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Something Borrowed #1
Something Borrowed
Going to an eight-day tropical wedding sounds great, right?
Wrong.
Elle Sahlstrom hates weddings, but she promised her best friend Tory she'd attend her destination ceremony. That is, despite having to endure obnoxious cousins, bad wine, and a phallus-laden bachelorette party. But that’s not the worst part.
The worst part just happened to be sitting next to her on the plane, on his way to the same wedding, guaranteed to be the same insufferable jerk he was years ago.
Jackson Proveaux knows Elle hates him with a passion, but it’s that same passion that has him convinced she’s perfect for him. Unfortunately, he made mistakes in the past, mistakes that involved cocktails, out of control minivans, and a giant misunderstanding that cost him his one and only shot with Elle. The French expat sees the wedding as a chance to atone for his sins. He offers to spend a week at Elle's mercy, and if she still hates him at the end, he’ll leave her alone forever.
Unable to resist a win-win deal, or Jackson, Elle agrees. Their arrangement quickly becomes more complicated than either of them could have anticipated. The grumpy environmentalist never thought Jackson would be able to make her laugh, and he didn’t count on the hot-headed beauty dominating him in the bedroom…or the fact that he'd like it.
A fiery temper, two sets of handcuffs and copious amounts of tequila are guaranteed to make this situation complicated. As the lovers become more entwined in each other’s lives and hearts, one question remains—will their truce survive the wedding, or are they living on borrowed time?
Wrong.
Elle Sahlstrom hates weddings, but she promised her best friend Tory she'd attend her destination ceremony. That is, despite having to endure obnoxious cousins, bad wine, and a phallus-laden bachelorette party. But that’s not the worst part.
The worst part just happened to be sitting next to her on the plane, on his way to the same wedding, guaranteed to be the same insufferable jerk he was years ago.
Jackson Proveaux knows Elle hates him with a passion, but it’s that same passion that has him convinced she’s perfect for him. Unfortunately, he made mistakes in the past, mistakes that involved cocktails, out of control minivans, and a giant misunderstanding that cost him his one and only shot with Elle. The French expat sees the wedding as a chance to atone for his sins. He offers to spend a week at Elle's mercy, and if she still hates him at the end, he’ll leave her alone forever.
Unable to resist a win-win deal, or Jackson, Elle agrees. Their arrangement quickly becomes more complicated than either of them could have anticipated. The grumpy environmentalist never thought Jackson would be able to make her laugh, and he didn’t count on the hot-headed beauty dominating him in the bedroom…or the fact that he'd like it.
A fiery temper, two sets of handcuffs and copious amounts of tequila are guaranteed to make this situation complicated. As the lovers become more entwined in each other’s lives and hearts, one question remains—will their truce survive the wedding, or are they living on borrowed time?
396 pages, ebook
Published February 7, 2017
264 people are currently reading
2061 people want to read
About the author
Eve Dangerfield
31 books1,491 followersEve Dangerfield has loved romance novels ever since she first swiped her grandmother’s paperbacks. Now she writes her own stories about complicated women and gorgeous-but-slightly-tortured men. Her work has been described as 'genre-defying,' and ‘the defibrillator contemporary romance needs right now'. And not just by those who might one day need bone marrow! She lives in Melbourne with her beautiful family and can generally be found making a mess.
www.instagram.com/evedangerfield/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 229 reviews
April 23, 2017
➦One thing I was expecting from this book was good writing and originality. Having read a book by this author in the past, I knew not to expect predictable and this book certainly managed to pleasantly surprise me. It doesn't follow your typical contemporary romance formula and it's sort of refreshing and, at least for me, stood out.
➦Actually, I'm going to go ahead and put this under the romantic comedy category since I found it to be entirely entertaining. I also went into the book blind knowing only that it was about a destination wedding. What I discovered was that it's actually an enemies to lovers romance but it's not your typical "two characters battling it out with words while secretly lusting after each other". There were deeply hurt feelings involved and the heroine definitely felt hate towards the hero.
➦When they get to Bali for their friends' wedding, the hero is determined to make amends and, long story short, he agrees to be her slave for a week. And, well, that just kind of floats her boat because this chick is all into being the dominant one in bed.
➦It's hard to find a boyfriend for someone like her, because, you know, men are creatures with fragile egos and not everyone is up for being dominated by a chick. Anywhooooooo... Will he enjoy it? Will she forgive him in the end? Are there crocodiles in Bali?
➦That last question was completely random. Whatevz. If you are looking for a different kind of read with some light BDSM elements involved then you should definitely pick this one up. It might surprise you too! I haven't read too many books with domme females but damn, this was hawt! I'm on my way to Home Depot now to buy some rope. Lots of rope. lol
February 24, 2017
Something Borrowed
Eve Dangerfield
Eve Dangerfield is new author to me & after reading this book I will be definitely check out more of her work
Elle agree to go to her best friend, Tory wedding only cuz she doesn't have to actually be in the wedding party. Of course Elle hates weddings in a big way, like she hates just about everything else that’s fun.. See Elle has anger management issues
Elle has hated Jackson for years & when she realizes that Jackson will probably be there as he's very good friends with the groom (Ben) .
The war has begun the moment Elle realize she stuck next to Jackson
On the longest plane ride of her life
God have mercy on this man, for whatever reason Jackson feel that Elle is the 'The One' for him… The more she denied him, the more determined he became to chase her…The ofter he gives her I fear will end up hurting Jackson & how unforgiving Elle can be
I can say at lease Tory week of her wedding was one hell of journey for Jackson & Elle… I’ve not laugh so hard from book in so long…. I think that I laugh so hard in some part of this book that I was crying. This was the most playful, flirty, sweet story ever- love/hate Romance hilarious Comedy
If I was ask what my favorite part of this book was, I couldn’t really tell you. Sad to see the book end , but I loved the last chapter
Highly recommend this book to everyone feels the need to laugh
Hope you enjoy this read & also always keep in mind this is just my opinion
**" "*ARC provided free by the author for an honest review*"..**
June 30, 2019
Before judging...let's take a moment.
I was looking at a blank page for a wee while before writing this review. Something Borrowed was bloody awesome. The characters were interesting, original and a little crazy, the storyline sucked me in from the very first page and the steamy scenes were some of the HOTTEST I’ve ever read.
Let’s blame it on my shocking memory, which hubby frequently claims is selective memory loss, but I completely forgot what the story was about before I started. I had vague recollections that it was about a chick going to a destination wedding and getting stuck on the plane beside someone she detested. That was the extent of my knowledge before starting.
What makes my enjoyment of Something Borrowed even more amazing is that the blurb has a couple of somethings that would normally be a turn off for me. If I had reacquainted myself with the blurb I would have overanalysed...
Hmmm…he’s already stuffed something up before he’s even started. Not looking good, mate.
Oh geez, does this mean he’s weak???
Well, all I can say is that I feel like an idiot. Those silly narrow-minded ideals nearly made me miss one of the most intense, funny and erotic reads I’ve ever read.
Yes, there were scenes where I wanted to smack him for his previous douchewaffle tendencies. I also wanted to smack her for blowing her top too quickly and overreacting when a situation frustrated her. What really made me love this story was that both of them knew their weaknesses and issues, admitted they had a problem and tried to control it.
As we get to know Elle and Jackson and see behind their façade, there were these little aha moments of enlightenment that made things become clearer. I found it easier to understand where they were coming from and how they ended up with their reputations and attitudes.
Yes, their take on life and choices of expressing themselves were not something I fully understood but I didn’t have to understand. This is not my life and these were not my preferences or desires. I’m just an innocent bystander with an opportunity to look at a different side to life.
Let’s put it this way…I’m not gay and I don’t have any desire to test the waters or see if it’s something I’d like to try. That does not make me look down upon anyone else’s choice or decisions. Each to their own and all that jazz.
If a straight woman who likes to dominate in the bedroom finds a man who, in the bedroom, likes to serve his woman, good for them. I have no desire to test the waters and become a dominatrix but that does not mean that I can’t find it extremely interesting and sexy to be an observer. I can freely admit that I was shocked at how arousing it was. IT WAS FRIGGIN HOT!!!!!
I just thought of something...an Alpha takes his pleasure and a sub gives pleasure. We normally see the Alpha get all growly and demand their partner find pleasure. Well in this story we see the hero concentrates solely on his partner's satisfaction. Maybe it wouldn't be so bad if a guy is consumed with the need to see you gain satisfaction. Hmmm...both seem pretty good.
So, if I could be so bold as to tell readers to shut off their pre-conceived ideas and give their comfort zones a blast, this would be the one to try. I laughed, sighed, groaned and deep breathed through this one.
I will warn you that besides the above issues, this is an Aussie story and there may be a few terms and situations that may not make sense. If you decide to give it a go, I’m happy to help with any interpretations or explanations that need to be made.
Something Borrowed was a winner for me and Eve Dangerfield remains one of my favourite Aussie authors.
Stacey is Sassy, received an advanced copy of this story. The copy provided is not the final copy and may be subject to edits and changes.
I was looking at a blank page for a wee while before writing this review. Something Borrowed was bloody awesome. The characters were interesting, original and a little crazy, the storyline sucked me in from the very first page and the steamy scenes were some of the HOTTEST I’ve ever read.
Let’s blame it on my shocking memory, which hubby frequently claims is selective memory loss, but I completely forgot what the story was about before I started. I had vague recollections that it was about a chick going to a destination wedding and getting stuck on the plane beside someone she detested. That was the extent of my knowledge before starting.
What makes my enjoyment of Something Borrowed even more amazing is that the blurb has a couple of somethings that would normally be a turn off for me. If I had reacquainted myself with the blurb I would have overanalysed...
Unfortunately, he made mistakes in the past, mistakes that involved cocktails, out of control minivans, and a giant misunderstanding that cost him his one and only shot with Elle.
Hmmm…he’s already stuffed something up before he’s even started. Not looking good, mate.
…and he didn’t count on the hot-headed beauty dominating him in the bedroom…or the fact that he'd like it.
Oh geez, does this mean he’s weak???
Well, all I can say is that I feel like an idiot. Those silly narrow-minded ideals nearly made me miss one of the most intense, funny and erotic reads I’ve ever read.
Yes, there were scenes where I wanted to smack him for his previous douchewaffle tendencies. I also wanted to smack her for blowing her top too quickly and overreacting when a situation frustrated her. What really made me love this story was that both of them knew their weaknesses and issues, admitted they had a problem and tried to control it.
As we get to know Elle and Jackson and see behind their façade, there were these little aha moments of enlightenment that made things become clearer. I found it easier to understand where they were coming from and how they ended up with their reputations and attitudes.
Yes, their take on life and choices of expressing themselves were not something I fully understood but I didn’t have to understand. This is not my life and these were not my preferences or desires. I’m just an innocent bystander with an opportunity to look at a different side to life.
Let’s put it this way…I’m not gay and I don’t have any desire to test the waters or see if it’s something I’d like to try. That does not make me look down upon anyone else’s choice or decisions. Each to their own and all that jazz.
If a straight woman who likes to dominate in the bedroom finds a man who, in the bedroom, likes to serve his woman, good for them. I have no desire to test the waters and become a dominatrix but that does not mean that I can’t find it extremely interesting and sexy to be an observer. I can freely admit that I was shocked at how arousing it was. IT WAS FRIGGIN HOT!!!!!
I just thought of something...an Alpha takes his pleasure and a sub gives pleasure. We normally see the Alpha get all growly and demand their partner find pleasure. Well in this story we see the hero concentrates solely on his partner's satisfaction. Maybe it wouldn't be so bad if a guy is consumed with the need to see you gain satisfaction. Hmmm...both seem pretty good.
So, if I could be so bold as to tell readers to shut off their pre-conceived ideas and give their comfort zones a blast, this would be the one to try. I laughed, sighed, groaned and deep breathed through this one.
I will warn you that besides the above issues, this is an Aussie story and there may be a few terms and situations that may not make sense. If you decide to give it a go, I’m happy to help with any interpretations or explanations that need to be made.
Something Borrowed was a winner for me and Eve Dangerfield remains one of my favourite Aussie authors.
Stacey is Sassy, received an advanced copy of this story. The copy provided is not the final copy and may be subject to edits and changes.
March 7, 2017
This is a pretty good cover. It's not the best representation of what the story is about, but the guy is hot! The typography is different and interesting as well as being eye-catching.
How did I end up reading two books featuring DOMMES in as many days? I don't even particularly LIKE Dommes...go figure.
With that said I very much did enjoy this book. This is my second by this author, and I simply love the way she weaves a story. This one was very well-written. It was nicely paced. It was HILARIOUS at times. It had a likable hero (even if he was a former asshole of the highest order.) The heroine was OK for me. I didn't hate her but she got on my nerves a few times. It wasn't so much her being a Domme, I just found her bitchy a lot of the time and holding onto to a grudge for something that yes was a douche move on Jackson's part, but they were not in a relationship or had any type of commitment. She had just bloody meet the guy. She acted like he kicked puppies in his spare time. We also get a nice array of secondary characters as well that added a nice layer to the story.
Overall this was yet another cracking good read by this author, and I look forward to reading what she has up her sleeve next. Two thumbs up from yours truly.
January 30, 2017
Actual rating: 4.5/5 Proveaux Stars
Something Borrowed is one of my few 5-star NA novels and I'm so glad this ARC doesn't disappoint me. :)
The story revolves around a girl with anger management who miraculously finds her cure through a series of dominatrix behaviors and on top of that, she also finds a boyfriend who's willing tosuffer enjoy her cruel treatments in bed.
For someone who seldom reads this genre of books, the idea of dominatrix, a woman who takes the dominant role in BDSM activities, is quite new to me. Not that I feel totally comfortable with those tricks, props or a smarting guy chained down in bed, surrendering to hisfu*k buddy girlfriend, it's just that I can better stand these scenarios when the author did a fabulous job describing the entire "stuff."
Besides, as twisted as it may sound, I personally think this book is an eye opener for people who don't read erotic stories often because the author even depicts the innermost feeling from the character(s). For example, our female protagonist, aka Elle, who always feels ashamed of her sexual preference so she keeps it a secret all the time. However, I can hardly imagine that sort of impulse when it comes to Elle's definition of sex; therefore, here's a short description from her viewpoint:
What's more, caring about someone is also a big deal for Elle since she tends to do whatever she sees fit and doesn't give a damn for others' feelings. Hence, I'm truly happy for her when she eventually finds that Prince Charming whom she really gives her heart to.
All in all, these are what you need to know about Something Borrowed:
*It's basically a different (and better) version of Fifty Shades of Grey. Compared to 50 Shades, I personally think Something Borrowed makes me less uncomfortable.
*If you've read the author's previous book, Taunt, you'll find the sex scenes in Something Borrowed are less explicit and hardcore. Thus, I actually enjoy reading this more than Taunt.
*Even though Something Borrowed isn't something I'd normally go for, it's a fun, quick and light read to me. So I highly recommend it to anyone who wants some kinky stories with a satisfying ending.
PS. That ENDING is the best part in the book! I mean, who doesn't love happy endings? <3
***Thanks to the author for kindly offering me a chance to read and review this book.***
Something Borrowed is one of my few 5-star NA novels and I'm so glad this ARC doesn't disappoint me. :)
The story revolves around a girl with anger management who miraculously finds her cure through a series of dominatrix behaviors and on top of that, she also finds a boyfriend who's willing to
For someone who seldom reads this genre of books, the idea of dominatrix, a woman who takes the dominant role in BDSM activities, is quite new to me. Not that I feel totally comfortable with those tricks, props or a smarting guy chained down in bed, surrendering to his
Besides, as twisted as it may sound, I personally think this book is an eye opener for people who don't read erotic stories often because the author even depicts the innermost feeling from the character(s). For example, our female protagonist, aka Elle, who always feels ashamed of her sexual preference so she keeps it a secret all the time. However, I can hardly imagine that sort of impulse when it comes to Elle's definition of sex; therefore, here's a short description from her viewpoint:
The unpleasant discovery didn't stop Elle from wanting kinky experiences, but it took a lot of the shine off. Still, she told herself wanting to tie someone up must be something you had to explain to a proper boyfriend. One you really cared about.
What's more, caring about someone is also a big deal for Elle since she tends to do whatever she sees fit and doesn't give a damn for others' feelings. Hence, I'm truly happy for her when she eventually finds that Prince Charming whom she really gives her heart to.
All in all, these are what you need to know about Something Borrowed:
*It's basically a different (and better) version of Fifty Shades of Grey. Compared to 50 Shades, I personally think Something Borrowed makes me less uncomfortable.
*If you've read the author's previous book, Taunt, you'll find the sex scenes in Something Borrowed are less explicit and hardcore. Thus, I actually enjoy reading this more than Taunt.
*Even though Something Borrowed isn't something I'd normally go for, it's a fun, quick and light read to me. So I highly recommend it to anyone who wants some kinky stories with a satisfying ending.
PS. That ENDING is the best part in the book! I mean, who doesn't love happy endings? <3
***Thanks to the author for kindly offering me a chance to read and review this book.***
February 26, 2017
It was obvious early on that at some point the H (Jackson) had cheated on the h (Elle) plus it became apparent that Elle liked to dominate in the bedroom. Now both of these are normally reasons for me to stop reading but I continued on. Why?
Firstly this book was entertaining, I was enjoying Elle's sarcasm plus it didn't appear that Elle and Jackson had been in any kind of relationship as for the dominance, yes I really struggled with that.
Jackson used to be a different man, copious amounts of alcohol and ready women made him a complete and utter ass. He'd treated Elle awfully and I don't blame her for holding a grudge and it was funny at first.
Elle is forthright and sarcastic and her humour is the main reason I kept reading.
“Who’ll call my dad an obnoxious arsehole?”
"Anyone who’s ever met him"
"Fine. I have a plan for how to make this all better between us.”
"Murder/suicide?”
This is an entertaining read but Elle started to annoy me at times, I'm not saying Jackson doesn't deserve her anger because he does but I started to get a little fed up with it after a while.
What didn't work for me was Elle being a dominatrix, I tried, I really did but I found myself skimming it just wasn't working for me.
I like an alpha male, a hot sexy take charge man and while Jackson is certainly hot reading about him begging to come was such a turnoff I struggled to continue on.
"Lemme finish,” he panted. “Please?”
Elle gave an exaggerated yawn. “No. Get off me.”
Jackson shook his head violently, spraying her with sweat. “Please…no. I need to come.”
"You should have thought about that before we started,” she said, injecting her voice with a cruel sweetness. “I’m bored. Get your big sweaty body off me.”.......
