With my background, you’d think I’d know how to avoid trouble by now - but it finds me anyway. Harlan’s got me all twisted up and he’s not what I want at all… He’s high-handed, your typical arrogant athlete, too damn good looking... And I go up in flames whenever he so much as looks at me.
HARLAN
I’d put her out of my mind, or tried to at least. One impulsive encounter. One taste, and I’ve got it bad.
Something about Kaija makes me think about everything I never thought I wanted. Fast and free has always been the name of my game, but this woman…
She comes with her own playbook.
A hockey player and a head-strong woman walk into a bar...
Who comes out on top?
Ache For Me is a 45,000 word standalone romance with an HFN, explicit sexual situations, and no cliffhangers.
In addition to the people in her life that indulge her crazy - Aja Cole loves men that smell phenomenal, food that tastes amazing, and something that college makes it hard to do called sleep. She loves feedback and hearing from readers, as her goal is to become better with every release.
Rather abruptly, this book decided it did not want to be the breezy, fun, and sexy romance it starts out as but wanted to throw in some suspense elements with sexual trafficking and kidnapping and a shoot out in the end. Like the heroine says at one point "that went from zero to 100 real quick."
It could have been an interesting subplot for the book, if the execution of it hadn't felt so 'come out of left field' and it hadn't been used to usurp the romantic development. The hero and heroine were saying ILY in the end but I couldn't help but ask myself why? They were headed there very nicely until the sex trafficking plot came and hijacked the book.
My other issue is about the sex. it is explicit, which is no problem for me. And Harlan, the hero is a major dirty talker. But during sex he immediately refers to Kaija (the heroine) as a dirty slut. Again dirty talk during sex is no issue for me, but I have to press pause on pejoratives during sex when they aren't an established part of your sexual 'play' routine. He and Kaija hadn't established that level of trust in each other so that she'd know him calling her a slut was part of their sexual play and not him thinking of her as, well, a dirty slut. To the author's credit, she does have Kaija address it, but she has her do it almost apologetically after the sex had occurred.
But outside of that the writing was fun, the characters were engaging, their respective families and their interactions with the families were great as story texture.
received copy for honest review The story started off pretty good. Kaija is on a phone call with her sister her is urging her to hit on her seat mate. Kaija is laughing and say that this is not her. I am thinking she is shy and socially awkward just from her comments. After the hot scene on the plane, she seems to find a lot of confidence. I prefer her with confidence, however, it changed the projection of the story from fun to more serious. We went from a fun story of awkward dating( which is what I was expecting) to serious things like sex trafficking. I still enjoyed the story, I just would rather know what type of story I am getting into. The story is pretty fast paced with some hot love scenes thrown in.
Plot holes, grammar and spelling issues prevented me from enjoying this book. Was the heroine's dad running for mayor or Senate? Cause both was mentioned. And she lives a life of privilege with a dad who was an ex cop? On a cop salary? How???? A lot of stuff didn't make sense. Did not connect. Heavy editing is needed to fill up some plot holes.
The first thing that should be said about this book, is that the blurb doesn't advertise one bit what you'll truly find in it. When I read the blurb and started the book, it looked like some light, fun romance; your usual. It actually deals with human trafficking, indirectly as it's from the girl's past, but it has some big importance in the book. I didn't mind, it's not a trigger for me, but I happen to know a few readers who'd mind, so I think it should have been said. Also, there's a scene when they all deliberately eat weed brownies so, here's to that!
It took me a while to write this review because I had no idea how to write it or how to rate it, as there were things that I absolutely LOVED and things that I utterly HATED. Sometimes, this book was a 5, for me, some others, it wasn't worth more than 2. I also took some time off before I wrote the review, because right after I finished, I was really MAD, so here I am.
Like I said, this started off as your usual romance, they met on a plane and were instantly attracted to each other. If you can get past the fact that mere seconds after they've met, he is already fingering her - on the plane - then yay to you. The only thing that helped me get past that, was the fact that there was some kind of misunderstanding afterward and I actually end up finding it funny.
The characters and their relationships with their families - on both sides - were a huge 5 stars for me. This is my first book from Miss Cole and it made me want to read more from her, if only to spend some time with characters like Kaija's sisters or Harlan's mother. I like that each of Kai's sister has a different personnality, which actually makes you want to read about them and I liked that none of the parents were actual assholes - this is a thing we've seen WAY too much lately, as a matter of fact, I was really surprised when we met Kai's father who's a politician and he ended up being really sweet - they were on both sides, loving, caring and funny parents, so yup, if my rating had be based on this aspect of the book, it would have been a 5 stars.
