loved before and both are struggling with feelings they have started to feel towards each other. But as soon as Mathis recognises a feeling as perhaps love, his mask is put firmly back in place and self sabotage begins.
The first half of this book was a little exhausting with the repeated overplay of back and forth between the two. But once they let emotions take over, it sizzle and I loved every moment. The sex was so sexy, some of the best read and the attraction kept me on edge. I loved this read and would have liked to see more from Mathis and Lila. It seemed like as soon as these two sorted themselves out it ended :(
I definitely recommend this read and ask that you hang in there, the ending is so worth it.
February 3, 2017
The cover, the blurb, a new author to me...I was VERY excited to get started on this book. I have to say I really did like the premise of Lila and Mathis' story, but a few things bothered me that prevented me from fully enjoying this darker contemporary romance.
#1 - I'm not usually a HUGE stickler on grammar because I receive a lot of unedited advance review copies, but there was quite a bit in this one, that had me cringing a couple of times.
#2 - The amount of time the hero traced his lower lip with his thumb. It might be a dumb thing to notice, but it was in there so many times that it stuck out a lot!
#3 - The amount of times the hero called the heroine "little wife." It would be sexy here and there but it was a bit overkill!
#4 - The heroine was a complete BITCH at the beginning and it took quite a lot to warm up to her. I understand she has a horrible past, but damn she wouldn't budge on ANYTHING!
Even with these little nuances, I still enjoyed their story. The sex was HOT! The passion was INTENSE! The connection between the hero and heroine was a little slow going, but it eventually got there. If the above things do not bother you at all, then you should really check out this romance.
#1 - I'm not usually a HUGE stickler on grammar because I receive a lot of unedited advance review copies, but there was quite a bit in this one, that had me cringing a couple of times.
#2 - The amount of time the hero traced his lower lip with his thumb. It might be a dumb thing to notice, but it was in there so many times that it stuck out a lot!
#3 - The amount of times the hero called the heroine "little wife." It would be sexy here and there but it was a bit overkill!
#4 - The heroine was a complete BITCH at the beginning and it took quite a lot to warm up to her. I understand she has a horrible past, but damn she wouldn't budge on ANYTHING!
Even with these little nuances, I still enjoyed their story. The sex was HOT! The passion was INTENSE! The connection between the hero and heroine was a little slow going, but it eventually got there. If the above things do not bother you at all, then you should really check out this romance.
March 27, 2017
If I wasn't happily married, I would definitely want something like Carter Manor to exist. Who wouldn't want to learn how to play wifey in exchange for a cushy lifestyle after the terms were completed. That's what Lila goes into this thinking. Given that she isn't leading a great life as it is, she really has nothing to lose.
Mathis needs to appear more professional and family minded. Finding a wife has become an immediate priority and Carter Manor is happy to be of service. What he doesn't plan on is actually being attracted to his new wife for hire. Attracted to the point of feelings being involved.
A sexy and scintillating ride.
Mathis needs to appear more professional and family minded. Finding a wife has become an immediate priority and Carter Manor is happy to be of service. What he doesn't plan on is actually being attracted to his new wife for hire. Attracted to the point of feelings being involved.
A sexy and scintillating ride.
January 12, 2017
ARC was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Lila is a young woman who can't afford to mess up the opportunity of securing her next husband after two previous failures. It's either find a wealthy husband or be back on the streets without anything to her name. It doesn't matter if she doesn't want to get married, she's simply out of options. Carter Manor is an institution that matches young women with wealthy men who are looking for trophy wives.
Carter Manor has taught Lila the many ways of pleasing her potential husband. She's instructed on what to wear, how to look and carry herself, and how to maintain a household. Having these attributes will ensure she's able to land any wealthy gentlemen she so desires. However, Carter Manor hasn't conformed her entirely, she still exudes defiance.
