Butterfly

by Nelle L'Amour

From Nelle L’Amour, a #1 Amazon All-Star Author and USA Today and New York Times bestseller, a new steamy and suspenseful age gap romance with a twist you won’t see coming.

Sofi:
When I was asked to interview Roman Hurst, I thought I was prepared.

But how could I be prepared for the gorgeous man awaiting me?

Nor was I prepared when he offered me a job. To be his muse.

And I definitely wasn’t prepared to fall in love with him.

A man fifteen years my senior. Who is hiding a dark secret.

A secret so devastating, it could rip us apart.

No, I wasn’t prepared for that at all.

Roman:
I wasn’t expecting this colorful breath of fresh air to fly into my life.

To wrench me from my dark cocoon.

Make me feel things I haven’t felt in years.

Sofi Lockhart. My beautiful, feisty butterfly.

I'm going to catch her. Make her mine.

But there are predators out there who want to shatter her wings.

To tear us apart.

No, I wasn't expecting that at all.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance, Slow Burn, Suspense, Adult, Ebooks

332 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 14, 2021

About the author

I am a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author who lives in Los Angeles with her Prince Charming-ish husband, twin college-bound princesses, and a bevy of royal pain-in-the-butt pets. A former executive in the entertainment industry with a prestigious Humanitas Prize for promoting human dignity and freedom to my credit, I gave up playing with Barbies a long time ago, but I still enjoy playing with toys with my hubby. While I write in my PJs, I love to get dressed up and pretend I’m Hollywood royalty. My steamy stories feature characters that will make you laugh, cry, and swoon and stay in your heart forever. They’re often inspired by my past life.

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Reviews

[Angie · Rating 4 out of 5]

"What inspires you?"
"Sadness."
"Sadness?"
"There is beauty in sadness. It's a pure emotion. You can fake happiness, but you can't fake sadness."

3.5 stars!

While I did enjoy this book, I'm conflicted on how to rate it. I loved the story of love, redemption, and transformation that blossomed between Sofi and Roman, but it was too much of a slow-burn romance for me to really immerse myself in. We didn't get a kiss between Roman and Sofi until late in the novel, and then I felt like their physical relationship was rushed towards the end as the novel was almost over. The author also used a lot of exclamation points--in the character's dialogue and in their thoughts--and it just felt overused at times.

However, I loved watching Roman's transformation and self-forgiveness. His history was really so tragic, and the author kept me guessing as his story slowly unfolded. I did grow a little frustrated with Roman and especially Sofi as they kept falling for the villain's obvious shenanigans and continually doing nothing to stop them, but I did feel that they got their satisfaction in the end. I wouldn't classify this as a romantic suspense, but the plot did keep me interested the entire way through. The ending was so sweet and satisfying for every character, and I'm happy Roman finally found some peace with his butterfly ♡

*ARC provided by Wildfire marketing, and I voluntarily reviewed it*

[JadeC · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 stars?

i'm stuck between 3.5 and 4 stars lol. reclusive fashion designer? that caught my attention immediately. beautiful slow burn though I wished I could feel more connection between Roman and Sofi (but it could be me because i'm not a fan of slow burns).

that being said, i like the symbolism of Butterfly because it makes the book really special. i feel like it represents the life cycle of a butterfly; and when Roman 'emerges' from his cocoon, he has finally let go of his baggage, a fresh start waiting for him. the epilogue was sweet and i'm glad Roman found his muse.

I am still her big Blue Morpho, but when I spread my wings, it’s not to fly away. It’s to protect her and my family. To keep them near and dear to me.

3.75 stars! ooh yes, it's an age gap romance too 😌

[Nelle L'Amour · Rating 5 out of 5]

IMHO, my best book ever! And it's a standalone.

You will LOVE Butterfly if you love…

*A HOT brooding Alpha hero ✔
*A strong feisty heroine ✔
*An Age-Gap Romance ✔
*Suspense and Steam with a big dose of humor ✔
*Forbidden love ✔
*Witty banter and off-the-charts chemistry ✔
*A Standalone with ALL the feels ✔

Fall in love with Roman and Sofi!

[Jacqueline · Rating 1 out of 5]

Awful

Melodramatic, full of improbable coincidences, ridiculous twists and plot holes. And don’t get me started on the butterflies. I was hoping for a good age gap romance but he was creepy and together they had no chemistry. Not for me.

[Shabby -BookBistroBlog · Rating 4 out of 5]

A virtual cinderella-esque love story that showcases the power of unconditional emotions. A Mopho butterfly flutters her way through the darkness that surrounds a recluse living in the shadows. Her gossamer wings shine brilliantly bringing light and sparkle in his world.

"Roman Hurst is the reclusive couture designer, the eponymous genius behind the House of Hurst,"



He steps out and holds her in the palm of his hand. Then he pulls her in his world where she finds her true place and ability of flight



Sweet and magical, much like the Blue Morpho
4 stars for the Sofi
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[Ria Alexander · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful age-gap story

I have always enjoyed Nelle L'Amour's writing, however BUTTERFLY was exceptional. An age-gap romance that was sweet, beautiful and gave me all the feels. Based in the world of fashion, this story will grip every one of your emotions.

Sofi Lockhart is a young woman, standing in for her friend, who has been sent to interview Roman Hurst, an enigma in the world of fashion. He is a man whose work is known and loved the world over, but a man who is very rarely seen in public. Attraction is instant between the two, with Roman completely smitten by Sofi's sweetness and innocence. A phone left behind has Roman searching out the young woman, the "butterfly" who just may be the one who turns everything around for him and his business.

Roman and Sofi story is transcendent. She provides the light he needs in his darkened world. He is guilt ridden and dark, but slowly Sofi is able to peel back the many layers of this incredible man. This is a true slowburn romance that will captivate every essence of your heart. It is angst ridden, heartbreaking, inspiring, passionate, and has numerous twists that will ensure nothing is easy for Roman and Sofi. With an ending that is simply perfect and beautiful, BUTTERFLY will remain a favourite forever.

This is Nelle L'Amour at her exceptional best. A top read for 2021.

Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 FIVE PERFECT STARS🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

[Nadine Bookaholic · Rating 3 out of 5]

Okay here goes, I liked this story but I didn't love it. I had really high hopes for this read since I know so many book friends that enjoyed the authors THAT MAN SERIES, and honestly I am surprised this is the first time I am reading any of Nelle L'Amour's work.

Roman is a reclusive fashion designer, he's so reclusive no one knows what he looks like....yes, this completely boggled my mind but I moved past it. He meets Sofi when she shows up to do an exclusive interview with him, this meeting was way to FSOG reminiscent for me in more ways than one...again I moved past it. Roman is taken with Sofi right away and calls her Butterfly, I found this to be a really cute term of endearment, so he offers her a job as his Muse and of course she accepts. This story has a LOT of angst, some of it felt unnecessary, and I wonder if there wasn't so much going on and we only had one or even two hurdle(s) to get past I may have enjoyed the story more.

Sofi and Roman's story is an age gap romance with a slow burn, even though they both have feelings for one another things don't progress for a very long time. They have good chemistry together and you can feel it before they even get to that point.

I would recommend this book to those that enjoy Slow Burn Romances, Age Gap Romances, or Office/Workplace Romances.

Happy Reading!!!

Find out more here: http://bit.ly/NBReviewBnl



**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books**
You can find me here:  https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic

[Cat · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very enjoyable age gap,insta love romance between Roman and Sofi.
He is a fashion mogul who hides himself away in the shadows no-one knew who Roman Hurst was or what he looked like.
Sofi became his unexpected muse when she turns up at his home to interview him,in doing so she captures his imagination.
Their relationship is a strange one but it seems like they are fated to be together because a series of events happen that leads to Sofi living with him and working for him.
Roman is very demanding and possesive and also becomes angry quite quickly he has no patience and he doesn't handle his emotions that well.Sofi is quite the opposite and seems to be his perfect match because she doesn't take any of his moods and stands up to him.
There is an undeniable attraction between them,and there is only a matter of time before they act on that magnetic pull.But Roman is hiding a secret from his past and if it is revealed I wondered what the outcome would be.
This is an emotional,sweet and sexy read and entertained me throughout and intrigued me that I couldn't stop until the end.
A Fantastic Story that I highly recommend.

[RaChelle Holmberg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Received as an ARC gift from the author, what a lovely gift. Im a fan of Ms. L'Amour and she did not disappoint me.

Written with wit, feeling, and characters you care about, it was a great holiday read. Do yourself a favor and give it a try!

[Marti Jentis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Butterfly is the beautiful love story of reclusive fashion designer Roman Hurst and aspiring artist Sofi Lockhart. Sofi’s love of butterflies inspires Roman and she instantly becomes his muse. Building up to their first kiss, this story had me laughing, crying, and swooning. This is Nelle’s best book yet.

[Kelsey Coussou Buckman · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first book by Nelle. Age Gap Romantic Suspense with Fairytale Inspo.

If you’re a big fan of twists you don’t see coming until they slap you in the face, this is a must read for you! I found myself loving Roman. The man has been struggling and has major hurts from his past. In comes his “Butterfly” and she just turns his world upside down.

[Kelly G (Now Accepting Book Boyfriend Applications) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is one of those books that has that instant attraction.... but is slow burn. I found myself asking "Can they just kiss already?!?!?" Which Sofi thinks to herself at one point and I started talking to my kindle telling her I was thinking the same thing (LOL).... anyway.... there is a very artistic flow to the way this book was written... and I learned a bunch about butterflies! There were definitely some laugh out loud parts and a couple of gut wrenching twists. Roman is totally moody and absolutely an alpha. While Sofi is quite naïve, she also doesn't seem to take his crap. 🦋🦋🦋🦋 .... If you are in the mood for a slow burn I would absolutely recommend you pick this up and give it a read.

[Jillian_J · Rating 5 out of 5]

My absolute favorite story, EVER!

This story absolutely drew me in like no other book I have ever read. I truly connected with the characters and their feelings.

I adore Nelle, but this is absolutely by far her BEST work! I had to greatest privilege Beta reading this phenomenal story!

[Aaly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Instant attraction with a strong, smoking hot hint of a slow burn. Age gap in a fashion world, between a recluse and tortured man who lived in darkness and the younger woman who brought him light, seeing the world with vibrant colors. Bringing back inspiration, feelings well buried and so many things in between.

When Sofi and Roman met, the connection was instant and powerful. Two artists in their own field, the one who adored butterflies and bringing them so beautifully to life through her art whereas the other was stuck, unable to find inspiration, until her, his muse.

It took some chapters to really get into their story but once the story took off and the plot was steadily settled, I was definitely rooting for them.

Roman was alpha and possessive all over but wasn't a damsel in distress.
A strong, sassy and beautiful soul who brought him back to life. Bringing colors into his life.

I enjoyed their relationship filled with passion, tenderness and giving their hearts wholeheartedly. Their age difference didn’t matter and I loved to see them creating, so beautifully, their own story at their own pace.

They would overcome some obstacles in the way, secrets and some drama as well and I admit that it made me roll my eyes sometimes. There was one arc that frustrated me a little but even with that I still keep going reading it.

Despite the length of the book, time went by so quickly. I was captivated by these two characters driven by passion and love.

[C Joy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nelle has done it again! It's been a while since I've read something riveting. I have to admit the interview portion reminded me of a certain novel but the rest of it was all original.

First, we have a heroine who's making ends meet and a tortured hero who's very private. I didn't count on the instant attraction but it was written from the get-go.

Second, the shallow best friend could've used more work. I wonder why they're best friends at all. Like, what exactly did Harper do for Sofi? I didn't see any emotional support because she's written as someone who's self-centered.

Third, even though I didn't connect with the characters, I still enjoyed reading the story because I wanted to know how the events would unfold. Nelle's writing style is very fluid and easy to read. I'm glad that both Sofi's and Roman's points of view are shared.

Fourth, the chemistry was off-the-charts and it took a lot of life-altering events before they realize their true feelings for each other, and expressed them.

Lastly, just read it! I can't give too much juicy details here but if you don't mind a big age gap, lots of unpredictable (and some predictable) scenes, lots of love and hot sex, and a guaranteed HEA.

[Jenn Allen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a really good read that is full of emotion, pain, a slow burn, twists, turns and an intensity that pulled me completely in to the story. It took me a bit to warm up to Roman, he's a bit harsh, he's hidden himself away from the world and goes through the motions of living. There are moments that my heart broke for him, that immense pain he feels. I liked Sofi, her love of butterflies, her talent, her sweetness. She's meek yet has moments of strength. These two characters click, there are characters that were perfect for hating and some that were perfect for loving! Definitely a book to add to any TBR.

I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Jenny B · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a delightful older man younger heroine story with all the feels. He has such baggage and the way she brings him back to the land of the living creates for a great romantic story. What starts off full of tension and enemies to lovers turns into so many feels and so many discoveries both personal and interpersonal.

[Maria Angie Mendoza · Rating 4 out of 5]

Slow burn, insta attraction was a fun sexy read.
Seeing the transformation of Sofi and Roman from friendly interactions to something else was sweet and entertaining.
Roman is older, broodish and somewhat eccentric. Yet, what develops and evolves between Sofi and Roman was undeniable and genuine.
Well worth reading when you discover his big secrets that made him that way.

[Read.Review.Repeat Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fast paced moving story of a fated love. Sofi and Roman are a delight to read. Watching their metamorphosis, so to speak, was mesmerizing. This story had all the feels and a great build up that left me with a smile on my face for their HEA.

[Braveheart · Rating 2 out of 5]

Beginning Parts of this books were readable and interesting and then it was overdosed in butterfly’s ad nauseam ……it would be difficult to describe Just how overdosed in Butterfly’s it was …..and that the very end , just to make sure it was perfect . Romans eye sight in his one back eye was restored. They had a daughter and then Sofi is pregnant with Triplett girls …..the more I read the more stars I dropped …… a big miss for me…regret the time I spent reading it

[Auden Dar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Infused with gorgeous prose and a peek into the glamorous world of haute couture, Roman and Sofi’s age-gap romance soars. “Butterfly” is an unforgettable romance filled with tender moments, sexy encounters, jaw-dropping revelations, and a heart-racing finale. A tour de force.

[Katelynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Butterfly felt like a unique read about a recluse designer and his much younger butterfly muse Sofie. Sofie helps out her best friend by pretending to be her and meeting the mysterious designer for an interview. There her real identity is discovered and Roman finds himself taken with the innocent young woman. Full of life and inspiration she quickly becomes Roman's muse and begins working for him and living together in his atelier. I enjoyed that there was a lot of passion between these characters but it wasn't rushed and allowed to grow. They built an emotional connection that superceded everything. Roman is a tortured hero with very good reason and holds onto guilt and darkness. Sofie is the opposite of that full of life and brightness. Butterfly wouldn't be complete without a villain that causes trouble throughout the story but the depths of that evil is a surprise to the end. I really enjoyed this book and was hooked from the first chapter.

[Mariana Lee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Once again Nelle has delivered a brilliant story full of emotions, fillings and enough angst to keep you interested. The characters are well developed and very likeable ( most of them, haha). This is a witty, emotional slow burn story showing us the power of unconditional love.

[Carla Hoenshel · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Butterfly" is another incredible by Nelle L'Amour! It's a widely known wive's tale that a butterfly landing upon you brings you luck and happiness. The is certainly the case when Sofi, the butterfly in the story, lands in Roman's life.
Roman is a very reclusive fashion designer that never grants interviews or allows his picture to be taken. He won't even leave his home/atelier during daylight hours. He finally grants Harper the chance to interview him, under strict conditions that she only ask the questions he has pre-approved. However, Harper parties a little too hard the night before and can't make it to interview him.
Enter Sofi, Harper's best friend, who pretends to be Harper to get the interview done for Harper's family's magazine. There is an instant attraction between the two. Then, Sofi leaves her phone behind and Harper calls. Roman quickly figures out Sofi isn't Harper and runs out to track her down to find out why the ruse. All he knows to call her is "Butterfly" due to her unusual tattoo.
Moving forth in the storyline, Roman's business has been declining and he realizes she could be a great muse for a new line. He offers her a job and their relationship begins to blossom.
Will their ideas revive his business that's in the black, bringing it back to red? Will he overcome his resistance to being known and rejoin the real world? Will their working relationship evolve into a romantic one? If so, will they be a happily ever after? You will have to read "Butterfly" to find out!
I received and ARC of "Butterfly" for review.

[Terri Eaches · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just finished this and my heart is still pounding. To say I loved it doesn't compare to the feelings Roman and Sofi's story evoke. One of the quotes in this book is an apt description of Roman Hurst "There is beauty in sadness". That is until he meets Sofi Lockheart, artist, nail technician, all knowing of butterflies and journalist imposter for her BFF. Roman worldly known for his haute couture is reclusive to the point he doesn't go out in daylight and has never taken a bow at the end of his shows. Living in only black and white, guilt and loss, Sofi brings light to his life and heart. Sofi doesn't put up with Roman's moods or outbursts nor does she understand his sadness and possessive nature. With Sofi as his muse and a new knowledge of the magical powers of butterflies Romans creative visions for his new line is outstanding. When Sofi witnesses the extent of Romans guilt and loss she gives him the strength and comfort he needs and changes their relationship. There are roadblocks thrown in their way to separate them but Roman can't live without his butterfly. This beautiful story will grip your heart and squeeze. It will also being tears to your eyes from heartache to happiness. Not the first book from Nelle L'Amour I've read nor will it be the last. I highly recommend you get this book, then you can find out if Roman will capture his butterfly's magical heart. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book and I happily purchased a copy for my favorites collection.

[Linda Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully passionate, witty and romantic love story with an age-gap situation
Loved this story of love and redemption in the most unlikely way. Sofi Lockhart aspiring artist and graduate of the Parsons School of Design in NYC is currently doing mani-pedi’s at a nail salon. Her BFF is wealthy and planning a wedding which takes up a LOT of her time so she calls on Sofi to do her another favor: interview the reclusive Roman Hurst of the haute couture “House of Hurst” in the next hour! Because Sofi loves butterflies, even a casual observer will notice them somewhere on her outfit. Today she wears a VERY colorful combination of clothing with butterfly tights which strikes Roman as pure magic. He can’t stop thinking about her. He must make her his muse! Before that can happen there will be an unforeseen twist.
There is real magic in this story. Even though he is 15 years her senior, he needs and wants Sofi but there is a certain person who is determined for that NOT to happen. There is lots of angst, multiple mini-stories, poignant moments and a tears-of-joy-ending! If you enjoy passion, twists angst and a beautiful ending, read this book. I’m so glad it was not serialized making us wait month-to-month for the ending. I volunteered to review an ARC of this book and it comes highly recommended. Pssst…I learned a lot about butterflies. So fun!

[Hanan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this story of the recluse and his Butterfly ❤️
Roman and Sofi are wonderful people, that I couldn’t help fall for and cheer on.
He the broken recluse man.
With extraordinary talent for designing exquisite couture gowns.
She a happy go lucky young lady.
Struggling to get by and trying to achieve her dream of becoming a painter.
While Roman and Sofi are so opposite each other, somehow they mesh.
Her sunniness to his moodiness.
Her full of color and passion to his dark and broodiness.
Slowly and bit by bit her vibrancy starts seeping into his bleakness.
But not without some major bumps along the way.
Some are hilarious, while others had me teary eyed.
And for good measure Ms. L’Amour also includes twists and turns that at times had me on the edge of my seat.
I really enjoyed my time reading Roman and Sofi’s story.
They warmed my heart and left a smile on my face.
The very few conflicts I had was with Roman’s speech patterns.
At times he sounded like to different people.
He’s got no problems using the F bomb.
Then suddenly he uses the word freaking instead.
So that throw me off sometimes.
And Roman’s chief of staff’s actions also throw me for a loop.
I don’t want to say what they are because of giving away any type of spoilers.
Overall a very enjoyable heartwarming story of love conquering all ❤️
**3.75 vibrate stars**

[Amy Crull · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was so looking forward to reading this book especially after reading the blurb and seeing it everywhere on facebook. This book did not disappoint me at all! I would have loved a little bit more suspense but it didn't stop me from reading it. It's a great older man/younger woman romance story! I loved how everything tied in the end. It has surprises that I didn't see coming and some I did. I mean why else would a person act so crazy? Back to Roman and Sofi.. Roman is well known fashion designer but has himself very closed off. He only lets certain people close and that's it. He's a mystery to everyone. He's also had it rough in the past and has lost so much in his life. He's scared to put himself out there but that changes when he meets Sofi.. She becomes his muse and brings back his vision for the new line. These two complete each other so well and I loved how they complimented each other as well. Roman has times when he gets possessive over her and has to show his butt. He likes to take it over the top at times. The love that Sofi has for butterflies made me love them as well. I love how she sees them and how she makes others around her see them as well. She has a beautiful soul. I will say for such a young girl, she has her head on straight and can hold her ground when its needed. This was a beautiful book with so many good parts that made you swoon. Great book!

[Martha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! This book was so amazing. It is hard to find a book that will both rip you apart and put you back together.

I really feel this is some of Nelle's best work to date.

Roman is very complex and the definition of an alpha hero. I love that he is older and comes with a plethora of experience. He is also dark, forbidden and has so many layers to him. I love how these layers are slowly and deliciously shown to us piece by piece. He has been through major heartbreak and loss, however, he still has a light in him that gives him the motivation to move on and want more from life. It was great to see him grow throughout this story.

Sofi is an incredible heroine. She is spontaneous and such a fresh of breath air. It was so much fun seeing life and situations through her young eyes and inexperienced eyes. She meets Roman by mistake and feels an instant attraction and connection to him. Be ready for the ultimate SLOW burn. The nickname "butterfly" really encompasses her and her being. I love how Sofi really makes Roman see the light. Will this be enough to make him realize there is so much life left to live?

If you love SLOW burns and age gap romance this is the book for you. Be ready to feel ALL of the emotions with this one.

[Munira Vahed · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omg i loved this book. It hooked me from the start.
The book is Sofi and Roman story. It is beautifully written with heartache, romance, chemistry thats off the charts, danger and lots and lots of 🔥🔥🔥🔥!
Sofi goes to interview Roman Hurst who is a mysterious haute couture deaigner who designs magnificent gowns but aways in black. She pretends to be someone else (urged by her best friend who she is doing the favour for) and tries to get through the meeting as quick as possible without revealing she isnt who she said she is.
During the interview there is an instant connection.
Roman is a dark and mysterious hero who has suffered alot in the past.
What happens when Roman discovers the subterfuge? Read the book to find out.
The most 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 scene in the book was when Roman finds Sofi at her workplace and demands a manicure and pedicure from her in order to talk to her. It was mind blowing and super super HOT!!!
The twists and turns in the story keep u hooked.
I was really sad when the book ended. I didnt want to leave the world of Sofi and Roman that i had been enthralled in throughout. I wish we have future books with them both in it.
Thank you for a fabulous story and a beautiful couple!!!
I received an ARC from the author. I voluntarily read and review this book. This is my honest review.