Cassandra is everything I'm not. Kind, warm, optimistic... happy. If I was less of a selfish prick, I'd walk away. But I can't.
It was supposed to be one night of fun, but ten months after Valentine Roulette he can't get the feisty model out of his head. She's invaded his dreams, ruined every session at Black Light, and it's been four months since she even returned a text. This isn't him. Logan Chisholm doesn't obsess over women. He doesn't replay every sweet cry he drew from their lips, doesn't remember the way their smile changes when they laugh, but Cassandra Moreira is different. He has to figure out if their chemistry was real... or just part of the game. Luckily, Christmas has come early this year, because she's back in L.A. and he's not letting her leave again without getting a second date. And this time he won't take no for an answer.
Jennifer Bene is a USA Today bestselling author of dangerously sexy and deviously dark romance. From BDSM, to Suspense, Dark Romance, and Thrillers—she writes it all. Always delivering a twisty, spine-tingling journey with the promise of a happily-ever-after.
I highly recommend this well-written, consensual, and character-driven BDSM romance between two likeable people who exhibit growth. I particularly appreciated that the couple's problems were realistic (I'm not one for the 6'4" billionaire special ops alpha shifter) and organic since the conflicts grew out of the pair's personality differences rather than, say, dark secrets or contrived misunderstandings. You spend the entire book hoping that Cassandra and Logan will get their HEA and, really, there's no higher praise for a book in this particular genre than that.
I also want to assure potential readers that though this is part of a series, it is a standalone. Characters from other books do appear, but they are introduced; and, though this story is a spin-off of Celebrity Roulette, Cassandra and Logan played a very minor part there.
Longer Version:
Cassandra and Logan had a wonderful evening at the last Black Light Valentine's Day Roulette contest and then went their separate ways. Now reunited, they must navigate the challenges posed by their different outlooks (his gloomy, hers sunny), professional aspirations (he's an LA CEO, she's a much-traveled model), and backgrounds (his loveless, hers filled with love). Side Note: I really appreciated that Ms. Bene presented the models as friendly since so many books divide women.
There's a lot to like about this book. Because other reviewers have addressed much of it, I want to particularly mention four that struck me:
1) While Logan's character -- the white, wealthy, entitled, alphahole dom -- is my least favorite, his loneliness, need for her, and lack of self-confidence were touching. So many authors write fantasy dominants who show no feelings or any "weakness" -- the very models of Über-masculinity that in real life are such harmful role models for men and boys. Logan was more vulnerable and complex, and, hence, more interesting. He not only matured, but also actually had to earn Cassandra's forgiveness after one particularly bone-headed move. So many H's in this genre simply say "I'm sorry, we good?" and the h's instantly forgive them. I'm glad Ms. Bene took another route.
2) I appreciated that in a genre that is predominantly white, Ms. Bene gave us an African-American leading lady.
3) I appreciated that Ms. Bene portrayed BDSM as fun! It's no accident that words such as "play," "scene," and "toys" are associated with this lifestyle. Yet, far too many books turn it into endurance contests that none of the participants appear to enjoy. It was refreshing that this story took a different route, which brings me to...
4) I was very happy that this was much warmer and lighter in tone than Black Light: Brave. While I understand that the editors want to provide disparate offerings to fans, the "darker" Black Light books focus exclusively on abused subs, and I'd love to see the series try something new. There are other serious topics authors might implement.
And, like others, I loved the truly inspired ending!
Finally, I want to give a shout-out to this thoughtful and well-written review: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/8.... I enjoy this site because it allows me to read others' responses: their prose, analogies, and insights have encouraged me to sharpen my own literary analysis skills. In this particular case, Robert draws very apt comparisons between this book and A Christmas Carol (down to Cassandra's three friends who approximate the three ghosts). Given this allusion, the story's timeline, and the fact that this book is placed among last season's Black Light offerings, I believe that its publication was delayed. No matter: it's always nice to celebrate Christmas in April -- particularly now.
5 stars. Note: I adhere to the ratings system as laid out by Goodreads: 1 star = did not like it; 2 stars = it was okay; 3 stars = liked it; 4 stars = really liked it; 5 stars = it was amazing. I do not think that every book I read is "amazing;" further, I think that it cheapens the rating system to always assign 4 or 5 stars. If a book really earns the 4 or 5 stars (and I realize that this is, to some degree, subjective), I'll give them -- but it certainly shouldn't apply to every book. YMMV, and everyone should enjoy/rate these books as they wish. In addition, I did not receive this book as an ARC; I'm not another author who hosts or is hosted by other authors in this genre on our websites; and I'm not friends with the author IRL, "friends" on this site, or friends on any social media site.
We are so used to JB writing dark stories, and this didn't have an ounce of darkness to it but oh boy was it everything I wanted and more. The story of a lonely, broken guy who doesn't even realise it until too late, and the smart, sassy, strong woman who lights his path to redemption. This pair captivated me with their story, it really is an "I can't put it down" book, along with being an "it made me cry" one, too. The growth this pair go through, particularly Logan, and they way in which they support each other gave me all the feels, not to mention just how much it made me happy sigh.
And I loved, bloody loved, how the author turned things on their head in Charmed. So many tropes and cliches were upended, giving us a book that felt so very different to the norm. BDSM romances can get very 'samey', but she took the rule book, tore it up, scattered the pieces to the wind and created a story that will stay with me for a long time. One where the rich, older Dom didn't really have a clue about life and it was the young, light-hearted submissive who taught him how to live and love.
Once we peeled away the layers and found the truth of Logan my heart broke for him. His upbringing had left him alone, friendless, unable to appreciate or indeed enjoy the life he had. The first step in recovery is admitting you have a problem and boy did it take Logan a long time, and a huge mistake, to reach that point of acknowledgement. Yet despite him clearly being an absolute a-hole at times he was also incredibly charming and sweet. He was worth saving and Cassandra was the prefect girl to do that.
The world would definitely be a better place if we all channeled a little more Cassandra into our lives. Her whole ethos and outlook on life is amazing and I totally fell in love with her character. Even her bratty submissive side felt warm and caring! She stood her ground over things she believed in and I wish I had a fraction of her confidence and a chunk of her ability to find the joy in life.
This pair were explosive together and we are treated to some wonderful scenes with them (in all meanings of the word). I know without a shadow of a doubt that this will be hugely popular with fans of the Black Light series, it's far too amazing to be anything else. I also happily recommend it to anyone who enjoys a captivating, full of feels, BDSM romance.
OMG I almost forgot to mention the ending - oh boy the ending. It's so NOT JB's usual style but it soooo fitted the book and the characters. It's even a little cheesy in that wonderful romance way but it was also perfect. And heartwarming. And panty melting. And more happy sigh inducing. Loved it all.
I’ve got to confess I haven’t read many of the Black Light series and after reading and loving this story I’m gonna have to rectify that.
This is a fabulous read with two wonderful characters Logan and Cassandra. I was totally rooting for these two from the start. The chemistry between these two is hot hot hot.
This is exactly the kind of book I needed right now! It is full of laughter, sass, tears, doubt, family, hope, and new beginnings! And coming from Ms Bene the right amount of spine tingling "carnal" encounters! This story felt like a soft blanket to wrap up in, knowing it would keep out the real world for a time.
The timing of this release is currently out of synch with the season but then again you can always read it when the season arrives. After all, who knew Die Hard would become a Christmas classic but you can watch it all year.
At the beginning of the novella, Scrooge, Frank Logan of Scrooged, or Logan, are cold-hearted business men who either despise or ignore Christmas. Not unlike Scrooge Logan, head of the family firm, is the product of a father perpetually driving and belittling even minor shortfalls in his son or his employees. Like in the other Christmas Carol iterations the ability of a micromanager to redeem himself by transforming into a more sympathetic character is the key theme of the story.
The tale of Logan’s redemption isn’t by Christmas ghosts but Cassandra’s roommates and close friends. After a “nuclear grade f - up” Logan is helped in his transformation by finally taking some direct, cathartic conversations and advice from Cassandra’s friends and roommates.
Once “ as solitary as an oyster” this misanthrope gets the full rehabilitation treatment but not before memories, with a mixture of deep regret, move him to find a new appreciation of life and maybe get his own “Christmas miracle.”
For those that may not have already been fans of Jennifer Bene’s work you should know that she does a great job with the women in her stories. They are usually Spitfires, with little filtering between brain and mouth. In Cassandra’s case she has two loving friends who are consummate guardians of the perpetually upbeat, vibrant, eye rolling beauty. When she is treated intolerably her friends mount an attack with verbal assaults worthy of a drill sergeant. The realism of Ms. Bene’s characters are exactly what makes them and the story endearing.
The luck of Black Light LA’s. roulette wheel once again has paired some very interesting people together. While Logan is appropriately described as an asshole and a gentleman Cassandra, the object of his affection, is all class and sass. There are some interesting dates, no wait, they were NOT dates, and sexually gratifying situations to keep one entertained. Entertaining characters and a fun read.
So when Christas does come around “‘Come out the coast, we’ll get together, have a few laughs…’” Hey, stop rolling your eyes.
Cassandra Moreira has a burgeoning modeling career that takes her all around the world, and while she enjoys playing at the Black Light BDSM club, she's not looking for a permanent relationship. Logan Chisholm met her at a previous Black Light event, and hasn't been able to get her out of his mind since. But can the sunny model and the prickly perfectionist make a relationship work together.
What we don't see at first is that poor Logan is being crushed under the weight of expectations, both his family's and his own. He's constantly trying to live up to his father, but in all the wrong ways, making him an angry, bitter man and a really crappy boss. Cassandra lightens him up, but she has some hang-ups, too, especially when she thinks he's denigrating her intelligence, but she's also ready to give up the relationship at the first major fight. Thankfully, this is a romance novel, so they do get back together, and help each other to love and heal.
This is a “can’t put it down” kind of read, and it’s also a “don’t WANT to put it down” kind! Logan’s patience while waiting for Cassandra at the show sets the stage for a Dom that knows what he wants and will have it. Logan and Cassandra’s scenes are hot and steamy, but there’s a huge psychological aspect to this book too – long-distance relationships, self-doubt, trust – and there’s a scene at the end where Logan finally loses his walls, and that scene is dreamworthy. This is Black Light, so it’s BDSM, and the all-too-brief encounter with Jaxson and Chase just remind us that we need more of them!
I received a free copy of this book and am reviewing it of my own volition.
OMG!!! What an emotional story. The difference between Cassandra who is a brat and Logan who is so serious. It is amazing how they ever could be together. Total opposite and yet the sex between them is explosive. You need to read this very emotional story. Enjoy
I make no apologies for my love of all things Black Light. There is just something about that world that draws me in. What I wouldn't do for a real club or a chance to spin that roulette wheel. I would be hardpressed to say whether I love the individual stories or the anthologies better. The anthologies always gives me a chance to see some of my favorites and also introduce me to new authors but it is the full-fledged books such as this that truly dive into the relationships of the characters.
I adore this author because she always takes me on a journey. Her books aren't just about Kink. Instead, there is a connection that goes beyond having a sense of realism but instead it focuses on what makes these characters tick; their nuisances, their strengths, weaknesses, fears, hopes, and chance to discover love. I definitely got that in this book and then some. Logan was like an Ebeneezer Scrooge in all aspects of his life and Cassandra was pure happiness. Yet, even as Logan was intense and standoffish in his life he was willing to pursue everything with Cassandra, regardless of time or space. Cassandra, on the other hand, was joyous and happy was encumbered by time and space and couldn't see beyond that. I liked how the author showed these differences because it showed how the right person can help see things from a new perspective.
I loved the steamy times and I FLOVED the epilogue. His last line was the stuff made of legends and really hit home the importance of family and living a charmed life. I wish there would have been more of a look in the future but will keep my fingers crossed that these two will make an appearance in the next Roulette and give it to me then because I need to see how charmed their life really was.
A new book in the Black Light series. It has been a while since Jennifer Bene wrote a a full length novel in the series, but she is back with a bang.
Since it takes place in the BL world, this book isn’t dark, but it does have those yummy steamy BDSM scenes which only Jennifer Bene can write. And there is also humor and a lot of emotions and feelings. From being on top of the world to down in a dark hole.
It is a story about two people finding each other, but also a journey into themselves. Specially for Logan. The characters aren’t perfect, they have flaws and make mistakes, but that is what makes them human and easy to relate too. It takes a lot of strength to admit you did wrong and to make a change.
This book is just perfect, charmingly, imperfectly, perfect. The chemistry between Logan and Cassandra does not disappoint. Their physical and emotional connection is sizzling; however, they are not on the same page about their relationship or wether they should even be in a relationship. On of the things I really loved about this book is the character development. Logan is the more broken character, but even with Cassandra’s very healthy upbringing, she has her hang ups too (and that is so normal). My other thing I absolutely LOVED but cannot give away, was how Logan makes up with Cassandra. OMG, it was a tears-in-my eye, lump-in-my-throat, genius move ❤️. Ms. Bene books are always a good bet, and of course it’s Blacklight. All around, a definite five star read!
Ugh YES YES YES! First, I love that the main character and I have the same name. Although hers is spelled different. ;)
I love everything about Cassandra’s character. I love that she’s submissive and bratty and very true to herself. She’s a strong woman and I think Logan is the PERFECT man for her.
Or rather, she’s the perfect woman for him.
We are all used to Jennifer Bene’s dark books (which are fucking phenomenal by the way), but this book was much lighter than we are used to and I honestly loved it. Grab this book and read it!!!
Disclaimer: Can't rate because I edited, but if I could rate I'd give this five stars.
Love, love, love this novel. Both character arcs are just perfect. A fantastic balance between heat and story. Jennifer is an absolute dream to work with and her writing just sings off the page.
Sigh.... This one made my heart hurt - sometimes because it was so full of love and sometimes because it was breaking! It was great to see Logan (gentleman asshole) and the beautiful model Cassandra re connect after meeting at Black light. I totally adore these two and loved the journey they take you on! Ms Bene, you smashed it out of the park! Highly recommended!
I LOVE these Black Light series books and Charmed by Jennifer Bene is absolutely beautiful. It's about love, and family, and challenges, and conflict, with an excellent dose of kink. But mostly it's about being a better person with a positive outlook on life. 5 beautiful stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
I can not get enough of this series. This is Logan and Cassandra's story and you will fall in love with them like I did. Get in, sit down, buckle your seat belt and get ready to get your kink on.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review.
Cassandra is everything I am not. Kind, warm, optimistic....happy. if I was less of a selfish prick, I'd walk away. But I can't. It was supposed to be one night of fun, but ten months after Valentine Roulette he can't get the feisty model out of his head. She's invaded his dreams, ruined every session at Black Light, and it's bee four months since she ever returned a text. This isn't him. Logan Chisholm doesn't obsess over women. He doesn't replay ever sweet cry he drew from their lips, doesn't remember the way their smile changes when they laugh, but Cassandra Moreira is different. He has to figure out if their chemistry was real...or just part of the game. Luckily, Christmas has come early this year, because she's back in L.A. and he's not letting her leave again without getting a second date. And this time he won't take no for an answer.
If your looking for a smoking hot romance then you need not look any further. This is the one you want to read. Jennifer Bene has done an amazing job with this book and I devoured it. This is the story of Logan who is a lonely broken man and he doesn't even realize it. Cassandra is a strong woman and she is Logan's path to redemption. I don't want to really give anything away about this book except that I devoured it. Fell in love with these two characters and just could have spent days and day with them. Don't miss this book. You are going to love it. This is an amazing addition to the Black Light Collection.
I don’t quite know what to say about this book. It’s lighter fare than most of the other books in the Black Light universe, but it still packs a pretty hefty emotional punch. (Take note to keep the tissues handy because you’re probably going to need them before the end. I did.) I really connected with these characters. I’ve seen life from both their perspectives. I’m a fourth-generation perfectionist, so I know all about what Logan’s going through. But I also grew up surrounded by the love of family and friends; I can completely understand Cassandra’s outlook on life and relationships. There are a couple of things I really appreciated about this book. Brats will never be my favorite type of character in this genre, but even though Cassandra’s prone to some very brat-like behavior, at no point did Logan want to “tame” her or smother her fire. In fact, he wanted her to burn as bright as she was able. He loved her because of her strength and independence, not in spite of it. I also really liked that this story shows both characters growing and changing. They each have to compromise a little to find the right happy ever after for them. I kind of didn’t want this book to end. I might have been a weepy emotional mess by the end, but I wasn’t ready for it to be over. I’m now more curious than ever to see what new things the Black Light authors have in store for us. I received a complimentary copy of this book Through Hidden Gems Books.
When it triggers me hard enough that I’ll wake my wife from a dead sleep railing about something one of the characters has done.
Black Light: Charmed did that. And it’s been a while since any book has done so.
This story is a roller coaster. It’ll take you to giddy heights, and then plunge you down in a pit of despair. There is so much lightness, sweetness, and pure joy that Cassandra brings to this story, and Logan so beautifully breaks the standard fare ‘millionaire Dom’ trope in ways that run the spectrum from A to Z.
The chemistry between these two is pitch perfect, even in those moments when you want to reach through your Kindle and grab one of them by the throat and shake the ever-loving life out of them. In fact, it’s that perfect balance of chemistry they have that makes the darker moments in this story seem all the bleaker. But don’t give up; because the recovery, the HEA in this is made all the more powerful and all the more deliciously sweeter as the author drags you through the pain that they must go through to get there.
This book has all the feels. And some of them are not the most pleasant. But, hang in there.
Cassandra is a model, she's obviously beautiful but her beauty is not just on the outside. She's happiness and light, spontaneous, cheeky and sassy, a lover of life. The complete opposite of Logan who bears the burden of his fathers success and the pressures forced upon him to be absolutely perfect. He's a dom, a great one when it comes to kink and submissives, but holds a bit too much control over the rest of his life which leaves him a workaholic and actually very alone. He is as described, an a-hole and a gentleman.
I loved both of these very different characters. Logan was very loveable especially when Cassandra distracted him enough to get outside his own head. They were fantastic together, steamy hot chemistry and had some very sexy bdsm scenes (pass me a fan). They both had their own issues they struggled to talk about. I loved the way Cassie made him work after he made a huge monumental mistake. It made her and their relationship so much more realistic and stronger and made them both (but especially Logan) look inside themselves to grow as people.
I loved this book, it had everything.... humour, emotion, hot scenes, character growth and best friends you'd want to have on your side. A wonderfully written page turner I thoroughly enjoyed. Rating 4.5 charmed stars
You might want to plug your ears before you read this next part. Ready?
Squeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeees! IT’S ANOTHER BLACK LIGHT BOOK!
You may now unplug your ears.
If you remember Cassandra and Logan from the most recent Valentine Roulette, then grab your favorite drink and snacks, and gear up for a fun ride. If you haven’t…well…I’d suggest reading the story first but Jennifer Bene gives us a synopsis of what took place, so technically you won’t be missing out on anything other than another fab Valentine Roulette.
So, likes: Wow, where to begin. Logan and Cass, for sure. They are so incredibly likeable and sweet together, you might get cavities from reading this story. The chemistry, Ms. Bene built between them was amazing. And then there are the other scenes—filled with sass and more laughter and so much scintillating action that you might need to break out your favorite BOB.
Jennifer Bene's contribution to the Black Light series is Charmed which is the story of model Cassandra and CEO LOgan. Logan and Cassandra met at Black Light and scened during Roulette. Logan is captured by the slightly masochistic sweetly bratty Cassandra but with conflicting schedules, they haven't reconnected. It's not until Logan comes to see Cassandra at a runway show that they finally reconnect. Logan wants more but Cassandra is reluctant.
Charmed is a good story of two people who are polar opposites coming together and making it work but not without some conflict and some bumps along the way. Cassandra and Logan are both well-developed, easily likable characters that you will find yourself rooting for. With a good combination of relationship building and incredibly hot BDSM scenes, the story flows nicely.
Engaging and enjoyable, Charmed is a good choice if you are in the mood for romance with high heat.
I loved this book from the outset and could not expect any read from Jennifer Bene to be anything else but GREAT! Logan and Cassandra’s story is one that I will remember for a long while! Cassandra was a model and a masochist, full of sass and clever and interesting, from her travels all over the world. But Logan cannot get Cassandra out of his head from their one night at the Valentine Roulette. He is a rich man with a crush but will he get his second chance? Their hot sexy connection shows right through the book from the outset. Life’s curves don’t always work out do they? Can Cassandra give Logan a Chance? Why does he show such loneliness and pain in his heart and can Cassandra bring him to the light? I highly recommend this book as a brilliant 5 star ⭐️ read I voluntarily reviewed this book after receiving a free copy
Logan Chisholm and Cassandra Moreira return from BL Valentine Celebrity Roulette 10 months later. In the story, Hooked, with Vanessa and Wyatt we received a peak before the ladies went on stage. I enjoyed reading about Cassandra and her upbeat personality even with the relationship hang ups. Logan, on the other hand, has hard issues due to his upbringing by his perfectionistic father. Cass helps him thru but it’s a hard road at some points. The character development, namely Logan, who is a bit splintered, was strong at the end. The chemistry between the two was never in question and afforded some delicious scenes throughout. Ms. Bene never disappoints in that area, ever. I’ve read all the Black Light stories, and this is another wonderful one to add to my collection. I received an arc and voluntarily left an honest review.
This was such an enjoyable read. I thought that this book had a much different feel than what you normally get from this author. While you might be expecting dark and intense, instead you get flirty, fiery and fun. So different it may be but I loved it! Logan and Cassandra were great characters with scorching chemistry and as wonderful as that is even more important is the strong emotional connection that they share. There is a perfect balance between the things these two have in common and their differences. I felt that this really upped this couple's appeal and ensured you'd be rooting for them. The addition of BDSM elements and sizzling scenes are really just icing on the cake as far as this romance goes because this is a couple and book is at its heart is a five star, all the feels winner. I am choosing to post a forthright review.
This couple in this book, Logan & Cassandra, was first introduced in the Black Light: Celebrity Roulette. Cassandra is a model & was paired with CEO Logan for the night. Ten months later, Cassandra is back in town. After their sizzling night together at Black Light, their connection is strong but can it last? I adored Cassandra. She knows her worth and respects everyone equally. She's grounded, down-to-earth, and values her friendships. Cassandra is a beam of sunshine. Logan is driven by his work, a bit of a friendless loner who manages his stress through alcohol. There's a few obstacles to hurdle before they get their HEA & I loved the ride. Ms Bene has a way of drawing me into her characters’ world & I feel all the emotions her characters feel. So, so beautifully written in her lovely flowing way.
I received a copy of this book. My honest opinion is voluntarily provided.
Jennifer Bene has done a wonderful job of this story, and i loved it Her characters certainly stood out but and to be honest, i totally loved Logans character. I truely wasnt expecting he character to be like he was but it made the story all the more loveable for the person he was and i had to feel sorry for his past and the way he was brought up. I loved his Dom side when dealing with Cassandra, by gosh he certainly knew how to make her beg... Cassandra, a confident women to say the least, but what she wasnt confident about was Logan, because her job always took her away quite a bit of the year, but gradually Logan took hold of her heart.
This is a must read book, and im sure that anyone who one clicks it will agree with me that it really is worth while reading
Cassandra and Logan had me completely charmed! Their story was such a breath of fresh air! While I’m more used to reading dark and intense stories from Ms Bene, this one was beautifully written feel-good BDSM romance. There was no shortage of steamy scenes with explosive chemistry between Logan and Cassandra, but what makes them special is their emotional connection. Logan and Cassandra couldn’t be more different but are just what they both need. Especially Logan. I enjoyed his growth and character development. Their differences caused lots of challenges and conflict on their journey to hea. But it was impossible not to root for them and epilogue was pure joy and simply heartwarming!
Once again a fantastic addition to the Black Light series! I loved the multifaceted layers to Logan - his hot dom side, but also the serious man who had a lonely and sad childhood. The contrast of this to Cassandra’s happy go lucky, carefree and bratty personality works really well. There was a large dose of realism in this book which I enjoyed, you felt connected to the characters and that they were real people with real concerns and challenges. This teaches us the importance of communication, how interdependence is more important than independence and has of course the prerequisite smoking hot scenes. This is light, sweet, so sexy and funny and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
This is the Jennifer Bene most people miss, they focus on the dark parts of her books and forget how truly amazing her writing really is. This one is sweeter, if you can call kinky, sexy fun sweet, lol. But......its got all the parts I love from her, characters who come alive, sexy scenes that make me go ooooohhhhh......she gives me all the feels. Don't get me wrong, I love when she goes dark too but it's great that we get a variety. Life would be boring if each story was the same old thing every time. I'll be one clicking future books just because although I have no clue where she's taking me, I know I'll enjoy the journey.