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Fairy Tales Unleashed
In the world of fairy tales, being wicked has never felt so good…
Bargain with the Beast
Desperate to keep her neighborhood community center open, Gwendolyn Sinclair seeks out Xavier St. James, her childhood friend…and brother of her dead fiancé. Xavier possesses the funds necessary to keep the center open, but he offers another bargain—a devil’s submit her body to his pleasure for seven days and the building doesn’t close its doors.
Left scarred from an accident, Xavier is bitter, resentful and alone. When Gwendolyn reappears in his life, need and loneliness overrides conscience and he proposes an arrangement she can’t afford to refuse. With the woman he has always wanted—but could never have—finally in his bed, he hungers for more. Her heart. But could she come to love a beast?
A Perfect Fit
For no-nonsense, less-than-warm Rowyn Jeong, being labeled the plainer, wicked stepsister has never bothered her…until Darius Fiore reappears in her life. Months ago, they indulged in a hot one-night stand, and the sexy business tycoon branded her like no man had before. But his return threatens her position within her stepfather's company, and he’s the man her stepsister Cindy has within her sights—and hands.
Behind closed doors, Daruis discovered more lay beneath Rowyn’s hard exterior than the ice queen she presents to her family. Now, he understands the aloof reserve. Her family’s disregard has left her hungry for love and acceptance. But breaking down her walls will be no easy task. Especially since his presence threatens everything she’s worked so hard to achieve.
Beware. These aren’t your mother’s bedtime stories…
Author The erotic romance novellas included in this set--Bargain with the Beast and A Perfect Fit--have both been previously published in 2013. I haven't changed them, except to combine the two novellas into one set. If you've read them under the titles Loving the Beast or Stroke of Midnight, then they're the same books.
Bargain with the Beast
Desperate to keep her neighborhood community center open, Gwendolyn Sinclair seeks out Xavier St. James, her childhood friend…and brother of her dead fiancé. Xavier possesses the funds necessary to keep the center open, but he offers another bargain—a devil’s submit her body to his pleasure for seven days and the building doesn’t close its doors.
Left scarred from an accident, Xavier is bitter, resentful and alone. When Gwendolyn reappears in his life, need and loneliness overrides conscience and he proposes an arrangement she can’t afford to refuse. With the woman he has always wanted—but could never have—finally in his bed, he hungers for more. Her heart. But could she come to love a beast?
A Perfect Fit
For no-nonsense, less-than-warm Rowyn Jeong, being labeled the plainer, wicked stepsister has never bothered her…until Darius Fiore reappears in her life. Months ago, they indulged in a hot one-night stand, and the sexy business tycoon branded her like no man had before. But his return threatens her position within her stepfather's company, and he’s the man her stepsister Cindy has within her sights—and hands.
Behind closed doors, Daruis discovered more lay beneath Rowyn’s hard exterior than the ice queen she presents to her family. Now, he understands the aloof reserve. Her family’s disregard has left her hungry for love and acceptance. But breaking down her walls will be no easy task. Especially since his presence threatens everything she’s worked so hard to achieve.
Beware. These aren’t your mother’s bedtime stories…
Author The erotic romance novellas included in this set--Bargain with the Beast and A Perfect Fit--have both been previously published in 2013. I haven't changed them, except to combine the two novellas into one set. If you've read them under the titles Loving the Beast or Stroke of Midnight, then they're the same books.
188 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2013
53 people are currently reading
104 people want to read
About the author
Naima Simone
168 books2,139 followersPublished since 2009, USA Today Bestselling author Naima Simone loves writing sizzling romances with heart, a touch of humor and snark. Her books have been featured in The Washington Post and Entertainment Weekly, and described as balancing “crackling, electric love scenes with exquisitely rendered characters caught in emotional turmoil.”
She is wife to Superman, or his non-Kryptonian, less bullet proof equivalent, and mother to the most awesome kids ever. They all live in perfect, sometimes domestically-challenged bliss in the southern United States.
She is wife to Superman, or his non-Kryptonian, less bullet proof equivalent, and mother to the most awesome kids ever. They all live in perfect, sometimes domestically-challenged bliss in the southern United States.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
July 24, 2017
One thing is for certain. Ms. Simone never disappoints. These two novellas are splendid contemporary takes on the classic fairytales "Beauty and the Beast" and "Cinderella." Both are scorching on the sexy heat level gauge with the emotional depth I crave.
Per usual, Simone knows just how to make a lady's knees weak with super swoony heroes. The perfectly rough and beastly Xavier and the not-so-princely but melt-me-into-a-puddle charming Darius hit all the right buttons. And then some. But what makes me love Simone's stories so much is that amidst super steamy scenes, there is a much deeper level of emotion tying the hero and heroine together with true love. It's what makes me look forward to reading every one of her books.
Recommended to lovers of HOT romance with serious heart. :)
Per usual, Simone knows just how to make a lady's knees weak with super swoony heroes. The perfectly rough and beastly Xavier and the not-so-princely but melt-me-into-a-puddle charming Darius hit all the right buttons. And then some. But what makes me love Simone's stories so much is that amidst super steamy scenes, there is a much deeper level of emotion tying the hero and heroine together with true love. It's what makes me look forward to reading every one of her books.
Recommended to lovers of HOT romance with serious heart. :)
November 15, 2018
Bargain with the Beast: 4
Whew. Talk about sex-filled. One had to be in the mood for chapters upon chapters of sex and sex-talk, and I was only sorta there. Then, as Gwendolyn's secrets got revealed one by one, and Xavier's self-esteem grew, I believed in their connection and as much as I had already believed in their sexual chemistry, I also believed in their simple acceptance and love for one another (that went beyond skin-deep).
There were one big thing that I didn't like - I didn't like that it took blackmail for their relationship to be consummated. Don't get me wrong: I understood the reasoning behind it (because without it, they didn't have much of an excuse to be together), but that didn't mean that I had to like it.
What I did like was Naima Simone's way of turning tropes and characterisations on its head. In this story, the latter definitely stood out. As much as Evelyn was a bit of a bitch, I liked that she wasn't as positively evil as she could've been.
A Perfect Fit: 4
Then, having said that, I disliked that everyone in Rowyn's family had nothing redeemable. Nothing. They were flat out, horrible people, only thinking about themselves. And look, it's a short story, so there's not enough time (or pages) to round them out a bit more.
Having said that. I liked that this story didn't just focus on the sex. Sure, there was the sex , but at least now, there was also the attraction, care and awareness between the both of them.
I adored the ending - yay for Darius! And because of that, my rating is quite high (and besides, I'm allowed to have simple tastes when it was written so well :P).
Whew. Talk about sex-filled. One had to be in the mood for chapters upon chapters of sex and sex-talk, and I was only sorta there. Then, as Gwendolyn's secrets got revealed one by one, and Xavier's self-esteem grew, I believed in their connection and as much as I had already believed in their sexual chemistry, I also believed in their simple acceptance and love for one another (that went beyond skin-deep).
There were one big thing that I didn't like - I didn't like that it took blackmail for their relationship to be consummated. Don't get me wrong: I understood the reasoning behind it (because without it, they didn't have much of an excuse to be together), but that didn't mean that I had to like it.
What I did like was Naima Simone's way of turning tropes and characterisations on its head. In this story, the latter definitely stood out. As much as Evelyn was a bit of a bitch, I liked that she wasn't as positively evil as she could've been.
A Perfect Fit: 4
Then, having said that, I disliked that everyone in Rowyn's family had nothing redeemable. Nothing. They were flat out, horrible people, only thinking about themselves. And look, it's a short story, so there's not enough time (or pages) to round them out a bit more.
Having said that. I liked that this story didn't just focus on the sex. Sure, there was the sex , but at least now, there was also the attraction, care and awareness between the both of them.
I adored the ending - yay for Darius! And because of that, my rating is quite high (and besides, I'm allowed to have simple tastes when it was written so well :P).
July 28, 2017
Super hot fairy tale retellings. I preferred the Beauty and the Beast one because the hero and tragic backstory were just sooo good. Not usually a novella fan, but these were definitely worth my time.
November 11, 2017
Naime Simone brings us a modern day erotic twist to age old fairy tales giving them life, freshness and zing without losing the essence of the tales themselves. Bravo!
Bargain with the Beast
At first glance, you'd think Xavier truly was a beast and Gwendolyn beauty but as we delve deeper into both their psyches and what drives them, we discover two broken people laden with fear, guilt and pain.
In Bargain with the Beast, Gwendolyn needs money to save her community centre and she approaches Xavier for help. In turn, Xavier makes a bargain with her. Seven nights in his bed and he will make sure she gets the money. While the bargain seems straightforward and Xavier comes across as quite a jerk in the beginning of the story, there are hidden depths to their relationship and they remember their past and what they meant to each other.
Gwendolyn has been carrying around a whole heap of fear and guilt because of something from her past and because of her feelings for Xavier. However, Xavier is no longer the man he once was, now scarred and embittered through a tragic accident. He's been shunned and betrayed by those closest to him and in his pain and hurt, he has retaliated by being the monster they think he is.
I felt terrible for Xavier because underneath all his bluster he's a kind and caring man. It is evident in the way he cared for Gwendolyn when she was ill and the way he treats her when they make love. While he does act somewhat beastly towards Gwendolyn, I'm glad she stands her ground and both her desire for him as well as her agreement to the bargain makes her stay and with her gentle care and passion she helps Xavier to reconnect with the man he once was.
The best part of the story for me was seeing Xavier coming back to life and not being the angry, bitter man he had become. I'm so happy that Gwendolyn tamed the beast and they got their happily ever after.
One a final note, one thing I loved about Xavier was he's very vocal during sex. Not that he's a dirty talker or anything like that, but he's expressive. It just makes it all seem so much sexier. And I loved when he called Gwendolyn "baby" or "sweetheart". The endearments were lovely and it seemed so natural and uttered almost as though he wasn't aware of saying it himself. So sweet and sexy.
A Perfect Fit
This is Cinderella with a twist. While Rowyn is not treated like a certain and living in poverty, she is mistreated emotionally by her family. And instead of a night at the ball, it's a hot one night stand, and boy, did that one night stand sizzle.
I wasn't sure if I would like Rowyn but I did. Beneath her prickly exterior is a kind, caring person who has been hurt over and over again throughout her entire life. It's a wonder that she hasn't turned into a hard hearted bitch but still retains her warmth and passion though she does not let it out often for people to see. I loved seeing her soften under Darius' tender care and understanding. She deserves so much more than the crap that her family has subjected her to all these years. It was wonderful to see her finally understand her own worth and stand up for herself.
I loved Darius. Of course, it didn't hurt that he (like Xavier!) is vocal during sex and I loved his taking control. Plus we see him sexy as heck making love to Rowyn right away during their one night stand. Phew! Aside from the hotness factor, Darius is a good guy. He's caring, kind, considerate and when push comes to shove, protective. I love how he stood up for Rowyn and took her side. That he was more than just a fling but someone she could depend on and someone who cared about her well-being.
It was satisfying to see Rowyn's family get what they deserved and seeing Rowyn have her happy ever after. Darius was the perfect Prince Charming.
See more from Deanna's World
Bargain with the Beast
At first glance, you'd think Xavier truly was a beast and Gwendolyn beauty but as we delve deeper into both their psyches and what drives them, we discover two broken people laden with fear, guilt and pain.
In Bargain with the Beast, Gwendolyn needs money to save her community centre and she approaches Xavier for help. In turn, Xavier makes a bargain with her. Seven nights in his bed and he will make sure she gets the money. While the bargain seems straightforward and Xavier comes across as quite a jerk in the beginning of the story, there are hidden depths to their relationship and they remember their past and what they meant to each other.
Gwendolyn has been carrying around a whole heap of fear and guilt because of something from her past and because of her feelings for Xavier. However, Xavier is no longer the man he once was, now scarred and embittered through a tragic accident. He's been shunned and betrayed by those closest to him and in his pain and hurt, he has retaliated by being the monster they think he is.
I felt terrible for Xavier because underneath all his bluster he's a kind and caring man. It is evident in the way he cared for Gwendolyn when she was ill and the way he treats her when they make love. While he does act somewhat beastly towards Gwendolyn, I'm glad she stands her ground and both her desire for him as well as her agreement to the bargain makes her stay and with her gentle care and passion she helps Xavier to reconnect with the man he once was.
The best part of the story for me was seeing Xavier coming back to life and not being the angry, bitter man he had become. I'm so happy that Gwendolyn tamed the beast and they got their happily ever after.
One a final note, one thing I loved about Xavier was he's very vocal during sex. Not that he's a dirty talker or anything like that, but he's expressive. It just makes it all seem so much sexier. And I loved when he called Gwendolyn "baby" or "sweetheart". The endearments were lovely and it seemed so natural and uttered almost as though he wasn't aware of saying it himself. So sweet and sexy.
A Perfect Fit
This is Cinderella with a twist. While Rowyn is not treated like a certain and living in poverty, she is mistreated emotionally by her family. And instead of a night at the ball, it's a hot one night stand, and boy, did that one night stand sizzle.
I wasn't sure if I would like Rowyn but I did. Beneath her prickly exterior is a kind, caring person who has been hurt over and over again throughout her entire life. It's a wonder that she hasn't turned into a hard hearted bitch but still retains her warmth and passion though she does not let it out often for people to see. I loved seeing her soften under Darius' tender care and understanding. She deserves so much more than the crap that her family has subjected her to all these years. It was wonderful to see her finally understand her own worth and stand up for herself.
I loved Darius. Of course, it didn't hurt that he (like Xavier!) is vocal during sex and I loved his taking control. Plus we see him sexy as heck making love to Rowyn right away during their one night stand. Phew! Aside from the hotness factor, Darius is a good guy. He's caring, kind, considerate and when push comes to shove, protective. I love how he stood up for Rowyn and took her side. That he was more than just a fling but someone she could depend on and someone who cared about her well-being.
It was satisfying to see Rowyn's family get what they deserved and seeing Rowyn have her happy ever after. Darius was the perfect Prince Charming.
See more from Deanna's World
July 24, 2017
Fairy Tales Unleashed is a modern day take on a couple of very popular fairy tales. Bargain with the Beast and A Perfect Fit gives a new spin on two of my favorite romances, Beauty and the Beast and Cinderella. I have to say, I loved this author's version, especially the spin on Cinderella. When an author can take a classic and make you consider what if's and alternative endings, that definitely makes for an interesting and entertaining read for me. I really enjoyed these two short stories and I gave them 5 happily-ever-after stars ✨.
April 29, 2019
Everything
Saw that Naima Simone was going to be featured on Read Me Romance this week and wanted to check her out before listening. She happened to have a fairy tale retelling which are my favorites to read. I truly enjoyed this one. Her spin on things were so refreshing and spicy. New fan here!
Saw that Naima Simone was going to be featured on Read Me Romance this week and wanted to check her out before listening. She happened to have a fairy tale retelling which are my favorites to read. I truly enjoyed this one. Her spin on things were so refreshing and spicy. New fan here!
July 29, 2017
Bargain with the Beast
5 stars
I love!!!! Books with a Disney theme. Beauty and the Beast is one of my favorite stories. This is a great representation of that tale!
Xavier makes a great beast. Half disfigured after an accident and grumpy as all get out because of it, he needs light in his life to remind him who he is.
Gwen is a very caring soul with a guilt ridden past. When she can confront that, she lights the light for Xavier.
The story is full of Oh My moments, tender moments and down and dirty naughty moments. Well worth the read!
A perfect fit
5 stars
Nothing better than the ugly step sister getting the guy! And standing up for herself, becoming her own just adds icing to the cake.
Rowyn has had an ugly life. With a family who would rather her not exist and a step-dad/boss who gives her zero credit and zero consideration. It's fun to watch her icy personality thaw and come to life.
The story starts off with steam , in the middle you have more heat and you end with an inferno. Very well written!
5 stars
I love!!!! Books with a Disney theme. Beauty and the Beast is one of my favorite stories. This is a great representation of that tale!
Xavier makes a great beast. Half disfigured after an accident and grumpy as all get out because of it, he needs light in his life to remind him who he is.
Gwen is a very caring soul with a guilt ridden past. When she can confront that, she lights the light for Xavier.
The story is full of Oh My moments, tender moments and down and dirty naughty moments. Well worth the read!
A perfect fit
5 stars
Nothing better than the ugly step sister getting the guy! And standing up for herself, becoming her own just adds icing to the cake.
Rowyn has had an ugly life. With a family who would rather her not exist and a step-dad/boss who gives her zero credit and zero consideration. It's fun to watch her icy personality thaw and come to life.
The story starts off with steam , in the middle you have more heat and you end with an inferno. Very well written!
July 25, 2017
Xavier is the perfect beast until Gwen tames him. Rowyn is the unloved and unwanted step-sister until her prince Darius shows her how to love.
There's a particular reason I can't help but love Naima Simone's writing. It's entertaining, with the right mix of heat & emotion. This two-fer puts a steamier, contemporary - and alternate - twist on "Beauty & the Beast" & "Cinderella", two classics I love. Each story is unique, with strong, determined heroines and heroes that make our hearts skip a beat. The quotes before each chapter were a nice touch and helped remind the reader about the fairy tale the story they were reading was based on.
I voluntarily read & reviewed an ARC of this set, and I unreservedly recommend it!!
There's a particular reason I can't help but love Naima Simone's writing. It's entertaining, with the right mix of heat & emotion. This two-fer puts a steamier, contemporary - and alternate - twist on "Beauty & the Beast" & "Cinderella", two classics I love. Each story is unique, with strong, determined heroines and heroes that make our hearts skip a beat. The quotes before each chapter were a nice touch and helped remind the reader about the fairy tale the story they were reading was based on.
I voluntarily read & reviewed an ARC of this set, and I unreservedly recommend it!!
