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Indulgence #1

Unconventional

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This is a previously-published edition - ASIN: B078N6N4ZB

This book was part of The Vault: A Sinfully Sexy Collection.

Erika Ellis is available to everyone, each night, on their TV—news at five-thirty and again at six o’clock. Viewers think they know her.

They don’t, not like I do.

I’ve watched her—closer than the others—not only on the news, but at all hours of the day and night. I’ve taken my time and learned her routines and her secrets. I know what she needs.

I’ll bring her fantasies to life, even the ones she’s yet to realize. I’ll be the one to teach her that in submission there is power. She’ll understand that she doesn’t need accolades from her viewers or the world. She doesn’t need to be primped and primed. My praise is what she’ll live for. Bound and helpless is where her freedom will be found.

The truth behind the stage makeup and faux laugh is that she’s mine—nothing she can do or say will change that.

She doesn’t know my unconventional plans.

That’s okay.

She will.

It’s time to make my move.

I’m Victor Cross, the only man for the job.

From New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author Aleatha Romig comes the fun, lighter story with a classic Aleatha darker twist, Unconventional.

Have you been Aleatha’d?

130 pages, ebook

First published October 17, 2017

520 people are currently reading
1264 people want to read

About the author

Aleatha Romig

123 books13k followers
Aleatha Romig is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author who lives in Indiana, USA. She grew up in Mishawaka, graduated from Indiana University, and is currently living south of Indianapolis, USA. Before she became a full-time author, she worked days as a dental hygienist and spent her nights writing. Now, when she's not imagining mind-blowing twists and turns, she likes to spend her time with her friends and family, including her beloved grandchildren.

Aleatha released her first novel, CONSEQUENCES, in August of 2011. CONSEQUENCES became a bestselling series with five novels and two companions released from 2011 through 2015. The compelling and epic story of Anthony and Claire Rawlings has graced more than a million e-readers. Her next series, INFIDELITY (not about cheating) hit New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today best-seller lists. Aleatha has since released over fifty novels in multiple genres: dark romance, romantic suspense, thriller, and romantic comedy. She went back to her edge of your seat romantic suspense thrillers with her WEB SERIES trilogies, Devil’s Duet, Kingdom Come, and most recently with her suspense series, the Sin series, ready to binge.

The titles keep coming. Be sure to check out her website to stay up to date.

Aleatha is represented by Danielle Sanchez of SBR Media and PR with Wildfire Marketing.

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5 stars
282 (32%)
4 stars
272 (31%)
3 stars
199 (23%)
2 stars
77 (8%)
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29 (3%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 166 reviews
Profile Image for SueBee★bring me an alpha!★.
2,417 reviews15.4k followers
November 17, 2017




⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️! Unconventional (stand-alone) by Aleatha Romig.

“If I tell the truth, will you fuck me and then punish me?”
I swear my cock doubles in size. “I could punish you for topping from the bottom.”

Unconventional (stand-alone novella) opens up to anchor woman Erika Ellis aka Kitten’s stale-mate existence. Her marriage is falling apart and every year proves more challenging to keep up in her career.

A little appreciation for what you have or don’t have…. goes a long way. Erika will learn that the hard way after working a late shift and walking alone in the parking garage.

Unconventional, told from dual POVs makes no apologies for its non-vanilla approach to Erika getting her libido back and questioning the direction of her life. Fast-paced! Sexy! Unconventional!

“Maybe it's because he's still mostly dressed, except for his cock, which is again standing to attention. No matter the cause, I'm fascinated by his presence.”

