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The Sinister Urge
What if you had a secret? An irresistible urge?
Delve backstage and into the private lives of popular rock band, Lilli and the Munsterz. Returning to the music world after a turbulent split from her former band, Lilli Morgan has risen like a phoenix and has the industry at her feet.
“Before the split, it was: ‘Lilli? Everyone always wants to know if there has ever been anything romantic between Adam and you?’
‘No not at all. I'm quite content being young, free, and single,’ was my standard reply.
Now it's: ‘A special man in my life? No, I'm very happy being single. No time for all that.’ I've been peddling that line for years and it's never failed me.
Problem is, I do have a special man in my life. A wonderful perfect man … It's just a question of keeping it a secret. But for how long?”
Delve backstage and into the private lives of popular rock band, Lilli and the Munsterz. Returning to the music world after a turbulent split from her former band, Lilli Morgan has risen like a phoenix and has the industry at her feet.
“Before the split, it was: ‘Lilli? Everyone always wants to know if there has ever been anything romantic between Adam and you?’
‘No not at all. I'm quite content being young, free, and single,’ was my standard reply.
Now it's: ‘A special man in my life? No, I'm very happy being single. No time for all that.’ I've been peddling that line for years and it's never failed me.
Problem is, I do have a special man in my life. A wonderful perfect man … It's just a question of keeping it a secret. But for how long?”
192 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 9, 2014
1 person is currently reading
145 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
December 8, 2014
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to read this.
I dont like to give bad reviews as I knowhow hard an author works to create the wonderful world of stories we love to read. But I do believe in giving an honest review.
I love the taboo stories. Never read a book where the main characters were 100% siblings before though. But this book was not for me.
Its mainly written in flashbacks, which I am not a fan of. Then the story would take a massive jump from one thing to another, leaving me going "huh"
Example. (Excerpt taken from beginning of page 38. Getting to Know Eachother)
"I'm gonna come…” he breathed out, as he gripped hold of her hips.
"Faster… fuck me…” Sarah gasped out, as he made his movements faster at her request. She responded with a loud moan.
“Shh... you're not meant to be in my room." he whispered to her, placing his hand over her mouth. Moaning into the back of her neck as his orgasm came.
“You broke my ankle chain.“ Lilli sighed, holding up the broken silver chain as she rolled over and snuggled up to her brother. “Trust you to break it though,” she teased with a frown, pulling the bed sheets up over their legs.
I found the constant jumping hard to keep with a good reading flow. I was having to stop, re-read, think huh and carry on.
For me if a book is about a taboo subject then it has to go whole hog and really get into the scene.
Readers read it for the taboo factor. Well i do. I want the build up, the fighting the attraction, the inevitable caving in, details, lots of details, the guilt over thier actions etc etc etc. All built around a budding romance.
All this I felt was lacking. I read to page 22 before I started paragraph jumping, I got to page 45 before I was skimming. After the awkwardly played out love scene on page 56, im sorry but I gave up.
I may go back and finish it at some point though.
Im not going to compare this author with others out there. Thats unfair. I have read thousands of books over the years and each one is differant in their own right.
This book will appeal to some audiences and not to other's.
Sorry my review could not be more positive.
Keep up the great work you can only get better as your writing grows with you.
I dont like to give bad reviews as I knowhow hard an author works to create the wonderful world of stories we love to read. But I do believe in giving an honest review.
I love the taboo stories. Never read a book where the main characters were 100% siblings before though. But this book was not for me.
Its mainly written in flashbacks, which I am not a fan of. Then the story would take a massive jump from one thing to another, leaving me going "huh"
Example. (Excerpt taken from beginning of page 38. Getting to Know Eachother)
"I'm gonna come…” he breathed out, as he gripped hold of her hips.
"Faster… fuck me…” Sarah gasped out, as he made his movements faster at her request. She responded with a loud moan.
“Shh... you're not meant to be in my room." he whispered to her, placing his hand over her mouth. Moaning into the back of her neck as his orgasm came.
“You broke my ankle chain.“ Lilli sighed, holding up the broken silver chain as she rolled over and snuggled up to her brother. “Trust you to break it though,” she teased with a frown, pulling the bed sheets up over their legs.
I found the constant jumping hard to keep with a good reading flow. I was having to stop, re-read, think huh and carry on.
For me if a book is about a taboo subject then it has to go whole hog and really get into the scene.
Readers read it for the taboo factor. Well i do. I want the build up, the fighting the attraction, the inevitable caving in, details, lots of details, the guilt over thier actions etc etc etc. All built around a budding romance.
All this I felt was lacking. I read to page 22 before I started paragraph jumping, I got to page 45 before I was skimming. After the awkwardly played out love scene on page 56, im sorry but I gave up.
I may go back and finish it at some point though.
Im not going to compare this author with others out there. Thats unfair. I have read thousands of books over the years and each one is differant in their own right.
This book will appeal to some audiences and not to other's.
Sorry my review could not be more positive.
Keep up the great work you can only get better as your writing grows with you.
April 3, 2016
Review copy given by the author.
Although the topic of taboo family relationships is dealt with in a mainly humorous way, the serious repercussions inevitably surface. Despite some technical blunders, some of which may have been software issues, the satire is sharp.
The siblings Lilli and Elm Morgan try to keep their feelings for each other a secret, but fate has other ideas. A series of increasingly awkward mishaps befall them, and the reader realizes that "sinister urges," like murder, will out. I felt ambivalent toward the main characters, who seem at first flat, shallow, and not too likeable. They get exactly what they deserve, and yet by the end, when the tone of the novel suddenly becomes rather serious and tragic, one can't help feeling a weird sort of sympathy for them.
Although the topic of taboo family relationships is dealt with in a mainly humorous way, the serious repercussions inevitably surface. Despite some technical blunders, some of which may have been software issues, the satire is sharp.
The siblings Lilli and Elm Morgan try to keep their feelings for each other a secret, but fate has other ideas. A series of increasingly awkward mishaps befall them, and the reader realizes that "sinister urges," like murder, will out. I felt ambivalent toward the main characters, who seem at first flat, shallow, and not too likeable. They get exactly what they deserve, and yet by the end, when the tone of the novel suddenly becomes rather serious and tragic, one can't help feeling a weird sort of sympathy for them.
January 21, 2015
The author requested I review her debut novella and I thought, "Sure why not? It’s only a 122 pages." Who would’ve thought it would be the most difficult 122 pages I have ever read…
I should’ve known, because the author knew me from my Josie and Jack review, so I should’ve known that her book would be similar in its theme. But I made a mistake. I assumed that she had stumbled upon a book review of mine which just happened to be of siblings in an incestuous relationship. Plus, the synopsis indicated that I’d be reading about a maybe ex-couple who were also ex-band members competing against each other in a Battle of the Bands TV show. Boy was I surprised when ten pages into the book, our female protagonist, wearing a skimpy night dress, walked to her brother’s room in the middle of the night and said, "I know you want me, so here I am."
…WHAT? NO, YOU DID NOT JUST PULL THAT ON ME.
I will not waste anyone’s time describing the feelings and thoughts going through my mind as I continued to read the book and lose brain cells. But simply put, it was a struggle and I prayed that every page I read was the last one…
...I ended up heavily skimming the last sixty pages. I alsomight definitely have lost half my brain.
Setting the content aside, the book was still a mess. I would not have read the book past its first page, no, past the first SENTENCE of the 'prologue', if I had not already committed myself to the author. The book needed so much editing on so many fronts – verb tense, tone, perspective, paragraphing, narration, sentence structure etc. that it would essentially be like rewriting the book.
Also, what was up with the alien spaceship? I thought, "Oh is this set in the future or something? Maybe the bands are battling it out in space?" Nope, the spaceship had nothing to do with the book. It was just randomly hanging out as the story went between past and present (which was done awkwardly). A simple straight line would have accomplished the same thing just as well.
I could give the book a five stars rating and rave about it but that would be lying. And the author did ask for an honest review.
I should’ve known, because the author knew me from my Josie and Jack review, so I should’ve known that her book would be similar in its theme. But I made a mistake. I assumed that she had stumbled upon a book review of mine which just happened to be of siblings in an incestuous relationship. Plus, the synopsis indicated that I’d be reading about a maybe ex-couple who were also ex-band members competing against each other in a Battle of the Bands TV show. Boy was I surprised when ten pages into the book, our female protagonist, wearing a skimpy night dress, walked to her brother’s room in the middle of the night and said, "I know you want me, so here I am."
…WHAT? NO, YOU DID NOT JUST PULL THAT ON ME.
I will not waste anyone’s time describing the feelings and thoughts going through my mind as I continued to read the book and lose brain cells. But simply put, it was a struggle and I prayed that every page I read was the last one…
...I ended up heavily skimming the last sixty pages. I also
Setting the content aside, the book was still a mess. I would not have read the book past its first page, no, past the first SENTENCE of the 'prologue', if I had not already committed myself to the author. The book needed so much editing on so many fronts – verb tense, tone, perspective, paragraphing, narration, sentence structure etc. that it would essentially be like rewriting the book.
Also, what was up with the alien spaceship? I thought, "Oh is this set in the future or something? Maybe the bands are battling it out in space?" Nope, the spaceship had nothing to do with the book. It was just randomly hanging out as the story went between past and present (which was done awkwardly). A simple straight line would have accomplished the same thing just as well.
