What do you think?
Rate this book
Bluegrass Dynasty Series #3
Renovating a Heart
Steve McCoy only keeps a submissive for a month. But that may change when Kelly Markham walks into his life.
Steve McCoy has managed to keep his hideously painful past locked away and turn himself into a successful attorney and businessman. The blond Viking of a man has everything any guy could want - nice home, nice apartment, beautiful luxury car, plenty of cash, and access to all the subs he could ever want through the BDSM club he owns, Eden's Gate.
Kelly Markham's past was painful too, but she's managed to power on through. When her friend Nikki sends her to Steve for legal assistance and Kelly discovers he owns a club, she can't wait to visit. Adrift since her late Dom passed away, she's eager to find a way back into the lifestyle, and to possibly get to know the hot, blue-eyed hunk.
Steve can offer her that by signing a D/s contract with her, with one catch: It's only for one month. And that's fine with both of them when things go awry initially. But as they give it another chance and things start to heat up, each of them begins to wonder what a permanent arrangement could offer. And neither wants to broach the subject, expose their true feelings, and risk heartbreak and pain.
As the month rolls by, Kelly makes a discovery about Steve's past and sets out to help him overcome his demons, a thing Steve considers the ultimate betrayal. But in the process, she unleashes one so deadly that someone will have to pay, Unfortunately, that person is her. And it looks doubtful that she'll get out of the demon's grasp with her life.
But an angry Steve refuses to open himself up to help her. Will Kelly survive the torture she has to endure? And will Steve come to his senses in time to save the one person who's finally made the commitment to love him?
Renovating a Heart, Book 3 in the Love Under Construction series, is full of hot D/s sex with a healthy dose of menage, violence, suspense, and heartbreak. And it's a story of hope and forgiveness great enough to give the most jaded a reason to believe in love. Read it following The Groundbreaking (prequel), Laying a Foundation (Book 1), and Tearing Down Walls (Book 2) to really get to know the characters intimately and follow their story.
WARNING: This book contains graphic violence, explicit sexual acts, and scenes bordering on non-consensual. It is intended strictly for adult audiences and not for those under 18 years of age.
454 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 9, 2014
About the author
Deanndra Hall
94 books293 followersDeanndra Hall is a working writer living in far western Kentucky. A free spirit and chronic jokester, she and her partner of over 30 years enjoy visiting their two adult children and their partners and playing with their three crazy little dogs. When she's not writing, Deanndra can be found kayaking, working out at the gym, cooking something healthy, or reading. After writing for business, industry, academia, and non-profits for years and having her work credited to others, she jumped into the fiction realm, particularly erotic fiction and erotica, and had so much fun she never looked back. Look for her on Twitter and Facebook and on her website and blog.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
November 8, 2022
Quick read
May 25, 2014
I have said it before and I will say it again I LOVE THIS SERIES.
See my previous reviews of The Groundbreaking, Laying A Foundation, and Tearing Down Walls on this blog as well as Goodreads and Amazon.
I've been waiting for this book since reading about Steve in The Groundbreaking, and I was thrilled to finally find out all his secrets. But I was sooo not prepared for the gravity of those secrets. Steve's past is so much more than what we learned in The Groundbreaking,
I liked Kelly from the get go, she overcame so much in her life and while everything she went through should have turned her into a fearful emotionless person, she became the exact opposite, she became an incredibly strong woman with a heart of gold. She much like Nikki clearly has so much love to give, but will Steve be the receiver of that love? Not if he can help it, Steve seems to be his own worst enemy when it comes to relationships, and there were moments in the book when I absolutely despised him and wanted to punch his lights out. But much to my surprise Steve did redeem himself to me, honestly, at times,I didn't think that was going to be possible.
And then I got to the end of the book, and I seriously thought about committing murder of my kindle, just totally obliterating it to pieces, HOLY EFFING CLIFFHANGERS BATMAN. Mrs. Hall you were on my shit list there for a few hours I tell ya. And then I remembered there is still one more book to come, so I will hold out on throttling my kindle and the author until then. :-)
This book, just like all of her other books had everything, smoking hotness, romance, mystery, suspense, shockers and heartbreak. Deanndra Hall really knows how to write an extraordinary story, they hook you in and keep you wanting for more.
Full Review at Drue's Random Chatter
See my previous reviews of The Groundbreaking, Laying A Foundation, and Tearing Down Walls on this blog as well as Goodreads and Amazon.
I've been waiting for this book since reading about Steve in The Groundbreaking, and I was thrilled to finally find out all his secrets. But I was sooo not prepared for the gravity of those secrets. Steve's past is so much more than what we learned in The Groundbreaking,
I liked Kelly from the get go, she overcame so much in her life and while everything she went through should have turned her into a fearful emotionless person, she became the exact opposite, she became an incredibly strong woman with a heart of gold. She much like Nikki clearly has so much love to give, but will Steve be the receiver of that love? Not if he can help it, Steve seems to be his own worst enemy when it comes to relationships, and there were moments in the book when I absolutely despised him and wanted to punch his lights out. But much to my surprise Steve did redeem himself to me, honestly, at times,I didn't think that was going to be possible.
And then I got to the end of the book, and I seriously thought about committing murder of my kindle, just totally obliterating it to pieces, HOLY EFFING CLIFFHANGERS BATMAN. Mrs. Hall you were on my shit list there for a few hours I tell ya. And then I remembered there is still one more book to come, so I will hold out on throttling my kindle and the author until then. :-)
This book, just like all of her other books had everything, smoking hotness, romance, mystery, suspense, shockers and heartbreak. Deanndra Hall really knows how to write an extraordinary story, they hook you in and keep you wanting for more.
Full Review at Drue's Random Chatter
May 19, 2014
I received the Love Under Construction Series in exchange for an honest review for Beautifully Broken Book Blog. I do recommend that you read the previous books in order including The Groundbreaking to fully understand this series. This third book is the story of Steve and Kelly who were both previously introduced. Steve is a very dominant character who at times appears to be very uncaring, whereas Kelly is broken after losing the love of her life. The two attempt to enter into a temporary Dom/sub relationship with the intent of both being able to walk away after a short time. I can not decided from one chapter to the next whether or not I like Steve (and other characters at times) but I think that is what makes this such a great story. It is so real and believable. Deanndra's characters are by no means cookie cutter perfect people. They have faults, make mistakes, suffer losses, and learn to move forward. I can not wait to read more about how each of the characters' stories continue to evolve in the next book.
August 26, 2016
~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads Review Team~
This is the third book in the Love Under Construction series. Please read all the books in order so you can get the full effect. Also, reading The Groundbreaking will help A LOT, it is a backstory for every character in the series. I went into this book knowing it was about Steve McCoy, I actually really liked the guy in all the other books, but in this one, I went from liking him, to hating him, to liking him again. In previous books we find out that Steve likes to have his own sub and that he owns Eden’s Gate a BDSM club but we know nothing else about him or his past and there is a reason. Kelly was introduced in book 1 and she has a past that still bothers her to this day, her form Dom passed away, his kids think she is a gold digger and she is left broken hearted, without her Dom, a Dom/sub contract with intent to take care of her forever and loneliness. This leads her to Steve’s office at his law firm. After Kelly finds out that Steve owns a BDSM club she goes for a visit with him and then an idea forms in both Steve and Kelly’s heads, but neither are sure the other is up for it. They are! They agree to do a one month Dom/sub relationship. Steve makes it clear it will only be ONE month, nothing more. That is the only thing that is crystal clear. Neither one of them bring up their pasts or anything that could cause a “trigger” during their month together. BIG mistake! Each one eventually had that one “trigger” tripped and things go downhill and then back up hill. It is a rollercoaster of emotions and at times you want to slap each of them, and then the next minute you want to hug them. Things go bad, then get better and then go to worst case scenario. It was an amazing story and emotional too. There was also a side story with one of the other family members from a prior book and it will catch you off guard. Some people say the book is a cliffhanger. I don’t feel as if it was a cliffhanger. Steve and Kelly had their story told and it was amazing and yes this side story isn’t finished yet but since this series has all the characters at some point come up in each book for whatever reason, it is more like reading a mini-series and you are just waiting for the next episode. It was more like a “to be continued” for me than a cliffhanger. I have loved each and every one of these books. I think the next book is the final book in the series and I will be so sad if that is true. I have enjoyed all of these characters and feel like they are part of my family. I have read books in the past that I have really liked/loved and enjoyed but this series of books is so touching and well written I will be sad when it ends and it will feel like I am losing a part of my family.
Characters: The characters are so well written; you can’t help but fall in love with all of them and feel like you are right there in the moment with them. These books make you feel like you are reading about a real life family and when they hurt, you hurt, and when they are happy you are happy.
Sex: oh yeah….H.O.T.
Religious: no
Would I recommend to others: yes
More than one book in the series: yes
Genre: Romance/BDSM
Would I read more by this author: without a doubt yes!!!
~Wicked Reads Review Team~
This is the third book in the Love Under Construction series. Please read all the books in order so you can get the full effect. Also, reading The Groundbreaking will help A LOT, it is a backstory for every character in the series. I went into this book knowing it was about Steve McCoy, I actually really liked the guy in all the other books, but in this one, I went from liking him, to hating him, to liking him again. In previous books we find out that Steve likes to have his own sub and that he owns Eden’s Gate a BDSM club but we know nothing else about him or his past and there is a reason. Kelly was introduced in book 1 and she has a past that still bothers her to this day, her form Dom passed away, his kids think she is a gold digger and she is left broken hearted, without her Dom, a Dom/sub contract with intent to take care of her forever and loneliness. This leads her to Steve’s office at his law firm. After Kelly finds out that Steve owns a BDSM club she goes for a visit with him and then an idea forms in both Steve and Kelly’s heads, but neither are sure the other is up for it. They are! They agree to do a one month Dom/sub relationship. Steve makes it clear it will only be ONE month, nothing more. That is the only thing that is crystal clear. Neither one of them bring up their pasts or anything that could cause a “trigger” during their month together. BIG mistake! Each one eventually had that one “trigger” tripped and things go downhill and then back up hill. It is a rollercoaster of emotions and at times you want to slap each of them, and then the next minute you want to hug them. Things go bad, then get better and then go to worst case scenario. It was an amazing story and emotional too. There was also a side story with one of the other family members from a prior book and it will catch you off guard. Some people say the book is a cliffhanger. I don’t feel as if it was a cliffhanger. Steve and Kelly had their story told and it was amazing and yes this side story isn’t finished yet but since this series has all the characters at some point come up in each book for whatever reason, it is more like reading a mini-series and you are just waiting for the next episode. It was more like a “to be continued” for me than a cliffhanger. I have loved each and every one of these books. I think the next book is the final book in the series and I will be so sad if that is true. I have enjoyed all of these characters and feel like they are part of my family. I have read books in the past that I have really liked/loved and enjoyed but this series of books is so touching and well written I will be sad when it ends and it will feel like I am losing a part of my family.
Characters: The characters are so well written; you can’t help but fall in love with all of them and feel like you are right there in the moment with them. These books make you feel like you are reading about a real life family and when they hurt, you hurt, and when they are happy you are happy.
Sex: oh yeah….H.O.T.
Religious: no
Would I recommend to others: yes
More than one book in the series: yes
Genre: Romance/BDSM
Would I read more by this author: without a doubt yes!!!
~Wicked Reads Review Team~
May 22, 2014
My Rating: 4.5
Favorite Quote:
“She had a future. Her past was shattered and gone, blown away like the grit and grime it had always been, letting the fresh, green grass grow from its remains. “
My Review:
This author was a new find for me, so for the purpose of this review, I read not only Renovating a Heart, but also the 3 previous books in the series: The Groundbreaking, Laying a Foundation, and Tearing Down Walls. One week and 1415 pages, and I loved every bit of it. I fell in love with her characters, first one handsome man, then his relative, I guess I am kind of a book slut like that... In fact, if I wasn’t happily married, I think I would probably be contemplating going off to Kentucky and looking for an Italian construction worker. Ms. Hall’s story is well written and highly descriptive. I was pulled in to their story immediately. Her characters are complicated, multi-dimensional, and well developed. I felt like I knew them intimately, so much so, that I had a few cringe worthy moments as well as tears. I not only fell madly in love with the handsome male leads, but I also loved and cared about most of the other characters, although I didn’t always like them initially. I am not of the BDSM lifestyle, but am not bothered by the idea and generally like books with sizzle and steam. This series, I dare say, goes beyond steam, it was smoking hot… incendiary! While reading, I actually found myself breathless more than a few times, and for some reason… I seemed to be doing a lot of extra laundry.
Then suddenly, things took a dire turn and arg – a cliffhanger. @#*! I despise cliffhangers with the heat of a thousand suns. When I realized I was at the end, I screamed in disgust, slapped the arm of my chair, and let loose with every explicative I know, which – I should be ashamed to admit - is quite an impressive list! My sweet little husband was more than startled. I was so distressed, I required an extra day to collect my wits to complete this post. If the author had been within reach, she would most likely be sporting a bruise from my pinch. I hope she is currently ensconced in her attic, banging away on her laptop, and writing an even hotter finale - if that is even possible. And of course, I not only expect her to bring the heat, but a HEA as well.
Favorite Quote:
“She had a future. Her past was shattered and gone, blown away like the grit and grime it had always been, letting the fresh, green grass grow from its remains. “
My Review:
This author was a new find for me, so for the purpose of this review, I read not only Renovating a Heart, but also the 3 previous books in the series: The Groundbreaking, Laying a Foundation, and Tearing Down Walls. One week and 1415 pages, and I loved every bit of it. I fell in love with her characters, first one handsome man, then his relative, I guess I am kind of a book slut like that... In fact, if I wasn’t happily married, I think I would probably be contemplating going off to Kentucky and looking for an Italian construction worker. Ms. Hall’s story is well written and highly descriptive. I was pulled in to their story immediately. Her characters are complicated, multi-dimensional, and well developed. I felt like I knew them intimately, so much so, that I had a few cringe worthy moments as well as tears. I not only fell madly in love with the handsome male leads, but I also loved and cared about most of the other characters, although I didn’t always like them initially. I am not of the BDSM lifestyle, but am not bothered by the idea and generally like books with sizzle and steam. This series, I dare say, goes beyond steam, it was smoking hot… incendiary! While reading, I actually found myself breathless more than a few times, and for some reason… I seemed to be doing a lot of extra laundry.
Then suddenly, things took a dire turn and arg – a cliffhanger. @#*! I despise cliffhangers with the heat of a thousand suns. When I realized I was at the end, I screamed in disgust, slapped the arm of my chair, and let loose with every explicative I know, which – I should be ashamed to admit - is quite an impressive list! My sweet little husband was more than startled. I was so distressed, I required an extra day to collect my wits to complete this post. If the author had been within reach, she would most likely be sporting a bruise from my pinch. I hope she is currently ensconced in her attic, banging away on her laptop, and writing an even hotter finale - if that is even possible. And of course, I not only expect her to bring the heat, but a HEA as well.
September 23, 2014
Renovating a Heart is the forth book by Deanndra Hall that I have read. It took me a while to start reading this book because I had a “book hanger” from book three in this series called “Tearing Down Walls.” I fell so in love with this series, but mostly fell in love with Vic Cabrizzi. I didn't think any male in Deanndra's series would beat him, but Steve McCoy definitely gave him a run for his money.
Steve McCoy is a very successful business man. He is an attorney, owns a club and security company. He has everything he could ever want... Well, almost everything. He doesn't have a family. He doesn't have someone to call his forever, and deep down inside, that kills him.
Kelly Markham is a beautiful brunette with a lot to offer a man. She's sweet, loyal, with a huge heart, and completely exotic in the bedroom, everything a man could dream of. She hasn't had an easy life. Life has sent her on a roller coaster, twisting and turning when she least expected it, but Kelly stayed strong and made it through.
Steve and Kelly meet through mutual friends, the Walters Family. They never really had a chance to get to know each other, until, Kelly comes to his club and asks him to be her Dom. Of course, Steve couldn't say no to a beautiful girl like Kelly, even though his head told him that he would be getting himself in a big situation with her. He agreed to her request, but only for a month. Steve never keeps a sub around longer than a month.
Steve and Kelly go through a lot with each other, over a little amount of time. Emotions fly through the air, passion fills their hearts, and both their lives change forever.
The real question is: What will happen when the month runs out?
This story is fill with action, loss, and most important, love. This book will keep you on your toes, begging for more. It had me crying, laughing, cursing, and angry. Series like this one is very hard to find.
Once again, I'm giving another one of Deanndra's books five stars. She deserves it. Her writing is so absolutely amazing, and addicting. She always seems to pull me into her stories from just the first few pages. Renovating A Heart will definitely be on my top reads! I'm looking forward to book four in the series. I'm not sure how long I will be able to wait.
Steve McCoy is a very successful business man. He is an attorney, owns a club and security company. He has everything he could ever want... Well, almost everything. He doesn't have a family. He doesn't have someone to call his forever, and deep down inside, that kills him.
Kelly Markham is a beautiful brunette with a lot to offer a man. She's sweet, loyal, with a huge heart, and completely exotic in the bedroom, everything a man could dream of. She hasn't had an easy life. Life has sent her on a roller coaster, twisting and turning when she least expected it, but Kelly stayed strong and made it through.
Steve and Kelly meet through mutual friends, the Walters Family. They never really had a chance to get to know each other, until, Kelly comes to his club and asks him to be her Dom. Of course, Steve couldn't say no to a beautiful girl like Kelly, even though his head told him that he would be getting himself in a big situation with her. He agreed to her request, but only for a month. Steve never keeps a sub around longer than a month.
Steve and Kelly go through a lot with each other, over a little amount of time. Emotions fly through the air, passion fills their hearts, and both their lives change forever.
The real question is: What will happen when the month runs out?
This story is fill with action, loss, and most important, love. This book will keep you on your toes, begging for more. It had me crying, laughing, cursing, and angry. Series like this one is very hard to find.
Once again, I'm giving another one of Deanndra's books five stars. She deserves it. Her writing is so absolutely amazing, and addicting. She always seems to pull me into her stories from just the first few pages. Renovating A Heart will definitely be on my top reads! I'm looking forward to book four in the series. I'm not sure how long I will be able to wait.
October 15, 2014
**I received a copy from author for a honest review**
Renovating A Heart is the third book in the Love Under Construction Series. It can be read as a standalone but I recommend you read the others prior so you know who the other characters are.
Steve McCoy is a successful attorney as well as the owner of the BDSM club, Eden's Gate. Steve is sexy as hell and everyone wants him but he is so closed off with his emotions. The only type of relationships Steve does is Dom/Sub and they only last one month.
Kelly Markham is a beautiful women who has had to deal with things no one should have. She lost the one person who loved her more then anything, her Dom and is now on her own. After eight years at her job she gets called in to be told they are letting her go. After leaning on her friends for help she is sent to Eden's Gate where she signs a contract to be Steve's Sub for one month. The only down fall...neither are willing to talk about their past.
During their one month something happens and sets off a trigger, emotions are running high so they agree to start over and Kelly tells Steve about her past and why he caused a trigger.
Their time at home and at the club are hot as hell!!! There is so much detail you can actually visualize whats happening. Reading this story had my emotions on high alert, one minute I was laughing, then I was crying, I was heartbroken, and I was most definitely pissed. I will be recommending this book to everyone!!!
Renovating A Heart is the third book in the Love Under Construction Series. It can be read as a standalone but I recommend you read the others prior so you know who the other characters are.
Steve McCoy is a successful attorney as well as the owner of the BDSM club, Eden's Gate. Steve is sexy as hell and everyone wants him but he is so closed off with his emotions. The only type of relationships Steve does is Dom/Sub and they only last one month.
Kelly Markham is a beautiful women who has had to deal with things no one should have. She lost the one person who loved her more then anything, her Dom and is now on her own. After eight years at her job she gets called in to be told they are letting her go. After leaning on her friends for help she is sent to Eden's Gate where she signs a contract to be Steve's Sub for one month. The only down fall...neither are willing to talk about their past.
During their one month something happens and sets off a trigger, emotions are running high so they agree to start over and Kelly tells Steve about her past and why he caused a trigger.
Their time at home and at the club are hot as hell!!! There is so much detail you can actually visualize whats happening. Reading this story had my emotions on high alert, one minute I was laughing, then I was crying, I was heartbroken, and I was most definitely pissed. I will be recommending this book to everyone!!!
May 26, 2014
Renovating A Heart is the third book in the Love Under Construction Series. Like previous reviewers state, and I agree you should read the book one and two in order to get to know the characters in this book along with characters from the other books that appear in this story.
In this book Kelly Markham is looking to get back into the BDSM scene along with being a sub again. Her answer is Steve McCoy the very hot and successful attorney that is hiding a haunting past. Kelly too like Steve has her own issues that she is trying to come to grasp and in going back to the BDSM world she belives that this could be her answer. Problem is that Steve has a rule....he only takes a sub for a month but will that rule be broken after having Kelly as is sub for the next month.
While these two try to play submissive and dominant the real truth lies behind the facade of the game. Can both hide the pain from the past and move forward together in the future.
Very enjoyable series to not be missed.
A received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review.
In this book Kelly Markham is looking to get back into the BDSM scene along with being a sub again. Her answer is Steve McCoy the very hot and successful attorney that is hiding a haunting past. Kelly too like Steve has her own issues that she is trying to come to grasp and in going back to the BDSM world she belives that this could be her answer. Problem is that Steve has a rule....he only takes a sub for a month but will that rule be broken after having Kelly as is sub for the next month.
While these two try to play submissive and dominant the real truth lies behind the facade of the game. Can both hide the pain from the past and move forward together in the future.
Very enjoyable series to not be missed.
A received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review.
May 16, 2014
"I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads."
Do make sure that you read the previous books in the series to get the most from this book. You would regret not having the characters in place, let alone having missed out on some excellent writing.
Ms Hall has once again written a magnificent novel about love, family and trust. This book is primarily about Steve McCoy's past, present and possibly his future, but the Walters family dramas are also front and centre too. I can't begin to tell you just how good this story is, I can only recommend that you read it. Pass me another box of tissues ...
I cannot believe that the next book is not out until Autumn - that seems far too long to wait.
Do make sure that you read the previous books in the series to get the most from this book. You would regret not having the characters in place, let alone having missed out on some excellent writing.
Ms Hall has once again written a magnificent novel about love, family and trust. This book is primarily about Steve McCoy's past, present and possibly his future, but the Walters family dramas are also front and centre too. I can't begin to tell you just how good this story is, I can only recommend that you read it. Pass me another box of tissues ...
I cannot believe that the next book is not out until Autumn - that seems far too long to wait.
July 28, 2014
No surprise Deanndra Hall does it again! This book just like the rest sucked me in from the very beginning and I could not stop reading until it was over. This book took me on an emotional rollercoaster. There were times where I wanted to throw it and reach through and slap the characters. There were also parts where I cried and wanted to protect the characters too. and then by the end I was left saying what the heck just happened and left wanting more!
Steve and Kelly's story was crazy and wild. Incredible steamy scenes and a heck of an emotional ride. When this book first started I hated Steve, but throughout the book I fell in love with him. While reading this book you get an in depth look at him and it broke my heart. The connection that I feel towards these characters is crazy, but that is what makes a great book! I highly recommend to anyone over 18!
Steve and Kelly's story was crazy and wild. Incredible steamy scenes and a heck of an emotional ride. When this book first started I hated Steve, but throughout the book I fell in love with him. While reading this book you get an in depth look at him and it broke my heart. The connection that I feel towards these characters is crazy, but that is what makes a great book! I highly recommend to anyone over 18!
October 29, 2014
I love that we get to keep up with all of the characters from the following books in this series!! you get to see your favorite people move on and grow to the people that they wish to be and you get to see the love that they all have for one another!!
Steve is a master Dom that stays disconnected emotionally that has demons that won't allow him to love or allow someone to love him.
Kelly has had a horrific childhood and she has closed herself off from love and commitment until she submits herself to Steve, can she overcome her demons while helping him overcome his?
Once again you are taken on an emotional rollercoaster ride with the entire Walters family and their friends!! Hold on because it is a rough one!!!
This review is based upon a complimentary copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review on behalf of Elaine and Tami's JB3s Blackbirds Blog.
Steve is a master Dom that stays disconnected emotionally that has demons that won't allow him to love or allow someone to love him.
Kelly has had a horrific childhood and she has closed herself off from love and commitment until she submits herself to Steve, can she overcome her demons while helping him overcome his?
Once again you are taken on an emotional rollercoaster ride with the entire Walters family and their friends!! Hold on because it is a rough one!!!
This review is based upon a complimentary copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review on behalf of Elaine and Tami's JB3s Blackbirds Blog.
June 22, 2014
I couldn't wait to read about Steve as he's been in all the other books and seemed like he had a history and boy does he! I really like the characters that are at the forefront of this book and I also love that all the other characters we've met are included. You really need to read these books in order or you'll miss the little seeds about Steve and Kelly that are planted along the way. I like how this doesn't start as a traditional love story and also that the main characters are of the older generation which is pretty unusual. I can not wait for the next book even if I do have to wait until autumn this year, do I recommend this book and the other three? Hell yeah I do!
May 24, 2014
Holy Smokes Deanndra Hall what a cliff hanger!! Oh no this can't happen!
What another great read from this author. She is always making her
characters just like family. I havn't liked Steve from the begining. He
was a hard ass and not compasionate at all. BUT, Deanndra changed my
mind. Being in the book seeing what he went through softened my heart.
Kelly is also amazing. Thank you Deanndra for letting us inside their
hearts. I give this book 5 Stars. I can't wait for more!!
What another great read from this author. She is always making her
characters just like family. I havn't liked Steve from the begining. He
was a hard ass and not compasionate at all. BUT, Deanndra changed my
mind. Being in the book seeing what he went through softened my heart.
Kelly is also amazing. Thank you Deanndra for letting us inside their
hearts. I give this book 5 Stars. I can't wait for more!!
October 25, 2014
I was happy to see the continuing characters from the first two books and interested to see how this story would progress with Steve and Kelly. Deanndra has a talent in taking a story that you might not be comfortable with, and end up enjoying the ride. There are a lot of sexual scenes with multiple partners, anal, and bondage, so be prepared!
In the previous books, Steve seemed friendly and was very involved with the Walters family, personally and business-wise. We found out in the second book that he is not only an attorney but also owns a BDSM club. When Vic visited initially for business reasons for Tony, he loved the look and feel of the club. It rubbed me the wrong way when Vic would enter Steve’s office and find him with a sub, and it just seemed that he was inconsiderate and roughly used them. BUT, the subs seemed to like it so that is just how I would feel in that situation. I’m not into BDSM but fascinated to learn what types of sex and interactions people prefer and need.
When Kelly meets with Steve for a legal matter, BDSM comes up in the conversation and he invites her to visit the club. Kelly had a long-time Dom and when he died, she was left with nothing. She enjoyed submission and was lost without it. Kelly and Steve end up working out an agreement as a D/s for one month. Steve refuses to spend any more time than that with a woman, and doesn’t want a relationship. The details are interwoven throughout the story of his childhood and various events that make him a man who puts up walls and refuses to care about anyone.
Steve and Kelly’s initial time together was very rough and, more than once in the story, I wanted to smack Steve upside the head and kick him elsewhere! I vacillated between liking him, hating him, and feeling sorry for him. I couldn’t believe how he treated Kelly when they first went to his home. Since I don’t live in that lifestyle, one scene was especially rough and I don’t think I could forgive and forget. But, they end up working things out and as the month proceeds, they both hate the thought of ending their time after one month. Kelly finds out about various parts of Steve’s life and tries to help him deal with the issues and what a mistake! Steve lashes out at everyone and refuses to speak to or see any of his friends.
In the meantime, there is a suspenseful storyline and I was amazed at the details of so many things that were viewed one way, and really was something else. I was a ‘wee bit’ tense at times and was flipping the pages to see what would come next.
The hot sex scenes continue in this book and I enjoyed the stories of the older couples. I read books about characters of all ages, but I especially like those closer to my age. There are characters from babies and young children, to those in their 20s-30s but the focus is on the older characters in their 40s – 50s.
Along with all of Steve, Kelly, and the suspense, Nikki hasn’t been well and she finally goes to the doctor. I don’t really care for cliffhangers, especially if it will be a while before the next book comes out. But I was invested in the lives of the characters and I knew the 4th book would be available shortly. This book was a rollercoaster of emotions. Deanndra manages to weave so many different storylines, emotions, characters, and it all just fits together so well.
I look forward to the next book, Planning an Addition and more of the characters that I’ve grown to love. There is just so much love, acceptance, compassion, and friendship in this series, which definitely offsets the issues each person lives with a large portion of their lives.
In the previous books, Steve seemed friendly and was very involved with the Walters family, personally and business-wise. We found out in the second book that he is not only an attorney but also owns a BDSM club. When Vic visited initially for business reasons for Tony, he loved the look and feel of the club. It rubbed me the wrong way when Vic would enter Steve’s office and find him with a sub, and it just seemed that he was inconsiderate and roughly used them. BUT, the subs seemed to like it so that is just how I would feel in that situation. I’m not into BDSM but fascinated to learn what types of sex and interactions people prefer and need.
When Kelly meets with Steve for a legal matter, BDSM comes up in the conversation and he invites her to visit the club. Kelly had a long-time Dom and when he died, she was left with nothing. She enjoyed submission and was lost without it. Kelly and Steve end up working out an agreement as a D/s for one month. Steve refuses to spend any more time than that with a woman, and doesn’t want a relationship. The details are interwoven throughout the story of his childhood and various events that make him a man who puts up walls and refuses to care about anyone.
Steve and Kelly’s initial time together was very rough and, more than once in the story, I wanted to smack Steve upside the head and kick him elsewhere! I vacillated between liking him, hating him, and feeling sorry for him. I couldn’t believe how he treated Kelly when they first went to his home. Since I don’t live in that lifestyle, one scene was especially rough and I don’t think I could forgive and forget. But, they end up working things out and as the month proceeds, they both hate the thought of ending their time after one month. Kelly finds out about various parts of Steve’s life and tries to help him deal with the issues and what a mistake! Steve lashes out at everyone and refuses to speak to or see any of his friends.
In the meantime, there is a suspenseful storyline and I was amazed at the details of so many things that were viewed one way, and really was something else. I was a ‘wee bit’ tense at times and was flipping the pages to see what would come next.
The hot sex scenes continue in this book and I enjoyed the stories of the older couples. I read books about characters of all ages, but I especially like those closer to my age. There are characters from babies and young children, to those in their 20s-30s but the focus is on the older characters in their 40s – 50s.
Along with all of Steve, Kelly, and the suspense, Nikki hasn’t been well and she finally goes to the doctor. I don’t really care for cliffhangers, especially if it will be a while before the next book comes out. But I was invested in the lives of the characters and I knew the 4th book would be available shortly. This book was a rollercoaster of emotions. Deanndra manages to weave so many different storylines, emotions, characters, and it all just fits together so well.
I look forward to the next book, Planning an Addition and more of the characters that I’ve grown to love. There is just so much love, acceptance, compassion, and friendship in this series, which definitely offsets the issues each person lives with a large portion of their lives.
May 23, 2014
This was interesting. I will definitely be going back to read the books before this one to get the other couples background stories. Already purchased them. What is fascinating is how much Kelly and Steve loved each other were good for each other and yet continually found ways to inadvertently hurt each other when doing things to protect each other or show their love. Take for example the contract, in order for steve not to hurt her he was a jackass. Full on complete douchebag jackass. Afterwards he began to thaw but she pulled back and that angered him he became a idiot and she withdrew. In his defense and I can't believe I am saying that, she didn't tell him things he needed to know. Than after all this pain and stupidity on both parts they begin again. Only this time the relationship was amazing and the sensual scenes smoked off the page.
Now we're invested in these two and seeing them be energizer bunnies left and right in bed and having menage's alot. They fall for each other but are afraid to tell each other and trust one another. With their bodies they trust each other with other things meh not so much.
They are happy things are going honky dory and again sizzling our pages when she does something that yes was because she cared but she had to know he would not be happy. He didn't talk to her about his past so her kicking the tumbleweed of his past behind his back. Yeah not good kimosabe not good. So she brings his past back to help him heal but guess what not happy camper is steve. Why? She first found things out about him without him telling her and than decided to confront him with it see very not good. He feels hurt and crushed by her lies and betrayal. Lies because he never told her where he was going or that he knew this part of his past and betrayal because when he said he didn't want to talk about it here we are having her bring that tumbleweed in. I see his point. Feel for him here until his rage turns him into a idiot but than again when your life sucked like his did in that past and those you thought respected you not wanting to talk about it go and dredge it up you will go bonkers. He just a little more than others. Overall he is a nice guy. I liked him more than Tony and Vic because he was more real. Flawed like the rest of us. Those two it was too perfect. To rosy.
So now Kelly still can't let his past go and does a monumentally doofy thing and even Tony balked at it. This stirs up the wrong hornet's nest and puts her in danger. In comes the macho guys and have to make Steve see reality and now he is apologizing left and right. Poor guy. More revelations come about and we see these two again act silly.
She doesn't tell him her feelings he holds back because of something she says and presto whammo we are back to the beginning folks. Finally Steve gets some sense and does what needed to be done so he can have his love back. That is the way the book ends though. we get a sad ending and are left hoping that Nikki comes out of this issue in tact. Tony will be devastated if she doesn't. That was one part of him I loved his love and devotion to her.
A book on love and devotion. Support and friendship and never giving up. A smokin hot book of love scenes that will scorch your fingies at time with how hot they are. A good book that leaves you hanging and praying that nothing bad comes about.
Now we're invested in these two and seeing them be energizer bunnies left and right in bed and having menage's alot. They fall for each other but are afraid to tell each other and trust one another. With their bodies they trust each other with other things meh not so much.
They are happy things are going honky dory and again sizzling our pages when she does something that yes was because she cared but she had to know he would not be happy. He didn't talk to her about his past so her kicking the tumbleweed of his past behind his back. Yeah not good kimosabe not good. So she brings his past back to help him heal but guess what not happy camper is steve. Why? She first found things out about him without him telling her and than decided to confront him with it see very not good. He feels hurt and crushed by her lies and betrayal. Lies because he never told her where he was going or that he knew this part of his past and betrayal because when he said he didn't want to talk about it here we are having her bring that tumbleweed in. I see his point. Feel for him here until his rage turns him into a idiot but than again when your life sucked like his did in that past and those you thought respected you not wanting to talk about it go and dredge it up you will go bonkers. He just a little more than others. Overall he is a nice guy. I liked him more than Tony and Vic because he was more real. Flawed like the rest of us. Those two it was too perfect. To rosy.
So now Kelly still can't let his past go and does a monumentally doofy thing and even Tony balked at it. This stirs up the wrong hornet's nest and puts her in danger. In comes the macho guys and have to make Steve see reality and now he is apologizing left and right. Poor guy. More revelations come about and we see these two again act silly.
She doesn't tell him her feelings he holds back because of something she says and presto whammo we are back to the beginning folks. Finally Steve gets some sense and does what needed to be done so he can have his love back. That is the way the book ends though. we get a sad ending and are left hoping that Nikki comes out of this issue in tact. Tony will be devastated if she doesn't. That was one part of him I loved his love and devotion to her.
A book on love and devotion. Support and friendship and never giving up. A smokin hot book of love scenes that will scorch your fingies at time with how hot they are. A good book that leaves you hanging and praying that nothing bad comes about.
July 2, 2016
Title: Renovating a Heart
Author: Deanndra Hall
Series: Love Under Construction #3
Publisher: Self
Reviewer: Barb
Release Date: May 19, 2014
Genre(s): Contemporary Romance, BDSM, Erotica, Ménage
Page Count: 306
Heat Level: 4 flames out of 5
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
Review:
*****5 Emotional and Haunting My Sunshine Stars*****
I didn't know that this series could get any better after Vic and Laura's story in Tearing Down Walls, but Renovating a Heart really got all of my emotions riled up. I hated Steve and the way he treated Kelly! He was so callous, mean and unfeeling. After losing her former Dom and being ostracized by his family, all Kelly wanted was to be loved.
Kelly watched the whole scene. So many happy people. So much love. It was all something she wanted badly. She’d take just a little of it. Even a little was more than she already had.
Steve and Kelly enter into a 1 month D/s contract with no expectations of anything further. The BDSM scenes Steve sets up with Kelly and other Doms is so HOT and Combustible you will need an ice bath to cool off! But almost immediately feelings begin to change and after a scene goes horribly wrong, they agree to have a ‘redo’ and start over.
Steve had to turn away from Kelly. He knew the longing and hurt were plain on his face, and that was a side he didn’t want to show her, that soft underbelly he’d told Vic about . She was his sub. It was for one month. And it didn’t matter anyway. If she knew about his past, who he was and where he came from, she’d walk away and never look back.
“I want to make love to you, angel. Will you make love with me, Kelly? Will you let me make love with you?” Kelly said nothing. Instead, she drew Steve’s face to hers and kissed him. He was over fifty years old and he’d never been kissed like that, so much passion and so much sweetness poured over him like warm spiced honey.
Kelly stumbles upon Steve’s secret from his past and as she attempts to ‘help’ him find closure, she finds herself in extreme danger. Steve reacts horribly to the revelations Kelly uncovers and explodes on everyone, forcing them out of his life.
He’d thrown it all away, all for pride and pig-headedness. And it might be too late to undo it. He’d lose his Sunshine forever, her sweet smile, her soft lips, her warmth and tenderness. Steve fought back tears. What could he do now?
This is where Deanndra Hall shines with her writing, evoking strong emotions from the reader. You will cry, get angry, scream, become happy, and then cry again.
Does Kelly survive the situation she finds herself in from the horrible people from Steve’s past? Who is Hunter?
As with the previous books, all of the couples and characters are very much present and a devastating story will unfold that threatens to destroy the entire family. Now on to Planning an Addition!
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Barb from Alpha Book Club
Author: Deanndra Hall
Series: Love Under Construction #3
Publisher: Self
Reviewer: Barb
Release Date: May 19, 2014
Genre(s): Contemporary Romance, BDSM, Erotica, Ménage
Page Count: 306
Heat Level: 4 flames out of 5
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
Review:
*****5 Emotional and Haunting My Sunshine Stars*****
I didn't know that this series could get any better after Vic and Laura's story in Tearing Down Walls, but Renovating a Heart really got all of my emotions riled up. I hated Steve and the way he treated Kelly! He was so callous, mean and unfeeling. After losing her former Dom and being ostracized by his family, all Kelly wanted was to be loved.
Kelly watched the whole scene. So many happy people. So much love. It was all something she wanted badly. She’d take just a little of it. Even a little was more than she already had.
Steve and Kelly enter into a 1 month D/s contract with no expectations of anything further. The BDSM scenes Steve sets up with Kelly and other Doms is so HOT and Combustible you will need an ice bath to cool off! But almost immediately feelings begin to change and after a scene goes horribly wrong, they agree to have a ‘redo’ and start over.
Steve had to turn away from Kelly. He knew the longing and hurt were plain on his face, and that was a side he didn’t want to show her, that soft underbelly he’d told Vic about . She was his sub. It was for one month. And it didn’t matter anyway. If she knew about his past, who he was and where he came from, she’d walk away and never look back.
“I want to make love to you, angel. Will you make love with me, Kelly? Will you let me make love with you?” Kelly said nothing. Instead, she drew Steve’s face to hers and kissed him. He was over fifty years old and he’d never been kissed like that, so much passion and so much sweetness poured over him like warm spiced honey.
Kelly stumbles upon Steve’s secret from his past and as she attempts to ‘help’ him find closure, she finds herself in extreme danger. Steve reacts horribly to the revelations Kelly uncovers and explodes on everyone, forcing them out of his life.
He’d thrown it all away, all for pride and pig-headedness. And it might be too late to undo it. He’d lose his Sunshine forever, her sweet smile, her soft lips, her warmth and tenderness. Steve fought back tears. What could he do now?
This is where Deanndra Hall shines with her writing, evoking strong emotions from the reader. You will cry, get angry, scream, become happy, and then cry again.
Does Kelly survive the situation she finds herself in from the horrible people from Steve’s past? Who is Hunter?
As with the previous books, all of the couples and characters are very much present and a devastating story will unfold that threatens to destroy the entire family. Now on to Planning an Addition!
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Barb from Alpha Book Club
May 21, 2014
**3.5 Fiery Hearts!**
*I received an ARC of this book free from Drue’s Random Chatter in exchange for an honest review*
I was really looking forward to Steve and Kelly’s story, but it was overpowered by too much Tony and Nikki. The book started with them and ended with them. Steve and Kelly were more like a side note that just happened to play a role within the Cabrizzi storyline. I understand how main characters are continually woven into the other books to maintain the attachment to each other, but when I finished this book I could barely remember Steve and Kelly, as Tony and Nikki definitely overtake the ending.
Steve McCoy is the infamous club owner, security firm owner, and attorney. I got a glimpse into his character in the last book when Vic worked for him at Eden’s Gate. He is a Dom in every sense of the word, but Kelly is just the woman to knock him off his game and push him over his own limits, which can be quite dangerous…for both of them.
“Kelly, I’m so sorry. I’d do anything to take it all back.”
Kelly Markham hasn’t had an easy life. She’d been forced into too many things in the name of survival. Her long road led her to Steve, and something in him piques her interest and she wants more, but because of his own hang-ups she gets more than she bargained for.
“She didn’t think this was going to work, and even if he professed his undying love for her now, she wasn’t sure she’d want that. No worries about falling in love with Steve McCoy – he’d killed any chance of that.”
Steve will push Kelly to and past her limits (not always in a good way), and Kelly finally gets what she needs sexually at home and at Eden’s Gate. Hello threesomes and inventive contraptions!
“The woman was so incredible that even the taste of another man on her lips was hot, and he kissed her again just to enjoy it.”
In attempt to break through Steve’s tough outer shell Kelly will do something that ends up putting her in danger and thank goodness there’s so many men who know just how to jump in and save the day. They make me look forward to the next book in the series. There’s also a Tony and Nikki cliffhanger that’ll definitely make you ready for book four, so prepare yourself.
My Favorite Laughable Moment: Vic and Tony’s newest family addition.
“Franklin? What the hell kind of name is that for a … you sure that’s a dog?”
~~~
“I’ve gotta say, that’s…” Vic stopped when the dog marched right up to him and shoved her nose into his crotch. “Hey! Cut that the hell out! You’re not my type of woman!”
My Favorite Quote: “I want you to get the stick out of your ass and help us find Kelly, you low-life, no count, womanizing, scum-sucking, motherfucking dick head.”
Yep, he definitely deserved to be on the receiving end of this!
*I received an ARC of this book free from Drue’s Random Chatter in exchange for an honest review*
I was really looking forward to Steve and Kelly’s story, but it was overpowered by too much Tony and Nikki. The book started with them and ended with them. Steve and Kelly were more like a side note that just happened to play a role within the Cabrizzi storyline. I understand how main characters are continually woven into the other books to maintain the attachment to each other, but when I finished this book I could barely remember Steve and Kelly, as Tony and Nikki definitely overtake the ending.
Steve McCoy is the infamous club owner, security firm owner, and attorney. I got a glimpse into his character in the last book when Vic worked for him at Eden’s Gate. He is a Dom in every sense of the word, but Kelly is just the woman to knock him off his game and push him over his own limits, which can be quite dangerous…for both of them.
“Kelly, I’m so sorry. I’d do anything to take it all back.”
Kelly Markham hasn’t had an easy life. She’d been forced into too many things in the name of survival. Her long road led her to Steve, and something in him piques her interest and she wants more, but because of his own hang-ups she gets more than she bargained for.
“She didn’t think this was going to work, and even if he professed his undying love for her now, she wasn’t sure she’d want that. No worries about falling in love with Steve McCoy – he’d killed any chance of that.”
Steve will push Kelly to and past her limits (not always in a good way), and Kelly finally gets what she needs sexually at home and at Eden’s Gate. Hello threesomes and inventive contraptions!
“The woman was so incredible that even the taste of another man on her lips was hot, and he kissed her again just to enjoy it.”
In attempt to break through Steve’s tough outer shell Kelly will do something that ends up putting her in danger and thank goodness there’s so many men who know just how to jump in and save the day. They make me look forward to the next book in the series. There’s also a Tony and Nikki cliffhanger that’ll definitely make you ready for book four, so prepare yourself.
My Favorite Laughable Moment: Vic and Tony’s newest family addition.
“Franklin? What the hell kind of name is that for a … you sure that’s a dog?”
~~~
“I’ve gotta say, that’s…” Vic stopped when the dog marched right up to him and shoved her nose into his crotch. “Hey! Cut that the hell out! You’re not my type of woman!”
My Favorite Quote: “I want you to get the stick out of your ass and help us find Kelly, you low-life, no count, womanizing, scum-sucking, motherfucking dick head.”
Yep, he definitely deserved to be on the receiving end of this!
October 5, 2014
NOW THIS BOOK I VERY MUCH LIKE!
And it wasn't long. . . well considering the theme of the story, it shouldn't be. But I wished there it was!
I love how this story flowed from beginning to end and how this book showed a new style/way of telling the story because in the previous books, I saw the similarities in how the story flowed. This book, however, made everything I expected crash and burn. And I love it!
This is the story of Steve and Kelly and how their love came to be. It was a very bumpy road for this two every since day one. Especially since they both have secrets neither wants to share. Will their relationship suffer because of it or will it strengthen with it? I won't delve into detail You guys need to read it for yourselves to know!.
I liked Steve, yeah he's pretty much an asshole every since the beginning of the story but behind that doucheness hides a very caring and loving man. Kelly is just. . . Sunshine. . .*winks* and I really felt the pain and hurt of Kelly in one particular scene in the story (to those who read this, you guys probably know which one I'm pertaining to *wiggles eye brows*) I was on the verge of crying that time and that it costed me to sleep very late a night but IT WAS WORTH IT.
Honestly I cannot put down this book because of the questions inside my head. Questions like: "OMG! what will happen?" or "He did not just do that?!" or even "WHY???!" and even now some questions are not yet answered because new questions are being added.
Although yes this series is categorized as erotic and/or BDSM. . . I saw the morals in this story and how it could be incorporated in real life. Yes there are a lot of sex scenes in the series in general but like in the characters, there is are story behind it. In the story or even series in general, we get to see FAMILY. HONESTY. ACCEPTANCE. LOVE. and also the cruelty of greed and envy and hatred and pain.
Each book, I noticed, was the start of something, no matter how big or small it is, for all the characters in the series. And the ending of this book was a what-the-fuck moment for me because I wanted to know more about how the characters will continue in the story and that cliffhanger got me wanting to read the next book which is coming this Fall and I CANNOT WAIT!
And it wasn't long. . . well considering the theme of the story, it shouldn't be. But I wished there it was!
I love how this story flowed from beginning to end and how this book showed a new style/way of telling the story because in the previous books, I saw the similarities in how the story flowed. This book, however, made everything I expected crash and burn. And I love it!
This is the story of Steve and Kelly and how their love came to be. It was a very bumpy road for this two every since day one. Especially since they both have secrets neither wants to share. Will their relationship suffer because of it or will it strengthen with it? I won't delve into detail You guys need to read it for yourselves to know!.
I liked Steve, yeah he's pretty much an asshole every since the beginning of the story but behind that doucheness hides a very caring and loving man. Kelly is just. . . Sunshine. . .*winks* and I really felt the pain and hurt of Kelly in one particular scene in the story (to those who read this, you guys probably know which one I'm pertaining to *wiggles eye brows*) I was on the verge of crying that time and that it costed me to sleep very late a night but IT WAS WORTH IT.
Honestly I cannot put down this book because of the questions inside my head. Questions like: "OMG! what will happen?" or "He did not just do that?!" or even "WHY???!" and even now some questions are not yet answered because new questions are being added.
Although yes this series is categorized as erotic and/or BDSM. . . I saw the morals in this story and how it could be incorporated in real life. Yes there are a lot of sex scenes in the series in general but like in the characters, there is are story behind it. In the story or even series in general, we get to see FAMILY. HONESTY. ACCEPTANCE. LOVE. and also the cruelty of greed and envy and hatred and pain.
Each book, I noticed, was the start of something, no matter how big or small it is, for all the characters in the series. And the ending of this book was a what-the-fuck moment for me because I wanted to know more about how the characters will continue in the story and that cliffhanger got me wanting to read the next book which is coming this Fall and I CANNOT WAIT!
May 19, 2014
Ok, its official. I love this series! The stories surrounding the Walters family are so rich and interesting, I hate when I reach the last page. Deanndra Hall is an incredible storyteller, you think of the characters as part of your family. If it was possible to give a book higher than a 5 star rating, I would do that with this book. Add in all the incredibly sexy things going on between the pages, and you have a blockbuster book! But, like all families, everyday is not perfect. Bad things can and do happen. I think I went through every emotion possible, plus a box of Kleenex.
This story centers around Steve and Kelly. Steve is the attorney for Walter's Construction, and he is like part of the family. He also runs a security company and a BDSM club in Lexington. He is as close to Tony as a brother, but no one knows much about his past. He avoids or blows off any questions about his life before they hired him. Kelly is a friend of Nikki's, and her former Dom had passed away 9 years earlier. She had just lost her job, and that is how she comes to be closer to Steve. In the last book, she had helped the family hide Laura, who is marrying Vic. That makes her family too. She had a horrible youth, and she shares this with Nikki and Tony.
When Kelly realizes that Steve is in the lifestyle and owns a club, she is feeling like she might have hope of finding a Dom to collar her. Steve is very attracted to Kelly, but his own demons hold him back. Can two very damaged people come together and heal each other? Or has life dealt them such a blow that there is no coming back? And what will happen when darkness threatens to destroy them both? Could good intentions on Kelly's part blow up in their faces? Along with these things, this story also has all of my favorite characters mixed in with plenty of revelation, heartbreak, and new beginnings. And the holy hell, what happened ending will have you clamoring for the next book in the series. This book has taken me on such an amazing journey, I need a drink. Or two. Do not miss this read, it will blow your doors off. What a ride!
This story centers around Steve and Kelly. Steve is the attorney for Walter's Construction, and he is like part of the family. He also runs a security company and a BDSM club in Lexington. He is as close to Tony as a brother, but no one knows much about his past. He avoids or blows off any questions about his life before they hired him. Kelly is a friend of Nikki's, and her former Dom had passed away 9 years earlier. She had just lost her job, and that is how she comes to be closer to Steve. In the last book, she had helped the family hide Laura, who is marrying Vic. That makes her family too. She had a horrible youth, and she shares this with Nikki and Tony.
When Kelly realizes that Steve is in the lifestyle and owns a club, she is feeling like she might have hope of finding a Dom to collar her. Steve is very attracted to Kelly, but his own demons hold him back. Can two very damaged people come together and heal each other? Or has life dealt them such a blow that there is no coming back? And what will happen when darkness threatens to destroy them both? Could good intentions on Kelly's part blow up in their faces? Along with these things, this story also has all of my favorite characters mixed in with plenty of revelation, heartbreak, and new beginnings. And the holy hell, what happened ending will have you clamoring for the next book in the series. This book has taken me on such an amazing journey, I need a drink. Or two. Do not miss this read, it will blow your doors off. What a ride!
May 19, 2014
Steve McCoy survived a harrowing youth and a horrible tragedy and still made it as a successful attorney and businessman. And he’s managed to keep his broken, battered heart under wraps by working with short-term submissives at his popular BDSM club, Eden’s Gate.
Until Kelly Markham came along. Kelly’s history was as bad as or worse than Steve’s. She lost the only man she ever loved, a faithful, loving Dom, but she never lost hope. When she’s invited to visit Eden’s Gate, she feels like she’s finally found a home. Better yet, she finds a man who’ll help her reintegrate into the community, even if his help is only offered for one month.
Unfortunately, Kelly discovers that being Steve’s submissive is not easy. Matter of fact, when she accidentally trips a trigger from Steve’s history, being his submissive could actually be dangerous, even deadly. Steve’s determined to keep her at a distance and never show her his heart, but can he hold out when he realizes his best shot at a happily ever after might not survive?
This is a book about two adults that are still trying to overcome horrific upbringings. They both try to get past their pasts but go about in different ways. One wants to find someone to love who loves them in return and the other wants to stay completely away from love and guard their heart. What happens when these two souls collide…a story of intense heartbreak, steamy (and I mean STEAMY) sex, and love. Life seems to be going well for Kelly and Steve and then something that seemed so innocent turned horrible. Then all of a sudden the book added a little mystery to the mix (which I love).
This is book three in the Love Under Construction Series and even though this book could be read as a standalone, I highly recommend reading this series from the beginning. Reading this book, I really wanted Kelly and Steve to find their way to happiness. They both deserve it so very much from the life they led while growing up. Their pasts were very similar so it’s no wonder fate through them together.
Until Kelly Markham came along. Kelly’s history was as bad as or worse than Steve’s. She lost the only man she ever loved, a faithful, loving Dom, but she never lost hope. When she’s invited to visit Eden’s Gate, she feels like she’s finally found a home. Better yet, she finds a man who’ll help her reintegrate into the community, even if his help is only offered for one month.
Unfortunately, Kelly discovers that being Steve’s submissive is not easy. Matter of fact, when she accidentally trips a trigger from Steve’s history, being his submissive could actually be dangerous, even deadly. Steve’s determined to keep her at a distance and never show her his heart, but can he hold out when he realizes his best shot at a happily ever after might not survive?
This is a book about two adults that are still trying to overcome horrific upbringings. They both try to get past their pasts but go about in different ways. One wants to find someone to love who loves them in return and the other wants to stay completely away from love and guard their heart. What happens when these two souls collide…a story of intense heartbreak, steamy (and I mean STEAMY) sex, and love. Life seems to be going well for Kelly and Steve and then something that seemed so innocent turned horrible. Then all of a sudden the book added a little mystery to the mix (which I love).
This is book three in the Love Under Construction Series and even though this book could be read as a standalone, I highly recommend reading this series from the beginning. Reading this book, I really wanted Kelly and Steve to find their way to happiness. They both deserve it so very much from the life they led while growing up. Their pasts were very similar so it’s no wonder fate through them together.
January 23, 2015
Let me say first off I received this book as part of a review promo. I flipped flopped between 4 and 5 stars for this as one min I hated what the writer did to Steve and Nikki. Now I will warn you I normally do not post spoilers, hate then and avoid them at all cost. So here goes.
Steve was a likeable guy in the other stories this time, I would have gladly beaten him silly with a stick. He turned into suck a prick. Which means this writer did her job, she entertained me. She got me emotionally involved with this book so I could not put it down.
Second the Bimbo Kelly, turns out to have feelings, not only feelings but makes her into a person I could like. Again the writer did her job, sucked me in. This set just keeps getting better as the stories go on. She had Kelly acting very submissive and showed the mentality it takes to submit and what that means in subspace and after care.
I would say this writer did her research (not saying how she did said research) But she had the wanna be dom's down to a pat. The positions, the demand for perfection in a sub also don just right. So you can see it in your minds eye. The shaking, the need from both points of view.
I will say at first this is just like any love story, but then a twist.. the history of the 2 parties comes into play. Just like in real life. This book is more then worth the time to download and read.
Now, that being said, I have to say I am HIGHLY disappointed in the cliff hanger with Nikki. I saw it coming just could not believe the writer would do such. (trying not to spoil this for the book that is coming) Sorry, but Nikki does not deserve this kind of pain which the writer is going to have happen to her. Nor, does this family who has lost and gained so much!!!
Which is why I kept flipping from a 4 to a 5 star review. But again the reason she got the 5 is because she made me cry, she made me laugh as I was reading... made me want to read this in one sitting. Which I almost did.
Congrats on another book, which makes me a part of it!!
Steve was a likeable guy in the other stories this time, I would have gladly beaten him silly with a stick. He turned into suck a prick. Which means this writer did her job, she entertained me. She got me emotionally involved with this book so I could not put it down.
Second the Bimbo Kelly, turns out to have feelings, not only feelings but makes her into a person I could like. Again the writer did her job, sucked me in. This set just keeps getting better as the stories go on. She had Kelly acting very submissive and showed the mentality it takes to submit and what that means in subspace and after care.
I would say this writer did her research (not saying how she did said research) But she had the wanna be dom's down to a pat. The positions, the demand for perfection in a sub also don just right. So you can see it in your minds eye. The shaking, the need from both points of view.
I will say at first this is just like any love story, but then a twist.. the history of the 2 parties comes into play. Just like in real life. This book is more then worth the time to download and read.
Now, that being said, I have to say I am HIGHLY disappointed in the cliff hanger with Nikki. I saw it coming just could not believe the writer would do such. (trying not to spoil this for the book that is coming) Sorry, but Nikki does not deserve this kind of pain which the writer is going to have happen to her. Nor, does this family who has lost and gained so much!!!
Which is why I kept flipping from a 4 to a 5 star review. But again the reason she got the 5 is because she made me cry, she made me laugh as I was reading... made me want to read this in one sitting. Which I almost did.
Congrats on another book, which makes me a part of it!!
May 19, 2014
Please read book 1 Laying a Foundation and book 2 Tearing Down Walls so you won't get lost in book 3!! All three are amazing stories and I just don't think you can fully understand Renovating a Heart without the background of books one and two.
The Love Under Construction series is probably one of my favorite series ever, definitely in my top 5. Renovating a Heart did the impossible and topped the last book.
Renovating a Heart is Steve's story. While he wasn't one of my favorite characters, he made me love him. Steve always seem a bit cold to me, lawyer by day, owner of a Eden's Gate,BDSM club by night. He seems to take subs short term and move onto the next, never building strong relationships with anyone other than with Tony.
We learn about his past, what made him the way he is and what he truly wants out of life, that he doesn't think he can have what he wants.
We met Kelly in book 2. She's the quiet widow who lost the love of her life but somehow still keeps faith that she can somehow be just as fulfilled once again. Kelly visit's Eden's Gate and meets Steve who offers her the same short term contract as his other subs. Only Steve finds himself wanting more than just 30 days to be Kelly's Dom.
Kelly struggles with her relationship with Steve, she knows it's short term, nothing more than another contract to him, but she's falling for him. Steve pushes her like her husband never did, she's not sure she can handle Steve's methods and one night things go wrong, Kelly is hurt and runs from Steve.
Steve realizes what he's done, he also realizes she's the one woman he can't live without, but now that he's broken the trust they had can either of them recover?
Another very well written, five star book in this series. There's something about these books that draw you in and keep you there and make you fall in love with the characters and stories.
The Love Under Construction series is probably one of my favorite series ever, definitely in my top 5. Renovating a Heart did the impossible and topped the last book.
Renovating a Heart is Steve's story. While he wasn't one of my favorite characters, he made me love him. Steve always seem a bit cold to me, lawyer by day, owner of a Eden's Gate,BDSM club by night. He seems to take subs short term and move onto the next, never building strong relationships with anyone other than with Tony.
We learn about his past, what made him the way he is and what he truly wants out of life, that he doesn't think he can have what he wants.
We met Kelly in book 2. She's the quiet widow who lost the love of her life but somehow still keeps faith that she can somehow be just as fulfilled once again. Kelly visit's Eden's Gate and meets Steve who offers her the same short term contract as his other subs. Only Steve finds himself wanting more than just 30 days to be Kelly's Dom.
Kelly struggles with her relationship with Steve, she knows it's short term, nothing more than another contract to him, but she's falling for him. Steve pushes her like her husband never did, she's not sure she can handle Steve's methods and one night things go wrong, Kelly is hurt and runs from Steve.
Steve realizes what he's done, he also realizes she's the one woman he can't live without, but now that he's broken the trust they had can either of them recover?
Another very well written, five star book in this series. There's something about these books that draw you in and keep you there and make you fall in love with the characters and stories.
May 21, 2014
The Love Under Construction Series continues and this time we learn more about Steve and Kelly. Kelly has lost her job and is down on her luck. Nikki suggests she meets with Steve and see if he can help her. Kelly feels an instant comfort being back in the BDSM scene.
Steve McCoy leads haunted past that he tells no one about. He keeps that part of his life hidden away for a reason. He agrees to a one month contract with Kelly to help prepare her for a Dom. When feelings for Kelly stir he wants to push them aside. He tries to keep things professional and strictly so.
When Kelly stumbles across items from his past it fires a need to help. She is desperate to give Steve the closure that he needs to move on.
I was gripped to this story from page one. I found myself angry at Steve, then adoring him, and angry at him again. I loved watching his growth and adoration for Kelly. Although both are too stubborn at times. Renovating a Heart captures two broken souls trying to get by.
As always Deanndra throws in some unexpected twists and turns and while some say it ends on a cliffhanger I feel like that's the best to end it. I will say that if you get into the Love Under Construction Series you better get some tissues close by.
Deanndra Hall is one of the few authors that can weave a story that intertwines with your own personal past. It can give you closure reading about the members of the Walters family and their friends. Each character has it's own struggles and Renovating a Heart will surely not disappoint. I love Kelly and I was so excited to read more about her.
Steve McCoy leads haunted past that he tells no one about. He keeps that part of his life hidden away for a reason. He agrees to a one month contract with Kelly to help prepare her for a Dom. When feelings for Kelly stir he wants to push them aside. He tries to keep things professional and strictly so.
When Kelly stumbles across items from his past it fires a need to help. She is desperate to give Steve the closure that he needs to move on.
I was gripped to this story from page one. I found myself angry at Steve, then adoring him, and angry at him again. I loved watching his growth and adoration for Kelly. Although both are too stubborn at times. Renovating a Heart captures two broken souls trying to get by.
As always Deanndra throws in some unexpected twists and turns and while some say it ends on a cliffhanger I feel like that's the best to end it. I will say that if you get into the Love Under Construction Series you better get some tissues close by.
Deanndra Hall is one of the few authors that can weave a story that intertwines with your own personal past. It can give you closure reading about the members of the Walters family and their friends. Each character has it's own struggles and Renovating a Heart will surely not disappoint. I love Kelly and I was so excited to read more about her.
May 22, 2014
I was provide a copy of the book by the Author for an honest review.
Wow Holy Smoke, I just finish reading this book and I love it, I have to say I'm still reading the first book, but I have a blog tour for this book, so I had to stop reading the first one, but I am so in love with this book, this book got me crying and mad in some part of the book, but I love every single minute of it, I did not wanted to finish reading it, I am gone keep this short since I don't want to give anything away.
The story begging with Kelly, she was at work when she got call in to her boss office, the moment that she knew that she had to see her boss, she knew that something was wrong, that's when her boss told her that the company has being sold, and she got cut back, after packing her stuff up and drove away from her old job, she call her friend to ask If she could go over, after talking an crying with them, her friend told her to stay for the night, that night her friend told her to go see Steve, now Steve is an attorney and businessman, and he owns the popular BDSM club, Eden’s Gate, he is a Dom and he keeps short term submissive, he don't show feeling from his heart, since his being through a lot, but all that changes on a Monday morning, when Kelly show up and talk to him, he invite her to the club to show her around, would Kelly become his submissive without getting her heart involve, or would they fall for one another.
I really love and enjoy reading this book, love the way how Kelly and Steve are with each other, and the sex scene are just hot, Author Deanndra Hall THANK YOU for introducing me to this wonderful characters and this amazing book love it.
Wow Holy Smoke, I just finish reading this book and I love it, I have to say I'm still reading the first book, but I have a blog tour for this book, so I had to stop reading the first one, but I am so in love with this book, this book got me crying and mad in some part of the book, but I love every single minute of it, I did not wanted to finish reading it, I am gone keep this short since I don't want to give anything away.
The story begging with Kelly, she was at work when she got call in to her boss office, the moment that she knew that she had to see her boss, she knew that something was wrong, that's when her boss told her that the company has being sold, and she got cut back, after packing her stuff up and drove away from her old job, she call her friend to ask If she could go over, after talking an crying with them, her friend told her to stay for the night, that night her friend told her to go see Steve, now Steve is an attorney and businessman, and he owns the popular BDSM club, Eden’s Gate, he is a Dom and he keeps short term submissive, he don't show feeling from his heart, since his being through a lot, but all that changes on a Monday morning, when Kelly show up and talk to him, he invite her to the club to show her around, would Kelly become his submissive without getting her heart involve, or would they fall for one another.
I really love and enjoy reading this book, love the way how Kelly and Steve are with each other, and the sex scene are just hot, Author Deanndra Hall THANK YOU for introducing me to this wonderful characters and this amazing book love it.
July 1, 2016
4.5 star
I was pulled right into this story. The story has pain, secrets, drama, action, suspense, twists & turns and steam.
If you have not read the below I would recommend reading those books(s) first
The Groundbreaking (Love Under Construction 0.5)
Laying a Foundation (Love Under Construction #1)
Tearing Down Walls (Love Under Construction, Book 2)
This is Kelly and Steve's story. Kelly has some secrets. Some of them come out when she goes to Steve’s club. But others are still buried deep. When Kelly and Steve go into a contract she does not reveal her most painful secrets. When things go wrong with the way they connect Steve pushes her away and does not take care of her like he should. When Kelly gets hurt Steve knows he will do anything to make her pain go away. The more she opens up the more closed off he is. Can she ever get him to open up to her or is he only keeping her around for the month? What happens when she finds out thing about his past and want to help him. Will he keep her close or send her away? Will he ever understand why she did what she did? Can he ever learn to love? Or is this the end?
I loved these characters and also the side characters. I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I highly recommend this book.
I was pulled right into this story. The story has pain, secrets, drama, action, suspense, twists & turns and steam.
If you have not read the below I would recommend reading those books(s) first
The Groundbreaking (Love Under Construction 0.5)
Laying a Foundation (Love Under Construction #1)
Tearing Down Walls (Love Under Construction, Book 2)
This is Kelly and Steve's story. Kelly has some secrets. Some of them come out when she goes to Steve’s club. But others are still buried deep. When Kelly and Steve go into a contract she does not reveal her most painful secrets. When things go wrong with the way they connect Steve pushes her away and does not take care of her like he should. When Kelly gets hurt Steve knows he will do anything to make her pain go away. The more she opens up the more closed off he is. Can she ever get him to open up to her or is he only keeping her around for the month? What happens when she finds out thing about his past and want to help him. Will he keep her close or send her away? Will he ever understand why she did what she did? Can he ever learn to love? Or is this the end?
I loved these characters and also the side characters. I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I highly recommend this book.
May 19, 2014
This book #3 in this series. Now it is Steve McCoy's and Kelly Markham's turn. Their story is steamy and full of conflicted emotions. Steve is a Dominant and owns a BDSM club in addition to his law practice. Kelly approaches him on a consultation trying to enforce a previous D/s contract. This surprises Steve who did not know Kelly was a submissive. One thing leads to another and they end up in a one month arrangement as Dominant and submissive.
The story that evolves is a complex story of childhood emotional scars, the power of love, and inevitable hope that grows in our two main characters as they seek a successful union full of love and promises of a family.
Their journey is fraught with obstacles and the past once again raises its ugly head to endanger not only the slim hope they hold, but their lives too.
This series continues to surprise and delight. What started in book #1 as the story of middle age romance, has now evolved to include friends and family. They each bring to this story their own past and foibles enriching the storyline.
Be aware, this book ends in a cliffhanger. Do not be too concerned, book #4 Planning An Addition is promised for this Fall.
The story that evolves is a complex story of childhood emotional scars, the power of love, and inevitable hope that grows in our two main characters as they seek a successful union full of love and promises of a family.
Their journey is fraught with obstacles and the past once again raises its ugly head to endanger not only the slim hope they hold, but their lives too.
This series continues to surprise and delight. What started in book #1 as the story of middle age romance, has now evolved to include friends and family. They each bring to this story their own past and foibles enriching the storyline.
Be aware, this book ends in a cliffhanger. Do not be too concerned, book #4 Planning An Addition is promised for this Fall.
May 23, 2014
This has been a hard review to write for this book. I've had to really think a lot to find the right words to put down to describe how good this book is. I will warn you first make sure you have a box tissues handy when reading this book, because you will cry with this book. You will want to read all the books before this so you have a full understanding of all the story, if not you will have so many questions about what is going on.
This is the third book of the Love Under Construction series and we get more of a insight into Steve McCoy and Kelly Markham's different lives. I was hook on this book from the very first page. I had to keep reading just to find out what was going to happen next, since Deanndra Hall put so many twists and turns in this story it always kept you guessing. There is some action again in this book as there has been in the previous ones and a lot of heart ache too. Deanndra also puts a complete 'holy crap she didn't just do that' moment in this book and when you read this book and get to it you will understand what I'm talking about.
With that all said you know you want to find out what this series is all about and how you will fall in love with the writing and characters in these books.
This is the third book of the Love Under Construction series and we get more of a insight into Steve McCoy and Kelly Markham's different lives. I was hook on this book from the very first page. I had to keep reading just to find out what was going to happen next, since Deanndra Hall put so many twists and turns in this story it always kept you guessing. There is some action again in this book as there has been in the previous ones and a lot of heart ache too. Deanndra also puts a complete 'holy crap she didn't just do that' moment in this book and when you read this book and get to it you will understand what I'm talking about.
With that all said you know you want to find out what this series is all about and how you will fall in love with the writing and characters in these books.
April 20, 2016
“‘Please, oh god, please let me hear you say my name.’ At that moment it was all he really wanted, someone to touch him, to hold him, to move against Steve the man, Steve the lover, not Steve the authority figure, someone who was doing it because she wanted to, not because she felt she had to.”
5 dominate me stars!! Sexy story with heart!
Steve’s story is heartbreaking, you feel for this man and all that he’s been through. And Kelly is just the girl to take care of him. And while the book had it’s emotional moments, there’s so much heat packed into this book!! It’s dirty hot in so many ways!! This is my favorite book so far in the series and I can’t wait to read more!!!
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Melissa from Alpha Book Club
5 dominate me stars!! Sexy story with heart!
Steve’s story is heartbreaking, you feel for this man and all that he’s been through. And Kelly is just the girl to take care of him. And while the book had it’s emotional moments, there’s so much heat packed into this book!! It’s dirty hot in so many ways!! This is my favorite book so far in the series and I can’t wait to read more!!!
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Melissa from Alpha Book Club
May 20, 2014
Kelly Markham needs something to change for the better. When she finds out that Steve McCoy owns a BDSM club named Eden's Gate, she decides to check it out. As a sub without a Dom, Kelly has been wanting to find another Dom to help ground her. Kelly can't help but wonder if Steve could be that person.
Steve would love nothing better than to have Kelly as his sub, but he has one hardfast rule, whoever he asks to be his sub it is temporary, one month only. Kelly willingly agrees, but in the process finds herself falling hard for Steve. As their relationship builds, Steve finds the ghost of his past coming back and Kelly in the crossfire.
I had not read the first two books which I think would help on a couple of the characters who are in the book. Definitely will go back and read them to catch up. As far as Steve and Kelly's story, it was fantastic. Both have had a tough life and issues to overcome. I thought Kelly was inspiring, she made the best of a situation out of her control. Look forward to reading more from this talented author.
Steve would love nothing better than to have Kelly as his sub, but he has one hardfast rule, whoever he asks to be his sub it is temporary, one month only. Kelly willingly agrees, but in the process finds herself falling hard for Steve. As their relationship builds, Steve finds the ghost of his past coming back and Kelly in the crossfire.
I had not read the first two books which I think would help on a couple of the characters who are in the book. Definitely will go back and read them to catch up. As far as Steve and Kelly's story, it was fantastic. Both have had a tough life and issues to overcome. I thought Kelly was inspiring, she made the best of a situation out of her control. Look forward to reading more from this talented author.
May 19, 2014
Renovating a Heart by Deanndra Hall was a book that totally left me speechless. I could not believe all of the emotions that it pulled out of me. I should not be surprised because this is one author that knows how to get to the reader’s heart. The characters no longer feel like characters and actually start to feel like family. Their strength and endurance towards obstacles brings them closer together. There were a couple of twists in there that I did not see coming. The last one REALLY took me by surprise.
I read this book twice to see if I would have a different reaction to it the second time around. Nope, still cried like a baby at the same parts. Boy oh boy will you want to strangle the main character a time or two. You will also want to take him into your arms and comfort him. This series has quickly become one of my favorites and I plan to read each one that she releases. I give this book 5 stars *****. This is a series that I do not think will ever get old. Great job Deanndra. I love your work.
I read this book twice to see if I would have a different reaction to it the second time around. Nope, still cried like a baby at the same parts. Boy oh boy will you want to strangle the main character a time or two. You will also want to take him into your arms and comfort him. This series has quickly become one of my favorites and I plan to read each one that she releases. I give this book 5 stars *****. This is a series that I do not think will ever get old. Great job Deanndra. I love your work.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews