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Pretty;
After a lifetime of torture from a man set out to destroy her, Andie finally finds herself surviving on her own free of his grasp despite her past still haunting her dreams.
Laith had his own demons to fight, but now he's thriving in Chicago as the owner of City Ink Tattoos.
When Andie and Laith meet their worlds shift as they find strength in each other. Will they be able to build with the pieces of their hearts they have left, or will their love crumble and fall, leaving them both completely shattered?
Author's Note: The novel contains adult situations that are meant for 18+ and graphic situations such as rape, abuse (including sexual), neglect, suicide and drug abuse.
Laith had his own demons to fight, but now he's thriving in Chicago as the owner of City Ink Tattoos.
When Andie and Laith meet their worlds shift as they find strength in each other. Will they be able to build with the pieces of their hearts they have left, or will their love crumble and fall, leaving them both completely shattered?
Author's Note: The novel contains adult situations that are meant for 18+ and graphic situations such as rape, abuse (including sexual), neglect, suicide and drug abuse.
- GenresContemporary RomanceDark
301 pages, Paperback
First published June 21, 2016
72 people are currently reading
532 people want to read
About the author
Amber Lacie
11 books1,231 followersIndie-Award Winning Author Amber Lacie is about all things books, glitter, and shenanigans. Never without a book or caffeinated goodness, she's managed a husband that worships at her alter and two awesome kiddos, all while pumping out tales of love and suspense. Growing up in Chicagoland, she's seen the nitty, and knows the gritty. As for love and home, that landed her in Beverly Shores, Indiana where she dreams up adventures for her characters so that you the reader can explore new bends in the road. Buckle up.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
October 7, 2016
***POSSIBLE SPOILERS PRESENT WITHIN REVIEW***
Oh, wow, what can I say about this new release written by author Amber Lacie? This will rip your heart out while you’re gasping for air. What this young woman goes through when she is a child and teenager was so sad and unforgiving. It’s very graphic in the beginning, and I wasn’t too sure I could read anymore. Abuse to children has got to be one of the hardest conditions for me to read about. I just can’t understand it. And, this one is tough to comprehend. But, as there are secrets revealed, young Pandora gets some incite into exactly the man who she thought was her father is. The author does not hold anything back as to how Pandora’s life has gotten so out of control. It takes a strong man to finally come to her aide and get her out of the hell that she’s been living in. Finally locating to Chicago and changing her name to Andie, her life is more manageable even though she always seems like she’s looking over her shoulder waiting for the next ball to drop. Andie’s life is riddled with secrets, and she doesn’t let anyone in – even the people that try to be her friends. It’s with panic that she runs when her life gets so out of hand. And, that panic turns into a full blown breakdown. Coming to her side is the most beautiful stranger with the most amazing blue eyes that she could get lost in. With blond hair and and a short beard, his smile is infectious and he suggests that what she needs is “pie”. What a strange solution to her going to pieces in front of him! But, to Andie, what can it hurt? And, that’s how their relationship begins by having the most delicious applie pie together. Now don’t think that all is right with Laith (what a cool name) because he has his demons as well. His are not just chasing him at the moment. They’re more in his past. But, he’s damaged from them and trying to make his life worth living. He doesn’t really hold back from telling Andie the truth about what has happened in his past that was so harrowing. And, for that I loved how Ms. Lacie just puts Laith’s feelings right out there. He was beyond truthful to her. There’s no lies just honesty with him. He’s the real deal. A perfect male for Andie when her past has been consumed with lies!
Both of the two main characters were strong and courageous people. Their stories were so sad, but together they were willing to face the music. It was a beautiful love story, heartbreaking at times, but beautiful when all is said and done. I look forward to reading more from this author. This consumed and intrigued me, and I was sad when I turned the last page. It’s a difficult one to read, but the ending was so well worth it. It seemed to be very fitting that both main characters found peace and hopefulness with each other as everything just came full circle. One of the best books I’ve read this year! It’s amazing how you can just find some gems when you’re looking around on Amazon! Books that should have a bigger audience, and this is definitely one of them!
Oh, wow, what can I say about this new release written by author Amber Lacie? This will rip your heart out while you’re gasping for air. What this young woman goes through when she is a child and teenager was so sad and unforgiving. It’s very graphic in the beginning, and I wasn’t too sure I could read anymore. Abuse to children has got to be one of the hardest conditions for me to read about. I just can’t understand it. And, this one is tough to comprehend. But, as there are secrets revealed, young Pandora gets some incite into exactly the man who she thought was her father is. The author does not hold anything back as to how Pandora’s life has gotten so out of control. It takes a strong man to finally come to her aide and get her out of the hell that she’s been living in. Finally locating to Chicago and changing her name to Andie, her life is more manageable even though she always seems like she’s looking over her shoulder waiting for the next ball to drop. Andie’s life is riddled with secrets, and she doesn’t let anyone in – even the people that try to be her friends. It’s with panic that she runs when her life gets so out of hand. And, that panic turns into a full blown breakdown. Coming to her side is the most beautiful stranger with the most amazing blue eyes that she could get lost in. With blond hair and and a short beard, his smile is infectious and he suggests that what she needs is “pie”. What a strange solution to her going to pieces in front of him! But, to Andie, what can it hurt? And, that’s how their relationship begins by having the most delicious applie pie together. Now don’t think that all is right with Laith (what a cool name) because he has his demons as well. His are not just chasing him at the moment. They’re more in his past. But, he’s damaged from them and trying to make his life worth living. He doesn’t really hold back from telling Andie the truth about what has happened in his past that was so harrowing. And, for that I loved how Ms. Lacie just puts Laith’s feelings right out there. He was beyond truthful to her. There’s no lies just honesty with him. He’s the real deal. A perfect male for Andie when her past has been consumed with lies!
Both of the two main characters were strong and courageous people. Their stories were so sad, but together they were willing to face the music. It was a beautiful love story, heartbreaking at times, but beautiful when all is said and done. I look forward to reading more from this author. This consumed and intrigued me, and I was sad when I turned the last page. It’s a difficult one to read, but the ending was so well worth it. It seemed to be very fitting that both main characters found peace and hopefulness with each other as everything just came full circle. One of the best books I’ve read this year! It’s amazing how you can just find some gems when you’re looking around on Amazon! Books that should have a bigger audience, and this is definitely one of them!
June 20, 2016
Title: pretty;
Author: Amber Lacie
Series: --
Publisher: Self Published
Reviewer: Kathleen
Release Date: June 21st, 2016
Genre(s): Romance
Page Count:210 pages
Heat Level: 4 flames out of 5
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
Blurb:
Review:
I tried. I honestly tried not to feel the constant pain and heartache that one single child who grew up lost and alone carried around with her until she could no longer keep fighting alone. I wish I could say that halfway through I was unable to keep going because of the pain, but in truth, I couldn't put it down, I cried, I laughed, I mourned and I fell in love with the discovery of two broken people finding out that they don't need to be fixed to be loved and learn to accept each other's past as just that - their past that shaped them. Andie is beautiful, generous and the child that learned at the hand of her father that compliments, looks and touches from others meant pain, sorrow and death. Never once was she allowed to forget that:
"Pandora, Inessa... my pretty little dove... I want you to rot in here. No water, no food. I will come for you... only when I need your c**t."
The cruelty is unspeakable, and it may be a trigger for many readers, so it's important to be aware that there's often flashbacks to Andie's (AKA Pandora) past, but I've never cheered as loudly as when he made that one fatal mistake that had Andie slipping through his fingers and starting a new life as though he never existed. However, not all demons can be easily outrun and when Andie can no longer run, a pie suggestion distraction offers her exactly what she needs.
With that one 'date', Andie and Superman (AKA Laith) become the support system they need for one another to crawl out of the mud and finally see the light of the day.
"You are my Lois. I'm only your Superman when you need to be rescued, but right now you don't need saving you need to be worshipped."
To say that Laith and Andie are the perfect couple would be incorrect - I've never seen two people be more demanded and scarred by their past and yet even then, their imperfections have made them exactly what they needed to surmount the demons threatening to drown them.
In all of its sadness, heart wrenching and ugliness, pretty; was the read that made me laugh and believe that it was still possible to see that light at the proverbial end of the tunnel. Being Amber Lacie's third published novel, pretty; has become not only my favourite from her, but is also way up there in my top ten list - and not the list where I can't decide if it'll be a third or fourth 5th in my list, but one that I'll reread more than once and know that each time I'd learn something new. However, I must repeat that there that there are scenes and flashbacks of abuse, rape and drug use and can be a trigger to readers having been through a similar event or know someone who has been. pretty; is the type of novel that will make you question just how deep beauty is when all your life all you've seen is the destruction it's brought.
Review Copy of pretty; provided by the Author, Amber Lacie for an honest Review.
Reviewed by Kathleen from Alpha Book Club
Author: Amber Lacie
Series: --
Publisher: Self Published
Reviewer: Kathleen
Release Date: June 21st, 2016
Genre(s): Romance
Page Count:210 pages
Heat Level: 4 flames out of 5
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
Blurb:
After a lifetime of torture from a man set out to destroy her, Andie finally finds herself surviving on her own free of his grasp despite her past still haunting her dreams.
Laith had his own demons to fight, but now he's thriving in Chicago as the owner of City Ink Tattoos.
When Andie and Laith meet their worlds shift as they find strength in each other. Will they be able to build with the pieces of their hearts they have left, or will their love crumble and fall leaving them both completely shattered?
Review:
I tried. I honestly tried not to feel the constant pain and heartache that one single child who grew up lost and alone carried around with her until she could no longer keep fighting alone. I wish I could say that halfway through I was unable to keep going because of the pain, but in truth, I couldn't put it down, I cried, I laughed, I mourned and I fell in love with the discovery of two broken people finding out that they don't need to be fixed to be loved and learn to accept each other's past as just that - their past that shaped them. Andie is beautiful, generous and the child that learned at the hand of her father that compliments, looks and touches from others meant pain, sorrow and death. Never once was she allowed to forget that:
"Pandora, Inessa... my pretty little dove... I want you to rot in here. No water, no food. I will come for you... only when I need your c**t."
The cruelty is unspeakable, and it may be a trigger for many readers, so it's important to be aware that there's often flashbacks to Andie's (AKA Pandora) past, but I've never cheered as loudly as when he made that one fatal mistake that had Andie slipping through his fingers and starting a new life as though he never existed. However, not all demons can be easily outrun and when Andie can no longer run, a pie suggestion distraction offers her exactly what she needs.
With that one 'date', Andie and Superman (AKA Laith) become the support system they need for one another to crawl out of the mud and finally see the light of the day.
"You are my Lois. I'm only your Superman when you need to be rescued, but right now you don't need saving you need to be worshipped."
To say that Laith and Andie are the perfect couple would be incorrect - I've never seen two people be more demanded and scarred by their past and yet even then, their imperfections have made them exactly what they needed to surmount the demons threatening to drown them.
In all of its sadness, heart wrenching and ugliness, pretty; was the read that made me laugh and believe that it was still possible to see that light at the proverbial end of the tunnel. Being Amber Lacie's third published novel, pretty; has become not only my favourite from her, but is also way up there in my top ten list - and not the list where I can't decide if it'll be a third or fourth 5th in my list, but one that I'll reread more than once and know that each time I'd learn something new. However, I must repeat that there that there are scenes and flashbacks of abuse, rape and drug use and can be a trigger to readers having been through a similar event or know someone who has been. pretty; is the type of novel that will make you question just how deep beauty is when all your life all you've seen is the destruction it's brought.
Review Copy of pretty; provided by the Author, Amber Lacie for an honest Review.
Reviewed by Kathleen from Alpha Book Club
Want to read
November 6, 2018💝 FREE on iBooks today (11/6/2018)! 💝
Blurb:
After a lifetime of torture from a man set out to destroy her, Andie finally finds herself surviving on her own free of his grasp despite her past still haunting her dreams.
Laith had his own demons to fight, but now he's thriving in Chicago as the owner of City Ink Tattoos.
When Andie and Laith meet their worlds shift as they find strength in each other. Will they be able to build with the pieces of their hearts they have left, or will their love crumble and fall, leaving them both completely shattered?
Author's Note: The novel contains adult situations that are meant for 18+ and graphic situations such as rape, abuse (including sexual), neglect, suicide and drug abuse.
Blurb:
After a lifetime of torture from a man set out to destroy her, Andie finally finds herself surviving on her own free of his grasp despite her past still haunting her dreams.
Laith had his own demons to fight, but now he's thriving in Chicago as the owner of City Ink Tattoos.
When Andie and Laith meet their worlds shift as they find strength in each other. Will they be able to build with the pieces of their hearts they have left, or will their love crumble and fall, leaving them both completely shattered?
Author's Note: The novel contains adult situations that are meant for 18+ and graphic situations such as rape, abuse (including sexual), neglect, suicide and drug abuse.
June 14, 2016
Title: Pretty
Author: Amber Lacie
Release Date: June 21, 2016
Genre(s): Dark Romance
Page Count: 210
Heat Level: 4 flames out of 5
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
Blurb:
Review:
“Laith’s velvet voice slides over my skin, easing my nerves immediately. How does he do that?”
5 pretty stars! Emotional and gripping!!
Andie has had a rough life to say the least and she’s finally able to break free of her life. Laith is also dealing with his own past, but he’s starting to live a little now that he’s the owner of City Ink Tattoos. And the minute these two dark souls meet, it’s electric. And when you aren’t sobbing over their past, you’ll be hugging your kindle! There’s not enough words for me to describe how great this book is. Bravo Amber!!!
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Melissa from Alpha Book Club
Author: Amber Lacie
Release Date: June 21, 2016
Genre(s): Dark Romance
Page Count: 210
Heat Level: 4 flames out of 5
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
Blurb:
After a lifetime of torture from a man set out to destroy her, Andie finally finds herself surviving on her own free of his grasp despite her past still haunting her dreams.
Laith had his own demons to fight, but now he's thriving in Chicago as the owner of City Ink Tattoos.
When Andie and Laith meet their worlds shift as they find strength in each other. Will they be able to build with the pieces of their hearts they have left, or will their love crumble and fall, leaving them both completely shattered?
Review:
“Laith’s velvet voice slides over my skin, easing my nerves immediately. How does he do that?”
5 pretty stars! Emotional and gripping!!
Andie has had a rough life to say the least and she’s finally able to break free of her life. Laith is also dealing with his own past, but he’s starting to live a little now that he’s the owner of City Ink Tattoos. And the minute these two dark souls meet, it’s electric. And when you aren’t sobbing over their past, you’ll be hugging your kindle! There’s not enough words for me to describe how great this book is. Bravo Amber!!!
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Melissa from Alpha Book Club
June 19, 2016
What a story this is! It's definitely a bit of a roller coaster as far as emotions are concerned. I absolutely loved Amber's Shadow series so I couldn't wait to read this I knew it would be a good read, but I feel good is a bit of an understatement! I loved this, I got so annoyed reading because if I was interrupted once, I was interrupted a hundred times!! I ended up taking myself to another room so I could give it the full attention it deserves!
The story begins with Pandora (Andie) she has lived a life of torture as long as she can remember, and the man that has given her this horrific life has no intention of ever letting her go. It is so sad a child should never go through what she did. It brought out a lot of feelings whilst reading this, I wanted to jump in there and rescue her. Shortly after her 18th birthday for reasons I won't say as I don't want to spoil it, she is freed from this terrible life but her past still haunts her in her new life.
One evening Andie is upset. Laith who is passing by finds her and persuades her to have some pie with him. Oh my days!! I wouldn't need asking twice if Laith were to offer me pie that's for sure, he is truly a dream; a hot, hot dream! He is definitely my new favourite bbf. Unfortunately, Laith has a darkened past too and feels a lot of guilt. They are both broken in many ways but can they help mend each other or will they end up breaking what's left?
There are a few twists in the story that I wasn't expecting, and a few "OMG I never saw that coming" moments! It was very well written and flowed so well, I didn't want it to end. I can't recommend you one click this enough you need to read this for yourselves. It's one of my favourite reads this year so far!
The story begins with Pandora (Andie) she has lived a life of torture as long as she can remember, and the man that has given her this horrific life has no intention of ever letting her go. It is so sad a child should never go through what she did. It brought out a lot of feelings whilst reading this, I wanted to jump in there and rescue her. Shortly after her 18th birthday for reasons I won't say as I don't want to spoil it, she is freed from this terrible life but her past still haunts her in her new life.
One evening Andie is upset. Laith who is passing by finds her and persuades her to have some pie with him. Oh my days!! I wouldn't need asking twice if Laith were to offer me pie that's for sure, he is truly a dream; a hot, hot dream! He is definitely my new favourite bbf. Unfortunately, Laith has a darkened past too and feels a lot of guilt. They are both broken in many ways but can they help mend each other or will they end up breaking what's left?
There are a few twists in the story that I wasn't expecting, and a few "OMG I never saw that coming" moments! It was very well written and flowed so well, I didn't want it to end. I can't recommend you one click this enough you need to read this for yourselves. It's one of my favourite reads this year so far!
August 24, 2017
What an amazing, dark read! It's a brilliantly written story of a girl owned by a man she assumes is her father. The horrors she endures at his hands are unbelievable. She is left a tired, broken girl. Just as you think she's finally free from him, a major twist takes place and Pandora is suddenly whisked away to a new life. It's in this new life she meets an equally broken man named Laith. Together, she and Laith form a bond and as they each help each other open up to the world they're both trying to keep out.
If you love dark, sad reads with broken people who have an incredible spirit, this is certainly the book to read. Honestly, I can't say enough wonderful things about this book.
If you love dark, sad reads with broken people who have an incredible spirit, this is certainly the book to read. Honestly, I can't say enough wonderful things about this book.
June 14, 2019
Dark and suspenseful read. Love it!
September 1, 2017
This book will rip your heart out, and slowly start to give it back to piece by piece. The things Andie goes through in her life....She is a strong woman and a survivor. This is a great read, it's hard to read at times due to some of the subject matter, but a wonderful book.
July 6, 2016
This is my third book that I've read by Amber Lacie and was quite different than the first two, but I loved it nonetheless. Pretty; is a dark and edgy romance filled with suspense and angsty drama. If you love angst and suspenseful action then this is the perfect read for you! It was incredibly hard for me to put this book down once I really got into it. It's definitely one of those books that will keep you turning the pages until the end and then have you realizing that you've stayed up all night reading.
The characters are quite complex and likable. Laith is the owner of City Ink Tattoos. He is creative, funny, gorgeous, and perfect in every way. Andie has been relocated after finally being saved from a a life that no person should ever have to endure and is now starting fresh in the midst of Chicago, where she is a bartender at Clocks. The two have an instant connection and they both have a brokenness about them, but Andie is still in danger from being found out by some dangerous people linked to her horrible past. Can the two of them fight their demons together and finally be happy or will their demons drag them down?
Pretty; completely blew me away and took me by surprise from how different it was from the authors other books. This book was on a whole other level of writing and I absolutely loved it, even though it was a darker read than I am used to reading. Readers should note the warning at the beginning; this book does contain violence and abuse that could be triggers for certain people. On that note, I cannot wait to find out what Amber Lacie has in store for us next!
The characters are quite complex and likable. Laith is the owner of City Ink Tattoos. He is creative, funny, gorgeous, and perfect in every way. Andie has been relocated after finally being saved from a a life that no person should ever have to endure and is now starting fresh in the midst of Chicago, where she is a bartender at Clocks. The two have an instant connection and they both have a brokenness about them, but Andie is still in danger from being found out by some dangerous people linked to her horrible past. Can the two of them fight their demons together and finally be happy or will their demons drag them down?
Pretty; completely blew me away and took me by surprise from how different it was from the authors other books. This book was on a whole other level of writing and I absolutely loved it, even though it was a darker read than I am used to reading. Readers should note the warning at the beginning; this book does contain violence and abuse that could be triggers for certain people. On that note, I cannot wait to find out what Amber Lacie has in store for us next!
September 25, 2016
Pretty was an intriguing and emotional read. Two people happen to meet, once upon a snowy eve and have pie. Sounds like the beginnings of a perfect love story, right? Well...maybe. If those two people didn't have soul crippling backgrounds, a horrible ex, and were wanted by unknown enemies of course.
Andie was once known as Pandora. She endured a childhood that no one, and I mean no one, should have to endure. After being placed in witness protection she starts over the best she can in Chicago. Struggling to be as normal as she can Andie still can't stand to be touched and is often lost in her own mind. She also has difficulties relating to other people. Until she meets Laith.
Laith is broken in his own way. But as the saying goes, like minds often think alike. Happening upon the sobbing Andie in a park he invites her for pie, knowing that sometimes the best thing you can offer is a distraction. The rest of the book falls into place and the suspense will have you on the edge of your seat.
Beware of some disturbing scenes in the beginning portion of the book. This book brings to light some of the horror of child abuse, human trafficking and suicide. It is not a light hearted book but it is a good story. I would definitely recommend this standalone to anyone who enjoys a darker read.
Andie was once known as Pandora. She endured a childhood that no one, and I mean no one, should have to endure. After being placed in witness protection she starts over the best she can in Chicago. Struggling to be as normal as she can Andie still can't stand to be touched and is often lost in her own mind. She also has difficulties relating to other people. Until she meets Laith.
Laith is broken in his own way. But as the saying goes, like minds often think alike. Happening upon the sobbing Andie in a park he invites her for pie, knowing that sometimes the best thing you can offer is a distraction. The rest of the book falls into place and the suspense will have you on the edge of your seat.
Beware of some disturbing scenes in the beginning portion of the book. This book brings to light some of the horror of child abuse, human trafficking and suicide. It is not a light hearted book but it is a good story. I would definitely recommend this standalone to anyone who enjoys a darker read.
September 22, 2016
ARC for honest review.
Warning: This story is not for everyone, its very dark, the first three chapters being the darkest. It contains graphic scenes of child abuse, self harming, attempted suicide and physical abuse.
With the warning out of the way, if you can manage to get past the first three chapters, this is an excellent story. As hard as those chapters can be, you really do need to read them to understand the daily struggles Andie has to face. How she fights, for herself and those she holds close to her. I am so glad i pushed on reading it. It kept me gripped. Lots of emotions, both good and bad. Lots of twists that you do not see coming, wow the twists! At times a harsh yet sweet story, with a beautiful, happy ending.
This is the first book i have read by Amber Lacie and i look forward to reading more. Would certainly recommend.
Warning: This story is not for everyone, its very dark, the first three chapters being the darkest. It contains graphic scenes of child abuse, self harming, attempted suicide and physical abuse.
With the warning out of the way, if you can manage to get past the first three chapters, this is an excellent story. As hard as those chapters can be, you really do need to read them to understand the daily struggles Andie has to face. How she fights, for herself and those she holds close to her. I am so glad i pushed on reading it. It kept me gripped. Lots of emotions, both good and bad. Lots of twists that you do not see coming, wow the twists! At times a harsh yet sweet story, with a beautiful, happy ending.
This is the first book i have read by Amber Lacie and i look forward to reading more. Would certainly recommend.
November 2, 2016
I'm speechless and I can't really put in words how this book has affected me. This is the first time I have ever read a book by Amber Lacie since she is a new author to me.
This book had some triggers for me. I had to lay the book down for a couple of days then get back to it. I'm so glad I did.
I do not want to spoil anything in this book because you must read this book with an open mind and open heart. You will not be disappointed.
You never know what a person has gone through in their lives. Their smiles they wear daily might just be a disguise behind pain and sorrow.
I really have embraced the beauty that Amber Lacie gave Andie. Everyone in their life needs to believe they are PRETTY;
This book had some triggers for me. I had to lay the book down for a couple of days then get back to it. I'm so glad I did.
I do not want to spoil anything in this book because you must read this book with an open mind and open heart. You will not be disappointed.
You never know what a person has gone through in their lives. Their smiles they wear daily might just be a disguise behind pain and sorrow.
I really have embraced the beauty that Amber Lacie gave Andie. Everyone in their life needs to believe they are PRETTY;
November 25, 2016
"Pretty;" is the story of Pandora/Andie who is abused sexually and physically by her father. She turns to cutting and suicide to escape. At 18, she is found by the FBI and relocated. Once on her own, she finds Laith, etc. I found it very difficult to read in terms of content. I would have rather not had such graphic detail particularly of the sexual abuse/rape. I did not notice the Author's Warning on the description here, and wish I had- this book certainly needs it and is for mature audiences only. That being said, the writing style flows pretty well and is easy to follow. The book moves quickly. Please note that I received this book through a goodreads giveaway. All opinions are my own.
August 6, 2016
Author Amber Lacie wrote on a subject that most shy away from, but she didn't it's fantastic. The pain that the main character goes through is almost unbearable. Trust was something she could not afford to give. But she met someone who could give her the support she needs, but he's just as broken. Together they lean trust and love.
November 16, 2017
This was an intense, dark, and morbidly interesting immediately after I started reading a Kindle sample after someone recommended it. Once I started reading, I was sucked in and had to see how it ended despite the abuse in the first part. This was definitely not something I would normally read. I really enjoyed the setting in the snowy Chicago winter.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 21, 2016
I loved this book. I will never look at Pie the same way again. I was so wrapped up in this book from the very first page to the very last page. I can't wait to see what Amber comes up with next. Hopefully it will be sooner later
January 5, 2017
I would give it a 3.5 but it won't let me. I thought this story and message were excellent. I just think it needed an editor (or a better one). Lots of grammar things that distracted me. But the story was spot on. I will definitely read more from this author!
January 21, 2019
Dark, intense, suspenseful, twisty, steamy read! I want to read more stories like this!
February 16, 2019
Dark and suspenseful read. Pretty; was gritty and absolutely gripping.
December 9, 2018
I love diving into Amber Lacie’s books as I never know which direction she is going to take you, but as always she has managed to throw me off guard and keep me on edge throughout the whole of this book. I genuinely can’t find the words to describe how amazing this book truly was, because being honest I was completely blown away by the words that Amber wrote. With Amber’s books she goes and takes real life experiences and puts her own twists on them, but you can see through her writing that she is passionate about it and that she’s not afraid to go ahead and tackle the subjects that not a lot of people venture into or are comfortable talking about. Amber certainly has a way at getting a reaction from you and knows just how to pull at your emotions, with this book she managed to just tug at the right parts, I felt for the main character as she does go through a hell of a lot in the beginning and all you want to do is just grab her and wrap her up so that no one can do any more damage to her. But Amber perfected this story entirely. The only thing that I will say that I did notice was that I felt that the ending was a little rushed, don’t get me wrong, it was written perfectly and I wouldn’t change the ending at all, but I do feel that from the last 80% it was a little rushed, she could have gone into more detail and expanded a little more. But other than that I do think she did an amazing job with it.
Andie was such a sweet little girl, she tried her best to do what she could to make her father proud, but no matter what she did she just couldn’t make him happy. As she got older, the more she noticed there was difference with how her father treated her, with this realisation she decided to be more rebellious, but little did she know that he was always watching her. Just after she turns 16, her life takes a turn and little does she realise that getting kicked out of her private all girls school would have been a lot more easier than what she has to deal with back home. However, her life just gets worse when she turns 18, the man who she has known as her father for as long as she can remember is actually someone else. With already being damaged enough by him, will she ever be able to escape his clutches or is she just set to deal with whatever he decides to throw at her.
Andie was such a sweet little girl, she tried her best to do what she could to make her father proud, but no matter what she did she just couldn’t make him happy. As she got older, the more she noticed there was difference with how her father treated her, with this realisation she decided to be more rebellious, but little did she know that he was always watching her. Just after she turns 16, her life takes a turn and little does she realise that getting kicked out of her private all girls school would have been a lot more easier than what she has to deal with back home. However, her life just gets worse when she turns 18, the man who she has known as her father for as long as she can remember is actually someone else. With already being damaged enough by him, will she ever be able to escape his clutches or is she just set to deal with whatever he decides to throw at her.
December 21, 2018
Pretty by Amber Lacie broke my heart into little, tiny pieces and then slowly put them back
together. Laith and Andie's story is not your classic romance, it's dark and black as pitch like the
smoke from the fire when Andie burnt the last remnants of her old life. Andie meets Laith after
escaping the horror of her entire existance. Can one actually escape from a lifetime of Hell?
Laith is the hot and oh so sexy owner of City Ink Tattoos but has a few demons chasing him
around as well. Will they gain strength from each other?
Amber Lacies' books promise to be intense and this one does not disappoint. This novel has
layers like an onion; you keep peeling but every layer proves more....just more. More angst. More
danger. More possibilities. More emotion that ties your guts in knots. Ms. Lacie has a special
way of pulling you into her world and you don't want to leave it. I cried with Andie. I laughed with
Laith. I hated the man who thought he could own such a survivor, even if all she wanted to do
was die. I raged with Charlie over the little girl with blonde hair that never had a chance to live.
Pretty is a 5-star read and I recommend this novel to anyone willing to walk through the dark to
find the light at the end of the tunnel.
"Why not? Maybe I'm Superman."
together. Laith and Andie's story is not your classic romance, it's dark and black as pitch like the
smoke from the fire when Andie burnt the last remnants of her old life. Andie meets Laith after
escaping the horror of her entire existance. Can one actually escape from a lifetime of Hell?
Laith is the hot and oh so sexy owner of City Ink Tattoos but has a few demons chasing him
around as well. Will they gain strength from each other?
Amber Lacies' books promise to be intense and this one does not disappoint. This novel has
layers like an onion; you keep peeling but every layer proves more....just more. More angst. More
danger. More possibilities. More emotion that ties your guts in knots. Ms. Lacie has a special
way of pulling you into her world and you don't want to leave it. I cried with Andie. I laughed with
Laith. I hated the man who thought he could own such a survivor, even if all she wanted to do
was die. I raged with Charlie over the little girl with blonde hair that never had a chance to live.
Pretty is a 5-star read and I recommend this novel to anyone willing to walk through the dark to
find the light at the end of the tunnel.
"Why not? Maybe I'm Superman."
November 12, 2018
Such a pretty little thing. . . how can such a simple phrase illicit such hard core responses. That's a small part of her story. Who is she? Where does she belong? What is real? Who can she trust? Her life is not her own and her mind won't let go of the past the hurts, the pan, but her gets her. He sees beyond her scars because he has them as well. These two have a dance card marked by hell itself all they have to do is survive, all she has to do is not run. This is an emotional story, her story, their reality. It isn't pretty but Superman and Lois make it work. This author does it again with a story that will take you to the four corners and drop you right back where you started. Lies, deceit, greed and betrayal, in the midst of it finding out you are stronger than you ever thought and that love is real. Abuse is real and this author takes the time to provide links for assistance and information. If this book can help a friend buy it. If you just want a read that will rock your world. . . buy it.
June 21, 2017
Jeez! I really don't know where to start with this review! I am literally sat here trying to catch my breath whilst gathering the pieces of my shattered heart.
This is the first book that I have read by this author and my god, what a book to start with! My heart was broken within the first few pages, Andie has experienced so much trauma in her life, all at the hands of someone who is supposed to care for, nurture her and love her unconditionally........but all is not what it seems.
Then she meets Laith, aka Superman. My days! Watching these two come together and navigate the darkness together had me sobbing all over my kindle, I don't think my heart could of taken any more.
My emotions and my heart were scattered six ways Sunday as I made my way through the book........but I couldn't stop turning the pages....I NEEDED to find out how this would end.
You really need to add this to your TBR!
This is the first book that I have read by this author and my god, what a book to start with! My heart was broken within the first few pages, Andie has experienced so much trauma in her life, all at the hands of someone who is supposed to care for, nurture her and love her unconditionally........but all is not what it seems.
Then she meets Laith, aka Superman. My days! Watching these two come together and navigate the darkness together had me sobbing all over my kindle, I don't think my heart could of taken any more.
My emotions and my heart were scattered six ways Sunday as I made my way through the book........but I couldn't stop turning the pages....I NEEDED to find out how this would end.
You really need to add this to your TBR!
August 25, 2017
This is the first book that I have read from this author but I really like her writing style and will be looking into reading more from her. I loved the way that the story pulled you in and made you want to keep reading to find out what happened next. I couldn't put it down, I read it in one sitting.
This is the story of Pandora a motherless young girl who was abused sexually by her 'father' from a very early age. When her father was killed his enemies then became her enemies and she was taken into a witness protection programme.
Pandora was beaten down by her father then after he was murdered by the people she trusted the most. Charlie and Laith were the only saving grace and Charlie paid the highest price for helping her.
Pandora/Andie started spending time with Laith and their bond grew until all they needed was each other. They had both come from a broken childhood and helped each other to grow into better people.
A great read.
This is the story of Pandora a motherless young girl who was abused sexually by her 'father' from a very early age. When her father was killed his enemies then became her enemies and she was taken into a witness protection programme.
Pandora was beaten down by her father then after he was murdered by the people she trusted the most. Charlie and Laith were the only saving grace and Charlie paid the highest price for helping her.
Pandora/Andie started spending time with Laith and their bond grew until all they needed was each other. They had both come from a broken childhood and helped each other to grow into better people.
A great read.
February 17, 2017
The book was AMAZING!! I want to put that out there first, this is not for the faint of heart. It contains graphic situations, but if you can get past that, you will love this page turner!!! Pandora, grew up in a house of money. Although, she had all she needed to the outside world, secrets always stay behind locked doors. If she did even the slightest thing wrong, there were repercussions and as the years went by, they became the things of nightmares. The one to stand out the most, she belonged to her father and nothing or no one would come between them. Until one night. The FBI raid the house. Now in Witness Protection, Andie is trying to move on the best she can. Little things can trigger a panic attack, and after she runs out of work, she meets someone that will change things for her, Laith. He becomes her calm, her rock, but her past is coming to pay her a visit.
September 25, 2017
This is such an ugly story, the topic, and the writing lures you in especially the first third. The topic is horrendous and what Andie has to endure is horrific. As an adult, Andie is surviving. It's not pretty but it's manageable and all I could do is applaud her for making it through the days.
Laith enters the scene one day when Andie is having a panic attack. While he's a knight in shining armor, or Superman, I questioned how Andie could trust him so quickly even if it was for a piece of pie. The immediate connection between these two made me uncomfortable. If you read the story and get Andie's history it seems to happen way too easily and too quickly. I understood Laith's hero complex better but didn't quite believe Andie's feelings.
The final third of the book was filled with Andie running and running and the story was wrapped up too quickly for my taste.
Laith enters the scene one day when Andie is having a panic attack. While he's a knight in shining armor, or Superman, I questioned how Andie could trust him so quickly even if it was for a piece of pie. The immediate connection between these two made me uncomfortable. If you read the story and get Andie's history it seems to happen way too easily and too quickly. I understood Laith's hero complex better but didn't quite believe Andie's feelings.
The final third of the book was filled with Andie running and running and the story was wrapped up too quickly for my taste.
November 6, 2018
I have a love/hate feel for this book. I loved the storyline! Wow, dark and twisty for sure! I’m always down for a little dark and twisty!! The characters were okay. I really felt for Andie. I wanted to take all her demons away and help her. I wasn’t overly excited for Laith. He came on too strong and too fast. I feel like their relationship moved entirely too fast for Andie’s past. She was so messed up from her past, yet as soon as she meets Laith, it all goes away for him. And only him. She still won’t connect with anyone else. And they had way too much sex for her being so traumatized. Then the ending didn’t give us any information on Terri or Jonathan about what happened with them, or if Andie ever opened up completely with them. I feel like this book would have made an AMAZING series and it just moved way too fast for a good book.
November 7, 2018
I have a love/hate feel for this book. I loved the storyline! Wow, dark and twisty for sure! I’m always down for a little dark and twisty!! The characters were okay. I really felt for Andie. I wanted to take all her demons away and help her. I wasn’t overly excited for Laith. He came on too strong and too fast. I feel like their relationship moved entirely too fast for Andie’s past. She was so messed up from her past, yet as soon as she meets Laith, it all goes away for him. And only him. She still won’t connect with anyone else. And they had way too much sex for her being so traumatized. Then the ending didn’t give us any information on Terri or Jonathan about what happened with them, or if Andie ever opened up completely with them. I feel like this book would have made an AMAZING series and it just moved way too fast for a good book.
May 23, 2017
Broken AF
Woah, that was certainly an interesting and intense read. The story started off so strong with jarring visuals that screamed of terror and sadness. Andie struggles with trying to find a normal life after all the horrible abuse she undergoes. And DANG that girl is mega broken...a hot mess, understandably.
I loved how she meets Laith, and I looooove his name. A few mannerisms about him bugged me, along with the "angel" & "goddess" bits that were overplayed a tad. Overall I found him a little cheesy and didn't realllly like him that much. Andie on the other hand was a fascinating lass with a good amount of character development. That being said it was a really good story with almost a thriller like aspect to it that kept it interesting.
Woah, that was certainly an interesting and intense read. The story started off so strong with jarring visuals that screamed of terror and sadness. Andie struggles with trying to find a normal life after all the horrible abuse she undergoes. And DANG that girl is mega broken...a hot mess, understandably.
I loved how she meets Laith, and I looooove his name. A few mannerisms about him bugged me, along with the "angel" & "goddess" bits that were overplayed a tad. Overall I found him a little cheesy and didn't realllly like him that much. Andie on the other hand was a fascinating lass with a good amount of character development. That being said it was a really good story with almost a thriller like aspect to it that kept it interesting.
August 22, 2017
*Sigh*
The story started off great, it pulls you in, gets you hooked. However the further into the story I got the less enthusiasm and interest I had.
I connected almost immediately with Pandora/Andie and then I lost a little of that connection... I couldn't connect with our hero. He was too perfect and repetitive, overly sweet and annoying.
The author wrote many times that Laith was "a broken man", there was an insta-love factor between Andie and Laith, I didn't mind it but it felt unreal and one-sided. Laith's petnames for Andie were overdone (Goddess, Angel?).
There was so much left unanswered in this story... I expected and anticipated so much based on the start of this book that I feel let down and disappointed.
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The story started off great, it pulls you in, gets you hooked. However the further into the story I got the less enthusiasm and interest I had.
I connected almost immediately with Pandora/Andie and then I lost a little of that connection... I couldn't connect with our hero. He was too perfect and repetitive, overly sweet and annoying.
The author wrote many times that Laith was "a broken man", there was an insta-love factor between Andie and Laith, I didn't mind it but it felt unreal and one-sided. Laith's petnames for Andie were overdone (Goddess, Angel?).
There was so much left unanswered in this story... I expected and anticipated so much based on the start of this book that I feel let down and disappointed.
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