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Venus Duet #1
Venus
One will make me.
The other will break me.
And both of them are old enough to be my father.
Stella Boudreaux, a judge's daughter.
A virgin. Inhibited, curious and lonely, she follows the rules--always. Everyone treats her as if she is still a child, but two days before her eighteenth birthday, a chance meeting will change her life forever.
Colt Derickssen, a cop.
A man of principles. He adheres to a strict moral code, but his obstinate character has always been his stumbling block. Stripped away from his civility, can he be more than just a beast with a grudge to settle?
Roman Wyatt, a mayor.
Ex-boxer turned the youngest mayor in the town's history. The pillar of the community and the type of man mothers hide their daughters from. Smart, cunning, and as manipulative as he is charming, he knows what makes people tick--and how to use it against them.
Venus is the first book in the Venus Duet.
Stella's, Colt's and Roman's story continues and ends in Fatale, the second book in the Venus Duet.
Author's Note: This tale contains explicit sexuality and adult situations. For mature readers only.
The other will break me.
And both of them are old enough to be my father.
Stella Boudreaux, a judge's daughter.
A virgin. Inhibited, curious and lonely, she follows the rules--always. Everyone treats her as if she is still a child, but two days before her eighteenth birthday, a chance meeting will change her life forever.
Colt Derickssen, a cop.
A man of principles. He adheres to a strict moral code, but his obstinate character has always been his stumbling block. Stripped away from his civility, can he be more than just a beast with a grudge to settle?
Roman Wyatt, a mayor.
Ex-boxer turned the youngest mayor in the town's history. The pillar of the community and the type of man mothers hide their daughters from. Smart, cunning, and as manipulative as he is charming, he knows what makes people tick--and how to use it against them.
Venus is the first book in the Venus Duet.
Stella's, Colt's and Roman's story continues and ends in Fatale, the second book in the Venus Duet.
Author's Note: This tale contains explicit sexuality and adult situations. For mature readers only.
182 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 30, 2021
1 person is currently reading
35 people want to read
About the author
Alex L. Michaels
7 books72 followersAlex L. Michaels has been addicted to reading and writing ever since she learned how to walk. She writes swoon-worthy romance with domineering, dirty-talking alpha heroes and sassy, independent heroines. She is a movie buff, TV series addict and a horror aficionado, but books always come first. If she's not writing or reading, she's either watching a horror movie, plotting her next novel or chasing her dreams.
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📢 OUT NOW!
A GENTLEMAN CAVEMAN - ENEMIES TO LOVERS, OTT ALPHAHOLE 🔥🔥🔥 ROMANCE.
Join her ARC Team: https://bit.ly/3HajBIL
Connect with Alex:
Newsletter: https://bit.ly/3jPi7aU
Website: https://bit.ly/3xU6O6s
Email: alexlmichaelsromance@gmail.com
Amazon: http://amazon.com/author/alexlmichaels
BookBub: @AlexLMichaels
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authoralexlm...
Instagram: @authoralexlmichaels
Twitter: @alexlmichaels_a
TikTok: alexl.michaels
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
April 15, 2021
ARC graciously provided by the author Alex L. Michaels.
What do you get when the deliciously dark town mayor and a detective with an attitude fall for the same judges 18-year-old daughter?? Chaos, you get chaos.
Venus is turning 18 in two days and has been sheltered whole life. Only going to town, a handful of times and always with an escort, usually her father or her caretaker and she has had enough. Upon stealing her father’s car, she is sitting on the precipice of what to do now when a police car pulls up and she is face to face with the most beautiful man she has ever seen. Officer Derickssen is nothing but kind to her and thus begins Venus's first crush. The next day out shopping for a birthday dress she is in for another treat when she comes face to face with the town mayor, Roman Wyatt. Mayor Wyatt is unlike anything she ever imagined, for one he is younger but there is just something about his presence that shakes Venus to her core. Never has she had the chance to have feelings for a man but now in just as many days, she has two men she can't get out of her head. What is a girl to do?
Officer Colt Derickssen, soon to be detective is quite the puzzle. Mysterious and brooding in only the way a man who has something to hide can be keeps running into Venus Boudreaux and it is really starting to wear on his nerves. From the day he took her home after stealing that car she keeps popping up. First at his job, then hiding in the bushes while he is having a conversation with her father and soon after at the town parade. How the hell can he get this girl to leave him alone because clearly telling her to go away isn't working...
Mayor Roman Wyatt is the delicious bad boy of town. Once a troubled young man, he is now the town mayor and every lady’s fantasy. The minute Venus Boudreaux is in his orbit he knows he is screwed one or the other when it comes to her. While she might be naïve, she is also the very thing he craves. One small problem the asshole with the blue eyes, Officer Colt Derickssen.
A love triangle like no other. Venus, Roman and Colt's story is one of drama, naivety, and some seriously heated moments between not only Venus and these two men but between the three of them. Usually, with a story like this I can decipher which way the heroine will go but I am at a loss for so many reasons. Every time I thought I had this story figured out I was wrong and that was kind of thrilling.
There is still so much to come for Venus, Roman and Colt. I am sitting here not so patiently waiting until I can get my hands on book two of this duet Fatale which is scheduled to be out later this year!!
What do you get when the deliciously dark town mayor and a detective with an attitude fall for the same judges 18-year-old daughter?? Chaos, you get chaos.
Venus is turning 18 in two days and has been sheltered whole life. Only going to town, a handful of times and always with an escort, usually her father or her caretaker and she has had enough. Upon stealing her father’s car, she is sitting on the precipice of what to do now when a police car pulls up and she is face to face with the most beautiful man she has ever seen. Officer Derickssen is nothing but kind to her and thus begins Venus's first crush. The next day out shopping for a birthday dress she is in for another treat when she comes face to face with the town mayor, Roman Wyatt. Mayor Wyatt is unlike anything she ever imagined, for one he is younger but there is just something about his presence that shakes Venus to her core. Never has she had the chance to have feelings for a man but now in just as many days, she has two men she can't get out of her head. What is a girl to do?
Officer Colt Derickssen, soon to be detective is quite the puzzle. Mysterious and brooding in only the way a man who has something to hide can be keeps running into Venus Boudreaux and it is really starting to wear on his nerves. From the day he took her home after stealing that car she keeps popping up. First at his job, then hiding in the bushes while he is having a conversation with her father and soon after at the town parade. How the hell can he get this girl to leave him alone because clearly telling her to go away isn't working...
Mayor Roman Wyatt is the delicious bad boy of town. Once a troubled young man, he is now the town mayor and every lady’s fantasy. The minute Venus Boudreaux is in his orbit he knows he is screwed one or the other when it comes to her. While she might be naïve, she is also the very thing he craves. One small problem the asshole with the blue eyes, Officer Colt Derickssen.
A love triangle like no other. Venus, Roman and Colt's story is one of drama, naivety, and some seriously heated moments between not only Venus and these two men but between the three of them. Usually, with a story like this I can decipher which way the heroine will go but I am at a loss for so many reasons. Every time I thought I had this story figured out I was wrong and that was kind of thrilling.
There is still so much to come for Venus, Roman and Colt. I am sitting here not so patiently waiting until I can get my hands on book two of this duet Fatale which is scheduled to be out later this year!!
June 14, 2021
3.5 stars
Stella has lived a very sheltered life with her father. She lives in a beautiful multi level home in a semi rural setting with beautiful gardens. She is home schooled, has no friends outside of the staff her father employs and is quite naive to the outside world. The house is more like a cage rather than a home.
Stella’s father is a very well known judge in the town of Precious and most people don’t know he even has a daughter. She has been so well hidden that the first time she meets someone on the ‘outside’ they initially don’t believe she is the daughter of Judge Bourdreaux. This occurs during an act of rebellion which is so unlike her but reflective of her desire to break free from the constraints of her life.
This act of rebellion brings her face to face with Cole Derickssen, a very handsome policeman with the most beautiful blue eyes that completely draw her in. He is tall, broad, muscular and pretty much the epitome of masculinity. Stella is completely taken by him, despite the fact he has no interest in her other than getting her home safely. It doesn’t stop her fantasizing about him though.
Stella’s next arousing encounter is with the new local Mayor. He is the youngest one ever appointed and Roman Wyatt is a sight to behold. With his gorgeous green eyes, dazzling smile and flirtatious nature, he is the embodiment of sexy. Stella has never met a man quite like him and her hormones go into overdrive whenever she is in his presence. Another man to fantasize about in her bed at night.
Stella is about to turn 18 years old and she is keen to lose her virginity to a man who knows what he is doing. While her father is trying to set her up with a young man of his choosing, all she can think about is Roman and Colts hands all over her.
This is part one of a duet featuring the awakening of Stella. This story ends on a bit of a cliffhanger so make sure you also have book 2 Fatale on hand.
Stella has lived a very sheltered life with her father. She lives in a beautiful multi level home in a semi rural setting with beautiful gardens. She is home schooled, has no friends outside of the staff her father employs and is quite naive to the outside world. The house is more like a cage rather than a home.
Stella’s father is a very well known judge in the town of Precious and most people don’t know he even has a daughter. She has been so well hidden that the first time she meets someone on the ‘outside’ they initially don’t believe she is the daughter of Judge Bourdreaux. This occurs during an act of rebellion which is so unlike her but reflective of her desire to break free from the constraints of her life.
This act of rebellion brings her face to face with Cole Derickssen, a very handsome policeman with the most beautiful blue eyes that completely draw her in. He is tall, broad, muscular and pretty much the epitome of masculinity. Stella is completely taken by him, despite the fact he has no interest in her other than getting her home safely. It doesn’t stop her fantasizing about him though.
Stella’s next arousing encounter is with the new local Mayor. He is the youngest one ever appointed and Roman Wyatt is a sight to behold. With his gorgeous green eyes, dazzling smile and flirtatious nature, he is the embodiment of sexy. Stella has never met a man quite like him and her hormones go into overdrive whenever she is in his presence. Another man to fantasize about in her bed at night.
Stella is about to turn 18 years old and she is keen to lose her virginity to a man who knows what he is doing. While her father is trying to set her up with a young man of his choosing, all she can think about is Roman and Colts hands all over her.
This is part one of a duet featuring the awakening of Stella. This story ends on a bit of a cliffhanger so make sure you also have book 2 Fatale on hand.
March 26, 2021
Sweet, virginal and dirty.
With her mother dead, Stella has been sheltered by her father her entire life. She interacts with almost no one but those in her house. Her cage is gilded but a cage nonetheless and one she dreams of breaking free from. When she finally does, two days before she turns 18, she meets a much older Colt, who promptly returns her to her father and wants nothing to do with her, in a way he doesn't fail to make obvious.
The next day, she meets Roman, the town mayor - dark, manwhore and besotted by Stella. They form a friendship of sorts, especially because Stella is so starved of human contact. It's clear Colt and Roman hate each other but Stella has fallen for Colt and discovers feelings for Roman as well.
Stella is so delightfully naive, she is more like a young teen than an 18year old which makes this feel even more dirty. The interactions, especially between Roman and Stella early on make you want to root for them, even though we know she has also fallen for Colt.
There's drama, sex, mystery and a significant age gap with two older men who have history. Its like my kryptonite!
This does end on a bit of a cliffhanger (unsurprising given its part of a duet) and I cannot wait to read part 2.
A solid 3and a bit stars*
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book
With her mother dead, Stella has been sheltered by her father her entire life. She interacts with almost no one but those in her house. Her cage is gilded but a cage nonetheless and one she dreams of breaking free from. When she finally does, two days before she turns 18, she meets a much older Colt, who promptly returns her to her father and wants nothing to do with her, in a way he doesn't fail to make obvious.
The next day, she meets Roman, the town mayor - dark, manwhore and besotted by Stella. They form a friendship of sorts, especially because Stella is so starved of human contact. It's clear Colt and Roman hate each other but Stella has fallen for Colt and discovers feelings for Roman as well.
Stella is so delightfully naive, she is more like a young teen than an 18year old which makes this feel even more dirty. The interactions, especially between Roman and Stella early on make you want to root for them, even though we know she has also fallen for Colt.
There's drama, sex, mystery and a significant age gap with two older men who have history. Its like my kryptonite!
This does end on a bit of a cliffhanger (unsurprising given its part of a duet) and I cannot wait to read part 2.
A solid 3and a bit stars*
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book
May 14, 2021
Feels 0
Steam 4
Storyline 3.5
Overall Rating 3.5
Kindle eArc provided by Author
Reviewed by Ladyballs
This book is a quick read with a lot jammed into it. The premise is a young, shy, sheltered girl Stella, just shy of 18 years old whose over protective father has kept her in an "ivory tower" meets a young, hot mayor who has a fighting background. I'm not sure why this was the case or mentioned. She also meets a young hot police officer. I want to say that I liked the storyline...I truly did. But I had a problem with the execution. I felt the story over explained how sheltered the heroine was. It made it seem like she was very fragile and locked in a room her whole life. She also had a house full of overbearing 1920 thinking employees, handlers, drivers, etc. It was hard to believe.
Her first few interactions with the mayor and the cop were so sugary sweet and innocent that they came off as not genuine and had me skipping pages. The reaction of each of these men the first time speaking with her were so severe that I found myself shaking my head.
But by the end of the first book Stella is swearing she had a normal life and left me confused. I continued on with the duet to see where this story was going to go. So far it appeared that this duet was written to be a hot love triangle but based solely on the innocent girl becomes savvy dating expert theme.
Steam 4
Storyline 3.5
Overall Rating 3.5
Kindle eArc provided by Author
Reviewed by Ladyballs
This book is a quick read with a lot jammed into it. The premise is a young, shy, sheltered girl Stella, just shy of 18 years old whose over protective father has kept her in an "ivory tower" meets a young, hot mayor who has a fighting background. I'm not sure why this was the case or mentioned. She also meets a young hot police officer. I want to say that I liked the storyline...I truly did. But I had a problem with the execution. I felt the story over explained how sheltered the heroine was. It made it seem like she was very fragile and locked in a room her whole life. She also had a house full of overbearing 1920 thinking employees, handlers, drivers, etc. It was hard to believe.
Her first few interactions with the mayor and the cop were so sugary sweet and innocent that they came off as not genuine and had me skipping pages. The reaction of each of these men the first time speaking with her were so severe that I found myself shaking my head.
But by the end of the first book Stella is swearing she had a normal life and left me confused. I continued on with the duet to see where this story was going to go. So far it appeared that this duet was written to be a hot love triangle but based solely on the innocent girl becomes savvy dating expert theme.
April 20, 2021
★MY 5 STAR REVIEW BY JUDY ROBICHAUD/DARE TO LOVE ROMANCE REVIEWS
¸.•´¸.•´¨) ¸.•¨)Venus
(¸.•´ (¸.•`★by Alex L. Michaels & Luna Lay
EEP! VENUS IS A HELLUVA SINFULLY DELICIOUS & AT TIMES SIDE SPLITTING HUMOROUS 5-STAR READ!
When a romance takes place in a town called Precious you just know it’s going to be an entertaining, fun and unique read. At least that's what I expected and it was most definitely what the authors delivered.
Add to that, Stella Boudreaux, a funny, naive, quirky, klutzy and downright loveable 18 year old blonde beauty who’s infatuated by and who’s made it her mission to win over Colt Derickksen.
Colt is an older, incredibly sexy, burly, bossy, growly police detective with control issues. Especially when a certain blonde bombshell threatens to break through the walls Colt has built around his moral heart. He also has a chip on his shoulder and who wants absolutely nothing to do with the precocious 18 year old.
Will Stella find a way to break through those iron walls? Well, a girl can dream….
She’s also enamored with the charming Roman Wyatt, a sizzling hot, seductive mayor with a silver tongue, who’s also older than Stella and who makes your eyelids heavy and the rest of you weak in the knees when he speaks. His voice could melt butter.
Stir in a heaping amount of humor, a father who relentlessly keeps Stella in a gilded cage, a skittish nanny, danger and a really great mystery suspense and you have a helluva recipe for one sinfully delicious and at times side splitting humorous 5-STAR treat called Venus, (book 1 in the Venus Duet Series) by “new to me” authors Alex L. Michaels & Luna Lay.
I’ve been reading a lot of dark romances lately because they are my favorite genre of romance. But sometimes a hot rom-com is exactly what I need after that. I’m happy to say that Venus was the perfect pick me up. Very entertaining and certainly a breath of fresh air. It’s been a very long time since I’ve laughed out loud so many times throughout, while reading a romance. While there is comedy, make no mistake…. there is also serious aspects to this book but I’m not giving anything away. Sorry not sorry.
Stella is such a great endearing character. Her witty quips and inner dialogue are rib tickling hilarious not to mention her klutziness, tripping and affinity to hiding behind house plants. I’m laughing just thinking about that. She is so enchanting that you can’t help but love her. You’ll root for the freedom she’s determined to have now that she’s 18 years old.
You will also root for her in her endeavor of finding love and romance and living life beyond the golden bars. How she goes about achieving that goal will keep you enraptured and reading. I didn’t want to put this book down until I was finished.
The objects of her affection have ties to a past lined with secrets and betrayal. I have a feeling not all is what it appears to be. I can’t wait to find out.
When danger comes too close to home, things spiral out of control and people are put in life threatening situations. Who will be Stella’s white knight? Who is the sinner and who is the saint? Or will she become her own hero, fight her own demons and get the answers she needed? I don’t know but I sure can’t wait to find out in book 2, Fatale. I’m secretly hoping Stella, Colt and Roman work it out so that they are all in a relationship together (MFM) because I could never….. never, never, never choose between Colt and Roman.
But alas…. Book 1 comes to an end. I really wish I lived in Precious. Until that happens, soon I’ll be hopping into Fatale and I can’t wait.
MY FAVORITE PASSAGE IN THE BOOK:
“I realized that I had left the comfort and the security of the only place I ever knew, even if it was a cage with golden bars.”
MY FAVORITE CHARACTER:
Hands down, Stella. Her naivete lends itself in great ways in this story. Yes, she could be more mature but honestly her naivete is what makes her so charming, lovable and captivating. She never gives up. She pursues and goes after what she wants despite the obstacles in her way.
MY FAVORITE FUNNIEST SCENE OF THE BOOK:
I was hiding behind a gigantic potted tree at the end of the hall when Colt finally left my father's office...... "You're a little ghost, aren't you?" he said without looking up. I bit my lip before stepping out from my hiding place, feeling particularly stupid. "I was just passing by." He glanced at me before sliding the phone into his pocket. "Sure you were."
That scene never gets old…… LOL
Kudos to authors Alex L. Michaels & Luna Lay for penning such a witty, fun and highly entertaining 5-Star romantic comedy/romance suspense. I loved it! So will you!
¸.•´¸.•´¨) ¸.•¨)Venus
(¸.•´ (¸.•`★by Alex L. Michaels & Luna Lay
EEP! VENUS IS A HELLUVA SINFULLY DELICIOUS & AT TIMES SIDE SPLITTING HUMOROUS 5-STAR READ!
When a romance takes place in a town called Precious you just know it’s going to be an entertaining, fun and unique read. At least that's what I expected and it was most definitely what the authors delivered.
Add to that, Stella Boudreaux, a funny, naive, quirky, klutzy and downright loveable 18 year old blonde beauty who’s infatuated by and who’s made it her mission to win over Colt Derickksen.
Colt is an older, incredibly sexy, burly, bossy, growly police detective with control issues. Especially when a certain blonde bombshell threatens to break through the walls Colt has built around his moral heart. He also has a chip on his shoulder and who wants absolutely nothing to do with the precocious 18 year old.
Will Stella find a way to break through those iron walls? Well, a girl can dream….
She’s also enamored with the charming Roman Wyatt, a sizzling hot, seductive mayor with a silver tongue, who’s also older than Stella and who makes your eyelids heavy and the rest of you weak in the knees when he speaks. His voice could melt butter.
Stir in a heaping amount of humor, a father who relentlessly keeps Stella in a gilded cage, a skittish nanny, danger and a really great mystery suspense and you have a helluva recipe for one sinfully delicious and at times side splitting humorous 5-STAR treat called Venus, (book 1 in the Venus Duet Series) by “new to me” authors Alex L. Michaels & Luna Lay.
I’ve been reading a lot of dark romances lately because they are my favorite genre of romance. But sometimes a hot rom-com is exactly what I need after that. I’m happy to say that Venus was the perfect pick me up. Very entertaining and certainly a breath of fresh air. It’s been a very long time since I’ve laughed out loud so many times throughout, while reading a romance. While there is comedy, make no mistake…. there is also serious aspects to this book but I’m not giving anything away. Sorry not sorry.
Stella is such a great endearing character. Her witty quips and inner dialogue are rib tickling hilarious not to mention her klutziness, tripping and affinity to hiding behind house plants. I’m laughing just thinking about that. She is so enchanting that you can’t help but love her. You’ll root for the freedom she’s determined to have now that she’s 18 years old.
You will also root for her in her endeavor of finding love and romance and living life beyond the golden bars. How she goes about achieving that goal will keep you enraptured and reading. I didn’t want to put this book down until I was finished.
The objects of her affection have ties to a past lined with secrets and betrayal. I have a feeling not all is what it appears to be. I can’t wait to find out.
When danger comes too close to home, things spiral out of control and people are put in life threatening situations. Who will be Stella’s white knight? Who is the sinner and who is the saint? Or will she become her own hero, fight her own demons and get the answers she needed? I don’t know but I sure can’t wait to find out in book 2, Fatale. I’m secretly hoping Stella, Colt and Roman work it out so that they are all in a relationship together (MFM) because I could never….. never, never, never choose between Colt and Roman.
But alas…. Book 1 comes to an end. I really wish I lived in Precious. Until that happens, soon I’ll be hopping into Fatale and I can’t wait.
MY FAVORITE PASSAGE IN THE BOOK:
“I realized that I had left the comfort and the security of the only place I ever knew, even if it was a cage with golden bars.”
MY FAVORITE CHARACTER:
Hands down, Stella. Her naivete lends itself in great ways in this story. Yes, she could be more mature but honestly her naivete is what makes her so charming, lovable and captivating. She never gives up. She pursues and goes after what she wants despite the obstacles in her way.
MY FAVORITE FUNNIEST SCENE OF THE BOOK:
I was hiding behind a gigantic potted tree at the end of the hall when Colt finally left my father's office...... "You're a little ghost, aren't you?" he said without looking up. I bit my lip before stepping out from my hiding place, feeling particularly stupid. "I was just passing by." He glanced at me before sliding the phone into his pocket. "Sure you were."
That scene never gets old…… LOL
Kudos to authors Alex L. Michaels & Luna Lay for penning such a witty, fun and highly entertaining 5-Star romantic comedy/romance suspense. I loved it! So will you!
September 3, 2022
~3.5 Stars~
Stella Boudreaux has lived a sheltered life. Her father has kept her home and protected ever since her mothers passing. Some people don't even know that her father has a daughter. She's been content at home and has followed the rules her whole life. That is until 2 days before her 18th birthday...
She meets the most handsome police officer.
He doesn't want anything to do with her. She wants everything he's got to give.
Now he's all she has on her mind.
Until...she meets the mayor. The scandalous, mischievous mayor.
Now stuck in a love triangle after years of craving human contact Stella is confused. Confused on how in a few short days everything's changed. Confused on how she has feelings for people old enough to be her father.
Only one can have her heart, but her heart doesn't know who she wants.
Stella is such a delightful character. I was a little shocked at how naïve and innocent she is but given she hasn't had much connection to the real world I could overlook it.
There is a captivating cliffhanger and now I just CAN'T wait to get my hands on the second book.
*Thank you to Alex L. Michaels for sending me an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review*
Stella Boudreaux has lived a sheltered life. Her father has kept her home and protected ever since her mothers passing. Some people don't even know that her father has a daughter. She's been content at home and has followed the rules her whole life. That is until 2 days before her 18th birthday...
She meets the most handsome police officer.
He doesn't want anything to do with her. She wants everything he's got to give.
Now he's all she has on her mind.
Until...she meets the mayor. The scandalous, mischievous mayor.
Now stuck in a love triangle after years of craving human contact Stella is confused. Confused on how in a few short days everything's changed. Confused on how she has feelings for people old enough to be her father.
Only one can have her heart, but her heart doesn't know who she wants.
Stella is such a delightful character. I was a little shocked at how naïve and innocent she is but given she hasn't had much connection to the real world I could overlook it.
There is a captivating cliffhanger and now I just CAN'T wait to get my hands on the second book.
*Thank you to Alex L. Michaels for sending me an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review*
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January 4, 2024🖤 Grab your copy:
Amazon Universal: https://books2read.com/u/bzevEG
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/31343S1
🖤Find excerpts and teasers: https://bit.ly/3gSp6zU
🖤Start reading for free: https://bit.ly/3vu6A58
Amazon Universal: https://books2read.com/u/bzevEG
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/31343S1
🖤Find excerpts and teasers: https://bit.ly/3gSp6zU
🖤Start reading for free: https://bit.ly/3vu6A58
April 25, 2021
"Complex love story, age gap, taboo, contains dark elements??" Hell yeah... I'm in! 😁
Although this story was 'sweeter' than my usual reads (I like my books a little darker), I absolutely loved it! 🥰 I fell in love with Stella; her innocence, her naivety, her lack of 'life experience'. Plus, both Roman Wyatt and Colt Derickssen are reasons enough to want to read this book!
Because Stella was home schooled, had no friends (unless you call the butler, the house keeper, the chauffeur and her nanny/tutor 'friends'), and wasn't allowed to leave the house/premises on her own ever, saying her look on life was 'twisted' was an understatement.
The detached way Stella was raised by 'the help' (not by loving parents), protected into the extreme.... well, I'd almost say it's child abuse!! And I hated Stella's father for that!
After Stella met police officer Colt Derickssen and mayor Roman Wyatt I wanted to read Cole's and especially Roman's POV sooo badly!! Now we (the readers) only get Stella's POV.... which were the words, thoughts and actions of a 'girl' (14, 15 at most) and not a young woman. (What Stella was/is going through at 18, is what other 'normal' girls go through when they are 13, 14, max 15 years old!!)
Stella: "Reaching my teens without ever experiencing anything!" This is Stella all the way! 😊 Usually I wouldn't like a woman so demure, so 'innocent' and naive... but in this book, with Stella, it really worked for me!
Couldn't understand Stella's father's decision to let her go out with Brandon. He was obsessively over-protective of Stella... still he pushed his precious daughter into the arms of a boy with raging hormones? I was kinda expecting Brandon would force Stella into something she didn't want.... but, as it turned out, this is 'not that kind of book'.
"Slow burner, but when it's hot, it's hot." 🔥
The chemistry and sexual tension between Stella & Cole and Stella & Roman was intense, just as the hostility between the two men!! Even though, in the beginning Stella is somewhat unaware of it all!
The scene where Stella is drunk and kisses both men.... well, let's say I hope that's the direction the story will develop. 😁
Venus really (and very pleasantly) surprised me and I can honestly not think of any reason why this book wouldn't get my 5 stars. 😍
We are left hanging at the end of the book.... needless to say I can hardly wait for the second book in this duet!!!
Alex L. Michaels / Luna Lay are both unknown names for me..... I will definitely check out their other books!
Venus duet (books must be read in order):
Thank you Alex L. Michaels / Luna Lay for the ARC. 😘
🐰🐤🐣🐥
May 12, 2021
3.5 Stars
So I will start by saying that these are both quick reads with alot jammed into them. The premise is a young, shy, sheltered girl Stella, just shy of 18 years old whose over protective father has kept her in an "ivory tower" meets a young, hot mayor who has a fighting background (not sure why this was the case or mentioned lol) and a young hot police officer. I want to say that I liked the storyline, I truly did. But the execution for me, left a lot to be desired. The author went way, way, way over the top to show just how sheltered this character was. It made her very fragile and like she was locked in a room her whole life. She had a house full of overbearing 1920 thinking employees, handlers, drivers, etc. It just was not believable.
Also, her first few interactions with the mayor and the cop - so sugary sweet and innocent they came off as fake and unbelievable and had me swiping. The reaction of each of these men the first time speaking with her, were so severe, had me rolling my eyes.
I will say that by the end of the first book and the 2nd book Stella went from being this little fragile, scared girl to acting and swearing like she had had a normal life. Kinda gave me whiplash.
Naturally there is an attraction for her to each of these men and most of the book is about her first kisses, and sexual acts with each of them and lets not forget a mystery surrounding her father.
I really did like the storyline, alot. I am also glad that the character had changed and was more believable in the 2nd book because if she hadnt Im not sure I could have read it.
April 18, 2021
Stella is really unlikeable.
I took 2 stars off due to how unlikeable and OTT Stella is.
I def. enjoyed parts of this despite the fact it was spoilt by Stella whining so much about everything! She is manipulative and totally uncaring of peoples feelings. Though she knows both men are obsessed with her she jumps between wanting Colt and Roman depending on which one is in the room. She gives her virginity to one then a few hours later decides to sleep with the other, careless of the hurt she inflicts.
Is it even possible to be as naive as she is in todays world, unless you are brought up in cult or weird religious community? And the way her controlling, overprotective father goes from dressing her like a schoolchild one day to a plunging neckline the next (her 18th birthday) is rather creepy. Despite being a big man in a small town very few people even knows the Judge has a daughter!
I really am wondering if her brain is even functioning a lot of the time. She walks round in a daze and can't think straight most of the time.
Innocent and very sheltered Stella doesn't take long to fancy the hot Officer Colt Derickssen. Which is hardly surprising as who doesn't like a hot cop in uniform? Then she meets the even hotter Roman Wyatt and fancies him too. But she still dreams of the super sexy Colt... and Roman.
Out of curiosity I would read book 2, simply to see if she grows up and makes a choice.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I took 2 stars off due to how unlikeable and OTT Stella is.
I def. enjoyed parts of this despite the fact it was spoilt by Stella whining so much about everything! She is manipulative and totally uncaring of peoples feelings. Though she knows both men are obsessed with her she jumps between wanting Colt and Roman depending on which one is in the room. She gives her virginity to one then a few hours later decides to sleep with the other, careless of the hurt she inflicts.
Is it even possible to be as naive as she is in todays world, unless you are brought up in cult or weird religious community? And the way her controlling, overprotective father goes from dressing her like a schoolchild one day to a plunging neckline the next (her 18th birthday) is rather creepy. Despite being a big man in a small town very few people even knows the Judge has a daughter!
I really am wondering if her brain is even functioning a lot of the time. She walks round in a daze and can't think straight most of the time.
Innocent and very sheltered Stella doesn't take long to fancy the hot Officer Colt Derickssen. Which is hardly surprising as who doesn't like a hot cop in uniform? Then she meets the even hotter Roman Wyatt and fancies him too. But she still dreams of the super sexy Colt... and Roman.
Out of curiosity I would read book 2, simply to see if she grows up and makes a choice.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 7, 2021
I loved it...!!! It's fantastic 😍 I already read it twice.. Once I started reading I could not stop until I reached the end. This is so far the best Romance book I had the pleasure of reading from the books collection of 2021.
Growing up no girl has a clue of what she is looking for in her man !!! Most want juxtaposition of characters of Men they have encountered in their life.. This story revolves around Stella Boudreaux (who led a very sheltered life and just turning 18 years) , Roman (The Savvy Mayor) and Colt (Police officer who recently rescued her). Inspite of her forced sheltered life who has only been homeschooled her entire life, Stella doesn't come across as immature or vain. Stella's character will resonate with every girl who had been at the cusp of womanhood and figuring things out.
I do like books with age gap but not to that extent. But this book is a 10/10 for me because of the craftiness of the Authors. Throughout the reading I was so buzzed with excitement and enticed by the development of chemistry between the characters. The flow of the story was smoothly paced and thrilling. You can't help but fall for Roman !!! Colt is more broody Hero who is ever present to rescue you from all dangers. Roman and Colt are at the opposite ends of the character spectrum and she loves both.
I just can't wait to read the second part of this book.
Don't think twice about buying this book and reading it... It's absolutely worth your time!!!
Growing up no girl has a clue of what she is looking for in her man !!! Most want juxtaposition of characters of Men they have encountered in their life.. This story revolves around Stella Boudreaux (who led a very sheltered life and just turning 18 years) , Roman (The Savvy Mayor) and Colt (Police officer who recently rescued her). Inspite of her forced sheltered life who has only been homeschooled her entire life, Stella doesn't come across as immature or vain. Stella's character will resonate with every girl who had been at the cusp of womanhood and figuring things out.
I do like books with age gap but not to that extent. But this book is a 10/10 for me because of the craftiness of the Authors. Throughout the reading I was so buzzed with excitement and enticed by the development of chemistry between the characters. The flow of the story was smoothly paced and thrilling. You can't help but fall for Roman !!! Colt is more broody Hero who is ever present to rescue you from all dangers. Roman and Colt are at the opposite ends of the character spectrum and she loves both.
I just can't wait to read the second part of this book.
Don't think twice about buying this book and reading it... It's absolutely worth your time!!!
April 25, 2021
Completely intoxicated by this book! I’ve never read anything from either author and I was curious and excited! Some parts of the book really upset me and some parts got me super worked up.
Stella (Venus as Roman calls her) is quite annoying. She’s this sheltered eighteen year old who seems to whine and I just wanted to slap some since into her. I get the authors made her exactly how she should be based on her environment and up bringing but man I’m lost on who I’m rooting for now.
Colt seemed brooding most of the time and I didn’t think he would be apart of the story. At one point I actually felt bad for Colt and that completely went away several chapters later. Now I’m just as confused about him as I am Stella.
Roman.... now he’s a brain teaser. My brain easily took a dark path with him and I was biting my nails until the very end! I think he confused me the most and it was VERY hot and cold.
I never imagined the things that would happen in the first part of the duet and I am eager to find out what happens next! I have such a love hate feeling for each of these characters and even Brandon got me feeling crazed! I can only imagine the damage that will happen in the next part!!! 🤯😍
Stella (Venus as Roman calls her) is quite annoying. She’s this sheltered eighteen year old who seems to whine and I just wanted to slap some since into her. I get the authors made her exactly how she should be based on her environment and up bringing but man I’m lost on who I’m rooting for now.
Colt seemed brooding most of the time and I didn’t think he would be apart of the story. At one point I actually felt bad for Colt and that completely went away several chapters later. Now I’m just as confused about him as I am Stella.
Roman.... now he’s a brain teaser. My brain easily took a dark path with him and I was biting my nails until the very end! I think he confused me the most and it was VERY hot and cold.
I never imagined the things that would happen in the first part of the duet and I am eager to find out what happens next! I have such a love hate feeling for each of these characters and even Brandon got me feeling crazed! I can only imagine the damage that will happen in the next part!!! 🤯😍
January 24, 2024
3.5 stars. Stella's naivete might seem over the top, but based on what is known about her backstory, it can still be plausible. She is innocent to the ways of the world outside of her home and now curiosity has gotten the best of her as she grows out of childhood and into womanhood with no real guide. Between Colt and Roman, she is working through the differences between love and lust and everything else a woman discovering her sexuality is experiencing while mingling with men who have leagues of experience. What was a little off putting was how often her father, a Judge, who is described as using a cane and wearing a monocle and sounds rather aged and weary, is put in the same age category as Colt and Roman...where she would refer to them being the age of her father, yet her father sounded senile and Colt and Roman were anything but. Still, I'm curious to see what kind of secrets she unfolds and how that may affect her future relationships, if she even has a future with either of these men.
April 8, 2021
If you’re looking for drama, excitement, angst and hotness....this is it! This is not your cringey age-gap romance. It is very well written and tasteful while maintaining the hotness and sex factor.
I just love when a book just pulls you in and keeps you enthralled start to finish! Stella, is a beautiful, caged bird looking from freedom. Her sheltered life has her searching for something more only she doesn’t know just what is that she’s missing.
She’s rescued by aloof, handsome officer Derickssen. Stella finds herself immediately drawn to him and keeps circling him to maintain the unknown feeling he provides. Days later she meets sexy, bad boy Mayor Roman Wyatt. He too inspires these unknown feelings of excitement and heat.
As Stella interacts with both men she learns more about herself and what she wants. Who will Stella choose and is it the right choice. Can’t wait to see how things unfold in book 2.
Provided review in exchange of ARC from the author.
I just love when a book just pulls you in and keeps you enthralled start to finish! Stella, is a beautiful, caged bird looking from freedom. Her sheltered life has her searching for something more only she doesn’t know just what is that she’s missing.
She’s rescued by aloof, handsome officer Derickssen. Stella finds herself immediately drawn to him and keeps circling him to maintain the unknown feeling he provides. Days later she meets sexy, bad boy Mayor Roman Wyatt. He too inspires these unknown feelings of excitement and heat.
As Stella interacts with both men she learns more about herself and what she wants. Who will Stella choose and is it the right choice. Can’t wait to see how things unfold in book 2.
Provided review in exchange of ARC from the author.
April 2, 2021
I was given the opportunity to to read an ARC, I really enjoyed Venus journey in her discovery for love.. the story had me on the edge of my seat to find out what happens next.. Venus Is naive when it comes to relationships, but she is being guided by her heart, like most of our first loves are.. and when it works out isn’t following your heart the best way...Venus has strong feelings for both men and cannot choose between the two.. I hope she gets her forever, whatever that may be.
I cannot wait for the second book to see how this love story ends..
April 8, 2021
This is quite an interesting love triangle. Stella has been sheltered by her over protective father her whole life. She turns eighteen and finally starts living. She finds herself torn between Colt, a police detective and Roman, the town's mayor. Her journey to self discovery is interrupted by a mysterious accident involving her father. Thrust between the two men, the book ends on a cliffhanger and leaves you wondering where her choices will take her next. I'm not sure anything is quite what it seems and I look forward to the conclusion.
May 5, 2021
ARC generously given by Author
Age gap romance with some innocents thrown in. At the beginning I wasn’t a fan of how closed off from everything that Stella was but as I continued reading I was just hooked on the relationships between Stella and Colt and Stella and Roman. I felt the book just got better and better as I read it. I did wish Stella wasn’t sooo innocent but I felt it was an overall great read!
Age gap romance with some innocents thrown in. At the beginning I wasn’t a fan of how closed off from everything that Stella was but as I continued reading I was just hooked on the relationships between Stella and Colt and Stella and Roman. I felt the book just got better and better as I read it. I did wish Stella wasn’t sooo innocent but I felt it was an overall great read!
April 20, 2021
It took me a bit to get into this. The heroine annoyed me beyond belief. Yes, she was sheltered, but she just rubbed me the wrong way entirely. The Hero’s, 🤷🏻♀️🤷🏻♀️ we really didn’t get too much from them. There was a cliffhanger. I’m definitely going to read Book 2 and hope we get more from the Hero’s & the heroine loses some of her naivety.
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April 30, 2021I'm sorry but this one didn't appeal to me.
August 5, 2021
It was ok, I will read the second book to know who Venus chooses
March 20, 2023
4-Stella, Ronana and Colt- She’s coming of age, sheltered! One is a police officer and the other a mayor. There’s so much sexual tension! Need to read the next book
February 23, 2025
Very badly done MFM its more written like she tells one guy she chooses him then same night goes and cheats with other guy but both forgive her since shes so young and confused
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