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Kandiland
He was forbidden, my boss and incapable of loving me.
People talked about him, whispered about him in passing.
He was the king of his town.
And I was a visitor.
I was by no means a smart girl. Never loved with my head, always with my heart.
That fact alone almost killed me once.
I should have listened the second time around.
But the king of this small town, had me starving. Had me craving his taste.
My name is Kandi, and he called me his Kandiland.
The king declared I was his medicine, and with each dose, he became better and better.
He was the perfect liar.
And I was his perfect Kandi.
Together, we were explosive, and toxic in every way.
People talked about him, whispered about him in passing.
He was the king of his town.
And I was a visitor.
I was by no means a smart girl. Never loved with my head, always with my heart.
That fact alone almost killed me once.
I should have listened the second time around.
But the king of this small town, had me starving. Had me craving his taste.
My name is Kandi, and he called me his Kandiland.
The king declared I was his medicine, and with each dose, he became better and better.
He was the perfect liar.
And I was his perfect Kandi.
Together, we were explosive, and toxic in every way.
268 pages, Paperback
First published June 17, 2018
154 people are currently reading
1015 people want to read
About the author
T.L. Smith
85 books6,649 followersUSA Today Best Selling Author T.L. Smith loves to write her characters with flaws so beautiful and dark that you can’t turn away from. Her books have been translated into several languages. If you don’t find her in her home town of Queensland, Australia you can usually find her travelling around the world to sitting on a beach in Bali, to exploring Alcatraz in San Francisco or walking the streets of New York.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 141 reviews
June 22, 2018
"Don't fall for me, Kandiland. I'll only break you."
I wasn't expecting more than a forbidden romance between an employee and her overbearing, handsome boss. Kandiland is so much more than that. It is about loss and desire, deceit and self-confidence. Mystery, suspense and intrigue is weaved through the romance, making this a well-rounded, intense story.
Huxley is self-made. Dangerous and haunting, yet alluring, Huxley's decisiveness makes him formidable, a force of nature who owns virtually the entirety of Candy. With a brooding persona, he epitomises the quintessential "bad boy".
Brimming with self-confidence and usually self-assured, Kandi is attempting to nurse a wounded heart. Something about the elusive and seeming emotionless Huxley alights her senses and causes her bruised heart to flutter once again.
But these wanting feelings are leaving Kandi confused and suffering a sense of betrayal towards her deceased husband, Jarod. When your heart already belongs to another, it couldn't possibly become someone else's, right?
His eyes are like a storm as it comes over you, one that's so intense you're afraid of what it's about to bring.
Together, Huxley and Kandi are explosive.
They share an intense connection and exciting chemistry. On the outside, they are vastly different from each other, but beyond their external appearances, their pasts share something in common.
Both Huxley and Kandi are vulnerable in unique ways.
Huxley's desire to maintain ownership over every aspect of his personal life and affluent career is driven by his impoverished childhood. Kandi is drawn towards the quiet rural town of Candy as it allows her the chance to maintain a connection with Jarod, but this need to remain faithful towards her deceased husband makes her incredibly wary of loving another.
"Not everything different is bad, and sometimes you should embrace it."
Kandiland focuses on two broken people finding love in each other and learning that it is okay to allow yourself to be vulnerable again. Kandi is bright, an independent free spirit who loves with her heart. While it is often her downfall, it is difficult to not be in awe of her ability to do so. To love others so open and freely after everything she has been through signifies her strength.
T.L. Smith's characters and perfectly imperfect. Kandiland is my first read by this lovely author and it won't be my last!
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June 18, 2018
"My hair is pink, and I have tattoos. My life isn't normal, I'm not normal, and I've come to love that about myself"
Let me start this way: This book is as gorgeous and hot as its cover. And, ... it's so much more.
"The way he looks at me like I'm his last meal. The way he's unapologetic in everything he does. To the way he tastes like sin. I want to taste that forever."
Describing Kandiland in one word? Not possible... When I think of Kandiland I think of the words: unique, stunning, dark, enthralling, sexy. And it's a guarantee for goosebumps.
"No woman should look at me like I'm about to sweep her off her feet and carry her away. No. They should look at me like I'm about to do the unthinkable to them. Then smile as I do it."
The prologue is a killer. Really, I was an emotional mess when starting the first chapter. So while reading it, it prepares you for the emotional roller-coaster you are about to ride.
"She's as sweet as candy, she tastes like my favorite colored Skittle."
Kandi is stunning. Inside out. She's so strong and brave. She's confident enough to stand up for what she wants and believes in. I really adore Kandi.
"She's almost like a medicine I didn't ask to receive. One that I'm becoming addicted to. With each dose I want her more."
Huxley is intense. He's the picture purrfect guy of a hot, broody and broken man. Falling for the one woman that takes him up on every challenge and changes his life.
"He tastes like sin, everything I shouldn't have but want right now."
Kandi and Huxley's chemistry is from another star. Seriously. They sucked me right into their story and my eyes kept glued to the pages. Their attraction, not only their bodies but also their minds are intoxicating.
"He's the perfect poster boy of broken."
The way Huxley and Kandi discover each other, the way they start to heal each other without even realizing it and the way they fall for each other is - for a lack of a better word I go with - amazing. There are a lot of dark parts in both of their hearts for very different reasons. And the road they are going is a stony one. It's rocky and at some points you just want to hit their heads together, screaming at them for not seeing what's so clearly is in front of them. But that's what makes the story so perfect: If you are so involved into the characters and care for their happiness, that you get mad at them for their decisions.
"He's my perfect beginning, my middle, and my end. If I couldn't take another breath tomorrow, I know that the last one I took would be for them."
Kandiland is like candy, sugar sweet and addicting. It's toxic and explosive. You just can't stop reading until you finish. It will make your heart race and arching at the same time, touching your soul as a reader and gives you a very enjoyable emotional ride.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Let me start this way: This book is as gorgeous and hot as its cover. And, ... it's so much more.
"The way he looks at me like I'm his last meal. The way he's unapologetic in everything he does. To the way he tastes like sin. I want to taste that forever."
Describing Kandiland in one word? Not possible... When I think of Kandiland I think of the words: unique, stunning, dark, enthralling, sexy. And it's a guarantee for goosebumps.
"No woman should look at me like I'm about to sweep her off her feet and carry her away. No. They should look at me like I'm about to do the unthinkable to them. Then smile as I do it."
The prologue is a killer. Really, I was an emotional mess when starting the first chapter. So while reading it, it prepares you for the emotional roller-coaster you are about to ride.
"She's as sweet as candy, she tastes like my favorite colored Skittle."
Kandi is stunning. Inside out. She's so strong and brave. She's confident enough to stand up for what she wants and believes in. I really adore Kandi.
"She's almost like a medicine I didn't ask to receive. One that I'm becoming addicted to. With each dose I want her more."
Huxley is intense. He's the picture purrfect guy of a hot, broody and broken man. Falling for the one woman that takes him up on every challenge and changes his life.
"He tastes like sin, everything I shouldn't have but want right now."
Kandi and Huxley's chemistry is from another star. Seriously. They sucked me right into their story and my eyes kept glued to the pages. Their attraction, not only their bodies but also their minds are intoxicating.
"He's the perfect poster boy of broken."
The way Huxley and Kandi discover each other, the way they start to heal each other without even realizing it and the way they fall for each other is - for a lack of a better word I go with - amazing. There are a lot of dark parts in both of their hearts for very different reasons. And the road they are going is a stony one. It's rocky and at some points you just want to hit their heads together, screaming at them for not seeing what's so clearly is in front of them. But that's what makes the story so perfect: If you are so involved into the characters and care for their happiness, that you get mad at them for their decisions.
"He's my perfect beginning, my middle, and my end. If I couldn't take another breath tomorrow, I know that the last one I took would be for them."
Kandiland is like candy, sugar sweet and addicting. It's toxic and explosive. You just can't stop reading until you finish. It will make your heart race and arching at the same time, touching your soul as a reader and gives you a very enjoyable emotional ride.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
June 18, 2018
There is something so Deliciously Dark and provocative about T.L. Smith’s writing. Each new release is hotly anticipated and expressive in its detail, the scenes, the lead characters will wedge a little place into your battered heart.
I could not wait for the story of Kandiland after being drawn in by the Blurb and the gorgeous cover.
What I got was a phenomenal read following the story of Kandi and Huxley these two share a fiery sexual chemistry that almost sizzles straight off the page. I was invested in them and their somewhat messy yet beautiful crazy love story. It was at times downright ugly yet seemingly enticing. These 2 do not have a straightforward journey, no theirs is the kind that you have to fight hard for.
Kandiland has it all, Love, Loss and Angst at its best, the journey this book will take you on is an emotional one, one you need to experience through your own eyes. This book is spectacularly told in dual perspective, it has guts, grit and a healthy dose of the beautiful darkness that we have come to love from T.L. Smith.
It’s addictive, evocative and painstaking.
This was another fantastic read by T.L.
I just can’t get enough and can throughly recommend Kandiland as your next read.
I could not wait for the story of Kandiland after being drawn in by the Blurb and the gorgeous cover.
What I got was a phenomenal read following the story of Kandi and Huxley these two share a fiery sexual chemistry that almost sizzles straight off the page. I was invested in them and their somewhat messy yet beautiful crazy love story. It was at times downright ugly yet seemingly enticing. These 2 do not have a straightforward journey, no theirs is the kind that you have to fight hard for.
Kandiland has it all, Love, Loss and Angst at its best, the journey this book will take you on is an emotional one, one you need to experience through your own eyes. This book is spectacularly told in dual perspective, it has guts, grit and a healthy dose of the beautiful darkness that we have come to love from T.L. Smith.
It’s addictive, evocative and painstaking.
This was another fantastic read by T.L.
I just can’t get enough and can throughly recommend Kandiland as your next read.
June 19, 2018
Dark and intense ...
Well that was completely unexpected...the blurb had me anticipating a hot forbidden boss/employee romance..... but of course I should have known that with this author it would be so much more....what I actually got was a tale of loss, deceit, love and desire... and I was enthralled...
The prologue is the first shocker... only two pages turned and I was already invested in Kandi as her world irrevocably falls apart around her.... I am amazed at how much emotion the author was able to engender in such a short space of time.... in addition she masterfully created an authentic and detailed landscape....evoking the sights, sounds and smells of the imagined world with her words alone...
The story is told, almost exclusively, through the eyes of the two main characters....Kandi is quirky and sassy, and she is a perfect foil for the brooding, sinister alpha antihero that is Huxley... the sexual tension between these two is palpable; but with so much baggage and too many secrets their challenges seem insurmountable.... the supporting cast is also worthy of note...filled with an array of diverse and fascinating characters
This is an intense, erotic romance, which took me on an emotional and at times shocking journey....A compelling story that once read is impossible to forget...I received an advanced copy of this book from the author..
Well that was completely unexpected...the blurb had me anticipating a hot forbidden boss/employee romance..... but of course I should have known that with this author it would be so much more....what I actually got was a tale of loss, deceit, love and desire... and I was enthralled...
The prologue is the first shocker... only two pages turned and I was already invested in Kandi as her world irrevocably falls apart around her.... I am amazed at how much emotion the author was able to engender in such a short space of time.... in addition she masterfully created an authentic and detailed landscape....evoking the sights, sounds and smells of the imagined world with her words alone...
The story is told, almost exclusively, through the eyes of the two main characters....Kandi is quirky and sassy, and she is a perfect foil for the brooding, sinister alpha antihero that is Huxley... the sexual tension between these two is palpable; but with so much baggage and too many secrets their challenges seem insurmountable.... the supporting cast is also worthy of note...filled with an array of diverse and fascinating characters
This is an intense, erotic romance, which took me on an emotional and at times shocking journey....A compelling story that once read is impossible to forget...I received an advanced copy of this book from the author..
June 10, 2018
don't often let a cover sway me but I really like this cover and then after reading the story summary I was instantly intrigued. The title alone reminded me of a board game and to a degree this is true of this book: characters, properties, community, money, losers and winners.
Having five years with the one you love is a fantastic achievement, not enough time but then you don't always get a say. For Kandi Leo she basically has no alternative but to move on until she ends up at a town called Candy where she decides to settle. Huxley Cross owns most of the businesses and is intrigued by her from the start.
As Kandi says herself Huxley consumes her and he does but I have to admit he annoyed me so many times and I really enjoyed when Kandi basically told him to take a hike! Both lead characters tell the story, giving their points of view and readers some insight into the what makes them tick as Huxley is quite the mysterious man.
This is a fast paced story and very easy to read, the plot is substantial and has some turns that keep readers on their toes. There are some emotional highs and lows, as you would expect, but truly this author really knows how to take this to the next level.
The one thing I can say to really sum this book up is that I couldn't wait to read each new sentence, almost like a craving.
Having five years with the one you love is a fantastic achievement, not enough time but then you don't always get a say. For Kandi Leo she basically has no alternative but to move on until she ends up at a town called Candy where she decides to settle. Huxley Cross owns most of the businesses and is intrigued by her from the start.
As Kandi says herself Huxley consumes her and he does but I have to admit he annoyed me so many times and I really enjoyed when Kandi basically told him to take a hike! Both lead characters tell the story, giving their points of view and readers some insight into the what makes them tick as Huxley is quite the mysterious man.
This is a fast paced story and very easy to read, the plot is substantial and has some turns that keep readers on their toes. There are some emotional highs and lows, as you would expect, but truly this author really knows how to take this to the next level.
The one thing I can say to really sum this book up is that I couldn't wait to read each new sentence, almost like a craving.
June 19, 2018
No one else can compare to TL Smith and how utterly obsessed I become with her stories... Kandiland had me enchanted from beginning to end!
This book had me on the edge of my seat. I devoured Kandiland in 3 hours — I couldn’t put it down!
“Is this what all those fuckers talk about? That one girl who fucking rocks your world. That you can’t help but keep coming back for more. She is my more. The only problem with our situation... I don’t love. So as long as she doesn’t expect that, I’ll take as much as she’ll give. And take some more. Because I was once told a bad boy doesn’t love. He takes.”
Kandiland is full of angst, love, heartbreak, and MORE! I am so in love with Huxley.. that man is oozing sin and I have found myself captivated by him!
I highly, highly recommend this book! It’s got the dark romance we come to love TL by and yet it’s very much a lighter read from her... she knows how to keep her readers wanting every word until the very last word and still wanting MORE!
This book had me on the edge of my seat. I devoured Kandiland in 3 hours — I couldn’t put it down!
“Is this what all those fuckers talk about? That one girl who fucking rocks your world. That you can’t help but keep coming back for more. She is my more. The only problem with our situation... I don’t love. So as long as she doesn’t expect that, I’ll take as much as she’ll give. And take some more. Because I was once told a bad boy doesn’t love. He takes.”
Kandiland is full of angst, love, heartbreak, and MORE! I am so in love with Huxley.. that man is oozing sin and I have found myself captivated by him!
I highly, highly recommend this book! It’s got the dark romance we come to love TL by and yet it’s very much a lighter read from her... she knows how to keep her readers wanting every word until the very last word and still wanting MORE!
June 15, 2018
I was given an advanced readers copy of this book and have decided to leave a voluntary honest review. I have read a few books by this author now, and I have enjoyed them all. Tl Smith has become one of my favourite authors as of recently. Kandiland was the type of book to keep you on the edge of your seat. Huxley is all alpha male, he's brooding, controlling, demanding, dominant. But deep down he has heart, mind you he doesn't show it very often. But it's there. Kandi I can't blame her for wanting to move forward, she got her heart smashed, to come or at least try to come back from that. Takes a strong woman, not everyone can do it.
June 8, 2018
I received an ARC for an honest review
Review by Country Gals Book Blog
Omg... I could not put this book down... the story grips you from beginning to end. You have no idea what the heck will happen next. No..really... the author throws in a few curveballs and things that I hadn’t anticipated making this a crazy whirlwind of intense feelings.
I loved Kandi and Huxley. They are intense, fiery hot, and perfect for each other. Opposite yet both hurt in some way by their pasts. Their attraction could light fires and the sex is hot, sexy, and making you want a cigarette after. Kandi knee herself and her confidence was what makes her special. Huxley is broken and without knowing it he was looking for someone to put him back together. I loved this story and she keeps getting better and better with everything she writes.
Review by Country Gals Book Blog
Omg... I could not put this book down... the story grips you from beginning to end. You have no idea what the heck will happen next. No..really... the author throws in a few curveballs and things that I hadn’t anticipated making this a crazy whirlwind of intense feelings.
I loved Kandi and Huxley. They are intense, fiery hot, and perfect for each other. Opposite yet both hurt in some way by their pasts. Their attraction could light fires and the sex is hot, sexy, and making you want a cigarette after. Kandi knee herself and her confidence was what makes her special. Huxley is broken and without knowing it he was looking for someone to put him back together. I loved this story and she keeps getting better and better with everything she writes.
June 5, 2018
Awwww Huxley just melt me. He is that kinda brooding, silent, less words lots of action man. And my oh my...whoa i'm fanning my self right now of how intens he is. This man doesn't know sweet. His all about take what he wants and keep until he no longer wants. And he wants Kandi for his kandiland.
Kandi Leo...this girl intrigue me from the start. She love fiercely. She love with her all. She love until death do us part kinda love. That's why Huxley offer to be his booty call, floored her. But why can't she walk away from him? Surely its just because of the great sex between them. Or is it? Cause Huxley makes her feel things even her death love didn't. Until a ghost from the past come to her face.
First of all... I love TL Smith darkness. But Kandiland, i think its more about love in all its unperfectness. Its not dark story although yes its broken and f**ked up. When two broken people found each other... I laugh, i cried, i fall in love, my heart break and finally jumping for joy in Kandiland. Love how unpredictable TL Smith writing is. Love how unperfect, and broken yet so beutiful Huxley is. I love how fierce, beutiful, strong Kandi is.
Kandi Leo...this girl intrigue me from the start. She love fiercely. She love with her all. She love until death do us part kinda love. That's why Huxley offer to be his booty call, floored her. But why can't she walk away from him? Surely its just because of the great sex between them. Or is it? Cause Huxley makes her feel things even her death love didn't. Until a ghost from the past come to her face.
First of all... I love TL Smith darkness. But Kandiland, i think its more about love in all its unperfectness. Its not dark story although yes its broken and f**ked up. When two broken people found each other... I laugh, i cried, i fall in love, my heart break and finally jumping for joy in Kandiland. Love how unpredictable TL Smith writing is. Love how unperfect, and broken yet so beutiful Huxley is. I love how fierce, beutiful, strong Kandi is.
June 13, 2018
I love forbidden romance, the conflict that questions your morals should I shouldn’t I. The first sentence he was forbidden, my boss and incapable of loving me, that is a ‘I need to read’. Huxley is used to being obeyed without question but he has met his match in Kandi who he dubbed his Kandiland which is very cute.
Most time this type of story end with the girl doing what he wants all the time but not this one. Her cousin Stacey is hilarious and worthy of her own story hint hint.
Most time this type of story end with the girl doing what he wants all the time but not this one. Her cousin Stacey is hilarious and worthy of her own story hint hint.
June 18, 2018
how do I explain my feelings for this book?
I can't! I loved kandiland so much, ms smith just really has a way with words and writes book which I devoure and cant get enough of.
"they call you the king"
I loved how broody, moody and scary huxley was.
kandi is a fresh pinch of pink goodness.
"just you, kandiland"
this story gave me so many feels
"you're my kandiland"
if your new to TL I highly recommend starting here this is a fantastic book to read!
I can't! I loved kandiland so much, ms smith just really has a way with words and writes book which I devoure and cant get enough of.
"they call you the king"
I loved how broody, moody and scary huxley was.
kandi is a fresh pinch of pink goodness.
"just you, kandiland"
this story gave me so many feels
"you're my kandiland"
if your new to TL I highly recommend starting here this is a fantastic book to read!
March 24, 2020
3 estrelas .
O livro é interessante, porém previsível e achei que poderia ter sido um pouco mais trabalhado.
O livro é interessante, porém previsível e achei que poderia ter sido um pouco mais trabalhado.
June 9, 2018
loved Kandi and Huxley Amazing story.Intense gripping emotional beautiful loving broken.I Need more much more.
June 19, 2018
I’ve loved this author’s previous books. So when this one came around I was eager to get my hands on it. I was interested to see what fairytale land I would be taken to this time.
Kandi has faced major tragedy. So when coming to the town of Candy she is eager for her life to start over. What she doesn’t expect to find is Huxley.
Huxley has had a hell of a past and is known for always getting what he wants. When Kandi crosses his path he knows he wants her. He wants her like he’s never wanted another woman. But when she denies him he has does everything in his power to prove she wants him too.
The chemistry was off the charts with these two characters. Kandi is unlike any heroine I have ever met in any other book. She is strong willed, she is determined and she’s not sorry for being who she is. The author pulls you in to the world of Candy. She paints such a vivid picture it’s as if you’re there with these characters. - By Vanessa
Kandi has faced major tragedy. So when coming to the town of Candy she is eager for her life to start over. What she doesn’t expect to find is Huxley.
Huxley has had a hell of a past and is known for always getting what he wants. When Kandi crosses his path he knows he wants her. He wants her like he’s never wanted another woman. But when she denies him he has does everything in his power to prove she wants him too.
The chemistry was off the charts with these two characters. Kandi is unlike any heroine I have ever met in any other book. She is strong willed, she is determined and she’s not sorry for being who she is. The author pulls you in to the world of Candy. She paints such a vivid picture it’s as if you’re there with these characters. - By Vanessa
June 18, 2018
5 STARS FOR KANDILAND!! Oh my, Huxley won my heart!! This story has all the feels with some dark and sexy times. To say Huxley and Kandi's story is great is not enough, it is PHENOMENAL. I could not put this book down and I never wanted it to end. This book is screaming for you to 1-click it and you will be happy you did.
June 28, 2018
Four letters's, one word ... MORE That's what I wanted from this book.
I was pulled in immediately with the dramatic prologue that had my blood pounding and head spinning in attempts to figure out what exactly is going on. The fast pace continued throughout the entirety of the book which I felt was a negative. I wanted the story to slow down and delve deeper into the plot and characters because it is actually a very good book. There just needs to be more of it.
I really liked Kandi. A strong young lady with tattoos and pink hair that was comfortable in her own skin. After a devastating loss, she decides to settle down in the small town of Candy to make a life for herself.
Now enters Huxley Cross. Owner of the strip club, Candy Village as well as owning most of the town. Of course he is a baddass and harbors criminal tendencies so obviously there is no room in his life for a relationship with a woman. So he does what other men in his position do, he finds a bed buddy to unemotionally fuck, without any ties to bind them together.
Kandi and Huxley's relationship isn't insta love, but they blazing chemistry and even hotter sex. The story is really good and well written. There is also a plot twist pops up that causes a bump in their non-labeled relationship. The only really negative thing was that it was a quick read. I wish it had been drawn out a little longer to create more suspense and maybe a little more angst. I would have really liked to witness Huxley's reformation from big bad boss man to a man that falls in love. It really has good bones but there needed to be MORE of it.
I was pulled in immediately with the dramatic prologue that had my blood pounding and head spinning in attempts to figure out what exactly is going on. The fast pace continued throughout the entirety of the book which I felt was a negative. I wanted the story to slow down and delve deeper into the plot and characters because it is actually a very good book. There just needs to be more of it.
I really liked Kandi. A strong young lady with tattoos and pink hair that was comfortable in her own skin. After a devastating loss, she decides to settle down in the small town of Candy to make a life for herself.
Now enters Huxley Cross. Owner of the strip club, Candy Village as well as owning most of the town. Of course he is a baddass and harbors criminal tendencies so obviously there is no room in his life for a relationship with a woman. So he does what other men in his position do, he finds a bed buddy to unemotionally fuck, without any ties to bind them together.
Kandi and Huxley's relationship isn't insta love, but they blazing chemistry and even hotter sex. The story is really good and well written. There is also a plot twist pops up that causes a bump in their non-labeled relationship. The only really negative thing was that it was a quick read. I wish it had been drawn out a little longer to create more suspense and maybe a little more angst. I would have really liked to witness Huxley's reformation from big bad boss man to a man that falls in love. It really has good bones but there needed to be MORE of it.
June 13, 2018
3.5 stars
This is quick flowing book, that blurb sucked me in and I had to read it. But If I am honest was left with wanting more. I wanted more bones and guts, from the story. I have been left with questions and no answers and I find myself asking why? Now don't get all twisted with that as I did enjoy it but an honest opinion is what I will give.
Although I loved Kandi, I found her a complete pushover and on more than one occasion I want to shake her. Her life is hers but it wasn't at all. As she is controlled by the men that she finds herself with and I didn't like that aspect at all. Huxley was a good character but with no heart it's hard to get to him really. He was all alpha, which gets him points for sure. This story isn't fluffy and the past plays a huge part of that.
I do recommend this book. This could be someone's read of the year. But this time for me I wasn't completely blown away.
This is quick flowing book, that blurb sucked me in and I had to read it. But If I am honest was left with wanting more. I wanted more bones and guts, from the story. I have been left with questions and no answers and I find myself asking why? Now don't get all twisted with that as I did enjoy it but an honest opinion is what I will give.
Although I loved Kandi, I found her a complete pushover and on more than one occasion I want to shake her. Her life is hers but it wasn't at all. As she is controlled by the men that she finds herself with and I didn't like that aspect at all. Huxley was a good character but with no heart it's hard to get to him really. He was all alpha, which gets him points for sure. This story isn't fluffy and the past plays a huge part of that.
I do recommend this book. This could be someone's read of the year. But this time for me I wasn't completely blown away.
June 19, 2018
“She is my more. The only problem with our situation... I don’t love. So as long as she doesn’t expect that, I’ll take as much as she’ll give. And take some more. Because I was once told a bad boy doesn’t love. He takes.”
Huxley is the self made King of Candy, a town in the middle of nowhere that Kandi is drawn to to start again. After being widowed, grief has overwhelmed her and she’s making good on the promises they made - to settle down and find a home. A fresh start and a new job is just the distraction she needs and a sexy boss that captures all of her attention... but can Kandi resist the darkly brooding man that owns everything in the town?
Huxley is man that takes what he wants consequences be damned, and oh boy does he know how to sin! Powerful and decisive he sets his eyes on Kandi and has an offer she really shouldn’t be able to refuse, yet maybe that’s her allure she is sassy and seemingly able to resist his charms! A perfect will they won’t they plot line with a twist or two thrown in that sends you into free fall Kandiland is super sexy and filled with surprises. As always this amazing author integrates romance, sex and love with darkness, pain and loss. I cried and I yelled and as ever went on an emotional rollercoaster with this story. I loved it! I would totally love to visit Kandiland again and again.
A five star I love Kandi read.
Huxley is the self made King of Candy, a town in the middle of nowhere that Kandi is drawn to to start again. After being widowed, grief has overwhelmed her and she’s making good on the promises they made - to settle down and find a home. A fresh start and a new job is just the distraction she needs and a sexy boss that captures all of her attention... but can Kandi resist the darkly brooding man that owns everything in the town?
Huxley is man that takes what he wants consequences be damned, and oh boy does he know how to sin! Powerful and decisive he sets his eyes on Kandi and has an offer she really shouldn’t be able to refuse, yet maybe that’s her allure she is sassy and seemingly able to resist his charms! A perfect will they won’t they plot line with a twist or two thrown in that sends you into free fall Kandiland is super sexy and filled with surprises. As always this amazing author integrates romance, sex and love with darkness, pain and loss. I cried and I yelled and as ever went on an emotional rollercoaster with this story. I loved it! I would totally love to visit Kandiland again and again.
A five star I love Kandi read.
June 19, 2018
TL Smith’s characters don’t live in the mainstream. They’re found in the margins, in the shadows and in little niche pockets of oddity all over the place.
Kandi and Huxley are two such characters. Kandi is a wanderer, travelling with her husband Jarod initially, and now on her own after his untimely exit. She ends up at a town bearing a similar name, a town called Candy.
Huxley owns Candy. Owns most of the businesses, the properties and employs most of its residents. He’s impossible to avoid.
It’s inevitable that Kandi ends up working for him. But what she didn’t anticipate was feeling something for the first time since Jarod. What Huxley didn’t anticipate was feeling something for the first time, ever.
The two of them are inexorably drawn to each other; despite their best efforts. As is inevitable in TL Smith’s universe, twists and turns bombard the pair as they struggle to put a name to their relationship. Is it sex? Is it love? Can they last?
This book is a luxurious read, something to be savoured and enjoyed. The characters are perfectly imperfect, the storyline gripping and the whole thing will have you in it’s thrall. I didn’t feel the same edginess that I did when reading her other books. I don’t know whether that means that she’s getting lighter or, in fact, I’m getting darker. I suspect it may be the latter. And I’m good with that.
Kandi and Huxley are two such characters. Kandi is a wanderer, travelling with her husband Jarod initially, and now on her own after his untimely exit. She ends up at a town bearing a similar name, a town called Candy.
Huxley owns Candy. Owns most of the businesses, the properties and employs most of its residents. He’s impossible to avoid.
It’s inevitable that Kandi ends up working for him. But what she didn’t anticipate was feeling something for the first time since Jarod. What Huxley didn’t anticipate was feeling something for the first time, ever.
The two of them are inexorably drawn to each other; despite their best efforts. As is inevitable in TL Smith’s universe, twists and turns bombard the pair as they struggle to put a name to their relationship. Is it sex? Is it love? Can they last?
This book is a luxurious read, something to be savoured and enjoyed. The characters are perfectly imperfect, the storyline gripping and the whole thing will have you in it’s thrall. I didn’t feel the same edginess that I did when reading her other books. I don’t know whether that means that she’s getting lighter or, in fact, I’m getting darker. I suspect it may be the latter. And I’m good with that.
June 8, 2018
Kandiland was always going to blow my mind. With a T. L. Smith story, you know you are guaranteed to be blindsided by brilliance. I was that and more. I just became so immersed in this story that nothing else existed for me. I became one with the characters and the more sinister and arrogant the leading man is, the more addicted I found myself. I was owned by Kandi and her knight in damaged armour. He was an irresistible enigma. I admired Kandi’s tenacity and felt quite connected to her. She was an enviable character that I loved getting to know.
I don't know how she does it, but T. L. Smith has rendered me speechless, yet again. The story had power, danger, drama, chemistry, attraction and depth. No stone was left unturned and the end result was a perfectly put together dramatic love story. I cannot get enough of this genre and am always left wanting more. 5 stars.
I don't know how she does it, but T. L. Smith has rendered me speechless, yet again. The story had power, danger, drama, chemistry, attraction and depth. No stone was left unturned and the end result was a perfectly put together dramatic love story. I cannot get enough of this genre and am always left wanting more. 5 stars.
June 6, 2018
WOW!! Where to begin!!
I have read several of T.L Smiths books and this by far is the most unique of her stories to date.
Kandi and Huxley are the most non perfect perfect couple to grace a story and reading their story was like a breath of fresh air!!
We all have demons, and Hux and Kandi are no exception, One refuses to love while the other doesn't think they are capable of giving more than what they already do.
One click this story now and be prepared to be wooed, and gutted before being put back together!!
I have read several of T.L Smiths books and this by far is the most unique of her stories to date.
Kandi and Huxley are the most non perfect perfect couple to grace a story and reading their story was like a breath of fresh air!!
We all have demons, and Hux and Kandi are no exception, One refuses to love while the other doesn't think they are capable of giving more than what they already do.
One click this story now and be prepared to be wooed, and gutted before being put back together!!
June 6, 2018
Hold on to your seats this little diddy is full of sexy alpha and stong heroine. Kandi is working a broken heart after the loss pf her husband. Its been a year and she finally done running. Her final destination a town called Candy. This charming city is owned by the King aka Huxley. Huxley gets one look at Kandi and things get steamy real quick. This book is a guaranteed page truner that is super HOT!!
June 4, 2018
My review for Kandiland is a difficult one to write, not because the book isn't great, it's TL Smith, of course it's great, but because there are so many surprises, and twist and turns, that it's impossible to say anything without giving something away.
Kandiland made me laugh, made me cry. I've said this before about TL Smith, she is one of the most gifted story tellers of our time, it's an honour to read her work. Five stars are not enough!
Kandiland made me laugh, made me cry. I've said this before about TL Smith, she is one of the most gifted story tellers of our time, it's an honour to read her work. Five stars are not enough!
June 24, 2018
I have to admit, this book is addicting. It started off good and then I wasnt sure wether it was because it qas a good book or a bad one. It turns out, it was bad.
This is one is one big old mess. The girl was all over the place with no self respect. She was hot and cold the next minute. I am surprised by all the high ratings. The writing wasnt great either. I had to read sentences twice to understand the flow. I think the story itself could have been good. It definitely had potential.
Unfortunately, this book was a no for me.
This is one is one big old mess. The girl was all over the place with no self respect. She was hot and cold the next minute. I am surprised by all the high ratings. The writing wasnt great either. I had to read sentences twice to understand the flow. I think the story itself could have been good. It definitely had potential.
Unfortunately, this book was a no for me.
June 18, 2018
What a sweet story that left me smiling and my heart full. Emmie and her friends have such a strong bond and I did not like her ex at all. Beau is not Emmie's "typical" type/interst but someone who is trying to live his life and take care of his family. I enjoyed reading their story and their chemistry is simmering. I loved how real Emmie was with her rambling and her natural reactions.
WHen all is done my heart is so full from their story
WHen all is done my heart is so full from their story
June 19, 2018
I loved the cover when I saw it and the blurb had me intrigued. The prologue was interesting and the book was off to a promising start, but somewhere along the way my excitement fizzled.
I'll start with Kandi, I had a hard time connecting with her. She was kind, caring and quirky-qualities that I did admire in her. But I found her to be quite weak, she lacked strength in my eyes. There were times where she went head to head with Huxley, something that no one else in the town would dare to do, but those moments were few and far between. It was disappointing.
Huxley, he's the King of Candy and is a respected, dangerous, and feared man. How he became "The King" and owner of most of Candy, was completely far-fetched. I needed further exploration of his past and a more detailed explanation as to what exactly he did to earn the amount of money he had. He was 18 when he started selling drugs and doing "other things", and by the time he was 20 it's as if he had an empire. The way it was presented made it not at all plausible to me.
There's a bit of back and forth between the MC's, a ton of sexual tension, and then some extreme steam. They have a no strings attached arrangement. I will say that the intimate scenes were satisfying. Sizzling hot and sexy! Eventually, it becomes much more than physical, feelings are added into the mix even though both parties are in complete denial about that fact. The problem for me as the reader, I was also in denial. I felt no emotional connection between the characters. They had passion, but their entire relationship felt like it started and stopped at lust and sexual compatibility. I never had that, "oh they're falling/in love" moment.
If you like red-hot contemporary romance, and you love intense Alpha heroes, give Kandiland a try. Unfortunately for me I did not connect to the main characters or invest in their relationship, so the romance did not work for me. However, I did enjoy some of the side characters, and although I saw it coming, I also enjoyed the little twist in the plot!
I'll start with Kandi, I had a hard time connecting with her. She was kind, caring and quirky-qualities that I did admire in her. But I found her to be quite weak, she lacked strength in my eyes. There were times where she went head to head with Huxley, something that no one else in the town would dare to do, but those moments were few and far between. It was disappointing.
Huxley, he's the King of Candy and is a respected, dangerous, and feared man. How he became "The King" and owner of most of Candy, was completely far-fetched. I needed further exploration of his past and a more detailed explanation as to what exactly he did to earn the amount of money he had. He was 18 when he started selling drugs and doing "other things", and by the time he was 20 it's as if he had an empire. The way it was presented made it not at all plausible to me.
There's a bit of back and forth between the MC's, a ton of sexual tension, and then some extreme steam. They have a no strings attached arrangement. I will say that the intimate scenes were satisfying. Sizzling hot and sexy! Eventually, it becomes much more than physical, feelings are added into the mix even though both parties are in complete denial about that fact. The problem for me as the reader, I was also in denial. I felt no emotional connection between the characters. They had passion, but their entire relationship felt like it started and stopped at lust and sexual compatibility. I never had that, "oh they're falling/in love" moment.
If you like red-hot contemporary romance, and you love intense Alpha heroes, give Kandiland a try. Unfortunately for me I did not connect to the main characters or invest in their relationship, so the romance did not work for me. However, I did enjoy some of the side characters, and although I saw it coming, I also enjoyed the little twist in the plot!
June 19, 2018
I was expecting a hot, forbidden boss/employee romance but it became clear just from reading the prologue that I was going to get so much more than that. You could feel the emotions jumping from the pages and I couldn’t wait to read more. I ended up reading this in one sitting I was completely hooked.
Kandi is a brilliant character. I loved her from the very start. She’s quirky and sassy but she’s also had more than her fair share of heartbreak and that adds another layer to her character. Forced to leave the man she loves changes her and she finds herself moving to a town called Candy for a fresh start. It’s not long until she catches the eye of the mysterious Huxley Cross who just so happens to own most of the businesses in Candy.
Huxley is a bit of an enigma in the beginning of this. He has a very mysterious, dangerous, secretive air about him that intrigued me and I was desperate to find out what really made him tick. He’s everything I love in my book men. He’s broody and a bit of a control freak, demanding but he does have a heart...it’s just very well hidden.
Kandi and Huxley together are fantastic. The sexual chemistry between them is hot and undeniable, there’s a few twists to keep them both on their toes and their story was so much more than I was expecting and I loved every second of it. I’ve been a massive fan of TL Smith for years and this book is definitely one of my favourites by her. I can’t recommend it enough.
Kandi is a brilliant character. I loved her from the very start. She’s quirky and sassy but she’s also had more than her fair share of heartbreak and that adds another layer to her character. Forced to leave the man she loves changes her and she finds herself moving to a town called Candy for a fresh start. It’s not long until she catches the eye of the mysterious Huxley Cross who just so happens to own most of the businesses in Candy.
Huxley is a bit of an enigma in the beginning of this. He has a very mysterious, dangerous, secretive air about him that intrigued me and I was desperate to find out what really made him tick. He’s everything I love in my book men. He’s broody and a bit of a control freak, demanding but he does have a heart...it’s just very well hidden.
Kandi and Huxley together are fantastic. The sexual chemistry between them is hot and undeniable, there’s a few twists to keep them both on their toes and their story was so much more than I was expecting and I loved every second of it. I’ve been a massive fan of TL Smith for years and this book is definitely one of my favourites by her. I can’t recommend it enough.
June 5, 2018
4.5 Kandi-coated Stars
Review by Amy W.
Late Night Reviewer
Up All Night w/ Books Blog
"My Huxley jar's going to need a lot of money"
Kandi isn't the only one with a Huxley jar after reading Kandiland. I recently discovered and fell in love with T.L. Smith with her last few releases. While Kandiland isn't dark, there are a few twists and Huxley is every bit the broken bad boy.
"Don't fall for me, Kandiland. I'll only break you."
In the small town of Candy, Huxley is King. He gets what he wants and when Kandi moves to town he sets his sights on her. Too bad for him Kandi had a tragic past and doesn't want or need a man in her life.
"What's a lie, really? One's version of the truth. Or another's."
Lies, lies, lies. This whole story revolves around lies. From the prologue I was invested in Kandi and her story. I mean that was a pretty intense way to start off, but I expect nothing less from Ms. Smith. This was not as dark as her previous few, but it had some of those elements that I love, just in a lighter tone. I figured out one bit of the story pretty earlier on, but there was a certain thing that happens that I totally wasn't prepared for. I thought for sure that it wouldn't actually. And usually I love being wrong, but not this time. I love that it was the catalyst for the HEA but man, I wasn't ready for it.
I truly loved this story and I wish that it had taken that darker path that was so easily within reach. Even without being dark and extremely twisty, this lighter story is just as captivating.
**ARC provided by author for honest review**
Review by Amy W.
Late Night Reviewer
Up All Night w/ Books Blog
"My Huxley jar's going to need a lot of money"
Kandi isn't the only one with a Huxley jar after reading Kandiland. I recently discovered and fell in love with T.L. Smith with her last few releases. While Kandiland isn't dark, there are a few twists and Huxley is every bit the broken bad boy.
"Don't fall for me, Kandiland. I'll only break you."
In the small town of Candy, Huxley is King. He gets what he wants and when Kandi moves to town he sets his sights on her. Too bad for him Kandi had a tragic past and doesn't want or need a man in her life.
"What's a lie, really? One's version of the truth. Or another's."
Lies, lies, lies. This whole story revolves around lies. From the prologue I was invested in Kandi and her story. I mean that was a pretty intense way to start off, but I expect nothing less from Ms. Smith. This was not as dark as her previous few, but it had some of those elements that I love, just in a lighter tone. I figured out one bit of the story pretty earlier on, but there was a certain thing that happens that I totally wasn't prepared for. I thought for sure that it wouldn't actually. And usually I love being wrong, but not this time. I love that it was the catalyst for the HEA but man, I wasn't ready for it.
I truly loved this story and I wish that it had taken that darker path that was so easily within reach. Even without being dark and extremely twisty, this lighter story is just as captivating.
**ARC provided by author for honest review**
June 8, 2018
Kandiland twists you up so much inside until it's hard to breath, then one sentence from Huxley slowly untwists you until you are staring at the words "The End" wondering when you will get that high back. Huxley comes across as hard to love, but he's not. He's so easy to love. It's so easy to see through his hard demeanor and see the good man in there. Yes, he will piss you off beyond belief. Yes, he will have you questioning those glimpses of a good man you've seen. But it's all completely worth it. Kandi, from the first meeting, brings out a side Huxley isn't comfortable with. She slowly unravels his complex threads and luckily sees the man inside.
Kandiland completely captivated me. I was so hung up on both Kandi and Huxley's interactions I feel I missed the small touches of this story. That's ok, I know I plan on reading this again and again. The entire world and characters were simply amazing to see. I only hope I see them again, Huxley and Kandi is a love story I'll remember for a long time!
Kandiland completely captivated me. I was so hung up on both Kandi and Huxley's interactions I feel I missed the small touches of this story. That's ok, I know I plan on reading this again and again. The entire world and characters were simply amazing to see. I only hope I see them again, Huxley and Kandi is a love story I'll remember for a long time!
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