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Jump #1
Elimination
Thalia Maxwell has it all. Daughter of one of the richest men in the world and a movie star mother. Except all she dreamed of is for the chance to make a career in showjumping. Thalia manages to convince her father to send her to train with world number one showjumper Theodore Rhodes after she finishes school.
Arriving in Wellington Thalia expects hard work and dedication. What she doesn’t expect is the tension, the push and pull between a man she should never have. A man that is in a relationship. A man that could ruin her. As they get to know each other and feelings develop, will she be able to stay away from him or will she jump in headfirst?
Theodore Rhodes is at the top of his sport. His results and reputation in the world of showjumping are yet to be beaten. When he gets asked to train Thalia Maxwell, he jumps at the chance. Not because he wants to but having a big name like hers will bring him even more into the spotlight than he already is.
But when Thalia arrives he expects a spoiled little princess that wants to play my little pony. What he doesn’t expect is a girl so determined and beautiful he can’t help but be drawn to her. The more time they spend together the further he falls. Will he risk everything for the one girl he should never have?
Trigger Warning!!!
ELIMINATION is a new series and book 1 in the series with a cliffhanger. It does contain tropes that some may find triggering such as cheating. However, the series will end in a happily ever after... eventually!
Arriving in Wellington Thalia expects hard work and dedication. What she doesn’t expect is the tension, the push and pull between a man she should never have. A man that is in a relationship. A man that could ruin her. As they get to know each other and feelings develop, will she be able to stay away from him or will she jump in headfirst?
Theodore Rhodes is at the top of his sport. His results and reputation in the world of showjumping are yet to be beaten. When he gets asked to train Thalia Maxwell, he jumps at the chance. Not because he wants to but having a big name like hers will bring him even more into the spotlight than he already is.
But when Thalia arrives he expects a spoiled little princess that wants to play my little pony. What he doesn’t expect is a girl so determined and beautiful he can’t help but be drawn to her. The more time they spend together the further he falls. Will he risk everything for the one girl he should never have?
Trigger Warning!!!
ELIMINATION is a new series and book 1 in the series with a cliffhanger. It does contain tropes that some may find triggering such as cheating. However, the series will end in a happily ever after... eventually!
252 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
January 21, 2022
Conflicted
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3.5)
Trope: taboo (student teacher); age gap
Angst: 😱😱😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Triggers: cheating
Super conflicted about this read. Overall, I enjoyed many parts of this story. I love reading a book and learning about a subject I don’t know about. There was obviously a lot of research into riding and I found it absolutely fascinating. It was well written and moved quickly. I also enjoyed how hot the smexy times were - totally lit up my kindle from early on. Saying that, while I loved Kelly’s last book, but this one was a hard no for me. Elimination does come with a cheating warning and I’ve read and enjoyed quite a few books that had cheating and consider myself open minded. And I love morally grey heroes. But I REALLY struggled with Theo. He intentionally went after his student while he still had a girlfriend and then went back and forth having smexy with both of them - sometimes in the same night. Unwilling to break it off with his girlfriend, but unwilling to stop going after Thalia. He was sexually and emotionally manipulative. The whole reason he was with his girlfriend and stayed with her was to finance his career. He just seemed yucky and I never reached a point while reading that made me change my opinion on him. There were points while reading that I physically cringed. I also had a hard time with Thalia’s acceptance of his behavior. I’m hoping he will find a way to start redeeming himself early in the next book, otherwise I have a feeling it’ll be a DNF for me. Kelly Kelsey is really a fabulous writer and while this story had themes and characters that totally pushed my boundaries, I’ll definitely be giving her another try.
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3.5)
Trope: taboo (student teacher); age gap
Angst: 😱😱😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Triggers: cheating
Super conflicted about this read. Overall, I enjoyed many parts of this story. I love reading a book and learning about a subject I don’t know about. There was obviously a lot of research into riding and I found it absolutely fascinating. It was well written and moved quickly. I also enjoyed how hot the smexy times were - totally lit up my kindle from early on. Saying that, while I loved Kelly’s last book, but this one was a hard no for me. Elimination does come with a cheating warning and I’ve read and enjoyed quite a few books that had cheating and consider myself open minded. And I love morally grey heroes. But I REALLY struggled with Theo. He intentionally went after his student while he still had a girlfriend and then went back and forth having smexy with both of them - sometimes in the same night. Unwilling to break it off with his girlfriend, but unwilling to stop going after Thalia. He was sexually and emotionally manipulative. The whole reason he was with his girlfriend and stayed with her was to finance his career. He just seemed yucky and I never reached a point while reading that made me change my opinion on him. There were points while reading that I physically cringed. I also had a hard time with Thalia’s acceptance of his behavior. I’m hoping he will find a way to start redeeming himself early in the next book, otherwise I have a feeling it’ll be a DNF for me. Kelly Kelsey is really a fabulous writer and while this story had themes and characters that totally pushed my boundaries, I’ll definitely be giving her another try.
December 6, 2022
Theo was a total douche. He had a long term gf that he didn't love; he was just using her because her father had a lot of money and he used it to buy Theo expensive horses to ride. Theo was cheating on his gf with his 18 year old riding student and f#%king both of them at the same time, sometimes in the same day. This is NOT my idea of a romance.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 29, 2021
OMG..... This book.....
Wow, this book was so addicting from start to finish! This is Kelly Kelsey's brand new book that will be out January 21st.
It is about Thalia Maxwell, who is the daughter of one of the richest men in the world and a movie star mother. All she has dreamed of is the chance to make a career in showjumping. She manages to convince her father to send her to train with world number one showjumper Theodore Rhodes after she finishes school. What Thalia doesn't expect is the tension, and the push and pull between a man she should never have. As they get to know each other and feelings develop, will she be able to stay away? Theodore is at the top of his sport, he jumps at the chance to train her because of her name. But, when Thalia arrives he expects a brat, what he does not expect is a girl so beautiful and determined he can't help but be drawn to her.