Mathis is in the market for a wife, a woman he can marry only for business purposes. He employs Carter Manor to narrow down his options. He isn't looking to fall in love. He's only marrying out of convenience. He isn't looking for a docile counterpart, a woman too tamed. He wants someone who intrigues him, and he finds that in the very beautiful Lila. He's able to read through her facade and pushes her buttons to prove his theory.
Mathis finds it thrilling taunting Lila every chance he gets. He likes seeing how far he can push her, finds her temper sexy and arousing. He wants her more than any other woman he had before. He can't seem to understand his body's reaction to her. He can't seem to get over how stunningly beautiful she is.
Lila doesn't get why Mathis is always pushing her buttons, always igniting her anger. The man simply loves seeing her come unglued. She knows she shouldn't take the bait, but she can't help herself. Mathis is a mystery to her. She can't read him, no matter how hard she tries. What's even more interesting, is how her body responds to his vulgar words.
Be A Doll by Stephanie Witter is a read that will draw you in and keep your interest from the very beginning. You’re going to love the power struggle between Mathis and Lila, I did.
Lila is a young woman who can't afford to mess up the opportunity of securing her next husband after two previous failures. It's either find a wealthy husband or be back on the streets without anything to her name. It doesn't matter if she doesn't want to get married, she's simply out of options. Carter Manor is an institution that matches young women with wealthy men who are looking for trophy wives.
Carter Manor has taught Lila the many ways of pleasing her potential husband. She's instructed on what to wear, how to look and carry herself, and how to maintain a household. Having these attributes will ensure she's able to land any wealthy gentlemen she so desires. However, Carter Manor hasn't conformed her entirely, she still exudes defiance.
Mathis is in the market for a wife, a woman he can marry only for business purposes. He employs Carter Manor to narrow down his options. He isn't looking to fall in love. He's only marrying out of convenience. He isn't looking for a docile counterpart, a woman too tamed. He wants someone who intrigues him, and he finds that in the very beautiful Lila. He's able to read through her facade and pushes her buttons to prove his theory.
Mathis finds it thrilling taunting Lila every chance he gets. He likes seeing how far he can push her, finds her temper sexy and arousing. He wants her more than any other woman he had before. He can't seem to understand his body's reaction to her. He can't seem to get over how stunningly beautiful she is.
Lila doesn't get why Mathis is always pushing her buttons, always igniting her anger. The man simply loves seeing her come unglued. She knows she shouldn't take the bait, but she can't help herself. Mathis is a mystery to her. She can't read him, no matter how hard she tries. What's even more interesting, is how her body responds to his vulgar words.
Be A Doll by Stephanie Witter is a read that will draw you in and keep your interest from the very beginning. You’re going to love the power struggle between Mathis and Lila, I did.
February 6, 2017
5*
Lila was part of the doll factory perfectly made wives, she has till she's 25 & already has rebuked 2 proposals.
Mathis is shopping for a wife so visits the carter home for wives. He see she has spirit & it excites him.
I loved the characters the ups & downs. Couldn't put it down. The book has an ending. This is a standalone no cliffhanger here.
Another new author for me. Definitely recommend it.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
Great story emotional
Lila was part of the doll factory perfectly made wives, she has till she's 25 & already has rebuked 2 proposals.
Mathis is shopping for a wife so visits the carter home for wives. He see she has spirit & it excites him.
I loved the characters the ups & downs. Couldn't put it down. The book has an ending. This is a standalone no cliffhanger here.
Another new author for me. Definitely recommend it.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
Great story emotional
April 27, 2017
Mathias...I fell in love
This book was the first I have read by Strephanie & she nailed it. I could feel the emotions of Mathias & Lila coming through this book as I read. I loved it!!
This book was the first I have read by Strephanie & she nailed it. I could feel the emotions of Mathias & Lila coming through this book as I read. I loved it!!
June 20, 2018
Oh well, RTC.
July 30, 2018
Wow... I have a headache because of the book! So much drama. I wanted to knock some sense into main characters, both are so goddamn stupid! I, of course cried while reading this. Thank god it had a happy ending.