I liked Kaija. She made some reckless decisions - like letting a guy touch her in a plane right after they met - but I liked that afterward, she would seriously question herself and reassess her decisions. The blurb described her as a head-strong woman and in many occasions, that's who I met, so yay to that!
I liked Harlan too, but only to some extent and that's my biggest problem with this book. At first, I really liked Harlan, although he first appeared as a creeper - what kind of guy fingers a girl he just met on a plane?! - but being in his mind helped, what with the fact that even he felt weird about that. Mostly, I guess I liked his relationship with his family and friends, although you'll tell me, he is your usual athlete dude in any type of romance. And then, right in the middle of a sex scene, he called her "a COCK-SLUT".
My main problem while writing this review is that I don't want to go all feminist or party pooper on anyone that would be reading this review. So, I won't. But, for me, whichever kind of sex you choose, whether it's with a man, a woman, vanilla, bdsm...there should always, ALWAYS, have some kind of respect in it. Otherwise, it gets too close to a rape, for me. YEAH, I know, that's a pretty big word but who the hell has sex with someone he doesn't respect? It was really difficult, for me, to connect the dots between the loving, funny guy that loves his MOTHER and then calls the girl he is having sex with - and is hugely attracted to - a SLUT. Call me a prude if you want, but although I'm not a huge fan of bdsm, I've read about it in the past and accept the dirty talk, although I think most times it just sounds stupid but calling a girl a slut is where I draw my limit.
Believe it or not, this is the FIRST time I'm reading a book and actually DON'T WANT the characters to have sex. I saw a window of opportunity at some point when, the next morning, Kai woke up and tried to tell him that she didn't felt comfortable with the fact that he called him a slut, given the kind of past that she had. Harlan then tried to explain that he meant it in the "most respectful way possible" - so, that means that there's some kind of respectful way to call someone a slut?! And then, he added that it is something he enjoys and doesn't "see the point in getting hung up over stuff that arouses them as long as it's not seriously harming anyone". See, that's where I got lost. In a way, he's not wrong. They're two consensual adults having sex in the intimacy of their room so what if he wants to call her a slut? See, I'm trying to accept it LOL
BUT I'M READING!!! So, I've got to deal with the fact that during the day, Harlan is basically the perfect guy and at night, he becomes that twisted guy that gets hot on belittling women. Because, yeah, it's not a one time thing. Would it have been any other book, I'd have DNF'd it but yeah, 5 stars characters. Plus the fact that the "story" in itself, although it was short, was quite interesting with even some suspense in it.
The serie in itself look like something that'll be very interesting, like I said, Kai's sisters have very promising stories I REALLY, REALLY want to read about but is "slut calling" the author's go-to style?? Cause if yes, I'm afraid I won't even attempt to read the next book.
From Kaija and Harlan’s story starts out fast and hot. I was immediately invested into what would happen next for this couple. Then the story took an unexpected turn that had thinking, wow I didn’t see that coming. Kaija and Harlan went from getting to a world filled with suspense, secrets, and unexpected drama that through me off a little. I did like the characters and their interactions with each other and the overall storyline, I just felt like the the secrets and drama could have been added in more smoothly than it was. I gave this one 3 stars.
I haven't submitted too mamy reviews but I felt compelled to write one for this book based on some of the negative comments I came across. First, let me say that the book was enjoyable. The first 2 pages literally made me laugh out loud! Though I prefer a more robust story like those authored by S.K. Lessly, I still enjoyed Ache for Me. It's obvious that Ms. Cole is a young writer but she has great potential of become a stellar writer, moving beyond simply "enjoyable". I really like Harlan and I thought Kaija was an awesome leading lady. The intimate scenes were explicit but you knew that going in and, let's be honest, that is part of the reason that we read these books. That brings me to my issue with a few reviews that I've come across. Just because Kaija had sexual assault in her past, that does not mean that she should not be able to explore and enjoy her sexuality and a full sex life that includes dirty talk, a little roughness, and opportunities to step out of her comfort zone. She even addresses in the book how her past made her conflicted about liking certain things simply because she "felt" that she shouldn't based on her past trauma. As someone who studies and produces literature regarding the HEALTHY sexuality of Black women, it bothers me to hear of women shaming or judging other women simply because the judged woman's sexual tastes are a little more extreme than their own. Also, for people to say that they will not read Mickey's story because they don't think they would enjoy (or see the value) in reading a romance novel about someone with a more loose or liberal view on sex or partnerships is akin to slut shaming. Besides, from what I read, there is no explicit evidence that Mickey was more than just a free-spirit that happens to be more liberal in her sexual identity and attitudes. I didn't see anything to indicate that her sexual tastes were too outlandish to be intetesting. Everyone deserves love, acceptance, and the freedom to revel in their sexuality. This is especially true for adults who know and have weighed the hazards and the rewards of their chosen indulgence. Everybody deserves a love story and not all leading women can be virgins before meeting their "happily ever after ". I commend Ms. Cole for writing about women with varying degrees of sexual/intimate knowledge, experience, and comfort levels. As women we are so diverse and so shall our experiences in life be, none being more valuable than the other. When we indulge in our guilty pleasure of romance novels, there should be representation of diversity that goes beyond traditional race, religion, or culture to include sexual enjoyment, proclivity, and experience. Again, we ALL deserve our own story. Everyone would like to see themselves reflected in the leading lady in some way. We are not all virgins, timid, or afraid to get a little down and dirty. I like that all three of the sisters are different and thus, can provide more than one viewpoint about love, life, and relationships. Kaija and Harlan had a wonderfully kinky, sweet, and entertaining story. There is no reason to believe that Mickey and Keyra won't have same. Now, I am going to get off of my soap box and simply say, great job Ms. Cole. Keep up the great work! I definitely recommend this work.
WELL! Talk about a bumpy ride! This is an all-consuming feels kind of read! With some suspense building twists and turns making for a page-turning, witty sexiness, I did not want to put down! I swear I could feel the connection between Kaija and Harlan coming off my Kindle! This was not what I had anticipated; it was soo much more! I love when I get all wrapped up in a storyline and its characters- so much, so I am still thinking about them, hours after I have finished reading! I gotta say tho- woo, I know that Kaija went through some deep, dark, depraved stuff but that girl was not my favorite lol! (I know I am mean) I am looking forward to the next book about her serious sister Keyra next!
I enjoyed this book immensely, the overall plot with the sex trafficking on Kai's part needed to be delved into a bit more for me. I wanted to continue to learn more about this. I do believe the whole Wesley situation was handled way too easily. I just don't see him trusting her after everything she did (setting his sick ass up). I can't wait to read the other sisters books. I really want to learn more about the hockey lives of these hot men too! I want more from this author, I want to learn more about the characters and their family members, continue to tell me more Aja
Good story, looking forward to reading about other characters in the series. Main heroine was a lil annoying at times but she grew on me. Would recommend this book.
I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Ache for me is about the relationship between Kaija and Harlan. It starts off very steamy but immediately fizzles out because of a misunderstanding. When they finally do get together the sparks fly between them. What really set this book apart from other romances for me was Kaija's backstory. I don't want to ruin the book so I won't get into it but just know that it is some life changing stuff. It explains why she acts the way she does in the book. I also love Harlan's family. They are the exact opposite of Kaija's. They are accepting of everyone as long they have a good heart. Sorry this review isn't longer but I don't want to give anything away and if I say more I definitely will. If you read this book you will not be disappointed.
When I read the synopsis of the story I thought it would be a cool hockey romance. In essence it was, but it was more about the dramatic backstory of Kajia. She wasn't someone I related to either. I didn't care for her, esp how mean she was to Harlan. Good thing he forgave her. He was cool, I liked him enough. Throughout the story though I wanted to feel their romance. I didn't see the chemistry I see with other characters. It's not a criticism of the author, as I have enjoyed her stories. There are just some characters that don't resonate. These didn't for me. Now I'm curious about Keyra, the older sister and the divine Dane. I knew he had a thing for her. I think I was more excited for their story.
Harlan & Kaija are two strangers who meet on a flight. They form a connection that keeps them coming back to each other in the strangest of circumstances.
Harlan has fallen hard for Kaija, but she's growing cold feet. Can she overcome the issues in her past to finally allow herself to accept love and return it?
I enjoyed the banter and the familial relationships in the book. While I think the author could have hinted at the heavy subject matter in ther blurb, I thought she handled it pretty well in the novel itself. I look forward to the rest of the series.
I voluntarily read & reviewed an ARC of this book.
Honestly this book was just full of a lot of negatives for me (from the female lead) Lack of accountability Victim mentality Crying more than the bereaved False affirmations… I had to stop toward the end because I just had a hard time understanding how the female lead was justified in her actions towards the male lead. There was just display of a lot of toxic behavior and it was affirmed others even though the sisters called her out a few times at the end of the day it seems her past trauma excuses all her toxic behavior. I lost interested 60%- 75% into it.
This book started the Banks Sister's Series off on a high note. A well written story with great characters with lots of depth. Harlan was an arrogant alpha male hockey player who liked to live life fast and free. Kaija comes from a political background and was more insecure. Their chemistry was hot. This was a good read that kept me page turning with no cliffhanger. I received an advance reader copy and voluntarily chose to review it.
I was a little bit disappointed, specially looking at the cover, which promised to be a great book, but not... I thought this story was rushed and at the same time, it felt as if the author was trying too hard for her heroine to be a sassy, don't take s..t front no one, that it came out with a lot of cringing on my end.. Nevertheless it was still a good book
I thought was a m\f relationship book started ok then turned into an issues book about sexuality with the gay brother and step sister with issues and lack of morals on varying issues, I didn't finish felt more about the people in their life than about them and if I wanted that kind of book i wouldn't have read the synopsis and hoped to get what it showed as a m\f straightforward book
I loved reading this quirky and funny sisterly dynamic of the Banks sisters. Kaija and Harlan are definitely two forces to be reckoned with. When meeting on a plane, these two had instant fireworks, but Kaija is cautious in letting any new man into her life after her traumatic past. And fortunately for Harlan, he's persistent. This was a sexy and exciting read, as you root for Kaija to take a chance on love. Now I can't wait to read Keyra and Dane's interesting story.
I just can't read this book. Not because it's a bad story or plot but because the spelling and editing in this book is horrible. It's ridiculous when I have to stop and go back and correct spelling and the grammar to understand what I'm reading. I did not finish reading this book. In fact, I only got about 30% done. To the author I say find an editor and if you do not have one, I would be happy to help you.
A story that will have you guessing as its not predictable at all...
It was a pleasure to read this entertaining, sexy unpredictable story. Kailua and Harlan were likable characters and had a lot of chemistry together. My one complaint is not enough description of each character, as a reader we need to know what they look like so that we can picture these people. On the whole the story was enjoyable.
This was just enough romance mixed with a little humor and some really good action.The chemistry with characters is spot on that you feel as if they are old friends.This was good storytelling,but there are some typos that come at critical times that take from the story.There are also a couple of chapters that just kinda of jump right in and you are left going back to see if you missed something.Overall this was a entertaining way to spend time.
I am volunteering to leave a review for an ARC of this book. This is my first time reading this author. I liked Harlan. He seemed to be a really great, un-stuck-up hockey star. Kaija definitely has some issues; and you find out why. Can she get over them to get the guy. With his skills, she better try! Looking forward to reading another book by Aja.
I enjoyed very much the journey of Harlan and Kaija's, wow,the things that Kia went through and even though she was broken,she rise above and became stronger. .. I love her family ,strong, wonderful,caring. And Michelle, Harlan's mom is such a hot ticket... oh my!:) Well, Dane and Keyra next!
3.5 Stars. It's a quick read with an odd trafficking side plot. It fit into the past but it felt it was squeezed into the present.
The story is bit unfinished. The sex-tape plot point wasn't fully resolved. And what was the point of putting it in the story when you're not going to let the reader "see" it?
It was cute how Kaija and Harlan first met on a plane and what went down between them on the plane. I hate what Wesley did to Kaija and it's good that he's a closed chapter now. I like how Keyra watches over everyone and I very interested to see what her and Dane got going on. I don't think that Brandon and Mickey are going to work out.
Ache For Me is my introduction to The Banks Sisters ❤️
Ache For Me by Aja Cole had my emotions all over the place. There was never a dull moment. This is Kaija and Harlan's story. The character's connection was hot and engaging. By this being the 1st book, we were introduced to both Kaija and Harlan's family. I can’t wait to read other books by Aja Cole. Check her out!🥰👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
I loved this story. Hot hockey players, characters with amazing chemistry, sexy scenes, with a little suspense thrown in... what's not to love. I'm looking forward to Book 2. *I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.*
All I got to say is I want my own hockey player! I loved the journey Harlan and Kai are on. Something that was supposed to be a one and done, turns into something more. I look forward to Keyra's and Dane's story
I like Harlen and Kaija together. The way they met on the plane and what they did had me loving them. They are a cute couple. Can't wait to read your next book in this series.