Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book
Rate this book
This isn’t how I thought I’d lose my V-card. Not like this.

Vi said it was the only way, and with the devastating news Mom just dropped on me, I knew I had no other choice. This wasn’t about me. It was about her. I needed to do this to save her life. But what I didn’t know was that in saving hers, I was also saving mine. Thanks to the man who laid down one million dollars to have me.

380 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 6, 2015

1249 people are currently reading
596 people want to read

About the author

C.J. Thomas

69 books157 followers
Contemporary author of "The Alpha Billionaire" series

CJ lives in the Green Mountains of Vermont. You can find CJ skiing, hiking, and spending time with family when not typing away on the latest hottest read.

Connect with CJ:
cj@cjthomasbooks.com

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
730 (48%)
4 stars
438 (29%)
3 stars
223 (14%)
2 stars
82 (5%)
1 star
35 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
Profile Image for Ashleyjo.
826 reviews522 followers
September 21, 2015
Frankly, characters and plot just don't get much worse than this.

What's It About?

At first, the whole plot centers around a chick with a mom diagnosed with cancer and feeling guilty over her parents spending their savings on her college. So, she and her roommate decide to auction off her virginity so she can help fund the medical expenses.
Meanwhile, we've already met the billionaire playboy, Jackson, that wants to take her out and loves that she doesn't appear to give two shits about his money or charms. Following the auction, it becomes about a series of extravagant dates and sex scenes between her and Jackson and the mom's recovery.

^Trite, but fine enough. ^

What Good About This Book?

Uuuuuuuuhhhhhhhhhmmmm?!? *crickets chirping..... Crickets chirping... Crickets still chirping...Even the crickets give up*

What's Wrong With This Book?

Basically, everything.

• Billionaire that's supposed to be alpha male, but grovels, pleads, begs, changes himself, bends over backwards, etc to become the styrofoam guy this chick clearly wants.

• Female Mc that's hypocritical, self-centered, do-gooder, dumb ass. Some of the shit she says just makes me want to take an eraser to her... How's someone offering you their jet to get to your cancerous mom equal someone throwing money at you; it's called caring and offering you what they have, you dumb bitch. I was sickened by her attitude about money, especially considering she SOLD her GD virginity to the person she's degrading about money.

• Female Mc that asks the same internal questions over and over and over and over and over and over , but then just decides not to ask them aloud.

• Repetitive bullshit lines like don't be afraid of me, trust me, you're so beautiful, hiding behind money, she doesn't want me for my money, my figure is boyish, blah blah. It was the same ol shit on repeat... Broken up by 20 page sex scenes... Followed by more internal rambling... And topped off with a gigantic pile of cow shit.

• Childish voices.

• More thought and scene description than dialogue, and it's the most boring shit ever.

• I swear to you these are the LONGEST & most tediously boring sex scenes I've ever read. This is about as hot as a sub zero fridge!

• Cheesy parent scenes that take up a forth of the book and add nothing to the story not plot.

• Sudden transition from not thinking a relationship will work, that you don't trust the person, are too different from the person, need to focus elsewhere in life, etc -to- 'oh my Gawd I'm in love.' There was nada to explain or even prompt this transition either.

I could go on, but suffice to say that you can easily find every single element that typically irritates most readers in this book.

146 reviews5 followers
August 21, 2017
Ok

This book had all the potential for a great read but somehow due to the overly contemplative inner self dialogue it was a drag, sometimes boring and so turned out to be just ok at best!
Profile Image for Madeline Maureen.
265 reviews7 followers
August 7, 2016
1.5 stars
This took so much longer for me to read. I found myself not caring about the characters and then the left field plot lines that went nowhere just threw me right out of the story. And was that really the end of their story? Really? I spent three or four days and that was where it ended? I should have looked at the page and checked out Ash's review. Well it was a freebie so I got what I paid for I guess.
Profile Image for Janejellyroll.
983 reviews2 followers
December 16, 2025
This book felt sooooo long and tedious. I really thought it was never going to end. Remarkably little happens in terms of plot and it feels like there are multiple scenes covering essentially the same thing. The concept of the book is ridiculous. Kim, a recent art school graduate, sees a cute guy regularly using the gym where she is a receptionist. Jackson asks her out and she turns him down because ??? I'm not really sure. Then she finds out that her mom has cancer and is worried about how she's going to get treatment because they spent all their money on sending her to art school in California. Like, why on earth would you spend all your retirement money to send someone to ART SCHOOL? Her friend decides they should sell what they all consider her most valuable asset.

