Minciunile seducției

Dark Desires #1

by Zara Cox

Primul volum din seria Dorințe întunecate

Lui Quinn îi plac femeile, sexul și banii. Are douăzeci și opt de ani și nu crede că o să prindă treizeci. Trecutul i-a fost marcat de multe drame, cea mai mare fiind moartea mamei. Tatăl lui e foarte bogat, însă are afaceri dubioase, iar Quinn decide să joace în câteva filme porno pentru un club exclusivist, sperând că astfel va putea da în vileag preocupările ilegale ale tatălui și va răzbuna moartea mamei.
Căutând o parteneră sexy pentru filmele lui, Quinn o cunoaște pe Lucky. Și ea are un trecut zbuciumat, iar în prezent se ascunde de tatăl ei și are mare nevoie de bani ca să-și ajute sora mai mică să scape de o viață promiscuă. Propunerea lui Quinn e de nerefuzat, întrucât onorariul pentru cele zece filme în care va juca este… un milion de dolari.
Dar lucrurile scapă de sub control. Quinn și Lucky se îndrăgostesc nebunește unul de altul și toate lucrurile misterioase pe care și le-au ascuns ies la iveală. La început, relația lor pare imposibilă. Vor reuși totuși să rămână împreună?

„O poveste tulburător de frumoasă, de un erotism intens, care va rămâne cu tine multă vreme după ce o vei fi terminat." - Audrey Carlan, autoare de bestselleruri #1 New York Times

„Zara Cox e cunoscută pentru romanele ei fierbinți. Nu se dezminte nici în Minciunile seducției: intriga complexă și imprevizibilă a cărții te va face să o citești pe nerăsuflate." - Jana Aston, autoare de bestselleruri New York Times

„Uau! Ce carte bine scrisă! Quinn Blackwood e un personaj dat naibii, iar Lucky, eroina chinuită și curajoasă, e perechea perfectă pentru el. E o poveste foarte sexy, care îți va răscoli sentimentele și te va lăsa complet satisfăcută." - Tabitha A. Lane, autorul bestsellerului Trade

Zara Cox scrie literatură erotică de peste două decenii, însă abia în urmă cu șapte ani a hotărât să-și publice romanele, debutând cu seria Indigo Lounge, care a avut un mare succes de public în întreaga lume. Zara preferă o viață retrasă, lăsând să vorbească în locul ei romanele sale de un erotism electrizant.

Genres: Erotica, Romance, Dark, BDSM, Contemporary, Dark Romance, Contemporary Romance

424 pages, Paperback

First published March 11, 2016

Reviews

[Hulya Kara Yuksel · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Your pussy is beautiful, Lucky. So pretty, I almost don’t want to spoil it. But it belongs to me. It’s my property. So I’m going to desecrate it. You know that, don’t you? I’m going to smack, eat and pound it sore."


Oh okay, first of all I need a minute to cool down my vagina’s temperature! :D Well because fuck me, this book literally ruined me! :D OMG it was sooooooo hot and I haven’t count it exactly how many times I cheated my husband with Quinn and Q. :D (Sorry husband, I’ll go back to you when I get home so we can play another game and you can show me how much you love me… And after that maybe I can forget them! But just a little tip for you, this time you have to try more harder than usual okay? So bets are open... :D )

Ugh anyway, just for a moment let’s get back to business and act like serious person. :D One of my bestest friends (Dilek) recommend this book to me and I trust her instincts. :) But before we go down deep, I have a honest confession for you. A couple of months ago, when I first bumped this book on GR, I didn’t even read the blurb and didn't add this book to my TBR list because I judged it by the book title. I,Porn Star. Simple right? My only thought was, ugh this must be another empty, pointless book. They must be fuck each other like brains out. Well turns out, I only couldn’t guessed one thing… This book was definitely not an empty & pointless! THIS BOOK WAS SO MUCH MORE THAN THE TITLE TELLS. There were a great mystery characters personal life. So beside the sexual tension, other parts of the story really surprised me. :) And 2nd thing, yeah they fucked each other like a hungry wolves and their sex scenes was so hot, so intense and so wet. Ahhh I’m not kidding right now but I even felt their orgasms on my own body too. So yeah, this book was that good!!! :D

Please do not make the same mistake I did and read this mind blowing book asap! This story will surprise you but most important thing you will FEEL this book. :D I highly recommend it. You must meet with this guy. :D

Ps. Dilek, thank you babe for recommending this book to me. You have no idea how my body grateful to you. I had a great time with Q / Quinn. :D Thanks darling. :)
Btw I highly recommend you should also read my dearest friends review too. Maybe she can convince you to read this book. :)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...



IMPORTANT INFO: There ise a new edition of this book. And it has a new title: "Beautiful Liar"...
https://www.amazon.com/Beautiful-Liar...


Quinn / Q <3

[Coco.V · Rating 5 out of 5]

Re-read: 9/25/20 ❤️

A feast for the mind, body, and soul!

Oh. My. Goodness! I once more surrendered to this amazing author. I read and loved all of Zara Cox’s books from the very beginning. With I, Porn Star she delivered another winner I devoured from start to finish. I loved everything in this book, the way Zara portrayed the characters, the addictive and captivating storyline and the flawless writing style.

This is the story of Quinn Blackwood aka Q and Elyse Gilbert aka Lucky. The plot originality and the well-developed complexity of the characters give a phenomenal dimension to the story. It's not an ordinary love story and by no means an easy read. But nevertheless a heart-stopping love story.

Lucky is on the run from a father who has whoring her since her seventeenth birthday. She has secret and in desperate need of money to save the only person in her life she vowed to protect. Hiding and trying to survive she accepts to give herself over to Q for 10 days in exchange of one million dollars without knowing he is Quinn Blackwood.

Quinn is seriously damaged, haunted by his dark past and out for revenge. He’s a billionaire CEO during the day and at the night, an exclusive porn star only known as Q. He uses his double identity and therefore Lucky, to serve this purpose. Quinn is a tortured soul keeping you on your toes throughout the story with his mercurial mood swings. As the story progresses, the depth of Quinn’s darkness becomes obvious, inevitably leading him to his own destruction.

Lucky build a complicated relationship with both Quinn and Q without knowing they are one and the same person. The situation is confusing for Lucky because when she’s with Quinn, Q the mysterious man ceased to exist and she stops thinking about the gorgeous and enigmatic CEO Quinn when she’s with Q. But they definitely have both an undeniable effect on her. She’s physically involved with Q and emotionally with Quinn. Lucky battles with herself. She knows that the feelings she’s starting to develop for Q are totally wrong. The conflict ragging inside her between shame and primitive pleasure she cannot resist. Even if she’s selling her body to save her life, deep inside she knows that she shouln’t be enjoying this, but she is. She has never known anything like this.

The heat between them is combustible. She’s like a torch paper to his fire. Their chemistry is off-the-charts hot. But quickly, Q and Lucky are both caught in a cycle of wrath, cruelty and sex. Him unleashing all his darkness, and her as a willing recipient of all of it.

As the story unfolds, the incredible sexual tension between Quinn and Elyse increase exponentially and Elyse’s choices become more and more difficult.

Quinn’s Machiavellian plan in full action and the danger lurking around Lucky, will they be strong enough to defeat their own demons and find their happiness ?

If you are looking for a unique and captivating storyline, full of mystery, suspense and hot sex scenes, this book is for you. Highly recommended.

I can hardly wait to read the next book in the series. :D

[Dilek VT · Rating 5 out of 5]

The title of this book can be misleading. So, think twice before you read it or avoid it.

And maybe the author and/or publishers thought the same and it is republished with a new title: "Beautiful Liar".

*********************************************

Porn????

Is there “a porn film shot” in this book? Yes, there is.

But if you think that this book is the story of a porn star, then, you would be wrong. It ISN’T. She isn't a porn film star and that's the only thing I can say without spoiling it for you.

If you think this book is pure smut, some dirty fun read and nothing else, you would be wrong. It ISN’T. There is more – so much more – to the story than its erotic touch.

If you are looking for a different kind of story, which will give you all the feels, then this may be it.

*********************************************

- This book has a good story, a really good plot line.
- The characters are well-portrayed.
- The writing is good, very good, indeed.
- It is good-quality work.

It is emotional, sensual, erotic and mysterious.



It is really difficult to write a book in which there is pornography and succeed in producing a decent work which is not distasteful. And the writer manages to present the eroticism in it in the best possible way. The pornographic scenes may be graphic and vivid but they are far from being revolting or abhorrent. They are steamy hot and aesthetic.

So why is there pornography in it?

- Sometimes, you are dealt with shitty cards in life.
- Sometimes, you are born into your own hell.
- Sometimes, your parents suck, they may even be evil.
- Sometimes, you may very well find yourself drowning in your own black hole while it is sucking the life out of you.

And this is when our characters meet.

And when there seems to be no way out, what if there appears some hope?

Can they see it and embrace it? Or are they too blind with their sorrows, hatred and quest for revenge to miss their one and only chance for being saved?



This book is the story of two people whose lives are unbelievably fucked up by their parents. Reading their story is sometimes very painful. I cried for them. I wished a happy end for them.



Our heroine is ELYSE/ELLY (LUCKY) and our hero is QUINN (Q).

The book is told by all these characters. Although Elyse (Elly) and Lucky are the same person, sometimes, Lucky tells her story, sometimes Elyse does. Similarly, Quinn and Q are the same person but sometimes Quinn tells the story, sometimes Q does. That makes it all the more interesting.

*********************************************

Their story is full of secrets, gradually revealed throughout the book. It is captivating. I really wasn’t expecting this book to be that good. I was curious because it had high ratings and a few trusted friends of mine here in goodreads spoke highly of it so I took my chance and I am very happy that I did. I am so glad that despite the title of this book, I gave it a chance.

I’m twenty-eight years old.
I won’t live to see thirty.
In eighteen months, I’ll be thirty.
I’ll inherit fifteen billion dollars.
I’ll be one of the richest men on earth.
I’ll also, if my plans succeed, be a murderer.

***

My real name is Elyse Gilbert, nicknamed ‘Lucky’ by my father, because according to him, I'm the unluckiest person alive, and I'll die the same way I came into the world: naked, screaming, and dirt poor.
So far, he’s been right about the unlucky part. Also dead right about the dirt-poor part. But what he didn’t predict was that at twenty-two, I’d be on the run for arson and murder.



Do I recommend this book?

Of course not to everyone.

If the fact that pornography is involved in it makes you feel uncomfortable, then, do not think twice, just pass it.

I myself normally prefer romance with deep emotions and a touch of steam in it but this one, despite the porn theme in it, surprisingly worked for me with its interesting story, obsessive hero and the poor "victim of fate" heroine.

If you are looking for a hot read with a real good story behind, and if you don’t mind that the characters are involved in porn for some reason, then, you may give it a chance but bear in mind that there are explicit sex scenes in it, some of them raw and some of them passionate and emotional.

Is our hero an alpha?

Yes, he is dominant, possessive and obsessive. He is flawed and he makes unforgivable mistakes but you still want to forgive him.

Is the heroine submissive?

Well, kind of and sometimes, but not a doormat heroine in my opinion. I felt sorry for her and I really wanted a happy end for her. She was so starving for love.

Reading or avoiding this book is up to you, it is definitely a hard pill to swallow and a very daring read… But so much worth it if you ask me.





There was always a mask & blindfold between Q & Lucky.
However, it was the real deal for Elyse and Quinn.

We’re still outside arms length of each other, but he may as well be binding me in ropes. Such is the power of Quinn Blackwood’s force field.






Here are some more quotes from it that may help you to decide…

There’s nothing like being offered hope, and having it yanked away from you without explanation.

***

Slowly, she raises her head. Her eyelids flick up. Her eyes are a cross between green and hazel with a natural dark rim that pronounces its vividness. I can’t pinpoint it exactly, but something about that look in her eye sparks my interest.

Hell, if I had a heart, I’d swear it just missed a beat.

***

Right now, the problem isn’t if they find me, but when. It’s the time between now and when that I’m desperate to prolong.

***

I’ve sold my body for the better part of five years, not just to put a roof over my head or food in my stomach, but because I had no choice.

***

Yes, he is my biological father. But he’s also the man who took bids from strangers as to who would be the first man to defile his seventeen-year-old daughter.

***

I’m on the run...
I’ve been recently evicted from my exorbitant hellhole.
I’m sitting in a park, waiting to present myself to a team of strangers in a fuck off apartment in order to begin a cycle of prepping to whore myself on film with a man I’ve never met, in return for a million dollars.

***

I need to be far away from here when he connects the dots, because then he’ll know I’m the only one with the answers he needs. Answers I promised to take to the grave.

***

Two streams of conversation play through my mind, each with its own unique brand of mind-fuckery that sends my thoughts spinning. I jumped out of the frying pan because my very survival depended on it. But the fire licking at my heels might just consume me because the craving inside me, one that has grown without me even realizing it, has me locked in its terrible hold.

***

For endless moments, I’m lost. The hate, the vengeance and sex are instruments that oil my existence and keep my compass true.

***

“Do you know how I feel about you, Elly?”
“I…no, I don’t.”
“That’s fortunate because I don’t know either.”

***

“Why, do you regret this date already?”
“Is that what this is? A date? Only I thought that involved talking.”
“Aren’t we talking? Aren’t we already saying the things that need to be said?”
“I don’t know, Quinn. I’m not as fluent as you in cryptic-speak.”



“Do you think I’ll hurt you?”
“I don’t know. Will you?”
“Would you like me to lie to you, Lucky?”
“N—no.”
“Then I’ll tell you I don’t know either.”

***

I toss the blindfold on the vanity and relax in the water, then I weigh the pros and cons of tonight in my mind.

Pro. He fucks hard and he is borderline insatiable. But he’s not a sadist. He seems to be considerate and cares about my comfort.

Con. He’s not a sadist. But the potential is there.

***

I shouldn’t be enjoying this. I am literally under a spotlight, staging a performance for an audience of one or an audience of a million. The words falling from his lips could be words practiced in front of a mirror in a room somewhere in this strange place.
I shouldn’t be enjoying this.
But I am.

***

The text message produces a reaction that makes me question whether the heart I thought was dead is actually still alive, somewhere in the seething mass of emptiness inside me. I take a step back and sink into the sofa. Then I read the message again.
“You’re in my head, too .”

***

Quinn, Fionnella and Q are the only people I’ve had the most prolonged contact with in the past five, harrowing weeks. Out of those three, one is becoming a friend, one is fucking me and the other is mind-fucking me. And in some weird way, I’m getting addicted to the friendship and both brands of fucking.

***

Shit. I’m jealous of myself. That’s how fucked up I am.

***

“I would keep you, Lucky. If I didn’t need to do this. If my life wasn’t a fucked up wasteland, I would keep you. Make you mine forever.”

***

“God, I love you, Elyse. I was too twisted to recognize until it was far too late, until you saw nothing but the monster.

*********************************************

Addition as of 10 March, 2021

I have just realized that Ms Cox released a novella about Elyse and Quinn in 2017 and I missed it. Therefore, before reading that novella, I wanted to reread this book to remember each detail. This second time, the book felt like 4 stars to me but I will not change my rating because I believe it is because this time I knew what would happen and why, so the surprise effect wasn't there. I just enjoyed its hotness :)

Well, whatever, now I am ready for the novella "Wicked S.O.B." :)

*********************************************

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[Lana ❇✾DG Romance❇✾ · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 STARS

The hate, the vengeance and sex are instruments that oil my existence and keep my compass true.

HOLY. SHIT.

I did NOT see this book coming. I'm so happy it got a title and cover change because the old one didn't do it justice AT ALL. I'm serious. If you think this is yet another run of the mill smut filled romance read, think again. The writing. The story. It was hauntingly captivating. I'm absolutely blown away and got myself a new author to stalk.

I may be Quinn Blackwood, occasional user of prescribed meds to keep the demons in check, who moonlights as Q, porn star to an exclusive few who pay millions for my work. And I may be an unhinged asshole with serious daddy issues. But no one said I wasn’t a giver.

Q is a man of wealth and power. He's a man skirting the fine edge of revenge and depravity and he makes no excuses or apologies. Every single move is calculated to achieve his end goal. His revenge. To right a wrong of years past, to punish those responsible, even if he doesn't survive to bask in the glory of the fallout. It's not time to make his most calculated move yet. Everything he's been doing has been leading up to this...his grand plan. And the key to it is a woman with haunted eyes and a closet full of skeletons who may be hiding more baggage then even him. Lucky.

I want to take a scalpel to all her secrets, bleed them and soil my hands with the viscera. I also want to fuck her until her body gives out. Right in this moment, I’m not sure what I want more.

The writing in this story is absolute perfection. It's haunting and lyrical. The characters are so well developed, they practically have an energy that you can feel through the pages. The sheer power of Q's presence is enough to captivate even the most cynical reader.

Quinn Blackwood’s eyes are soulless pools. Staring into them is like staring into a bottomless abyss in the middle of a post-apocalyptic nightmare.

Every word has a purpose. Every description leading to a new revelation. It was dark and hypnotic. Erotic and captivating. I was glued to every single page, practically salivating for more.

While Q was an erotic enigma full of sex appeal and secrets, Lucky was an interesting blend of cracked glass about to shatter but with a hidden steel reinforcement. This is a woman that survived her own hell and will do anything to escape it...even sell her body and her dignity for a million dollars.

We’re caught in a cycle of wrath and cruelty and sex. He’s unleashed his darkness, and I’m the sex-hypnotized recipient of all of it. Even after he roars his climax, he keeps going, keeps flaying me.

A voice cleverly disguised by state of the art technology and a face hidden behind a steel mask is all she sees of Q. The rest is a veil of blindfolds, mind games, and sex so mind-blowing that she struggles to hold on to the fact that none of it is real...and it doesn't take long for the lines to begin to blur... for both of them.

God, I want to fuck you till you break. I may not be the right person to put you back together, but I want to do it anyway.”

This story is so much more than a romance. It's a story of survival and revenge. It's a sizzling romance wrapped around a captivating mystery. It's a splash of dark and suspense. And while the book is long, the pacing was perfect.

If you're looking for a new author to check out and a read that's totally different from the norm, this is the one book I can't recommend enough. Zara Cox now has a forever fan in this girl. I will gleefully pick up anything this woman writes. No questions asked. She's a talent that I wish I discovered sooner and am kicking myself for not reading this book when it first hit my radar. But better late then never, if you ask me.

Maybe my cracks aren’t so bad. Maybe the chasm isn’t as deep as I thought. Maybe she’ll take the leap with me. Maybe with her, I’ll survive the fall. Maybe she’ll even save me. Maybe. Maybe. Maybe…it’s too late.

Now if you'll excuse me, I'm off to immediately dive into book 2!

ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review

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[Sabrina · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Kindle now on sale* Amazon Kindle
*Paperback now on sale* Paperback

Beautiful Liar was a gripping and sensual tale of two very complicated people, both running from life. Let me set the scene for you: Quinn Blackwood, aka Q, is the elusive billionaire that has a hidden secret. Elyse Gilbert, aka Lucky, is the very unlucky woman that catches Q's eye in both aspects of his life. Secrets get revealed, passion boils to the surface, and feelings are unwillingly involved.



This book honestly surprised me with how intriguing I found it. I wasn't sure where exactly the story was going to go but the whole time I was captivated and trying to figure out what exactly was going to happen between Quinn and Elyse. The mystery of the story is one of the reasons I enjoyed it so much and was unable to put it down.

But the most important reason I was glued to this book was the heat. The chemistry between Quinn and Elyse was electric and I loved every moment they had together. Their connection was just always present and had me on the edge of my seat.

Bottom line, I definitely recommend this book. It's mysterious and sexy, and I promise you that you will not be bored if you pick this one up.

ARC kindly provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[Olga therebelreader · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG…Can I give it a 10 stars? I absolutely loved this book. It was addictive, a real page turner full of passion, sadness and downright frustration at points. The emotional rollercoaster that Elyse and Quinn go through is heartbreaking and intense.

Although there is a lot of explicit sex I don’t see this novel as porn. I see it as extremely well written erotica. The characters are richly developed and you feel as if you were in the situation with them. I also think I have a new book boyfriend....Quinn!

It's so nice to go into reading a book with no expectations and to come out so pleased and left with a story and characters that you will certainly remember! I’m looking forward to reading other books by this author.

Complimentary copy generously provided in exchange for an honest review.

[Pavlina Read more sleep less blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5-5 hot stars <3

"I've dreamed of touching you like this.Feeling your pulse beast beneath my fingers.I've wondered what your skin would feel like."

Wow, what a nice surprise!This was absolutely fantastic!It was captivating,addictive,super hot and compelling. I was intrigued from the first pages and as I start reading more I couldn't put it down!!



"There will be no guilt when I f@ck you, Lucky.No guilt,no fighting,only your complete surrender."

Everything about this story was perfect.The characters were so well developed and the story brilliant!Both characters are complex and I loved being in their minds.They have some really passionate,intense,sensual and erotic moments.

"She's mine.
And now she's exactly where I want her.Fully under my control."

If you are looking for a dark and twisted story this is perfect!!I'm really impressed since I haven't read a book by this author but now I'm planning to read much more!!


 

  

[Vasiliki · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

ARC kindly provided by Rock Star Lit in exchange of an honest review.

This was an amazing book! I have to confess that I wasn't prepared for what was coming to me. The blurb is good but the actual story is so much better! The plot is amazing! It's moving fast and it's full of surprises and twists, most of them I didn't see coming! The writing is fantastic! It's direct and raw like the story! Ms. Cox has made an amazing job with this book! There were flash backs as the right moment, there was darkness -lots of darkness-, there was mystery and passion and secrets. The book is written from a dual POV and it's always clear who speaks.

Lucky is an amazing heroine! She has to deal with a lot of dirt but she is pure in her heart. She is not naive and she knows the dangers of her actions. Most of all, she is honest to herself.

Quinn has lots of issues. He is a mystery and an Alpha and unique. I really like him!

Their interactions in all levers were amazing and intense! I don't know how many times I gasped or how many times I had to read the dialogue again in order to get it the beauty of what was happening.

The end of the story was beautiful and full of suspense! I really loved it! I couldn't believe that the book was done although it was a really mind-f**k! That was my first book from Ms. Cox but it won't be the last one! Ms. Cox is just amazing!

I definitely recommend this book to everyone who love a dark and twisted story.

[Claire · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 - ...Surrender to the journey... Stars!

Zara Cox is a new author to me, the tropes used in I, Porn Star aren’t though, let’s face it the tortured billionaire with issues, is a pretty tired and overused trope nowadays, but when done well (and this one is) it’s still one I love reading.



I think one of the main things that kept me gripped to this book is the fact that even though you think you know what is coming, you are generally wrong, and the author manages to reveal a little but then add a heap more suspense and intrigue to the storyline at the same time.

I want to take a scalpel to all her secrets, bleed them and soil my hands with the viscera.

Quinn Blackwood, is pretty much two different guys through a lot of this story, and it really keeps you on your toes as to which guy you are going to get at any point in its telling, because he can change on the flip of a coin, one thing that is apparent throughout though, is that he like to be in control… of everything.

"Small fact you should know about me. Everything I own is precious to me. Everything I own is unequivocally mine, until such time as I choose to dispose of it. Everything I own I maintain in pristine condition. Do I own you…?"

Elyse Gilbert, comes along with her own set of baggage, and although completely different it rivals the massive truck load Quinn himself is carrying around, but she also challenged him in all the right ways, generally submissive in nature when it came to the sexy times between them, she really pushed his buttons about everything else, at points not even realizing she was doing it, and I liked the combustibility it bought to their relationship as it developed.

Selling my body to buy my life is an exchange I can live with.

Quinn isn’t used to being challenged about anything, he demands and it’s usually done, with no questions asked. So when Elyse does it makes him stop and think, the dual POV worked really well because of this especially when it came to clarifying the motivation behind some of Quinn’s actions and reactions to things, I think I would have struggled to understand him otherwise, and although the author did a stellar job at making him a disagreeable guy, I didn’t really dislike him especially as you start to understand why he is motivated to be as he is, and do what he does.

"Does it amuse you… To know how much I’m becoming addicted to your touch."

I really enjoyed I, Porn Star as I said, some of the tropes in this one are pretty well used, but the authors writing style, character development and overall plot line really did keep me entertained. Some of it stepped in to the realms of ’you’ve got to be kidding me’ but it was more amusing than annoying. The drama and angst in this one are really well balanced as well, and the sexy times are plentiful and full of variety.

You’re in my head.

I look forward to reading more from Zara Cox, and of this series in the future.

ARC generously provided via Rock Star PR in exchange for the above honest review.

[~Stéphanie~ · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 "yours" stars

Oh my I, Porn star was a complete and perfect surprise for me! When reading the blurb I never could have imagine what a story I would get. I think that was the best part. Even if in some aspects and after reading it all I find the title a bit too much, I don't care!

Quinn Blackwood is not your traditional porn star, he's first and foremost a CEO and one of the wealthiest man on earth. He has also in his our words a dark soul, a little deranged. He has a shrink for 10 years but she sucks cock better than she listens!



As you can imagine Quinn loves women and he loves to fuck them. He has a production in place but as his face is famous he needs a lot of privacy and set-up to organise all this. He meets Lucky while interviewing her for a position in his latest release. His offer is simple: 1 million in exchange for 1 month of pleasure.

Elyse aka Elly aka Lucky has not other choice but to accept this man offer. She doesn't know anything about him, no name, not even his voice is real but how can you refuse when you try to escape your past?



Zara Cox is a new author to me and I enjoyed her writing's style from the beginning. She captured me with her characters, with the intensity of their stories and with the pace and mysteries in the book.
The plot is very well constructed and the whole story unfolds slowly in front of your eyes.
In true words, I wasn't expecting to give this book 4.5 star. I didn't know what would be in it. I had no idea how you could mix up a well-known CEO with a porn star.

But Quinn Blackwood is a mystery you want to solve. He is so detached, so in control all the times, it's almost scary. I would say that when you meet him, you are most definitely scared to breathe the same air as he is, just in case you he isn't ok with you being there.

Lucky has no idea that the guy she is about to work with is already someone she met recently.
I loved her character because she is strong. She had a difficult past, one she didn't choose but she has mission and wants it accomplish at all cost.

“Q?” “Hmm?” “No cameras?” “No. Not tonight. This is for you…for me…for us.”



The connection she has with Q, the porn star is sizzling, yet just a physical attraction. The bond she creates with Quinn, the CEO is powerful, yet guarded.

”The connection between us is soul-searing. He lets me see his pain, his fury, the desolation that has eaten away at him. I also see entreaty and regret.”

The reason I deducted0.5 to my rating was because the last 5% were a bit rushed. I wanted a little more Quinn & Elyse but also a more believable reconciliation

Now I see I, Pornstar will be a part of a series, so I have one question for Zara Cox: Are we going to have a story about Alex?


~Arc provided by the author in exchange of an honest review ~

For more reviews:

[Bubu · Rating 1 out of 5]

Look, I’ve never read Fifty Shades of Whatever nor do I intend to. The few samples I’ve been given, plus some quotes and comments I’ve received from my trusted GR friends, have scared me away forever. But that’s fine. Simply not my thing.

So, we are all - more or less - familiar with the endless jokes about the book, the characters, the title and the films. The Guardian is one of the best sources of hilariously written reviews about the film, by the way. I was in tears. Oh, and I should never, ever forget to mention George Takei’s short but unbelievably on the point rendition of ‘Oh, my!’

Heeeeeere!!!!

But give me a moment. Just. A . Moment. I need to insert my own version of lame jokes in that context.

Can I rename I, Porn Star to I, Brain Dead? Or I, Dumb Ass For Reading It? Or I, Must Smash Head?

Wow, I know I tend to read utter bullshit when I’m away from home, simply because I can’t concentrate much in the first place. So, I may as well read those books that are wasting away on my Kindle and would under normal circumstances never be read. Now, as to why they’re on my Kindle? I think it’s fair to say that I’m an idiot, and I have a trigger-happy-1-click-buy-button-finger.

Never mind the silly title, which, by the way, seems to have been changed into Beautiful Liar because....OH MY GOD, IT HAS THE WORD PORN STAR IN IT, I presume. How SHOCKING!!!!

The characters are a joke, the plot is a joke, I think I can safely say that even fan fiction writing is better than this utter crap. The sex? Seriously, lol! The plot twist(s)? You don’t need to suspend your disbelief. You may as well simply amputate your brain.

I wasn’t always sure whether I should laugh or cry reading this piece of shit (Sorry, but I’m not sorry for calling it shit because it was shit and it will remain shit to me - did I say ‘shit’ often enough?). But what I do know is that with this shit we have yet another prime example of a poor attempt of a ‘slightly’ changed Fifty Shades of Whatever. And before anyone should ask me the justified question as to how I would know? I do know enough of FSoG to make that judgement. I do.

Having said that, the first sentence of the blurb should have been warning enough: ‘By day, I'm a billionaire CEO. Rich. Entitled. [....]’


You want contrived plots? You want a little bit of bondage with blindfolds? You want hilariously cliched characters? You want a writing style that is abysmal?

Go right ahead!
You will not be disappointed!

[Malene · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Stars
I needed something dirty, a little dark with a love story on the side and that's exactly what I got with Beautiful Liar. I was really entertained and enjoyed this story for what it was. I didn't connect with the characters or feel their chemistry but that didn't ruin the story for me. I was invested in the two MC. Lucky and Quinn were two very flawed characters and their mission for justice was intriguing. How they both went about it is something you have to read to find out. The sex scenes were insanely hot. I definitely felt the heat and wetness in my nether region. Wowza. I felt the story was a little one sided and predictable. It dragged too much for the first half of the story but then I picked up its pace. That's when I really couldn't put it down. Especially the final part was fabulous. Overall a great and entertaining story. I'm definitely going to read the next one in this series.

3.5 BadAssDirtyFirecrackerStars

[Anesha †Curious & Obsessive Bookworm† · Rating 5 out of 5]

FIVE MINDFUCKED STARS!!

†"I've waited a while for this. So I won't stop at just tasting and licking.
I'm going to devour you. Make you wet and wring you dry. And I'm going to do it many,
many times, Lucky.†

Well, fuck. I thought I've read it all. Thought that this book would just give me a few giggles here and there while rousing the lil bookslut inside of me. But...fuck. Never in my life have I been so happy to be disappointed of my thoughts on a book. I swear, I was prepared to only enjoy this for...sex. I saw Porn Star and instantly decided it'll be a quickie where I may enjoy the sex scenes but the plot might be shit.

Was I ever wrong?

This book was so much MORE.

Quinn Blackwood is a fucking force. He's demanding, dominating and so fucking sexy. His description is hauntingly beautiful, enough to hypnotize me by simple words. Add to the fact that his very presence was so overwhelming, I found myself pausing, laughing nervously for getting so affected by him. It was like I was a slut on steroids. Every time he whispered a command, whether verbally or just by looking I was fearful for my panties.

Up. In. Fucking Flames

†In eighteen months, I'll be thirty. I'll inherit fifteen billion dollars.
I'll be one of the richest men on earth. I'll also, if my plans succeed, be a murderer†

Quinn's end game has been the focal point of his life ever since the passing of his mother. We get to witness how her death has molded the man he is today. How vengeful, hateful and determined his is when he wants something. No matter how much the act disgusted him, he was always aware of how beneficial it was for his plans to soar and succeed. The assistance he needed were minor matters. Afterall, he swore there was only darkness where his heart was suppose to be.

Though Quinn was prepared for Lucky to play a part in his game, he wasn't prepared for her to seep through the cracks he didn't know she began to create the moment her magnetic eyes clashed with his hauntingly soulless pools.

†Slowly, she raises her head. Her eyelids flick up. Her eyes are a cross between green and hazel with a natural dark rim that pronounces its vividness. I can’t pinpoint it exactly, but something about that look in her eye sparks my interest.

Hell, if I had a heart, I’d swear it just missed a beat.†

†My real name is Elyse Gilbert, nicknamed ‘Lucky’ by my father, because according to him, I'm the unluckiest person alive, and I'll die the same way I came into the world: naked, screaming, and dirt poor.†

I fell in love with Lucky the moment she made an appearance. It felt like I also felt the effects she had on Quinn. The silent determination she had. How broken she should have been but the spec of love for her secret propelled her to go full force. She was selfless where she should have been selfish. Optimistic when the darkness seemed to be consuming her by the second. I absolutely love how strong she was, her strength to keep her mouth shut or not retaliate all for the sake of her own end game. It was her struggles that made me root for her even before I got the whole picture. And then when everything began to unravel, I couldn't stop the feels! I needed to see their story end happily but I was dreading the end with every swipe of my kindle.

Q and Lucky's encounter always left me puddled on the ground. I swear, everything about their encounter was vivid. It's better than fucking porn. Legit! lmao. I had to pause and moon over the shit being described. Then find myself stuck on the page until the image itself comes slamming before my eyes. Not to mention that filthy fucking mouth...

†"Who owns this pussy?" he grunts
"You! You do."
"Fuck, yeah." He pulls out, thrusts again. Then the true pounding starts.†

Don't be fooled by my perverted review. I have a one track mind lol. But honestly. You won't regret reading this book. It's so much more. I literally saw no fault in this book. And I always say whenever I find myself dreaming about a book am currently reading, I know that it's something amazing. There was this part where Quinn came from visiting his step-mom and two guys... that scene right up to when he got a reply from Elly really had me feeling it for it. The emotions expressed during that period really wrecked me. I think in all it's darkness, I fell in love with Quinn.

He needed someone like Lucky and Elly to pull him out of the abyss and with his salvation, her freedom was born. They're story isn't one that shouldn't be read

†Maybe my cracks arent so bad.
Maybe the chasm isn't so deep as I thought.
Maybe she'll take the leap with me.
Maybe with her, I'll survive the fall.
Maybe she'll even save me. Maybe.
Maybe. Maybe... it's too late.†

Quinn Blackwood is a pessimist. There was never any light to come and clear his path. The women around him, especially Lucky all had a role to play and to stick to the script. He wasn't prepared for the unwritten to spiral out of control the way it had. And when her captivating gaze landed on him, her touch scorched a path along his skin... her lips reawaken something within him the moment their lips touched?



....I dare you to read and find out exactly how Quinn Blackwood lost for the first time in a way he both dreaded and welcomed...

[Ivy Deluca · Rating 4 out of 5]

“I…I won’t be doing anything…skanky, will I?”
“Define skanky.”
“This is going to be straight up sex. No other…bodily stuff? Because that would a firm no for me.” My mouth attempts another twitch.
“No water works, waste matter or bestiality will be involved in the performances.” Her fingers stop drumming.
“Okay.”

What would you do if you were offered one million dollars to star in a very selective porn movie with Quinn Blackwood, scion of the Blackwood dynasty that rules New York, is a billionaire by day, tortured a-hole with daddy issues and secret porn star by night? I think these are fair questions to ask. Ok, and a whole lot more, but you get the gist - eventually, romance happens.


Hello, Ms. Cox: I don’t recall ever reading her books, but I was impressed with the story for I, Porn Star. Care was taken in setting up the chessboard of players and moves, and unlike a real porntastic story, the sex isn’t jammed in your face from the start. You get a sense of the characters before they connect physically, and it helped me enjoy it more when the smutty fun comes into play.

It’s not just lady p*rn: When I read the blurb for the ARC, the thought of the billionaire by day, pornstar by night and serious daddy issues, well I said, sign me up! But Elly’s backstory captured my interest. They both have issues, and are they anywhere near emotionally stable? Hell no. But they have chemistry in spades and Ms. Cox worked that like a stripper works the pole.

No Cliffy here: Bonus - it’s a standalone! The way Ms. Cox structured the story, it could easily be broken down into installments, but it was done so well that the flow worked as a standalone. Ms. Cox paced the telling of Quinn and Elly’s secrets in a way that didn’t give the whole can of beans away too early, and didn’t inundate me with sex, sex, sex just for the hell of it. There’s a decent amount of it, mind you, but it wasn’t superfluous and the intimacy of it progressed at a pace with their relationship.

Rushing to climax: The story unfolds well, and if there was a bit that didn’t quite click, it was the ending, which felt a tad rushed. Considering the revelation of Quinn/Q’s identity to Elly and the big climactic ending, I would have enjoyed seeing more of the fallout. I also have to mention that I received an ARC that did have several issues with editing that I anticipate will be fixed in the final product. Ms. Cox enjoyed her thesaurus, at times a bit too much, but overall, it was the story that captivated me and Quinn/Elly’s chemistry that kept me reading well after dark.



I really enjoyed it. Dramatic, suspenseful, with good smutty sex, It was a drastic change of pace from the last book I read and I really enjoyed that change. Ms. Cox is on my radar and I’d be interested in reading more from her.

**ARC provided by author for review**

For more reviews, visit

[Literatures Movies · Rating 4 out of 5]

Can I just. Oh my God.

This. Book. Was. Perfect.



I just want to take a moment and thank this wonderful human for recommending this book to me. I swear if it weren't for her, me and this book would never have crossed paths. Thank you always for the wonderful recommendations, Hulya



Now onto the review. Be forewarned that this review will contain spoilers

It has been a while for me to read a book that makes me giggle like a 3rd grader. With the book choices that I have been binging on lately, I can positively say my facial expressions stay the same other than frowning or eyebrow raising. But this book, this book makes me laugh, smile, swoon, cry so effortlessly it's mind boggling.

The chemistry between Quinn and Lucky is through the roof. I get giddy reading them interact, yes, it's that good



Other than a few spelling mistakes, exclamation marks that is sometimes out of place, and me questioning Lucky's sexual appetite (I swear this girl have sex even when she is sore, I mean, girl I know that cock good, but damn ) , this book is definitely one of my favorite that I have read this year.

As the scale of dark goes, I would say it is rather mild. Plot wise, I think this book is more towards mysterious and alluring rather than dark and fucked up kinda style.

Altogether, I truly enjoyed this book. You betcha girl is going to hop straight into Quinn and Lucky's novella right after this book. See ya on the other side



For full review : http://www.literaturesandmovies.com/2...

[Bookadmirer · Rating 5 out of 5]

The title of the book is totally misleading. This book is not only about sex but, revenge, tragedy, and survival. I think it falls into the category of romantic suspense. Both Quinn and Elyse were broken, but also survivors of tragic past. I won't lie that sometimes I was truly irritated because of all the suspense but then the author would drop a hint of what might happened and I am alert again. This was a page-turner but I still think in the beginning I felt it was dragged. But towards the end, everything falls into places and make sense. I still didn't like how Quinn played mind games with Elyse. But in the beginning, I am sure he didn't realize he would fall for her. He just couldn't stay away from her and the only way he could be with her was with all the mind games he played. I would have loved more scenes of Quinn's father, stepmother, and therapist's fall.

The plot was unique and full of suspense and I loved every bit of it.

[Linathebookaddict · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.


This is so different from your usual porn star book. First of all, the title is very deceiving. It is not just about an adult film production. It's about something far deeper and complex.

The storyline is refreshing and the characters engaging and mysterious.
There is a darkness in this book and I was very glad the story took the direction it did.

We have Quinn Blackwood; wealthy businessman by the day and mysterious porn star by the night.
While setting auditions for his next elite and very secret project, he stumbles upon a girl that entices him.

Lucky/Elly isn't your usual candidate for an adult film. Her initial appearence would probably turn producers off...But this is not the case with her current and potential employer. She doesn't get to see him. He hides behind a camera and all she can hear is his mechanically altered voice.


Something about her draws me forward to the edge of my seat. I like her pretended composure.


Lucky impresses the faceless man and she doesn't even know it.

Hell, if I had a heart, I would've sworn it just missed a beat.


But working for the unknown man is not easy. Lucky has to pass tests.

"Look into the camera.
Don't blink.
Show me what I want to see.
Convince me that you're worth fucking.
Convince me you're worth dying for."


When Lucky passes the first test, her world is altered forever. Her day job will clash with her seedy one and that is when lines get blurred. Desperate for money, she takes a chance she'd never take in the past.
1,000,000$
100,000$ per day for 10 days.
She belongs to the man with the mask. Her body is in his hands. She belongs to the man she has named Q.
Elly's past is dark. She is a tortured heroine and I loved discovering her. Her story is unique and very complex. You do not know what really happened until the last part of the book. Elly is fighting to save someone; but who and from who?


Quinn has a darkness inside him. But he doesn't fight against it. He uses it for his benefit. He goes against his father, he doesn't care. He has one mission and it has to do with his family.
He is stoically indifferent to everything around him...except Elly. He is intrigued by her. He wants to discover her, but she has no idea who he is and what she got herself into.


I want to take a scalpel to all her secrets, bleed them and soil my hands with the viscera.

Elly's interest in Quinn Blackwood make her day job a lot more interesting. But she doesn't know of the darkness that lurks behind his beautiful face. She can only see fragments of his soul because he gives away nothing.

Quinn Blackwood's eyes are soulless pools.

Her relationship with Quinn is...complicated and it makes her time with Q even more confusing.


Elly didn't know what to expect when she took on the job. Is the money worth it?
I'm a gilded, well-fed, diamond wearing prisoner, with absolutely no clue where I am.

But what happens when she is attracted to the faceless man as well? What happens when the lines get blurred?

My God. His voice.
It's deep, cultured, oiled with class and money and power and glory.

Quinn knows everything about Elly, but what happens when she doesn't know that Q & Quinn...are one and the same? Read to find out!
Loved the writing style so much! The author does an excellent job captivating the reader with her amazing characters. The plot had me guessing all the time and I have to say that I have never read anything like this before. I loved how original this was.
Quinn will confuse you, excite you, charm you and at times anger you, but have faith in him.
Elly was simply fantastic and so brave! Her back story was trully heart-breaking and her selfless nature made her even more amazing!
The chemistry between our heroes was sizzling and the sensuality off the charts!!!
Fanatastic plot, great character development, deliciously bad villains and excellent writing. Do not miss this!

★★★5 Stars★★★

[Geo Just Reading My Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

O carte care îmbină emoțiile, durerea, frica și teroarea, formând o tornadă ce prinde cititorul în mrejele sale. Lucky și Q, Elyse și Quinn — sunt cei pe care ajungi să îi cunoști cu adevărat, să le înțelegi urmele cicatricilor și să speri că vor găsi puterea de a se elibera.

[Sarah · Rating 2 out of 5]

Quinn is a billionaire CEO by day but by night he is an incredibly well paid porn star known only as Q. He keeps his identity hidden by wearing a mask and using technology to disguise his voice when he's on camera and it's all part of a plot to get revenge on his father for something that happened in Quinn's childhood. Quinn's life is all about getting that revenge and he doesn't care who he hurts or how much it costs him.

Elyse is on the run trying to escape a dangerous past, she is in a pretty impossible position and all she cares about is finding the money she needs to keep her sister safe. By day she works as a waitress for Quinn's company but after answering a classified advert by night she becomes Q's costar in his latest porn movie. Quinn is intrigued by Elyse and determined to uncover all her secrets but there's just one small problem - she doesn't realise that Quinn and Q are the same person and she's torn by her growing feelings for both of the men in her life.

Considering everything Elyse has been through she's still fairly naive and it was hard to believe that she never began to suspect that Quinn and Q were the same person, especially as she grew closer to Quinn. I was able to ignore it because hey this is fiction but I couldn't ignore Quinn's abhorrent behaviour.

I actually spent the majority of the book enjoying getting to know Quinn, he's a complex and multi-layered character and wanted to dig deep and learn about his motivations and why he was so desperate to get revenge on his father. He's not particularly a likeable character though which is a problem. I warmed up to him when he started to open up to Elyse but he just never came far enough for me to fall in love with him. I hated the way he kept lying to Elyse throughout the entire story, I kept waiting for him to come clean with her and abandon his plan to get revenge. The very least he could have done was keep Elyse out of it - he had more than enough ammunition against his father without releasing Elyse's video to the entire world - but he never did the right thing. He just didn't care enough about Elyse to protect her and all he was interested in was destroying his father.

The actions he take have absolutely devastating consequences for Elyse and by that point I was so angry with him that I would never be able to see them as a couple. I just can't believe in a happy ever after the way he treated her. Elyse quite rightly walks away from him and doesn't look back but rather than Quinn putting in the effort to prove that he's changed and that he really does love her and regret what he did he just falls to pieces. It's left to a member of his staff to track Elyse down and basically emotionally blackmail her into going back to him. By that point I was ready to throw my kindle across the room. I almost feel like I must have read a different book to everyone else because I honestly don't understand how this has such high ratings. Quinn is an unapologetic ass who never once takes responsibility for his actions and I would rather read about him getting hit by a bus than have poor Elyse stuck with him as her supposedly happily ever after. The poor girl deserves so much better.

Source: Received from publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

[sara j · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 ++++++ Million Stars. ...........

guys what you are thinking from title of the book....let me say it....

IT,s NOT ANYTHING LIKE THAT....

it's not a materialistic porn story....

this story is something beyond the first perception,first imagination of yours...

this book is damn too emotional one ....you will need tissue for it to placed with you....

this book is Best romantic suspense book I have ever read...

this book is dark and twisted that every time you feel your stomach in knots...

this book is just.....

Brilliant....Superb..... Awesome....

this book is kind of book in which after you read first chapter you will start jumping like a kid with excitement.....

Zara Cox is now become one of my favourite author.......her writing style,her strong alpha male with strong determined heroine.....I just totally fall in love with the way the writer protayed the story.....

I will recommend this book to everyone...because this book is just PERFECT....

it's a Drop Everything and read it quickly type of book.....

and yes this book will stay with my forever keeper shelf...and I will read it again and again whenever I feel to read it.....

hero......5++++ stars

heroine.....5+++ stars

story plot.....5++++ stars

suspense......6+++++ stars.....

excitement......Unlimited

intimacy between lead characters included alot but with so much emotions
....

yes....

this book is soooooo HOT....

this is a perfect combination of everything which anyone want to have in the novel....

[Rosalie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book!!!

It was suspenseful, sexy and romantic in its own dark ways!

I loved BOTH characters! The scenes in Quinn's POV were so amazingly written that his destroyed character comes out in a way which intrigues you, until you hopelessly fall for him.

What I liked is that he never hurt her, not once intentionally. His obsession with Elly was crazy! Haven't read an obsession like that in so long.

Like when he sees a bruise on her and goes crazy.

He's definitely alpha! And I loved it.

:) all of it!

I loved Quinn, I loved Elly and it was hot as hell!

I thought this would be more to do about porn and filming etc cause of the name, so I was very happy to see that the porn part took a very minimal part to the book. It wasn't sleazy like other porn books are, but very well written and a mature love story :)

[Merve Well · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holly hell, this book taught me how to stay alive by holding your breath for hours. I literally breathed through my eyes while reading the book. 😅 Sh*t, I’m speechles. I always thought Ethan was the sexiest name for a man but now i think that Quinn sounds as sexy as Ethan 😍🤭 If you like psycho motherfucker heroes, this book is definitely for you 😏

[Michelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

Copy provided by author in exchange for an honest review



So when I read the blurb of I, PORN STAR, I was easily intrigued and couldn't wait to read. But as I started the book, I found it to be completely different from what I had expected. There was nothing wrong in that sense, but I did find these shocking new revelations and surprising twist and turns to be a little too much since there was so much backstory and characters involved in the story of Q and Lucky. If you were thinking this book to be more erotic, it was not since this story was more suspense love story of two strangers with a dark past and finding light at the end of the tunnel. So if you are looking for a story that will take you on a suspenseful twisted ride then I would give this book a try.



Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages: http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...

[Audrey Carlan · Rating 5 out of 5]

An exotically filthy, devastatingly beautiful story, that will captivate and tease you long after the book is finished.

I would consider I, Pornstar by Zara Cox a dark, gritty read that tantalizes the senses, manipulates the body, and twists the mind into knots. Unlike anything I've read to date, and I read a lot! The characters were tragically damaged and the immoral way they fell for one another was heart-stopping. I found myself constantly rooting for the hero and heroine individually, not sure if I wanted them to be together or apart.

Heat level 10 out of 10. You have to wait for it but when it occurs, that train never stops. Ridiculously wicked hot.

The plot was well thought out and special in its own right.

I'll absolutely read another book by this author and look forward to the next in the "I" series.

[Seda · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5⭐️Aslında 4 verebilirdim. Ama bir kadının, aynı anda iki adamla yatıp ikisinin aynı kişi olduğunu anlamaması büyük bir mantık hatası oldu benim için. Karakterin saflığına, parçaları birleştirmemesine vermiş ama yani?! Birinin saçı biraz koyu sarı, diğerinin kahve/siyah gibi. Birinin gözü gri-mavi, diğeri gri. Birini sürekli maske ve ses bozucu cihazla görüyor. Bunların hepsi tamam, fiziksel bazı farklılıkların hepsini anladım. Ama adamın kokusu, dokunuşu, verdiği hisler, boyu posu, duruşu, tavrı, hareketleri, sevişme şekli… Hiç mi acaba demez insan?!

Bunun dışında konuyu güzel bağlamıştı. Quinn’in travması ve planlarının kurgulanması güzeldi. İkisi arasındaki ilişkide tabii ki Quinn&Elyse ilişkisini daha çok sevdim. Q&Lucky ilişkisinin ateşi, kimyası bana pek geçmedi sanırım. Başlangıcı sebebiyle biraz ucuz, basit seks gibi kaldı. Devamını da duygusal olarak yükseltemedi. Erkek karakterin ağzından okuduğum bölümlerde, tamamen sekse dayalı başlayan bu ilişkinin, onun için farklılaşmaya başladığını biraz daha hissetmek isterdim. Mesela Lucky’yle çektiklerini gözbandına rağmen paylaşmamasını isterdim. Bu bile ona planından daha çok değer verdiğini gösterirdi benim açımdan. Q’nun bir ara kadını kendinden kıskanması da ayrı komik oldu🫢

Kitapta en çok Elyse’i sevdim. Yaşadıklarına, korkularına, çabasına, ödediği bedellere çok üzüldüm. Duygusal olarak bana en çok geçen onun hikayesiydi. Quinn’in yaşadıklarını anladım ama daha çok olacaklara odaklanınca ve geçmiş çok çirkin olunca bağ kuracak kadar detaya girilmemişti.

Seriye devam edeceğim ama benim için çok iyi olabilecek bir konu, ufak detayların kurbanı oldu. Anlatım ve ilişki dinamikleri açısından biraz daha desteklenmesi gerektiğini düşünüyorum.

Yazarın yaptığı en akıllıca iş, kitabın ismini değiştirmek olmuş. Kapak olarak ikisi de kötü ama ilk isim kitabı daha da ucuzlaştırıyor😒😒

[Bindi Boo · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars

Dark romance with a heart wrenching twist. Filthy rich and traumatised beyond words during his childhood, Quinn Blackwood seeks the ultimate revenge towards those that hurt his loved one. Having set everything into play, he meets Elyse Gilbert and discovers he can love again. He needs Elly for his plan though and it was not hard to guess how that was going to turn out. I loved the relationship Elly and Quinn had, not so much Q and Lucky. I did not like the fact she 'cheated' on both men at some point. This book had some really hot sex scenes though! Overall, i would recommend this if you love dark romance with a side of twist.

[BookAddict ✒ La Crimson Femme · Rating 4 out of 5]

Provocative in both physical and mental, I, Porn Star is more than just a simple erotic novel. I must say, I was somehow roped into reading this story by an accidental click. I thought I was merely taking a look at the blurb. First time I saw it, I passed it. Second time I saw it pop up again in my email, I ignored it. Third time's a charm. I was asked if I was interested in a blog tour. Since I enjoy hosting blog tours, I said yes, not realizing I was signing up to review the book. I nearly kicked myself and requested to be taken off the tour because I felt badly for receiving a book I had absolutely no interest in. Because seriously, the book summary comes across a bit obnoxious as does the title.

With grave reservations, I cracked open the book and forced myself to start reading it. It may take me a while to get to a review book, but every book I'm given to review, I make sure I get to it. Colour me surprised when I'm sucked right into the book after the first few paragraphs. The title and book blurb do not do justice to this story. Yes there is the cliche billionaire with the poor young girl down on her luck. This is a rather trite theme that seems to be recycled by new writers trying to break into the erotic scene. Ms. Cox disarms me with her writing style and how she makes this old story line fresh and different.

The character development is what impresses me. Both Quinn and "Lucky" are flawed characters. The opening act is interviewing girls for porn videos. This rather trashy start is done with finesse and a certain yearning that piques my interest. Quinn on the surface seems to be an uncomplicated playboy with daddy issues. The power he wields is used in ways unexpected and I confess, rather admirable. This anti-hero does everything he can to show how he is despicable yet his intent is the opposite. Ms. Cox does an amazing job of creating a hateful character that I can't help but admire and fall a bit in love with. This bad boy character is one with a heart of gold and make no mistakes, he doesn't want to be the good guy. He's a sociopath in some ways and that is a weakness of mine. He isn't exactly abusive but he does use women who ask for it. His vindictive streak is what turns me on.

Lucky on the other hand is a character who I admire from the start. She isn't some young innocent thing. She is a scared yet determined whore who will do whatever she can do get what she wants. Her sole focus is an almost unobtainable goal. She makes my heart weep for what she suffers and what she has to do to protect what she loves.

The writing style breaks a couple of rules of mine. I am not a fan of first person. It is rare I like it because then I unconsciously identify with the characters more and most times, I don't like the characters. In this one, even though I have no similarities with either characters, I still enjoyed seeing from their perspective. This is yet another one of the writing styles I am not fond of, switching point of views. Yet Ms. Cox does it very well and it helps to swing back and forth between Quinn and Lucky.

Whilst this is an erotic story, I'm mixed on the erotica part. Yes, there are some elements of kinky sex with a bit of fetish wear, light bondage and rough sex. There is even a hint of D/s. The sexual tension between Quinn and Lucky is electric and I liked it. The sex scenes themselves were a bit of a snooze for me. Granted, I read a lot of porn and hardcore erotica so I'm a bit jaded. I did like the concepts. I did like the overall mysterious sexy scenes. It just didn't really arouse me. My focus was more on the plot and the characters.

The conflicts in this story are pretty major and the resolution seemed to come a bit too quick for me. The build up took a long time and when it came time, I felt rushed. Even Quinn felt rushed as it was mentioned in the story how he had to move his time table up. Still, this is as it should be because unanticipated events precipitated a much faster conclusion. It worked. Ms. Cox is a new author to me and I will be keeping an eye out on her. Recommended for erotic readers who are looking for something fresh and different.

[Lacey (laceybooklovers) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Originally posted at Booklovers For Life

2.5 STARS

If you’ve read the blurb for I, Porn Star, then you probably can understand why I couldn’t wait to get my hands on this book. There’s just something about a porn star who gives it all up for the woman he loves that gets to me. While I enjoyed some parts of I, Porn Star, the story was completely not what I expected, so I’m still not quite sure what to make of it. It’s a lot darker than I thought it would be – there’s quite a bit of action and suspense going on in this novel. I didn’t love this book, but it’s a different and intriguing read with plenty of plot twists that kept my attention.

Elyse Gilbert, also known as Lucky, is on the run from someone and she’s in need of cash, fast. So when there’s a chance to earn a million dollars for doing porn, she signs up for it. The man she’s supposed to perform with, Q, is shrouded in mystery. Lucky is intrigued by him more and more with each encounter they have, but the thing about Q is that she has no idea who he is because he never reveals his face to her. Soon enough though, with each erotic encounter, she begins to fall for the enigmatic, powerful man.

Quinn is… messed-up, to say the least. He’s got daddy issues, mommy issues, and a plethora of other kinds of issues that have made him the man that he is today, so while he’s an interesting hero, he’s not one that I loved. There are just too many cringeworthy things he does in the novel that prevented me from loving him as a hero. I can tell the author was trying to write him as some dark, mysterious man with a painful past, but the way she portrayed him did not endear him to me at all. I want something redeemable in the hero when I read a romance, but it was took too long for Quinn to be redeemed in my eyes.

The main thing that prevented me from loving this was the fact that there were just TOO many things going in the book. I nearly couldn’t keep track of all the secrets Quinn and Lucky were hiding, there was so much going on. All the side stories took away from the romance, which was all I really cared about. This book is fast-paced, but I really wish the characters had more time to develop that didn’t include any action or suspense. I liked Zara Cox’s writing, but it was also a little all over the place as well. I’m not sure I could handle another book of hers if they’re all like I, Porn Star, but I’m intrigued to see what else she’ll be writing for this series.

Thanks to the author for generously providing me an ARC to review.

Amazon Ebook: http://amzn.to/22lgBgW

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[Steffi De Ceuster ♥ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow what a hell of a ride that was!
I've read Robyn's review and knew I wanted to read it so bad.
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...

And it was such a fantastic one, not at all what I was expecting. Quinn and Lucky, Elyse, Elly both have a dark and troubled past. It wasn't what I thought it was. But that one I figured out in Robyn her review, still I was very intrigued to know what it all was. I don't want to tell to much with my review, but it is so worth your while!

There was one little thing that made me a bit irritated, Elyse is near the end a bit upset and doesn't really want to make it better. But what is it exactly that makes her feel this? I felt bad for her but I had something like go and hug the hell out of him. But apparently I'm too forgiving? If you read it I want to think what you think and felt about that.

I would suggest you go and read it! I loved it, it's dark but only the past really so don't let that stop you! It was also pretty steamy, but what else do you expect with a tittle like that.

I actually loved it so much that I want to read the second one too, there is a preview in this one.

[Bee · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 STARS

This was so much better than what I expected!

The chemistry.
The sex scenes.
The characters (supeeerrr fucked up hero [yumm...] and the sweetest heroine).
THE GROVELING.

DELICIOUS.

However, the ending was seriously abrupt and I’m annooooooyeeeeed! So many books end like that and it’s a damn shame. I needed at least two or even three more chapters with this couple. Plus there were some scenes in this book I found a bit unnecessary and prolonged, however despite them, I managed to enjoy this book A LOT. So, I’m gonna settle for 3.5 stars for now. It definitely has the potential to be upgraded to 4 stars in the future, though!

PS: You can find this book on Amazon with the name Beautiful Liar. It’s only 99c as of now (I have no idea if it’s a sale or the permanent price) so get it while you can! Definitely recommend.