January 30, 2017
Carter Manor is a home where young ladies are moulded into being perfect wives for rich men, being taught manners, how to be a socialite wife and taught to accept whatever their future husbands expect from them good or bad, young or old. Lila is not so easily tamed and she already has two red mark in her file, she accepted this life rather than stay on the streets. Mathis is looking for a wife to help his business through the clients he has and he is drawn to Lila and he wants her and thinks he can keep it as a business contract. This is where Lila and Mathis’s story begins, what starts as a cold relationship grows and you delve into both their pasts, this is a beautiful love story that exceeds all your expectations. I received this from the author and this is my honest and unbiased review.
January 24, 2017
4 Stars
This was an awesome surprise. It's the second book I've read by this author and I must say, I'm impressed. Both characters were well written, the plot, although not original, was interesting and the sexy times were really hot. I'm not sure if this is a new series or not but there are some side characters that I wouldn't mind reading about.
This was an awesome surprise. It's the second book I've read by this author and I must say, I'm impressed. Both characters were well written, the plot, although not original, was interesting and the sexy times were really hot. I'm not sure if this is a new series or not but there are some side characters that I wouldn't mind reading about.
March 2, 2017
***ARC PROVIDED BY THE AUTHOR IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW***
Not having read anything by Stephanie Witter and reading the blurb i was quite keen to get stuck into this book. ‘Be A Doll’ was a bit different from what I had read of late so it was easy to get stuck in and that is exactly what I did. It was a 4 star read for me.
Supposedly trained to be the perfect wife to the rich and powerful by being in the Carter Manor Lila is running out of options. Having already turned down two offers and reaching their age limit Lila knows the next man is who she has to accept regardless of what he is like.
Having absolutely no interest in having a wife or a relationship for that matter Mathis is forced to purchase a wife for his business. When he gets to Carter Manor he is intrigued by the fire he recognises in Lila’s eyes. Not making the best first impressions on either side Lila is shocked when she is chosen by Mathis to become his wife in the just a few months time.
There was an intense push and pull that kept things exciting between Lila and Mathis. The more Lila gets to know Mathis she catches glimpses of the real him and the secrets he has locked up inside. Proving that the training at the Manor didn't stick and that she has fire in her Lila and Jake’s relationship is entertaining to watch and you really do get to see the relationship form through each of their eyes. This was a book that took time to build but once it did I didn’t want to put it down.
February 5, 2017
Lila was living a life on the streets. She had nothing to her name, no friends and no family. At that point in her life, Carter Manor seemed like a solution to all of her problems, but for a feisty, strong young woman like Lila, it wasn’t the best fit.
Carter Manor was essentially a finishing school for Stepford Wives. The girls learned how to be the perfect trophy wife and once their individuality and will had been broken down far enough, they were ready to be married off. Wealthy men would come to Carter Manor to interview prospective brides. Generally either old, perverted or sometimes just plain lonely, these men could provide the women with financial freedom in exchange for a few years as trophy wife and willing lover.
Lila had rejected her first two potential matches and when called in to meet her third, she holds little hope. She’s pleasantly surprised when she sees Mathis and he’s young and very handsome, but she immediately notices his cold eyes, clinical mannerisms and complete detachment to the situation. He goads her and breaks her carefully, constructed composure and she responds with fight and fire. To her shock, he does select her as his bride and the hasty wedding preparations are put into motion.
Mathis is a billionaire who never had any intention of settling down. He enjoys his fair share of women, but never for more than a night or two. He refuses to get attached to anyone or anything. This is how he keeps his heart safe from being shattered again. Mathis comes to realize however, that appearing as a loving husband to some of his more old school clients could help him close some very lucrative deals.
