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Definition of Flawed
Twenty-one-year-old Scarlett Trent always follows the rules, but when she meets a handsome maverick, the rules change.
Paul Jackson is rough around the edges, the epitome of sexy, and strong. He’s everything she wants and more, but her family is not so keen on their relationship. When he invites her to move in, apprehension gives way to excitement, but that’s short-lived when each new day reveals surprising information about the man she loves.
As his problems persist, Scarlett’s suspicions are raised, but they’re not the only thing preoccupying her. Paul’s son and his lingering feelings about the mother he’s never known have piqued her interest.
With so many new experiences and emotions to contend with, Scarlett’s relationship becomes strained. Every new revelation tears them further apart at the same time her friendship with his son grows closer.
Will Paul’s problems prove to be too much for her to bear or will her tender-hearted nature encourage her to stay by his side?
Paul Jackson is rough around the edges, the epitome of sexy, and strong. He’s everything she wants and more, but her family is not so keen on their relationship. When he invites her to move in, apprehension gives way to excitement, but that’s short-lived when each new day reveals surprising information about the man she loves.
As his problems persist, Scarlett’s suspicions are raised, but they’re not the only thing preoccupying her. Paul’s son and his lingering feelings about the mother he’s never known have piqued her interest.
With so many new experiences and emotions to contend with, Scarlett’s relationship becomes strained. Every new revelation tears them further apart at the same time her friendship with his son grows closer.
Will Paul’s problems prove to be too much for her to bear or will her tender-hearted nature encourage her to stay by his side?
133 pages, ebook
First published October 29, 2017
7 people are currently reading
52 people want to read
About the author
Lia Peele
5 books120 followersLia Peele is a British author from the North East of England.
She’s my alter ego; a creation of my imagination. I resigned from my job so she can write steamy adult contemporary romance. This means I can hide behind her, and she’s given free rein to set my smutty thoughts free.
She’s my alter ego; a creation of my imagination. I resigned from my job so she can write steamy adult contemporary romance. This means I can hide behind her, and she’s given free rein to set my smutty thoughts free.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
February 18, 2018
Ok, honestly, I am not really sure how I feel about this book. The writing was very good. The pace was perfect. The story was engaging enough that it kept me turning the pages. I honestly had NO idea where the author was going in regards to Scarlett and Paul's relationship. If I had taken a peek at the blurb for book two, I would have clued into the fact that this was a setup for Scarlett and Dev's book. I guess I am just struggling with the way the author went about setting up these two characters for the next book (DEV and Scarlett). I enjoyed their relationship in THIS prequel book. They had a great friendship. But with what transpired between Scarlett and Paul it makes them as a romantic pairing odd and not entirely palatable. Plus, I never felt ANY romantic vibes from Scarlett towards Dev in this one at all. But I am getting ahead of myself talking about book two...
THIS book just left me feeling a bit discombobulated. I kind of wish there had been less focus on Scarlett and Paul's relationship and more on Scarlett and Dev building a friendship. I am not sure I can put my finger on what bothered me, but all the Paul stuff just seemed a little over the top. The author spent a lot of time and pages building up a relationship that was pointless considering they were I also thought the twist Dev finds out on his 18th birthday was a little out of left field. Gah, ya, I really don't know how I feel about this book. I am going to go with a 3-Star rating as of right now. I liked it enough to finish it. Like I said, the writing and pace were good. I *think* I am intrigued enough to see where this author is going with book two. That said, I have HUGE reservations about the romantic pairing of Scarlett and Dev. Not to mention it is an older woman/younger man pairing. I guess we'll see...
May 16, 2023
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
Scarlett and Paul meet at the café where she works. Although he is older than her, they fall in love and they move together really fast.
But soon Scarlett starts to see things that she had not paid attention to.
I don't like Paul. The way he speaks or the way he acts. So I guess I felt relieved at the end of the book.
I'm really curious about what will happen next.
https://m.facebook.com/Borntoreadbooks
Scarlett and Paul meet at the café where she works. Although he is older than her, they fall in love and they move together really fast.
But soon Scarlett starts to see things that she had not paid attention to.
I don't like Paul. The way he speaks or the way he acts. So I guess I felt relieved at the end of the book.
I'm really curious about what will happen next.
https://m.facebook.com/Borntoreadbooks
March 1, 2018
I read this book knowing it was a prequel to the Definition of Stripped and I think that's important knowledge before reading this book. This is the story of how Scarlett met Dev. I really enjoyed this read. I feel like the author did a great job explaining what it's like to be with an alcoholic. My heart also broke for Dev. I really liked him. He was so mature for his age, yet there were times where his adolescence would peek through. While I feel for Paul, I didn't always particularly like him, but alcoholics can be frustrating that way. I am just so excited and ready to see how the Definition of Stripped plays out.
March 5, 2018
This is a prequel to Definition of Stripped.
We are introduced to 21 year old Scarlett Trent who meets and falls in love with an older man Paul Jackson. Against her family’s wishes she moves in with him. She meets Paul’s son Dev and finds out Paul is older than he said. As more secrets are revealed Scarlett finds out that everything isn’t as it seems.
I thoroughly enjoyed this and am looking forward to reading more from this author.
We are introduced to 21 year old Scarlett Trent who meets and falls in love with an older man Paul Jackson. Against her family’s wishes she moves in with him. She meets Paul’s son Dev and finds out Paul is older than he said. As more secrets are revealed Scarlett finds out that everything isn’t as it seems.
I thoroughly enjoyed this and am looking forward to reading more from this author.
July 31, 2018
I enjoyed this one. It was exciting and full of secrets that get revealed. Sweet Scarlett meets and falls in love with Paul who turns out to be even older than he initially said which is just the beginning of the deception. I read this in one sitting and can hardly wait to find out what happens next.
This book was given to me at my request and I provided this review voluntarily
This book was given to me at my request and I provided this review voluntarily
September 4, 2019
I got a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review :) this is a prequel novella to a new series, so my review won't be as long as usual as well, but I definitely enjoyed this story :) although enjoy feels like such a simple word to describe the complexity of everything that happens in it... so I'm gonna tell you a bit more about the story, and then my main thoughts and feelings about it, cause I want to avoid spoilers and giving away where this whole story might be headed... a small part of that is because I think I may be wrong in my predictions ;) so let's get into it :)
We meet Scarlett when she's finishing up college / university and working part time at a coffee shop :) that's where she meets Paul, who is quite a bit older than her... they hit it off and soon after get pretty serious... that's when she meets his son, Dev... and that is pretty much all I can tell you guys about the actual plot of the story :) since it's a novella, I don't want to spoil you certain events... so now I'm gonna change the subject to my thoughts and feelings about this story :) I gave it 4 stars... it was a really good beginning to a series... introducing us to the main characters, only scratching the surface of how complex they truly are... just in this novella I already saw characters grow and develop... yes, they were flawed and made mistakes, but it's only human... we are not perfect... I have to say that I absolutely adored the writing style... it was raw, honest and definitely left an impression... and it's a debut author, so that's even more impressive :) there are so many more things I want to tell you, but I have to stop myself from spoilers... so I'm just gonna add, that I highly recommend you to read this novella :) with really engaging writing style, great insight into the main characters, it's the perfect introduction to what shapes up to be a very interesting series... I am definitely intrigued, and can't wait to pick up the next installment as soon as it's available :)
XOXO
A
We meet Scarlett when she's finishing up college / university and working part time at a coffee shop :) that's where she meets Paul, who is quite a bit older than her... they hit it off and soon after get pretty serious... that's when she meets his son, Dev... and that is pretty much all I can tell you guys about the actual plot of the story :) since it's a novella, I don't want to spoil you certain events... so now I'm gonna change the subject to my thoughts and feelings about this story :) I gave it 4 stars... it was a really good beginning to a series... introducing us to the main characters, only scratching the surface of how complex they truly are... just in this novella I already saw characters grow and develop... yes, they were flawed and made mistakes, but it's only human... we are not perfect... I have to say that I absolutely adored the writing style... it was raw, honest and definitely left an impression... and it's a debut author, so that's even more impressive :) there are so many more things I want to tell you, but I have to stop myself from spoilers... so I'm just gonna add, that I highly recommend you to read this novella :) with really engaging writing style, great insight into the main characters, it's the perfect introduction to what shapes up to be a very interesting series... I am definitely intrigued, and can't wait to pick up the next installment as soon as it's available :)
XOXO
A
October 28, 2018
Definition of Flawed is a prequel to the highly addictive, scorching hot Definition Series - which I binge read in the three days following my completion of Flawed. I told myself I do not have time to binge on these books - absolutely not! Don't even think about it! I then proceeded to ignore my own warning and didn't stop reading until I finished the last book released-to-date and am now not-so-patiently waiting for the final series book, Definition of Absolution (to be released in Dec. 2018). I'll say I was taken by surprise by this sizzling hot, erotic series and new-to-me author, but am so happy to have discovered both. What an unique, refreshing voice in the high angst contemporary erotica romance genre! Adding to Peele's charm and appeal is her distinctive usage of the British language and slang reflected in her work which I enjoyed.
My dilemma now is to review Definition of Flawed in a coherent manner without revealing spoilers about it or the following books. That's a tough one. Reading the synopsis will give you an outline of the story, but not the heart of what you'll take away from it. It's told from the heroine's pov which makes readers aware of the conflict and confusion playing out in twenty-one year old Scarlett's head as she falls for an older man and takes a leap of faith by moving in with him (and his son, Dev) only to discover he's harboring some dark, potentially game-changing secrets that leave their relationship on shaky ground. Their connection in the bedroom is undeniable, but is smoking hot sex enough to build a relationship on?
My interest in Flawed was flamed by knowing that it's a prequel to Definition of Stripped and a setup for a future relationship that forms in this novella. It provides history that will prove to be much needed knowledge - not if but when you move into subsequent books. As you read this novella, I advise you to look beyond the obvious and read with an open mind. Set in England, it features characters involved in grossly dysfunctional relationships and an unusual plotline unlike anything I've run across before when considered as a launching pad for a future relationship.
Raw, gritty, steamy, and oh-so-gutsy, Definition of Flawed is well written and paced to keep readers burning through the pages. Secrets, lies, deception - it's all there and as they surface, one couple's deeply flawed sexual relationship begins to unravel. Unfortunately, the full extent of the devastating fallout won't be fully felt until six years later. Deliciously naughty, sinfully sexy and erotic, Definition of Flawed sets up the background for two characters in one of the most addictive series/sagas I've read in some time. I will warn that some of the series books end with a cliffhanger of which I'm not a fan - and yet, I'm still hopelessly hooked! A Must Read!
*Many thanks to the author for a copy of this book!
**Reviewed at Cross My Heart Reviews
My dilemma now is to review Definition of Flawed in a coherent manner without revealing spoilers about it or the following books. That's a tough one. Reading the synopsis will give you an outline of the story, but not the heart of what you'll take away from it. It's told from the heroine's pov which makes readers aware of the conflict and confusion playing out in twenty-one year old Scarlett's head as she falls for an older man and takes a leap of faith by moving in with him (and his son, Dev) only to discover he's harboring some dark, potentially game-changing secrets that leave their relationship on shaky ground. Their connection in the bedroom is undeniable, but is smoking hot sex enough to build a relationship on?
My interest in Flawed was flamed by knowing that it's a prequel to Definition of Stripped and a setup for a future relationship that forms in this novella. It provides history that will prove to be much needed knowledge - not if but when you move into subsequent books. As you read this novella, I advise you to look beyond the obvious and read with an open mind. Set in England, it features characters involved in grossly dysfunctional relationships and an unusual plotline unlike anything I've run across before when considered as a launching pad for a future relationship.
Raw, gritty, steamy, and oh-so-gutsy, Definition of Flawed is well written and paced to keep readers burning through the pages. Secrets, lies, deception - it's all there and as they surface, one couple's deeply flawed sexual relationship begins to unravel. Unfortunately, the full extent of the devastating fallout won't be fully felt until six years later. Deliciously naughty, sinfully sexy and erotic, Definition of Flawed sets up the background for two characters in one of the most addictive series/sagas I've read in some time. I will warn that some of the series books end with a cliffhanger of which I'm not a fan - and yet, I'm still hopelessly hooked! A Must Read!
*Many thanks to the author for a copy of this book!
**Reviewed at Cross My Heart Reviews
January 26, 2018
Deliciously flawed!!!
This story was a complete and unexpected surprise. Knowing it was a prequel to a new series, I was expecting a brief introduction to the key players but the story was so much more. I was expecting a quick read but I found myself engrossed in a story that I didn’t want to put down or to end.
So we have a young woman, Scarlett 21, who falls for an older man, Paul, who she later finds out is much older and has a son, oh and he is also an alcoholic and you start to understand the book’s title. Talk about a dysfunctional family. Poor Scarlett has no idea what she’s let herself in for by falling for Paul’s good looks and charm. After moving in with him, a short while after their relationship begins, Scarlett’s parents are reluctant to let their daughter fall into a lifestyle that screams minimum wage living with a vacancy for a “mother-figure” to Paul’s 17-year-old son, Dev.
The relationship between Paul and Dev is fractured and at best they communicate by sniping at each other and at worst they stop communicating at all but with Scarlett living in their house, she soon becomes the glue that holds their unfortunate relationship together. Dev and Scarlett immediately grow close and become firm friends before becoming colleagues but Paul, instead of seeing his relationship with Scarlett as something to cherish, spirals downwards into an alcoholic stupor until such a time that he needs saving from himself. Scarlett and Dev step up and try to help Paul and whilst they succeed, Paul and Dev’s story becomes more complicated with yet more family revelations.
Despite her many sacrifices where Paul is concerned, Paul treats Scarlett abominably and soon their relationship, which was initially frayed around the edges, starts to completely unravel. Will Scarlett be able to help Paul once again? Will their relationship survive its many ups and downs? And, can Scarlett be what Dev wants her to be? Will book 2 be coming out soon? Gosh I hope so, I can’t be left wondering what happens next, that’s just cruel!!!
Whilst the story ends on a pause, rather than the dreaded cliffhanger, there are, as mentioned above a number of unresolved issues and questions left outstanding.
This was a really well-written novel, with British colloquialisms and locations. I’m sure international readers will be able to enjoy the story as much as I did, and they will get a giggle or two over some of the British slang used. This is definitely a story that I would recommend to fans of complicated family storylines, with just the right amount of heat, and the odd love complication just to spice things up further.
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November 5, 2017
First, let me share some of the facts about this book. It is written in first person, Scarlett’s POV. It is also a prequel to a 4 book series, meaning there is HFN ending instead of HEA. This is the author’s debut novel/series.
Now for my review: This is the back story to the main character of the series, Scarlett Trent. In this prequel, we follow her journey as a young 21 yr old uni student who meets an older man, Paul Jackson, and falls in love. After an amazing several months of dating, he asks her to move in, and she couldn’t be happier. Although she is young and nervous, and her parents are not happy about it, she is in love and determined to move in with Paul. But things are not always as they seem—a lesson Scarlett learns very quickly when she unceremoniously meets Dev, Paul’s 17 yr old son, and that leads to her learning he has lied about his age and is older than he originally told her. They work through all of that, though, and Scarlett thinks everything is perfect now...little does she know, there’s a lot more issues that Paul has going on besides just his lie about his age and leaving out the fact that he has a son. As each new issue arises, Scarlett is left wondering if she truly knows Paul at all and if she is strong enough to help him and keep their relationship alive. Meanwhile, she gets closer to Dev, forming a strong friendship while trying to help him with his strained relationship with his father and his nonexistent one with his mother. With almost every day bringing forth new revelations and issues, Scarlett has to figure out if this is something she can continue dealing with and trying to fix, or if there comes a time when you’ve done all you can do and the only option left is to walk away, even if it would mean walking away from your lover and best friend. The literal definition of flawed is ‘blemished, damaged, or imperfect in some way’, and that definitely describes these characters perfectly. Can anything positive come from individuals that are so broken and flawed? Can Scarlett help them put the pieces of their hearts and lives back together without completely breaking her own in the process? This book is very real and raw, making it an emotional read that relates to real life issues. From the hot and sexy scenes to the hurtful and heartbreaking scenes, this book kept me intrigued, and I hated to ever have to put it down.
Also, the author includes the first 2 chapters of book 1 in The Definition Series, Definition of Stripped, at the end. It gives a peak into where the series may be kinda headed as we hear from Scarlett 6 years after the end of the prequel, and it definitely leaves you wanting a lot more. I can’t wait until the next 4 books in the series are released!!
I was given this book in exchange for my honest and unbiased review.
Now for my review: This is the back story to the main character of the series, Scarlett Trent. In this prequel, we follow her journey as a young 21 yr old uni student who meets an older man, Paul Jackson, and falls in love. After an amazing several months of dating, he asks her to move in, and she couldn’t be happier. Although she is young and nervous, and her parents are not happy about it, she is in love and determined to move in with Paul. But things are not always as they seem—a lesson Scarlett learns very quickly when she unceremoniously meets Dev, Paul’s 17 yr old son, and that leads to her learning he has lied about his age and is older than he originally told her. They work through all of that, though, and Scarlett thinks everything is perfect now...little does she know, there’s a lot more issues that Paul has going on besides just his lie about his age and leaving out the fact that he has a son. As each new issue arises, Scarlett is left wondering if she truly knows Paul at all and if she is strong enough to help him and keep their relationship alive. Meanwhile, she gets closer to Dev, forming a strong friendship while trying to help him with his strained relationship with his father and his nonexistent one with his mother. With almost every day bringing forth new revelations and issues, Scarlett has to figure out if this is something she can continue dealing with and trying to fix, or if there comes a time when you’ve done all you can do and the only option left is to walk away, even if it would mean walking away from your lover and best friend. The literal definition of flawed is ‘blemished, damaged, or imperfect in some way’, and that definitely describes these characters perfectly. Can anything positive come from individuals that are so broken and flawed? Can Scarlett help them put the pieces of their hearts and lives back together without completely breaking her own in the process? This book is very real and raw, making it an emotional read that relates to real life issues. From the hot and sexy scenes to the hurtful and heartbreaking scenes, this book kept me intrigued, and I hated to ever have to put it down.
Also, the author includes the first 2 chapters of book 1 in The Definition Series, Definition of Stripped, at the end. It gives a peak into where the series may be kinda headed as we hear from Scarlett 6 years after the end of the prequel, and it definitely leaves you wanting a lot more. I can’t wait until the next 4 books in the series are released!!
I was given this book in exchange for my honest and unbiased review.
February 13, 2018
This story doesn’t feel like a love story, but more like women’s fiction. It’s not so much about a love story but about a woman’s coming of age and maturing. Scarlett meets Paul at her work in a coffee barista shop and they are both smitten. Paul is gorgeous and a god in bed. After three months dating, he invites her to move in with him and she’s so in love that she goes for it, against her parent’s wishes. Once she moves in, things start to get wonky.
First, Paul told Scarlett that he’s twenty-nine years old. When Scarlett is surprised during her shower by this young man peeing at the toilet in the same bathroom, she screams bloody murder and Paul appears running. Turns out the young man is Paul’s son, which he had omitted to mention, and the young man is 17 years old. That meant that Paul lied about his age, and his age is thirty-four, not twenty-nine. I wrote off their relation at that moment, but not Scarlett, she stayed because she was committed to their union and she loved him and one doesn’t bail at the first obstacle, right? Wrong.
Next problem is that Paul drinks too much but he won’t accept it. Their relation starts to spiral down but I have to hand it to Scarlett, she’s a trooper and she wants to make a success of things. She befriends Paul’s son, Dev, and treats him like a younger brother. In fact, he’s seventeen to her twenty-four, so it does fit like a sibling relation. Even Scarlett’s parents take to Dev and treat him like another son. Scarlett and Dev join forces in dealing with Paul’s drinking. Once this situation is dealt with, another one arises. Really, poor Scarlett didn’t have a chance with this douchebag.
This is a novella, and at the end I learned that it serves as a sequel to a series. I was a little mystified because the book doesn’t go anywhere, not even a cliffhanger, so that explains why. The end of the story was totally predictable, but the story of itself was interesting and riveting. I liked the alcoholism trope and was not mistaken on Paul’s personality. He’s shifty and flighty. Scarlett is a character to watch for, she’s loyal, persistent and loving. She was also generous, as she used her salary as barista to help beautify the flat where Paul and Dev lived, which looked quite dreary when she moved in. If Karma is real, I know she’s going to do great in the next book. I also hope to hear more about Dev because he was a great kid and he was devastated to lose Scarlett. The author wrote great characters, with all their complexities and hangups. The pace was great, snappy and never boring. And I loved all the British idioms, like spag bol. It was fun to read about other customs. Great read!
First, Paul told Scarlett that he’s twenty-nine years old. When Scarlett is surprised during her shower by this young man peeing at the toilet in the same bathroom, she screams bloody murder and Paul appears running. Turns out the young man is Paul’s son, which he had omitted to mention, and the young man is 17 years old. That meant that Paul lied about his age, and his age is thirty-four, not twenty-nine. I wrote off their relation at that moment, but not Scarlett, she stayed because she was committed to their union and she loved him and one doesn’t bail at the first obstacle, right? Wrong.
Next problem is that Paul drinks too much but he won’t accept it. Their relation starts to spiral down but I have to hand it to Scarlett, she’s a trooper and she wants to make a success of things. She befriends Paul’s son, Dev, and treats him like a younger brother. In fact, he’s seventeen to her twenty-four, so it does fit like a sibling relation. Even Scarlett’s parents take to Dev and treat him like another son. Scarlett and Dev join forces in dealing with Paul’s drinking. Once this situation is dealt with, another one arises. Really, poor Scarlett didn’t have a chance with this douchebag.
This is a novella, and at the end I learned that it serves as a sequel to a series. I was a little mystified because the book doesn’t go anywhere, not even a cliffhanger, so that explains why. The end of the story was totally predictable, but the story of itself was interesting and riveting. I liked the alcoholism trope and was not mistaken on Paul’s personality. He’s shifty and flighty. Scarlett is a character to watch for, she’s loyal, persistent and loving. She was also generous, as she used her salary as barista to help beautify the flat where Paul and Dev lived, which looked quite dreary when she moved in. If Karma is real, I know she’s going to do great in the next book. I also hope to hear more about Dev because he was a great kid and he was devastated to lose Scarlett. The author wrote great characters, with all their complexities and hangups. The pace was great, snappy and never boring. And I loved all the British idioms, like spag bol. It was fun to read about other customs. Great read!
November 27, 2017
I first learned of this book when the author wrote to me and asked if I would review it. I get requests like this all the time, and rarely follow through because I honestly don’t have time to read a book by an unknown (to me) author that I might not like, and then have to explain that I can’t give it a decent review. It’s very awkward, and a waste of time. I did, however, respond to Ms. Peele and say that if I could read it I would, but that I only write a review if I can honestly give the book five stars.
I won’t review books I don’t like. Again, it’s that whole time thing. As it turned out, I opened this book, something I never should have done, because I was immediately hooked on the author’s voice, written in the first person from the heroine’s point of view. She’s a young woman in England, a barista in a coffee shop, who ends up in a deeply flawed yet very sexual relationship with an older man. He was difficult to like, but I tried.
From the beginning I figured it wasn’t going to be the kind of story I like, but the author’s writing is absolutely exquisite, and while I put the book down a couple of times, I always picked it back up. A couple of chapters in, I was well and truly hooked. But then, when I got to the end of the book and realized it was the end, and I wasn’t the least bit happy with the way it ended, I was furious. The thing is, I was so deeply involved in the characters by then, that I wanted more, and I didn’t want it to end the way it did. I flipped to the next page past the epilogue and that’s when the little light bulb in my brain finally flickered. There’s a two chapter excerpt at the end of the first book, and when I read the title, the mental light bulb turned into a flaming beacon: Definition of Stripped, Book One of the Definition Series.
I hadn’t been reading the first book in the series, I’d been reading a prologue to the series, a story so intense that I know I’m going to be reading the next one. No way to ignore it after reading a prologue that introduces the characters in such a way that you’ll be reading about people you know, people who have history that I am positive will affect everything that comes after.
And that is the kind of story I love, and exactly why I’ve given this prologue a five star review. Read Definition of Flawed by Lia Peele but be patient, because I can guarantee you’re going to want the first story in this series the moment it’s released. I think Lia Peele is an author I’m going to be keeping my eye on.
I won’t review books I don’t like. Again, it’s that whole time thing. As it turned out, I opened this book, something I never should have done, because I was immediately hooked on the author’s voice, written in the first person from the heroine’s point of view. She’s a young woman in England, a barista in a coffee shop, who ends up in a deeply flawed yet very sexual relationship with an older man. He was difficult to like, but I tried.
From the beginning I figured it wasn’t going to be the kind of story I like, but the author’s writing is absolutely exquisite, and while I put the book down a couple of times, I always picked it back up. A couple of chapters in, I was well and truly hooked. But then, when I got to the end of the book and realized it was the end, and I wasn’t the least bit happy with the way it ended, I was furious. The thing is, I was so deeply involved in the characters by then, that I wanted more, and I didn’t want it to end the way it did. I flipped to the next page past the epilogue and that’s when the little light bulb in my brain finally flickered. There’s a two chapter excerpt at the end of the first book, and when I read the title, the mental light bulb turned into a flaming beacon: Definition of Stripped, Book One of the Definition Series.
I hadn’t been reading the first book in the series, I’d been reading a prologue to the series, a story so intense that I know I’m going to be reading the next one. No way to ignore it after reading a prologue that introduces the characters in such a way that you’ll be reading about people you know, people who have history that I am positive will affect everything that comes after.
And that is the kind of story I love, and exactly why I’ve given this prologue a five star review. Read Definition of Flawed by Lia Peele but be patient, because I can guarantee you’re going to want the first story in this series the moment it’s released. I think Lia Peele is an author I’m going to be keeping my eye on.
November 13, 2017
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
This story is full of heart, sexiness and true feeling. Definition of Flawed explores the relationship between Scarlett and Paul. There connection is instantaneous and their chemistry off the charts. They fall hard and take the leap to live together. However, Paul has many secrets that reveal themselves as soon as Scarlett moves in. She loves Paul and is determined to make it work.
Yet sometimes, the extra baggage is too much to carry and difficult choices have to be made. A page turner, with twists along the way, Definition of Flawed is a great read.
This story is full of heart, sexiness and true feeling. Definition of Flawed explores the relationship between Scarlett and Paul. There connection is instantaneous and their chemistry off the charts. They fall hard and take the leap to live together. However, Paul has many secrets that reveal themselves as soon as Scarlett moves in. She loves Paul and is determined to make it work.
Yet sometimes, the extra baggage is too much to carry and difficult choices have to be made. A page turner, with twists along the way, Definition of Flawed is a great read.
February 15, 2018
This was a really good book, I was surprised at how quickly I became deeply involved in the story. Once I started reading, I kept reading all night till I finished it!
I don't normally enjoy alot of angst in my stories, but it really worked here. Scarlett is the young college girl who becomes involved with Paul, an older man. It's only after they've been seeing each other a while that she finds out he's actually older than he first said. After that first lie, things just keep getting more complicated. How much would you be willing to tolerate if you loved someone? When do you say enough?
I was engrossed in this story from the first page to the last. I can't wait to read her next book!
I don't normally enjoy alot of angst in my stories, but it really worked here. Scarlett is the young college girl who becomes involved with Paul, an older man. It's only after they've been seeing each other a while that she finds out he's actually older than he first said. After that first lie, things just keep getting more complicated. How much would you be willing to tolerate if you loved someone? When do you say enough?
I was engrossed in this story from the first page to the last. I can't wait to read her next book!
February 19, 2018
Fabulous!
This book just hit all the right marks for me! I loved the amazing writing. I loved Scarlett. I loved Dev and wanted to slap the crap out of Paul. I can't wait to dive head first into the next book where these characters take up a few years later. Bring on the deliciousness! I highly recommend this book....
This book just hit all the right marks for me! I loved the amazing writing. I loved Scarlett. I loved Dev and wanted to slap the crap out of Paul. I can't wait to dive head first into the next book where these characters take up a few years later. Bring on the deliciousness! I highly recommend this book....
February 2, 2018
Definition Of Flawed, Madness, Love
“You’ve gotta give me more than ten minutes, sweetheart.”
― Lia Peele, Definition of Flawed
How about a week and two hundred and thirteen pages, so am I ready to talk about it now… four out of five stars seem to dictate that I sort of want to don’t they. I think this would be more suited for The Richard Bey show or maybe Jerry Springer, hell you could throw in a few more talk show host like Maury or maybe Steve Harvey because I’m going to make plenty of mistakes with this just saying.
This book wasn’t a mistake though it certainly lived up to its name, a drunk father, college girl, a son around her age, I swear it took me right back to those chants of Jerry, Jerry, from the talk shows. Speaking of the talk, not to sound like you know who and Norway but it’s always nice to read an author from across the pond, meaning England, to be honest, this is probably the third book I’ve reviewed from a Brit that I know some. It’s sort of cool to look up words you see one way, and they regard another, but better you be prepared for it right now because it could get confusing.
Plot-wise you could see what was coming rather quickly, but then there’s the portion of the book where chairs start getting thrown and fists start swinging, glad there was a bit of that in there. That’s how real the characters feel, and you can’t help but wonder what you would do in that situation, for me this touched on a personal level, but I don’t want to spoil it yet… Don’t judge a book by its cover either, while it’s a bit racy inside and out this is more family drama, sort of like Thanksgiving all year, they could have stood to drink that much more.
Seeing as this was just the prequel to a series, I can only imagine it’s going to crank up the sex factor and that we may get even more secrets from the whole family and I will admit that it’s somewhat tempting. You’ll have fun trying to guess who indeed is the most flawed and it was surprising that a woman isn’t always right, well at least one of them.
“hot ‘n spicy loving, hmm.”
Lia Peele, Definition of Flawed
Paul Jackson is probably not the typical bad boy women think about, criminal, billionaire, ex-soldier, a prisoner with a good heart. He’s a regular working man with a penchant for alcohol. Though older than Scarlett I’ve read through all the types. Of course, you know right off the bat that he won’t win, then again who knows, the start of the series but yeah no, he has plenty of fun.
Scarlett Trent drifts between that young, have fun college girl and homemaker mentality, knows what she’s doing in the bedroom and honestly tries in the kitchen, she stocks the fridge. I couldn’t see myself falling in love with her, but there is somebody for everyone and her and Paul… seriously whoever wants to tell their parents their right about relationships.
Then we have Dev, and cue Taylor Swift, I knew you were trouble when you walked in, but that could also mean Paul as well, like father, like son I guess but you knew at least the Scarlett and Dev portion of the story in seconds. Having read a preview of the next book, well maybe it’s a bit too soon to start making those sort of predictions.
As for other characters, you got the college friends, the boys looking at Scarlett like a MILF, and the typical mommy and daddy dynamic, which was a bit too reasonable to be believable but maybe that’s just me. The only other most damaging character is Stacey, and again I’m not trying to give anything away, but I think the term ratchet should apply to her. Sort of an avalanche of exposition, a moment of remembering who the real enemy is, and that’s sad when it comes to her but a quick break from the sexual tension. For all the rapid sex scenes between Paul and Scarlett it does cool down rather quickly, but the story is intriguing.
“I took one look at him and went in the opposite direction.”
Definition of Flawed
Hopefully, as the song goes, you’ll follow me, as I was telling the author my Kindle tends to lose everything or maybe it’s a trick from Amazon to get me to buy more books, but I became invested enough to see how this turned out. It is a solid four out of five, and any significant gripes; the ending is a bit lacking, and the story like most trailers nowadays gives up, too much, too soon, and an overflow of revelations doesn’t exactly make up for anything, like Dev you’re like what the hell happened.
You might want to turn around now because I’ll try not to spoil a lot but there were plenty of things to like such as you guessed it, the sex scenes, short but dirty and Scarlett is a woman coming into her own, and then a kiss… The revelations scene while being a bit much will bring out your inner drunk, thanksgiving relative nature, or talk show persona, I can’t stress that enough. I’ve also stated that you’ll be looking up things like does England have Starbucks, just thinking of Scarlett’s coffeehouse profession, and of course a bit of language.
The ending, the timeframe goes from a coffeehouse girl to now, and I suppose the author wasn’t interested in a few weeks of crying, but there had to be a better way to transition. When Paul talks to Scarlett about Dev, it’s like okay and then but wait there is so much more, and it’s just rammed in, tying up Dev in a cute bow and lead to something big? In an unoriginal fashion and strangely enough I believe in love at first sight maybe you have to be a woman to understand what goes through the mind of any girl seeing a man and suddenly it’s just okay dibs.
Other than this I haven’t read any of Lia Peele’s work but this one I will be on the lookout for more of her books, not waiting in line, first day on Amazon, but more like, okay I got this oh look another Lia Peele novel. Now if you’ll excuse me since I don’t drink coffee and I’m not a big drinker I’ll drown in more words to be sure, Definition Of Flawed, Madness, Love.
“You’ve gotta give me more than ten minutes, sweetheart.”
― Lia Peele, Definition of Flawed
How about a week and two hundred and thirteen pages, so am I ready to talk about it now… four out of five stars seem to dictate that I sort of want to don’t they. I think this would be more suited for The Richard Bey show or maybe Jerry Springer, hell you could throw in a few more talk show host like Maury or maybe Steve Harvey because I’m going to make plenty of mistakes with this just saying.
This book wasn’t a mistake though it certainly lived up to its name, a drunk father, college girl, a son around her age, I swear it took me right back to those chants of Jerry, Jerry, from the talk shows. Speaking of the talk, not to sound like you know who and Norway but it’s always nice to read an author from across the pond, meaning England, to be honest, this is probably the third book I’ve reviewed from a Brit that I know some. It’s sort of cool to look up words you see one way, and they regard another, but better you be prepared for it right now because it could get confusing.
Plot-wise you could see what was coming rather quickly, but then there’s the portion of the book where chairs start getting thrown and fists start swinging, glad there was a bit of that in there. That’s how real the characters feel, and you can’t help but wonder what you would do in that situation, for me this touched on a personal level, but I don’t want to spoil it yet… Don’t judge a book by its cover either, while it’s a bit racy inside and out this is more family drama, sort of like Thanksgiving all year, they could have stood to drink that much more.
Seeing as this was just the prequel to a series, I can only imagine it’s going to crank up the sex factor and that we may get even more secrets from the whole family and I will admit that it’s somewhat tempting. You’ll have fun trying to guess who indeed is the most flawed and it was surprising that a woman isn’t always right, well at least one of them.
“hot ‘n spicy loving, hmm.”
Lia Peele, Definition of Flawed
Paul Jackson is probably not the typical bad boy women think about, criminal, billionaire, ex-soldier, a prisoner with a good heart. He’s a regular working man with a penchant for alcohol. Though older than Scarlett I’ve read through all the types. Of course, you know right off the bat that he won’t win, then again who knows, the start of the series but yeah no, he has plenty of fun.
Scarlett Trent drifts between that young, have fun college girl and homemaker mentality, knows what she’s doing in the bedroom and honestly tries in the kitchen, she stocks the fridge. I couldn’t see myself falling in love with her, but there is somebody for everyone and her and Paul… seriously whoever wants to tell their parents their right about relationships.
Then we have Dev, and cue Taylor Swift, I knew you were trouble when you walked in, but that could also mean Paul as well, like father, like son I guess but you knew at least the Scarlett and Dev portion of the story in seconds. Having read a preview of the next book, well maybe it’s a bit too soon to start making those sort of predictions.
As for other characters, you got the college friends, the boys looking at Scarlett like a MILF, and the typical mommy and daddy dynamic, which was a bit too reasonable to be believable but maybe that’s just me. The only other most damaging character is Stacey, and again I’m not trying to give anything away, but I think the term ratchet should apply to her. Sort of an avalanche of exposition, a moment of remembering who the real enemy is, and that’s sad when it comes to her but a quick break from the sexual tension. For all the rapid sex scenes between Paul and Scarlett it does cool down rather quickly, but the story is intriguing.
“I took one look at him and went in the opposite direction.”
Definition of Flawed
Hopefully, as the song goes, you’ll follow me, as I was telling the author my Kindle tends to lose everything or maybe it’s a trick from Amazon to get me to buy more books, but I became invested enough to see how this turned out. It is a solid four out of five, and any significant gripes; the ending is a bit lacking, and the story like most trailers nowadays gives up, too much, too soon, and an overflow of revelations doesn’t exactly make up for anything, like Dev you’re like what the hell happened.
You might want to turn around now because I’ll try not to spoil a lot but there were plenty of things to like such as you guessed it, the sex scenes, short but dirty and Scarlett is a woman coming into her own, and then a kiss… The revelations scene while being a bit much will bring out your inner drunk, thanksgiving relative nature, or talk show persona, I can’t stress that enough. I’ve also stated that you’ll be looking up things like does England have Starbucks, just thinking of Scarlett’s coffeehouse profession, and of course a bit of language.
The ending, the timeframe goes from a coffeehouse girl to now, and I suppose the author wasn’t interested in a few weeks of crying, but there had to be a better way to transition. When Paul talks to Scarlett about Dev, it’s like okay and then but wait there is so much more, and it’s just rammed in, tying up Dev in a cute bow and lead to something big? In an unoriginal fashion and strangely enough I believe in love at first sight maybe you have to be a woman to understand what goes through the mind of any girl seeing a man and suddenly it’s just okay dibs.
Other than this I haven’t read any of Lia Peele’s work but this one I will be on the lookout for more of her books, not waiting in line, first day on Amazon, but more like, okay I got this oh look another Lia Peele novel. Now if you’ll excuse me since I don’t drink coffee and I’m not a big drinker I’ll drown in more words to be sure, Definition Of Flawed, Madness, Love.
September 7, 2018
This is a prequel but really it is longer than a prequel or even a novella. It is the length of a book 100+ pages. At last references and slang I am familiar with and recognise. The way this story unfolds and introduces us to the main characters has a soap opera feel to it in the traditional English soap opera style and this is not a bad thing as it sets the pace and reads well because of it.
We see the development of Scarlett who is 21 and 17 year old Dev but Paul the oldest character remains static and has no insight into the pain his actions cause.
Scarlett at 21 final year of uni meets Paul who she initially thinks is in his late twenties in fact it turns out he is older in his mid thirties and the father of a 17 year old son, Dev. Scarlett moves in with Paul and his son quickly their relationship starts to unravel as Paul is a functioning alcoholic the relationship is doomed to failure.
There are more secrets some that become known no cliff hanger just an inevitable rolling to a stop. A natural conclusion for now. You really need to read Flawed before you start Definition of Stripped.
A 4.5 star read makes me want to read what happens next.
We see the development of Scarlett who is 21 and 17 year old Dev but Paul the oldest character remains static and has no insight into the pain his actions cause.
Scarlett at 21 final year of uni meets Paul who she initially thinks is in his late twenties in fact it turns out he is older in his mid thirties and the father of a 17 year old son, Dev. Scarlett moves in with Paul and his son quickly their relationship starts to unravel as Paul is a functioning alcoholic the relationship is doomed to failure.
There are more secrets some that become known no cliff hanger just an inevitable rolling to a stop. A natural conclusion for now. You really need to read Flawed before you start Definition of Stripped.
A 4.5 star read makes me want to read what happens next.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 17, 2017
Disclaimer** Honest review asked by author.
Wow! Where do I begin? I finished reading this book in one sitting at 3 am and honestly wanted to jump out of bed to start this review. I didn’t. Sleep won out, but what can I say, when I'm excited about a book I want to talk about it and I am excited about this book. For starters, let me start with the basics. Read the Author’s note before diving in. There are a few reasons I say this, but mainly, it will help you relax and enjoy the book with all its ups and downs especially if you are expecting a happily ever after when you are finished with this prequel. I don’t mind drama or dark romance even though I’m new to the dark romance genre, but I was not prepared for the story between Paul, Scarlett and Dev. Some of their story was hard for me to read without wanting to get mad and just put the book down because I have been in a relationship of this type, but Lia has skill and I was drawn to the story and to keep turning the page. Even though this isn’t your typical happily ever after and Lia’s right, it’s not. She makes it work and has officially opened the door to a new series I am literally on edge to keep reading!! Paul and Scarlett’s story short; full of drama that it is, now has me intrigued and adding the author to the top of my TBR list. I’m dying to know what is in store for Scarlett and Dev? Does it make me awful that the whole time I read the book I was torn between fighting for Paul to redeem himself and Scarlett and Dev having a thing? Agghh!!! So torn, but so thrilled the author has exceptional talent!! The first two chapters of the next full-length book in the series are included at the end of Definition of Flawed. I’m trying so hard not to give away anything, but seriously, Dev already made an appearance and we know Scarlett and he have a connection so please even though the series is multiple books long please let there be a HEA in the works for them.
Side Note: The author is British and there are a lot of commonly used phrased/words that may not be familiar to US readers. Just hang on and don’t get frustrated. You’ll get the hang of things and love the story.
My only question is when is the next book being released?
Wow! Where do I begin? I finished reading this book in one sitting at 3 am and honestly wanted to jump out of bed to start this review. I didn’t. Sleep won out, but what can I say, when I'm excited about a book I want to talk about it and I am excited about this book. For starters, let me start with the basics. Read the Author’s note before diving in. There are a few reasons I say this, but mainly, it will help you relax and enjoy the book with all its ups and downs especially if you are expecting a happily ever after when you are finished with this prequel. I don’t mind drama or dark romance even though I’m new to the dark romance genre, but I was not prepared for the story between Paul, Scarlett and Dev. Some of their story was hard for me to read without wanting to get mad and just put the book down because I have been in a relationship of this type, but Lia has skill and I was drawn to the story and to keep turning the page. Even though this isn’t your typical happily ever after and Lia’s right, it’s not. She makes it work and has officially opened the door to a new series I am literally on edge to keep reading!! Paul and Scarlett’s story short; full of drama that it is, now has me intrigued and adding the author to the top of my TBR list. I’m dying to know what is in store for Scarlett and Dev? Does it make me awful that the whole time I read the book I was torn between fighting for Paul to redeem himself and Scarlett and Dev having a thing? Agghh!!! So torn, but so thrilled the author has exceptional talent!! The first two chapters of the next full-length book in the series are included at the end of Definition of Flawed. I’m trying so hard not to give away anything, but seriously, Dev already made an appearance and we know Scarlett and he have a connection so please even though the series is multiple books long please let there be a HEA in the works for them.
Side Note: The author is British and there are a lot of commonly used phrased/words that may not be familiar to US readers. Just hang on and don’t get frustrated. You’ll get the hang of things and love the story.
My only question is when is the next book being released?
January 12, 2018
Definition of Flawed is a prequel for the Definition series. It is also Lia’s debut novel and I thought she did a great job. I read it in just a few hours so it definitely had my attention. I do highly recommend reading it before reading Definition of Stripped so you have the full backstory of these characters.
Scarlett felt something in the air when she first saw Paul. He calmed her. He was different and after three months of dating things move quickly. He asks her to move in and her parents are not happy about it. Paul is thirteen years older and has a teenage son. But she loves him and wants to wake up with him every morning and fall asleep with him every night. She saw a few of his flaws before moving in but she had no idea...
Paul has his demons. She wants to help him. She also wants to repair Paul and his son, Dev’s relationship. She can’t stand watching the way they interact. It’s not healthy especially to how she was raised. She wants the three of them to feel like a family and not just roommates. Dev is hot and cold with Scarlett but he doesn’t ever waiver when it comes down to his father. He isn’t good enough for her. Will she be able to make this house more of a home or was it doomed before she even walked through the door?
I really liked Scarlett. She just wants to everyone to be happy and healthy. To feel loved. To be loved. Now, as for Paul, yeah he is not a swoon-worthy hero. I was on the fence with him throughout the whole book. I knew he wasn’t going to be my favorite from the beginning. His son, on the other hand...he is a mature, caring, and pissed off young man. Together, they make for an interesting household.
Overall...it’s a great prequel. I got to know the characters well. The story is definitely different. I wanted to slap each of the characters at one point which means I was in it. It was also fun that it was based in England. I am looking forward to the next book.
Quotes:
“I’m your dark secret, aren’t I, Paul?” He smirks at Paul.
“Ah, it’s okay, and I’m sorry for letting rip, but their attitude boiled my guts.”
“I don’t have the answer, but I’m pleased you’re still here. You’re good for him, and he needs you.”
Scarlett felt something in the air when she first saw Paul. He calmed her. He was different and after three months of dating things move quickly. He asks her to move in and her parents are not happy about it. Paul is thirteen years older and has a teenage son. But she loves him and wants to wake up with him every morning and fall asleep with him every night. She saw a few of his flaws before moving in but she had no idea...
Paul has his demons. She wants to help him. She also wants to repair Paul and his son, Dev’s relationship. She can’t stand watching the way they interact. It’s not healthy especially to how she was raised. She wants the three of them to feel like a family and not just roommates. Dev is hot and cold with Scarlett but he doesn’t ever waiver when it comes down to his father. He isn’t good enough for her. Will she be able to make this house more of a home or was it doomed before she even walked through the door?
I really liked Scarlett. She just wants to everyone to be happy and healthy. To feel loved. To be loved. Now, as for Paul, yeah he is not a swoon-worthy hero. I was on the fence with him throughout the whole book. I knew he wasn’t going to be my favorite from the beginning. His son, on the other hand...he is a mature, caring, and pissed off young man. Together, they make for an interesting household.
Overall...it’s a great prequel. I got to know the characters well. The story is definitely different. I wanted to slap each of the characters at one point which means I was in it. It was also fun that it was based in England. I am looking forward to the next book.
Quotes:
“I’m your dark secret, aren’t I, Paul?” He smirks at Paul.
“Ah, it’s okay, and I’m sorry for letting rip, but their attitude boiled my guts.”
“I don’t have the answer, but I’m pleased you’re still here. You’re good for him, and he needs you.”
June 2, 2018
Dark Secrets
I am voluntarily leaving a review for an ARC of this book. This is my first read of this insightful author Lia Peele. I could not put this great read down, from the first page it gripped me with all the dark secrets, full of lies, addictions and betrayal. All the characters were so believable in this heart rending story of young love, addictions, loss and lives with no hope! Scarlett Trent a naive 21 year old in her final year at university meets Paul Jackson in Imbibe The Bean a coffeee shop she work in to help pay her student loans. She has loving parents who are over protective, but love her deeply. Paul is older than her but she loves him and moves in with him against her parents wishes. Paul’s life opens her eyes to a completely different world than she knows! Within a couple of weeks she finds he has a teenage son Dev, who has taken a dislike to her, but she manages to get on with Dev nevertheless and Dev tells her she is too good for Paul. Things go from bad to worse with all the lies she discovers around Paul’s life when his drinking becomes a big problem. Will Scarlett understand the issues between Paul and Dev? Can she compete with Paul’s drink problem? Now that his problems are escalating can Scarlett and Dev get him the help he needs? Or does she even want to help him anymore! Is Scarlett strong enough to survive? You will have to read this superbly written book to find out, which I can highly recommend.
