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Rooke: Promotional Copy
Watchmaker. Car thief. Heartbreaker extraordinaire.
Rooke Blackheath has spent enough time in juvie to know that he really doesn’t want to go to jail. The food sucks, the clothes itch, and there are absolutely no women in sight. Well…none he wants to fuck, anyway.
He should probably stop boosting cars, but the money is stellar and the high is out of this world. And why should he turn his back on something that sets his soul on fire anyway?
The answer to that question comes in an unexpected form: a petite five-foot-three firecracker named Sorcha, who refuses to give him the time of day no matter how thick he lays on the charm.
Rooke’s not easily deterred, though. Just like the watches he builds from scratch, Rooke knows all too well how women tick. Women are a game to him. A game he always wins.
Sorcha doesn’t stand a chance.
***
Sorcha Cross’s life has been permanently derailed since her son died five years ago. You wouldn’t know it to look at her, of course. She has a great job, a beautiful house, and caring friends. Every week, she hosts a book club featuring the sexiest, most romantic stories on the planet, and every week she falls for a new fictional knight in shining armor.
Fictional men are perfect, though. They don’t hurt you. They don’t break your heart. They don’t cheat on you after your child dies, and they rarely ever leave the toilet seat up.
When Rooke Blackheath shows up at Sorcha’s workplace, it’s clear he’s nothing like the men who grace the pages of Sorcha's favorite books. Dangerous, arrogant, sharp-tongued and sarcastic, Rooke’s not the kind of guy she needs in her life. Not to mention the fact that he’s eleven years her junior.
They don’t live in different worlds. As far as Sorcha is concerned, Rooke lives in a different galaxy altogether. She’d like to keep it that way, but fate appears to have other plans.
When Cinderella lost her shoe, Prince Charming showed up at her door.
When Sorcha Cross loses her book, an entirely different kind of rogue comes a-knocking.
Rooke Blackheath has spent enough time in juvie to know that he really doesn’t want to go to jail. The food sucks, the clothes itch, and there are absolutely no women in sight. Well…none he wants to fuck, anyway.
He should probably stop boosting cars, but the money is stellar and the high is out of this world. And why should he turn his back on something that sets his soul on fire anyway?
The answer to that question comes in an unexpected form: a petite five-foot-three firecracker named Sorcha, who refuses to give him the time of day no matter how thick he lays on the charm.
Rooke’s not easily deterred, though. Just like the watches he builds from scratch, Rooke knows all too well how women tick. Women are a game to him. A game he always wins.
Sorcha doesn’t stand a chance.
***
Sorcha Cross’s life has been permanently derailed since her son died five years ago. You wouldn’t know it to look at her, of course. She has a great job, a beautiful house, and caring friends. Every week, she hosts a book club featuring the sexiest, most romantic stories on the planet, and every week she falls for a new fictional knight in shining armor.
Fictional men are perfect, though. They don’t hurt you. They don’t break your heart. They don’t cheat on you after your child dies, and they rarely ever leave the toilet seat up.
When Rooke Blackheath shows up at Sorcha’s workplace, it’s clear he’s nothing like the men who grace the pages of Sorcha's favorite books. Dangerous, arrogant, sharp-tongued and sarcastic, Rooke’s not the kind of guy she needs in her life. Not to mention the fact that he’s eleven years her junior.
They don’t live in different worlds. As far as Sorcha is concerned, Rooke lives in a different galaxy altogether. She’d like to keep it that way, but fate appears to have other plans.
When Cinderella lost her shoe, Prince Charming showed up at her door.
When Sorcha Cross loses her book, an entirely different kind of rogue comes a-knocking.
302 pages, Paperback
First published February 2, 2017
338 people are currently reading
1758 people want to read
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March 14, 2017
4 Stars!!
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While 'Rooke' was different from what I had expected, I really enjoyed it. It’s raw, intense, steamy and, overall, fantastically written. Callie's writing is flawless and I was immersed in the story from the very beginning. The story is gripping, the characters are intriguing and the plot really surprised me. What I really like about this author is how versatile she is. This was my third book by her and she continues to impress me with her fresh stories and vivid characters.
“I'm drawn to that hollow look in her eyes. I'm drawn to the sadness of her. I'm attracted to the dark ache in her soul.”
Sasha is a woman in her thirties who has a great job as a curator at a museum. She’s good at what she does for a living and has a fantastic group of friends. She has her books and her book club who makes her forget about her tragic past. Five years ago, Sasha lost her son in a car accident and still feels guilty that she survived while her son did not. She feels like a failure for not being able to -somehow- save him. Sasha's life changed irrevocably after the tragedy and, after divorcing her husband, she is keeping to herself. In the past five years, Sasha hasn’t been spending time with any guys at all. In these five years, she tried to avoid not only men, but (almost) anyone who tried to have any kind of relationship with her.
“He’s carved out of stone. When you look at him, there’s no real visible softness to him. He’s a hard man to study without feeling a faint glimmer of panic sparking in your gut.”
Rooke is a twenty-three years old bad boy who, after spending some time in juvie, has no desire to go back to jail. However, he still continues to steal cars. He loves the adrenaline and the money, so, of course, he doesn’t want to stop. Rooke is mature for his age, he’s good at fixing mechanical things and he’s even better at reading people.
From the moment Rooke -literally- runs into Sasha, he’s intrigued by her. He doesn’t know what exactly makes her special, but he wants to find out. Sasha is taken aback by Rooke’s dark, mysterious vibe and by his brazenness from the very first moment she meets him.
“We’re only going to do this once,” he says. “So really think for a second, Sasha. I’m going to kiss you. If you don’t want my mouth on yours, my body against yours, then say so now and I will never call you again. But if you do want this, if the prospect of my hands in your hair and my tongue in your mouth makes your heart beat a little faster, then all this other bullshit has got to stop. Do you hear me? Do you understand?”
I really enjoyed Callie’s newest release! 'Rooke' is gritty, twisted, emotional, hot and managed to surprised me in a very good way. Filled with suspense and steam, Rooke and Sasha’s story captivated me from the very beginning. I was a little worried about the age difference between the two main characters, but Callie did a wonderful job with this aspect, mainly because of wonderful portrayal of Rooke's character. The story-line is really intriguing. While I didn’t expect all the danger and suspense, I enjoyed how the story unfolded.
I loved Sasha. She’s a strong woman I really sympathize with. She’s a fighter, a survivor and my heart broke for her at times. Rooke is awesome…like really awesome! I loved his portrayal. He’s sexy, dark, mysterious, confident and clever. He knows what he wants and goes for it and he loves to have control. I loved the sexy way he controlled Sasha. I loved his honesty about his past. He never pretended to be someone else. He is who is he – a bossy, possessive criminal. I also loved the way he is with Sasha, how slowly he gets her out of her shell, how he tries to make her believe in him and believe in what they have together. He is sweet, caring, protective and I loved the hell out of him.
“We do not work on paper. In real life, our lives have slotted together so perfectly that I can hardly seem to remember what being without him was like.”
These two are great together. I liked how the romance aspect was done and I absolutely adored the connection between the two main characters. I truly felt from the beginning they are good for each other. Therefore, the sex scenes are extremely hot, passionate and also a little dirty, which, personally, I loved.
All in all, 'Rooke' is a great, fast paced, well written story filled with action, suspense and plenty of steam, with a nice developed plot and two engaging main characters.
“The love between us is fire and ice. It’s loss, and it’s redemption. It’s pain, and it’s comfort. It is everything.”
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March 13, 2017
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Type: Standalone
POV: First Person - Dual
Rating:
From outside perspective, Sasha Connor might look like she had everything in her life in order. As a museum curator, she was competent in handling her job, but her personal life was a whole different matter. Still reeling from her personal tragedy, she had hard time opening up her heart until a handsome rogue crashed into her life.
When Rooke Blackheath walked down the street, people went out of his way. Being a watchmaker was only one part of his job description. He lived a dangerous life without a care in the world. That was until his heart got stolen.
Based on the cover and the blurb, I actually expected a different kind of story.
Rooke was a bad boy. He was young and reckless. But he could also be matured and responsible when he chose to be.
Sasha seemed like a prim and proper lady. She put work in maintaining a facade so other people couldn't breach her shell. But behind the facade, she longed for all the things she tried to protect herself from.
I do like their relationship dynamics. The way they met and connected was something different and for a reader, there's the relatability factor. The story was a lot more mellow than I expected but I didn't mind much until the story changed direction.
I would expect to like the new direction more, however with the faster pace, I felt the story actually fizzled instead of propelled it. I like that the plot was moving, but there was nothing extraordinary about it. Everything was just scratching the surface when there were a lot more that could have been delved deeper for the questions to be answered more properly.
Rooke is a story of two people from a different side of the track who found common ground in understanding each other. It would appeal to romance lovers who like a shot of suspense in their reading
♠ ♜ ♠. . . (F)BR With Twinsie CC . . . ♠ ♜ ♠
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
Type: Standalone
POV: First Person - Dual
Rating:
From outside perspective, Sasha Connor might look like she had everything in her life in order. As a museum curator, she was competent in handling her job, but her personal life was a whole different matter. Still reeling from her personal tragedy, she had hard time opening up her heart until a handsome rogue crashed into her life.
When Rooke Blackheath walked down the street, people went out of his way. Being a watchmaker was only one part of his job description. He lived a dangerous life without a care in the world. That was until his heart got stolen.
Based on the cover and the blurb, I actually expected a different kind of story.
The way he studies things, including people, is quite disturbing. He looks beyond the surface, beyond what you might want others to see, and he delves deeper.
Rooke was a bad boy. He was young and reckless. But he could also be matured and responsible when he chose to be.
I’m attracted to the dark ache in her soul, because it’s something I can understand. Something that feels real to me.
Sasha seemed like a prim and proper lady. She put work in maintaining a facade so other people couldn't breach her shell. But behind the facade, she longed for all the things she tried to protect herself from.
I do like their relationship dynamics. The way they met and connected was something different and for a reader, there's the relatability factor. The story was a lot more mellow than I expected but I didn't mind much until the story changed direction.
