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Altered Perception
I came to Las Vegas to escape my tumultuous home life and after years of hard work, gained a reputation as the unobtainable and illustrious Mistress Alexandria. I turned hardship and betrayal into success and built Club Perception into the most sought-after adult club in the city. From outward appearances, my life was filled with adoration and mystery, but behind closed doors, I was isolated and alone.
One night of vulnerability led me into his arms, and he left an indelible mark. He was quickly making a name for himself in the city of sin and as hard as I tried, I couldn’t resist his touch. We both had secrets we wished would stay buried, but in Las Vegas, nothing stayed a secret forever.
Confronted on all sides with pain and deception, we had a choice to make. Walk away from each other and live an incomplete life or cling to each other, fighting the forces hell-bent on destroying us both.
When the truth was finally revealed, would we come out the other side as winners or would we roll snake eyes and lose it all?
How much were we willing to bet to find the truth?
Altered Perception is an Amatory spin-off and is a complete standalone.
Originally published in the limited release Call My Bluff Anthology
One night of vulnerability led me into his arms, and he left an indelible mark. He was quickly making a name for himself in the city of sin and as hard as I tried, I couldn’t resist his touch. We both had secrets we wished would stay buried, but in Las Vegas, nothing stayed a secret forever.
Confronted on all sides with pain and deception, we had a choice to make. Walk away from each other and live an incomplete life or cling to each other, fighting the forces hell-bent on destroying us both.
When the truth was finally revealed, would we come out the other side as winners or would we roll snake eyes and lose it all?
How much were we willing to bet to find the truth?
Altered Perception is an Amatory spin-off and is a complete standalone.
Originally published in the limited release Call My Bluff Anthology
175 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 6, 2020
2 people are currently reading
53 people want to read
About the author
H.J. Marshall
34 books447 followersH.J. Marshall began her love of reading and writing at an early age and has always dreamed of being a writer full time. A nomadic youth exposed her to different perspectives of life, community, and culture, resulting in a lifelong love of food, music, and history.
When she is not writing, she enjoys the music of all generations and genres, reading, and living in her cabin in the woods. Currently landlocked, H.J. dreams of her beach house, salty air, a life filled with laughter.
When she is not writing, she enjoys the music of all generations and genres, reading, and living in her cabin in the woods. Currently landlocked, H.J. dreams of her beach house, salty air, a life filled with laughter.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
March 19, 2021
Great book full of surprises! 😍
First of all, I LOVE this book! 😍
I have to be honest it's my first H.J. Marshall's book.
This is a spin-off but I haven’t read any of the original series (Which I'm going to fix right after this review 😆) and I didn't really need it to understand this one. That was a perfect standalone.
With the binding name of 'Mistress Alexandria' and her occupation as a sex club owner, the story is wrapped up with a lot of hot-messy-steamy sexy moments that will leave you with an open mouth. 🤤😏
I loved to decipher Alex and her past and watch her and Gideon’s relationship growing and evolving.
Long story short it's a beautiful story about acceptance and reconciliation, that holds inside a lot of surprising moments, some of them are things I never read before but I'm so glad to read about them in an open non-judging book.
I received an ARC for an honest review ❤
First of all, I LOVE this book! 😍
I have to be honest it's my first H.J. Marshall's book.
This is a spin-off but I haven’t read any of the original series (Which I'm going to fix right after this review 😆) and I didn't really need it to understand this one. That was a perfect standalone.
With the binding name of 'Mistress Alexandria' and her occupation as a sex club owner, the story is wrapped up with a lot of hot-messy-steamy sexy moments that will leave you with an open mouth. 🤤😏
I loved to decipher Alex and her past and watch her and Gideon’s relationship growing and evolving.
Long story short it's a beautiful story about acceptance and reconciliation, that holds inside a lot of surprising moments, some of them are things I never read before but I'm so glad to read about them in an open non-judging book.
I received an ARC for an honest review ❤
March 17, 2021
Hot, Sensual and Heartbreakingly brilliant!
Right in the prologue, Author HJ Marshall shattered my heart for Alexandria and brought me to tears. I’d read her Amatory series and absolutely loved the series; I knew who Gideon was and what he’d been up to.
I write my reviews as I read, because I wanted to give first impressions as I go, so when Gideon gave his background in Chapter 1, I was gratified to see that Alexandria had gobsmacked him right off the bat. She didn’t make it easy for him though. The past that she’d wanted to keep a secret also hid a painful lesson, but I’d decided that Gideon’s tenaciousness made him more than deserving of her attention.
Ms Marshall wrote Alex’s character brilliantly. It was her absolute gift of writing that she created the complex character and emotions that made up the gorgeous woman who created, owned, managed and fronted Club Perception. Mistress Alexandria was sensual, confident, commanding and yes, adored. Who was she when the persona was shed? This was where Ms Marshall excelled. She wrote guilty, betrayed, hurt and unconfident Alex perfectly, and until Gideon, never the Twain shall meet.
... And of course, in the atmosphere of the club scene, there’s always plenty to go wrong, someone whose nose will be out of joint... and Gideon goes out of his way to destroy it all. I loved every word.
I also have to say that the heat and steam between these two is amazingly written. It’s everything hot and sensual that makes this book exactly what you expect to be reading from Ms Marshall, especially when it is a spin off part of her Amatory series. I’m shouting highly recommended extremely hot and steamy from the rooftops!!! 5 Fires 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Right in the prologue, Author HJ Marshall shattered my heart for Alexandria and brought me to tears. I’d read her Amatory series and absolutely loved the series; I knew who Gideon was and what he’d been up to.
I write my reviews as I read, because I wanted to give first impressions as I go, so when Gideon gave his background in Chapter 1, I was gratified to see that Alexandria had gobsmacked him right off the bat. She didn’t make it easy for him though. The past that she’d wanted to keep a secret also hid a painful lesson, but I’d decided that Gideon’s tenaciousness made him more than deserving of her attention.
Ms Marshall wrote Alex’s character brilliantly. It was her absolute gift of writing that she created the complex character and emotions that made up the gorgeous woman who created, owned, managed and fronted Club Perception. Mistress Alexandria was sensual, confident, commanding and yes, adored. Who was she when the persona was shed? This was where Ms Marshall excelled. She wrote guilty, betrayed, hurt and unconfident Alex perfectly, and until Gideon, never the Twain shall meet.
... And of course, in the atmosphere of the club scene, there’s always plenty to go wrong, someone whose nose will be out of joint... and Gideon goes out of his way to destroy it all. I loved every word.
I also have to say that the heat and steam between these two is amazingly written. It’s everything hot and sensual that makes this book exactly what you expect to be reading from Ms Marshall, especially when it is a spin off part of her Amatory series. I’m shouting highly recommended extremely hot and steamy from the rooftops!!! 5 Fires 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
February 28, 2023
steaming hot
The chemistry between the main characters was very hot. Wow melt your kindle hot. Story was very good. Loved this very much!
The chemistry between the main characters was very hot. Wow melt your kindle hot. Story was very good. Loved this very much!
February 28, 2023
Very hot and steamy. I love the story. Gideon and Alex were so hot together they were burning up the pages. Their chemistry was off the charts. Some drama but it works its way out. Loved it
March 18, 2021
ALTERED PERCEPTION DELIVERS THE H.J. MARSHALL GOODS! WHAT AN AMAZING 5-STAR READ!
MERCY!!!!! Honestly, I don’t even know where to start. There is so much to this amazing story. I’ll begin by saying that I have loved every book I’ve read by this author. She’s a master at her craft. And let me tell you, Altered Perception delivers the H.J. Marshall goods.
What she’s done is penned a highly angst filled, deep seeded emotional, gut wrenching, heartfelt, never want to put down read. Throw in an incredibly sexy dirty talking swoony hero, an endearing heroine you will embrace and adore, a casino, a sex club, an alter ego and a threatening evildoer that will keep you guessing, and you have hit the motherload Las Vegas jackpot!!!
A guy walks into a bar……
From the get go, this book starts off with a real BANG! Holy toledo! Now that’s what I’m talking about…..
Our heroine, Alex Rancer is the tattooed Latin beauty whose heartbreaking painful past has her suffering in loneliness and in silence. She stumbles through life thinking she is undeserving of love because someone said so. That past is what led her to become Mistress Alexandria. A persona put into place to hide what hurts so deep inside her. She owns and runs Club Perception.
Her back story broke me down and the unimaginable truth had me weeping for what she’d been through and lost. Even as I write this, I get choked up thinking about all she had endured. Believe me when I say that the walls she’d built to protect herself were built for a reason. No one will be able to penetrate the armour she wears around her heart….. Or will they?…..
Teaser
No one needed to know how I earned my money when I first arrived in Las Vegas… my parents specifically, wouldn’t approve… Even though they were both dead, I still felt their anger and condemnation deep in my soul. Their actions are what put me on the path I walked today….. They stripped me of something so beautiful when I was younger and forced me to suffer through their decisions….
~ Alex
Our hero, my hero (Yes I’m stealing him for myself) Gideon Mathews is a super sexy, dirty talking, swoonylicious, playboy and casino owner who has a dangerous past. A past that he’s distanced himself from. A past that could destroy all he has accomplished.
Gideon and Alex share one explosive night of pleasure in sin city. Was that night a precursor to the future that awaits them?
Alex was such a strong heroine despite her harrowing past. Even though she thought she was weak and unlovable. A heroine who, however hard it was, slowly allowed herself to shed the past, and open herself up to the possibility of love. A love she was deserving of. A future she only ever dreamed about.
Teaser
No one else seemed to notice the melancholy look in her eyes as she engaged her guests, and I knew I had to find out what put the sadness in her gaze.
~ Gideon
And Gideon? He was the perfect hero and was exactly what Alex needed. He, who would stop at nothing to make her his and heal her pain.
Will these two people take a gamble, roll the dice and let their hearts take over? If they do, will luck be on their side? Will their love be the ties that bind them together? Or will their pasts destroy them both? Hmmm... time will tell because I’m not.
There’s a soul-deep connection between Gideon and Alex. A connection that someone is determined to destroy. And that danger lurks around every corner and attacks. But who is the target?
A new life, new beginning and a lost love’s declaration made for an unforgettable ending that swept my heart up and made me whole again.
Some of my favorites:
Maximus or Max was my favorite supporting character. He was such an incredible and loving friend to Alex and eventually with Gideon. He’s so yummy. I sure am hoping he will get his HEA one day…. (Wink wink to the author on that.)
My favorite line in the book:
“Honesty leads to forgiveness. Deception leads to regret.”
Although I loved everything about this book, my favorite part of the story was the ending. All I will say is that things come full circle. The reason for all the pain comes into play and rights itself……. Hmph…. Here come those pesky tears again……
Did I happen to mention that their sexytime is off the charts sizzling hot?!
Altered Perception by H.J. Marshall is an absolutely beautiful 5-STAR tale that is intricately woven of painful pasts, family betrayals, unfettered loyalty and a trusting bond between two people who never saw love coming their way.
Broken pasts that shaped the present. A present that’s molded for the future. A future built from survival. A love so strong that it defies all odds. That’s what this story is about and it shouldn’t be missed.
My words of wisdom to you are READ THIS BOOK!
March 21, 2021
Well.... what can I say? This book was hot!! H.J. Marshall just wow. Okay let me get started:
Altered Perception is a very steamy book... You have Gideon, super hot Alpha male, that has a bit of a secret about himself. Then Alex, or Mistress Alexandria to whoever else who knows her, a very strong willed woman, that won’t allow her past to haunt her present and future, even though it does.
These two come together in a very, didn’t mean to happen, but it did kind of way. And they part ways thinking of each other. FinallY after some time, they finally reconnect, but will their past wreck havoc on them.
There’s only one way to find out.... and that’s to come read this book. Like seriously! I definitely recommend this book. It’s is a stand alone.
Altered Perception is a very steamy book... You have Gideon, super hot Alpha male, that has a bit of a secret about himself. Then Alex, or Mistress Alexandria to whoever else who knows her, a very strong willed woman, that won’t allow her past to haunt her present and future, even though it does.
These two come together in a very, didn’t mean to happen, but it did kind of way. And they part ways thinking of each other. FinallY after some time, they finally reconnect, but will their past wreck havoc on them.
There’s only one way to find out.... and that’s to come read this book. Like seriously! I definitely recommend this book. It’s is a stand alone.
March 6, 2021
I LOVE the Amatory series and I was thrilled to find out there would be a spin-off. Let me tell you I LOVE Altered Perception just as much! We read a little about Alexandria in Amatory and AP is her story. It is without a doubt one of the best reads for 2021 so far in my opinion. Alexandria is the owner of Club Perception in Vegas and is every bit the strong, independent woman she's worked hard to become. A one night stand with Gideon Mathews is just what she needed. That is, until he kept coming back. To say their journey is steamy is definitely an understatement. It's hotter than the flames of h^l*, of course why wouldn't it be. She is after all Mistress Alexandria.
March 18, 2021
I’ve waited for this book forever and once again HJ did not disappoint. The chemistry between Alex and Gideon is off the charts! I’m serious you need to make sure you are reading this with no chance of someone you don’t want getting a glimpse over you shoulder.. like maybe at work. Or a parent. Lol
And omg the heartbreak and secrets! I won’t give too much away because I hate spoilers but ugh you feel the pain come off the pages. I loved every second reading this and honestly surprised at the end when it all comes to light. You you are a fan of her Amatory series or hot steamy reads in general you will not be disappointed.
And omg the heartbreak and secrets! I won’t give too much away because I hate spoilers but ugh you feel the pain come off the pages. I loved every second reading this and honestly surprised at the end when it all comes to light. You you are a fan of her Amatory series or hot steamy reads in general you will not be disappointed.
April 22, 2021
Holy heck this book is one HOT read! It starts off with a super sexy bang and just keeps going and going.
This is my first read from this author and I’ve got to say I’m honestly impressed.
Marshall is a master at her craft and wields the English language like a sword.
The book is full of drama, secrets, smoking hot scenes and you can’t help but get so involved in the characters and their stories, it’s that gripping!!
A serious masterclass in the genre and if you don’t download this book you are seriously missing out!!
5*s doesn’t seem enough
This is my first read from this author and I’ve got to say I’m honestly impressed.
Marshall is a master at her craft and wields the English language like a sword.
The book is full of drama, secrets, smoking hot scenes and you can’t help but get so involved in the characters and their stories, it’s that gripping!!
A serious masterclass in the genre and if you don’t download this book you are seriously missing out!!
5*s doesn’t seem enough
March 16, 2021
Hold on tight. You’re in for a great ride/read
I love romance, any kind, historical, contemporary, paranormal, but most of all I love reading about sex within the romance format. And Altered Perceptions delivers both. A great romance and great sex in one book. Always a winner. Alexandria and Gideon are great together. Hold on tight and get ready for a ride/read.
I received a free ARC for an honest review
I love romance, any kind, historical, contemporary, paranormal, but most of all I love reading about sex within the romance format. And Altered Perceptions delivers both. A great romance and great sex in one book. Always a winner. Alexandria and Gideon are great together. Hold on tight and get ready for a ride/read.
I received a free ARC for an honest review
March 20, 2021
Hot enough to make you sweat!
H. J. Marshall has outdone herself with this spin-off of her steamy Amatory series! Gideon and Alex had it all: smoking hot chemistry, great banter and there was just enough suspense to keep me turning the pages as fast as possible. Even though this is a spin-off of her Amatory series, it can be read separately but I highly recommend that you check out her other books, as well!
H. J. Marshall has outdone herself with this spin-off of her steamy Amatory series! Gideon and Alex had it all: smoking hot chemistry, great banter and there was just enough suspense to keep me turning the pages as fast as possible. Even though this is a spin-off of her Amatory series, it can be read separately but I highly recommend that you check out her other books, as well!
March 31, 2021
I really enjoyed this book that delved into the lives of Mistress Alexandria and Gideon. I loved how instantly taken and devoted he was to her. There was of course some drama but all explained thankfully. Alex came through some rough years so it was great to also read about the good going on in her life. Plus together these two are super HOT!
I received an advance copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an advance copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 7, 2021
Welcome to all around steam and hotness and seduction. Alex has had an extremely rough life. Gideon cant seem to get her off his mind. Will the secrets of both of their past come back to bite them and keep them apart? This is an amazing story. Get out the buckets of ice as well as tissues. It has to many twists and turn you wont be able to put it down. Must read!!!!
March 11, 2021
This book was so enjoyable, i have read it twice. By now, after reading 9 books by this author, i just fall into her style of writing. I was so happy to see all of my friends from Amatory again. Now I'm just as interested in the group in Las Vegas. Altered Perception was a good story with lots of twists and turns. I'm giving it 5 stars.
March 16, 2021
This book was full of twists & turns and lots of steamy moments. Alex had been through a lot in her life and lost her confidence, but when she became Mistress Alexandria she regained her confidence. Gideon was the owner of the new Double Down Casino and he had an arrogance about him. I love the vulnerability Alex showed Gideon. They both had secrets that almost derailed their relationship, but through honesty and trust, they beat the odds together. I can't wait to see what happens next!
March 16, 2021
Altered perceptions is such an amazing book. I was mesmerised by mistress Alexandria in Gideon's story. H j Marshall has done it again. If you want to book that'll keep you entertain from start to finish, altered perception is a book for you. I am absolutely in love with this book and it gets a 5-star review from me!!!!!?
March 11, 2021
I really enjoyed this book and getting to see more into the life of Alex. Gideon is amazing though there was a time or two I almost had a heartache regarding him. As usual the side characters left me wanting to know their story as well. 😀
March 16, 2021
First off I’m surprised my Kindle doesn’t have scorch marks cause this story and couple is HOT 🔥🔥 Vegas’s newest,hottest couple has secrets and double lives but in the end come together as one for that ultimate HEA 💜 H.J.s books are some of my favorites and this one is at the top of that list
March 22, 2021
absolutely a must read. Yoou will love the characters and storyline. Love the angst and action in this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 22, 2021
Dramatic!
Alex and Gideon have a rocky road full of emotion, surprises and steam that lead to a sweet HEA!
I voluntarily read an advanced copy.
Alex and Gideon have a rocky road full of emotion, surprises and steam that lead to a sweet HEA!
I voluntarily read an advanced copy.
March 17, 2021
Gideon and Alex were a quick read that left me smiling.
The steam was on point, the chemistry off the charts, and the feelings ran deep.
Drama, some brand of crazy, and surprises await - there is plenty to enjoy about this book.
3.5 stars
The steam was on point, the chemistry off the charts, and the feelings ran deep.
Drama, some brand of crazy, and surprises await - there is plenty to enjoy about this book.
3.5 stars
March 18, 2021
Oh this book, so very hot with so many twist and turns. I loved it so much. Alex went through so much and life and deserved to find love. An amazing read don't miss this one. I can't wait to see what happens next.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews