For so long, my very existence teetered on the brink of death That's what happens, when you lose the other piece of your heart I can't sleep, write or work Until, I meet him The one who won't let me fade back into the darkness Now, I'm feeling things that I shouldn't But the man is determined to breathe me back to life And, it's been so long since I took a breath
Zane
I've been called a cold heartless bastard one too many times However, I didn't get to where I am by not taking chances I'm the successful owner of Club Syn And then I meet her I'm torn between my mysterious caller and the raging storm Now, I'm feeling things I've never felt before One is untouchable, the other continues to push me away And, it's been so long since I've been inspired
Connie Lafortune is a rebel, coffee addict and incurable romantic. She pens steamy contemporary romance about enemies-to-lovers, second chances, and broken heroes with plenty of angst. If she's not in her office writing her next novel, you can bet she's curled up in a comfy chair with her nose buried in a book. On the hunt for her next book boyfriend!
The power of Fate, love, both past and present and the world of contemporary communication…two lonely people will find themselves rushing headlong down an unexpected avenue, but are they ready to accept what is right in front of them? Do either of them know how to truly live?
Connie Lafortune has turned up the heat, the heart and the hormones in PRIVATE MESSAGES and readers won’t want to miss a single page!
Zane was known as a cold-hearted businessman, but he clawed his way to the top and wasn’t about to slide back downhill. Lili has loved and in the end, lost a piece of her soul, her will to create a “new normal.” When they meet, little could they realize how explosive their chemistry would be, how healing or how they had been gifted with something that would complete them both.
Told from both POVs, Connie Lafortune’s words resonate as real, gut-deep and there is no doubting who we are sharing the page with. From the sights and sounds around them to the electric tension that fills the air they share, you may forget they are not real, but gifts from a talented author who writes with her own sense of passion!
This is truly a love story, highly charged with emotion, doubts, fears and the sizzling passion that rages between two people. Adult, raw and sometimes primal in its telling, this one exposes the depths of romance at its best!
I received a complimentary copy from Connie Lafortune!
Publication Date: January 23, 2019 Publisher: Connie Lafortune Genre: Contemporary Romance Print Length: 274 pages Available from: Amazon For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
This is an amazing story that I could not put down. I love a good romance and suspense and that is what I got and so much more. Connie had me on the edge of my bed reading late into the night to finish to see what happened next and boy oh boy what a roller coaster ride I got and I loved every moment of it!
Lili and Zane are two lost souls looking for something but not quite finding it. Lili has lost the love of her life and she is just floating day to day. She can't function but she tries and it is just not possible because her heart is broken. Then she meets him and he turns her whole world upside down and makes her think that she may be able to move on and find happiness again.
Zane oh boy my Zane is all alpha male and he takes no ones crap. He owns a club and takes his job seriously. Some people have called him heartless and cold but when he meets Lili his whole world is turned upside down and he opens his heart up to her. But Zane has to be careful because he is getting these creepy messages and he doesn't want that to effect his relationship.
As the two of them get closer Zane has to figure out who is sending these creepy messages and how to keep Lili safe. These two are explosive when they get together and the chemistry between they is dynamite! This is a must read romance suspense story that will have you on the edge of your seat reading faster and faster to see what happens next. Oh and that ending I loved loved it!
First, I was pulled in by the cover. Second, that blurb! I have to admit, this book was not what I expected it to be. I was taken down an emotional, steamy and unexpected path and I loved absolutely every second of it! I couldn't get enough of Zane and Lily! Their chemistry was delicious! A MUST READ!
Private Messages by Connie Lafortune is a steamy and emotional roller coaster journey, which is filled with romance, drama, chemistry, angst, heartbreak, twists and turns, suspense and a beautifully written love story all tied up into one intriguing book which had me totally enthralled start to finish. Zane and Lili took my heart, mind and body on quite the ride thru many deep emotions/feels and had reading at a rapid pace, without stopping in order to get my reader fix. Lili is an author who has known terrible tragedy, and has a hard time making it through each day. Zane is working everyday at his club, but has his own share of personal problems/demons. Can these two broken souls find their way back to the land of the living thru each other ? I dont want to give any spoilers away so just know the drama, angst, twists, turns, passion, heartbreak, angst, frustration, love and romance will take your heart to a whole new level.
“Private Messages” definitely stands out among other books in the same genre for several reasons, which made me really enjoy this work. First of all, there are no unhealthy, toxic relationships and the characters are drawn to each other with natural magnetism without any manipulations which I strongly detest when reading romance novels. Both Zane and Lilianna are very strong characters and I found that it was their strengths that complimented each other so well. Both are still recovering from tragic events of their pasts, each in their own way - Zane, by throwing himself into work and Lily, by trying to heal through her writing. From the moment they met, the attraction was obvious and I was actively rooting for them to not only end up together but help each other heal. There were a few obstacles on the way but in the end, they both impressed me greatly by their maturity and willingness to go to great lengths to fight for their newfound happiness. The episode with Zane’s “secret room” stole my heart, by the way. I never expected what I found there along with Lilianna and it made me like Zane even more. It was an absolute winner! Well-written, sizzling hot and yet impossibly tender, “Private Messages” is a true five-star read. Recommended!
I don’t read much romance. I like a good love story weaved through a more complex narrative, but stories focused on romance don’t tend to interest me. However, I couldn’t put the story of Zane and Lili down, mainly due to the fantastic writing. Lafortune made me care about these characters, and though the story plays out about as I expected, it didn’t matter that I knew what was coming-I wanted to feel it play out anyway. And I do mean “feel”. The writing in Private Messages is that good. I doubt this is going to make me pick up more romance novels, but I am certainly glad I gave this one a shot.
I received a copy and voluntarily left a review and all opinions are my own.
Ever since opening up The Claiming of Callan by Connie Lafortune, I have been a huge fan and have devoured all of her books. While Bound By Steel will always be my favorite, because you can't top perfection, I would love to share with you my love for her newest book Private Messages. Zane and Lili took my heart and body on quite the ride through many deep emotions and kept me turning pages at warp speed. I have been such a busy person of late that I haven't had much time to indulge in one of my favorite past times which is reading but once Zane and Lili took hold, they wouldn't let go until I read their final thoughts and felt every one of their emotions down to my toes. Yes, I know it sounds crazy talking about characters like they are real but when you open a book by a talented author like Connie, you can't help but feel they are real, from whiffs of the mint gum that Zane would chew after every cigarette to every feeling that flitted through their mind, and desire that ignited. Connie makes you privy to it all! Private Messages had me engrossed and ready to learn more about this dynamic duo that try to fight it every step of the way but still end up in each other's arms! What I loved most was the mystery that surrounded both of them that led to their fate of falling in love and melded them together seamlessly.
Zane Sinclair intrigued me from the beginning. I fell for this suit wearing, work obsessed owner of Club Syn and I wanted to know everything about the mystery that surrounded him like a shroud. I was impatient to see every moment of his developing relationship with Lili and to know who was sending him all those cryptic private messages. Connie is so good at writing from a male's point of view that a reader can't help but be left completely seduced and truly feel like they know every recess of her hero's mind but yet still greedy for more.
Lili is a tortured heroine who can't help but hold the tightest grip that she can on her past love and needs a man like Zane to show her that passion and a future does not have to be dead and forgotten but reveled in and celebrated. I felt such a fierce bond and protective nature for this heroine who has been through insurmountable grief and needs to learn to live again. I couldn't help but shed a few tears of sorrow and happiness on her behalf after experiencing the myriad of emotions that she goes through on her journey.
Connie Lafortune delivers an emotional tale of two broken individuals that fate intervenes and takes them right into each other's arms where the attraction is explosive and undeniable. I highly recommend Private Messages for a love story that not only speaks of unquenchable passion but also of the resilience of the heart after loss. Connie never fails to give a completely different story that she has in the past with a new and riveting tone that keeps a reader under her spell. I cannot wait to see if she will do more with this fictional world so we can see the other Sinclair brother up close and personal. Connie, please don't leave us waiting to long for more of your brilliant words...although your stories are well worth the wait!
I really enjoyed this book. This author keeps going from strength to strength. This book contains a number of questions, which keep you wanting to read more. All eventually get answered. I hate using the phrase ‘it’s a page turner’, but in this case the description is accurate. I started this on a Friday afternoon and planned on reading this only on the train to and from work as I had other things to do on the weekend. That soon went out of the window and I finished it on Sunday. The story is told from 2 (actually 3 for a small section) different points of view. This is one of the few authors I have read who not only manages to make this work, but makes it work well. I highly recommend this book. The characters are interesting and the story captivating.
This author already had 3 books out when I discovered her so I could go from one to the next. I had to wait for this one to be published. It was well worth the wait. This is definitely her best work so far, in my opinion. I can’t wait for her next one.
Wow this was such a wild ride of emotions. Lilianna has such a heartbreaking past and Zane is dealing with his own personal issues, not too gracefully for either of them mind you, but very real. I can totally related to burying yourself in work. Fate has plans for these two broken souls. It's hard to say much because it is the twists and turns and suspense that make this a real page turner. That ending! I should have known it would be unexpected and fabulous. I've read everything from this author and she never fails to blow me away with way things come together. And the chemistry! Smoking hot.
Private Messages by Connie Lafortune was interesting to read, Lili is drawn to Zane and him to her, but a loss in her past hinders her from acting on her feelings. I love reading about writers (Lili is a writer) and Zane is written in a way that it is sooo easy to fall in love with him as a writer. I love the author's style, it is a love story with its complexities and we are taken on a ride into the minds of these two people chapter after chapter so the story feels well rounded and connected.
I like the reveal at the end about something that further connects these two characters, it almost seemed like fate was rooting for them all along despite all the obstacles they faced.
Some stories touch the soul from the first moment you read the pages. When a book can draw you in from the beginning, hold you close, break your heart and then repair it, there's really nothing else as profound or awe-inspiring. I was lost within the pages and completely consumed until the very last word. In fact, I tried to slow down reading because I didn't want it to end.
As my experience with other Connie Lafortune books, I was swept up in the characters and deeply felt emotions of both Zane and Lili. Their stories are so expertly crafted that when the plot reaches its pivotal moments my heart beat as quickly as the couple. This is why I love this author's work. She has such a unique and wonderful voice that captures the heart and what it means to truly love and trust another. It's rare to find an author who can give so much through their words, who can make you feel as if the characters are real, and who doesn't fail to show the weaknesses and vices of humanity as well as the courage and forgiveness that strengthens bonds and breaks down barriers.
I'm in love with Zane and Lili and their struggles, their painful past, and their willingness to love again, taking the chance to bare a wounded heart. The sex scenes were phenomenally written as well as the brooding, dark, sensual alpha male Zane and his broken, sweet, artistic Lili. The heat and chemistry is off the charts. I LOVED their connection and everything about the revelations in the book. Truly and expertly written.
I can't rate Private Messages high enough. Please, go read it now. This is one author you don't want to miss!!!
Characters: 5/5 Plot: 5/5 Word Building: 5/5 Story Flow: 5/5
Lilianna meet Zane, the love of your life, the man you crave and cannot get enough of...
Although at first it is a mystery who is speaking in the prologue, after that, Private Messages becomes a back-and-forth tale told by both Zane and Lilianna, who come together in large part due to undeniable physical chemistry and attraction. They both have issues in their day-to-day lives as well as distinctly different personalities that become fleshed out as we go. The sex scenes sizzle and their interactions with outside, secondary players keep the tension alive. Others might find it off-putting that both Zane and Lilianna speak in the first person, but it keeps the tale on a level her-interpretations-his-interpretations playing field. They each are adept at self-analysis and self-reflection and make moves accordingly. As their dance of love ensues, it is undeniable that they are each other's number one and cannot be kept apart. Does revealing that spoil matters? No, because it is worth reading for the bumps and turns along the way, for the journey that leads them onward and tests them as it does for us all. A satisfying romance, to be sure, with well-painted characters that the author has managed to breathe life into through each's own idiosyncrasies and distinct personalities. That the author can write a "hot" book is not questioned. She is up to par with all others when it comes to steamy sex. Some might chafe at what seems to be overuse of the f-bomb and overall general salty language, but it's fitting for the characters who are upfront, brutally honest, and direct.
Private Messages had me wanting to read this as soon as I read the blurb and saw the cover I needed it then the first page just had me sucked in to what was going on then kept a hold of me till the very end . The connection between Lilianna and Zane was super intense thought it was interesting every time those two ran into one another . Zane intrigued me I wanted to learn more about him he was such a closed book at times but the more he got close to the heroine the more he opened up . My heart Really broke for Lili she's been holding on to her past love and needed a man like Zane in her life . The emotions were all over the place for me and the ending was just wow . I can't wait to read more by this author being that this was the first book that I've read by the author and it was a must one click as soon as possible . copy provided for honest review **************************************** hero=9 heroine=9 secondary characters=9 Chemistry=10 steam=6 romance=7 humor=3 darkness level=3 action=3 mystery=4 enjoyment=10 angst=3 story line=10 Story ending=10 character development=10 pacing=10 cover=10 Blurb =10 Stars =4 would I recommend this book=yes would I re read this book=yes would I read future books by this author= yes
This was a very intriguing story that had me in it's grip from the very beginning, and kept me in one position until the end. Lili is an author who has known great tragedy, and has a hard time getting through each day. Zane is always working at his club, but has his own share of demons. When these two meet, the connection is crazy, as they have sparks flying. Zane is ready to explore it, but Lili is more skittish, so Zane has his work cut out for him. She feels all that chemistry, but every time Zane gets too close, she runs, and then he has to chase her, because he's determined to make her his. This was a great emotional journey that kept me on the edge of my seat, as nothing was revealed too quickly. Even though I knew that Lili had gone through something heartbreaking, all the details weren't given quickly, and it was the same with all of Zane's past as well. The answers were peeled back layer by layer, not to mention, there was a little mystery going on as well. Which made for some twists for my colorful metaphor game to be played. And yeah, those sparks flying? Well they made for some super sexy times that lit the sheets on fire! Plus, there were some hysterically funny interactions with the cast of secondaries, who added more to the story. So yeah, loved this story, and HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND TO ALL!
Did I say Steamy? This story is more than steamy ---- it hits boiling point; definitely an adults only, book. Lili and Zane --- Z for short --- are an amazing couple. Both are hiding a deep sorrow. Both try to overcome it by throwing all their energy into their work. Lili, a writer, and Zane, a nightclub owner. When these two finally meet, they both feel a strong connection. Is it fate that has brought these two together? As their romance begins to blossom, they still can't let go of their pain that they hold deep within. One night, Zane suggests a game of Twenty Questions ---- they must answer truthfully. Gradually, in answering these questions, they begin to reveal some of their secrets, but it takes quite a lot longer to reveal all. What about the 'Private Messages'? one might ask. Well, each night, around 10 pm, Zane would receive a text message, source unknown. In fact, he looked forward to reading them. The messages were short and sweet...erm...well, not exactly sweet; more like a person pouring out her heart. This was one secret Zane kept to himself --- to him, the messages were personal. Then, once again, fate takes a hand. If you love hot steamy romances that keep wanting you to turn the pages, losing sleep because you can't put the book down until 'The End', then this is definitely the book for you.
I think it was Abraham Lincoln who quipped, when asked his opinion about a book: "people who like this sort of thing will find this the sort of thing they like." I've often found myself mirroring that mentality when it comes to reviewing books that typically exist beyond my comfort zone. In this case, Lafortune's PRIVATE MESSAGES tips Lincoln's quote upside down, shakes it up, and rephrases it as: "even people who don't think this is the sort of thing they like will find this to be something they really like..." :)
Truly. If steamy romance, delightful suspense, and contemporary lit is your style, slip this to the top of your TBR pile. Yet whatever your cup of tea, you're going to be savoring this book for the excellent writing, smooth cadence, brisk and engaging pace, believable and intriguing characterizations, complex storyline, and a take on love that's just too well-written to be pigeon-holed anywhere. The seamless head-hopping--never faltering for a beat, never falling out of character regardless of a narrator's gender or style--is particularly commendable.
Lafortune's is a story told with compassion as well as passion, and I think that is truly the loveliest finishing touch.
The two main characters share the spotlight with alternating chapters and POVs throughout. The author did a wonderful job making them very human with flaws and messy pasts. It was very interesting how they were woven together and how the author set up their coincidental meeting. This is a story of second chances and how love can be different but just as powerful. I liked Zane's charm and Lili's inner strength.
Plot
Lilianna writes erotica and Zane owns a bar. She loves what he does, he likes what his job brings. When they meet its electric between them but Zane doesn't want to submit and Lilianna just runs (and runs and runs...). That was probably the most annoying but also sweet part. Lilianna keeps running and Zane keeps trying because she's worth it. They stumble around, but eventually get there. Best part of the novel which made me overlook some other flaws was that it went past them getting together. It wasn't just a 'they lived happily ever after, it showed you that they did.
Overall
I was flipping pages and read this whole thing in two sittings. It was very enjoyable and even the parts that felt a little convenient/coincidental, were easy to overlook. The writing was enjoyable and the depth heart-wrenching. The sex scenes were mostly steamy with only the first one feeling somewhat jarring. I actually had to put the book down at that point and walk away because it just didn't feel...right. The second half of the book after that point redeemed itself and made for a very engrossing read. Plus it's fun to have a character who is a writer!
Rating
4.5 stars (rounded down)
If you're looking for a romance with some depth, this is it.
Private Messages is an engaging tale of a woman trying to live with grief that has crippled her and learns how to get through it in the act of falling in love with someone new. I enjoyed reading her as she tried, and often failed, to cope with the loss that has consumed her life. Unfortunately, the person she falls in love with is a terrible human with few redeeming qualities. He’s one of those self-absorbed, selfish people who things always work out for, and at no point in the book is any of his worst behavior ever called into question or fixed. I kept rooting for him to fail at something, and at one point, he does, but that works itself out by the end with no effort or improvement on his part.
The central conflict of the story gets resolved about three-quarters of the way through the book, and what follows are a series of about four or five epilogues, which reminded me of the first time I watched The Return of the King. However, Private Messages was very well-written. The prose style is casual and conversational, making for an easy read that feels like a friend telling you a story over drinks. As for the sex, it is red hot, intense and full of desire.
If you can get past the unlikeable male lead and focus on the woman’s story, this is worth reading.
This was my first Connie Lafortune novel. It started a little slow for me, but I've been reading more action-packed SEAL/protector books of late, so once I reset my reading parameters, it moved very smoothly and I got into the story. The internal conflict for Liliana is one I've thought about quite a bit because I think it's something that many couples probably think about (whether they will admit it or not) -- if my partner dies, will I fall in love again? And if I do, how guilty will I feel? I also thought that Zane's inner conflict was relatable as well -- the situation no, but the concept of siblings fighting and pulling apart. I watched that in my family and it's still going on. The conversations between the two characters never felt forced or overdone for me, like sometimes it does when total Alphas start spouting overly romantic pledges. Zane actually sounded like what I hear real people say. I read the entire novel in one sitting, which is always a good sign. Looking forward to another Lafortune title.
What a great read. Emotional, sexy, compelling. From the start you are drawn to the two main characters Zane and Lilianna; each chapter cleverly weaving its way through their individual lives until one evening they unexpectedly collide. Although instantly drawn to each other, Zane and Lili must first overcome their past heartbreaks before they can trust themselves to love the other, and you find yourself willing them to let go of their vulnerabilities and take the chance to find out where their relationship will take them. When it does the passion is intense and in places pretty steamy!
Lafortune has done a great job in developing the characters and has created a well-rounded, well-written story. I look forward to reading more from the author in the future.
Lili is still reeling from the loss of the love of her life. She is struggling with writers block and she has a deadline that she is not sure if she will be able to meet. She is struggling with a depression that continues to try to pull her under.
Zane is a business owner. He has been 100% dedicated to his club, Club Syn. He doesn’t have time for dating and meeting women. He is working to make his business a success.
When Lili and Zane meet, they both feel a connection to each other that neither understands. But as they get to know each other and break down each other’s walls, the love that they find within each makes them stronger and helps them to grow in their personal lives and together.
Yet another masterpiece by Connie Lafortune. Having read the author's previous books, I was waiting for the latest release. And seriously it was worth the wait. Both Zane and Lilliana’s characters were well sketched. Their enigmatic personalities and sizzling chemistry kept me hooked till the very end. Sparks flew out of the pages. The writing as always was smooth and lyrical and there wasn’t even a single dull moment when I felt drifted. The enigma, the intrigue, and suspense kept me on tenterhooks all through the read. A very well written romance which is as pure as it is steamy. Worth the read for all the lovers of dark passionate romantic fiction.
I totally loved this book! Zane was so swoon worthy. Don't get me wrong I do absolutely love a good bad boy, but it was so refreshing to have Zane be persistent but not forceful in his pursuit of Lilli. I was prepared for this book to turn a little darker, because owning a place called Club Sun you expect backdoor dealings and shady characters. Not in this one! Zane is a total stand up guy who had some serious issues with his family but he didn't let that stop him from falling in love and treating love with respect and honesty. I could go on and on, and that's why I gave a 5 star rating. This was my first book by Connie Lafortune but I guarantee it won't be my last. Swoon, swoon, swoon!!!
The answer is obviously yes, but Private Messages puts you through the emotional wringer getting there. Neither Lili or Zane are looking for love and when it comes they do all they can to resist it.
One thing is certain about Connie Lafortune, her books never take you down the predictable path. In fact, I think she likes her characters to have a little dig at readers for even thinking it 😉.
This is a passionate love story that sizzles on the page leaving you desperately hoping that Lili and Zane find their way to give love a chance. But of course fate always plays a hand.
There is nothing light and fluffy about this love story. It's intense, gripping & very good.
She is a writer, barely living after the tragedy and he is coldhearted owned of the Club Syn. They are somehow thrown together and have an intense connection from the start. But getting from connection to lovers, it's not that straight forward.
I love the intensity of the story, there are no dull moments & I was very intrigued.
I liked Lili a lot, she is a very well developed character. However Zane is another story, I dislike him a lot, especially at the beginning of the novel.
I loved how fate showed up at just the right times to weave an intricate tale for Lili and Zane. The author does a great job of including details throughout the story to give you clues about what’s to come about, but then throws you for a loop later on. Each character has their own back story, baggage, hang ups, and dreams for the future which make for a great tale. The characters showed their vulnerability and strengths, as well as their healing from past problems. I really enjoyed the journey.
Awesome steamy romance with two characters destined to intertwine. This is a very moving, and emotionally packed book. The plot is tight, and I loved all the twists the author placed within the story.
Lili and Zane have great depth, and I appreciated how their backstories just added to the beauty of their tale. The author did a great job at showing their vulnerabilities, and how together they could heal and move forward.
Truly fantastic and gripping! I highly recommend “Private Messages” for anyone looking for a romance with depth.
5 stars is just not enough. You will fall in love with both Zane and Lillis story, some great characters through the journey of reading this that will bring joy and emotion right through to the end. I won't give the storyline away as I would hate to ruin your pleasure but you will not be disappointed with reading this book. Another excellent book by one of my favourite authors well done Connie .
This is a new author to me, and goodness, I cannot wait to read more of her work. Lili and Zane are both broken and lost souls, who are looking for something to fulfill their lives, but are not sure what or whom. This is a well written emotional roller coaster journey, which is filled with suspense, romance, and intense chemistry, which all had me totally captivated throughout. I cannot wait to read more form this talented author, and recommend this novel for all.
I absolutely love the mixture of romance and suspense in this book. The author combines them in a perfect, compelling, page-turning fashion. Lilianna and Zane are two broken, hurt people who get a second chance at love together. This is a wonderful story that will hold your attention and leave you with a great ending. I look forward to reading more from this author. I Highly Recommend You Check Out Private Messages.