I could give the book a five stars rating and rave about it but that would be lying. And the author did ask for an honest review.
April 26, 2015
In this New Adult story, rock band The Wires is headed for success when the feisty lead singer Lilli decides that she's had enough of being groped and noisily breaks off relations with the guys - on live TV. My sympathies were entirely with Lilli. THE SINISTER URGE is the title of the first album she records in a new band with her younger brother Tony Elm, called Lilli and the Munsterz. What could go wrong?
The two British-based bands later enter a TV talent contest and some behind-the-scenes person thinks it would make for an exciting show to have them compete against each other. While they are staying in the hotel and signing autographs, an eager fan gives Lilli a present of her favourite book, 'Flowers In the Attic'.
Frances Newton is exploring a taboo subject. Her characterisation is her strength, so that we can easily see the singers, the makeup artists, the TV crew. Lilli's backing musicians from Yorkshire drolly remark that they feel like prize marrows during photo shoots. This group of people is entirely self-preoccupied, reflecting how a bunch of struggling young people would feel during the most exciting and tense time of their lives. There's some strong language and adult behaviour, as in many New Adult stories, and a broadminded attitude is displayed, such as when a shopkeeper becomes a drag queen by night. Through flashbacks we see how a relationship begins and continues, despite everyone involved knowing that society would disapprove. If this had been a standard romance I'd probably have enjoyed it but there is a definite squirm factor.
The relative ages of the two main characters clearly plays a part, as Lilli comes across as precocious and selfish while her younger brother is immature; neither of them has the self-confidence and interest in other people to start a relationship with others. I don't get the sense that Frances Newton approves of the relationship she depicts, rather that she wants to invite the reader to question the over-sexualised lifestyle imposed on today's young people. This is her first book and as such I can see room for improvement in her style, but I'm sure that her bravery will stand her in good stead. Anyone who likes to watch reality TV shows or entertainment contests might get more out of the read than I did.
The two British-based bands later enter a TV talent contest and some behind-the-scenes person thinks it would make for an exciting show to have them compete against each other. While they are staying in the hotel and signing autographs, an eager fan gives Lilli a present of her favourite book, 'Flowers In the Attic'.
Frances Newton is exploring a taboo subject. Her characterisation is her strength, so that we can easily see the singers, the makeup artists, the TV crew. Lilli's backing musicians from Yorkshire drolly remark that they feel like prize marrows during photo shoots. This group of people is entirely self-preoccupied, reflecting how a bunch of struggling young people would feel during the most exciting and tense time of their lives. There's some strong language and adult behaviour, as in many New Adult stories, and a broadminded attitude is displayed, such as when a shopkeeper becomes a drag queen by night. Through flashbacks we see how a relationship begins and continues, despite everyone involved knowing that society would disapprove. If this had been a standard romance I'd probably have enjoyed it but there is a definite squirm factor.
The relative ages of the two main characters clearly plays a part, as Lilli comes across as precocious and selfish while her younger brother is immature; neither of them has the self-confidence and interest in other people to start a relationship with others. I don't get the sense that Frances Newton approves of the relationship she depicts, rather that she wants to invite the reader to question the over-sexualised lifestyle imposed on today's young people. This is her first book and as such I can see room for improvement in her style, but I'm sure that her bravery will stand her in good stead. Anyone who likes to watch reality TV shows or entertainment contests might get more out of the read than I did.
April 21, 2016
*I was contacted by the author and asked to read this book and post an honest review*
I tend to have a limit to how taboo I'm willing to go in regards to a topic for a book I'll read. I'm not a fan of incest, but I was very impressed with this book. The author did a very good job of building the relationship between Lilli and Elm without having really explicit sex scenes. The character development was very well done and I actually find myself looking forward to reading the next book in this series to see how Lilli and Elm handle the difficulties they are facing at the end of the book. Fantastic job Ms. Newton! I'll be looking for more of your books in the future.
I tend to have a limit to how taboo I'm willing to go in regards to a topic for a book I'll read. I'm not a fan of incest, but I was very impressed with this book. The author did a very good job of building the relationship between Lilli and Elm without having really explicit sex scenes. The character development was very well done and I actually find myself looking forward to reading the next book in this series to see how Lilli and Elm handle the difficulties they are facing at the end of the book. Fantastic job Ms. Newton! I'll be looking for more of your books in the future.
July 17, 2014
Review also on www.jolasbookshelf.wordpress.com
'The Sinister Urge' is not a typical love story. I don't want to post spoilers, so I won't dwell on the topic, but I was a little surprised by this novel. It wasn't what I anticipated in the slightest. It was a pleasurable read, one that I can recommend to readers of romance.
'The Sinister Urge' is not a typical love story. I don't want to post spoilers, so I won't dwell on the topic, but I was a little surprised by this novel. It wasn't what I anticipated in the slightest. It was a pleasurable read, one that I can recommend to readers of romance.
October 11, 2018
Stopped at 18%
It’s just too disjointed and difficult to read. Sorry
It’s just too disjointed and difficult to read. Sorry
December 31, 2014
First i have to say the story kind of freaks me out, cos ew! But im trying not to judge here.
The writing style was a bit confusing in the beginning, there was a lot going on and i didnt get that the first part was a flashback at first, or that the person was a guy until he says hes her Brother. There are alot of jumping between characters and some so short i didnt really understand the point, so the first part of the story was really confusing. Also its very very descriptive, i honestly didnt need to know every detail of what lilli is wearing and Things like that, but as the story continues the writing style improves a lot and Theres a better flow, at least i got to a point where Things made sense for me.
Characters are good, i liked that lilli wasnt all about what shes wearing that she became a person suddenly, cos in the beginning i felt that she seemed like a person in Big Brother or something, just being watched and described.
Elm, tony, Anthony... it confused the hell out of me, and the car scene in the beginning made me think they were teens, which i kept feeling even after finding out their real ages, cos they dont seem like their age. Im 26 myself and i Wonder if they might be emotionally disturbed or something, because they're either naive or really stupid.
So why for the love of God do two grown up siblings who are in a relationship they both know are not "normal" in other peoples eyes, keep getting busted? And why are people not freaking the fuck out? Well that is the questing im hoping to get answered, because several people say they'd expected them to do it sooner. I need to believe Theres something going on with that, because i dont want to think lilli and elm are fucktards and their Family and friends are raving mad.
Lastly i'd like to say that i hope i didnt hurt the authors feelings, cos i dont want to come off like a smartass, i honestly respect her (i assume its a girl/woman) for writing this and putting it out here for people to comment on it. I can see some have written some not so nice things. It takes courage and i respect that. Besides you cant improve unless you get feedback on your Work, so keep it up and give us more!
The writing style was a bit confusing in the beginning, there was a lot going on and i didnt get that the first part was a flashback at first, or that the person was a guy until he says hes her Brother. There are alot of jumping between characters and some so short i didnt really understand the point, so the first part of the story was really confusing. Also its very very descriptive, i honestly didnt need to know every detail of what lilli is wearing and Things like that, but as the story continues the writing style improves a lot and Theres a better flow, at least i got to a point where Things made sense for me.
Characters are good, i liked that lilli wasnt all about what shes wearing that she became a person suddenly, cos in the beginning i felt that she seemed like a person in Big Brother or something, just being watched and described.
Elm, tony, Anthony... it confused the hell out of me, and the car scene in the beginning made me think they were teens, which i kept feeling even after finding out their real ages, cos they dont seem like their age. Im 26 myself and i Wonder if they might be emotionally disturbed or something, because they're either naive or really stupid.
So why for the love of God do two grown up siblings who are in a relationship they both know are not "normal" in other peoples eyes, keep getting busted? And why are people not freaking the fuck out? Well that is the questing im hoping to get answered, because several people say they'd expected them to do it sooner. I need to believe Theres something going on with that, because i dont want to think lilli and elm are fucktards and their Family and friends are raving mad.
Lastly i'd like to say that i hope i didnt hurt the authors feelings, cos i dont want to come off like a smartass, i honestly respect her (i assume its a girl/woman) for writing this and putting it out here for people to comment on it. I can see some have written some not so nice things. It takes courage and i respect that. Besides you cant improve unless you get feedback on your Work, so keep it up and give us more!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 14, 2014
The story of Elm and Lilly - brother and sister - is told in flashbacks and in the present as they struggle and celebrate their very special relationship. It's the story of a lifelong romance, much like those rare couples who fall in love in junior high or high school and whose love actually grows stronger with the passage of time.
Very few of us have experienced growing up with our soulmate. I'm not sure about the advisability of that, but it does add a dimension that almost no one has experienced: someone you love from childhood under the most intimate of possible circumstances.
This is what author Frances Newton chronicles so well. She develops their relationship in an organic, matter-of-fact way that doesn't come across as tawdry at all. Her sex scenes are very well-done, in my opinion: understated, with just the right amount of "juice." I dislike erotica in general - erotica places sex before characters, in my observation - but The Sinister Urge doesn't do that. This story is about the characters, but of course their sexual relationship is what sets them apart, so that needs to be shown in some detail. The author accomplishes this tastefully, I think, while still imbuing a bit of fire to their trysts.
Some have objected to the abrupt ending, but I'm not sure where the story should go from here. I kind of liked the author just leaving it to our tawdry imaginations... :)
Very few of us have experienced growing up with our soulmate. I'm not sure about the advisability of that, but it does add a dimension that almost no one has experienced: someone you love from childhood under the most intimate of possible circumstances.
This is what author Frances Newton chronicles so well. She develops their relationship in an organic, matter-of-fact way that doesn't come across as tawdry at all. Her sex scenes are very well-done, in my opinion: understated, with just the right amount of "juice." I dislike erotica in general - erotica places sex before characters, in my observation - but The Sinister Urge doesn't do that. This story is about the characters, but of course their sexual relationship is what sets them apart, so that needs to be shown in some detail. The author accomplishes this tastefully, I think, while still imbuing a bit of fire to their trysts.
Some have objected to the abrupt ending, but I'm not sure where the story should go from here. I kind of liked the author just leaving it to our tawdry imaginations... :)
October 26, 2014
I was asked to read this book for an honest review. First off, this is my first time reading a topic as this one is. This book is about Elm and Lilli, 100% brother and sister, whom are lovers. I have read books about step sibling relationships before (Stepbrother Dearest by Penelope Ward and Pieces of Us by Pamela Ann) but I found this one to be a lot different because it is actually a brother and sister, growing up together, being around each other all the time, same mother and father, etc. It just isn't something I would search for and read. Like the saying goes, "To each is their own."
However, I didn't "hate" the story because of the relationship of the brother and sister. I rated this book a 3.5 Stars because of the story itself and the authors writing style. The story flowed nicely and the author did a fantastic job with the writing. I enjoyed this book because of the story flow and the writing style.
I would definitely read more from this author if the topic was one I believed more into. I personally couldn't get into the whole brother and sister "love" that the characters had. To me a step sibling is different, I am not saying it's right in anyway...I am just saying reading step vs not step is totally different in my mind.
The author's writing style I very much enjoyed and I am hoping to read more from this author, but in a different romance situation.
However, I didn't "hate" the story because of the relationship of the brother and sister. I rated this book a 3.5 Stars because of the story itself and the authors writing style. The story flowed nicely and the author did a fantastic job with the writing. I enjoyed this book because of the story flow and the writing style.
I would definitely read more from this author if the topic was one I believed more into. I personally couldn't get into the whole brother and sister "love" that the characters had. To me a step sibling is different, I am not saying it's right in anyway...I am just saying reading step vs not step is totally different in my mind.
The author's writing style I very much enjoyed and I am hoping to read more from this author, but in a different romance situation.
September 15, 2019
I was contacted by the author and asked to write an honest review
3.5 stars
Since I finished reading the Dollanganger series, I was adamant that I wouldn't read another book about incest. But when the author of The sinister Urge asked me to read and review her book, I thought I may as well give it a try. I'm glad I did give it a try because I thoroughly enjoyed it. It's not often that I read books about incest or about bands but I quite liked the story and it gave an interesting and unique subject to read about.
However, I would say that there could have been more focus on the band part as it seemed like that was just an afterthought.The characters were also very likeable and I liked the dialogue between everyone. One of the other things that was a problem for me was that a couple of the characters didn't seem to be as developed as Elm or Lilli which was a disappointment.
I enjoyed the aspect of the flashbacks which showed the reader the development of the relationship between Elm and Lilli and .
3.5 stars
Since I finished reading the Dollanganger series, I was adamant that I wouldn't read another book about incest. But when the author of The sinister Urge asked me to read and review her book, I thought I may as well give it a try. I'm glad I did give it a try because I thoroughly enjoyed it. It's not often that I read books about incest or about bands but I quite liked the story and it gave an interesting and unique subject to read about.
However, I would say that there could have been more focus on the band part as it seemed like that was just an afterthought.The characters were also very likeable and I liked the dialogue between everyone. One of the other things that was a problem for me was that a couple of the characters didn't seem to be as developed as Elm or Lilli which was a disappointment.
I enjoyed the aspect of the flashbacks which showed the reader the development of the relationship between Elm and Lilli and .
January 12, 2015
I had finished this book awhile ago but was fighting with myself on how to rate it I was between 3.5 - 4 stars.
I have read other books about sibling love but not quite like this one. I think my biggest problem was that everybody was so "fine" with the fact that they are brother and sister, I would like it better if it was more conflict ,it seems like to easy and we know that is something that its not well seen on society. Also i would get lose sometimes when reading to much back and forward, maybe it is was more define it would flow better.
But nonetheless I like the story and would be waiting for the next one to see how all this go. Great job Frances I couldn't put it down and had my family crazy with all my blabbing about it.
I have read other books about sibling love but not quite like this one. I think my biggest problem was that everybody was so "fine" with the fact that they are brother and sister, I would like it better if it was more conflict ,it seems like to easy and we know that is something that its not well seen on society. Also i would get lose sometimes when reading to much back and forward, maybe it is was more define it would flow better.
But nonetheless I like the story and would be waiting for the next one to see how all this go. Great job Frances I couldn't put it down and had my family crazy with all my blabbing about it.
January 10, 2015
As I read this book I decided to see what others had said about it.... only to learn..... there is going to be a sequel oh holy hell things just got even better when those words were uttered. Things got very interesting as I dived farther and farther in to the story. “It'd be like a
demonic version of the Teletubbies!” things being said in the book like this had me laughing so hard. Waiting for the sequel
demonic version of the Teletubbies!” things being said in the book like this had me laughing so hard. Waiting for the sequel
January 4, 2019
Not for the faint of heart!
The twist might not be to everybody's tastes.
Difficult to read at times, & could have benefited from an editor, but the dialogue is fun. A fair first outing for a new author.
The twist might not be to everybody's tastes.
Difficult to read at times, & could have benefited from an editor, but the dialogue is fun. A fair first outing for a new author.
August 15, 2019
Not quite what I expected but fascinating
So, first off this was totally not what I expected it to be. I'm not sure why, but from the description I thought this was going to be a murder mystery or just mystery. While there is a slight mystery in this, it's very much a taboo romance. That's not really that spoilery because you learn that within like the second chapter.
I'll admit that it's not something I would normally read, for one I tend to lean more towards action and fantasy and when I do read romance, a lot of time it's a cozy mystery or RH.
So, I'm probably not the target audience for this type of book, that being said, I enjoyed it, which is a credit to how excellently written it is. And for those that enjoy taboo relationships being explored as well as just a really nice romance, I think they'd enjoy this. And even if you aren't a fan of the taboo I would still give this a shot because it really is a lovely romance.
There were a few editorial errors here and there but nothing too glaring. I'm not from the UK, so I really enjoyed the slang and cultural elements that sort of immerse you into the story. The romance, while taboo, is beautifully written, I can't stress this enough. The slight mystery kept me intrigued and the characters are portrayed pretty realistically.
Now for the reasons I'm giving it four stars instead of five. First off the flashbacks and changes of POV did get a little confusing a few times. While I liked seeing the alternating perspectives, there were a few places where it seemed unnecessary or it took me a moment to figure out who's POV we were in. There's a place near the ending where it's in Lilli's at first and then suddenly it's in Elm's.
Another reason is some of the clothing descriptions seemed unnecessary. Especially in the beginning scenes where we get full descriptions of the characters outfits. Though the author got better at this as the story progressed.
I do think the ending dragged on a little bit after the time jump. Some of the scenes could've been recapped fairly quickly in an epilogue and it seemed like it just wasn't going to end. Though I like how everything was wrapped up, I do think it could've been shortened. Also the time jump, I personally would've liked an actual year amount. From some of the details given we can kind of guess how many years have passed but I just would've preferred to know exactly from the get go, but that's just a nitpicky thing.
Overall I would recommend reading this if you like taboo relationships, romance, or a little of both. I've never really read a book like this before, so I don't really have anything to compare it to, while I'm not sure this would be a genre I would want to read more of, I did find myself rooting for the main characters unorthodox relationship. It really is a sweet story.
Slight spoilers ahead.
One other reason for four stars was just a few sort of nit-picking/a few things that just didn't make sense.
For two people worried about people finding out about their relationship they are not discreet at all. I had already guessed a little of what was going on from the scene of Lilli smacking Elm's butt in the very beginning. The parts where she's singing and cozying up to Elm on stage are also a little too obvious. Them leaving the bathroom door open while they're in there doing things. It was almost like they wanted to get caught at times, or just wanted to push the boundaries to see how far they could get.
I was genuinely surprised at most of the other character's reactions too. Even those that didn't agree with their relationship didn't really try to stop it or out them. And most of the characters just genuinely didn't seem that bothered.
Sarah apparently knew. Yet it came as a shock to find out she knew. I honestly thought Sarah had a secret thing for Elm and that's why she kept making some of the comments she did. Though since Sarah knew, the scene where Elm and Lilli are dancing a little too sexually and she's commenting on it doesn't quite make sense. Was she pretending she didn't know for the sake of the other band members? Or maybe she thought they'd stopped and was surprised to see that clearly they still had something going on? Or was she just shocked that they were being so obvious in public?
I was a little disappointed that we didn't see really any big altercations with Adam, I was kind of looking forward to that.
I also would've liked to have seen some more scenes with Jade, she seemed like an interesting character.
I did already mention that I felt like the ending was a little too slow. I think after we got the revelation about Phil, it probably could've easily ended there. I was also a little curious about whether they would tell the twins that Elm is their Dad when they get older or not and would've loved to have that detail. All in all, though, a lot of these are just details I feel would've enhanced the story and don't necessarily subtract from it by not being answered.
So, first off this was totally not what I expected it to be. I'm not sure why, but from the description I thought this was going to be a murder mystery or just mystery. While there is a slight mystery in this, it's very much a taboo romance. That's not really that spoilery because you learn that within like the second chapter.
I'll admit that it's not something I would normally read, for one I tend to lean more towards action and fantasy and when I do read romance, a lot of time it's a cozy mystery or RH.
So, I'm probably not the target audience for this type of book, that being said, I enjoyed it, which is a credit to how excellently written it is. And for those that enjoy taboo relationships being explored as well as just a really nice romance, I think they'd enjoy this. And even if you aren't a fan of the taboo I would still give this a shot because it really is a lovely romance.
There were a few editorial errors here and there but nothing too glaring. I'm not from the UK, so I really enjoyed the slang and cultural elements that sort of immerse you into the story. The romance, while taboo, is beautifully written, I can't stress this enough. The slight mystery kept me intrigued and the characters are portrayed pretty realistically.
Now for the reasons I'm giving it four stars instead of five. First off the flashbacks and changes of POV did get a little confusing a few times. While I liked seeing the alternating perspectives, there were a few places where it seemed unnecessary or it took me a moment to figure out who's POV we were in. There's a place near the ending where it's in Lilli's at first and then suddenly it's in Elm's.
Another reason is some of the clothing descriptions seemed unnecessary. Especially in the beginning scenes where we get full descriptions of the characters outfits. Though the author got better at this as the story progressed.
I do think the ending dragged on a little bit after the time jump. Some of the scenes could've been recapped fairly quickly in an epilogue and it seemed like it just wasn't going to end. Though I like how everything was wrapped up, I do think it could've been shortened. Also the time jump, I personally would've liked an actual year amount. From some of the details given we can kind of guess how many years have passed but I just would've preferred to know exactly from the get go, but that's just a nitpicky thing.
Overall I would recommend reading this if you like taboo relationships, romance, or a little of both. I've never really read a book like this before, so I don't really have anything to compare it to, while I'm not sure this would be a genre I would want to read more of, I did find myself rooting for the main characters unorthodox relationship. It really is a sweet story.
Slight spoilers ahead.
One other reason for four stars was just a few sort of nit-picking/a few things that just didn't make sense.
For two people worried about people finding out about their relationship they are not discreet at all. I had already guessed a little of what was going on from the scene of Lilli smacking Elm's butt in the very beginning. The parts where she's singing and cozying up to Elm on stage are also a little too obvious. Them leaving the bathroom door open while they're in there doing things. It was almost like they wanted to get caught at times, or just wanted to push the boundaries to see how far they could get.
I was genuinely surprised at most of the other character's reactions too. Even those that didn't agree with their relationship didn't really try to stop it or out them. And most of the characters just genuinely didn't seem that bothered.
Sarah apparently knew. Yet it came as a shock to find out she knew. I honestly thought Sarah had a secret thing for Elm and that's why she kept making some of the comments she did. Though since Sarah knew, the scene where Elm and Lilli are dancing a little too sexually and she's commenting on it doesn't quite make sense. Was she pretending she didn't know for the sake of the other band members? Or maybe she thought they'd stopped and was surprised to see that clearly they still had something going on? Or was she just shocked that they were being so obvious in public?
I was a little disappointed that we didn't see really any big altercations with Adam, I was kind of looking forward to that.
I also would've liked to have seen some more scenes with Jade, she seemed like an interesting character.
I did already mention that I felt like the ending was a little too slow. I think after we got the revelation about Phil, it probably could've easily ended there. I was also a little curious about whether they would tell the twins that Elm is their Dad when they get older or not and would've loved to have that detail. All in all, though, a lot of these are just details I feel would've enhanced the story and don't necessarily subtract from it by not being answered.
May 31, 2019
Probably the word "incest" scares you terribly. “What?! Should I read a story in which the unacceptable happens between brother and sister? Not in this world!” many readers will easily respond. In which world, then? Perhaps in an alternative reality? Well, this is literature–this is an alternative reality. It's the realm of: “As if…” It's a game. There are edifying games, scary games, controversial games, etc. In any case, when you close the book the game is over.
Maybe you're undecided whether to play for a couple of hours with the band members of “Lilly and the Munsterz?”
Let's see if I can help you with a small summary:
"This novel describes an “impossible possibility” as if it were the most natural thing in the world."
Absurd? Perhaps, but not trivial.
Maybe someone told you that this novel is outrageous and that some readers can't get past the starting situation. So the very first pages of this book could shock you and you will immediately think that by reading you will be dragged into a sinful whirlpool where the author will enjoy in tormenting your granitic moral sense in a whirlwind of fancifully perverted scenes…
But it’s not so frightening.
Personally, I don't really think this novel is erotic literature. I think it's a love story and, consequently, it doesn't surprise me that there is passion among the protagonists.
At the beginning, the characters in this story may seem a little unreasonable if you instinctively project on them an expectation that will inevitably be disappointed.
I mean, if you think the protagonists will justify, argue or theorize about the possible "ethical" implications of their relationship, unfortunately you are in the wrong place.
Simply put, Lilly and Elm love each other and do not seem to give much importance to the common moral sense. However, I assure you that this same moral sense has its paladin in the character of Phil, another brother. Phil horrifies, blames, scolds… but in the end he can't do anything.
I say it again: this novel in my opinion is a love story.
There is nothing perverse and the details of scabrous situations are always "modestly" glossed over… Perhaps this might seem strange to those who think they are reading an erotic novel. Sexuality, the "sinister urge" is only a parenthesis in the lives of the characters, unlike perhaps what the title would suggest. The author is more interested in describing the memories of the protagonists, the nostalgic evocation of a common past. The impression is that the narrative voice loves this world and this common story at least as much as the "sinister urge" desires its socially "impossible" object.
The result is that the many situations for-adults-only blend with a curious ease to the description of childhood memories and familiar scenes that would look very well even in a story for YA.
At some point you will find yourself faced with a dramatic development that risks making appear a situation that already seems absurd enough for the already mentioned common moral sense even more socially incomprehensible. How can you resist the curiosity to see which solution the author will choose now?
Furthermore, if you have the patience to read this story to the end, you will also realize that a certain sense of humor, together with irony, will succeed in obtaining a result that you could have easily ruled out at the beginning.
My impression is in fact that the epilogue of the novel succeeds in the impossible task of making it seem perfectly normal what is inconceivable for the world. It is not surprising then that the character who should have identified most with the common moral sense of the reader (super ego, anyone?) Reveals in the end that he too is “only human.”
Thus a certain family ideal is eventually realized. This happens in an absolutely "impossible" way for society, but to the characters this does not matter at all because they love their world, and you will never be able to convince them that there may be something wrong with that.
In conclusion, why not play with “Lilly and the Munsterz?”
Maybe you're undecided whether to play for a couple of hours with the band members of “Lilly and the Munsterz?”
Let's see if I can help you with a small summary:
"This novel describes an “impossible possibility” as if it were the most natural thing in the world."
Absurd? Perhaps, but not trivial.
Maybe someone told you that this novel is outrageous and that some readers can't get past the starting situation. So the very first pages of this book could shock you and you will immediately think that by reading you will be dragged into a sinful whirlpool where the author will enjoy in tormenting your granitic moral sense in a whirlwind of fancifully perverted scenes…
But it’s not so frightening.
Personally, I don't really think this novel is erotic literature. I think it's a love story and, consequently, it doesn't surprise me that there is passion among the protagonists.
At the beginning, the characters in this story may seem a little unreasonable if you instinctively project on them an expectation that will inevitably be disappointed.
I mean, if you think the protagonists will justify, argue or theorize about the possible "ethical" implications of their relationship, unfortunately you are in the wrong place.
Simply put, Lilly and Elm love each other and do not seem to give much importance to the common moral sense. However, I assure you that this same moral sense has its paladin in the character of Phil, another brother. Phil horrifies, blames, scolds… but in the end he can't do anything.
I say it again: this novel in my opinion is a love story.
There is nothing perverse and the details of scabrous situations are always "modestly" glossed over… Perhaps this might seem strange to those who think they are reading an erotic novel. Sexuality, the "sinister urge" is only a parenthesis in the lives of the characters, unlike perhaps what the title would suggest. The author is more interested in describing the memories of the protagonists, the nostalgic evocation of a common past. The impression is that the narrative voice loves this world and this common story at least as much as the "sinister urge" desires its socially "impossible" object.
The result is that the many situations for-adults-only blend with a curious ease to the description of childhood memories and familiar scenes that would look very well even in a story for YA.
At some point you will find yourself faced with a dramatic development that risks making appear a situation that already seems absurd enough for the already mentioned common moral sense even more socially incomprehensible. How can you resist the curiosity to see which solution the author will choose now?
Furthermore, if you have the patience to read this story to the end, you will also realize that a certain sense of humor, together with irony, will succeed in obtaining a result that you could have easily ruled out at the beginning.
My impression is in fact that the epilogue of the novel succeeds in the impossible task of making it seem perfectly normal what is inconceivable for the world. It is not surprising then that the character who should have identified most with the common moral sense of the reader (super ego, anyone?) Reveals in the end that he too is “only human.”
Thus a certain family ideal is eventually realized. This happens in an absolutely "impossible" way for society, but to the characters this does not matter at all because they love their world, and you will never be able to convince them that there may be something wrong with that.
In conclusion, why not play with “Lilly and the Munsterz?”
May 21, 2019
REVIEW ON SINISTER URGE BY FRANCES NEWTON
Where is the 10-star button for this novel? They really should have one for such awesomeness. Some books way surpass a 5-star rating and this is one such novel. Frances Newton really has outdone herself on this her first novel. She made the taboo topic of incest an intriguing one and immediately brought me back to my favorite TV series Game of Thrones that also had an incestuous couple. She has made a taboo topic no longer taboo and brought readers into a world of true, pure blissful love and how it gentle unfolded in the end. We are brought into the world of the siblings Lilli and Elm Morgan and their sexual relationship and their bid to keep it a secret.
I loved the intrigue and the flow of the story and the use of flashbacks in portraying the storyline. I also loved her use of swearwords…the use made her novel more relatable to present day circumstances. Another instance where the novel was relatable was that fact that other persons found out about the incestuous relationship. As in real life, relationships such as these are very hard to conceal and person’s reaction in the novel somehow shows the changing times in which we now live where taboo topics are somehow slowly becoming the norm.
So….what did I hate about the novel. I hated the cliff-hanger ending. Why torture us like this Frances Newton? Whyyyyyyyyy?? Please hurry with the sequel as you left me in dire suspense. All in all, a superb first novel; Sheer genius…I applaud your effort and look forward to many more novels from you in the future,
Where is the 10-star button for this novel? They really should have one for such awesomeness. Some books way surpass a 5-star rating and this is one such novel. Frances Newton really has outdone herself on this her first novel. She made the taboo topic of incest an intriguing one and immediately brought me back to my favorite TV series Game of Thrones that also had an incestuous couple. She has made a taboo topic no longer taboo and brought readers into a world of true, pure blissful love and how it gentle unfolded in the end. We are brought into the world of the siblings Lilli and Elm Morgan and their sexual relationship and their bid to keep it a secret.
I loved the intrigue and the flow of the story and the use of flashbacks in portraying the storyline. I also loved her use of swearwords…the use made her novel more relatable to present day circumstances. Another instance where the novel was relatable was that fact that other persons found out about the incestuous relationship. As in real life, relationships such as these are very hard to conceal and person’s reaction in the novel somehow shows the changing times in which we now live where taboo topics are somehow slowly becoming the norm.
So….what did I hate about the novel. I hated the cliff-hanger ending. Why torture us like this Frances Newton? Whyyyyyyyyy?? Please hurry with the sequel as you left me in dire suspense. All in all, a superb first novel; Sheer genius…I applaud your effort and look forward to many more novels from you in the future,
December 29, 2015
I was asked to read and review this book and got so excited that I didn't want to spoil everything in reading anything about it. I like to be surprised and don't want to set my expectations too high.
Before I start, I want to say that even though there were a few things that bothered me, I think you really have good ideas. The Story is good and I know how hard it is to write a book - I couldn't do it. Every time I try to write something, it will be ok for a few pages and then everything goes blank and I focus to much on one thing. So I admire everybody who is capable of writing a full story.
When I started reading, I was really confused. There were two main characters but they had so many names which are not so easy to identify as nicknames and I always thought 'who are they?' 'Who is she talking about?'. (Tony, Elm, El,.. Lils, Lilli, Lil, Lilian...). And it was also when their mum showed up and suddenly there was a woman named Liz, I needed a few pages until I knew who she is.
What didn't help to clear my confusion was the constant change from perspectives. Either there was Lili or Elm thinking about the past (I always had to guess who it was), or then it was suddenly in the present and from no one specific told. I just couldn't keep up. Everytime I thought 'now i get it, now it's better' then everything got confusing again..
I usually don't like it when there are always changes with the timeline and perspectives and I can't keep up. I get distracted and am not really into the story. It was just too much. If you just change perspective, that's ok. Or just the timeline. But everything at once doesn't help the reader to really follow the story.
If I am honest, I really had to fight thru the first half of the book. But then it got really better, I could keep up with the storyline and it was easier to read. I noticed that especially the conversations between Lilly and Elm where really good written. But it seemed that you had troubles when there was a change in time or continuing the day to a different location, because at one point they two are talking and having sex, and in the next paragraph there were different people at a different place. Those changes happened a lot without further explanations and it was also hard to understand whats happening. Maybe its just me, but my brain needs some more information on where the changes are going, or a new chapter. A few times you managed it really good.. Like if you write ..'when its later in the day and the interview was finished and this and that happens now..', that's fine with me. So I can imagine what was in between the paragraph before and now. I think you get what I mean =)
The other point that bothered me was the story itself and the characters. There were always just Lilly and Elm in a conversation or having sex. Or the Band rehearsing or giving interviews. (At the end it got a bit better, like I said).
I just miss so much more background information. Like Lilli is 27 years old and her brother Elm a bit younger. I think they earn some money with their band but they are always in hotels or at her aunt and they never really eat or buy something and never need to worry about money. It seems like they don't need anything. Clothes – why is everything black and lilac?!
Maybe you didn't want to bore the reader with those details, and maybe I am just one of few, but I really want some more information’s, it makes it easier to get to know them better – and if I just read over them, then I am sorry ;).
What I also noticed was that the siblings never had any doubt about their relationship. It felt for me more like they aren't siblings and just aren't allowed to be together – whatever reason.
It would have made more sense or else there should have been more trouble and thinking about it in the beginning. I know the story got kinda told the other way around and their first kiss got mentioned during the story and not in the beginning but there was never really any worry or second doubt that it is wrong what they do. And so many people found out about them and no one told them off. Their brother was not happy about it but he wasn't disgusted about it or really mad or anything. And the others were kinda fine with it too. Or so it seemed for me. I don't get it.. So many people and no one really had a problem with it? I am sorry but for me it would have been fine with just one or two people finding out and maybe one person is ok with it or doesn't bother and another being really pissed and whatever..that would be enough.. so many people finding out and nobody is worried.. that's a bit boring.. for me anyway.. like repeating the story over and over with different people..
And like I said, it would have been perfect if they just weren't siblings and just not supposed to be together. It would have made so much more sense..
Something else I want to mention is that they are so much older on paper then they behave. I would totally buy their story if they where teenager but 27?! How can they be adults and react and behave so childish?!.. And the thing with Adam – I just don't understand whats wrong with Lilli and Adam... Did I miss something?!..
Ok the story is short but it really didn't reveal much.. it was just those two having sex and talking rubbish.. oh and one more thing.. sometimes you really got too much into details (in the beginning when Lilli is taking a shower – why on earth do we want to know where and if she is shaving whatever parts of her and so on?!.) too much details.. and then on other hands there are no details at all.. but with practice I am sure it get's better.. and you really had some good parts.. with details and everything perfect. Like I said before, the conversations are really good and can be read so easily.
And what surprised me most were your ideas. Like when Lili and Elm almost kissed at their parents house and their brother Phil came into the room and Lilli was like looking into Elms eye as if there was something stinging in it.. Hilarious.. You really had some funny moments and I really admire your ideas I wouldn't have came up with.. Sadly I couldn't give you more stars because of a lot of things that where bothering me. But please continue writing and you will get better. =)
ps.: I hope this review doesn't make you sad but hopeful. You really got a good story and a nice book but it needs some progress for the details to be smoothed out. =)
Before I start, I want to say that even though there were a few things that bothered me, I think you really have good ideas. The Story is good and I know how hard it is to write a book - I couldn't do it. Every time I try to write something, it will be ok for a few pages and then everything goes blank and I focus to much on one thing. So I admire everybody who is capable of writing a full story.
When I started reading, I was really confused. There were two main characters but they had so many names which are not so easy to identify as nicknames and I always thought 'who are they?' 'Who is she talking about?'. (Tony, Elm, El,.. Lils, Lilli, Lil, Lilian...). And it was also when their mum showed up and suddenly there was a woman named Liz, I needed a few pages until I knew who she is.
What didn't help to clear my confusion was the constant change from perspectives. Either there was Lili or Elm thinking about the past (I always had to guess who it was), or then it was suddenly in the present and from no one specific told. I just couldn't keep up. Everytime I thought 'now i get it, now it's better' then everything got confusing again..
I usually don't like it when there are always changes with the timeline and perspectives and I can't keep up. I get distracted and am not really into the story. It was just too much. If you just change perspective, that's ok. Or just the timeline. But everything at once doesn't help the reader to really follow the story.
If I am honest, I really had to fight thru the first half of the book. But then it got really better, I could keep up with the storyline and it was easier to read. I noticed that especially the conversations between Lilly and Elm where really good written. But it seemed that you had troubles when there was a change in time or continuing the day to a different location, because at one point they two are talking and having sex, and in the next paragraph there were different people at a different place. Those changes happened a lot without further explanations and it was also hard to understand whats happening. Maybe its just me, but my brain needs some more information on where the changes are going, or a new chapter. A few times you managed it really good.. Like if you write ..'when its later in the day and the interview was finished and this and that happens now..', that's fine with me. So I can imagine what was in between the paragraph before and now. I think you get what I mean =)
The other point that bothered me was the story itself and the characters. There were always just Lilly and Elm in a conversation or having sex. Or the Band rehearsing or giving interviews. (At the end it got a bit better, like I said).
I just miss so much more background information. Like Lilli is 27 years old and her brother Elm a bit younger. I think they earn some money with their band but they are always in hotels or at her aunt and they never really eat or buy something and never need to worry about money. It seems like they don't need anything. Clothes – why is everything black and lilac?!
Maybe you didn't want to bore the reader with those details, and maybe I am just one of few, but I really want some more information’s, it makes it easier to get to know them better – and if I just read over them, then I am sorry ;).
What I also noticed was that the siblings never had any doubt about their relationship. It felt for me more like they aren't siblings and just aren't allowed to be together – whatever reason.
It would have made more sense or else there should have been more trouble and thinking about it in the beginning. I know the story got kinda told the other way around and their first kiss got mentioned during the story and not in the beginning but there was never really any worry or second doubt that it is wrong what they do. And so many people found out about them and no one told them off. Their brother was not happy about it but he wasn't disgusted about it or really mad or anything. And the others were kinda fine with it too. Or so it seemed for me. I don't get it.. So many people and no one really had a problem with it? I am sorry but for me it would have been fine with just one or two people finding out and maybe one person is ok with it or doesn't bother and another being really pissed and whatever..that would be enough.. so many people finding out and nobody is worried.. that's a bit boring.. for me anyway.. like repeating the story over and over with different people..
And like I said, it would have been perfect if they just weren't siblings and just not supposed to be together. It would have made so much more sense..
Something else I want to mention is that they are so much older on paper then they behave. I would totally buy their story if they where teenager but 27?! How can they be adults and react and behave so childish?!.. And the thing with Adam – I just don't understand whats wrong with Lilli and Adam... Did I miss something?!..
Ok the story is short but it really didn't reveal much.. it was just those two having sex and talking rubbish.. oh and one more thing.. sometimes you really got too much into details (in the beginning when Lilli is taking a shower – why on earth do we want to know where and if she is shaving whatever parts of her and so on?!.) too much details.. and then on other hands there are no details at all.. but with practice I am sure it get's better.. and you really had some good parts.. with details and everything perfect. Like I said before, the conversations are really good and can be read so easily.
And what surprised me most were your ideas. Like when Lili and Elm almost kissed at their parents house and their brother Phil came into the room and Lilli was like looking into Elms eye as if there was something stinging in it.. Hilarious.. You really had some funny moments and I really admire your ideas I wouldn't have came up with.. Sadly I couldn't give you more stars because of a lot of things that where bothering me. But please continue writing and you will get better. =)
ps.: I hope this review doesn't make you sad but hopeful. You really got a good story and a nice book but it needs some progress for the details to be smoothed out. =)
August 24, 2019
Updated 7/19/2019-
I read this book a second time. Yes, a second time. My views changed slightly. I found that some of the issues I had could have been the cultural differences when it comes to slang and humor. While I still would have liked more insight into the characters psyche and better placement of the flashbacks so that they made sense when they popped up, I think this was an okay read for me.
I'm leaving my original review because those were my original thoughts when I read the book.
****************************************************************************
When I read the synopsis, I thought okay this might be a" flowers in the attic" situation or like some other twincest that I've read in gay fiction. This was not.
There is nothing wrong with taboo fiction if done right. There a few things that any good story needs and when you are bold enough, creative enough to write taboo fiction, you have to bring it on all levels
Unfortunately, this story fell short for me when it came to a solid plot, structure, formatting, grammar and overall development (character & content). If you have these things coupled with a good developmental team (editor, test reader, etc.) to give honest feedback, you are off to a good start. Even if it is just you, you can reach out to someone to test read your work to have a second set of (objective) eyes on the story that would help. Bloggers & Readers like myself will willingly help.
I read this book a second time. Yes, a second time. My views changed slightly. I found that some of the issues I had could have been the cultural differences when it comes to slang and humor. While I still would have liked more insight into the characters psyche and better placement of the flashbacks so that they made sense when they popped up, I think this was an okay read for me.
I'm leaving my original review because those were my original thoughts when I read the book.
****************************************************************************
When I read the synopsis, I thought okay this might be a" flowers in the attic" situation or like some other twincest that I've read in gay fiction. This was not.
There is nothing wrong with taboo fiction if done right. There a few things that any good story needs and when you are bold enough, creative enough to write taboo fiction, you have to bring it on all levels
Unfortunately, this story fell short for me when it came to a solid plot, structure, formatting, grammar and overall development (character & content). If you have these things coupled with a good developmental team (editor, test reader, etc.) to give honest feedback, you are off to a good start. Even if it is just you, you can reach out to someone to test read your work to have a second set of (objective) eyes on the story that would help. Bloggers & Readers like myself will willingly help.
July 29, 2015
I was contacted by the author to read this book and asked to post an honest review.
Okay, so, I spent a day to read this and I got so many things in my mind about this book. Before that, I’ll try to write a brief synopsis about the story.
Incest was actually not my favorite topic of books. But ever since I came across one book about it that was written really well, it had changed my point of view about this very topic. That’s why I agreed to read this book and find out if I could, once again, enjoy the incest-related book.
So, I really want to enjoy this book, I do. But for a first couple of pages, truthfully, I couldn’t quite enjoy it. Maybe it was because I was not really familiar with the author’s writing style. Those and also because in the beginning it was a bit difficult to understand where the story led us into. Yes, this is an incest book. Yes, they love each other even though it is totally in a wrong way. Yes, they are on the same band and working really hard not to get caught by people around them. But the certain point that wanted to be shown here obviously couldn’t be grasped in the first half of the book. No offense, though. I liked the characters. Both Lilli and Elm are loveable enough. Also their relationship (even though taboo) can be considered sweet. And I also liked that the other characters were described in enough details so they’re not just like some insignificant complements.
Then on the second half of the book, that’s when things slowly made some senses. I began to grasp the flow of the story and actually enjoy reading it. I also laughed and smiled at some scenes. Elm, even though he was younger and a bit immature, could be really sweet toward Lilli. As I slowly started to enjoy it, also the building climax near the end had become somehow sad, the author made it stop to a cliffhanger ending. Well, it was fine anyway ‘cause I could sense there must be the second book as implied at the ending sentence (or so I hope because I have so many wishes upon the story!).
So, if there will be a second book to The Sinister Urge,I have several things in mind that I really really want to be featured on it. First, as at some points on flashbacks, I could see the way kids Lilli and Elm interacted is slightly different compared with those with their older brother Phillip, I really want more details on Lilli and Elm’s first attractions toward each other. Because what intrigues people to read this book is the taboo factor, I feel the need to fulfill the background knowledge on how they begin to love each other in different way than the others. Like there must be some really potential event or moment that caused it. It will be a very good circumstance that readers could see to consider whether or not they ‘accept’ Lilli and Elm’s forbidden love. Second, I am expecting a more natural reaction from those who happen to find out the truth behind Lilli and Elm. Um, it’s kind of spoiler but fine, anyway, . Third, it will be more interesting if we could see more of Adam’s feeling toward Lilli. Like maybe we could have a triangle love so maybe we could witness that somehow Elm could be a possessive hero too. Fourth, it took me until in the end of my reading the book to realize that the italic-typed paragraphs are actually more like the character’s point of view rather than flashback scenes. So maybe there is a way to put it in a more readable mode… (or maybe it is just me then I apologize for being so lame :O). Lastly, now that the ending of this book has come to a really complicated level, perhaps there will be the second book for sure with a better ending (mindblowing maybe…) and hopefully the author will have a really good plot for the second book (once again if there will be one…) because I, myself, have no idea how to continue things between them from their current situation.
So, that’s my really honest review about this book. I, personally, appreciate the author for choosing such heavy topic as her debut novel. It must be really hard. Hopefully the author will come back with the second installment with a more intriguing plot and enjoyable flow of story! :)
Okay, so, I spent a day to read this and I got so many things in my mind about this book. Before that, I’ll try to write a brief synopsis about the story.
The Sinister Urge is a story about two siblings, Lillian Rosemary Morgan and Anthony Elm Morgan, who are occupied in an unusual brother-sister relationship. Instead of loving each other affectionately, they both love each other a bit more passionately and… lustfully. It started with an inadvertent kiss several years ago when Lilli was still 15 while Elm was 14. Then one kiss led to the second one led to another thing and without they realized, they already went a long way and drowned to the deeper side of forbidden love. No one knew about them, or so they thought. Elm and Lilli knew they’ve been doing a really wrong thing but they could careless as all that they had in mind was they loved each other and they’re happy together, nothing else mattered.
The book began with when Lilli who was in band The Wires one day decided to quit the band as a result of constant irritated feeling toward her band mate, Adam. Worse though, she did it in a live TV show with the cameras on. Once Lilli quitted, she broke any contacts with the band, having no intentions to have anything to do with them any longer. Almost two years later, Lilli came back to public with a new band called ‘Lilli and The Munsterz’ which she formed together with her brother Elm, her cousin Sarah, and her friends Stuart and Dave. As the band became more popular, Lilli was faced not only with her discomfort of being coerced to meet The Wires constantly now that they were shooting the same reality show, but also the fact that her lurid secret with Elm would easily exposed anytime. Her current situation now was more complicated unlike when she was still in The Wires, when no one actually knew Elm, moreover their taboo relationship. Together they working on their relationship and keeping it away from everyone. But when things became more and more out of control in and out of their relationship, they were once again reminded that their relationship would never be accepted in anyone’s eyes and love was the only thing remained to hold on to.
Incest was actually not my favorite topic of books. But ever since I came across one book about it that was written really well, it had changed my point of view about this very topic. That’s why I agreed to read this book and find out if I could, once again, enjoy the incest-related book.
So, I really want to enjoy this book, I do. But for a first couple of pages, truthfully, I couldn’t quite enjoy it. Maybe it was because I was not really familiar with the author’s writing style. Those and also because in the beginning it was a bit difficult to understand where the story led us into. Yes, this is an incest book. Yes, they love each other even though it is totally in a wrong way. Yes, they are on the same band and working really hard not to get caught by people around them. But the certain point that wanted to be shown here obviously couldn’t be grasped in the first half of the book. No offense, though. I liked the characters. Both Lilli and Elm are loveable enough. Also their relationship (even though taboo) can be considered sweet. And I also liked that the other characters were described in enough details so they’re not just like some insignificant complements.
Then on the second half of the book, that’s when things slowly made some senses. I began to grasp the flow of the story and actually enjoy reading it. I also laughed and smiled at some scenes. Elm, even though he was younger and a bit immature, could be really sweet toward Lilli. As I slowly started to enjoy it, also the building climax near the end had become somehow sad, the author made it stop to a cliffhanger ending. Well, it was fine anyway ‘cause I could sense there must be the second book as implied at the ending sentence (or so I hope because I have so many wishes upon the story!).
So, if there will be a second book to The Sinister Urge,
So, that’s my really honest review about this book. I, personally, appreciate the author for choosing such heavy topic as her debut novel. It must be really hard. Hopefully the author will come back with the second installment with a more intriguing plot and enjoyable flow of story! :)
September 29, 2019
I want to first say that the author did such a job well done in coming up with such a unique, forbidden, sexy, and enticing plot! From beginning to end, it captured my full attention and there was not even a single boring moment. This was my first time reading a taboo romance.
Although the romance was taboo, I could not resist shipping the couple because of the deep love they had for each other. They were willing to go against society and the norm to be together. Sometimes though, the relationship felt like it was too sexual as the sex scenes and chemistry between the characters was just too hot and steamy, in a good way. There was also some suspense as I wandered when or if the couple would get caught. The sneaking around and the late night visits, where just too exciting. I enjoyed the reactions of the other characters as they found out, especially Phil`s reaction. I also liked how the Author also gave us glimpses into their past, helping us to have an idea of how it all started in the first place.
Even while being a taboo romance, the story still appealed to me as a female reader. The Author also has a wonderful writing style which added to the enjoyment of the story. The ending was just beautiful and perfect. I highly recommend this as a good read to anyone wanting to just try and read something new.
Although the romance was taboo, I could not resist shipping the couple because of the deep love they had for each other. They were willing to go against society and the norm to be together. Sometimes though, the relationship felt like it was too sexual as the sex scenes and chemistry between the characters was just too hot and steamy, in a good way. There was also some suspense as I wandered when or if the couple would get caught. The sneaking around and the late night visits, where just too exciting. I enjoyed the reactions of the other characters as they found out, especially Phil`s reaction. I also liked how the Author also gave us glimpses into their past, helping us to have an idea of how it all started in the first place.
Even while being a taboo romance, the story still appealed to me as a female reader. The Author also has a wonderful writing style which added to the enjoyment of the story. The ending was just beautiful and perfect. I highly recommend this as a good read to anyone wanting to just try and read something new.
August 15, 2019
Interesting Story Theme...
I have always been interested in reading these types of books. Before starting the book I did read some reviews and I was a little worried I wouldn't like it. But overall it was okay. Like I said brother and sister relationships I have read about before. I didn't think the book was overall funny or something I laughed about. But then I am a very serious person.
Your intimate scenes between the characters were well detailed and didn't falter in my thoughts. I don't have an overall favourite scene but the book was good. The ending was interesting and not what I would expect.
Overall it was a good book. I only gave 5 stars because I am normally not interested in such books.
I have always been interested in reading these types of books. Before starting the book I did read some reviews and I was a little worried I wouldn't like it. But overall it was okay. Like I said brother and sister relationships I have read about before. I didn't think the book was overall funny or something I laughed about. But then I am a very serious person.
Your intimate scenes between the characters were well detailed and didn't falter in my thoughts. I don't have an overall favourite scene but the book was good. The ending was interesting and not what I would expect.
Overall it was a good book. I only gave 5 stars because I am normally not interested in such books.
July 25, 2020
Interesting read
Newton pens a very taboo story in The Sinister Urge. This is the first work of this author's that I've read. The characters were both disturbing, and connected in more ways than one. There were good qualities in this story, but there were also some things that make this "Hidden" romance a definite taboo. Maybe even more than just taboo, unacceptable in many societies. However, it is an interesting story, and a very unique one at that. I haven't ever read something with this subject matter before, but I'm sure it's out there. To me it was unique, as it was written with a lot of flashbacks, and it was a short story, but not a breezy read. It definitely grabbed my attention. I will read more by this author, if given the opportunity.
Newton pens a very taboo story in The Sinister Urge. This is the first work of this author's that I've read. The characters were both disturbing, and connected in more ways than one. There were good qualities in this story, but there were also some things that make this "Hidden" romance a definite taboo. Maybe even more than just taboo, unacceptable in many societies. However, it is an interesting story, and a very unique one at that. I haven't ever read something with this subject matter before, but I'm sure it's out there. To me it was unique, as it was written with a lot of flashbacks, and it was a short story, but not a breezy read. It definitely grabbed my attention. I will read more by this author, if given the opportunity.
July 13, 2019
Review published at author's request.
I’ll be honest, I was curious to read this book, in part because of some of the harshly critical reviews it has received. And, in truth, it is perhaps not as bad as some of them suggest, if you can get past its biggest flaw, which, for me, was the flippant, tongue-in-cheek way in which the author depicts the somewhat repugnant subject of consensual incest. Don’t get me wrong: I didn’t find the subject matter particularly disturbing in any way, more so the fantastical nature of this book – the main brother and sister characters lead a B-grade rock star lifestyle, whilst carrying on their tawdry relationship, indiscreetly, beneath the gaze of everyone who knows them, and for the most part this is accepted. I’m not sure if the book was intended to be erotic - though it contains a fair amount of adult sexual material – instead, I just found it a bit unsavoury, and too flippant and jokey to be emotive or provocative in any way. Newton does have a tendency, at times, to emphasize the more vulgar aspects of the day-to-day, rather than gloss over life with a Mills and Boon sheen, so erotica and romance is – thankfully - not a consideration for genre, for this somewhat ambiguous book. At one point, midway, it does become genuinely quite gripping, and I found myself eager to find out what would happen next, but ultimately, the opportunity for serious drama and implication in this book are overlooked, for a more fanciful narrative. An example of this is the insatiable sexuality of the main characters, despite supposedly having been together for many years as a couple – this is a characteristic when applied to more taboo or minority relationships in fiction.
One area in which I felt “The Sinister Urge” fell short was with the confusing flashback scenes, and the lack of any linear chronology to this; it does jump about a touch, as random events from the past are intercut to give context to present events, in the first-person narrative of either main character. This also presents a few moments of the characters’ childhood, which did scratch a little beneath my comfort layer, but fortunately Newton didn’t subject us to too much detail, in their respect.
Generally, I think the writing is lacking the kind of sophistication such a book as this may have required, and would also suggest that the apparent absence of a professional proofread has probably harmed its reviews considerably. I was sent the print-ready, typeset proof, and whilst professionally written and presented, I did find the language used to be a touch deficient: the sentences were short and punchy, when the prose could have been remarkably improved and matured by more fluid language and a far better use of punctuation. Indeed, I found the whole book to be littered with grammatical errors and mistakes throughout. On a positive note, Newton’s writing style has a nice, relaxed pace to it, and I found “The Sinister Urge” very easy to read, in just a couple of sittings. With a touch of polish, I think this book could be improved dramatically, and perhaps resemble something closer to which the author intended.
I’ll be honest, I was curious to read this book, in part because of some of the harshly critical reviews it has received. And, in truth, it is perhaps not as bad as some of them suggest, if you can get past its biggest flaw, which, for me, was the flippant, tongue-in-cheek way in which the author depicts the somewhat repugnant subject of consensual incest. Don’t get me wrong: I didn’t find the subject matter particularly disturbing in any way, more so the fantastical nature of this book – the main brother and sister characters lead a B-grade rock star lifestyle, whilst carrying on their tawdry relationship, indiscreetly, beneath the gaze of everyone who knows them, and for the most part this is accepted. I’m not sure if the book was intended to be erotic - though it contains a fair amount of adult sexual material – instead, I just found it a bit unsavoury, and too flippant and jokey to be emotive or provocative in any way. Newton does have a tendency, at times, to emphasize the more vulgar aspects of the day-to-day, rather than gloss over life with a Mills and Boon sheen, so erotica and romance is – thankfully - not a consideration for genre, for this somewhat ambiguous book. At one point, midway, it does become genuinely quite gripping, and I found myself eager to find out what would happen next, but ultimately, the opportunity for serious drama and implication in this book are overlooked, for a more fanciful narrative. An example of this is the insatiable sexuality of the main characters, despite supposedly having been together for many years as a couple – this is a characteristic when applied to more taboo or minority relationships in fiction.
One area in which I felt “The Sinister Urge” fell short was with the confusing flashback scenes, and the lack of any linear chronology to this; it does jump about a touch, as random events from the past are intercut to give context to present events, in the first-person narrative of either main character. This also presents a few moments of the characters’ childhood, which did scratch a little beneath my comfort layer, but fortunately Newton didn’t subject us to too much detail, in their respect.
Generally, I think the writing is lacking the kind of sophistication such a book as this may have required, and would also suggest that the apparent absence of a professional proofread has probably harmed its reviews considerably. I was sent the print-ready, typeset proof, and whilst professionally written and presented, I did find the language used to be a touch deficient: the sentences were short and punchy, when the prose could have been remarkably improved and matured by more fluid language and a far better use of punctuation. Indeed, I found the whole book to be littered with grammatical errors and mistakes throughout. On a positive note, Newton’s writing style has a nice, relaxed pace to it, and I found “The Sinister Urge” very easy to read, in just a couple of sittings. With a touch of polish, I think this book could be improved dramatically, and perhaps resemble something closer to which the author intended.
November 23, 2020
A brother and sister as part of a musical group and on tour, promoting their newest album called The Sinister Urge.
The narrative goes into such excruciating and minute detail that’s quite often superfluous, like the shower scene. Did we really need to know every single part that she was washing? We honestly could’ve skipped that. The whole thing had a rather slow pace with a few too many characters. Overall, the story dictates the life of the bands, which was not as interested as I expected. Too boring.
The narrative goes into such excruciating and minute detail that’s quite often superfluous, like the shower scene. Did we really need to know every single part that she was washing? We honestly could’ve skipped that. The whole thing had a rather slow pace with a few too many characters. Overall, the story dictates the life of the bands, which was not as interested as I expected. Too boring.
May 29, 2019
This is a great book filled with secrets and taboo! Lilli and Elm find themselves tangled up with there feelings of forbidden love for one another. Hiding the truth from family and the band crew in hopes they wont get caught. This book is definitely thrilling filled with the past memories of how their love was created and the present in hopes of keeping it a secret.
October 20, 2020
This novel promised taboo romance and it did not disappoint. Once I picked it up, I could not put it down. It is rare for a book to keep me hooked for a full day. The regular flashbacks were interesting, although they made the main story hard to follow at times, but that and a few typos were the only real issues with the book. I loved the characters and enjoyed the story, which raises a message that I strongly believe in:
"You can't help who you fall in love with... If nobody is getting hurt and the people involved are adults. People should be allowed to be with whoever they want."
I highly recommend this one for anyone who can handle the incest theme.
"You can't help who you fall in love with... If nobody is getting hurt and the people involved are adults. People should be allowed to be with whoever they want."
I highly recommend this one for anyone who can handle the incest theme.
August 26, 2014
Okay, so I completed this book today. And it would be unfair for me to not post an honest review as i promised. Here it goes:
I rated this book 3 stars. The Sinister Urge is a book about two siblings, Lillian and Anthony, both of who belong to a band of their own, Lilly and The Munsterz. Based on the concept of incest love, the book goes on to describe how their relationship emerges since childhood, to where it is today.
There are some ups, as well as downs, that i would like to elaborate in relation to this book.
I rated this book 3 stars. The Sinister Urge is a book about two siblings, Lillian and Anthony, both of who belong to a band of their own, Lilly and The Munsterz. Based on the concept of incest love, the book goes on to describe how their relationship emerges since childhood, to where it is today.
There are some ups, as well as downs, that i would like to elaborate in relation to this book.
January 18, 2015
I had just finished reading Stepbrother Dearest and was in the middle of another series about step-siblings when I received a message from author Frances Newton asking me to post an honest review about her debut book The Sinister Urge.
So, here's mine.
Firstly, I'd like to thank Ms Newton for giving me an opportunity to review her book. I'd like to begin by saying that this book is about incest, a tale of two siblings, Lilli and Elm, who are related by blood and also, share a very special relationship of lifelong romance.
I like reading books on taboo. So, when I was approached by the author and read the synopsis, I couldn't wait to get my hands on this book. What I thought after I had finished reading it is that Ms Newton has great potential as an evolving author considering the fact that The Sinister Urge is her first novel.
I rated the book with 2 stars because I found the plot very easy-going. Moreover, I prefer my books to be written only in first person as it gives me a view of what's actually going on in the character's mind and to get to know them better. While this book was written in a combination of the present, in third person and the flashbacks, in first person. I think it would have been better if the story was told from either Lilli or Elm's POV. Apart from this, the story flowed progressively and thereby ending the book with a twist.The characters were likeable, but I didn't downright fall in love with them. So, the moot point is I didn't really hate the story, but I think it was more of an 'okay' for me.
I'd like to finish by saying that Ms Newton has done a great job with The Sinister Urge. And since the book ended in a cliffhanger, I suppose there'll be a sequel to it. So, I wish Ms Newton good luck for the upcoming book!
So, here's mine.
Firstly, I'd like to thank Ms Newton for giving me an opportunity to review her book. I'd like to begin by saying that this book is about incest, a tale of two siblings, Lilli and Elm, who are related by blood and also, share a very special relationship of lifelong romance.
I like reading books on taboo. So, when I was approached by the author and read the synopsis, I couldn't wait to get my hands on this book. What I thought after I had finished reading it is that Ms Newton has great potential as an evolving author considering the fact that The Sinister Urge is her first novel.
I rated the book with 2 stars because I found the plot very easy-going. Moreover, I prefer my books to be written only in first person as it gives me a view of what's actually going on in the character's mind and to get to know them better. While this book was written in a combination of the present, in third person and the flashbacks, in first person. I think it would have been better if the story was told from either Lilli or Elm's POV. Apart from this, the story flowed progressively and thereby ending the book with a twist.The characters were likeable, but I didn't downright fall in love with them. So, the moot point is I didn't really hate the story, but I think it was more of an 'okay' for me.
I'd like to finish by saying that Ms Newton has done a great job with The Sinister Urge. And since the book ended in a cliffhanger, I suppose there'll be a sequel to it. So, I wish Ms Newton good luck for the upcoming book!
December 25, 2014
The author asked me to read this book and write an honest review. Many people might not read a book on such a taboo subject, but that part did not bother me. Previously, I had read and reviewed another book on this taboo subject, though it was slightly different. In the earlier book, the couple found out they were step-sibs after they had fallen in love and planned to marry. In this one, the sibs were not step-sibs and did not find out they were related afterwards. I am undecided about whether this makes a difference or not.
In the book, Lilli quits a band on stage because she is tired of the band life and disappears from the music scene. Later, she returns to the stage with her brother and some friends. Then, she and her new band are reunited with the band she quit when both bands become guest judges for a reality show. This book covers a lot of territory in Lilli’s life as a stage performer. However, more important is her relationship with Elm, her brother, who is also part of Lilli’s later band. Throughout this phase, the author did a great job developing the two characters of Lilli and Elm, though I am not sure both were as committed as the reader might have thought to their new love interest or to being on stage. Both are not the skinny type performer we see, and, In fact, there are times when their weight is brought to the forefront. Sometimes, Elm even seems of more interested in eating at times than is his relationship with Lilli. Also, both seem, at time, a bit immature, not ready or interested in searching out or developing other relationships.
Despite these shortcomings, the characterization is done well. The relationship between the two develops and progresses fairly well also. The author definitely has given the reader a good feel for band life, or life on stage. I guess I did not mind reading about this taboo subject because of this. I think the reader who wants to sit back with an interesting book who will put any thoughts of societal dis approvals or incest out of mind will enjoy this read. The story is interesting and the writing is done well.
In the book, Lilli quits a band on stage because she is tired of the band life and disappears from the music scene. Later, she returns to the stage with her brother and some friends. Then, she and her new band are reunited with the band she quit when both bands become guest judges for a reality show. This book covers a lot of territory in Lilli’s life as a stage performer. However, more important is her relationship with Elm, her brother, who is also part of Lilli’s later band. Throughout this phase, the author did a great job developing the two characters of Lilli and Elm, though I am not sure both were as committed as the reader might have thought to their new love interest or to being on stage. Both are not the skinny type performer we see, and, In fact, there are times when their weight is brought to the forefront. Sometimes, Elm even seems of more interested in eating at times than is his relationship with Lilli. Also, both seem, at time, a bit immature, not ready or interested in searching out or developing other relationships.
Despite these shortcomings, the characterization is done well. The relationship between the two develops and progresses fairly well also. The author definitely has given the reader a good feel for band life, or life on stage. I guess I did not mind reading about this taboo subject because of this. I think the reader who wants to sit back with an interesting book who will put any thoughts of societal dis approvals or incest out of mind will enjoy this read. The story is interesting and the writing is done well.
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