From USA Today bestselling author Terri E. Laine comes a new standalone romance about an imperfect hero and the woman he can't let go.
Megan I hate Gavin Volk. I hate that he’s gorgeous. I hate that he knows it. Most of all, I hate that I might have a thing for him despite all his secrets. With the body of a rock star, and lips the shape of sin; Every girl on campus is captivated by him; Including me. But I’m not stupid enough to let him know it. I won’t let one drunken mistake break me. If anything he’ll be begging me for more.
Gavin Beautiful Megan Stevens walks around campus like guys should drop at her feet. She’s stunning. I’ll give her that. But her smart mouth and snarky remarks make me want to throttle her. She’s the last girl I ever want in my bed Until she is. One drunken mistake and I’m hooked. She’s like a drug and I’m addicted. There’s only one problem, I can’t be with her. Not if I expect to keep her safe from the secrets that haunt me.
Terri E. Laine, USA Today bestselling author, left a lucrative career as a CPA to pursue her love for writing. Outside of her roles as a wife and mother of three, she’s always been a dreamer and as such became an avid reader at a young age.
Many years later, she got a crazy idea to write a novel and set out to try to publish it. With over a dozen titles published under various pen names, the rest is history. Her journey has been a blessing, and a dream realized. She looks forward to many more memories to come.
Captivated by Him (stand-alone) is an impossible romance between college students Gavin Volk and Megan Stevens, Angel. It is love-hate at first sight, the sexual sparks flying.
Their intense connection will be an on-again-off-again slow-brewing romance complicated by secrets, lies, heartache, sacrifice and danger. Struggling to stay away while all roads lead right back to each other.
Told from multiple POVs, is a mixture of unfolding mystery, dark romance and an impossible love. A lot of back and forths, twists and turns; shockers and surprises; truth and resolution.
*** Hero: ★★★★ Heroine: ★★★★ Plot: ★★★★ Storytelling: ★★★★★ Sexual tension: ★★★★ Sex scenes: ★★★★★ Story ending: ★★★★1/2 ****************************************** OVERALL RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Angst: | MEDIUM FOCUS | Darkness: | MEDIUM FOCUS | Humor: | LOW FOCUS | Kink: | LOW FOCUS | Romance: | HIGH FOCUS | Sex frequency: | MEDIUM FOCUS | Suspense: | HIGH FOCUS |
ARC provided to me by author Terri E. Laine in exchange for an honest review.
The storyline was not what I expected. It was better!! Gavin is hot and he knows it but when he sees Megan for the first time he was enthralled by her sassiness. Megan knows his type a playboy who can get anyone he wants. A dark handsome mysterious badboy. The banter between these two are intense. The ending was mind blowing! The secrets come to light and bam! The author gives us a complete twist to each character. Five stars!!
Oh my I loved these two!!!! Gavin and Megan are the real deal. The back and forth and the pull between these two will have you not wanting to put this book down. What makes it even better is that nothing was rushed between these two. Trust me it takes forever for Gavin to convince Megan on lots of things and that’s why she’s one of my favorite heroines. And he’s just yummy.
This book is a stand-alone but in order to get a feel for some of the things going in you’ll have to read Because of Him which is about their best friends, Tade and Reagan, who shows up here a lot.
Gavin met Megan at a club where he was with Tade. Tade had eyes for Reagan and Gavin for Megan. Gavin knew the minute he met her that there was something different about her; that she wasn’t like any other girl. He just didn’t expect her to be so much of a challenge. He didn’t have the best childhood and he’s never had a girlfriend so he thought Megan deserved better but he just couldn’t seem to stay away.
Megan thought Gavin was the most beautiful man she’s ever seen but she also knew that he was the type that if she gave in would destroy her heart. Megan had daddy issues and she wasn’t a one night stand girl. As drop dead gorgeous as she was she wasn’t aware of how gorgeous she was and the attention she drew. She didn’t think she was worthy of anyone loving her but yet she always put up a front as a happy person. Megan wanted Gavin just as bad as he wanted her but she wasn’t going to give in and have a one night stand with him. She stayed true to her words.
These two have a complicated relationship and can’t seem to move on to other people. Gavin biggest thing was protecting Megan. He didn’t want stone thinking that she was special to him so they won’t her. The twists and secrets in this book will have you glued. They were lots of wtf moments and oh shit really moments along with holy f*•* I didn’t see that coming moments and this is what made this book soooooooo damn good.
I enjoyed seeing Tade and Reagan even if at first for a little bit I disliked her more here than in her own book and I think it was because I was watching her thru Megan eyes but Megan was a ride or die. Just grab this one because I don’t want to give away what’s really going on. Gavin only ever had eyes for Megan and side note the man is a genius.
I would really love to read more on these two because I think there’s more to them. I enjoyed the epilogue but I don’t think it’s over.
A Five Star Read! Emotional and Intriguing! Captivated By Him takes you on a ride and has you turning each page begging for more from the very start. Gavin and Megan are a couple filled with conflict— each for their own reasons. I fell in love with Gavin from the start and knew he’d be my hero by the end. This book has a great twist that took me by surprise which even gave me more reason to love it. If you like romantic suspense with well developed characters and a plot that will leave you guessing on every page, then you’ll love Captivated By Him.
Wow!!! I'm speechless. What an intriguing and touching story this was. I couldn't put it down for the life of me. In fact I stayed up until 2 am to finish Captivated By Him and it took me at least an hour to fall asleep because my heart and mind couldn't let go of this amazing story and the characters. After reading a couple of books from Terri E. Laine I should have expected the unexpected. But I honestly got carried away and never saw the jaw dropping moment coming. I love it when an author still manages to surprise me. Terri's beautiful and poignant writing is highly addictive. She effortlessly manages to make you fall in love with her characters and deeply care about them. We've already met Megan and Gavin in the previous book Because of Him. They were side characters and best friends of the main couple. Terri gave us a couple of glimpses of them together and made us wish for more. Luckily she listened and gave us their story. And let me tell you that it was everything I was hoping for and so much more!
Fate plays matchmaker with Megan's heart by repeatedly putting Gavin Volk in her path. Their mutually insane attraction is instant, captivating her from the first time they meet.
Gavin is gorgeous, sexy and mysterious and knows how to set her body on fire with just one look. But sadly he’s not boyfriend material. That's at least what he says. He feels like she deserves better but refuses to explain why he feels not worthy of her.
According to rumors he's dangerous and connected to the mob. Despite knowing all that Megan can't stop thinking about him. Every time he kisses her, she feels it deep down in her soul. She knows he would never hurt her physically, but emotionally might be a different matter. Megan is simply not a one night stand kind of girl. She is looking for a relationship, whereas everything about Gavin screams trouble and heartbreak.
Just when she thinks she's broken down his barriers, he builds a fortress between them again. Despite their craving for each other, his secrets stand in their way. Megan knows she should walk away with her heart still in one piece. As long as Gavin isn't ready to open up to her and trust her, he needs to let her go for good...But when the moment comes when Gavin will reveal all his secrets, will Megan be strong enough to stay?
These two seriously set my kindle on fire! Their chemistry was mind-blowing. Every moment between them was pure magic. I was shipping them so hard, it ain't funny. Their cat and mouse game almost drove me insane (but in a very good way). I wanted them to give in and let loose. The anticipation was killing me! But when they finally did that, I was screaming out of joy. I think they are my favorite couple Terri has ever written.
I seriously loved everything about this book and highly recommend it. Let Terri E Laine take you on an emotional journey you won't be able to forget. I sure never will! 5 stars
**ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review**
Combustible connection. Magnitude of push and pull between two characters that you will feel heavily invested in by the time the epilogue rolls around. Terri E. Laine is a USA Today bestselling author and with Captivated By Him, she proves once again why that is.
You don’t need to read Because of Him before hand, however, within that story you will first encounter Gavin and Megan and see the beginnings of their relationship take off.
A headstrong female who is in control of all things in her life except for one… Gavin. She is completely enamored with him and wants to get past his walls he has built up. She wants in his heart, but knows he is holding back. Just when she gets close enough, he pulls back and shatters her heart. Can she keep up this game they play? Can she get through his walls and show him her love?
Gavin knows he is keeping secrets from Megan, but how can he bring her into his world of darkness? He hates to break her heart and wishes he wouldn’t, but life is too dangerous otherwise. He wishes life was different.
Many revelations are brought to the surface that shocked me to my core. Moments of “what just happened?” Terri throws in multiple twists and turns within the beautiful heartbreaking romance that is perfect for the tale end of 2017.
Gavin and Megan’s relationship was powerful, giving you a tug of war angst, drama and love that simply just pulled at you. While you read, you really wanted all to work out okay, but you know they must go through hardships to see the light.
Marvelous and stunning romance for 2017! You won’t be just captivated by him but captivated by both Gavin and Megan!
OMFG! Ever since devouring Because of Him back in September I have been "dying" to get my hands on Gavin and Megan's story so you can imagine how thrilled I was when I discovered that Captivated by Him was set to release in December. Immediately I knew that this story was going to captivate me. Lets just say that the story certainly did that and so much more.
Since I only recently discovered Terri E. Laine's writing this year, this was only the second book that I've read of hers, but it certainly won't be the last and I know that one day when I have time in my super busy life that I will go back and read her past releases. Her writing style is so beautiful that I can't help but think of how many incredible stories I've missed over the years. I truly hope to redeem myself soon...
Captivated by Him was an addictively captivating read that captured me whole body and soul, pulling tightly on every single one of my heartstrings from beginning to end. This is one of those stories that you want to both savior and devour at the same time. I have no doubt in my mind that if I hadn't had a million things to do (being an adult really sucks sometimes), I would have read this book in one sitting because I struggled to put Gavin and Megan's story down. This story was filled with so many twists and turns that I had no idea what was around every corner (or page). When I first began this book I had no clue what to expect and lets just say that the author surprised me so many times throughout the story.
Since I can't really tell you much more without spoiling this incredibly beautiful read, I will leave you with one final note... Although Because of Him and Captivated by Him are connected by the characters, they can both be enjoyed as standalones. However, being someone that FLOVED them so much, I can't help but recommend reading them both! Trust me when I say that you won't regret that decision for a second!
If there is one thing that Terri E. Laine can do, it’s capture your heart and your attention. With that said, the title of this book could not be more perfect. You will be Captivated by Him; Gavin will get under your skin in the best of ways and be in your heart for good. **Please note you don’t have to read Because of Him to follow Megan and Gavin’s story here, but I recommend you do because that is where you will meet this fabulous couple.**
I absolutely adored Gavin’s character, he basically stole my heart. He was so noble, trying to do what was right for everyone else in his life. By doing so he completely puts his wants and needs behind those he loves and wants to protect. He was born into a life he didn’t choose, but he doesn’t make excuses and tries to live life being the best person he can. From the outside he might look rough and tough; which yes, he is. But on the inside, he has a heart of gold and doesn’t share it with just anyone. Gavin is loyal, courageous and let’s not forget sexy and swoony! WOW! He is sassy and makes no attempts to hide his lethal attraction to Megan.
Megan was awesome. Her unique upbringing gives her a positive outlook on life and she always tries to make the best of any situation. She’s not a prude, but doesn’t give in to Gavin like most women do. I love that about her. She gives Gavin a run for his money and doesn’t give in to his smooth talk… at least she tries not to. Megan doesn’t do one night stands and makes that pretty clear to Gavin, but that doesn’t stop his pursuit of her. The banter between them is funny, hot and oh so delicious. Their journey is quite the slowwww burn, their connection is magnetic and no matter how hard they try to stay away from one another it becomes more difficult as they get to know one another better.
There are so many twists and turns in this engaging romance, you will not see what’s coming. Trust me, the many intertwined secrets and revelations will keep you on your toes. There is angst, sadness, forgiveness and the ever-present hurdles on Gavin and Megan’s road to happiness. I’m thrilled that Terri gave Megan and Gavin the time and attention they deserved in this heartfelt and beautiful romance.
*ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review*
4.5 "Angel" Stars
Ever since Gavin and Megan were introduced in Because of Him I NEEDED to know more of their story. The little tidbits that were given about them wasn't enough. I was so intrigued to know more. And I was to ecstatic when I learned that they were getting their own book! Captivated by Him answered so many questions I had. And I was quite surprised at some revelations. And it was exactly what I had hoped for.
Megan surprised me. I had her pegged so wrong when she was first introduced. I liked that she didn't give in easily. She stood her ground and made her own rules. But there were some things in Megan's life she didn't have control of. And one, was falling for Gavin.
Gavin was so much more than meets the eye. I was so enamored with him. He was the epitome of "don't judge a book by its cover." There are some things in Gavin's life that he can't change. His involvement with not so nice people has dreams far from his reach. As much as he wants to get out from the grips of these people, he can't, for fear that they'll hurt the people he cares about. And that's the biggest reason why Gavin can't have Megan in his life.
Gavin and Megan's chemistry was undeniable. They were two characters that needed each other. They learned so much from the other. I absolutely loved them together. Gavin stole my heart. He was beautiful inside and out. I couldn't get enough of him. Captivated by Him was everything and more. Definitely recommend.
Honstestly it had everything that a book should have to make me love it and yet we did not work out.
You ever went late to a party ? Entering a place when everybody is already drunk and everything is in full swing. And you were desperatly trying to catch up only hearing the ends of discussions and not getting their points ?
Yeah well that was what it felt like to read this book for me. I am not sure ( I would need to check) if this is a series - the book itself gave no indication but almost everything made me feel as if I were missing something significant. There was so much going on and so much input that it felt like someone tried to make a 90 minute movie out of "War and Peace"
The characters were great but for my taste there was to much going on in the back of the story for me it felt like an overload.
OMG Gavin is AMAZING! Run don't walk and grab this book! If you thought you loved Tade you will adore Gavin. The Gavin & Megan couple is a shocking story of struggle, love and true devotion! ♡ Terri E. Laine has a way of writing that keeps you on the edge of your seat until the very last word. Can't wait to see what she has in store for us next!
A thrilling and enthralling romance of monumental proportions...
I feel like I've waited so freaking long for Captivated By Him. Technically, it's not been that long in the grand scale of things. However, after Because Of Him anything more than the time it would take me to change books on my kindle would be too long. Every book of Terri's that I go into always surprises me. I go in expecting one thing and... Every one of her books surpasses my expectations, however, Because of Him—that book did things to me that I can't even begin to express. Couple that with the fact that I was willing to trade my soul for Gavin and Megan's story and you just know that I about died when Terri announced that Captivated by Him was going to be released this year. I'd been going psycho on my kindle for about a month after I agreed to review this book. My email was checked fanatically morning, noon and night as well as my kindle. I was like a junkie waiting for the crack drop off. I'm sorry for the analogy, but these books and these characters have become a drug to me. I love them and I can't imagine my heart and soul not ever being touched by them. These are beautifully told romances with grit and a rawness that swallow you whole and never spit you out. you will live, breathe and dream these characters. Their stories will make you feel things that you had no clue were in you to feel. If that makes sense.
Oh kay... So, Captivated By Him is a standalone and you can read it without having read Because Of Him, however I can promise that once you read one you'll want to read the other and believe me, you don't want to ruin either of these books for yourself... So personally, I would read Tade and Reagan's story prior to Gavin and Megan's. Some of the things that happen in Captivated By Him will kind of takeaway from your experience of Because of Him, as they'll kind of act like spoilers. Saying that, you will fall head over heels regardless. This plot feels slightly different to that of Because of Him, I already kind of knew Gavin and Megan and so it felt like getting together with friends rather than meeting new people. I have to say that the intrigue that I carried over form BoH on both Megan and Gavin also gave it more of an angsty edge. Saying that, I also carried over some questions about these two. I never quite understood what happened with them and why they acted the way they did around each other...that is where this book got me. I was constantly on edge. One minute I was ready to shout, scream and wail at and over them, and then the next I felt like I was floating on a cloud. The only certainty throughout the entire book was that the chemistry and feelings between these two would never subside. It was the biggest pressure cooker environment that I have felt in a book, it was so intense and it gripped you tight and close. Add in all the twists and turns and my head was in a constant state of WTAF? and Holy Freaking Poopballs! and Is this for real? I was either in a state of shock, ecstasy or angst. Ms. Laine reduced to a hot mess...believe me, most of the time I was only hot in temperament and libido... never in appearance. Well, not unless you find mascara tracks hot.
What made this book so special for me were the characters. Gavin is this bad boy with a beautiful heart and jaded soul. Through all his ego and bravado he never actually believes he deserves Megan. I'll admit that at some points his self deprecation annoyed me because it actually stemmed hurt and self-doubt in Megan. However, it also endeared him to me because it showed how big his feelings actually were and in a way how highly he regarded her. He has these nasty demons from his childhood that torture him and although he's this big, strong and fiercely protective man he's also vulnerable. For me, that combination made him irresistible...impossible not to love. I have to say that Terri did such a great job with marrying these characters. They are almost copies of each other. He with his childhood demons and Megan with her daddy issues. I have loved Megan from the moment I met her in Because of Him. Unlike Gavin who I was always dubious of. However I really got to see her in a whole new light. Her well poised and put together, happy-go-lucky persona was completely deconstructed. You really get to see her to the core and there were parts that rendered me an emotional mess. I never expected her to have the baggage that she does. I never even thought that she was so unsure of herself. I think that's why she and Gavin have such a strong pull toward each other. They both crave the same thing, the same affection and the same liberation.
Quite honestly, I could just about keep rattling and rambling on about Captivated By Him. The reality is, that no matter how much I rant and rave about it, it'll never do this story enough justice. This story is heart-stopping and sweat inducing and it is also so very sweet. However, it does deal with some sensitive issues that can take you aback. I really can't wrap my head around how incredible this book was and how much I want to reread it. ALSO, can I just say that there is definitely room for more... that epilogue...come on...maaaaaaan, I needed more than that to satisfy me. Not that there's anything wrong with it, no, this story is written flawlessly from the first to the last word. it is a testament to Terri's talent, however, I could've had more. I guess I'm not ready say goodbye to these two. I want more. I need more.
Hmm... This was okay. I liked the twist, once I understood correctly. But I didn't connect with any of the characters. While push and pull usually works for me, here it didn't. Perhaps it's because I'm sick and generally feeling crabby. 😞
* A review copy was provided by the author for the Blog Tour *
~ 4 My Forever and Always Stars ~
Hmmmm…..I don’t know how to really review this book. My mind is all over the place after reading this story.
I guess this review is going to be more about my feelings while reading the book and not so much about the storyline. Because like with Because Of Him, I can’t say much about the story without it being spoilers.
I have to say I enjoyed this book, but I think I liked Because Of Him more. This book had a little too much angst for my taste. So if you are a lover of angst filled romance stories then this is a book you shouldn’t pass up.
After reading Because Of Him, I was so looking forward to reading Gavin and Megan’s story. There were so many unanswered questions from that book. Captivated By Him answered all of those questions and more. This book does run concurrent with the timeline of Because Of Him, but it is a standalone novel. You don’t have to read Because Of Him first. I would recommend that you do because then you will understand Gavin’s character a little better, plus things that are unraveled in this story will make more sense.
Captivated By Him gave us everything the first book gave us. This story was filled with suspense, lies, betrayals, and romance. And yes some sexy times. I will say that this book took me by surprise as to where the story went. I wasn’t expecting some of the things that happened to happen. But then that’s what makes a great story….right?? This story is told in Dual POV and is a complete story. There is NO Cliffhanger.
All I can really say is if you are a fan of the New Adult Genre, and an angst filled romance then I think you should give this book a try. If you are a fan of Terri’s books you don’t want to miss this latest GEM from her!!!!
Terri E. Laine has done it again!! Captivated by Him kept me captivated from start to finish. I DEVOUR everything she writes it seems!
I absolutely LOVED Gavin’s character. He definitely stole my heart. My heart broke for the life he was forced to live, yet he kept on. And he was always making sure his father was protected. Gavin is such a good hearted guy, he's loyal, smart, funny, sexy, and oh so swoony!!! What happens when he meets his match with Megan?
Megan, I ADORED her character!! She doesn't give in to Gavin and repeatedly turns him down. She's quite sassy!! She's smart, and sexy, and very witty. Megan refuses to be a one night stand, yet Gavin says he can't give her more.
The banter and chemistry between these two is OFF THE CHARTS!! Captivated by Him is a rollercoaster thrill ride with twists and turns. Their story is definitely a slow burn, but the passion between them is SCORCHING!!! In order for these two to get their happily ever after, many obstacles must be over come. Can they find their happily ever after with each other? Come and get Captivated by Him and find out.
*I voluntarily read an advance copy from the author. This is my honest review.*
I'm a huge Terri E. Laine's fan. And she proved I'm not wrong when I say she's one of the best. I've been following her work since Cruel & Beautiful and she's getting better and better. With this series, Terri's taking us to a new level. Captivated by Him is one of her best work so far. It's very well written. Gavin and Megan's story is intense. I loved Gavin since the beggining. I think I can say I love him since "Because of Him" (which I also highly recommend). But in "Captivated by Him", Gavin lets us into his world and it's indeed absolutely captivating. I had a few issues with Megan, I must confess. But I think she's what she is. You either like her or hate her. The plot is so intriguing that I found myself completely lost in the pages. Terri wrote another great book, that I truly loved and that I'm sure will captivate you from the start. I promise you'll be Captivated by Him, aka as Gavin.
I can’t begin to tell you how grateful I am to have discovered Terri E. Laine. She has a gift for storytelling and I am so happy she decided to publish her stories. Her characters and their stories take you on an adventure that you never want to end.
From the very beginning Captivated by Him, captured my heart. I loved Gavin and Megan in Because of Him and was so happy to read their story. This is a standalone but the stories do intertwine. Gavin stole my heart from the beginning during the ride he gives Megan and Reagan home. Megan was so not what I expected - she was better. The banter, friendship and the connection that pulls them to each other has you turning pages rooting for them, while the secrets and surprises have you gasping! Their attraction is mutual and their chemistry is sweet and super sexy. I loved the past and present being told to learn their whole story. This book is a must read!!!!! ARC provided by author - this is a voluntary review
Read that title again because that what you will be, captivated. Seriously you will be sucked into these pages from the first paragraph, especially if you read Because of Him. Which I also recommend. Captivated By Him is so beautifully written and flows gently into your soul.
Gavin and Megan will pull your heart strings to the point of breakage and then heal them. These two are so perfectly stubborn about being together you want to knock their heads in and yet let them figure it out on their own. Their chemistry is off the charts and the tension between them is thick! I love Gavin’s internal struggle between what he wants and what is allowed. His life isn’t his own and I feel so much for him because of how he struggles with it.
Terri E. Laine wrote a beautiful follow up to Because of Him, a story that will be with you just as much as the first one. There is nothing about this book I would change. Not. One. Thing! Amazing book! I can’t recommend it enough!!!
This book starts with a bang and already the very first chapter left me gasping for air!
From the first meeting of the protagonists Gavin and Megan the tension increases slowly but steadily to an almost unbearable high level… interrupted only now and then by some really hilarious bantering and some steamy moments…
The permanent going back and forth, the constant change between hope and hopelessness in this heartbreaking story might have damaged me for life! LOL! It really brought me to the limits of my ability to suffer while reading. Holy Molly! This was the worst emotional rollercoaster ride in a book I have been on so far… but so worth it in the end!
This book is an absolute must read, a page turner par excellence!
4 1/2 STARS FOR THIS CAPTIVATING STORY!! This is a heartfelt story that will hold your attention all the way through. I love seeing Gavin and Megan's story play out, it pulled at my heartstrings and hit all my emotion buttons. These two had struggles, but could not stay away from each other. This book will also keep you on the edge of your seat with all the suspense. Terri E. Laine is one of my favorite authors and always a 1- Click for me. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
Gavin Volk is torn. He has to make a decision between love or loneliness. Circumstances are beyond his control. Megan Stevens is a happy girl and about to graduate from college. Their attraction is undeniable, chemistry hot. But there are definitely things that could keep them apart. Smooth transitions between past and present, the storyline will keep you on your toes and turning the pages. The story gives the reader a little bit of everything and does it well – romance, suspense, second chances, family obligations and commitment, friendship, growth, love. Told in dual POV, Captivated by Him is a romantic suspense you don’t want to miss.
DNF I really don't want to DNF this book just because the cover,i mean look at that face.But i couldn't finished.First it's New Adult genre,they are in college and NA it's not my fav genre to read.Second i didn't feel the chemistry between H and h,and third our h,Megan was getting on my nerves along with her friend.And after so many opening the book and then after reading one page closing,that is my clue that this book is not for me.
I Yep!!!! I was captivated all right by this 5 star story that left me reeling and wanting more. For those who have read Because of Him, these characters were introduced and played a role in that story. I think that it could still be read as standalone. Because this story is entered on Gavin and Megan
At an early age, Gavin didn’t have much choice about his future. He loves his father and will do anything to protect him. So that means giving up his dreams. He meets Megan but he knows he must stay away but he can’t.
This story goes back in forth in time in order to better understand Gavin. I usually don’t particularly enjoy that but in this case it was well done. It was like reading 2 stories that will interlace with each other at some point. I anticipated the going back because it was intriguing and captivating. Beautifully written with a storyline that sucked me in, twisted me and left me baffled. The never ending surprises that were so unexpected and kept me on the edge of my seat. Bottomline is that this is a must read.
For better enjoying, read Because of Him. Story told in a dual POV with an HEA that will surely leave the readers smiling as I did. Check out some of this authors other books.
I have been completely thrilled about this book since I finished the last word of Because of Him. I just love these two couples. Life isn’t easy but they don’t give up. Now, Gavin, Gavin isn’t as simple as he seems. Gavin and Megan had instant chemistry and they were like two magnets, being pulled strongly together. Yet, Gavin wouldn’t give in to his feelings. He struggled with feeling good enough for Megan and that showed me that he truly was, he cared, maybe a bit too much!
I loved this slow type burn they had… while they rushed together like two cosmic forces set to explode… they took a while to get where they truly needed to be. Their story really starts in Because of Him, the story about their besties Tade and Reagan. I loved hearing about them and catching up with them! It’s always fun to get an extra snippet on book favorites!
Terri E. Laine packs one heck of a punch! This is my second book by her and I’m a stalker now! I love how she writes. Her words and the characters feel so real. I feel so close to them. I cannot recommend her books enough! I found myself laughing, crying, and yelling at them all to stop being so stupid!
I received an ARC of this book with the hope that I will leave an Unbiased Opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that... my opinions.
Holy "Sugar Honey Iced Tea", Terri hit this one out of the park.
'Captivated by Him' takes place during the same time period that 'Because of Him' does, so the characters you met in the 1st book (can be read as a standalone) are already known to you as the reader. Personally, I respond favorably to characters I've already grown attached to in previous books so this set the scene without providing any of the details that are unveiled about Gavin and Megan.
Gavin is a tortured young man, brilliant and driven, yet believes he doesn't deserve happiness or love for the price is far too high, given his circumstances. The tough exterior he shows to the world is to protect himself and others. Despite his intense desire for Megan, our little spitfire female lead, he will not allow it to become anything more than a one-night stand, and Megan won't accept anything less than a commitment. This sets the stage for some serious fireworks over the course of their senior year of college. They must each learn to face their own demons, Gavin his background and what he sees as lack of future options, and Megan her shaky self-esteem.
There are some nice surprises in the book and great story curveballs.
Terri E. Laine does not disappoint. The journey is so worth it!
Another book that completely held me spell bound through the whole book! We met Megan and Gavin in Because of Him, but this is their story. This incredible slow burn story of Megan and Gavin's was full of secrets and trying to shield loved ones from those secrets. Gavin didn't think he'd ever have normal and having someone like Megan was not something he could even think about. Megan was in love with Gavin early on, but she wanted more than he was willing to give and wouldn't take anything less than him committing to her. Gavin wanted nothing more than to make Megan mine....it just wasn't something he could make happen.
This story was not dark like Because of Him, but it was full of twists and turns throughout the story. Megan and Gavin both come from families with a lot of secrets. This story was so full of sadness and wishes of what could have been. I ached for Gavin and the tough decisions he has had to make his whole life. I ached for Megan as she continually is pushed away and doesn't understand why. The story is strong and the characters are well developed. I was completely captivated by Captivated by Him.
Once again, Terri E Laine gives us a brilliant story of love, angst and emotional turmoil. I adored Gavin and Megan in Because of Him. While this one can be read as a standalone, it’s timeline intertwines with Because of Him. I think the one thing I loved about this story is them fighting for their relationship but also against it. And I adored Megan showing him how things could be. I wanted to smack Gavin a bunch of times for toying with her! But their love is just so beautiful! There were a lot of great twists thrown into this one as well as seeing how things were for Gavin prior to going to university. The push and pull these two have was amazing as well. Watching them grow and mature was brilliant. The passion these two have is off the charts as well. I giggle with Megan and her way of swearing too! Overall, this was an amazing story that even though is a standalone, is a brilliant companion to Because of Him! Snag these ones up because you will not be disappointed!
Such a wonderfully written heart wrenching story!!!
Captivated by him is written by Terri E Laine. In this book we see the story of Gavin and Megan. We meet these complicated characters in Because of him. The instant attraction is blinding. The moment Gavin sees Megan he wants her no question about that. But can he have her or should he is a question he struggles with. He is a very complex character. Megan we see as just wanting what she wants. She knows she wants Gavin. We see the pull and push in their relationship. When family secrets start to unravel they are caught in the middle. This book had me drawn in from beginning to end. This was such an awesome 5 star book. While I don’t think it’s necessary to read the first book to understand this one it’s definitely recommended. Tade and Reagan showing up in this book is like a little added bonus to those that have read Because of him.