Mathis makes it completely clear to Lila, repeatedly, that she is nothing more than a business transaction. A hired bride. A warm body to screw, once she finally gives in. That is to his credit I suppose, that he at least didn’t force the consummation of the marriage immediately. He toyed with her, teased her and was extremely tempted by her, but he was not going to take things any further until she begged for him.
Lila couldn’t stand Mathis. Cold, calculating, cruel. And although her brain detested him, she couldn’t deny the fact that her body was extremely attracted to him. Despite her attempts to resist, her sex-starved body relented after a few days of foreplay and it was surprisingly incredible for both of them.
As they spend more time together, Lila slowly begins to see why Mathis is the way he is. She tries to be his friend and to understand his pain, but he always reminds her that she is just hired help and pushes her away. Slowly, their intimate moments start to include brief moments of tenderness and care, and Lila starts to worry that she might be in danger of falling for her husband. However, Mathis is quick to shut that down and destroys her heart in a misguided effort to give her the freedom she’s always desired.
This story does have a happy ending, but there are many tears, cruel words and gut-wrenching moments before the reader finally gets to see some hope for Lila and Mathis’ future.
Can an unlikely match of broken souls find some solace in their unexpected and unwelcome love for each other?
No cliffhanger. HEA. No cheating. So many feels! Deep, thoroughly developed and damaged characters. Insane chemistry between Lila and Mathis from their first meeting, during their arguments, through the teasing foreplay and into their passionate, extremely steamy sexy times. Loved this book!
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this book.
Carter Manor was essentially a finishing school for Stepford Wives. The girls learned how to be the perfect trophy wife and once their individuality and will had been broken down far enough, they were ready to be married off. Wealthy men would come to Carter Manor to interview prospective brides. Generally either old, perverted or sometimes just plain lonely, these men could provide the women with financial freedom in exchange for a few years as trophy wife and willing lover.
Lila had rejected her first two potential matches and when called in to meet her third, she holds little hope. She’s pleasantly surprised when she sees Mathis and he’s young and very handsome, but she immediately notices his cold eyes, clinical mannerisms and complete detachment to the situation. He goads her and breaks her carefully, constructed composure and she responds with fight and fire. To her shock, he does select her as his bride and the hasty wedding preparations are put into motion.
Mathis is a billionaire who never had any intention of settling down. He enjoys his fair share of women, but never for more than a night or two. He refuses to get attached to anyone or anything. This is how he keeps his heart safe from being shattered again. Mathis comes to realize however, that appearing as a loving husband to some of his more old school clients could help him close some very lucrative deals.
Mathis makes it completely clear to Lila, repeatedly, that she is nothing more than a business transaction. A hired bride. A warm body to screw, once she finally gives in. That is to his credit I suppose, that he at least didn’t force the consummation of the marriage immediately. He toyed with her, teased her and was extremely tempted by her, but he was not going to take things any further until she begged for him.
Lila couldn’t stand Mathis. Cold, calculating, cruel. And although her brain detested him, she couldn’t deny the fact that her body was extremely attracted to him. Despite her attempts to resist, her sex-starved body relented after a few days of foreplay and it was surprisingly incredible for both of them.
As they spend more time together, Lila slowly begins to see why Mathis is the way he is. She tries to be his friend and to understand his pain, but he always reminds her that she is just hired help and pushes her away. Slowly, their intimate moments start to include brief moments of tenderness and care, and Lila starts to worry that she might be in danger of falling for her husband. However, Mathis is quick to shut that down and destroys her heart in a misguided effort to give her the freedom she’s always desired.
This story does have a happy ending, but there are many tears, cruel words and gut-wrenching moments before the reader finally gets to see some hope for Lila and Mathis’ future.
Can an unlikely match of broken souls find some solace in their unexpected and unwelcome love for each other?
No cliffhanger. HEA. No cheating. So many feels! Deep, thoroughly developed and damaged characters. Insane chemistry between Lila and Mathis from their first meeting, during their arguments, through the teasing foreplay and into their passionate, extremely steamy sexy times. Loved this book!
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this book.
