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The Cordova Empire #2
Sweetest Obsession
This is a STANDALONE insta-obsession erotic romance set in the Cordova Empire series (no cheating-HEA-no cliffhanger.
Ramon
In my family, there’s an old story going back generations about love at first sight. I used to think it was a fairytale, until I met my sweet Joy. The more I got to know her, the more I wanted her. But the world of the cartels is a dangerous place, so I watched her from afar, wishing things were different and I could claim her for my own. Despite my best efforts to keep her safe, evil found Joy. After she endured a savage beating at the hands of a rival cartel, I vowed to do everything in my power to make her mine and win her heart. I can only pray that when she finds out the truth about me, and the things I’ve done to bind her to me forever, that she’ll be able to love the monster I really am.
Joy
Without a doubt, Ramon Cordova is one of the biggest jerks I’ve ever met. He’s egotistical, bossy, and seems to know how to push all my buttons. Too bad he’s also sinfully handsome, utterly charming when he wants to be, and is the only man I feel safe with. After the attack, I’ve become afraid of the world outside of my home—afraid of crowds, afraid of loud noises, afraid of everything. When I’m in Ramon’s strong arms, those fears melt away. I know there’s a darkness inside of him that he tries to hide, and I’m afraid that when I finally find out the secrets he’s been keeping, he’ll destroy what’s left of my battered heart
Dark(ish) Erotic Romantic Suspense
Ramon
In my family, there’s an old story going back generations about love at first sight. I used to think it was a fairytale, until I met my sweet Joy. The more I got to know her, the more I wanted her. But the world of the cartels is a dangerous place, so I watched her from afar, wishing things were different and I could claim her for my own. Despite my best efforts to keep her safe, evil found Joy. After she endured a savage beating at the hands of a rival cartel, I vowed to do everything in my power to make her mine and win her heart. I can only pray that when she finds out the truth about me, and the things I’ve done to bind her to me forever, that she’ll be able to love the monster I really am.
Joy
Without a doubt, Ramon Cordova is one of the biggest jerks I’ve ever met. He’s egotistical, bossy, and seems to know how to push all my buttons. Too bad he’s also sinfully handsome, utterly charming when he wants to be, and is the only man I feel safe with. After the attack, I’ve become afraid of the world outside of my home—afraid of crowds, afraid of loud noises, afraid of everything. When I’m in Ramon’s strong arms, those fears melt away. I know there’s a darkness inside of him that he tries to hide, and I’m afraid that when I finally find out the secrets he’s been keeping, he’ll destroy what’s left of my battered heart
Dark(ish) Erotic Romantic Suspense
373 pages, ebook
First published April 24, 2017
140 people are currently reading
548 people want to read
About the author
Ann Mayburn
95 books1,973 followersAnn is Queen of the Castle to her wonderful husband and three sons in the mountains of West Virginia. In her past lives she's been an Import Broker, a Communications Specialist, a US Navy Civilian Contractor, a Bartender/Waitress, and an actor at the Michigan Renaissance Festival. She also spent a summer touring with the Grateful Dead(though she will deny to her children that it ever happened).
From a young age she's been fascinated by myths and fairytales, and the romance that often was the center of the story. As Ann grew older and her hormones kicked in, she discovered trashy romance novels. Great at first, but she soon grew tired of the endless stories with a big wonderful emotional buildup to really short and crappy sex. Never a big fan of purple prose, throbbing spears of fleshy pleasure and wet honey pots make her giggle, she sought out books that gave the sex scenes in the story just as much detail and plot as everything else-without using cringe worthy euphemisms. This led her to the wonderful world of Erotic Romance, and she's never looked back.
Now Ann spends her days trying to tune out cartoons playing in the background to get into her 'sexy space' and has learned to type one handed while soothing a cranky baby.
From a young age she's been fascinated by myths and fairytales, and the romance that often was the center of the story. As Ann grew older and her hormones kicked in, she discovered trashy romance novels. Great at first, but she soon grew tired of the endless stories with a big wonderful emotional buildup to really short and crappy sex. Never a big fan of purple prose, throbbing spears of fleshy pleasure and wet honey pots make her giggle, she sought out books that gave the sex scenes in the story just as much detail and plot as everything else-without using cringe worthy euphemisms. This led her to the wonderful world of Erotic Romance, and she's never looked back.
Now Ann spends her days trying to tune out cartoons playing in the background to get into her 'sexy space' and has learned to type one handed while soothing a cranky baby.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
May 4, 2017
I love this shit.
Review to come.
Review to come.
April 27, 2017
Very disappointed in this: I loved the first one and thought this one was going to be just as great but alas, yet another shit book.
The hero was absolutely disgusting. Opening scene is the hero calling the heroine a whore and a stripper because he sees her big boobs and her beauty and assumes the worst. He takes pride in being a sexist pig. I also hate overly arrogant heros and this H was just too much: like a good punch in the face should have shut him up. And the fact we have to hear over and over again how many women he's fucked and how he fucked them in the ass because he thought a pussy was too personal. What kind of fucked us logic is that?
The heroine also flip flopped a lot about how she was feeling, being offended one second and tripping over her vagina the next.
The hero was absolutely disgusting. Opening scene is the hero calling the heroine a whore and a stripper because he sees her big boobs and her beauty and assumes the worst. He takes pride in being a sexist pig. I also hate overly arrogant heros and this H was just too much: like a good punch in the face should have shut him up. And the fact we have to hear over and over again how many women he's fucked and how he fucked them in the ass because he thought a pussy was too personal. What kind of fucked us logic is that?
The heroine also flip flopped a lot about how she was feeling, being offended one second and tripping over her vagina the next.
