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Spoiled Perfection #2
Perfection
An Age Gap Romance
Perfection n. The state of being complete and correct in every way.
Callum
I learned the hard way that love doesn't change anyone. Yet, here I am for the long haul with Ashton on his road to recovery. I have to make tough decisions for his own good, but I have to believe in the end we'll be better for it.
Ashton
Local AA or an anonymous rehab center in another state? It's no hairbrainer why I chose the former. I don't think I can make it through recovery without my Daddy's support. But will he continue supporting me when he finds out what drove me to the bottle in the first place? How can anyone forgive me for what I've done when I can't even forgive myself?
Perfection is the second book in the Spoiled Perfection duet. This book cannot be read as a standalone.
Perfection n. The state of being complete and correct in every way.
Callum
I learned the hard way that love doesn't change anyone. Yet, here I am for the long haul with Ashton on his road to recovery. I have to make tough decisions for his own good, but I have to believe in the end we'll be better for it.
Ashton
Local AA or an anonymous rehab center in another state? It's no hairbrainer why I chose the former. I don't think I can make it through recovery without my Daddy's support. But will he continue supporting me when he finds out what drove me to the bottle in the first place? How can anyone forgive me for what I've done when I can't even forgive myself?
Perfection is the second book in the Spoiled Perfection duet. This book cannot be read as a standalone.
298 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 30, 2020
95 people are currently reading
190 people want to read
About the author
Gianni Holmes
106 books1,282 followersGianni Holmes is a USA TODAY Bestselling author who's embracing her love for literature by wielding the pen and creating stories of her own. She's the author of the popular series The Grimm Tales of Smoky Vale and The Taking Care series. Gianni is a former teacher of Spanish Language and Hispanic Literature.
These days she can be found writing books, hanging out with her readers, and raising her daughter as a single mother. You can keep in touch with her in the following places:
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/authorgiannih...
Newsletter: https://www.gianniholmesauthor.com/ne...
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/giannigems
These days she can be found writing books, hanging out with her readers, and raising her daughter as a single mother. You can keep in touch with her in the following places:
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/authorgiannih...
Newsletter: https://www.gianniholmesauthor.com/ne...
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/giannigems
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
June 29, 2020
The story was by no means an easy read. The subjects discussed were serious and at times devastating. Since the author mentioned that this was also in a way personal book, I felt honored that she chose to write it and I had a chance to get my grabby hands on it! Ms Holmes put her men through the ringer, no wait, make it meat grinder! My gosh, at one point I even doubted that Ashton was even worth it. It took him hitting the bottom to finally see, but he took others to the bottom with him. I hurt for Callum and I applauded when he stood up for himself. He deserved so much better. There is broken and there is broken and destructive, and Aston was such a force that Callum couldn't say no until he finally could.
This was a journey of self discovery, healing and mending bridges. Not all of them could be mended but they got patched up pretty well with support beams underneath. I have to give it to Ashton - he surprised me with his kindness, awareness and generosity. I always admired Callum and here I liked him even more - he gave his all even when there was nothing left to give, but in the end he was able to take a step back when he really needed to.
Note: level of steam - medium to high. (desperate s*ex, farewell s*ex, healing s*ex, happy love s*ex and so hot every time)
The ending was a happy one. The guys went through a lot, they fought hard - Ashton to stay sober and on correct path and Callum to be able to breathe and be in a healthy relationship. Some things surprised me but in a good way, some things were so sweet they made my heart happy. Despite at times very angsty and painful moments I enjoyed this story a lot. Warnings: substance abuse (alcohol addiction) and subsequent treatment, on page attempted rape. Beware, those are triggers. Otherwise, this was a book worth reading in my opinion. No glamour, no facade and no dickering - honest, at times angry and awful but with hope that in the end it's going to be okay. Copy received for my honest and unbiased review.
This was a journey of self discovery, healing and mending bridges. Not all of them could be mended but they got patched up pretty well with support beams underneath. I have to give it to Ashton - he surprised me with his kindness, awareness and generosity. I always admired Callum and here I liked him even more - he gave his all even when there was nothing left to give, but in the end he was able to take a step back when he really needed to.
Note: level of steam - medium to high. (desperate s*ex, farewell s*ex, healing s*ex, happy love s*ex and so hot every time)
The ending was a happy one. The guys went through a lot, they fought hard - Ashton to stay sober and on correct path and Callum to be able to breathe and be in a healthy relationship. Some things surprised me but in a good way, some things were so sweet they made my heart happy. Despite at times very angsty and painful moments I enjoyed this story a lot. Warnings: substance abuse (alcohol addiction) and subsequent treatment, on page attempted rape. Beware, those are triggers. Otherwise, this was a book worth reading in my opinion. No glamour, no facade and no dickering - honest, at times angry and awful but with hope that in the end it's going to be okay. Copy received for my honest and unbiased review.
August 20, 2020
I’m not a fan of relationship angst. I can handle some of it when one of them has a serious problem and the other one helps with that. Like here, where Ashton has a drinking problem. But one thing I noticed in the first book was that the relationship didn’t feel that solid to begin with. And if you add alcoholism then that could be a recipe for disaster.
And it was.
These guys were really hurting each other and I there are no words for the amount of hate I have for scenes like that.
Even if you are going through some difficult times together, there is never an excuse to purposefully hurt the other one simply because they have hurt you too.