February 4, 2017
Well this wasn’t at all what I thought it was going to be and there were elements that I didn’t warm too but saying that, taking the book as a whole I thought the author did a sterling job, she brought something original to the screen and I enjoyed the read.
Carter Manor, serves its purpose, it allows individuals who are looking for the same thing to connect.
Women, especially young women who have preference for older wealth men and the afore said men who are looking for a woman that is willing to be the perfect trophy wife.
Now this is what I had an issue with, I mean Lila was on the hunt for a sugar daddy and desperate people do desperate things but I actually didn’t know if she was completely at rock bottom or was she just lazy and unwilling to face a life that the rest of us face every day, so that sort of rubbed me up the wrong way. I found the whole situation of a training facility practically, morally problematic
I didn’t want to think the words Gold-diggers training camp but they were the only words I had swilling around in my head.
So with the education that she had spent years accumulating at the Manor, she is ready and willing to be someone’s perfect trophy wife (almost) but who is going to be her Mr Moneybags?
Mathis, is on the lookout for a woman but he has no time for love and romance, his proposal requirement is for nothing other than a business merger but when the Manor put him and Lila together will he get what he wants or will he feel the bite of a woman that refuses to bow to every whim?
Lila is everything any man could possibly want and Mathis can see straight through the tough shell that she likes to hide behind, he seems to really enjoy pushing every one of her buttons.
He seems to enjoy antagonising her at every opportunity, provoking a reaction from her and she wasn’t sure why he seemed to relish igniting her temper, all she knew that he was able to do it with monotonous regularity.
I didn’t get the connection between the two of them at first, I thought this was going to be a love hate relationship because it was almost as if they were indulging in a battle of wills and that they enjoyed baiting each other.
I got that Mathis was enamoured with Lila but for crying out loud man, behave!
Did I like the story? Well, overall that would have to be Yes.
Did I like the characters? Well that’s the rub, because No I’m sure I did.
But what I do like is the author. This was the sort of story that despite the fact that I wasn’t doubting myself and the way I felt about what was happening, I quite simply couldn’t put the book down.
Carter Manor, serves its purpose, it allows individuals who are looking for the same thing to connect.
Women, especially young women who have preference for older wealth men and the afore said men who are looking for a woman that is willing to be the perfect trophy wife.
Now this is what I had an issue with, I mean Lila was on the hunt for a sugar daddy and desperate people do desperate things but I actually didn’t know if she was completely at rock bottom or was she just lazy and unwilling to face a life that the rest of us face every day, so that sort of rubbed me up the wrong way. I found the whole situation of a training facility practically, morally problematic
I didn’t want to think the words Gold-diggers training camp but they were the only words I had swilling around in my head.
So with the education that she had spent years accumulating at the Manor, she is ready and willing to be someone’s perfect trophy wife (almost) but who is going to be her Mr Moneybags?
Mathis, is on the lookout for a woman but he has no time for love and romance, his proposal requirement is for nothing other than a business merger but when the Manor put him and Lila together will he get what he wants or will he feel the bite of a woman that refuses to bow to every whim?
Lila is everything any man could possibly want and Mathis can see straight through the tough shell that she likes to hide behind, he seems to really enjoy pushing every one of her buttons.
He seems to enjoy antagonising her at every opportunity, provoking a reaction from her and she wasn’t sure why he seemed to relish igniting her temper, all she knew that he was able to do it with monotonous regularity.
I didn’t get the connection between the two of them at first, I thought this was going to be a love hate relationship because it was almost as if they were indulging in a battle of wills and that they enjoyed baiting each other.
I got that Mathis was enamoured with Lila but for crying out loud man, behave!
Did I like the story? Well, overall that would have to be Yes.
Did I like the characters? Well that’s the rub, because No I’m sure I did.
But what I do like is the author. This was the sort of story that despite the fact that I wasn’t doubting myself and the way I felt about what was happening, I quite simply couldn’t put the book down.
