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Single Dad's Hostage
Getting kidnapped isn’t so bad. At least, it’s not when your captor is a billionaire with a huge… heart. He saved me from my abusive ex-boyfriend when I couldn’t get away. Now he owns me, and he wants to get engaged. The only problem is, my ex isn’t letting me go so easily. Dean Sharp is a breathtakingly gorgeous, arrogant, and an asshole. At least that’s my first impression when he knocks out my abusive boyfriend. When we get home, I know my boyfriend’s going to make me pay for what Dean did. But Dean Sharp isn’t done meddling in my life. Not even close. He grabs me from outside my motel, throws me in his car, and says I’m his hostage. He doesn’t want money, though. What he does want is the last thing I would’ve ever expected. He wants me to pretend to be his fiancee so his daughter and brothers don’t suspect anything. And he says he won’t let me go until he’s sure I’ll never go back to my abusive boyfriend. The thought of crossing my boyfriend terrifies me, and I’ve spent the last two years trying not to even think of what he’d do if I left. He owns me. At least he did until Dean Sharp stepped into my world. He saved me from my abusive relationship, and now he wants to give me something even an enormous diamond ring. How can a girl say no to that? **This is a full-length, standalone fake marriage romance. No cheating or cliffhangers, and as always, Happily Ever After guaranteed.**
147 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 14, 2017
928 people are currently reading
454 people want to read
About the author
Penelope Bloom
66 books2,568 followersUSA Today, Wall Street Journal, and Amazon Charts Bestselling author Penelope Bloom is taking her first flight into romantasy—and yes, there are dragons. After years of contemporary romance, she's temporarily trading meet-cutes for magical academies and coffee shops for castles that reek of blood. She promises the banter is just as sharp, but now it comes with deadly consequences.
Fun fact: “Penelope Bloom” started as a tongue-in-cheek tribute to the family dog, Penelope—never meant to be anything serious. But then the books took off, and the name stuck. Behind the scenes, Penelope Bloom is actually a husband-and-wife team. He handles the writing; she edits, helps with brainstorming, and runs the reader-facing side of things (like social media and messages). So if you’ve chatted with “Penelope” online, you’ve likely been talking to her—with the author chiming in whenever needed. Together, they’ve built the voice readers know and love.
Fun fact: “Penelope Bloom” started as a tongue-in-cheek tribute to the family dog, Penelope—never meant to be anything serious. But then the books took off, and the name stuck. Behind the scenes, Penelope Bloom is actually a husband-and-wife team. He handles the writing; she edits, helps with brainstorming, and runs the reader-facing side of things (like social media and messages). So if you’ve chatted with “Penelope” online, you’ve likely been talking to her—with the author chiming in whenever needed. Together, they’ve built the voice readers know and love.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
July 27, 2022
Listened to the audiobook 🎧
Narrators did a great job 👍
⚠️ TW: Domestic abuse, death of sibling(s)
Eh, not sure about this one. Didn't seem to be believable for me. (I know it's a book and it's fiction.... but still.)
Camille gets rescued/held "hostage" from her abusive ex Sean by single dad Dean.
How the heck does she go from being beat to falling in bed with Dean within 2 days?!?!?
WITH NO PROTECTION?!?! HUH! No. 🤨
How the heck did Sean get to be right outside Dean's house (with friends) the same night that Camille tries to "run away" (while her BFF is back at Dean's house 🙄)?
THEN she goes through all of that- onto public sex at a theater?
Just nope. Not believing it over here...🙈
Narrators did a great job 👍
⚠️ TW: Domestic abuse, death of sibling(s)
Eh, not sure about this one. Didn't seem to be believable for me. (I know it's a book and it's fiction.... but still.)
Camille gets rescued/held "hostage" from her abusive ex Sean by single dad Dean.
How the heck does she go from being beat to falling in bed with Dean within 2 days?!?!?
WITH NO PROTECTION?!?! HUH! No. 🤨
How the heck did Sean get to be right outside Dean's house (with friends) the same night that Camille tries to "run away" (while her BFF is back at Dean's house 🙄)?
THEN she goes through all of that- onto public sex at a theater?
Just nope. Not believing it over here...🙈
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 23, 2017
I didn't like or dislike the book.
However I finished it.
And I wasn't really disappointed with it.
However I have never caught how old the MCs were. So there, clearly not engaging enough.
Hero's brother's were on their 20s and since there was a bit of side romance with the heroine's best friend, and she acted even more immature, I'm guessing heroine and friend might have been in their 20s as well.
I swear one of the twins acted like 13.
If I ever hear the word hostage or kidnapped ever in my whole life again, it'll be too soon.
I haven't formed an opinion about the heroine. I understood the cycle of abuse though. And I was just worried if H was like a safety rebound. Thankfully that thought has crossed the H's mind too, however for a very short period of time before he decided to screw her without a condom, again, almost in public!
However, in spite of that little bit of failed exhibitionism, hero was actually caring.
And no matter how many times he said she's his for keeping and he'll never let her go, when you compare it alongside the abusive boyfriend you can see the exact difference and you can also see it's not a threat or possessiveness, it's the feeling of care and belonging.
He got pretty used to thinking his daughter and heroine together as "his girls" and was extremely comfortable with it!
He was really a caring person. He made the mistake of asking her if she "likes it rough" and when she reacted he realised his mistake and he probably would have killed himself if that'd have made her feel better.
Whereas he was only being playful and his attempts of lovemaking wasn't rough. He was rather referring to the fact that heroine has just hit him before his erm....passion decided to take over.
What I also liked was that he didn't started treating her like a fragile being while lovemaking after the incident. He let it go naturally and what he rather did was be softer in gestures and with words.
Absolutely no slut shaming, or judgment. No name calling. No abuse in anyway. Very alpha hero, minus the asshole part. He didn't judge her for staying in a abusive relationship but he was very firm about his intervention!
So all in all a 3 star read, will I read it again? Probably not. But my one hour wasn't really wasted.
Safety issue: it appeared hero may have been celibate for a while since his daughter felt uncomfortable if he brought random women or ONS home. She needed someone constant. So he lied saying he has a fiancée and didn't have much time outside work anyway unless he brought the women home.
Heroine was with her bf for two years until hero "kidnaps" her. I'd call it a breakup. So I'd say non celibate non virgin but no cheating.
There were no ducking (I'll keep the typo) condoms!
However I finished it.
And I wasn't really disappointed with it.
However I have never caught how old the MCs were. So there, clearly not engaging enough.
Hero's brother's were on their 20s and since there was a bit of side romance with the heroine's best friend, and she acted even more immature, I'm guessing heroine and friend might have been in their 20s as well.
I swear one of the twins acted like 13.
If I ever hear the word hostage or kidnapped ever in my whole life again, it'll be too soon.
I haven't formed an opinion about the heroine. I understood the cycle of abuse though. And I was just worried if H was like a safety rebound. Thankfully that thought has crossed the H's mind too, however for a very short period of time before he decided to screw her without a condom, again, almost in public!
However, in spite of that little bit of failed exhibitionism, hero was actually caring.
And no matter how many times he said she's his for keeping and he'll never let her go, when you compare it alongside the abusive boyfriend you can see the exact difference and you can also see it's not a threat or possessiveness, it's the feeling of care and belonging.
He got pretty used to thinking his daughter and heroine together as "his girls" and was extremely comfortable with it!
He was really a caring person. He made the mistake of asking her if she "likes it rough" and when she reacted he realised his mistake and he probably would have killed himself if that'd have made her feel better.
Whereas he was only being playful and his attempts of lovemaking wasn't rough. He was rather referring to the fact that heroine has just hit him before his erm....passion decided to take over.
What I also liked was that he didn't started treating her like a fragile being while lovemaking after the incident. He let it go naturally and what he rather did was be softer in gestures and with words.
Absolutely no slut shaming, or judgment. No name calling. No abuse in anyway. Very alpha hero, minus the asshole part. He didn't judge her for staying in a abusive relationship but he was very firm about his intervention!
So all in all a 3 star read, will I read it again? Probably not. But my one hour wasn't really wasted.
Safety issue: it appeared hero may have been celibate for a while since his daughter felt uncomfortable if he brought random women or ONS home. She needed someone constant. So he lied saying he has a fiancée and didn't have much time outside work anyway unless he brought the women home.
Heroine was with her bf for two years until hero "kidnaps" her. I'd call it a breakup. So I'd say non celibate non virgin but no cheating.
There were no ducking (I'll keep the typo) condoms!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 8, 2019
This was me reading this book...
I am usually a big fan of Ms. Bloom's work but this one... Really!!
I can't say that it was horrible... but REALLY!
So you have the main character Dean who quit his multi billion dollar company to spend more time with his daughter...(i'm with it so far)
He is at the bar where he witnesses a woman, Camille, being beat by her boyfriend and he proceeds to protect her. (still with it...)
He then proceeds to kidnap her because she is actually thinking about going back to the boyfriend that was beating her. (a bit much, but I am with it!)
Then it all goes down hill from there, not only had he been lying to his daughter about a woman that he was dating over seas but it takes him a matter of days to fall head over heels in love with Camille to the point where he wants to marry her and have her live with him forever. There is no thought about the danger that he put his daughter in if the ex decides to show up for his woman which he does. Camille just goes along with the show falling in love with him after only a few days as well.
This whole relationship seemed so unrealistic, from the best friend to the ex to the way that they continued on with the relationship. If I was a quitter I would have shut this book before I was even half way through and never picked it up again.
I am usually a big fan of Ms. Bloom's work but this one... Really!!
I can't say that it was horrible... but REALLY!
So you have the main character Dean who quit his multi billion dollar company to spend more time with his daughter...(i'm with it so far)
He is at the bar where he witnesses a woman, Camille, being beat by her boyfriend and he proceeds to protect her. (still with it...)
He then proceeds to kidnap her because she is actually thinking about going back to the boyfriend that was beating her. (a bit much, but I am with it!)
Then it all goes down hill from there, not only had he been lying to his daughter about a woman that he was dating over seas but it takes him a matter of days to fall head over heels in love with Camille to the point where he wants to marry her and have her live with him forever. There is no thought about the danger that he put his daughter in if the ex decides to show up for his woman which he does. Camille just goes along with the show falling in love with him after only a few days as well.
This whole relationship seemed so unrealistic, from the best friend to the ex to the way that they continued on with the relationship. If I was a quitter I would have shut this book before I was even half way through and never picked it up again.
May 16, 2017
ARC review For honest review Dean sees camelle being hit by her boyfriend and holds her hostage to help her get away from him since she can't do it on her own . I found his family and her best friend funny. Awesome story. Plus you get the other single dad next door witch you can read that review on that book.
June 6, 2022
This one started out pretty good for me, but somewhere around half way, I just got bored. And by the end, I don't think I was even paying attention at all. I think there wasn't enough character building for me to feel invested. But the audio was good, and I'll probably do more from this series at some point.
October 6, 2018
2.5 stars
April 22, 2023
Single Dad's Hostage was about Dean Sharp and Camille "Cammie"
This book was a bit different than many of the ones I've been reading lately. The MMC met the FMC in a bar where she and her BF were arguing. The MMC decided to pull an intervention by slugging the OM, then following them to their motel where the OM knocked down the FMC before entering their room. The MMC abducted the FMC, took her to his home, and (gently) forced her to pretend to be his fiance for his daughter's sake.
Camille was deathly afraid of her BF. She had been with him for at least two years...for she had been abused for that long. Although she had tried to leave him on many occasions, she had never been successful. Dean was determined to convince her never to return to the relationship with Sean (the BF).
Unfortunately, the story lost its appeal quite early on, mainly because there was too much fluff n stuff, but also because it lacked the ability to hold on to the reader's attention. The book was very repetitive, and it took forever for anything to happen...whether good or bad. It just kind of droned on and on, wandering aimlessly for a very long time before it did anything meaningful. It was like trying to walk out of a quicksand trap. Even the spicy scenes were bland. There was also the point where things went to hell in a handbasket and a secondary character said the full name of Camille's ex. Still, in the very next sentence, another secondary character asked what the ex's full name was, only for Dean to say, "The f*ck if I know...". I mean, they just HEARD his full name from someone else, right? Wasn't anyone paying attention?
The author started and stopped so many plot ideas in this novella that the reader would think it was going in one direction when that storyline would dead end, then another plot twist would pop up out of nowhere and head down another track. It was quite confusing. Even worse, the author tried to play this story off as a mafia-style book, but even the security team that the MMC hired were all poor excuses for gunmen. None of them seemed to have that much experience, and all were more like beta males and no alpha males in the bunch...not even the MMC.
The epilogue only added more to the confusion rather than being about the HEA it should have focused on. All it did was give more loose ends to tie up but never did. The book had so many unfinished ideas and so many different plot trails that it made it quite untenable. The story definitely did not deserve more than a two-star rating.
This book was a bit different than many of the ones I've been reading lately. The MMC met the FMC in a bar where she and her BF were arguing. The MMC decided to pull an intervention by slugging the OM, then following them to their motel where the OM knocked down the FMC before entering their room. The MMC abducted the FMC, took her to his home, and (gently) forced her to pretend to be his fiance for his daughter's sake.
Camille was deathly afraid of her BF. She had been with him for at least two years...for she had been abused for that long. Although she had tried to leave him on many occasions, she had never been successful. Dean was determined to convince her never to return to the relationship with Sean (the BF).
Unfortunately, the story lost its appeal quite early on, mainly because there was too much fluff n stuff, but also because it lacked the ability to hold on to the reader's attention. The book was very repetitive, and it took forever for anything to happen...whether good or bad. It just kind of droned on and on, wandering aimlessly for a very long time before it did anything meaningful. It was like trying to walk out of a quicksand trap. Even the spicy scenes were bland. There was also the point where things went to hell in a handbasket and a secondary character said the full name of Camille's ex. Still, in the very next sentence, another secondary character asked what the ex's full name was, only for Dean to say, "The f*ck if I know...". I mean, they just HEARD his full name from someone else, right? Wasn't anyone paying attention?
The author started and stopped so many plot ideas in this novella that the reader would think it was going in one direction when that storyline would dead end, then another plot twist would pop up out of nowhere and head down another track. It was quite confusing. Even worse, the author tried to play this story off as a mafia-style book, but even the security team that the MMC hired were all poor excuses for gunmen. None of them seemed to have that much experience, and all were more like beta males and no alpha males in the bunch...not even the MMC.
The epilogue only added more to the confusion rather than being about the HEA it should have focused on. All it did was give more loose ends to tie up but never did. The book had so many unfinished ideas and so many different plot trails that it made it quite untenable. The story definitely did not deserve more than a two-star rating.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 16, 2017
What happens when a cocky billionaire jumps into to save you from your abusive boyfriend? Well, he kidnaps you of course!! Then he takes you home to his crazy but funny family- giving you the option to pretend to be his fiance or live in his basement! This witty, sexy, fast paced insta all wrapped up with some suspense and romance read was fun for me and intriguing! This one sitting read had me shaking my head at the craziness of it all, yet thinking well if it were going to happen I would want it to happen with someone who has a bowling alley in the basement and was that much of a dirty talking alpha male type. I mean you could do worse.. ( just sayn ) So fanning my face at the hotness, * the theater scene Yea-ah no I am afraid of heights haha*-Getting frustrated when they both cannot get their crap together- and feeling the excitement of the impending suspense that I could not put it down! The characters are relatable, his brothers - I feel like I have met them before, and her best friend yeah. I have one just like her! So while it may not be the most believable thing the world, it is fiction! That is why I read it! Takes me away from my reality- this book did just that and more! I am a fan of Penelope Bloom! I look forward to reading whatever she concocts for us next!
The bonus book in the back Single Dad Next Door! Absolutely love that book! I have read it a few times, was excited to see it coupled with this story!
I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book
The bonus book in the back Single Dad Next Door! Absolutely love that book! I have read it a few times, was excited to see it coupled with this story!
I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book
May 18, 2017
Dean is drinking at the bar when a big man grabs a woman who tells him to let her go. Dean tries to intervene and protect the woman by punching the man who lands on the floor. But the woman helps him up and they leave as he continues to threaten her. Concerned, Dean follows in his car to their motel where he sees the brute strike the woman and knock her to the ground. He has seen enough! When the man goes inside, he pulls the woman away from the door and takes her to his car. He announces that she is being kidnapped to get her away from her abuser. And he offers a choice – be his pretend fiancée or be locked in the basement. But he does this in a way that amuses rather than scares her.
Once home, Camille meets the rest of his crazy family. His daughter, Jen, is a very bright and mature 8-year-old. Her uncles are supposed to be watching her but she sent them outside so she could work in peace. The family dynamics are amazing and hilarious. But Camille’s crazy ex is still out there and he wants to get her back to make her pay! Will he track her down? Is she forever going to look over her shoulder for the danger she knows will find her?
What a wonderful book! Despite a serious situation, there is light-hearted fun and lots of love to make things right. I loved it! The story line was fast-paced. There was enough suspense to keep the readers’ attention. The characters had a strength deep inside and were absolutely likable and worthy of happiness. Don’t let this one pass you buy – it is most definitely worth reading again and again!
Once home, Camille meets the rest of his crazy family. His daughter, Jen, is a very bright and mature 8-year-old. Her uncles are supposed to be watching her but she sent them outside so she could work in peace. The family dynamics are amazing and hilarious. But Camille’s crazy ex is still out there and he wants to get her back to make her pay! Will he track her down? Is she forever going to look over her shoulder for the danger she knows will find her?
What a wonderful book! Despite a serious situation, there is light-hearted fun and lots of love to make things right. I loved it! The story line was fast-paced. There was enough suspense to keep the readers’ attention. The characters had a strength deep inside and were absolutely likable and worthy of happiness. Don’t let this one pass you buy – it is most definitely worth reading again and again!
May 21, 2017
**An ARC was given in exchange for an honest review**
"Where Sean is like a poison to me, Dean is the cure. The sexy, muscular, drop-dead-gorgeous cure."
Hmm what to say about this book. I rather enjoyed it, I just think it was to short. Dean rescues Camille from her abusive ex-boyfriend one night and it seems like all hell breaks lose after that.
I'm normally not a huge fan of insta-love but in this case it was rather sweet. Where she has that pull of "I shouldn't" and he doesn't really care, he just knows he cares about her.
I think there was a lot going on plot wise in this book and maybe it would have been better to either stick with one plot or the other but
I won't say this was a bad book as it was rather enjoyable and sweet with some intense chemistry between Dean and Camille. Very dramatic scenes too but a bit violent. All in all it was a nice short sweet book and I had a good time reading it. Personal small nit picking feelings aside. ;)
"Where Sean is like a poison to me, Dean is the cure. The sexy, muscular, drop-dead-gorgeous cure."
Hmm what to say about this book. I rather enjoyed it, I just think it was to short. Dean rescues Camille from her abusive ex-boyfriend one night and it seems like all hell breaks lose after that.
I'm normally not a huge fan of insta-love but in this case it was rather sweet. Where she has that pull of "I shouldn't" and he doesn't really care, he just knows he cares about her.
I think there was a lot going on plot wise in this book and maybe it would have been better to either stick with one plot or the other but
I won't say this was a bad book as it was rather enjoyable and sweet with some intense chemistry between Dean and Camille. Very dramatic scenes too but a bit violent. All in all it was a nice short sweet book and I had a good time reading it. Personal small nit picking feelings aside. ;)
December 15, 2021
Camille & Dean): TRIGGER: Domestic Violence. Assault. So this book took an unexpected turn… a few times. So Camille is in an abusive relationship and Dean happens to be there to see it. He actually steps in to stop it. Cool. I like that. But then she leaves with the boyfriend and he just decides to follow them. Stalker much? When he offers to keep her safe, she refuses… SO HE JUST TAKES HER???? WTF? Who does that? That was so unrealistic I don't even think Lifetime could make a movie work out of that. Then he asks his hostage to "play" fiance for the sake of his daughter. Umm… ok. If I ignore the whole hostage situation then I really can like this book. Of course, the boyfriend is psychotic and not happy, and there lies the drama. Weirdly it's still an insta romance so I guess… if you want to think of that as cheating you can but, you should definitely read the book before you decide. The hostage situation was an extremely loose term, more like an intervention. I loved her best friend…and the little girl, they were the comedic relief of the book. I also enjoyed that Camille was able to learn what "real love" looks like.
March 11, 2023
This book frustrated me with just the first two chapters. The hero captures the heroine as her hostage to save her from her abusive boyfriend and proceeds to make out with her within few hours. Even though he supposedly feels bad for it, he didn't apologize to her. How insensitive can a person be. The cherry on top is he gave her the option of staying a prisoner in his basement or act as his fake fiance.
How good of an option for a woman he 'saved' from her abusive boyfriend. Hah.
He proceeds to introduce her to his daughter as his fiance. Obviously she chose the 'better' option here.
He leaves his daughter with his brothers immediately after they exchange just small talk and just goes to sleep.
What about talking to his daughter separately and making sure she's okay with a stranger coming and living with them or ask about what she thinks and assure her everything will be fine.
The dad of the year award. Woo-hoo.
I don't generally write reviews but this book made me so mad.
The main lead just being so insensitive to both the women he 'rescued' and his daughter. Dnf.
How good of an option for a woman he 'saved' from her abusive boyfriend. Hah.
He proceeds to introduce her to his daughter as his fiance. Obviously she chose the 'better' option here.
He leaves his daughter with his brothers immediately after they exchange just small talk and just goes to sleep.
What about talking to his daughter separately and making sure she's okay with a stranger coming and living with them or ask about what she thinks and assure her everything will be fine.
The dad of the year award. Woo-hoo.
I don't generally write reviews but this book made me so mad.
The main lead just being so insensitive to both the women he 'rescued' and his daughter. Dnf.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 15, 2024
fell short.
This book had so many things I wanted to like, with similar aspects to books that I have loved but unfortunately, it fell short in its delivery. I think overall taking a little bit more time, slowing the relationship down and giving a little bit more of the backstories at different places would’ve helped the overall flow and left me more satisfied. As it was, there was just so much that was unrealistic and it made it hard for my brain to stay engaged with the story. The big bad was someone we didn’t really get introduced to. What happened to make him a single dad was never explained. And apparently cops don’t show up in this world despite public domestic abuse, public sex, kidnappings, fights/assaults and shoot outs. They must not exist in this world 🤷♀️. Also not a fan of the info dump/ future glimpses that were given at the very end. Again an actual written out epilogue scene that took its time where everyone was meeting up to catch up would have been more satisfying to me.
This book had so many things I wanted to like, with similar aspects to books that I have loved but unfortunately, it fell short in its delivery. I think overall taking a little bit more time, slowing the relationship down and giving a little bit more of the backstories at different places would’ve helped the overall flow and left me more satisfied. As it was, there was just so much that was unrealistic and it made it hard for my brain to stay engaged with the story. The big bad was someone we didn’t really get introduced to. What happened to make him a single dad was never explained. And apparently cops don’t show up in this world despite public domestic abuse, public sex, kidnappings, fights/assaults and shoot outs. They must not exist in this world 🤷♀️. Also not a fan of the info dump/ future glimpses that were given at the very end. Again an actual written out epilogue scene that took its time where everyone was meeting up to catch up would have been more satisfying to me.
May 19, 2017
Dean Sharp I was just having a drink and I saw this man hit a women I hit him and he takes her away so I follow to a hotel and he hits her again she goes to the ground and I Take her with me and tell her I kidnapped her and she is going to be my girlfriend for and I have her meet my crazy family lol Camille for two years my boy friend tells me he owns me and I am so terrified of him that I stay with him but one night at the bar this man comes up and stands up for me but I go stay with my boy friend and go to a hotel room but I have a garden angle with me he follows and kidnapped me and has me as his girl friend and keeps me safe but my boyfriend is not far away and keeps giving me trouble big time but my big strong knight in shining armor is here to protect me good loving exciting awesome sexy steamy story of abuse and love and hero's I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. Michelle
May 19, 2017
This book started off slow. At first i didn't think i was going to like the book because of the content. Some of the things that were happening in this book seemed a little far fetched , but then i had to think i was being a little bias so i opened my eyes to read the rest of the book without conviction. The book progressed slower than what i would have like but i was good. I loved Dean and Camille. Camille being this women coming from all the hard ache and struggles that she did. It seem like at time she was relying on Dean to save her that she wanted to do it on her own. Other times i saw the stronger Camille break free and it was amazing. Dean was sweet, hot and patience with her. He had his moments were it was shacking but he always redeemed himself. I love that the author gave us glimpses of other characters endings. It was refreshing. I don't read a lot of author that do that Good book
May 15, 2017
Camille is a victim of domestic abuse by a man so insane and controlling that she has no strength to get away. At a bar, when she is being slapped to the floor, Dean steps in to protect her. But she begs him to stay out of it and leaves the bar with the abuser. Dean follows them to the motel where they are staying and witnesses her being punched to the pavement. The man goes into the room and Camille resignedly picks herself up and follows. However, Dean steps in and encourages her to come with him, to leave the controlling man. When she refuses, he scoops her up and literally kidnaps her hostage for her own good. The story of Camille & Dean's journey only grows more exciting, suspenseful and enthralling. Lots of nail-biting action and heart-warming loving. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. Five stars.
May 16, 2017
Penelope has written this book in a way only she can, the passion, the fear, the lust, I absolutely loved how the story flowed. The characters were written so beautifully. This wasn't one of those stories where life just happens so easily, there was true grit, pain and heartache. Now some of you may think some of the things that happen are strange, or it wouldn't happen like that, in some things yes, but it's a story, and it's a break from reality, but in other things, like Camille's attitude with Dean and Sean, that was beautifully written, now I don't want to give anything away, but wow, did Penelope nail Camille's personality based on how her life had gone and resulted in where Camille is today in the story. Excellently written.
I received an ARC, I voluntarily chose to read and review this book. My review is honest and fair and in no way incentivised.
I received an ARC, I voluntarily chose to read and review this book. My review is honest and fair and in no way incentivised.
April 6, 2019
The Whole Package
Right from the start the story just sucks you in and before you know it you’ve reached the end. Hilariously suspenseful and over the top sexy!! I love Dean and Camille but most of all the I loved the playful banter that goes on amongst Dean and his brother and even Camille and Selene!! So many times I found myself laughing out loud and the comedy just felt so genuine and well written!! But I’m all seriousness...the intense storyline keeps you wanting more and to see how everything plays out. From the moment you meet Camille she seems like this deranged woman who keeps going back to her abusive ex but there is so much strength that she doesn’t even know she has and I love how right from the beginning she goes toe to toe with Dean and by the end she’s this furious monster who doesn’t mess around!!! I completely and utterly loved this book!!!
Right from the start the story just sucks you in and before you know it you’ve reached the end. Hilariously suspenseful and over the top sexy!! I love Dean and Camille but most of all the I loved the playful banter that goes on amongst Dean and his brother and even Camille and Selene!! So many times I found myself laughing out loud and the comedy just felt so genuine and well written!! But I’m all seriousness...the intense storyline keeps you wanting more and to see how everything plays out. From the moment you meet Camille she seems like this deranged woman who keeps going back to her abusive ex but there is so much strength that she doesn’t even know she has and I love how right from the beginning she goes toe to toe with Dean and by the end she’s this furious monster who doesn’t mess around!!! I completely and utterly loved this book!!!
July 2, 2017
Not Stockholm Syndrome
Single dad Dean takes Camille as a "hostage" when he sees her abusive boyfriend in action. He actually rescues her and refuses to let her go until she won't go back to her abuser. He also happens to have an immediate and intense attraction to her. When he brings her home he tells his family that this is fiancé, the woman he's been telling them about for the past few months and he's gotten her to go along with the lie.
Camille feels an attraction to Dean also, but after being so long in an abusive relationship, she's terrified of the repercussions from her ex if she gives into it. She has an opportunity for a life and love that she's always longed for, but will her fear keep her from that happiness?
Single dad Dean takes Camille as a "hostage" when he sees her abusive boyfriend in action. He actually rescues her and refuses to let her go until she won't go back to her abuser. He also happens to have an immediate and intense attraction to her. When he brings her home he tells his family that this is fiancé, the woman he's been telling them about for the past few months and he's gotten her to go along with the lie.
Camille feels an attraction to Dean also, but after being so long in an abusive relationship, she's terrified of the repercussions from her ex if she gives into it. She has an opportunity for a life and love that she's always longed for, but will her fear keep her from that happiness?
July 28, 2017
He takes her to save her from her ex and stop her from returning....
This is an interesting idea for sure, and the story has its steamy parts, it also has some action. But it doesn't develop much of the characters, it's more of a short story then a novel.
Selena and Tanner sort of confuse me.... and Murph I don't know much about.
Jen is a mini 20 year old in an 8 years old body.
I liked seeing how this would end, i couldn't predict it fully though I did expect Barry to be a villain like Sean.
I don't understand the parents, and I wish I knew more about Dean in foster care, or about his sister Jessica that passed.
This book just needed more content, back story and character development to feel like a story.
This more feels like erotica with a bit of dialogue.
December 15, 2017
Dean Sharp has just walked away from his business to spend more time with his daughter and doesn't have any regrets per say. Dean witnesses a man and woman fighting and steps in to take action. Dean didn't plan any of his actions but that doesn't mean there wrong either. Camille has taken whatever Sean has done to her without a thought. Camille believes that she deserves what's happening to her. That is until Dean steps in taking her hostage for her own good. Can Dean get Camille to see she's worthy of love? Will Camille accept she's worthy? Your answers await you in Single Dad's Hostage.
Ms. Bloom has done it again with this book. The characters and story are compelling, rich, bold, complicated, complex, mysterious, and honest. I look forward to more from this author in the future.
Ms. Bloom has done it again with this book. The characters and story are compelling, rich, bold, complicated, complex, mysterious, and honest. I look forward to more from this author in the future.
May 18, 2017
A fast paced book about an abused woman, Camille, and the man, Dean, who intervenes when he sees her being abused. He "kidnaps" her from her abusive boyfriend and asks her to be his fake fiancée so his daughter won't think that he gave up a love life for her. While being held "hostage" the attraction flairs quickly but when her ex won't let them be and a crossed ex employee of his decide to cause trouble, Dean will stop at nothing to save the woman and the daughter he loves.
A read with action, some suspense, insta love, steamy scenes, brothers and a best friend who are a comic relief that will make you chuckle at times makes it a book worth it.
*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book*
A read with action, some suspense, insta love, steamy scenes, brothers and a best friend who are a comic relief that will make you chuckle at times makes it a book worth it.
*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book*
May 30, 2017
Hate when I'm not warned a story ends before 50%
Single Dad's Hostage was ok. Really out of touch with reality, and I prefer books that are more believable. I understand most romance has some unbelievable qualities, of people falling in love very quickly... but the regular day to day stuff should be more realistic. It just didn't do it for me.
I almost didn't read the bonus material Single Dad Next Door, but I'm glad I did. That story was much more enjoyable for me. :) I'd give that one at least 4 stars, but since it's name isn't on the cover, I'm only leaving the 3 generous stars for Single Dad's Hostage.
Single Dad's Hostage was ok. Really out of touch with reality, and I prefer books that are more believable. I understand most romance has some unbelievable qualities, of people falling in love very quickly... but the regular day to day stuff should be more realistic. It just didn't do it for me.
I almost didn't read the bonus material Single Dad Next Door, but I'm glad I did. That story was much more enjoyable for me. :) I'd give that one at least 4 stars, but since it's name isn't on the cover, I'm only leaving the 3 generous stars for Single Dad's Hostage.
May 31, 2017
I loved reading the riveting and engrossing romance novel by the extraordinarily talented Penelope Bloom. I voluntarily reviewed a copy.
Camille has been in a physically abusive relationship with her boyfriend, Sean, and sees no way out of it until Dean comes to her rescue, won't let her go back to Sean, and she has to pretend to be his fiancé. Even though living with Dean and his family is a slice of heaven, Camille still feels the pull to go back to Sean and at the same time a strong attraction and growing connection for the sexy and courageous man, Dean.
Read the highly recommended, beautifully written with a mesmerizing story line, and a must read love story of Dean and Camille.
Camille has been in a physically abusive relationship with her boyfriend, Sean, and sees no way out of it until Dean comes to her rescue, won't let her go back to Sean, and she has to pretend to be his fiancé. Even though living with Dean and his family is a slice of heaven, Camille still feels the pull to go back to Sean and at the same time a strong attraction and growing connection for the sexy and courageous man, Dean.
Read the highly recommended, beautifully written with a mesmerizing story line, and a must read love story of Dean and Camille.
May 16, 2017
Camille is a victim of an abusive relationship, and when Dean witnesses this occurring one night, he is determined to get her away from this, and kidnaps her. No spoilers from me; give this one a chance for yourself!
This story is humorous, and I loved all of the secondary characters as well. Penelope never disappoints her readers, and this one is no different. This is well written, with an intriguing and captivating plot, which had me hooked from the beginning. Fantastic work Penelope!! I recommend this authors work for all readers.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book!
This story is humorous, and I loved all of the secondary characters as well. Penelope never disappoints her readers, and this one is no different. This is well written, with an intriguing and captivating plot, which had me hooked from the beginning. Fantastic work Penelope!! I recommend this authors work for all readers.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book!
May 17, 2017
Entertaining!
I really enjoyed this story. I liked that it had a different twist on the single dad trope that has been going around. Camille's life broke my heart. She has gone through so much in her life and is emotionaly broken. Dean sees Camille being manhandled by her boyfriend in a bar and step in to save her. I love how he took it upon himself to save her in such a unique way. This story is sexy, sweet and has some action and suspense to it. It was definitely worth the read!
I really enjoyed this story. I liked that it had a different twist on the single dad trope that has been going around. Camille's life broke my heart. She has gone through so much in her life and is emotionaly broken. Dean sees Camille being manhandled by her boyfriend in a bar and step in to save her. I love how he took it upon himself to save her in such a unique way. This story is sexy, sweet and has some action and suspense to it. It was definitely worth the read!
May 17, 2017
I really enjoyed this one. it was different from the other ones that Penelope has written lately. Dean, is gorgeous who is use to getting what he wants when he wants it, and he wants Camille. Camille, poor thing, she had been through the ringer, Emotionally and physically. I loved their chemistry. all the characters in this book where very well developed. I liked how she mixed it up at the end and gave use a little snippet of what everyone else was doing.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
March 26, 2021
Good Read
This was actually a pretty good book. I just love Dean. He is a good man he see Camille being abused and steps in to help. When that's not enough he kidnaps her to save her from her abusive boyfriend. I feel bad for Camille, she had it rough. Her parents blames her for the death of her sister when they both were children at the time. She looks for authority figures in men for her lack of parental guidance but Shaun wasn't the right fit with his abusive self. I'm glad they overcame the threats against them.💚💚
This was actually a pretty good book. I just love Dean. He is a good man he see Camille being abused and steps in to help. When that's not enough he kidnaps her to save her from her abusive boyfriend. I feel bad for Camille, she had it rough. Her parents blames her for the death of her sister when they both were children at the time. She looks for authority figures in men for her lack of parental guidance but Shaun wasn't the right fit with his abusive self. I'm glad they overcame the threats against them.💚💚
December 5, 2022
Fast Read
All things aside, this audio read went by very fast! I would definitely say very plot driven and less development with the characters which I kinda of missed while listening to it. The "instant" connection feel is fine but this on just felt like it was missing a spark. I did love the banter and side characters in the story though! Some kids as main characters in books can feel off but Jen definitely brought the story to a complete feel which was refreshing! I only wish there had been more innate chemistry between Camille and Dean.
All things aside, this audio read went by very fast! I would definitely say very plot driven and less development with the characters which I kinda of missed while listening to it. The "instant" connection feel is fine but this on just felt like it was missing a spark. I did love the banter and side characters in the story though! Some kids as main characters in books can feel off but Jen definitely brought the story to a complete feel which was refreshing! I only wish there had been more innate chemistry between Camille and Dean.
May 15, 2017
Enjoyable read and I couldn't help laugh with what came out of Tanner & Murph mouth. Camille is in an abusive relationship and Dean comes to her rescue only to kidnap her for himself. Dean has Camille play along but her ex wants her back. With a crazy ex, can Camille & Dean finally be free and be together. Great story and loved the ending
I voluntarily reviewed this Advanced Reader Copy of this book
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