“Please, please, Ellie, I’ll be quick. I’ll clean you up after…” She pushed his slippery chest. “Are you serious? You think you’re going to finish on me like an animal? Get off.” With a moan like a dying man, he wrenched himself away, his elegant features feral with lust. “What should I do with this?”
While this part of the book wasn't for me if it is your thing then this could be a fabulous book for you.
I voluntarily read a review copy of this book kindly provided by the author.
March 23, 2017
I thoroughly enjoyed Something Borrowed! It wins my "Didn't See That Coming" award! Because I totally wasn't expecting the BDSM elements of the story. Have I mentioned, I hardly read blurbs? At any rate, this book is so charming. It's laugh out loud funny, has some of the best banter, and the quirkiest main character. I was completely smitten with Jackson from start to finish!
Here's the breakdown: Jackson and Elle meet in the oddest of circumstances, but there's instant chemistry between the two. She agrees to meet up with him later for drinks. More sparks lead to heavy flirting and eventually mutual consent to get their groove on. Unfortunately, Jackson acts like a total douche-canoe before they leave the bar and Elle (rightfully so) refuses to ever speak to him again. The story spans 2 years and focuses on them getting beyond their past to possibly building a future together.
What I loved: Jackson. He's kind of perfect. Sexy, French accent, dark feature. the whole wounded animal, but fun guy vibe. The kind of man you can't help be drawn too. The character is entertaining and multi-dimensional.
The humor. I love romantic comedies! This book has several laugh out moments. The witty banter was definitely a plus.
While Elle wasn't my favorite character, she was definitely entertaining. Although I found her to a bit inconsistent, I enjoyed getting to know her and her quirks.
Overall, this is a very solid read. It's a testament to trying new authors and being open to read whatever strikes your fancy. Eve Dangerfield was a new to me author before reading this. Now that I've sampled her work, I'll definitely come back for more. I recommend this to readers who enjoy romantic comedy, BDSM (D/s), and quirky heroines.
Here's the breakdown: Jackson and Elle meet in the oddest of circumstances, but there's instant chemistry between the two. She agrees to meet up with him later for drinks. More sparks lead to heavy flirting and eventually mutual consent to get their groove on. Unfortunately, Jackson acts like a total douche-canoe before they leave the bar and Elle (rightfully so) refuses to ever speak to him again. The story spans 2 years and focuses on them getting beyond their past to possibly building a future together.
What I loved: Jackson. He's kind of perfect. Sexy, French accent, dark feature. the whole wounded animal, but fun guy vibe. The kind of man you can't help be drawn too. The character is entertaining and multi-dimensional.
The humor. I love romantic comedies! This book has several laugh out moments. The witty banter was definitely a plus.
While Elle wasn't my favorite character, she was definitely entertaining. Although I found her to a bit inconsistent, I enjoyed getting to know her and her quirks.
Overall, this is a very solid read. It's a testament to trying new authors and being open to read whatever strikes your fancy. Eve Dangerfield was a new to me author before reading this. Now that I've sampled her work, I'll definitely come back for more. I recommend this to readers who enjoy romantic comedy, BDSM (D/s), and quirky heroines.
April 12, 2017
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Copy received from Author in exchange for an honest review
★Book Basics★
Genre : - Cont. Romance
Series : - Stand Alone
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Would I read more by this author/or in this series? - Yes
Rating - 5 stars
★Review★
Ok, so I am sort of torn between.....
and
Ok, so yeah, I skim read the blurb, but after reading
by this author and loving it (by the way, go read that book NOW!) I just jumped at the chance to read this book, as I adored her quirky different kick ass heroine in Taunt, and the originality of the story.
So, having been rather vocal about my not wanting to read a different book with a Domme and a male submissive......and by rather vocal I mean VERY in how much this was not my kink...buuuuuuuuuuut.........I kinda of enjoyed it here
Yeah yeah, I know, but it was damn hot! Maybe as it felt natural and done with affection and humour. Maybe as it did not involve a sex club and all the protocols etc that I find reading about leaves me cold. Maybe as it just really suited the characters? Maybe being in Jackson's head and knowing where his need to be "submissive" came from? Possibly less of a need to be "submissive" in the truest sense of the word, but fuelling a teenage fantasy mixed in with his very real need to make Elle happy? It was not something to be ashamed of, he was who he was and you could take it or leave it. The very definition of a charming rogue with a hidden pain!
Who knows, so anyway, yes I was surprised the the Domme thing, but I loved how they were actually really exploring this pretty much newly with each other. Yes, the heroine had known this was her kink, but had never truly felt able to properly explore it, until she finds her "Unicorn" in Jackson.
And I do enjoy a enemies to lovers story! All that bad tempered sexual tension.
So anyway, Elle. Elle is an awesome heroine. A bad tempered heroine. With anger management issues. And a deep deep hatred for Jackson, due to something that happened in the past. But boy does she find him attractive.
Jackson, well, he is gorgeous, french, loves his Tea, speaks french to babies to get them to stop crying. He is lovely.
This is a dual POV book and it definitely works here, being in Jackson's head and knowing what he was feeling, allowing us to fall in love with him, before we find out just why Elle hated him.
But Jackson was a changed man, and he was determined to get his Elle.
It was funny, sad, sexy and had a hero and heroine that you just rooted for! I made notes of so many of my favourite bits, mainly Elle and her one liners, but also some of the more heart melting moments. And that is just it, it is a book chock full of humour but also emotion, with a fair bit of kink.
A brilliant 5 stars.
So now, ofc I need to read anything and everything else by this author, like now!
Copy received from Author in exchange for an honest review
★Book Basics★
Genre : - Cont. Romance
Series : - Stand Alone
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Would I read more by this author/or in this series? - Yes
Rating - 5 stars
★Review★
Ok, so I am sort of torn between.....
and
Ok, so yeah, I skim read the blurb, but after reading
by this author and loving it (by the way, go read that book NOW!) I just jumped at the chance to read this book, as I adored her quirky different kick ass heroine in Taunt, and the originality of the story.So, having been rather vocal about my not wanting to read a different book with a Domme and a male submissive......and by rather vocal I mean VERY in how much this was not my kink...buuuuuuuuuuut.........I kinda of enjoyed it here
Yeah yeah, I know, but it was damn hot! Maybe as it felt natural and done with affection and humour. Maybe as it did not involve a sex club and all the protocols etc that I find reading about leaves me cold. Maybe as it just really suited the characters? Maybe being in Jackson's head and knowing where his need to be "submissive" came from? Possibly less of a need to be "submissive" in the truest sense of the word, but fuelling a teenage fantasy mixed in with his very real need to make Elle happy? It was not something to be ashamed of, he was who he was and you could take it or leave it. The very definition of a charming rogue with a hidden pain!
Who knows, so anyway, yes I was surprised the the Domme thing, but I loved how they were actually really exploring this pretty much newly with each other. Yes, the heroine had known this was her kink, but had never truly felt able to properly explore it, until she finds her "Unicorn" in Jackson.
And I do enjoy a enemies to lovers story! All that bad tempered sexual tension.
So anyway, Elle. Elle is an awesome heroine. A bad tempered heroine. With anger management issues. And a deep deep hatred for Jackson, due to something that happened in the past. But boy does she find him attractive.
Jackson, well, he is gorgeous, french, loves his Tea, speaks french to babies to get them to stop crying. He is lovely.
This is a dual POV book and it definitely works here, being in Jackson's head and knowing what he was feeling, allowing us to fall in love with him, before we find out just why Elle hated him.
But Jackson was a changed man, and he was determined to get his Elle.
It was funny, sad, sexy and had a hero and heroine that you just rooted for! I made notes of so many of my favourite bits, mainly Elle and her one liners, but also some of the more heart melting moments. And that is just it, it is a book chock full of humour but also emotion, with a fair bit of kink.
A brilliant 5 stars.
So now, ofc I need to read anything and everything else by this author, like now!
Read
October 27, 2017DNF at 54%.
I tap out!
The heroine half drunk and angry most of the time.
He might be an ex manslut extraordinaire and let her down very badly, yes I hate his old self too but after some therapy he was a changed man now.
And what did say about you, when you keep lusting him when you hate him? Sigh..
She did have an anger management course, but I can feel her angry throughout the story and it wasn’t a pleasant read, so yeah, I’m out!
I tap out!
The heroine half drunk and angry most of the time.
He might be an ex manslut extraordinaire and let her down very badly, yes I hate his old self too but after some therapy he was a changed man now.
And what did say about you, when you keep lusting him when you hate him? Sigh..
She did have an anger management course, but I can feel her angry throughout the story and it wasn’t a pleasant read, so yeah, I’m out!
September 23, 2018
Jesus Christ. I only made it two chapters before I had to stop. I suspected we might have a problem on page 20, with the first appearance of “smirk.” As always, it ain’t the last , and it ain’t the least: as I’m coming to realize, these stock stupidities are like roaches. They’re never just one-offs; if you see one, rest assured, there will be more.
I’ll just cut to the chase.
Basically, this book suffers from a really common problem: the characters are straight up unlikable people… and the author has no idea.
It’s like parents whose kids are just horrible, but they can’t see it. Their little monster is terrorizing the area, kicking people in the shins, and generally being a shit, and they’re beaming at you like “isn’t he just a little angel??”
And you’re like, “are we inhabiting the same reality? cuz your kid is a fucking nightmare.” But they’re totally blind to it. Not matter how they act, all they see is adorable— and they will lose their shit on anyone who dares to disagree.
That’s this book.
So when the heroine arrives last-possible-minute late to the airport and the check-in clerk is like, “um, you know you’re supposed to be here early, right? you’re lucky to be boarding at all,” she goes off on him like he’s completely out of line rude. Except, he’s completely right: she is incredibly late, for exactly the stupid reason he guessed, and now it’s on him to get her dumb ass onto this motherfucking plane. Sure, she feels “slightly guilty” about shouting at him, but she doesn’t even consider apologizing. And author makes sure he gets his— when he realizes she’s in first class he’s instantly chastened and all but trips over himself to be ultranice to her. (As if.)
Then, once on the plane, she stands blocking the aisle so she can be pointlessly petulantly bitchy to her assigned seatmate (her nemesis/soon to be hero; what a coincidence). Another passenger nudges her and says “hurry up, lady,” and it goes like this:
Sorry, not buying it. All I get from this is that they’re both assholes.
Who are lucky they’re not being ejected from this flight.
So then she sits down and proceeds to be ridiculously, relentlessly, almost comically bitchy to hero (instead of, idk, just… ignoring him?). But no worries, he’s the smirking, lowkey button-pusher type: he clearly enjoys ticking her off. He’s the kind of hero who deliberately calls the heroine by a nickname she hates and has told him not to use. Lovely. Oh but, when she’s white-knuckling the takeoff (she’s afraid of flying), he orders her a glass of wine to help her calm down! See, he’s not so bad! Never mind that he immediately resumes smugly needling her. Or that she skips even a grudging thank-you in favor of rolling her eyes and continuing to be relentlessly ornery towards him. You know what’s an attractive trait? Treating people you like… really really badly. Because you like them.
Ah yes. Nothing I root for like two shitty fifth-graders in hatelove. Let the emotionally retarded romance commence!
This is why enemies-to-lovers never works for me. They spend a lot of time showing why and how much the characters supposedly despise each other (ie: showing their hateable qualities) and the result is, I hate them too.
Then they’ll throw in some cursory “see, they’re not so bad,” but it’s too little, too late.
So as per usual, our frantically conflicted protesting-too-much heroine unconvincingly hates hates hates!! hero— in this case for being both panty-melting hot and a smug prick about it. Well, “smug prick” is definitely covered… and I can’t see his hotness. Sooo. Yeah. All I see is a prick. And a Jerk Sue who’s too stupid to come up with a better response to her unwanted desire to “suck his cock so hard she gets spinal fluid in her mouth” than disproportionate bitchitude.
Check out this charming and irresistible pair.
Aren’t they just little angels???
DNF at 10%.
I’ll just cut to the chase.
Basically, this book suffers from a really common problem: the characters are straight up unlikable people… and the author has no idea.
It’s like parents whose kids are just horrible, but they can’t see it. Their little monster is terrorizing the area, kicking people in the shins, and generally being a shit, and they’re beaming at you like “isn’t he just a little angel??”
And you’re like, “are we inhabiting the same reality? cuz your kid is a fucking nightmare.” But they’re totally blind to it. Not matter how they act, all they see is adorable— and they will lose their shit on anyone who dares to disagree.
That’s this book.
So when the heroine arrives last-possible-minute late to the airport and the check-in clerk is like, “um, you know you’re supposed to be here early, right? you’re lucky to be boarding at all,” she goes off on him like he’s completely out of line rude. Except, he’s completely right: she is incredibly late, for exactly the stupid reason he guessed, and now it’s on him to get her dumb ass onto this motherfucking plane. Sure, she feels “slightly guilty” about shouting at him, but she doesn’t even consider apologizing. And author makes sure he gets his— when he realizes she’s in first class he’s instantly chastened and all but trips over himself to be ultranice to her. (As if.)
Then, once on the plane, she stands blocking the aisle so she can be pointlessly petulantly bitchy to her assigned seatmate (her nemesis/soon to be hero; what a coincidence). Another passenger nudges her and says “hurry up, lady,” and it goes like this:
Before she could react, Jackson was on his feet. “Get your hands off her.”I’m not sure what we’re expected to think here, but here’s what I thought, verbatim:
“Sorry, mate,” the big guy said sheepishly. “It’s just… I want to get to my seat.”
“It’s a plane to Bali, not the last spot on the Enterprise,” Elle snapped. “How about you calm down?”
for fuck’s sake, you are two hours late SIT DOWNSee what I mean? Again, she is clearly in the wrong— mildly; this is not a big deal— but again the narrative frames it like the other passenger is this totally outrageous jerk , and uses the opportunity to ham-handedly frame the hero as alpha-heroic.
Sorry, not buying it. All I get from this is that they’re both assholes.
Who are lucky they’re not being ejected from this flight.
So then she sits down and proceeds to be ridiculously, relentlessly, almost comically bitchy to hero (instead of, idk, just… ignoring him?). But no worries, he’s the smirking, lowkey button-pusher type: he clearly enjoys ticking her off. He’s the kind of hero who deliberately calls the heroine by a nickname she hates and has told him not to use. Lovely. Oh but, when she’s white-knuckling the takeoff (she’s afraid of flying), he orders her a glass of wine to help her calm down! See, he’s not so bad! Never mind that he immediately resumes smugly needling her. Or that she skips even a grudging thank-you in favor of rolling her eyes and continuing to be relentlessly ornery towards him. You know what’s an attractive trait? Treating people you like… really really badly. Because you like them.
Ah yes. Nothing I root for like two shitty fifth-graders in hatelove. Let the emotionally retarded romance commence!
This is why enemies-to-lovers never works for me. They spend a lot of time showing why and how much the characters supposedly despise each other (ie: showing their hateable qualities) and the result is, I hate them too.
Then they’ll throw in some cursory “see, they’re not so bad,” but it’s too little, too late.
So as per usual, our frantically conflicted protesting-too-much heroine unconvincingly hates hates hates!! hero— in this case for being both panty-melting hot and a smug prick about it. Well, “smug prick” is definitely covered… and I can’t see his hotness. Sooo. Yeah. All I see is a prick. And a Jerk Sue who’s too stupid to come up with a better response to her unwanted desire to “suck his cock so hard she gets spinal fluid in her mouth” than disproportionate bitchitude.
Check out this charming and irresistible pair.
Aren’t they just little angels???
DNF at 10%.
May 7, 2017
I received an ARC of 'Something Borrowed' from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Honestly? I'd have paid double for this book, gladly! The sexual tension, alone, is more than worth whatever the price. I love a good enemies-to-lovers story, anyway and this one is a doozy! Funny, sexy, addicting, I could barely put it down.
Elle's best friend, Tory is getting married in a tropical, destination wedding and, though Elle hates weddings in a big way, she's talked into going. Since she doesn't have to actually BE in the wedding, she figures it'll be tolerable and she'll enjoy the time away. After agreeing, though, Elle realizes that the man she hates the most will probably be there as he's very good friends with the groom.
Elle hates Jackson.
Hates.
Him.
Determined to avoid him at all costs, Elle is enraged when she finds that she's seated next to him on the plane. Her snarkiness and rage is hilarious, especially since Jackson is the exact opposite in his chillness, which, of course, just pisses her off more.
We don't immediately find out why Elle hates Jackson so much but we do discover that Jackson is convinced that she's 'The One'. He's sure that, if he can get past Elle's loathing, their passion will be off the charts. He's on a campaign to win her over and he's not going to give up until she's as hot for him as he is for her. He pulls out all the stops to make sure that he and Elle are 'thrown together' as much as possible. This, of course, blows Elle's plan to keep away from him, right out of the water.
Let's just say that things don't go exactly the way Jackson hopes and what follows is, in turns, hysterically funny and scorchingly hot. The more Elle denies the connection between her and Jackson, the more determined he gets. Their banter is the best part of the book (though the sexy times are pretty damn great, too) and, if you didn't know better, you'd be convinced that the two of them were going to end up murdering each other. Fortunately, that doesn't happen but, what does happen creates one of the most enjoyable books I've ever read.
Honestly? I'd have paid double for this book, gladly! The sexual tension, alone, is more than worth whatever the price. I love a good enemies-to-lovers story, anyway and this one is a doozy! Funny, sexy, addicting, I could barely put it down.
Elle's best friend, Tory is getting married in a tropical, destination wedding and, though Elle hates weddings in a big way, she's talked into going. Since she doesn't have to actually BE in the wedding, she figures it'll be tolerable and she'll enjoy the time away. After agreeing, though, Elle realizes that the man she hates the most will probably be there as he's very good friends with the groom.
Elle hates Jackson.
Hates.
Him.
Determined to avoid him at all costs, Elle is enraged when she finds that she's seated next to him on the plane. Her snarkiness and rage is hilarious, especially since Jackson is the exact opposite in his chillness, which, of course, just pisses her off more.
We don't immediately find out why Elle hates Jackson so much but we do discover that Jackson is convinced that she's 'The One'. He's sure that, if he can get past Elle's loathing, their passion will be off the charts. He's on a campaign to win her over and he's not going to give up until she's as hot for him as he is for her. He pulls out all the stops to make sure that he and Elle are 'thrown together' as much as possible. This, of course, blows Elle's plan to keep away from him, right out of the water.
Let's just say that things don't go exactly the way Jackson hopes and what follows is, in turns, hysterically funny and scorchingly hot. The more Elle denies the connection between her and Jackson, the more determined he gets. Their banter is the best part of the book (though the sexy times are pretty damn great, too) and, if you didn't know better, you'd be convinced that the two of them were going to end up murdering each other. Fortunately, that doesn't happen but, what does happen creates one of the most enjoyable books I've ever read.