February 4, 2017
Rule Number One: It's All Business, Never? Personal, January 16, 2017
This review is from: Be A Doll: A Carter Manor Novel (Kindle Edition)
Mathis is a Serious Dude. All brooding, growly power and cold aloofness. He picks Lila out of the litter of available "dolls" at Carter Manor, a breeding/grooming ground for perfect, trophy wives-- despite the advertising of Lila as "difficult;" or was it BECAUSE of that designation?
Witter has created a really complex character in Lila- she's up against a wall of a deadline, and without much in the way of control over even her own life, and yet-- she's the sort of stubborn that moves mountains, and has an internal barometer much stronger than what most people would believe of a woman who voluntarily agrees to such an arrangement. The fact that she maintains her internal self, despite it being in her better interests to conform, is really refreshing. She doesn't need to be rescued, as much as she needs resources- and she's pragmatic enough to understand that life isn't fair, and creativity is required in obtaining...resources, sometimes.
Mathis is an onion- he has layers. And he's capable of producing tears in almost anyone he comes into contact with, during any interaction. But he's so rich (emotionally), and unplumbed, watching his very business-like decision get in the way of exactly that, his careful planning and assumptions being blown out of the water at every turn, even seeing himself change and shake up his preconceived notions about himself, creates a wonderful ride for the reader.
The very first pages made some strange-to-me choices with grammar and sentence composition, and the clauses often got jumbled in my head as I read. This smoothed out substantially after the first few pages, and the only consistent grammatical issue I noted was the repeated use of "belay" (like climbing equipment/processes) instead of "belie." And I purposely looked the word up after reading the entire novel, in order to keep my reading continuity and rate my review on the totality of the work, not just one sticking point. Other than that, the only things I would have liked to see, would have been a different climactic scene and resolution of the tense relationship, and some more discussion or interaction with the other "dolls," to illustrate the contrast between the normal Manor product, and Lila. Recommended read!
This review is from: Be A Doll: A Carter Manor Novel (Kindle Edition)
Mathis is a Serious Dude. All brooding, growly power and cold aloofness. He picks Lila out of the litter of available "dolls" at Carter Manor, a breeding/grooming ground for perfect, trophy wives-- despite the advertising of Lila as "difficult;" or was it BECAUSE of that designation?
Witter has created a really complex character in Lila- she's up against a wall of a deadline, and without much in the way of control over even her own life, and yet-- she's the sort of stubborn that moves mountains, and has an internal barometer much stronger than what most people would believe of a woman who voluntarily agrees to such an arrangement. The fact that she maintains her internal self, despite it being in her better interests to conform, is really refreshing. She doesn't need to be rescued, as much as she needs resources- and she's pragmatic enough to understand that life isn't fair, and creativity is required in obtaining...resources, sometimes.
Mathis is an onion- he has layers. And he's capable of producing tears in almost anyone he comes into contact with, during any interaction. But he's so rich (emotionally), and unplumbed, watching his very business-like decision get in the way of exactly that, his careful planning and assumptions being blown out of the water at every turn, even seeing himself change and shake up his preconceived notions about himself, creates a wonderful ride for the reader.
The very first pages made some strange-to-me choices with grammar and sentence composition, and the clauses often got jumbled in my head as I read. This smoothed out substantially after the first few pages, and the only consistent grammatical issue I noted was the repeated use of "belay" (like climbing equipment/processes) instead of "belie." And I purposely looked the word up after reading the entire novel, in order to keep my reading continuity and rate my review on the totality of the work, not just one sticking point. Other than that, the only things I would have liked to see, would have been a different climactic scene and resolution of the tense relationship, and some more discussion or interaction with the other "dolls," to illustrate the contrast between the normal Manor product, and Lila. Recommended read!
February 19, 2017
This was such a great story! Poor Mathias... He is such a tortured soul and even though his attitude about everything makes you want to dislike him, his emotional battle makes you understand him and like him. I love the way Lila stands up to him from the beginning. They are a great couple.