***
Hero: ★★★★
Heroine: ★★★★
Plot: ★★★★
Storytelling: ★★★★★
Sexual tension: ★★★★
Sex scenes: ★★★★★
Story ending: ★★★★1/2
******************************************
OVERALL RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Angst: | LOW FOCUS |
Darkness: | LOW FOCUS |
Humor: | LOW FOCUS |
Kink: | HIGH FOCUS |
Romance: | HIGH FOCUS |
Sex frequency: | HIGH FOCUS |
Suspense: | MEDIUM FOCUS |

ARC provided to me by author Aleatha Romig in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Sophia Triad.
2,241 reviews3,766 followers
January 2, 2018
Victor Cross has been watching Erica for some time now. As your typical hard-working stalker, he knows the details about her life, he knows her weaknesses and he knows that she is unhappy. Maybe some good old BDSM will make her smile again.

She’s a public figure, and it fucking pisses me off to think that she stars in other men’s wet dreams. It’s part of the game she plays for the station—perceived availability. It boosts the ratings, but it’s fiction. Her availability isn’t real. She doesn’t belong to them, not to any of them.
She’s mine, all mine. I’ll be the one who fulfills her desires. I’ll be the one to bind and control her. No one else will take my woman to ecstasy. No one else will bring her desires to life—no one but me.

Erika Ellis is a well recognized tv-presenter, but she is unhappy. Not that it is her fault. Or her husband’s fault who loves her dearly. It is just something is missing and she is not sure what.

“I think I should face the fact: my marriage is beyond repair. I’ve failed.” I shrug. “He’s failed. We both have.”

Until one night someone kidnaps Erika, puts her in an isolated cabin and makes her his sex slave. It must be someone that she knew from her job, because she did not hesitate to get in his car when she couldn’t find her car and she did not worry until she realized that he was not taken her home.

This is one of those stories that when you reach the end, you realize that you have read it wrongly. Which means that you did not actually realize what was happening. But it does not really matter, because you loved the story no matter what.

Complicated? Not really. If you have experience in this kind of stories, you most probably will understand or at least you may suspect what is going on from the beginning.

Nevertheless a very enjoyable story with a very interesting twist in the end.

The book was part of The Vault: A Sinfully Sexy Collection. Now, you can find it as a standalone.
Profile Image for ⊱✿⊰ Alicia ⊱✿⊰ .
675 reviews464 followers
December 31, 2017
4.5 "Trust, Obey, Submit" Stars

Oh my,.........................

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Erika Ellis is all about her career as a news anchor, how to advance, how to get better ratings and keep the best figure. Her marriage has slipped into the comfort zone and it's become unfulfilling and lackluster.

Victor Cross is obsessed with Erika, he wants to control her and own every part of her.

I was so happy to be back reading Aleatha's twisted side, although this one wasn't dark it has a giant twist. The twist was very obvious to me but it took nothing away from the enjoyment I got from the story.

I can't go into the plot without giving anything away, what I can say is this was one edgy, steamy hot novella with a major twist. I highly recommend it if you are looking for a quick steamy read that's a bit different.
"No topping from the bottom, kitten I'm in control"

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ღ Reviewed on behalf of the One-Click Addict Support Group
Profile Image for Alp.
763 reviews468 followers
July 19, 2018
2.25/5

A huge disappointment. This one didn't match up to the author’s other books.

I decided to give this one a go since I saw many positive reviews of it. I must admit I expected a lot from this novella, but sadly, it failed me.

The plot was too predictable and the twist ending came as no surprise to me at all. Actually, I saw that coming a mile away! I think I've already read this kind of plot twist somewhere before—not exactly the same but close enough, at least for me. I have to say that this book left me unimpressed and disappointed.

Well, I’m still not sure whether I just read the same book the others did. Guess I’m in the minority here. Nevertheless, if dark erotic romance stories are your thing, then please take my review with a grain of salt and go for it. You may enjoy it more than I did.

Profile Image for Deanna❤Pink Lady❤️.
820 reviews845 followers
October 18, 2017
4.5 Stars


This story is very unconventional......there’s a twist and I didn’t see it coming. This is an erotic novella, it is Short, Sexy and Sizzlin!

In true Aleatha Romig fashion, she has you thinking one way and she slowly but surely knocks you for a loop. She manages to get a full story in a short space. She also had my emotions twisted as usual with her dark and edgy words. This story pushes boundaries but I loved the story in the end.

The blurb says what you need to know going into the story. That being said, just be prepared to be Aleatha’d......and enjoy this dark and twisted erotic tale.

*advanced copy provided by author in exchange for an honest review*
Profile Image for Michelle.
1,633 reviews173 followers
December 30, 2017
Wow!!!

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Unconventional is part of anthology The Vault. It's also the first book I 've read from this author. I know I should of read her soon. I m just delighted I did. This book is just brilliant. It's smoking hot in every way. The story is so good it messes with your head in so ways. But it is just written so well. I read this in just a few hours which is really good for me. I hooked from the very start till the end. I actually wish it was longer. I really can't wait to read more from this author.

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I m alway a lil scared when it comes to dark romance. So I was a lil unsure about this. But wow it was so so good. Victor and Erika are excellent characters. The way the story started I was a lil worried and I have to say I did work out how the story was goin to early on. Which just this story a whole lot better and hotter. It just sure you what a lil therapy can do to make things better. I really enjoyed this and would highly recommend it.

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Profile Image for Christine B.
554 reviews102 followers
November 15, 2020
I have to admit this story sent me through a loop it had all the makings of a book with kidnap, bdsm, Dom/sub relationship all my favorites.

Erika Ellis was on top of her career as news anchor, so many watched her but I am the only one who have spent years studying her and know what she needs, her fantasies and desires she has yet to discover. The time has come when she will know me well, I have planned every moment. Erika will call me Sir and I will be the only one to give her the accolades and punishments all she has to do is trust, obey & submit. I am Victor Cross the only man that can give Erika all her fantasy and she will call me Master!!!
Profile Image for Timitra.
1,754 reviews10 followers
December 31, 2017
Rated 4.5 Stars

I was intrigued from the first page and in love by the last despite figuring the twist out pretty early on. It did not take away at all from my enjoyment in fact it enhanced it so much so I need an interlude with Mr. Cross.

Although short the author managed to weave a well crafted tale that is not only off the scales hot but also gives a sense of who these characters are and their struggles. I thoroughly enjoyed it and hope the author writes more stories in this world.

I highly recommend this story to those who enjoy non-con and dub-con.


ARC provided by author in exchange for a honest review
Profile Image for Beverly.
1,005 reviews788 followers
November 16, 2017
This book definitely had the Romig twist, but nothing too heavy. I thought it was a fun, sexy read with a good message. I can't say much without spoiling, so I'll just say if you want something sexy to read the Vault is a good place to start!

ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Coco.V.
50k reviews133 followers
Want to read
September 20, 2019
🎁 FREE on Amazon U.S. & on iBooks today (9/20/2019)! 🎁
Profile Image for Allyson.
494 reviews47 followers
November 25, 2019
This was a great fast pace story. At first I didn't know where it was going and I wanted to smack the heroine but then my brain caught up and I was fascinated. Lots and lots of sexy time and finding love again ...I love Aleatha writing style!!!
Profile Image for Nadine Bookaholic.
3,728 reviews529 followers
October 21, 2019
I have written, erased, and rewritten this review several times now, the problem is I don't want to give any spoilers and the more I delve into the my thoughts about the book it seems like I slip and give something away. So I will just say that this was an amazingly HOT read that had you wondering what the heck was really happening because of the twist. I must admit I had it figured out rather quickly but that didn't take anything away from the suspense, sexiness, or enjoyment of this read.

I highly recommend this book to lovers of BDSM Romances.

Happy Reading!!!

You can see this and other Reviews I have written along with various cover reveals, excerpts, and giveaways here Nadine's Obsessed with Books
Profile Image for Stephanie.
866 reviews5 followers
August 29, 2018
Unconventional is the first of the Vault series. They are all quick, stand-alone novellas.

Want a ride! There is an intense connection between Erika Ellis and Victor Cross. An "unconventional" encounter occurs. Sparks ignite. Dark and twisted desires unfold. And the ending, wow! I was shocked and confused and then..... Enlightened.

Hot, sexy, twisted, dark. This was a quick and dirty read! I was on the edge of my seat. I can't wait for Unexpected! Nothing like a taste of the dark side. I have been "Aleatha'd"

4.5 twisted stars!

#DarkRead. #Aleatha'd. #Hot #Steamy #AlphaMale
Profile Image for Crystal Gray.
1,088 reviews33 followers
October 16, 2017
Aleatha is new to me, her writing style was good. The story line took a bit to get into but she sure made up for it (and yes she even warned us!) I loved it. Unconventional is sometimes the only way.
Profile Image for Angy Potter - Collector of Book Boyfriends.
638 reviews134 followers
October 18, 2017
unconventional

Unconventional by Aleatha Romig
Book Review: 5 Stars


Oh. My. God. What did I just read? Holy shit, this novella was dark! *deep breaths* Okay, it wasn’t that dark but it was dark enough for me, because I don’t read dark romance but I was feeling adventurous and I could get out of my comfort zone with a known and beloved author of mine: Aleatha Romig. *takes another deep breath* So, let’s do this...

Unconventional was a twisted sexy story.

Erika was a public figure, intelligent, strong and always in charge of every aspect of her life, but she couldn’t find a way to fix her marriage.

Victor was obsessed with Erika. He looked at her from afar, knew everything about her and then decided it’s time to make her his in the most unconventional way.

And here it’s when the darkness begins…

Victor’s cruel words are twisting my insides in an unfamiliar, painful, yet erotic way, drenching my core.


I gotta admit, I was as conflicted as Erika was *chuckles* This story was hot as hell. I couldn’t stop reading and imagining in my head everything what was happening. The descriptions and the accuracy to the BDSM scenes were very vivid and perfect for me. Well done, Aleatha, well done.

“You don’t need to know. You need to trust, obey, and submit.”


Now you go and get this collection and make sure to read Unconventional. You’ll thank me later.

PS: That plot twist was mind blowing!!!! WOW!!!!


ARC REVIEW
Profile Image for Jamie.
2,072 reviews93 followers
June 19, 2025
This one was ok. It's a novella and those are always hard to win me over. I didn't feel the connection with these characters so by the end, I really didn't care about the twist.
Profile Image for Cynema.
602 reviews102 followers
October 23, 2019
TURNING AN UNCONVENTIONAL SITUATION ON ITS HEAD

My, my, my Aleatha … the queen of twists has gone and done it again. Pay attention readers because this book turns the conventional into the unconventional with a BDSM twist and a sex therapist at the center. UNCONVENTIONAL is the first book in the Indulgence series and if this story is any indication, we’re in for a wild, erotic ride in the BDSM-lite world, which I’ll dub “bdsm bites” for the novella-sized romances. How far will the most popular news anchor in a city go to reach her professional dreams? Apparently, anything it takes. Ericka Ellis is at the top of her game, but plenty of competition is nipping at her heels. That means staying focused on maintaining a great rack, and avoiding all distractions. One of those distractions is Ericka’s marriage, namely her boring hubby, who she avoids. It dawns on her that her young marriage is on life support and she’s just about to the pull the plug because nothing can revive it. But, Ericka should have more situational awareness on the job because there’s a stalker at the news studio who wants to make her his … and finally makes his move. Just as she’s about to go home and drop a divorce bombshell on her hubby, stalker Victor Cross kidnaps Ericka and puts her through an unconventional weekend that she’ll never forget.

It was more than gratifying to watch bossy Ericka be put in her place by someone who knocks the smug right off her face for a change. Where pushing limits and being taken out of her comfort zone have no barriers. She doesn’t have the control she thinks she does, especially when it’s all taken away. And the stalker gives her just the comeuppance she needs – dare I say what she’s got coming to her. I certainly sat up and took notice of every detail. Be prepared to watch a grown woman grovel and have your fancy tickled in secret places. It was erotic hot with a good plot twist that Aleatha is known to spring on us without warning. Must say that I actually sided with the stalker and thought that Ericka got off easy in a lesson well-deserved. I love stories that take a left turn and dump me on my fanny. This one will keep you and Ericka off-balance and curious about what the endgame is. A great start to a novella series, with the novella Unexpected to follow.
Profile Image for Becca.
1,032 reviews12 followers
August 3, 2020
Well that was a big zag, where I thought would be a zig. Surprising, steamy and sexy.
Profile Image for Candice.
831 reviews2 followers
October 28, 2017
Not a bad read. Left me confused for a bit. But the ending cleared it all up. Very interesting concept that’s for sure.
Profile Image for Badass Bloggettes.
742 reviews44 followers
October 16, 2017
I have just read Aleatha Romig's Unconventional and WOW this lady is great at dark, light, suspense. Every time I read a book by this author I am blown away at how good the writing is and the story.

Unconventional is exactly what it say's on the tin, very Unconventional.

I found myself starting to read and wonder, where on earth is Aleatha taking us and actually shocked at the first few chapters at what I was reading, however, do not be afraid everyone, Aleatha is true to her writing form and low and behold I come across a twist in the tale and everything right's itself. My life is back on track and I no longer need to pull my hair out and scream at my Kindle.

This story is Aleatha to her best. I do love everything she writes but I love her dark and twisted mind and Unconventional gives you that.

I would highly recommend everyone read this story in this amazing Anthology, you will not regret it.

Ms Romig has done it again for me, long may her dark, twisted mind continue to write great books.
Profile Image for Chris.
655 reviews
October 15, 2017
I won an ARC of Unconventional in a random draw. Fans of Aleatha Romig and those who have never read her books will delight in her contribution to The Vault. In Unconventional, Ms. Romig brings her A-game to her story of a television news woman struggling with personal and career issues. With surprising twists and turns, the author gives us a beautifully written tale with just the right amount of suspense and sexual sauciness. Unconventional is a delectable read not to be missed!
Profile Image for Read What I Like Blog.
412 reviews42 followers
February 25, 2023
Rating: 4,5 ⭐️

I really liked Unconventional. The book is hot and short, but Aleatha managed to add plot to it and make it more interesting. The plot twist may surprise you. It would probably surprise me, too, but I had read a story with this same trope some years ago and at some point I realized it was probably the same. If you are looking for something to heat up your night (or day), give this novella a chance.
Profile Image for Mistress.
422 reviews91 followers
October 18, 2017
I really liked this story! It had an original spin on it that I haven’t read anywhere else. I loved the twist and the clever writing leading up to it. Aleatha Romig’s writing is always a pleasure; I’m a huge fan. Unconventional couldn’t be classified as dark or light, it was perfectly in the middle. This story was a page turner that had my interest from the very beginning. This author’s creative and suspenseful story is a great addition to The Vault collection.
Profile Image for Kayla.
1,647 reviews1 follower
February 5, 2018
3.5 stars.

This was predictable. I knew what was going on within the first few pages. Otherwise, it was a really enjoyable read. I was happy to see Aleatha go back to her darker books.
Profile Image for Pam.
1,718 reviews54 followers
December 25, 2017
I read this as part of The Vault anthology.

This was an interesting combination of light and dark with a surprising twist. I'm not always a fan of darker stories, but this one kept me reading.
Profile Image for KindleCousins .
616 reviews38 followers
March 17, 2018
Yes, I've been Aleatha'd again and again. And I can't get enough. This was a quick hot read. @ about 20% I realized I was extremely too comfortable. I knew I was going to be Aleatha'd. I knew it was coming, but I was still caught off guard. This was a great read as usual. If you don't know, we love Aleatha sooo much. I swear I'm running to her table 1st in Denver!!!

-5 stars
Natasha
Displaying 1 - 30 of 166 reviews

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