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100 Proof
I was the low life. The screw up. The hopeless one with no future. He was the rich guy. The smart one. The one who had it all. My parents admired everything he did, while I was known for being their greatest disappointment. I didn't follow the path they paved for me. I drank, partied, and did whatever the hell I wanted. The buzz was something I couldn't live without - the fire that filled my veins after each sip always kept me running back for more. But then I met her, and suddenly the drinks didn't matter. The parties weren't as fun. That fiery buzz came second for once. I drowned only in her, wanting her more than I wanted to exist. But even with her, I screwed things up. Now, he's with the woman I love. And he may have her, but what he should know is that even with all of his money, that nice house, and his expensive cars, her mind, body, and soul will always belong to me. And I'm not sorry about it, brother, 'cause she was mine first. **100 PROOF is a standalone forbidden romance.**
308 pages, Paperback
First published May 18, 2017
334 people are currently reading
1488 people want to read
About the author
Shanora Williams
77 books6,687 followersShanora Williams is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of over thirty romance and diverse suspense novels.
She currently lives near Charlotte, North Carolina and is the mother of three amazing boys, has a fiercely devoted and supportive husband, and is a sister to eleven.
When she isn’t writing, she’s spending time with her family, binge reading, or running marathons on TV streaming services. Visit her at shanorawilliams.com or interact with her on Instagram @reallyshanora.
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She currently lives near Charlotte, North Carolina and is the mother of three amazing boys, has a fiercely devoted and supportive husband, and is a sister to eleven.
When she isn’t writing, she’s spending time with her family, binge reading, or running marathons on TV streaming services. Visit her at shanorawilliams.com or interact with her on Instagram @reallyshanora.
Follow me:
Instagram: Instagram.com/reallyshanora
Facebook: Facebook.com/ShanoraWilliamsAuthor
Facebook Fan Group: Facebook.com/groups/ShanorasSweethearts
Twitter: Twitter.com/shanorawilliams
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 200 reviews
July 19, 2017
4 ★'s
This is a story of a couple that had been together for a few years and during that time spiraled down even further into addiction. Marlena (Marley) was able to stop herself before things got bad but Vincent (Vin) was not.
He ends up going to rehab but Marley finds out from a friend that Vin's mother paid him to go and he didn't go for them like he said. Unable to take any more lies, she breaks things off with him and moves away severing all contact.
Fast forward three years and Vin is doing well and trying to open a club with his best friend. He doesn't have much contact with his step-father and half-brother but he finds out his brother is getting married and his mother wants him to be involved. He flies to Texas for the engagement party and guess who the bride to be is? That's right, Marley.
But Marley is different...not only in appearance but how she acts as well. Marley had no clue that Lloyd was Vin's brother as she had never met any of Vin's family and they have different last names.
And not all is as it seems. There's a reason Marley is marrying Lloyd and Vin's bound and determined to get to the bottom of it and especially not to let his brother have his true love.
There's quite the tangled web that these three go through and it takes a while to get answers. You can't help but feel for Vin but he really needed to step up to the plate.
I was really dreading the ending because of the way Tainted Black ended. Thank goodness, this one ended much better.
This is a story of a couple that had been together for a few years and during that time spiraled down even further into addiction. Marlena (Marley) was able to stop herself before things got bad but Vincent (Vin) was not.
He ends up going to rehab but Marley finds out from a friend that Vin's mother paid him to go and he didn't go for them like he said. Unable to take any more lies, she breaks things off with him and moves away severing all contact.
Fast forward three years and Vin is doing well and trying to open a club with his best friend. He doesn't have much contact with his step-father and half-brother but he finds out his brother is getting married and his mother wants him to be involved. He flies to Texas for the engagement party and guess who the bride to be is? That's right, Marley.
But Marley is different...not only in appearance but how she acts as well. Marley had no clue that Lloyd was Vin's brother as she had never met any of Vin's family and they have different last names.
And not all is as it seems. There's a reason Marley is marrying Lloyd and Vin's bound and determined to get to the bottom of it and especially not to let his brother have his true love.
There's quite the tangled web that these three go through and it takes a while to get answers. You can't help but feel for Vin but he really needed to step up to the plate.
I was really dreading the ending because of the way Tainted Black ended. Thank goodness, this one ended much better.
May 29, 2017
3.5* there for you STARS!!
Review @ Midnight Romance
Just FYI, this isn't my first read from the author. I've read Tainted Black and unfortunately, the book isn't for me aka DNF. But this one is quite different and actually quite a safe read. Feels like a second chance romance but in a twisted way. Let me give you the proof.
Vin Chambers couldn't let go his love for a girl who left him. Well, it happened because his own fault. Even it was already too late but Vin is still positive that Marley will come back to him. When his step-brother about to get married, Vin was forced to attend as the best man because of his mother's request. The only family he has and respect. What a surprise when Vin saw the future bride is the one who got away from him.
Vin was not an okay guy at first. In the past, he's a party animal and totally a fuckboi. But Marley changed him. She's not like other girl (Well, duh!) and Vin fallen for her. Still, Vin couldn't stop his addiction with alcohol and drugs. Three years later, he sobered up. Vin is quite redeemable at this moment. He's also thinking about his future to have his own club.
Marley... is okay, I think. She's fun girl and didn't give a shit type at first. But something changed her when she decided to married someone whose obviously not her type. Marley blinded with the truth and ignore the reality. To her own surprise, Marley couldn't believe she met Vin again. And she felt conflicted between her safe haven and true love.
The story was told from dual POV between Vin and Marley. The story was dragging a bit because of the flashback of their past. But I found their past is interesting to follow because there's a cause behind their action. Both Vin and Marley have scarred and awful childhood. The different is, Vin went to destruction path without anyone to hold on and Marley stood up independently to change her life.
The chemistry between Vin and Marley are still in there. They're still in lust with each other. Vin is a persistent bastard to corner Marley to be with him. Even she's engaged, of course. Maybe that's the forbidden element in the story. Their 'relationship' is a guilty pleasure. I couldn't stop roll my eyes with Marley's denial but won't stop devour their story. Well, there's some truth about the real Vin's family and I totally understand. Overall, a great 'second-chance' romance and enjoyable story.
✦ Please visit @Midnight Romance for more reviews! ✦
Review @ Midnight Romance
Just FYI, this isn't my first read from the author. I've read Tainted Black and unfortunately, the book isn't for me aka DNF. But this one is quite different and actually quite a safe read. Feels like a second chance romance but in a twisted way. Let me give you the proof.
Vin Chambers couldn't let go his love for a girl who left him. Well, it happened because his own fault. Even it was already too late but Vin is still positive that Marley will come back to him. When his step-brother about to get married, Vin was forced to attend as the best man because of his mother's request. The only family he has and respect. What a surprise when Vin saw the future bride is the one who got away from him.
“It’s okay to let go,” she whispered when I had a long day. All I wanted was a cold, hard drink—something to cool my nerves and the flame inside me. “Just give yourself to me, Vinny. Don’t worry about drinking. Get drunk on me. Take me.”
Vin was not an okay guy at first. In the past, he's a party animal and totally a fuckboi. But Marley changed him. She's not like other girl (Well, duh!) and Vin fallen for her. Still, Vin couldn't stop his addiction with alcohol and drugs. Three years later, he sobered up. Vin is quite redeemable at this moment. He's also thinking about his future to have his own club.
Marley... is okay, I think. She's fun girl and didn't give a shit type at first. But something changed her when she decided to married someone whose obviously not her type. Marley blinded with the truth and ignore the reality. To her own surprise, Marley couldn't believe she met Vin again. And she felt conflicted between her safe haven and true love.
He was the sun, and as the helpless flower, I needed him. He was the rain, nourishing my stem and petals, giving me life, growth, and strength—giving me what his brother never could.
He was like a bumblebee, sucking away my rare nectar to build his own honeycomb full of sticky, sweet passion and love.
The story was told from dual POV between Vin and Marley. The story was dragging a bit because of the flashback of their past. But I found their past is interesting to follow because there's a cause behind their action. Both Vin and Marley have scarred and awful childhood. The different is, Vin went to destruction path without anyone to hold on and Marley stood up independently to change her life.
Vincent Chambers was my sweetest temptation, my favorite drug, and my greatest addiction. My cravings for him had come back full-force, and there wasn’t a thing I could do to stop it now.
The chemistry between Vin and Marley are still in there. They're still in lust with each other. Vin is a persistent bastard to corner Marley to be with him. Even she's engaged, of course. Maybe that's the forbidden element in the story. Their 'relationship' is a guilty pleasure. I couldn't stop roll my eyes with Marley's denial but won't stop devour their story. Well, there's some truth about the real Vin's family and I totally understand. Overall, a great 'second-chance' romance and enjoyable story.
“Do you need me to say it?” she asked.
“Yeah,” I groaned. “Say it.”
“Get drunk on me, Vinny,” she breathed. “Take as much as you need. Be greedy with me if it’ll help cool the burn I know is in your veins. I’m here for you.”
✦ Please visit @Midnight Romance for more reviews! ✦
May 18, 2017
Title: 100 Proof
Author: Shanora Williams
Category: Romance
Series or Standalone: Standalone
POV: Dual, First Person
Plot: 3.75
Characters: 3.75
Scorching Level:4
HEA: Not telling
I love, love Shanora Williams. Tainted Black has to be one of my favorite reads ever. This book is also a forbidden romance but didn't move me as strongly.
I loved the premise. Marley and Vinny were together but they were torn apart. The reason? Vin's addiction.
They loved each other deeply but they made mistakes. When they break up, it will take them years to see each other again.
Vin is trying to change and he has, but for his family he will always be the black sheep. He is still the unwanted one. When he returns home for his brother 's wedding he is in for a big surprise.
Heartbreak awaits.
Marley is marrying Lloyd. She needs to change her life. He can help her, he is her safety. But what happens when she sees Vinny again?
The book was fast paced and the transition between present and past worked well for me! I loved seeing the flashbacks.
I didn't connect too well with the characters and that is why I rated this lower than I wanted. I needed a deeper connection to the heroine since I didn't agree with some of her actions.
Still, this was angsty, emotional and deliciously steamy! I recommend it!!!
3.75 Stars!
November 25, 2020
5 stars!!
HIGHLY recommended for those who enjoy second chance, angsty & emotional romance!!
This one was highly addictive but i forced myself to break it into a few parts instead of devouring all in one go. The prologue was kinda emotional which makes me even excited for the story.
Vincent, aka Vin or Vinny, is a beautifully broken man struggling with his addictions. Determined to start a clean life, he works extremely hard to control these addictions because it was why his only love left him. Marley's childhood was equally fucked up as well and she thinks that leaving Vin is the only way to save him from his addictions. Well, their relationship was rather toxic as well.
Fast forward 3 years later, Vin was invited to his brother's engagement party and she is none other than Marley. His Marley. Vin's brother was seriously some sly snake that made me feel like bashing the shit out of him. He treated Vin like a low life druggie but I loved how Vin constantly proved him wrong.
Vin's feelings for Marley never fades and he's so sure that Marley did not marry his brother out of love. so what exactly happened?
“Get drunk on me, Vinny,” she breathed. “Take as much as you need. Be greedy with me if it’ll help cool the burn I know is in your veins. I’m here for you.”
Her words were my undoing."
He lost her once. Now that she's back, he's not going to let her leave again. There's a perfect balance of love, angst, emotions and passion. They might be a little toxic at times, but i was rooting for them throughout. 5 stars!!
HIGHLY recommended for those who enjoy second chance, angsty & emotional romance!!
This one was highly addictive but i forced myself to break it into a few parts instead of devouring all in one go. The prologue was kinda emotional which makes me even excited for the story.
Vincent, aka Vin or Vinny, is a beautifully broken man struggling with his addictions. Determined to start a clean life, he works extremely hard to control these addictions because it was why his only love left him. Marley's childhood was equally fucked up as well and she thinks that leaving Vin is the only way to save him from his addictions. Well, their relationship was rather toxic as well.
Fast forward 3 years later, Vin was invited to his brother's engagement party and she is none other than Marley. His Marley. Vin's brother was seriously some sly snake that made me feel like bashing the shit out of him. He treated Vin like a low life druggie but I loved how Vin constantly proved him wrong.
Vin's feelings for Marley never fades and he's so sure that Marley did not marry his brother out of love. so what exactly happened?
“Get drunk on me, Vinny,” she breathed. “Take as much as you need. Be greedy with me if it’ll help cool the burn I know is in your veins. I’m here for you.”
Her words were my undoing."
He lost her once. Now that she's back, he's not going to let her leave again. There's a perfect balance of love, angst, emotions and passion. They might be a little toxic at times, but i was rooting for them throughout. 5 stars!!
Read
May 5, 2017An all-new standalone forbidden romance coming May 18th, 2017!
I was the low life.
The screw up.
The hopeless one with no future.
He was the rich guy. The smart one. The one who had it all.
My parents admired everything he did, while I was known for being their greatest disappointment. I didn't follow the path they paved for me.
I drank, partied, and did whatever the hell I wanted. The buzz was something I couldn't live without - the fire that filled my veins after each sip always kept me running back for more.
But then I met her, and suddenly the drinks didn't matter. The parties weren't as fun. That fiery buzz came second for once.
I drowned only in her, wanting her more than I wanted to exist.
But even with her, I screwed things up.
Now, he's with the woman I love. And he may have her, but what he should know is that even with all of his money, that nice house, and his expensive cars, her mind, body, and soul will always belong to me.
And I'm not sorry about it, brother, 'cause she was mine first.
** 100 PROOF is a standalone forbidden romance. **
I was the low life.
The screw up.
The hopeless one with no future.
He was the rich guy. The smart one. The one who had it all.
My parents admired everything he did, while I was known for being their greatest disappointment. I didn't follow the path they paved for me.
I drank, partied, and did whatever the hell I wanted. The buzz was something I couldn't live without - the fire that filled my veins after each sip always kept me running back for more.
But then I met her, and suddenly the drinks didn't matter. The parties weren't as fun. That fiery buzz came second for once.
I drowned only in her, wanting her more than I wanted to exist.
But even with her, I screwed things up.
Now, he's with the woman I love. And he may have her, but what he should know is that even with all of his money, that nice house, and his expensive cars, her mind, body, and soul will always belong to me.
And I'm not sorry about it, brother, 'cause she was mine first.
** 100 PROOF is a standalone forbidden romance. **
May 7, 2017
100 PROOF
By Shanora Williams
5 Stars
Well my goodness!!!! I never thought Daddy Black would be replaced… But low and behold comes along Vinny. WOW What an emotional rollercoaster ride this one was. From the very first page to the last words on the last page I was engulfed in this story.
Vincent has had a crap of all life until that one party. The one where she was at. The way she danced, the way she was free, the way she talked to him. It’s a night that will never leave Vincent (Vinny). Three years later, she’s gone, left him at his lowest.
”I knew we were strong and rebellious. I knew we made the best love possible.”
Marley grew up in a house that was full of trouble. Always looking for the excuse to get out of the house. Whether it be a party, pulling extra shifts at the diner, anything to escape what was going on at ‘home’. When her BFF Noelle came to take her to a party, Marley never knew that this one night would change her life forever.
He was the sun, and as the helpless flower, I needed him.
He was the rain, nourishing my stem and petals, giving me life, growth, and strength.
The journey you go on with this story is one of love, hate, redemption and sacrifices. If I could give it more than 5 stars, I certainly would!!!
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By Shanora Williams
5 Stars
Well my goodness!!!! I never thought Daddy Black would be replaced… But low and behold comes along Vinny. WOW What an emotional rollercoaster ride this one was. From the very first page to the last words on the last page I was engulfed in this story.
Vincent has had a crap of all life until that one party. The one where she was at. The way she danced, the way she was free, the way she talked to him. It’s a night that will never leave Vincent (Vinny). Three years later, she’s gone, left him at his lowest.
”I knew we were strong and rebellious. I knew we made the best love possible.”
Marley grew up in a house that was full of trouble. Always looking for the excuse to get out of the house. Whether it be a party, pulling extra shifts at the diner, anything to escape what was going on at ‘home’. When her BFF Noelle came to take her to a party, Marley never knew that this one night would change her life forever.
He was the sun, and as the helpless flower, I needed him.
He was the rain, nourishing my stem and petals, giving me life, growth, and strength.
The journey you go on with this story is one of love, hate, redemption and sacrifices. If I could give it more than 5 stars, I certainly would!!!
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May 15, 2017
“What the hell are you doing to me Vinny?”
And, to this day, I still couldn’t find the answer to that complicated question.
Sweet. Intoxicating. Addictive.
Like 100 Proof Jack Whiskey.
I'm so drunk on the breathless love, the mounting passion, the painful angst that's seeping into my very pores. It's a phenomenal story about some very real, very flawed characters that are stuck in a maelstrom of life and cruel fate.
Vincent Chambers is besotted with Marlena Winters. One whiff of her sweet smell and he's a goner. Like an addict he can't get enough of her. Needs to drink from her sweet, sweet lips and body, get high on her , clutch her tight, like a drunk clutches his bottle of 100 Proof whiskey.
And then he crashes......or his entire life crashes. He goes through the painful procedure of cleansing himself...actually for her sake, it jolts him awake . To be a better man, for HER
Marley is already on a separate path. Away from Vin. She need to beat her addiction to Vinny too. away from her own drudgery of wants and needs. She HAS to sell her soul to the Devil.
But addicts are never fully cured are they ?
Vin was an addiction. He made me high with just the simple trace of his fingers, the caress of his soft lips on my skin. He intoxicated me in every way.
He was the sun, and as the helpless flower, I needed him. He was the rain, nourishing my stem and petals, giving me life, growth, and strength— giving me what his brother never could. He was like a bumblebee, sucking away my rare nectar to build his own honeycomb full of sticky, sweet passion and love. I was his whiskey and he was the glass. He needed me to fill his cup and to make him whole. He needed me just as much as I needed him, despite our differences and despite the downfalls.
Flower and bee.
Whiskey and glass.
Fire and ice.
We were unstoppable together, like a glass of 100 proof liquor.
Oh Gawwwd! The emotions and feels this story gives ...it brought goosebumps to my flesh. Frustrating at times, I wanted to jump in the story and shake Marley so hard, but I understood her dilemma. Endearing people who were victims of their bad choices. I fell in love with Vinny and his drunk sorry ass.
I fell in love with Bob Marley and her shimmying to the music while painting, ass
I fell in love with the idea of their love.
5 100 proof stars
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And, to this day, I still couldn’t find the answer to that complicated question.
Sweet. Intoxicating. Addictive.
Like 100 Proof Jack Whiskey.
I'm so drunk on the breathless love, the mounting passion, the painful angst that's seeping into my very pores. It's a phenomenal story about some very real, very flawed characters that are stuck in a maelstrom of life and cruel fate.
Vincent Chambers is besotted with Marlena Winters. One whiff of her sweet smell and he's a goner. Like an addict he can't get enough of her. Needs to drink from her sweet, sweet lips and body, get high on her , clutch her tight, like a drunk clutches his bottle of 100 Proof whiskey.
And then he crashes......or his entire life crashes. He goes through the painful procedure of cleansing himself...actually for her sake, it jolts him awake . To be a better man, for HER
Marley is already on a separate path. Away from Vin. She need to beat her addiction to Vinny too. away from her own drudgery of wants and needs. She HAS to sell her soul to the Devil.
But addicts are never fully cured are they ?
Vin was an addiction. He made me high with just the simple trace of his fingers, the caress of his soft lips on my skin. He intoxicated me in every way.
He was the sun, and as the helpless flower, I needed him. He was the rain, nourishing my stem and petals, giving me life, growth, and strength— giving me what his brother never could. He was like a bumblebee, sucking away my rare nectar to build his own honeycomb full of sticky, sweet passion and love. I was his whiskey and he was the glass. He needed me to fill his cup and to make him whole. He needed me just as much as I needed him, despite our differences and despite the downfalls.
Flower and bee.
Whiskey and glass.
Fire and ice.
We were unstoppable together, like a glass of 100 proof liquor.
Oh Gawwwd! The emotions and feels this story gives ...it brought goosebumps to my flesh. Frustrating at times, I wanted to jump in the story and shake Marley so hard, but I understood her dilemma. Endearing people who were victims of their bad choices. I fell in love with Vinny and his drunk sorry ass.
I fell in love with Bob Marley and her shimmying to the music while painting, ass
I fell in love with the idea of their love.
5 100 proof stars
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May 13, 2017
Review to come!
May 17, 2017
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review*
5 "Bob Marley" Stars!!!
I'm on such a high right now after finishing '100 Proof.' Oh goodness gracious I devoured this book. This book had my heart beating faster than usual. It had me on the edge of my seat. The emotions it brought out in me were so carnal and real. Whoa, just whoa, I mean so freakin' GOOD!!! 😩
"He was stunning—dark, beautiful, and mysterious. I was drawn to him from the very first moment I laid eyes on him. I was like a moth and he the flame, luring me in more and more with his bright, resilient aura."
Vinny and Marley meet at a party. Both trying to escape the cruelness of the world. As soon as Vinny lays eyes on her, well that's it, he's done for. The same could be said about Marley. That night is the beginning of a ravenous, raw and addicting relationship. But also, the end because nothing ever lasts, right?
Vincent (Vin, Vinny) and Marlena (Marley) are two characters that will put you through the ringer. These two will make you feel like you're in a boxing ring. With blows coming your way left and right. You will feel with a visceral force deep in the depths of your core the power that Vin and Marley are. Geez, just thinking about them brings back all those feelings I got while reading this book. I'm not going to give much away because you need to read this and experience this book in its fullest. You need to give Vinny and Marley the attention they deserve.
"We were unstoppable together, like a glass of 100 proof liquor. With liquor that strong, we could destroy anyone and anything with one spill. If we weren’t careful and ended up running into flames together, we would only fuel the blazing fire. Everything would blow up before turning to ash. Everything good would be ruined. This was a dangerous love, but the risk thrilled me. It always had. This was a stupid kind of love, but it was real. So, so real, and so, so bad."
Vincent, Vin, Vinny what the hell am I going to do with you??? OH MY GOSH UGHHHHHH!!! This damaged and imperfect man was EVERY! THING! I couldn't get enough, he had me floating on cloud 9. He was so real and so captivating. I loved Vinny Chambers to hell and back!!!
Shanora, girl I can't even right now! This book was mesmerizing, it took me on such an emotional ride. But you know what? I wouldn't change a damn thing because it was exhilarating! Thank you for giving us Vinny and Marley, especially Vinny though, he was just above and beyond!!!! Loved this book so much! Can't wait to see what you're up to next.
5 "Bob Marley" Stars!!!
I'm on such a high right now after finishing '100 Proof.' Oh goodness gracious I devoured this book. This book had my heart beating faster than usual. It had me on the edge of my seat. The emotions it brought out in me were so carnal and real. Whoa, just whoa, I mean so freakin' GOOD!!! 😩
"He was stunning—dark, beautiful, and mysterious. I was drawn to him from the very first moment I laid eyes on him. I was like a moth and he the flame, luring me in more and more with his bright, resilient aura."
Vinny and Marley meet at a party. Both trying to escape the cruelness of the world. As soon as Vinny lays eyes on her, well that's it, he's done for. The same could be said about Marley. That night is the beginning of a ravenous, raw and addicting relationship. But also, the end because nothing ever lasts, right?
Vincent (Vin, Vinny) and Marlena (Marley) are two characters that will put you through the ringer. These two will make you feel like you're in a boxing ring. With blows coming your way left and right. You will feel with a visceral force deep in the depths of your core the power that Vin and Marley are. Geez, just thinking about them brings back all those feelings I got while reading this book. I'm not going to give much away because you need to read this and experience this book in its fullest. You need to give Vinny and Marley the attention they deserve.
"We were unstoppable together, like a glass of 100 proof liquor. With liquor that strong, we could destroy anyone and anything with one spill. If we weren’t careful and ended up running into flames together, we would only fuel the blazing fire. Everything would blow up before turning to ash. Everything good would be ruined. This was a dangerous love, but the risk thrilled me. It always had. This was a stupid kind of love, but it was real. So, so real, and so, so bad."
Vincent, Vin, Vinny what the hell am I going to do with you??? OH MY GOSH UGHHHHHH!!! This damaged and imperfect man was EVERY! THING! I couldn't get enough, he had me floating on cloud 9. He was so real and so captivating. I loved Vinny Chambers to hell and back!!!
Shanora, girl I can't even right now! This book was mesmerizing, it took me on such an emotional ride. But you know what? I wouldn't change a damn thing because it was exhilarating! Thank you for giving us Vinny and Marley, especially Vinny though, he was just above and beyond!!!! Loved this book so much! Can't wait to see what you're up to next.
dnf
May 20, 2017DNF at 46%
It's never a good sign when I don't like both MCs, when I, as a reader, can't connect with them both.
The writing was good and I think this story would work for many of you.
I only explain the cheating issue: female protagonist was still engaged to male protagonist's brother and MP went down on her. There was no penetration, but it was still a sexual act!
Even THE epic love doesn't justify cheating! IMO!
I had other issues with this story, but I would prefer not to share them.
Topic of addiction is a thin line and I don't want to cross it.
It's never a good sign when I don't like both MCs, when I, as a reader, can't connect with them both.
The writing was good and I think this story would work for many of you.
I only explain the cheating issue: female protagonist was still engaged to male protagonist's brother and MP went down on her. There was no penetration, but it was still a sexual act!
Even THE epic love doesn't justify cheating! IMO!
I had other issues with this story, but I would prefer not to share them.
Topic of addiction is a thin line and I don't want to cross it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 24, 2017
100 Proof by Shanora Williams
4 stars!!!
Shanora Williams delivers a heart-breaking yet heart-warming second chance, forbidden romance with 100 Proof. Two people that loved hard but broke apart even harder. My heart shattered multiple times for the hero in this book and my character connection to him was 100 Proof. Our heroine delivers a case of tough love when these two split after a three-year relationship, yes, it was needed and yes it was warranted, but that didn’t mean it hurt any less.
Vinny was a character that lived up to the reputation he was unfairly given. If you want me to be the black sheep, I will be the black sheep and this was his way of acting out and rebelling against the people that should have loved him the most. Vinny’s relationship with his mom was perfect, he was the angel child but his father and brother despised him and made his life hell. I must admit I was intrigued as to what went wrong between the males in this family and I was glad that Shanora Williams slowly drip feed little snippets and made us wait, because it added to the intrigue.
Vinny had battled addiction, his method of forgetting was whiskey and drugs, a cocktail that destroyed his relationship with Marley. Three years Marley stood by his side, but even she had to admit defeat and put herself first for once. The relationship that these two had was perfect, in the flashbacks to the past you could see just how compatible they were, how much they loved each other and how they made each other the better person, despite the addiction. But when their paths cross two years later…all hell breaks loose!!
Yes, this is the battle of the brothers, yes, Marley had no idea they were related and that was all explained, yes, I hated the brother and the more and more time Marley spent with him the more I began to despise her. I did realise that Marley was stuck between a rock and a hard place, but come on…this was brutal.
The back and forth and the not knowing of what the hell was going to happen was infuriating, but was testament to this author’s writing ability and her apparent knack of dangling the carrot while she pulls your strings like a puppet master. Despite the length of this book this was a quick read and one where I couldn’t turn the pages quick enough. The flashbacks to the past were extremely welcome and gave the reader an insight into their back story but I was still desperate to get back to the present because that was where all the interesting stuff was happening.
While I found the end result predictable, because I expected it from the very beginning it didn’t matter, I was more interested in the how. The back story on Vinny and his brother and father was what threw me for a doozy and that part I never saw coming, especially “what happened.” This was a great read, one that I thoroughly enjoyed and although I didn’t love Marley, I appreciated the situation that she found herself in.
www.theromancecover.com
4 stars!!!
“He could have everything else, but he wasn’t keeping her.”
Shanora Williams delivers a heart-breaking yet heart-warming second chance, forbidden romance with 100 Proof. Two people that loved hard but broke apart even harder. My heart shattered multiple times for the hero in this book and my character connection to him was 100 Proof. Our heroine delivers a case of tough love when these two split after a three-year relationship, yes, it was needed and yes it was warranted, but that didn’t mean it hurt any less.
“She was my kryptonite, but also my strength. She gave my life meaning—for a while, anyway.”
Vinny was a character that lived up to the reputation he was unfairly given. If you want me to be the black sheep, I will be the black sheep and this was his way of acting out and rebelling against the people that should have loved him the most. Vinny’s relationship with his mom was perfect, he was the angel child but his father and brother despised him and made his life hell. I must admit I was intrigued as to what went wrong between the males in this family and I was glad that Shanora Williams slowly drip feed little snippets and made us wait, because it added to the intrigue.
“And you are my world—have always been mine, since the moment we met. Which is more important?”
Vinny had battled addiction, his method of forgetting was whiskey and drugs, a cocktail that destroyed his relationship with Marley. Three years Marley stood by his side, but even she had to admit defeat and put herself first for once. The relationship that these two had was perfect, in the flashbacks to the past you could see just how compatible they were, how much they loved each other and how they made each other the better person, despite the addiction. But when their paths cross two years later…all hell breaks loose!!
“Addictions are bad habits that are hard to let go of. That’s why you have to live without me, Vinny. I don’t want to be the one to destroy you, and I can’t let you destroy me. Not again.”
Yes, this is the battle of the brothers, yes, Marley had no idea they were related and that was all explained, yes, I hated the brother and the more and more time Marley spent with him the more I began to despise her. I did realise that Marley was stuck between a rock and a hard place, but come on…this was brutal.
“This was a dangerous love, but the risk thrilled me. It always had. This was a stupid kind of love, but it was real. So, so real, and so, so bad.”
The back and forth and the not knowing of what the hell was going to happen was infuriating, but was testament to this author’s writing ability and her apparent knack of dangling the carrot while she pulls your strings like a puppet master. Despite the length of this book this was a quick read and one where I couldn’t turn the pages quick enough. The flashbacks to the past were extremely welcome and gave the reader an insight into their back story but I was still desperate to get back to the present because that was where all the interesting stuff was happening.
“I missed his touch. I missed his lips. I missed everything about him, and I hated myself for it.”
While I found the end result predictable, because I expected it from the very beginning it didn’t matter, I was more interested in the how. The back story on Vinny and his brother and father was what threw me for a doozy and that part I never saw coming, especially “what happened.” This was a great read, one that I thoroughly enjoyed and although I didn’t love Marley, I appreciated the situation that she found herself in.
www.theromancecover.com
May 11, 2017
I am SO in love with this story.
Vin and Marley have been each other’s addiction since they met at a party. In the beginning, it was all about having fun, getting high and hooking up. They would find solace in each other and escape from their crappy lives for a minute. It was working for a while until that addiction became the thing that tears them apart.
Vinny comes from a rich family but he’s considered the black sheep. He was doing very well playing football, on his way to college until the cruel, vindictive acts of others ruined his future. This eventually leads him to indulge in booze and drugs….and later, Marley.
Marley is stuck in a horrible home life with an abusive father and a submissive mother. Her situation is so intolerable that she will do anything to spend less and less time in that house, like work at the diner, party, etc. Vinny is the perfect distraction. They end up feeling more than they expected for each other. But even that is not enough to prevent Marley from walking away after one too many times of dealing with Vinny’s progressively worsening addiction. Vinny is crushed and decides to once and for all clean up his act so he can win her back. Three years later, it seems he has straigtened out only to be blindsighted when he sees Marley again in the most unexpected places. Marley has moved on and is getting married. Vinny is about to get the shock of his life.
This story is full of everything…angst, drama, love, hate, redemption. Shanora always makes me go through every emotion in her stories. Vinny’s torture over seeing the woman he loves with another man and his struggle to stay sober was so real that I wanted to cry for him. Marley’s situation was so intense because her feelings for Vinny were still there and yet she promised to marry Lloyd because he was safe and could provide for her. Vinny and Marley’s story was beautifully written and the back and forth between past and present was calculated very precisely to make the reader understand the reasoning behind certain events. The secondary characters were so incredibly hateful except for Vinny’s mom, who genuinely loved him. That ending was so completely satisfying and awesome. This is why Shanora Williams is one of my favorite authors. Her stories take you along for an emotional, very bumpy ride with a great reward at the end.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this story.
Vin and Marley have been each other’s addiction since they met at a party. In the beginning, it was all about having fun, getting high and hooking up. They would find solace in each other and escape from their crappy lives for a minute. It was working for a while until that addiction became the thing that tears them apart.
Vinny comes from a rich family but he’s considered the black sheep. He was doing very well playing football, on his way to college until the cruel, vindictive acts of others ruined his future. This eventually leads him to indulge in booze and drugs….and later, Marley.
Marley is stuck in a horrible home life with an abusive father and a submissive mother. Her situation is so intolerable that she will do anything to spend less and less time in that house, like work at the diner, party, etc. Vinny is the perfect distraction. They end up feeling more than they expected for each other. But even that is not enough to prevent Marley from walking away after one too many times of dealing with Vinny’s progressively worsening addiction. Vinny is crushed and decides to once and for all clean up his act so he can win her back. Three years later, it seems he has straigtened out only to be blindsighted when he sees Marley again in the most unexpected places. Marley has moved on and is getting married. Vinny is about to get the shock of his life.
This story is full of everything…angst, drama, love, hate, redemption. Shanora always makes me go through every emotion in her stories. Vinny’s torture over seeing the woman he loves with another man and his struggle to stay sober was so real that I wanted to cry for him. Marley’s situation was so intense because her feelings for Vinny were still there and yet she promised to marry Lloyd because he was safe and could provide for her. Vinny and Marley’s story was beautifully written and the back and forth between past and present was calculated very precisely to make the reader understand the reasoning behind certain events. The secondary characters were so incredibly hateful except for Vinny’s mom, who genuinely loved him. That ending was so completely satisfying and awesome. This is why Shanora Williams is one of my favorite authors. Her stories take you along for an emotional, very bumpy ride with a great reward at the end.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this story.
May 19, 2017
Shanora Williams is my go to author for angst ridden, emotional , passionate romance reads and she delivers yet again. What an emotional rollercoaster ride this one was. Marley and Vinny were together but they were torn apart all due to his addiction and that addiction cost him Marley. When they break up, it will be years before they end up seeing each other again.
Vincent has had a pretty bad life, always made to feel like he was unwanted, the bad seed in his mother’s marriage and her 2nd son is the favored one. After he lost Marley, Vin is trying to change and he has but to his family, he is still the unwanted outcast to them. He gets an invite to his brother’s wedding and instead of refusing to go, he makes one last attempt to befriend his brother. When he returns home for the wedding Vin is in for a big surprise and a terrible Heartbreak is on the horizon.
Marley was already her away from Vin when he was spiraling downwards into a huge crash from the drugs. She loved him but she needed to get far away. Away from Vin and her addiction to him. Now 3 years later, she has moved on and is getting married. But life is about to give her a swift kick and a huge shock when the true love of her life comes back and comes face to face with whom her new fiancée is.
There are many secrets, many twists and turns that keep you on your toes with this book. It is one angst ridden, emotional rife story that is a 2nd chance love story. You get to see the love of Vin and Marley. Their heartbreak, their angst , their demons yet at the same time we get to see their passions, their love and their hope for one another. I want to say I truly had some hate for Vin’s step father and I wanted to smack his mother for being so blind or just not protective. What I can say is it was wonderful to read this beautiful and touching story of overcoming your past to end up with a bright and HEA future. This is one book that you have to read, to experience.
My Rating: 4.9 stars *****
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***
Vincent has had a pretty bad life, always made to feel like he was unwanted, the bad seed in his mother’s marriage and her 2nd son is the favored one. After he lost Marley, Vin is trying to change and he has but to his family, he is still the unwanted outcast to them. He gets an invite to his brother’s wedding and instead of refusing to go, he makes one last attempt to befriend his brother. When he returns home for the wedding Vin is in for a big surprise and a terrible Heartbreak is on the horizon.
Marley was already her away from Vin when he was spiraling downwards into a huge crash from the drugs. She loved him but she needed to get far away. Away from Vin and her addiction to him. Now 3 years later, she has moved on and is getting married. But life is about to give her a swift kick and a huge shock when the true love of her life comes back and comes face to face with whom her new fiancée is.
There are many secrets, many twists and turns that keep you on your toes with this book. It is one angst ridden, emotional rife story that is a 2nd chance love story. You get to see the love of Vin and Marley. Their heartbreak, their angst , their demons yet at the same time we get to see their passions, their love and their hope for one another. I want to say I truly had some hate for Vin’s step father and I wanted to smack his mother for being so blind or just not protective. What I can say is it was wonderful to read this beautiful and touching story of overcoming your past to end up with a bright and HEA future. This is one book that you have to read, to experience.
My Rating: 4.9 stars *****
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***
May 26, 2017
3.5 BOB MARLEY STARS!
100 Proof has the perfect dose of heartache, right from the beginning Shanora Williams will have your heart racing, luring you with just the blurb alone with this one!
This story had the perfect momentum going but my main issue was the utter dislike I felt for some of the characters and the lack of connection to the heroine. I really tried to like her, but her thoughts and actions gave me whiplash.
The only saving grace was Vincent. He's just a gorgeous and sexy man who grew from what he was at the start of the book, all the way to the last page. Vin fought for what he wanted. He didn't let the negativity bring him down and in my eyes, that's what made him such a strong character.
100 Proof was well written with a memorable plot, but I just couldn't find that spark I needed. Regardless, this will not deter me from reading more books from Shanora Williams. Just because this book wasn't my cup of tea doesn't mean it can't be yours!
*AN ARC WAS KINDLY PROVIDED IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW.*
100 Proof has the perfect dose of heartache, right from the beginning Shanora Williams will have your heart racing, luring you with just the blurb alone with this one!
This story had the perfect momentum going but my main issue was the utter dislike I felt for some of the characters and the lack of connection to the heroine. I really tried to like her, but her thoughts and actions gave me whiplash.
The only saving grace was Vincent. He's just a gorgeous and sexy man who grew from what he was at the start of the book, all the way to the last page. Vin fought for what he wanted. He didn't let the negativity bring him down and in my eyes, that's what made him such a strong character.
100 Proof was well written with a memorable plot, but I just couldn't find that spark I needed. Regardless, this will not deter me from reading more books from Shanora Williams. Just because this book wasn't my cup of tea doesn't mean it can't be yours!
*AN ARC WAS KINDLY PROVIDED IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW.*
May 26, 2017
This review was originally posted on Cocktails and Books
Enter review text here...
100 Proof, an all-new taboo STANDALONE romance from Shanora Williams is available now!
Excerpt:
Breakfast was supposed to be happening in less than thirty minutes. I couldn’t bail on Vin. He would have taken it personally. I figured filling him in in person would be okay.
I wouldn’t even eat with him. I’d let him know what was going on and tell him he should schedule a flight back home as soon as he wanted to.
I collected my keys and my clutch before I could process my thoughts, but as I climbed into my car and started it up, driving away from our two-story brick home, I realized I wasn’t doing this for Vin’s benefit.
I was doing it for mine.
I wanted to see him again.
I wanted to know what was really going on with him.
I wanted updates on him and Zay. About California, period. I wanted to see if he’d changed at all—or if he was just giving the impression of it to try and win me over again. Not that he could, but he would try.
I knew this was stupid. I should have cancelled, like Lloyd said. By going to meet him—alone—I was asking for something to happen. I was secretly hoping to feel a connection again, but in the heat of the moment, I wasn’t exactly sure what that something was.
I drove with racing thoughts, wondering what I’d say—what I’d do. Do I hug him when I first see him? Do I shake his hand and pretend to be formal? Do I treat him like my future brother-in-law or as my former love?
I had no clue, but, still, I didn’t stop. I kept going until I was pulling into the parking lot of the busy restaurant and parking the car.
I didn’t fully breathe as I climbed out, didn’t stop moving as I walked towards the entrance. I didn’t fill my lungs with air until I saw him standing in the waiting area, wearing a navy blue T-shirt that clung to his firm upper body, dark wash jeans sitting low and snug on his hips, and his hair a beautiful, chaotic mess. The veins bulged on his arms, the very ones I used to have no problem tracing with the tip of my tongue.
My pulse roared.
And then it hit me.
This was exactly what I wanted to feel.
The electricity between us—the fire that could torch anything that stood in its way. I wanted to witness his smoldering eyes drinking me in, like I was the most beautiful woman in the world.
Lloyd had never given me this look. He had never stared for so long, like he would tear my clothes off right where we stood, no matter who was watching.
My throat tightened.
My core clenched.
But I pretended none of it was happening to me as I walked forward to meet him.
Read now FREE in Kindle Unlimited!
Shanora Williams is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author who loves writing about flawed heroes and resilient heroines. She is a believer that love outweighs all, but doesn’t have a problem making her characters fight for their happily ever after.
She currently lives in Charlotte, North Carolina and is the mother of two amazing boys, has a fiercely devoted and supportive man, and is a sister to eleven.
When she isn’t writing, she’s spending time with her family, binge reading, or running marathons on Netflix while scarfing down chocolate chip cookies.
Connect with Shanora:
Enter review text here...
100 Proof, an all-new taboo STANDALONE romance from Shanora Williams is available now!
Excerpt:
Breakfast was supposed to be happening in less than thirty minutes. I couldn’t bail on Vin. He would have taken it personally. I figured filling him in in person would be okay.
I wouldn’t even eat with him. I’d let him know what was going on and tell him he should schedule a flight back home as soon as he wanted to.
I collected my keys and my clutch before I could process my thoughts, but as I climbed into my car and started it up, driving away from our two-story brick home, I realized I wasn’t doing this for Vin’s benefit.
I was doing it for mine.
I wanted to see him again.
I wanted to know what was really going on with him.
I wanted updates on him and Zay. About California, period. I wanted to see if he’d changed at all—or if he was just giving the impression of it to try and win me over again. Not that he could, but he would try.
I knew this was stupid. I should have cancelled, like Lloyd said. By going to meet him—alone—I was asking for something to happen. I was secretly hoping to feel a connection again, but in the heat of the moment, I wasn’t exactly sure what that something was.
I drove with racing thoughts, wondering what I’d say—what I’d do. Do I hug him when I first see him? Do I shake his hand and pretend to be formal? Do I treat him like my future brother-in-law or as my former love?
I had no clue, but, still, I didn’t stop. I kept going until I was pulling into the parking lot of the busy restaurant and parking the car.
I didn’t fully breathe as I climbed out, didn’t stop moving as I walked towards the entrance. I didn’t fill my lungs with air until I saw him standing in the waiting area, wearing a navy blue T-shirt that clung to his firm upper body, dark wash jeans sitting low and snug on his hips, and his hair a beautiful, chaotic mess. The veins bulged on his arms, the very ones I used to have no problem tracing with the tip of my tongue.
My pulse roared.
And then it hit me.
This was exactly what I wanted to feel.
The electricity between us—the fire that could torch anything that stood in its way. I wanted to witness his smoldering eyes drinking me in, like I was the most beautiful woman in the world.
Lloyd had never given me this look. He had never stared for so long, like he would tear my clothes off right where we stood, no matter who was watching.
My throat tightened.
My core clenched.
But I pretended none of it was happening to me as I walked forward to meet him.
Read now FREE in Kindle Unlimited!
Amazon US: http://amzn.to/2rqMlF7
Amazon UK: https://goo.gl/raO9lJ
Amazon CA: https://goo.gl/ssP4wc
Amazon AU: https://goo.gl/3u4v15
Add to GoodReads: https://goo.gl/sXLP4b
Shanora Williams is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author who loves writing about flawed heroes and resilient heroines. She is a believer that love outweighs all, but doesn’t have a problem making her characters fight for their happily ever after.
She currently lives in Charlotte, North Carolina and is the mother of two amazing boys, has a fiercely devoted and supportive man, and is a sister to eleven.
When she isn’t writing, she’s spending time with her family, binge reading, or running marathons on Netflix while scarfing down chocolate chip cookies.
Connect with Shanora:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShanoraWilliamsAuthor/
Twitter: @shanorawilliams
Instagram @reallyshanora
Stay in touch with Shanora by signing up for her newsletter:
December 19, 2022
this was straight up messy. the heroine doesn't even know what she wants for most of the time. she loves vin, but tries to convince herself that she hates him and still won't call off the wedding even though it's so obvious they both want to. plus this book was spent on the push and pull between them, they literally don't get together until the 95% of the book. neither characters stayed celibate during their seperation which was okay by me. i'm just glad i'm finally done with this book and never have to read it again.
June 1, 2022
Cheating fucking trope
May 25, 2017
***ARC Provided by the Author and Social Butterfly PR***
This is my first title by this author, and I was drawn to it as another author I love was reading and talking about it. I love when this works out and I find a new author. I will definitely be reading future works by this author, as I was drawn in by the writing style and the story she told about Vin and Marley.
There were parts that seemed a little coincidental or farfetched, but life is like this sometimes, so it wasn't anything I couldn't get past.
Vin and Marley have a history, and it was full of things that you don't want to bring into adulthood, addiction and a little bit of family drama that was creating the need to rebel in any way that they could. Understandably, this destroyed the relationship they had years ago and turned it into something that was toxic.
Fast forward a few years, and we have a man and a woman who have put their lives together rather well. He is sober, she is engaged to his brother. And, that really doesn't work for either of them.
The story does have a very small amount of cheating, but it is written in such a way that you are able to get past it. You are helped in this by the fact that the brother is a jerk and you really like Vin.
This is one of those stories that are all about the plot and the characters, so saying too much will leave you with a lot of spoilers, so I am going to keep this fairly short and say that I recommend this book.
This is my first title by this author, and I was drawn to it as another author I love was reading and talking about it. I love when this works out and I find a new author. I will definitely be reading future works by this author, as I was drawn in by the writing style and the story she told about Vin and Marley.
There were parts that seemed a little coincidental or farfetched, but life is like this sometimes, so it wasn't anything I couldn't get past.
Vin and Marley have a history, and it was full of things that you don't want to bring into adulthood, addiction and a little bit of family drama that was creating the need to rebel in any way that they could. Understandably, this destroyed the relationship they had years ago and turned it into something that was toxic.
Fast forward a few years, and we have a man and a woman who have put their lives together rather well. He is sober, she is engaged to his brother. And, that really doesn't work for either of them.
The story does have a very small amount of cheating, but it is written in such a way that you are able to get past it. You are helped in this by the fact that the brother is a jerk and you really like Vin.
This is one of those stories that are all about the plot and the characters, so saying too much will leave you with a lot of spoilers, so I am going to keep this fairly short and say that I recommend this book.
May 25, 2017
100 Proof
by Shanora Williams
This was my first read by this author. I was super excited to get my hands on this book, as it has been hyped up among my FB friends. Unfortunately, during my reading and upon completion, I was unable to share in their enthusiasm for this particular reading experience.
SPOILERY RANT TO FOLLOW! PROCEED WITH CAUTION IF YOU HAVE NOT YET READ THIS BOOK!
This is the love story of Vincent and Marlena, affectionately known to each other as Vin and Marley. They initially come together through their shared destructiveness via drugs and alcohol. However, in the Prologue, we see that Vin is in rehab and that Marley has come to visit him to let him know that she would no longer be visiting him. This is Vin's rock bottom, losing Marley. So he gets out of rehab and vows to stay clean and get better. Then we are fast-forwarded 2-1/2 years into the present. We see that Vin is coping as a recovering addict, but that he has been in constant search of Marley for the past 2+ years. Later, he is invited to his mother's home so that he can be introduced to his younger brother Lloyd's fiancée, who so happens to be Marley. I'm on board with this story until this happens: Sitting at the family dinner table, Lloyd begins to retell the story of how he and Marley met, during an international flight to Beijing two years ago. And all I could think was, “Really, bitch?? The goddamn sheets had not even cooled from Vin yet, and you were already moving on 6 months later from a fucking intense, all-consuming 3-year relationship?? WOW!!” So that was the beginning of the end for me with this book. I decided right then and there that I officially HATED Marley. I lost all respect, sympathy, and empathy for her. Not to mention the fact that she was sleeping with two brothers, having unprotected, no-condom sex with both of them. She was officially on my Shit List. No question.
Not only that, but absolutely everyone in Vin's life let him down and disappointed him in some way in this book.
1- Obviously Marley, as she was engaged to Vin's brother for money and security. But that didn't keep her from messing with Vin's head and heart and coming around to lead him around by his balls. She did this CONSTANTLY. Regardless of the fact that she knew that he was madly in love with her and that her being engaged to his fucking brother was ripping his heart out day-by-day, she continued to lead him on. She would blow into his life, fuck with him, both metaphorically and literally, then she would ghost like nothing ever happened. She never missed the opportunity to remind Vin that he always made bad decisions and that Lloyd was “safe,” even though the latter was cheating on her in the home and bed that they shared. Long before the time that the cheating revelation came about, I had already decided that I gave zero fucks for Marley and her well-being. She meant absolutely nothing to me because of the way that she kept treating Vin. Total bitch.
2- Zay: His drunken words that were carelessly thrown at Vin when the two guys were out shooting pool with Marley. I didn't appreciate that scene at all, and I liked it even less that I never read where Zay apologized for the way that he spoke to Vin, who was supposed to be his best friend.
3- Lloyd: Despicable human being. Chapter 30 says it all.
4- William Harris, Vin's stepfather: An even more despicable human being. Chapter 30 says it all.
5- Becks, Vin's mother: She disappointed me that she believed William and Lloyd over Vin about what happened to Vin that night. I liked her up until Chapter 30, then I lost all respect for her, too.
Safety Gang Notes:
Possible Trigger #1:
Possible Trigger #2:
Possible Trigger #3:
Overall, I'd say that this was not wholly a bad read. It was angsty for sure, reminding me of Kandi Steiner's A Love Letter to Whiskey. But my reading enjoyment was definitely clouded by my own personal case of Epic Heroine Hate. I hated Marley more and more as each page turned.
The only reason why this one got 2 stars from me instead of 1 star, was because of Vin.
This was my first read by this author. I was super excited to get my hands on this book, as it has been hyped up among my FB friends. Unfortunately, during my reading and upon completion, I was unable to share in their enthusiasm for this particular reading experience.
SPOILERY RANT TO FOLLOW! PROCEED WITH CAUTION IF YOU HAVE NOT YET READ THIS BOOK!
This is the love story of Vincent and Marlena, affectionately known to each other as Vin and Marley. They initially come together through their shared destructiveness via drugs and alcohol. However, in the Prologue, we see that Vin is in rehab and that Marley has come to visit him to let him know that she would no longer be visiting him. This is Vin's rock bottom, losing Marley. So he gets out of rehab and vows to stay clean and get better. Then we are fast-forwarded 2-1/2 years into the present. We see that Vin is coping as a recovering addict, but that he has been in constant search of Marley for the past 2+ years. Later, he is invited to his mother's home so that he can be introduced to his younger brother Lloyd's fiancée, who so happens to be Marley. I'm on board with this story until this happens: Sitting at the family dinner table, Lloyd begins to retell the story of how he and Marley met, during an international flight to Beijing two years ago. And all I could think was, “Really, bitch?? The goddamn sheets had not even cooled from Vin yet, and you were already moving on 6 months later from a fucking intense, all-consuming 3-year relationship?? WOW!!” So that was the beginning of the end for me with this book. I decided right then and there that I officially HATED Marley. I lost all respect, sympathy, and empathy for her. Not to mention the fact that she was sleeping with two brothers, having unprotected, no-condom sex with both of them. She was officially on my Shit List. No question.
Not only that, but absolutely everyone in Vin's life let him down and disappointed him in some way in this book.
1- Obviously Marley, as she was engaged to Vin's brother for money and security. But that didn't keep her from messing with Vin's head and heart and coming around to lead him around by his balls. She did this CONSTANTLY. Regardless of the fact that she knew that he was madly in love with her and that her being engaged to his fucking brother was ripping his heart out day-by-day, she continued to lead him on. She would blow into his life, fuck with him, both metaphorically and literally, then she would ghost like nothing ever happened. She never missed the opportunity to remind Vin that he always made bad decisions and that Lloyd was “safe,” even though the latter was cheating on her in the home and bed that they shared. Long before the time that the cheating revelation came about, I had already decided that I gave zero fucks for Marley and her well-being. She meant absolutely nothing to me because of the way that she kept treating Vin. Total bitch.
2- Zay: His drunken words that were carelessly thrown at Vin when the two guys were out shooting pool with Marley. I didn't appreciate that scene at all, and I liked it even less that I never read where Zay apologized for the way that he spoke to Vin, who was supposed to be his best friend.
3- Lloyd: Despicable human being. Chapter 30 says it all.
4- William Harris, Vin's stepfather: An even more despicable human being. Chapter 30 says it all.
5- Becks, Vin's mother: She disappointed me that she believed William and Lloyd over Vin about what happened to Vin that night. I liked her up until Chapter 30, then I lost all respect for her, too.
Safety Gang Notes:
Possible Trigger #1:
Possible Trigger #2:
Possible Trigger #3:
Overall, I'd say that this was not wholly a bad read. It was angsty for sure, reminding me of Kandi Steiner's A Love Letter to Whiskey. But my reading enjoyment was definitely clouded by my own personal case of Epic Heroine Hate. I hated Marley more and more as each page turned.
The only reason why this one got 2 stars from me instead of 1 star, was because of Vin.
May 21, 2017
This is the first book I have read by this author and I really enjoyed it.
I was team Vin from the first few chapters. the characters were enjoyable especially in the 2nd half of the story which, for me, is where the book really came into its own.
I was team Vin from the first few chapters. the characters were enjoyable especially in the 2nd half of the story which, for me, is where the book really came into its own.
May 25, 2017
First time reading this author, but now that I know, it won't be the last. Easy read, emotional but griping plot with all the feels!! I really enjoyed this book!!
eta- I LOVE the author's playlist for this book!!
eta- I LOVE the author's playlist for this book!!
June 8, 2017
Thanks to Shabby & Laura from BookBistroBlog for introducing me to this author and their reviews. Addiction is horrible be it alcohcol, drugs, love, lust, etc... This story proves all that and more.
May 16, 2017
WOW.
One word that summarises how I am feeling after reading this book. The topic of drugs and alcohol abuse is always a delicate one and is specially difficult when putting it in a book as a backdrop of a story. I don't think there is anyone out there that hasn't been affected or been involved in the use into of these substances or addictions. In my case this book came at a time when I am sadly witnessing someone very close to me going through the difficult experience of going into rehab. So saying this I was a bit weary at first as to how this story was going to pan out and if it was going to be all fun and games or not taken seriously. I am glad to say the Author conveyed in a very deep way the feelings of those into drugs, in recovery and the family and friends that surround them.
Without going into a very deep discussion of the book, this was also a complete page turner and once I started reading I just couldn't nor wanted to put it down.
Marley has to make a tough decision of walking away from her one true love in order to get her life back on track and avoid falling into the abyss that has been her upbringing. She has seen what the use of illegal substances and alcohol can do to a person. With her heart in pieces she moves away from everything and starts a new job.
Vin sees his life begin to crumble the day he has to watch the woman he loves walk away. As the black sheep of the family he has never cared what people think and he has lived to excess. The day he met Marleena was the day he finally had something good, but soon the constant party life takes him on a downhill spiral that drives him to make mistakes pushing him to get clean. As time passes by, he realises that getting help was the easy part, loosing Marley to his nemesis and winning her back is where the real battle begins.
This book was very special, it had it's dark and sad moments but also some good humour and plenty of off the chart steamy scenes.
I thoroughly enjoyed Shanora's writing, is well structured, with great fluidity and unforgettable characters, making it a read which will stay with me for a long time.
I received an ARC in exchange of an honest review.
5 ADDICTIVE STARS. Jo&Isalovebooks.
One word that summarises how I am feeling after reading this book. The topic of drugs and alcohol abuse is always a delicate one and is specially difficult when putting it in a book as a backdrop of a story. I don't think there is anyone out there that hasn't been affected or been involved in the use into of these substances or addictions. In my case this book came at a time when I am sadly witnessing someone very close to me going through the difficult experience of going into rehab. So saying this I was a bit weary at first as to how this story was going to pan out and if it was going to be all fun and games or not taken seriously. I am glad to say the Author conveyed in a very deep way the feelings of those into drugs, in recovery and the family and friends that surround them.
Without going into a very deep discussion of the book, this was also a complete page turner and once I started reading I just couldn't nor wanted to put it down.
Marley has to make a tough decision of walking away from her one true love in order to get her life back on track and avoid falling into the abyss that has been her upbringing. She has seen what the use of illegal substances and alcohol can do to a person. With her heart in pieces she moves away from everything and starts a new job.
Vin sees his life begin to crumble the day he has to watch the woman he loves walk away. As the black sheep of the family he has never cared what people think and he has lived to excess. The day he met Marleena was the day he finally had something good, but soon the constant party life takes him on a downhill spiral that drives him to make mistakes pushing him to get clean. As time passes by, he realises that getting help was the easy part, loosing Marley to his nemesis and winning her back is where the real battle begins.
This book was very special, it had it's dark and sad moments but also some good humour and plenty of off the chart steamy scenes.
I thoroughly enjoyed Shanora's writing, is well structured, with great fluidity and unforgettable characters, making it a read which will stay with me for a long time.
I received an ARC in exchange of an honest review.
5 ADDICTIVE STARS. Jo&Isalovebooks.
May 18, 2017
I had a love hate relationship with this one.
Don't get me wrong, the book is really good but at one point sort of got on my nerves and I started to hate Marley. I probably missed the point but I'm here to give an honest review and I felt like Marley was veering on the edge of cruel.
Yes, Vin had screwed up, many times but what she did was no better, she got him where it could nearly kill him.
"Yes, I love you. But I have to marry someone else, but I need to forget, but I need to pay the bills, but I still need to forget, but Lloyd is safe" give me a break. I was like: make up your goddam mind, idiot!!!!!
Don't get me started on Vincent's mother, I can't even, talk about being oblivious to everything. I can't. I can't with fricken Becks.
The book itself is very well written and the plot is strong, I just didn't love it that much. I couldn't comprehend or grasp why Marley was that way towards someone who didn't do nothing that love her.
Don't get me wrong, the book is really good but at one point sort of got on my nerves and I started to hate Marley. I probably missed the point but I'm here to give an honest review and I felt like Marley was veering on the edge of cruel.
Yes, Vin had screwed up, many times but what she did was no better, she got him where it could nearly kill him.
"Yes, I love you. But I have to marry someone else, but I need to forget, but I need to pay the bills, but I still need to forget, but Lloyd is safe" give me a break. I was like: make up your goddam mind, idiot!!!!!
Don't get me started on Vincent's mother, I can't even, talk about being oblivious to everything. I can't. I can't with fricken Becks.
The book itself is very well written and the plot is strong, I just didn't love it that much. I couldn't comprehend or grasp why Marley was that way towards someone who didn't do nothing that love her.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 17, 2019
I enjoyed the last bit
This book was a tough one for me... I struggled with connecting with the characters, their background. The story felt repetitive to me. I don't know maybe it's the book funk I've been in.
The last few chaptersl is what earned the 3 star rating. They were what I hoped this entire book would be captivating and seductive.
This book was a tough one for me... I struggled with connecting with the characters, their background. The story felt repetitive to me. I don't know maybe it's the book funk I've been in.
The last few chaptersl is what earned the 3 star rating. They were what I hoped this entire book would be captivating and seductive.
February 2, 2020
Why oh why didn't I read this sooner loved it
June 5, 2017
A solid 4 star review. I really enjoyed Vin's journey in this story. I loved to see him overcome his demons and regardless of what happened with Marley you knew he would be ok because he had done so well for himself this time around. Vin was a struggling addict in the past and when he met Marley they seemed to be the perfect match. They loved fierce and fast yet in ways they brought out the worst in each other. They had a heartbreaking story but they both managed to move on and better themselves. Sadly for Vin he did so thinking he could one day win Marley back. His family life was never great. his mom loved and smothered him yet his step-dad was horrible and his younger brother turned from best bro to enemy in the blink of an eye. We don't know that whole story until deep in but the resentment and distance is there. Vin's brother is engaged to be married and to please their mother he asks Vin to be his best man and get involved with all the planning and fun. When Vin returns home to meet his brothers fiance the twist comes into play and you will question how long the past can stay hidden and who's truth will come out first. Lloyd is an ugly person , once it comes to light why Marley is so intent on marrying him I guess I can get it BUT he is mean and nasty so the fact that she is with him at all is a turn off for her character. Marley also had a crap childhood so it is complicated for her trying to do what she needs to do for her mother and what she should do for her happiness. The web is spun , the lies and secrets begin to build and you know it is only a matter of time before someone sends it all spiraling out of control. Will there be an HEA for Marley and Vin or will Lloyd get what he wants as his father always does ??
July 13, 2017
The book started out so good. But I soon lost interest. And that's the biggest shame of all, I know what S. Williams can do. "Tainted Black" is one of my all-time-favorite books. Where did the story go downhill for me? It bugged me to no end, that I couldn't figure that out for a long time. But ultimately, I simply anticipated a lot more on the lines of "forbidden". Nowadays, every author and their dog just shelf their books as forbidden, simply to get more people to read and talk about it. But that doesn't mean it was forbidden. There was cheating in the book and a whole lot of dubious decisions. But nothing forbidden. Sigh.
And the fact that it took the heroine almost the whole book to pull her head out of her bottom made the final nail in the coffin for me. The whole story long, we had been teased with stuff that was oh so important but have never been told WHAT it was, so the characters could have moved on and worked something out. Nope. Instead, the author decided to make a naive doormat out of the heroine and tag us readers along for all of 91% of the book, not knowing what the heck caused all this drama in the first place, the characters couldn't seem to move on from. And then suddenly - at the 91% mark - BAM. We're told everything at once. And then - tada, big surprise - a rushed and long overdue happy ending. I just couldn't bring myself to give a damn about it at this point anymore.
I'm sorry if my review sounds harsh, but I just try to justify why I couldn't rate the book of an amazing author, who's writing I adore, any highter than 2,5 stars. But those are my reasons and I can only finish this rant with I can recommend this book none the less, because maybe it was a case of it's me, not you. And that I will definitely check out the author's future books. Nope, not giving up so fast haha
And the fact that it took the heroine almost the whole book to pull her head out of her bottom made the final nail in the coffin for me. The whole story long, we had been teased with stuff that was oh so important but have never been told WHAT it was, so the characters could have moved on and worked something out. Nope. Instead, the author decided to make a naive doormat out of the heroine and tag us readers along for all of 91% of the book, not knowing what the heck caused all this drama in the first place, the characters couldn't seem to move on from. And then suddenly - at the 91% mark - BAM. We're told everything at once. And then - tada, big surprise - a rushed and long overdue happy ending. I just couldn't bring myself to give a damn about it at this point anymore.
I'm sorry if my review sounds harsh, but I just try to justify why I couldn't rate the book of an amazing author, who's writing I adore, any highter than 2,5 stars. But those are my reasons and I can only finish this rant with I can recommend this book none the less, because maybe it was a case of it's me, not you. And that I will definitely check out the author's future books. Nope, not giving up so fast haha
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