A steamy novella from the The Drazen World. Single mom. PhD candidate. Cocktail waitress. I didn’t plan it this way, but sometimes things happen. I didn’t plan to leave my family and friends behind, but sometimes circumstances change. I didn’t plan to fall for anyone, but then I met Jonathan Drazen’s friend, Sam. He wants things I’m not sure I can give, but I can’t seem to stay away. I lost control of my life before, but I took it all back. Until my past threatens to show its ugly face and ruin everything I’ve worked so hard for. My name is Yvonne, but you can call me Eve, and I vow to never lose control again.
Kristi Beckhart is a hopeless romantic who lives in the upper Midwest and likes to write sexy books. Story ideas have lived in her heart for a long time, so she is excited to be writing.
When not reading or writing, she can be found either on social media or exploring the great outdoors with the puppy. Fan of books, cooking and classical music. Lover of all things coffee, tacos ... and sometimes a little whiskey.
This was a great debut novel and such a treat to revisit Jonathan and Monica through the eyes of other characters, ones that I'd have never imagined getting together. I liked that! As a huge fan of CD's and the Drazens, this was a treat to see another side to scenes from CD's stories with new POVs and stories.
This tale is about Yvonne (Eve), Monica's friend and Sam, Jonathan's friend! Eve is a single mom who ran from something and is now trying to do it all. Eve was easy to like and root for. I loved how strong she was. This was a great portrayal of how much a single mother has to do and how resilient they can be. Sam was sexy and I loved his determination, and this ended with enough to wonder where this will go. What's in store for these two? I look forward to seeing how this unfolds.
**ARC generously provided by author in exchange for an honest review.**
**Run generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.**
4 "Tell me what you need." Stars
I don't read any fan-fic so I had no idea what to expect from Krist Beckhart's take on C.D. Reiss's Drazen World but what I discovered pleasantly surprised me as it felt like an extension of the original series rather than a re-imagining. It felt organic mainly because it was two different characters whom weren't ever mains of Reiss's so my feelings and love for the original story aren't tainted. And Beckhart's writing proved to be lovely and engaging as I embarked on Yvonne and Sam's story.
I really enjoyed how she wove certain events of Jonathan and Monica's story into Eve and Sam's story while keeping her own characters fresh and different in this new vision. It was cool to see characters from the Submission series in the eyes of these two mains. It was easy to understand Eve's plight and carry the utmost respect and compassion for her as a single, working, PhD student mother. Sam was swoon worthy and romantic throughout - it was fun to see him in this element outside of the Submission series. They were interesting in how they reacted to each other and I felt their passion when together. My favorite part of the book was the first date with Eve's young son Aaron. That swingset scene, yes please! And, just to say, having been to Temecula, CA and meeting this author while gathered there to meet CD Reiss it was super exciting to see the magical and romantic town of Temecula mentioned in Sam's history of his upbringing.
While I did find a little repetition of details and phrasing in the writing there's nothing here that greatly contradicted my enjoyment of the story. For a debut novella, Beckhart certainly earned her writing chops. She gave Sam and Eve a satisfying ending with the promise of more to come and I'm looking forward to that.
*ARC received from author in exchange for a review
I tell ya, CD Reiss’ Drazen world is the gift that keeps on giving. From Jonathan and Monica’s world came a world of possibilities, thanks to CD and these authors, most of them new, who took on pockets of Jonathan and Monica’s lives to create stories different and refreshing on their own.
Kristi took on Yvonne, Monica’s friend, otherwise known as Eve to her friends, and her relationship that blossomed with one of Jonathan’s friend, Sam. Whodathunk! WTG, Kristi!
The timeline for this story ran almost concurrently with that of Jonathan and Monica’s. Eve is a single mom who has a lot on her plate. In came Sam, the distraction that she doesn’t necessarily need, but just like with any good distraction, all that doesn’t matter. I liked how Kristi portrayed Eve. It’s how I imagined she will be. She’s got chutzpah. She’s strong and very independent. Interestingly enough, where Kristi took Sam is what surprised me, in a good way. This reimagining by Kristi, as a whole, surprised me, in a good way. Eve and Sam together are quite delish. The heat, I felt it alright *g* It’s insta-lust, but who cares!:D
As a novella, it’s a good story that can stand on its own but Kristi also laid out a good foundation to expand their story. Giving me a bit of Sam’s POV at the end was enticing and that last nugget of info was a nice hook. Depending where Kristi takes this, it has the potential to be a remarkable read.
If you can’t tell yet, this is coming from a reader who’s really familiar with, and a huge fan, at that, of CD’s series that spawned this. On that note, my review probably felt out of context, esp if you’re not familiar with CD’s series. But if nothing else, just know that I really enjoyed this quick read. For a debut work, I’d say Kristi did alright, or more than alright I should say. As she grows with her writing, it will only get much better.
