A story about how coming together can break us apart…
An old military friend of Blue’s comes to stay with us, and suddenly I have two muscled men surrounding me. Before I can take a breath, we’re diving into something dirty together—something dangerous. Dangerous because three is a crowd.
This is Blue’s best friend, and one of us will have to leave.
****************
EVEN BETTER is a sexy follow up novella best read after BETTER WHEN IT HURTS. Fair Contains two hot ex-military men and a girl caught in the middle.
Books in the Stripped series ½. Tough Love (prequel) 1. Love the Way You Lie 2. Better When It Hurts 3. Even Better 4. Pretty When You Cry
Praise for Better When It
"5 Angsty Love-versus-Hate Stars! Better When It Hurts sucked me in hook, line, and sinker within the first few pages." - Allison, The Reading Escapade Book Blog
"There's one thing I can say with certainty, Skye Warren never fails to deliver a heartfelt, slightly dark, I can't stop turning the pages story. This one is no different." - Di, Twisted Sisters
"Very Angsty 5 Star Read! This book is so compelling, you won't be able to put it down, this is one of those books that you'll want to save to re-read." - Melissa, Books Can Take You There
This book was H-O-T!! It's one of the sexiest I've ever read. If you like d/s you will love this one. These are true alpha males. Amazing!
Hannah and Blue have a great romantic d/s relationship. Hannah's submission is selfless. She thrives solely on serving Blue's needs and yields in all his sexual urges. They have good, raw, rough, kinky sex, and they both generously give and take. Blue is always the one to lead. Hannah's submission fuels his dominance and vice-versa.
"I let it overtake me, the passion and the pain. He is the water, and I'm the ocean floor, held down by his weight, made soft with his motion, finding peace in the riotous waves above me." - Hannah
When an old military friend of Blue comes to stay with them, the dynamic of their relationship changes. West suffers from ptsd in the form of nightmares and Blue and Hannah are there to comfort him. Voyeuristic games among the three will soon lead to overt sexuality and kink. There are no insecurities or jealousy among them, so this is all fun.
Two dominant guys who know how to play a woman's body and one beautiful submissive, and ecstacy is guaranteed. Both men will own her, but only one of them is in control.
"I rock and twist in the bonds formed from their bodies, a butterfly held down by a pin, fluttering, trapped." - Hannah
This book was well written and had an interesting storyline. The d/s sex was authentic and the kink was "hard-core". I think that this story is a beautiful representation of how dom/sub can be used to help someone heal. This simple sensual story contains all you could wish for and more.
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
This novella in the Stripped series, provides a little extra glimpse into the lives of Blue and Hannah. Taking place after the end of 'Better When It Hurts', the two have settled into a life of domesticity.
While the two seem to have finally figured things out, Hannah's insecurities prevent her from feeling content. She's always waiting to be cast aside, unwanted. Even with Blue, she feels like she's on edge, waiting for the other shoe to drop.
When Blue's Army friend moves to town, he stays with the couple until he can get settled in a place of his own. Fighting his own demons, his presence adds an interesting dynamic to Blue and Hannah's relationship. Almost immediately, there is a little kinky sex play taking place.
Although the sex scenes were hot as hell, I did find Blue's willingness to share Hannah, in any capacity, to be out of character. It just didn't sit quite right with me, even though the scenes were well-done and highly erotic. I just couldn't see it.
Overall, I thought it was a highly entertaining novella. It was quick, sexy and added to the series as a whole. It provided a glimpse into Candy's story, serving as the perfect lead-in for the next book in the series, which tells her story. I will be starting the next book immediately.
Even Better is a quickie novella continuing the story of a Blue and Hannah (aka Lola) from Better When it Hurts. Their novel was an awesome hate-to-love romance that I five-starred (link to review- http://bit.ly/1QF3EaQ). In Even Better, Blue has a military friend come to town by the name of West. West has a bit of PTSD issues and shacks up with the couple while in transition. I'm hoping for his book, by the way. But I digress...
Even Better is a whole lot of sexy times including a bit of ménage with Blue, Hannah, and West. It was certifiably hot, I must admit. Not a whole lot of added plot here beyond the smut action. We do, however get a nice set-up for Ivan and Candy's upcoming story, which it can't wait. Their connection has always been a bit of a secret so my interest is now firmly piqued. Looking forward toPretty When You Cry, expected to be out October 20th, 2015.