”No, no, there’s been no one else,” I quickly explained. “It’s just that the last time you insisted on using a condom. I didn’t want you worrying after.”
His shoulders released the tension. “I wanted to hurt you that day, Ash. The way you were hurting me. I didn’t for once believe you were sleeping with anyone else while we were together.”
And then there was sex at the most inappropriate times. Like when they were both hurting, but wanted a distraction from that. And I really hate sex scenes when the relationship isn’t solid.
Overall this book was exhausting, the relationship wasn’t solid enough for these problems, and I basically hated it, sorry.
And it was.
These guys were really hurting each other and I there are no words for the amount of hate I have for scenes like that.
Even if you are going through some difficult times together, there is never an excuse to purposefully hurt the other one simply because they have hurt you too.
”No, no, there’s been no one else,” I quickly explained. “It’s just that the last time you insisted on using a condom. I didn’t want you worrying after.”
His shoulders released the tension. “I wanted to hurt you that day, Ash. The way you were hurting me. I didn’t for once believe you were sleeping with anyone else while we were together.”
And then there was sex at the most inappropriate times. Like when they were both hurting, but wanted a distraction from that. And I really hate sex scenes when the relationship isn’t solid.
Overall this book was exhausting, the relationship wasn’t solid enough for these problems, and I basically hated it, sorry.
September 3, 2022
If you thought the story was going to be wonderful and fluffy now, you thought wrong. It's going to be really exhausting and heartbreaking.
In terms of plot, there were a few lengths that I don't think would have been necessary. Without saying too much, I thought a few times ... „seriously, once again ... get to the point!!!“
Anyway, over and above that, I'm very happy with the direction this ended up going.
And in between, very sad 😭😭😭 a lot of crying…
“Because I don’t just have cracks, Callum. I’m not just broken. Some of my pieces are missing, and I don’t know where to find them. I thought you’d be my missing piece, but you’re only one. Where are the others? I need to find them, and I don’t know if I can.”
In terms of plot, there were a few lengths that I don't think would have been necessary. Without saying too much, I thought a few times ... „seriously, once again ... get to the point!!!“
Anyway, over and above that, I'm very happy with the direction this ended up going.
And in between, very sad 😭😭😭 a lot of crying…
“Because I don’t just have cracks, Callum. I’m not just broken. Some of my pieces are missing, and I don’t know where to find them. I thought you’d be my missing piece, but you’re only one. Where are the others? I need to find them, and I don’t know if I can.”
July 1, 2020
¸.•´¸★*´¨) ¸.•*¨)
(¸.★¨*.¸¸.•`★¤The perfect ending.¤★¨*.¸¸.*ˑ˞★
"Recovery is about progression, not perfection."
As the author stated, when you romanticize hurt, pain and problems, one never get to the root of the matter. Glossing over does not solve the problem. "The end" does not solve the issue. The situation, the struggles are real and it takes every day, every waking moment to fight, to believe that YOU can make it better. And it comes with help.
"I learned the hard way that love doesn't change anyone." ~Callum
Spoiled was just the half of it. Perfection was the right conclusion...or beginning, however which way you looked it at it. This book rounded out where Spoiled left off, with Ashton's struggles and what it took for him to resolved them. As both men learned, it takes a village to raise a child and a village to help shape one's life. Within Callum's and Ash's lives, the past shaped them into the people they became, yet the future would be determined by what goals they set to make it what they wanted it to be. I absolutely loved this duology and I am glad that the author expanded her short story.
I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this book without bias or persuasion from the author.
(¸.★¨*.¸¸.•`★¤The perfect ending.¤★¨*.¸¸.*ˑ˞★
"Recovery is about progression, not perfection."
As the author stated, when you romanticize hurt, pain and problems, one never get to the root of the matter. Glossing over does not solve the problem. "The end" does not solve the issue. The situation, the struggles are real and it takes every day, every waking moment to fight, to believe that YOU can make it better. And it comes with help.
"I learned the hard way that love doesn't change anyone." ~Callum
Spoiled was just the half of it. Perfection was the right conclusion...or beginning, however which way you looked it at it. This book rounded out where Spoiled left off, with Ashton's struggles and what it took for him to resolved them. As both men learned, it takes a village to raise a child and a village to help shape one's life. Within Callum's and Ash's lives, the past shaped them into the people they became, yet the future would be determined by what goals they set to make it what they wanted it to be. I absolutely loved this duology and I am glad that the author expanded her short story.
I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this book without bias or persuasion from the author.
July 18, 2020
*Received A Copy To Review From The Author*
This is a great conclusion to this duo. I really did like how it played out, for the most part. I had a few issues here and there. But over all I loved them as a couple. While it's not easy for them to get themselves together enough, and for me the focus was too much on Ashton's issues because his were more dire and immediate. It kind of gave Callum a bit of a pass on his own issues. He got to slide under the radar as the "wronged" party in the turmoil of Ashton's "louder" addiction. I was happy with how Ashton faced and got treatment for his addiction. That was realistic and made me root for him even more. I loved Ashton's relationship with Callum's ex. So happy there was never a hint of inadequacy or jealousy there. Their bond was lovely. I also loved how this ended. It was so happy and hopeful.
This is a great conclusion to this duo. I really did like how it played out, for the most part. I had a few issues here and there. But over all I loved them as a couple. While it's not easy for them to get themselves together enough, and for me the focus was too much on Ashton's issues because his were more dire and immediate. It kind of gave Callum a bit of a pass on his own issues. He got to slide under the radar as the "wronged" party in the turmoil of Ashton's "louder" addiction. I was happy with how Ashton faced and got treatment for his addiction. That was realistic and made me root for him even more. I loved Ashton's relationship with Callum's ex. So happy there was never a hint of inadequacy or jealousy there. Their bond was lovely. I also loved how this ended. It was so happy and hopeful.
July 12, 2020
Perfection is the second book in the Spoiled Perfection duet by Gianni Holmes, it can not be read as a standalone.
I loved the story of Ashton and Callum. It is very well written. The characters grow a lot and it was a well deserved HEA. Keep tissues ready though.
I loved the story of Ashton and Callum. It is very well written. The characters grow a lot and it was a well deserved HEA. Keep tissues ready though.
July 14, 2020
Emotional
This was a story about struggles, being lost, learning to love and accept yourself. Both main characters were trying to find themselves and overcome their personal demons. The author did a great job of addressing addiction and emotional neglect. Great story!!
This was a story about struggles, being lost, learning to love and accept yourself. Both main characters were trying to find themselves and overcome their personal demons. The author did a great job of addressing addiction and emotional neglect. Great story!!
May 17, 2022
I don't normally do reviews but I do feel the need to do one for this book. Although there were a fair few things I didn't like, to me this book was written well in terms of how it handled the alchoholism that Ashton went through and the pain Callum went through watching him as he tried to better himself and learn to do it for HIM and not to keep a hold of Callum.
This book hit so many emotions for me, anger, hurt, comfort, it made me laugh, it made me cry and I just felt like it hurt so so much seeing all the things they both had to go through, especially Ashton because of Louis but watching him change and grow was really great. I absolutely adored his care for Mario too.
There were some grammar mistakes that put me off for a minute, normally I'm not bothered by this but I am becoming increasingly more so and it did make me falter a few times but they were so small it wasn't going to stop me reading.
Sure there's a fair bit of sex but this story truly felt impactful to me in certain ways and I read through it in less than a day because I was having trouble sleeping. A lot of moments just really hit me and it hurt seeing all the things they had to go through and them being apart for so much time but I found myself riveted.
This book hit so many emotions for me, anger, hurt, comfort, it made me laugh, it made me cry and I just felt like it hurt so so much seeing all the things they both had to go through, especially Ashton because of Louis but watching him change and grow was really great. I absolutely adored his care for Mario too.
There were some grammar mistakes that put me off for a minute, normally I'm not bothered by this but I am becoming increasingly more so and it did make me falter a few times but they were so small it wasn't going to stop me reading.
Sure there's a fair bit of sex but this story truly felt impactful to me in certain ways and I read through it in less than a day because I was having trouble sleeping. A lot of moments just really hit me and it hurt seeing all the things they had to go through and them being apart for so much time but I found myself riveted.
December 2, 2020
These two books were so heartbreaking but so good. Both these guys went through so much. I never cried so much while reading a book like I did this one. My heart was breaking for Ashton. Even just thinking back on these books brings tears to my eyes. I’m so glad he had Callum giving him the love and hope he needed. I’m also glad he got the help he needed to get better. If there’s any two people who deserve everything it’s these two. Highly recommend this duet. You’ll definitely need a box of tissues.
May 2, 2021
Reviewed by Kat
I couldn’t get this book in my hands quick enough after finishing Spoiled!
These books have been an emotional rollercoaster. I wanted so badly for Daddy to be able to be enough for Ash to fight his demons in a way other than the bottom of a bottle. But, as everything unfolds, it’s obvious that AA and Callum aren’t going to be enough. Ashton needs serious professional help to help understand and deal with his many demons in life. When Ash finally confronts his mother about his childhood it about broke my heart when she was totally and brutally honest with him.
I seriously loved these books no matter how difficult it was to read Ash’s addiction and how it was destroying his life. I was concerned that six weeks would be too short of time with all that Ashton had to work through. But his therapist was great and knowing that she was only a phone call away at all times (one of the benefits from being from a billionaire family) made more sense.
I love how Ashton “adopted” Mario and made him a priority in his life because he was in Callum’s without a hair of jealousy. Seeing firsthand how fragile life is when you are stupid and how it’s impact is not just on yourself but your caring and loving Daddy might have been part of his desire to get better.
And I can’t say enough great things about Callum. He was the ultimate Daddy but a little bit to soft and lenient. His heart was in the right place but he was definitely not the tough disciplinarian to stick to his guns on rules that Ashton or in fact Mario needed. I was happy that he had the wisdom finally to seek out help from his therapist also. It was something he needed to remember…it wasn’t his job to fix his broken boy but to be there when he needed support and loving but to guide him to his therapist when he needed professional help. I was also thrilled when Callum started to understand that Ash wasn’t trying to buy him but wanted to lavish the man he loved with things he could afford.
You definitely need to read Spoiled first. This Duet is not a standalone but picks up immediately where book one left off. They are a tough read in parts because you want the best for Ashton and Callum but the struggles they endured made their HEA even richer. A huge two-thumbs up for this conclusion and the series.
I couldn’t get this book in my hands quick enough after finishing Spoiled!
These books have been an emotional rollercoaster. I wanted so badly for Daddy to be able to be enough for Ash to fight his demons in a way other than the bottom of a bottle. But, as everything unfolds, it’s obvious that AA and Callum aren’t going to be enough. Ashton needs serious professional help to help understand and deal with his many demons in life. When Ash finally confronts his mother about his childhood it about broke my heart when she was totally and brutally honest with him.
I seriously loved these books no matter how difficult it was to read Ash’s addiction and how it was destroying his life. I was concerned that six weeks would be too short of time with all that Ashton had to work through. But his therapist was great and knowing that she was only a phone call away at all times (one of the benefits from being from a billionaire family) made more sense.
I love how Ashton “adopted” Mario and made him a priority in his life because he was in Callum’s without a hair of jealousy. Seeing firsthand how fragile life is when you are stupid and how it’s impact is not just on yourself but your caring and loving Daddy might have been part of his desire to get better.
And I can’t say enough great things about Callum. He was the ultimate Daddy but a little bit to soft and lenient. His heart was in the right place but he was definitely not the tough disciplinarian to stick to his guns on rules that Ashton or in fact Mario needed. I was happy that he had the wisdom finally to seek out help from his therapist also. It was something he needed to remember…it wasn’t his job to fix his broken boy but to be there when he needed support and loving but to guide him to his therapist when he needed professional help. I was also thrilled when Callum started to understand that Ash wasn’t trying to buy him but wanted to lavish the man he loved with things he could afford.
You definitely need to read Spoiled first. This Duet is not a standalone but picks up immediately where book one left off. They are a tough read in parts because you want the best for Ashton and Callum but the struggles they endured made their HEA even richer. A huge two-thumbs up for this conclusion and the series.
November 24, 2022
Overcoming life's hurdles and being true to the tjose you love make for a better life.
4.25 solid stars
The perfect conclusion to Ashton and Callum's story, written with caring, deep thought, wonderful dialogue and well balanced heat.
As Ashton battles his addiction to alcohol at a recovery center in Texas, Callum pools all of his focus on the coffee shop and a friendship with Dane.
The serious topic of alcoholism is dealt with real emotion and definitive facts, shedding light on a rather closeted topic. I applaud the author's sensitivity concerning this disease by letting readers follow Ashton through his never-ending recovery.
Callum plays a huge part in his partner's wellness, providing emotional and physical support on a constant basis. The duo take things slowly, gradually working on two major areas: Ashton's recovery and their relationship as a couple. Once over the initial shock of Callum and Dane's friendship, Ash begins to regain Callum'a trust. Making peace with his mother plays a major role in Ash's healing, helping him overcome his part in the deaths of his father and brother.
With phenomenal courage and resolve, Ashton steadily progresses through his sobriety, leaving his spoiled, wealthy party-boy image in his past. As time passes, Callum agrees to stay at Ash's place on weekends and begins to allow him to call him "Daddy" once more. Naturally, the heat increases accordingly, but without consuming the story.
Through all of the new adjustments in their lives, Ashton and Callum's relationship only strengthens and solidifies. Ash, with Callum's backing, even brings Mario, Callum's past boy who's dependence on alcohol and illegal drugs led him into a nursing home, to live with them to help him heal as well.
So much more occurs in the couple's lives, but I feel future readers need to read about them for themselves to truly appreciate the impact they have not only in Ashton and Callum's lives, but possibly their own. I now understand more about alcoholism and recovery from this disease, in addition to the true value of having someone by your side through the ongoing recovery process.
As you may have already guessed, I highly recommend this book. It is educational, heart-warming, encouraging and REAL. Hope other readers enjoy it as much as I did.
4.25 solid stars
The perfect conclusion to Ashton and Callum's story, written with caring, deep thought, wonderful dialogue and well balanced heat.
As Ashton battles his addiction to alcohol at a recovery center in Texas, Callum pools all of his focus on the coffee shop and a friendship with Dane.
The serious topic of alcoholism is dealt with real emotion and definitive facts, shedding light on a rather closeted topic. I applaud the author's sensitivity concerning this disease by letting readers follow Ashton through his never-ending recovery.
Callum plays a huge part in his partner's wellness, providing emotional and physical support on a constant basis. The duo take things slowly, gradually working on two major areas: Ashton's recovery and their relationship as a couple. Once over the initial shock of Callum and Dane's friendship, Ash begins to regain Callum'a trust. Making peace with his mother plays a major role in Ash's healing, helping him overcome his part in the deaths of his father and brother.
With phenomenal courage and resolve, Ashton steadily progresses through his sobriety, leaving his spoiled, wealthy party-boy image in his past. As time passes, Callum agrees to stay at Ash's place on weekends and begins to allow him to call him "Daddy" once more. Naturally, the heat increases accordingly, but without consuming the story.
Through all of the new adjustments in their lives, Ashton and Callum's relationship only strengthens and solidifies. Ash, with Callum's backing, even brings Mario, Callum's past boy who's dependence on alcohol and illegal drugs led him into a nursing home, to live with them to help him heal as well.
So much more occurs in the couple's lives, but I feel future readers need to read about them for themselves to truly appreciate the impact they have not only in Ashton and Callum's lives, but possibly their own. I now understand more about alcoholism and recovery from this disease, in addition to the true value of having someone by your side through the ongoing recovery process.
As you may have already guessed, I highly recommend this book. It is educational, heart-warming, encouraging and REAL. Hope other readers enjoy it as much as I did.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 1, 2020
Perfection, the second book in the Spoiled Perfection series is one hell of a gripping story. To enjoy this Gianni Holmes tale, you need to have first read Spoiled.
A Daddy and his boy, Callum and Ashton's second book starts with a spanking. Both men have some changes to make in their own lives, making for a long, emotional journey.
Ashton is an amazingly complex character. His background is revealed in Spoiled, with his journey towards self acceptance, forgiveness, and healing is continuing here. Of course, that includes some more secrets being revealed. His relationship with his mother continues to be toxic. Thank god he has Callum on his side.
Ashton's relationship with Callum is wonderfully unique, with the Daddy being the one without money, and the boy being rich and famous. It brings some fascinating aspects to their lives and makes for a fun read.
This story that involves alcoholism continues to address the problems with becoming sober and staying sober. I appreciate the way the author handles with aspect.
And then there's Mario. We learned about Mario, Callum's former boy in the first book. Now we learn about Ashton's relationship with Mario. Wow, Ashton is so damn loving. I can't love him more for how wonderful he is with Mario.
I love this quote. "He didn't have to be perfect in the way he thought perfection meant. None of us was perfect."
The author's writing style is stellar. The words flow perfectly, the dialogue is wonderful, and the storyline is magnificent. This is an emotional rollercoaster, a tough read at times, with my heart a complete mess.
Dear God, Perfection is one hell of a book. The whole Spoiled Perfection series is a stellar read by Gianni Holmes. It's a great combination of Daddy kink, family issues, opposites attract, and a ton of character growth. The journey for these two men is tough, but well worth it in the end.
A Daddy and his boy, Callum and Ashton's second book starts with a spanking. Both men have some changes to make in their own lives, making for a long, emotional journey.
Ashton is an amazingly complex character. His background is revealed in Spoiled, with his journey towards self acceptance, forgiveness, and healing is continuing here. Of course, that includes some more secrets being revealed. His relationship with his mother continues to be toxic. Thank god he has Callum on his side.
Ashton's relationship with Callum is wonderfully unique, with the Daddy being the one without money, and the boy being rich and famous. It brings some fascinating aspects to their lives and makes for a fun read.
This story that involves alcoholism continues to address the problems with becoming sober and staying sober. I appreciate the way the author handles with aspect.
And then there's Mario. We learned about Mario, Callum's former boy in the first book. Now we learn about Ashton's relationship with Mario. Wow, Ashton is so damn loving. I can't love him more for how wonderful he is with Mario.
I love this quote. "He didn't have to be perfect in the way he thought perfection meant. None of us was perfect."
The author's writing style is stellar. The words flow perfectly, the dialogue is wonderful, and the storyline is magnificent. This is an emotional rollercoaster, a tough read at times, with my heart a complete mess.
Dear God, Perfection is one hell of a book. The whole Spoiled Perfection series is a stellar read by Gianni Holmes. It's a great combination of Daddy kink, family issues, opposites attract, and a ton of character growth. The journey for these two men is tough, but well worth it in the end.
July 6, 2020
Perfection, when it comes to people, was impossible.
Ash and Callum's tumultuous journey continues with highs mixed in with many lows that you on a real emotional roller-coaster. To put it bluntly, these books are quite hard going but the road travelled by both men and the outcome is so very worth it!
Ash's addiction is dealt with in such a manner that it allows you to love him and be oh so frustrated with him at the same time in the way that he deals with things and the way they affect both himself and Callum. It's heartbreaking on several occasions but recovery is something that he needs to do for himself, not Callum or to save their relationship. At the same time, Callum's feelings and experiences are just as important, especially considering everything that he went through with his previous relationship, along with his physical and mental health which take a bit of a toll with everything that the couple go through across the series.
Along with the couple's own relationship, there are several that have a big impact on both men, positively and negatively. Callum's best friend, Phil, and Ash's mother have words and actions that don't shine them in the best light. Phil at least is trying to protect his friend, Ash's mother doesn't have the same reasoning.
I cannot recommend this book/series enough. It makes for hard reading at times and makes you think about reasoning and actions that others have, especially when under the influence of addiction. I felt connected to both men throughout and involved right from the start of their journey. I do want to say thank you to the author for writing Ash and Callum's story. Her foreword in this book truly makes you think about what you're about to read and you can feel the heart and soul that has gone into writing it.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
Ash and Callum's tumultuous journey continues with highs mixed in with many lows that you on a real emotional roller-coaster. To put it bluntly, these books are quite hard going but the road travelled by both men and the outcome is so very worth it!
Ash's addiction is dealt with in such a manner that it allows you to love him and be oh so frustrated with him at the same time in the way that he deals with things and the way they affect both himself and Callum. It's heartbreaking on several occasions but recovery is something that he needs to do for himself, not Callum or to save their relationship. At the same time, Callum's feelings and experiences are just as important, especially considering everything that he went through with his previous relationship, along with his physical and mental health which take a bit of a toll with everything that the couple go through across the series.
Along with the couple's own relationship, there are several that have a big impact on both men, positively and negatively. Callum's best friend, Phil, and Ash's mother have words and actions that don't shine them in the best light. Phil at least is trying to protect his friend, Ash's mother doesn't have the same reasoning.
I cannot recommend this book/series enough. It makes for hard reading at times and makes you think about reasoning and actions that others have, especially when under the influence of addiction. I felt connected to both men throughout and involved right from the start of their journey. I do want to say thank you to the author for writing Ash and Callum's story. Her foreword in this book truly makes you think about what you're about to read and you can feel the heart and soul that has gone into writing it.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
January 17, 2024
🖤💘Spoiled Perfection Duet ( Parts 1 &2) // Gianni Holmes 💘🖤
✨Daddy Callum is drawn to broken boys. He sees the beauty and the pain in Ashton and can’t resist either one. He is a Daddy through and through, but his past has him feeling like a failure. Ashton just wants someone to love him for who he is, too bad he has no idea who that is. When I say broken boy, I mean absolutely destructive, with a history of pain, but a sweet heart within. ✨
❤️🩹 These two broke my whole heart and put it back together again! They love and need each other as much as they hurt each other. The addiction in this book, present and past, is palpable and absolutely devastating. ❤️🩹
🖤The way that these two absolutely, whole heartedly love each other is so well written, it’s heartbreaking. Even through the pain of addiction, and the codependency, you glimpse the real soul mate level love between them. 🖤
🔥 Now chemistry is the one thing that these two NEVER get wrong. 😈 Ashton may just be the neeeeeediest boy I’ve read and you know I love my needy boys. Callum’s commanding and dominant nature gives way to an absolute pleasure Dom when he wants to satisfy his needy needy boy. 🔥
💝 I ABSOLUTELY adored every page of this. Gianni Holmes had me in tears and I thanked her for it. 😈 hurts so good, y’all. HIGHLY RECOMMEND 💝
🖤 Damaged Daddy/ Broken boy
⛈️ Emotional, Tear Jerker
🍾 Alcoholism / Recovery
💔 Boy in Need
☕️ Daddy with a Past
😭 All the Hurt
❤️🩹 All the Comfort
⏰ Age Gap
👀 Opposites Attract
💕 Hard Pursuit
🔥K!nky tags:
Strict Top/ Bottom: yes
Daddy Shmink
Domestic Discipline
Spanking as Rewards
Pretty femme things
Neediest boy! Needy greedy bottom
Dirty talk- Degradation and Praise
C-m Play
Pleasure Pain & B*ndage
Toys
Breath Play
Size difference
✅ book has listed trigger warnings, please consult.
💋 @read.me.romance
June 25, 2020
I am a fan of Gianni Holmes’ books but this one absolutely blew me away! Perfection is the conclusion of Spoiled which you will need to read before starting it. It continues the story of Callum, a daddy, and Ashton, his boy. Ashton has finally confessed to being an alcoholic and in order to stay Callum’s boy he has to be sober. He has to hit bottom as most alcoholics do and then he slowly rebuilds himself so he can feel worthy of Callum. He first chooses AA but finds it does not work for him so he goes to a rehab center in Texas. He believes he is broken beyond fixing and useless to everyone and doesn’t know where to start. But his love for Callum keeps him seeking to better himself. Callum also needs to grow and change and he recognizes this as the story continues. He loves Ashton but realizes he can’t give in to him like he did with the boy he had before and he is constantly afraid that Ashton will lose his sobriety and that is a hard limit for him and will cause their relationship to end. He also learns other things about himself that help him to move forward with his life. This book had me crying in places and feeling so hopeful in others. Both characters get into your heart and at the beginning of this book you find it breaking and then you find yourself cheering for each step they make to be better by themselves and together. After everything they have been through the ending will leave you filled with joy and with the knowledge that these two will be together no matter what. I loved this story and highly recommend it. It will stay with you long after you have finished reading it.
July 3, 2020
Spoiled ended in a down turn, with sprinkles of hope, how ever dim as Ashton fought for his recovery.
There is plenty of hope still in the continuing of their story, but it's scattered and hard earned, and even Callum can't help but meet his own demons as Ashton spirals.
Nothing in this is easy and things will always be worse until it gets better. I admired Callum's big heart even when it worked against him. He was so strong even when he wanted nothing more than being weak.
The build up and the turning point was my favourite part of this book, it held so many emotions and I didn't expect the downfall when it came. But the heartfelt moments following was lovely, how both Ashton worked to better himself, to be worthy of Callum's great heart.
My only issue was how we never got to join in on Ashton and his mother's therapy session. I felt like it could have given a deeper connection to her character, and their relationship.
I did love Ashton's relationship with Mario, how the two connected so deeply with each other and I would love to see more of Mario as he recovers. Along with Dane and his food truck guy. As always there are so many side characters you just want to follow along with after the main couple have found their happy ending.
There is plenty of hope still in the continuing of their story, but it's scattered and hard earned, and even Callum can't help but meet his own demons as Ashton spirals.
Nothing in this is easy and things will always be worse until it gets better. I admired Callum's big heart even when it worked against him. He was so strong even when he wanted nothing more than being weak.
The build up and the turning point was my favourite part of this book, it held so many emotions and I didn't expect the downfall when it came. But the heartfelt moments following was lovely, how both Ashton worked to better himself, to be worthy of Callum's great heart.
My only issue was how we never got to join in on Ashton and his mother's therapy session. I felt like it could have given a deeper connection to her character, and their relationship.
I did love Ashton's relationship with Mario, how the two connected so deeply with each other and I would love to see more of Mario as he recovers. Along with Dane and his food truck guy. As always there are so many side characters you just want to follow along with after the main couple have found their happy ending.
June 25, 2020
This is the conclusion of Gianni Holmes's latest Spoiled Perfection duet. In it, we find that although he somewhat half-heartedly tries AA, it is not really Ashton's thing. When Callum presses him too hard, Ashton does the unthinkable and punches Daddy Callum. Knowing that Callum's last boy abused him and his feelings, Ashton is beyond horrified. Especially, when Callum refuses to be misused again. Ashton goes to the rehab center in Texas as his mother wanted. There he can learn the techniques to avoid alcohol and the underlying causes of his journey to self-destruction. Callum lets him know that he loves him, but he needs to love himself. Once he does that, Callum is willing to try again. Does Ash successfully overcome his demons? Will he ever be able to call Callum Daddy again? Will Callum ever find the life he wants with his boy? Grab the conclusion to Callum and Ash's story to find out. Make sure you grab the tissues too.
March 18, 2024
We jump back into Callum and Ashton’s story with Ashton’s first AA meeting and the beginning of his journey to sobriety.
This story really had all the highs and lows of Ashton’s journey and Callum’s struggles along with him. I really enjoyed this story, it was emotional and raw but also loving and supportive.
After Ashton is back from rehab, they build the trust back in their relationship, Callum wants to feel he can trust Ashton again before they are intimate again and letting him call him Daddy. Ooo but when it happens it’s so sweet and their chemistry is so good.
““Say it,” he whispered. I blinked up at him confused. Was my mind playing tricks on me? I couldn’t breathe for fear I’d do something to make him change his mind. If that was even what he meant. “Daddy?””
☕️MM Romance
☕️Daddy
☕️Alcøholism
☕️HEA
This story really had all the highs and lows of Ashton’s journey and Callum’s struggles along with him. I really enjoyed this story, it was emotional and raw but also loving and supportive.
After Ashton is back from rehab, they build the trust back in their relationship, Callum wants to feel he can trust Ashton again before they are intimate again and letting him call him Daddy. Ooo but when it happens it’s so sweet and their chemistry is so good.
““Say it,” he whispered. I blinked up at him confused. Was my mind playing tricks on me? I couldn’t breathe for fear I’d do something to make him change his mind. If that was even what he meant. “Daddy?””
☕️MM Romance
☕️Daddy
☕️Alcøholism
☕️HEA
June 29, 2020
Very heartfelt and moving continuation of Ashton and Callum’s story from Spoiled. Ashton’s ongoing road to recovery is depicted in a very nuanced, authentic manner with several realistic setbacks and challenges. Even with all his good intentions and Callum’s support, it is still an uphill battle, and one that ultimately he must fight alone. It was wonderful, if at times sad, to find out more about Ashton and his past, and to see him and his mother moving forward. I also found the scenes with Mario very touching. This is a truly beautiful love story with a couple that overcomes difficult odds and has the most touching connection. The passion they share is wild, but it’s their deep emotional bond and the hope their story gives us that makes this romance stand out so much.
July 11, 2020
I want to start saying that this book cannot be read as standalone because this second book Is the perfect complement to book 1. You'll find the answer to many of the questions that remained after book 1. But not just that, you'll find that this book 2, even if It had a lot of difficult situations, some of which could be stressful and caused me many tears, is lighter and more hopeful than book 1. After reading it, I felt better knowing that all the love and effort of Ashton and Callum was worthy. I'll say no more. Just a final thought: as now both books are in the out, I strongly recommend to read them one after the other, believe me, you'd enjoy them much more. A great and inspiring reading!
July 2, 2020
This was the perfect ending to Callum and Ashton's story. I cried and I cheered for Ash's recovery. The process was believable and I loved the way that Gianni handled the road to recovery, lending a real feel to how hard it is to face alcoholism. Callum and Ashston make such a great couple and you root for them every step of the way. Callum is so patient and such a great Daddy. I read this book in one sitting, but be warned it can get really heavy so if you want a light read this is not that. It is a great hurt/comfort book and I love the way that Gianni always writes her Daddies. I really recommend this duet.
July 4, 2020
I read and loved the first book and I also read the author’s warnings for the second book. I knew it was going to be hard to read but I wanted to see how the story ended. The book was raw and emotional. Absolutely heartbreaking and I couldn’t put it down. So many serious situations and topics were discussed and I feel like I want to thank the author for gifting us with Callum and Ashton’s journey. I loved reading every single heartbreaking word. And I was really surprised at how much I loved Mario’s part in the book. Honestly one of the best books I read this year. I highly recommend it. You’re going to cry but it’s worth it.
I received an ARC of this book for an honest review
I received an ARC of this book for an honest review
July 5, 2020
Be Still My Heart
I'm overjoyed that Aston and Callum got their HEA. What a struggle it was for the two of them. I can see how such a disease can ruin family and friendships. And then to throw in what happened with Louis just made me want to wrap Ashton in a great big hug. Glad Callum and Ashton still got their kink on. Every side character was crucial to the story. Like Ashton I'm still struggling to forgive his mother's previous behavior. She truly devastated Ashton by abandoning him like she did. But all's well with the epilogue wrapping up this wonderful series which I highly recommend to everyone. Definitely a reread for me.
I'm overjoyed that Aston and Callum got their HEA. What a struggle it was for the two of them. I can see how such a disease can ruin family and friendships. And then to throw in what happened with Louis just made me want to wrap Ashton in a great big hug. Glad Callum and Ashton still got their kink on. Every side character was crucial to the story. Like Ashton I'm still struggling to forgive his mother's previous behavior. She truly devastated Ashton by abandoning him like she did. But all's well with the epilogue wrapping up this wonderful series which I highly recommend to everyone. Definitely a reread for me.
June 25, 2020
I love a good hard fought for HEA!! I’ve never experienced an addiction like this but have a few friends who have dealt with it. I like how this was handled and how Ashton finally devoted his time and energy to the right path. Callum’s support and love went a long way in helping Ash but it wasn’t up to him to fix Ash. I love how Ash understood Callum’s feelings for Mario and what he did for both Callum and Mario. This was a hard story but it was told beautifully and wasn’t glossed over. I loved it.
July 2, 2020
Perfect ending
Poor Callum and Ash.
My heart broke for them, individually and as a couple.
They each had so many obstacles to overcome.
Ash has to battle his addiction and Callum has to learn to value himself.
They both had to learn how to be strong individuals in order to be even stronger together as a couple.
In order to do that, Ash had to extremely brave and acknowledge that he needed time and distance in order to get better.
Such a poignant story about the redeeming power of love.
Poor Callum and Ash.
My heart broke for them, individually and as a couple.
They each had so many obstacles to overcome.
Ash has to battle his addiction and Callum has to learn to value himself.
They both had to learn how to be strong individuals in order to be even stronger together as a couple.
In order to do that, Ash had to extremely brave and acknowledge that he needed time and distance in order to get better.
Such a poignant story about the redeeming power of love.
July 7, 2020
Perfectly done.
This was a very emotional read. Callum and Ash worked hard for themselves as well as for their happily ever after. Gianni Holmes didn’t sweeten nor sugar coat it. The good days and bad and the rough days of therapy, we got to see Ash’s struggles. I think the affirmation board is a great tool and adding a thankful section supports it. In fact whether it’s addiction, depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issues and struggles we may have, there is help. It isn’t easy but it can be done.
This was a very emotional read. Callum and Ash worked hard for themselves as well as for their happily ever after. Gianni Holmes didn’t sweeten nor sugar coat it. The good days and bad and the rough days of therapy, we got to see Ash’s struggles. I think the affirmation board is a great tool and adding a thankful section supports it. In fact whether it’s addiction, depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issues and struggles we may have, there is help. It isn’t easy but it can be done.
July 10, 2020
This is the continuation of Ashton and Callum’s story. This was not an easy read for me. It had tough issues that needed to be dealt with. Ashton is trying hard to overcome his addiction to alcohol. Callum was awesome with his support of Ashton. They handled Ashton’s alcoholism well. There was a lot of emotions in this story. Left me feeling I was thru the ringer. It was a great story, well written.
I am voluntarily leaving a review form an ARC that I received from. My reviews are solely based on my thoughts and opinions.
I am voluntarily leaving a review form an ARC that I received from. My reviews are solely based on my thoughts and opinions.
August 17, 2020
This was a beautiful conclusion to the duet. Beautiful in its realness and rawness.
The journey to get their HEA was lots of work that needed to be done on both parts. First you have to know and recognize you have a problem and then you have to want to fix it for the right reason which is yourself. The other person needs to recognize for their own benefit to do some work to also fix their way of trying to fix you.
Callum and Ashton are such a couple that with lots of communication and compromise may not have a perfect relationship but they do have a real one.
The journey to get their HEA was lots of work that needed to be done on both parts. First you have to know and recognize you have a problem and then you have to want to fix it for the right reason which is yourself. The other person needs to recognize for their own benefit to do some work to also fix their way of trying to fix you.
Callum and Ashton are such a couple that with lots of communication and compromise may not have a perfect relationship but they do have a real one.
April 11, 2021
"Perfection" received THREE AND A HALF stars.
The novel gained *stars* for these items:
* gained for: "The book caught my interest in the first five pages."
* gained for: "I thought about the book when I was forced to set it down and re-enter society."
* gained for: "There were no info dumps, poor writing, or copy edit mistakes that jerked me out of the story."
1/2 * gained for: "I was sad when the book ended. I wanted more!"
The novel failed to gain stars for this item:
NO STAR gained for: "That's it. I'm hooked on this author. I will automatically try anything s/he writes."
The novel gained *stars* for these items:
* gained for: "The book caught my interest in the first five pages."
* gained for: "I thought about the book when I was forced to set it down and re-enter society."
* gained for: "There were no info dumps, poor writing, or copy edit mistakes that jerked me out of the story."
1/2 * gained for: "I was sad when the book ended. I wanted more!"
The novel failed to gain stars for this item:
NO STAR gained for: "That's it. I'm hooked on this author. I will automatically try anything s/he writes."
July 2, 2020
This fantastic, hauntingly beautiful, heartrending, amazing, intense, powerful, poignant, grab-you-by-the-feels, nail biting, keep-you-on-the-edge-of-your-seat, raw, gritty, gripping, incredible, smoking hot, and totally awesome story had me hooked from beginning to end. I read it in one sitting because I just could NOT put it down!! I would DEFINITELY recommend getting this marvelous masterpiece for yourself.
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