February 10, 2017
Loved it. Make me laugh so many times.
Also, the author is still sexy AF.
Also, the author is still sexy AF.
April 4, 2017
Another delicious erotic feast with angst, frustration and hawt sexual chemistry! Ms. Dangerfield is now one of my go to authors when it comes to excellent character development combined with fantastic erotica. In this latest story, Elle Sahlstrom is reunited with a man who completely screwed her over and she can't stand, Jackson. Jackson is a playboy who sluts around. He is someone who Elle can not trust nor does she ever want to see again. However, Jackson is the best man in her best friend's wedding. She can skip the wedding, right? A best friend would understand, right?
This story starts out a little slow as we learn exactly what Jackson did to Elle. He is pretty much an jerk and when he gets his ass handed to him, he thinks he can move on. But he can't. This is the problem with people who slut around with one-night stands and are completely indiscreet with their sexual partners. When the right one comes along, the slut may be damaged goods that no one is willing to commit to.
I like the conflict in this story and how Jackson tried to redeem himself. It is telling how a person's childhood can impact their decisions whether they think it does or not. Jackson isn't a bad guy. He's just that "guy" no one believes can keep his dick in his pants. This kind of reputation, be it a male or female, is hard to overcome. When finding the "one" who is not so slutty, it is quite the challenge. The way Jackson is designed it interesting because he is so flawed yet he has a good heart. His interactions with Elle are telling and I enjoyed reading every mess up and cheered when he did something right. Usually, I can't stand a character like Jackson, but Ms. Dangerfield made him relate-able. Elle definitely has the patience of a saint.
From an erotic standpoint, this story is smoking and so good. When the two characters hit the sheets or any place they can, it is delicious to read. The story is well balanced between the sexual interludes and Jackson's redemption. I wasn't sure Jackson was going to pull it off, but he did. This happily ever after romance is recommended to erotica lovers who enjoy lovers reunited themes.
*I received this book as a review copy in return for an honest review
This story starts out a little slow as we learn exactly what Jackson did to Elle. He is pretty much an jerk and when he gets his ass handed to him, he thinks he can move on. But he can't. This is the problem with people who slut around with one-night stands and are completely indiscreet with their sexual partners. When the right one comes along, the slut may be damaged goods that no one is willing to commit to.
I like the conflict in this story and how Jackson tried to redeem himself. It is telling how a person's childhood can impact their decisions whether they think it does or not. Jackson isn't a bad guy. He's just that "guy" no one believes can keep his dick in his pants. This kind of reputation, be it a male or female, is hard to overcome. When finding the "one" who is not so slutty, it is quite the challenge. The way Jackson is designed it interesting because he is so flawed yet he has a good heart. His interactions with Elle are telling and I enjoyed reading every mess up and cheered when he did something right. Usually, I can't stand a character like Jackson, but Ms. Dangerfield made him relate-able. Elle definitely has the patience of a saint.
From an erotic standpoint, this story is smoking and so good. When the two characters hit the sheets or any place they can, it is delicious to read. The story is well balanced between the sexual interludes and Jackson's redemption. I wasn't sure Jackson was going to pull it off, but he did. This happily ever after romance is recommended to erotica lovers who enjoy lovers reunited themes.
*I received this book as a review copy in return for an honest review
February 10, 2017
Lots of things to love about Something Borrowed:
I love a good chase. Jackson gave really, really good chase after Elle.
I love a cranky heroine. Elle wasn't just cranky, she was rage personified.
I love good banter. As intense as the sex scenes were, I would have enjoyed equally just the pages of Jackson and Elle's verbal arguing, sparring, wooing, flirting, hurting, and healing. While much of their talking was immature and crass, so much was telling about what was said and what wasn't.
This book is full of surprises. The cover, blurb and throwaway title had me believing this was just a light-hearted "bridesmaid and groomsman hookup hijinks" story. Instead, it starts out as an hardcore enemies-to-lovers as Jackson and Elle's ugly history is slowly revealed, when whammo, there's a deep dive into Elle's lifelong struggle with accepting her sexual needs and kink. And despite Elle coming to grips with her dominant side, I didn't find this to be a pure BDSM story so much as it was about someone coming to grips with their honest desires and needs. So great that Elle didn't need Jackson to "fix" or "save" her - she stays true to her ragey self to the end.
Speaking of ends, I also love a good epilogue and Elle and Jackson had a good one.
4.5 stars
Note: I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I love a good chase. Jackson gave really, really good chase after Elle.
I love a cranky heroine. Elle wasn't just cranky, she was rage personified.
I love good banter. As intense as the sex scenes were, I would have enjoyed equally just the pages of Jackson and Elle's verbal arguing, sparring, wooing, flirting, hurting, and healing. While much of their talking was immature and crass, so much was telling about what was said and what wasn't.
This book is full of surprises. The cover, blurb and throwaway title had me believing this was just a light-hearted "bridesmaid and groomsman hookup hijinks" story. Instead, it starts out as an hardcore enemies-to-lovers as Jackson and Elle's ugly history is slowly revealed, when whammo, there's a deep dive into Elle's lifelong struggle with accepting her sexual needs and kink. And despite Elle coming to grips with her dominant side, I didn't find this to be a pure BDSM story so much as it was about someone coming to grips with their honest desires and needs. So great that Elle didn't need Jackson to "fix" or "save" her - she stays true to her ragey self to the end.
Speaking of ends, I also love a good epilogue and Elle and Jackson had a good one.
4.5 stars
Note: I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
February 5, 2017
This review has been posted on Dirty Books Obsession
I can't belive what i just read. I am blown away. I'm in impas here. I like it, but i didn't.
After reading Taunt, i am certainly reading all the books that Ms. Eve writes. They are insane in the good way. So if you haven't read anything from her, you MUST read Taunt or Something Borrowed.
To be onest at first, at the beginning of the book i was a little bored. Then...thorough the reading i was shocked in a good way and in a bad way too. I've never read something like this before. And i don't like it. It's not my thing. It's not my kink. But who am i to judge what other people like, or do, or what their kink is. I like the man to be the Dom especially in the bedroom. But this...with the girl being the Dom...it was nice and good, but not my thing.
So...let's get down to the story. Elle is a beautiful blondie, crazy bitch in all the right spots, with anger management problems. She hate's weddings, and her best friend, Tory just invited her to her wedding. 8 days in Bali. But that is not the only problem that Elle has. She has to sing to her bestfriends wedding, and still this is not the only problem that she has. She has to make a duet with Ben's (Tory's future husband) best friend, Jackson. And Elle HATES Jackson. Like really HATES Jackson.
Jackson was a slut. A manwhore. A jerk, an asshole. He made mistakes, especially with Elle. But he is ready to reconquer Elle. He is ready to prove Elle that he is a changed man. He knows that it will be very hard. But he loves her and he does everything for Elle to see the new and changed Jackson. And so he does everything in his power, even torturing himself to prove that.
What will happen it's up to you to find out by reading the book.
WoW .....This book was insane. OMG i laugh so hard and so many times that my tummy hurt.
I loved Elle for so many things ...her don't give a f@@k attitude, her fiestyness and angerness, for her honesty, for those moments when she show her submissive side, for her craziness, for her relationship with her best friend Tory, for her calmness with Mel in the club and when Mel found out who Jackson prefers ( i would've lost my shit long time a go when it comes to Mel, and beat the shit out of her ), and for so many other things. She's a great heroine.
I loved Jackson for the slut he was before, for his ambition to change, for his courage to admit and like Elle's kink, for his honesty, for his courage to admit that he was wrong, for his relationship with his best friend, Ben, for his craziness (especially what he did to Tory's father so that Tory and Ben could get some time alone ), for the love he has for Elle and the way he shows his love to her, and for so many other things.
In the end I loved the book, although it's not my kink. It was a great crazy as fuck story, funny as hell.
Thank you Eve Dangerfield for this opportunity. You write some crazy and funny storys.
ARC kindly provided to me by the author in exchange for an honest review.
February 7, 2017
*honestly and voluntarily reviewed this ARC I received from the author*
This was such a hot and fun read XD Elle's got a temper on her hands but she's such a cool chick if she let's you in. When her best friend Tory gets married, she eventually ends up in the wedding with a man she'd rather see dropped off in hell for what he did to her. You don't really know what he did, but Jackson is a hot, cocky guy that's tuned down. He approaches life more at a steady pace, with healthy habits and an attitude that's sweet when Elle isn't getting him riled up. It was actually hilarious to see him so chill and have them blow up when they came together. You don't understand why, but you know he used to be a real cod, and part of that mystery made things interesting.
The story was fun with their journey through Tory's wedding week, and how it showed them in the present and past, slowly patching together the reason for their... uh, unfortunate hatred towards the other. What makes it even better is their physical attraction. If they weren't yelling, they were staring. And doing more that I won't say XD
If I had to choose a favorite character, it'd be Elle because of how complicated she is. She knows what she likes and would rather cut out of her life. Her complex personality made me laugh because no one knows what to do with her except Jackson and Tory, and she really learns to love herself a little more by the end of the book.
Something Borrowed is a great mix of comedy and sexy times with an innocent or two in the way of this love/hate war. If you're not laughing, you'll probably be crying or wishing you read this in a more private setting. Definitely check this out!