The Stripped Series is a steamy, slightly dark (gray) series filled with strong yet scarred heroines and tough, Alpha heroes. It's been a love the whole way thru for me. Each book can be read as a standalone but I don't necessarily recommend it. But if you want a quick steamy read, you'll get that with this novella.
Advanced copy received by author in exchange for my honest review.
I didn't like Hannah before and now I am sure she doesn't deserve to be a heroine. Blue loves her even though she accused him falsely for rape ( she did it to protect him which made no sense to me) but she still is concerned. She feels worthless and in order to know she has value she needs another man to touch her.
This is the worst. It ruined Blues storyline completely. He was protective and possessive and there was no indication before that he will share Hannah. And now, his friend West is introduced and he shares her with him. Although he didn't let West to have sex with Hanna, West and Hannah both orally pleased each other while Blue fucked her. This is completely delusional.
This story picks up a few months after Blue and Hannah (aka Lola) move in together. Hannah is still plagued with insecurity and doubt about her relationship with Blue. And she is feeling kind of lost, she misses stripping, but doesn't want to go back, she is in flux not knowing what to do with herself. A friend from Blue's military days comes to stay. Things start to heat up, and Hannah finds a kindred spirit in West, she feels his pain and vulnerability and it's like a thread that ties them together. But, not to worry Hannah and Blue are just fine. West actually helps Hannah realize that Blue is all she will ever need or want.
Blue and Hannah are the kind of characters that stay with you. They are both so broken, but together they are whole. Their love is harsh, but so achingly beautiful it makes you want to weep.
Skye Warren never disappoints, whether it's full length novel or a novella, her words pack a punch and leave you breathless. The extended look at her next book Pretty When You Cry has me bouncing off the walls with anticipation, I can't wait for Candy and Ivan's story!
I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this series and I loved getting this short sexy and dare I say blazing hot novella!!!! I am not a huge re-reader of books BUT this series is one that I could definitely read again! If you are looking for a simple sweet romance then this isn't for you but if you like it dark, twisted, hot and very sexy, also containing possessive, dominant men and feisty, sexy women with a whole lot of love then do yourself a favor and read this book, this entire series to date!
Congrats Skye Warren and I can't wait for Ivan and Candy's story next:)
As always I love a story that features Blue. It's definitely a battle for my favorite male character in this series (so far) between Blue and Ivan.
But anyway... I loved the introduction of West, I really like him too. A adored the menage a trois part of the story but also kind of wished there was a bit more action of that between Blue, Hannah and West. Still it was a great and quick read.
It's also a perfect introduction to Pretty When You Cry. I have already read that one and I can say that it's the best book so far in the series so make sure to read it!
Really loved this quickie read about Blue and Hannah (Lola). I swear my heart hurts for these two characters. There were certainly some extremely hot scenes in here. On to Candy and Ivan now!!
This brief novella is yet another awesome installment from the STRIPPED series. In this book we get to meet Blue's best friend West. West's arrival brings an entirely new element of excitement and eroticism to Blue and Hannah's story. Ms. Warren makes the most of this sexy triad, taking steps outside the land of Vanilla in this installment by adding some splashes of BDSM, ménage, voyeurism and exhibitionism. The intimate, hot, sexy scenes involving West, Blue and Hannah resulted in what I feel is by far the sexiest book Warren has ever written!
My only complaint about this book is that there wasn't more. This book is told solely from Hannah's point of view so I'd have liked to have heard more of the men's thoughts. In particular, I'd have enjoyed reading about West's thoughts and emotions, his inner musing as he watched Blue and Hannah living as a couple together. West only resides with Blue and Hannah for a very short period of time so I will always wonder whether he made/makes any other visits... hopefully Ms. Warren will let us know. We also have much left to learn about West himself which I hope to find out about somewhere later in the series too. I think this is the conclusion to Blue and Hannah's story but I hope it's not…
Be warned: there is one hell of a cliffhanger! The cliffhanger ending is the perfect segue into STRIPPED #3 though which I plan on starting right now.....
I cannot tell you how much I love this woman's writing. Anything that has her name on it is amazing. The book is the next installment of the Stripped Series. This is a Novella following Love The Way You Lie. So, we know it was a bout Blue and Hannah. Even though it was a tad short I liked it. We get to see Hannah still trying to adjust of being taken care of by Blue. Blue is still treating her like a possession a cute doll he can do anything to because he knows that he can do anything to her and she won't object. You see Blue wants a family bad and she is terrified of that fact. Then West comes into the picture. Then things get interesting quickly. Talk about Caliente! Please tell me their will be a book about West? I would love to know his story or if things go further after this novella.
ARC was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
This series just sizzles..... just the way I like it. Although this is a Novella it reads like a full novel and packs a sweet punch just where you need it.
We met, and consequently fell in love with, Blue and Lola in Better When It Hurts. Theirs is a complicated relationship, and still very new. However, I believe they are as rock solid as any couple could be. That is, until I read the blurb for Even Better. Was it true? Was Skye Warren going to rip apart one of my favorite couples?? There's no way I could just let this sit. I had to find out!!
****
So did she??
Haha, like I'm going to tell you. What I can tell you is that in 90-some odd pages, Warren managed to pack as much emotion and heat and turmoil and love as she does in a full length novel.
West is the friend, and he's home from the military. And oh yeah, he's fucking hot. But he is also troubled, as many soldiers who come home are. Blue and Hannah (Lola) offer him a warm and safe place to sleep. Before long, attractions are noticed and the couple invites West into their bed.
As its bound to happen in a threesome, feelings are involved and nothing is quite black and white like you'd hope. It just can't happen. When you take another person into your bed, your body, and your heart... you can't just lend that out without consequences.
But Blue knows his woman. And even when she doesn't know herself, and her fears and paranoia about being worthy of love surface, Blue knows. That's why I love Blue. He just knows. He knows what she needs, what she wants, and everything about her.
So after you read Better When It Hurts, read Even Better, and find out for yourself if love can actually withstand a menage.
Sexy and emotional, this novella plunges Blue and Lola into temptation. The new couple risks it all when Blue’s Army buddy, West, pays them a visit and stays a while to get his head straight.
All of this takes place shortly after the end of Better When It Hurts (Stripped #2). I'm so happy that we get a little more about Blue and Lola. In these kinds of standalone series, readers usually have to make due with a small mention or at best, a minor appearance, but this is a novella that keeps the story going and shows different facets to Blue and Lola as individuals and as a couple.
It even has a threesome that's hot as hell but handled with care.
I read this novella as a part of an anthology without reading the full-length book (it's set after the events in Better When It Hurts, I assume) but IMO this works as a standalone as well.
Surprised by how emotional it was between Blue, Hannah, and West, so of course I have to read the full-length book now.
Did someone turn up the heat in here? All of a sudden I'm feeling a bit hot. ;)
This was a hot little addition to this series. From what I understand this novella isn't necessary for the storyline progression (i.e. it is an optional standalone), but it was steamy and fun! It was a good glimpse into the insecurity that still plagues Hannah, and Blue's attempts to help her know her worth, and understand his feelings for her. I liked the introduction to Blue's friend West (and there were some very hot "introductions" at the condo), and hope to see him find his happiness down the road. I'm also very intrigued about Candy's past, and Ivan's protectiveness when it comes to her. I'm really looking forward to the next book!
*I was provided a copy of Even Better by the author through the author’s newsletter. I am not compensated for my honest opinion.*
Hannah isn’t sure what to do with her life now that she’s no longer stripping. Living with Blue feels right, but she’s afraid he’ll tire of her and throw her out like everyone else. She needs to find her place in the world, to find what she excels at.
When Blue’s friend West comes to stay for a little while as he adjusts to civilian life, things take an interesting turn. Hannah wants to be useful, and it seems that using her body in the same way she used to use it to survive just might fit the bill. West needs some reassurance and compassion, and that’s something Hannah can finally offer.
Even Better is an erotic novella that is part of the Stripped series. I received a free copy from the author’s newsletter, and it was said to be a standalone novella. Although I essentially understood the plot and the characters, I would have enjoyed this more had I read the previous book to know a little more about Hannah and Blue and the history of their relationship.
Hannah was the main character, and the novella was about her finding her way in life without depending on her boyfriend. That goal was not exactly accomplished by the end of the story. For the majority of the story she was very down on herself, wondering what she had to offer and being generally insecure. If the story weren’t so short, I might not have finished it because of her characterization, but as it was I stuck with it and did enjoy it for what it was, which was more of an erotic romance than anything else.
The sex scenes were definitely hot, so if that’s what you’re looking for you’ll likely enjoy this book. There was some exhibitionism and some male/female/male action. It was all well written and the characters were relatable. The few minor editing errors did not affect my enjoyment of the book.
Overall I enjoyed this, but I think I would have enjoyed it more if I’d read the previous book. This book does not end on a cliffhanger with the main characters, but it clearly sets up the next book in the series.
~*~ Obsessed by Books copy given in exchange in for am honest review ~*~
"I was forged in fire, melted and reformed. I need a man who knows I won't break. A man who will test me just to prove the point. I need Blue, even if I'm not completely sure he keeps me back "
This novella is a short steamy read that continues the story of the main protagonist from Better When It Hurts. A few months on after that story ends we pick up with Hannah and Blue following on from their happy ever after....Hannah is struggling with life after being a stripper. Her reason to strip is now being taken care of by Blue who has also commenced work as a security specialist, no longer tied by his blinkered view as his heart's desire no longer works at The Grand. Enrolling in classes Hannah feels lost, like she is treading water. Drowning in the shame of her past, in her need to be used and her enjoyment of her humiliation Hannah is no longer confident in her own skin. Just what is this between her and Blue? Will he always want a used up stripper?
When West comes rolling in the happy two become an awkward three. Hannah finds a friend in West, who knew her Blue when she had sent him away. Helping him settle into civilian life Hannah knows he too is drowning in his demons and provides comfort the only way she knows how. Blue releases his dominant side and oh man his level of hotness just continues to rise! Knowing he needs to support his friend and pay back his dues for when West helped him through the dark times the three of them reveal a little more of themselves to one another. But can they look each other in the eye once the sun rises or will what they share remain in the shadows?
Even Better is a quick sassy read that cleverly sets up the next book in the series whilst continuing Hannah and Blues story. Introducing another damaged alpha male West is a man of mystery that only adds to his charm. Revealing her insecurities and Blues uber confidence this novella was a perfect addition to this series. Now onto a darker story I think, it's time for Candace to bare her soul!
A DARKLY SENSUAL NOVELLA THAT'S PURE DECADENT DELIGHT
The second after I finished BETTER WHEN IT HURTS (Stripped, bk 2), I shamelessly begged, pleaded, cajoled Skye Warren for more Blue and Hannah (aka Lola). And countless other equally enamored fans clamored for a followup story as well! Well, our fervent wishes have finally come true and Ms. Warren penned an entrancing new novella featuring our beloved duo. EVEN BETTER is absolutely enthralling. I didn't think I could possibly love these darkly complex, emotionally tainted characters any more than I did after their last book. But somehow I do. This story was such a beautiful gift from one of my absolute favorite erotic romance novelists. It is hot, sexy, torrid...and yes, a tad deranged, Teeming with angst and passion and guttural emotion that seeps into your heart and soul. Unquestionably, Blue is one of the most ferocious, chillingly dominant alpha males I have ever encountered. He has a definite cruel streak, but can be oh so sweet and soothingly tender as well. He is a fierce force of nature who loves and lives life on his OWN terms. The sex is off the charts electrifying with scorching hot interludes, AND a blazing threesome with Hannah being serviced by two hunky, heavily muscled military men that's guaranteed to have you shivering in breathless anticipation. Only downside to this sinful confection of naughty, decadent delight? It's made me a very greedy girl. Like taking that bite of rich, dark, calorie-laden chocolate, you want more, more...more!
