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Spark #3
Flame
Carissa Wright doesn’t do relationships. Raised with a junkie mother and an alcoholic father, building relationships were far off her list. Rather, one night-stands were her usual. Carissa has one constant in her life—her best friend Velaney. Completely opposite of each other, yet they balance each other out.Although Carissa admits to only wanting sex and nothing more, will she allow the one guy who wants to break down her walls or will she run out of fear for finally letting her guard down?She is unfamiliar with these feelings and wants nothing more than to walk away without a shattered heart. Will she be able to find the courage in order to turn her flame into a long lasting relationship?With walls built up & emotions turned off, can she learn to put her heart on the line?Or will each guy just be another flame?
244 pages, Paperback
First published February 3, 2014
44 people are currently reading
1978 people want to read
About the author
Brooke Cumberland
25 books2,560 followersBrooke Cumberland is a USA Today Bestselling author who wears many hats on any given day. She co-wrote under the USA Today Bestselling duo, Kennedy Fox for six years before going back to solo writing. She lives in the frozen tundra of Packer Nation with her husband, wild teenager, and four dogs. When she’s not writing, you can find her reading, watching ASMR and reading vlogs on YouTube, or binge-watching a TV show she's most likely behind on. Brooke's addicted to iced coffee, leggings, and naps. She found her passion for telling stories during winter break one year in grad school—and she hasn’t stopped since.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 124 reviews
April 30, 2015
❞ANOTHER FREEBIE ❦ ANOTHER WINNER❞ **YAY**
I started this freebie with absolutely no expectations and never would have thought that I would enjoy it that much. FLAME is the third book in the Spark Series but can be read as a standalone. It's about CARISSA. Your typical damaged heroine.
CARISSA doesn't do emotions. CARISSA only does sex. Well, until she meets DREW. The gorgeous and delicious exchange student from London. There's something about him she can't resist.
The main reason I liked this book so much was DREW **sigh**
I could totally understand why CARISSA fell for him.
➣THIS BOY IS ABSOLUTELY
And he's a Brit ...need I say more?
There were only two little things I didn't like.
Other than that, I have nothing to complain about!
January 30, 2014
I have been in a MAJOR book slump. So picking up Flame to read I knew would be tough. I almost waited to read it because I am a huge Brooke Cumberland fan and I didn't want to be persuaded that this would go down in flames like my other 7 books. And lets just say writinig those reviews were hard because I can't lie and say they rocked.
So as it was Flame had a tough job to pull me to the good side.
DID IT? That's the question??
Mother of all great books-HELL YES it did. It took me out of my book slump right into another hangover. Damn it- but for Brooke that's the best thing to hear right.
OH.MY.GOD
SERIOUSLY- I need a major break to breath after finishing Flame!!!
Wow- Just WOW!!!!!
Can I just say I loved it. I. Love. This. Book- If I wasn't chicken shit I may get Brooke's name tattooed on my body!!!!!
5 ***** KNOCKOUT!!!
And let state that I wanted to knock Brooke out...She had me gasping!!!!!!
So now I can pour out all the things I loved and hated about Flame...wait let me correct that... hate???- bloody hell there wasn't one thing I hated. I loved every word I read in this book. Even the part where she got me. SHE.GOT.ME Heavens I'm getting ahead of myself.
I knew after Spark and Burn Carissa's story would be smoking hot. Flame was even more than that. Eric needed to come with his hose to put me out.
Learning all that there is to Carissa and why she is the way she is was just an icing on the cake. For all I cared if she just woke up and wanted to sleep around I was fine without having a rhyme or reason she did so. Because she took me along for the ride. So many against the walls, in the back office, in the sauna, some guys car.
"Get in. Get off. Get out."
But then a gorgeous Brit named -hotpantswithevenahotteraccent- came into the bar where Carissa and Velaney worked and bloody hell, he had me at Doll. Dear lord I loved hearing him say Doll.
I loved him instantly and I loved how Carissa was with him. She tried to stop it, tried to be her normal put off self, not getting attached. But there was something to him that, cell by cell he worked his way in. She was upfront with him, from the beginning. Never hid what she wanted. And what did my hot accent doll saying guy do...
"I'll take you anyway you can give me, Doll. Whether it be one more night... or a month. But I want it. I want all of it."
He was amazing with her. And once he divulged what he wants to do after school I understood instantly that he was perfect for her. He was able to get her to a place where she could be herself, instead of living in a sex coma shell.
I loved seeing the growth she went through while with him. It just goes to show you that we all need someone who understands us for us and who can help us be that better person. Even if he's or she is a hop, skip, plane, oceans away.
* * * * * 5 completely enthralled, totally smoking Brit hottie, extremely hot bed, wall, shower, etc screaming while I see God STARS!!!!!!!
So as it was Flame had a tough job to pull me to the good side.
DID IT? That's the question??
Mother of all great books-HELL YES it did. It took me out of my book slump right into another hangover. Damn it- but for Brooke that's the best thing to hear right.
OH.MY.GOD
SERIOUSLY- I need a major break to breath after finishing Flame!!!
Wow- Just WOW!!!!!
Can I just say I loved it. I. Love. This. Book- If I wasn't chicken shit I may get Brooke's name tattooed on my body!!!!!
5 ***** KNOCKOUT!!!
And let state that I wanted to knock Brooke out...She had me gasping!!!!!!
So now I can pour out all the things I loved and hated about Flame...wait let me correct that... hate???- bloody hell there wasn't one thing I hated. I loved every word I read in this book. Even the part where she got me. SHE.GOT.ME Heavens I'm getting ahead of myself.
I knew after Spark and Burn Carissa's story would be smoking hot. Flame was even more than that. Eric needed to come with his hose to put me out.
Learning all that there is to Carissa and why she is the way she is was just an icing on the cake. For all I cared if she just woke up and wanted to sleep around I was fine without having a rhyme or reason she did so. Because she took me along for the ride. So many against the walls, in the back office, in the sauna, some guys car.
"Get in. Get off. Get out."
But then a gorgeous Brit named -hotpantswithevenahotteraccent- came into the bar where Carissa and Velaney worked and bloody hell, he had me at Doll. Dear lord I loved hearing him say Doll.
I loved him instantly and I loved how Carissa was with him. She tried to stop it, tried to be her normal put off self, not getting attached. But there was something to him that, cell by cell he worked his way in. She was upfront with him, from the beginning. Never hid what she wanted. And what did my hot accent doll saying guy do...
"I'll take you anyway you can give me, Doll. Whether it be one more night... or a month. But I want it. I want all of it."
He was amazing with her. And once he divulged what he wants to do after school I understood instantly that he was perfect for her. He was able to get her to a place where she could be herself, instead of living in a sex coma shell.
I loved seeing the growth she went through while with him. It just goes to show you that we all need someone who understands us for us and who can help us be that better person. Even if he's or she is a hop, skip, plane, oceans away.
* * * * * 5 completely enthralled, totally smoking Brit hottie, extremely hot bed, wall, shower, etc screaming while I see God STARS!!!!!!!
February 18, 2023
The third book in the Spark series tells us the story of and from the perspective of Clarrisa. In the first two books, we meet Clarissa as Velaney's roommate and Best Friend. This story was nice but here as well Brooke has used the same trick of emotional torture she used in the second book of the series as well. But it was nice overall. I thoroughly enjoyed it and here I was thinking that my foray into this genre would go on for some time but already I have jumped back into the fantasy series so let's see how and when can I return to the world of romance/erotica books. Till then I shall Keep on Reading.
People who don't read generally ask me my reasons for reading. Simply put, I absolutely love reading, so I have made it my motto to Forever Keep on Reading. I love reading everything except for Self Help books, even occasionally. I read almost all the genres but YA, Fantasy, and Biographies are the most read. My favorite series is Harry Potter, but then there are many more books I adore. I have bookcases filled with books that are waiting to be read so I can't stay and spend more time on this review, so remember I loved reading this and love reading more, you should also read what you love and then just Keep on Reading.
People who don't read generally ask me my reasons for reading. Simply put, I absolutely love reading, so I have made it my motto to Forever Keep on Reading. I love reading everything except for Self Help books, even occasionally. I read almost all the genres but YA, Fantasy, and Biographies are the most read. My favorite series is Harry Potter, but then there are many more books I adore. I have bookcases filled with books that are waiting to be read so I can't stay and spend more time on this review, so remember I loved reading this and love reading more, you should also read what you love and then just Keep on Reading.
February 11, 2014
I have to rate Flame 5 hot, sizzling, get your tissue ready stars. Out of all 3 books Flame will have you in tears by the time you finish. Happy tears and sad tears. There might even be a part where you want to scream at the top of your lungs "What the hell is she thinking?" I know I sure did. I wanted to get on Facebook and email Brooke asking her why? why? did you do that? But I didn't. I kept reading. You need to keep reading.
That being said, as much as I wanted to know Carissa's story. I wasn't happy on how she treated herself. I get why she did it, but I wasn't happy. She is bright, happy, and always willing to help Velaney. But to see how she treated herself with men wasn't really what I wanted to see. I loved the story, her story. How she became who she is. We all have a back story and it isn't always roses. We all have that 1 think that will make us happy, that we crave. For Carissa sex was that. She is your male version of Christian Grey and Gideon Cross. But she wasn't rich and she didn't have them sign contracts. With a history of men there is trouble. Right when Carissa straighten's up her act, men from her past keep popping up causing trouble.
It took Drew to open up her eyes, and her heart. She wanted more of Drew and that wasn't how things went with her.
Who wouldn't want Drew? Hot, British, Football player? OMG I died and gone to heaven. They clicked right away. They both dominate in the bed LOL!! It was hard for Carissa to give up control but once she did, she fell in love. With every couple there are problems. Carissa and her string of men, Drew who was an exchange college student who was due to go back home. What was she to do? Should she drop everything and leave overseas with him? or should she stay and be miserable?
I will say that Drew is what Carissa needed. He helped her give up her past, to forgive those who hurt her. In order for her to forgive she could move forward. When she did that Drew was there for her. There is so much more I want to say. But I don't want to give to much away. Flame will have you made, sad and happy. You will want to scream, but then you will cry because of the HEA!! Brooke did a number on this book. I am happy with the way this series ended. If you haven't read Flame yet, you need to right now.
That being said, as much as I wanted to know Carissa's story. I wasn't happy on how she treated herself. I get why she did it, but I wasn't happy. She is bright, happy, and always willing to help Velaney. But to see how she treated herself with men wasn't really what I wanted to see. I loved the story, her story. How she became who she is. We all have a back story and it isn't always roses. We all have that 1 think that will make us happy, that we crave. For Carissa sex was that. She is your male version of Christian Grey and Gideon Cross. But she wasn't rich and she didn't have them sign contracts. With a history of men there is trouble. Right when Carissa straighten's up her act, men from her past keep popping up causing trouble.
It took Drew to open up her eyes, and her heart. She wanted more of Drew and that wasn't how things went with her.
Who wouldn't want Drew? Hot, British, Football player? OMG I died and gone to heaven. They clicked right away. They both dominate in the bed LOL!! It was hard for Carissa to give up control but once she did, she fell in love. With every couple there are problems. Carissa and her string of men, Drew who was an exchange college student who was due to go back home. What was she to do? Should she drop everything and leave overseas with him? or should she stay and be miserable?
I will say that Drew is what Carissa needed. He helped her give up her past, to forgive those who hurt her. In order for her to forgive she could move forward. When she did that Drew was there for her. There is so much more I want to say. But I don't want to give to much away. Flame will have you made, sad and happy. You will want to scream, but then you will cry because of the HEA!! Brooke did a number on this book. I am happy with the way this series ended. If you haven't read Flame yet, you need to right now.
February 11, 2014
This is a must read! We met Carissa in the Spark and Burn books she was Laney's spunky no attachment to men other than sex kinda gal. Flame is all about Carissa (with a small taste of Laney). Flame was a great follow up to the other two books, I loved Carissa in those books, but was able to really understand and fall in love with her as a whole character in Flame.
I don't want to give away any spoilers. Carissa meets Drew at the bar she works at, he was supposed to be a one and done kinda thing, but Drew was persistent. Love happens when you least expect it, which was the case for Carissa.
Be prepared for an emotional carousel ride, there are ups and downs and ins and outs. My heart was ripped from my chest, thrown on the ground, stomped on and as I tried to pick up the pieces and move to the next page GASP! WTF! OMG! I had hope again. This story is one that really reflects that life shouldn't be taken for granted, don't miss the chance at finding true love,definitely love with all your heart and no matter how many "Flames" a person may have when they find the one that will change their lives for the better hold on and enjoy the ride.
I don't want to give away any spoilers. Carissa meets Drew at the bar she works at, he was supposed to be a one and done kinda thing, but Drew was persistent. Love happens when you least expect it, which was the case for Carissa.
Be prepared for an emotional carousel ride, there are ups and downs and ins and outs. My heart was ripped from my chest, thrown on the ground, stomped on and as I tried to pick up the pieces and move to the next page GASP! WTF! OMG! I had hope again. This story is one that really reflects that life shouldn't be taken for granted, don't miss the chance at finding true love,definitely love with all your heart and no matter how many "Flames" a person may have when they find the one that will change their lives for the better hold on and enjoy the ride.
April 5, 2014
Flame is the third book in the Spark series and is now my favorite!!!
Carissa had to deal with a troubled childhood growing up, Parents who could careless about her and a boyfriend who broke her heart! After graduation her and her best friend Velaney moved away and said they would never return. She built walls so no one could ever hurt her again! Her motto..."Get in. Get off. Get out."
Then Drew came into her life doing everything he could to break down the walls she built. Drew is a sexy British man who knows what he wants, even after being told she never has a repeat of the same man! He then told her "I'll take you anyway you can give me, Doll. Whether it be one more night... or a month. But I want it. I want all of it."
Brooke did an amazing job writing Flame! This book is HOT, STEAMY, EXCITING, WILD, CRAZY, PASSIONATE! I don't mean oooh yeah there's people getting it on in this book, I mean the type of hot that'll make your whole face blush :0 I absolutely loved the book and highly recommend it!
I give this book 5 out of 5 stars!!!
Carissa had to deal with a troubled childhood growing up, Parents who could careless about her and a boyfriend who broke her heart! After graduation her and her best friend Velaney moved away and said they would never return. She built walls so no one could ever hurt her again! Her motto..."Get in. Get off. Get out."
Then Drew came into her life doing everything he could to break down the walls she built. Drew is a sexy British man who knows what he wants, even after being told she never has a repeat of the same man! He then told her "I'll take you anyway you can give me, Doll. Whether it be one more night... or a month. But I want it. I want all of it."
Brooke did an amazing job writing Flame! This book is HOT, STEAMY, EXCITING, WILD, CRAZY, PASSIONATE! I don't mean oooh yeah there's people getting it on in this book, I mean the type of hot that'll make your whole face blush :0 I absolutely loved the book and highly recommend it!
I give this book 5 out of 5 stars!!!
February 23, 2014
Spicy, scorching hot and at the same time very emotionally charged story that will take your breath away and have you glued to it.
Flame will leave you speechless because it is simply so addictive.
Clarissa and Drew´s characters are amazingly developed. Especially Clarissa´s. It was amazing to watch her change since Drew came into her life and to see how his presence in her life influenced her growth as a person.
Once again Brooke has proved that she is a talented storyteller. That she can work magic with her pen. She out did herself: With each next book, she out does herself more and more.
Simply brilliant.
Loved Flame and looking forward to read more from Brooke in the future.
≧◔◡◔≦ 5 ✰ read ≧◉◡◉≦
>>>ARC received in exchange for an honest review<<<
Flame will leave you speechless because it is simply so addictive.
Clarissa and Drew´s characters are amazingly developed. Especially Clarissa´s. It was amazing to watch her change since Drew came into her life and to see how his presence in her life influenced her growth as a person.
Once again Brooke has proved that she is a talented storyteller. That she can work magic with her pen. She out did herself: With each next book, she out does herself more and more.
Simply brilliant.
Loved Flame and looking forward to read more from Brooke in the future.
≧◔◡◔≦ 5 ✰ read ≧◉◡◉≦
>>>ARC received in exchange for an honest review<<<
February 10, 2014
I read the first two books in the series and I LOVED both of them so I was super excited to see that Carissa had a story. Carissa’s life was never great from her parents being well lets put it they were not great parents they were not parents at all. She pretty much used sex to hide behind all of her problems and insecurities in her life. Until Drew enters her life. He wants her from the beginning and will do anything for her. I can’t even explain how I felt after reading this book I was super giddy, I even cried in parts of the book, to WOW.. I don’t even know how Brooke does it; I couldn’t put the book down. I must say this series of Brookes is in my top 3 book series and I look forward to reading more from her. Hands down this book and series you DO NOT want to pass up.
February 10, 2014
Another great book by Brooke! I loved Carissa in the 1st two books of this series and I'm so glad she got her own story told. Carissa's personal battle with not feeling good enough to be loved was heartbreaking. I was in tears several times throughout the book. Drew came into Carissa's life & opened her eyes and heart to trust and love. I loved seeing their relationship grow & how Drew didn't give up on Carissa even when she pushed him away. So glad Velaney & Eric were in the book. Loved Carissa & Velaney's interaction during Meagan's birth. My one disappointment came in the epilogue. There is no mention of Velaney. I know Carissa would be calling her and/or visiting especially with her good new. Hope we get another book giving us more of both couples and their children.
January 28, 2014
I was lucky enough to be a Beta reader for Flame.
OMG!!!! Can you say FREAKING AMAZING!!! Brooke Cumberland never fails to amaze me. She pulls you in and keeps you there until the very end. She has became one of my favorite authors ever.
Flame is the story of Carissa and Drew. Holy smoking HELL this book is HOT!!! The sex and chemistry between Carissa and Drew off the freaking charts.
Flame will tear you up. Oh my, my poor heart broke so bad at one point I had to tell Brooke "FIX IT"
I don't want to give to much away, but this book is a PERFECT ending to The Spark Series. 5 PERFECTLY AMAZING STARS!!!
OMG!!!! Can you say FREAKING AMAZING!!! Brooke Cumberland never fails to amaze me. She pulls you in and keeps you there until the very end. She has became one of my favorite authors ever.
Flame is the story of Carissa and Drew. Holy smoking HELL this book is HOT!!! The sex and chemistry between Carissa and Drew off the freaking charts.
Flame will tear you up. Oh my, my poor heart broke so bad at one point I had to tell Brooke "FIX IT"
I don't want to give to much away, but this book is a PERFECT ending to The Spark Series. 5 PERFECTLY AMAZING STARS!!!
Read
August 13, 2016DNF @ 35%
Why DNF?....
Carissa is the equivalent of the standard NA book cliche character that is the 'male-whore'. Even going as far to recite the lines; 'I don't do relationships.' & 'They know what they're signing up for.'
The first 23% involved: Carissa shagging lots of different men as soon as they laid eyes on each other. Messing around with her prude bestie. Explaining (a lot!) to the reader how she's slutty and likes it. Memories of her drunk/drug taking parents who made her the way she is.
Basically, i got tired of it all. I waited til the hero came in and left, thought it would make it improve, but couldn't hold my attention. Didn't mind the sluttyness, but it droned too much for the first quarter of the book to keep me interested.
I skimmed to end: She's a sex addict, meets the guy, bit of drama, HEA.
Why DNF?....
Carissa is the equivalent of the standard NA book cliche character that is the 'male-whore'. Even going as far to recite the lines; 'I don't do relationships.' & 'They know what they're signing up for.'
The first 23% involved: Carissa shagging lots of different men as soon as they laid eyes on each other. Messing around with her prude bestie. Explaining (a lot!) to the reader how she's slutty and likes it. Memories of her drunk/drug taking parents who made her the way she is.
Basically, i got tired of it all. I waited til the hero came in and left, thought it would make it improve, but couldn't hold my attention. Didn't mind the sluttyness, but it droned too much for the first quarter of the book to keep me interested.
I skimmed to end: She's a sex addict, meets the guy, bit of drama, HEA.
February 8, 2014
I thought Brooke Cumberland's first two books in this series were awesome but, Flame... O.M.G. Words practically escape me... Flame is positively sizzling. This book ties up the Spark Series perfectly. To see Carissa and Drew's relationship develop in this book was great. They conquered obstacle after obstacle and came out stronger. Brooke Cumberland captivated me from the very first page to the very last.
January 30, 2014
I had the opportunity to read an ARC of Flame, and I have to admit, Brooke really did an amazing job with Carissa. She perfected one of the most broken characters I have ever read.
And lets not forget Drew. HOLYHELL.
DROOOOOL!
And lets not forget Drew. HOLYHELL.
DROOOOOL!
February 5, 2014
I was sent an arc of this book for an honest review for my blog :) So here goes.....
Okay so this is The 3rd Spark book from Brooke so I advise you read the first two first even if this book is about a different person. This is Carrisa's story. And boy do I love this girl.
You meet Carrisa is the first books and Laney's best friend and room mate. You can see she's kinda wild just from the bits and pieces you see. BUT this book show's you just how bad. She was brought up with the worse parents you can imagine. They will not been winning any parent of the year awards that's for sure. No they didn't beat her while she was a kid,BUT what they did was so much worse. They mental tortured her. She basically brought herself up. With an alcoholic father and a strung out mother she really had no choice. She was lost. And the only person was her best friend Laney.
After this god awful childhood Carissa turns into a love'em and leave'em type of girl. People may say she's a 'slut' but whats really going on is in that few minutes of bliss someone wants her. Just her. Which she never had. BUT as soon as its over she's gone. She is not a cuddly type of girl,vowing never to open her heart up. Even after everything with her mam and dad she tried that before and still gas the emotional scares in doing so.
No one can get threw the wall's she's put around she heart.....
Well until an English big headed Footballer swans into her job.....
Drew is AMAZING looking *sigh*. Even from the get go she in drawn to him. Well who wouldn't be,he's a stomach you could scrub your clothes on,the face of an angel with a secret AND he has a TOTALLY sexy British accent. Yeeeeah Carrisa know's she has got to bed this one.
Drew know's the same though. Like a magnet he is drawn to her. Her sarcastic 'I don't care about anything' attitude does not put him off. Like an onion he's willing to peel her layers off until the REAL Carissa come's out.
As well as this book SO bloody romantic at times it is HOT AS HELL! Sweet Jesus,Brooke know's how to get steam coming off your kindle ;)
AND Just and everything is falling into place for her and Drew her past is always there to bite her in the ass.
Will they over come everything that faith throws at them,or will There Flame Spark and Burn? There's only one way to find out ;)
Okay so this is The 3rd Spark book from Brooke so I advise you read the first two first even if this book is about a different person. This is Carrisa's story. And boy do I love this girl.
You meet Carrisa is the first books and Laney's best friend and room mate. You can see she's kinda wild just from the bits and pieces you see. BUT this book show's you just how bad. She was brought up with the worse parents you can imagine. They will not been winning any parent of the year awards that's for sure. No they didn't beat her while she was a kid,BUT what they did was so much worse. They mental tortured her. She basically brought herself up. With an alcoholic father and a strung out mother she really had no choice. She was lost. And the only person was her best friend Laney.
After this god awful childhood Carissa turns into a love'em and leave'em type of girl. People may say she's a 'slut' but whats really going on is in that few minutes of bliss someone wants her. Just her. Which she never had. BUT as soon as its over she's gone. She is not a cuddly type of girl,vowing never to open her heart up. Even after everything with her mam and dad she tried that before and still gas the emotional scares in doing so.
No one can get threw the wall's she's put around she heart.....
Well until an English big headed Footballer swans into her job.....
Drew is AMAZING looking *sigh*. Even from the get go she in drawn to him. Well who wouldn't be,he's a stomach you could scrub your clothes on,the face of an angel with a secret AND he has a TOTALLY sexy British accent. Yeeeeah Carrisa know's she has got to bed this one.
Drew know's the same though. Like a magnet he is drawn to her. Her sarcastic 'I don't care about anything' attitude does not put him off. Like an onion he's willing to peel her layers off until the REAL Carissa come's out.
As well as this book SO bloody romantic at times it is HOT AS HELL! Sweet Jesus,Brooke know's how to get steam coming off your kindle ;)
AND Just and everything is falling into place for her and Drew her past is always there to bite her in the ass.
Will they over come everything that faith throws at them,or will There Flame Spark and Burn? There's only one way to find out ;)
February 17, 2014
The Spark series continues to be hot and Flame is much hotter! I always liked Carissa in the Spark series and I am so glad that she got her own novel. She always looked out for her friend Velaney and was like the voice of reason for Velaney. However, when it comes to her own heart, she has all these walls guarding it.
Carissa never has trouble finding a man. She goes out somewhere, finds herself a man! Or they find her! Even at her workplace she finds them. She would be with these men one time only and not have the emotional attachment along with it. She likes calling all the shots and have fun with a man, but not have a relationship with any of them. There would be no second or third time with any man.
Things do change for her. Drew comes into the picture. He's a foreign exchange college student from London who plays football. He's hot and athletic (think about how sexy the British accent must be!) He only has a few months left till graduation and plans to leave the US to head back to London. Unlike the other guys, Drew spends more than one night with Carissa. Carissa becomes fascinated with this man and she slowly starts to let these walls come down. She is still hesitant because he isn't going to be in the states for too much longer, but Drew wants to enjoy all the time with her that he can.
What I like about Drew is he didn't want to give up on Carissa. There are the ups and downs the two go through in the time they are getting to know one another. Allowing a man into her life is still so new to Carissa and Drew has been very patient with her and not wanting to throw in the towel. Drew not only tries to get Carissa to open up her heart more, but tries to get her to let go of some of this hatred in her past that still affects her and eats into her mind.
Even though Flame is part of the Spark series, you can read it as a standalone novel since this focuses more on Carissa's story. I still recommend reading Spark and Burn in addition to reading Flame! Brooke, as always, has done an amazing job in showing us what is going on in the character's mind, this time Carissa's! Great job Brooke!
(ARC provided by author)
Carissa never has trouble finding a man. She goes out somewhere, finds herself a man! Or they find her! Even at her workplace she finds them. She would be with these men one time only and not have the emotional attachment along with it. She likes calling all the shots and have fun with a man, but not have a relationship with any of them. There would be no second or third time with any man.
Things do change for her. Drew comes into the picture. He's a foreign exchange college student from London who plays football. He's hot and athletic (think about how sexy the British accent must be!) He only has a few months left till graduation and plans to leave the US to head back to London. Unlike the other guys, Drew spends more than one night with Carissa. Carissa becomes fascinated with this man and she slowly starts to let these walls come down. She is still hesitant because he isn't going to be in the states for too much longer, but Drew wants to enjoy all the time with her that he can.
What I like about Drew is he didn't want to give up on Carissa. There are the ups and downs the two go through in the time they are getting to know one another. Allowing a man into her life is still so new to Carissa and Drew has been very patient with her and not wanting to throw in the towel. Drew not only tries to get Carissa to open up her heart more, but tries to get her to let go of some of this hatred in her past that still affects her and eats into her mind.
Even though Flame is part of the Spark series, you can read it as a standalone novel since this focuses more on Carissa's story. I still recommend reading Spark and Burn in addition to reading Flame! Brooke, as always, has done an amazing job in showing us what is going on in the character's mind, this time Carissa's! Great job Brooke!
(ARC provided by author)
February 24, 2014
This book sucked me in and completely captivated me within the very first chapter! I honestly was a little worried as to where it was going to go at first, as the lead character Carissa was so all over the map with men. I honestly kept thinking every time she would find a new one "ok this must be the one that tames her", however Brooke has done an excellent job at keeping you guessing and never knowing when exactly Mr. Right is going to enter the scene.
The book follows Carissa who is a young woman not interested in finding Mr. Right, however she is only interested in finding the man of the hour. You continue on through Carissa's journey of bouncing from man to man never wanting to get attached or share one single piece of herself, up until one particular man convinces her to give him a chance. I will not name the man of this particular male character as part of the fun of this read is never knowing when exactly he is going to show up. I will say that when he does you will fall head over heals in love with him and he will have you second guessing your own relationship and have you considering trading him in for someone who resembles Carissa's Mr. Right!
This book is honestly quite different then any of Brooke's other books out to date, however I can say with 100% confidence that I truly believe this is her best book ever! She has done an amazing job of developing wonderful characters that you just fall head over heels for, as well as an excellent plot line that is not only easy to relate to but also they kind of plot line that leaves you wishing you could become these characters.
From start to finish I just couldn't get enough, and I was so sad when it was over. I really could have easily continued reading about these characters as my love for them just grew exponentially as I continued on through the book.
All in all I give this book a whopping 5 Stars as I just couldn't put it down and experienced severe with drawl symptoms when it was over! I can only hope that Brooke decides to continue on with these characters stories one day, as that would make me a very happy lady!
The book follows Carissa who is a young woman not interested in finding Mr. Right, however she is only interested in finding the man of the hour. You continue on through Carissa's journey of bouncing from man to man never wanting to get attached or share one single piece of herself, up until one particular man convinces her to give him a chance. I will not name the man of this particular male character as part of the fun of this read is never knowing when exactly he is going to show up. I will say that when he does you will fall head over heals in love with him and he will have you second guessing your own relationship and have you considering trading him in for someone who resembles Carissa's Mr. Right!
This book is honestly quite different then any of Brooke's other books out to date, however I can say with 100% confidence that I truly believe this is her best book ever! She has done an amazing job of developing wonderful characters that you just fall head over heels for, as well as an excellent plot line that is not only easy to relate to but also they kind of plot line that leaves you wishing you could become these characters.
From start to finish I just couldn't get enough, and I was so sad when it was over. I really could have easily continued reading about these characters as my love for them just grew exponentially as I continued on through the book.
All in all I give this book a whopping 5 Stars as I just couldn't put it down and experienced severe with drawl symptoms when it was over! I can only hope that Brooke decides to continue on with these characters stories one day, as that would make me a very happy lady!
February 6, 2014
I was a Beta reader in exchange for an honest review.
First of all let me say, WOW!! Epic twist, that will leave your heart broken and shattered on the floor like broken glass!! I absolutely loved Carissa and her smart mouth in Spark and Burn, but in Flame you get to see behind Carissa's walls and see why she is the way she is and what makes her tick. She is damaged, and afraid of getting hurt, so how do you avoid getting hurt? Don't open your heart up to anyone to make yourself vulnerable. Keep things short and sweet, Wham, Bam, Thank You Ma'am! No expectations, no strings, no commitments = no chance of getting hurt.
Her life was going exactly how she wanted it until one night Drew walked into her life and tilted it on it's axis. Drew is everything that Carissa ever wanted, but didn't know she needed. He is patient with her, persistent and he is there for her as she learns to love, forgive and lower the steel walls that surround her heart. There is only one problem, Drew can't stay, he must leave and go back home to London after he finishes school. Carissa must decide if love is worth fighting for or if she will put the wall back up and go back to her old ways.
Let me tell you something Brooke hits readers will one gut-wrenching twist that left me curled up in a ball, snot running down my face, in a body convulsing ugly cry. I may or may not have threated her with bodily harm. In the end Flame goes down as what I believe to be Brooke's best book to date.
First of all let me say, WOW!! Epic twist, that will leave your heart broken and shattered on the floor like broken glass!! I absolutely loved Carissa and her smart mouth in Spark and Burn, but in Flame you get to see behind Carissa's walls and see why she is the way she is and what makes her tick. She is damaged, and afraid of getting hurt, so how do you avoid getting hurt? Don't open your heart up to anyone to make yourself vulnerable. Keep things short and sweet, Wham, Bam, Thank You Ma'am! No expectations, no strings, no commitments = no chance of getting hurt.
Her life was going exactly how she wanted it until one night Drew walked into her life and tilted it on it's axis. Drew is everything that Carissa ever wanted, but didn't know she needed. He is patient with her, persistent and he is there for her as she learns to love, forgive and lower the steel walls that surround her heart. There is only one problem, Drew can't stay, he must leave and go back home to London after he finishes school. Carissa must decide if love is worth fighting for or if she will put the wall back up and go back to her old ways.
Let me tell you something Brooke hits readers will one gut-wrenching twist that left me curled up in a ball, snot running down my face, in a body convulsing ugly cry. I may or may not have threated her with bodily harm. In the end Flame goes down as what I believe to be Brooke's best book to date.
February 17, 2015
First let me say I read / listened to this book in audio format via audible.com.I always go for the audio books first as the narrators tend to breath life into the stories, thus giving them a heart beat! Audio books also allow me to be hands free to do other things such as drive, chores, even work.
I loved this story! It is a sexy, hot romance! I will warn you, bring tissues! It made me laugh and cry.
Carissa had a bad life growing up. With her mom being a junkie and her dad a drunk, then her first boyfriend dumps her in front of the whole school, Carissa swore she would never get close to anyone again. Now Carissa works in a bar and has sex with anyone and everyone once or twice. Carissa states upfront, she is only interested in sex then leave.
One day Carissa meets Drew. As much as Carissa fights it, she is falling for Drew. Drew is different from any man she has ever met. Drew is also from London complete with the accent. Carissa decides she can keep him around until he graduates and goes back to London. When the times comes, how will she ever be able to let him go?
The author, Brooke Cumberland did a great job writing this book. The plot is good, the excitement is there and even loads of emotions. The narrator did a great job delivering this story to us too! With multiple voices and accents (loved the Brit accent), The narrator made this story easy on the ears. Listening to this book was like listening to a movie! Kudos to you both!
I loved this story! It is a sexy, hot romance! I will warn you, bring tissues! It made me laugh and cry.
Carissa had a bad life growing up. With her mom being a junkie and her dad a drunk, then her first boyfriend dumps her in front of the whole school, Carissa swore she would never get close to anyone again. Now Carissa works in a bar and has sex with anyone and everyone once or twice. Carissa states upfront, she is only interested in sex then leave.
One day Carissa meets Drew. As much as Carissa fights it, she is falling for Drew. Drew is different from any man she has ever met. Drew is also from London complete with the accent. Carissa decides she can keep him around until he graduates and goes back to London. When the times comes, how will she ever be able to let him go?
The author, Brooke Cumberland did a great job writing this book. The plot is good, the excitement is there and even loads of emotions. The narrator did a great job delivering this story to us too! With multiple voices and accents (loved the Brit accent), The narrator made this story easy on the ears. Listening to this book was like listening to a movie! Kudos to you both!
February 5, 2014
**5 star review**
I was lucky enough to read this story as it was written and I loved every single part of it!!
After not actually getting around to reading the first two books I was worried that I wouldn't understand what was going on, or who everyone was, but I was wrong, it was written so perfectly that it can be read as a standalone with no confusion at all!
It's hot, steamy, angsty, heart wrenching and all consuming.
Carissa has an attitude that I love in a lead female character, her 'couldn't care less' perspective on things was refreshing and really made her likeable. She has a shitty childhood to put behind her and a string of one night stands under her belt, which is her preference, she doesn't want to settle down. Ever. That is until Drew walks into her life with his sweet talk, hot looks, alpha male attitude and irresistible British accent! He wants to make Carissa his, and he isn't one to give up, luckily!
Their relationship progresses, with ups and down that make you aww in one chapter, and want to scream in the next! I recommend this book, and highly recommend that your phone or kindle is secured in bubble wrap when you hit certain parts, yes you will want to hunt Brooke down and shake her for putting you through the bloody mill, I know I did!
I was lucky enough to read this story as it was written and I loved every single part of it!!
After not actually getting around to reading the first two books I was worried that I wouldn't understand what was going on, or who everyone was, but I was wrong, it was written so perfectly that it can be read as a standalone with no confusion at all!
It's hot, steamy, angsty, heart wrenching and all consuming.
Carissa has an attitude that I love in a lead female character, her 'couldn't care less' perspective on things was refreshing and really made her likeable. She has a shitty childhood to put behind her and a string of one night stands under her belt, which is her preference, she doesn't want to settle down. Ever. That is until Drew walks into her life with his sweet talk, hot looks, alpha male attitude and irresistible British accent! He wants to make Carissa his, and he isn't one to give up, luckily!
Their relationship progresses, with ups and down that make you aww in one chapter, and want to scream in the next! I recommend this book, and highly recommend that your phone or kindle is secured in bubble wrap when you hit certain parts, yes you will want to hunt Brooke down and shake her for putting you through the bloody mill, I know I did!
January 28, 2014
Flame is the third book in the Spark series. You do not have to have read those books to read this book.
Carissa's story is one of pain, headache, hatred of family, and opening ones self up to the possibility of something more.
The story of Carissa and Drew will take you on a hot, wild, passionate, exciting, steamy, heart rendering ride. You will laugh, cry, even sob while reading this book.
Carissa has built up barriers around herself for protection. She lets no one in so that she cannot get hurt. Drew enters her life and starts breaking down her barriers. She does not make it easy for him and her past keeps showing up. She has things she must learn but will she learn them in time? You will just have to read to find out.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this ARC free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. Receiving a complimentary copy in no way reflected my review of this book. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Carissa's story is one of pain, headache, hatred of family, and opening ones self up to the possibility of something more.
The story of Carissa and Drew will take you on a hot, wild, passionate, exciting, steamy, heart rendering ride. You will laugh, cry, even sob while reading this book.
Carissa has built up barriers around herself for protection. She lets no one in so that she cannot get hurt. Drew enters her life and starts breaking down her barriers. She does not make it easy for him and her past keeps showing up. She has things she must learn but will she learn them in time? You will just have to read to find out.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this ARC free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. Receiving a complimentary copy in no way reflected my review of this book. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
February 13, 2014
I read Spark and Burn a while ago and got hooked on these girls and their stories...so to get a more in-depth picture of the wild and naughty Carissa and find out why and how she came to be the sex addict with (seemingly) no conscience...I was happy to finally get Flame.
It is filled with the usual sweet romance and crazy antics as the first two...but deals with the more serious topic of sexual addiction and the aftermath of living with abusive drug and alcohol dependent parents.
Learning to find peace within yourself and as a result, healing and wholeness is the most important point of this story...being with someone you can love and who accepts you for yourself and makes you be a better person as well. I loved the patient and tender Drew and the road they have to travel to get to their HEA.
A very steamy at times, and romantic satisfying conclusion to Carissa and Velaney's search for their perfect partners. Get this one if you love Brooke Cumberland's stories as much as I do!!
*****5***** naughty and erotic but romantic stars =)
It is filled with the usual sweet romance and crazy antics as the first two...but deals with the more serious topic of sexual addiction and the aftermath of living with abusive drug and alcohol dependent parents.
Learning to find peace within yourself and as a result, healing and wholeness is the most important point of this story...being with someone you can love and who accepts you for yourself and makes you be a better person as well. I loved the patient and tender Drew and the road they have to travel to get to their HEA.
A very steamy at times, and romantic satisfying conclusion to Carissa and Velaney's search for their perfect partners. Get this one if you love Brooke Cumberland's stories as much as I do!!
*****5***** naughty and erotic but romantic stars =)
October 14, 2014
This story was awesome!!!!!! I love the odd story with a play girl lead. Carissa had horrible parents and a shit child hood. Typical drama, but oh so different because this girl has a lot of sex with random men. I was so shocked at how quickly and easily she picked people up. So many of the incidents were funny too, you gotta feel sorry for the poor guys that were left hanging. I enjoyed this type of story line from a female perspective. Once the British hottie Drew comes into the mix you can see the instant things change and the fight she puts up and again so enjoyable this being a female who changes her play girl ways. This author done a great job with this story I was hooked from start to finish. Ending was great. Definitely worth a read. Only knocked off a star because there were things I felt unresolved regarding previous bed partners for her and his ex but otherwise great great book.
July 23, 2014
When I started reading, I didn't know that it was the third book in a series, but I really enjoyed as a standalone novel.
Although Carissa is really messed up and don't want to open herself to anyone, she does it for Drew, a gorgeous, intelligent, courageous man, who helps her heal all her regrets and anger.
There were moments that I wanted to slap some sense out of her [mmmhhh... I found this more often than I thought], but finally he allows herself to feel, to live.
Plot: 4 stars.
Characters: 3.5 stars.
Hotness: 4 stars.
Contains mild-to-hard bdsm (:
Although Carissa is really messed up and don't want to open herself to anyone, she does it for Drew, a gorgeous, intelligent, courageous man, who helps her heal all her regrets and anger.
There were moments that I wanted to slap some sense out of her [mmmhhh... I found this more often than I thought], but finally he allows herself to feel, to live.
Plot: 4 stars.
Characters: 3.5 stars.
Hotness: 4 stars.
Contains mild-to-hard bdsm (:
May 15, 2014
I wasn't even going to read this book because I really didn't like Carissa's character in Spark or Burn. But, I was curious about the little bits of Drew that were in the first two books, so, I decided to read it. I was not disappointed. It's very good and so much different than Spark and Burn. Carissa is a hot mess but in this book you find out more and why she is so messed up. And Drew is just a "doll"! LOL He gets her to open up even when she is fighting him all the way. Loved the ending but almost had a heart attack around 80%. So glad it didn't end there!
October 2, 2014
5 Stars|Goodreads|Amazon
Meg's Review:
This book was great! It left me on an emotional high and I love it when a book can give you that after effect. Not the book hangover where you are dwelling, but the one where you are high from the events in the book. A definite 5 star read.
This book had just enough passion to match its storyline. It wasn't a book where they were naked 90% of the time and you got SOME story. It was a perfect balance. I felt all the sciences in the book were necessary as well. There weren't any fillers.
"Get in. Get off. Get out."
This is Carissa's Mantra. She lives by this. Mostly. Until Drew really. He throws a wrench in her much oiled machine.
She has her reasons and as we discover them I fall more in love with her character. So Empowered yet so broken. With Drew she is honest and so is he. They both know what they want, but can they have it? No. I'll answer it for you, but the path they take to get what they each want? It is one that is ever evolving. They grow together and Carissa begins to see what life can give her, if she lets it..
Then I got to THAT part. The part when where I sent THIS to Brooke at 2am:
I have read all of Brooke's books, so it didn't take me by surprise that it was great. With each novel she writes I fall more in love with the characters and her worlds. Carissa sealed the Spark deal for me. This was well written, well plotted, and it flowed seamlessly. I highly recommend this to anyone <3 Its a hot read ladies!
Synopsis:
FLAME is a companion novel in the Spark series, but can be read as a stand alone...
**An erotic romance—Mature audiences only 18+**
Release Date: February 4, 2014
Carissa Wright doesn’t do relationships.
Raised with a junkie mother and an alcoholic father, building relationships were far off her list. Rather, one night-stands were her usual.
Carissa has one constant in her life—her best friend Velaney. Completely opposite of each other, yet they balance each other out.
Although Carissa admits to only wanting sex and nothing more, will she allow the one guy who wants to break down her walls or will she run out of fear for finally letting her guard down?
She is unfamiliar with these feelings and wants nothing more than to walk away without a shattered heart. Will she be able to find the courage in order to turn her flame into a long lasting relationship?
With walls built up & emotions turned off, can she learn to put her heart on the line?
Or will each guy just be another flame?
Click Here for Giveaway
February 11, 2014
***Please note: While this is a standalone, I highly recommend reading 'Spark' and 'Burn' prior to reading this novel. Carissa first makes an appearance in Spark as Velaney's best friend.***
For as long as Carissa can remember it's been Velaney and Carissa against the world. Both from backgrounds that have left them broken and unable to love anyone other than one another, they do the only thing they can, they leave and vow never to return.
Carissa's mother is a drug addict and her father is an alcoholic. Growing up in a broken home, she studied hard to get through high school, but had to do it with herself closed off to the world every since her boyfriend freshman year in high school left her broken and unable to love. She does the one thing she can do, she has one night-stands. It's the easiest way for her to get what she wants and desires without actually having the need to have a relationship. She doesn't do relationships, she only does sex. There are countless men that walk in and out of her life in the blink of an eye. Some think they can change her, some want more, but Carissa doesn't want more, she doesn't do more. She doesn't do repeats on a regular basis, she doesn't cuddle, and usually uses Velaney to help her escort the men out of her bed the next morning.
That all changes the day Carissa meets Drew Finlay. While working at the bar, in walks in a man with a British accent and is so hott he leaves her flustered. He makes Carissa feel things she doesn't want to feel, things she promised herself she would never feel. Unable to resist, Carissa invites Drew home with her where she has the most amazing experience of her life, multiple times. When she wakes up the next morning she's in a hurry to get rid of him. He's gone, but not for an extended amount of time. Drew is drawn to Carissa, Carissa can't seem to shake the handsome exchange student who has turned her world upside-down. He leaves her wanting more, unable to resist coming back for another round of sex with Drew, he officially becomes the first man she submits to.
But while their relationship started off based on sex, it quickly becomes more. But Carissa is reluctant to let go and let him in. Why? Because Drew is in his final year as an exchange student on a football scholarship and at the end of the year he will be returning home to his home in London. Carissa thinks it's easy to ignore the growing feelings she has towards Drew, but can Drew convince her that he's more than another flame? Or will their time run out before they can truly be together?
I remember reading about Carissa in Spark. She was the complete opposite of Velaney and yet they complimented each other so much. While Velaney does make a slight appearance in Flame, she's not really so much in the story which I found kind of a disappointment since Carissa's story is told in the same time frame as Velaney's relationship with Eric. I loved the interaction between Carissa and Drew and Drew was always so patient and understanding with her but was a beast when it came to sex, I only have two words for it - SO HOT. The chemistry is electric, the relationship between them is dynamic, but (yes there is a but) it just felt kind of rushed at certain points. I would have loved to have seen a longer story or two books for Carissa the way Velaney was done. I loved having the story of Velaney and Eric told in two books, it really gave you a chance to connect with the characters, but Carissa's story just seemed so rushed and was told in chunks of time. Don't get me wrong, it was a great story, I just wish I wouldn't have felt so rushed with their story, I would've loved to see more. The writing was still great and I highly recommend picking up this story and all the books in the Spark series as they are all great reads. I give it 4 stars.
***ARC provided by author in exchange for a honest review***
For as long as Carissa can remember it's been Velaney and Carissa against the world. Both from backgrounds that have left them broken and unable to love anyone other than one another, they do the only thing they can, they leave and vow never to return.
Carissa's mother is a drug addict and her father is an alcoholic. Growing up in a broken home, she studied hard to get through high school, but had to do it with herself closed off to the world every since her boyfriend freshman year in high school left her broken and unable to love. She does the one thing she can do, she has one night-stands. It's the easiest way for her to get what she wants and desires without actually having the need to have a relationship. She doesn't do relationships, she only does sex. There are countless men that walk in and out of her life in the blink of an eye. Some think they can change her, some want more, but Carissa doesn't want more, she doesn't do more. She doesn't do repeats on a regular basis, she doesn't cuddle, and usually uses Velaney to help her escort the men out of her bed the next morning.
That all changes the day Carissa meets Drew Finlay. While working at the bar, in walks in a man with a British accent and is so hott he leaves her flustered. He makes Carissa feel things she doesn't want to feel, things she promised herself she would never feel. Unable to resist, Carissa invites Drew home with her where she has the most amazing experience of her life, multiple times. When she wakes up the next morning she's in a hurry to get rid of him. He's gone, but not for an extended amount of time. Drew is drawn to Carissa, Carissa can't seem to shake the handsome exchange student who has turned her world upside-down. He leaves her wanting more, unable to resist coming back for another round of sex with Drew, he officially becomes the first man she submits to.
But while their relationship started off based on sex, it quickly becomes more. But Carissa is reluctant to let go and let him in. Why? Because Drew is in his final year as an exchange student on a football scholarship and at the end of the year he will be returning home to his home in London. Carissa thinks it's easy to ignore the growing feelings she has towards Drew, but can Drew convince her that he's more than another flame? Or will their time run out before they can truly be together?
I remember reading about Carissa in Spark. She was the complete opposite of Velaney and yet they complimented each other so much. While Velaney does make a slight appearance in Flame, she's not really so much in the story which I found kind of a disappointment since Carissa's story is told in the same time frame as Velaney's relationship with Eric. I loved the interaction between Carissa and Drew and Drew was always so patient and understanding with her but was a beast when it came to sex, I only have two words for it - SO HOT. The chemistry is electric, the relationship between them is dynamic, but (yes there is a but) it just felt kind of rushed at certain points. I would have loved to have seen a longer story or two books for Carissa the way Velaney was done. I loved having the story of Velaney and Eric told in two books, it really gave you a chance to connect with the characters, but Carissa's story just seemed so rushed and was told in chunks of time. Don't get me wrong, it was a great story, I just wish I wouldn't have felt so rushed with their story, I would've loved to see more. The writing was still great and I highly recommend picking up this story and all the books in the Spark series as they are all great reads. I give it 4 stars.
***ARC provided by author in exchange for a honest review***
January 10, 2015
As I am often determined to finish a series as soon as I start it, it was not a stretch to determine my next read after Burn. I was curious about the character Carissa. She seemed like a great secondary character in Velaney's stories but I didn't get to know much about her or her past throughout the course of the first two books. I knew she had a troubled background much like Velaney's but I wasn't sure how deep that went.
Carissa is a self described whore. She sleeps around whenever the mood strikes. She has even had as many as three or four different partners on any given day. Her one-time policy has been her go-to from the moment she started having sex at eighteen. She doesn't do relationships. However, once she meets Drew she may be rethinking that stance on commitments. Drew seems to be different from all the one-nighters she has accumulated over the course of her life. She tries to keep a firm grasp on her control and push him away as soon as she gets what she wants from him but Drew doesn't seem to want to just vanish like the rest of her bedmates. Strangely, Carissa may not want him to disappear as much as she thinks she does.
Drew is determined to show Carissa that she is worth more than what she assumes she is. She deserves happiness and that happiness cannot be found from frivolously bouncing from bed to bed. Can Drew convince Carissa that he can make her happier than she believes she is worthy of or will Carissa fall back into her old ways of debauchery when things get tough?
At the beginning of Flame I questioned whether I really liked Carissa at all. She seemed like a such a stable confidant in the first two books that I never even thought that she was as messed up as she was portrayed in this book. I squirmed a little in my seat while reading about Carissa finding her way into sexual situations with incredibly unsavory characters. As I determined I was going to set the book aside for a while to clear my brain of all the depraved acts Carissa engages in, Drew enters her life. I find his determination not to play into her games intriguing and continued to read despite my reservations. Drew truly saved the story for me in the process of saving Carissa. He was very likeable and I found myself rooting for him to change her for the better. Carissa seemed so shallow and transparent in the beginning of the story but as the story continued and she opened up to Drew, I saw a different side of her. She was not the shallow whore that she seemed so proud to call herself. There were emotional issues that caused that low self-esteem. As Drew was strong into the study of Psychology, it was interesting to see some of the techniques he used to coax Carissa from behind her fake facade of strength and force her to be vulnerable. As a Psychology major myself, it only served to make the story even greater than I had thought it was going to be.
Flame takes a seemingly vapid and shallow character and gives her depth. Through a combination of love, friendship, and much needed therapy the main protagonist transforms from a guarded, wounded caterpillar into a happy and vivacious butterfly.
Review Posted on: http://www.ladybugliterature.blogspot...
February 8, 2014
***Arc was provided by author in exchange for an honest review***
I'm a big Brooke Cumberland fan. Her Riverside Trilogy is a fantastic series with the right amount of angst, steam, and suspense. When I saw that she had a new series out, I wanted to dive right in and read them all, but time got away from me, and with a never ending TBR pile, I didn't get to book one or two like I had wanted to. When I saw that book three was a companion novel to the Spark series and could be read alone, I jumped at the chance to read and review an Arc copy, and I am so glad that I did.
Flame is Carissa's story; she is Velaney's best friend and roommate, and she has to be one of the most broken characters I have ever read. From the start of the story, readers understand her M.O. - no attachments, no feelings, no intimacy - just lots and lots of sex. She has a fortress surrounding her heart due to a childhood with an alcoholic father and druggie mother. She refuses to have a real relationship because she thinks it will only lead to heartbreak. Survival and control are of upmost importance to her; she takes care of herself and never lets anyone walk all over her - she did that too much with her parents.
The beginning of the book takes readers quickly through a couple of years - during this time, Carissa takes what she needs and wants from a string of flames (one night stands/boy toys/etc). But then one flame in particular forces her to adjust her behavior because she doesn't like the feeling of being used, which is exactly what she has been doing. Soon after, her world is figuratively and literally rocked by a hot British football player who takes that wall that she has built around herself and slowly tears it away until it is finally completely torn down.
Drew Finlay - I have always been turned on by a British accent - there is just something about it that I find so sexy. But Drew is more than his accent. He is an amazing man who wears his heart on his sleeve. He is romantic, commanding, and sweet. He sees beyond Carissa's facade and works his way into her heart, and he refuses to let her take it back.
Drew takes passion, desire, and control from Carissa - things she never gives up. He turns her world upside down and makes her actually believe that she can connect with someone without getting hurt - without losing who she is and what she has fought so hard to maintain. He offers her love and commitment, and she finally takes one of her flames up on his offer.
"He wasn't just a flame. He was my future. My everything."
Flame is a fantastic read. Sometimes an erotic romance novel is 90% sex and 10% story - that is definitely not the case with Flame. There is a large amount of sex, but it adds to the storyline. Sex is Carissa's addiction; it's her way to control her life. Brooke needed to show that clearly - then, when Carissa gets with Drew, there is still hot sex, but it changes due to her connection with Drew, and readers understand that by the control she gives up...those times are freeing for Carissa, and Brooke depicts that extremely well. To me, this is Brooke's best story so far. I'm not sure how she is going to top this one, but I can't wait to find out!
4.5 poison apples!(The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
I'm a big Brooke Cumberland fan. Her Riverside Trilogy is a fantastic series with the right amount of angst, steam, and suspense. When I saw that she had a new series out, I wanted to dive right in and read them all, but time got away from me, and with a never ending TBR pile, I didn't get to book one or two like I had wanted to. When I saw that book three was a companion novel to the Spark series and could be read alone, I jumped at the chance to read and review an Arc copy, and I am so glad that I did.
Flame is Carissa's story; she is Velaney's best friend and roommate, and she has to be one of the most broken characters I have ever read. From the start of the story, readers understand her M.O. - no attachments, no feelings, no intimacy - just lots and lots of sex. She has a fortress surrounding her heart due to a childhood with an alcoholic father and druggie mother. She refuses to have a real relationship because she thinks it will only lead to heartbreak. Survival and control are of upmost importance to her; she takes care of herself and never lets anyone walk all over her - she did that too much with her parents.
The beginning of the book takes readers quickly through a couple of years - during this time, Carissa takes what she needs and wants from a string of flames (one night stands/boy toys/etc). But then one flame in particular forces her to adjust her behavior because she doesn't like the feeling of being used, which is exactly what she has been doing. Soon after, her world is figuratively and literally rocked by a hot British football player who takes that wall that she has built around herself and slowly tears it away until it is finally completely torn down.
Drew Finlay - I have always been turned on by a British accent - there is just something about it that I find so sexy. But Drew is more than his accent. He is an amazing man who wears his heart on his sleeve. He is romantic, commanding, and sweet. He sees beyond Carissa's facade and works his way into her heart, and he refuses to let her take it back.
Drew takes passion, desire, and control from Carissa - things she never gives up. He turns her world upside down and makes her actually believe that she can connect with someone without getting hurt - without losing who she is and what she has fought so hard to maintain. He offers her love and commitment, and she finally takes one of her flames up on his offer.
"He wasn't just a flame. He was my future. My everything."
Flame is a fantastic read. Sometimes an erotic romance novel is 90% sex and 10% story - that is definitely not the case with Flame. There is a large amount of sex, but it adds to the storyline. Sex is Carissa's addiction; it's her way to control her life. Brooke needed to show that clearly - then, when Carissa gets with Drew, there is still hot sex, but it changes due to her connection with Drew, and readers understand that by the control she gives up...those times are freeing for Carissa, and Brooke depicts that extremely well. To me, this is Brooke's best story so far. I'm not sure how she is going to top this one, but I can't wait to find out!
4.5 poison apples!(The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
February 12, 2014
4.5 stars!
I completely fell in love with the first two books in this series and I was really excited when I found out the author was giving a secondary character from the first two books her own book! I was really excited when I got my ARC of this book because I had been desperate to read it and I also beta read the first few chapters! I have too be honest though and say that it took me a few chapters to really get into this book! It just started quite slow and it took a while for the main character's love interest to actually come into the story! I do have to say that there were plenty, and I mean plenty, of sexy scenes in this book though! They do not disappoint! The plot of this book was about a girl finding herself almost and being shown that in order to move forward, she had to learn to let go of her past! I loved the plot! I do have to say that I haven't read a contemporary book with a plot quite like it before! I was hooked on this book when the main character's love interest came into it and their relationship started to heat up! There were also some twists and turns in the plot that I didn't see coming at all! The characters were amazing! Carissa was the main character and she had been through so much in her life! Her parents were horrible to her growing up and it was their actions that made Carissa the way she was in this book! Carissa was sort of addicted to sex in a way and she would sleep with any guy just to feed her addiction! As this book progressed, Carissa realised that she didn't need to sleep with loads of guys, she only needed to sleep with one particular guy, and this guy was her love interest! My heart went out to Carissa in this book because of what she had been through and seeing how much it had affected her as she had gotten older! I also have to admit that I did think that Carissa was a bit of a slut at the beginning of this book, and I mean that in the nicest way possible, but Carissa was a lot more damaged than I realised and as the book progressed I found out just how damaged she was! Drew was the love interest of Carissa and he was such a hottie! And kind of into some kinky stuff ;) I can say that I didn't expect the kinky side of Drew, so I was quite surprised when I found that out, but it was pretty damn hot! Drew was such a lovable guy! I absolutely loved him with Carissa as well! He was also really protective of her and I loved what he did near the end of this book for her! He really couldn't leave without her! I could see that Drew really loved Carissa and the two of them really deserved that kind of love! I also loved that the main female character from the first two book, Velaney, was in this book as well! I'm really sad to see this series come to an end now, but all the essential characters got their happy endings, so I couldn't be happier for them! The ending of this book was also so beautiful and perfect! The cover for this book is stunning! It definitely suits the book and I like that it doesn't really suit the covers for the first two books as they focus on two other characters in this series! Big thank you to Brooke for an ARC of Flame!
I completely fell in love with the first two books in this series and I was really excited when I found out the author was giving a secondary character from the first two books her own book! I was really excited when I got my ARC of this book because I had been desperate to read it and I also beta read the first few chapters! I have too be honest though and say that it took me a few chapters to really get into this book! It just started quite slow and it took a while for the main character's love interest to actually come into the story! I do have to say that there were plenty, and I mean plenty, of sexy scenes in this book though! They do not disappoint! The plot of this book was about a girl finding herself almost and being shown that in order to move forward, she had to learn to let go of her past! I loved the plot! I do have to say that I haven't read a contemporary book with a plot quite like it before! I was hooked on this book when the main character's love interest came into it and their relationship started to heat up! There were also some twists and turns in the plot that I didn't see coming at all! The characters were amazing! Carissa was the main character and she had been through so much in her life! Her parents were horrible to her growing up and it was their actions that made Carissa the way she was in this book! Carissa was sort of addicted to sex in a way and she would sleep with any guy just to feed her addiction! As this book progressed, Carissa realised that she didn't need to sleep with loads of guys, she only needed to sleep with one particular guy, and this guy was her love interest! My heart went out to Carissa in this book because of what she had been through and seeing how much it had affected her as she had gotten older! I also have to admit that I did think that Carissa was a bit of a slut at the beginning of this book, and I mean that in the nicest way possible, but Carissa was a lot more damaged than I realised and as the book progressed I found out just how damaged she was! Drew was the love interest of Carissa and he was such a hottie! And kind of into some kinky stuff ;) I can say that I didn't expect the kinky side of Drew, so I was quite surprised when I found that out, but it was pretty damn hot! Drew was such a lovable guy! I absolutely loved him with Carissa as well! He was also really protective of her and I loved what he did near the end of this book for her! He really couldn't leave without her! I could see that Drew really loved Carissa and the two of them really deserved that kind of love! I also loved that the main female character from the first two book, Velaney, was in this book as well! I'm really sad to see this series come to an end now, but all the essential characters got their happy endings, so I couldn't be happier for them! The ending of this book was also so beautiful and perfect! The cover for this book is stunning! It definitely suits the book and I like that it doesn't really suit the covers for the first two books as they focus on two other characters in this series! Big thank you to Brooke for an ARC of Flame!
February 6, 2014
"This was never supposed to turn into something. He was just supposed to be a flame, a one-night stand, a drunken mistake. But he wasn't. And if I'm being honest with myself, he never was."
Okay I am in LOVE with this book. Just want to state that now before I get more into this review!!
Lets meet Carissa: She doesn't do relationships, she had a druggie mom and an alcoholic father. She left home after graduation high school and didn't look back. She used sex like it was her drug of choice. Until she met Drew.. Drew was her game changer.
"The Moment feelings become a part of sex is the moment hearts begin Breaking. And that is exactly the reason I keep my distance"
" Get in. Get out. That's my motto"
Drew- Drew is this amazingly sexy guy from London. He is over in the U.S.A on a football scholarship with the local college. He is drawn to Carissa from the moment he sees her and lord help me if his intensity doesn't get you I don't know what will.
"I laugh in his face. “You are an egotistical man, aren’t you?” It’s nothing I can’t handle. I’ve had my fair share of men like him in the past. They all think they are above any other guy— irresistible, desirable, cocky. I can see right through them all. “I’m just a man who knows what he wants…” “And what’s that? Sex? I doubt you have any problem with that.” He stares intently at me, rubbing a hand on my cheek. “Not just sex,” he whispers in a deep voice. “Passion, desire, control.” His hand travels down my neck and lands on my hip. “And right now… I want that with you,” he growls in my ear."
As time goes on Drew starts to penetrate Carissa's wall she has built up around her heart. She tries to block him out but Drew is a persistent guy, He wants her and he will do just about anything to have her. It is beautiful to read.
"No matter how much I see you... or how much I'm with you...it's never enough. I always want more."
See???? Isn't he perfect!!!! I fell totally in love with Drew and Carissa's story. I loved every twist and turn. The sex is steamy and panty wetting!!! I also may be guilty of telling Brooke that I don't like her a time or two.. and after tossing my ipad again (this seems to be a running theme with her amazing books) I may have told her I wasn't going to finish the book. But we all know I picked it back up and finished lol!! AND I LOVED Every bit of Love, Hate, Rage, Sadness, Happiness, and every other emotion this book made me feel. I Truly am so happy this book is out there for everyone to enjoy!! I don't know how she is going to top this!! But I am going to be eagerly waiting to find out!! Now I am off to nurse my book hangover because I am unsure I can pick up anything else right now..
Okay I am in LOVE with this book. Just want to state that now before I get more into this review!!
Lets meet Carissa: She doesn't do relationships, she had a druggie mom and an alcoholic father. She left home after graduation high school and didn't look back. She used sex like it was her drug of choice. Until she met Drew.. Drew was her game changer.
"The Moment feelings become a part of sex is the moment hearts begin Breaking. And that is exactly the reason I keep my distance"
" Get in. Get out. That's my motto"
Drew- Drew is this amazingly sexy guy from London. He is over in the U.S.A on a football scholarship with the local college. He is drawn to Carissa from the moment he sees her and lord help me if his intensity doesn't get you I don't know what will.
"I laugh in his face. “You are an egotistical man, aren’t you?” It’s nothing I can’t handle. I’ve had my fair share of men like him in the past. They all think they are above any other guy— irresistible, desirable, cocky. I can see right through them all. “I’m just a man who knows what he wants…” “And what’s that? Sex? I doubt you have any problem with that.” He stares intently at me, rubbing a hand on my cheek. “Not just sex,” he whispers in a deep voice. “Passion, desire, control.” His hand travels down my neck and lands on my hip. “And right now… I want that with you,” he growls in my ear."
As time goes on Drew starts to penetrate Carissa's wall she has built up around her heart. She tries to block him out but Drew is a persistent guy, He wants her and he will do just about anything to have her. It is beautiful to read.
"No matter how much I see you... or how much I'm with you...it's never enough. I always want more."
See???? Isn't he perfect!!!! I fell totally in love with Drew and Carissa's story. I loved every twist and turn. The sex is steamy and panty wetting!!! I also may be guilty of telling Brooke that I don't like her a time or two.. and after tossing my ipad again (this seems to be a running theme with her amazing books) I may have told her I wasn't going to finish the book. But we all know I picked it back up and finished lol!! AND I LOVED Every bit of Love, Hate, Rage, Sadness, Happiness, and every other emotion this book made me feel. I Truly am so happy this book is out there for everyone to enjoy!! I don't know how she is going to top this!! But I am going to be eagerly waiting to find out!! Now I am off to nurse my book hangover because I am unsure I can pick up anything else right now..
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