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Diamond Doms #8
Flawless
Matthew Bruce has a lot of secrets. He’s legally married to royalty, he’s in love with his wife’s little sister, and he’s not really dead like everyone thinks. To top it all off, it turns out his recently deceased grandfather was part of the international underground organization his friends at Club Solitaire have been tracking down.
Faking his death hadn’t been part of the plan, and having Kendall Livingston, his wife’s sister, track him down most definitely wasn’t in the plans.
Now he has to keep them both safe and keep Kendall out of his bed.
Faking his death hadn’t been part of the plan, and having Kendall Livingston, his wife’s sister, track him down most definitely wasn’t in the plans.
Now he has to keep them both safe and keep Kendall out of his bed.
333 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 27, 2021
70 people are currently reading
150 people want to read
About the author
Ivy Nelson
47 books772 followersIvy Nelson writes delicious contemporary romance with kinky alpha heroes and sassy heroines you wish could be your best friend. Club Solitaire is her favorite fictional place to hang out in, and she spends most of her free time spinning tales set there. Ivy currently lives in Las Vegas with her husband of five years and their son. When she isn’t writing, she’s probably reading something dirty or drinking wine with her readers on Facebook in the Ivy's Diamond Divas reader group
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
August 1, 2021
This is the eighth in a series about the über-wealthy, mover-and-shaker doms of Club Solitaire and the equally powerful women they love. Because this begins in medias res, with a cast of characters we've met before, and expands upon an overarching mystery involving threats to, well, everyone's lives, this isn't a standalone.
I've read most of the books in this series and have liked some more than others based on personal preference: certain couples and their kinks are just more appealing to me. But, this is the first time I've disliked an entry because of the poor writing. While I've had issues in the past with the author's pace, plotting, and focus (or lack of), here, the problems are off-the-charts. The book comes across as having been hastily written.
In the interest of space, I'm just going to mention three of the biggest problems:
1) The MC: Kendall and Matthew met years ago (I can't tell you how long) and immediately bonded. For reasons that were never clear to me, Matthew was forced to marry Kendall's sister, Gemma, instead. While the marriage was in name only, Kendall and Matthew never once acted upon those long-ago feelings -- until now. So, this is a second-chance romance -- which is fine -- but the problem is is that everything important has already happened to this couple (the first time they met; the first time they had sex; the break-up; his fake "death;" and a long-kept secret that adds nothing to the present relationship). Nothing that happens between them here is as significant as anything that occurred in the past; thus, I had absolutely no investment in them. I knew nothing about them (I can't even tell you what they look like); they don't spend that much time together (a lot of page space is given to other couples/relationships, including Kendall's much more interesting conversations with her sister); and the sex was not only very perfunctory, but also seemed extraneous to the book. Ultimately, I didn't find them that compelling, and the narrative reasons for why they were separated and stayed apart never made any sense to me.
2) Emphases: This book concentrates too much on the wrong things (endless shifts in locations, constant calls for security details, and the logistics of conference calls) and not enough on the right (so much is tell and not show, particularly the ending). Because so much page space is given to unimportant actions and other couples, transitions are awkward and abrupt (characters suddenly appear with no explanation) and relationships progress at the speed of light (after decades of being apart, suddenly Matthew and Kendell are in love). The author rushes through every important dramatic moment in this book -- one reason why I didn't connect to the characters. While I understand that Ms. Nelson deals with a large cast of characters, in doing so, she frequently short-changes her MC -- and that has happened here.
3) The Ending: Nothing is resolved in this book. It ends in a cliffhanger and what I guess is an HFN; the mystery suddenly takes a very bizarre turn that makes little sense; and what little suspense there is happens off the page. Perhaps the next book will address all this; I hope so.
Finally, I'm at the point now where I'm deducting a star for every abelist BDSM narrative. This is the umpteenth book I've read this year that equates a sub's ability to hold some impossible gymnast-like position with her worth and I'm over it.
2 stars. Although the author tries valiantly to address this, the fact that Matthew is married to Kendall's sister is beyond squicky. There's one more book that will feature said sister and the last of the diamond doms. According to the author's blurb, it will also wrap up the central line of action. I devoutly hope it's better than this.
I've read most of the books in this series and have liked some more than others based on personal preference: certain couples and their kinks are just more appealing to me. But, this is the first time I've disliked an entry because of the poor writing. While I've had issues in the past with the author's pace, plotting, and focus (or lack of), here, the problems are off-the-charts. The book comes across as having been hastily written.
In the interest of space, I'm just going to mention three of the biggest problems:
1) The MC: Kendall and Matthew met years ago (I can't tell you how long) and immediately bonded. For reasons that were never clear to me, Matthew was forced to marry Kendall's sister, Gemma, instead. While the marriage was in name only, Kendall and Matthew never once acted upon those long-ago feelings -- until now. So, this is a second-chance romance -- which is fine -- but the problem is is that everything important has already happened to this couple (the first time they met; the first time they had sex; the break-up; his fake "death;" and a long-kept secret that adds nothing to the present relationship). Nothing that happens between them here is as significant as anything that occurred in the past; thus, I had absolutely no investment in them. I knew nothing about them (I can't even tell you what they look like); they don't spend that much time together (a lot of page space is given to other couples/relationships, including Kendall's much more interesting conversations with her sister); and the sex was not only very perfunctory, but also seemed extraneous to the book. Ultimately, I didn't find them that compelling, and the narrative reasons for why they were separated and stayed apart never made any sense to me.
2) Emphases: This book concentrates too much on the wrong things (endless shifts in locations, constant calls for security details, and the logistics of conference calls) and not enough on the right (so much is tell and not show, particularly the ending). Because so much page space is given to unimportant actions and other couples, transitions are awkward and abrupt (characters suddenly appear with no explanation) and relationships progress at the speed of light (after decades of being apart, suddenly Matthew and Kendell are in love). The author rushes through every important dramatic moment in this book -- one reason why I didn't connect to the characters. While I understand that Ms. Nelson deals with a large cast of characters, in doing so, she frequently short-changes her MC -- and that has happened here.
3) The Ending: Nothing is resolved in this book. It ends in a cliffhanger and what I guess is an HFN; the mystery suddenly takes a very bizarre turn that makes little sense; and what little suspense there is happens off the page. Perhaps the next book will address all this; I hope so.
Finally, I'm at the point now where I'm deducting a star for every abelist BDSM narrative. This is the umpteenth book I've read this year that equates a sub's ability to hold some impossible gymnast-like position with her worth and I'm over it.
2 stars. Although the author tries valiantly to address this, the fact that Matthew is married to Kendall's sister is beyond squicky. There's one more book that will feature said sister and the last of the diamond doms. According to the author's blurb, it will also wrap up the central line of action. I devoutly hope it's better than this.
August 10, 2021
This story has drug on far too log. More and more people keep getting thrown into the fray with so many loopholes and twists and turns that it is just not fun any more. A cabal of evil old men got together and somehow, Grant Sterling is now the baddest of the bad. Doesn’t make a whole lot of sense, but i guess it’ll finally come out in the last book…which better be freaking awesome after this much torture.
As far as the love story between Matthew and Kendall goes, I’ll give it a 4 out of 5. The nonsense surrounding it, not so much. I really didn’t care for the whole I’m married to one sister…who I never loved…and am in love with the other sister that’s in this book. I don’t think I’ve seen it played out in this way before, so it’s not like it was something I’d seen a million times and found boring. What did get old very quickly was the jokes about…yeah you’re sleeping with my husband.
Had I not read every other book in this series and and not been trying to wade through it to the end, I’d have easily given it up within the first 50 pages. This promised that the next book will be the last, so I’ll likely read that to see how the mystery ends. Hopefully, Grant Sterling dies somewhere in the pages of that book. Although that might just be too nice of a thing to happen to him.
As far as the love story between Matthew and Kendall goes, I’ll give it a 4 out of 5. The nonsense surrounding it, not so much. I really didn’t care for the whole I’m married to one sister…who I never loved…and am in love with the other sister that’s in this book. I don’t think I’ve seen it played out in this way before, so it’s not like it was something I’d seen a million times and found boring. What did get old very quickly was the jokes about…yeah you’re sleeping with my husband.
Had I not read every other book in this series and and not been trying to wade through it to the end, I’d have easily given it up within the first 50 pages. This promised that the next book will be the last, so I’ll likely read that to see how the mystery ends. Hopefully, Grant Sterling dies somewhere in the pages of that book. Although that might just be too nice of a thing to happen to him.
August 20, 2021
I'm torn on whether I liked or hated this book - I liked Mathew and Kendall as characters and as a couple, I hated that he was in an arranged marriage with her sister. This is a bit of a second chance romance since Mathew and Kendall are reigniting a teenage romance. However, I usually avoid books with cheaters, this cheating was out in the open and acknowledged by all parties and was joked/commented about at every turn (it got a little old) so it wasn't your typical cheating romance. In the end their romance wasn't resolved, he's still married to the sister while carrying on a relationship with Kendall. There was plenty of action to keep the book moving and some steam to keep the reader interested. The information Kendall found out in the end felt random as well, maybe because her POV wasn't told while it was happening but rather a recap after the fact? Hopefully this last book will answer all the questions and we can but this saga to bed.
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.
August 2, 2021
I'm not sure how much this furthered the overall story arc of the series or the progression of Matthew and Kedanll's relationship-- a lot of their dynamic is still TBD. I'm disappointed we didn't get to see Kendall use her super spy skills, especially at the end of the book when we are stuck with Matthew's POV when I'm sure what Kendall was doing was much more interesting. Matthew is fine with her calling her contacts, but gets overprotective if she wants to use her other skills. He says they will have to learn to balance his need to keep her safe with the dangers of her job; let's see how that plays out or if she 'suddenly' decides to step back from her career. A lot of the book involved couples from the previous books in the series, which is fine, but it took the focus away from Matthew and Kendall.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
August 18, 2021
I love this series but this book left me wanting.
The suspense is high, and I can't wait to read the last book and discover what is going on with the whole Diamond Doms, but the relationship between the main characters seems a bit forced at times, or maybe not genuine enough. As if we don't get to see that REAL bond between them. Similarly, the bond between the sisters seems superficial, even though we're told it's more than that.
It also felt odd that, being a spy, she was not trusted by the man she loved and didn't seem to care so much.
I wasn't engrossed in this book as much as I was in other books in the series, maybe because the editing wasn't as good and that pulled me out of the story too often.
This said, I read an ARC against my honest review, so the editing may have improved since then ;)
The suspense is high, and I can't wait to read the last book and discover what is going on with the whole Diamond Doms, but the relationship between the main characters seems a bit forced at times, or maybe not genuine enough. As if we don't get to see that REAL bond between them. Similarly, the bond between the sisters seems superficial, even though we're told it's more than that.
It also felt odd that, being a spy, she was not trusted by the man she loved and didn't seem to care so much.
I wasn't engrossed in this book as much as I was in other books in the series, maybe because the editing wasn't as good and that pulled me out of the story too often.
This said, I read an ARC against my honest review, so the editing may have improved since then ;)
August 13, 2021
Another hot and steamy romance by Ivy Nelson. The author once again brings a cast of strong characters and weaves an intense and intriguing story. She does a great job developing the story and pulled me in with all the emotions. I was glued to the pages with all the twists and turns along the way. Loved it!
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
September 29, 2021
Quite Terrific BDSM book
I love the characters in this book and I really love the spicy BDSM oriented scenes in the story as well. Also there is a lot action and a mysterious set of enemies that threaten our group of characters. I really recommend this book
I love the characters in this book and I really love the spicy BDSM oriented scenes in the story as well. Also there is a lot action and a mysterious set of enemies that threaten our group of characters. I really recommend this book
August 3, 2021
I have not read a book by Ivy Nelson and the "Diamond Doms" series before but had a chance to read this book obtained as ARC from the author.
You fall into the middle of a multi-person story, probably described in other parts, and yet I was able to form a good picture without reading the specific stories. A clever fact so that you can pick up the story in each part but you are made curious about the previous parts.
An exciting, multi-faceted story with villains conspiring against the friends who run Solitaire, a BDSM club. Everyone seems to have a link with one of the bad guys and diamond mines have a big role in that.
Kendall is involved in the story as Matthew's sister-in-law. She works back and forth for the British government as a secret agent and has many contacts who provide her with information. Matthew is married to her sister but his heart belongs to Kendall. The fact that she puts herself in dangerous situations is something he, as Dom, can hardly let happen.
I love the chemistry between Matthew and Kendall. The way she submits to his wishes in the bedroom but uses her independence outside it, knowing that Matthew does not always agree.
The story is exciting and full of unexpected events that slowly lead to a denouement.
The marriage between Matthew and her sister Gemma has always been an arranged marriage to strengthen their family ties. And even though Kendall knows they've been planning a divorce for years, she still doesn't feel quite sure about her role towards Matthew. What she does know is that she has always loved him and is now finally where she wants to be. In his arms and in his bed.
The intimate scenes described in this book are related to D/s relationships but they are both looking for their roles in it.
Flawless, from start to finish
5*
You fall into the middle of a multi-person story, probably described in other parts, and yet I was able to form a good picture without reading the specific stories. A clever fact so that you can pick up the story in each part but you are made curious about the previous parts.
An exciting, multi-faceted story with villains conspiring against the friends who run Solitaire, a BDSM club. Everyone seems to have a link with one of the bad guys and diamond mines have a big role in that.
Kendall is involved in the story as Matthew's sister-in-law. She works back and forth for the British government as a secret agent and has many contacts who provide her with information. Matthew is married to her sister but his heart belongs to Kendall. The fact that she puts herself in dangerous situations is something he, as Dom, can hardly let happen.
I love the chemistry between Matthew and Kendall. The way she submits to his wishes in the bedroom but uses her independence outside it, knowing that Matthew does not always agree.
The story is exciting and full of unexpected events that slowly lead to a denouement.
The marriage between Matthew and her sister Gemma has always been an arranged marriage to strengthen their family ties. And even though Kendall knows they've been planning a divorce for years, she still doesn't feel quite sure about her role towards Matthew. What she does know is that she has always loved him and is now finally where she wants to be. In his arms and in his bed.
The intimate scenes described in this book are related to D/s relationships but they are both looking for their roles in it.
Flawless, from start to finish
5*
August 8, 2021
Ivy Nelson has written a 5-star book. You will have had to read the first books in this series to get the full back story and to understand who everyone is. This book is connected with the others since it brings everyone into it. There is a group of people after the board members of the Club Solitaire. It is a BDSM club. The board members are all friends and act like family. This book is so full of twists and turns, complications, mystery that it is hard to say anything without giving it away. It will have you from the first page to the last page just to see what happens next. Everyone is brought together to see if they can get information on who is out to get them. It seems to be that three of the women are targets and they need to be kept safe. This book starts to help the board figure out the other players who are after them but not the why. Matthew has a complicated life with being married to Gemma while having deep feelings for Kendall. The three of them were friends when younger and Kendall and Matthew fell in love but were made to put family first. Gemma and Matthew were married and this caused Kendall to stay away from her family. Now she is back in his life and trying to help him get to the bottom of who is after them. Kendall and Matthew are together and it is hard for Kendall since she still has feelings for Matthew. It is even more complicated when she is with Gemma and she knows how Kendall feels about Matthew. Kendall is holding back a secret that neither Gemma nor Matthew knows.
Will Kendall and Matthew get the life they want?
Will the Solitaire family find out who is after them?
This was a wonderful book and I would highly recommend it to anyone.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Will Kendall and Matthew get the life they want?
Will the Solitaire family find out who is after them?
This was a wonderful book and I would highly recommend it to anyone.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 26, 2021
Matthew and Kendall had both been in love with each other since he was 18 on reflection, but their families had always put business transactions first, and Matthew had an obligation to marry her older sister Gemma.
Although it was a marriage in name only, they’d remained good friends, and this was why Matthew had entrusted Gemma’s safety to his Solitaire family, (at the end of Rough), after they’d been attacked. Matthew had faked his death to buy himself more time to investigate events that all started after he’d inherited his grandfather’s estate. He had also intended to keep Gemma off their enemies radar.
But he had blown his cover wide open when he realised that her sister Kendall was in danger.
Kendall however was no wilting wallflower. After events during her teens with Matthew broke her heart, she had left to serve in the military and later taken on as a role as an ‘off the books’ secret agent, a story that in many ways mirrored Sam’s.
When Matthew took her to Solitaire, slowly filling her in on everything, including his smoke and mirrors marriage, Kendall’s world turned on its head. This changed everything…
This is the penultimate book in the main Solitaire series….specials and spin-offs please Ivy ;-)
Each book has brought our family nearer to finding out who is after them and just ‘why’ they want to bring the group down. Every step of the way we have not only enjoyed reuniting with familiar faces, their tales ongoing, overlapping, friendships growing and filling out, but we have become involved in another fantastic coupling with sizzling chemistry. Matthew and Kendall’s tale in many ways mirrors Dakota and Jax. Kendall’s career mirrors Sam’s, yet each are fresh and fulfilling storytelling at its best and sexiest. Fabulous.
Although it was a marriage in name only, they’d remained good friends, and this was why Matthew had entrusted Gemma’s safety to his Solitaire family, (at the end of Rough), after they’d been attacked. Matthew had faked his death to buy himself more time to investigate events that all started after he’d inherited his grandfather’s estate. He had also intended to keep Gemma off their enemies radar.
But he had blown his cover wide open when he realised that her sister Kendall was in danger.
Kendall however was no wilting wallflower. After events during her teens with Matthew broke her heart, she had left to serve in the military and later taken on as a role as an ‘off the books’ secret agent, a story that in many ways mirrored Sam’s.
When Matthew took her to Solitaire, slowly filling her in on everything, including his smoke and mirrors marriage, Kendall’s world turned on its head. This changed everything…
This is the penultimate book in the main Solitaire series….specials and spin-offs please Ivy ;-)
Each book has brought our family nearer to finding out who is after them and just ‘why’ they want to bring the group down. Every step of the way we have not only enjoyed reuniting with familiar faces, their tales ongoing, overlapping, friendships growing and filling out, but we have become involved in another fantastic coupling with sizzling chemistry. Matthew and Kendall’s tale in many ways mirrors Dakota and Jax. Kendall’s career mirrors Sam’s, yet each are fresh and fulfilling storytelling at its best and sexiest. Fabulous.
August 15, 2021
5+++
A mystery the Solitaire Family must resolve. One Dom that is announced dead.
Matthew's death shocked them all especially Dakota who was a very good friends with him. One other person that took his death is Kendall. She's Gemma's sister who is married to Matthew which is very bad for Kendall. She's conducting her own investigation to Matthew's announced death. Kendall ends up with a surprise. Everyone is happy about it. This brings so my changes. So many question and mystery about the issues that Solitaire has been having. But along with that is so much danger. All the alphas get prepared in making sure that everyone is safe. They are finding the names and still investigating why they are after Solitaire.
Throughout all this it's great still great having wonderful characters. It's not just the Doms taking care of things the submissives have been very helpful. Kendall's resurrected old relationship is so great to see how well in tune they are. It began when they were 17 years old and has only grown. Ivy Nelson has written another super Diamond Doms book. It's too bad that the next one being released is the last book of the series. Each one just gets better and better. Will have to reread the series books to be satisfied with all the Doms and their submissives. Thank you Ivy for writing and bringing us a the super Solitaire story. I am waiting pins and needles for Forever to be released.
I received an ARC of this book and also purchased it and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
A mystery the Solitaire Family must resolve. One Dom that is announced dead.
Matthew's death shocked them all especially Dakota who was a very good friends with him. One other person that took his death is Kendall. She's Gemma's sister who is married to Matthew which is very bad for Kendall. She's conducting her own investigation to Matthew's announced death. Kendall ends up with a surprise. Everyone is happy about it. This brings so my changes. So many question and mystery about the issues that Solitaire has been having. But along with that is so much danger. All the alphas get prepared in making sure that everyone is safe. They are finding the names and still investigating why they are after Solitaire.
Throughout all this it's great still great having wonderful characters. It's not just the Doms taking care of things the submissives have been very helpful. Kendall's resurrected old relationship is so great to see how well in tune they are. It began when they were 17 years old and has only grown. Ivy Nelson has written another super Diamond Doms book. It's too bad that the next one being released is the last book of the series. Each one just gets better and better. Will have to reread the series books to be satisfied with all the Doms and their submissives. Thank you Ivy for writing and bringing us a the super Solitaire story. I am waiting pins and needles for Forever to be released.
I received an ARC of this book and also purchased it and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
July 31, 2021
Received as an ARC and leaving my honest review. I love the amazing plotline in the series which is just intriguing and suspensful enough that it draws you in and you're waiting wuth abated breath to see what happens next. Each book is a standalone and delves a little more into the specific characters and this one is on Matthew and Kendall and Gemma but the main plot is weaved throughout the series and all the other characters make an appearance too.
But I felt this book didn't do Matthew justice in that his needs (kinks) wasn't fully explored, unlike the other books where each couple's kinks are more revealed and explored. The situation that Gemma and he has also isn't resolved but guess that can only happen when the dust settles. So his story still feels incomplete and no HFN yet.
That said, I can't wait for the next book and also the culmination of the series and seeing how things play out...the suspense is killing me!! Once all books are out, I'm definitely going to re-read the series!
But I felt this book didn't do Matthew justice in that his needs (kinks) wasn't fully explored, unlike the other books where each couple's kinks are more revealed and explored. The situation that Gemma and he has also isn't resolved but guess that can only happen when the dust settles. So his story still feels incomplete and no HFN yet.
That said, I can't wait for the next book and also the culmination of the series and seeing how things play out...the suspense is killing me!! Once all books are out, I'm definitely going to re-read the series!
August 2, 2021
I've been looking forward to Matthew's story ever since reading Rough and was fortunate to receive an ARC from Ivy. My honest opioion is that this is an intriguing and suspenseful addition to the series - it even adds more subplots and new villaneous characters! Unfortunately, it feels sort of imcomplete since the situation between Gemma and Mathew remains unresolved and they are still married at the end of the book while his relationship with Kendall is well underway. Even though the marriage is described as on paper only, Gemma's quibs seem to indicate that that it's not so clear cut and I could have done without the sense of cheating. While all the other books carry part of the suspense and mystery plot, the romance and relationship between the lead couple leads to an HFN. Not so here. This one ends on a very abrupt and steep cliffhanger in all respects. Fortunately, the wait is not too long before the final book where hopefully all is revealed and all is resolved in a grand finale!
August 7, 2022
Matthew Bruce has a lot of secrets from his friends at Club Solitaire - he is secretly married to someone in UK nobility and yet he is in love with his wife's little sister. Plus there is the big secret - he is not dead like everyone thinks. Then he recently discovered that his grandfather was part of the international underground organisation that his friends have been tracking down. Then Kendall Livingston his wife's little sister tracks him down and so he now has to keep them both safe and Kendall out of his bed.
I enjoyed this story with the marriage of convenience and the problems around that which seriously messed up both of their lives. I loved sassy Kendall who was much more than she appeared and incredibly valuable in investigating the real problems that were facing the club and more importantly why. I did find Gemma a bit strange and her ability to say highly inappropriate things was actually quite nasty and so did detract from the story. It was easy to read but a little frustrating at times. Contains mature content with BDSM scenarios.
I enjoyed this story with the marriage of convenience and the problems around that which seriously messed up both of their lives. I loved sassy Kendall who was much more than she appeared and incredibly valuable in investigating the real problems that were facing the club and more importantly why. I did find Gemma a bit strange and her ability to say highly inappropriate things was actually quite nasty and so did detract from the story. It was easy to read but a little frustrating at times. Contains mature content with BDSM scenarios.
August 1, 2021
I did not know that this is the 8th book in a series called Diamond Doms. Normally I try not to start a series in the middle or even near the end of it…. That said, I only know about this because I read the bonus epilogue on Ivy’s internet site. After reading the book. Actually there’s nothing missing. It’s a perfect standalone even through you are aware at some point that there has to be at least two books before. But everything is so fluent explained that it isn’t really a problem at any time in the story. I rather liked the characters in Flawless. The main challenge is to stay focused on the staring couple and not to think too much about the side characters… lol. They are all so amazing! My interest swayed to Russell at the end and I believe Gemma will find her match in the next installment. Enjoy your read!
I received an ARC invite for this book and am happy to give my opinion.
I received an ARC invite for this book and am happy to give my opinion.
August 3, 2021
Matthew and Kendall's story is the focus of the penultimate book in the Diamond Doms series, but the path their dynamic is beset with difficulties ~ not least that Matthew is married to Kendall's sister. As the story progresses, we're closer to finding out exactly why the Doms (and by association their subs), and Club Solitaire is being targeted.
I've been looking forward to this novel since finishing Rough, and while I'll be sorry for the series to end I'm sure the finale will hurtle towards an earth-shattering climax (excuse the pun). I love the fact that other members of the Solitaire family are interwoven into each successive book, it's like a reunion with much loved friends.
While I will miss the Doms (and subs) that make up this series, I need to know who's behind the nefarious schemes, so await the next book with bated breath.
I received an advanced reader copy of this novel from the author, and I am voluntarily posting a review
I've been looking forward to this novel since finishing Rough, and while I'll be sorry for the series to end I'm sure the finale will hurtle towards an earth-shattering climax (excuse the pun). I love the fact that other members of the Solitaire family are interwoven into each successive book, it's like a reunion with much loved friends.
While I will miss the Doms (and subs) that make up this series, I need to know who's behind the nefarious schemes, so await the next book with bated breath.
I received an advanced reader copy of this novel from the author, and I am voluntarily posting a review
August 7, 2021
Another fabulous Diamond Doms novel by Ivy Nelson. It appears that the next book will wrap up the series and I for one cannot wait to see what happens. In this book Mathew comes back from staging his own death. He has hidden his wife Gemma in the US and is involved with her sister Kendall. It is not as horrible as it sounds since they, Mathew and Gemma, are husband and wife in name only. While this is going on we have the intrigue that is found in the Diamond Doms books. We are getting closer to getting the answers that we have all been wanting. This is not a standalone book. You should have read at least Jax and Dakota's story before reading this. This is a great series and you would be best served to read the whole thing to understand the interactions between the couples.
I received an advance review copy of this book through Book Funnel in exchange for my voluntary and honest opinion.
I received an advance review copy of this book through Book Funnel in exchange for my voluntary and honest opinion.
August 11, 2021
I absolutely love this series. All the stories are suspenseful and hot. This story was no different. I started out with a lot of unanswered questions after reading the previous book, 'Rough', and I did get an answer to some of those questions, I'm still left with questions to different situations. I hope it gets sorted out in the final book. This book was loaded with mystery, excitement and steam that left me reading until the wee hours of the morning to find out what happened. I am a little disappointed because even though Matthew and Kendall are technically together, he is still married to her sister and I feel like that tidbit should have been solved as well. I hope it is in the final story. I will definitely be re-reading all of these stories over again when the series is complete and I definitely can't wait until the next story comes out!
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.
August 12, 2021
*** Free book for an honest review ***
First this book is part of a series. Although it stands alone, I think having read the prior book in the series would help with the relationship between the main characters and help flesh out their relationships. Second, if you are expecting to jump right into club scenes you are going to have to take a beat. The first quarter of the read is basically setting up the story so that you can engage. I like the unusual story of the wife/as friend and wife’s sister the lover. This is the first time I have had an author truly own this dynamic. I read a lot of erotic romances and this okay but does not deliver the more intense scenes that I have come to respect, but she does delivery a lighter version good enough to keep me engaged. The book ends in a cliff hanger so for those who do not dot read; for those who do her next book is out for review.
*** Free book for an honest review ***
First this book is part of a series. Although it stands alone, I think having read the prior book in the series would help with the relationship between the main characters and help flesh out their relationships. Second, if you are expecting to jump right into club scenes you are going to have to take a beat. The first quarter of the read is basically setting up the story so that you can engage. I like the unusual story of the wife/as friend and wife’s sister the lover. This is the first time I have had an author truly own this dynamic. I read a lot of erotic romances and this okay but does not deliver the more intense scenes that I have come to respect, but she does delivery a lighter version good enough to keep me engaged. The book ends in a cliff hanger so for those who do not dot read; for those who do her next book is out for review.
*** Free book for an honest review ***
September 22, 2021
The only thing that the board members of Solitaire knew is that Matthew returned to the UK for his grandfather's funeral.
No one knew of his secret life.
No one knew he was married for ten years.
No one knew it was an arranged marriage of convenience.
No knew he was of royalty.
No one knew he had desires for his wife's sister.
No one knew he faked his death...
Until...
Kendall was to meet an informant at a club which turns out he was trying to kidnap her. Matthew (dead) comes to her rescue. What Matthew doesn't know is that Kendall is more than capable than taking care of herself. ( her secret).
The board members of the club Solitaire and their subs have all been targeted at one time or another. As they get closer to the truth of who is targeting them their lives are in danger.
A war is brewing!
Action packed drama, mystery, suspense and steamy scenes.
Can't wait for next installment Forever!!
Russell and Gemma's story!! And the final installment of this fabulous series!
No one knew of his secret life.
No one knew he was married for ten years.
No one knew it was an arranged marriage of convenience.
No knew he was of royalty.
No one knew he had desires for his wife's sister.
No one knew he faked his death...
Until...
Kendall was to meet an informant at a club which turns out he was trying to kidnap her. Matthew (dead) comes to her rescue. What Matthew doesn't know is that Kendall is more than capable than taking care of herself. ( her secret).
The board members of the club Solitaire and their subs have all been targeted at one time or another. As they get closer to the truth of who is targeting them their lives are in danger.
A war is brewing!
Action packed drama, mystery, suspense and steamy scenes.
Can't wait for next installment Forever!!
Russell and Gemma's story!! And the final installment of this fabulous series!
July 27, 2021
The tension is rising and although there were no real scenes at Solitaire, there was no lack of steam in this book as Matthew teaches Kendall how to be his submissive. There is tension between Matthew and Kendall because as a super spy she doesn’t think Matthew appreciates she can take care of herself. There is tension between Gemma and Kendall because Gemma is still married to Matthew albeit they are not and have never been in love. There is tension between Holly and Elijah and Holly and Patrick over telling their father about Holly and Elijah’s secret. Dakota is stressed about her father and all the friends are tense about the group who are threatening them. It was nice to see more of David and Emily in this book, I had missed hearing about them. The ending of this story is full of tension with a startling discovery. A great read that is hard to put down.
August 8, 2021
Please read this review only if you have read previous books in the series as each one features a different couple but an overarching storyline. Hot British Dom Matthew has been in a marriage of convenience for years but has been attracted to his wife's sister for longer. Kendall maybe peerage, but she can still kick your a**. These two are smoking hot together, but his marriage and the intrigue surrounding the makeshift family at Solitaire (as well as a secret Kendall has kept from just about everyone) threaten their happiness. So very well written with engaging characters (we get to see all the other couples) and lovely suspense and intrigue. Highly recommended.
P.S. And while very good, Pressure is still my favorite of the series. Lol.
This is an honest review of an ARC.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
P.S. And while very good, Pressure is still my favorite of the series. Lol.
This is an honest review of an ARC.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 16, 2021
From all the couples of this series, I like this the least!
I understand that are old feelings between Matthew and Kendall - but him beeing mariied with her sister rub me the wrong way. And Gemma’s constant jokes of sleeping with her husband, push a little to much.
Also, after a lot of guilt to have feelings for her brother in law (even fake), Ken suddenly decided to act on this feelings, becouse life is to short!
Matt’s over protective strike is a little irritating, becouse….. hello, she’s a trainee soldier and a spy! More trained that him! And how could he protect her during her job?
Ken’s final reveals were not quite revealing, and the cult idea seem a little disappointing…
I have a lot of expectations for the last book! And Ivy has a lot to untangled! Just saying…
I received a ARC copy thru Bookfunnel and I leave my honest voluntary review.
I understand that are old feelings between Matthew and Kendall - but him beeing mariied with her sister rub me the wrong way. And Gemma’s constant jokes of sleeping with her husband, push a little to much.
Also, after a lot of guilt to have feelings for her brother in law (even fake), Ken suddenly decided to act on this feelings, becouse life is to short!
Matt’s over protective strike is a little irritating, becouse….. hello, she’s a trainee soldier and a spy! More trained that him! And how could he protect her during her job?
Ken’s final reveals were not quite revealing, and the cult idea seem a little disappointing…
I have a lot of expectations for the last book! And Ivy has a lot to untangled! Just saying…
I received a ARC copy thru Bookfunnel and I leave my honest voluntary review.
November 5, 2021
Secret Agent Submissive
This story really kinda ended suddenly... I am not sure if the couple was even really together as he is still married to her sister... but I guess her agreeing to wear his club bracelet was a start. ALTHOUGH I kinda felt he should have given her something special... you certainly get the feeling she isn't certain. In addition it was only a day or so earlier she was leaving him at the hotel after she told him of the miscarriage. . Then she left him for a mission and didn't tell him... the story just stopped after that... I get the intermingled stories means hopefully there will be some more in the story for her Sister and Russel. It's getting excited but there is alot to cover in this last story... I worry Eli is on a journey that may be another trap. I wish this story had a bit more of a complete ending.
This story really kinda ended suddenly... I am not sure if the couple was even really together as he is still married to her sister... but I guess her agreeing to wear his club bracelet was a start. ALTHOUGH I kinda felt he should have given her something special... you certainly get the feeling she isn't certain. In addition it was only a day or so earlier she was leaving him at the hotel after she told him of the miscarriage. . Then she left him for a mission and didn't tell him... the story just stopped after that... I get the intermingled stories means hopefully there will be some more in the story for her Sister and Russel. It's getting excited but there is alot to cover in this last story... I worry Eli is on a journey that may be another trap. I wish this story had a bit more of a complete ending.
July 29, 2021
Ivy Nelson hit the adrenaline button with this book. I have read the majority of the Diamond Doms books more than once. I really appreciate the character development and ever more suspenseful story line. Add the relationships that evolve or maybe come to pass...I just always await the next book. This book created a different dimension of angst than I usually get with this series. It wonderful and engaging from the opening lines. I wanted to scream at the end but...that's for you to find. If there is anything that I can share you will be most satisfied if you start with book 1 and read thru them all. I wonder what's around the corner. I was given an ARC copy of this book by the author and am grateful for the opportunity to read it and share my joy in the experience.
August 8, 2021
Worth more than 5 stars.. all her books are!!!
I absolutely loved this book. It draws you in and keeps you there till the end. The mystery continues to unwind and keeps your mind guessing and on your toes. I loved the little sequel, it made the book more awesome. I definitely can't wait for the next one to come out. I love how Ivy's mind works, I could never do what she does. She is an awesome writer. Read this book and if you haven't read any of hers start at the beginning and binge read, you won't regret it.
This is an ARC read. My review is honestly and freely given. Please other reviewers, don't copy my review but come up with your own beautiful words to describe this wonderful book.
I absolutely loved this book. It draws you in and keeps you there till the end. The mystery continues to unwind and keeps your mind guessing and on your toes. I loved the little sequel, it made the book more awesome. I definitely can't wait for the next one to come out. I love how Ivy's mind works, I could never do what she does. She is an awesome writer. Read this book and if you haven't read any of hers start at the beginning and binge read, you won't regret it.
This is an ARC read. My review is honestly and freely given. Please other reviewers, don't copy my review but come up with your own beautiful words to describe this wonderful book.
August 11, 2021
And the mystery continues.
I enjoyed this book even though I came into the series late. I first read this series in the previous book. I loved what I read and so was quite happy to read this book. I am still trying to get time to read all the previous books in this series as I believe it will enrich what I have read to date. Having said that, I loved the characters in these stories. Strong and independent women and alpha Doms. Each story is a piece of a big puzzle. Kendall and Matthew have a great story. It a hot and steamy read with an HEA. Great read alone, but think the reading experience would be even better with the backstory.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I enjoyed this book even though I came into the series late. I first read this series in the previous book. I loved what I read and so was quite happy to read this book. I am still trying to get time to read all the previous books in this series as I believe it will enrich what I have read to date. Having said that, I loved the characters in these stories. Strong and independent women and alpha Doms. Each story is a piece of a big puzzle. Kendall and Matthew have a great story. It a hot and steamy read with an HEA. Great read alone, but think the reading experience would be even better with the backstory.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 12, 2021
I was so excited to read Matthew’s story. He’s seemed like such a mystery to me. The story did not disappoint. I absolutely devoured the words!!! All kinds of unique complications for Matthew to figure out.
Matthew is actually married!!! That was a shocker!!! But this series has been full of wonderful, shocking revelations. It is more of a business arrangement than a marriage. Matthew loves another woman he can’t have. He is really stuck in a tough spot but his situation may finally shed light on all the turmoil at Solitaire.
Love all the twists and turns this series has taken. Flawless just brings more questions but I can fell is getting closer to the answers. So looking forward to Forever!!! Such an intriguing series.
Matthew is actually married!!! That was a shocker!!! But this series has been full of wonderful, shocking revelations. It is more of a business arrangement than a marriage. Matthew loves another woman he can’t have. He is really stuck in a tough spot but his situation may finally shed light on all the turmoil at Solitaire.
Love all the twists and turns this series has taken. Flawless just brings more questions but I can fell is getting closer to the answers. So looking forward to Forever!!! Such an intriguing series.
July 30, 2021
Flawless was amazing! It picks up from the last book and we find out why Matthew had faked his death. He is reunited with Kendall when she went digging for information. These two were in love at 18 but family and a misunderstanding happened. I was so sad for all the time they lost, but Kendall got to become the bad a$$ woman she was meant to be. Thanks to Kendall, we find out more about what Grant wants. I loved the storyline which was balanced nicely with mystery, heat and intrigue. All the other characters were great too. I'm excited for Russell's book, Forever, next and seeing if I'm right on who his woman is and finding out whose behind everything.
August 7, 2021
Oh my word!!! I loved reading, Flawless: A Diamond Doms Novel by Ivy Nelson because it was such an intense and very steamy thriller about Matthew and Kendall. Their "relationship" is extremely complicated and the feelings are super steamy between these two characters. There is a lot of drama going on in the background with people trying to hurt friends and family. I am hanging on the edge of my seat wondering how everything will play out and hopefully work out between Matthew and Kendall. I would highly recommend reading this book and the series. I received a free book and am voluntarily choosing to leave a review. It is definitely an intense and steamy thriller well worth the read!!!
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