April 28, 2017
I feel like I've been waiting forever for this book! We got teased about Joy and Ramon in Obsession and I've been dying to get their story!
I adored both MC's. Joy was a firecracker from the get go who didn't take any bull. Ramon while hurt over the events that were described in Obsession and that started the whole "programming" idea, and was a total ASS to Joy at their first meeting totally won me over.
This book was different from Obsession in that Ramon fought to NOT program Joy. Yes, he knew he would need to eventually - to protect the family - but he wanted her to fall in love with him first. He was just as obsessed with Joy as Leo was with Hannah (book 1). He, also like Leo, was celibate from the first moment he met Joy. He knew she was the one. I never questioned his love for her.
Joy was a woman that we could all get behind. She knew her own self worth. She was smart and driven. She knew what she wanted in bed, voiced what she wanted, BUT never came across as being too sexually experienced. Most of the times women who are sure of themselves in the sex department can come across as whorish BUT Ann did an excellent job in not letting Joy be portrayed that way. I loved how she didn't fall head over heals for Ramon. She did make him work for it which was nice to see and she wasn't afraid to argue with him. She by no means was a weeping violet or a woman who couldn't keep her mind when she was around the Hero.
Overall, this story was fairly light on the drama and didn't suffer from the "dubious consent" feeling that I had in Obsession. It progressed the story along with the brothers and again my heart truly broke for Fernando. I can't wait till he gets his HEA (we know he gets one due to the epilogue in Obsession). Its going to take a very strong woman to be with him AND I look forward to meeting her.
I also loved how the Cordova men can see the beauty in all women. While the brothers may not be attracted to each others women they recognize that they are beautiful in their own way. They're not looking at a heroine saying "She's too big of a woman for me, or she's xyz" its "She's beautiful and perfect for you". I LOVE Hero's like that.
I was hoping for Diego's story next - Fernando is in NO way ready for his HEA - I'm glad to see that we will be getting Mark's. While not in the same boat as the Cordova's he has suffered and I'm happy that he's being included in this series!
I adored both MC's. Joy was a firecracker from the get go who didn't take any bull. Ramon while hurt over the events that were described in Obsession and that started the whole "programming" idea, and was a total ASS to Joy at their first meeting totally won me over.
This book was different from Obsession in that Ramon fought to NOT program Joy. Yes, he knew he would need to eventually - to protect the family - but he wanted her to fall in love with him first. He was just as obsessed with Joy as Leo was with Hannah (book 1). He, also like Leo, was celibate from the first moment he met Joy. He knew she was the one. I never questioned his love for her.
Joy was a woman that we could all get behind. She knew her own self worth. She was smart and driven. She knew what she wanted in bed, voiced what she wanted, BUT never came across as being too sexually experienced. Most of the times women who are sure of themselves in the sex department can come across as whorish BUT Ann did an excellent job in not letting Joy be portrayed that way. I loved how she didn't fall head over heals for Ramon. She did make him work for it which was nice to see and she wasn't afraid to argue with him. She by no means was a weeping violet or a woman who couldn't keep her mind when she was around the Hero.
Overall, this story was fairly light on the drama and didn't suffer from the "dubious consent" feeling that I had in Obsession. It progressed the story along with the brothers and again my heart truly broke for Fernando. I can't wait till he gets his HEA (we know he gets one due to the epilogue in Obsession). Its going to take a very strong woman to be with him AND I look forward to meeting her.
I also loved how the Cordova men can see the beauty in all women. While the brothers may not be attracted to each others women they recognize that they are beautiful in their own way. They're not looking at a heroine saying "She's too big of a woman for me, or she's xyz" its "She's beautiful and perfect for you". I LOVE Hero's like that.
I was hoping for Diego's story next - Fernando is in NO way ready for his HEA - I'm glad to see that we will be getting Mark's. While not in the same boat as the Cordova's he has suffered and I'm happy that he's being included in this series!
May 8, 2017
Okay, ladies, if you absolutely love a possessive, obsessive alpha anti-hero, Ramon Cordova is the one for you. The more I read of this book the more I fell for him.
Joy met Ramon at a time when he was emotionally upset by incidents that had occurred with his family. He was not on his best behavior and was the very definition of alpha-hole. When Joy unleashes her fire and anger upon him and he realizes he has made a mistake, their futures are changed forever.
The heroine is sweet and has some body image issues but she doesn’t let them overwhelm her. She is feisty and outspoken, and totally unafraid to speak her mind to the hero. Ramon is a strong dominant hero determined to make her his, especially after their first kiss.
Man, I can’t tell you how much I enjoyed this book. Who knew a cartel leader with a dirty mouth and even dirtier activities in the bedroom could be so sweet and gentle? The sex between these two was off the charts hot. (I had to ice my Kindle down at one point just to cool it off.)
This is fast paced read with great secondary characters who I am sure will be getting their own stories. Told in dual POV and with an awesome epilogue. Can be read as a standalone.
Characters are in complete consent
No cheating
Triggers -
Joy met Ramon at a time when he was emotionally upset by incidents that had occurred with his family. He was not on his best behavior and was the very definition of alpha-hole. When Joy unleashes her fire and anger upon him and he realizes he has made a mistake, their futures are changed forever.
The heroine is sweet and has some body image issues but she doesn’t let them overwhelm her. She is feisty and outspoken, and totally unafraid to speak her mind to the hero. Ramon is a strong dominant hero determined to make her his, especially after their first kiss.
Man, I can’t tell you how much I enjoyed this book. Who knew a cartel leader with a dirty mouth and even dirtier activities in the bedroom could be so sweet and gentle? The sex between these two was off the charts hot. (I had to ice my Kindle down at one point just to cool it off.)
This is fast paced read with great secondary characters who I am sure will be getting their own stories. Told in dual POV and with an awesome epilogue. Can be read as a standalone.
Characters are in complete consent
No cheating
Triggers -
October 3, 2019
Spoilers ahead, 2.5*
Joy and Ramon first meet when his family was going through a difficult time,he took one look at her ample boobs she curvy body and thought she was a whore. He was an asshole and the two part not on good terms.
Joy However becomes a part if Ramon's world when her best friend Hannah ends up on his friend Leo's radar. Ramon then spends time watching Joy on the cameras they placed in the girls apartment. He sees her with her boyfriend and observes her day to day life,learning all he can about the girl he longs to claim. When Joy is attacked with Hannah by a rival cartel Ramon realizes that he has to man up and claim his woman.
Joy has struggled from puberty onwards with her body, blessed with a figure compared to Dolly Parton she's often considered a whore and a dumb blond just on her looks. When she sees Ramon again she's attracted to him but isn't afraid to sass him or stand up for herself but when dealing with a bossy Alpha male life has a way of turning upside down....... quickly
I actually enjoyed this one more than that previous book though I had some of the same issues here. Ramon however didn't want Joy programmed immediately,he wanted to build a relationship with her first but once again Judith pushes for him to program Joy and bring her into the family which causes Ramon to agree to using the truth serum and conditioning on Joy.
Joy had her issues but she was much better than the h of book 1. She stood up to Ramon constantly and sassed his regularly. Though there were times I wanted to shake her she was a ok h
Ramon was all about Joy from the moment he reentered her life. He was j/p, bossy protective of Joy. He got his shit together early and made it clear that he wanted to build a life with her.
Porn worthy sexy times lol there may have been squirting involved, and again the H going down on the h after their mutual orgasms is something I'm not sure is hot or gross lol
All in all that was an ok enough read and I may read the rest of the family
No condoms and a bit of bdsm
H was celibate for some months before he got with the h
We know from H saying he'd seen her have sex with her boyfriend that the h had sex before meeting him again
No OM/OW
h is beaten and vile details of rape threatened
She's able to kill her second kidnappers
Joy and Ramon first meet when his family was going through a difficult time,he took one look at her ample boobs she curvy body and thought she was a whore. He was an asshole and the two part not on good terms.
Joy However becomes a part if Ramon's world when her best friend Hannah ends up on his friend Leo's radar. Ramon then spends time watching Joy on the cameras they placed in the girls apartment. He sees her with her boyfriend and observes her day to day life,learning all he can about the girl he longs to claim. When Joy is attacked with Hannah by a rival cartel Ramon realizes that he has to man up and claim his woman.
Joy has struggled from puberty onwards with her body, blessed with a figure compared to Dolly Parton she's often considered a whore and a dumb blond just on her looks. When she sees Ramon again she's attracted to him but isn't afraid to sass him or stand up for herself but when dealing with a bossy Alpha male life has a way of turning upside down....... quickly
I actually enjoyed this one more than that previous book though I had some of the same issues here. Ramon however didn't want Joy programmed immediately,he wanted to build a relationship with her first but once again Judith pushes for him to program Joy and bring her into the family which causes Ramon to agree to using the truth serum and conditioning on Joy.
Joy had her issues but she was much better than the h of book 1. She stood up to Ramon constantly and sassed his regularly. Though there were times I wanted to shake her she was a ok h
Ramon was all about Joy from the moment he reentered her life. He was j/p, bossy protective of Joy. He got his shit together early and made it clear that he wanted to build a life with her.
Porn worthy sexy times lol there may have been squirting involved, and again the H going down on the h after their mutual orgasms is something I'm not sure is hot or gross lol
All in all that was an ok enough read and I may read the rest of the family
No condoms and a bit of bdsm
H was celibate for some months before he got with the h
We know from H saying he'd seen her have sex with her boyfriend that the h had sex before meeting him again
No OM/OW
h is beaten and vile details of rape threatened
She's able to kill her second kidnappers
October 13, 2019
I really enjoyed Joy and Ramon's story even though I felt it was a bit short or at some points rushed.
Even from the few snippets from Leo and Hanna's story I knew this one would be exquisite and generally I wasn't disappointed. Ramon is one sexy beast and Joy...
Whoa!!!
At first I wanted to scream so much at him and in the next instant I was all 'aws' and 'ahs'...
Still not okay with the whole programming thing, but I knew what I was getting myself into.
June 4, 2019
So good! I loved Ramon and Joy, they were such a contrast to the first couple in the series but I liked their subtle differences. I felt like the story was a bit more fleshed out than the previous book too and I loved that even more because I really was able to dive in and kind of wallow in all the yummy goodies this author gave us between Ramon and Joy.
Ramon has pretty much carried a torch for Joy since getting tospy know her as Hannah’s friend from book one. But he hasn’t felt ready to approach her because, well a lot of things. Mostly his family and their not so legal business dealings.
But when Joy is pushed into his violent and cut throat world, Ramon realizes that the only way to keep Joy self is doing himself. No more keeping his distance and no more giving her space. Ramon sets out to woo his lady and pulls out all the stops to make Joy a very happy and very loved woman.
Joy at first doesn’t trust Ramon’s sudden interest but it doesn’t take long for him to win her over with his genuine need to please her in every way. Her need to nurture and care for others was the perfect counter to his need to protect and provide. It was really the best of both worlds for these two, lol! There are some outside forces that work to keep them apart but these two were really strong together and didn’t beat around the bush when it came to their feelings for each other.
This is definitely a bit outside the norm for me but I really liked the kink and it definitely helped that it wasn’t solely about the smexy times. There are some really sweet moments between them and some really kick ass ones too that made this one a memorable read.
Ramon and Joy also went with a more traditional romance than the first couple, with the MCs dating and really getting to know each other rather than it all being rushed in. I loved that Ramon always had Joy’s best interest at heart and that he really did love her and wanted to win her over without resorting to manipulation. It was really a great slightly kinky read with a little bit of everything to appeal to almost everyone :)
Memorable Moment: Call me bloodthirsty but I loved how ride or die the Heroes are in this series. There isn’t a line these guys wont cross to keep their women safe and I love that! I hope the author will complete the series with the rest of the brothers. *fingers crossed*
Would I recommend? I would recommend. I liked the first one but I think this one is my favorite. I really liked Joy and Ramon was so protective with his h that I instantly warmed up to him. I liked his brand of OTT possessiveness and he kept is crazy within normal range, lol.
SAFETY INFO:
Ramon has pretty much carried a torch for Joy since getting to
But when Joy is pushed into his violent and cut throat world, Ramon realizes that the only way to keep Joy self is doing himself. No more keeping his distance and no more giving her space. Ramon sets out to woo his lady and pulls out all the stops to make Joy a very happy and very loved woman.
Joy at first doesn’t trust Ramon’s sudden interest but it doesn’t take long for him to win her over with his genuine need to please her in every way. Her need to nurture and care for others was the perfect counter to his need to protect and provide. It was really the best of both worlds for these two, lol! There are some outside forces that work to keep them apart but these two were really strong together and didn’t beat around the bush when it came to their feelings for each other.
This is definitely a bit outside the norm for me but I really liked the kink and it definitely helped that it wasn’t solely about the smexy times. There are some really sweet moments between them and some really kick ass ones too that made this one a memorable read.
Ramon and Joy also went with a more traditional romance than the first couple, with the MCs dating and really getting to know each other rather than it all being rushed in. I loved that Ramon always had Joy’s best interest at heart and that he really did love her and wanted to win her over without resorting to manipulation. It was really a great slightly kinky read with a little bit of everything to appeal to almost everyone :)
Memorable Moment: Call me bloodthirsty but I loved how ride or die the Heroes are in this series. There isn’t a line these guys wont cross to keep their women safe and I love that! I hope the author will complete the series with the rest of the brothers. *fingers crossed*
Would I recommend? I would recommend. I liked the first one but I think this one is my favorite. I really liked Joy and Ramon was so protective with his h that I instantly warmed up to him. I liked his brand of OTT possessiveness and he kept is crazy within normal range, lol.
SAFETY INFO:
Read
May 10, 2017DNF @ 46%
There are just so many other books I want to read right now and this is not holding my interest... probably try again in a few months.
There are just so many other books I want to read right now and this is not holding my interest... probably try again in a few months.
October 27, 2019
Book Review
Title: Sweetest Obsession
Series: The Cordova Empire #2
Author: Ann Mayburn
Genre: Erotic Romantic Suspense
Publication Date: April 25, 2017
Cliff Hanger: No
4 Stars
*This story is for mature audiences only. Contains explicit scenes and language intended for adults 18+
Synopsis:
This is a STANDALONE insta-obsession erotic romance set in the Cordova Empire series (no cheating-HEA-no cliffhanger)
Ramon
In my family, there’s an old story going back generations about love at first sight. I used to think it was a fairytale, until I met my sweet Joy. The more I got to know her, the more I wanted her. But the world of the cartels is a dangerous place, so I watched her from afar, wishing things were different and I could claim her for my own. Despite my best efforts to keep her safe, evil found Joy. After she endured a savage beating at the hands of a rival cartel, I vowed to do everything in my power to make her mine and win her heart. I can only pray that when she finds out the truth about me, and the things I’ve done to bind her to me forever, that she’ll be able to love the monster I really am.
Joy
Without a doubt, Ramon Cordova is one of the biggest jerks I’ve ever met. He’s egotistical, bossy, and seems to know how to push all my buttons. Too bad he’s also sinfully handsome, utterly charming when he wants to be, and is the only man I feel safe with. After the attack, I’ve become afraid of the world outside of my home—afraid of crowds, afraid of loud noises, afraid of everything. When I’m in Ramon’s strong arms, those fears melt away. I know there’s a darkness inside of him that he tries to hide, and I’m afraid that when I finally find out the secrets he’s been keeping, he’ll destroy what’s left of my battered heart.
My Thoughts:
I am loving this series! Even though the Cordova clan has such an evil side, they are so good! This is book two of the Cordova Empire and let me tell you I was hooked from the first chapter. I couldn’t put it down.
Ramon is so in love with Joy and he has to keep himself at a distance and love her from afar. When Ramon and Joy first met, even though Ramon was devastatingly handsome, he was an arrogant ass to Joy and she was a spitfire and let him have it. Little did she know, Ramon wanted to claim her, make her happy, he wanted to marry her and have a family. He just had to prove himself to Joy and prove himself he did! Ramon was amazing!
Joy wanted nothing more than to find love and raise a family like her grandmother did, but her mother and sister pushed her into getting a college degree and lose the dreams she had of a loving husband and home. Could Ramon prove to Joy he could provide that life for her?
What a road I traveled with this book. I loved it. There are rival cartels around every corner. Experimental drugs that can speed healing, diseases and new markets that the Cordova Group are working on. There was great banter, there was suspense, there was passionate love scenes, there was angst and family drama. There is so much I want to tell you but I would give too much away.
If you love an exciting erotic romantic suspense novel that will keep you turning those pages, then this is the book for you!
ARC kindly provided by Once Upon an Alpha for an honest review.
Title: Sweetest Obsession
Series: The Cordova Empire #2
Author: Ann Mayburn
Genre: Erotic Romantic Suspense
Publication Date: April 25, 2017
Cliff Hanger: No
4 Stars
*This story is for mature audiences only. Contains explicit scenes and language intended for adults 18+
Synopsis:
This is a STANDALONE insta-obsession erotic romance set in the Cordova Empire series (no cheating-HEA-no cliffhanger)
Ramon
In my family, there’s an old story going back generations about love at first sight. I used to think it was a fairytale, until I met my sweet Joy. The more I got to know her, the more I wanted her. But the world of the cartels is a dangerous place, so I watched her from afar, wishing things were different and I could claim her for my own. Despite my best efforts to keep her safe, evil found Joy. After she endured a savage beating at the hands of a rival cartel, I vowed to do everything in my power to make her mine and win her heart. I can only pray that when she finds out the truth about me, and the things I’ve done to bind her to me forever, that she’ll be able to love the monster I really am.
Joy
Without a doubt, Ramon Cordova is one of the biggest jerks I’ve ever met. He’s egotistical, bossy, and seems to know how to push all my buttons. Too bad he’s also sinfully handsome, utterly charming when he wants to be, and is the only man I feel safe with. After the attack, I’ve become afraid of the world outside of my home—afraid of crowds, afraid of loud noises, afraid of everything. When I’m in Ramon’s strong arms, those fears melt away. I know there’s a darkness inside of him that he tries to hide, and I’m afraid that when I finally find out the secrets he’s been keeping, he’ll destroy what’s left of my battered heart.
My Thoughts:
I am loving this series! Even though the Cordova clan has such an evil side, they are so good! This is book two of the Cordova Empire and let me tell you I was hooked from the first chapter. I couldn’t put it down.
Ramon is so in love with Joy and he has to keep himself at a distance and love her from afar. When Ramon and Joy first met, even though Ramon was devastatingly handsome, he was an arrogant ass to Joy and she was a spitfire and let him have it. Little did she know, Ramon wanted to claim her, make her happy, he wanted to marry her and have a family. He just had to prove himself to Joy and prove himself he did! Ramon was amazing!
Joy wanted nothing more than to find love and raise a family like her grandmother did, but her mother and sister pushed her into getting a college degree and lose the dreams she had of a loving husband and home. Could Ramon prove to Joy he could provide that life for her?
What a road I traveled with this book. I loved it. There are rival cartels around every corner. Experimental drugs that can speed healing, diseases and new markets that the Cordova Group are working on. There was great banter, there was suspense, there was passionate love scenes, there was angst and family drama. There is so much I want to tell you but I would give too much away.
If you love an exciting erotic romantic suspense novel that will keep you turning those pages, then this is the book for you!
ARC kindly provided by Once Upon an Alpha for an honest review.
May 1, 2017
My brain right now cannot process writing a drawn out review.
I liked this one a lot more than the first book in the series. The connection between the H/h was more than just sex. You do have to suspend reality to get this book (always a win for me).
The H/h do not have any type of d/s relationship. The sex could of been hotter. I also wanted the H to be more intense.
The epilogue was fantastic.
"My Hannah loves me because I worship the ground she walks on, and she knows it. I give her what she needs, I take care of her in every way, and I love her more than anyone in this world."
I liked this one a lot more than the first book in the series. The connection between the H/h was more than just sex. You do have to suspend reality to get this book (always a win for me).
The H/h do not have any type of d/s relationship. The sex could of been hotter. I also wanted the H to be more intense.
The epilogue was fantastic.
"My Hannah loves me because I worship the ground she walks on, and she knows it. I give her what she needs, I take care of her in every way, and I love her more than anyone in this world."
April 25, 2017
Title: Sweetest Obsession
Author: Ann Mayburn
5 amazing stars
I'm a fan of Ann Mayburn's, ever since I read her Submissive 's Wish series and hse continues to enchant me with each new book she publishes since the stories keep getting better and better. Now, i didn't read the first book in the series (even though i do own it), but that didn't matter since Sweetest Obsession told Joy and Ramon's story even though we did get to find out what happens to Hannah and Leo. From the first moment that Joy and Roman meet, tempers and sparks fly and Ramon decides that she's the woman for him. For months he watched her from afar until an event forces him to claim the woman he fell in love with before his enemies take her from him.
4.5 sexy dreams
Ann Mayburn pushes the boundaries when she wrote this book - experimental drugs, rival cartels that aren't afraid of using the dirtiest tricks to get their point across and suggestive training to protect the family are just some examples. It's fiction with so much emotion that i spent an entire evening reading this book because i had to find out what would happen next. I fell in love with the Cordova family (and extended family) that i can't wait to find out what'll happen next as Ann Mayburn continues their journey.
*ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Kathleen, The Small Girl from A small girl, her man and her books
Author: Ann Mayburn
5 amazing stars
I'm a fan of Ann Mayburn's, ever since I read her Submissive 's Wish series and hse continues to enchant me with each new book she publishes since the stories keep getting better and better. Now, i didn't read the first book in the series (even though i do own it), but that didn't matter since Sweetest Obsession told Joy and Ramon's story even though we did get to find out what happens to Hannah and Leo. From the first moment that Joy and Roman meet, tempers and sparks fly and Ramon decides that she's the woman for him. For months he watched her from afar until an event forces him to claim the woman he fell in love with before his enemies take her from him.
4.5 sexy dreams
Ann Mayburn pushes the boundaries when she wrote this book - experimental drugs, rival cartels that aren't afraid of using the dirtiest tricks to get their point across and suggestive training to protect the family are just some examples. It's fiction with so much emotion that i spent an entire evening reading this book because i had to find out what would happen next. I fell in love with the Cordova family (and extended family) that i can't wait to find out what'll happen next as Ann Mayburn continues their journey.
*ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Kathleen, The Small Girl from A small girl, her man and her books
April 24, 2017
This is book 2 “Sweetest Obsession” in the Cordova Empire series. The main characters in this book are Joy and Ramon. In book one, we first meet Joy and Ramon; Joy is Hannah's BFF and Ramon being a part of the cartel and almost brother to Leo. Ramon has become Joy’s secret stalker which is oddly endearing. Ramon watched Joy and knew she was “the one” although their first meeting was not the best so Ramon had to overcome that to get Joy to see that he is a good man, not the arrogant jerk she first met. When a terrifying event puts Joy back in Ramon’s life and hands, Ramon works hard to get Joy to see him as a good man, a good protector.
Joy is truly a good woman who is kind and sweet. She is hard worker who fell hard for dangerous and dark Ramon. Their story has many twists and turns. One thing that I found seductive and exciting is the passion between them- Ramon has quite the kinky side and he makes sure to entice Joy into his dark and erotic web. There are many layers to their relationship. I loved reading about the ups and downs in their relationship.
I also loved reading more about the Cordova Family. Especially Roman's parents and his brothers; also the strained relationship that Joy had with certain members of her family and how that was dealt with. This is a beautiful read that had a lot of emotions , a lot of angst but also has time for passions and sexual tensions. Ann Mayburn writes her romances with quite the flair and I am solidly hooked on her books, especially the Cordova Empire series. I look forward to the next in this series.
My rating: 4.9 stars ****
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***
Joy is truly a good woman who is kind and sweet. She is hard worker who fell hard for dangerous and dark Ramon. Their story has many twists and turns. One thing that I found seductive and exciting is the passion between them- Ramon has quite the kinky side and he makes sure to entice Joy into his dark and erotic web. There are many layers to their relationship. I loved reading about the ups and downs in their relationship.
I also loved reading more about the Cordova Family. Especially Roman's parents and his brothers; also the strained relationship that Joy had with certain members of her family and how that was dealt with. This is a beautiful read that had a lot of emotions , a lot of angst but also has time for passions and sexual tensions. Ann Mayburn writes her romances with quite the flair and I am solidly hooked on her books, especially the Cordova Empire series. I look forward to the next in this series.
My rating: 4.9 stars ****
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***
April 24, 2017
Ann Mayburn is my Queen for Erotic Romance yes i am that stalker!! I always devour her books and can't wait for the next book to come out no matter what series!!
Sweetest Obsession is the second book in the Cordova Empire series. Told in a dual POV, I would advise reading Obsession first in order to really appreciate this series and also you really don't want to miss out on Leo and Hannah's story.
Ramon Cordova is the youngest son of the Cordova cartel and after their family suffered the ultimate betrayal at the hands of his brother's ex-wife, he is completely cynical and untrusting of women.
Joy Holtz is an intellectual spitfire but people usual judge her on her looks first. As she's petit blonde and buxom. So the first time these two meet its instant chemistry of the fiery kind that is. But fate has plans for these two leading to Ramon becoming Joy's secret stalker although he won't admit it she's becoming his everything.
She was mine and, even though she didn't know it yet, I was hers."When Joy's life is threatened he wants and knows he has to bring her into his family to keep her safe. But with Joy not knowing that Ramon is part of the Cartel he's trying to bring her in slowly much to the disapproval of his mother. And he also knows he'll have a fight on his hands with the stubborn beautiful woman.
The more i read of the Cordova family the more i'm loving them. Yes the are a crime family but there is so much good that this family do. They are honourable and fight for their family and their well being. This is a beautiful read that had a lot of emotions , a lot of angst and of the charts sexual chemistry. And i for one can't wait for more from this series.
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April 17, 2017
Dang Joy can do anything and it gets Ramón all fired up, “why do I like it when you yell at me? Normally, I wouldn’t take that kind of disrespect from anyone, but with you? It turns me on.” Joy sure knows how to tire out her man, “Ramón?” I grunted, unable to force my mouth to shape words as I panted. “Did I…did I break you?” I grunted again, but managed to lift one hand to flip her off. Laughing, she cuddled into me, stroking my sweaty back. “Poor baby. Think you can make it to the bathroom?” I liked this book, I can't wait for more in this series.
September 3, 2017
I definitely was expecting more because of how strongly I loved the first one. This is Ramon's story and while it was well written and the plot didn't keep me as invested. My emotions as I was reading Joy and Ramon's struggles
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June 3, 2017
2,5 stars
Disn't connect like i hoped with Joy. It felt like nothing really happened and the messy writing didn't help (start with an idea then go on another thing and then ... nothing). The cordova's mother felt like an ennemy most of the time and the complete change of the characters made me roll my eyes.
I'm curious about Mark's story though but right now i'm glad it's over.
Disn't connect like i hoped with Joy. It felt like nothing really happened and the messy writing didn't help (start with an idea then go on another thing and then ... nothing). The cordova's mother felt like an ennemy most of the time and the complete change of the characters made me roll my eyes.
I'm curious about Mark's story though but right now i'm glad it's over.
October 2, 2019
Love Love Loved this book!
April 29, 2017
5 Stars!
Ann Mayburn knows how to feed my dirty little secrets in her romance books, just the way I like it.... dirty, sexy, over the top, and insta-everything in the most obsessive and naughty ways.
Her Cordova Empire series became a quick favorite when I met these brothers and this fascinating family...and now they are back with... Ramon and what a delicious morsel he was. Sweetest Obsession is his story and it couldn't have been more sweeter or perfect.
Ramon has always wanted Joy but knows he could never have her. So, he watched her from far away until circumstances forces him to make his move. Now he'll do anything to keep her... anything to make her stay... anything.
The Cordova family is rich, powerful, and... they always get what they want. Obsession runs deep... deep to the core.
I can't wait to see where this author takes us next but it's sure to be thrilling, suspenseful, and completely captivating in all the best ways possible.
I highly recommend this book.
Review Post >> http://reneeentress.blogspot.com/2017...
Ann Mayburn knows how to feed my dirty little secrets in her romance books, just the way I like it.... dirty, sexy, over the top, and insta-everything in the most obsessive and naughty ways.
Her Cordova Empire series became a quick favorite when I met these brothers and this fascinating family...and now they are back with... Ramon and what a delicious morsel he was. Sweetest Obsession is his story and it couldn't have been more sweeter or perfect.
Ramon has always wanted Joy but knows he could never have her. So, he watched her from far away until circumstances forces him to make his move. Now he'll do anything to keep her... anything to make her stay... anything.
The Cordova family is rich, powerful, and... they always get what they want. Obsession runs deep... deep to the core.
I can't wait to see where this author takes us next but it's sure to be thrilling, suspenseful, and completely captivating in all the best ways possible.
I highly recommend this book.
Review Post >> http://reneeentress.blogspot.com/2017...
April 29, 2017
"One sweet Obsession" is the second book in the Cordova Empire.
I had enjoyed book one- so I was excited to see this release.. but alas..
This is the story of Joy and Ramos. Joy is the roommate of Hannah, the heroine from book 1, and Ramos is the brother to Leo- the hero from the first book.
It was an average book
Things I liked
- the really hot sex scenes between the couple
Things I detested
- the whole calling"puta" and gold digger at first sight
- He seemed more attracted to her body than to her most of the time
- I'm not a fan of hero and heroine sexing other people post meeting
- Brain programming and control
Overall, just good.
Unsafe
2.5/5
I had enjoyed book one- so I was excited to see this release.. but alas..
This is the story of Joy and Ramos. Joy is the roommate of Hannah, the heroine from book 1, and Ramos is the brother to Leo- the hero from the first book.
It was an average book
Things I liked
- the really hot sex scenes between the couple
Things I detested
- the whole calling"puta" and gold digger at first sight
- He seemed more attracted to her body than to her most of the time
- I'm not a fan of hero and heroine sexing other people post meeting
- Brain programming and control
Overall, just good.
Unsafe
2.5/5
on-hold
April 27, 2017For real though, JUST HOW MANY TIMES ARE WE GOING TO BE SUBJECTED TO THE MENTION OF THE HEROINE'S LARGE TITS?
Okay, yes. I get it. When it comes to plus-sized woman, she has the stereotypical type of beauty. Yes, she has large breasts (rme), large butt, and TINY waist. My. Life must be tough for her, being a stereotypical beauty. :( Aw.
But you don't need to repeat it over and over again. Shit's annoying. I'm mad because I actually enjoyed the first book. On hold for now.
Okay, yes. I get it. When it comes to plus-sized woman, she has the stereotypical type of beauty. Yes, she has large breasts (rme), large butt, and TINY waist. My. Life must be tough for her, being a stereotypical beauty. :( Aw.
But you don't need to repeat it over and over again. Shit's annoying. I'm mad because I actually enjoyed the first book. On hold for now.
September 21, 2019
In this the second book of the Cordova Empire we get a glimpse of some of the really dark sides of humanity. Not for the faint of heart and this is definitely not the usual way for a relationship to develop.
I love Joy, she is strong and sexy and insecure all at the same time.
Ramon on the other hand is over-bearing, misogynistic and a torturer for the Cordova family. However, nobody hurts his family and gets away with it and that family includes Joy, even if she doesn't realize it yet.
A few times during this read I had to stop to remind myself that this is a story from the other side of the fence. Not the safe little world we imagine ourselves to live in.
Intense, sexy, scary, and at times downright shocking. Written in a way that even while you disagree with some of what's happening you understand it.
I love Joy, she is strong and sexy and insecure all at the same time.
Ramon on the other hand is over-bearing, misogynistic and a torturer for the Cordova family. However, nobody hurts his family and gets away with it and that family includes Joy, even if she doesn't realize it yet.
A few times during this read I had to stop to remind myself that this is a story from the other side of the fence. Not the safe little world we imagine ourselves to live in.
Intense, sexy, scary, and at times downright shocking. Written in a way that even while you disagree with some of what's happening you understand it.
April 7, 2019
Oh heck, Ramón is one fine specimen. He is strong yet sensitive(?), jealous, possessive and hell yeah he knows what to do between the sheets - that mouth of his will be giving me some good dreams.
As for the book as a whole, well written with very few (minor) editorial errors and well thought out plot. I loved the relationship between the main characters and although the heroine was a bit yes/no at times, was well suited for the hero.
Written from a dual pov, it is a reasonably fast burn and can be read as a standalone. I would recommend this to lovers of mafia erotic romance and will be looking forward to reading more by this author.
I have rated it as a 5 star read but maybe it is more of a 4.7
As for the book as a whole, well written with very few (minor) editorial errors and well thought out plot. I loved the relationship between the main characters and although the heroine was a bit yes/no at times, was well suited for the hero.
Written from a dual pov, it is a reasonably fast burn and can be read as a standalone. I would recommend this to lovers of mafia erotic romance and will be looking forward to reading more by this author.
I have rated it as a 5 star read but maybe it is more of a 4.7
October 20, 2017
I liked the heroine here more than the heroine in book 1. Joy (h) is not an absolute ninny compared to Hannah (book 1 h). The brainwashing is kinda glossed over in this book. Although book 1 and book 2 keep on emphasizing that you can’t brainwash someone to love you, the heroines still get drugged with an aphrodisiac.
June 16, 2019
3.5 stars....there are just a few points in this book that I don't get or agree with.
April 26, 2017
Another great read by Ann Mayburn!
Loved the first book in this series but I have to say I liked this one much more.
Can't wait for the next one with Mark !!
Loved the first book in this series but I have to say I liked this one much more.
Can't wait for the next one with Mark !!
May 6, 2017
Joy is a super smart, independent woman, who refuses to let anyone help her. When one of her tutoring students skipped out on tutoring three times, she decided to show up at his house, and that's where she met the biggest jerk, Ramon Cordova. When he insults her badly, she's still mad long after she leaves. However, months later, she's seriously attacked, and afterwards, Ramon is the only person who makes her feel safe, even though she's still pissed at his past attitude. Ramon fell in love with Joy at first sight, even though he was a total douche to her. The more he got to know her, the more he wanted her, but he knew that cartel is a super dangerous world to live in, so he stalked her from far away. As fate would have it, her attack brought her to him, and he decides he's going to make her his no matter how hard she fights it. This is the first book that I've read by Ann Mayburn, and I'm in love. Her talented writing style had me completely captivated from the get go, and instantly transported me into the Cardova world. Joy is a great girl that kept me entertained a lot, and OMG, the oh so yummy, Ramon had me drooling. Together they exploded into BLAZING HOT sexy scene goodness that will disintegrate all panties in the way. Twists and turns swirled all around, making me drop loud f-bombs throughout the whole story, while intense action sprinkled kept my heart racing. And the cast of secondaries were awesome, so I need to read more of this intriguing, and oh so sexy family, in the very near future! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
December 16, 2019
Sweetest Obsession is my new obsession!!! So I started off with this book because it was recommended to me and I didn’t realize that it was the second book. Regardless I didn’t find it hard to keep up with the events even though I could tell I missed out a few events from the first book. Ramon and Joy were a perfect fit for each other and I really enjoyed the connection they shared. Their passion was flaming HOT and the trials they are able to overcome was amazing. Overall, the story was longer than most of the books I’ve been reading lately and for that I am so thankful for because I enjoyed this book so much I didn’t want it to end! I loved how they got their HEA and that there was just enough action to keep you engaged without feeling like it was overdoing it. I’d highly recommend to anyone looking for a good length romance book with a powerful alpha cartel boss who’s obsessed with a smart and strong-willed lady and together nothing can stop this power couple from completely captivating you and making your unable to put this book down!
April 1, 2020
I was really excited to read this book. I really liked the first, but after reading this one I’m wondering if it was as good as I thought or was I being delusional?? Ramón? Meh. He wasn’t as much of an alpha male as I thought he would be. Joy? Also meh. A lot of the time I felt she was quite immature and wishy washy with her personality. Felt no connection to or between the characters. Jesus the amount of times Joy’s hourglass body is mentioned?? We get it ok !!! She’s curvy and beautiful and every guy wants her and thinks she’s a whore because she’s got big boobs and a tiny waist !! This is constantly mentioned in the book to the point it felt like I was the one being programmed?? Many times throughout the book I felt that Ramón’s love for Joy was quite superficial and mainly based on her looks. A lot of moments in this book also made me cringe !! As I write this, I keep remembering stuff that annoyed me or just didn’t work/make sense so I’m going to leave this review there.
May 23, 2017
Love this story!! Ann does it again and brings tragedy, love, and steamy sex.
Joy is Hannah's best friend and is attacked with Hannah at their apartment. Joy is brought to the Cordova estate to heal.
Ramon is like a brother to Leo. Ramon has been watching Joy for some time via cameras set up in the girls' apartment. Ramon has feelings for Joy.
Ramon does not want to program Joy like Leo programmed Hannah. Ramon wants Joy to love him. He is very protective and very loving to Joy. I feel in love with Ramon while reading. I love the fights between the characters because Joy stood her ground and the makeup sex was incredible. I love the trust between Ramon and Joy.
I can't wait for the next installment with Mark.
Joy is Hannah's best friend and is attacked with Hannah at their apartment. Joy is brought to the Cordova estate to heal.
Ramon is like a brother to Leo. Ramon has been watching Joy for some time via cameras set up in the girls' apartment. Ramon has feelings for Joy.
Ramon does not want to program Joy like Leo programmed Hannah. Ramon wants Joy to love him. He is very protective and very loving to Joy. I feel in love with Ramon while reading. I love the fights between the characters because Joy stood her ground and the makeup sex was incredible. I love the trust between Ramon and Joy.
I can't wait for the next installment with Mark.
August 28, 2017
Brilliant second book in this series ...
After loving the first book with Leo and Hannah, I couldn't wait for Ramon and Joy's story.
Ramon is the type of man most women would drool over, handsome face, ripped body, dominant and intelligent, and determined to bring his woman pleasure by any means. Yes, I wish I had a man like Ramon obsess over me!
As always, the author Ann Mayburn was able to write in a style that is easy flowing, and the story line and well developed protagonists leave you unable to put the book down until the story is finished. Loved it! Among the thousands of titles on my Kindle, Ann Mayburn's are in my top 10.
Well done, Ann!
Can't wait for Mark's story, but even more so Fernando's!!
After loving the first book with Leo and Hannah, I couldn't wait for Ramon and Joy's story.
Ramon is the type of man most women would drool over, handsome face, ripped body, dominant and intelligent, and determined to bring his woman pleasure by any means. Yes, I wish I had a man like Ramon obsess over me!
As always, the author Ann Mayburn was able to write in a style that is easy flowing, and the story line and well developed protagonists leave you unable to put the book down until the story is finished. Loved it! Among the thousands of titles on my Kindle, Ann Mayburn's are in my top 10.
Well done, Ann!
Can't wait for Mark's story, but even more so Fernando's!!
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