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The Dark Flower #1
Pushed
I never thought I could love a monster. Then I met Machi.
I shouldn't have been there that night. I shouldn't have seen that man die--or the face of his killer. Every part of me wanted to run and hide, to escape and forget what I saw.
But then he caught me. He stole me and pushed me into his world. He said if I listened to him, he could give me what I wanted. . .
My freedom.
He forgot to mention that freedom comes with a price. I'm going to be auctioned off and there's nothing I can do to change that.
He wants me to believe that he isn't the bad guy. But I know better. Except... his hard jaw and full lips are hard to ignore, his voice makes my heart flutter, and his hands—his hands are purely toxic, unfurling my body with one touch.
He's a monster, and monsters lie. They lurk in the dark and rain hell on your soul.
I never thought that loving one was possible. . .
Until I met him.
I shouldn't have been there that night. I shouldn't have seen that man die--or the face of his killer. Every part of me wanted to run and hide, to escape and forget what I saw.
But then he caught me. He stole me and pushed me into his world. He said if I listened to him, he could give me what I wanted. . .
My freedom.
He forgot to mention that freedom comes with a price. I'm going to be auctioned off and there's nothing I can do to change that.
He wants me to believe that he isn't the bad guy. But I know better. Except... his hard jaw and full lips are hard to ignore, his voice makes my heart flutter, and his hands—his hands are purely toxic, unfurling my body with one touch.
He's a monster, and monsters lie. They lurk in the dark and rain hell on your soul.
I never thought that loving one was possible. . .
Until I met him.
452 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 1, 2019
335 people are currently reading
435 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews
January 21, 2018
Is this the authors first book?
No character development,
The plot is boring and had been done before,
I keep thinking that if I keep reading it would get better....It did not.
The pace is slow and the story....I'm sorry to say this book just sucks. There is nothing positive I can say.
Just save your time and money. It's not really worth it
No character development,
The plot is boring and had been done before,
I keep thinking that if I keep reading it would get better....It did not.
The pace is slow and the story....I'm sorry to say this book just sucks. There is nothing positive I can say.
Just save your time and money. It's not really worth it
September 12, 2017
♡♡I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book.♡♡
Hero, Machi = 5/5
Heroine, Imperial = 5/5
Secondary Characters = 5/5
Chemistry = 4/5
Sex = 3/5
Plot = 4/5
Mystery = 4/5
Action = 3/5
Darkness = 3/5
Humor = 1/5
POV = Dual POV
Ending = No cliffhanger
Stars = 4.5 ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
Author = Leah Holt
Would I recommend this book = Yes
Would I re-read this book = Yes
Would I read future books by this author = Yes
Likes: dark themed, mysterious, action, hero full of promises, sadness, teary eyed ending.
Dislikes: didn't care for the prologue, not enough sex scenes, and wanted just a little more at the end.
Overall if you like a dark read you will love this book. Suspense and mystery make a book fantastic. I love being on the edge of my seat throughout a book.
Hero, Machi = 5/5
Heroine, Imperial = 5/5
Secondary Characters = 5/5
Chemistry = 4/5
Sex = 3/5
Plot = 4/5
Mystery = 4/5
Action = 3/5
Darkness = 3/5
Humor = 1/5
POV = Dual POV
Ending = No cliffhanger
Stars = 4.5 ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
Author = Leah Holt
Would I recommend this book = Yes
Would I re-read this book = Yes
Would I read future books by this author = Yes
Likes: dark themed, mysterious, action, hero full of promises, sadness, teary eyed ending.
Dislikes: didn't care for the prologue, not enough sex scenes, and wanted just a little more at the end.
Overall if you like a dark read you will love this book. Suspense and mystery make a book fantastic. I love being on the edge of my seat throughout a book.
October 1, 2017
Though I am not into dark books this one was still pretty good. It wasn't overall dark and still enjoyable to me. The back story was a little sad but give motive to his actions. He's done bad things but he's not a monster. Overall I liked the story and the ending was a little sad but also pretty sweet. Hot cover.
Want to read
February 7, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (2/7/2019)! 🎁
Blurb:
I never thought I could love a monster. Then I met Machi.
I shouldn't have been there that night. I shouldn't have seen that man die--or the face of his killer. Every part of me wanted to run and hide, to escape and forget what I saw.
But then he caught me. He stole me and pushed me into his world. He said if I listened to him, he could give me what I wanted. . .
My freedom.
He forgot to mention that freedom comes with a price. I'm going to be auctioned off and there's nothing I can do to change that.
He wants me to believe that he isn't the bad guy. But I know better. Except... his hard jaw and full lips are hard to ignore, his voice makes my heart flutter, and his hands—his hands are purely toxic, unfurling my body with one touch.
He's a monster, and monsters lie. They lurk in the dark and rain hell on your soul.
I never thought that loving one was possible. . .
Until I met him.
Blurb:
I never thought I could love a monster. Then I met Machi.
I shouldn't have been there that night. I shouldn't have seen that man die--or the face of his killer. Every part of me wanted to run and hide, to escape and forget what I saw.
But then he caught me. He stole me and pushed me into his world. He said if I listened to him, he could give me what I wanted. . .
My freedom.
He forgot to mention that freedom comes with a price. I'm going to be auctioned off and there's nothing I can do to change that.
He wants me to believe that he isn't the bad guy. But I know better. Except... his hard jaw and full lips are hard to ignore, his voice makes my heart flutter, and his hands—his hands are purely toxic, unfurling my body with one touch.
He's a monster, and monsters lie. They lurk in the dark and rain hell on your soul.
I never thought that loving one was possible. . .
Until I met him.
September 10, 2017
I voluntarily received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This was an okay read for me. There was a lot of suspense within the story but I thought the story flow was too slow. I expected something more from this story, especially since it had a dark subject matter. I felt like I was waiting forever for the action within the story to happen and when it did, it wasn't what I thought it would be. It was also hard for me to connect with the characters. I felt as if something was missing with and between them. Don't get me wrong, I didn't hate them, they were just okay characters. This wasn't a bad story, it just wasn't what I thought it would be.
This was an okay read for me. There was a lot of suspense within the story but I thought the story flow was too slow. I expected something more from this story, especially since it had a dark subject matter. I felt like I was waiting forever for the action within the story to happen and when it did, it wasn't what I thought it would be. It was also hard for me to connect with the characters. I felt as if something was missing with and between them. Don't get me wrong, I didn't hate them, they were just okay characters. This wasn't a bad story, it just wasn't what I thought it would be.
November 28, 2021
The synopsis did not represent this book well at all. I thought I was going to be reading either a thriller or an urban fantasy based on the summary. It was neither of those things. I’m not even sure how I would classify this book. It’s basically something between a revenge fantasy and a sex trafficking fantasy. It was just awful and was so poorly written. The plot was simplistic, there was no character development, and the dialogue (which was the bulk of the book) was nothing more than people talking in circles without ever really saying anything.
September 13, 2017
Reviewed on behalf of Reading Through Her Eyes
This was my first book by Leah Holt. Although it was a little slower than I usually like, I really enjoyed the story. The characters were well developed and the story flowed nicely.
A dark romance filled with suspense and secrets, anger and love, it kept me engaged the whole way through.
I received an advance reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was my first book by Leah Holt. Although it was a little slower than I usually like, I really enjoyed the story. The characters were well developed and the story flowed nicely.
A dark romance filled with suspense and secrets, anger and love, it kept me engaged the whole way through.
I received an advance reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Want to read
September 9, 2020
→ Free for maybe a limited time. Grab your copy now! ←
→ Submit or subscribe to The DARK Newsletter! ←
Blurb:
I never thought I could love a monster. Then I met Machi.
I shouldn't have been there that night. I shouldn't have seen that man die--or the face of his killer. Every part of me wanted to run and hide, to escape and forget what I saw.
But then he caught me. He stole me and pushed me into his world. He said if I listened to him, he could give me what I wanted. . .
My freedom.
He forgot to mention that freedom comes with a price. I'm going to be auctioned off and there's nothing I can do to change that.
He wants me to believe that he isn't the bad guy. But I know better. Except... his hard jaw and full lips are hard to ignore, his voice makes my heart flutter, and his hands—his hands are purely toxic, unfurling my body with one touch.
He's a monster, and monsters lie. They lurk in the dark and rain hell on your soul.
I never thought that loving one was possible. . .
Until I met him.
Merged review:
→ Free for maybe a limited time. Grab your copy now! ←
→ Submit or subscribe to The DARK Newsletter! ←
Blurb:
I never thought I could love a monster. Then I met Machi.
I shouldn't have been there that night. I shouldn't have seen that man die--or the face of his killer. Every part of me wanted to run and hide, to escape and forget what I saw.
But then he caught me. He stole me and pushed me into his world. He said if I listened to him, he could give me what I wanted. . .
My freedom.
He forgot to mention that freedom comes with a price. I'm going to be auctioned off and there's nothing I can do to change that.
He wants me to believe that he isn't the bad guy. But I know better. Except... his hard jaw and full lips are hard to ignore, his voice makes my heart flutter, and his hands—his hands are purely toxic, unfurling my body with one touch.
He's a monster, and monsters lie. They lurk in the dark and rain hell on your soul.
I never thought that loving one was possible. . .
Until I met him.
February 10, 2019
It was eleven pm Sunday night. All she was doing was walking home from work. She'd normally get a ride home from her room-mate, but she knew that was getting old. Imperial just needed a few more weeks with extra shifts and she'd be able to buy her own car. Yeah, time ran out. After a car seemed to be following her close enough to check her out she was spooked. Only a couple blocks from home she heard voices and without letting her common sense take over, she snuck into the alley next to the house to look in the window to see what happened. Wrong thing to do!! She watched him strangle a man to death and then turned to look out the window and saw her!
If you read dark romances then you know this is the perfect setup for all that comes. This is a dark storyline with an underlying plot that flows quickly and seamlessly. Between the characters and the story, there is no way to read through the book without a reaction of some kind. Whether it's fear of the circumstances, excitement over the sexual chemistry between Machi and Imperial, the anger over the situation, or even the empathy over the emotions involved. Leah Holt had a gift of drawing out each of these emotions during the telling, making you feel you have shared a journey not only with the author, but with her characters as well. What a great book and the beginning of what can only be a stellar series.
If you read dark romances then you know this is the perfect setup for all that comes. This is a dark storyline with an underlying plot that flows quickly and seamlessly. Between the characters and the story, there is no way to read through the book without a reaction of some kind. Whether it's fear of the circumstances, excitement over the sexual chemistry between Machi and Imperial, the anger over the situation, or even the empathy over the emotions involved. Leah Holt had a gift of drawing out each of these emotions during the telling, making you feel you have shared a journey not only with the author, but with her characters as well. What a great book and the beginning of what can only be a stellar series.
December 13, 2020
What a fantastic start to a new series by Leah Holt. Pushed is a dark romance, but it is also so much more. It grabbed me from page one and I held my breath until I turned the last page. There was so much suspense, mystery, action, hatred, and even with all that going on a love story was blooming. Pushed (The Dark Flower, book 1) is Machi and Imperial’s (AKA Perri) story. I cannot say too much because I do not want to spoil it for others, but I will say that I had a love/hate relationship with Machi. In the end you have no choice, but to love him. Poor Imperial, she was just in the wrong place at the wrong time, and her life took a drastic horrible turn. I love the character development and the story line was fantastic. Dark romances can sometimes leave me questioning myself on why I kept on reading, but not with Pushed. Leah Holt did a fantastic job with the subject matter and the story line. I highly recommend Pushed, and on that note I have the house all to myself now, so I am going to dive right in and read Love in the Dark (the Dark Flower, book 2).
February 13, 2019
Loved this dark twisted tale!
This is a wonderfully written dark romance and it tells Machi and Imperial's story. It's a great story and I tru!y enjoyed reading it. Machi must take Imperial to keep her safe from the other men who would no doubt hurt her and make her wish she was dead. He is the lesser of two evils and he's just trying to fight a wrong from his past. Grab this exciting book today, you won't be disappointed!!!
This is a wonderfully written dark romance and it tells Machi and Imperial's story. It's a great story and I tru!y enjoyed reading it. Machi must take Imperial to keep her safe from the other men who would no doubt hurt her and make her wish she was dead. He is the lesser of two evils and he's just trying to fight a wrong from his past. Grab this exciting book today, you won't be disappointed!!!
September 14, 2017
I received an ARC for review purposes
I can honestly say this is my first true dark romance novel and holy darkness it was a good one! For parts of the book I found myself having to stop and take a breath but the plot of the book the heart of it was beautiful!
I don't want to give anything away but I will say it has an HEA and no cliff hanger! Beautiful storyline and great characters!
I can honestly say this is my first true dark romance novel and holy darkness it was a good one! For parts of the book I found myself having to stop and take a breath but the plot of the book the heart of it was beautiful!
I don't want to give anything away but I will say it has an HEA and no cliff hanger! Beautiful storyline and great characters!
January 6, 2021
Absolutely loved it.
Being in the wrong place at the wrong time and ending up in the worse place imaginable can she survive it.
My god I loved this story, I was on the edge of my seat with my heart in my mouth.
Brilliant!!
Being in the wrong place at the wrong time and ending up in the worse place imaginable can she survive it.
My god I loved this story, I was on the edge of my seat with my heart in my mouth.
Brilliant!!
February 17, 2019
Wow
This is a bit dark but wow this book blew me away a girl was taken bc she witnessed something bad but did she know what she wAs being taken too?
This is a bit dark but wow this book blew me away a girl was taken bc she witnessed something bad but did she know what she wAs being taken too?
January 15, 2021
Definitely 5 star +
Wow let me wipe away my tears first........
Ok i loved the first book it had all the ingredients i love in a novel.
Now onto the second book
Wow let me wipe away my tears first........
Ok i loved the first book it had all the ingredients i love in a novel.
Now onto the second book
December 20, 2023
🌟 ℝ𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘: 1 star. honestly I’d give it no stars if goodreads didn’t just think that is an oversight
🤔 𝕀𝕞𝕡𝕣𝕖𝕤𝕤𝕚𝕠𝕟𝕤: this review contains vague spoilers because I can literally summarize it in one word: MISCOMMUNICATION. want two words? NO COMMUNICATION. the entire plot of this story could have been avoided had the two characters actually spoken their inner monologues OUT LOUD to each other. so much so that, during this seven-ish hour audiobook, I rage quit listening not once, not twice, but THREE TIMES and I can’t even tell you why I kept going back. maybe I hoped the ridiculousness would end. maybe I hoped they’d have an epiphany and realize “oh, if I simply told this person what I’m thinking right now I could save us all a lot of strife!” but that never happens. the author tries to justify this secret keeping by repeatedly bashing the reader over the head with the 🙄iTS fOr ThEIr OwN pROtECtiOn😑 trope and it just didn’t work for me at all. not to mention the first hour and thirty minutes of this story were just the FMC and MMC going back and forth like
🙆🏽♀️: ”LET ME GO!!”
🤷🏽♂️: ”I CANT, SORRY!”
🙆🏽♀️: ”THERES LITERALLY NO REASON FOR ME TO BE HERE!”
🤷🏽♂️: ”YEAH. OH WELL. NOW YOU CANT LEAVE.”
internally -
🙆🏽♀️: *I don’t understand why I can’t just go home 😭*
🤷🏽♂️: *I nabbed this girl and now, through a mistake of my own making, I am stuck with her and can’t possibly tell her why I’m even involved in this shit in the first place, she’d never understand, and I have to keep her safe 😩*
meanwhile the reason he’s there is INCREDIBLY OBVIOUS (to the reader) and there literally is no reason for him NOT to tell her. it’s so stupid and contrived and they just kept going around and around in freaking circles. not to mention about a third of the way in, the FMC going
🙆🏽♀️: *he says if I just listen to his directions, he can keep me safe. I believe him. I’ll sit still, be quiet, and not speak to anyone 😌 also man I’m hungry*
LITERALLY THE NEXT LINE -
🙆🏽♀️: “you brought me food but put in on the floor like I’m a dog?! FUCK YOU!” [throws plate across the room, proceeds to get in trouble]
like. MAKE IT MAKE SENSE.
🎧 𝔸𝕦𝕕𝕚𝕠𝕓𝕠𝕠𝕜: man, Aiden Snow was the only reason I even tried to get through this I think, and this isn’t a particularly great performance from him IMO. the female narrator was also not impressive. she sounded like a nasally child but then would actually moan and make other “aroused” noises??? it weirded me tf OUT.
🌶️ 𝕊𝕡𝕚𝕔𝕖: I couldn’t even tell you. I was so angry listening to this that I can’t even remember if the spice was spicy.
🧠 𝔸𝕝𝕝 𝕀𝕟 𝔸𝕝𝕝: I’m mad I didn’t just DNF at 63% like I wanted to because this felt like a waste of my time. ugh.
🤔 𝕀𝕞𝕡𝕣𝕖𝕤𝕤𝕚𝕠𝕟𝕤: this review contains vague spoilers because I can literally summarize it in one word: MISCOMMUNICATION. want two words? NO COMMUNICATION. the entire plot of this story could have been avoided had the two characters actually spoken their inner monologues OUT LOUD to each other. so much so that, during this seven-ish hour audiobook, I rage quit listening not once, not twice, but THREE TIMES and I can’t even tell you why I kept going back. maybe I hoped the ridiculousness would end. maybe I hoped they’d have an epiphany and realize “oh, if I simply told this person what I’m thinking right now I could save us all a lot of strife!” but that never happens. the author tries to justify this secret keeping by repeatedly bashing the reader over the head with the 🙄iTS fOr ThEIr OwN pROtECtiOn😑 trope and it just didn’t work for me at all. not to mention the first hour and thirty minutes of this story were just the FMC and MMC going back and forth like
🙆🏽♀️: ”LET ME GO!!”
🤷🏽♂️: ”I CANT, SORRY!”
🙆🏽♀️: ”THERES LITERALLY NO REASON FOR ME TO BE HERE!”
🤷🏽♂️: ”YEAH. OH WELL. NOW YOU CANT LEAVE.”
internally -
🙆🏽♀️: *I don’t understand why I can’t just go home 😭*
🤷🏽♂️: *I nabbed this girl and now, through a mistake of my own making, I am stuck with her and can’t possibly tell her why I’m even involved in this shit in the first place, she’d never understand, and I have to keep her safe 😩*
meanwhile the reason he’s there is INCREDIBLY OBVIOUS (to the reader) and there literally is no reason for him NOT to tell her. it’s so stupid and contrived and they just kept going around and around in freaking circles. not to mention about a third of the way in, the FMC going
🙆🏽♀️: *he says if I just listen to his directions, he can keep me safe. I believe him. I’ll sit still, be quiet, and not speak to anyone 😌 also man I’m hungry*
LITERALLY THE NEXT LINE -
🙆🏽♀️: “you brought me food but put in on the floor like I’m a dog?! FUCK YOU!” [throws plate across the room, proceeds to get in trouble]
like. MAKE IT MAKE SENSE.
🎧 𝔸𝕦𝕕𝕚𝕠𝕓𝕠𝕠𝕜: man, Aiden Snow was the only reason I even tried to get through this I think, and this isn’t a particularly great performance from him IMO. the female narrator was also not impressive. she sounded like a nasally child but then would actually moan and make other “aroused” noises??? it weirded me tf OUT.
🌶️ 𝕊𝕡𝕚𝕔𝕖: I couldn’t even tell you. I was so angry listening to this that I can’t even remember if the spice was spicy.
🧠 𝔸𝕝𝕝 𝕀𝕟 𝔸𝕝𝕝: I’m mad I didn’t just DNF at 63% like I wanted to because this felt like a waste of my time. ugh.
September 13, 2017
This is the first book I read from the author, and when it comes to dark book I do not even think twice.
It can not say that it is very dark, but it has a bit of darkness and those who have not read a dark story can even enjoy it.
What completely caught me in the story is that the darkness came to me in reverse. Usually I am used to stories in which the hero has a dark side and even a little vicious . But here, I found another hero, I meet Michi who fought against evil, against sexual slavery, and kidnapping and selling girls to sex. I found a sensitive, loving men who did not want to get kidnapped but because he had no choice because of his bitter past, he makes a desperate step but in this step he promises himself that he will not let this women die but save her.
On the other hand, I meet "Imperial" whose curiosity causes her to be kidnapped by the Michi. I meet a strong, assertive and very stubborn women. And when she is in her present state, she tries with all her might to survive, and even to bring herself to understand and fall in love with the michi, we encounter situations whose obstinacy leads her to unpleasant situations for which she must receive punishment, and then desperation comes and she shows signs of breaking, but with all this I Find her curious about the situation, and undertake to learn and understand and feel something completely different.
Can't say I did not need a little more content, but again it's because I read Hard dark story much more than this story.
I voluntarily received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
It can not say that it is very dark, but it has a bit of darkness and those who have not read a dark story can even enjoy it.
What completely caught me in the story is that the darkness came to me in reverse. Usually I am used to stories in which the hero has a dark side and even a little vicious . But here, I found another hero, I meet Michi who fought against evil, against sexual slavery, and kidnapping and selling girls to sex. I found a sensitive, loving men who did not want to get kidnapped but because he had no choice because of his bitter past, he makes a desperate step but in this step he promises himself that he will not let this women die but save her.
On the other hand, I meet "Imperial" whose curiosity causes her to be kidnapped by the Michi. I meet a strong, assertive and very stubborn women. And when she is in her present state, she tries with all her might to survive, and even to bring herself to understand and fall in love with the michi, we encounter situations whose obstinacy leads her to unpleasant situations for which she must receive punishment, and then desperation comes and she shows signs of breaking, but with all this I Find her curious about the situation, and undertake to learn and understand and feel something completely different.
Can't say I did not need a little more content, but again it's because I read Hard dark story much more than this story.
I voluntarily received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 17, 2017
This is one book you can't put down.
This book played out like a TV movie. It's intensity, and on the edge of your seat energy had you begging to read more.
Machi was a man on a mission, determined to find answers. Unfortunately, he'd have to enter a dark world where surviving, and making it out alive were your main objective.
This world was going to give him the answers he was looking for. Machi wanted revenge, and justice. The things he'd do, and the things he'd see would permanently be etched in his brain. It would change the man he was, and alter his life forever.
When Imperial was walking home one night she was clueless that her life was about to take a turn. A curious Imperial found herself captive my Machi.
The saturation of fear, and uncertainty that you felt for her was so tangible you could reach out and grab it.
Imperials journey with her captor was nail biting, and emotional. However; Machi became the lifeline for her reason to fight, to keep living.
You felt the exact same conflicts as Imperial, when she morphed from complete desperation, to submission.
Their journey was beautiful even in the midst of all the darkness. Their love was risky, and sensual, sexy, and left you breathless.
The ending will have you in tears. Literally welling up with emotion.
This book played out like a TV movie. It's intensity, and on the edge of your seat energy had you begging to read more.
Machi was a man on a mission, determined to find answers. Unfortunately, he'd have to enter a dark world where surviving, and making it out alive were your main objective.
This world was going to give him the answers he was looking for. Machi wanted revenge, and justice. The things he'd do, and the things he'd see would permanently be etched in his brain. It would change the man he was, and alter his life forever.
When Imperial was walking home one night she was clueless that her life was about to take a turn. A curious Imperial found herself captive my Machi.
The saturation of fear, and uncertainty that you felt for her was so tangible you could reach out and grab it.
Imperials journey with her captor was nail biting, and emotional. However; Machi became the lifeline for her reason to fight, to keep living.
You felt the exact same conflicts as Imperial, when she morphed from complete desperation, to submission.
Their journey was beautiful even in the midst of all the darkness. Their love was risky, and sensual, sexy, and left you breathless.
The ending will have you in tears. Literally welling up with emotion.
July 27, 2021
I don’t know. This story just didn’t do it for me. I can’t pinpoint why. I was trying not give it too harsh of a review but I have to be honest. I’ve read a LOT of dark romance. I’ve seen a lot of plot twists, training of lovers whips, chains, and all kinds of sex games, but again this one just didn’t do it for me. I’m the first couple 5 chapters I was so bored I kept falling asleep😴🥱. FF to chapter 15 now the story picked up and I was able to catch up with the storyline, and continue with the rest while jumping around and yes I still knew what happened in the story…..
The “anti-hero” Machi was trying to redeem his sister Meghan an ex drug addict who was sold and destroyed by a sex trafficking ring and while dealing with that he meets and falls for our heroine Imperial. That’s one of the big twists in the story. I hate giving details because at the end of it all I think you should try to read/listen and come to your own conclusion because not every book fits with every reader.
The narration wasn’t strong, I do think it got better as it went on. It was so many monologues in the beginning I’m so it can sound very monotone, 😬🥱but it clears up around the middle. 🤗 Otherwise two strong narrators
The “anti-hero” Machi was trying to redeem his sister Meghan an ex drug addict who was sold and destroyed by a sex trafficking ring and while dealing with that he meets and falls for our heroine Imperial. That’s one of the big twists in the story. I hate giving details because at the end of it all I think you should try to read/listen and come to your own conclusion because not every book fits with every reader.
The narration wasn’t strong, I do think it got better as it went on. It was so many monologues in the beginning I’m so it can sound very monotone, 😬🥱but it clears up around the middle. 🤗 Otherwise two strong narrators
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 16, 2023
Not even the voice talents of Aiden Snow could save this one--and that really says something right there. This book is a dark romance. So daaaark. Most dark romances are pretty interesting, though some can be extremely uncomfortable. I've never read a boring dark romance. I've read ones I've had to put down because they were too much but never ones that were boring--until this book. For a book with such an interesting premise, I was bored out of my mind? Why? Monologuing. So much monologuing. It was to the point where when I went back and kept track of what actually happened event-wise in the story, I realized that there was barely any plot. It was all them just thinking and having these long monologues about...things. Then, talking. Then, more thinking. Like, this is obnoxious. Where is the action? Where is the actual plot? Character development is important, but there comes a point where you can't do much more, and you're just beating a dead horse.
Now, I you like that style, I guess you can give this a try. I DNFed it maybe at like 60% when I realized that nothing was going to happen anytime soon. The book was dark, but again, how dark can it be when nothing actually happens? lol I'm sure something happens eventually, right? RIGHT?
Now, I you like that style, I guess you can give this a try. I DNFed it maybe at like 60% when I realized that nothing was going to happen anytime soon. The book was dark, but again, how dark can it be when nothing actually happens? lol I'm sure something happens eventually, right? RIGHT?
September 13, 2017
My expectations were blown away! Another amazing story by Leah Holt! As a reader, you come across many genres that you like, and each time you open a book in the same genre you're just praying that the story is original and can keep you enticed enough to want to finish the book. With Pushed, my expectations were blown to smithereens!!! I was quickly so deep into the storyline that I decided against sleep, just to finish the book in one sitting. And that's not an easy decision when your a mom of small children who keep you hopping all day long. I won't ruin the storyline by giving away plot details or spoilers, but I would highly recommend this book to lovers of dark romance and those who enjoy BDSM elements in their stories. The BDSM is fairly light, but the subject matter is, of course, mature as is almost everything in the dark romance realm. The other amazing thing about this book is how unconventional it is! That's all I'm going to say about this story. I don't want to spoil such a excellent read for those of you that one-click this based on my review. Happy Reading!!
I was offered the opportunity to receive an ARC of this book in exchange for a fair review.
I was offered the opportunity to receive an ARC of this book in exchange for a fair review.
October 5, 2017
Good read
This is the third book I have read like this one,different authors same story line. This book is a bit slow in the beginning but, when it picks up it is a good story. Machi is a monster who kidnapped Imperial when he caught her looking through a window she shouldn't have been looking through, seeing things she shouldn't have seen. As the story unfolds we find out why imperial was taken, why she saw what she did. Taken to a crappy hotel and held captive she sees and learns about the dark world where men see women as objects, where they beat, rape, abuse, sell and murder women. Some of the women come on their own free will, most have their lives stolen off the street. From the beginning you can feel Machi is different than the other creeps there; he isn't as harsh as the others, he isn't abusive, he doesn't rape but, he won't release her either. He keeps her there for her own safety but, while protecting her the two of them explore one another, learn about each other. There could be more sex scenes after all she is supposed to be a toy. All the promises come true. I don't really care too much for the ending but, I do recommend the book.
This is the third book I have read like this one,different authors same story line. This book is a bit slow in the beginning but, when it picks up it is a good story. Machi is a monster who kidnapped Imperial when he caught her looking through a window she shouldn't have been looking through, seeing things she shouldn't have seen. As the story unfolds we find out why imperial was taken, why she saw what she did. Taken to a crappy hotel and held captive she sees and learns about the dark world where men see women as objects, where they beat, rape, abuse, sell and murder women. Some of the women come on their own free will, most have their lives stolen off the street. From the beginning you can feel Machi is different than the other creeps there; he isn't as harsh as the others, he isn't abusive, he doesn't rape but, he won't release her either. He keeps her there for her own safety but, while protecting her the two of them explore one another, learn about each other. There could be more sex scenes after all she is supposed to be a toy. All the promises come true. I don't really care too much for the ending but, I do recommend the book.
September 7, 2021
3 Stars for me!
My rating range of this story... 1 Star - 3.25 Stars
If significant, why? Just too much... If only I could tell her / no matter what, he is bad...
Main Character Ratings...
H = 5/10
h = 5/10
Was cheating involved? No
Any major triggers to be aware of? Sexual Abuse and Sexual Slavery
Scenes with heat... A few
What point does it start? Maybe 70% mark
How much of the story? 10%
Anything beyond M/F? No
If yes, explained
Heat Rating... 7/10
Clean or Fade to Black - 1 or 2
Normal to Descriptive 3-5
Detailed Descriptive Sex - 6-7
Um, Wow, Beyond Descriptive Sex - 8 or above
Was there so much sex or unrealistic sex that you rolled your eyes and/or skipped forward? No
The back story... The blurb says it all!
The Romance... The MCs fall in love through the story while communication is minimal.
The drama explosion... Cannot say without spoiling the story.
Did it feel real or contrived? A bit contrived.
Was it OTT? Maybe
Separation involved? Yes
Was it resolved properly or rushed? Weirdly
Final Notes... The story covers sexual abuse and slavery but not with the h. I won't say much more to keep from spoiling the story.
HEA or HFN?
My rating range of this story... 1 Star - 3.25 Stars
If significant, why? Just too much... If only I could tell her / no matter what, he is bad...
Main Character Ratings...
H = 5/10
h = 5/10
Was cheating involved? No
Any major triggers to be aware of? Sexual Abuse and Sexual Slavery
Scenes with heat... A few
What point does it start? Maybe 70% mark
How much of the story? 10%
Anything beyond M/F? No
If yes, explained
Heat Rating... 7/10
Clean or Fade to Black - 1 or 2
Normal to Descriptive 3-5
Detailed Descriptive Sex - 6-7
Um, Wow, Beyond Descriptive Sex - 8 or above
Was there so much sex or unrealistic sex that you rolled your eyes and/or skipped forward? No
The back story... The blurb says it all!
The Romance... The MCs fall in love through the story while communication is minimal.
The drama explosion... Cannot say without spoiling the story.
Did it feel real or contrived? A bit contrived.
Was it OTT? Maybe
Separation involved? Yes
Was it resolved properly or rushed? Weirdly
Final Notes... The story covers sexual abuse and slavery but not with the h. I won't say much more to keep from spoiling the story.
HEA or HFN?
September 12, 2017
This was my first book by Leah Holt and now it won't be my last. This story begins when Imperial ends up having to walk home late at night from work due to the fact that her roommate car was in the shop. As she heads home she hears something in the alley and curiosity gets the better of her and she finds herself looking in a window where she witnesses a murder. That sets everything in motion she is kidnapped by an organization that sells girls into sexual slaves. That is where she meets Michi who is in charge of her and also the one she saw murder the man. She is kept in a room where she is left with nothing but her bra and panties blindfolded. She's drawn to him even though he kidnapped her ,there is a chemistry between them. He tells her not to believe everything you hear and see and to trust him he will keep her safe. She hears and sees terrible things and at times feels as if she is going to break. This story is not for the weak of heart but it is truly an amazing read don't give up keep reading. The end of the story was unexpected not your normal HEA!
September 17, 2017
4 bad boy stars!! I knew from the start that this man was more then what he seemed!!
What happens when you are a little too nosy for your own good?!?! You end up seeing too much and now your life is over as you know it...
"I found something more in the dark, I opened the door and invited him in. I found love in a monster."
Ok from like the first chapter I knew I would be hooked!! And Machi is like the most super yummy bad boy!! I knew there had to be some back story and his was good! The ending saddened my heart a little bit but ended up very happy! "Pixie" was exactly how I would have imagined myself to be, especially if I was taken by a super hot bad guy!! Hehe.
I think the story flowed quite well and kept me wanting more. The 2nd half of the book was what had me running back to the book whenever I had to take a break. I enjoy all of this authors work and can't wait for her next book!
**I received this book as an ARC and in return gave my honest review**
What happens when you are a little too nosy for your own good?!?! You end up seeing too much and now your life is over as you know it...
"I found something more in the dark, I opened the door and invited him in. I found love in a monster."
Ok from like the first chapter I knew I would be hooked!! And Machi is like the most super yummy bad boy!! I knew there had to be some back story and his was good! The ending saddened my heart a little bit but ended up very happy! "Pixie" was exactly how I would have imagined myself to be, especially if I was taken by a super hot bad guy!! Hehe.
I think the story flowed quite well and kept me wanting more. The 2nd half of the book was what had me running back to the book whenever I had to take a break. I enjoy all of this authors work and can't wait for her next book!
**I received this book as an ARC and in return gave my honest review**
September 17, 2017
Pushed is not your cookie cutter romance . It will deal with many issues that you the reader my find difficult .
Machi is a strong mysterious man that is led into a life that he did not choose ...he was pushed into it. Imperial is in the wrong place and the wrong time and now is the victim of a underground slavery ring. In the beginning you start to realize that their may be so much more to Machi and you want to love him but the situations he and Imperil are placed Into can make that difficult! Imperial is a strong young women and has many issues with keeping quiet and doing what is need to be done to keep her safe ...but hopefully she will learn that need out of necessity . Their relationship is difficult but neither can deny the attraction that they feel for each other. When the truth finally reveals itself will it be enough to save them and their future! Strong characters and a great story filled with so many dark twists and turns! Great Read!
~~Michele McMullen ~~
Machi is a strong mysterious man that is led into a life that he did not choose ...he was pushed into it. Imperial is in the wrong place and the wrong time and now is the victim of a underground slavery ring. In the beginning you start to realize that their may be so much more to Machi and you want to love him but the situations he and Imperil are placed Into can make that difficult! Imperial is a strong young women and has many issues with keeping quiet and doing what is need to be done to keep her safe ...but hopefully she will learn that need out of necessity . Their relationship is difficult but neither can deny the attraction that they feel for each other. When the truth finally reveals itself will it be enough to save them and their future! Strong characters and a great story filled with so many dark twists and turns! Great Read!
~~Michele McMullen ~~
September 13, 2017
This book was way darker than I normally like to read. That being said this was one of the most powerful books I have ever read. This is a story about murder, revenge, submission & the absolute power of trust & love.
Machi is a former cop who infiltrates a sex trafficking gang to take down the man who murdered his sister. Nothing will stop him from carrying out his plan. He has done this that he is not proud of & will most likely get him a prison sentence.
Imperial witnesses Machi kill a man. Unable to let her go he kidnaps her. Promising her eventual freedom but she must trust him explicitly.
The battle is wills between them is fierce & hard fought. To see if trust is given & freedom taken you'll need to read the book. You will not be disappointed. Leah Holt has penned a tale that will grab you by the throat until the last word is read leaving you breathless.
Machi is a former cop who infiltrates a sex trafficking gang to take down the man who murdered his sister. Nothing will stop him from carrying out his plan. He has done this that he is not proud of & will most likely get him a prison sentence.
Imperial witnesses Machi kill a man. Unable to let her go he kidnaps her. Promising her eventual freedom but she must trust him explicitly.
The battle is wills between them is fierce & hard fought. To see if trust is given & freedom taken you'll need to read the book. You will not be disappointed. Leah Holt has penned a tale that will grab you by the throat until the last word is read leaving you breathless.
February 13, 2019
Her Promise of Freedom
The way Leah Holt writes her amazing prose in the first of the Dark Flower Series, Pushed just called to me and with each and every book she writes the depth she puts into her characters feelings and POV just feels so very right! Even to describing the surroundings that the characters are in is like beautiful poetry!
This magnificent read has everything a reader wants, human trafficking, intrigue, suspense, murder, danger, revenge and so much more! Imperial is on her way home in the wrong place at the wrong time, Shen she sees a murder committed! She cannot be left behind. Who is this monster who takes her? True fear now follows her! Why was she put in the White Room? What are these people planning for her? What dark, dangerous secrets is Machi hiding? To find the answers you must make this highly recommended book a must read!
The way Leah Holt writes her amazing prose in the first of the Dark Flower Series, Pushed just called to me and with each and every book she writes the depth she puts into her characters feelings and POV just feels so very right! Even to describing the surroundings that the characters are in is like beautiful poetry!
This magnificent read has everything a reader wants, human trafficking, intrigue, suspense, murder, danger, revenge and so much more! Imperial is on her way home in the wrong place at the wrong time, Shen she sees a murder committed! She cannot be left behind. Who is this monster who takes her? True fear now follows her! Why was she put in the White Room? What are these people planning for her? What dark, dangerous secrets is Machi hiding? To find the answers you must make this highly recommended book a must read!
February 18, 2019
THE WHITE ROOM
Why did I not keep going? Don't look don't get involved. NO I had to take a look, well looked what happened I was taken and thrown into a boot of a car by a killer and released into the WHITE ROOM. My life has never been the same again, since that day. My world as I knew it was taken gone and replaced with uncertainty of even having a future. What will happen to me now. How will I ever escape why does this man named Machi treat me this way? Why do I care, What's wrong with me he is a monster a killer. He says trust me and just listen to what I say . How can I trust the man who has taken me into thus world to protect me and to give me back my freedom. LISTEN TO ME he says TRUST ME well I'm listening now what
Why did I not keep going? Don't look don't get involved. NO I had to take a look, well looked what happened I was taken and thrown into a boot of a car by a killer and released into the WHITE ROOM. My life has never been the same again, since that day. My world as I knew it was taken gone and replaced with uncertainty of even having a future. What will happen to me now. How will I ever escape why does this man named Machi treat me this way? Why do I care, What's wrong with me he is a monster a killer. He says trust me and just listen to what I say . How can I trust the man who has taken me into thus world to protect me and to give me back my freedom. LISTEN TO ME he says TRUST ME well I'm listening now what
September 14, 2017
I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review...
I was hooked from the first chapter and led on an emotional roller coaster. Imperial is a strong willed woman on her way home from work when her curiosity causes her to wander into a dark alley. Here she's lead into the chance meeting of Machi, a man she considers a monster but who holds her life in his hands. Through the journey to her freedom they find an unusual relationship which leads to a very unexpected happily every after. Such a well written story with strong characters. Definitely would recommend to others!!!
I was hooked from the first chapter and led on an emotional roller coaster. Imperial is a strong willed woman on her way home from work when her curiosity causes her to wander into a dark alley. Here she's lead into the chance meeting of Machi, a man she considers a monster but who holds her life in his hands. Through the journey to her freedom they find an unusual relationship which leads to a very unexpected happily every after. Such a well written story with strong characters. Definitely would recommend to others!!!
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