This was such a hot and fun read XD Elle's got a temper on her hands but she's such a cool chick if she let's you in. When her best friend Tory gets married, she eventually ends up in the wedding with a man she'd rather see dropped off in hell for what he did to her. You don't really know what he did, but Jackson is a hot, cocky guy that's tuned down. He approaches life more at a steady pace, with healthy habits and an attitude that's sweet when Elle isn't getting him riled up. It was actually hilarious to see him so chill and have them blow up when they came together. You don't understand why, but you know he used to be a real cod, and part of that mystery made things interesting.
The story was fun with their journey through Tory's wedding week, and how it showed them in the present and past, slowly patching together the reason for their... uh, unfortunate hatred towards the other. What makes it even better is their physical attraction. If they weren't yelling, they were staring. And doing more that I won't say XD
If I had to choose a favorite character, it'd be Elle because of how complicated she is. She knows what she likes and would rather cut out of her life. Her complex personality made me laugh because no one knows what to do with her except Jackson and Tory, and she really learns to love herself a little more by the end of the book.
Something Borrowed is a great mix of comedy and sexy times with an innocent or two in the way of this love/hate war. If you're not laughing, you'll probably be crying or wishing you read this in a more private setting. Definitely check this out!
February 10, 2017
I found this story so entertaining. This was my first story about a dominatrix. I liked the switch up and also enjoyed the funny parts. I don't want to give anything away but if your looking for something you haven't read before or if you already love a leading lady being a badass in the bedroom then this book is for you.
reviewed for Sweet Spot Sisterhood
reviewed for Sweet Spot Sisterhood
January 30, 2017
4 stars. This was a good book! An enemy-to-lovers story, this book is the story of Elle and Jackson. Years ago, Elle met Jackson when she was running a company retreat at the wildlife conservation center where she works. Jackson, driving the company van, practically ran her over. He was cocky and kind of an ass, but she was oddly attracted to him, despite that. But Jackson screwed up with Elle big time and she has hated him ever since. But that same day, Elle's best friend Tory met Jackson's best friend a co-worker Ben. They began dating and are now getting married. Elle and Jackson are stuck in Bali together for a week. Jackson sees this as his chance to try again with Elle. But Elle resists because of how much Jackson hurt her in the past. Over the wedding trip, Jackson proves how sorry he is and how perfect they are together by putting himself at her mercy.
I wasn't sure what to expect from this book. I thought it was going to be a kind of light and fluffy rom-com, just based on the title and the blurb. But I should have known to expect more. All of Eve Dangerfield's books have been so unique and with great depth of emotion. Her characters are complicated with lots of layers and also very real.
Elle is a very strong woman. She has not had an easy life. She is full of sass and sarcasm. She doesn't let a lot of people in and she doesn't really care what people think of her for the most part. But she does have a secret that she holds close and that is that she is dominant in relationships and in the bedroom. She is scared to fully be herself because she has been rebuffed in the past. Men often want the sexual part of a relationship with her, but not long term and not the emotional part. So she has built an armor around herself.
Jackson was going through a very hard time when he met Elle. Because of some deaths in his family, he was drinking too much, possibly even was an alcoholic, and engaged in destructive behaviors with women. He could be an ass and he screwed up big time with Elle, but he realized it and saw her for the great catch that she was, so he changed his life. He became a better person, quit drinking, and when the time was right, he took the chance to pursue Elle. He was also very cocky, charming guy. He didn't come off as submissive at all, and I don't think he would ever be submissive to anyone but Elle. He loved Elle so much. Even though, she wasn't perfect, Jackson saw her as perfect for him.
Jackson was willing to do anything to get Elle. He saw her as the one woman for him and he put himself at her mercy, in all ways. Elle was cruel at times. She put him to the test for sure. But over the course of their week together, Jackson proved that he was the perfect match for Elle. He was her unicorn. Elle was able to fully be herself with him and Jackson loved who she was in all ways.
This book was funny, emotional and sexy! I enjoyed Elle and Jackson's journey to love together. I am definitely looking forward to more from Eve Dangerfield!
*an arc was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
I wasn't sure what to expect from this book. I thought it was going to be a kind of light and fluffy rom-com, just based on the title and the blurb. But I should have known to expect more. All of Eve Dangerfield's books have been so unique and with great depth of emotion. Her characters are complicated with lots of layers and also very real.
Elle is a very strong woman. She has not had an easy life. She is full of sass and sarcasm. She doesn't let a lot of people in and she doesn't really care what people think of her for the most part. But she does have a secret that she holds close and that is that she is dominant in relationships and in the bedroom. She is scared to fully be herself because she has been rebuffed in the past. Men often want the sexual part of a relationship with her, but not long term and not the emotional part. So she has built an armor around herself.
Jackson was going through a very hard time when he met Elle. Because of some deaths in his family, he was drinking too much, possibly even was an alcoholic, and engaged in destructive behaviors with women. He could be an ass and he screwed up big time with Elle, but he realized it and saw her for the great catch that she was, so he changed his life. He became a better person, quit drinking, and when the time was right, he took the chance to pursue Elle. He was also very cocky, charming guy. He didn't come off as submissive at all, and I don't think he would ever be submissive to anyone but Elle. He loved Elle so much. Even though, she wasn't perfect, Jackson saw her as perfect for him.
Jackson was willing to do anything to get Elle. He saw her as the one woman for him and he put himself at her mercy, in all ways. Elle was cruel at times. She put him to the test for sure. But over the course of their week together, Jackson proved that he was the perfect match for Elle. He was her unicorn. Elle was able to fully be herself with him and Jackson loved who she was in all ways.
This book was funny, emotional and sexy! I enjoyed Elle and Jackson's journey to love together. I am definitely looking forward to more from Eve Dangerfield!
*an arc was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
March 13, 2017
Rating:
“That is, an attractive, mentally sound, straight man who both liked and was attracted to her and was into getting beat down by a girl.”
The title actually gives me that thought: 'Something old, something new; something borrowed, something blue.
This book feels like the movie: Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates . Sans the disaster and the corny act and the craigslist. Anyway, the only thing its the same with that movie was the setting. A week-long wedding happening in Thailand.
Elle Sahlstrom has an anger management issue and a lot of other issues including the hot Jackson Proveaux. But she's quirky, has no mouth filter, and definitely fun to be friends with. She has an innate need that she tries to hide but still wants to explore.
Jack on the other hand is French, and oh, my panties already started melting with his accent right there. He's a changed man now, a better one in fact, and is ready to make everything right with Elle by offering to be at her mercy for a week.
I tell you, this author knows how to write panty-melting, scorching hot scenes. Like seriously man! This book is also refreshing, fun and I just enjoyed reading, devouring till the last page. It was bittersweet. You know, that feeling when you want to just read as fast as you can but don't want to end? Yeah.
I admit, I'm not a fan of flashbacks anymore, but I really loved the timing of how the author had written this one. I was on the verge of boiling point anger, when bam! My questions are being answered. The anger feeling though is due to the fact that Elle has anger as her default emotion and so it's kind of exhausting at the first part for me as its all I feel, deep in her character. The ending though, man it was so beautiful and still leaves a smile in my face.
Overall, this book is definitely one I'd recommend! Hot, fun and a domme in a quest to find her unicorn.
Check out my blog here:
February 11, 2017
3.5 stars
I enjoy the feisty, spunky attitudes of Eve's heroines. They are all confident and strong women with tons of quirks. It just so happens that the "quirk" Elle hides is her need to do things "differently".
Elle is a Domme. She has fought it, tried to hide it, and tried to do without it. Every single attempt to subdue her needs has been utter failure. Add to that the men who have been complete failures in the bedroom and Elle is wishing on a star.
But that magic unicorn man is hard to find. Even if he is sitting right next to her. Jackson is the last magical unicorn man in the world that Elle would want to see. See dead, maybe, but in person- NEVER!
The problem is Jackson isn't going away. He is charmingly, annoyingly, handsome. But being easy on the eyes will never help him keep her interested, no Jackson needs to think outside the box.
And Elle just needs to keep from punching his lights out often enough he won't come back. Match made in heaven...right?!
reviewed for Sweet Spot Sisterhood
I enjoy the feisty, spunky attitudes of Eve's heroines. They are all confident and strong women with tons of quirks. It just so happens that the "quirk" Elle hides is her need to do things "differently".
Elle is a Domme. She has fought it, tried to hide it, and tried to do without it. Every single attempt to subdue her needs has been utter failure. Add to that the men who have been complete failures in the bedroom and Elle is wishing on a star.
But that magic unicorn man is hard to find. Even if he is sitting right next to her. Jackson is the last magical unicorn man in the world that Elle would want to see. See dead, maybe, but in person- NEVER!
The problem is Jackson isn't going away. He is charmingly, annoyingly, handsome. But being easy on the eyes will never help him keep her interested, no Jackson needs to think outside the box.
And Elle just needs to keep from punching his lights out often enough he won't come back. Match made in heaven...right?!
reviewed for Sweet Spot Sisterhood
February 6, 2017
Honestly, if I could give this book more than
5 stars, it would definitely be deserved. Something Borrowed blew my freaking socks off. I stayed up till 2am devouring this book.
Elle... feisty feisty Elle. I loved her don't give a f&$@ attitude. It's so refreshing to read about a strong heroine instead of one who is a doormat. Loved her. At one stage towards the end of the book in a scene with her and Mel I was internally screaming 'just grabbed the effin phone'!! Hilarious. Her one liners and witty comebacks had me in fits of laughter!
And Jackson.... He was just amazing. Poor Jackson and his, well.. blue balls.. lol. I loved how he turned his ways around For Elle. He would do anything for her. I loved how strong and masculine he was and that he had no qualms about being with a strong dominating female. He was still very very much a strong man.
I absolutely loved this book. So freakin funny and has some oh so sweet moments.
5 stars, it would definitely be deserved. Something Borrowed blew my freaking socks off. I stayed up till 2am devouring this book.
Elle... feisty feisty Elle. I loved her don't give a f&$@ attitude. It's so refreshing to read about a strong heroine instead of one who is a doormat. Loved her. At one stage towards the end of the book in a scene with her and Mel I was internally screaming 'just grabbed the effin phone'!! Hilarious. Her one liners and witty comebacks had me in fits of laughter!
And Jackson.... He was just amazing. Poor Jackson and his, well.. blue balls.. lol. I loved how he turned his ways around For Elle. He would do anything for her. I loved how strong and masculine he was and that he had no qualms about being with a strong dominating female. He was still very very much a strong man.
I absolutely loved this book. So freakin funny and has some oh so sweet moments.
February 3, 2017
This book had me laughing so much. I love Ellie, she is just herself and doesn't care what anyone else thinks. Add a hot guy named Jackson and the story definitely gets so hot! They have a wonderful chemistry once they get thrown together for a week. This book has so many surprises. Love this story! ARC provided for an honest review.
* Magic Beyond The Covers Book Blog*
* Magic Beyond The Covers Book Blog*
August 29, 2022
Well, no pegging like I was led to believe. But it does have a Domme and a sexy man who wants her in charge, so it wasn't all bad.
There was some slut shaming though and the heroine REALLY struggles with her desires.
But it was a nice afternoon read.
3.5 stars
4 on the spice scale
There was some slut shaming though and the heroine REALLY struggles with her desires.
But it was a nice afternoon read.
3.5 stars
4 on the spice scale
October 22, 2023
this definitely won't be to a lot of romance readers' taste not just bc it's a domme, but a domme with a short temper and ppl hate angry women but i loved her for it anyways.
this is definitely "contemporary" enemies to lovers aka intense dislike quickly to like (and really, they liked each other the whole time) but it's so much fun. reformed playboy jackson pursues spitfire elle and find they share less common proclivities in the bedroom.
super fun, super steamy, and has some heartfelt moments. very aussie, so that's also fun to learn their lingo and get a feel of some cultural differences.
not perfect writing, but i really enjoyed the author's style and voice. i had some good laughs and sometimes her characters had viewpoints i hadn't anticipated.
overall, 'twas a good time.
this is definitely "contemporary" enemies to lovers aka intense dislike quickly to like (and really, they liked each other the whole time) but it's so much fun. reformed playboy jackson pursues spitfire elle and find they share less common proclivities in the bedroom.
super fun, super steamy, and has some heartfelt moments. very aussie, so that's also fun to learn their lingo and get a feel of some cultural differences.
not perfect writing, but i really enjoyed the author's style and voice. i had some good laughs and sometimes her characters had viewpoints i hadn't anticipated.
overall, 'twas a good time.
February 11, 2017
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I'm stuck on the fence between 3.5 and 4 stars for this one. I loved that this was a fast paced read and as usual the dialogue and banter between characters made the story even better. The flashbacks also really helped out the plot as well. This book had everything from the intense sex scenes, to the laugh out loud snarky comments, to massive amounts of chemistry.
I didn't really care for Elle's character as much as I would have liked, she was a little too angry all the time for me. BUT I was so down with the fact that 1. she doesn't hold back on how she feels and 2. she hates weddings. SAME GIRL SAME.
Jackson was the perfect hot alpha male who was a complete douchebag turned semi-gentleman as the years went by.
And let's not forget about Rishi the gay fairy godmother who dishes out the best advice.
All in all, I really liked this book I just wish I would have liked Elle's character a little more, however, it was still a great read and I would definitely recommend!
I'm stuck on the fence between 3.5 and 4 stars for this one. I loved that this was a fast paced read and as usual the dialogue and banter between characters made the story even better. The flashbacks also really helped out the plot as well. This book had everything from the intense sex scenes, to the laugh out loud snarky comments, to massive amounts of chemistry.
I didn't really care for Elle's character as much as I would have liked, she was a little too angry all the time for me. BUT I was so down with the fact that 1. she doesn't hold back on how she feels and 2. she hates weddings. SAME GIRL SAME.
Jackson was the perfect hot alpha male who was a complete douchebag turned semi-gentleman as the years went by.
And let's not forget about Rishi the gay fairy godmother who dishes out the best advice.
All in all, I really liked this book I just wish I would have liked Elle's character a little more, however, it was still a great read and I would definitely recommend!
February 7, 2017
The Upfront Bit: You *could* say the author gave me an ARC of this book in return for a review. You could also say I had already tagged this book and couldn't wait to buy it. Both true.
The Review Bit: Totally girl-boner-worthy. Finally a heroine who swears as much as I do! Cant get over the super sassy heroine with anger management issues who's still a romantic at heart (aren't we all these days?). This book also manages to throw in a lot of laughs and a little kink as sensitively as only a truly talented author can. Reminiscent of the wonderful Kylie Scott's books. Wrapped up with enough emotion that I still cried at the end (happy tears, the best kind!). Did I mention I loved it? Do yourself a favour & click the pre-order button now...
The Review Bit: Totally girl-boner-worthy. Finally a heroine who swears as much as I do! Cant get over the super sassy heroine with anger management issues who's still a romantic at heart (aren't we all these days?). This book also manages to throw in a lot of laughs and a little kink as sensitively as only a truly talented author can. Reminiscent of the wonderful Kylie Scott's books. Wrapped up with enough emotion that I still cried at the end (happy tears, the best kind!). Did I mention I loved it? Do yourself a favour & click the pre-order button now...
February 10, 2017
I've read a lot of BDSM books and books with alpha Doms but this is my first where the woman takes control and it gives a new perspective in this genre.
I really liked the banter between Jackson and Elle the back and forth between them is hilarious . I enjoyed reading about Jackson he's a great character, he wants a chance with Elle and he's willing to chase her. Now Elle is an angry woman she has a lot of unresolved rage she's not violent but it comes out through her words I felt she was very self destructive but the more we learn about her the more you as a reader and Elle herself learns about herself. It's not all heavy reading it's a good fun read that kept me engaged throughout.
reviewed for Sweet Spot Sisterhood
I really liked the banter between Jackson and Elle the back and forth between them is hilarious . I enjoyed reading about Jackson he's a great character, he wants a chance with Elle and he's willing to chase her. Now Elle is an angry woman she has a lot of unresolved rage she's not violent but it comes out through her words I felt she was very self destructive but the more we learn about her the more you as a reader and Elle herself learns about herself. It's not all heavy reading it's a good fun read that kept me engaged throughout.
reviewed for Sweet Spot Sisterhood
February 9, 2017
Something Borrowed by Eve Dangerfield
3.5 stars!!!
Once again Eve Dangerfield delivers a book that is full of wit, banter and sarcasm as well as a romance that has you on tenterhooks throughout wondering when or if these two will ever see what everyone else does. Sometimes you know when two people are destined to be together and Elle and Jackson certainly fit that bill, but add into the mix Jackson making school boy errors left right and centre and seemingly not being able to keep his dick in his pants then the course of true love is never going to run smooth and this is one bumpy run.
Elle is a woman with a lot of issues, she is as snarky as they come, has no filter and has one fiery temper. While on the outside she has tenacity, is confident and oozes determination, underneath is a woman who is insecure, especially when it comes to her sexual predilections.
Jackson is a French manwhore who in his formative years considered alcohol, drugs and women as his means of letting off steam, until one woman turned his head. However, Jackson is not the sharpest tool in the tool box and his ways of getting noticed had jerk written all over them, so when Elle turned her infatuation with Jackson to hatred he could hardly be surprised.
Years later these two meet again at their best friend’s wedding. Jackson is adamant to win the girl but this is going to be the biggest mountain he ever has to climb. Elle has more than a loathing for him, this is a deep-set hatred, but there is a fine line between love and hate.
I love a good love/hate relationship, all that sizzling sexual chemistry festering under the guise of bitter hatred and these two have it down pat. As I said above, Elle is into the BDSM scene and in particular she is a dominatrix, all that fiery temper definitely transfers itself to the bedroom as her authoritative personality comes out in handcuffs, whips and subservience. This is where for me the book lost its sparkle. I have read a lot of BDSM books and the author either nails it or comes across as a fish out of water and for me this had that fish flailing uncomfortableness about it. Jackson did not make a good sub and as much as we are told he did his own alpha male came out quite a lot which did little to test Elle’s inner domme.
Overall though, this was an enjoyable read, the flow alternated between slow and fast but held my attention throughout. I loved Elle’s sassiness and her attitude and I loved Jackson’s change of personality and image, he knew what he had to do and went all out. Any other man would have walked away with his tail between his legs, but Jackson had mettle and boy did he need it.
www.theromancecover.com
3.5 stars!!!
