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the tough choices are what makes life

Years ago, I was the scape goat for a very powerful man and his six sons. I managed to escape and build a quiet life for myself. When the opportunity arose to help others in similar situations, I took it. Now, I’m known in the streets for my talented hand in forgery among other things. Almost anybody a person wishes to become, I can make it happen, well, with the help of my two best friends.

Arsuilla. Survivor. Savior. I answer to them all. Oh, and voice stealer. I swear, throat punch a guy one time and it’ll stick with you for a lifetime.

Life is looking up until the six sons find me. At first I fear they’ve been sent by their father to drag me kicking and screaming back to him. But I soon come to realize, I’ve got more to fear from Anderson, Alejandro, Abraham, Atlas, Alek, and Aric. Like losing my heart to the six brothers.

This is a Villainously Romantic WhyChoose Retelling with some chuckles, several fearless stunts, and enough determination to rival the sea.

(A Villainously Romantic Retelling)

142 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 7, 2019

46 people are currently reading
111 people want to read

About the author

Brandy Slaven

36 books439 followers
Brandy Slaven lives in Tennessee with her husband and two wild children. If you can't find her typing away at her laptop, you will find her with her nose in a book at the beach or hiking at a state park.

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5 stars
51 (34%)
4 stars
50 (34%)
3 stars
31 (21%)
2 stars
11 (7%)
1 star
4 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
Profile Image for ❀ Crystal ✿ -  PEACE ☮ LOVE ♥ BOOKS .
2,533 reviews310 followers
May 6, 2021
This was a cute read. Super short sadly. There was a lot of getting to know the heroine early on and it set up a nice plot which I really wish was expanded. It made her reconnecting with her men all about sex when it happens since I believe there were 5 or maybe 7?!?! All the men and even the heroine have names starting with "A" so it was nearly impossible to separate any of them mentally. There is also a bit of action from the mob connection in their family which took a nice twist in the end. Also the men and her are technically step siblings so do with that what you will. I enjoyed the story and the heroine as well. Honestly though, maybe I'm slow but I can't figure out what story this is a loose retelling of, I don't really think it matters but I feel like I should know lol. Super quick cute RH standalone read!
Profile Image for Natalie  H.
3,802 reviews30 followers
November 7, 2019
So many A names. Alek, Abe, Anderson, Atlas ,Aric and Alejandro, not forgetting Arsuilla, who pretty much goes by nicknames throughout. After the little peek in the previous book, this was one I was looking forward to and it didn’t disappoint. A little stalking, plenty of sex and violence. Felt like the guys kind of blended with only Atlas, Anderson and maybe Alejandro standing out. So many A names, my head is spinning.
Profile Image for Missy Brown.
1,759 reviews30 followers
November 8, 2019
I enjoyed Identity very much. These retellings are loosely based on our favorite stores. That is something to keep in mind when going into these series. Identity is book three in the series retellings, each one done by different authors.

In Identity, we have Arsuilla, who has had a difficult past, one that she has had to run from. So she has used her skills to help others like her in situations that they need help getting out of. The trick is for her to still stay ahead of the ones she ran from. But what happens when her past catches up with her?

Brandy did an gret job of retelling this story, which has more grit, and darker. The story itself was interesting and caught my interest. To me this was a fast read, the story kept my interest and the pace was fast. The guys are hot and just a tad dangerous. With a few twists and turns, Identity makes for a great read.
Profile Image for ♂♀♂ Mary's Menage Reviews ♂♂♀.
433 reviews233 followers
January 15, 2020
That was totally original and I loved it!

I did not read any of this series before nor this author and this story is definitely a stand alone with a HEA ending like I love menage.

Really good. I was kept on my toes and did not expect the ending. I particularly like how the author gave individual personal to each characters.

Of course if you do not like menage, then stay clear from this book. You will find sex but they were not overly erotic but nicely incorporated into the plot

A different menage and I really liked it!
Profile Image for Andréa.
813 reviews
November 26, 2020
Rating : 3,5/5 Stars

It was good but I was expecting more. No world building or barely a little of it so it took me a while to understand where things were happening. Plus nothing really happened for most of the book and when it did it was way too rushed for my taste. I'm still confused about some parts of the plot but all in all it was an okay read. Not my favorite by this author though.
Profile Image for SJ.
2,412 reviews15 followers
November 3, 2019
Wowser! I have to say how much I loved this book, well written the writer drew me in straight away and kept me hooked throughout. With some interesting characters bringing the story to life, an amazing plotline that kept my interest all the way through and with a couple of twists I did not see coming I did not put it down, if I am honest then I would have preferred it to be a little longer and more detailed and drawn out purely because I enjoyed it so much but that in no way detracted me from the story. I am very impressed and it left me feeling like a very satisfied reader. I am a huge fan of Brandy Slaven and as always she knocked it way out of rhe ball park, a great read
474 reviews
November 26, 2019
Good, just not my style

I'm a warm and fluffy type of reader. This story has some negative (darker) aspects. Also, the MFC is built up well in the beginning but the male characters aren't when they're introduced. The relationship felt quick, probably because of the characters past history. Again, not a bad story, just not my style.
Profile Image for Rebecca Lazarus.
61 reviews
November 7, 2019
Love it

Brandy did such an amazing job telling this story. Ursula is my spirit villian and this book made me love her so much more.
Profile Image for Nikki.
906 reviews83 followers
September 26, 2022
Rating: 3 Stars
POV(s): Single—First Person (FMC)
Relationship: Reverse Harem
Genre(s): Contemporary Romance, Fairytale Adaptation

Divider


I liked this author’s White Trash books, which is why I’m sad to say that Identity was a miss for me.

Character arcs and storylines locked follow through, depth, and consistency (what was the point of the FMC being an amazing hacker/forger? It added nothing to the story and was easily abandoned).

Additionally, I personally hesitate to consider this a villainous retelling of the “Sea Witch”/Ursula as it only included honorific references to the original story—to name a few: seven royal “siblings”; “Voice Stealer” & “Sea Witch” nicknames; FMC’s Best Friends, aka the “eels”, Ransam and Orsam (Ursula’s Eels: Flotsam and Botsam); FMC’s short white hair; One of the MMC’s is named “Arik” (Erik)—but nothing plot wise.

Divider


Title: “Identity (A Villainously Romantic Retelling #3)” by Brandy Slaven
Interconnected Series: N/A
Standalone: Yes
Cliffhanger: No
HEA:
Triggers: Yes
Tags/Tropes:
➢ Childhood-Companions
➢ Mafia
➢ Seperation
363 reviews5 followers
May 23, 2020
I liked this little mermaid retelling that focuses on Ursula. I liked that the harem was to be a gender swap on Ariel and her sisters and I also liked that all of them grew up together (maybe not so much as pseudo siblings) as childhood sweethearts. One part that I didn't like was how the story wasn't more little mermaid esque, while I understand that this is a contemporary retelling so we would have mermaids in it I feel as if there could have been more elements in this than there was. The other thing I didn't really like was how underwhelming the big reveals of secrets seemed to be, most of the big reveals seemed to be sweeped under the rug or made out not to be as shocking as they should have been with either Su or the guys just accepting everything without too much thought. I also think that the guys should have told Su the truth about Trenton when they found her instead of letting her think differently. Each guy was adorable and I did like how they all did everything they could to keep Su safe and protected, even at the cost of her not being in their life. I also liked the mafia, crime feel this book had in the background which would have been interesting to learn more about if the book was longer. Overall this was a cute, quick read that I enjoyed.
Profile Image for Barb.
1,035 reviews3 followers
June 16, 2021
A twist of reality

This author has a unique style for telling a story. Every time I read a book of hers, I find myself thoroughly enjoying it. This RH book is exciting and different. Su is an independent and brave woman. She finds courage to get herself out of a bad situation. She was basically a princess in her prior life. She can't hide forever as she finds her past catching up with her.
Profile Image for Roo.
56 reviews
December 1, 2022
Strong start, weakest finish

The FMC in the first half seems to be a different person to the one in the second half.

The build up of suspense and conveying her fear of being found was really well done. Then she caves, doesn't fight and goes back with them.

They lie, keep secrets, make her panic and anxiety worse because... they can?

Nothing happens for several chapters and then so much happens in the last chapter. It's so rushed there's a massive disconnect.
Profile Image for Deja.
751 reviews1 follower
August 24, 2021
This was an interesting read I was never a fan of The Little Mermaid as a kid but I always felt for Ursilla she had got the crap end of the stick. This story gave me hope for her character and I loved her and the Trenton brothers that was a lot of hot man meat. I loved this story and I liked the way the author wrote it as well. I cannot wait to see what happens in the rest of this series.
80 reviews
August 15, 2022
quick fun read

I like how it turned the story on its head and yet was totally different. I also love the fact that it speaks to the duality of people. I just wish it was longer or that their was a sequel to expand on her hacking and helping others, plus her recovery from such a horrible injury.
Profile Image for Jessica.
111 reviews
June 24, 2023
Run run as fast as you can. Avoid all twins they've been hired by a man. Or men youve been running from for years. Poor daddy met his demise but daughter feels guilty. That was a crappy plot. I don't know anyone forgiving enough to just forget being sold. Characters had great connection and relationships didn't seem rushed.
38 reviews4 followers
June 7, 2020
I liked this particular story better than a few of the others in the series.
Profile Image for saint.
222 reviews
November 24, 2024
not particularly offensive, but 𝘣𝘰𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨
Profile Image for Mandy McKee.
1,226 reviews3 followers
March 25, 2022
a really steamy and fun retelling of a classic fairytale.
I loved how strong and brave Arsuilla was and how the guys never gave up on her. with a twist ending and some mystery. I really enjoyed this book.
Profile Image for Tiblu.
1,255 reviews49 followers
November 7, 2019
Go in hoping to love walk out hating.

What was this ?
I know this h was supposed to be tied to Ursula from “Little
Mermaid” but which version ?
I know nothing about the original story but this wasn’t based on the Disney movie I loved either.
Honestly I don’t know what this was.

⚠️ There might be spoilers, not planning on it but best to be safe⚠️
This story kept me frustrated and worried and confused.
We start with “Su”,the h here was called soo many many things it was kinda hard to keep with what her name really was, especially w/all the nicknames used by the guys.
You know all the guys HAVE TO HAVE a special pet name for the h in a story this short w/only her POV to keep them all straight . Well that and being constantly reminded of how they look soo you can tell on A name from another.

gods but this book worked a nerve . Worked do it hard.
Ok, like in Rhee last story w/Ella and her single Dalmatian,this image of a Bad A itch is built up . A real “tough” girl who can handle herself . She doesn’t really need anyone but is smart enough to have found ppl she can lean in. Only in both cases just as you start to thinking building a connection to her and buying into it something happens to shatter it.

Ok, we need Su, she sounds like this Bad A who can take care of herself and can kick A abs take names . She’s lonely but happy in the life she’s built foe herself ,age works and she surfs and helps others in her own way. She has two besties to watch her back and she’s doing alright.
Then “her guys” suddenly swoop in to drag her back. She’s tries to run they catch her, she tries again. Then gives up.
I was like WTH ? I was already drowning in confusion because we were already about 5-6 chapters in to a 14 chapter book when the guys were finally showing up. I was frustrated by that, knowing there wasn’t going to be that much depth if they were showing up this far in w/a book this short. My frustration and agitation only grew when the guys almost forcefully take her back w/out explaining a word and kea mug her to imagine the worse.
Then once back at the mansion that was always more prison than home, she runs up to her old room rips everything apart tosses it out a window and sulfa foe three days. K
Then still w/out a single discussed or explained or anything worked out she becomes a horny teenager and just starts randomly sleeping w/a different guy every few pages. Eventually a few things are said here and there about what’s going on but not enough and nothing to bridge the gaps that have been left behind. Su might know all these men and suddenly jumping back into their arms and beads “might” make sense to her, ( even if she’d supposedly never had sex with them before) but it didn’t to me. I was just this outsider . I didn’t grow up w/them. I didn’t know her or them and the huge switch after such a long separation and NO POV but hers ,it didn’t make sense . It’s was like sudden,y just reading about Kendall and all her guys only some extra and they all had A names. And that’s it was basically Su being a horny teen telling us how sexy they were . How they didn’t have an ounce of fat . Why can’t they have ANY fat ? We aren’t talking about a lean cut of meat because your watching your fat intake .
Then next at the end we’re having a big show down w/mysterious overly violent bad guys and more less the end .
And a HFN while they run off to have sec.
What was this ? Heck if I know !
Any and all connections to “Little Mermaid” we mostly vague but then again the point and or the plot of the story was as well. I guess Trenton was supposed to be a stand in for Triton 🔱 and the “good loving father “ is an evil monster ?
Don’t know . No longer care. At times I’ve loved Brandy’s work and I’ll probably be a minority here. But this was a mess to me.
Supposed Bad A villainess, is really nothing more than a horny teenager with a plot that was one big dirty puddle.
I’m Not trying anymore of these,. If, If these stories were longer, and the writers were giving themselves time and space to unpack everything they have maybe, maybe these would be good but they aren’t. That plus a single POV has made the books I’ve read a frustrating and annoying exp.
All the best Ms. Slaven but No more for me.
Profile Image for Myth_schelle.
282 reviews3 followers
May 30, 2022
Read for the B.A.N.G. Book Club 2022 Challenge - Fairytale category

Had some good ideas, and well-written, but not long enough to do justice to a RH with 7 men. Ended up feeling very choppy and unsatisfying.
Profile Image for Kelly Marie.
596 reviews8 followers
December 1, 2019
Great retelling of one of my fave villains, Ursula! Right from the beginning I was hooked. Arsuilla, AKA Su, is our BA female of the story. She escaped a life that was hurting her and has stayed hidden for quite a while. She has found real “friends” and has found a purpose helping people escape toxic pasts just like hers.

“Unfortunately, going back is more than just handing myself over to them again. It’s sacrificing my freedom to Trenton. I will not be the victim nor the villain of my story any longer. I choose my fate.”

Things are going great and then all of a sudden the 6 brothers (all are related by adoption only) found her. She attempts to run and at first and about makes it. This is where things get a little wishy washy for me. Su is this BA female character but basically gives up and goes with the brothers to face her father, Trenton, with whom she ran away from in the first place.

“No matter the hands they’re dealt, the cards don’t always have to be played the same way.”

Ok, I am invested in this story at this point and continue because I just have to figure out what is going on and why Su even ran in the first place. Like I said, I was hooked!

This is a reverse harem and you know from the story that she loves the brothers but after she throws a crazy temper tantrum for three days she ends up in bed with them. When it came to the brothers it was a little confusing following them as all their names started with an A. Their relationships felt a little rushed for me since there weren't any answers or explanation on why they brought her back in the first place. With that being said, the story is a great story, and the ending answers our questions and ties it up very nicely. I hate to say this but I wish there was a bit more plot and a little less sexy time so the characters could develop a little more. Like I said, I really liked the spin on Ursula and am looking forward to reading others in this group!
Profile Image for Twinsie Talk Angie J.
1,811 reviews
November 10, 2019
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Identity by Brandy Slaven
I received this book from the author for an honest review.
*Clapping* The Little Mermaid was my girls favorite Disney movie so I was super excited to read this book. I mean everyone hates Arsuilla AKA Su. She has left everyone she loves and everything she knows to keep the ones she loves safe. She is now helping others who left with nothing on their backs. She says she wished she had someone helping her when she escaped so she is returning the favor with her talents. When the guys some back Arsuilla freaks but soon starts to remember and fall for the brothers.
The scenes with the br0thers are Bow Chicka Wow Wow reads for sure. ANNNND Of course since it’s a RH series you can’t pick just one and thank God you don’t have too.
This is a great addition to the series of anti-hero books!!
Profile Image for Anna.
838 reviews
November 6, 2019
Again, I LOVE this series idea. This book we take on Arsuilla. In this story she's a bad ass chick who had a rough past that she had to run from. She's used her own history and her skills to start helping others who find themselves in situations they can't get out of. All while trying to stay one step ahead of those she left behind. She can't run from her past forever though. When it does catch up to her, her world may never be the same.

This one was a bit grittier and I really enjoyed that. Su's past and the life she came from are dark. The story really grabbed me from the get go and I wasn't expecting that. I'm not always a fan of novellas, I've said that before, but I really did enjoy this one. While I could have read more of their story, I don't feel like it was rushed or that we were really missing any information.

We have six seriously hot, dark and dangerous men and twists we didn't see coming. What more could you ask for?
Profile Image for Samantha.
88 reviews1 follower
November 12, 2019
This book is very loosely based on the villain Ursula. I loved the story and the FMC. I’ve read other reviews that complain about the length of the story and claim they are “confused” because this isn’t like any story they’ve heard about Ursula. To those reviewers, do us and the authors a favor and don’t continue this series. Because it’s exactly what you’re complaining about. Anthology-length books (novellas basically) with a re-telling theme. This does NOT mean they will be retelling the fairy tales. They are re-telling the villains in a way that makes the audience fall in love with them. Don’t be the 1 star reviewer because you didn’t read the info on the book before buying it.
557 reviews1 follower
November 9, 2019
Enjoyable read

I most definitely enjoyed this book and recommend giving it a read. The book follows Arsuilla who starts off on the run from Trenton and his four sons. The story was on the shorter side, and my only complaint is if it was a bit longer, there could have been a bit more development and meat put into the storyline and relationships, but all in all I liked the story and characters. If you’re one that roots for the bad guy, or just wonders if there’s another side to the story we all know, grab your copy.
Profile Image for Christina.
169 reviews1 follower
November 20, 2019
Cute

This was a really cute, short and sweet villain retelling and I enjoyed it a lot. I’ve always been a bit of a villain lover, so seeing someone based on the famous sea witch Ursula get a happy ending brought all the warm fuzzies to my heart. I think I enjoyed the Easter Eggs throughout the story the most lol the OG Flotsam & Jetsam definitely got a major upgrade haha. I would have loved for the story to be longer and to have had the chance to really get to know the characters and their relationships amongst each other better but overall I was happy with the story.
Profile Image for Kim Latham.
486 reviews3 followers
November 8, 2019
Love this Villian retelling

I didn't know exactly what I would find when I read this but then I never do when I read one of Brandy Slaven's books! I absolutely loved this story and it was so wonderfully written.
I can't wait to read the books that her counterparts wrote for the Villa of Villians!

This is an RH book.
2,613 reviews15 followers
November 29, 2019
I usually am not a fan of retelling of stories I love in the original version but this one is really good. The A's are confusing but it's easy once you get who's who. I love how it starts with a girl on the run. Staying one step ahead of her past. However what if the past catches up to you. I loved how this story flowed. Fast pace but not too fast, easy read. Brilliant job Brandy.
343 reviews
December 26, 2019
This was a great book. I haven’t read any more in the series, and I’m not sure I want too, but I do know that I liked this one. She helps women and children get away from abusive homes by giving them new identities. She came from an abusive home herself, but was able to get out, at least she thought so. Her 6 stepbrothers had been keeping tabs on her.
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