It’s strange to admit that there were benefits to being locked in such devastating grief, but it’s true. There were benefits. One of them was that I never had to apologize for anything.
I would expect to like the new direction more, however with the faster pace, I felt the story actually fizzled instead of propelled it. I like that the plot was moving, but there was nothing extraordinary about it. Everything was just scratching the surface when there were a lot more that could have been delved deeper for the questions to be answered more properly.
Rooke is a story of two people from a different side of the track who found common ground in understanding each other. It would appeal to romance lovers who like a shot of suspense in their reading
♠ ♜ ♠. . . (F)BR With Twinsie CC . . . ♠ ♜ ♠
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
April 14, 2017
"The love between us is fire and ice. It's loss, and it's redemption. It's pain, and it's comfort. It is everything."
Rooke is a contemporary romance full of healing, raw passion, and heart-stopping action. An unlikely pair, Sasha Cross, and Rooke Blackheath find peace in the chaos and turbulence of life.
"Drowning is a peaceful way to die."Sasha Cross has experienced great loss in her life. Despite her successful career and her support system of friends, Sasha has never recovered from the pain and loss in her life. When she meets a tattooed stranger at the museum, a spark ignites, and Sasha begins to feel things that she hasn't felt in a long time.
"Do you think I won't lock you in a basement and fuck you stupid until you can finally see how important this is?"Rooke Blackheath is a watchmaker by day and a car thief by night. With a quick temper and a passion for life, Rooke has lived life in the fast lane. When he meets Sasha, he is drawn to her brokenness and wants nothing more than to fill her up (both emotionally and physically). Rooke feels a connection to Sasha, and although she is unwilling to accept Rooke's presence in her life, he will stop at nothing to be by her side.
"Rooke, my raven King."Told in dual POV, Sasha and Rooke create a beautiful bond that is unique, passionate, and tender. Sasha has experienced loss, and throughout the course of the story, she suffers more trauma and life-shattering events. Rooke is Sasha's protector, and although he is broken himself, their love acts as a healing balm for them both. The tempo of the story is steady, and although this wasn't my favorite Callie Hart read, I thoroughly enjoyed the strong connection between Sasha and Rooke. The action is intense, and the physical connection between Sasha and Rooke is off the charts! Rooke and Sasha are quite a mismatched pair, and yet, I found them to be perfect together. There were certain plot points that I would have like to have been more developed and yet, the presence of Rooke and Sasha was enough to keep me happily entertained.
Rooke is a perfect read for someone who enjoys a tatted broken hero who finds redemption and strong independent heroine who finds peace in the most unlikely place. The relationship between Sasha and Rooke is what makes this read appealing. Be forewarned the plot takes some interesting turns but as always, Ms. Hart delivers!
*ARC graciously provided via author in exchange for an honest review!
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
March 12, 2017
A rook is a chess piece, but it's also a kind of crow. Dark, mysterious, clever, wily and brazen.
ROOKE: In the beginning chapters we're introduced to thirty-three year old Sasha Connor as she relives the horrific, tragic accident which occurred five years ago, something a mother should never have to go through. Every night as she tries to settle down to sleep the day she lost her boy Christopher plays on through her mind in techno colour, the what if game playing havoc on her emotions.
She still lives in the house where she gave birth to her boy, his room is like a shrine, locked, left exactly how it was left the day he was taken from her. She works as a curator at the American Museum of Natural History, she has great supportive friends and holds a book club in her house every other week where she gets lost in the throes of the most perfect fictional men.
These books are my escape from real life. Because you know what? Real life fucking sucks.
The day Rooke Blackheath shows up at Sasha's workplace as she stumbles into Rooke, dropping the book she had her nose buried in ( The Seven Lives of James P. Albrecht), she can't help but compare the fictional men over Rooke. And it becomes abundantly clear that he’s nothing like the men who feature in her favorite romance books.
Thinking nothing else of their unusual encounter it's not until the next book club where a knock on the door reveals Rooke brandishing the book she'd dropped that day. Allowing him access into her home and club he immerses himself in the ladies only group conversing over the book he's returning and which he has no qualms admitting wholeheartedly that he'd read it from cover to cover.
Twenty-three nearly twenty-four year old Rooke has a checkered past, he'd done a stint in juvi for as he puts it borrowing a vehicle which didn't in fact belong to him. But that hasn't deterred him going back to what he's best at, and that's a thief in the night.
Watchmaker. Car thief. Heartbreaker extraordinaire.
There are fools out there that take a full thirty seconds to get a car open. Me, on the other hand? Two seconds. Three maybe if I'm off my game. I'm that fucking good. Things between these two escalate slowly, she's promised him one date, but that one date gave her a glimpse into a life she couldn't comprehend, and from that day forward he wasn't letting her out of his clutches easily. He knew what he wanted and he was going after it.
I'm drawn to that hollow look in her eyes. I'm drawn to the sadness of her. I'm attracted to the dark ache in her soul. I went through a range of emotions whilst reading this, the first emotion was tears in my eyes, sitting there feeling everything the author wanted me to feel in the first few chapters was an emotional rollercoaster of epic proportions.
The man is sex. Pure, unadulterated, unfiltered sex. From the way he walks, to the way he wears his clothes, to the ink that marks his body...Everything about Rooke Idlewild Blackheath screams...F#CK ME!
The second emotion was swooning, wow what can I say about Rooke, you've just got to read this to get a taste of the man. Just wow. He's everything you don't want but everything you need. His job is unconventional at best, his obnoxiousness had me panting for more. His overall demeanor kept me wanting to know everything little detail about the man.
I'll take a part of your soul. Give me the wounded part. Give me the part that hurts you every time you breathe. Give me the part that feels so heavy you just don't think you can carry it anymore. I'll take care of it for you.
The third emotion that zapped through me was fear, sitting on the edge of my seat whilst reading her second life changing ordeal.
So to sum it all up this book just ticked all the boxes, the cover lived up to the written words within, everything I wanted and craved this author delivered it ten fold. Highly recommend this. 1-#Click release day recommendation.
The love between us is fire and ice. It’s loss, and it’s redemption. It’s pain, and it’s comfort. It is everything.
* Teasers used in my review are off the authors facebook page *
March 14, 2017
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 Stars ⭐⭐⭐
This book took me completely by surprise!! I really wasn’t expecting to have such an intense connection to these characters and the let me tell you, I fell for Rooke from the moment he uttered his first word. This was exactly the kind of the story that I was looking for and I’m glad I got to be a part of Rooke and Sashay journey.
“The love between us is fire and ice. It’s loss, and it’s redemption. It’s pain, and it’s comfort. It is everything.
Five years ago Sasha Conner’s life changed dramatically. Having to go through what no one should ever have to experience, Sasha is now trying her best to move forward. But that’s easier said than done and for Sasha, no amount of time is going to make her forget. How do you move on from something like that? One person is about to give her a crash course lesson on learning how to love herself again and what it means to be in love.
Rooke has been in his fair of trouble in his life. From spending time in a detention center, to working with the Mob, and stealing cars, he’s practically seen and heard it all. So when he bumps into an older brunette at a museum where his grandfather works at, Rooke sees something in her that he’s desperate to explore more of. But all Sasha is seeing between them is a age gap that speaks volumes and despite his cocky good looks, being with someone like him can only lead to heartbreak and she’s had enough of those to last a lifetime.
Will Rooke give up on his pursuit of having Sasha?
Or can these two people finally have a love worth fighting for?
“I’ll take a part of your soul,”.. “Give me the wounded part. Give me the part that hurts you every time you breathe. Give me the part that feels so heavy you just don’t think you cannot carry it anymore. I’ll take care of it for you”. “
I really enjoyed this one. It was fast paced, sexy as hell, and just when I thought I had the plot figured out, I got a reality check. I was on the edge of my seat for this one and I loved the fact the Rooke didn’t waste any time in letting Sasha know where he stood. That man was a force to be reckon with and when he entered the bedroom?
This is one Hero you’re definitely going to want to read about.
This book took me completely by surprise!! I really wasn’t expecting to have such an intense connection to these characters and the let me tell you, I fell for Rooke from the moment he uttered his first word. This was exactly the kind of the story that I was looking for and I’m glad I got to be a part of Rooke and Sashay journey.
“The love between us is fire and ice. It’s loss, and it’s redemption. It’s pain, and it’s comfort. It is everything.
Five years ago Sasha Conner’s life changed dramatically. Having to go through what no one should ever have to experience, Sasha is now trying her best to move forward. But that’s easier said than done and for Sasha, no amount of time is going to make her forget. How do you move on from something like that? One person is about to give her a crash course lesson on learning how to love herself again and what it means to be in love.
Rooke has been in his fair of trouble in his life. From spending time in a detention center, to working with the Mob, and stealing cars, he’s practically seen and heard it all. So when he bumps into an older brunette at a museum where his grandfather works at, Rooke sees something in her that he’s desperate to explore more of. But all Sasha is seeing between them is a age gap that speaks volumes and despite his cocky good looks, being with someone like him can only lead to heartbreak and she’s had enough of those to last a lifetime.
Will Rooke give up on his pursuit of having Sasha?
Or can these two people finally have a love worth fighting for?
“I’ll take a part of your soul,”.. “Give me the wounded part. Give me the part that hurts you every time you breathe. Give me the part that feels so heavy you just don’t think you cannot carry it anymore. I’ll take care of it for you”. “
I really enjoyed this one. It was fast paced, sexy as hell, and just when I thought I had the plot figured out, I got a reality check. I was on the edge of my seat for this one and I loved the fact the Rooke didn’t waste any time in letting Sasha know where he stood. That man was a force to be reckon with and when he entered the bedroom?
This is one Hero you’re definitely going to want to read about.
March 24, 2017
3.5 Stars
Overall Opinion: I liked this more than I thought I would -- until the end!! I'm SO freaking frustrated with the ending! I even was freaking out at about the 90ish% point thinking it had to be a cliffhanger, because there was no way things would get handled appropriately in time. The suspense and criminal crap did get handled, but I was still left hanging wanting to know more about their future together! Ms. Hart, you almost cost me my iPad because I seriously wanted to throw it across the room!! So frustrated :/
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Sasha and Rooke's story. Sasha is just going through the motions of her life after a traumatic past. She is thrown off when she meets a much younger, hot, and flirty Rooke. He decides that there is something about her that makes her worth pursuing, and he goes full pursuit to win her. They dance around things for a little bit, there are some big secrets revealed, some hot sexy times, some big dramas...and they get a HFN ending.
POV: This alternated between Sasha and Rooke's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good until the end (see closure section). I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well otherwise.
Instalove: No, but they do develop stronger feelings pretty quickly.
H rating: 5 stars. Rooke. He was awesome! Totally my kind of loveable, damaged, hot, alpha, bad guy!
h rating: 4 stars. Sasha. She had a horribly tragic event happen to her in the past that made it hard for her to move on, so I understood where she was coming from when she was hesitant with the H.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Hot. They have some hot tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
Safe sex: Yes
OW/OM drama: No
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: Not really. Once they're together, they are together.
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had a really abrupt ending with what I would call a HFN ending. It didn't give me nearly enough closure!
How I got it: It was part of my kindle unlimited subscription.
Safety: This one should be either Safe or Safe with exception for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences.
Overall Opinion: I liked this more than I thought I would -- until the end!! I'm SO freaking frustrated with the ending! I even was freaking out at about the 90ish% point thinking it had to be a cliffhanger, because there was no way things would get handled appropriately in time. The suspense and criminal crap did get handled, but I was still left hanging wanting to know more about their future together! Ms. Hart, you almost cost me my iPad because I seriously wanted to throw it across the room!! So frustrated :/
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Sasha and Rooke's story. Sasha is just going through the motions of her life after a traumatic past. She is thrown off when she meets a much younger, hot, and flirty Rooke. He decides that there is something about her that makes her worth pursuing, and he goes full pursuit to win her. They dance around things for a little bit, there are some big secrets revealed, some hot sexy times, some big dramas...and they get a HFN ending.
POV: This alternated between Sasha and Rooke's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good until the end (see closure section). I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well otherwise.
Instalove: No, but they do develop stronger feelings pretty quickly.
H rating: 5 stars. Rooke. He was awesome! Totally my kind of loveable, damaged, hot, alpha, bad guy!
h rating: 4 stars. Sasha. She had a horribly tragic event happen to her in the past that made it hard for her to move on, so I understood where she was coming from when she was hesitant with the H.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Hot. They have some hot tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
Safe sex: Yes
OW/OM drama: No
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: Not really. Once they're together, they are together.
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had a really abrupt ending with what I would call a HFN ending. It didn't give me nearly enough closure!
How I got it: It was part of my kindle unlimited subscription.
Safety: This one should be either Safe or Safe with exception for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences.
March 14, 2017
4-4.5 stars ❤
This is my second book by Callie Hart and I'm becoming addicted to her writing! I love her ability to captivate me with her stories and her characters.
Rooke is one of the best part about this story. I loved him, he is complicated, super hot, protective and kind. Also Sasha is a great heroine. After facing a really heartbreaking tragedy, she tried to rebuild her life and not let things take her down. Rooke is the perfect person to change Sasha's life.
I loved their relationship. They are hot, intense and passionate when they are together.
This is definitely a story you should check!
This is my second book by Callie Hart and I'm becoming addicted to her writing! I love her ability to captivate me with her stories and her characters.
Rooke is one of the best part about this story. I loved him, he is complicated, super hot, protective and kind. Also Sasha is a great heroine. After facing a really heartbreaking tragedy, she tried to rebuild her life and not let things take her down. Rooke is the perfect person to change Sasha's life.
I loved their relationship. They are hot, intense and passionate when they are together.
This is definitely a story you should check!
March 12, 2017
Five years ago, museum curator, Sasha Connor, experienced a tragedy that caused her to lose practically everything she loves. Trying to live her life in the only way she knows how, with her heart fiercely protected, she is numb and resigned to being alone.
“And then … everything went black.”
At 23 years old, Rooke Blackheath is an ex-con with a formidable presence and has an affinity for fixing mechanical things. While he enjoys the adrenaline rush of criminal enterprises, Rooke is also a person that observes and sees people for who they are. After a chance encounter, he meets a woman that gives him pause.
“He looks beyond the surface, beyond what you might want others to see, and he delves deeper.”
Upon accidentally running into Sasha, Rooke is intrigued by this slightly older woman who appears to be reserved and professional. After retrieving the romance novel she drops, he decides to read the book to learn more about her. Determined to see her again, Rooke arrives unannounced at Sasha’s book club and makes his intentions very clear.
“I’m attracted to the dark ache in her soul, becaue it’s something I can understand. Something that feels real to me.”
To say Rooke and Sasha are opposites is an understatement. Rooke is purposeful, brash and willing to take risks. Sasha is insular, quiet and doesn’t want to disturb her routine. But when they are together, Rooke forces Sasha out of her shell while still respecting her feelings. For the first time in years, Sasha feels safe and begins to want to feel again.
“The very moment he’s all the way inside me, he’s true to his word. He flips me onto my back, a sharp, jagged-edge smile cutting across his face. Feel free to scream.”
What ensues isn’t a straight path of romance, as Rooke and Sasha endure outside elements that test their strength and dedication to each other. With Rooke, he knows without a doubt how far he will go to protect what is his. As for Sasha, being put in the position of protecting another is terrifying but ultimately she accepts what she’s always known.
While Rooke offers action, hot sex and appealing characters, the overall plot left me wanting more, as there were plot points that were slightly disjointed and not fully explored. Additionally, the speed at which Rooke and Sasha find love felt a bit quick for me. However, there are tender moments when wounds are healed and love is accepted. And, I absolutely loved Rooke's reactions to Sasha's romance novel.
Ultimately, Rooke offers a chance at redemption and the renewal of hope.
*An ARC was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
*This was a (F)BR with Hawkey!
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
June 17, 2017
Title: Rooke
Series: Standalone
Author: Callie Hart
Release date: March 14, 2017
Cliffhanger: No
HEA
Rooke Idlewild Blackheath is a 23 year old ex-con who works as a watch repairman by day. By night? Well, that's the other side of his conflicting coin. It's the side of him that nobody knows about, the one on the wrong side of the law. Using his natural talent for mechanical things, he can make his way inside a car in seconds flat.
His extracurricular activities give him a rush, and line his pockets very nicely for a man his age. There is something very raw, dangerous, and intimidating about Rooke. He's the last thing any woman should be gravitating towards, if they want safe and normal. Sasha has had normal and that didn't end too well for her.
Maybe sensible, reliable men with no psychopathic tendencies are always going to remind me of him, and in turn what we lost. Or maybe it’s the fact that edgy, dark, moody men with hidden pasts are bad for women like me, and I hit my self-destruct button a long time ago.
When she meets Rooke at the museum where she works, all she sees is a (too) young, cocky guy with a wicked look that could do serious damage. It wouldn't matter if she was even interested in him, she's hardly his type. Eleven years older, and dragged through hell and back, she's just a shell of a woman filled with nothing but darkness and tragic memories. Little did she know that when she dropped her romance book at his feet, he would use it to crash her book club. He had an unshakable focus, a determination to get close to her and learn all of her chaotic secrets. When faced with his sheer force of will, she didn't have much of a chance.
Rooke is fascinated by her the moment he sees her. It began as a curiosity, but he soon identified with her darkness and couldn't stay away. Sasha struggled a bit in the beginning with her reckless attraction, but soon threw her inhibitions aside. I really felt for her from the beginning. The horrible nightmare that she survived and lives with every day is unimaginable. There was a kind of numbness to her, but she had her moments when it all overwhelmed her and she succumbed to the pain. Knowing what she was getting into with Rooke, I was a little on edge just waiting for the shit to hit the fan.
The night owns him, or at least it owns a decent sized chunk of him. There will always be a side to him that needs rebellion and destruction. The real question is, can I accept that?
I really enjoyed the suspense brought on by the twisted story that Callie created. There was one event in particular at the museum that took me really by surprise. Sasha proved herself to be a woman who is a survivor in any type of situation. She didn't always make the wisest choices for herself, but it was understandable considering what she was struggling to overcome mentally. They couldn't be more different than night and day, but somehow made it work.
Rooke was gritty, unpredictable, and filled with combustible heat. That being said, I wasn't fully on board with certain aspects of the plot. I felt as if we needed to delve deeper into Rooke's violent personality and what made him into the man he was. Plus, the twist towards the end I wanted a little more background, it didn't feel as if it was addressed to my satisfaction.
The romance aspect was a bit rushed for me, but overall, I thought they worked well together. This was quite a different read from what I've been into lately. It was very refreshing and never failed to capture my interest. If you're looking for a book that's dark, fast paced, and full of steam with an alpha bad boy type of hero, than this could be the perfect book for you.
The love between us is fire and ice. It’s loss, and it’s redemption. It’s pain, and it’s comfort. It is everything.
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March 14, 2017
★4.5 STARS★
I love the anticipatory thrill that comes along with the prospect of a new Callie Hart novel. As an avid follower of her writing, I’m well versed in the knowledge of expecting the unexpected. Rooke is exactly what I love about a Callie Hart read, it’s dark, deeply-emotional and so damn sexy.
To the unknowing outsider Sasha Cross has it all. She has an impressive job, great friends and a home that most would envy. Beneath the surface however is gapping chasm left by the traumatic death of her six year old son. They say time is a healer, but in the five years since his death, she’s become well adept to functioning rather than living.
By way of hero, Rooke Blackheath is the unexpected kind. He has a stint in juvenile detention under his belt and makes no apologies for his lifestyle. As far as criminals go, ironic as it is to say, he’s one of the good guys. It’s difficult not to be drawn to Rooke. He has a boyish charm that is endearing, but don’t let that fool you, there is also the domineeringly alpha male that made me go weak in the knees.
He’s a shot of adrenaline in Sasha’s otherwise (self-inflicted) mundane life. As bizarrely as their paths cross, is as quickly as they become entwined. I have to say I was hesitant in regard to their age difference but my fears were quickly assuaged by not only their intense connection, but also by how little it mattered in the grand scheme of the story. I never thought there would be another hero of Callie’s that come could close Zeth Mayfair status for me, but my god did Rooke come close.
Much like my review there are a few things the blurb to Rooke does not mention. Personally for me it all was all part of the crazy ride. Rooke’s world is one that no amount of warning can prepare you for.
March 9, 2017
Rooke
Book Description
Watchmaker. Car thief. Heartbreaker extraordinaire.
Rooke Blackheath has spent enough time in juvie to know that he really doesn’t want to go to jail. The food sucks, the clothes itch, and there are absolutely no women in sight. Well…none he wants to fuck, anyway.
He should probably stop boosting cars, but the money is stellar and the high is out of this world. And why should he turn his back on something that sets his soul on fire anyway?
The answer to that question comes in an unexpected form: a petite five-foot-three firecracker named Sasha, who refuses to give him the time of day no matter how thick he lays on the charm.
Rooke’s not easily deterred, though. Just like the watches he builds from scratch, Rooke knows all too well how women tick. Women are a game to him. A game he always wins.
Sasha doesn’t stand a chance.
***
Sasha Connor's life has been permanently derailed since her son died five years ago. You wouldn’t know it to look at her, of course. She has a great job, a beautiful house, and caring friends. Every week, she hosts a book club featuring the sexiest, most romantic stories on the planet, and every week she falls for a new fictional knight in shining armor.
Fictional men are perfect, though. They don’t hurt you. They don’t break your heart. They don’t cheat on you after your child dies, and they rarely ever leave the toilet seat up.
When Rooke Blackheath shows up at Sasha's workplace, it’s clear he’s nothing like the men who grace the pages of Sasha's favorite books. Dangerous, arrogant, sharp-tongued and sarcastic, Rooke’s not the kind of guy she needs in her life. Not to mention the fact that he’s eleven years her junior.
They don’t live in different worlds. As far as Sasha is concerned, Rooke lives in a different galaxy altogether. She’d like to keep it that way, but fate appears to have other plans.
When Cinderella lost her shoe, Prince Charming showed up at her door.
When Sasha Connor's loses her book, an entirely different kind of rogue comes a-knocking.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review
NO spoilers from me!
Rooke has definitely become one of my all time favourite characters of Callie's. He's tall, handsome and broody. He's a dangerous, sexy man covered in tattoos *sighs* He's a badass and I LOVE it so damn much! He's immensely loyal and will protect anything and everyone he loves.
Sasha is a lovely character to get to know. She's a lady riddled with pain and guilt and we get to see just how badly that affects her, the tragedies she goes through in this book is enough to make one want to give up but not this lady. She's strong and understanding.
This book is filled with so many emotions that it shook me. One minute I was in aww at the happiness and the next my eyes were leaking from the pain inflicted on both of them. My heart hurt so much for them.
Callie Hart truly is an incredible writer, he talent NEVER fails to amaze me. When I heard she was writing this book I was so excited to see what she would come up with and it definitely didn't disappoint, Rooke was perfect in every way possible. I'm so happy I received an ARC of this beauty and it saddens me I can't rate it more than a 5 star because it definitely deserves so much more!
Book Description
Watchmaker. Car thief. Heartbreaker extraordinaire.
Rooke Blackheath has spent enough time in juvie to know that he really doesn’t want to go to jail. The food sucks, the clothes itch, and there are absolutely no women in sight. Well…none he wants to fuck, anyway.
He should probably stop boosting cars, but the money is stellar and the high is out of this world. And why should he turn his back on something that sets his soul on fire anyway?
The answer to that question comes in an unexpected form: a petite five-foot-three firecracker named Sasha, who refuses to give him the time of day no matter how thick he lays on the charm.
Rooke’s not easily deterred, though. Just like the watches he builds from scratch, Rooke knows all too well how women tick. Women are a game to him. A game he always wins.
Sasha doesn’t stand a chance.
***
Sasha Connor's life has been permanently derailed since her son died five years ago. You wouldn’t know it to look at her, of course. She has a great job, a beautiful house, and caring friends. Every week, she hosts a book club featuring the sexiest, most romantic stories on the planet, and every week she falls for a new fictional knight in shining armor.
Fictional men are perfect, though. They don’t hurt you. They don’t break your heart. They don’t cheat on you after your child dies, and they rarely ever leave the toilet seat up.
When Rooke Blackheath shows up at Sasha's workplace, it’s clear he’s nothing like the men who grace the pages of Sasha's favorite books. Dangerous, arrogant, sharp-tongued and sarcastic, Rooke’s not the kind of guy she needs in her life. Not to mention the fact that he’s eleven years her junior.
They don’t live in different worlds. As far as Sasha is concerned, Rooke lives in a different galaxy altogether. She’d like to keep it that way, but fate appears to have other plans.
When Cinderella lost her shoe, Prince Charming showed up at her door.
When Sasha Connor's loses her book, an entirely different kind of rogue comes a-knocking.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review
NO spoilers from me!
Rooke has definitely become one of my all time favourite characters of Callie's. He's tall, handsome and broody. He's a dangerous, sexy man covered in tattoos *sighs* He's a badass and I LOVE it so damn much! He's immensely loyal and will protect anything and everyone he loves.
Sasha is a lovely character to get to know. She's a lady riddled with pain and guilt and we get to see just how badly that affects her, the tragedies she goes through in this book is enough to make one want to give up but not this lady. She's strong and understanding.
This book is filled with so many emotions that it shook me. One minute I was in aww at the happiness and the next my eyes were leaking from the pain inflicted on both of them. My heart hurt so much for them.
Callie Hart truly is an incredible writer, he talent NEVER fails to amaze me. When I heard she was writing this book I was so excited to see what she would come up with and it definitely didn't disappoint, Rooke was perfect in every way possible. I'm so happy I received an ARC of this beauty and it saddens me I can't rate it more than a 5 star because it definitely deserves so much more!
March 23, 2017
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review
An intense, sexy, riveting, and emotionally charged romance that will set hearts ablaze. Callie Hart blew me away instantly from the opening pages as she tactfully lures her readers to an emotionally broken heroine who is suffering from the tragic loss of her son. From that opening scene, I was drawn to Sasha Conner.
Sasha is an empty void of the woman that she was once before. Her life took a turned when she survived and her son didn’t. For five years, she has closed off her heart that is until she meets Rooke.
The collision of Rooke and Sasha was palpable from the start. The heat. The chemistry. The passion. The intensity. And most importantly, the emotional aspect of healing and feeling alive. Right from the start, readers could feel the connection as it was strong, visceral, and passionate.
Callie Hart did an amazing job as she beautifully weaves grit, vulnerability, love, healing, and second chances in such a gripping manner. The writing was flawless as she bring forth raw emotions and characters that will easily steal your heart from the start. Hart boldly paints a literary canvas that was full of many shades of color from pain, loss, love, healing, love, and passion. So if you are looking for a story that was poignant and full of heart then Rooke is the book for you.
Callie Hart
An intense, sexy, riveting, and emotionally charged romance that will set hearts ablaze. Callie Hart blew me away instantly from the opening pages as she tactfully lures her readers to an emotionally broken heroine who is suffering from the tragic loss of her son. From that opening scene, I was drawn to Sasha Conner.
Sasha is an empty void of the woman that she was once before. Her life took a turned when she survived and her son didn’t. For five years, she has closed off her heart that is until she meets Rooke.
The collision of Rooke and Sasha was palpable from the start. The heat. The chemistry. The passion. The intensity. And most importantly, the emotional aspect of healing and feeling alive. Right from the start, readers could feel the connection as it was strong, visceral, and passionate.
Callie Hart did an amazing job as she beautifully weaves grit, vulnerability, love, healing, and second chances in such a gripping manner. The writing was flawless as she bring forth raw emotions and characters that will easily steal your heart from the start. Hart boldly paints a literary canvas that was full of many shades of color from pain, loss, love, healing, love, and passion. So if you are looking for a story that was poignant and full of heart then Rooke is the book for you.
Callie Hart
March 17, 2017
3.5-4 Stars
I love Callie Hart! So of course I jumped on this book as soon as it was live. Did I love it? Yes and no. I loved Rooke! He was super sexy and very intense. He saw Sasha and instantly knew she was his. Was the sex smoking hot? Yes! You know CH only knows how to steam up the pages when her couples connect. lol
But I felt this book started off slow for me. I'm not really a fan of insta-love and this basically was that. Then it started picking up around 30% and I was loving it. But then the drama toward the end? I'm not really sure why the drama was in there. It didn't really make any sense to me. The ending just left me scratching my head thinking...that's it? lol
So anyway my rating is for the sexy beast Rooke. Sasha didn't annoy me either so that was a plus too. lol I needed more though. I didn't really feel the love between Rooke and Sasha:(
I love Callie Hart! So of course I jumped on this book as soon as it was live. Did I love it? Yes and no. I loved Rooke! He was super sexy and very intense. He saw Sasha and instantly knew she was his. Was the sex smoking hot? Yes! You know CH only knows how to steam up the pages when her couples connect. lol
But I felt this book started off slow for me. I'm not really a fan of insta-love and this basically was that. Then it started picking up around 30% and I was loving it. But then the drama toward the end? I'm not really sure why the drama was in there. It didn't really make any sense to me. The ending just left me scratching my head thinking...that's it? lol
So anyway my rating is for the sexy beast Rooke. Sasha didn't annoy me either so that was a plus too. lol I needed more though. I didn't really feel the love between Rooke and Sasha:(
March 24, 2017
Rooke is an exhilarating, suspenseful and hot as hell story. I really enjoyed this story mainly for the characters and how they evolved. Especially Sasha who's been through one hell of a trauma five years ago. She lost her son in the process and now she's kind of a recluse. Going about her every day life which consists of work and her weekly book club.
When she bumps into the handsome and mysterious Rooke with his inked arms and neck Sasha slowly starts to come out of her shell and her walls starts to crumble. Rooke brings out what she's been hiding for five years. He's a man with so much baggage but doesn't hide it. He's upfront about his criminal history. There's an age gap of eleven years but that's doesn't matter to me. I actually love how Rooke handles it and proves to be more than his twenty three years. Their connection is intense and how Rooke sees her is freaking intoxicating. He takes charge when he sees fit and how that makes Sasha feels is really entertaining and hot.
