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Finding Their Muse #2
Strokes
He told me I was his muse. He lied. Anton Sachov, the artist, the man who only sees in monochrome. He wants something from me. Something precious; the meadow green of my eyes, the rich mahogany of my hair, the creamy white of my skin, the stark red of my blood, even the darkness of my soul. And he will do anything to get them.Including the unthinkable, locking me away.Join Rose and the men of Browlace Manor in the second book of the Finding Their Muse trilogy and sink further into this dark, gothic tale of guilt, desire, despair, and redemption. This is a reverse harem romance for 18+ readers. *** This is a dark story that contains drug abuse, mental health issues and other topics that may be triggering. Read at your own discretion***
278 pages, Paperback
First published January 30, 2019
315 people are currently reading
756 people want to read
About the author
Bea Paige
66 books1,571 followersA writer of gritty, dangerous love. A hopeless romantic. A lover of dark heroes. A drinker of red wine and a scoffer of Haribo sweets.
Librarian Note: Also writes under the name Kelly Stock.
Librarian Note: Also writes under the name Kelly Stock.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 147 reviews
March 6, 2020
It was an okay read. I was bored at times and found myself skimming.
I was excited to read Anton's story, but it was not as dark as I thought it would be and I was disappointed. We meet the woman that Anton felt a great sense of guilt for destroying. I guess women fall in love with him and can't let go. I thought the girl was just had issues to begin with and had nothing to do with him. Sure Anton pushed that other woman "over the cliff" but I think she would have become obsessed with any man who paid attention to her.
I did not feel the love for the heroine, Rose.
Mediocre writing. Great premise, but poor execution. This is my opinion. You may feel differently. Reading is subjective. I just don't understand why these men find Rose so irresistible.
In book 1 I thought it was clever that she was the DOM, but now I find it unbelievable. I don't know what it was in book 2 that made me disconnect with the characters and the story. It had so much potential.
I was excited to read Anton's story, but it was not as dark as I thought it would be and I was disappointed. We meet the woman that Anton felt a great sense of guilt for destroying. I guess women fall in love with him and can't let go. I thought the girl was just had issues to begin with and had nothing to do with him. Sure Anton pushed that other woman "over the cliff" but I think she would have become obsessed with any man who paid attention to her.
I did not feel the love for the heroine, Rose.
Mediocre writing. Great premise, but poor execution. This is my opinion. You may feel differently. Reading is subjective. I just don't understand why these men find Rose so irresistible.
In book 1 I thought it was clever that she was the DOM, but now I find it unbelievable. I don't know what it was in book 2 that made me disconnect with the characters and the story. It had so much potential.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 30, 2019
Steps was dark but Strokes is as black as night
I held my breath all through Steps and now that Strokes is finally here, I've realised that, on some level, I've been holding my breath all this time just waiting to read Anton's story.
We read Ivan's story in Steps and have seen that he is very dark, tragic and tormented. Erik has appeared fleetingly and is obviously a tortured, damaged soul. We know the reasons why Ivan and Erik are so broken (we think) but Anton, in contrast, is an unknown. He appeared to me, when reading Steps, to be a completely different kind of beast. Twisted, obsessive, all-consuming, he looms large in our vision in Steps but is an enigma. If you haven't read Steps yet, you really need to before you go any further. THAT epilogue had me desperate to read Anton's story and boy, was I unhappy that I had to wait.
I can report, however, that the wait was absolutely worth it, as if you ever doubted it.
Bea's writing is like a missile, striking the target (your heart, your soul, your emotions) unerringly. She weaves such a rich tapestry of colour and darkness, of half-truths, lies and omissions, of obsession and agony and fear and love, all set in a bitterly cold, misty, bleak landscape that reflects so powerfully the all-consuming story that cannot be put down, not even for a second.
My heart broke for Ivan in this book, even more so than in Steps. and I didn't think I could love him more than I did but I was wrong. He is truly a changed man and Rose is his redemption.
Anton, however, is gripped by greater demons than Ivan. His addictions are physical and mental and he will not give any of them up willingly. He is a tormented soul who is his own worst enemy but he has met his match in Rose, a woman with her own hidden depths and blackness. The darkness in both Anton and Rose calls to the other and that is how Rose will be able to get through to him and help him. Anton can see straight through Rose, into her psyche, and will make her face her demons too. They have to open up to each other so that both can begin to heal but the process will be long and painful for them, and for the reader. One thing I can tell you is that you will certainly look at colours in a different way once you have finished this book.
Erik appeared briefly in this book, but makes a very big impression in such a short cameo, and then the last chapter and the epilogue takes a turn that sets the scene for Strings.
I cannot bear the thought that we will have to wait for Erik's story but I am sure that it will be worth it, however long it may be. Bea does the impossible with every book she writes. upping the ante and surpassing herself with ease. I know Strings will be astounding.
I held my breath all through Steps and now that Strokes is finally here, I've realised that, on some level, I've been holding my breath all this time just waiting to read Anton's story.
We read Ivan's story in Steps and have seen that he is very dark, tragic and tormented. Erik has appeared fleetingly and is obviously a tortured, damaged soul. We know the reasons why Ivan and Erik are so broken (we think) but Anton, in contrast, is an unknown. He appeared to me, when reading Steps, to be a completely different kind of beast. Twisted, obsessive, all-consuming, he looms large in our vision in Steps but is an enigma. If you haven't read Steps yet, you really need to before you go any further. THAT epilogue had me desperate to read Anton's story and boy, was I unhappy that I had to wait.
I can report, however, that the wait was absolutely worth it, as if you ever doubted it.
Bea's writing is like a missile, striking the target (your heart, your soul, your emotions) unerringly. She weaves such a rich tapestry of colour and darkness, of half-truths, lies and omissions, of obsession and agony and fear and love, all set in a bitterly cold, misty, bleak landscape that reflects so powerfully the all-consuming story that cannot be put down, not even for a second.
My heart broke for Ivan in this book, even more so than in Steps. and I didn't think I could love him more than I did but I was wrong. He is truly a changed man and Rose is his redemption.
Anton, however, is gripped by greater demons than Ivan. His addictions are physical and mental and he will not give any of them up willingly. He is a tormented soul who is his own worst enemy but he has met his match in Rose, a woman with her own hidden depths and blackness. The darkness in both Anton and Rose calls to the other and that is how Rose will be able to get through to him and help him. Anton can see straight through Rose, into her psyche, and will make her face her demons too. They have to open up to each other so that both can begin to heal but the process will be long and painful for them, and for the reader. One thing I can tell you is that you will certainly look at colours in a different way once you have finished this book.
Erik appeared briefly in this book, but makes a very big impression in such a short cameo, and then the last chapter and the epilogue takes a turn that sets the scene for Strings.
I cannot bear the thought that we will have to wait for Erik's story but I am sure that it will be worth it, however long it may be. Bea does the impossible with every book she writes. upping the ante and surpassing herself with ease. I know Strings will be astounding.
May 6, 2019
3.5 stars
May 24, 2021
A painter who can't see colors and a ballerina who can't dance anymore. Two broken souls helping each other embrace their demons and keep on living. "Strokes" is even darker and more twisted than "Steps" as we learn more about the troubled pasts of each character.
May 14, 2021
There’s such a thing as TOO MUCH FLOWERY WRITING, and it’s captured in this book. There was so many unnecessary descriptions, analogies, similes… to try and make Anton/Rose and their respective pasts dark, mysterious, shrouded. In the end I think it hurt more than it benefited the storyline.
February 2, 2019
Last November Bea Paige surprised us by releasing book 1 in her dark RH series, Steps. Her other series had some brief dark grey moments, but I wouldn't classify them as dark romance. Bea Paige found her niche while writing Steps and exploring the darkness found within Rose and her men. She blew it out of the water and everyone fell for Rose and Ivan, and how they were able to start putting their 2 broken souls together to start "living" again. We couldn't get enough of their inner demons and the way they had to push each other to finally break through the walls they had put up because of their tragic pasts. I thought Steps was my favorite of Bea's but I was wrong yet again haha.
Usually everyone is worried that book 2 in a series can never live up to the hype of book 1. Well in the case of Strokes, that is further from the truth. Bea gave us more amazing prose in this dark RH sequel. The world she creates and the relationships she is building and weaving together is incredible; it gets better with each book.
Out of the 3 guys, I didn't connect with Anton in Steps. I thought he was mysterious, yes, but I was more worried about what he would do, instead of wanting to learn more about him. I was more excited to get Erik's book but that is the 3rd book in the series. I think Bea did a fantastic job changing my mind. It wasn't instant in Strokes. It took little baby steps, with each color. You will understand once you start reading how Rose has to try and get Anton to see colors, while he is color blind and can only see black, white, and grey. She was able to rope me in, get me to root for Anton, and make me wish for him to be real so I could hug him and never let him go. I fell for him so hard!! Erik is still my fav, but it might be a threeway tie after Strings comes out later this year. Thank goodness we don't have to choose between the men 😍
This book is going to hit you more in the feels than Steps I think, at least it did for me. I have had family friends go through what Anton has to go through in Strokes, and while it was tough to read, it made for a more relatable book that resonated with me and probably will for a long time. Anton is far from the white knight, perfect man who redeems himself and saves the day at the end. Rose and Anton help each other own their darkness and not let it overpower them and rule their lives. They were able to give each other the path/ability to see the light in the dark. To not let the past drown them in anguish and agony. In Strokes you will get to learn how Rose and Anton became who they are today and its not pretty. That's why I loved it so much. Bea really pushed the boundaries and let her darkness fly and light up the pages with colorful imagery, colors that Anton finally could see. It was amazing to read and I cannot commend Bea enough for putting herself out there and going outside her comfort zone to provide us a masterpiece of raw emotion.
You will not be disappointed in this follow-up to Steps. This book has even more tension and feeling that book 1, if you can imagine. We even get to see a scene with Anton, Ivan, and Rose together *fans self*. We get some little sneak peaks into Erik and the world he came from (no spoilers but I already want to hurt someone for what they did to him haha) and I am chomping at the bit for Strings, which we should hopefully have before the summer gets here. This book had more suspense and intrigue, just be prepared to be shocked by some of the characters past deeds. The characters have to really work for what they want, its not easy for either of them. Rose was Domina for Ivan in book 1. With Anton, they are more or less equals, so there is a lot of give and take that helps enhance their story and relationship. We are starting to see them open themselves up to feel good emotions (not love yet, but the makings of it) and leaning on each other for what they need. Knowing they cant do it by themselves, that their broken pieces help build each other up. I wonder how Erik as the dominant in Rose's life will fit with the other 2. So many possibilities, I can't contain my excitement!!!!
Reader should definitely pick this series up and delve into the darkness Bea has mastered in her Finding Their Muse series ❤️❤️❤️ Fair warning, there are triggers so don't expect rainbows and unicorns in this dark contemporary reverse harem.
Usually everyone is worried that book 2 in a series can never live up to the hype of book 1. Well in the case of Strokes, that is further from the truth. Bea gave us more amazing prose in this dark RH sequel. The world she creates and the relationships she is building and weaving together is incredible; it gets better with each book.
Out of the 3 guys, I didn't connect with Anton in Steps. I thought he was mysterious, yes, but I was more worried about what he would do, instead of wanting to learn more about him. I was more excited to get Erik's book but that is the 3rd book in the series. I think Bea did a fantastic job changing my mind. It wasn't instant in Strokes. It took little baby steps, with each color. You will understand once you start reading how Rose has to try and get Anton to see colors, while he is color blind and can only see black, white, and grey. She was able to rope me in, get me to root for Anton, and make me wish for him to be real so I could hug him and never let him go. I fell for him so hard!! Erik is still my fav, but it might be a threeway tie after Strings comes out later this year. Thank goodness we don't have to choose between the men 😍
This book is going to hit you more in the feels than Steps I think, at least it did for me. I have had family friends go through what Anton has to go through in Strokes, and while it was tough to read, it made for a more relatable book that resonated with me and probably will for a long time. Anton is far from the white knight, perfect man who redeems himself and saves the day at the end. Rose and Anton help each other own their darkness and not let it overpower them and rule their lives. They were able to give each other the path/ability to see the light in the dark. To not let the past drown them in anguish and agony. In Strokes you will get to learn how Rose and Anton became who they are today and its not pretty. That's why I loved it so much. Bea really pushed the boundaries and let her darkness fly and light up the pages with colorful imagery, colors that Anton finally could see. It was amazing to read and I cannot commend Bea enough for putting herself out there and going outside her comfort zone to provide us a masterpiece of raw emotion.
You will not be disappointed in this follow-up to Steps. This book has even more tension and feeling that book 1, if you can imagine. We even get to see a scene with Anton, Ivan, and Rose together *fans self*. We get some little sneak peaks into Erik and the world he came from (no spoilers but I already want to hurt someone for what they did to him haha) and I am chomping at the bit for Strings, which we should hopefully have before the summer gets here. This book had more suspense and intrigue, just be prepared to be shocked by some of the characters past deeds. The characters have to really work for what they want, its not easy for either of them. Rose was Domina for Ivan in book 1. With Anton, they are more or less equals, so there is a lot of give and take that helps enhance their story and relationship. We are starting to see them open themselves up to feel good emotions (not love yet, but the makings of it) and leaning on each other for what they need. Knowing they cant do it by themselves, that their broken pieces help build each other up. I wonder how Erik as the dominant in Rose's life will fit with the other 2. So many possibilities, I can't contain my excitement!!!!
Reader should definitely pick this series up and delve into the darkness Bea has mastered in her Finding Their Muse series ❤️❤️❤️ Fair warning, there are triggers so don't expect rainbows and unicorns in this dark contemporary reverse harem.
June 27, 2022
Another gripping book in this series, full of dark, raw emotion. Strokes focuses on Rose and Anton, the complex broken painter who only sees in monochrome but is desperate for all of Rose's colour and will do anything to get it.
This series is compelling and dark with quite a few triggers, but so well written. Each character, Rose, Ivan, Anton and Erik are damaged, broken and lost. They are all so different but with such a strong connection. This is described as reverse harem, I'm intrigued as to how it will work because the three men each need such different things. Rose is incredible, strong, resilient, brave but has such pain herself, physically and mentally and is drawn to the darkness in all three.
I'm loving this series and can't wait for more. Highly recommended if you're ok delving into the deepest, darkness corners of four broken souls where hope hangs on by a thread.
This series is compelling and dark with quite a few triggers, but so well written. Each character, Rose, Ivan, Anton and Erik are damaged, broken and lost. They are all so different but with such a strong connection. This is described as reverse harem, I'm intrigued as to how it will work because the three men each need such different things. Rose is incredible, strong, resilient, brave but has such pain herself, physically and mentally and is drawn to the darkness in all three.
I'm loving this series and can't wait for more. Highly recommended if you're ok delving into the deepest, darkness corners of four broken souls where hope hangs on by a thread.
October 11, 2019
Anton
In Strokes we dive into Anton's story and we find out more about Rose and Roman. This book was darker than the first. Again beautifully written. The Housekeeper (I forgot her name for a sec) gives me the creeps. The tension and emotions are palpable. Another great show of the author's impeccable writing skills.
In Strokes we dive into Anton's story and we find out more about Rose and Roman. This book was darker than the first. Again beautifully written. The Housekeeper (I forgot her name for a sec) gives me the creeps. The tension and emotions are palpable. Another great show of the author's impeccable writing skills.
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August 22, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (8/22/2019)! 🎁
September 19, 2021
Anton's story. I still don't know what I'm reading.
July 30, 2022
I think I liked this even more than the first one!
October 13, 2022
4.75⭐️’s - gorgeously broken and dark. I look forward to the rest of the series.
October 26, 2022
Wow this got real dark!
And no- don't go into it thinking it's a love story! It's not.
And no- don't go into it thinking it's a love story! It's not.
November 26, 2024
Hmm well this one was just ok to me.
March 19, 2020
Dark and delicious
This is very dark and it works so well. These characters are so different from most books and I feel like it is raw and real this story isn’t about happy ever after it is about how to live. So good can’t wait for more.
This is very dark and it works so well. These characters are so different from most books and I feel like it is raw and real this story isn’t about happy ever after it is about how to live. So good can’t wait for more.
February 6, 2019
Anton Sachov, the artist who only sees in monochrome wants Rose as his muse. But what exactly does that mean to him? He lives his life as a ghost, seeing in shades of gray and he wants Rose to provide color to his world even if he must bleed her of her own color. After all, she wouldn't be the first person he destroyed. Rose is attracted to his brokenness. Drawn to his darkness, it feeds her own monster. She believes she can teach him color, prove to him that he can truly see. If she's wrong he may destroy what remains of her.
WOW! This book is genius, so dark, so disturbing. It's fantastically wicked. It challenged my senses. Rarely have I looked forward to a sequel like I did this one. Rarely have I been as engrossed with forces of darkness as I am with these characters. The brief scenes of Ivan and Erik are incredible. Even Ms. Hadley has her moments in this story. These three have such impact. And while this may be Anton's book we learn just as much about Rose as we do the tortured artist. Ivan's story was tragic, a book of punishment and guilt. Anton's is a story of obsession, addiction. There is only a trace amount of guilt, always overshadowed by selfishness, weakness. Anton can't be redeemed like Ivan, however, he's not completely lost. This is not a book about quick fixes and happily ever afters, it's a story of survival. Fighting to survive at any cost, even if that means destroying another to hold off your inner demons for a while longer. There are few shared moments of tenderness and no declarations of love, yet it is a love story. Like attracts like. Admiration, respect, lust, understanding. The foundation has been laid. It will take time. It may never look like a typical love affair but the passions will last.
White, Red, Cerulean Blue, Black, and Rose. Such powerful words, such vivid images. This is storytelling at its finest. It's not easy reading, however. It's ugly, painful, brutally twisted. It will make you gasp and wonder if there is any good left or if the gray nightmare will consume their souls. It has the ability to trigger you if it hits too close to home; it touches on drug abuse, mental health issues, imprisonment, mental, physical, and sexual abuse.
WOW! This book is genius, so dark, so disturbing. It's fantastically wicked. It challenged my senses. Rarely have I looked forward to a sequel like I did this one. Rarely have I been as engrossed with forces of darkness as I am with these characters. The brief scenes of Ivan and Erik are incredible. Even Ms. Hadley has her moments in this story. These three have such impact. And while this may be Anton's book we learn just as much about Rose as we do the tortured artist. Ivan's story was tragic, a book of punishment and guilt. Anton's is a story of obsession, addiction. There is only a trace amount of guilt, always overshadowed by selfishness, weakness. Anton can't be redeemed like Ivan, however, he's not completely lost. This is not a book about quick fixes and happily ever afters, it's a story of survival. Fighting to survive at any cost, even if that means destroying another to hold off your inner demons for a while longer. There are few shared moments of tenderness and no declarations of love, yet it is a love story. Like attracts like. Admiration, respect, lust, understanding. The foundation has been laid. It will take time. It may never look like a typical love affair but the passions will last.
White, Red, Cerulean Blue, Black, and Rose. Such powerful words, such vivid images. This is storytelling at its finest. It's not easy reading, however. It's ugly, painful, brutally twisted. It will make you gasp and wonder if there is any good left or if the gray nightmare will consume their souls. It has the ability to trigger you if it hits too close to home; it touches on drug abuse, mental health issues, imprisonment, mental, physical, and sexual abuse.
November 28, 2019
Oh man!! This book has sucked me in deeper. I love every broken bit of these four souls. I need them. I also need them to take care of that evil, old lady, but, I’ll try to be patient. I loved Anton and Rose. Can’t wait for the next pieces of them to fall into place.
July 26, 2022
read March 15, 2022 - March 16, 2022: 2 stars
February 2, 2024
Definelty saving of all souls. Healing I guess
really enjoy the 1st 2 books so far. What I wish is that their was everyone's dialect in everyone's book. I get it focuses basically on each guy and that's OK but I wish the other PoV of rhe other guys were there all interacting like usual books. Becaise even tho you do get some of rhe other guys in each book it's mostly focused on the 1 guys and I don't care for that much. You basically leaving the others out except here and there I like when everyone is around and involved. But with that being said I really do enjoy the stories and each of rhe guys stories too. I'm not really sure on the Ivan aka Luka (which I like that name better lol) being a sub but I get it too. He has alot on his shoulders and sometimes it's good to let it go sometimes and I think that good for the bedroom only but she seems to control everyone all the time. I guess I'm more the Alpha male type I like them on charge but in the bedroom it can be different. I'm not really sure how I think of it this way cause I know in mafia books I've read they soften on the woman and thats ok but there is still a very dominate Ora of them. Ivan I'm not sure I like it much but I get it too. I glad they are able to agree to to share I guess. Anton even with his story I'm not to keen on him the most but I like him just less then the others I guess. I cant wait to read Erik's his is sad and I just know what it's about already and what happened. I figured it out right away when they said a women can't touch him and they was his adopted mother is toward all the guys and I think that Ivan wife didn't kill herself. But im not sure it's said that Ms Hadley didn't like any of rhe girls so I'm assuming and she hates Rose cause she is to close and she warned her away from the guys. I think she likes them even if she is old. Possessive but again not sure so I'm on to Erik's book the the ending. Please read atleast these 1st 2 like I have they are really great. I know you'll want to read the others too. The author did a great job. Don't take what I said above as a neg. It's only my thought and what I was thinking while reading it. Nothing neg about this book otherwise. Everyone has their own thoughts and what likes and don't likes. That's how individual reading is. So please sit down relax and read a great series so far.
really enjoy the 1st 2 books so far. What I wish is that their was everyone's dialect in everyone's book. I get it focuses basically on each guy and that's OK but I wish the other PoV of rhe other guys were there all interacting like usual books. Becaise even tho you do get some of rhe other guys in each book it's mostly focused on the 1 guys and I don't care for that much. You basically leaving the others out except here and there I like when everyone is around and involved. But with that being said I really do enjoy the stories and each of rhe guys stories too. I'm not really sure on the Ivan aka Luka (which I like that name better lol) being a sub but I get it too. He has alot on his shoulders and sometimes it's good to let it go sometimes and I think that good for the bedroom only but she seems to control everyone all the time. I guess I'm more the Alpha male type I like them on charge but in the bedroom it can be different. I'm not really sure how I think of it this way cause I know in mafia books I've read they soften on the woman and thats ok but there is still a very dominate Ora of them. Ivan I'm not sure I like it much but I get it too. I glad they are able to agree to to share I guess. Anton even with his story I'm not to keen on him the most but I like him just less then the others I guess. I cant wait to read Erik's his is sad and I just know what it's about already and what happened. I figured it out right away when they said a women can't touch him and they was his adopted mother is toward all the guys and I think that Ivan wife didn't kill herself. But im not sure it's said that Ms Hadley didn't like any of rhe girls so I'm assuming and she hates Rose cause she is to close and she warned her away from the guys. I think she likes them even if she is old. Possessive but again not sure so I'm on to Erik's book the the ending. Please read atleast these 1st 2 like I have they are really great. I know you'll want to read the others too. The author did a great job. Don't take what I said above as a neg. It's only my thought and what I was thinking while reading it. Nothing neg about this book otherwise. Everyone has their own thoughts and what likes and don't likes. That's how individual reading is. So please sit down relax and read a great series so far.
February 8, 2019
I would almost say this book is darker and more twisted than the first.
And that's saying something.
In Strokes, we are following Rose as she tries to help heal Anton.
Ivan is away on a business trip in Moscow for two weeks and Anton needs her help more than she needs to be away.
We already knew Anton was dark and twisted.
It's the appeal Rose found in each of the men at Browlace Manor.
But now we get to learn WHY he is this way.
Bea Paige brought to life this obsessive and soul-consuming monster that was hard to put down.
Her writing was just phenomenal and I felt what each of these characters were going through.
I wanted to reach through the book and console each of them as pain and torment seemed to rip them apart.
If you haven't read Steps, then you might not know the depth of warning these books need to have set upon them.
I'm not a person that is triggered easily by things in books, but I will say that this one had me second guessing at times.
I think it was the honestly of the book. Of how real some of these addictions-physical and mental-are.
To come upon someone who suffers this way would be heart-wrenching and unbearable.
But it was a sight to behold to watch Rose anchor herself and become what Anton needed to put away his own demons. Even at great cost to herself.
We do get a few glimpses of Erik in this book as well, mostly in the epilogue, that sets us up for the final book in this trilogy.
It will be interesting to see how his book plays out.
Because I think he will be the hardest of them all to break through. Mostly because of his mother.
These are highly recommended books.
If you are into dark, twisted, and unhinged men...definitely pick it up and read it today.
You won't be sorry.
And that's saying something.
In Strokes, we are following Rose as she tries to help heal Anton.
Ivan is away on a business trip in Moscow for two weeks and Anton needs her help more than she needs to be away.
We already knew Anton was dark and twisted.
It's the appeal Rose found in each of the men at Browlace Manor.
But now we get to learn WHY he is this way.
Bea Paige brought to life this obsessive and soul-consuming monster that was hard to put down.
Her writing was just phenomenal and I felt what each of these characters were going through.
I wanted to reach through the book and console each of them as pain and torment seemed to rip them apart.
If you haven't read Steps, then you might not know the depth of warning these books need to have set upon them.
I'm not a person that is triggered easily by things in books, but I will say that this one had me second guessing at times.
I think it was the honestly of the book. Of how real some of these addictions-physical and mental-are.
To come upon someone who suffers this way would be heart-wrenching and unbearable.
But it was a sight to behold to watch Rose anchor herself and become what Anton needed to put away his own demons. Even at great cost to herself.
We do get a few glimpses of Erik in this book as well, mostly in the epilogue, that sets us up for the final book in this trilogy.
It will be interesting to see how his book plays out.
Because I think he will be the hardest of them all to break through. Mostly because of his mother.
These are highly recommended books.
If you are into dark, twisted, and unhinged men...definitely pick it up and read it today.
You won't be sorry.
February 28, 2019
So Strokes is book 2 in the Finding Their Muse series. This book was very much focused on Rose and Anton. We do see some of Rose’s relationship with Ivan at the beginning, and while it’s not a lot, it’s very eye opening, into the psyches of Rose, Ivan, and Anton.
While the story still has a dark, gothic feel to it, and it’s deliciously descriptive, I felt like this story was very different from the first. For me, it felt like this book was just as much Anton’s as it was Rose’s, maybe more so at certain points. And where we saw a bit of both Ivan’s and Rose’s pasts in the first book, this book very much laid Anton and Rose out raw. This was their pasts, however dark and ugly. This was a fantastic book, but compared to the first one, there was something… different? Maybe because this book was so solely about Anton and Rose, it felt a little like a standalone? I don’t want to say that something was missing from it, because this book is beautifully and emotionally written. It just didn’t strike the same chord with me, as the first book did. Without being able to put words to why that is, it could be as simple as I wasn’t in the right mindset for it, but read it anyway because I was so excited for it. And that’s totally on me and doesn’t reflect at all on the author’s writing skill or ability to build a story. The skill to captivate you and draw you into this story is still there, and I am looking forward to the third book just as much as I did this book.
While the story still has a dark, gothic feel to it, and it’s deliciously descriptive, I felt like this story was very different from the first. For me, it felt like this book was just as much Anton’s as it was Rose’s, maybe more so at certain points. And where we saw a bit of both Ivan’s and Rose’s pasts in the first book, this book very much laid Anton and Rose out raw. This was their pasts, however dark and ugly. This was a fantastic book, but compared to the first one, there was something… different? Maybe because this book was so solely about Anton and Rose, it felt a little like a standalone? I don’t want to say that something was missing from it, because this book is beautifully and emotionally written. It just didn’t strike the same chord with me, as the first book did. Without being able to put words to why that is, it could be as simple as I wasn’t in the right mindset for it, but read it anyway because I was so excited for it. And that’s totally on me and doesn’t reflect at all on the author’s writing skill or ability to build a story. The skill to captivate you and draw you into this story is still there, and I am looking forward to the third book just as much as I did this book.
April 28, 2022
Holy Cow!!! This book was so good. Darker than Steps but so eye opening.
The story of Rose and Anton was so heartbreaking but so good. The chemistry between them was indescribable.
The scene where she made Anton "see" red was so hot 🥵🥵❤️🔥❤️🔥. The trust between them is amazing.
Anton's past is heartbreaking and sad because he wants the impossible and Amber was a pawn to help him but it never worked. I felt bad for him but I'm glad Rose was there.
I love how she opened up her past to Anton and told him about Roman. The way she colored it Cerulean Blue was something else. The way she expressed what her life was like before Roman destroyed Rosie- the girl that loved him and the girl she once was- was so raw and vulnerable. When Ivan declares his love for Rose was amazing but a little too early. I understand how Rose reacted to it because of her past and Roman. I hope the others help her understand LOVE.
I still continue to hate Mrs. Hadley and her personality. The way she invited Anton's father was so bitchy like take a long walk of a short pier. Why can't she just die.
When Rose purged Anton's soul and helped him purge Anton's darkness was amazing. Can't wait to read Erik's story and how Rose helps him.
Another amazing story and read by Bea Paige and I can't wait to read more.
The story of Rose and Anton was so heartbreaking but so good. The chemistry between them was indescribable.
The scene where she made Anton "see" red was so hot 🥵🥵❤️🔥❤️🔥. The trust between them is amazing.
Anton's past is heartbreaking and sad because he wants the impossible and Amber was a pawn to help him but it never worked. I felt bad for him but I'm glad Rose was there.
I love how she opened up her past to Anton and told him about Roman. The way she colored it Cerulean Blue was something else. The way she expressed what her life was like before Roman destroyed Rosie- the girl that loved him and the girl she once was- was so raw and vulnerable. When Ivan declares his love for Rose was amazing but a little too early. I understand how Rose reacted to it because of her past and Roman. I hope the others help her understand LOVE.
I still continue to hate Mrs. Hadley and her personality. The way she invited Anton's father was so bitchy like take a long walk of a short pier. Why can't she just die.
When Rose purged Anton's soul and helped him purge Anton's darkness was amazing. Can't wait to read Erik's story and how Rose helps him.
Another amazing story and read by Bea Paige and I can't wait to read more.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 4, 2019
Grey. White. Read. Cerulean Blue. Black. Rose. These are the colours we find ourselves immersed in throughout Strokes
There is something that pulls on this dark and twisted heart of mine with the passing of another amazing tale told by Bea Paige in the Finding Their Muse trilogy. Unlike Steps which saw the story revolve predominantly around Ivan, Strokes takes us on the journey of discovery and growth for both Anton and Rose. This story was by far darker than the first, but no less emotional and empowering. I love that Bea Paige sectioned off this book in colours, allowing for us to understand the meaning for each shade as pertaining to the past and present of our characters.
There were moments that truly had me gasping for breath at how dark this story could get. But it wouldn't be long before I had tears in my eyes or a smile on my face. It takes a true genius to be able to manipulate emotions quite like what we have here. I cannot wait to see what is to come for Erik's story in Strings and only hope that Ms Hadley gets what's coming to her.
** I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author for review consideration **
There is something that pulls on this dark and twisted heart of mine with the passing of another amazing tale told by Bea Paige in the Finding Their Muse trilogy. Unlike Steps which saw the story revolve predominantly around Ivan, Strokes takes us on the journey of discovery and growth for both Anton and Rose. This story was by far darker than the first, but no less emotional and empowering. I love that Bea Paige sectioned off this book in colours, allowing for us to understand the meaning for each shade as pertaining to the past and present of our characters.
There were moments that truly had me gasping for breath at how dark this story could get. But it wouldn't be long before I had tears in my eyes or a smile on my face. It takes a true genius to be able to manipulate emotions quite like what we have here. I cannot wait to see what is to come for Erik's story in Strings and only hope that Ms Hadley gets what's coming to her.
** I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author for review consideration **
February 9, 2019
Paige is doing an amazing job at writing dark romance because she puts out these things that are so messy and ugly and taboo to the world and makes them seem so elegant, graceful and smooth. I like that all three of the guys get revealed a little at a time with every book, and I love that Rose developed so much more in this one. There's always another layer being revealed, and it keeps things exciting.
I'm really not into sappy, soap opera-type dialogue when their words remind me of intense Russian ballet. That's just me personally, so the beginning when Anton had to be raw with Rose was a little rough for me, but then Rose showed her own type of dance and it was a lot easier to get into the rest of the story. I totally don't think it's bad of the book, it's just me, and it works for them. Anton was a weird guy to get used to but once it was finally out what kind of 'monster' he was, it was so much easier to also get him. It was just weird. Like a good weird. Each step toward resolution and acceptance was hard, and a few times it got sad and intense, but it was totally worth it. It's a definite recommend if you like dark romances and RH.
I'm really not into sappy, soap opera-type dialogue when their words remind me of intense Russian ballet. That's just me personally, so the beginning when Anton had to be raw with Rose was a little rough for me, but then Rose showed her own type of dance and it was a lot easier to get into the rest of the story. I totally don't think it's bad of the book, it's just me, and it works for them. Anton was a weird guy to get used to but once it was finally out what kind of 'monster' he was, it was so much easier to also get him. It was just weird. Like a good weird. Each step toward resolution and acceptance was hard, and a few times it got sad and intense, but it was totally worth it. It's a definite recommend if you like dark romances and RH.
February 6, 2019
***This book was provided to me by the author free of charge in exchange for review. All thoughts and opinions expressed in the following review are my own and in no way influenced by this fact. ***
First of all, can I just say how amazingly real this book feels? You read this book, and like the last one, you can feel the pain, the anger, the sadness, the regret. You feel everything. I will say that this book felt less dark in comparison to the first. It was really more angsty than anything. I also noticed less charachter development compared to the first one, where we can see a very clear transition in both main charachters. I did appreciate seeing so much of Anton and Rose's pasts though, so perhaps it's a fair trade. I really appreciate that the author didn't try to play of or minimize the darkness of their pasts, or indeed their present. These charachters make mistakes, they have faults, because they are humans (with shitty pasts at that), but it feels like more than a convinent back story in this series. And lord, after that ending! Book three can't come soon enough.
S.S.
First of all, can I just say how amazingly real this book feels? You read this book, and like the last one, you can feel the pain, the anger, the sadness, the regret. You feel everything. I will say that this book felt less dark in comparison to the first. It was really more angsty than anything. I also noticed less charachter development compared to the first one, where we can see a very clear transition in both main charachters. I did appreciate seeing so much of Anton and Rose's pasts though, so perhaps it's a fair trade. I really appreciate that the author didn't try to play of or minimize the darkness of their pasts, or indeed their present. These charachters make mistakes, they have faults, because they are humans (with shitty pasts at that), but it feels like more than a convinent back story in this series. And lord, after that ending! Book three can't come soon enough.
S.S.
April 2, 2022
This Reverse Harem is full of perfectly imperfect characters. Each and every one of them are broken in their own way, both physically & mentally, based on their own twisted pasts. This story is about finding the beauty in those imperfection and the darkness that lives within.
I have not been able to put this series down, at all. I need to know exactly how this all ends. I also love how this series is set up, each of the first 3 books focuses on Rose's relationship with one of the 3 men of Browlace Manor. Each man has a very different need from Rose & by focusing a book on each of them it really helps to focus on each relationship she has with each of them.
The second book is focusing on Rose & Anton. Anton has very different needs compared to Ivan. We also see much more of a change and growth in Rose in this book compared to the first one. These characters have such chemistry together & after the ending I need to see what will happen next. I need so many more answers as I expect there is something else that has happened in Browlace Manor that none of the men had ever expected.
I have not been able to put this series down, at all. I need to know exactly how this all ends. I also love how this series is set up, each of the first 3 books focuses on Rose's relationship with one of the 3 men of Browlace Manor. Each man has a very different need from Rose & by focusing a book on each of them it really helps to focus on each relationship she has with each of them.
The second book is focusing on Rose & Anton. Anton has very different needs compared to Ivan. We also see much more of a change and growth in Rose in this book compared to the first one. These characters have such chemistry together & after the ending I need to see what will happen next. I need so many more answers as I expect there is something else that has happened in Browlace Manor that none of the men had ever expected.
September 14, 2022
Really enjoying this series!
Strokes follows Anton's story and we get to learn more about his past and why he is the way he is.
In Book 1 we don't really get much of a hint of Anton's darkness, except the last epilogue which was really twisted.
Anton is obsessive over being able to see the world in colour due to his condition which means he can only see the world in monochrome. It is literally impossible. He is driving himself insane trying to achieve this and we hear the story of what happened to his last muse.
Rose and Anton have a very different dynamic to her and Ivan. They are attracted to each other, but their fascination is more towards figuring each other out instead of sexual at first.
We learn more about Rose and her relationship with Roman, when she was young and how that changed her.
This book was a lot and there were some very highly emotionally charged scenes.
I'm still eager to know what role Ms Hadley plays and with Erik's story being next I can't wait to start it.
Strokes follows Anton's story and we get to learn more about his past and why he is the way he is.
In Book 1 we don't really get much of a hint of Anton's darkness, except the last epilogue which was really twisted.
Anton is obsessive over being able to see the world in colour due to his condition which means he can only see the world in monochrome. It is literally impossible. He is driving himself insane trying to achieve this and we hear the story of what happened to his last muse.
Rose and Anton have a very different dynamic to her and Ivan. They are attracted to each other, but their fascination is more towards figuring each other out instead of sexual at first.
We learn more about Rose and her relationship with Roman, when she was young and how that changed her.
This book was a lot and there were some very highly emotionally charged scenes.
I'm still eager to know what role Ms Hadley plays and with Erik's story being next I can't wait to start it.
February 9, 2019
Beautiful Intense Darkness are the main things I have to say about Anton and Rose's story. All of the emotions all set in technicolor ending with the freeing beauty of black. Getting to learn each of the character's stories throughout each book has been both eye opening, heart breaking, intensely emotional and freeing all at the same time. I fell in love with these characters and their inner demons in Steps and now in Strokes the fascination with each of their stories of darkness,pain,guilt and anger and then finally salvation in their own ways so far is just growing with each book. These books are beautifully written, gut wrenching in its reality and the detail throughout paints their stories so well it is like you are there with them for every intense minute. I can not wait for Strings. This series has to be my favorite from Bea Paige and I can only imagine how epic Strings is going to be.
December 16, 2020
Man..these books are getting better as I continue.
So I admit these books are slow..it takes time to help us understand the essence of each character and to build the reasoning behind everyone's actions. So if you don't have the patience for reading something like that, this book or this series probably isn't for you.
I personally loved the pace of this book. Like I said before..this series is more mature compared to the other two series I read from Bea Paige, namely, the Academy of Stardom series and the Academy of Misfits series.
There's a whole lot of depth to these characters primarily because of all the bad shit that's happened to each of them in their pasts. And for them to contemplate the reasons for their pain..to alleviate the suffering..well, it's a journey.
I read one of the reviews where someone asked why all the men are obsessed with Rose?! I mean sure she's just a normal woman but plagued with an illness that she feels has not only destroyed her dreams but is physically scarring her as she explains when she talks about her deformed fingers in Strokes. But each of the men find something in Rose that pulls them into her. It's the darkness as she explains..the demon that's helped her throughout her life. Probably the men saw a mirror image of something that's in them projected onto her and that's why they are all obsessed with her. It's as simple as that.
I honestly felt sad when Ivan's love for Rose wasn't reciprocated. Instead he was punished for daring to fall in love with her. I mean if he had the power to move on and give his heart away to someone else especially after Svetlana..why can't Rose accept it or even love him as well? I mean she's hell bent on helping the men heal and move on but it feels like she's always been stuck ever since Rosie died..or ever since 'he' was killed by her father. So this entire process of helping the men makes her seem like a Huge Hypocrite.
Anton was difficult to comprehend. Like what did he even want from her? Ivan wanted her dominance and Erik wants her to submit to him..but Anton..it's almost like he wants a mixture of both but something that really isn't either dominance or submission. It's confusing! His story broke my heart..how he killed the other woman on his path to see the colours he's always been robbed off from seeing ever since his birth. I loved Black and how well Bea Paige explained the power of Black. It's something I never realised..how it's not only destruction and pain but it's the power to rise from everything that's beaten us down. Black is strength.
I've been reading so many books that's purely mindless.. something that needs zero effort from my side to think too much about. But this series has made me go back to some of the writings and even highlight some of the beautiful sayings. It's just made me fall in love with reading all over again.
Gosh, I cannot wait to read Erik's story!
So I admit these books are slow..it takes time to help us understand the essence of each character and to build the reasoning behind everyone's actions. So if you don't have the patience for reading something like that, this book or this series probably isn't for you.
I personally loved the pace of this book. Like I said before..this series is more mature compared to the other two series I read from Bea Paige, namely, the Academy of Stardom series and the Academy of Misfits series.
There's a whole lot of depth to these characters primarily because of all the bad shit that's happened to each of them in their pasts. And for them to contemplate the reasons for their pain..to alleviate the suffering..well, it's a journey.
I read one of the reviews where someone asked why all the men are obsessed with Rose?! I mean sure she's just a normal woman but plagued with an illness that she feels has not only destroyed her dreams but is physically scarring her as she explains when she talks about her deformed fingers in Strokes. But each of the men find something in Rose that pulls them into her. It's the darkness as she explains..the demon that's helped her throughout her life. Probably the men saw a mirror image of something that's in them projected onto her and that's why they are all obsessed with her. It's as simple as that.
I honestly felt sad when Ivan's love for Rose wasn't reciprocated. Instead he was punished for daring to fall in love with her. I mean if he had the power to move on and give his heart away to someone else especially after Svetlana..why can't Rose accept it or even love him as well? I mean she's hell bent on helping the men heal and move on but it feels like she's always been stuck ever since Rosie died..or ever since 'he' was killed by her father. So this entire process of helping the men makes her seem like a Huge Hypocrite.
Anton was difficult to comprehend. Like what did he even want from her? Ivan wanted her dominance and Erik wants her to submit to him..but Anton..it's almost like he wants a mixture of both but something that really isn't either dominance or submission. It's confusing! His story broke my heart..how he killed the other woman on his path to see the colours he's always been robbed off from seeing ever since his birth. I loved Black and how well Bea Paige explained the power of Black. It's something I never realised..how it's not only destruction and pain but it's the power to rise from everything that's beaten us down. Black is strength.
I've been reading so many books that's purely mindless.. something that needs zero effort from my side to think too much about. But this series has made me go back to some of the writings and even highlight some of the beautiful sayings. It's just made me fall in love with reading all over again.
Gosh, I cannot wait to read Erik's story!
September 22, 2023
about a year ago I stumbled upon Bea Paige her work and I’ve read multiple series multiple times so far. I admire the authors way of making the characters feel real and relatable in a way that you don’t need to have a similar backstory but you can still connect with their personality, their thoughts and feelings. I’ve loved, felt a deep hurt and learned with these characters.
this series was a bit different for me. I had to put the book down a few times because it caused this dark feeling in my stomach, but I realised it’s part of the beauty of the authors work. like she said in her acknowledgments, she wanted to make this story real and some situations and pasts and circumstances don’t have solutions. sometimes we just have to accept the darkness and be. this story is real and raw as are the characters, it’s their journey in discovering, understanding and accepting themselves and each other and as the reader you join them on this journey.
this series was a bit different for me. I had to put the book down a few times because it caused this dark feeling in my stomach, but I realised it’s part of the beauty of the authors work. like she said in her acknowledgments, she wanted to make this story real and some situations and pasts and circumstances don’t have solutions. sometimes we just have to accept the darkness and be. this story is real and raw as are the characters, it’s their journey in discovering, understanding and accepting themselves and each other and as the reader you join them on this journey.
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