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Mr. North
Law student Beth Dreymon is out of money and struggling hard. If she wants to finish her degree, she’s going to have to earn some money and fast. When she learns of an exciting opportunity—playing chess with New York’s most elusive billionaire—the offer sounds too good to be true. Reassured the offer is legit, Beth gets her game face on and prepares to geek out...
Only, when she steps foot into Raphael North’s luxurious penthouse, the rulebook goes flying out of the floor-to-ceiling windows. North is beautiful and damaged—a terrible temptation—and he has his sights set on winning Beth over. He’s just a job, though. A job Beth needs in order to make ends meet. If she plans on making her life in New York work, she needs to keep her eye on the prize. The road to hell is paved with good intentions, however, and it isn’t long before Beth finds herself entangled in Raphael’s world of dark desire.
Captor.
Curator.
Lover.
Enigma.
Beth should run from the devastatingly attractive blue-eyed devil, but Mr North has other ideas…and he’s about to make his next move.
Only, when she steps foot into Raphael North’s luxurious penthouse, the rulebook goes flying out of the floor-to-ceiling windows. North is beautiful and damaged—a terrible temptation—and he has his sights set on winning Beth over. He’s just a job, though. A job Beth needs in order to make ends meet. If she plans on making her life in New York work, she needs to keep her eye on the prize. The road to hell is paved with good intentions, however, and it isn’t long before Beth finds herself entangled in Raphael’s world of dark desire.
Captor.
Curator.
Lover.
Enigma.
Beth should run from the devastatingly attractive blue-eyed devil, but Mr North has other ideas…and he’s about to make his next move.
350 pages, ebook
First published November 15, 2017
488 people are currently reading
1514 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 290 reviews
November 30, 2017
I had a hard time getting emotionally attached to the characters in this book, and I found the relationship between Raph and Beth went way too fast! They fell in love way too fast for me to feel there was any kind of connection between the two. Neither one of them had even let their walls down before there was declaration of major feelings.
When the sex comes into play, the BDSM aspect also felt off to me. I can’t exactly pinpoint why, but maybe it boils down to lack of connection.
I do feel this book could have been an awesome read if there was more development of the characters. There were parts that intrigued me, and there was a bit of a twist at the end...I’m thinking if the story was longer and more in depth, it would have been a way better read!
When the sex comes into play, the BDSM aspect also felt off to me. I can’t exactly pinpoint why, but maybe it boils down to lack of connection.
I do feel this book could have been an awesome read if there was more development of the characters. There were parts that intrigued me, and there was a bit of a twist at the end...I’m thinking if the story was longer and more in depth, it would have been a way better read!
November 15, 2017
I wasn't expecting this to turn into such an unpleasant read when I started reading Mr North. It wasn't before the 30-35% mark that the book took a turn on the wrong side for me. I haven't read a lot of Callie Hart's books but I heard a lot of my friend talking about how great her male characters are and to some extent Raphael North was quite appealing.
At the beginning, he's quite a mystery and the fact he lives in his high tower like a recluse was even more intriguing. The way he acts was exactly how I wanted it. I always loved a good man hiding behind his secrets. I have a penchant for mysterious and handsome bachelor/ CEO who will sweep the heart of a young lady not expecting it.
Unfortunately the way the story unfolds, the multiple twists, the attraction between the characters didn't work at all. I'm going to even say that the sexual relation these two have felt awkward and just thrown in the mix to add another element to the enigmatic Mr North.
I think to work this story should have been longer, more developed. Most of what is approached is interesting but the reasoning; the way the characters are developed is way too abstract, not enough detailed and some actions are taking place in a odd order.
I thought about my rating for a long time. By Goodreads standards a 1 star rating is " I didn't like the book" but if I'm honest I like the first 30% so I guess I can say "It was it was ok - a 2 stars rating" expect it is absolutely not ok. This was really a waste of my time and I didn't like it one bit.
~I voluntary read a copy of this book provided by the author~
At the beginning, he's quite a mystery and the fact he lives in his high tower like a recluse was even more intriguing. The way he acts was exactly how I wanted it. I always loved a good man hiding behind his secrets. I have a penchant for mysterious and handsome bachelor/ CEO who will sweep the heart of a young lady not expecting it.
Unfortunately the way the story unfolds, the multiple twists, the attraction between the characters didn't work at all. I'm going to even say that the sexual relation these two have felt awkward and just thrown in the mix to add another element to the enigmatic Mr North.
I think to work this story should have been longer, more developed. Most of what is approached is interesting but the reasoning; the way the characters are developed is way too abstract, not enough detailed and some actions are taking place in a odd order.
I thought about my rating for a long time. By Goodreads standards a 1 star rating is " I didn't like the book" but if I'm honest I like the first 30% so I guess I can say "It was it was ok - a 2 stars rating" expect it is absolutely not ok. This was really a waste of my time and I didn't like it one bit.
~I voluntary read a copy of this book provided by the author~
November 16, 2017
Is it weird that for most of this book, I was strangely fascinated by the endless games of chess played by Raph and Beth? I’ll admit that I’m a chess novice. I never really had any real interest or passion for this game. But after reading this, I’m thinking it was more lack of a worthy opponent than the game itself that bored me. I figure if I had someone like Raph at the other side of the board, the game would seem a lot more interesting.
Not to get into the plot but Raphael North and Beth Dreymon were complete opposites. He was a man raised in privilege and his intellect had made him a powerfully successful man in his own right. Beth came from a more modest upbringing and hadn’t reached any of her goals yet. She was almost finished with law school and her life was just beginning. They meet, they fall for each other, there was some suspenseful action involved, and a happy for now was to be had.
Raph was mysterious, compelling, sexy, rudely charismatic, and damaged. What wasn’t there to like? I loved how he manipulated Beth right where he wanted her. I loved how his pain seemed so real and how it had shaped him. I just loved this man. My only disappointment with this story was with the ending. I wanted MORE! Regardless, Callie Hart never fails and I highly recommend this story to anyone who enjoys a hot and steamy romance with a few twists thrown in for good measure.