I am voluntarily leaving a review for an ARC of this book. This is my first read of this insightful author Lia Peele. I could not put this great read down, from the first page it gripped me with all the dark secrets, full of lies, addictions and betrayal. All the characters were so believable in this heart rending story of young love, addictions, loss and lives with no hope! Scarlett Trent a naive 21 year old in her final year at university meets Paul Jackson in Imbibe The Bean a coffeee shop she work in to help pay her student loans. She has loving parents who are over protective, but love her deeply. Paul is older than her but she loves him and moves in with him against her parents wishes. Paul’s life opens her eyes to a completely different world than she knows! Within a couple of weeks she finds he has a teenage son Dev, who has taken a dislike to her, but she manages to get on with Dev nevertheless and Dev tells her she is too good for Paul. Things go from bad to worse with all the lies she discovers around Paul’s life when his drinking becomes a big problem. Will Scarlett understand the issues between Paul and Dev? Can she compete with Paul’s drink problem? Now that his problems are escalating can Scarlett and Dev get him the help he needs? Or does she even want to help him anymore! Is Scarlett strong enough to survive? You will have to read this superbly written book to find out, which I can highly recommend.
January 12, 2018
This is well written and has a good flow throughout, you soon find yourself sinking into the reading and the story. It is easy reading and not difficult to follow. No violence and the sexual content is graphic but not overboard. I enjoyed reading this book and liked most of the characters, Paul I felt was a bit shallow and though he had raised Dev not a great father. I felt Scarlett could do much better and deserved it as well, Dev to I felt a bit sorry for him. He had pretty crap parents and had worked hard to be a better person than they were even at 17, all he wanted was love and some attention. The friendship he and Scarlett build is strong and probably the first decent relationship he had. Do not get your hopes up for a happy ever after as this is only a prequel to the main series, that takes a jump of 6 years after this story takes place. I do however advise still reading this first as it gives all the background to the bases of the series and the characters, I feel it is worth it. This is more than just a romance the characters have a complex relationship especially Paul and Dev, to understand that you need to read the whole book. It isn't all heavy and mushy, it has some meat to it that gives you something to really get into. I look forward to reading more from this author and this series.
February 25, 2018
This is a prequel that sets up the background for a new series and follows the journey of a young Scarlett Trent and her first main romance with an older man, Paul. It also gives an insight to a friendship she establishes with his seventeen year old son Dev.
Scarlett is a twenty one year old university student who falls for Paul who is much older than her. She finds him irresistible and the relationship quickly escalates to them moving in together. It is here she first meets Dev. Through Paul’s misdemeanours, Scarlett and Dev strike up a kindred friendship and share the responsibilities of supporting Paul. The storyline weaves through a whole lot of angst, shocks and surprises for all and in a way this aids to Scarlett finding her own strength.
I loved that this was set in the North of England and our funny slang words used. I felt an instant warmth for the characters, even Paul who got on my last nerve. This was an interesting and engaging read and although not a typical romance it sets the scene for the next stage of Scarlett’s life. So even though there is no HEA there is a HFN. I also loved the glimpse of the first chapter of the next book – Definition of Stripped. It’s going to be emotional I can tell and I’ve already fallen for Dev.
A great read and well worthy of four stars.
Scarlett is a twenty one year old university student who falls for Paul who is much older than her. She finds him irresistible and the relationship quickly escalates to them moving in together. It is here she first meets Dev. Through Paul’s misdemeanours, Scarlett and Dev strike up a kindred friendship and share the responsibilities of supporting Paul. The storyline weaves through a whole lot of angst, shocks and surprises for all and in a way this aids to Scarlett finding her own strength.
I loved that this was set in the North of England and our funny slang words used. I felt an instant warmth for the characters, even Paul who got on my last nerve. This was an interesting and engaging read and although not a typical romance it sets the scene for the next stage of Scarlett’s life. So even though there is no HEA there is a HFN. I also loved the glimpse of the first chapter of the next book – Definition of Stripped. It’s going to be emotional I can tell and I’ve already fallen for Dev.
A great read and well worthy of four stars.
January 28, 2018
5+ Stars! What an amazing start to this series!
Scarlett is in her final year of university, lives in her parent's basement and also works part time in a coffee shop. Paul is a customer of hers at the coffee shop and before to long they start a relationship. After she agrees to move in with him, she discovers that he has a 17 year old son, Dev ... which means Paul is a lot older than she thought he was and he's keeping secrets. But Scarlett is in love with him, so she moves in with them against her parent's wishes. Problems arise shortly after they move in together and Scarlett must choose ... go with her heart and stay with Paul, or her head and leave him. That's all I can say without wrecking the story for others.
I couldn't get enough of this story ... it just seemed so personal, like I was reading someone's diary ... their private thoughts and revelations. The twists and turns in the plot were .. unbelievable. I didn't think I could get surprised more and when I turned the page, I would be found wrong by that statement. I was lucky enough to read the first 2 chapters of the next book ... and I am hooked! My only problem ... why do I have to wait for the next book!
I graciously received a copy from the author in exchange for a honest review.
Scarlett is in her final year of university, lives in her parent's basement and also works part time in a coffee shop. Paul is a customer of hers at the coffee shop and before to long they start a relationship. After she agrees to move in with him, she discovers that he has a 17 year old son, Dev ... which means Paul is a lot older than she thought he was and he's keeping secrets. But Scarlett is in love with him, so she moves in with them against her parent's wishes. Problems arise shortly after they move in together and Scarlett must choose ... go with her heart and stay with Paul, or her head and leave him. That's all I can say without wrecking the story for others.
I couldn't get enough of this story ... it just seemed so personal, like I was reading someone's diary ... their private thoughts and revelations. The twists and turns in the plot were .. unbelievable. I didn't think I could get surprised more and when I turned the page, I would be found wrong by that statement. I was lucky enough to read the first 2 chapters of the next book ... and I am hooked! My only problem ... why do I have to wait for the next book!
I graciously received a copy from the author in exchange for a honest review.
February 14, 2018
When you find that one book you can’t put down! I’ve been lucky enough to have read some and Definition of Flawed did not let me down. The need to want more grew greater with each page I turned. I could see a lot of Scarlett in myself. The working and attending school and having an older boyfriend. Their romance brought me back in time. There is a twist which threw me in the beginning. Completely shocked but fell in love how it was played out. The story continued and bits and pieces were put together like a puzzle. Would their love be the glue that would hold that puzzle together? You will have to read for yourselves. But I will tell you that the pieces are bits of everyday life that either you have been through or know someone who has. Another twist which came from left field, had left me with my mouth open and then yelling at the characters! Lia’s brilliant use of adjectives painted a picture that I could imagine with Scarlett, Paul, and Dev. I completed the book in one night and wanted more. I’ll admit, I did need to look up a few words as Lia is a British author and I wanted to know the meaning of the words. But don’t let that stop you from reading Definition of Flawed It’s a terrific read for those wanting romance and suspense.
April 11, 2018
To be perfectly honest, I've sat with this book for a little while now and I am still not precisely sure if I liked it or not, though I did enjoy the writing style. As a long-time reader of romance novels, I readily admit to the fact that I am a sucker for a happily ever after. I'm even satisfied with a "happy for now". Unfortunately, this book really offers neither. However, even lacking the promise of a happily ever after ending, this book drew me in with the characters and how they relate to one another. While some of the story is relatively cliched, the dialog (though filled with vernacular perhaps not familiar to an American audience) snaps with authenticity and I was invested enough in the character of Scarlett to want to know what happened to her. It is because of her that I am interested in reading the other books in the series to which this novel is a prequel. Because it is a prequel and because the author is honest about that in the foreward, I was a lot more forgiving about the ending, and I definitely want to read on. Due to the subject matter, both regarding the explicit sex and the potential for triggers, this book should be reserved for adults over the age of consent in their locality.
Reviewed by HR Duby for Romance Authors that Rock
Reviewed by HR Duby for Romance Authors that Rock
June 13, 2018
Scarlett is a very independent young female. Following every rule in the book. At 21-years-old she gets her first job at Imbibe. Not realizing that love was going to walk through a cafe shop. Paul being older man with secrets that will be discovered. She falls deeper in love understanding he is older than her. Breaking the rule of moving out from her parents home to move in with Paul. Seeing a different world she never excepted to see. Different from her world. As she makes her self at home. One secret comes out. She finds out he has a son. As story progress Scarlett and Dev become closer feeling a connection. What will happen to Paul and Scarlett? Will they separate or still be together? What other secret will be discover? When Dev finds his mother? What will happen to Scarlett and Dev? I recommend you to read this book. Is a page turner from the beginning. With realistic events that could happen in the modern world. The characters feel more realistic as they pulled you into the story. As they expressed every emotion and feeling *Hurt, pain, sadness, betrayal* The love scenes are not rush it starts slow. It deserves more than five stars.
December 22, 2017
Amount of sex 3.5 / 5
How explicit 3 / 5
Story 5 / 5
Overall: 5 / 5
Definition of Flawed is a fabulously steamy story by author Lia Peele, which I devoured in one sitting! This book is the author's debut novel and prequel to her upcoming Definition series. The story is told from Scarlett’s point of view and has a happy for now ending. There is not much that could have pulled me away from this story; it was that good! I am so excited about this upcoming series that I’m having a hard time waiting for the next book!
In this story, Scarlett is finishing her last year at college while working at a coffee shop and living at home. Paul, her boyfriend, was a customer at the store when they first met. After dating for a couple of months, Paul asks her to move in. Scarlett is excited until she finds out Paul has another roommate, Dex. Surprisingly, Dex is his seventeen-year-old son!
The storyline was gripping, and a definite add to your TBR list!
*Voluntarily Reviewed an Advanced Copy*
How explicit 3 / 5
Story 5 / 5
Overall: 5 / 5
Definition of Flawed is a fabulously steamy story by author Lia Peele, which I devoured in one sitting! This book is the author's debut novel and prequel to her upcoming Definition series. The story is told from Scarlett’s point of view and has a happy for now ending. There is not much that could have pulled me away from this story; it was that good! I am so excited about this upcoming series that I’m having a hard time waiting for the next book!
In this story, Scarlett is finishing her last year at college while working at a coffee shop and living at home. Paul, her boyfriend, was a customer at the store when they first met. After dating for a couple of months, Paul asks her to move in. Scarlett is excited until she finds out Paul has another roommate, Dex. Surprisingly, Dex is his seventeen-year-old son!
The storyline was gripping, and a definite add to your TBR list!
*Voluntarily Reviewed an Advanced Copy*
January 13, 2018
Lia Peele has an easy style and she quickly stimulated my interest in the main characters.
There was a strong magnetism between Scarlett and Paul as they started a relationship. She moves in with him after a month, even though she has found that he lives like a slob and has lied about a few important issues (He is older than she thought, he has a teenage son living with him and he is an alcoholic!).
We are then taken on an amazing ride through the ups and downs of their relationships (present and past). Although young, Scarlett is tough and helps Paul to stop drinking. She tries to improve the relationship between Paul and his son (Dev) but this can never happen as he has lied about so many things.
By the end of this short read there is no HEA, but the characters have found some peace.
Thank you Lia for a memorable ride! I am REALLY keen to find out what happens to these characters in the "Definition" series.
There was a strong magnetism between Scarlett and Paul as they started a relationship. She moves in with him after a month, even though she has found that he lives like a slob and has lied about a few important issues (He is older than she thought, he has a teenage son living with him and he is an alcoholic!).
We are then taken on an amazing ride through the ups and downs of their relationships (present and past). Although young, Scarlett is tough and helps Paul to stop drinking. She tries to improve the relationship between Paul and his son (Dev) but this can never happen as he has lied about so many things.
By the end of this short read there is no HEA, but the characters have found some peace.
Thank you Lia for a memorable ride! I am REALLY keen to find out what happens to these characters in the "Definition" series.
February 13, 2018
3.5 Stars ⭐⭐⭐💫
Definition of Flawed is Lia Peele’s debut and it’s the prequel novella to a series. It’s a quick and compelling read.
The main characters were well developed and they each showed a decent amount of growth throughout the duration of the story. I respected Scarlett and I grew to really like her. She was strong, loyal, hardworking, and kind. Paul on the other hand, I just never clicked with him. Even from the beginning, his relationship with Scarlett didn’t feel like the right fit. His son, Dev, was a big supporting character, and a very important part of the story. I connected with him, and I felt the bond between him and Scarlett was strong and genuine.
This isn’t exactly the romance with an HEA that you might expect, but it has a satisfying ending. I was content knowing that the characters’ journey wasn’t over, and it would be continuing in the follow-up full length novel, Definition of Stripped. I look forward to reading what the future holds for them.
Definition of Flawed is Lia Peele’s debut and it’s the prequel novella to a series. It’s a quick and compelling read.
The main characters were well developed and they each showed a decent amount of growth throughout the duration of the story. I respected Scarlett and I grew to really like her. She was strong, loyal, hardworking, and kind. Paul on the other hand, I just never clicked with him. Even from the beginning, his relationship with Scarlett didn’t feel like the right fit. His son, Dev, was a big supporting character, and a very important part of the story. I connected with him, and I felt the bond between him and Scarlett was strong and genuine.
This isn’t exactly the romance with an HEA that you might expect, but it has a satisfying ending. I was content knowing that the characters’ journey wasn’t over, and it would be continuing in the follow-up full length novel, Definition of Stripped. I look forward to reading what the future holds for them.
July 10, 2018
Definition of Flawed by Lia Peele
Older man, Younger woman
Mia Peele is a new author to me but I shall be reading more of her work. This prequel is undoubtedly leading into a wonderful series. The story caught me from the beginning and held on. Scarlett is such a good woman, raised by a loving family and finishing school while working.
Scarlett meets Paul at work and they begin a happy relationship but then lies, secrets, and alcohol comes between them. Paul has an 18 year old son living with them. Dev does not get along with his father and develops feeling for Scarlett adding more problems. They finally all end up going separate ways but it’s an interesting road trip getting there !
I have read books by many authors but this is my personal first with so much local wording and slang. I enjoyed every bit of it ! My dictionary was well used 😁.
Bring on the series, I’m ready ! Lisa is going places ! ….pat….
Older man, Younger woman
Mia Peele is a new author to me but I shall be reading more of her work. This prequel is undoubtedly leading into a wonderful series. The story caught me from the beginning and held on. Scarlett is such a good woman, raised by a loving family and finishing school while working.
Scarlett meets Paul at work and they begin a happy relationship but then lies, secrets, and alcohol comes between them. Paul has an 18 year old son living with them. Dev does not get along with his father and develops feeling for Scarlett adding more problems. They finally all end up going separate ways but it’s an interesting road trip getting there !
I have read books by many authors but this is my personal first with so much local wording and slang. I enjoyed every bit of it ! My dictionary was well used 😁.
Bring on the series, I’m ready ! Lisa is going places ! ….pat….
November 19, 2017
The Definition of Flawed dropped us into Scarlett’s world just as her life was taking on the messy shape of adulthood. I wanted the best for Scarlett - she deserved better than Paul and his broken version of love. Lia Peele wrote her vividly, with a relatable - almost effortless quality. I loved that she was a little bit damaged, and that Dev and Paul were scarred and complicated.
I look forward to the next book and can’t wait to find out where Scarlett’s life leads. I admit, I didn’t want to spoil the surprise by reading the extra chapters, but took a peek to make certain Scarlett’s name was there. So, I will watch for the next book to pick up her story. Please don’t make me wait too long.
I look forward to the next book and can’t wait to find out where Scarlett’s life leads. I admit, I didn’t want to spoil the surprise by reading the extra chapters, but took a peek to make certain Scarlett’s name was there. So, I will watch for the next book to pick up her story. Please don’t make me wait too long.
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