Of course Jackson is a billionaire who winds up winning the auction, blah blah blah. The descriptions of these characters are so inconsistent, sometimes even within a few lines.

Here's Kim on Jackson: "I liked that he didn’t flaunt his money. I mean, yeah, the guy drove a ridiculously expensive car—I didn’t even know the price tag on a Ferrari, but I assumed it cost more than my parents’ house. Everything about him exuded wealth, from the shoes to his tailored suit."

If someone is driving a "ridiculously expensive car" and everything about their clothing is saying they're wealthy, how is that not flaunting?

Likewise, Jackson keeps telling us that he loves that Kim doesn't care about his money. Really? You mean the money that allowed you to buy a night with her after she repeatedly turned you down for a date? Clearly she cares about the money. The only issue is that the author knows that's going to be an unappealing character trait for many readers, so she just has Jackson repeatedly tell us that she doesn't care about it.

The woman literally describes herself like this: "I lifted my gaze to his, searching for the guy I wanted to trust, the guy I had trusted with my most precious sexual asset." She's completely mercenary. The author should just embrace that instead of making Jackson look completely delusional. At one point he tells us: "Money attracted women. Except this one. She was completely immune to my net worth." This only makes sense if we completely ignore that she blew you off before you gave her one million dollars and she began dating you as soon as there was money on the table.

The editing is a bit rough and there are a few instances of things that don't really make sense. At one point, Jackson asks Kim what she'd like to drink and she tells him she would like a Jack Daniels. Then the waiter shows up and he orders her a "crown and coke." That's a whole different thing? I don't know if this was supposed to be him overriding her for a bit of alphahole energy or if the author didn't understand they're not the same.

Very ridiculous ending. come on now. The "ruin" in the title seems to be specifically about Kim's presumably decreased value as a potential mate once she had been with Jackson, as there's nothing particularly dark or emotional between these two that would give it another meaning. I can't say I like that either.
106 reviews
February 5, 2017
Love the story. But...

I read the stories out of order. Ruin me should be read first. Followed by Trent's story and then Vi's. There are HUGE inconsistencies both in this book and subsequent s books. At the beginning of Ruin Me, you learn Kim and Vi have separate homes, early on they party one night and Kim stays at VI's so she'll be closer to work in the morning. Later it's unclear if they are roommates and even later they are roommates. Because I read the books out of order I knew vi was a brunette, at one point in ruin me she is described and she's blonde which disturbed me, I am a very visual reader. Towards the end of the book she's a brunette again. Spoiler alert ... turns out Jackson has an illegitimate child in this book...Jackson and Kim play roles in the other stories, there isn't mention of this daughter. I have truly enjoyed all of the books in all 3 series but there needs to be better character continuity. In VI's story we hear Gavin's last name several times, and then it becomes part of the storyline that Vi doesn't know it. Picky details, which for me is sloppy writing/editing and a bit distracting. Nonetheless I would highly recommend all of he books if you're looking for a steamy entertaining read.
1,521 reviews45 followers
March 29, 2024
Kim gets news that no child wants to get and knows that she had to find money and quickly to help her parents. Her friend Vi convinces her that a virginity auction is the best way to make the most money. Vi convinces her that they can also set the auction up so she won’t end up with a looser.
Jackson has felt himself wanting more of what his sister has, but no one has ever kept his attention, until Kim who wants nothing to do with him, so when her friend calls letting him know about the auction he knows he’s going and going to do something he’s never done before.
Jackson convinces Kim to go on another date with him, but it’s all cut short when Kim decides she needs to go see how her mother is coping. Jackson still text checking on her, even calling. Kim knows she has to decide is Jackson what she wants, is she letting the fact that he has money stop her from having what she really wants.
Profile Image for Kristine.
453 reviews
May 27, 2018
Extensive but . . .

Jackson earned his way and wasn't apologetic nor should he be. Too bad Kim didn't change earlier in the story to a loving, caring, and supportive girlfriend. Wasn't a fan of adding a child to the hot mess. A long story like this and what happened to tying up loose ends? Why was a sculpture like the work Kim aspires to even present? It's ok she makes reference to it but what happened to Kim's sculpture? It even said in the story a sculpture of hers would be on display. I was disappointed that Jackson hasn't even seen her work. What is Kim going to do for work when she returns to San Francisco? See what I mean this book was 100+ chapters and nothing was wrapped up.
36 reviews10 followers
June 21, 2023
I have to say, I was totally prepared not to like a story about a young woman auctioning off her virginity. But, it is a really really good story. Totally hooked me in. The characters have awesome development so that I cared about each and every one of them. Only 2 issues, it went overboard on the amount of sex. That cost it a star as a headsup to those who don’t like pages and pages of sex scenes. The other is some things at least an editor should have caught. Even in a really fast jet, Mexico is more than a 90 minute flight from San Fran. Planes do not normally fly over golden gate to land in S.F. There was one other about distance to the ocean (vs the bay which is what S.F is on. Huge art community in Sausalito.
2 reviews
February 17, 2023
Ruin Me

I am Jeff's mother.
I actually got to read this Book not Jeff. !!!!
I loved this book. !!!!!!
The way the Author tells it is Beautiful.
How Jackson wants her to be with him. In his mind everything he does, he does to try an make her a stronger person, to know an say what she wants. I'm glad Vi had him be there at the Auction. I don't think she would be who she is today with anyone else. She never cared for his money, an that's something he's never come across. That's what makes her special to him an what also ultimately brings them so close together. Her writing is exceptional. I would recommend this book to anyone an everyone
Profile Image for Bonnie Moede.
117 reviews8 followers
October 28, 2018
Too many substories

Hard to say if this was a romance story about a virgin and billionaire, about an art student and her best friend the party girl, about a daughter whose mother has cancer, about a billionaire player and his suddenly discovered daughter, or about party planning an art show. And so many slams about small town living in Minnesota (could have been any non-coastal state) - no sophistication or appreciation of art or culture. Not interested in reading any others by this author.
Profile Image for cartyglendagmail.
74 reviews2 followers
December 3, 2016
Amazing and heartwarming

This book was so heartwarming it turns you inside out upside down you didn't know what was coming next but you were hoping for the best it's something that you should read it just was amazing I don't want to give too much of the book away but it's something that but you will remember for a long time it squeezes the heart thank you for such a good read and something that I will remember for a long time
Profile Image for Jackie.
363 reviews5 followers
June 8, 2017
Yet another fab book set

It all started with lust for one and other while Kim is working at a rec center and Jackson goes their to bow off steam he falls for her ,hook line and sinker his the rich kid she's just the average girl next door .Kim needs money to help her mom out her friend vi comes up with an idea to auction her off . will it all go to plan . this book is funny and sad and a must read xx
Profile Image for Anna.
1,070 reviews4 followers
October 1, 2017
The things we do for love

Really enjoyed this story. The meaning for Kim giving up her V card was so moving . Jackson is This rich man who's not looking for a relationship but finds himself feeling things he's never felt before. This book has so much emotion and real life struggles that it keeps you turning the pages to find out what happen next. Loved all the characters and what they brought to the story. I would definitely recommend reading.
Profile Image for SUSAN STORM .
393 reviews13 followers
January 21, 2019
Adore this One

Dear Readers
Simply pick up a copy . It’s. Gem 💎 of a Read .
Sexy ,Funny , meant to be romance ... when tough times collide with destiny. A story showing never judge a book by its cover . Money can make people shallow .. but some just need a reminder of the humble life .
When passion wins to create a beautiful song . A heart knows at times what our brain wants to fight .


#Booksugargetkissed 📚💋~Bibliophile Susan
14 reviews
April 18, 2021
Ruined for me

I have given this book a generous three stars. While the storyline is okay, it is just far too drawn out and there are far too many quick changes of heart for no apparent reason. Kim’s mum has cancer and she has treatment and goes into remission with her hair growing back all in the space of 2 months. A daughter from a previous relationship appears out of nowhere. I read to the end of the book but I’m afraid that’s it for me.
Profile Image for Lynn.
231 reviews
December 7, 2021
Surprisingly wonderful!

Is there lots of sex with a crazy storyline…yes! I loved this book and found myself wrapped up in Kim’s life. Her falling in love with Jackson (although through tough and strange circumstances), her BFF Vi helping and standing by her side throughout every situation (good and bad), and her parents struggle as her mother has health issues that arise. This book is worth the read, but if you don’t like sex scenes or reading them it may not be for you.
350 reviews2 followers
February 23, 2024
Not the usual run in the mill book!

This may be a marathon read compared to many books of the genre, but it’s well worth the time spent doing so. The characters build beautifully, there is enough spiciness without being over the top but as a part of the plot and not put in for pure sensationalism. The writing flows, drawing you into the characters lives, with enough description to keep your interest without swamping you. A really good read!
Profile Image for Tonya Peterson.
1,596 reviews3 followers
May 19, 2019
Love is more than money

This book caught my attention quickly but as i was reading thinking about what was going through her mind as things happened, I'm sure we all went through that "trust" into play. As the saying goes "everything happens for a reason". Even if bidding off her virginity.
Profile Image for Brandan WH.
655 reviews4 followers
December 29, 2021
Tastes have changed

There is nothing, inherently, wrong with this book outside of the topic no longer appealing to me any longer. I’m not interested in a worldly billionaire “taking” the virginity of a desperate young woman. Was this discussed with care? Yes. But did I still want to read about it? Not in the least.
This was a DNF.
Profile Image for Jacqui Foster.
987 reviews3 followers
May 17, 2017
Great read

I really enjoyed the story of Kim and Jackson, it was lust at first how she thought of him not knowing he was thinking the same about her, when the opportunity calm he grabbed it. Making for a good story
Profile Image for Jo Phillips.
99 reviews2 followers
January 27, 2018
Going by the blurb , this book sound really good. It had a good plot , but at times it was a let down. It had consistencies , which had me re reading a few parts. I really wanted to like it more than I did.
Profile Image for Shelly Celli.
2,248 reviews6 followers
November 9, 2018
Thrilling and sexy!

This was an absolute joy to read. Yes there’s lots of steamy, sexy times, but the overall storyline was great. Kim learned to trust and to love both herself and the love of her life. Can’t wait to see what’s next!
Profile Image for Lor.
376 reviews
February 21, 2021
Dear diary

This book had potential. Had it not been for the extensive and too many introspection I might have enjoyed it more. Just ended up glossing over what was more like a diary than actual story.
Profile Image for Debby.
1,931 reviews5 followers
February 14, 2023
unexpected.

How does an author write (for about a hundred pages) a slow burn, that combusts in ravaging flames consuming everything? This was not what was expected. So much more depth. Enjoyed this. Will read more books by this author. Recommend.
328 reviews1 follower
February 24, 2023
Ok

I liked the story and loved the family. what was the purpose of bringing the kid into this relationship if no epilogue. I'm so disappointed. This was going great and the friendship was one in a million but just ending the story really sucked. Wow!!!
65 reviews
December 28, 2024
all in for love

What a beautiful read a story of how love can come together. A small town girl gets to keep a millionaire. I recommend this book to all out that loves this type of story.
181 reviews2 followers
January 14, 2018
Virgin for sale!

Sex sex sex and oh did I mention SEX. Nice love story but way overboard with the sex. Just to much.
7 reviews
June 5, 2018
Wonderful book.

This book kept me reading page after page until finished it in one day. Loved the emotions from each of the characters. Keep writing books CJ Thomas.
Profile Image for Seriniti.
411 reviews30 followers
October 9, 2018
Awww

This story had me crying. Very beautiful. So glad her mom is doing well and that her parents took the news well
Profile Image for Kelly.
359 reviews4 followers
October 12, 2018
Great book

Very sexy and great book!! I loved reading it! I can not wait to read more books in this series!!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.