Their relationship is a little too insta-lust/love for me but I can easily ignore that fact because these characters are too intriguing. The story is a fabulous mixture of sex, suspense and angst. Callie Hart keeps surprising me with her stories. She delivers when it comes to character development and an entertaining plot.
4 BadAssDirtyHealingStars
When she bumps into the handsome and mysterious Rooke with his inked arms and neck Sasha slowly starts to come out of her shell and her walls starts to crumble. Rooke brings out what she's been hiding for five years. He's a man with so much baggage but doesn't hide it. He's upfront about his criminal history. There's an age gap of eleven years but that's doesn't matter to me. I actually love how Rooke handles it and proves to be more than his twenty three years. Their connection is intense and how Rooke sees her is freaking intoxicating. He takes charge when he sees fit and how that makes Sasha feels is really entertaining and hot.
Their relationship is a little too insta-lust/love for me but I can easily ignore that fact because these characters are too intriguing. The story is a fabulous mixture of sex, suspense and angst. Callie Hart keeps surprising me with her stories. She delivers when it comes to character development and an entertaining plot.
4 BadAssDirtyHealingStars
March 23, 2017
I think it's safe to say by now that whatever Callie Hart writes, it's a little messed up. Or a lot. The inside of her mind must be a wonderful place.
She deliver stories that are unique, gripping and intriguing, you can't help but get invested in a heartbeat and keep turning those pages. Rooke was another scary, badass, yet sexy and wonderful anti-hero character and by their first encounter with Sasha, I needed to know what's going to happen next. I avoid older woman-younger man stories altogether, but she made even that work for me.
She deliver stories that are unique, gripping and intriguing, you can't help but get invested in a heartbeat and keep turning those pages. Rooke was another scary, badass, yet sexy and wonderful anti-hero character and by their first encounter with Sasha, I needed to know what's going to happen next. I avoid older woman-younger man stories altogether, but she made even that work for me.
March 12, 2017
“The love between us is fire and ice. It’s loss, and it’s redemption. It’s pain, and it’s comfort. It is everything.”
Raw, intense, sexy and romantic, this one was a rollercoaster!
4 stars!
I love Callie Hart’s writing. I know when I pick up one of her books I am going to be sucked into a story that will completely captivate me from start to finish, and this book was no different. I was crying within the first few pages, and my heart ached for the struggle and torment of these characters, but their love story is gorgeous (and seriously steamy), and with part of the story set within a seedy criminal underground, the touch of darkness creates a wonderful sense of intensity to it all. I loved it!
I was highlighting like crazy all the way through this book because there were so many moments that made me catch my breath. I had to stop and reread passages over and over again because they were just that good, so be warned that this review is going to be quote heavy.
Sasha Cross is living a sort of half-life. She has a great job that she loves and that she’s good at, and she has a close and supportive circle of friends, but personally she’s a mess. She lost her son in a tragic accident five years previously, and her husband left her shortly after, unable to cope with the emotional fallout. She exists rather than lives, and she has no desire or motivation to pull herself out of it.
Rooke Blackheath is a tatted-up bad boy. He spent time in juvie, and though he’s out now and working a legitimate job, he can’t give up the high of stealing cars – or the paycheck he earns for doing it. He lives his life with one foot on either side of the law, and he has no intention of stopping it. At only 22 years old he is young to some, but his experiences have left him wise beyond his years.
Sasha and Rooke meet unexpectedly, and their connection is immediate. She is taken aback by his raw sexuality, and he is instantly smitten. She balks at the 11 year age gap between them, he thinks nothing of it. He wants her and he’s determined to have her, and oh wow, she has no idea what she’s in for…
Yes, Rooke is one sexy bastard! Confident and controlling in the best kinds of ways, he holds nothing back. He doesn’t hide his past or his feelings from Sasha, putting himself completely out there for her and demanding that she do the same. He doesn’t allow her to run and lets her know exactly what he wants from her. It’s alpha, it’s bossy, it’s controlling, and it’s So. Freaking. Hot!!!!!
As always, Callie Hart writes the HOTTEST love scenes! The sex is hot, intense and a little bit dirty. But more than just completely rocking her world, Rooke pushes Sasha to start living her life again, daring her to take a chance trust him, and promising his love, protectiveness and support to her. He’s a dark and scary character, but his huge heart is beautiful, and the moments where he pours his emotions out to her are just gorgeous.
But Rooke lives in a dangerous world. And when Sasha experiences yet again just how terrifying and violent life can be, their worlds will collide, shifting the story in a direction I wasn’t expecting and making this a heart-pounding, exciting, surprising read.
I really enjoyed this book. Again, Callie Hart blends sex, romance, emotion, danger and violence and creates a wonderfully intense read that had me madly flipping pages. Sasha and Rooke are wonderfully developed characters, and their love story unfolds really nicely despite the differences between them and hurdles that are put in their way. It’s dark, gritty and emotionally heavy but there are a lot of tender moments, and some lightness and humour that had me laughing out loud, and it all combines perfectly to give us a great read that I struggled to put down.
It ends in a great place, and I’m hoping that we get to see these characters again because I feel that there is more to their story, and there are wonderful side characters introduced that I need to know more about. My fingers are crossed!
I loved it – 4 stars.
Advanced Review Copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Raw, intense, sexy and romantic, this one was a rollercoaster!
4 stars!
I love Callie Hart’s writing. I know when I pick up one of her books I am going to be sucked into a story that will completely captivate me from start to finish, and this book was no different. I was crying within the first few pages, and my heart ached for the struggle and torment of these characters, but their love story is gorgeous (and seriously steamy), and with part of the story set within a seedy criminal underground, the touch of darkness creates a wonderful sense of intensity to it all. I loved it!
I was highlighting like crazy all the way through this book because there were so many moments that made me catch my breath. I had to stop and reread passages over and over again because they were just that good, so be warned that this review is going to be quote heavy.
Sasha Cross is living a sort of half-life. She has a great job that she loves and that she’s good at, and she has a close and supportive circle of friends, but personally she’s a mess. She lost her son in a tragic accident five years previously, and her husband left her shortly after, unable to cope with the emotional fallout. She exists rather than lives, and she has no desire or motivation to pull herself out of it.
Rooke Blackheath is a tatted-up bad boy. He spent time in juvie, and though he’s out now and working a legitimate job, he can’t give up the high of stealing cars – or the paycheck he earns for doing it. He lives his life with one foot on either side of the law, and he has no intention of stopping it. At only 22 years old he is young to some, but his experiences have left him wise beyond his years.
People always say they want to know the truth. They make big speeches about how important it is to them and they harp on about the consequence of deceit, but when they’re faced with the truth, they suddenly don’t want it anymore. The truth requires you to be brave. The truth requires you to face awkward situations. The truth requires you to stand your ground, to bear it, not run away and hide from it.
Sasha and Rooke meet unexpectedly, and their connection is immediate. She is taken aback by his raw sexuality, and he is instantly smitten. She balks at the 11 year age gap between them, he thinks nothing of it. He wants her and he’s determined to have her, and oh wow, she has no idea what she’s in for…
“You think the amount of days I’ve been alive on this planet has any real bearing on how well I can fuck you? You think the date on my driver’s license means I won’t be able to make you come? That I won’t be able to love you? That I won’t be able to make you happy? … You’re eleven years older than me. Accept it. Let it go. You’re fighting an unstoppable force, Sasha.”
Yes, Rooke is one sexy bastard! Confident and controlling in the best kinds of ways, he holds nothing back. He doesn’t hide his past or his feelings from Sasha, putting himself completely out there for her and demanding that she do the same. He doesn’t allow her to run and lets her know exactly what he wants from her. It’s alpha, it’s bossy, it’s controlling, and it’s So. Freaking. Hot!!!!!
“I’m going to fuck you and it’s going to change everything. Nothing will be the same again. The sun won’t brighten your days from here on out. I will. Gravity won’t keep your feet on the ground. I will. You won’t want to eat or sleep without me. Every second spent away from me will be a second wasted.”
As always, Callie Hart writes the HOTTEST love scenes! The sex is hot, intense and a little bit dirty. But more than just completely rocking her world, Rooke pushes Sasha to start living her life again, daring her to take a chance trust him, and promising his love, protectiveness and support to her. He’s a dark and scary character, but his huge heart is beautiful, and the moments where he pours his emotions out to her are just gorgeous.
“This thing between us…you’re afraid of it. The moment you stop fearing this and you accept it, you’ll be able to see just how fucking beautiful it is. And the moment you accept it will also be the moment you don’t have to carry this shit on your own anymore.”
… “It’s not that easy. It’s not something I can just hand off to someone else so they can carry half the load for me, Rooke. This is ingrained deep inside me now. It would be like trying to give away half of my soul.”
“I’ll take a part of your soul,” he says quietly.” Give me the wounded part. Give me the part that hurts you every time you breathe. Give me the part that feels so heavy you just don’t think you can carry it anymore. I’ll take care of it for you.”
But Rooke lives in a dangerous world. And when Sasha experiences yet again just how terrifying and violent life can be, their worlds will collide, shifting the story in a direction I wasn’t expecting and making this a heart-pounding, exciting, surprising read.
I really enjoyed this book. Again, Callie Hart blends sex, romance, emotion, danger and violence and creates a wonderfully intense read that had me madly flipping pages. Sasha and Rooke are wonderfully developed characters, and their love story unfolds really nicely despite the differences between them and hurdles that are put in their way. It’s dark, gritty and emotionally heavy but there are a lot of tender moments, and some lightness and humour that had me laughing out loud, and it all combines perfectly to give us a great read that I struggled to put down.
It ends in a great place, and I’m hoping that we get to see these characters again because I feel that there is more to their story, and there are wonderful side characters introduced that I need to know more about. My fingers are crossed!
I loved it – 4 stars.
Advanced Review Copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
December 27, 2017
Oh.My.God.
This was just perfect!!!
Dear, Callie Hart, thank you for this book! I needed one like this.
That will make me smile so high and bring tears to my eyes and butterflies in my belly!
Sasha Cross has her heart full of sadness. She knows what living without a reason is, better than anyone else. She goes through daily things like is nothing.
Like her life is already gone.
She lost her son a few years back and since then she's been hollow. The husband is out of the picture and she lost her reason for living and it doesn't matter that she still has a beautiful house, a great job - all of that means nothing to her.
The only thing that is constantly in her life right now is the book club she hosts every week. In those books she finds perfect little happy endings - something that she knows she'll never get.
In between these empty days of hers, Rooke Blackheath sneaks in.
Watchmaker. Car thief. Heartbreaker extraordinaire.
He.Is.Perfect.
This whole package of a man who is so damn sure of himself. On everything.
Cocky.
Persistent.
Arrogant.
Gorgeous.
Hot.
Younger.
Thief.
Without even giving her a chance to refuse him, he just inserts himself in her life - taking space in her mind without shame.
He knows. Just knows that she is something more to him.
And that he will be just perfect for her.
I'm drawn to that hollow look in her eyes. I'm drawn to the sadness of her. I'm attracted to the dark ache in her soul.
He looks nothing like the knights in shining armor that she reads about in her books, but he might just be one. Beneath the dangerous air that surounds him and all those sarcastic answers and the f^cking ego. There.Might.Just.Be.Salvation.
Underneath the twenty-three years old boy who did time in juvie is a man who seeks adrenaline like his next breath but the maturity he has was not lost on me.
Sharp on the edges? Yes.
But the way he speaks? Man, leaves you all mushy and melted and looking for more.
So she gives him a chance. One date.
She can do this, right?!?
"You think the amount of days i've been alive on this planet has any real bearing on how well i can f^ck you? You think the date on my driver's license means i won't be able to make you come? That i won't be able to love you? That i won't be able to make you happy?"
I simply adored how well they are together. So fit and so good.
He is something fierce in making her see how perfect they are. So protective of her. Capable of doing anything and everything for a woman that calls to him on the most intimate way.
"If i have to force you to see this, i will.
Do you think i won't lock you in a basement and f^ck you senseless?"
❃❃❃ Perfection. ❃❃❃
This was just perfect!!!
Dear, Callie Hart, thank you for this book! I needed one like this.
That will make me smile so high and bring tears to my eyes and butterflies in my belly!
Sasha Cross has her heart full of sadness. She knows what living without a reason is, better than anyone else. She goes through daily things like is nothing.
Like her life is already gone.
She lost her son a few years back and since then she's been hollow. The husband is out of the picture and she lost her reason for living and it doesn't matter that she still has a beautiful house, a great job - all of that means nothing to her.
The only thing that is constantly in her life right now is the book club she hosts every week. In those books she finds perfect little happy endings - something that she knows she'll never get.
In between these empty days of hers, Rooke Blackheath sneaks in.
Watchmaker. Car thief. Heartbreaker extraordinaire.
He.Is.Perfect.
This whole package of a man who is so damn sure of himself. On everything.
Cocky.
Persistent.
Arrogant.
Gorgeous.
Hot.
Younger.
Thief.
Without even giving her a chance to refuse him, he just inserts himself in her life - taking space in her mind without shame.
He knows. Just knows that she is something more to him.
And that he will be just perfect for her.
I'm drawn to that hollow look in her eyes. I'm drawn to the sadness of her. I'm attracted to the dark ache in her soul.
He looks nothing like the knights in shining armor that she reads about in her books, but he might just be one. Beneath the dangerous air that surounds him and all those sarcastic answers and the f^cking ego. There.Might.Just.Be.Salvation.
Underneath the twenty-three years old boy who did time in juvie is a man who seeks adrenaline like his next breath but the maturity he has was not lost on me.
Sharp on the edges? Yes.
But the way he speaks? Man, leaves you all mushy and melted and looking for more.
So she gives him a chance. One date.
She can do this, right?!?
"You think the amount of days i've been alive on this planet has any real bearing on how well i can f^ck you? You think the date on my driver's license means i won't be able to make you come? That i won't be able to love you? That i won't be able to make you happy?"
I simply adored how well they are together. So fit and so good.
He is something fierce in making her see how perfect they are. So protective of her. Capable of doing anything and everything for a woman that calls to him on the most intimate way.
"If i have to force you to see this, i will.
Do you think i won't lock you in a basement and f^ck you senseless?"
❃❃❃ Perfection. ❃❃❃
March 15, 2017
Holy shit all the drama....Not quite what I was expecting. It wasn't a bad book, just their relationship was rushed and then all the happenings after they got together....Geez.
March 16, 2017
Callie knows how to pull every emotion out of you! Review to come.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
March 17, 2017
This was not what I expected and it was great!
If you like a bad boy alpha, older woman and angst, this is the one!
Callie Hart never disappoints...
If you like a bad boy alpha, older woman and angst, this is the one!
Callie Hart never disappoints...
May 31, 2021
A really HOT story about a young man and an older women, but lacking heart.
Sasha is understandable broken after losing her son. I almost didn't keep reading, that first chapter was painful to read.
Rooke was a ridiculously perfect fake book hunk. An MIT hopeful (so he's brilliant, check), a manslut who's admitted to sleeping his way across NY (only so that he could get some experience, check), he's 6' 5" with serious muscles (check), spent a few years in juvie (check) and a car thief on occasion for the mafia (check). He falls instantly in lust when he accidentally comes across Sasha. She's 11 years older than he is, but there is just something about her.
The steam was over-the-top sexy and HOT, but the romance? I kept asking WHY, why does he want to be with her. Nothing really made sense so I just went with it since it's just a story after all. He disagrees with Sasha when she says
Sasha is understandable broken after losing her son. I almost didn't keep reading, that first chapter was painful to read.
Never in all of our sessions together have I admitted to Hathaway that I wanted to die. I wanted to stay inside the water-filled shell of the car I'd had since college, and I wanted to go with my son.She belongs to a romance reading book club, that part was cute.
These books are my escape from real life. Because you know what? Real life fucking sucks.I really liked Sasha.
Rooke was a ridiculously perfect fake book hunk. An MIT hopeful (so he's brilliant, check), a manslut who's admitted to sleeping his way across NY (only so that he could get some experience, check), he's 6' 5" with serious muscles (check), spent a few years in juvie (check) and a car thief on occasion for the mafia (check). He falls instantly in lust when he accidentally comes across Sasha. She's 11 years older than he is, but there is just something about her.
The steam was over-the-top sexy and HOT, but the romance? I kept asking WHY, why does he want to be with her. Nothing really made sense so I just went with it since it's just a story after all. He disagrees with Sasha when she says
"I'm just not careless with my body. It has value. If I went around, giving it to everybody, it would mean less and less each time."Rooke of course, disagrees with her because of his previous sexual exploits. What really made my eyes roll with the ridiculousness of it all was when
March 14, 2017
This one grabbed me early on and was very exciting to read. Lately, I'd been off on my usual reading preferences and had been dallying in some Chinese novels which don't usually, or should I say at all, include erotic scenes so jumping back into this gritty, violent world was certainly something I had to adjust to once more. Luckily for me, I ate up it up and wondered why I'd been away for so long.
Sasha, wah, this woman has been through hell and back. I just could feel her heartbreak and angst bleeding through my kindle. But I also thought it was hilarious on how she was a book nerd and compared those she read in books to the ones in real life. Haha, sounds like me.
And Rooke. This man has a tainted past, ain't going to lie about that. But I liked him. He was a great partner for Sasha and oozed this delectable alpha male aura. Ooohlala.
Ah, I want moreee!!
Sasha, wah, this woman has been through hell and back. I just could feel her heartbreak and angst bleeding through my kindle. But I also thought it was hilarious on how she was a book nerd and compared those she read in books to the ones in real life. Haha, sounds like me.
And Rooke. This man has a tainted past, ain't going to lie about that. But I liked him. He was a great partner for Sasha and oozed this delectable alpha male aura. Ooohlala.
Ah, I want moreee!!
March 20, 2017
"The truth requires you to be brave. The truth requires you to face awkward situations. The truth requires you to stand your ground, to bear it, not run away and hide from it."
But can Sasha handle his truth and face her own? In her early thirties Sasha has a pain filled past. Married then divorced with a child that tragically died she is struggling with her guilt and grief, every day she goes through the motions existing not living. Her loss haunts her and pain never ends. Sasha is a hollow shell of the woman she used to be.
Rooke, a spoilt rich kid that has a dark turbulent past. In his early twenty's he is summoned by his grandfather as he is the black sheep of the father. Yet a chance encounter at the museum ignites something behind his cold gaze...she intrigues him. Rooke may be young in years but he has the wisdom of a man that has lived through dark and violent times. His life style choices have aged him and opened his eyes to the harsh reality of the dog eat dog world we live in. He is commanding yet has an aura of calmness that radiates from him as he is in control, confident of what he wants. Can he convince her of the truth of their situation?
Rooke...swoon. Honestly he's perfectly imperfect in every way. He handles his business with finesse, he doesn't back down and knows exactly what he wants so goes and gets it. He is a contradiction, an enigma and oh boy is he one of my favourite bad boys. Sasha has her own inner fire burning she just needed him to be her oxygen, fanning the embers. She too is a fighter, a survivor and together they may burn the whole damn world to ashes. I wasn't sure what to expect from the story but I was finished in record time and can't wait for more as surely that's not the end for them. I loved the signature traits of this author's writing that hook me every time: the darkness, the violence and the beauty of love.
A five star not everyone is who they seem to be read.
~*~ Reviewed on behalf of Obsessed by Books ~*~
But can Sasha handle his truth and face her own? In her early thirties Sasha has a pain filled past. Married then divorced with a child that tragically died she is struggling with her guilt and grief, every day she goes through the motions existing not living. Her loss haunts her and pain never ends. Sasha is a hollow shell of the woman she used to be.
Rooke, a spoilt rich kid that has a dark turbulent past. In his early twenty's he is summoned by his grandfather as he is the black sheep of the father. Yet a chance encounter at the museum ignites something behind his cold gaze...she intrigues him. Rooke may be young in years but he has the wisdom of a man that has lived through dark and violent times. His life style choices have aged him and opened his eyes to the harsh reality of the dog eat dog world we live in. He is commanding yet has an aura of calmness that radiates from him as he is in control, confident of what he wants. Can he convince her of the truth of their situation?
Rooke...swoon. Honestly he's perfectly imperfect in every way. He handles his business with finesse, he doesn't back down and knows exactly what he wants so goes and gets it. He is a contradiction, an enigma and oh boy is he one of my favourite bad boys. Sasha has her own inner fire burning she just needed him to be her oxygen, fanning the embers. She too is a fighter, a survivor and together they may burn the whole damn world to ashes. I wasn't sure what to expect from the story but I was finished in record time and can't wait for more as surely that's not the end for them. I loved the signature traits of this author's writing that hook me every time: the darkness, the violence and the beauty of love.
A five star not everyone is who they seem to be read.
~*~ Reviewed on behalf of Obsessed by Books ~*~
March 17, 2017
I liked the beginning of this book, but then it fell flat. The dual POVs did not work in this story. When I finally started to get into the story with Sasha's POV, it would switched to Rooke's.
Sasha was in an accident that killed her six year old son. I thought in the beginning and how the accident was told to the reader was done very well. I am not a fan of flashbacks so I liked that was Sasha telling her shrink about the accident. The first couple of chapters were only in Sasha's POV which were good. Then the reader meets Rooke, the switch's in POV occur every other chapter and it became too much. Also, the problem was this "crime" thing that was going on or something. I am not sure. I disconnected with the story at this point and called it quits. It could have been so good, but unfortunately for me it did not work.
The hero is 23 years old and the heroine is 31 years old (I think). The age difference did not bother me.
The sex scenes just felt off. They barely know each other and the hero is asking if she is on birth control. STDs???
Sasha has the annoying (and predictable) BFF that pushes sex with random strangers, etc. I hate those BFFs.
I tried, but it did not work for me. It may work for you. This is my opinion. I am not telling you not to read it. You may love it. Reading is subjective.
Sasha was in an accident that killed her six year old son. I thought in the beginning and how the accident was told to the reader was done very well. I am not a fan of flashbacks so I liked that was Sasha telling her shrink about the accident. The first couple of chapters were only in Sasha's POV which were good. Then the reader meets Rooke, the switch's in POV occur every other chapter and it became too much. Also, the problem was this "crime" thing that was going on or something. I am not sure. I disconnected with the story at this point and called it quits. It could have been so good, but unfortunately for me it did not work.
The hero is 23 years old and the heroine is 31 years old (I think). The age difference did not bother me.
The sex scenes just felt off. They barely know each other and the hero is asking if she is on birth control. STDs???
Sasha has the annoying (and predictable) BFF that pushes sex with random strangers, etc. I hate those BFFs.
I tried, but it did not work for me. It may work for you. This is my opinion. I am not telling you not to read it. You may love it. Reading is subjective.
May 14, 2018
Back when Rooke was released I was torn, I love Callie's books but I'm not really a fan of older women with younger men. I'm glad I decided to give this one a chance because I really enjoyed it. Rooke although 23 didn't feel young to me at all. I loved how determined he was to get Sasha and how he didn't care that she was 33. My heart broke for Sasha, nobody should have to bury their child. That's a heartache I don't know how anyone can get pass. Obviously Sasha is barely living. She goes to work, comes home, reads her romance novels and does it all over again the next day. When Rooke barges into her life he turns it upside down. I loved the connection between the two and I would love to read more about them.
March 19, 2021
3,5 really...
This book had such a good potential with a very interesting male lead but the romance and emotional aspect of the book, which was very-well developed in the first half of it turned into a crazy-silly thriller in the second half of it.
The first part of the book is between 4 and 5, but the second part was 2 stars for me, with lots of unnecessary drama; hence 3,5 stars from me - but I cannot round it to 4, sorry, because the second half wasn’t convincing or satisfying enough for me.
Rooke is the name of the hero in our book. He is a very interesting alpha-male character who is actually 11 years younger than the heroine, Sasha, but you never feel it because he is ... something else...
Rooke is uber-alpha, dominant, mature, smart, direct and he is reliable as a friend or a partner. However, he has a flaw, he is also a thief. He has a criminal record.
This was one of my biggest problems because I still do not have an answer why the son of a rich family steals cars. Was it just for the adrenaline, the thrill or for money? I still have to guess. I would have expected a logical reason for him doing this for so many years and getting involved with other criminals and dangerous people.
Having said that, I must admit that Rooke is always honest with Sasha – he never hides what he is.
Sasha is a damaged young woman at the age of 34. She has been going to a therapist for 5 years after a tragedy but she still hasn’t healed. She goes through the motions of life but she doesn’t enjoy life, she is still in deep pain.
This was my second problem. The heroine Sasha was already suffering from a great tragedy in her past but the writer chooses to put her in three other different near-death experiences and I really started to yell at a certain point, saying, “Oh come on, isn’t what she has endured so far enough, why do you keep throwing her at one tragedy after another?”
In the past, she had a tragic car accident, .
All that was enough to ruin her and she has been going to a therapist for 5 years but in vain – it hasn’t helped her enough. Also, she hasn’t been with anyone else for 5 years.
So, when Rooke comes into her life, she naturally resists first because he is younger and she is scared to love and lose again. However, as I said before, Rooke is something else... He literally tears down all her walls and inserts himself in her life.
Think of a huge guy with tattoos all over, dark hair / dark eyes, which is a scary look for most people when they look at him but what our heroine Sasha sees is the very sexy and soft look behind the scary facade. She cannot resist him and their over-the-top chemistry is very well reflected in the book. It is steamy hot between them.
Rooke is immensely attracted to Sasha. He also sees her sad soul and he can relate to it. He never sees the age difference as a problem. He feels the strong chemistry between them and he thinks only what they feel matters.
I’m drawn to that hollow look in her eyes. I’m drawn to the sadness of her, the way she seems to visibly throb with it.
***
“I’m nearly twenty-four, Sasha... You think the amount of days I’ve been alive on this planet has any real bearing on how well I can fuck you? You think the date on my driver’s license means I won’t be able to make you come? That I won’t be able to love you? That I won’t be able to make you happy? If that’s the case, then you are the child here, not me. You’re clinging to this age bullshit like it’s a life raft that’s saving you from drowning, Sasha, when it’s the only thing dragging you under. This moment, here, right now… this is the only time when our ages will ever really matter. You’re eleven years older than me. Accept it. Let it go. You’re fighting an unstoppable force, Sasha. I’m growing impatient…and I do very, very rash things when I grow impatient.”
***
“I’m fucked. I am completely, one hundred percent fucked.”
“What are you talking about?”
“I’m going to have to quit my job. I’m not going to have time to work anymore. I just found my new favorite pastime, and I sense it’s not going to leave me much time for anything else. Jesus, Sasha… Making you come is fucking incredible. The way your head tipped back. The way your thighs tightened around my head. The way my name sounded when you were panting it like a motherfucking mantra. I’ve only heard it once, and I can’t live without it now.”
As you can see, Rooke is something else. And the inevitable begins. They are together and they burn the pages when together!
The first half of the book is really good and promising.
What I naturally expected from the second half of the book was how their relationship would develop and how Rooke would help her heal while Sasha affects him positively enough to make him stop his criminal activities.
However, this never happens!
The second half of the book is a crazy thriller... And this was my third problem.
Sasha endures 3 more near-death experiences, one is her fault and the other two are when other people hurt/beat/threaten or kidnap her… See? So many tragedies one after the other! So unnecessary! I don't know why the book took this path at all!
I was expecting that she would finally let her pain go after 5 years of suffering with the help of her connection with Rooke but the writer created one drama after the other instead of focusing on solving the "already-there for 5 years" problem!
Reading all these events were both frustrating and boring for me.
In the end, they are happily together, having survived all these horrible tragedies that came to their way and I still don’t know if Sasha has healed now and if so, how...
I also don’t know if Rooke is going to stop his criminal activities…
Hey, I still don’t know why he started stealing at all, being the son of a very rich family…
And therefore, the second part of the book didn’t live up to the high expectations it created in the first half… Sorry, I am really sorry - it could have been a 5-star book :(
Do I recommend it?
Well, I don't regret reading it - I am just sorry that it wasn't what I expected. Still, just getting to know a guy like ROOKE might be your reason for reading it, he really is a different character!
P.S. At the end of the book, in the "questions/answers" part with the writer, there is a very slight hint that the writer may continue to write about them but I really don't know for sure. And after this point, I really don't care!
*********************************************
You can follow my Instagram page from here
This book had such a good potential with a very interesting male lead but the romance and emotional aspect of the book, which was very-well developed in the first half of it turned into a crazy-silly thriller in the second half of it.
The first part of the book is between 4 and 5, but the second part was 2 stars for me, with lots of unnecessary drama; hence 3,5 stars from me - but I cannot round it to 4, sorry, because the second half wasn’t convincing or satisfying enough for me.
Rooke is the name of the hero in our book. He is a very interesting alpha-male character who is actually 11 years younger than the heroine, Sasha, but you never feel it because he is ... something else...
Rooke is uber-alpha, dominant, mature, smart, direct and he is reliable as a friend or a partner. However, he has a flaw, he is also a thief. He has a criminal record.
This was one of my biggest problems because I still do not have an answer why the son of a rich family steals cars. Was it just for the adrenaline, the thrill or for money? I still have to guess. I would have expected a logical reason for him doing this for so many years and getting involved with other criminals and dangerous people.
Having said that, I must admit that Rooke is always honest with Sasha – he never hides what he is.
Sasha is a damaged young woman at the age of 34. She has been going to a therapist for 5 years after a tragedy but she still hasn’t healed. She goes through the motions of life but she doesn’t enjoy life, she is still in deep pain.
This was my second problem. The heroine Sasha was already suffering from a great tragedy in her past but the writer chooses to put her in three other different near-death experiences and I really started to yell at a certain point, saying, “Oh come on, isn’t what she has endured so far enough, why do you keep throwing her at one tragedy after another?”
In the past, she had a tragic car accident, .
All that was enough to ruin her and she has been going to a therapist for 5 years but in vain – it hasn’t helped her enough. Also, she hasn’t been with anyone else for 5 years.
So, when Rooke comes into her life, she naturally resists first because he is younger and she is scared to love and lose again. However, as I said before, Rooke is something else... He literally tears down all her walls and inserts himself in her life.
Think of a huge guy with tattoos all over, dark hair / dark eyes, which is a scary look for most people when they look at him but what our heroine Sasha sees is the very sexy and soft look behind the scary facade. She cannot resist him and their over-the-top chemistry is very well reflected in the book. It is steamy hot between them.
Rooke is immensely attracted to Sasha. He also sees her sad soul and he can relate to it. He never sees the age difference as a problem. He feels the strong chemistry between them and he thinks only what they feel matters.
I’m drawn to that hollow look in her eyes. I’m drawn to the sadness of her, the way she seems to visibly throb with it.
***
“I’m nearly twenty-four, Sasha... You think the amount of days I’ve been alive on this planet has any real bearing on how well I can fuck you? You think the date on my driver’s license means I won’t be able to make you come? That I won’t be able to love you? That I won’t be able to make you happy? If that’s the case, then you are the child here, not me. You’re clinging to this age bullshit like it’s a life raft that’s saving you from drowning, Sasha, when it’s the only thing dragging you under. This moment, here, right now… this is the only time when our ages will ever really matter. You’re eleven years older than me. Accept it. Let it go. You’re fighting an unstoppable force, Sasha. I’m growing impatient…and I do very, very rash things when I grow impatient.”
***
“I’m fucked. I am completely, one hundred percent fucked.”
“What are you talking about?”
“I’m going to have to quit my job. I’m not going to have time to work anymore. I just found my new favorite pastime, and I sense it’s not going to leave me much time for anything else. Jesus, Sasha… Making you come is fucking incredible. The way your head tipped back. The way your thighs tightened around my head. The way my name sounded when you were panting it like a motherfucking mantra. I’ve only heard it once, and I can’t live without it now.”
As you can see, Rooke is something else. And the inevitable begins. They are together and they burn the pages when together!
The first half of the book is really good and promising.
What I naturally expected from the second half of the book was how their relationship would develop and how Rooke would help her heal while Sasha affects him positively enough to make him stop his criminal activities.
However, this never happens!
The second half of the book is a crazy thriller... And this was my third problem.
Sasha endures 3 more near-death experiences, one is her fault and the other two are when other people hurt/beat/threaten or kidnap her… See? So many tragedies one after the other! So unnecessary! I don't know why the book took this path at all!
I was expecting that she would finally let her pain go after 5 years of suffering with the help of her connection with Rooke but the writer created one drama after the other instead of focusing on solving the "already-there for 5 years" problem!
Reading all these events were both frustrating and boring for me.
In the end, they are happily together, having survived all these horrible tragedies that came to their way and I still don’t know if Sasha has healed now and if so, how...
I also don’t know if Rooke is going to stop his criminal activities…
Hey, I still don’t know why he started stealing at all, being the son of a very rich family…
And therefore, the second part of the book didn’t live up to the high expectations it created in the first half… Sorry, I am really sorry - it could have been a 5-star book :(
Do I recommend it?
Well, I don't regret reading it - I am just sorry that it wasn't what I expected. Still, just getting to know a guy like ROOKE might be your reason for reading it, he really is a different character!
P.S. At the end of the book, in the "questions/answers" part with the writer, there is a very slight hint that the writer may continue to write about them but I really don't know for sure. And after this point, I really don't care!
*********************************************
You can follow my Instagram page from here
March 17, 2017
from the beginning till the end I love everything about book and characters. But my favorite one is Rooke he is eleven years younger our girl but his heart and mind is bigger than her age.. He was so brave clever and adorable. his past and her past had lots of shitbut this didnt stop him from his way through her heart. Not only his appearance but also his dirty mind will keep you shocked and take your breath away. you feel like you fell into heaven with him and boom.
I also want to mention negative parts of book..... both Sasha and Rooke has painful tangled past... Through the story line we can not learn why Rooke chooise to be thief what was the reason of this.....(his father? mother? or What?) second part of book was like slow motion of detective films.....
it can be contain more romance or love scenes than this kind of stuff...
But you will love Rooke so much... just read him and fulfill your heart with a passion and love....
I also want to mention negative parts of book..... both Sasha and Rooke has painful tangled past... Through the story line we can not learn why Rooke chooise to be thief what was the reason of this.....(his father? mother? or What?) second part of book was like slow motion of detective films.....
it can be contain more romance or love scenes than this kind of stuff...
But you will love Rooke so much... just read him and fulfill your heart with a passion and love....
March 13, 2017
I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you Callie Hart!
Oh. My. God. Callie has done it again. It had been awhile since my last Hart read - I know blasphemous - but in a way, I saw just how much she has grown as an author. She improved so much in character building and development since the Blood and Roses series. Sasha's healing process is virtually impeccable throughout the novel, and her reactions to the situations she comes face to face with are on point.
Callie, you have officially created the most delicious male character ever. Rooke - tattoos, treats women amazingly, reads romance novels, isn't afraid to care. *Swoons* His backstory is well built and works well with the plot. He is such a layered character, who makes you rethink the perceptions of mobsters and criminals.
Lastly, that plot twist at the end? Was not expecting that AT ALL. Like, that came out of nowhere, yet made so much sense! Callie, you are a genius and I can't wait to devour more of your books!
Oh. My. God. Callie has done it again. It had been awhile since my last Hart read - I know blasphemous - but in a way, I saw just how much she has grown as an author. She improved so much in character building and development since the Blood and Roses series. Sasha's healing process is virtually impeccable throughout the novel, and her reactions to the situations she comes face to face with are on point.
Callie, you have officially created the most delicious male character ever. Rooke - tattoos, treats women amazingly, reads romance novels, isn't afraid to care. *Swoons* His backstory is well built and works well with the plot. He is such a layered character, who makes you rethink the perceptions of mobsters and criminals.
Lastly, that plot twist at the end? Was not expecting that AT ALL. Like, that came out of nowhere, yet made so much sense! Callie, you are a genius and I can't wait to devour more of your books!
March 26, 2017
4 STARS!
Callie Hart has quickly reached queen of Dark romance status. She knows how to write a hero whose dark, intense, attractive, intriguing and dangerous. The heroine never stands a chance.
Rooke was that to the core and more!! Sasha is a broken soul whose immediately drawn to Rooke's edgy and intimidating persona. She's a woman whose been through hell and back and each day is a struggle for her until she bumps into Rooke, literally. For once in her life Sasha feels alive and she gets swept away into a gritty, raw, and passionate world.
Callie Hart has once again blown me away with her fantastic writing. Rooke will navigate you through twists and turns, bringing out many shades of emotions within you. There's many obstacles that he and Sasha must overcome, which is what made me love this story even more. If you're looking for a suspenseful, fast paced, and steamy read then this book is right down your alley.
"I'm drawn to that hollow look in her eyes. I'm drawn to the sadness of her. I'm attracted to the dark ache in her soul."
*AN ARC WAS KINDLY PROVIDED IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW.*
"The love between us is fire and ice. It's loss, and it's redemption. It's pain, and it's comfort. It is everything."
Callie Hart has quickly reached queen of Dark romance status. She knows how to write a hero whose dark, intense, attractive, intriguing and dangerous. The heroine never stands a chance.
Rooke was that to the core and more!! Sasha is a broken soul whose immediately drawn to Rooke's edgy and intimidating persona. She's a woman whose been through hell and back and each day is a struggle for her until she bumps into Rooke, literally. For once in her life Sasha feels alive and she gets swept away into a gritty, raw, and passionate world.
Callie Hart has once again blown me away with her fantastic writing. Rooke will navigate you through twists and turns, bringing out many shades of emotions within you. There's many obstacles that he and Sasha must overcome, which is what made me love this story even more. If you're looking for a suspenseful, fast paced, and steamy read then this book is right down your alley.
"I'm drawn to that hollow look in her eyes. I'm drawn to the sadness of her. I'm attracted to the dark ache in her soul."
*AN ARC WAS KINDLY PROVIDED IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW.*
March 18, 2017
OH, OH, OH, OH My goodness. This is an absolute must read! It sucked me in from the very first page, I would say until the last but I'm still stuck in there; I don't want to come out yet! This was an excellent read, in fact one of my favourites this year so far. It had feels on top of feels. At one point I grabbed my husbands arm; I was so nervous for what was going to happen next.
I love the characters so much.
Sasha is great; my heart ached for her and what she's been through, I can only imagine what it must be like to have to cope with what she had to. I felt so sad for her in the beginning I just couldn't comprehend how you would get over such a loss, but then in comes Rooke.
A young, hot, controlling, sexy, tattooed, bad boy; an ex con, (who is now my newest book boyfriend). He has a dirty mind and a dirty mouth which he most certainly knows how to use and he knows its not just for talking, Whoaaaa!! Did I mention he was hot? Because he really really is! You all need to meet Rooke!
This is an action packed, emotionally packed read. I also recommend you have your other half near by as there was more than once I got all hot and bothered with those intimate scenes! Well this read had every thing you could want in a book and more, I couldn't recommend it enough. I wish I could give it more than 5 stars as for me it deserves more!
I love the characters so much.
Sasha is great; my heart ached for her and what she's been through, I can only imagine what it must be like to have to cope with what she had to. I felt so sad for her in the beginning I just couldn't comprehend how you would get over such a loss, but then in comes Rooke.
A young, hot, controlling, sexy, tattooed, bad boy; an ex con, (who is now my newest book boyfriend). He has a dirty mind and a dirty mouth which he most certainly knows how to use and he knows its not just for talking, Whoaaaa!! Did I mention he was hot? Because he really really is! You all need to meet Rooke!
This is an action packed, emotionally packed read. I also recommend you have your other half near by as there was more than once I got all hot and bothered with those intimate scenes! Well this read had every thing you could want in a book and more, I couldn't recommend it enough. I wish I could give it more than 5 stars as for me it deserves more!
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