June 29, 2021
these books were super short & sexy! Great KU reads
BATB retelling:
Content/Trigger Warnings: Xavier is scarred & people are judge assholes about it, references to his brother & father's death in a car crash, alcohol, Gwen's mother was really neglectful
Content Notes: Xavier is a biracial (persian & italian) straight man and I believe Gwen is also biracial (Black & Caucasian) and straight. I loved that he let her tie him up— so hot!
Cinderella retelling
Content/Trigger Warnings: Rowyn's mother is emotionally abusive, and her father is dead (he died before they could resolve some things, so she's got trauma attached to that.
Content Notes: Robyn is an asian American straight woman, and Darius is a white Italian straight guy
BATB retelling:
Content/Trigger Warnings: Xavier is scarred & people are judge assholes about it, references to his brother & father's death in a car crash, alcohol, Gwen's mother was really neglectful
Content Notes: Xavier is a biracial (persian & italian) straight man and I believe Gwen is also biracial (Black & Caucasian) and straight. I loved that he let her tie him up— so hot!
Cinderella retelling
Content/Trigger Warnings: Rowyn's mother is emotionally abusive, and her father is dead (he died before they could resolve some things, so she's got trauma attached to that.
Content Notes: Robyn is an asian American straight woman, and Darius is a white Italian straight guy
July 17, 2017
I thoroughly enjoyed this modern take on two classic fairy tales! With just enough steam to make these two stories a very interesting read, the author uses enough elements of the original fairy tale without it becoming a literal retelling. The stories were believable,fresh and modern. This was the second book I've read from Naima Simone and I'll be sure to pick up more from her in the near future.
August 4, 2017
I am wowed!
I have never read Beauty and the Beast written like this. It was captivating. I couldn't put it down. Xavier comes off a-hole ish. But Gwen brings him back to his former self. He even faces off with his ex which cause him come to terms with his feelings for Gwen. The second story is even more enchanting. Highly recommended 💋
I have never read Beauty and the Beast written like this. It was captivating. I couldn't put it down. Xavier comes off a-hole ish. But Gwen brings him back to his former self. He even faces off with his ex which cause him come to terms with his feelings for Gwen. The second story is even more enchanting. Highly recommended 💋
June 12, 2021
Great book!
I really enjoyed this book, the stories were really entertaining! The chemistry between the characters were smoking hot 🔥! I could visually see the scenes in the stories and that truly makes for a very good book! I highly recommend this book you will not be disappointed!
I really enjoyed this book, the stories were really entertaining! The chemistry between the characters were smoking hot 🔥! I could visually see the scenes in the stories and that truly makes for a very good book! I highly recommend this book you will not be disappointed!
May 4, 2020
So enjoyed!
These retold fairy tales not only contained happily ever afters but depth of emotions, resolutions, passionate lovemaking scenes and shining examples of the power of love. I so enjoyed them and the prowess of this author Naima Simone.
These retold fairy tales not only contained happily ever afters but depth of emotions, resolutions, passionate lovemaking scenes and shining examples of the power of love. I so enjoyed them and the prowess of this author Naima Simone.
February 7, 2021
2 fairy tales for the price of one
I enjoyed these super steamy fairy tale adaptations.Although not for the kiddies this grown a woman loved it. She managed to give great characterization and dialog in a very short well written story. Highly recommend these two in one quick reads
I enjoyed these super steamy fairy tale adaptations.Although not for the kiddies this grown a woman loved it. She managed to give great characterization and dialog in a very short well written story. Highly recommend these two in one quick reads
August 19, 2019
These were okay, a fast and easy read.
April 20, 2020
Modern day fairytale
A bit of a fairytale mixed up with hot sexiness. First Beauty and the Beast followed by a take on Cinderella.
A bit of a fairytale mixed up with hot sexiness. First Beauty and the Beast followed by a take on Cinderella.
December 12, 2020
3.5 stars. These are interesting, modern retelling of fairy tales. I enjoyed them.
July 26, 2017
Very few authors can get me hot and bothered in the first chapter! Naima Simone had me "twitching" in my seat and riveted to the pages of these modern day versions of Fairy Tales!
Xavier may be a "beast" but he definitely leaves you wanting to "tame" him.
And while Rowyn may just be the step - sister, she deserves a prince!
Naima pulls you into these novellas, and leads you from "Once upon a time..." to "Take me all the time"
Xavier may be a "beast" but he definitely leaves you wanting to "tame" him.
And while Rowyn may just be the step - sister, she deserves a prince!
Naima pulls you into these novellas, and leads you from "Once upon a time..." to "Take me all the time"
December 16, 2018
Not to be crass but...
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews