What do you think?
Rate this book
Exposé #2
Clandestine
One night.
No names.
No commitment.
That was our agreement.
But Spencer Lancaster was addictive.
And I was high.
High off his taste, starved for his kiss, and desperate for his touch.
So when he asked me to stay, to enjoy his company for more nights than I knew I should, I wasn’t in the right mind to say no.
Everything was perfect. A dream come true.
But half a world away there were secrets.
Lies.
Insecurities.
All of the truths that could tear us apart.
No names.
No commitment.
That was our agreement.
But Spencer Lancaster was addictive.
And I was high.
High off his taste, starved for his kiss, and desperate for his touch.
So when he asked me to stay, to enjoy his company for more nights than I knew I should, I wasn’t in the right mind to say no.
Everything was perfect. A dream come true.
But half a world away there were secrets.
Lies.
Insecurities.
All of the truths that could tear us apart.
311 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 22, 2017
1588 people are currently reading
1916 people want to read
About the author
Ava Harrison
43 books3,675 followersAva Harrison is a USA Today and Amazon bestselling author.
When she’s not journaling her life, you can find her window shopping, cooking dinner for her family, or curled up on her couch reading a book.
When she’s not journaling her life, you can find her window shopping, cooking dinner for her family, or curled up on her couch reading a book.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 285 reviews
April 13, 2019
Brilliant.
I really enjoyed this book. I was just looking through KU and came across it. I've only read one book from this author but I have to read more of her books. This book was really good I got sucked into this story from the start. I luvd Olivia and Spencer they were smoking hot together from the start. But they have both been through so much and still dealing with some things now. They both have families that are wealthy and have dealt with family issue's. There life is stressful at the min but finding each other help take some of that stress away.
This story was sexy, emotional, a page turner and so well written. The twists in the story were great and had me on the edge of my seat. I can't wait to read more of this series. The book is a standalone but the other books are Spencer's brother and I need more from that family. I would highly recommend this book check it out.
I really enjoyed this book. I was just looking through KU and came across it. I've only read one book from this author but I have to read more of her books. This book was really good I got sucked into this story from the start. I luvd Olivia and Spencer they were smoking hot together from the start. But they have both been through so much and still dealing with some things now. They both have families that are wealthy and have dealt with family issue's. There life is stressful at the min but finding each other help take some of that stress away.
This story was sexy, emotional, a page turner and so well written. The twists in the story were great and had me on the edge of my seat. I can't wait to read more of this series. The book is a standalone but the other books are Spencer's brother and I need more from that family. I would highly recommend this book check it out.
January 10, 2019
This one surprised me, I liked it a lot more than I thought I would, given the overall rating it has (which again shows me that overall opinions don´t always go with mine).
It touched on some sensitive subjects and real life problems and hurdles.
This is a first one in a 3 books series about 3 brothers but can also be read as a standalone.
It touched on some sensitive subjects and real life problems and hurdles.
This is a first one in a 3 books series about 3 brothers but can also be read as a standalone.
August 22, 2017
“In my weakness, I find my strength.” - Olivia, Clandestine by Ava Harrison
WOW…
Five hours it's taken me to write this review. Five hours of thoughts, words & emotions that are wildly thrashing around inside me. I always find it a struggle to review the books that knock me off my feet and affect me deeply. Clandestine by Ava Harrison did just that. I was not expecting this book to role the way it did. I was not expecting this book to hit me as deep as it did. I am a whirlwind of EMOTIONS! I'm just OVERWHELMED.
Clandestine is hands down Ava’s best book yet. This is not a happy dancing rom-com and I wasn't expecting it to be. With Ava you always know you will get your soul smashed and your heart broken, in the best way possible of course, but there was something about Ava’s writing in Clandestine that just draws you in and consumes you. I don't think I've felt so connected to a female character in a long time! And I am SO IN LOVE with this male character that I feel like he's printed on my marrow.
Olivia made my heart ache. The way Ava wrote her was sublime. Every woman will relate to Olivia in some way. Every woman will understand her, even if it's just one part of her, she will connect with you somehow. All of her feelings and emotions are REAL. And they hit deep.
Spencer is a beast! He's raw and powerful, cocky and ambitious, sexy and hella sinful, but he too is broken. Without even realising I fell hard for this hero super quickly. His sinful, swoony ways made it easy and as the book progressed I just couldn't help myself.
But together they are intense, passionate and HOT. A raging inferno. Ava NAILS their connection from the very first time they meet.
Character aside, Ava delivers a hard hitting, emotional story that written so precisely. Ava handled all the topics this story touches on with dedication and care. The raw, intensity of Ava’s words made this already beautiful novel even more so. Clandestine is forever embedded in my heart.
5 captivating, all consuming stars.
WOW…
Five hours it's taken me to write this review. Five hours of thoughts, words & emotions that are wildly thrashing around inside me. I always find it a struggle to review the books that knock me off my feet and affect me deeply. Clandestine by Ava Harrison did just that. I was not expecting this book to role the way it did. I was not expecting this book to hit me as deep as it did. I am a whirlwind of EMOTIONS! I'm just OVERWHELMED.
Clandestine is hands down Ava’s best book yet. This is not a happy dancing rom-com and I wasn't expecting it to be. With Ava you always know you will get your soul smashed and your heart broken, in the best way possible of course, but there was something about Ava’s writing in Clandestine that just draws you in and consumes you. I don't think I've felt so connected to a female character in a long time! And I am SO IN LOVE with this male character that I feel like he's printed on my marrow.
Olivia made my heart ache. The way Ava wrote her was sublime. Every woman will relate to Olivia in some way. Every woman will understand her, even if it's just one part of her, she will connect with you somehow. All of her feelings and emotions are REAL. And they hit deep.
Spencer is a beast! He's raw and powerful, cocky and ambitious, sexy and hella sinful, but he too is broken. Without even realising I fell hard for this hero super quickly. His sinful, swoony ways made it easy and as the book progressed I just couldn't help myself.
But together they are intense, passionate and HOT. A raging inferno. Ava NAILS their connection from the very first time they meet.
Character aside, Ava delivers a hard hitting, emotional story that written so precisely. Ava handled all the topics this story touches on with dedication and care. The raw, intensity of Ava’s words made this already beautiful novel even more so. Clandestine is forever embedded in my heart.
5 captivating, all consuming stars.
Read
August 16, 2018Dnf 50%
This isn't working for me. Neither main character is interesting to me and the drama overload doesn't compensate for the lack of chemistry between the two of them. No banter, no spark, just nothing.
It's full of cliches and characters I've read about a gazillion times before - poor little rich girl meets the manwhore billionaire. Yawn.
Sorry, but not for me.
This isn't working for me. Neither main character is interesting to me and the drama overload doesn't compensate for the lack of chemistry between the two of them. No banter, no spark, just nothing.
It's full of cliches and characters I've read about a gazillion times before - poor little rich girl meets the manwhore billionaire. Yawn.
Sorry, but not for me.
August 19, 2017
***ARC Provided by the Author and Give Me Books***
This was not what I was expecting, and isn't that such a fun surprise from a book. Don't worry, it is all good, and you will like it. All of the important stuff is there; a couple you like, individually and together, the passion, the connection, the happily ever after. But, in a slightly different way than it usually is...which will make sense when you read it.
From the blurb, I was expecting that this would be a Pretty Woman kind of romance, a few illicit (like what I did there?) nights strung together and then a couple of characters figuring out that they wanted more. Well, it was, and it wasn't, this simple.
In a lot of ways, this is exactly what I got, but the order was different than I was expecting, the development of the relationship with Spencer and Olivia was a little faster than I expected it to be at the beginning. And, like Olivia says, this really lets her, Spencer and in my case, the reader, off the stress of "will they work it out before they leave their time together" and lets you focus on the future. It's also a lot of fun to read the books where the hero just loves the heroine. Yeah, there is a some resistance at first, but even from the beginning, Spencer figures out quickly that what he has with Olivia is different, and that he's never had anything like that before.
Isn't that why we read romance? To be there, with the couple, when they realize this person is it for them? That this is the person they are meant to be with? I know this is one of my favorites of the many ways in which a romance evolves.
There are a whole bunch of unresolved issues, and insecurities. Spencer has his past, his former relationship with his ex, his estrangement with his brother Grant (who is getting his own standalone, isn't that the best news???) and his fear of letting anyone close to him that is causing him to push Olivia away...even though he thinks he is keeping that hidden from her. Olivia has her past as well. And, ironically, although you see this coming, I think, it is the girl who seems to have her family all worked out who has some of the biggest issues to face. Because isn't that life? You have it all figured out, all is going to plan, things are moving as they should and then life happens.
I loved the character development in this book. Through some internal, and some external, neither of them are the people at the end that they were at the beginning. Some of it is big, some of it just those small realizations we all have when we realize something we thought was true isn't true, or is no longer true.
There is a scene toward the end (no spoilers I promise) where not only does Olivia react differently than she would have in the past, but she owns it. She knows it. She stops herself from the knee jerk reaction that she would have had in the past...and because she stops it, she is able to move forward with Spencer. Little moments like this, and there are a couple in this book, are what take a book from good to great.
I could go on, in fact many reading this likely think I should have stopped this review a few paragraphs ago, LOL....but let me just say I recommend this book, you want to read it, and I can't wait for the next one by this author!
This was not what I was expecting, and isn't that such a fun surprise from a book. Don't worry, it is all good, and you will like it. All of the important stuff is there; a couple you like, individually and together, the passion, the connection, the happily ever after. But, in a slightly different way than it usually is...which will make sense when you read it.
From the blurb, I was expecting that this would be a Pretty Woman kind of romance, a few illicit (like what I did there?) nights strung together and then a couple of characters figuring out that they wanted more. Well, it was, and it wasn't, this simple.
In a lot of ways, this is exactly what I got, but the order was different than I was expecting, the development of the relationship with Spencer and Olivia was a little faster than I expected it to be at the beginning. And, like Olivia says, this really lets her, Spencer and in my case, the reader, off the stress of "will they work it out before they leave their time together" and lets you focus on the future. It's also a lot of fun to read the books where the hero just loves the heroine. Yeah, there is a some resistance at first, but even from the beginning, Spencer figures out quickly that what he has with Olivia is different, and that he's never had anything like that before.
Isn't that why we read romance? To be there, with the couple, when they realize this person is it for them? That this is the person they are meant to be with? I know this is one of my favorites of the many ways in which a romance evolves.
There are a whole bunch of unresolved issues, and insecurities. Spencer has his past, his former relationship with his ex, his estrangement with his brother Grant (who is getting his own standalone, isn't that the best news???) and his fear of letting anyone close to him that is causing him to push Olivia away...even though he thinks he is keeping that hidden from her. Olivia has her past as well. And, ironically, although you see this coming, I think, it is the girl who seems to have her family all worked out who has some of the biggest issues to face. Because isn't that life? You have it all figured out, all is going to plan, things are moving as they should and then life happens.
I loved the character development in this book. Through some internal, and some external, neither of them are the people at the end that they were at the beginning. Some of it is big, some of it just those small realizations we all have when we realize something we thought was true isn't true, or is no longer true.
There is a scene toward the end (no spoilers I promise) where not only does Olivia react differently than she would have in the past, but she owns it. She knows it. She stops herself from the knee jerk reaction that she would have had in the past...and because she stops it, she is able to move forward with Spencer. Little moments like this, and there are a couple in this book, are what take a book from good to great.
I could go on, in fact many reading this likely think I should have stopped this review a few paragraphs ago, LOL....but let me just say I recommend this book, you want to read it, and I can't wait for the next one by this author!
August 24, 2017
4 WHAT I WANT FOREVER STARS!!!
CHRIST!!! I just need a sexond or a million to stare at that delicious COVER. I MEAN...come on! I want to lick it and other things...
Ok, about the book....Ava creates the sexiest men ever. For real. Seriously. Spencer was so swoony, I couldn't get enough. And I fell in LOVE with Olivia! This story wasn't just hot, it made me feel! I loved the connection that I felt between the characters. The banter and the chemistry was epic! The emotions I felt while reading Clandestine made me want to leap through my kindle. Sometimes to slap someone *side eyes Spencer* and definitely to embrace Olivia! God I LOVE her! I just wanted to give her a big hug and hang out with her! And Spencer? Welllll I wanted to rub all up on him. RAWR!
Clandestine is a steamy, romance with a side of angst that will keep you turning the pages. I can't wait to read the next Lancaster's story!
One night.
No names.
No commitment.
That was our agreement.
But Spencer Lancaster was addictive.
And I was high.
High off his taste, starved for his kiss, and desperate for his touch.
So when he asked me to stay, to enjoy his company for more nights than I knew I should, I wasn’t in the right mind to say no.
Everything was perfect. A dream come true.
But half a world away there were secrets.
Lies.
Insecurities.
All of the truths that could tear us apart.
LIVE ON AMAZON: http://amzn.to/2vZqLf8
CHRIST!!! I just need a sexond or a million to stare at that delicious COVER. I MEAN...come on! I want to lick it and other things...
Ok, about the book....Ava creates the sexiest men ever. For real. Seriously. Spencer was so swoony, I couldn't get enough. And I fell in LOVE with Olivia! This story wasn't just hot, it made me feel! I loved the connection that I felt between the characters. The banter and the chemistry was epic! The emotions I felt while reading Clandestine made me want to leap through my kindle. Sometimes to slap someone *side eyes Spencer* and definitely to embrace Olivia! God I LOVE her! I just wanted to give her a big hug and hang out with her! And Spencer? Welllll I wanted to rub all up on him. RAWR!
Clandestine is a steamy, romance with a side of angst that will keep you turning the pages. I can't wait to read the next Lancaster's story!
One night.
No names.
No commitment.
That was our agreement.
But Spencer Lancaster was addictive.
And I was high.
High off his taste, starved for his kiss, and desperate for his touch.
So when he asked me to stay, to enjoy his company for more nights than I knew I should, I wasn’t in the right mind to say no.
Everything was perfect. A dream come true.
But half a world away there were secrets.
Lies.
Insecurities.
All of the truths that could tear us apart.
LIVE ON AMAZON: http://amzn.to/2vZqLf8
February 23, 2018
2.5 stars
September 13, 2017
This is a story that will stay with you after you finish reading it. It is steamy, angsty, emotional and deeply touching. What you have is two people who are fighting their own demons when they meet up-A hotel tycoon and a model. Neither are looking for love but it seems that is what happens after they tumble into a relationship.
Olivia Miller is a woman with more ghosts in her past and she deals with a weight issue which leads to her dealing with a drug problem. She thinks she isn’t skinny enough to do her job which is rubbish and that the body issues she has dealt with for a while that has followed her during her modeling career. She is so beautiful yet deeply troubled.
Spencer Lancaster is a sexy and handsome CEO of his family’s business. This is not what he was going to do with his life but ended up as the CEO due to a HUGE rift between his father and older brother Grant and younger brother Pierce. So he ends up being the “Golden” child and pulls out all the stops to show he is good enough to be in the role he was put in yet he feels he is just playing a role. He is trying to expand the business yet someone is trying to cause damage/mischief and make sure his dreams do not happen.
When these two meet in London and end up having a one night stand, only one night is not enough and they start to see more of each other. Only they realizes sex isn’t the only thing that is on their mind and they start to see each other. Once they start to see each other, they realize there is more there between them and WOW it is such a steamy, hot chemistry.
We see how insecure Olivia is and how she struggles to fit in with Spencer and his world. Spencer at times was a jerk and everything had to be his way but he soon comes to realize Olivia harbors secrets and its not against him but about her. He can either be her source of strength or he can be her weakness. Not saying it was something he came to realize immediately but it took an almost tragedy before he realized , before he finally saw that he can be her source of strength and his love for her enabled him to forgive and learn to trust that he can open his heart up to love again. And for Spencer, his love and heart was for Olivia and nobody else for him.
I loved CLANDESTINE ! This was a passionate, angst ridden , romantic story that held my interest from start to finish. I loved Oliva and Spencer’s story from start to finish and I cannot wait to read the next book in this series.
My Rating: 4.7 stars *****
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***
Olivia Miller is a woman with more ghosts in her past and she deals with a weight issue which leads to her dealing with a drug problem. She thinks she isn’t skinny enough to do her job which is rubbish and that the body issues she has dealt with for a while that has followed her during her modeling career. She is so beautiful yet deeply troubled.
Spencer Lancaster is a sexy and handsome CEO of his family’s business. This is not what he was going to do with his life but ended up as the CEO due to a HUGE rift between his father and older brother Grant and younger brother Pierce. So he ends up being the “Golden” child and pulls out all the stops to show he is good enough to be in the role he was put in yet he feels he is just playing a role. He is trying to expand the business yet someone is trying to cause damage/mischief and make sure his dreams do not happen.
When these two meet in London and end up having a one night stand, only one night is not enough and they start to see more of each other. Only they realizes sex isn’t the only thing that is on their mind and they start to see each other. Once they start to see each other, they realize there is more there between them and WOW it is such a steamy, hot chemistry.
We see how insecure Olivia is and how she struggles to fit in with Spencer and his world. Spencer at times was a jerk and everything had to be his way but he soon comes to realize Olivia harbors secrets and its not against him but about her. He can either be her source of strength or he can be her weakness. Not saying it was something he came to realize immediately but it took an almost tragedy before he realized , before he finally saw that he can be her source of strength and his love for her enabled him to forgive and learn to trust that he can open his heart up to love again. And for Spencer, his love and heart was for Olivia and nobody else for him.
I loved CLANDESTINE ! This was a passionate, angst ridden , romantic story that held my interest from start to finish. I loved Oliva and Spencer’s story from start to finish and I cannot wait to read the next book in this series.
My Rating: 4.7 stars *****
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***
September 13, 2017
Where to start. I fell hard in the beginning of this book. Olivia was sweet, yet troubled and Spencer was your stereotypical playboy CEO and I loved every minute of it. He owned it and wasn't one bit ashamed.
When hearts are involved, nothing is ever easy and they had an uphill battle to fight.
Just when I was starting to love Olivia, she would do something stupid that made me want to shake some sense into her. I was left feeling disappointed in her halfway through her journey to happiness. While I realize the heroine had some past addictions and current hang ups, I was hoping by this point she would have been a little stronger and learned to cope a little better than she did. I was also both taken aback and elated when her party-girl friend made a complete 180 that I didn’t see coming. Then when tragedy struck I was sad nothing was said about her again until the end.
Spencer had so much going on, yet he still allowed his feelings for Olivia to develop and grow. And of course there were heart pumping scenes that involved him as well that had me gasping WTF at my Kindle. Speaking of...Addison needs to just walk away. Seriously! This woman!
Overall, I thought this was a good read with lots of twists and turns, complex characters and a plot-line that makes you believe in true love and happily-ever-afters.
You can find me here
August 23, 2017
kfforever
4.5 Stars ~ Reviewed by Emma-Louise on behalf of KFF
A hotel tycoon and a weight wrestling model, both struggling with their own inner demons, and neither is looking for true love.
Olivia Miller a woman with more ghosts then the Mary Celeste, fighting to maintain a modelling career whilst also fighting deep seeded body issues. She has never seen herself as good enough. Never skinny enough. Never pretty enough, never enough.
Spencer Lancaster the devil may care loves 'em and leave 'em playboy CEO. Saddled with the family business because of a family rift his father has with his older brother Grant and miscreant younger brother Pierce. Add the fact that Spencer is living in his father's shadow he's attempting to pull out all the stops to expand the business. Only someone is putting a spanner in the works, and that someone in good old Ava Harrison fashion, wasn't whom I thought it would be. Both running from mistakes and bad judgements, both trying to make a new life for themselves. Until they meet in London and end up spending the night together.
"You're trouble."
"You have no idea."
One night is not enough and they start to see more of each other. Only sex isn't the only thing that is on their mind. They can't stay away from each other and they can't stop the feelings that take over.
'We blend together; we mesh and create something beautiful and different.
We're in a snow globe that belongs only to us, and I don't dare shake it.
For once in my life, I want it to stay still and quiet. No flakes. No storm. No nothing.
Just Spencer and me.
Just when happiness meets life.'
No Ava Harrison book is easy; nothing worth having ever comes without a good fight.
"You're the best person I know, Olivia. You have a chance to escape this life. Don't look back."
Olivia is Lynn's half sister, and of course the gorgeous Carson has to make a debut in this book. Ava Harrison has stated that there will be further novel in this world, told from the point of view of Grant Lancaster, lets hope whomever he ends up leads him a merry chase and makes the dastardly Grant work for his happily ever after. Clandestine deals with some hard subject matters, there may be issue buttons in this book for some people, so please, be aware now.
I loved Clandestine. It was edgy and raw. So many times Olivia made my heart ache and soul cry out. She thinks so little of herself in so many ways. She never gives herself a chance to just be. Running from one thing to another and then running away from that as well. The girl, only 24, is a true testament to the fact that being young doesn't mean you're inexperienced. She had so much thrown at her in such a small space of time, and I truly believe that if she had communicated this to those who loved her most some of the wrong decisions/choices she makes would never have been made.
4.5 Stars ~ Reviewed by Emma-Louise on behalf of KFF
A hotel tycoon and a weight wrestling model, both struggling with their own inner demons, and neither is looking for true love.
Olivia Miller a woman with more ghosts then the Mary Celeste, fighting to maintain a modelling career whilst also fighting deep seeded body issues. She has never seen herself as good enough. Never skinny enough. Never pretty enough, never enough.
Spencer Lancaster the devil may care loves 'em and leave 'em playboy CEO. Saddled with the family business because of a family rift his father has with his older brother Grant and miscreant younger brother Pierce. Add the fact that Spencer is living in his father's shadow he's attempting to pull out all the stops to expand the business. Only someone is putting a spanner in the works, and that someone in good old Ava Harrison fashion, wasn't whom I thought it would be. Both running from mistakes and bad judgements, both trying to make a new life for themselves. Until they meet in London and end up spending the night together.
"You're trouble."
"You have no idea."
One night is not enough and they start to see more of each other. Only sex isn't the only thing that is on their mind. They can't stay away from each other and they can't stop the feelings that take over.
'We blend together; we mesh and create something beautiful and different.
We're in a snow globe that belongs only to us, and I don't dare shake it.
For once in my life, I want it to stay still and quiet. No flakes. No storm. No nothing.
Just Spencer and me.
Just when happiness meets life.'
No Ava Harrison book is easy; nothing worth having ever comes without a good fight.
"You're the best person I know, Olivia. You have a chance to escape this life. Don't look back."
Olivia is Lynn's half sister, and of course the gorgeous Carson has to make a debut in this book. Ava Harrison has stated that there will be further novel in this world, told from the point of view of Grant Lancaster, lets hope whomever he ends up leads him a merry chase and makes the dastardly Grant work for his happily ever after. Clandestine deals with some hard subject matters, there may be issue buttons in this book for some people, so please, be aware now.
I loved Clandestine. It was edgy and raw. So many times Olivia made my heart ache and soul cry out. She thinks so little of herself in so many ways. She never gives herself a chance to just be. Running from one thing to another and then running away from that as well. The girl, only 24, is a true testament to the fact that being young doesn't mean you're inexperienced. She had so much thrown at her in such a small space of time, and I truly believe that if she had communicated this to those who loved her most some of the wrong decisions/choices she makes would never have been made.
August 27, 2017
***AVAILABLE NOW - FULL REVIEW***
5 Snow Globe CROWNS
Clandestine from Ava Harrison is perfect steamy, angsty romance perfection. With its flawed characters and passionate moments, I couldn't put down Spencer and Olivia's story.
Spencer is the controlling, emotionless CEO readers have come to expect in romance novels. When we first meet him, he is all arrogant and stolid. When he connects with Olivia, thought, is when readers get to finally see the man beneath, and this is man that they will swoon over. He becomes the epitome of the CEO romance hero.
Olivia is such a flawed heroine. Incredibly insecure and broken, she doesn't see herself as worthy of anything or anyone. Every time something in her life falls apart or someone leaves, it is because she doesn't measure up. Normally, this type of heroine bothers me, but her timidity only made me sympathetic to her character. I could see her self-worth being chipped away, and I cringed when she began to cope. I wanted better for her, because I truly liked her character and wanted her for Spencer. Her evolution throughout the story is without a doubt the biggest and the hardest fought battle, and at the end of the story I respected her struggle.
This story starts out heavy on the angst and steam, and it doesn't let up until the end. Every single moment between Olivia and Spencer is electric, and the author does a great job moving them from lust to love in a believable fashion. Of course, the angst arrives with the many hurdles that come at them from both sides, and, as one would expect, they don't always walk away unscathed. The readers will want to scream at them and will shake their heads in disappointment, but Ava Harrison delivers an ending the brings this couple full circle.
I absolutely loved this first Expose' story from Ava Harrison. The characters and their journey will absolutely suck readers into the story, burning them up with the passion and romance of Spencer and Olivia.
---------
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
For more reviews and other book news, check out Musings of the Modern Belle at www.modernbellebooks.com.
--------
Get your copy today:
Amazon US: http://amzn.to/2voaLQy
Amazon UK: http://amzn.to/2wF8wwa
Amazon CA: http://amzn.to/2xcqYKD
Amazon AU: http://amzn.to/2wEAbNP
5 Snow Globe CROWNS
Clandestine from Ava Harrison is perfect steamy, angsty romance perfection. With its flawed characters and passionate moments, I couldn't put down Spencer and Olivia's story.
Spencer is the controlling, emotionless CEO readers have come to expect in romance novels. When we first meet him, he is all arrogant and stolid. When he connects with Olivia, thought, is when readers get to finally see the man beneath, and this is man that they will swoon over. He becomes the epitome of the CEO romance hero.
Olivia is such a flawed heroine. Incredibly insecure and broken, she doesn't see herself as worthy of anything or anyone. Every time something in her life falls apart or someone leaves, it is because she doesn't measure up. Normally, this type of heroine bothers me, but her timidity only made me sympathetic to her character. I could see her self-worth being chipped away, and I cringed when she began to cope. I wanted better for her, because I truly liked her character and wanted her for Spencer. Her evolution throughout the story is without a doubt the biggest and the hardest fought battle, and at the end of the story I respected her struggle.
This story starts out heavy on the angst and steam, and it doesn't let up until the end. Every single moment between Olivia and Spencer is electric, and the author does a great job moving them from lust to love in a believable fashion. Of course, the angst arrives with the many hurdles that come at them from both sides, and, as one would expect, they don't always walk away unscathed. The readers will want to scream at them and will shake their heads in disappointment, but Ava Harrison delivers an ending the brings this couple full circle.
I absolutely loved this first Expose' story from Ava Harrison. The characters and their journey will absolutely suck readers into the story, burning them up with the passion and romance of Spencer and Olivia.
---------
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
For more reviews and other book news, check out Musings of the Modern Belle at www.modernbellebooks.com.
--------
Get your copy today:
Amazon US: http://amzn.to/2voaLQy
Amazon UK: http://amzn.to/2wF8wwa
Amazon CA: http://amzn.to/2xcqYKD
Amazon AU: http://amzn.to/2wEAbNP
January 25, 2024
4⭐️ 2.5🌶️
We’re one in this moment. An entity that has no beginning, middle or end.
We blend together; we mesh and create something beautiful and different.
We’re in a snow globe that belongs only to us, and I don’t dare shake it.
For once in my life, I want it to stay still and quiet. No flakes. No storm. No nothing.
Just Spencer and me.
Just when happiness meets life.
This was a super quick and enjoyable story. I loved the whirlwind beginning with Spencer and Olivia, some of the most memorable books for me start out this way( á la Playboy Pilot and The Italian). Neither were looking for anything and there was an expiration date on their time together. Their chemistry was spot on.
From how Spencer starts out, I was oddly surprised at his quick changeover from wanting nothing serious to wanting to try for more with Olivia. Unfortunately all good things come to an end 🫣
And I know this isn’t for everyone, but I actually liked the miscommunication and bits of drama. (The Stanton series is one of my fav after all) They were both were frustrating at times with Spencer’s trust issues and Olivia’s insecurities made worse by their inability to be honest and communicate. I also like that Olivia has flaws and her struggles are not sugar coated, and I think the family drama going on with Spencer and Grant is compelling and I want to know more. I just wish this book was longer and more deeply developed as the bones of the plot were great.
The one area I was disappointed in was the drop off in the storyline with her friend Lindsay. It appears she’ll be in Pierce’s book so maybe this was intentional, but I wanted Olivia to want to be better given all she Lindsay went through. How would Olivia have been able to be there to support her if she wasn’t even taking care of herself?
Regardless of this being surface level, I liked it and feel like this has given me my billionaire mojo back. And I will try out more by this author when I’m in the mood for something fast and sexy like this again.
We’re one in this moment. An entity that has no beginning, middle or end.
We blend together; we mesh and create something beautiful and different.
We’re in a snow globe that belongs only to us, and I don’t dare shake it.
For once in my life, I want it to stay still and quiet. No flakes. No storm. No nothing.
Just Spencer and me.
Just when happiness meets life.
This was a super quick and enjoyable story. I loved the whirlwind beginning with Spencer and Olivia, some of the most memorable books for me start out this way( á la Playboy Pilot and The Italian). Neither were looking for anything and there was an expiration date on their time together. Their chemistry was spot on.
From how Spencer starts out, I was oddly surprised at his quick changeover from wanting nothing serious to wanting to try for more with Olivia. Unfortunately all good things come to an end 🫣
And I know this isn’t for everyone, but I actually liked the miscommunication and bits of drama. (The Stanton series is one of my fav after all) They were both were frustrating at times with Spencer’s trust issues and Olivia’s insecurities made worse by their inability to be honest and communicate. I also like that Olivia has flaws and her struggles are not sugar coated, and I think the family drama going on with Spencer and Grant is compelling and I want to know more. I just wish this book was longer and more deeply developed as the bones of the plot were great.
The one area I was disappointed in was the drop off in the storyline with her friend Lindsay. It appears she’ll be in Pierce’s book so maybe this was intentional, but I wanted Olivia to want to be better given all she Lindsay went through. How would Olivia have been able to be there to support her if she wasn’t even taking care of herself?
Regardless of this being surface level, I liked it and feel like this has given me my billionaire mojo back. And I will try out more by this author when I’m in the mood for something fast and sexy like this again.
August 23, 2017
I received an ARC for this book and I just finished reading, not even lying 5 minutes ago (less than 24 hrs after receiving) and I had to write my review immediately because this book was just breathtaking.
Im literally sitting here thinking of every synonym of beautiful because the word simply doesn't do justice. I could feel every ounce of pain, love, hope, loss that is described in this book. Harrison does so amazing with her character development and although there were points in the book when I wanted to know more about Grant, about the family I also knew that this isn't their story and that I know with due time all will be revealed, so I didn't let that take away from this book.
Everytime I thought I knew what was going to happen "surprise" nope I knew nothing at all. I started this book and couldn't stop because I needed to know their story. I needed to be consumed in their love because it is a beautiful love. Don't get me wrong it's not your fairy tale all is perfect love.
Olivia is a wild child, letting loose having fun, but....not really. Olivia is trying to find her place in this world, trying to drown out the insecurities that the she faces daily, but she masks it with her "perfect persona". Spencer is the CEO playboy, no ties to no one, the boss, but is that who he really wants to be? Spencer got thrust into a life he wasn't ready for, one he didn't want. Can Olivia and Spencer find what they need in each others arms? Will they be enough for one another?
I urge anyone who loves a strong alpha male as well as a book about a lost soul finding their way to read this book.
Im literally sitting here thinking of every synonym of beautiful because the word simply doesn't do justice. I could feel every ounce of pain, love, hope, loss that is described in this book. Harrison does so amazing with her character development and although there were points in the book when I wanted to know more about Grant, about the family I also knew that this isn't their story and that I know with due time all will be revealed, so I didn't let that take away from this book.
Everytime I thought I knew what was going to happen "surprise" nope I knew nothing at all. I started this book and couldn't stop because I needed to know their story. I needed to be consumed in their love because it is a beautiful love. Don't get me wrong it's not your fairy tale all is perfect love.
Olivia is a wild child, letting loose having fun, but....not really. Olivia is trying to find her place in this world, trying to drown out the insecurities that the she faces daily, but she masks it with her "perfect persona". Spencer is the CEO playboy, no ties to no one, the boss, but is that who he really wants to be? Spencer got thrust into a life he wasn't ready for, one he didn't want. Can Olivia and Spencer find what they need in each others arms? Will they be enough for one another?
I urge anyone who loves a strong alpha male as well as a book about a lost soul finding their way to read this book.
August 23, 2017
Clandestine was not what I was expecting, it was so much more. I initially had my doubts because from the start there's a hook-up, a steamy hook-up but none-the-less a one-nightstand. It doesn't take long to delve deeper into the characters lives. The story takes a complete 360 and surprises me with the characters complexities.
Olivia Miller and Spencer Lancaster are dealing with personal issues that go beyond themselves. They are both battling for different reasons. Spence has taken on his families business. He's working on expanding the business while struggling with two brothers. It's tearing him apart and he hides his pain from Olivia. Olivia is fighting her own demons that are taking control of her life. Instead of putting her trust in Spence, Olivia lies and almost ends their relationship.
Clandestine delivers on the angst. Two individuals with chaotic lives and secrets that almost end them before they had a real chance at a future together. The author dealt with a heavy topic and I felt she did an incredible job with the delivery. The story is a quick read but didn't not feel rushed. 5 Stars
Olivia Miller and Spencer Lancaster are dealing with personal issues that go beyond themselves. They are both battling for different reasons. Spence has taken on his families business. He's working on expanding the business while struggling with two brothers. It's tearing him apart and he hides his pain from Olivia. Olivia is fighting her own demons that are taking control of her life. Instead of putting her trust in Spence, Olivia lies and almost ends their relationship.
Clandestine delivers on the angst. Two individuals with chaotic lives and secrets that almost end them before they had a real chance at a future together. The author dealt with a heavy topic and I felt she did an incredible job with the delivery. The story is a quick read but didn't not feel rushed. 5 Stars
August 23, 2017
I've never been a huge fan of the sweet, HEA romances. I like my romance with a bite to it, a darkness in it. This book has that, but done in a different way, with life struggles.
For me it was a great blend of sweet and sour, push and pull, love and conflict.
Spencer is a hot, untouchable, CEO playboy and Olivia is a failing model who struggles with a, on again off again, habit. They meet one night by chance and decide that a one night hook up with no names and no strings it just what they both need, but it's not what they get.
Standalone book, HEA and the perfect read for all of you romance lovers!
For me it was a great blend of sweet and sour, push and pull, love and conflict.
Spencer is a hot, untouchable, CEO playboy and Olivia is a failing model who struggles with a, on again off again, habit. They meet one night by chance and decide that a one night hook up with no names and no strings it just what they both need, but it's not what they get.
Standalone book, HEA and the perfect read for all of you romance lovers!
August 24, 2017
I have mixed feelings about this one from Ava Harrison. While I loved Spenser and thought he was what I look for in a book boyfriend, Clandestine was not for me. I didn't connect with Olivia and felt like something was just missing. I am going to attempt a re-read next week as I love me some Ava Harrison and this is a first for me to not connect with her books.
August 23, 2017
5 HOT SPENCER STARS!! Spencer, Spencer, Spencer is all I can say, if you are looking for a new book boyfriend here you go. Spencer is a hot sexy CEO and a bit of a playboy, but the whole package. Olivia is a beautiful model and her life is a mess right now. These two meet, neither looking for anything more than a one night stand. This book is fast paced with sexy times and will hit all your emotion buttons. I highly recommend this book, it is so good. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
November 29, 2021
I liked it but wasn't in love with it!!! Not sure what exactly it was that kept me from full blown loving it but all in all a good read:)
I would love to see this couple in the future though, they had a lot of great potential and although they were def suited for each other...I just want to make sure all has gone well esp with Olivia:). I want marriage and babies for these two:)
I would love to see this couple in the future though, they had a lot of great potential and although they were def suited for each other...I just want to make sure all has gone well esp with Olivia:). I want marriage and babies for these two:)
August 23, 2017
Clandestine is LIVE and only $.99 for a limited time or FREE in Kindle Unlimited!
Amazon US: http://amzn.to/2voaLQy
Amazon UK: http://amzn.to/2wF8wwa
Amazon CA: http://amzn.to/2xcqYKD
Amazon AU: http://amzn.to/2wEAbNP
*Clandestine is a FULL-LENGTH STANDALONE Romance!
Amazon US: http://amzn.to/2voaLQy
Amazon UK: http://amzn.to/2wF8wwa
Amazon CA: http://amzn.to/2xcqYKD
Amazon AU: http://amzn.to/2wEAbNP
*Clandestine is a FULL-LENGTH STANDALONE Romance!
August 23, 2017
Oh Spencer Lancaster assertive playboy CEO he's not ashamed of his playboy ways. I'm not ashamed of how hot it is. One unexpected night enter Olivia she's fighting her demons. No names and what happens next changes everything. They both have secrets , pasts they want buried . Olivia is barely surviving her darkness . She is beautiful and I adore her. Besides hot chemistry we have mystery , what is happening within the family dynamic of the infamous Lancasters? You're Drawn in and don't know what's going to happen next? No spoilers . Love it!
September 1, 2017
Loved it!
August 28, 2017
3.5. Stars Light treatment of difficult subjects...
This was an interesting read. It wasn't as light and easy as I first thought it would be. Even for a quick read, it doesn't lack in angst and touches on a few difficult subject matters that IMO are treated very lightly in this short read. So, I have a few issues with it. First the main characters and their relationship. The story starts with Spencer Lancaster as the typical millionaire playboy. He's the cliched arrogant, detached and gorgeous type of H. Nothing new here.
Olivia is a model, who finds herself currently unemployed because by industry standards she's "too fat", just because her bones are not sticking out of her body. At first we see Olivia show some insecurities and vulnerabilities that lead her to rely upon the wrong people and lifestyle to boost her confidence and deal with things. I liked her a lot, because even though we see she has self-esteem issues, when she meets Spencer she doesn't come off as needy or weak. She seems to be in control of her life and decisions, so I liked that about her. However as the story progresses we realize how deep her issues are, how strong her demons are, and how self destructive her coping mechanisms are, and how easily she lets people around her influence her, not for good. She makes very wrong choices and it was difficult to read at times.
Having said all that, my issues are:
I never felt a connection between Spencer and Olivia other that the physical one. I felt Spencer's change in attitude was too sudden. He went from cold and detached, not wanting a relationship, to wanting to try, to in love in what felt like no time, like the flip of a switch. I didn't feel the gradual change and the development of his feelings for Olivia. We were told about it, but not shown. I feel like the majority of their time together was superficial and very physical, and even strained but I didn't experience their falling in love. It felt forced. And I felt like for Olivia, he was another crutch.
My other issue was that this story touches a few difficult subjects, such as how beauty standards can play a role on body image with people with self esteem issues. And drug addiction. It mentions that Olivia suffered from anorexia as well as a drug addiction, but it never addresses the anorexia. It also treats her recovery very lightly and easily as if 30 days in rehab is all she needed to get over all her issues.
I know this isn't supposed to be a book about recovery and mental health this is a romance, but still I would have like to see a little more emphasis on the therapy and support that a recovering addict needs to cope with life in a healthy manner. I feel like Olivia just substituted the drugs with Spencer, but that's my personal opinion.
Another thing is we're left in the dark as to what happened with Spencer's brothers. We didn't get any answers as to what's happening with Pierce, and more importantly Grant. Why was Grant messing with Spencer's deals? I know the author is trying to set up the scenarios for the future books about the two other brothers, but it bothers me to get no closure on certain things that happened in this book. Another thing I didn't get enough closure is on the relationship between Spencer and Addison. It always bothered me that I felt like Spencer had more feelings in the past for Addison than he ever did for Olivia. It was not addressed properly how he ended things with her. At least I hope he did.
Anyway, this wasn't an easy and light read, but a short angsty one, and we can obviously take a few things from to think about.
This was an interesting read. It wasn't as light and easy as I first thought it would be. Even for a quick read, it doesn't lack in angst and touches on a few difficult subject matters that IMO are treated very lightly in this short read. So, I have a few issues with it. First the main characters and their relationship. The story starts with Spencer Lancaster as the typical millionaire playboy. He's the cliched arrogant, detached and gorgeous type of H. Nothing new here.
Olivia is a model, who finds herself currently unemployed because by industry standards she's "too fat", just because her bones are not sticking out of her body. At first we see Olivia show some insecurities and vulnerabilities that lead her to rely upon the wrong people and lifestyle to boost her confidence and deal with things. I liked her a lot, because even though we see she has self-esteem issues, when she meets Spencer she doesn't come off as needy or weak. She seems to be in control of her life and decisions, so I liked that about her. However as the story progresses we realize how deep her issues are, how strong her demons are, and how self destructive her coping mechanisms are, and how easily she lets people around her influence her, not for good. She makes very wrong choices and it was difficult to read at times.
Having said all that, my issues are:
I never felt a connection between Spencer and Olivia other that the physical one. I felt Spencer's change in attitude was too sudden. He went from cold and detached, not wanting a relationship, to wanting to try, to in love in what felt like no time, like the flip of a switch. I didn't feel the gradual change and the development of his feelings for Olivia. We were told about it, but not shown. I feel like the majority of their time together was superficial and very physical, and even strained but I didn't experience their falling in love. It felt forced. And I felt like for Olivia, he was another crutch.
My other issue was that this story touches a few difficult subjects, such as how beauty standards can play a role on body image with people with self esteem issues. And drug addiction. It mentions that Olivia suffered from anorexia as well as a drug addiction, but it never addresses the anorexia. It also treats her recovery very lightly and easily as if 30 days in rehab is all she needed to get over all her issues.
I know this isn't supposed to be a book about recovery and mental health this is a romance, but still I would have like to see a little more emphasis on the therapy and support that a recovering addict needs to cope with life in a healthy manner. I feel like Olivia just substituted the drugs with Spencer, but that's my personal opinion.
Another thing is we're left in the dark as to what happened with Spencer's brothers. We didn't get any answers as to what's happening with Pierce, and more importantly Grant. Why was Grant messing with Spencer's deals? I know the author is trying to set up the scenarios for the future books about the two other brothers, but it bothers me to get no closure on certain things that happened in this book. Another thing I didn't get enough closure is on the relationship between Spencer and Addison. It always bothered me that I felt like Spencer had more feelings in the past for Addison than he ever did for Olivia. It was not addressed properly how he ended things with her. At least I hope he did.
Anyway, this wasn't an easy and light read, but a short angsty one, and we can obviously take a few things from to think about.
August 23, 2017
Reviewed by Emma-Louise on behalf of KFF
A hotel tycoon and a weight wrestling model, both struggling with their own inner demons, and neither is looking for true love.
Olivia Miller a woman with more ghosts then the Mary Celeste, fighting to maintain a modelling career whilst also fighting deep seeded body issues. She has never seen herself as good enough. Never skinny enough. Never pretty enough, never enough.
Spencer Lancaster the devil may care loves ’em and leave ’em playboy CEO. Saddled with the family business because of a family rift his father has with his older brother Grant and miscreant younger brother Pierce. Add the fact that Spencer is living in his father’s shadow he’s attempting to pull out all the stops to expand the business. Only someone is putting a spanner in the works, and that someone in good old Ava Harrison fashion, wasn’t whom I thought it would be. Both running from mistakes and bad judgements, both trying to make a new life for themselves. Until they meet in London and end up spending the night together.
“You’re trouble.”
“You have no idea.”
One night is not enough and they start to see more of each other. Only sex isn’t the only thing that is on their mind. They can’t stay away from each other and they can’t stop the feelings that take over.
‘We blend together; we mesh and create something beautiful and different.
We’re in a snow globe that belongs only to us, and I don’t dare shake it.
For once in my life, I want it to stay still and quiet. No flakes. No storm. No nothing.
Just Spencer and me.
Just when happiness meets life.’
No Ava Harrison book is easy; nothing worth having ever comes without a good fight.
“You’re the best person I know, Olivia. You have a chance to escape this life. Don’t look back.”
Olivia is Lynn’s half sister, and of course the gorgeous Carson has to make a debut in this book. Ava Harrison has stated that there will be further novel in this world, told from the point of view of Grant Lancaster, lets hope whomever he ends up leads him a merry chase and makes the dastardly Grant work for his happily ever after. Clandestine deals with some hard subject matters, there may be issue buttons in this book for some people, so please, be aware now.
I loved Clandestine. It was edgy and raw. So many times Olivia made my heart ache and soul cry out. She thinks so little of herself in so many ways. She never gives herself a chance to just be. Running from one thing to another and then running away from that as well. The girl, only 24, is a true testament to the fact that being young doesn’t mean you’re inexperienced. She had so much thrown at her in such a small space of time, and I truly believe that if she had communicated this to those who loved her most some of the wrong decisions/choices she makes would never have been made.
A hotel tycoon and a weight wrestling model, both struggling with their own inner demons, and neither is looking for true love.
Olivia Miller a woman with more ghosts then the Mary Celeste, fighting to maintain a modelling career whilst also fighting deep seeded body issues. She has never seen herself as good enough. Never skinny enough. Never pretty enough, never enough.
Spencer Lancaster the devil may care loves ’em and leave ’em playboy CEO. Saddled with the family business because of a family rift his father has with his older brother Grant and miscreant younger brother Pierce. Add the fact that Spencer is living in his father’s shadow he’s attempting to pull out all the stops to expand the business. Only someone is putting a spanner in the works, and that someone in good old Ava Harrison fashion, wasn’t whom I thought it would be. Both running from mistakes and bad judgements, both trying to make a new life for themselves. Until they meet in London and end up spending the night together.
“You’re trouble.”
“You have no idea.”
One night is not enough and they start to see more of each other. Only sex isn’t the only thing that is on their mind. They can’t stay away from each other and they can’t stop the feelings that take over.
‘We blend together; we mesh and create something beautiful and different.
We’re in a snow globe that belongs only to us, and I don’t dare shake it.
For once in my life, I want it to stay still and quiet. No flakes. No storm. No nothing.
Just Spencer and me.
Just when happiness meets life.’
No Ava Harrison book is easy; nothing worth having ever comes without a good fight.
“You’re the best person I know, Olivia. You have a chance to escape this life. Don’t look back.”
Olivia is Lynn’s half sister, and of course the gorgeous Carson has to make a debut in this book. Ava Harrison has stated that there will be further novel in this world, told from the point of view of Grant Lancaster, lets hope whomever he ends up leads him a merry chase and makes the dastardly Grant work for his happily ever after. Clandestine deals with some hard subject matters, there may be issue buttons in this book for some people, so please, be aware now.
I loved Clandestine. It was edgy and raw. So many times Olivia made my heart ache and soul cry out. She thinks so little of herself in so many ways. She never gives herself a chance to just be. Running from one thing to another and then running away from that as well. The girl, only 24, is a true testament to the fact that being young doesn’t mean you’re inexperienced. She had so much thrown at her in such a small space of time, and I truly believe that if she had communicated this to those who loved her most some of the wrong decisions/choices she makes would never have been made.
August 24, 2017
*ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review*
4.5 "I need to catch my breath" Stars!
There is so much I want to say. I'm sitting her trying to articulate the perfect words to paint you a picture of how utterly breathtaking 'Clandestine' was. But words are just words, and sometimes they just aren't enough. I can't describe my feelings because it's impossible. I could try and use every adjective and it still wouldn't be enough. I was put through the ringer. I was punched and kicked and short of breath. This story was gut wrenching and emotional, but above all, it was undeniably beautiful.
Olivia is a beautifully broken soul. Thinking she was never enough. Not pretty enough. Not skinny enough. Not good enough. Just never ever enough. She has demons that have latched onto her. Clawing at her and suffocating her. She tries her hardest to overcome the darkness, but sometimes it doesn't matter what you do, you have no choice but to be sucked in. I hurt so much for Olivia. I wanted to hold her and tell her she was enough and that she could overcome because she was strong and capable. I loved her. Each and every one of her broken pieces I loved. I was rooting so hard for her. For her to finally let the light in and for her to realize she is every bit enough.
Spencer Lancaster is a hotshot CEO with playboy ways. So much expectation comes from being a Lancaster. Spencer is a hard worker, and he tries to make his father proud. You'd think that money, sex, and prestige would be enough. But that's not always the case. There are things in his past that have paved the way for how he is now. Personal matters that have kept him closed off. Spencer had is issues, he just needed someone to help him see them through.
Olivia and Spencer were something magical. Both equally fighting battles. Both trying to be enough. But will they be enough for one another? Can they find in one another what they're so desperately trying to find? Can love be enough?
This was my first time reading anything by Ava Harrison. And let me tell you, it will most certainly not be my last. Ava took me on such a journey with this story and these amazing characters. Her writing was beyond. And that surprise at the end of the epilogue had me jumping up in the air!!! Cannot wait to read more by Ava. Absolutely do I recommend this book.
4.5 "I need to catch my breath" Stars!
There is so much I want to say. I'm sitting her trying to articulate the perfect words to paint you a picture of how utterly breathtaking 'Clandestine' was. But words are just words, and sometimes they just aren't enough. I can't describe my feelings because it's impossible. I could try and use every adjective and it still wouldn't be enough. I was put through the ringer. I was punched and kicked and short of breath. This story was gut wrenching and emotional, but above all, it was undeniably beautiful.
Olivia is a beautifully broken soul. Thinking she was never enough. Not pretty enough. Not skinny enough. Not good enough. Just never ever enough. She has demons that have latched onto her. Clawing at her and suffocating her. She tries her hardest to overcome the darkness, but sometimes it doesn't matter what you do, you have no choice but to be sucked in. I hurt so much for Olivia. I wanted to hold her and tell her she was enough and that she could overcome because she was strong and capable. I loved her. Each and every one of her broken pieces I loved. I was rooting so hard for her. For her to finally let the light in and for her to realize she is every bit enough.
Spencer Lancaster is a hotshot CEO with playboy ways. So much expectation comes from being a Lancaster. Spencer is a hard worker, and he tries to make his father proud. You'd think that money, sex, and prestige would be enough. But that's not always the case. There are things in his past that have paved the way for how he is now. Personal matters that have kept him closed off. Spencer had is issues, he just needed someone to help him see them through.
Olivia and Spencer were something magical. Both equally fighting battles. Both trying to be enough. But will they be enough for one another? Can they find in one another what they're so desperately trying to find? Can love be enough?
This was my first time reading anything by Ava Harrison. And let me tell you, it will most certainly not be my last. Ava took me on such a journey with this story and these amazing characters. Her writing was beyond. And that surprise at the end of the epilogue had me jumping up in the air!!! Cannot wait to read more by Ava. Absolutely do I recommend this book.
September 2, 2017
DNF at 50%
I tried really hard to get into this book but just couldn't. The lead female character was a whiner, the male self-absorbed. Nothing about the plot or story was catching or held my interest. The writing and dialogue were choppy. This just wasn't a good fit for me.
I tried really hard to get into this book but just couldn't. The lead female character was a whiner, the male self-absorbed. Nothing about the plot or story was catching or held my interest. The writing and dialogue were choppy. This just wasn't a good fit for me.
August 24, 2017
***Reseña Español/Inglés***
4 estrellas para Spencer y Olivia!!!
“��l está inclinando mi mundo en cuestión de segundos, y en este mismo segundo quiero inclinarme en el borde así mantendrá su promesa de tomarme justo aquí.”
Clandestine trata sobre el mayor de los hermanos Lancaster, Spencer, dueño de una cadena de hoteles de renombre, conocido mujeriego y rostro recurrente en la revista de chismes ‘Expose’.
“Estoy perdida, drogada. Intoxicada por este hombre.”
Y Olivia, una modelo a la que le gusta salir a fiestas y que también tiene su cuota de aparición en ‘Expose’.
La cosa va así. En un viaje de negocios, Spencer llega a Londres y conoce a Olivia en el bar de un hotel. Deciden pasar la noche juntos. Sin nombres. Sin números de teléfono. Simple y sin complicaciones. Pero resulta que se vuelven a encontrar y uno de ellos no tiene suficiente del otro, así que acuerdan pasar una noche más juntos. Pero eso tampoco es suficiente y es ahí cuando empieza la cosa.
Viajes y citas. Algún que otro desacuerdo, pero todo se mantiene bastante bien hasta que zas! Queda la grande y se separan. Pero resulta que uno pensaba que ya luego se iba a arreglar la situación, que se encontrarían de nuevo y zas! 55% me dejaste con la boca abierta.
Pero ya sigues leyendo y recuperas las esperanzas de que todo se solucionará, que el HEA está cerca pero no. Nada de eso. Sin entrar en detalles, diré que en el 81% mi corazón se rompió. Literal. Y pañuelitos fueron necesarios.
Pero como dicen por ahí, la esperanza es lo último que se pierde, y conociendo a Ava, sabía que no me dejaría con el corazón roto por mucho tiempo. Bueno, al fin y al cabo sus libros siempre se resuelven de una buena manera y los protas quedan juntos y felices, o tanto como se pueda según la situación.
El final fue tan abrupto que me quedé por varias horas solo pensando y pensando. No me quejo. Como terminó todo fue bastante lindo. Spencer fue un prota adorable, todo mandón pero tierno y preocupado por los suyos que de verdad consiguió llegar a mí. Olivia, por otra parte… aun no estoy completamente convencida con ella. Debe ser que en demasiadas oportunidades quería hacerle entrar en razón y luego apapacharla y sacar de ella todas esas inseguridades.
“Nunca seré esa persona perfecta. Siempre seré un poco imperfecta, y está bien. Esas imperfecciones me hacen quien soy. No marcan mi piel. En vez de eso, me hacer ser… yo.”
Clandestine, una rica lectura que te recordará que el amor por uno mismo es importante. Que las inseguridades pueden llevarte por caminos feos. Y que independiente de cuan bajo llegues, si eres amado, serás salvado.
***Review Spanish/English***
4 stars to Spencer and Olivia!!!
“He’s turning my world on its side in a matter of minutes, and at this very second I want to tip over the edge so he’ll keep his promise and take me right here.”
Clandestine is about the older of Lancaster brothers, Spencer, owner of a chain of renowned hotels, well-known womanizer and a currently face on the gossip magazine ‘Expose’.
“I’m lost, drugged, intoxicated by this man.”
And Olivia, a model who likes to party and has a few, or not so, ‘Expose’ covers.
The thing goes like this. In a business travel, Spencer arrives to London and meet Olivia at the hotel bar. They decide to spend the night together. No names. No phone number. Simple and no attachment. But (there’s always a but) it turns that they find each other again and one of them doesn’t has enough, so they agree to spend one more night together. But that is not enough either and there is when the sh!t begins.
Traveling and dates. A few misunderstandings, but everything goes quite smoothly until bam! What! Big sh!t happens and they’re split apart. But when I was thinking that all was going to be better and Bam! 55% you left me with my mouth hanging open.
You keep reading and your hopes are back ‘cause everything is going to be all right, the HEA is close enough to savor it but no. Not at all. No details but 81% broke my heart. Literally. Tissues were necessaries.
Like they said, hope is the last to die, and knowing Ava, I just was sure she didn’t let with my heart broken into pieces for so long. Well, at last her books always have their way to make it to HEA, even when it is not as ideal as one could think.
The final was so abrupt that I was thinking and thinking about it for hours. I don’t complain. How all happen at the end was nice. Spencer was adorable, all bossy but cute and worried about his people. He really made his way to my heart. But Olivia… I’m not fully into her yet. I suppose it was the many opportunities I wanted to push some reason in her head and then hold her and put all of those insecurities away.
“I’ll never be that perfect person. I’ll always be a little bit flawed, and that’s okay. Those flaws make me who I am. They aren’t marring my skin. Instead they are making me… me.”
Clandestine, a delicious reading that it’ll remind you how important is the self-love. That the insecurities could be destructive. And even when you hit the deep black pit, if you are loved, you will be saved.
4 estrellas para Spencer y Olivia!!!
“��l está inclinando mi mundo en cuestión de segundos, y en este mismo segundo quiero inclinarme en el borde así mantendrá su promesa de tomarme justo aquí.”
Clandestine trata sobre el mayor de los hermanos Lancaster, Spencer, dueño de una cadena de hoteles de renombre, conocido mujeriego y rostro recurrente en la revista de chismes ‘Expose’.
“Estoy perdida, drogada. Intoxicada por este hombre.”
Y Olivia, una modelo a la que le gusta salir a fiestas y que también tiene su cuota de aparición en ‘Expose’.
La cosa va así. En un viaje de negocios, Spencer llega a Londres y conoce a Olivia en el bar de un hotel. Deciden pasar la noche juntos. Sin nombres. Sin números de teléfono. Simple y sin complicaciones. Pero resulta que se vuelven a encontrar y uno de ellos no tiene suficiente del otro, así que acuerdan pasar una noche más juntos. Pero eso tampoco es suficiente y es ahí cuando empieza la cosa.
Viajes y citas. Algún que otro desacuerdo, pero todo se mantiene bastante bien hasta que zas! Queda la grande y se separan. Pero resulta que uno pensaba que ya luego se iba a arreglar la situación, que se encontrarían de nuevo y zas! 55% me dejaste con la boca abierta.
Pero ya sigues leyendo y recuperas las esperanzas de que todo se solucionará, que el HEA está cerca pero no. Nada de eso. Sin entrar en detalles, diré que en el 81% mi corazón se rompió. Literal. Y pañuelitos fueron necesarios.
Pero como dicen por ahí, la esperanza es lo último que se pierde, y conociendo a Ava, sabía que no me dejaría con el corazón roto por mucho tiempo. Bueno, al fin y al cabo sus libros siempre se resuelven de una buena manera y los protas quedan juntos y felices, o tanto como se pueda según la situación.
El final fue tan abrupto que me quedé por varias horas solo pensando y pensando. No me quejo. Como terminó todo fue bastante lindo. Spencer fue un prota adorable, todo mandón pero tierno y preocupado por los suyos que de verdad consiguió llegar a mí. Olivia, por otra parte… aun no estoy completamente convencida con ella. Debe ser que en demasiadas oportunidades quería hacerle entrar en razón y luego apapacharla y sacar de ella todas esas inseguridades.
“Nunca seré esa persona perfecta. Siempre seré un poco imperfecta, y está bien. Esas imperfecciones me hacen quien soy. No marcan mi piel. En vez de eso, me hacer ser… yo.”
Clandestine, una rica lectura que te recordará que el amor por uno mismo es importante. Que las inseguridades pueden llevarte por caminos feos. Y que independiente de cuan bajo llegues, si eres amado, serás salvado.
***Review Spanish/English***
4 stars to Spencer and Olivia!!!
“He’s turning my world on its side in a matter of minutes, and at this very second I want to tip over the edge so he’ll keep his promise and take me right here.”
Clandestine is about the older of Lancaster brothers, Spencer, owner of a chain of renowned hotels, well-known womanizer and a currently face on the gossip magazine ‘Expose’.
“I’m lost, drugged, intoxicated by this man.”
And Olivia, a model who likes to party and has a few, or not so, ‘Expose’ covers.
The thing goes like this. In a business travel, Spencer arrives to London and meet Olivia at the hotel bar. They decide to spend the night together. No names. No phone number. Simple and no attachment. But (there’s always a but) it turns that they find each other again and one of them doesn’t has enough, so they agree to spend one more night together. But that is not enough either and there is when the sh!t begins.
Traveling and dates. A few misunderstandings, but everything goes quite smoothly until bam! What! Big sh!t happens and they’re split apart. But when I was thinking that all was going to be better and Bam! 55% you left me with my mouth hanging open.
You keep reading and your hopes are back ‘cause everything is going to be all right, the HEA is close enough to savor it but no. Not at all. No details but 81% broke my heart. Literally. Tissues were necessaries.
Like they said, hope is the last to die, and knowing Ava, I just was sure she didn’t let with my heart broken into pieces for so long. Well, at last her books always have their way to make it to HEA, even when it is not as ideal as one could think.
The final was so abrupt that I was thinking and thinking about it for hours. I don’t complain. How all happen at the end was nice. Spencer was adorable, all bossy but cute and worried about his people. He really made his way to my heart. But Olivia… I’m not fully into her yet. I suppose it was the many opportunities I wanted to push some reason in her head and then hold her and put all of those insecurities away.
“I’ll never be that perfect person. I’ll always be a little bit flawed, and that’s okay. Those flaws make me who I am. They aren’t marring my skin. Instead they are making me… me.”
Clandestine, a delicious reading that it’ll remind you how important is the self-love. That the insecurities could be destructive. And even when you hit the deep black pit, if you are loved, you will be saved.
August 25, 2017
5 CEO stars! Let Mr. Lancaster sexy and cocky CEO seduce you! Addictive reading...
Am I dreaming again? Please dear god let it be true! This is the first time I read something written by Ms. Harrison and I am not disappointed, she has delivered a perfect read for those who love cocky CEO’s as much as I do. (For goodness sake, this means Spencer just popped my cherry!) Clandestine has all the elements that seduce you and left you wanting more and more. It’s perfectly addictive. This is the kind of book I usually devour in half of a day. If you search for the definition of masterpiece, I am sure you will find a picture of Clandestine cover.
This book combines everything I like. It contains a cocky CEO (my favourite book boyfriend’s occupation) and a lot of steamy scenes. It’s delightful to see how a playboy falls for a woman when he does not expect it. On the other hand, the heroine will be a pretty damsel who experienced the worst vices that offers the modelling world.
Feeling rejected by her colleagues and her agent because she does not comply anymore with the current standards for modelling. Olivia is pretty lost and she needs to find herself, to value if modelling is what she still wants. Something I don’t like about her is that she has a damaged self-esteem. However she manages to keep going. There is a dark side in the modelling world and all of us know that. If she were real, I would love to tell her that “Beauty is in the eye of the one who appreciates it”.
Her life will change drastically when Spence Lancaster runs into her world. The chemistry they share will be heavy and powerful. They will heal each other wounds.
Tabloids will play with their life. They will be waiting hungrily for the next piece of them. Publishing lies and wrong info that only hurt them but karma is a bitch and it will bite their arses.
Ava Harrison won a new fan of her writing. I highly recommend you this book. Let Mr. Lancaster sexy and cocky CEO seduce you The plot is stunning. This book is beautifully and sinfully written. ! If I could give more than 5 stars, I will give 10 stars.
(ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review)
Am I dreaming again? Please dear god let it be true! This is the first time I read something written by Ms. Harrison and I am not disappointed, she has delivered a perfect read for those who love cocky CEO’s as much as I do. (For goodness sake, this means Spencer just popped my cherry!) Clandestine has all the elements that seduce you and left you wanting more and more. It’s perfectly addictive. This is the kind of book I usually devour in half of a day. If you search for the definition of masterpiece, I am sure you will find a picture of Clandestine cover.
This book combines everything I like. It contains a cocky CEO (my favourite book boyfriend’s occupation) and a lot of steamy scenes. It’s delightful to see how a playboy falls for a woman when he does not expect it. On the other hand, the heroine will be a pretty damsel who experienced the worst vices that offers the modelling world.
“It wasn’t until modelling that I was introduced to all these vices. I was never skinny enough. Never pretty enough. Never enough.”
Feeling rejected by her colleagues and her agent because she does not comply anymore with the current standards for modelling. Olivia is pretty lost and she needs to find herself, to value if modelling is what she still wants. Something I don’t like about her is that she has a damaged self-esteem. However she manages to keep going. There is a dark side in the modelling world and all of us know that. If she were real, I would love to tell her that “Beauty is in the eye of the one who appreciates it”.
Her life will change drastically when Spence Lancaster runs into her world. The chemistry they share will be heavy and powerful. They will heal each other wounds.
“Sex with Spencer is like nothing I’ve experienced before. He’s passionate, generous, and most of all... skilled”
Tabloids will play with their life. They will be waiting hungrily for the next piece of them. Publishing lies and wrong info that only hurt them but karma is a bitch and it will bite their arses.
Ava Harrison won a new fan of her writing. I highly recommend you this book. Let Mr. Lancaster sexy and cocky CEO seduce you The plot is stunning. This book is beautifully and sinfully written. ! If I could give more than 5 stars, I will give 10 stars.
(ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review)
August 24, 2017
This is a book with two characters who don’t have it all together as you might think. Both have their own demons and yet you love them despite or maybe because of those. This is my first book by Ms. Harrison but when I read the idea behind the Expose series I knew I had to read them. This is the first I read and it definitely lived up to my expectations. And yet it was nothing like I was expecting either.
Spencer and Olivia meet one night and have hot passionate sex and yet, that was all it was going to be, no names, nothing…But fate had other ideas. Spencer is out trying to reign in his little brother and runs into Olivia again, but this is the start of something that they both soon realize is deeper then they thought and especially for Spencer different then what he was ever thinking. But besides their feelings for each other you have two broken characters.
Olivia is a character that I think in one way or another every woman can relate to. She doesn’t feel good enough, pretty enough, etc. And that is something that is deeply engrained in me as well as many other females and probably even males these days. Someone tells us we aren’t enough and we believe it. Her thoughts and feelings are so very realistic which is how we can easily relate to that character.
Now Spencer is a fantasy in the sense of he is so very thoughtful, etc. He doesn’t have to go overboard with things but he does just enough to keep you wanting to know more about him. His cocky arrogance is written so well, that you love that also. But you see the pieces of him that is missing/broken. He wants that relationship with his brothers that he just doesn’t have and it hurts him a lot. And then with being rich and famous he gets his name smeared in the tabloids often which can never help you get over things, etc.
You are drawn into this story and want to see the healing that really the only way to get is through the love of someone else and loving someone else. The strength with which Ava writes these characters just sucks you in and pulls on your heartstrings. You love both characters which makes it so much easier to root for them as a couple. They bring out the best in each other and you will enjoy this from the very first page.
Spencer and Olivia meet one night and have hot passionate sex and yet, that was all it was going to be, no names, nothing…But fate had other ideas. Spencer is out trying to reign in his little brother and runs into Olivia again, but this is the start of something that they both soon realize is deeper then they thought and especially for Spencer different then what he was ever thinking. But besides their feelings for each other you have two broken characters.
Olivia is a character that I think in one way or another every woman can relate to. She doesn’t feel good enough, pretty enough, etc. And that is something that is deeply engrained in me as well as many other females and probably even males these days. Someone tells us we aren’t enough and we believe it. Her thoughts and feelings are so very realistic which is how we can easily relate to that character.
Now Spencer is a fantasy in the sense of he is so very thoughtful, etc. He doesn’t have to go overboard with things but he does just enough to keep you wanting to know more about him. His cocky arrogance is written so well, that you love that also. But you see the pieces of him that is missing/broken. He wants that relationship with his brothers that he just doesn’t have and it hurts him a lot. And then with being rich and famous he gets his name smeared in the tabloids often which can never help you get over things, etc.
You are drawn into this story and want to see the healing that really the only way to get is through the love of someone else and loving someone else. The strength with which Ava writes these characters just sucks you in and pulls on your heartstrings. You love both characters which makes it so much easier to root for them as a couple. They bring out the best in each other and you will enjoy this from the very first page.
August 24, 2017
4 Stars
Ava Harrison has penned a lively and sexy story filled with playful repartee, a vivacious heroine and a dreamy hero. Clandestine was a surprisingly emotional and intense Cinderella-like read. It follows the romance between Olivia, a model down on her luck, and Spencer, a charismatic and swoon-worthy real estate billionaire. This book was definitely a page turner and I read it almost in one sitting.
Spencer is New York royalty, and is constantly followed by the press. After a chance encounter, the attraction between Spencer and Olivia is instant. She knows that Spencer is not just anybody, his reputation of arrogant bastard has preceded him, but she finds him charming and thoughtful. Their story starts off strong with great flirtation and sexual tension.
They both need a distraction, Spencer is stressed out by bitter family dissensions, Olivia just parted ways with her model agency. After a one-night stand, they can’t part ways, they simply enjoy their time spent together. Spencer is touring Europe, looking at properties to develop his family company. Olivia has no job prospect and accepts to accompany him. They are simply happy to be together. They are both very guarded, but connect easily and are able to open up to one another. I’m not a fan of insta whatever, but in this instance, I felt that their connection was believable.
Olivia is insecure, she is afraid she could lose her heart to Spencer, but even though she feels vulnerable, she wants him to see how much he affects her. Despite their incredible chemistry, things are complicated, they both have addiction problems. Spencer is a workaholic, he thought he had to choose between his CEO career and a family. For the first time, he wants something else, he enjoys being just another guy to Olivia, she doesn’t want anything from him, in material terms. Olivia’s addiction is related to her deep insecurities and to the pressures of the modelling industry. Their story of love triumphing over all obstacles was so romantic! I definitely recommend it!
An advanced copy of this book was provided by the author and Give Me Books.
Ava Harrison has penned a lively and sexy story filled with playful repartee, a vivacious heroine and a dreamy hero. Clandestine was a surprisingly emotional and intense Cinderella-like read. It follows the romance between Olivia, a model down on her luck, and Spencer, a charismatic and swoon-worthy real estate billionaire. This book was definitely a page turner and I read it almost in one sitting.
Spencer is New York royalty, and is constantly followed by the press. After a chance encounter, the attraction between Spencer and Olivia is instant. She knows that Spencer is not just anybody, his reputation of arrogant bastard has preceded him, but she finds him charming and thoughtful. Their story starts off strong with great flirtation and sexual tension.
They both need a distraction, Spencer is stressed out by bitter family dissensions, Olivia just parted ways with her model agency. After a one-night stand, they can’t part ways, they simply enjoy their time spent together. Spencer is touring Europe, looking at properties to develop his family company. Olivia has no job prospect and accepts to accompany him. They are simply happy to be together. They are both very guarded, but connect easily and are able to open up to one another. I’m not a fan of insta whatever, but in this instance, I felt that their connection was believable.
Olivia is insecure, she is afraid she could lose her heart to Spencer, but even though she feels vulnerable, she wants him to see how much he affects her. Despite their incredible chemistry, things are complicated, they both have addiction problems. Spencer is a workaholic, he thought he had to choose between his CEO career and a family. For the first time, he wants something else, he enjoys being just another guy to Olivia, she doesn’t want anything from him, in material terms. Olivia’s addiction is related to her deep insecurities and to the pressures of the modelling industry. Their story of love triumphing over all obstacles was so romantic! I definitely recommend it!
An advanced copy of this book was provided by the author and Give Me Books.
Read
August 24, 2017Clandestine is the story of Spencer Lancaster, the heir to the Lancaster Hotel group and Olivia Miller a reformed drug addict and model on the out.
Oliver was burned badly in a previous relationship and is a serial womanizer who normally shies away from commitment but when meets Olivia in a club where his younger brother is causing havoc, he is entranced by her and invites her to spend the night with him. Next day he asks her to go on a business trip to Europe with him.
Olivia has managed to kick her drug habit she, but in doing so has lost her allure causing her to be dropped from the modelling company she worked for. She’s out of work and fast running out of money when she heads to London to stay with her socialite best friend. When Oliver asks her to accompany him to Europe, she agrees not just because she’s nearly broke, but because she’s blown away with how much she feels for him after just one night together. Spencer can’t explain his attraction or the hold Olivia has over him now, he just know he wants more.
These two characters are a train wreck waiting to happen, they shouldn’t work but somehow they even each other out and for a while, they make things work. It’s only when they are back in the states that the wheel falls off the bus and things spiral out of control. Mistakes are made on both sides and it’s only a near death encounter that finally brings things to a head.
The story was fast paced, and had a lot of depth to it, filled with emotional upheavals and the aforementioned drug abuse. The characters were engaging and the chemistry between them enough to scald water. I really enjoyed reading this story and look forward to reading more in this series.
I enjoyed this story, it had a lot of emotional baggage and in some places it was overwhelming how low Olivia’s character fell.
If you’re after a sugary sweet romance, don’t expect to find it here. It’s hot, hard hitting and sexy as hell, there’s nothing fluffy about this cracking story. Get your copy today.
Oliver was burned badly in a previous relationship and is a serial womanizer who normally shies away from commitment but when meets Olivia in a club where his younger brother is causing havoc, he is entranced by her and invites her to spend the night with him. Next day he asks her to go on a business trip to Europe with him.
Olivia has managed to kick her drug habit she, but in doing so has lost her allure causing her to be dropped from the modelling company she worked for. She’s out of work and fast running out of money when she heads to London to stay with her socialite best friend. When Oliver asks her to accompany him to Europe, she agrees not just because she’s nearly broke, but because she’s blown away with how much she feels for him after just one night together. Spencer can’t explain his attraction or the hold Olivia has over him now, he just know he wants more.
These two characters are a train wreck waiting to happen, they shouldn’t work but somehow they even each other out and for a while, they make things work. It’s only when they are back in the states that the wheel falls off the bus and things spiral out of control. Mistakes are made on both sides and it’s only a near death encounter that finally brings things to a head.
The story was fast paced, and had a lot of depth to it, filled with emotional upheavals and the aforementioned drug abuse. The characters were engaging and the chemistry between them enough to scald water. I really enjoyed reading this story and look forward to reading more in this series.
I enjoyed this story, it had a lot of emotional baggage and in some places it was overwhelming how low Olivia’s character fell.
If you’re after a sugary sweet romance, don’t expect to find it here. It’s hot, hard hitting and sexy as hell, there’s nothing fluffy about this cracking story. Get your copy today.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 285 reviews