Gosh, this book was outstanding! I wasn't sure what to expect at first, but once I started reading I was hooked into this story. I really love Thalia, she is such a strong young woman who won't take anyone's crap! Theodore is something else! He is kind of a jerk, but trust me you will fall in love with him. His life is pretty complicated to be honest, with his girlfriend and his growing feelings for Thalia, you can't help but feel bad for the guy. There is a lot of unexpected twists in this book that made me either laugh, get very angry, or just cry. This is the kind of book that will have you feeling all kinds of things. I've read other age gap books in the past and I just didn't really enjoy it that much. But this one I loved so much! It's got everything you need in a forbidden romance! It's got drama, romance, spice, a independent young woman you will love, a guy who is kind of a grump but is so loving deep down! Also just gotta mention that cliffhanger just about killed me…….
Go and check out this amazing story! Trust me you will not be disappointed!
Thank you for giving me this amazing arc!
5 Stars!!!
Wow, this book was so addicting from start to finish! This is Kelly Kelsey's brand new book that will be out January 21st.
It is about Thalia Maxwell, who is the daughter of one of the richest men in the world and a movie star mother. All she has dreamed of is the chance to make a career in showjumping. She manages to convince her father to send her to train with world number one showjumper Theodore Rhodes after she finishes school. What Thalia doesn't expect is the tension, and the push and pull between a man she should never have. As they get to know each other and feelings develop, will she be able to stay away? Theodore is at the top of his sport, he jumps at the chance to train her because of her name. But, when Thalia arrives he expects a brat, what he does not expect is a girl so beautiful and determined he can't help but be drawn to her.
Gosh, this book was outstanding! I wasn't sure what to expect at first, but once I started reading I was hooked into this story. I really love Thalia, she is such a strong young woman who won't take anyone's crap! Theodore is something else! He is kind of a jerk, but trust me you will fall in love with him. His life is pretty complicated to be honest, with his girlfriend and his growing feelings for Thalia, you can't help but feel bad for the guy. There is a lot of unexpected twists in this book that made me either laugh, get very angry, or just cry. This is the kind of book that will have you feeling all kinds of things. I've read other age gap books in the past and I just didn't really enjoy it that much. But this one I loved so much! It's got everything you need in a forbidden romance! It's got drama, romance, spice, a independent young woman you will love, a guy who is kind of a grump but is so loving deep down! Also just gotta mention that cliffhanger just about killed me…….
Go and check out this amazing story! Trust me you will not be disappointed!
Thank you for giving me this amazing arc!
5 Stars!!!
December 27, 2021
This is one HELLUEVA a start to the jump series by Kelly Kelsey. I friggin love how we immediately jump straight into the story and the sexual chemistry. Love the eye f*cking going on and the tension that builds.
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Theodore friggin Rhodes damn * cue wolf whistle* his jealously and possessiveness shines through and it is drool worthy forsure! Theo is entitled as*hole but damn he is smooth and you feel every emotion and word he says.
I love how mature yet innocent Thalia is but with a whole heap of sass and charismatic. Thalia knows her dream and despite her age she takes it in her stride.
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Elimination gives a real deep insight to the showjumping world and i adore all the details Kelly has laced within the pages to make you really connect!
The story flow really well and i love the drama and tension building but holyguacamole that cliff hanger.. my poor heart is aching for more. I need to know where this is going...
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Theodore friggin Rhodes damn * cue wolf whistle* his jealously and possessiveness shines through and it is drool worthy forsure! Theo is entitled as*hole but damn he is smooth and you feel every emotion and word he says.
I love how mature yet innocent Thalia is but with a whole heap of sass and charismatic. Thalia knows her dream and despite her age she takes it in her stride.
-----------------
Elimination gives a real deep insight to the showjumping world and i adore all the details Kelly has laced within the pages to make you really connect!
The story flow really well and i love the drama and tension building but holyguacamole that cliff hanger.. my poor heart is aching for more. I need to know where this is going...
December 31, 2021
This my last book I'm reading this year! It was an amazing insta lust plot with an alpha a$$ hole male and a younger woman. There is cheating so trigger warning. It was a good read, characters for me weren't relatable but that's ok to each their own the plot was great but I hate that it's a cliff hanger. Worth the read. Happy new year!
January 2, 2022
This was such an easy read and it was nice to read something introducing myself into the sport of show jumping 🏇🏻
I must say I really liked Thalia.. I like her work ethic & that she doesn’t stand for shit but has this kindness and innocence that is so pure.
Where as Theo.. I have went through all the feels. I liked him at first.. understood he was trying to do the right thing. He was clear in his reasons & choices in his life with who’s involved. But then I went to thinking he was the biggest asshole.. (which I normally like, love a good anti-hero) but in a way I didn’t like, it was like all he wanted Thalia for was sex and her looks. Also his an hypercritical prick. Buttttt saying that, I do think he pulled me back in around 60%. Phew! Because you can clearly see Theo & Thalia are made for each other.
Love the forbidden, betrayal, age gap of this, which Kelly writes in a great way. Nice, easy, good read! I can’t wait read the next because that cliffhanger 😭.
Look out for release 21st January 🎉
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I must say I really liked Thalia.. I like her work ethic & that she doesn’t stand for shit but has this kindness and innocence that is so pure.
Where as Theo.. I have went through all the feels. I liked him at first.. understood he was trying to do the right thing. He was clear in his reasons & choices in his life with who’s involved. But then I went to thinking he was the biggest asshole.. (which I normally like, love a good anti-hero) but in a way I didn’t like, it was like all he wanted Thalia for was sex and her looks. Also his an hypercritical prick. Buttttt saying that, I do think he pulled me back in around 60%. Phew! Because you can clearly see Theo & Thalia are made for each other.
Love the forbidden, betrayal, age gap of this, which Kelly writes in a great way. Nice, easy, good read! I can’t wait read the next because that cliffhanger 😭.
Look out for release 21st January 🎉
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
December 29, 2021
This is the last book I'll read for 2021 and what a perfect book to end on. If you read and loved the Off Balance series, you must check out this series! Thalia's a young, innocent student whose passion is horses. She wants to pursue jumping as a career and needs training from an expert, her idol Theo. Theo is immediately ensnared by the young beauty even though he's 12 years older and has a long term girlfriend. These two have instant sparks and their chemistry is irresistible. While Theo tries to run away from it, he can't help but continue to be drawn to the hard working Thalia. Theo will not be everyone's cup of tea because this is a hero that is seriously flawed, but man was it refreshing to read. A lot of times the hero tends to be written by women for women and Theo felt like a real guy you could encounter outside book world. He has a lot of room to grow and he shows those steps throughout the book although he's plagued by fear. Thalia is innocent and goes through that first love phase so she also is experiencing when to fight for herself. Despite their struggles the steam between these two is off the charts and there's an emotional connection that neither will voice but know it exists This is a forbidden romance that is not to be missed out on. It is part of a series so when I got to the climax I wanted to throw my kindle across the room because I cannot wait for more. I will definitely be thinking of this book for q long time to come.
December 28, 2021
Damn!!! What a ride…
I loved the Insta chemistry, the fight they put up, the steam and oh my god Theo’s hot alpha protectiveness 🖤 I enjoyed Thalia’s feistiness and her determination. But these two were inevitable- the pull between them too strong.. but really - that ending - I need more, I need to know how Thalia reacts!!
I thoroughly enjoyed this and couldn’t put it down - read in one sitting.
I loved the Insta chemistry, the fight they put up, the steam and oh my god Theo’s hot alpha protectiveness 🖤 I enjoyed Thalia’s feistiness and her determination. But these two were inevitable- the pull between them too strong.. but really - that ending - I need more, I need to know how Thalia reacts!!
I thoroughly enjoyed this and couldn’t put it down - read in one sitting.
January 21, 2022
WOW! What an amazing story from start to finish! I was utterly captivated, entranced with the characters and then shocked by the way it all ended. It’s one hell of an emotional rollercoaster ride that I never wanted to end.
Thalia and Theodore are attracted to each other right from the very first time their eyes meet. And boy can you feel it as you read it! The tension between them was HOT and INTENSE!
Theodore is 100% an alpha a-hole. He’s possessive, jealous and a jerk when he wants to be. He may be an a-hole at times but boy could he make me swoon! I loved the back and forth banter between Theodore and Thalia. They made me laugh, cry and just get really frustrated. They had my emotions all over they place.
Really well written story that pulls you in and has you captivated right to the very end. It’s filled with angst, drama, romance, spice and passion. Be ready to laugh, cry and shout while reading this amazing story! I loved every second of it and can’t wait for the next part of the story.
Thalia and Theodore are attracted to each other right from the very first time their eyes meet. And boy can you feel it as you read it! The tension between them was HOT and INTENSE!
Theodore is 100% an alpha a-hole. He’s possessive, jealous and a jerk when he wants to be. He may be an a-hole at times but boy could he make me swoon! I loved the back and forth banter between Theodore and Thalia. They made me laugh, cry and just get really frustrated. They had my emotions all over they place.
Really well written story that pulls you in and has you captivated right to the very end. It’s filled with angst, drama, romance, spice and passion. Be ready to laugh, cry and shout while reading this amazing story! I loved every second of it and can’t wait for the next part of the story.
December 30, 2021
I feel in love with Kelly Kelsey when I read Sweet Temptation and was so excited to start this one! I love this one just as much!!
Elimination follows Thalia Maxwell, the daughter of one of the richest men in the world and her mom is a movie star. Thalia has always wanted a chance to have her dream career of showjumping. When she finally wears her father down, he agrees when she finishes school, she can train with Theodore Rhodes, the #1 showjumper in the world.
When Thalia and Theodore meet, sparks fly instantly and the tension is THICK!! Theodore wasn't expecting Thalia and he is drawn to her right away. Theodore may seem like a jerk, but you will fall in love with him!
There were so many twists I wasn't expecting, and you will cry, laugh, swoon, and get angry over the course of this book. And that cliffhanger almost ripped my heart out!! I cant wait for the next book!! If you love forbidden, age gap, with some drama and spice, read this book!!!
Elimination follows Thalia Maxwell, the daughter of one of the richest men in the world and her mom is a movie star. Thalia has always wanted a chance to have her dream career of showjumping. When she finally wears her father down, he agrees when she finishes school, she can train with Theodore Rhodes, the #1 showjumper in the world.
When Thalia and Theodore meet, sparks fly instantly and the tension is THICK!! Theodore wasn't expecting Thalia and he is drawn to her right away. Theodore may seem like a jerk, but you will fall in love with him!
There were so many twists I wasn't expecting, and you will cry, laugh, swoon, and get angry over the course of this book. And that cliffhanger almost ripped my heart out!! I cant wait for the next book!! If you love forbidden, age gap, with some drama and spice, read this book!!!
January 1, 2022
I really enjoyed this book. This is my second age gap book. I have come to find that I like them. I will definitely read more of these kinds of books. Thalia is an 18 year old who loves show jumping. Her father is a rich businessman. Her mother is a famous actress. Thalia talks her father into letting her train with Theo. He is the best show Jumper in the world. Theo finds Thalia very attractive. He has to fight his attraction to her. Thalia Also finds herself attracted to Theo. Be prepared for lots of drama and lots of steam. Will Thalia and Theo end up together or will Theo’s girlfriend Mel win? Read the book to find out.
December 31, 2021
Elimination is book one in the Jump Series, which is a steamy Equestrian Romance. This is the first book I have read by Kelly Kelsey and I absolutely loved it. I love Horses and Romance so this was so for me!
I loved that there was a Playlist at the beginning of the book, this is such a unique addition!
Not only did this book have some very steamy scenes - those stable scenes OH MY GOODNESS 🥵- there was a lot of depth to the characters and I enjoyed reading about Show Jumping and the training involved.
I don’t think I’ve ever read a romance that ended on a cliff hanger and what a cliff hanger it was! Going to be eagerly waiting the next in this series to find out what happens next and get to know Thalia and Theo more.
I loved that there was a Playlist at the beginning of the book, this is such a unique addition!
Not only did this book have some very steamy scenes - those stable scenes OH MY GOODNESS 🥵- there was a lot of depth to the characters and I enjoyed reading about Show Jumping and the training involved.
I don’t think I’ve ever read a romance that ended on a cliff hanger and what a cliff hanger it was! Going to be eagerly waiting the next in this series to find out what happens next and get to know Thalia and Theo more.
January 8, 2022
4 & 1/2 hot jumping stars!!!
At first i was unsure how i would feel about this one when i heard there was cheating involved, but i was pleasantly surprised by how gripped i was by these characters. Their chemistry and characteristics just pull you in.
Theo and Thalia were the perfect pairing regardless of their 12 year age gap, its just a shame Theo is already taken...
I loved how their romance blossomed and that cliff hanger, 🤯 i can not wait for book 2.
Kelly i see an amazing future for you and i can wait to see what you give to the world of romance 😍
At first i was unsure how i would feel about this one when i heard there was cheating involved, but i was pleasantly surprised by how gripped i was by these characters. Their chemistry and characteristics just pull you in.
Theo and Thalia were the perfect pairing regardless of their 12 year age gap, its just a shame Theo is already taken...
I loved how their romance blossomed and that cliff hanger, 🤯 i can not wait for book 2.
Kelly i see an amazing future for you and i can wait to see what you give to the world of romance 😍
January 25, 2022
3.5 stars!!!
What first attracted me to this book was knowing that it was a forbidden, age gap and cheating romance and I am so glad I decided to give it a try. Elimination was angsty, steamy and I really liked the showjumping background.There were parts that were a bit predictable and I'm not quite sold on the main characters yet, they both frustrated me for different reasons. I'm curious though to see if my opinion of them will change moving forward. This book does end on a cliffhanger and I can't wait to see what will happen next.
What first attracted me to this book was knowing that it was a forbidden, age gap and cheating romance and I am so glad I decided to give it a try. Elimination was angsty, steamy and I really liked the showjumping background.There were parts that were a bit predictable and I'm not quite sold on the main characters yet, they both frustrated me for different reasons. I'm curious though to see if my opinion of them will change moving forward. This book does end on a cliffhanger and I can't wait to see what will happen next.
July 23, 2024
A cute story but oh my god I hated the MMC and the FMC needs a slap around the face with a chair.
January 22, 2022
I really liked this book - super steamy, and a proper hate-to-love character in Theo!
As a romance reader, the cheating trope is a little taboo for me and I'd usually stay away from it. I can see why it was needed for the story because it raises the stakes and sends the tension between Thalia and Theo through the roof, but it did make it hard for me to read at points! *Damn you Theo!!* :D
I'm hoping this story gets the HEA it deserves! <3
As a romance reader, the cheating trope is a little taboo for me and I'd usually stay away from it. I can see why it was needed for the story because it raises the stakes and sends the tension between Thalia and Theo through the roof, but it did make it hard for me to read at points! *Damn you Theo!!* :D
I'm hoping this story gets the HEA it deserves! <3
Read
August 2, 2023Dnf at 20%. This may be a little harsh but literally every single sentence up until this point has been about horse riding or about horses in general and I just can’t do it.
July 11, 2022
This book is out of my normal genre, but I'm glad I took a shot on it. Well-written and captivating, this story immediately pulls you in and entwines you in this sordid tale.
Thalia Maxwell is not your typical heiress - down to earth... the "good" girl... unafraid of hard work... and determined to make a career of show jumping. She did her research and convinced her father to send her to train with world class showjumper Theodore Rhodes upon graduating... but what happens when the good girl really likes something bad? The chemistry between these two is off the charts; however Theo's long-term girlfriend (whom he's never been unfaithful to) has laid claim to her man, and she's not going away any time soon. How will this love triangle settle? Will they ignore their feelings or commit the unthinkable?
This book was really well written, and once I started, I couldn't stop! I generally shy away from cheating stories, but (while I still don't condone cheating), I appreciated the blossoming love story embedded in this one.
I'm a big fan of Thalia - so strong, feisty and willing to stand up for herself. Theo took me awhile to warm to... he's a real alpha-hole. He has those moments though where you love to hate him, but you also love him. His backstory is complicated, and I honestly feel kind of bad for him.
The cliffy though - it was brutal. I'm so ready for book to! Recommend this for any of you romance lovers looking for age-gap, bully romances with a horse/showjumping twist!
Thalia Maxwell is not your typical heiress - down to earth... the "good" girl... unafraid of hard work... and determined to make a career of show jumping. She did her research and convinced her father to send her to train with world class showjumper Theodore Rhodes upon graduating... but what happens when the good girl really likes something bad? The chemistry between these two is off the charts; however Theo's long-term girlfriend (whom he's never been unfaithful to) has laid claim to her man, and she's not going away any time soon. How will this love triangle settle? Will they ignore their feelings or commit the unthinkable?
This book was really well written, and once I started, I couldn't stop! I generally shy away from cheating stories, but (while I still don't condone cheating), I appreciated the blossoming love story embedded in this one.
I'm a big fan of Thalia - so strong, feisty and willing to stand up for herself. Theo took me awhile to warm to... he's a real alpha-hole. He has those moments though where you love to hate him, but you also love him. His backstory is complicated, and I honestly feel kind of bad for him.
The cliffy though - it was brutal. I'm so ready for book to! Recommend this for any of you romance lovers looking for age-gap, bully romances with a horse/showjumping twist!
January 4, 2022
Holy Addictive Hotness!
Elimination by Kelly Kelsey is an age gap / forbidden romance story that will have hooked from the straight up instant sexual chemistry to the oh god my heart is not ok cliffhanger.
Theodore *panty stealing* Rhodes is a oh so smmmoootthhhh and possessive a**hat alpha that you will want to either climb like a tree or junk punch. This man had me damn frustrated, swooning, laughing at his alpha ness, and feeling a bit hot and bothered. I mean damn!!!!
18 year old Thalia may come from an extremely wealthy family but she has dreams of her own, to become successful in the showjumping world. Although Thalia is still quite young I loved that this still fairly innocent girl not only had sass but also a backbone. So, while the pull and sexual tension between them was off the charts she still knew her worth.
The showjumping world particularly in a romance book is new to me, but I loved it. It was evident Kelly Kelsey had either done her research or she is passionate about the sport herself.
This was a fabulous read that I devoured. I loved the lust, the tension, the angst, the build up of drama, the steam, the alpha-ness, and even the heart aching cliffy that left me desperate for more.
Bring on Book 2!!!
Elimination by Kelly Kelsey is an age gap / forbidden romance story that will have hooked from the straight up instant sexual chemistry to the oh god my heart is not ok cliffhanger.
Theodore *panty stealing* Rhodes is a oh so smmmoootthhhh and possessive a**hat alpha that you will want to either climb like a tree or junk punch. This man had me damn frustrated, swooning, laughing at his alpha ness, and feeling a bit hot and bothered. I mean damn!!!!
18 year old Thalia may come from an extremely wealthy family but she has dreams of her own, to become successful in the showjumping world. Although Thalia is still quite young I loved that this still fairly innocent girl not only had sass but also a backbone. So, while the pull and sexual tension between them was off the charts she still knew her worth.
The showjumping world particularly in a romance book is new to me, but I loved it. It was evident Kelly Kelsey had either done her research or she is passionate about the sport herself.
This was a fabulous read that I devoured. I loved the lust, the tension, the angst, the build up of drama, the steam, the alpha-ness, and even the heart aching cliffy that left me desperate for more.
Bring on Book 2!!!
February 8, 2022
This is the first book I’ve ever read by this author and it definitely won’t be the last.🙌🏻❤️
Take a journey on a forbidden ride with Theo and Thalia.
When Thalia wants to be the best show jumper she can be her parents send her to train with the legendary Theo Rhodes.
So dark and mysterious is he.
The attraction between them is a live wire and also the last thing either of them need.
See Theo is not only her trainer and older then her, he is also a taken man.
When they both finally cave to the explosive chemistry things get super hot but oh so dangerous.
Really a good read. Fast paced and keep me interested.
Most definitely super steamy …woah momma 🥵🥵🔥
I know the cheating trope is not everyone’s jam but let’s just say Theo’s relationship with his “girlfriend” is a cluster fuck.
Excited to see where this story goes since that ending had me soooooooo rilled up!!
Must read for any romance lover.
Especially those who enjoy teacher/forbidden/age gap romance.
Take a journey on a forbidden ride with Theo and Thalia.
When Thalia wants to be the best show jumper she can be her parents send her to train with the legendary Theo Rhodes.
So dark and mysterious is he.
The attraction between them is a live wire and also the last thing either of them need.
See Theo is not only her trainer and older then her, he is also a taken man.
When they both finally cave to the explosive chemistry things get super hot but oh so dangerous.
Really a good read. Fast paced and keep me interested.
Most definitely super steamy …woah momma 🥵🥵🔥
I know the cheating trope is not everyone’s jam but let’s just say Theo’s relationship with his “girlfriend” is a cluster fuck.
Excited to see where this story goes since that ending had me soooooooo rilled up!!
Must read for any romance lover.
Especially those who enjoy teacher/forbidden/age gap romance.
January 23, 2022
Just realized this didn’t post yesterday. SORRY! My friends
This is a different read than what y’all expect from me I know. However fun fact I’ve ridden and owned horses since I was born pretty much. I showed for years Western saddle however never English like this book is based. But ya girls sisters rode English and jumped a bit so I know the business. So obviously when I saw this I HAD to read it.
OBSESSED @authorkellykelsey killed it. It was emotional, it was spicy, it had/has me ticked off. I’m so mad but love Theo. I gate how naive Thalia is being. Im sad she’s about to be ruined by Theo and his cowardice. I loved the horse part of it. I cant wait for the next book.
This is a different read than what y’all expect from me I know. However fun fact I’ve ridden and owned horses since I was born pretty much. I showed for years Western saddle however never English like this book is based. But ya girls sisters rode English and jumped a bit so I know the business. So obviously when I saw this I HAD to read it.
OBSESSED @authorkellykelsey killed it. It was emotional, it was spicy, it had/has me ticked off. I’m so mad but love Theo. I gate how naive Thalia is being. Im sad she’s about to be ruined by Theo and his cowardice. I loved the horse part of it. I cant wait for the next book.
January 21, 2022
Wow, this book grabbed me and kept me interested from beginning to the very last page. It moves along at a speed which makes for a relaxing and comfortable read. It has interesting characters and a story that will not disappoint. This book needs to be on your TBR list, you will not be sorry that you did.
April 21, 2022
Holy Smokes!! I literally devoured this book! I came across a new author, after reading a brief synopsis, and I’m so glad I did! It was exciting, forbidden and passionate! Rapidly turning the page’s, I anticipated something that was going to happen, and sure enough an explosive cliffhanger! I was drawn to the story line and and desperate for more! Fantastic story!
January 25, 2022
Could not put this book down!!
I loved this story!
I love a forbidden romance!
I loved Thalia and her determination to become what she wants. I loved Theo and how his and Thalias relationship is.
I cannot wait for book 2 to find out what happens next with Thalia and Theo. I hope they get their hea!!
Totally recommend you read this!!
I loved this story!
I love a forbidden romance!
I loved Thalia and her determination to become what she wants. I loved Theo and how his and Thalias relationship is.
I cannot wait for book 2 to find out what happens next with Thalia and Theo. I hope they get their hea!!
Totally recommend you read this!!
May 24, 2022
This is the exact copy of the Balance story from Lucia Franco!!!! How f* dare you???
November 22, 2024
Writing was crap
July 12, 2022
Elimination (Jump #1) by Kelly Kelsey
4/5 Stars
2.5/5 Spice
BACKLIST REVIEW – Published January 21st 2022
Is it on KU?: Yes, it's included!
Book Cover: Sexy-Sporty
Favorite Quote: “That’s it, Piccola, come on my fingers.”
I got this book as a backlist book from The Smuthood – Book Tours. This is book #1 in the series “Jump”. It ends with a cliffhanger, so you’ll want to read the others.
This book not only had a good plot but had some good spice. I'm a sucker for anything that involves tropes including sporty, forbidden love, grump/sunshine, and age gape. This book has ALL the above. This book honestly has you addicted from the very start wanting to know what is going to happen between Theo & Thalia. I loved that you could feel the sexual tension and chemistry between Theo & Thalia from the MOMENT they met.
Thalia is an 18-year-old virgin, daddy’s princess, and the light of her mother’s eyes. With her parents being two of the richest people in the entire world she can have whatever she wants, when she wants it, except for Theo. Theo is her new personal trainer. Theo is 30, annoyingly handsome, and has a long-term girlfriend. So why does Thalia want someone who is so off limits??
I love how strong-willed and determined Thalia is from the start. She doesn’t let anyone or anything bring her down and that’s a trait all women should have. I despised Theo and everything about him at first. But you end up loving his asshole/protective ways and really root for him & Thalia to make it work.
This book was one hell of a ride and will not disappoint.
You can find my videos/reviews at the different links below:
https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTdGqyRP5/
https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/1...
https://www.amazon.com/gp/profile/amz...
PUBLISHER DESCRIPTION
Thalia Maxwell has it all. Daughter of one of the richest men in the world and a movie star mother. Except all she dreamed of is for the chance to make a career in showjumping. Thalia manages to convince her father to send her to train with world number one showjumper Theodore Rhodes after she finishes school.
Arriving in Wellington Thalia expects hard work and dedication. What she doesn’t expect is the tension, the push and pull between a man she should never have. A man that is in a relationship. A man that could ruin her. As they get to know each other and feelings develop, will she be able to stay away from him or will she jump in headfirst?
Theodore Rhodes is at the top of his sport. His results and reputation in the world of showjumping are yet to be beaten. When he gets asked to train Thalia Maxwell, he jumps at the chance. Not because he wants to but having a big name like hers will bring him even more into the spotlight than he already is.
But when Thalia arrives he expects a spoiled little princess that wants to play my little pony. What he doesn’t expect is a girl so determined and beautiful he can’t help but be drawn to her. The more time they spend together the further he falls. Will he risk everything for the one girl he should never have?
Trigger Warning!!!
ELIMINATION is a new series and book 1 in the series with a cliffhanger. It does contain tropes that some may find triggering such as cheating. However, the series will end in a happily ever after... eventually!
4/5 Stars
2.5/5 Spice
BACKLIST REVIEW – Published January 21st 2022
Is it on KU?: Yes, it's included!
Book Cover: Sexy-Sporty
Favorite Quote: “That’s it, Piccola, come on my fingers.”
I got this book as a backlist book from The Smuthood – Book Tours. This is book #1 in the series “Jump”. It ends with a cliffhanger, so you’ll want to read the others.
This book not only had a good plot but had some good spice. I'm a sucker for anything that involves tropes including sporty, forbidden love, grump/sunshine, and age gape. This book has ALL the above. This book honestly has you addicted from the very start wanting to know what is going to happen between Theo & Thalia. I loved that you could feel the sexual tension and chemistry between Theo & Thalia from the MOMENT they met.
Thalia is an 18-year-old virgin, daddy’s princess, and the light of her mother’s eyes. With her parents being two of the richest people in the entire world she can have whatever she wants, when she wants it, except for Theo. Theo is her new personal trainer. Theo is 30, annoyingly handsome, and has a long-term girlfriend. So why does Thalia want someone who is so off limits??
I love how strong-willed and determined Thalia is from the start. She doesn’t let anyone or anything bring her down and that’s a trait all women should have. I despised Theo and everything about him at first. But you end up loving his asshole/protective ways and really root for him & Thalia to make it work.
This book was one hell of a ride and will not disappoint.
You can find my videos/reviews at the different links below:
https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTdGqyRP5/
https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/1...
https://www.amazon.com/gp/profile/amz...
PUBLISHER DESCRIPTION
Thalia Maxwell has it all. Daughter of one of the richest men in the world and a movie star mother. Except all she dreamed of is for the chance to make a career in showjumping. Thalia manages to convince her father to send her to train with world number one showjumper Theodore Rhodes after she finishes school.
Arriving in Wellington Thalia expects hard work and dedication. What she doesn’t expect is the tension, the push and pull between a man she should never have. A man that is in a relationship. A man that could ruin her. As they get to know each other and feelings develop, will she be able to stay away from him or will she jump in headfirst?
Theodore Rhodes is at the top of his sport. His results and reputation in the world of showjumping are yet to be beaten. When he gets asked to train Thalia Maxwell, he jumps at the chance. Not because he wants to but having a big name like hers will bring him even more into the spotlight than he already is.
But when Thalia arrives he expects a spoiled little princess that wants to play my little pony. What he doesn’t expect is a girl so determined and beautiful he can’t help but be drawn to her. The more time they spend together the further he falls. Will he risk everything for the one girl he should never have?
Trigger Warning!!!
ELIMINATION is a new series and book 1 in the series with a cliffhanger. It does contain tropes that some may find triggering such as cheating. However, the series will end in a happily ever after... eventually!
January 11, 2022
🌟Rating: 3.5/5.0 but rounding up to 4.0
✨Acknowledgments: I first want to say thank you to Kelly Kelsey and Midnight Readers for giving me the opportunity to receive an ARC for Elimination! Elimination will release January 21, 2022!
✍️ One Sentence Synopsis: A forbidden love that pushes the boundaries and reminds you that love can be so complicated no matter how you look at it.
💋Romance: ♥️♥️♥️
😈Smut: 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
📂Genres: Dark romance, Sports
🖤Tropes: Age gap (18/30), Student/Teacher
💭 Overall Thoughts: I enjoyed reading this book. This was a forbidden relationship filled with chemistry that left you yearning for more until you reached that cliffhanger of an ending!
I like some age gap and some student/teacher romances, so those tropes I ended up enjoying in this story. They can be hard to like sometimes depending on the book, but I thought the author pulled them off great here!
This book brought a lot of joy to me as well with equestrian as a focus. I used to ride for many years when I was younger, but had to end it all during early high school. I loved falling back into this world.
Had mixed feelings about the concepts of the story. Some I definitely enjoyed while others I didn’t like as much.
😁What I Liked:
- Development of the protagonists
- Development of Thalia’s innocent and how it played into her character by not only herself but by most people around her
- Theo was the expectation where he pushed her buttons over and over again
- The research the author did for the book about the equestrian world
- The smut scenes🥵🥵🥵there’s a lot to choose from that were super steamy
- The angst, especially that ending!
- The horses 😭💛I loved them all
- The pacing of the story, short chapters, story can be read quickly
😕What I Didn’t Like:
- Theo’s character and fascination with Thalia. I thought it was too much at times. He’s an alpha type and an asshole, and the combo isn’t always my personal favorite. I was back and forth with him up until 70%
- The over sexualization of Thalia, done by almost every man that wasn’t a groom or someone in/connected to her family
- The cheating trope :/ it’s a complicated situation for sure, but I wish it played out differently
- Lack of development from secondary characters. I wanted to get to know more about them!
💞 Read this if you liked:
- Birthday Girl
- Your Dad Will Do
- Lance Orion x Darcy Vega (Zodiac Academy series)
- Madison Kate x Archer D’Ath (Madison Kate series)
⚠️ Content Warnings: 12 year age gap, student/teacher, cheating, miscommunication, gaslighting, mentions of wanting to impregnate, graphic smut
🤔 Why you should read this:
- It’s dark romance, but you see and learn to understand how much Theo and Thalia love each other
- Angst and guilt are huge factors into this story that make the romance and smut so much more appreciated
- Self-Published author! This will be Kelly Kelsey’s second release! You can preorder the book through Amazon!
- The smut🔥literally some of the hottest scenes I’ve read in awhile
- Morally grey characters, I know how much book people love them (myself included lol)!
- Equestrian romance! It’s a small field, but they can make really great stories
I’m intrigued to see how Thalia and Theo will grow in book two, and to see if the world will either accept their love or not!
✨Acknowledgments: I first want to say thank you to Kelly Kelsey and Midnight Readers for giving me the opportunity to receive an ARC for Elimination! Elimination will release January 21, 2022!
✍️ One Sentence Synopsis: A forbidden love that pushes the boundaries and reminds you that love can be so complicated no matter how you look at it.
💋Romance: ♥️♥️♥️
😈Smut: 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
📂Genres: Dark romance, Sports
🖤Tropes: Age gap (18/30), Student/Teacher
💭 Overall Thoughts: I enjoyed reading this book. This was a forbidden relationship filled with chemistry that left you yearning for more until you reached that cliffhanger of an ending!
I like some age gap and some student/teacher romances, so those tropes I ended up enjoying in this story. They can be hard to like sometimes depending on the book, but I thought the author pulled them off great here!
This book brought a lot of joy to me as well with equestrian as a focus. I used to ride for many years when I was younger, but had to end it all during early high school. I loved falling back into this world.
Had mixed feelings about the concepts of the story. Some I definitely enjoyed while others I didn’t like as much.
😁What I Liked:
- Development of the protagonists
- Development of Thalia’s innocent and how it played into her character by not only herself but by most people around her
- Theo was the expectation where he pushed her buttons over and over again
- The research the author did for the book about the equestrian world
- The smut scenes🥵🥵🥵there’s a lot to choose from that were super steamy
- The angst, especially that ending!
- The horses 😭💛I loved them all
- The pacing of the story, short chapters, story can be read quickly
😕What I Didn’t Like:
- Theo’s character and fascination with Thalia. I thought it was too much at times. He’s an alpha type and an asshole, and the combo isn’t always my personal favorite. I was back and forth with him up until 70%
- The over sexualization of Thalia, done by almost every man that wasn’t a groom or someone in/connected to her family
- The cheating trope :/ it’s a complicated situation for sure, but I wish it played out differently
- Lack of development from secondary characters. I wanted to get to know more about them!
💞 Read this if you liked:
- Birthday Girl
- Your Dad Will Do
- Lance Orion x Darcy Vega (Zodiac Academy series)
- Madison Kate x Archer D’Ath (Madison Kate series)
⚠️ Content Warnings: 12 year age gap, student/teacher, cheating, miscommunication, gaslighting, mentions of wanting to impregnate, graphic smut
🤔 Why you should read this:
- It’s dark romance, but you see and learn to understand how much Theo and Thalia love each other
- Angst and guilt are huge factors into this story that make the romance and smut so much more appreciated
- Self-Published author! This will be Kelly Kelsey’s second release! You can preorder the book through Amazon!
- The smut🔥literally some of the hottest scenes I’ve read in awhile
- Morally grey characters, I know how much book people love them (myself included lol)!
- Equestrian romance! It’s a small field, but they can make really great stories
I’m intrigued to see how Thalia and Theo will grow in book two, and to see if the world will either accept their love or not!
February 4, 2024
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Storyline: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🔥🔥🔥🔥(4.5)
Angst: 💔💔
Tropes: Student/Teacher
Age Gap
Triggers: Cheating
Cliffhanger: Yes
Synopsis: Thalia Maxwell is a high level show jumper from a family where money is no object so off she goes to train with the best trainer money can buy - Theo Rhodes, sparks fly immediately and they find themself in a forbidden affair, there is 12 years between them and Theo has a long time girlfriend and breaking up with her would ruin both his and Thalia’s carer, but can they stay away from each other?
I’ve never really tried a sports romance book before but I enjoyed this one, show jumping making a difference from the usual hockey or NFL I always see!
The storyline for this one was quite fast paced with short chapters, which I’m more fond of than super long ones, so I managed to get through the book in two evenings
The characters were well developed and I found myself wanting to grab Theo by the shoulders and shake him for the way he speaks and treats Thalia on more than one occasion, and don’t get me started on Mel!
The only things that I would of liked to have seen was a little less use of the word ‘Smirks’ but that might be because I don’t like the word to start with 😂 and number 2 I would have liked to see Thalia fight back a little, she would be angry with Theo but then come as soon as he called for her and all would be forgiven, I know she’s got fight in her!
Overall a really enjoyable read and I’ll be reading the second one asap after that cliffhanger at the end 👀
Storyline: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🔥🔥🔥🔥(4.5)
Angst: 💔💔
Tropes: Student/Teacher
Age Gap
Triggers: Cheating
Cliffhanger: Yes
Synopsis: Thalia Maxwell is a high level show jumper from a family where money is no object so off she goes to train with the best trainer money can buy - Theo Rhodes, sparks fly immediately and they find themself in a forbidden affair, there is 12 years between them and Theo has a long time girlfriend and breaking up with her would ruin both his and Thalia’s carer, but can they stay away from each other?
I’ve never really tried a sports romance book before but I enjoyed this one, show jumping making a difference from the usual hockey or NFL I always see!
The storyline for this one was quite fast paced with short chapters, which I’m more fond of than super long ones, so I managed to get through the book in two evenings
The characters were well developed and I found myself wanting to grab Theo by the shoulders and shake him for the way he speaks and treats Thalia on more than one occasion, and don’t get me started on Mel!
The only things that I would of liked to have seen was a little less use of the word ‘Smirks’ but that might be because I don’t like the word to start with 😂 and number 2 I would have liked to see Thalia fight back a little, she would be angry with Theo but then come as soon as he called for her and all would be forgiven, I know she’s got fight in her!
Overall a really enjoyable read and I’ll be reading the second one asap after that cliffhanger at the end 👀
December 28, 2021
🏇🏻ARC Review🏇🏻
Rating-⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spicy-🌶🌶🌶🌶
Thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to review this book!! I finished it within hours of receiving it!
Thalia Maxwell, the youngest daughter of the one of the most richest men in the world and her movie star mother. She the good daughter, the one who stays out of trouble and spotlight, all she wants is to compete in the world class Show Jumping and be with her horses, so she gets trained by the best, number one showjumper Theo Rhodes.
Theo Rhodes, is the number one star in the Equestrian world, at the top of his game. He’s been with his girlfriend for six years, life is going great for him until he meets her.
Thalia and Theo fight their attraction for each other from the moment they lay eyes. He thinks she’s a spoiled brat, until he sees the love she has for her horses and her determination to make it to the top. The more time they spend together, the harder it is for them to fight their feelings.
I loved the forbidden love between Thalia and Theo, they’re made for each other. This book had me feeling so many emotions! Plus growing up loving horses this was a must! And that cliffhanger, I was not expecting that. I need the second book in my hands ASAP!
I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves horses, forbidden love, Alpha Males, Age gaps, & good smutt🥵
This book has :
🚫Forbidden Love
🤫Age Gap
🏇🏻Horses
🌶 Sexy Smutt
👩🏻❤️💋👨🏻Teacher/Student Relationship
Rating-⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spicy-🌶🌶🌶🌶
Thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to review this book!! I finished it within hours of receiving it!
Thalia Maxwell, the youngest daughter of the one of the most richest men in the world and her movie star mother. She the good daughter, the one who stays out of trouble and spotlight, all she wants is to compete in the world class Show Jumping and be with her horses, so she gets trained by the best, number one showjumper Theo Rhodes.
Theo Rhodes, is the number one star in the Equestrian world, at the top of his game. He’s been with his girlfriend for six years, life is going great for him until he meets her.
Thalia and Theo fight their attraction for each other from the moment they lay eyes. He thinks she’s a spoiled brat, until he sees the love she has for her horses and her determination to make it to the top. The more time they spend together, the harder it is for them to fight their feelings.
I loved the forbidden love between Thalia and Theo, they’re made for each other. This book had me feeling so many emotions! Plus growing up loving horses this was a must! And that cliffhanger, I was not expecting that. I need the second book in my hands ASAP!
I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves horses, forbidden love, Alpha Males, Age gaps, & good smutt🥵
This book has :
🚫Forbidden Love
🤫Age Gap
🏇🏻Horses
🌶 Sexy Smutt
👩🏻❤️💋👨🏻Teacher/Student Relationship
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