Release Date: November 16, 2017
Genre: Contemporary Romance
POV: Dual - 1st person
Heat: 4 out of 5
Type: Standalone
Not to get into the plot but Raphael North and Beth Dreymon were complete opposites. He was a man raised in privilege and his intellect had made him a powerfully successful man in his own right. Beth came from a more modest upbringing and hadn’t reached any of her goals yet. She was almost finished with law school and her life was just beginning. They meet, they fall for each other, there was some suspenseful action involved, and a happy for now was to be had.
Raph was mysterious, compelling, sexy, rudely charismatic, and damaged. What wasn’t there to like? I loved how he manipulated Beth right where he wanted her. I loved how his pain seemed so real and how it had shaped him. I just loved this man. My only disappointment with this story was with the ending. I wanted MORE! Regardless, Callie Hart never fails and I highly recommend this story to anyone who enjoys a hot and steamy romance with a few twists thrown in for good measure.
Release Date: November 16, 2017
Genre: Contemporary Romance
POV: Dual - 1st person
Heat: 4 out of 5
Type: Standalone
November 14, 2017
3 'I don’t know how I feel' Stars.
Raphael North is a multibillionaire, an entrepreneur, a philanthropist, a womanizer, high up on the New York socialite ladder yet five years ago a lot changed and he has been paying for his sins. He is lonely. So, he gets someone to find him a chess partner.
Beth Dreymon is studying law, has racked up debt and needs to acquire some money fast where an opportunity that falls in her lap it sounds too good to be true, unfortunately it is too good to be true. She meets the elusive millionaire and they become chess partners.
But Raph has ulterior motives and wants more. He must fight for, for the more that he wants. And the games begin, I felt as if they went to instalove with the snap of my fingers. Yet with all the time they spent together it was hard to tell if that deep connection that was meant to be there was there.
I think some things could have been fleshed out more and more depth could have been added. I feel as if we only scratched the surface with Beth & Raph. I really wanted to get to know them and I felt as if I didn’t. Once it was decided to take the next step, kink was thrown into the mix. I like me some kink but I was surprised as it came out of nowhere. To be honest here there wasn’t enough of it either.
I enjoy Ms. Hart’s work very much. The blurb doesn’t do the book justice but then again, I think that it is meant to be vague. Vague or not, for me personally it was a rollercoaster ride. This was a tough one to read there are so many twists and turns that it leaves you spinning, some were easy to recognize but others weren’t at all.
Such an intricate plot and story has been weaved that you feel just as lost as the heroine. I expected this to be along the lines of a romantic comedy but what I got was more angst, nail biting, some humor but other than that it is more suspense than anything else.
IMO this book could have been spectacular but there were so many things left unsaid, loose ends not tied up. How does it continue with Beth’s brother? What about the Mom? What about her studies? We get a HFN but no HEA.
I recommend this book.
Not released and yet someone gave it 1*. I mean really?
November 17, 2017
So, the blurb was intriguing and the story in general was actually pretty good and I liked most of it but certain segments were either underdeveloped either too blunt too soon for me to grow with the flow...
Speaking of the things I liked:
1. The storyline
2. The atmosphere built up with fast pace and intertwined mystery
3. The characters. (Even though some of them weren't portrayed as deeply as I needed them to be, for it to fulfill the full impact of what it could have been an awesome mystery thriller drama)
That leads us to the things that were lacking for me in searching for that full impact:
1. Emotional depth. (Things just rubbed me off the wrong way and it went too fast too soon for me, and since I dislike the whole 'insta-love' thing, I actually cringed to that notion...even though, I trully tried to portray it all as an 'insta-infatuation' which is, in fact, a very palpable fact per se, it wasnt enough fir me to be fully immersed into that segment of the story), thus totally ruining the whole 'kink BDSM' component as a firm foundation for it was non-existent!
2. Some facts regarding the action characters do were pretty non-credible and well, they diminished the credibility of the plot in the end...
Therefore, I'm conflicted with the mixed emotions, somewhere in between excitment and disappointment but all in all it was a solid reading material for me.
November 16, 2017
I don't even know where to start my review. Callie Hart is one of my favorite authors, one I automatically one-click; I have read all her books and absolutely loved every one of them. Except Mr. NORTH. Seriously I didn't even think there would be one thing she wrote and that I wouldn't love. And yet, there it is.
The main issue I had with it, is that I couldn't even recognize the tone and the atmosphere. I smiled and laughed at scenes but I'm still wondering if they were meant to be funny or not. Was it a mystery? I considered at one point that there will be a huge mindfuck.... still waiting.
What bothered me too is that some of the characters's actions seemed rushed (Raph's feelings) or out of the blue (the bdsm part). I would have loved more build up or anticipation, which would have make me FEEL.
Because, yes, there were emotions, but clearly I didn't feel them, it's the classic case if show, don't tell...
I didn't recognize Callie's writing in Mr. NORTH. Where were her complex and perfectly portrayed characters? The strong plot that usually captivates me? I tried, really tried to like it and I'm really sorry I didn't.
*ARC generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!!!*
The main issue I had with it, is that I couldn't even recognize the tone and the atmosphere. I smiled and laughed at scenes but I'm still wondering if they were meant to be funny or not. Was it a mystery? I considered at one point that there will be a huge mindfuck.... still waiting.
What bothered me too is that some of the characters's actions seemed rushed (Raph's feelings) or out of the blue (the bdsm part). I would have loved more build up or anticipation, which would have make me FEEL.
Because, yes, there were emotions, but clearly I didn't feel them, it's the classic case if show, don't tell...
I didn't recognize Callie's writing in Mr. NORTH. Where were her complex and perfectly portrayed characters? The strong plot that usually captivates me? I tried, really tried to like it and I'm really sorry I didn't.
*ARC generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!!!*
May 9, 2018
Frome the first page onwards I was hooked!
The author definitely have a way with words. They are bold and powerful. It surely leaves you lightheaded.
Hero was a true alpha. The mysterious air around him was well cultivated. And heroine, an independent and strong career minded woman.
The plot, twists and turns and suspense were interesting and gripping.
The characters were well developed. It was very interesting to read how differently they all moved on from a personal tragedy.
I would’ve given this full stars if only some things were clearer.
Like: after the fiasco with her brother what happened to their relationship later ? Eventhough she cut all ties did he reach out to her?
It was insulated that she lost her virginity questionably! But it was not explained.
Another one was what happened to heroine’s mother’s attacker? Was he caught and punished? I also wanted to know more about Chloe from hero. His feelings and his words.
It was also very irritating to read about how he can make ‘women’ scream with pleasure, how extraordinarily his j*nk was, blah blah.
Still it was fascinating read so recommended.
The author definitely have a way with words. They are bold and powerful. It surely leaves you lightheaded.
Hero was a true alpha. The mysterious air around him was well cultivated. And heroine, an independent and strong career minded woman.
The plot, twists and turns and suspense were interesting and gripping.
The characters were well developed. It was very interesting to read how differently they all moved on from a personal tragedy.
I would’ve given this full stars if only some things were clearer.
Like: after the fiasco with her brother what happened to their relationship later ? Eventhough she cut all ties did he reach out to her?
It was insulated that she lost her virginity questionably! But it was not explained.
Another one was what happened to heroine’s mother’s attacker? Was he caught and punished? I also wanted to know more about Chloe from hero. His feelings and his words.
It was also very irritating to read about how he can make ‘women’ scream with pleasure, how extraordinarily his j*nk was, blah blah.
Still it was fascinating read so recommended.
November 15, 2017
Meet Mr. North: reclusive, rich, and shrouded in mystery. Callie Hart's latest novel is a must-read for anyone who loves a sexy alpha and intriguing storytelling.
November 17, 2017
2.5-3 Stars
Love Callie Hart but didn’t love this one:(
Love Callie Hart but didn’t love this one:(
November 18, 2017
If you could go back and change a single moment in your past, what would it be?
The essence of your life lies here , in this question. If you could go back in life . If you knew then , what you know now, would you be able to alter your life trajectory?
Alas! Time flows in one direction . forward.
Raphael North slammed into a wall and his life completely changed. Others may have walked away from it unscathed, but Raph got hurt so bad, he punished himself. Locking himself up in his penthouse, withdrawing from the world , becoming confined in solitary.
Until Elizabeth Dreymon. She walks in to play chess with him and his pieces topple over. She checkmates all his defenses and beats him hands down again and again.
Guilt does funny things to people, it heightens their self condemnation and triggers depressive state of mind. No amount of coaxing or logic reaches the brain. Heavy heart laden with guilt trumps self belief and self worth. Raph's guilt eats him alive, so does Thalia's and Paxton's. They are all flies caught in a web of lies of their own making and even though they love each other passionately, it ultimately brings the house down . Checkmate!
The story is full of some spectacular moments. Yet some were unbelievable and not in congruence with the characters' personalities.
It was enjoyable read with some boundary shattering sex.
4 STARS on Raphael North Intensity Spectrum
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The essence of your life lies here , in this question. If you could go back in life . If you knew then , what you know now, would you be able to alter your life trajectory?
Alas! Time flows in one direction . forward.
Raphael North slammed into a wall and his life completely changed. Others may have walked away from it unscathed, but Raph got hurt so bad, he punished himself. Locking himself up in his penthouse, withdrawing from the world , becoming confined in solitary.
Until Elizabeth Dreymon. She walks in to play chess with him and his pieces topple over. She checkmates all his defenses and beats him hands down again and again.
Guilt does funny things to people, it heightens their self condemnation and triggers depressive state of mind. No amount of coaxing or logic reaches the brain. Heavy heart laden with guilt trumps self belief and self worth. Raph's guilt eats him alive, so does Thalia's and Paxton's. They are all flies caught in a web of lies of their own making and even though they love each other passionately, it ultimately brings the house down . Checkmate!
The story is full of some spectacular moments. Yet some were unbelievable and not in congruence with the characters' personalities.
It was enjoyable read with some boundary shattering sex.
4 STARS on Raphael North Intensity Spectrum
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FB - https://www.facebook.com/groups/BookB...
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November 17, 2017
MR. NORTH by Callie Hart was not what I was expecting. AT ALL.
There were so many themes and issues going on in this book, I couldn't always keep up.
I was not anticipating a Fifty Shades of Grey meets jealousy and hate with a twist of homosexual murderer. Not that I would mind any of the themes on their own, but mashed all together, it was a little too much for me!
Raph and Beth are not your likely pair. They have absolutely nothing in common and even though they are sexually compatible, I never got the vibe that their feelings were deeper than that. Surface level maybe, but they fell fast and they fell hard, and they didn't really have anything to work with, so I found this hard to believe.
There was too much left until the end for me. The story wasn't very well developed and the rush at the end to leak all the secrets was a little too much and a little too late for my liking.
There was nothing particularly wrong with the writing, it flowed well and kept me reading but I was still too hung up on the bizarre story line to really take more notice.
From the blurb, I was expecting something a little more intriguing. I thought the idea of a rich, gorgeous man with a lot of money looking for his true soul mate had been done, but then throw in the philanthropist, and what he does to help others was a nice twist-but I just didn't gel.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Jess for Joandisalovebooks Blog
There were so many themes and issues going on in this book, I couldn't always keep up.
I was not anticipating a Fifty Shades of Grey meets jealousy and hate with a twist of homosexual murderer. Not that I would mind any of the themes on their own, but mashed all together, it was a little too much for me!
Raph and Beth are not your likely pair. They have absolutely nothing in common and even though they are sexually compatible, I never got the vibe that their feelings were deeper than that. Surface level maybe, but they fell fast and they fell hard, and they didn't really have anything to work with, so I found this hard to believe.
There was too much left until the end for me. The story wasn't very well developed and the rush at the end to leak all the secrets was a little too much and a little too late for my liking.
There was nothing particularly wrong with the writing, it flowed well and kept me reading but I was still too hung up on the bizarre story line to really take more notice.
From the blurb, I was expecting something a little more intriguing. I thought the idea of a rich, gorgeous man with a lot of money looking for his true soul mate had been done, but then throw in the philanthropist, and what he does to help others was a nice twist-but I just didn't gel.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Jess for Joandisalovebooks Blog
November 18, 2017
***AVAILABLE NOW - FULL REVIEW***
3.5 Unexpected CROWNS
There were so many times during the course of this book that I was just shocked by the development in the story, and not because it was out of the norm or unexpected in the romance world. Just based on the synopsis of the book, I wasn't prepared for the plot revelations and certain character attributes of the hero , which ultimately affected my perception of the novel.
The heroine of the story, Beth, is completing the last leg of her educational journey to become a lawyer. Through her friend, she is set up with a new way to earn money with the reclusive Mr. North. More than just being intimidated by him, she has gleaned information about his past through the media, and, therefore, has certain preconceived notions about his character. There seems to be an immediate lust connection between the two, but the manner in which he talks to her and behaves with her should scare her based on the past that is revealed to the reader, which ultimately confused me. There wasn't enough about the past or her current dealing with her sexual hangups for me to really understand why she would choose him and what he desires or why her feelings develop into more. I found myself ambivalent to her characters, not really feeling one way or another about her.
Raphael North is a typical recluse. He has cut himself off from the world, at first forced to stay in his apartment and then choosing to exile himself away from everyone. With the introduction of Beth into his world, he attempts to connect while still maintaining his distance. However, once he decides that he wants Beth, he goes all in, and I really do mean all in. The immediate jump from social recluse with extreme eccentricities to alpha, dominate hero was jarring. Although it fit with his need for control in all forms of his life, it felt out of left field for the evolution of his character. There is not indication of his proclivities, and the manner in which he pursues more with Beth, mixed with the hot and cold reactions to her throughout the whole book, once again, left me with unclear allegiances to him.
The plot, even though unexpected, is one of the aspects of the story that I really enjoyed. I didn't expect the secrets the surprise revelations, and I always enjoy when a story can surprise me. I do kind of wish the climax of the story wouldn't have been so dramatic, but the plot details revealed and the resulting falling action makes the story a page turner, especially when readers hit this point in the story.
While I didn't love Mr. North, it was enjoyable, and I could definitely be enticed to read another Callie Hart book, especially if surprise plot revelations is a typical stylistic component of her writing.
---------
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 Unexpected CROWNS
There were so many times during the course of this book that I was just shocked by the development in the story, and not because it was out of the norm or unexpected in the romance world. Just based on the synopsis of the book, I wasn't prepared for the plot revelations and certain character attributes of the hero , which ultimately affected my perception of the novel.
The heroine of the story, Beth, is completing the last leg of her educational journey to become a lawyer. Through her friend, she is set up with a new way to earn money with the reclusive Mr. North. More than just being intimidated by him, she has gleaned information about his past through the media, and, therefore, has certain preconceived notions about his character. There seems to be an immediate lust connection between the two, but the manner in which he talks to her and behaves with her should scare her based on the past that is revealed to the reader, which ultimately confused me. There wasn't enough about the past or her current dealing with her sexual hangups for me to really understand why she would choose him and what he desires or why her feelings develop into more. I found myself ambivalent to her characters, not really feeling one way or another about her.
Raphael North is a typical recluse. He has cut himself off from the world, at first forced to stay in his apartment and then choosing to exile himself away from everyone. With the introduction of Beth into his world, he attempts to connect while still maintaining his distance. However, once he decides that he wants Beth, he goes all in, and I really do mean all in. The immediate jump from social recluse with extreme eccentricities to alpha, dominate hero was jarring. Although it fit with his need for control in all forms of his life, it felt out of left field for the evolution of his character. There is not indication of his proclivities, and the manner in which he pursues more with Beth, mixed with the hot and cold reactions to her throughout the whole book, once again, left me with unclear allegiances to him.
The plot, even though unexpected, is one of the aspects of the story that I really enjoyed. I didn't expect the secrets the surprise revelations, and I always enjoy when a story can surprise me. I do kind of wish the climax of the story wouldn't have been so dramatic, but the plot details revealed and the resulting falling action makes the story a page turner, especially when readers hit this point in the story.
While I didn't love Mr. North, it was enjoyable, and I could definitely be enticed to read another Callie Hart book, especially if surprise plot revelations is a typical stylistic component of her writing.
---------
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
November 16, 2017
Whenever I hear that Callie Hart has a new book out I can not jump on it fast enough!! She is an autoclick author for sure as her books are so addicting and consuming with a hot alpha male and a sassy heroine who gives as good as she gets and brings him to his knees. Her men are hot Af and the women are strong spitfires who can go head to head with anyone. That is exactly what we have here. I LOVED Raphael and Beth and felt like their banter and chemistry was out of control hot. I swear the tension between them just did not quit! I just could not get enough of them and their story and didn't want this book to end!
When Beth Dreymon decides to apply for the unorthodox (but high paying) job of becoming tech genius and multi millionaire, Raphael North's chess partner her life was unequivocally changed. I loved that the author created such an enigmatic and mysterious man in Raphael. He had hidden facets and a deep abiding guilt that slowly revealed itself that honestly touched me. And watching Beth fall deeper and deeper in his sensual web? OMG the tension was palpable and the sexytimes were pantymelting hot! And Mr. North's dirty talking??? Take a bow, Ms. hart because Raph definitely stole the damn show. But this wouldn't be a Callie Hart book without a twist or some hidden secret of some kind that shocked us. And OMG did she deliver. This book was fantastic!
While I did feel that their initial meeting and interactions were somewhat awkward and stiff at first, I really loved the second half of the book. All in all this was a great read and I look forward to more from this author in the future. Bravo! 4 stars! ~Ratula
When Beth Dreymon decides to apply for the unorthodox (but high paying) job of becoming tech genius and multi millionaire, Raphael North's chess partner her life was unequivocally changed. I loved that the author created such an enigmatic and mysterious man in Raphael. He had hidden facets and a deep abiding guilt that slowly revealed itself that honestly touched me. And watching Beth fall deeper and deeper in his sensual web? OMG the tension was palpable and the sexytimes were pantymelting hot! And Mr. North's dirty talking??? Take a bow, Ms. hart because Raph definitely stole the damn show. But this wouldn't be a Callie Hart book without a twist or some hidden secret of some kind that shocked us. And OMG did she deliver. This book was fantastic!
While I did feel that their initial meeting and interactions were somewhat awkward and stiff at first, I really loved the second half of the book. All in all this was a great read and I look forward to more from this author in the future. Bravo! 4 stars! ~Ratula
November 19, 2017
3.25 Stars
I received an ARC from the author for an honest review
I usually love love love Callie Hart books. This one took me a long time to read. I questioned if I would finish it then I hit 39% and a change in the book happened for the better.
Raphael North is a multimillionaire that never leaves his penthouse in New York. You don’t know why until closer to the end of the book but it all makes sense. He’s living in a prison in his head.
Elizabeth is a law student who is trying to make ends meet. Her friend Thalia has started a business “Snow Buddies” where you hang out with a person during a snow storm etc. and only have companionship. Thalia gets Elizabeth to meet with Mr North to play chess since, since she isn’t blonde and can play chess, and Beth gets $6000 a month.
Further into the story you find out the truths behind this business of Thalia’s
Mr North is an enigma until about 58% of the book. Then everything starts coming together.
There’d definitely be mystery, heartache, anger, confusion, happiness, fears, and love in this book.
I would’ve rated it higher if it didn’t take so long for me to get into this book.
I received an ARC from the author for an honest review
I usually love love love Callie Hart books. This one took me a long time to read. I questioned if I would finish it then I hit 39% and a change in the book happened for the better.
Raphael North is a multimillionaire that never leaves his penthouse in New York. You don’t know why until closer to the end of the book but it all makes sense. He’s living in a prison in his head.
Elizabeth is a law student who is trying to make ends meet. Her friend Thalia has started a business “Snow Buddies” where you hang out with a person during a snow storm etc. and only have companionship. Thalia gets Elizabeth to meet with Mr North to play chess since, since she isn’t blonde and can play chess, and Beth gets $6000 a month.
Further into the story you find out the truths behind this business of Thalia’s
Mr North is an enigma until about 58% of the book. Then everything starts coming together.
There’d definitely be mystery, heartache, anger, confusion, happiness, fears, and love in this book.
I would’ve rated it higher if it didn’t take so long for me to get into this book.
November 16, 2017
I love Callie Hart's writing. Her words make me feel at home in each story she writes. Even if they are, for some reason, not 5 star reads.
I was intrigued by the setup of the story: Getting to know each other through playing chess. Normally, it's some poor girl starting to work for the elusive billionaire as a secretary or nanny. Which I don't like at all because I can never see them as equals. Which is why I loved this story. Feeling that the hero and the heroine are on equal footing makes a book so much more enjoyable and valuable for me. So, of course I loved the story. How their relation changed and expanded. The problems and mystery they had to deal with.
So, why only 4 stars? Well, there is an element of BDSM in the book that - to me - didn't feel like it necessarily belonged. Don't get me wrong, it was absolutely hot! I just felt it should have been either only the mystery that is in the book or only BDSM (seeing how their relationship and trust develops) but not both at the same time. For me, that took the joy away a bit. I still greatly enjoyed it but there is this tiny 'but' that shouldn't be there.
**I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.** Was that honest enough?
I was intrigued by the setup of the story: Getting to know each other through playing chess. Normally, it's some poor girl starting to work for the elusive billionaire as a secretary or nanny. Which I don't like at all because I can never see them as equals. Which is why I loved this story. Feeling that the hero and the heroine are on equal footing makes a book so much more enjoyable and valuable for me. So, of course I loved the story. How their relation changed and expanded. The problems and mystery they had to deal with.
So, why only 4 stars? Well, there is an element of BDSM in the book that - to me - didn't feel like it necessarily belonged. Don't get me wrong, it was absolutely hot! I just felt it should have been either only the mystery that is in the book or only BDSM (seeing how their relationship and trust develops) but not both at the same time. For me, that took the joy away a bit. I still greatly enjoyed it but there is this tiny 'but' that shouldn't be there.
**I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.** Was that honest enough?
Want to read
November 11, 2017
November 13, 2017
I have loved all of Callie Harts books. Love her characters and the twisted storylines she comes up with. Read them all, so was very excited to have received a copy of this prior to its' official release date. But Mr. North left me cold. It was well written, but the story itself was uninteresting as were the characters. The premise of the story was ridiculous and the BDSM stuff seemed to have been added "just because" and wasn't relevant to the basic storyline. Just seemed to have been added for a thrill factor. I almost quit reading about two thirds of the way through because I just didn't care anymore, but I finished anyway and was then disgusted with myself that I didn't follow my gut and put it down because it was such a waste of my reading time. Maybe I've become jaded since I've read so many great authors, but this was a huge disappointment. I still love Callie Hart's writing, just not this one, not even a little bit.
March 19, 2020
hmmmmmmmmmmm, so I didn't not like the book but I also wasn't really invested in the story. Wait, no, the beginning was solid for sure but then things just started to come up in the story that were literally coming from left field, if you get my drift. And then it just seemed like a snowball of stuff was coming at me and then BAM, it's over.
I REALLY loved the premise of this story. Chess is a game of strategy. It's a power-play of sorts. It really suited the dynamic of Raphael and Beth. The journey was well played (pun not intended) but there are a lot of elements to this story that I have no clue why they were part of the story. I don't know ... This is my first read by Callie and I'm pretty sure it won't be my last because there's definitely something there is her voice, it just didn't transfer to well to this story. Solid middle of the road rating from me. Sidenote: Is this cover ridiculous or what?! #WIN :)
Copy provided for blog tour review
I REALLY loved the premise of this story. Chess is a game of strategy. It's a power-play of sorts. It really suited the dynamic of Raphael and Beth. The journey was well played (pun not intended) but there are a lot of elements to this story that I have no clue why they were part of the story. I don't know ... This is my first read by Callie and I'm pretty sure it won't be my last because there's definitely something there is her voice, it just didn't transfer to well to this story. Solid middle of the road rating from me. Sidenote: Is this cover ridiculous or what?! #WIN :)
Copy provided for blog tour review
November 12, 2017
“Yes, we were playing a game from the moment our eyes met through that door in his apartment, but it wasn’t fucking chess.
And the thing that vexes me the most about that? The thing that has my fists clenching by my sides the entire ride home?
I can’t for the life of me tell who really won.”
Enigmatic and elusive Mr Raphael North is a media sensation, one of the richest men in New York he is the focus of many gossip articles and always seems to be making headlines for one reason or another. Yet he is isolated and distant from the world, having taken a step back from the rat race, focussing on his work he only has a small close circle of trusted friends that he allows into his life. Hiring Beth, a law student preparing for her final exam, to play chess with him begins the adventure of a lifetime, one that she never could have imagined. What begins as a game of chess turns into something much more as the attraction and desire between them is undeniable. One moment forever changes the direction of her life and Beth is caught up in something that might destroy her. Secrets and lies, unrequited love and remorse have shaped many lives that are interwoven to Mr North’s but can her love set him free from the chains that bind him?
I am a huge fan of this author and went into this story blind having just seen the cover I was totally unsure where this story was going to take me. Billionaire romance but with a Callie Hart twist she has created another dominant alpha male that captures your heart and a sassy no nonsense female that takes no crap and fights for her man. Raph is a good man, a visionary man that wants to help others and is passionate about the legacy he has created. Caught up in a cycle of guilt and despair he is slightly broken by past events, haunted by his mistakes and choices. Beth too is haunted by ghosts of her childhood and is only living a half life, trying to carve a law career putting everything else on hold. Together can they forge a new life, over coming the hold their pasts seem to refuse to relinquish? Not everything is as it seems, betrayal and heartache are inescapable but can they face their fears together? Alluring, sexy and a little deviant Mr North was a great intriguing and suspenseful read. Not as dark and twisty as other works by this author nevertheless it was scintillating and enthralling, with devious characters and hidden agendas. I also loved the epilogue, that chair definitely deserved a chapter dedicated to it!
Money can’t buy everything five star read.
~*~ Reviewed on behalf of Obsessed by Books ~*~
And the thing that vexes me the most about that? The thing that has my fists clenching by my sides the entire ride home?
I can’t for the life of me tell who really won.”
Enigmatic and elusive Mr Raphael North is a media sensation, one of the richest men in New York he is the focus of many gossip articles and always seems to be making headlines for one reason or another. Yet he is isolated and distant from the world, having taken a step back from the rat race, focussing on his work he only has a small close circle of trusted friends that he allows into his life. Hiring Beth, a law student preparing for her final exam, to play chess with him begins the adventure of a lifetime, one that she never could have imagined. What begins as a game of chess turns into something much more as the attraction and desire between them is undeniable. One moment forever changes the direction of her life and Beth is caught up in something that might destroy her. Secrets and lies, unrequited love and remorse have shaped many lives that are interwoven to Mr North’s but can her love set him free from the chains that bind him?
I am a huge fan of this author and went into this story blind having just seen the cover I was totally unsure where this story was going to take me. Billionaire romance but with a Callie Hart twist she has created another dominant alpha male that captures your heart and a sassy no nonsense female that takes no crap and fights for her man. Raph is a good man, a visionary man that wants to help others and is passionate about the legacy he has created. Caught up in a cycle of guilt and despair he is slightly broken by past events, haunted by his mistakes and choices. Beth too is haunted by ghosts of her childhood and is only living a half life, trying to carve a law career putting everything else on hold. Together can they forge a new life, over coming the hold their pasts seem to refuse to relinquish? Not everything is as it seems, betrayal and heartache are inescapable but can they face their fears together? Alluring, sexy and a little deviant Mr North was a great intriguing and suspenseful read. Not as dark and twisty as other works by this author nevertheless it was scintillating and enthralling, with devious characters and hidden agendas. I also loved the epilogue, that chair definitely deserved a chapter dedicated to it!
Money can’t buy everything five star read.
~*~ Reviewed on behalf of Obsessed by Books ~*~
November 16, 2017
3.5 stars
I’m sort of torn here.
How is it possible for me to adore the author, be drawn in by her writing style, want to be best friends with the heroine and kidnap the hero, be captured by the storyline, and STILL be unsure about the book as a whole?
That’s where I found myself when I finished Mr. North. I enjoyed every element of the story, I just wish it came together in a different way.
Through her best friend, Beth meets Raphael North. A reclusive technical genius and billionaire shrouded in an air of mystery. Originally hired as a companion to engage in an occasional game of chess with Raphael, Beth’s relationship with him quickly turns into more. But as their attraction grows, so do the obstacles in their way. Some are internal, such as Raphael’s reluctance to share his past, but some are more sinister.
I wanted to love this book. Callie Hart has a way of creating intricate stories with heroes that are flawed and damaged and so dominantly dirty. They fall for smart, sexy women who enjoy a walk on the dark side, and the attraction is always so hot it combusts. Mr. North had the right characters, but their transition from strangers to soul mates was too quick.
I thought the storyline regarding Raphael’s solitude in his penthouse prison was well thought out, but again, it was explained too fast.
And Raphael’s penchant for domination. This came out of nowhere and didn’t feel organic to the story. It felt added in for the sole purpose of making the story hot. Don’t get me wrong, it certainly did! But similar to everything else, it didn’t seem to flow. The character attraction, the backstory, the BDSM elements, they all felt as if they were segregated to their own parts of the book and I wish they melded together better.
Overall, I did enjoy this story. I thought all of the elements where there to make it great. I just came away wishing they were woven together more cleanly.
November 17, 2017
***ARC Provided by the Author***
At the beginning of this book, I liked the story of Beth and Raphael. I liked that she was the "normal" person and that he was the celebrity, the one who people always wanted something from him. I liked that their attraction was not really instant, there was an interest there, and while he was attracted to her, Beth was not immediately interested in him.
At the beginning, I was invested in the story, and I thought it was interesting and I liked the idea that there was a reason, a secret, that he was keeping. You know there is a reason that this man, as rich as he is, needs to hire someone to come play chess with him, that there has to be a point to him not going out to find the companionship.
But, for me, the last 25% of the book was a bit of a melodrama. I didn't necessarily believe that it was possible that this many things happened to these people. I found myself less invested in the characters the more that happened and I felt like the book jumped from tragic "really big revelation" to "tragic event" and used those, instead of the characters to propel the story.
I am not able to recommend this title.
At the beginning of this book, I liked the story of Beth and Raphael. I liked that she was the "normal" person and that he was the celebrity, the one who people always wanted something from him. I liked that their attraction was not really instant, there was an interest there, and while he was attracted to her, Beth was not immediately interested in him.
At the beginning, I was invested in the story, and I thought it was interesting and I liked the idea that there was a reason, a secret, that he was keeping. You know there is a reason that this man, as rich as he is, needs to hire someone to come play chess with him, that there has to be a point to him not going out to find the companionship.
But, for me, the last 25% of the book was a bit of a melodrama. I didn't necessarily believe that it was possible that this many things happened to these people. I found myself less invested in the characters the more that happened and I felt like the book jumped from tragic "really big revelation" to "tragic event" and used those, instead of the characters to propel the story.
I am not able to recommend this title.
November 14, 2017
3.5 stars for me
Oh this a dirty twisted tale. Lots of angst, great dialogue and plot twists to keep you on your toes. Beth is a fantastic character - strong, smart and loyal. Ralph is beautifully damaged and trying to right past wrongs. Put the two together and the chemistry is explosive. It's definitely not your average love story but it's packed with emotions and definitely worth a read.
I received an arc of this book.
Oh this a dirty twisted tale. Lots of angst, great dialogue and plot twists to keep you on your toes. Beth is a fantastic character - strong, smart and loyal. Ralph is beautifully damaged and trying to right past wrongs. Put the two together and the chemistry is explosive. It's definitely not your average love story but it's packed with emotions and definitely worth a read.
I received an arc of this book.
November 13, 2017
Mr North is so different to what I'm used to by Callie, but no less explosive with her storytelling ability, which is just out of this world! Beth is a struggling law student who is persuaded by her best friend to met with Mr North and play chess for an obscene amount of money every month, which will help her with paying her debts and rent. Even though the request is sincere, everything is not as it appears at first glance. Raphael has been a recluse for the better part of five years and most stories about him are fantastical in nature and rumors of his demise and a clone are even bigger. Beth not knowing what to expect, meets with him at his Penthouse and is confused by events surrounding their meeting and other smaller details. Suffice to say there is a conspiracy occurring in the background that no one is privy to, until the last moment, with devastating consequences. Explosive story, just a little disappointed with the quick conclusion of the story - was hoping for more!
Loved this story and even though I had a family emergency occur when I was about a third of the way through, I picked it right back up and made it to the end! I want to thank Callie for allowing me the opportunity to review for her willingly, in exchange for an ARC! Definitely a book not to be missed:)
Loved this story and even though I had a family emergency occur when I was about a third of the way through, I picked it right back up and made it to the end! I want to thank Callie for allowing me the opportunity to review for her willingly, in exchange for an ARC! Definitely a book not to be missed:)
November 16, 2017
I kindly received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Brilliant book!! Beth is a student in debt. She accepts a job offer from a friend to play chess with someone for money. Raphael North is a billionaire recluse who hasn't left his apartment in 5 years. He's blaming himself for something that happened years ago.
Beth thinks their worlds are too far apart for anything to happen, but when it does, sparks fly!!
I can't say much more or it would be one big spoiler! When you do find out who does what and why, it's just mind-blowing!! What happens near the end......I REALLY didn't see that coming. I was gobsmacked!! (which is hard to do!).
Defiantly a book I would read again. Just fantastic!
Brilliant book!! Beth is a student in debt. She accepts a job offer from a friend to play chess with someone for money. Raphael North is a billionaire recluse who hasn't left his apartment in 5 years. He's blaming himself for something that happened years ago.
Beth thinks their worlds are too far apart for anything to happen, but when it does, sparks fly!!
I can't say much more or it would be one big spoiler! When you do find out who does what and why, it's just mind-blowing!! What happens near the end......I REALLY didn't see that coming. I was gobsmacked!! (which is hard to do!).
Defiantly a book I would read again. Just fantastic!
November 28, 2017
This book was so different from my normal Callie Hart books. I was looking for gritty and down and dirty. I enjoyed the book, it was just different is all. It really had some parts that reminded me of Fifty Shades. I loved North and his I don't give a shit attitude. But, I loved Beth even more and her no-nonsense attitude. She came into his life like a world wind and took him by storm. She was like I don't know what you are used to but I am not a yes man. I will not let you win, I will talk back and I will make you get out of your comfort zone. Overall this was a good read.
November 17, 2017
A broke soon to be lawyer meets an eccentric man in Mr. North. Mr. North needs a chess partner, enter Beth. From there is an intriguing and intricate tale.
Beth, a fiesty woman, is in need of money while attending law school. Her friend persuades her to take this job. It seems to be easy money... Then she meets him... Raphael is an intense man. He's so Alpha and I loved watching the two develop. Their story is intricately weaved together.
Overall, I enjoyed Mr. North. I loved how the story was sexy, but not overly so. There was kink, secrets and love. The story felt a bit slow at spots, but held my attention. I would recommend to the reader looking for a damaged man and a strong woman.
*Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads*
Beth, a fiesty woman, is in need of money while attending law school. Her friend persuades her to take this job. It seems to be easy money... Then she meets him... Raphael is an intense man. He's so Alpha and I loved watching the two develop. Their story is intricately weaved together.
Overall, I enjoyed Mr. North. I loved how the story was sexy, but not overly so. There was kink, secrets and love. The story felt a bit slow at spots, but held my attention. I would recommend to the reader looking for a damaged man and a strong woman.
*Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads*
November 17, 2017
We love Callie Hart, and was so excited to receive our first ARC from her. This was a crazy ride. I loved Raph, he was an endearing *hole. This story started with a bang. I was extremely intrigued. I love me an emotional damaged male in books (lol). I loved Beth and her feisty ways. They were adorbs together. But the book wasn't perfect. I wanted more sex, more answers, and more of a connection between the MCs. Even though I didn't get everything I wanted, it was worth the read and I really enjoyed it. I could have finished this in one sitting, but life... Read it and let us know what you thought!
3.5 stars
-Natasha
https://kindlecousins.com/
https://kindlecousins.com/
3.5 stars
-Natasha
https://kindlecousins.com/
https://kindlecousins.com/
November 12, 2017
Angst 3
Tears 2
Value 5
Storyline 5
Panty Scorching 4
Overall Rating 5
This book is perfection at its finest. Oh my goodness. Callie did a seamless job with this story and I couldn't put it down. The mysterious nature of it kept me on my toes the entire time. The chemistry with Raphael and Beth was super intense and so freaking sexy. Mr North is one dirty boy!
Beth is in her final year of law school. Which is super expense so when she gets an offer she can't pass up to make some money she thinks why the hell not. Only she didn't realise this game is one she doesn't want to lose at all. It's one she wants to play for keeps. But so many secrets and omissions are standing in her way. Will she fight for what she wants? Or will she walk away from the best thing that's happened to her in her entire life????
Mr North is one hot motherfucker. Good Lawd! I fell for his alpha ways immediately. He's strong passionate and fierce. Most definitely kinky. What's not to love? This man is so complex I could never get a good read on him and that kept me hooked!
This book will be one I won't forget for a while. And definitely one I will recommend. It's different from Callie's dark and dangerous reads. Although this one had some of those points. Simply put.... read this fucking book. It's amazing!
Tears 2
Value 5
Storyline 5
Panty Scorching 4
Overall Rating 5
This book is perfection at its finest. Oh my goodness. Callie did a seamless job with this story and I couldn't put it down. The mysterious nature of it kept me on my toes the entire time. The chemistry with Raphael and Beth was super intense and so freaking sexy. Mr North is one dirty boy!
Beth is in her final year of law school. Which is super expense so when she gets an offer she can't pass up to make some money she thinks why the hell not. Only she didn't realise this game is one she doesn't want to lose at all. It's one she wants to play for keeps. But so many secrets and omissions are standing in her way. Will she fight for what she wants? Or will she walk away from the best thing that's happened to her in her entire life????
Mr North is one hot motherfucker. Good Lawd! I fell for his alpha ways immediately. He's strong passionate and fierce. Most definitely kinky. What's not to love? This man is so complex I could never get a good read on him and that kept me hooked!
This book will be one I won't forget for a while. And definitely one I will recommend. It's different from Callie's dark and dangerous reads. Although this one had some of those points. Simply put.... read this fucking book. It's amazing!
November 13, 2017
Angst 3
Tears 2
Value 5
Storyline 5
Panty Scorching 4
Overall Rating 5
Kindle eARC
Reviewed by Lindsey
This book is perfection at its finest. Oh my goodness. Callie did a seamless job with this story and I couldn't put it down. The mysterious nature of it kept me on my toes the entire time. The chemistry with Raphael and Beth was super intense and so freaking sexy. Mr North is one dirty boy!
Beth is in her final year of law school. Which is super expense so when she gets an offer she can't pass up to make some money she thinks why the hell not. Only she didn't realise this game is one she doesn't want to lose at all. It's one she wants to play for keeps. But so many secrets and omissions are standing in her way. Will she fight for what she wants? Or will she walk away from the best thing that's happened to her in her entire life????
Mr North is one hot motherfucker. Good Lawd! I fell for his alpha ways immediately. He's strong passionate and fierce. Most definitely kinky. What's not to love? This man is so complex I could never get a good read on him and that kept me hooked!
This book will be one I won't forget for a while. And definitely one I will recommend. It's different from Callie's dark and dangerous reads. Although this one had some of those points. Simply put.... read this fucking book. It's amazing!
Tears 2
Value 5
Storyline 5
Panty Scorching 4
Overall Rating 5
Kindle eARC
Reviewed by Lindsey
This book is perfection at its finest. Oh my goodness. Callie did a seamless job with this story and I couldn't put it down. The mysterious nature of it kept me on my toes the entire time. The chemistry with Raphael and Beth was super intense and so freaking sexy. Mr North is one dirty boy!
Beth is in her final year of law school. Which is super expense so when she gets an offer she can't pass up to make some money she thinks why the hell not. Only she didn't realise this game is one she doesn't want to lose at all. It's one she wants to play for keeps. But so many secrets and omissions are standing in her way. Will she fight for what she wants? Or will she walk away from the best thing that's happened to her in her entire life????
Mr North is one hot motherfucker. Good Lawd! I fell for his alpha ways immediately. He's strong passionate and fierce. Most definitely kinky. What's not to love? This man is so complex I could never get a good read on him and that kept me hooked!
This book will be one I won't forget for a while. And definitely one I will recommend. It's different from Callie's dark and dangerous reads. Although this one had some of those points. Simply put.... read this fucking book. It's amazing!
November 13, 2017
Well HELLO Mr North........
Raphael North, recluse, excentric, unreachable,unobtainable and in the authors own words, " he might as well reside on the dark side of the moon. He is a midnight man, a creature of shade and shadow". These words are like poetry to my ears. Callie certainly was spot on when describing this alpha male.
Elizabeth/Beth, is a woman trying to make something of her life while the constant words of her mother are playing on a loop in her mind in which she is struggling to find her inner peace.
I was fully invested with Ralph's and Beth's story. I enjoyed watching it unravel right before my eyes. The sex scenes were explosive and this could definitely be a one handed read ( if you get my drift). Then there is Paxon and Thalia well........ I want to say SO MUCH about these two but I would be giving away snippets of spoilers so I'm not going there.
All I can say is that this story should come with a safety warning, lol, because from all the twists that Callie has placed within, it will give you whiplash and will have you saying, bulls***, no way, he did not just say that.
So if your looking for a fantastic story with remarkable characters, expertly written, then Mr North is waiting for YOU.....
Thanks Callie for another awesome read. You never disappoint.
Raphael North, recluse, excentric, unreachable,unobtainable and in the authors own words, " he might as well reside on the dark side of the moon. He is a midnight man, a creature of shade and shadow". These words are like poetry to my ears. Callie certainly was spot on when describing this alpha male.
Elizabeth/Beth, is a woman trying to make something of her life while the constant words of her mother are playing on a loop in her mind in which she is struggling to find her inner peace.
I was fully invested with Ralph's and Beth's story. I enjoyed watching it unravel right before my eyes. The sex scenes were explosive and this could definitely be a one handed read ( if you get my drift). Then there is Paxon and Thalia well........ I want to say SO MUCH about these two but I would be giving away snippets of spoilers so I'm not going there.
All I can say is that this story should come with a safety warning, lol, because from all the twists that Callie has placed within, it will give you whiplash and will have you saying, bulls***, no way, he did not just say that.
So if your looking for a fantastic story with remarkable characters, expertly written, then Mr North is waiting for YOU.....
Thanks Callie for another awesome read. You never disappoint.
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