♫♫ Here's some advice for the next one Don't let him lead you to the dark Don't tell him all your secrets He'll leave you with a broken heart He'll try and tell you that he wants you Just to keep you on the line And right when you're about to move on He pulls you back in every time. ♫♫ (Run-Nicole Scherzinger)
So. Sam, and Eve. Who would have thought it. And that's just the thing here in the Drazen World. Characters go off in unexpected directions and grow in ways unforeseen. However, in order to do that they need someone to make that happen and narrate that story. SOS is a hard act to follow, but in this story we've witnessed the birth of another star in our firmament of authors: Welcome, Kristi, I loved your book. I loved the Temecula reference, and I loved the tie-ins to Jonathan & Monica's epic tale. I loved that you gave Sam & Eve a HFN, and I'm looking forward to reading the conclusion. The only reason I rated it 4**** is because I know there's more to come and, therefore, my appreciation needs room for growth too.
Bravo! I wasn't sure what to expect with this Drazen World fanfic, but I'm happily surprised. Eve & Sam's story is sweet and sexy, with an ending that hints at even more goodness to come. Looking forward to reading Hold, when it's released :)
Run was sexy rollercoaster as Eve comes to more fully own her independence. Eve is a strong, smart, and determined to finish her education and be a good mom to her son. She's not looking for romance after running from her last relationship, but there's something about Sam that intrigues her. She can't forget him or their chemistry. Sam and Eve are hot together! Sam is a sexy, confident, thoughtful, and patient when it counts. It was good to learn Eve's backstory to understand her reactions and opinions to Sam and Monica. The epilogue was intriguing and seemed to leave the door open for more stories focusing on Sam and Eve.
*I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
When I was invited to read a few of these fan written story contributions to "The Drazen World". I did not even know of the existence of these special " worlds". This is my first read and I loved it so much, I purchased the book as a show of support for the fist-time author. I am becoming more and more familiar with this world. It looks as if I have a book or two to read by CD Reiss to catch up, which of course is always a thrill. Regardless of my "Drazen World" ignorance, I appreciated this well written purpose filled story which is touching and beautiful. Yvonne (Eve) is a hardworking goal oriented recently single mother on the "run" from as we find out later in the book an alcoholic abusive husband. She really does not have time for nor is she actively seeking male companionship. Our writer brings Sam and Eve together with lingering heated glances, palpable with the slightest touch...sexual chemistry and Sam's persistence in the pursuit of Eve. The book offers a realistic reaction of an abused woman who is finding strength and security in her independent single self to any idea of male Dominance in the bdsm culture. It is an initial not only no...but hell... no! Yet, her first tiny taste of Sam' s Dominance made her weak in the knees. It was a subtle move but she felt the Dom in him awaken. And...of course being true to a Dominant's responsibilities, Sam is tender and loving after every sexual encounter. When she asks him point blank if he ever participated in bdsm play, he was honest and told her yes. This was challenging to Eve because she was confusing the abuse she suffered at the hands of her ex husband with s/D play. After seeking counsel from Monica, Jonathan Drazen's girl friend and considering who Sam is and how presents himself, she decides to take a chance, take it slow and begin a new chapter in her life enjoying and trusting that Sam would never hurt her maliciously. This story is not without some interesting twists and turns at the end. The best is Sam recognizing that there just may be a little kink in the woman he calls goddess and mine. So many romance readers can truly relate to the particular themes in this story. I believe the writer captured a universal bias or fear woman have regarding bdsm, even though the thought of a loving Dominant male is swoon worthy. It was a lovely story that captures this dilemma with pitch perfect characters. I truly enjoyed my visit to this corner of "The Drazen World" where the imagination of Ms. Beckhart set the scene with her characters and the insights gained from their stories. It's one-click to a new corner of a different albeit a very enjoyable world.
Single Mama Finds an Unexpected Connection, March 16, 2017
This review is from: The Drazen World: Run (Kindle Worlds Novella) (Kindle Edition) This is a debut, and the author calls it "fanfic," since it's set in the Drazen world. Eve is a cocktail waitress, and meets Sam at an event she's working. Eve is dealing with a full plate of single parenthood, graduate work, and hustling for tips, but she and Sam are drawn to each other. They are an interracial couple (she is self-described as Black, with African skin; he is a white man), but descriptions are fuzzier for Eve than for Sam. As a novella, it contains significant standalone material (for those who have not read the original aeries), but it is not a complete story with a HEA, and is probably enhanced by reading the original series, first to get all the references. Some of the dialogue was difficult to parse out as belonging to a particular speaker; Eve's character/attitude towards dominance or what she perceives as dominance seemed a bit over-the-top for her academic interests (and the toss-off line about Black feminism is both inaccurate and muddled in the presentation). The author gets the steam level right, and those scenes, as well as the pacing, stand out as high points.
This was my first book from the Drazen World and it was a good solid easy read. Eve is a great character who is strong, ambitious, single mom who is trying to do her best and thrive given her circumstances. Sam is the perfect alpha who I would love to and need to know more about. The chemistry between these two is hot and I think this story really brought them into their own very well.
Would definitely recommend for anyone (especially those who have read the Submission Series) and if you are looking for a quick spicy read.
I received a free copy of this book for an honest review
First of all I love fan fiction, so I was delighted to receive this arc in exchange for an honest review. We get a taste of how it all began with Monica and Jonathan before we are immersed in the yumminess of Sam ( sigh). He is just this sexy alpha but also completely supportive and nurturing of Eve. Eve is strong, brave, and a kick ass mom ( I had the urge to pinch Aaron's cheeks). She is swept away by Sam's hotness but apprehensive about losing herself. Sam is irresistible and Eve is a force to be reckoned with. Don't ever push eve down on her knees- lesson learned. Anything Drazen'ish is just going to be amazing and attention grabbing. This had me hooked and I read it in 2 hours without a break. It's definitely a nice Segway after you are done reading about the Drazens by the queen (who shall remain nameless).
If you're a fan of CD Reiss, then you are going to really enjoy reading Run by new author, Kristi Beckhart. This is a standalone book with interaction from characters of CD Reiss' Songs of Submission Series. This compelling and fast-paced filled story with plenty of steam to keep you glued to your seat, will captivate you from start to finish.
I volunteered to review an advanced readers copy of this book.
This is the first time that I have read a book from the Drazen World. Kristi Beckhart pulled me into to the story with her writing. Yvonne is strong and independent single mother. I admired her strength to confront her fears. Sam was swoon worthy. These two make a hot couple. I loved the Monica and Jonathan's cameos/appearance in the storyline, along with the same events that happen in SOS. Run fits perfectly in the Drazen World and can't wait to read more from Kristi. I was left with wanting more.
4.25 stars
***I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book***
I must say my favorite Drazen World Books are those that are about the secondary characters from CD's books. I might be bias but sometimes I can't handle messing with M&D......so this book was right up my alley with Sam'. I just adored Sam and Yvonne. I loved Yvonne's back story and her connection with Monica. But would love to know more about Sam but I guess we dill have to wait for his book. I really enjoyed this book!!!
It's awesome how M & J are peppered into the storyline, and how the author transports u back to the SOS scene flawlessly! The chemistry between Sam and Eve was palpable and I wanted more of that and less of her repetitive hesitation to giving LOVE a chance...Don't get me wrong, she was burned bfore and she is no longer priority #1, but if she can't smell the roses...what is she gonna teach little her little guy? I can relate to Eves' story in such a similar way it was a bit emotional. All and all, I wanna get to the rest of the books ASAP~Mathew needs to pay!! Just sayin....o.O
I absolutely loved the way Kristi took Eve and Sam from S.O.S. and wrote them into her own fabulous story. The chemistry between Sam and Eve sizzled off the page. The plot was hot with just the right amount of suspense. I can hardly wait to read Sam's story. Keep writing! Well Done Kristi!
Kristi had elements of Eve that resounded greatly with my experience. Single mum Eve, friend and colleague of Monica, meets sexy Sam, friend of the sexy ginger one, Jonathan Drazen (be still my beating heart).
She's not long out of a horrific relationship and her son is her number one guy. I felt exactly the same. No man was worthy of taking my love from my son and I wasn't willing to allow anyone to meet my little guy. The man who became the hubs was held at arm's length for a long, long time.
Quick, sexy read with some thought provoking issues explored. I loved the nods to the Drazens and to the amazing Shuttergirl too.
I like that it was a stand alone story with some interaction with characters from the Submission Series by CD Reiss. It's a always good to get a continuation of a book that I enjoyed and this story has that. Goid job!
I admit that it took me a hot minute to place Ywonne..shame on me..but when the lightbulb went on lol I cursed myself cause I always thought she was interesting, from the glimpses we got in the submission series. Yvonne is so strong and very determined, she has certain ideas that don't exactly get along with Monica's but she is a good friend. Yvonne has a past that still scare her..but when she meets Sam, Jonathan's friend, she can't seem to help herself. Sam is very much dominant but he can be so sweet..he is certainly book boyfriend material. Love these two and can't wait to read hold to see what happens next.
Jumped at the chance to read this novella based off CD Reiss' SOS Series! The writing was amazing! As a single Mom, I loved the single Mom angle, and the Heroine's strength and determination. Eve's struggle about entering into a relationship due to her work/school/baby commitments was portrayed realistically. Sam is dreamy and the epilogue has me anxiously waiting on his book!!
Kristi did a great job writing about Yvonne and Sam. I like how she balanced the demands of single motherhood with that of working a full time job... and also entering into a new relationship with Sam. Can't wait to dive into the next book, Hold, and see how their relationship progresses.
Run is a standalone and part of the fan written stories to "The Drazen World". In this book, we get a chance to read a bit about Monica and Jonathan and how they interact or influence the story between Eve and Sam. Yvonne or Eve is Monica’s friend and coworker at the K hotel, she is a hardworking, strong, independent single mother, looking to fulfill her dreams and always having her son Aaron in first place, and Sam, Jonathan´s friend, a dominant, loving, romantic, man. In the way, Kristi writes, you can fell the sexual chemistry between Sam & Eve. Eve’s little son Aaron is the sweetest boy, when Sam and Eve were playing with him, I wanted to hug and play with him.
I LOVED this, touching, sexy and beautiful story.
Congratulations Kristi on your first book, can’t wait to read Sam’s POV.