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Heartstone #2
Dreams of 18
HEARTSTONE SERIES BOOK 2
A COMPLETE STANDALONE
Violet Moore is in love with a man who hates her.
Well, to be fair, she kinda deserves it.
On her eighteenth birthday, she got drunk and threw herself at him, causing a huge scandal in their sleepy suburban town.
Now everyone thinks she’s a slut and he has disappeared. Rumor has it that he’s been living up in the mountains of Colorado, all alone and in isolation.
But Violet is going to make it right.
She’s going to find him and bring him back.
No matter how cruel and mean he is, how much he hurts her with his cold-hearted and abrasive ways, she won’t give up.
And neither will she think about his tempting lips or his sculpted muscles or his strong hands. The hands that she wants on her body, touching her, feeling her skin…
The hands that make her want to forget everything and kiss Graham Edwards – Mr. Edwards, actually – again.
Because you don’t go around kissing your best friend’s dad, do you?
Even though that’s all you ever dream about.
____
Previously titled Nicotine Dreams
A COMPLETE STANDALONE
Violet Moore is in love with a man who hates her.
Well, to be fair, she kinda deserves it.
On her eighteenth birthday, she got drunk and threw herself at him, causing a huge scandal in their sleepy suburban town.
Now everyone thinks she’s a slut and he has disappeared. Rumor has it that he’s been living up in the mountains of Colorado, all alone and in isolation.
But Violet is going to make it right.
She’s going to find him and bring him back.
No matter how cruel and mean he is, how much he hurts her with his cold-hearted and abrasive ways, she won’t give up.
And neither will she think about his tempting lips or his sculpted muscles or his strong hands. The hands that she wants on her body, touching her, feeling her skin…
The hands that make her want to forget everything and kiss Graham Edwards – Mr. Edwards, actually – again.
Because you don’t go around kissing your best friend’s dad, do you?
Even though that’s all you ever dream about.
____
Previously titled Nicotine Dreams
496 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 10, 2019
1365 people are currently reading
9361 people want to read
About the author
Saffron A. Kent
35 books6,304 followersSaffron A. Kent is a USA Today Bestselling Author of Contemporary and New Adult romance. She writes dark, forbidden, and emotional romance that blurs the line between love and obsession. Her books feature burn that hurts, the broken boy who shouldn’t be touched, the girl who can’t stay away, and the secret that could destroy them both. She's known for her poetic prose and romance that delivers both beautiful destruction and the promise of being remade by love that should never have happened.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,036 reviews
October 22, 2019
“You know what happens when a thirty-four-year-old man watches a sixteen-year-old girl?”
“But I’m not… I’m not sixteen anymore.”
*sigh* I guess I needed time to absorb this story as well as the level of disappointment I felt while reading DO18. This story had so much potential and I honestly could not have been more excited. Saffron Kent has written one of my all time favourite romances, Medicine Man and I always do a little dance whenever she comes out with new material. This one fell very short for me.
_______________
Hit or Miss
Right so, I guess I can say with some certainty that Kent's books and I have a love-hate relationship. I guess my main issue with DO18 is the fact that I had so much hope for it! This author can do a lot of things with smut and often her books will call for the holiest holy water, but I was so stuck on the issues within this book that I couldn't even enjoy that.
Everything felt way too rushed and underdeveloped. I started feeling this from the second chapter. The writing was watered down and the random bursts of purple prose would give me a sense of whiplash. It was like someone randomly yelled at the author to be "more deep" in the middle of random scenes. There's something to be said though, about the tension that this book derives because I definitely wanted to keep reading, even though I wasn't necessarily adoring what I was reading. (Does that even make sense, Alex?) I only wish that there was something more unique to this book, rather than just "this happened, then that happened, then we lived happily ever after." I wanted to be more invested with the story itself and the characters.
The Romance
Age-gap romances can really go one of two ways. I actually think Kent handled this aspect pretty well. I had more issues with the amount of cringey one-liners and cliche "he's just such a man" statements that I got bored. Which is the crux of my rating, there was nothing of substance that I held onto. I wasn't drawn to Violet or Mr. Edwards, so I wasn't really invested in their romance. The first part of the story definitely captivated me more than the second half, if only for the reason that there was something between Violet and Graham that left me wanting more. This seemed to lose itself as the story progressed.
DO18 is also packed full of angst, which is not always a bad thing. Although, I feel like it was mostly "telling" me about how it's angsty, instead of making me feel the angst. This seemed to regress during the latter part of the book. Soon, I just felt like I was in a very mundane story that wanted to be taboo, instead of yknow actually being taboo.
I also seriously struggled with the way Violet's mental health was approached. I wanted her to push through the spiralling thoughts and stand her ground for some things but the story was bordering "magic dick syndrome," and it made me feel very uncomfortable. There were also some scenes that just did not sit right at all. Specifically, there was a scene in the start of the book where Graham asks (a drunk) Violet quite explicitly to step away from his personal space, but she refuses and go aheads and kisses him instead. I kept thinking, if the situation was reversed and a lady was asking a man to move away from her... it would be absolutely disgusting so why shouldn't this be seen as the same?
Overall, I feel like this story had so much potential and having loved Kent's novel's in the past... I was just very severely disappointed. I"m not losing hope because I know I trust Saffron's writing style and plot devices, this one just didn't hit a lot of the marks.
“But I’m not… I’m not sixteen anymore.”
*sigh* I guess I needed time to absorb this story as well as the level of disappointment I felt while reading DO18. This story had so much potential and I honestly could not have been more excited. Saffron Kent has written one of my all time favourite romances, Medicine Man and I always do a little dance whenever she comes out with new material. This one fell very short for me.
_______________
Hit or Miss
Right so, I guess I can say with some certainty that Kent's books and I have a love-hate relationship. I guess my main issue with DO18 is the fact that I had so much hope for it! This author can do a lot of things with smut and often her books will call for the holiest holy water, but I was so stuck on the issues within this book that I couldn't even enjoy that.
Everything felt way too rushed and underdeveloped. I started feeling this from the second chapter. The writing was watered down and the random bursts of purple prose would give me a sense of whiplash. It was like someone randomly yelled at the author to be "more deep" in the middle of random scenes. There's something to be said though, about the tension that this book derives because I definitely wanted to keep reading, even though I wasn't necessarily adoring what I was reading. (Does that even make sense, Alex?) I only wish that there was something more unique to this book, rather than just "this happened, then that happened, then we lived happily ever after." I wanted to be more invested with the story itself and the characters.
"You can eat me up all you want. You can eat me up a hundred different ways. I’m gonna like your teeth and your tongue and I’m gonna fall in love with the sting of it all. You’re my Strawberry Man. At least, that’s what I call you in my head.”
The Romance
Age-gap romances can really go one of two ways. I actually think Kent handled this aspect pretty well. I had more issues with the amount of cringey one-liners and cliche "he's just such a man" statements that I got bored. Which is the crux of my rating, there was nothing of substance that I held onto. I wasn't drawn to Violet or Mr. Edwards, so I wasn't really invested in their romance. The first part of the story definitely captivated me more than the second half, if only for the reason that there was something between Violet and Graham that left me wanting more. This seemed to lose itself as the story progressed.
DO18 is also packed full of angst, which is not always a bad thing. Although, I feel like it was mostly "telling" me about how it's angsty, instead of making me feel the angst. This seemed to regress during the latter part of the book. Soon, I just felt like I was in a very mundane story that wanted to be taboo, instead of yknow actually being taboo.
I also seriously struggled with the way Violet's mental health was approached. I wanted her to push through the spiralling thoughts and stand her ground for some things but the story was bordering "magic dick syndrome," and it made me feel very uncomfortable. There were also some scenes that just did not sit right at all. Specifically, there was a scene in the start of the book where Graham asks (a drunk) Violet quite explicitly to step away from his personal space, but she refuses and go aheads and kisses him instead. I kept thinking, if the situation was reversed and a lady was asking a man to move away from her... it would be absolutely disgusting so why shouldn't this be seen as the same?
“Mr. Edwards?” “Step. The fuck. Away.” There’s a warning in his tone. An urgency, even. Or maybe it’s me. I’m the one filled with all the urgency that this is my only chance. The only chance to know how it feels. I keep watching his mouth. “It’s my birthday.” “Go. Home.”
Overall, I feel like this story had so much potential and having loved Kent's novel's in the past... I was just very severely disappointed. I"m not losing hope because I know I trust Saffron's writing style and plot devices, this one just didn't hit a lot of the marks.
October 9, 2019
4 stars
If you are a lover of forbidden/age gap romances, you need this book in your life. I always pick up Saffron A. Kent's books because her writing is stunning. This is one of those books that once you start it, you won't want to put it down. From the very first page to the last, I was invested.
Violet and her sister notice they have two new neighbors moving in next door on Violet's 16th birthday. While her sister is checking out the guy Violet's age, the only one Violet sees is the other guy. He's rugged, handsome, and just happens to be her neighbors 34 year old father. For two years, Violet watches him. She's intrigued by everything he does and little by little she falls in love. On Violet's 18th birthday, she only wants one thing. A kiss. She takes it. And she's not prepared for the consequences.
Violet and Graham's love story isn't traditional. It's taboo in many ways and angsty as all get out. It may not be your typical romance, but it's beautifully written and utterly romantic. You can tell these two love each other so deeply, even when Graham doesn't want to. When everything unfolds, it's just gorgeous. Graham is a bit of an anti-hero and he can be a jerk at times, but once you get to really know him, you understand why. I loved them together. Also, this book was crazy steamy. For anyone looking for a super sexy read, this is a must read! If you've read Medicine Man, you may recognize Violet's name. I loved that little tie in and I'm hoping we get more books from that world.
I loved this Beauty and the Beast type romance. It gave me so many feels, had angst, steam, and lots of romance. Another great story by Saffron. I'm looking forward to whatever she puts out next!!
"You’re a girl who makes a man go bad."
If you are a lover of forbidden/age gap romances, you need this book in your life. I always pick up Saffron A. Kent's books because her writing is stunning. This is one of those books that once you start it, you won't want to put it down. From the very first page to the last, I was invested.
Violet and her sister notice they have two new neighbors moving in next door on Violet's 16th birthday. While her sister is checking out the guy Violet's age, the only one Violet sees is the other guy. He's rugged, handsome, and just happens to be her neighbors 34 year old father. For two years, Violet watches him. She's intrigued by everything he does and little by little she falls in love. On Violet's 18th birthday, she only wants one thing. A kiss. She takes it. And she's not prepared for the consequences.
Violet and Graham's love story isn't traditional. It's taboo in many ways and angsty as all get out. It may not be your typical romance, but it's beautifully written and utterly romantic. You can tell these two love each other so deeply, even when Graham doesn't want to. When everything unfolds, it's just gorgeous. Graham is a bit of an anti-hero and he can be a jerk at times, but once you get to really know him, you understand why. I loved them together. Also, this book was crazy steamy. For anyone looking for a super sexy read, this is a must read! If you've read Medicine Man, you may recognize Violet's name. I loved that little tie in and I'm hoping we get more books from that world.
I loved this Beauty and the Beast type romance. It gave me so many feels, had angst, steam, and lots of romance. Another great story by Saffron. I'm looking forward to whatever she puts out next!!
This is what it feels like, I think. When your dreams come true. When something you’ve wanted for so long is finally yours. He is mine. This man is mine.
March 5, 2024
3 stars
MY THOUGHTS ABOUT THE HEROINE THIS ENTIRE BOOK: 📉📈📉📈📉📈📉📈📉
🛑SPOILERS🛑
Violet has that thing going on where she describes her beautiful facial features as if she is the Hunchback of Notre Dame.
Where in our day and age do people find big, plump lips weird?
This brings me to my next point, the heroine was the most oblivious little airhead I've ever read. I say airhead in the nicest way possible, there is just no other way to describe her naivety.
I'm pretty sure if the sky suddenly started to rain elephants and aliens took over the world, she would feel a little swoosh of the wind and notice nothing apart from a looming shadow before going on with her day.
The same way she didn't realise she is actually drop-dead-gorgeous & that 90% of the male population is in love with her.
I'm not exactly mad about her cluelessness though. She is 18, insecure, and with an anxiety disorder so her character makes sense. However, what didn't make sense, or to be more accurate WHAT DROVE ME UP THE FUCKING WALL WITH FRUSTRATION:) is how her little anxious/introverted ass had no problem embarrassing me repeatedly. Not herself though, THANK OUR LORD AND SAVIOUR FOR THAT MERCY, because the hero never actually caught her humiliating herself. He was just as useless as she is in that aspect, a match made in heaven.
SAK's books are the reason I HATE obsessed heroines. Violet did so much cringy shit I can't even think about it, my face squeezes the moment I remember that one particular scene. If desperation had a face it would have giant brown eyes and bee-stung lips because.....
She started kissing the window of the bar the hero was in😭......WHILE he was making out with OW😭😭😭.
However, I loved how upfront Violet was with Graham at times. No miscommunication about her feelings, once she finally realised things, she laid it all out. It was pretty refreshing after all the miserably embarrassing shit she has done.
At the end of the day, THE ONLY REASON this behaviour was excused is because the hero was actually just as obsessed with the heroine if not more. Of course he had to act all mean about it, which is what made this story so juicy, at least the first half of it.
As it turns out Mr. Edwards watched her too. Watched her a lot. What I'm really curious about though, is how these two idiots didn't notice they were stalking eachother🤣
I mean she climbed on a roof to watch him, and he watched her climb the roof. How tf did their eyes not meet once??? Although I have a theory that they did actually see the other watching. Except because they are themselves, the poor idiots would not have the mental capacity to realise what was happening.
Live footage of Violet & Graham catching eachother creeping before moving on with their day in blissful cluelessness💀:
WHO TAUGHT SAK TO DIRTY TALK? PUT EM IN JAIL
I was actually gonna give this book 4 stars because everything pre-sex was great. The sexual tension was through the roof, the hero was a giant dick, the heroine got on my last nerve, I was miserable, I was having a grand time.
Then came the actual sex. Wasn't a fan of their brand of dirty talking at all. She kept referring to her vagina as "she" and "slutty" continuously, in every sex scene.
"My pussy is so slutty, my ass is slutty, I am slutty, my big left toe is slutty".🍭 OKAY! you are a giant slut, we know.
Of course because her pussy is slutty, his cock has to be bad.
"BIG BAD COCK, bad bad big man, bad big big bad penis"🌹
not real quotes btw, I am petty so I mock. Good luck with the tongue twisters.
Here's a real quote for you tho<3:
MYSTERIOUS HEALING PROPERTIES OF THE ✨PENIS✨
I liked the portrayal of Violet's severe anxiety up until she randomly got over it thanks to Graham's BIG BAD COCK.
She suddenly went from shaking, crying and being terrified of watchful eyes to public displays of affection.
The same girl that had to be admitted to a psych ward because of her constant panic attacks from being observed, has just sucked a man's dick in plain sight.
THINGS THAT MADE ME LOL
🍭 The conflict had me dying because Graham didn't even last a chapter before regretting his descisions🤣🤣🤣 dude was a mopy mess. THE SECOND she stepped out the door he started smelling her journals.
Really, they belong together. The level of desperation they have for each other is astounding. The only difference is Graham hides it better.
🍭 "Honey's honey". I'm gonna leave this one for ya'll to figure out.
OVERALL
Is this story basically a slightly different variation of Birthday Girl mixed with Welcome to the Dark Side? Two books that I have trashed without mercy? Why yes, it is.
As a very Influential and prophetic scholar once said....
What made this story better? Nothing. But I still liked it.
MY THOUGHTS ABOUT THE HEROINE THIS ENTIRE BOOK: 📉📈📉📈📉📈📉📈📉
🛑SPOILERS🛑
Violet has that thing going on where she describes her beautiful facial features as if she is the Hunchback of Notre Dame.
Honestly though, it’s not as if they’re giving me any attention anyway, what with my colorless cheeks, great, big brown eyes and super full and weird stung-by-a-bee lips.
But it’s fine. I have made my peace with it.
Where in our day and age do people find big, plump lips weird?
This brings me to my next point, the heroine was the most oblivious little airhead I've ever read. I say airhead in the nicest way possible, there is just no other way to describe her naivety.
I'm pretty sure if the sky suddenly started to rain elephants and aliens took over the world, she would feel a little swoosh of the wind and notice nothing apart from a looming shadow before going on with her day.
The same way she didn't realise she is actually drop-dead-gorgeous & that 90% of the male population is in love with her.
I'm not exactly mad about her cluelessness though. She is 18, insecure, and with an anxiety disorder so her character makes sense. However, what didn't make sense, or to be more accurate WHAT DROVE ME UP THE FUCKING WALL WITH FRUSTRATION:) is how her little anxious/introverted ass had no problem embarrassing me repeatedly. Not herself though, THANK OUR LORD AND SAVIOUR FOR THAT MERCY, because the hero never actually caught her humiliating herself. He was just as useless as she is in that aspect, a match made in heaven.
SAK's books are the reason I HATE obsessed heroines. Violet did so much cringy shit I can't even think about it, my face squeezes the moment I remember that one particular scene. If desperation had a face it would have giant brown eyes and bee-stung lips because.....
He’s kissing her, out in the open, in front of all these people. I can’t see the finer details of it, but I can at least see that his mouth is moving. His mouth is moving in a very dominating way.
So dominating that even I can feel it.
I feel it so much that I have to put my lips on the fogged-up-by-my-rapid-breaths glass. I have to press my lips on it the same way as I did on the night of my eighteenth birthday.
She started kissing the window of the bar the hero was in😭......WHILE he was making out with OW😭😭😭.
However, I loved how upfront Violet was with Graham at times. No miscommunication about her feelings, once she finally realised things, she laid it all out. It was pretty refreshing after all the miserably embarrassing shit she has done.
At the end of the day, THE ONLY REASON this behaviour was excused is because the hero was actually just as obsessed with the heroine if not more. Of course he had to act all mean about it, which is what made this story so juicy, at least the first half of it.
As it turns out Mr. Edwards watched her too. Watched her a lot. What I'm really curious about though, is how these two idiots didn't notice they were stalking eachother🤣
I mean she climbed on a roof to watch him, and he watched her climb the roof. How tf did their eyes not meet once??? Although I have a theory that they did actually see the other watching. Except because they are themselves, the poor idiots would not have the mental capacity to realise what was happening.
Live footage of Violet & Graham catching eachother creeping before moving on with their day in blissful cluelessness💀:
WHO TAUGHT SAK TO DIRTY TALK? PUT EM IN JAIL
I was actually gonna give this book 4 stars because everything pre-sex was great. The sexual tension was through the roof, the hero was a giant dick, the heroine got on my last nerve, I was miserable, I was having a grand time.
Then came the actual sex. Wasn't a fan of their brand of dirty talking at all. She kept referring to her vagina as "she" and "slutty" continuously, in every sex scene.
"My pussy is so slutty, my ass is slutty, I am slutty, my big left toe is slutty".🍭 OKAY! you are a giant slut, we know.
Of course because her pussy is slutty, his cock has to be bad.
"BIG BAD COCK, bad bad big man, bad big big bad penis"🌹
not real quotes btw, I am petty so I mock. Good luck with the tongue twisters.
Here's a real quote for you tho<3:
I may also have drawn blood from his skin with the way I’m clutching onto him, and I realize that he hasn’t even done anything.
All he’s done is stick my lollipop inside my pussy and I’ve lost my mind.
MYSTERIOUS HEALING PROPERTIES OF THE ✨PENIS✨
I liked the portrayal of Violet's severe anxiety up until she randomly got over it thanks to Graham's BIG BAD COCK.
She suddenly went from shaking, crying and being terrified of watchful eyes to public displays of affection.
“I wanna suck it.”
[...]
He chuckles now. “Out there? In broad daylight where anyone can see you.”
The same girl that had to be admitted to a psych ward because of her constant panic attacks from being observed, has just sucked a man's dick in plain sight.
THINGS THAT MADE ME LOL
🍭 The conflict had me dying because Graham didn't even last a chapter before regretting his descisions🤣🤣🤣 dude was a mopy mess. THE SECOND she stepped out the door he started smelling her journals.
Really, they belong together. The level of desperation they have for each other is astounding. The only difference is Graham hides it better.
🍭 "Honey's honey". I'm gonna leave this one for ya'll to figure out.
OVERALL
Is this story basically a slightly different variation of Birthday Girl mixed with Welcome to the Dark Side? Two books that I have trashed without mercy? Why yes, it is.
As a very Influential and prophetic scholar once said....
"Overall Dreams of 18 is about going for what you want. In Violet's case it's stalking your best friend's dad, cleaning his garden, and becoming his housewife❤️❤️❤️"
- Tanaz from goodreads 05.12.2021
What made this story better? Nothing. But I still liked it.
Want to read
October 10, 2019LIVE! | AMZ US | AMZ UK |
Thanks for my ARC! [le swoon] AGE GAP, FORBIDDEN = AUTO-READ FOR ME!
Stand-alone.
LIVE! | AMZ US | AMZ UK |
Blurb:
"You don't go around kissing your best friend's dad, do you?
Even though that's all you ever dream about."
Violet Moore is in love with a man who hates her.
Well, to be fair, she kinda deserves it.
On her eighteenth birthday, she got drunk and threw herself at him, causing the biggest scandal of their sleepy suburban town.
Now, everyone thinks she’s a slut and he has disappeared. Rumor has it that he’s been living up in the mountains of Colorado, all alone and in isolation.
But Violet is going to make it right.
She’s going to find him and bring him back.
No matter how cruel and mean he is. Or how much he hurts her with his cold-hearted and abrasive ways, she won’t give up.
And neither will she think about his tempting lips or his sculpted muscles or his strong hands. The hands that she wants on her body, touching her, feeling her skin…
The hands that make her want to forget everything and kiss Graham Edwards – Mr. Edwards, actually -- again.
Because you don’t go around kissing your best friend’s dad, do you?
Even though that’s all you ever dream about.
ARC provided to me by author Saffron A. Kent in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks for my ARC! [le swoon] AGE GAP, FORBIDDEN = AUTO-READ FOR ME!
Stand-alone.
LIVE! | AMZ US | AMZ UK |
Blurb:
"You don't go around kissing your best friend's dad, do you?
Even though that's all you ever dream about."
Violet Moore is in love with a man who hates her.
Well, to be fair, she kinda deserves it.
On her eighteenth birthday, she got drunk and threw herself at him, causing the biggest scandal of their sleepy suburban town.
Now, everyone thinks she’s a slut and he has disappeared. Rumor has it that he’s been living up in the mountains of Colorado, all alone and in isolation.
But Violet is going to make it right.
She’s going to find him and bring him back.
No matter how cruel and mean he is. Or how much he hurts her with his cold-hearted and abrasive ways, she won’t give up.
And neither will she think about his tempting lips or his sculpted muscles or his strong hands. The hands that she wants on her body, touching her, feeling her skin…
The hands that make her want to forget everything and kiss Graham Edwards – Mr. Edwards, actually -- again.
Because you don’t go around kissing your best friend’s dad, do you?
Even though that’s all you ever dream about.
ARC provided to me by author Saffron A. Kent in exchange for an honest review.
March 27, 2022
𝑰 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒘𝒓𝒐𝒏𝒈 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒉𝒂𝒓𝒎𝒇𝒖𝒍 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒎𝒂𝒚𝒃𝒆 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒏 𝒕𝒐𝒙𝒊𝒄 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒅𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒍𝒚.
uhm eww this shit hurt. it hit way too close to home for me. i literally, viscerally connected to every word, every little and last thing about it. like, deep-seated inside-of-me things. things i identify with on the innermost of levels. things i never wanna talk to actual human beings about bc they just don't get it, unless they actually, personally, live with it. things i fully fathom in the most emotionally taxing, otherworldly, and yet, strangely therapeutic way, too. i guess, i found my reading catharsis.
𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐠 : 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐜𝐤 ⋆ 𝐛𝐚𝐧𝐤𝐬
first off,
for the tropes dof18 served, that truly ✨served✨:
↬ age gap
my kind of age gapin a romance
the kind that feeds my daddy issues
the huge, impressive, real kind, of 18 years
↬ best friend's father
quite frankly, i didn't feel much focus on this aspect
↬ grumpy ⊹ sunshine
i adored this aspect,
the way she put herself aside, put herself second,
all just so she could put him first
↬ second chance
well, depending on how you see it, that is.
↬ single daddy
daddy, period, if you ask me
made of moon and magic, 𝐕𝐢𝐨𝐥𝐞𝐭 𝐌𝐨𝐨𝐫𝐞 (𝐡), 16-18 years old, kept me in a chokehold, and right from very first sentence, too.
𝑩𝒖𝒕 𝒔𝒉𝒆’𝒔 𝒏𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒃𝒆𝒆𝒏 𝑽𝒊 𝒕𝒐 𝒎𝒆. 𝑻𝒐 𝒎𝒆, 𝒔𝒉𝒆’𝒔 𝒂𝒍𝒘𝒂𝒚𝒔 𝒃𝒆𝒆𝒏 𝑽𝒊𝒐𝒍𝒆𝒕. 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝒃𝒓𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒄𝒐𝒍𝒐𝒓 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒂 𝒅𝒐𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒗𝒆𝒍𝒆𝒏𝒈𝒕𝒉 𝒂𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒆𝒏𝒅 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒑𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒓𝒖𝒎.
𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝒄𝒐𝒍𝒐𝒓 𝑰 𝒏𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒑𝒂𝒊𝒅 𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒕𝒐 𝒖𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒍 𝑰 𝒔𝒂𝒘 𝒉𝒆𝒓.
maybe it's because so much of her manifests in myself, or so much of myself manifests in her, i don't fucking know. maybe it's because i was so fucking stunned to silence by how indistinguishable this girl is to me. by how alike we are—our age, our bad habits, our proclivities. maybe it's because i could relate to her, understand and feel her pain on a personally overwhelming level, because it felt scarily akin to mine. maybe it's because her anxiety and panic has long been my own. maybe, they're all contributory to why i connected with her character, her person, the way i did. aside from all that, i revered her, for she's so much braver and stronger than i could ever be if i were in her shoes, in the midst of everything she goes through, specifically the fallout of her eighteenth birthday.
as for the beast, mr. 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐡𝐚𝐦 𝐄𝐝𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐬 (𝐇), 34-36 years old… ugh. all i could think about is how, i wish he would choke me.
𝑯𝒆 𝒍𝒐𝒐𝒌𝒔 𝒔𝒂𝒗𝒂𝒈𝒆. 𝑩𝒆𝒂𝒖𝒕𝒊𝒇𝒖𝒍 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝒖𝒏𝒄𝒊𝒗𝒊𝒍𝒊𝒛𝒆𝒅.
uhmhehehe. i'll just spit it out that
"𝐍𝐨, 𝐕𝐢𝐨𝐥𝐞𝐭, 𝐈’𝐦 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐬𝐚𝐲𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮’𝐫𝐞 𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐛𝐥𝐞.
𝐈’𝐦 𝐬𝐚𝐲𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮’𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐨𝐧𝐥𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐚 𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐬𝐞𝐞𝐬.
𝐈’𝐦 𝐬𝐚𝐲𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮’𝐫𝐞 𝐚 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐝𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐚 𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐭𝐨 𝐝𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧. 𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐡𝐢𝐦 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐰𝐡𝐚𝐭’𝐬 𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐰𝐡𝐚𝐭’𝐬 𝐰𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠. 𝐘𝐨𝐮’𝐫𝐞 𝐚 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐬𝐨 𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐛𝐞𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐟𝐮𝐥 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐟𝐮𝐜𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐛𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐭𝐚𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐡𝐞 𝐜𝐚𝐧’𝐭 𝐞𝐬𝐜𝐚𝐩𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮. 𝐇𝐞 𝐜𝐚𝐧’𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐨𝐟 𝐚𝐧𝐲𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐞𝐥𝐬𝐞, 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐣𝐨𝐛, 𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐩𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬, 𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐞𝐬, 𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐟𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐲, 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮. 𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐨 𝐡𝐢𝐦. 𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐡𝐢𝐦 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐬. 𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐧 𝐡𝐢𝐦 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐚𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐥 𝐰𝐡𝐨 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐮𝐭. 𝐘𝐨𝐮’𝐫𝐞 𝐚 𝐠𝐢𝐫𝐥 𝐰𝐡𝐨 𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐬 𝐚 𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐠𝐨 𝐛𝐚𝐝."
if ever i'm looking for a tortured hero, it's the grahamedwards that i want, morally ambiguous to some, but ones who're afflicted internally all the same. in this case, it's the fact that graham sees himself as depraved, perverted, for desiring violet, what with their age gap. it's abundant, his self-loathing, but something it effected in, was something that made me love violet impossibly all the more—her persistence when it came to him; i'm in awe with the way she took care of him, "saved" him.
𝑰𝒕 𝒇𝒆𝒍𝒕 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒉𝒂𝒅 𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒃𝒃𝒆𝒅 𝒎𝒆 𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒄𝒉𝒆𝒔𝒕.
𝑺𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒊𝒏𝒇𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒎𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑰 𝒍𝒐𝒔𝒕 𝒎𝒚 𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒅 𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒉𝒆𝒓.
just to get my negativity out of the way and done and dusted with: something—the only thing, actually—that i did not like? the dreaded albeit inevitable separation. i freaking hated it. no. i loathed it. i saw absolutely no need for it; they could've wholesomely resolved the situation without it. i still don't and never will be partial to the ever-present and oh-so fucking ubiquitous third act break-up. it's pathetic, and such a fucking cop out too. 👐🏼 and, okay, mini tirade over. 👐🏼
𝑯𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒃𝒆𝒆𝒏 𝒂𝒏𝒚 𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒘𝒐 𝒑𝒆𝒐𝒑𝒍𝒆 𝒔𝒐 𝒇𝒖𝒄𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒔𝒊𝒎𝒊𝒍𝒂𝒓 𝒕𝒐 𝒆𝒂𝒄𝒉 𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓?
yes, as it happens. graham and i. violet and i.
𝙸 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚔 𝚠𝚎’𝚛𝚎 𝚕𝚘𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚜 𝚏𝚛𝚘𝚖 𝚊 𝚙𝚊𝚜𝚝 𝚕𝚒𝚏𝚎, 𝚝𝚛𝚊𝚙𝚙𝚎𝚍 𝚒𝚗 𝚊𝚐𝚎𝚜 𝚍𝚎𝚎𝚖𝚎𝚍 𝚒𝚗𝚊𝚙𝚙𝚛𝚘𝚙𝚛𝚒𝚊𝚝𝚎 𝚋𝚢 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚌𝚎𝚗𝚝𝚞𝚛𝚢. 𝙸 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚔 𝚠𝚑𝚎𝚗 𝚠𝚎 𝚋𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚔 𝚏𝚛𝚎𝚎 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚔𝚒𝚜𝚜, 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚛𝚎 𝚠𝚒𝚕𝚕 𝚋𝚎 𝚏𝚒𝚛𝚎𝚠𝚘𝚛𝚔𝚜.
– 𝚃𝚑𝚎 𝙳𝚒𝚊𝚛𝚢 𝚘𝚏 𝚊 𝙱𝚕𝚘𝚘𝚖𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚅𝚒𝚘𝚕𝚎𝚝, 𝙰𝚐𝚎 𝟷𝟾 𝚢𝚎𝚊𝚛𝚜 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝟷𝟶 𝚖𝚘𝚗𝚝𝚑𝚜.
in my eyes—my drunk, heavy, and lovesick eyes—dreams of 18 was nothing short of a breathtaking romance, a coming of age, so hauntingly beautiful at its heart, and melancholy at its skin.
all in all, and ya know what, as per usual, i seriously don't feel like any review i write is adequate when it comes to my feelings for this author, let alone my fav by her. it's hard to find words that are even nearly enough to express just how much i love how it feels like she writes to feed my fucking soul. in other words, i'm fed and i'm nourished, thank you, mama bear, s. a. k.
𝑩𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝒊𝒏 𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒂𝒓𝒎𝒔, 𝑰’𝒎 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒅𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒃𝒆𝒂𝒖𝒕𝒚. 𝑨𝒏𝒅 𝒊𝒏 𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒆, 𝒉𝒆’𝒔 𝒎𝒚 𝒃𝒆𝒂𝒔𝒕.
October 13, 2019
5 Blooming Violet Stars ⭐
Her intention was never to ruin his life, the man she dreamed about, the man that consumed her thoughts. It was a mistake that cost them all dearly.
Violet has spent the first 18 years of her life being neglected, ignored, an outcast. She never expected to develop a crush on her neighbor who happened to be her best friend's dad. She's not manipulative or impulsive, she's just lonely and naive. Her crush for Mr Graham Edwards was always meant to be her secret until it wasn't.
"It was just that: a kiss. A lonely, filled with longing and overflowing with dreams kiss."
When everybody's lives implode, Graham's been forced to move away and the fragile girl is now broken. Suffering from far too many losses, her only aim is to make things right. Everything else including her well-being is secondary.
"So, I’m a celebrity now: The Slut of Cherryville, Connecticut and I suffer from a Panic Disorder."
With the best of intentions, Violet tracks Mr Edwards down and high-jacks his life in atonement. She is prepared to endure his wrath if only he would accept her apology. Except his anger isn't for the reason she thinks. He's been holding his own secrets. Her once great man is hurting just as much as she is. As the truth is revealed, the obstacles for them being together are being ripped away. With so much on the line, only acceptance will get them through.
"In this moment, it feels like destiny. Like I was meant to kiss him. I was meant to throw myself at him, clutch onto his shirt, step onto his shoes and put my mouth on his."
Saffron A Kent has a way with words that grabs you by the throat and forces you to feel. Dreams of 18 was no different. I was so invested in this book that I became completely absorbed in the world she created. And in my opinion that constitutes 5 stars.
She succeeded in making our heroine Violet so heartbreakingly flawed and it gutted me that frankly I didn't care how she got her HEA as long as she did. As for Mr Edwards, you didn't know whether to shake him or climb on top.....
Her intention was never to ruin his life, the man she dreamed about, the man that consumed her thoughts. It was a mistake that cost them all dearly.
Violet has spent the first 18 years of her life being neglected, ignored, an outcast. She never expected to develop a crush on her neighbor who happened to be her best friend's dad. She's not manipulative or impulsive, she's just lonely and naive. Her crush for Mr Graham Edwards was always meant to be her secret until it wasn't.
"It was just that: a kiss. A lonely, filled with longing and overflowing with dreams kiss."
When everybody's lives implode, Graham's been forced to move away and the fragile girl is now broken. Suffering from far too many losses, her only aim is to make things right. Everything else including her well-being is secondary.
"So, I’m a celebrity now: The Slut of Cherryville, Connecticut and I suffer from a Panic Disorder."
With the best of intentions, Violet tracks Mr Edwards down and high-jacks his life in atonement. She is prepared to endure his wrath if only he would accept her apology. Except his anger isn't for the reason she thinks. He's been holding his own secrets. Her once great man is hurting just as much as she is. As the truth is revealed, the obstacles for them being together are being ripped away. With so much on the line, only acceptance will get them through.
"In this moment, it feels like destiny. Like I was meant to kiss him. I was meant to throw myself at him, clutch onto his shirt, step onto his shoes and put my mouth on his."
Saffron A Kent has a way with words that grabs you by the throat and forces you to feel. Dreams of 18 was no different. I was so invested in this book that I became completely absorbed in the world she created. And in my opinion that constitutes 5 stars.
She succeeded in making our heroine Violet so heartbreakingly flawed and it gutted me that frankly I didn't care how she got her HEA as long as she did. As for Mr Edwards, you didn't know whether to shake him or climb on top.....
December 9, 2019
The first half was heartbreaking. Fucking. Heart. Breaking! I was swept up in the tide that was Graham, Violet, and their forbidden love. I read until my eyes drooped and only stopped once I hit the end.
So, why 3 stars? Because the second half was a bit too much like a fairytale with too many sex scenes (gasp). Undoubtedly, the writing was strong and faultless but I did at some point wonder why Graham had no friends (like, seriously?)
All in all, it was a good solid story and one I'd recommend wholeheartedly.
December 2, 2020
When it comes to taboo/forbidden romances SAK makes beautiful love stories. Dreams of 18 is another forbidden trope which gives us delicious feels to our sinful thoughts and makes them come true (imagination only, whores! 😉).
Violet and Graham's love story is not easy but romance so true. Both are attracted to each other but are held back because of 'consequence'. Violet never meant to ruin Graham's life but she is determined to make things right. Violet has been neglected and heartbroken by her family. Graham has been in her thoughts since he moved in just beside her house. Determined to ask for forgiveness she tried to bring him out of his cold exterior. Graham is such a jerk at times but he has a reason for keeping his distance. Being attracted to his son's best friend is not what he expected, she is half his age and his son also facies Violet. The story takes time to unfold, no matter the outside judgement it was Brian (Graham's son) who holds them back.
The story is super sexy, has detailed hot sex and hilariously cheesy talks.
Violet and Graham's love story is not easy but romance so true. Both are attracted to each other but are held back because of 'consequence'. Violet never meant to ruin Graham's life but she is determined to make things right. Violet has been neglected and heartbroken by her family. Graham has been in her thoughts since he moved in just beside her house. Determined to ask for forgiveness she tried to bring him out of his cold exterior. Graham is such a jerk at times but he has a reason for keeping his distance. Being attracted to his son's best friend is not what he expected, she is half his age and his son also facies Violet. The story takes time to unfold, no matter the outside judgement it was Brian (Graham's son) who holds them back.
The story is super sexy, has detailed hot sex and hilariously cheesy talks.
December 23, 2020
5 “ Strawberry Man & Jailbait “ stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
And he’s staring at me with a burning gaze as he rasps, “Something made of moon and magic.”
Wow wow wow. One of my most favourite read this year. I’m completely in love with this author. Her writing is so engaging and unique. The flow of story and the setting of chapters is perfect. The way I imagined the story would be after reading the blurb, it was the complete opposite in a very good way. There was so much depth to both the characters. This book completely surprised me, I didn’t want it to end.
I love a good forbidden read and those are hard to find trust me. This had every element from best friend’s dad trope, age gap to great characters. The chemistry between the MCs was scorching, intense and oh so hot. Some of the scenes were so emotional and heartbreaking. The author handled the mental illness element very nicely, you could understand her pain, her struggle and how she was able to cope with it and became better.
We meet Violet when she’s 16 and sees Mr. Edwards for the first time as he’s moving next door with his son and becomes attracted to him and soon falls in love with him. She watches him for two years, learning little things about him and grows more in love with him all the while his son becomes her best friend. On her 18th bday, she ends up kissing him which leads to a big scandal in her town, making everything fall apart.
Fast forward 10 months, we come to know that Mr Edward had to move away because of the scandal. Violet falls pray to panic disorder, ends up in psych ward, she blames herself for everything that happened and decides to make up for it by finding him and telling him she’s sorry. I loved how she was never gave up even when he was mean to her, it showed how strong she is and so in love with him.
I’ve always, always been in love with him. Since the beginning. Since the very first moment. The very first sight.
Mr. Edward was just as smitten with her the first time he saw her even if she didn’t knew that. I loved reading his chapter, getting to know his feelings, his thoughts. He was the perfect man for her. He was protective, romantic, possessive, intense but most importantly he loved her with all his heart and made her show herself as a strong person. He had his own battles to fight too, there were so many layers to him and how violet brought all those out.
”My soul,” he whispers. “It was my soul waking up. The things that keeps a man alive, came alive in me when I saw you. You woke up my soul, Violet.”
Violet has become one of my favourite heroines. Her story is unique and emotional. She’s a hopeless romantic and owns up to it. They were perfect for each other. This book was one hell of ride with so many adorable moments.
A girl I’ve loved since the first time I saw her.
My beauty.
My Violet.
I highly recommend it to everyone. ♥️
And he’s staring at me with a burning gaze as he rasps, “Something made of moon and magic.”
Wow wow wow. One of my most favourite read this year. I’m completely in love with this author. Her writing is so engaging and unique. The flow of story and the setting of chapters is perfect. The way I imagined the story would be after reading the blurb, it was the complete opposite in a very good way. There was so much depth to both the characters. This book completely surprised me, I didn’t want it to end.
I love a good forbidden read and those are hard to find trust me. This had every element from best friend’s dad trope, age gap to great characters. The chemistry between the MCs was scorching, intense and oh so hot. Some of the scenes were so emotional and heartbreaking. The author handled the mental illness element very nicely, you could understand her pain, her struggle and how she was able to cope with it and became better.
We meet Violet when she’s 16 and sees Mr. Edwards for the first time as he’s moving next door with his son and becomes attracted to him and soon falls in love with him. She watches him for two years, learning little things about him and grows more in love with him all the while his son becomes her best friend. On her 18th bday, she ends up kissing him which leads to a big scandal in her town, making everything fall apart.
Fast forward 10 months, we come to know that Mr Edward had to move away because of the scandal. Violet falls pray to panic disorder, ends up in psych ward, she blames herself for everything that happened and decides to make up for it by finding him and telling him she’s sorry. I loved how she was never gave up even when he was mean to her, it showed how strong she is and so in love with him.
I’ve always, always been in love with him. Since the beginning. Since the very first moment. The very first sight.
Mr. Edward was just as smitten with her the first time he saw her even if she didn’t knew that. I loved reading his chapter, getting to know his feelings, his thoughts. He was the perfect man for her. He was protective, romantic, possessive, intense but most importantly he loved her with all his heart and made her show herself as a strong person. He had his own battles to fight too, there were so many layers to him and how violet brought all those out.
”My soul,” he whispers. “It was my soul waking up. The things that keeps a man alive, came alive in me when I saw you. You woke up my soul, Violet.”
Violet has become one of my favourite heroines. Her story is unique and emotional. She’s a hopeless romantic and owns up to it. They were perfect for each other. This book was one hell of ride with so many adorable moments.
A girl I’ve loved since the first time I saw her.
My beauty.
My Violet.
I highly recommend it to everyone. ♥️
October 7, 2019
Lately I have had zero interest in reading and even less interest in writing reviews, so this will be short and to the point. I always enjoy this author's writing, and again, I enjoyed this book. I didn't realize it was connected to MEDICINE MAN until I started reading it. So that was cool. I really liked a lot of the side characters in that book. The plot of this one was good, even if I think the reaction to the original kiss was a little too over the top. Both Violet and Graham were both likable characters. The sex scenes in this one were a little on the cheesy side and didn't quite seem to fit in with the tone of the overall book. Last, it was all wrapped up in a sweet happy for now. So ya, overall it was an enjoyable read. 
February 23, 2020
4.5 STARS!!
It appealed to my romantic nature 100%!
[Side note: It's such a catch 22, isn't it? Not wanting to read reviews so nothing gets spoiled. In this case, I did myself no favors. The things reviewers moan about don't, in general, bother me (except one thing which I'll get to). If I'd read the negative reviews more closely instead of skimming them, I would have known that.]
On her 18th birthday, they encounter each other by chance and she kisses him. All hell breaks loose when she's caught and the incident ends up on social media. She's branded a slut and he's branded a sex predator.
Their lives are changed forever; the real story begins 10 months after the incident.
So what about all the negative reviews? If anyone's interested in my ramblings, feel free to keep reading.
(1). The heroine is pathetic and has no self-respect: I disagree. I thought the author did such a good job of balancing Violet's actions and Graham's reactions. I loved Violet's thought process. I remember what it's like to be 18, so full of zeal and looking at the world through rose-colored glasses.
(2). The sex/dirty talk was cringy: I AGREE! And it's the reason I'm rounding down. The author definitely took it too far with the adjectives: juice up, sloppy, rivering, sloshing. YIKES! What I don't agree with was that Graham treated her badly after they had sex. I thought his thought process was solid, but that's me.
(3). The H doesn't pursue the h: This is true, but it didn't bother me. Graham had absolutely no moral high-ground from which to move forward from. I thought the author made the right decision.
I thought the taboo aspect of the book was particularly well done. But readers who are opposed to age gap reads will be offended. I understand that everyone sees life through their own experiences and my experiences tell me that being a teenager doesn't make you an automatic victim.
(4). The portrayal of mental illness is flawed/unrealistic: well, obviously. If you're looking for the unflawed version, you shouldn't be in the new adult romance section.
(5). The writing is (A) repetitive, and (B) full of purple prose: I agree, and YEAH, BABY! Yes, the book could have used another round of editing to cut down on some of the repetitive ideas. And I LOVED every moment of the purple prose.
"I don't want you to be noble or good. I don't want you to do the right thing."After postponing this one forever because of the lukewarm reviews, I'm SO HAPPY to say that Dreams of 18 was a definite WINNER for me.
It appealed to my romantic nature 100%!
This isn't a case of denial. This is a case of pure faith.LOVED IT! I laughed, I cried, I swooned.
[Side note: It's such a catch 22, isn't it? Not wanting to read reviews so nothing gets spoiled. In this case, I did myself no favors. The things reviewers moan about don't, in general, bother me (except one thing which I'll get to). If I'd read the negative reviews more closely instead of skimming them, I would have known that.]
"Love isn't about asking someone to love you back."Plot: From ages 16-18, Violet has a secret crush on her best friend's dad --> from afar. She avoids him like the plague because she knows it's wrong.
On her 18th birthday, they encounter each other by chance and she kisses him. All hell breaks loose when she's caught and the incident ends up on social media. She's branded a slut and he's branded a sex predator.
Their lives are changed forever; the real story begins 10 months after the incident.
She's too young to know anything else but hearts and dreams.I loved Violet and her determination. I loved the tone the author gave her, and I especially loved the way the author used the first person present tense to give us a sweet, unreliable narrator.
I know it's not true but I'm liking the delusion in this moment.Because it's not immediately apparent that she's unwell (even though Vi tells the reader many times.)
I'm not sure where I'm going with this story because I'm not going down the anxiety route. Because, hello? I'm fine.I also loved Graham and his self-loathing. I thought it was called-for and I thought the author handled the taboo aspect of this book like a boss.
I don't understand why I want to consume her. Why I want to ruin her and keep her safe all at the same time.I enjoyed every minute of their journey from disastrous infatuation . . .
"All those dull, boring people who have ever looked at you like you didn't matter. Fuck those people.". . . to exploration . . .
"I think I'm a little too old for dreams.". . . to love.
"I'll keep that in mind, Jailbait."Plus, I thought the way the author used point of view to hide things from the reader and then tie everything together was pretty ingenious.
"You do that, Strawberry Man."
So what about all the negative reviews? If anyone's interested in my ramblings, feel free to keep reading.
(1). The heroine is pathetic and has no self-respect: I disagree. I thought the author did such a good job of balancing Violet's actions and Graham's reactions. I loved Violet's thought process. I remember what it's like to be 18, so full of zeal and looking at the world through rose-colored glasses.
I'm holding onto this wildness in me and running with it.I thought Violet's determination to make up for what she'd done wasn't only for Graham's sake.
"I can't watch you hurt yourself. You have to stop because I don't have the strength to take on more blame."If you're wondering how you'd feel about it, consider that the book is written around this idea:
Find what you love and let it kill you.IE: you're going to die anyway . . . if this 'romantic' notion sounds stupid to you, then you'll end up in the negative review camp, lol. [It's interesting that this quote is falsely attributed to the poet Charles Bukowski, or so it seems.]
(2). The sex/dirty talk was cringy: I AGREE! And it's the reason I'm rounding down. The author definitely took it too far with the adjectives: juice up, sloppy, rivering, sloshing. YIKES! What I don't agree with was that Graham treated her badly after they had sex. I thought his thought process was solid, but that's me.
(3). The H doesn't pursue the h: This is true, but it didn't bother me. Graham had absolutely no moral high-ground from which to move forward from. I thought the author made the right decision.
I thought the taboo aspect of the book was particularly well done. But readers who are opposed to age gap reads will be offended. I understand that everyone sees life through their own experiences and my experiences tell me that being a teenager doesn't make you an automatic victim.
(4). The portrayal of mental illness is flawed/unrealistic: well, obviously. If you're looking for the unflawed version, you shouldn't be in the new adult romance section.
(5). The writing is (A) repetitive, and (B) full of purple prose: I agree, and YEAH, BABY! Yes, the book could have used another round of editing to cut down on some of the repetitive ideas. And I LOVED every moment of the purple prose.
"You can eat me up all you want. You can eat me up a hundred different ways. I'm gonna like your teeth and your tongue and I'm gonna fall in love with the sting of it all.". . . or this . . .
"You inspire me to live in a world where a brave girl saves a dangerous, old beast and shows him to be brave like her.". . . or this . . .
This is us.If you've read this far, lol, you'll know if this book is for you or not. Happy reading!
Wild and savage and filthy and beautiful.
January 1, 2022
im hopeless and im a romantic. im a masochist. im addicted to less. im addicted to the pain. im addicted to him.
🌷 i can confidently admit that this book had me so intrigued. if youre a lover of (steamy) age gap forbidden romance, then this book could just be the one for you. however, despite its appeal and the authors captivating writing, i personally find this book to be quite unsatisfying.
🌷 the first half of it was really heartbreaking. it had a lot of emotions. meanwhile, the second half of it was just downright disappointing. the angst was gone and it quickly turned cliché. what i initially thought was going to be a tragic forbidden love story with a slow burn and intense build up was actually just two unlikely people caught up in a tangled web of insta-lust.
🌷 so yes, what im saying is this book lacked development in the romance department. once it was out in the open that both of our MCs reciprocated their feelings for one another, it didnt take long for them to partake in a very graphic and filthy sex. it took up about ¼ of the book, which imo was a little too much.
🌷 then all of the problems and insecurities that came with pursuing a taboo relationship were quickly resolved. i also didnt like the fact that the h did most of the chasing while it took only one apology from our H to get back together with her. i mean, cmon make him work a little harder!!
🌷 at some point i thought i could identify myself with h’s anxiety. but her character was also so naive, and it irritated me. to other people, her obliviousness may sound innocent and cute. but to me she just sounded dumb and annoying sometimes. as for the H, i feel like there wasnt much of anything to his character outside of how he was around the h.
🌷 idk why but the fact that the H loved to plant roses made him seem more like a psychopathic creep to me than a romantic. i was also a little disturbed everytime the h called him mr. (last name) bcs it made their story glaringly dirty instead of beautifully heartfelt which was probably the intent?
October 18, 2019
3 stars
meh. this was ok.
i love age-gap romance and some of my fave books of all time have this trope, ie. Kulti and Birthday Girl.
but anyways, i just didn't really connect with the characters here but i was still hooked with the story though just because i wanted to see if there was gonna be more drama but unfortunately, it was all solved so quickly.
the forbidden aspect of this was meh. nothing really happened. the whole book is just them having sex in his cabin sooo.
meh. this was ok.
i love age-gap romance and some of my fave books of all time have this trope, ie. Kulti and Birthday Girl.
but anyways, i just didn't really connect with the characters here but i was still hooked with the story though just because i wanted to see if there was gonna be more drama but unfortunately, it was all solved so quickly.
the forbidden aspect of this was meh. nothing really happened. the whole book is just them having sex in his cabin sooo.
October 10, 2019
Part I: Review
Trigger warning: What could turn some people off is that the h is 16 at the beginning of the story and he is 34 but it's not as bad as it sounds. Not sure how much I should divulge but . I think Saffron A. Kent did a really good job of toeing the line between "What problem?" and "This is a no-go". For me, it was an "I can accept that."
I learned something very important about my likes and dislikes while reading this book.
I've never noticed before but the Heroes in Saffron A. Kent's books never actively pursue the relationship with the heroine (at least the ones that I've read and not until the end). And I realized today that this is a fact I don't like when reading romance. I need something from the H or else this won't work for me. There HAS to be some kind of balance. All the big steps were made by the h in this book, the H was merely reacting to it. (And no this is not a gender thing, I don't like it when the H is the only one pursuing as well).
It's okay in the beginning, in fact, I loved that the h was so determined. Violet was determined to make up for what she thought she did wrong and sought him out to face his wrath and make sure he's okay. It was actually kind of heartbreaking, for both Violet and Mr. Edwards. My heart was aching for them and I even cried once because both were just so pitiful and I was FEELING it, you know?
My reviews are starting to sound the same but while I enjoyed the first part very much, the second wasn't what I thought it would be. I felt disconnected, even more so than with my previous reads and thought about DNF-ing this book. I decided to power through though and started skimming over the lines (especially the sex scenes), oftentimes even without registering what I just read.
ARC generously provided in exchange for an honest review.
*
*
*
The great thing about Goodreads is that I can talk about everything and hide it behind a spoiler tag so that others have the choice to read it or not because I know there are people out there who'd be more comfortable with some more details beforehand.
I was really torn about whether to post this right after finishing the book, wait until release day, or even leave this whole part out because after all, this IS an ARC that I received. I know about things like spoiler-free reviews and stuff, I just wasn't sure if this applies to me too because I WON an ARC, I'm not in Saffron A. Kent's ARC team or anything like that.
Someone once said to me: "Writing what you didn't like can stop potential buyers from purchasing a book they won't like and leaving more bad reviews." (love this btw) so that's what I'm going to do. At the same time, I can get everything off my chest so it helps me too. Basically a win-win situation for everyone, right? So here it comes, some thoughts I'd like to discuss.
Part II: Book talk, best to be read after finishing the book (spoiler!)
Trigger warning: What could turn some people off is that the h is 16 at the beginning of the story and he is 34 but it's not as bad as it sounds. Not sure how much I should divulge but . I think Saffron A. Kent did a really good job of toeing the line between "What problem?" and "This is a no-go". For me, it was an "I can accept that."
I learned something very important about my likes and dislikes while reading this book.
I've never noticed before but the Heroes in Saffron A. Kent's books never actively pursue the relationship with the heroine (at least the ones that I've read and not until the end). And I realized today that this is a fact I don't like when reading romance. I need something from the H or else this won't work for me. There HAS to be some kind of balance. All the big steps were made by the h in this book, the H was merely reacting to it. (And no this is not a gender thing, I don't like it when the H is the only one pursuing as well).
It's okay in the beginning, in fact, I loved that the h was so determined. Violet was determined to make up for what she thought she did wrong and sought him out to face his wrath and make sure he's okay. It was actually kind of heartbreaking, for both Violet and Mr. Edwards. My heart was aching for them and I even cried once because both were just so pitiful and I was FEELING it, you know?
My reviews are starting to sound the same but while I enjoyed the first part very much, the second wasn't what I thought it would be. I felt disconnected, even more so than with my previous reads and thought about DNF-ing this book. I decided to power through though and started skimming over the lines (especially the sex scenes), oftentimes even without registering what I just read.
ARC generously provided in exchange for an honest review.
*
*
*
The great thing about Goodreads is that I can talk about everything and hide it behind a spoiler tag so that others have the choice to read it or not because I know there are people out there who'd be more comfortable with some more details beforehand.
I was really torn about whether to post this right after finishing the book, wait until release day, or even leave this whole part out because after all, this IS an ARC that I received. I know about things like spoiler-free reviews and stuff, I just wasn't sure if this applies to me too because I WON an ARC, I'm not in Saffron A. Kent's ARC team or anything like that.
Someone once said to me: "Writing what you didn't like can stop potential buyers from purchasing a book they won't like and leaving more bad reviews." (love this btw) so that's what I'm going to do. At the same time, I can get everything off my chest so it helps me too. Basically a win-win situation for everyone, right? So here it comes, some thoughts I'd like to discuss.
Part II: Book talk, best to be read after finishing the book (spoiler!)
May 18, 2021
Dreams of 18 is one hell of an emotional read for me. The author takes forbidden romance and turns it into a beautiful love story, with a mix of edge and spice.
Violet has spent her whole life as an outcast and ignored. Her family is just awful people, all of them, and her sister is the worst of them all. What Violet never expected at the age of sixteen was to fall in love with the new neighbor Graham. The high school football coach. Fast forward two years at the age of eighteen, and she steals a Kiss from Graham; all hell breaks loose from that moment on. Ten months later, after the dust has settled, Violet wants to make it right and apologies to Graham. What they both didn't expect was how the scandal affected them both.
I love this book, and I couldn't put it down. I needed an emotional book, and the author delivered it. Both characters are broken, lonely, and beautiful. There are sensitive subjects, i.e., addiction and mental health. But that is what I picked this book up. I want all the emotion along with the Gray. We all need a Graham in our life. Totally swoon-worthy. My only wish was more confrontation and accountability on her sister, God she is just awful.
August 18, 2023
Amazingly sexy and swoony age-gap romance with a grumpy H and a h that loves to dream
I will never look at a lollipop the same way ever again… Sigh- oh man- SAK does it again for me. How does she get me to FEEEEEEL everything, making me blush, swoon, and love these characters with every page flip? Such a master with words and feelings… 🥰🥰🥰. Gahhh❤️❤️❤️! Oh… and the roses… the amount of roses and the symbolism behind them 🥺😩❤️❤️🥺🥺.
The book opens up with Violet’s perspective. She’s allergic to strawberries yet loves to eat them because it allows her to feel alive, and she has a sad home life. Yes, she has a mother, a father, and a sister, but she doesn’t feel the love that any normal person should be feeling when they have the family that she does. Her mother was going to abort her because she’s the product of an affair, which means her dad doesn’t care for her, and she’s never really been close to her sister. When she’s 16, they get new neighbors- a sexy father, Graham, and a son that’s the same age as her. Immediately, Violet is drawn to the older man, but because she’s underage, she doesn’t do anything with her feelings. In fact, she becomes close friends with the son, Brian.
As time passes, she kind of stalks him, biding her time until she turns 18. She learns a lot about him in the two years that she’s gotten close to Brian, and on the night of her 18th birthday, she kisses him. She’s willing to risk it because it’s dark, and no one will notice, but her sister and Brian catch them, pictures are taken, and they are spread all over social media. Graham is the football coach and end up leavings the job and eventually moves away because of all the gossip and drama that comes about from this innocent kiss. Violet also gets s!#¥ shamed, which takes a toll on her mental health.
Violet suffers from social anxiety, adding on the stress from the aftermath of the kiss breaks her, so she ends up being institutionalized at Heartstone. 10 months after the kiss, Violet decides that she wants to apologize to Graham and ends up driving to where he’s at, to a different state. When she arrives, he receives her with the same grumpiness as ever, only this time, things are different. This time, the smexual tension is THICKKK… and I was here for it 👏🏻.
OH… MY… GOSH! SAK knows how to build tension and chemistry🤤. Jeeezus, Lord🔥, have mercy on my poor kindle and the steamy as f pages in this book… how I have a working kindle after all of that heat is a wonder in itself😅 🔥🥵. The connection between Violet and Graham is so damn visceral and intense that it blew my expectations out of the park! Age gap? WHAT age gap? Age is JUST a number… and this book definitely proves it! When there’s a connection THIS intense, nothing else matters 😅👏🏻😉. GEEEEZUS the way Graham uses the lollipop on Violet 🥵🔥😅.
Does the stigma of an older man and younger woman follow them? Yup… but SAK addresses this so beautifully that I didn’t question their HEA. Plus, she doesn’t cower away from the mental health issues that Violet has. In fact, she does it justice by allowing us to feel everything she was feeling and didn’t mask the seriousness of it. Also, she lets us know that finding a man and getting a happily ever after doesn’t necessarily mean that these issues will go away. There is work that needs to be put in in order to overcome these obstacles, and it all takes time.
Their HEA is so swoooony! From the kinky lollipops to the sweet as f roses, Graham goes up there in my list of swoony Hs 🥰. And the reason why red is his favorite color 🥺😩❤️ #staaaaph!! I love you even more ❤️❤️❤️
Overall, I loooooved this book! Highly recommended 🥰❤️🥰❤️🥰
⚠️safety squad⚠️
-no cheating/omd
-slight owd: the h sees the H kiss OW when she goes to see him after he moved away. It’s such a quick scene and at this point, there’s no relationship between the H and h
-mental health issues/anxiety
I will never look at a lollipop the same way ever again… Sigh- oh man- SAK does it again for me. How does she get me to FEEEEEEL everything, making me blush, swoon, and love these characters with every page flip? Such a master with words and feelings… 🥰🥰🥰. Gahhh❤️❤️❤️! Oh… and the roses… the amount of roses and the symbolism behind them 🥺😩❤️❤️🥺🥺.
The book opens up with Violet’s perspective. She’s allergic to strawberries yet loves to eat them because it allows her to feel alive, and she has a sad home life. Yes, she has a mother, a father, and a sister, but she doesn’t feel the love that any normal person should be feeling when they have the family that she does. Her mother was going to abort her because she’s the product of an affair, which means her dad doesn’t care for her, and she’s never really been close to her sister. When she’s 16, they get new neighbors- a sexy father, Graham, and a son that’s the same age as her. Immediately, Violet is drawn to the older man, but because she’s underage, she doesn’t do anything with her feelings. In fact, she becomes close friends with the son, Brian.
As time passes, she kind of stalks him, biding her time until she turns 18. She learns a lot about him in the two years that she’s gotten close to Brian, and on the night of her 18th birthday, she kisses him. She’s willing to risk it because it’s dark, and no one will notice, but her sister and Brian catch them, pictures are taken, and they are spread all over social media. Graham is the football coach and end up leavings the job and eventually moves away because of all the gossip and drama that comes about from this innocent kiss. Violet also gets s!#¥ shamed, which takes a toll on her mental health.
Violet suffers from social anxiety, adding on the stress from the aftermath of the kiss breaks her, so she ends up being institutionalized at Heartstone. 10 months after the kiss, Violet decides that she wants to apologize to Graham and ends up driving to where he’s at, to a different state. When she arrives, he receives her with the same grumpiness as ever, only this time, things are different. This time, the smexual tension is THICKKK… and I was here for it 👏🏻.
OH… MY… GOSH! SAK knows how to build tension and chemistry🤤. Jeeezus, Lord🔥, have mercy on my poor kindle and the steamy as f pages in this book… how I have a working kindle after all of that heat is a wonder in itself😅 🔥🥵. The connection between Violet and Graham is so damn visceral and intense that it blew my expectations out of the park! Age gap? WHAT age gap? Age is JUST a number… and this book definitely proves it! When there’s a connection THIS intense, nothing else matters 😅👏🏻😉. GEEEEZUS the way Graham uses the lollipop on Violet 🥵🔥😅.
Does the stigma of an older man and younger woman follow them? Yup… but SAK addresses this so beautifully that I didn’t question their HEA. Plus, she doesn’t cower away from the mental health issues that Violet has. In fact, she does it justice by allowing us to feel everything she was feeling and didn’t mask the seriousness of it. Also, she lets us know that finding a man and getting a happily ever after doesn’t necessarily mean that these issues will go away. There is work that needs to be put in in order to overcome these obstacles, and it all takes time.
Their HEA is so swoooony! From the kinky lollipops to the sweet as f roses, Graham goes up there in my list of swoony Hs 🥰. And the reason why red is his favorite color 🥺😩❤️ #staaaaph!! I love you even more ❤️❤️❤️
Overall, I loooooved this book! Highly recommended 🥰❤️🥰❤️🥰
⚠️safety squad⚠️
-no cheating/omd
-slight owd: the h sees the H kiss OW when she goes to see him after he moved away. It’s such a quick scene and at this point, there’s no relationship between the H and h
-mental health issues/anxiety
April 25, 2020
I loved it!
It made me feel, that is why although there are many things that might have bothered me, like the huge age gap (18 years), and some other stuff here and there, I can make allowances in this case because the story and the characters completely trapped me. In addition, the sex scenes were pretty hot, so bonus!
I love it when I can't put a book down. That already tells me most of what I need to know, regardless of all the reasoning and criticism I could give it. I read to feel, and this book made me feel. Last night, I had to force myself to stop reading so I could get some sleep, then I went back to reading as soon as I had the chance this morning and I didn't stop until I finished the book. (Being in a lockdown can have its benefits sometimes, like having a flexible timetable to read as much as you want. It's nice seen something positive in this difficult time, even if it is with silly things, anything to keep our spirits up). That is already a win for me.
Anyway, if you can't get past the age-gap (18-36) stay away from this book, if you can deal with all that, it is only fiction after all, then go ahead and read it.
It made me feel, that is why although there are many things that might have bothered me, like the huge age gap (18 years), and some other stuff here and there, I can make allowances in this case because the story and the characters completely trapped me. In addition, the sex scenes were pretty hot, so bonus!
I love it when I can't put a book down. That already tells me most of what I need to know, regardless of all the reasoning and criticism I could give it. I read to feel, and this book made me feel. Last night, I had to force myself to stop reading so I could get some sleep, then I went back to reading as soon as I had the chance this morning and I didn't stop until I finished the book. (Being in a lockdown can have its benefits sometimes, like having a flexible timetable to read as much as you want. It's nice seen something positive in this difficult time, even if it is with silly things, anything to keep our spirits up). That is already a win for me.
Anyway, if you can't get past the age-gap (18-36) stay away from this book, if you can deal with all that, it is only fiction after all, then go ahead and read it.
October 19, 2019
I adore SAK's storytelling and this story blew me away. SAK creates the most unique characters, that have to endure uncomfortable circumstances, to the point of cringiess, and I love the awkward feelings her stories elicit. I loved Violet and Graham's turbulent relationship and their struggles to overcome Violet's emotional anxiety and Graham's disgust and loathing of himself and his feelings for Violet. This story had scorching hot/animalistic sex scenes, and spectacular dirty talk too. There was even a smidgen of angst towards the ending of this story , and then an epic HEA. I'm a pretty happy camper after finishing this fabulous story!
October 10, 2019
Saffron Kent just showed up with a taboo age-gap romance with a subtle Beauty and the Beast vibe and I thoroughly enjoyed every sinful bit of it. This story of two loners whose forbidden kiss sets into motion a course of events that shatters hearts and curses them to ruination was both intoxicating and rife with brutal pleasure pain. Readers will LOVE this.
Dreams of 18 reads like an enchanted fairy tale of sorts, what with its majestic rose gardens and a reclusive, brooding hero who hides himself away from both the shame of his sinful behavior and the raw emotions he refuses to face. Our brave heroine though, a heartbroken, neglected beauty determined to bring him out of hiding, might unknowingly save him from himself if only she can chip away at the stone cold wall he's built around himself. Of course, this modern day fairy tale is also jam packed with deliciously dirty sex scenes and filthy talk that had me both blushing and cringing at times. (It's seriously filthy.) The steamy scenes are off the charts scorching but edged in a forbidden flavor or wrongness that just makes it feel so illicit. It feels so wrong, this dynamic, yet so unbelievably right all at once.
This book is everything I absolutely love in a romance. A sexy, brooding anti-hero who delivers all the angst with his cruel words and his cold demeanor. A teenager full of angst and insecurity who has no idea how powerful she truly is. A love story full of push and pull and complicated emotion. The most unforgettably romantic declarations and the most heart wrenching implosion of what could've been. This story is nonstop angst, unrelenting attraction and achingly romantic drama. It's all the things and, even with some pacing flaws and some jarring transitions here and there, it was still a thoroughly enjoyable, angst-ridden taboo romance that I ended up loving!
Dreams of 18 reads like an enchanted fairy tale of sorts, what with its majestic rose gardens and a reclusive, brooding hero who hides himself away from both the shame of his sinful behavior and the raw emotions he refuses to face. Our brave heroine though, a heartbroken, neglected beauty determined to bring him out of hiding, might unknowingly save him from himself if only she can chip away at the stone cold wall he's built around himself. Of course, this modern day fairy tale is also jam packed with deliciously dirty sex scenes and filthy talk that had me both blushing and cringing at times. (It's seriously filthy.) The steamy scenes are off the charts scorching but edged in a forbidden flavor or wrongness that just makes it feel so illicit. It feels so wrong, this dynamic, yet so unbelievably right all at once.
This book is everything I absolutely love in a romance. A sexy, brooding anti-hero who delivers all the angst with his cruel words and his cold demeanor. A teenager full of angst and insecurity who has no idea how powerful she truly is. A love story full of push and pull and complicated emotion. The most unforgettably romantic declarations and the most heart wrenching implosion of what could've been. This story is nonstop angst, unrelenting attraction and achingly romantic drama. It's all the things and, even with some pacing flaws and some jarring transitions here and there, it was still a thoroughly enjoyable, angst-ridden taboo romance that I ended up loving!
October 8, 2019
Release Date: October 10, 2019
My Rating: 4 stars
TROPES: FATHERS BEST FRIEND FORBIDDEN ROMANCE. AGE GAP.
Saffron A. Kent is the master of writing forbidden romances. When I saw that she was writing a best friends father romance I couldn't wait to sink my teeth into it... For the most part, Dreams of 18 was everything I wanted and expected from the author. The book takes on forbidden in the best of ways and it truly felt taboo. Then you get the angst. Oh gosh, the angst (especially in the beginning) was OFF THE CHARTS. I feel like I was sweating the whole time! I drove me WILD! And the age gap? You can actually TELL that these two are years apart in age not just when it comes to their looks (Graham being described as a brawny, corded, mountain man with chest hair and a beard to DIE for) but they way they react to their environments. You can tell how naive Violet is and Saffron writes her in the exact way one would expect from a girl her age. Sure there were a few moments here and there that I had to roll my eyes at her reaction and ACTIONS to things, but I could tell she was young and immature. Therefore, the age gap was ON POINT.
When it comes to Graham and Violet's actual relationship I definitely saw it as a slow burn. I also didn't quite believe it in some circumstances (hence the 4 stars) but I knew it was there. It took a lot of time to build and there were many things that kept them "apart" in an emotional sense, bu t when it finally came together- FIREWORKS.
Now, I don't want to be nit picky but I also have to admit that there were some cringe worthy moments within Dreams of 18. What were those moments? THE SEX SCENES. Don't get me wrong they were SCORCHING hot, but some of the descriptions made me shudder. I am not really a fan of the word "cream" and I think you can guess that it is used quite often when it comes to Violets arousal. Blech! That's a me thing though and not something I am holding against the author, I just didn't care for it. There were some other things thrown in their as well when describing their sexual escapades that made me cringe, but I don't need to go over them in detail as readers can figure it out for themselves when they are reading.
Other than this, Dreams of 18 is a GREAT book and I know readers who enjoy the age gap/forbidden romance trope are going to go crazy for this one! Saffron knows how to write a book (clearly) and I am so excited to see what she brings to us next! There was a tiny sneak peak at the end of this one and I am THRILLED for it!
My Rating: 4 stars
TROPES: FATHERS BEST FRIEND FORBIDDEN ROMANCE. AGE GAP.
Saffron A. Kent is the master of writing forbidden romances. When I saw that she was writing a best friends father romance I couldn't wait to sink my teeth into it... For the most part, Dreams of 18 was everything I wanted and expected from the author. The book takes on forbidden in the best of ways and it truly felt taboo. Then you get the angst. Oh gosh, the angst (especially in the beginning) was OFF THE CHARTS. I feel like I was sweating the whole time! I drove me WILD! And the age gap? You can actually TELL that these two are years apart in age not just when it comes to their looks (Graham being described as a brawny, corded, mountain man with chest hair and a beard to DIE for) but they way they react to their environments. You can tell how naive Violet is and Saffron writes her in the exact way one would expect from a girl her age. Sure there were a few moments here and there that I had to roll my eyes at her reaction and ACTIONS to things, but I could tell she was young and immature. Therefore, the age gap was ON POINT.
When it comes to Graham and Violet's actual relationship I definitely saw it as a slow burn. I also didn't quite believe it in some circumstances (hence the 4 stars) but I knew it was there. It took a lot of time to build and there were many things that kept them "apart" in an emotional sense, bu t when it finally came together- FIREWORKS.
Now, I don't want to be nit picky but I also have to admit that there were some cringe worthy moments within Dreams of 18. What were those moments? THE SEX SCENES. Don't get me wrong they were SCORCHING hot, but some of the descriptions made me shudder. I am not really a fan of the word "cream" and I think you can guess that it is used quite often when it comes to Violets arousal. Blech! That's a me thing though and not something I am holding against the author, I just didn't care for it. There were some other things thrown in their as well when describing their sexual escapades that made me cringe, but I don't need to go over them in detail as readers can figure it out for themselves when they are reading.
Other than this, Dreams of 18 is a GREAT book and I know readers who enjoy the age gap/forbidden romance trope are going to go crazy for this one! Saffron knows how to write a book (clearly) and I am so excited to see what she brings to us next! There was a tiny sneak peak at the end of this one and I am THRILLED for it!
nope
October 10, 2019Note to self: She is 16 when he is 34. She is younger than half his age.
October 10, 2019
4 Strawberry Man Stars!
I LOVED this one! Oh Mr Edwards you stole my heart! I love age gap romances and so this book immediately caught my eye. This is a best friend's dad romance with an 18 year gap but don't worry, everyone is legal. These characters, this whole story... I don't know... it felt a little wild, crazy and unhinged. I don't know how else to describe it.
This book had everything I love about forbidden romances. There is so much longing and anticipation of wanting something or someone you shouldn't have. Mr Edwards comes off as offensive and obnoxious initially but of course it's because he's really just a responsible guy trying to do the right thing. Denying his feelings for a girl half his age speaks to what a great guy he is even though she was completely legal.
The steam factor is through the roof in this one. This couple definitely have amazing chemistry and the second half of the book seemed like a bit of a sex marathon once they gave in to their feelings for each other. It wasn't just sexual though. The love and emotion I felt from this couple almost felt all consuming and overwhelming.
This was a great sexy forbiddenromance with just the right amount of angst and I definitely recommend.
4 Stars
Contemporary Age Gap Romance
POV: Dual
Heat Level: HOT
HEA
Follow me for your next comfort read!
I LOVED this one! Oh Mr Edwards you stole my heart! I love age gap romances and so this book immediately caught my eye. This is a best friend's dad romance with an 18 year gap but don't worry, everyone is legal. These characters, this whole story... I don't know... it felt a little wild, crazy and unhinged. I don't know how else to describe it.
This book had everything I love about forbidden romances. There is so much longing and anticipation of wanting something or someone you shouldn't have. Mr Edwards comes off as offensive and obnoxious initially but of course it's because he's really just a responsible guy trying to do the right thing. Denying his feelings for a girl half his age speaks to what a great guy he is even though she was completely legal.
The steam factor is through the roof in this one. This couple definitely have amazing chemistry and the second half of the book seemed like a bit of a sex marathon once they gave in to their feelings for each other. It wasn't just sexual though. The love and emotion I felt from this couple almost felt all consuming and overwhelming.
This was a great sexy forbiddenromance with just the right amount of angst and I definitely recommend.
4 Stars
Contemporary Age Gap Romance
POV: Dual
Heat Level: HOT
HEA
Follow me for your next comfort read!
October 13, 2019
This book is delicious!
It’s worth the reading!!
It’s worth the reading!!
May 16, 2020
5 stars!!!!!
Oh my lollipops!!! (😉)
The way lollipops were incorporated into this read is a sin because now the next time I suck on a lollipop, I’m going to freaking remember Graham and Violet!
Graham and Violet — oh my goodness. The complete emotional attachment I developed to these characters amazed me. This was a plot unlike one I’ve ever read.
Normally I dislike angst-filled books, but the angst in this one made me yearn for more — I didn’t want to put the book down, at all.
All of the drama in the story revolves around .
This book is divided into 3 parts and the 3 parts are so significant in the way the plot develops. It sort of goes like: before-present, present, and present-future.
I knew the MCs would end up together because I read California Dreamin’ prior to reading this book, but dammit, their whole romantic journey sometimes made me doubt their HEA as it kept getting prolonged by their stupidity — well not so much stupidity, more like . And boy did Violet have a lot of patience. I wouldn’t describe her as a doormat, but the way, but Graham sometimes tried her...
Regardless, I love Graham *ahem* Mr. Edwards 😉. And I really liked Violet, especially since she was both mature, but reflected her age in the way she saw the world.
This was truly an enchanting read. The age gap was hot and the sexy smut was so naughty!!! — 5 stars for sure, hunnies!!
Oh my lollipops!!! (😉)
The way lollipops were incorporated into this read is a sin because now the next time I suck on a lollipop, I’m going to freaking remember Graham and Violet!
Graham and Violet — oh my goodness. The complete emotional attachment I developed to these characters amazed me. This was a plot unlike one I’ve ever read.
Normally I dislike angst-filled books, but the angst in this one made me yearn for more — I didn’t want to put the book down, at all.
All of the drama in the story revolves around .
This book is divided into 3 parts and the 3 parts are so significant in the way the plot develops. It sort of goes like: before-present, present, and present-future.
I knew the MCs would end up together because I read California Dreamin’ prior to reading this book, but dammit, their whole romantic journey sometimes made me doubt their HEA as it kept getting prolonged by their stupidity — well not so much stupidity, more like . And boy did Violet have a lot of patience. I wouldn’t describe her as a doormat, but the way, but Graham sometimes tried her...
Regardless, I love Graham *ahem* Mr. Edwards 😉. And I really liked Violet, especially since she was both mature, but reflected her age in the way she saw the world.
This was truly an enchanting read. The age gap was hot and the sexy smut was so naughty!!! — 5 stars for sure, hunnies!!
December 14, 2020
This beautifully broken book is worth all the roses and red dresses and dreams.
Of course she’d drool over the dad and not the son. (Men are like fine wine!)
Hold up a sec ... Fiona is giving her crap for swooning over the dad but she fucked a history teacher? Hello pot, meet kettle.
Geez I thought her mother was awful but that sister of hers is a grade A bitch. Disgusting behavior!
The fallout from a single kiss is insane to me but I suppose it makes sense if you’re in a small town. Safety in numbers so to speak.
Huh ... I guess you weren’t the only one watching after all.
Goddam, is he mad because he wanted it to mean something?
You’ve never needed to hide from him because he’s your person.
I think what encompasses this whole thing is her willingness to crawl through broken glass , to bleed for him. And he walks through that glass to stop her, to end up bleeding for her. If that’s not love, I don’t know what is.
Good lord almighty ... Graham Edwards is fucking everything!
And than she laid herself bare to him and I fell apart. Because her honesty and pain is beautiful.
How could he do that?
It’s always men that think they know what’s best for everyone. When really they’re so closed minded, especially about themselves that they throw so much away. And no matter how much you want to think you’re being selfless, you’re dead wrong Graham. You’re just a coward.
Wow, it’s great you have this epiphany afterwards. 🤦🏼♀️
He’s lucky she’s not as faithless.
You come from different worlds because your world is lonely? Have you so easily forgotten, Mr Edwards?
Even though he drove me to distraction with his bullheaded, short sighted and know it all ways. In the end Graham reminded me why Violet was so incredibly lucky too.
Of course she’d drool over the dad and not the son. (Men are like fine wine!)
Hold up a sec ... Fiona is giving her crap for swooning over the dad but she fucked a history teacher? Hello pot, meet kettle.
Geez I thought her mother was awful but that sister of hers is a grade A bitch. Disgusting behavior!
The fallout from a single kiss is insane to me but I suppose it makes sense if you’re in a small town. Safety in numbers so to speak.
Huh ... I guess you weren’t the only one watching after all.
Goddam, is he mad because he wanted it to mean something?
You’ve never needed to hide from him because he’s your person.
I think what encompasses this whole thing is her willingness to crawl through broken glass , to bleed for him. And he walks through that glass to stop her, to end up bleeding for her. If that’s not love, I don’t know what is.
Good lord almighty ... Graham Edwards is fucking everything!
And than she laid herself bare to him and I fell apart. Because her honesty and pain is beautiful.
How could he do that?
It’s always men that think they know what’s best for everyone. When really they’re so closed minded, especially about themselves that they throw so much away. And no matter how much you want to think you’re being selfless, you’re dead wrong Graham. You’re just a coward.
Wow, it’s great you have this epiphany afterwards. 🤦🏼♀️
He’s lucky she’s not as faithless.
You come from different worlds because your world is lonely? Have you so easily forgotten, Mr Edwards?
Even though he drove me to distraction with his bullheaded, short sighted and know it all ways. In the end Graham reminded me why Violet was so incredibly lucky too.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 28, 2019
I love an older man younger woman scenario, not sure why but they always appeal to me.
I really liked this storyline. It was very different and maybe a bit taboo but no actions were acted upon until she was of age.
Violet was so broken from her upbringing and tortured. Due to that fact, she suffered a mental illness but yet she was so sweet and wise beyond her years.
Graham was damaged also from all of the people who deserted him through the years and obviously didn’t feel worthy of love or true happiness.
As disturbing as this story was it was even more beautiful.
This would have been a 5 star had I not felt that it was too “wordy”
I really liked this storyline. It was very different and maybe a bit taboo but no actions were acted upon until she was of age.
Violet was so broken from her upbringing and tortured. Due to that fact, she suffered a mental illness but yet she was so sweet and wise beyond her years.
Graham was damaged also from all of the people who deserted him through the years and obviously didn’t feel worthy of love or true happiness.
As disturbing as this story was it was even more beautiful.
This would have been a 5 star had I not felt that it was too “wordy”
October 31, 2019
It was on Violet's 16th birthday that she saw him for the first time.
Mr. Edwards. The new neighbor. It was some kind teenage-insta-love-lust thing. And it didn't stop for the next two years. She never even spoke to him. Even though his son became her best friend.
Now it's her 18th birthday and because of an impulsive, slightly drunk incident ... all their lives are forever changed ....
WHAT WILL HAPPEN WITH VIOLET & MR. EDWARDS?
WILL WE GET A HAPPY END?
READ THE BOOK TO FIND OUT!☺
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Well, I really kinda loved this!
I really did. Which is weird, because I hate age-gap romances. Or rather, I hate age-gap. Little age-gap rant coming - I'll put it in a spoiler thingy - doesn't spoil anything, it's just me being weird, you really don't need to read it, especially if you love age-gap!
Anyway. I really loved this story.
Violet is adorable. Your typical shy and pretty nerd who thinks she's nothing special. But of course Mr. Edwards noticed her. Which is not really as creepy as it sounds.
I think with him it's a case of he never really got to be an 18 year old teenager, because he had a son to raise all on his own. Maybe that's why he's a bit younger in his head. Ugh - I don't know what I mean exactly. But that might explain why he's attracted to such a young woman. I need to explain it in my head, because otherwise it's just creepy.
We also know Violet from the book Medicine Man. We met her in a psychiatric hospital. She's still best friends with the three girls she met there. Her parents sent her there after she couldn't really deal with what happened on her 18th birthday.
But now she's totally okay again - mostly - sometimes ... and she wants to find Mr. Edwards and apologize for ruining his life ...
As I said, I really like Violet. She's so sweet and broken and it's so sad to watch her go through life so scared and full of guilt.
And then we have Graham - Mr. Edwards. The first part of the book we just hear how amazingly beautiful he his. Violet is soo in love with him - just from watching him from across the street.
But we don't really meet him at first. And then once we do ... I didn't really like him much. Or at all. It felt a bit like I was in a BDSM dungeon and humiliation and degradation were the topics of the day. He was so weird and angry and mean and unkind. Yes, we know that it's just a cover to hide his feelings, his attraction. But I wanted to insta-love him. Like Violet did. But I just didn't. But Violet pretty quickly changed my first impression of him. She just doesn't give up. And he thaws little by little and we get to meet the real Graham. And we really like him. Even though there's always this creepy young girl - old man thing in the back of my mind ... I just don't like that. I also didn't like the whole slut and bad girl thing later on! That was just too much and didn't fit the story at all in my opinion.
BUT - Violet and Graham are really perfect for each other! We have lots of adorable moments and some very erotic moments. I really loved reading this book. But maybe I should just not read those age-gap thingies anymore - it's just all too ewww for my tastes. ☺ But I know I will read them again anyway. I can't stay away from good romances!
And DREAMS OF 18 was a very sweet and sexy and heartbreaking love story!
A tiny litte thing about the writing I didn't like ... the word wanna is used way too much. I mean you can say it a few times if you wanna, but it just sounds so silly after 134 times!☺
♡
♡
September 29, 2020
oh wow... I needed this book.
After a not so great weekend, Dreams of 18 ended up being the best recommendation of the week for me. It was so fucking hot! I need a Graham in my life because that was crazy sexy and had ridiculously not-obvious sweet romance. I was wide eyed and hooked with Dreams of 18. It was crazy , it was messy and I enjoyed every moment of it.
After a not so great weekend, Dreams of 18 ended up being the best recommendation of the week for me. It was so fucking hot! I need a Graham in my life because that was crazy sexy and had ridiculously not-obvious sweet romance. I was wide eyed and hooked with Dreams of 18. It was crazy , it was messy and I enjoyed every moment of it.
Read
October 17, 2019DNF @ 67%
April 12, 2024
｡･:*˚:✧｡
“And what am I?”
“Something made of moon and magic.”
☾ ⋆*･ﾟ:⋆*･ﾟ
-=-
Re-read:
I was just really in the mood for a re-read, and I'm so glad that I did it. I really love how OTT and dramatic SAK is with her writing and characters- I just loved reading this again- it was a lot sweeter this time around.
-=-
The second-hand embarrassment was real people 💀. (but I loved everysingle seconde of it).
Oh and I just wanted to say that my man Graham, did not hold back, at all.
Overall I just really liked the book. There was some great (yet slightly questionable) character development and I think I'm obsessed.
And I just wanted to say that I'm love with the playlists that SAK made for this book
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