OMG, this was HAWT! The story is short, novella short but it packs a punch and the story flows and has that good amount of connection that makes you want to continue to read to find out everything you can. This book is in the Stripped world and picks up several months after Blue and Hannah (aka Lola) move in together. Hannah is still feeling her way around in this relationship and unsure where she fits in. Blue is VERY dominant/ alpha which Hannah loves but she feels lost and unsure of her place in the scheme of things. One day the doorbell rings and West, old Army buddy comes to live with them for a little while. He, too is like Hannah, Unsure of where he fits in yet there is this lust and heat whenever he is around Hannah. West is having trouble adjusting to life back in the real world after the military and it shows. Hannah wants to help him because she knows how it feels to feel unwanted or unsure of your place. The bond between them grows and soon there is this chemistry that builds. Pretty soon Hannah is the sandwich in a 3some with her Blue and West. It is so torrid yet so delicious. The lovemaking is so intense and so passionate. Even though this is short, this was great. There is something that gives this a special “twist” so I do recommend reading this story to find that out. I cannot wait for the next book in the series.
Wow, this novella was definitely intense. We get a hint of what is to come from Pretty When You Cry at the end, leaving one heck of a cliff hanger for us if you do not read the excerpt that has been added to the end of this book. However, going back to Even Better, we pick back up with Blue and Hannah (Lola), she's now firmly ensconsed in Blue's condo. One day there is a knock at the door and they are not expecting company. Blue goes to find out who it is, and eventually Hannah gives in to temptation, throws on Blue's shirt and boxers and goes out to see who it is. We get our first introduction to West, a former Army Buddy of Blue's. He is there to stay for a few days. Life gets a little more interesting around the condo. West moves out before Blue is even awake one night, not understanding Blue and Hannah's relationship after what he's seen. It can be hard to understand, but at the same time, fully relatable in the right circumstances. You'll have to read this short novella to find out exactly the 'interesting' things that make this book so interesting.
RECEIVED THIS BOOK AS A GIFT FOR A FAIR/HONEST REVIEW and REVIEWER FOR Bloggin' With M.Brennan.
“He knows how I need to be touched, how I need to be owned. He even knows how I need to be flaunted, desired by men other than him, bared both body and soul. He knows what I need, and he’s giving it to me - forcing me to take it.”
5 sexy, dirty, dark stars!!! Skye Warren is starting to become one of my favorite authors. I love her writing and how she isn’t afraid to take her books down the dark path!!!
A story about how coming together can break us apart…
An old military friend of Blue’s comes to stay with us, and suddenly I have two muscled men surrounding me. Before I can take a breath, we’re diving into something dirty together—something dangerous. Dangerous because three is a crowd.
This is Blue’s best friend, and one of us will have to leave.
After reading this book I feel like I need a bath, it was so dirty and dark…...and no that’s not a complaint by any means!!! I love a book that’s so dirty and isn’t afraid to go there and this book proved it! I won’t give much away with my review, except to say this book is sexy as h@ll!!!!
**Received a copy in exchange for an honest review. Read and reviewed by Melissa for Alpha Book Club**
Who can resist more Blue and Hannah? No this girl...
Sometimes there is more to the story then in the actual story, sometimes there are things left unfinished and it's all beautiful on the other side. That is where this story takes us. Blue and Hannah's after.
This couple is living together but Hannah is as insecure as ever and when an old military friend moves in, her relationship is tested and her boundaries are pushed...again. Things get really HOT for our little trio but feelings and emotions are also worked out. Hannah is scared that this is yet another chapter in her life that is going to turn out like all the others and Blue is trying to get her to understand that is not the case. She is his and no friend or feelings are going to change that.
There was a lot of passion and intensity in this little book. It is a super fast read, besides needing a few breathers and besides being a brief moment in time for Blue and Hannah it was also a segway into what's coming next.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
I think I would've enjoyed this book even more if I had read the first two books first, but I did understand somewhat about Hannah and Blue's history. I am definitely going to go back and read them and find out though!
This is a short, sexy novella about two people still figuring out where their relationship is going. Hannah is an ex stripper who misses dancing but chooses not to go back. Blue has served his country and is back home trying to make a life with Hannah. West is Blue's best friend and also a soldier, who comes to stay with them while trying to adjust to life after the military. Things get hot and steamy between the three until both men are in love with Hannah and West has to make a hard decision.
The second part of the book gives us Candy's story and the harsh existence she came from and is trying hard to stay hidden from and the man who tries to save her. I can't wait to read more of their story!