Once again Eve Dangerfield delivers a book that is full of wit, banter and sarcasm as well as a romance that has you on tenterhooks throughout wondering when or if these two will ever see what everyone else does. Sometimes you know when two people are destined to be together and Elle and Jackson certainly fit that bill, but add into the mix Jackson making school boy errors left right and centre and seemingly not being able to keep his dick in his pants then the course of true love is never going to run smooth and this is one bumpy run.
Elle is a woman with a lot of issues, she is as snarky as they come, has no filter and has one fiery temper. While on the outside she has tenacity, is confident and oozes determination, underneath is a woman who is insecure, especially when it comes to her sexual predilections.
Jackson is a French manwhore who in his formative years considered alcohol, drugs and women as his means of letting off steam, until one woman turned his head. However, Jackson is not the sharpest tool in the tool box and his ways of getting noticed had jerk written all over them, so when Elle turned her infatuation with Jackson to hatred he could hardly be surprised.
Years later these two meet again at their best friend’s wedding. Jackson is adamant to win the girl but this is going to be the biggest mountain he ever has to climb. Elle has more than a loathing for him, this is a deep-set hatred, but there is a fine line between love and hate.
I love a good love/hate relationship, all that sizzling sexual chemistry festering under the guise of bitter hatred and these two have it down pat. As I said above, Elle is into the BDSM scene and in particular she is a dominatrix, all that fiery temper definitely transfers itself to the bedroom as her authoritative personality comes out in handcuffs, whips and subservience. This is where for me the book lost its sparkle. I have read a lot of BDSM books and the author either nails it or comes across as a fish out of water and for me this had that fish flailing uncomfortableness about it. Jackson did not make a good sub and as much as we are told he did his own alpha male came out quite a lot which did little to test Elle’s inner domme.
“I don’t think you’re a bitch…When you let your guard down, you’re as good-hearted and kind as you are angry, you just don’t want me to see that side of you.”
Overall though, this was an enjoyable read, the flow alternated between slow and fast but held my attention throughout. I loved Elle’s sassiness and her attitude and I loved Jackson’s change of personality and image, he knew what he had to do and went all out. Any other man would have walked away with his tail between his legs, but Jackson had mettle and boy did he need it.
www.theromancecover.com
February 10, 2017
4.5 Stars
Two things I absolutely love in contemporary romance: great banter between the main characters, and an enemies-to-lovers theme. This story had an abundance of both, making this a thoroughly entertaining reading experience for me. Something Borrowed by Eve Dangerfield tells the story of Elle and Jackson, two people with a lot of history and a ton of sexual tension between them. That tension made for some seriously sexy scenes, hilarious encounters, and a delicious amount of funny banter that had me craving more. The author did a great job weaving a storyline that was filled with humor, angst, and smart dialogue.
The characters of the story were well-written and well-developed, each with their own unique characteristics that made them memorable. I absolutely loved Elle right from the beginning. She was seriously feisty, sharp-witted, full of rage, and so incredibly funny. I lost count of how many times I laughed out loud at the comments she would make. There was nothing simple about her personality, and I loved that. The anger she harbored in general, and toward Jackson specifically, was borderline scary. Jackson was, in my opinion, deserving of that anger, and I really enjoyed seeing him grovel. His character was great as well. He was a sexy, confident Frenchman with a great sense of humor and a serious talent for dirty talk. And while I wasn't a fan of Jackson's previous manwhoring ways, I think the author did a good job in the way he redeemed himself with Elle.
These two characters shared a serious connection and had an unconventional dynamic in the bedroom. Their special type of intimacy played a key role in the storyline, and while that kind of relationship isn't one I normally enjoy reading about, I have to give the author props for going against the norm and adding this aspect to the story. It provided a unique quality to the storyline that I appreciated as a reader.
The storyline of Something Borrowed flowed really well and I liked that the reader was given scenes from the past that detailed what went down between Elle and Jackson. I am a big fan of show rather than tell, and appreciated that we got to actually experience what happened rather than having it referenced. The secondary characters added another dimension to the story, and I loved the eclectic group that surrounded Elle and Jackson. Overall this story was well-balanced and entertaining and kept my attention the whole way through. This was my first book by this author, but it definitely wont be my last.
Two things I absolutely love in contemporary romance: great banter between the main characters, and an enemies-to-lovers theme. This story had an abundance of both, making this a thoroughly entertaining reading experience for me. Something Borrowed by Eve Dangerfield tells the story of Elle and Jackson, two people with a lot of history and a ton of sexual tension between them. That tension made for some seriously sexy scenes, hilarious encounters, and a delicious amount of funny banter that had me craving more. The author did a great job weaving a storyline that was filled with humor, angst, and smart dialogue.
The characters of the story were well-written and well-developed, each with their own unique characteristics that made them memorable. I absolutely loved Elle right from the beginning. She was seriously feisty, sharp-witted, full of rage, and so incredibly funny. I lost count of how many times I laughed out loud at the comments she would make. There was nothing simple about her personality, and I loved that. The anger she harbored in general, and toward Jackson specifically, was borderline scary. Jackson was, in my opinion, deserving of that anger, and I really enjoyed seeing him grovel. His character was great as well. He was a sexy, confident Frenchman with a great sense of humor and a serious talent for dirty talk. And while I wasn't a fan of Jackson's previous manwhoring ways, I think the author did a good job in the way he redeemed himself with Elle.
These two characters shared a serious connection and had an unconventional dynamic in the bedroom. Their special type of intimacy played a key role in the storyline, and while that kind of relationship isn't one I normally enjoy reading about, I have to give the author props for going against the norm and adding this aspect to the story. It provided a unique quality to the storyline that I appreciated as a reader.
The storyline of Something Borrowed flowed really well and I liked that the reader was given scenes from the past that detailed what went down between Elle and Jackson. I am a big fan of show rather than tell, and appreciated that we got to actually experience what happened rather than having it referenced. The secondary characters added another dimension to the story, and I loved the eclectic group that surrounded Elle and Jackson. Overall this story was well-balanced and entertaining and kept my attention the whole way through. This was my first book by this author, but it definitely wont be my last.
March 24, 2017
Originally posted at SmexyBooks-http://smexybooks.com/2017/03/march-m...
Grade: C
I loved the premise behind Something Borrowed. A hate fueled relationship that becomes a second chance romance between a very angry heroine and a former drunken playboy hero. Elle’s best friend is having a destination wedding and wants Elle to attend and sing at the event. The problem? Elle’s nemesis, Jackson, will also be attending. As Jackson and Elle spend time together, Elle learns Jackson had some serious issues he is now working through and she MAY have once again allowed her anger to get the best of her. They give in to their sexual attraction and discover something much stronger blossoming between them.
I thoroughly enjoyed myself in the beginning. Ella is a humorous and entertaining mess whose dialogue had me crying with laughter as she grumps and fusses at everyone. No one is safe from her opinion or bad mood. As I got to spend more time with Elle, I realized I didn’t like her. Often in these situations, you discover there is a really good reason for a person’s’ extremely anger and/or hatred of someone. But, Elle is really just an angry person. Her hatred of Jackson was amusing until you realize that his crimes were more blows to Elle’s pride than anything. The domme aspect was an interesting but it’s a hard personality to write. In my experience, most fictional domme’s either come off as posers or bitchy. Elle’s dominatrix side doesn’t mesh well with her anger so she comes off more a bitchy sadist. Jackson seemed to like it, but I didn’t buy it. I was also dismayed that Jackson seemed to be the only one who experiences any real growth and change in here. His growth reflects on Elle so she actually looks better than what she really is.
Regardless of my issues, Something Borrowed is well written with strong character driven plotlines, hilarious dialogue, and some extremely intense and emotionally freeing sexual scenes. A personable and fun cast of secondary characters keeps the story moving along and not so serious. Fans of anger fueled second chance romances are sure to enjoy. For me, this heroine was just too angry to fully enjoy the story.
Grade: C
I loved the premise behind Something Borrowed. A hate fueled relationship that becomes a second chance romance between a very angry heroine and a former drunken playboy hero. Elle’s best friend is having a destination wedding and wants Elle to attend and sing at the event. The problem? Elle’s nemesis, Jackson, will also be attending. As Jackson and Elle spend time together, Elle learns Jackson had some serious issues he is now working through and she MAY have once again allowed her anger to get the best of her. They give in to their sexual attraction and discover something much stronger blossoming between them.
I thoroughly enjoyed myself in the beginning. Ella is a humorous and entertaining mess whose dialogue had me crying with laughter as she grumps and fusses at everyone. No one is safe from her opinion or bad mood. As I got to spend more time with Elle, I realized I didn’t like her. Often in these situations, you discover there is a really good reason for a person’s’ extremely anger and/or hatred of someone. But, Elle is really just an angry person. Her hatred of Jackson was amusing until you realize that his crimes were more blows to Elle’s pride than anything. The domme aspect was an interesting but it’s a hard personality to write. In my experience, most fictional domme’s either come off as posers or bitchy. Elle’s dominatrix side doesn’t mesh well with her anger so she comes off more a bitchy sadist. Jackson seemed to like it, but I didn’t buy it. I was also dismayed that Jackson seemed to be the only one who experiences any real growth and change in here. His growth reflects on Elle so she actually looks better than what she really is.
Regardless of my issues, Something Borrowed is well written with strong character driven plotlines, hilarious dialogue, and some extremely intense and emotionally freeing sexual scenes. A personable and fun cast of secondary characters keeps the story moving along and not so serious. Fans of anger fueled second chance romances are sure to enjoy. For me, this heroine was just too angry to fully enjoy the story.
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