February 3, 2017
Lila Hodge is a resident of Carter Manor, a place where young girls are groomed to become trophy wives of rich men. Lila has sabotaged two prospects already so when she is presented with the third choice she will have no option but to make a go of it. However she is surprised when she sees Mathis Grimes as he is young at thirty two and not at all like other clients.
Mathis picks Lila because she intrigues him and he sees a spark in her that you wouldn't expect to see at the manor.
Mathis and Lila get married and though it starts as a business deal there is a possibility for much more. Mathis comes across as cold and manipulative but there is more to him than what he presents to the world. They both get on each other's nerves but their is definitely a sizzle between the two.
I really liked this one and the relationship between Mathis and Lila was great. I always like reading 'a marriage of convenience' trope and this one had a unique spin on the idea.
https://www.auniversaltruth.com/?p=262
"Be a doll? A doll. Yes, that’s exactly what I was. A doll, someone who didn’t think with her head, but followed someone else’s whims and orders. I was supposed to sit there and look pretty. That was all my life was reduced to. Carter Manor was a damn doll factory."
Mathis picks Lila because she intrigues him and he sees a spark in her that you wouldn't expect to see at the manor.
"You can’t hide the fire in you, it’s burning through your eyes, Miss Hodge."
Mathis and Lila get married and though it starts as a business deal there is a possibility for much more. Mathis comes across as cold and manipulative but there is more to him than what he presents to the world. They both get on each other's nerves but their is definitely a sizzle between the two.
I really liked this one and the relationship between Mathis and Lila was great. I always like reading 'a marriage of convenience' trope and this one had a unique spin on the idea.
https://www.auniversaltruth.com/?p=262
January 17, 2017
I love this book! There is so much heart and growth and emotion and... just so much!
Starting this book, I was fascinated! The story line intrigued me and captured my attention. Then growing to know the characters was a wonder. I couldn't relate to their feelings because I don't know that much pain, but could understand it, what they were feeling and where they were coming from from the magnificent writing that hooks you and attaches you to these characters!
The story line is so much deeper than what you think you are getting yourself into. You think you are getting a hot billionaire sexy book, oh no my friend, get ready to have your heart bent. There were many pages that I read with tears in my eyes! The growth you see in all of these characters is breathtaking!
And let us not leave out the fact that this book is so H.O.T.! Holy moly! The scenes that leave you blushing are built up perfectly, not to much, but enough to get your heart racing. It is steamy and a little naughty, without being dirty and cheesy or feeling cheap. Never rushed and well written.
Just an all around great book by the talented Stephanie Witter. I read everything by her that I can get my hands on, and I LOVE her Patch Up Series, but this is one of my favorite books by her for sure! The only thing I would ask for that I felt was missing was, I would love to have known what happened with Megan! Maybe a book 2!!!
Starting this book, I was fascinated! The story line intrigued me and captured my attention. Then growing to know the characters was a wonder. I couldn't relate to their feelings because I don't know that much pain, but could understand it, what they were feeling and where they were coming from from the magnificent writing that hooks you and attaches you to these characters!
The story line is so much deeper than what you think you are getting yourself into. You think you are getting a hot billionaire sexy book, oh no my friend, get ready to have your heart bent. There were many pages that I read with tears in my eyes! The growth you see in all of these characters is breathtaking!
And let us not leave out the fact that this book is so H.O.T.! Holy moly! The scenes that leave you blushing are built up perfectly, not to much, but enough to get your heart racing. It is steamy and a little naughty, without being dirty and cheesy or feeling cheap. Never rushed and well written.
Just an all around great book by the talented Stephanie Witter. I read everything by her that I can get my hands on, and I LOVE her Patch Up Series, but this is one of my favorite books by her for sure! The only thing I would ask for that I felt was missing was, I would love to have known what happened with Megan! Maybe a book 2!!!
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