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The Spotted Dog #1
Redemption
Stripper-turned-bartender meets Golden Boy. The only thing they have in common is their belief in no commitments. When a threat from her past reappears, their no-strings affair takes a turn into uncharted territory…
For Blake Sullivan, money and success have always come easy. After earning millions in his early 20s, he now co-owns and operates The Spotted Dog, a Seattle Irish pub, with his two best friends. After learning early on that most women were only after his money, Blake’s more than comfortable with his bachelor status and no-strings rule when it comes to the women he sees.
Raven Magenta Wagner is used to fighting. Being raised in between the foster care system and the streets, Raven has worked hard to go from stripper to one of the top bartenders in Seattle. When she’s hired on at The Spotted Dog, she’s thrilled to have a job that doesn’t require her to take her clothes off.
The friction between Blake and Raven is immediate. And so is their chemistry. Unable to leave each other alone, they agree to a casual affair. But when a threat from Raven's past resurfaces, their relationship pivots toward the unknown. Can they learn to trust each other before it’s too late? Can their relationship survive the secrets of Raven’s past?
Author's Note: Please check the author's website for all tropes and CWs.
For Blake Sullivan, money and success have always come easy. After earning millions in his early 20s, he now co-owns and operates The Spotted Dog, a Seattle Irish pub, with his two best friends. After learning early on that most women were only after his money, Blake’s more than comfortable with his bachelor status and no-strings rule when it comes to the women he sees.
Raven Magenta Wagner is used to fighting. Being raised in between the foster care system and the streets, Raven has worked hard to go from stripper to one of the top bartenders in Seattle. When she’s hired on at The Spotted Dog, she’s thrilled to have a job that doesn’t require her to take her clothes off.
The friction between Blake and Raven is immediate. And so is their chemistry. Unable to leave each other alone, they agree to a casual affair. But when a threat from Raven's past resurfaces, their relationship pivots toward the unknown. Can they learn to trust each other before it’s too late? Can their relationship survive the secrets of Raven’s past?
Author's Note: Please check the author's website for all tropes and CWs.
318 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 14, 2022
75 people are currently reading
93 people want to read
About the author
Christina Sol
9 books51 followersChristina Sol is an award-winning author who writes what she loves to read — romance books filled with heart, heat, and suspense.
An avid reader from the get-go, Christina was obsessed with The Babysitters Club, Sweet Valley Twins, Sweet Valley High, Christopher Pike, and all things V. C. Andrews. Her love for romance started with the Sunfire books, a YA historical romance series. Caroline by Willo Davis Roberts was her favorite of the series, and a copy of the 1984 novel is one of her most treasured possessions. Then she discovered Danielle Steele and Nora Roberts. And never looked back. She’s still a voracious reader and enjoys all genres of romance, but leans toward romantic suspense and dark romance.
She lives in the inland Pacific Northwest with her husband and two kids. When she’s not writing, reading, or knitting, she’s watching football or fueling her planner, sticker, and washi-tape obsession.
An avid reader from the get-go, Christina was obsessed with The Babysitters Club, Sweet Valley Twins, Sweet Valley High, Christopher Pike, and all things V. C. Andrews. Her love for romance started with the Sunfire books, a YA historical romance series. Caroline by Willo Davis Roberts was her favorite of the series, and a copy of the 1984 novel is one of her most treasured possessions. Then she discovered Danielle Steele and Nora Roberts. And never looked back. She’s still a voracious reader and enjoys all genres of romance, but leans toward romantic suspense and dark romance.
She lives in the inland Pacific Northwest with her husband and two kids. When she’s not writing, reading, or knitting, she’s watching football or fueling her planner, sticker, and washi-tape obsession.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
June 14, 2022
I struggled a lot with this book. Not because the story and the characters were bad. They were good. There are certain things that I usually try to avoid in romance books, and when I get to that point in the book I struggle. From that moment on is very difficult for me to finish the book. I finished it, but it was tough.
I am thankful for the ARC copy that was provided from Grey's Promotion.
I am thankful for the ARC copy that was provided from Grey's Promotion.
June 5, 2022
Genre: contemporary romance with suspense; standalone (in interconnected series) with no cliffhangers
Tropes: fling-to-forever, insta-lust, workplace romance, opposites attract, boss-employee, tragic past, heroine in danger
Content Warnings: explicit language, graphic sex, physical abuse/violence, sexual abuse/rape, drug use
Mmmmmm... This book had lots of highs and lows for both MC's and also for me as a reader hence the reason for the title "Redemption" loved the concept of the storyline taking place around a bar and enjoyed the banter between everyone Raven was really outspoken and didn't care what people thought about her and Blake was great very grumpy tho. But I felt the storyline dragged quite a bit and was filled was so much drama it took away from the romance for me again lots of difficult things happen to the Heroine that were hard to read i did enjoy the writing a lot it was fantastic.
ARC provided for free in exchange for a honest review all opinions are my own place.
Tropes: fling-to-forever, insta-lust, workplace romance, opposites attract, boss-employee, tragic past, heroine in danger
Content Warnings: explicit language, graphic sex, physical abuse/violence, sexual abuse/rape, drug use
Mmmmmm... This book had lots of highs and lows for both MC's and also for me as a reader hence the reason for the title "Redemption" loved the concept of the storyline taking place around a bar and enjoyed the banter between everyone Raven was really outspoken and didn't care what people thought about her and Blake was great very grumpy tho. But I felt the storyline dragged quite a bit and was filled was so much drama it took away from the romance for me again lots of difficult things happen to the Heroine that were hard to read i did enjoy the writing a lot it was fantastic.
ARC provided for free in exchange for a honest review all opinions are my own place.
June 15, 2022
Raven has overcome a past that no one should have to endure and is happy at her job as the bartender at the pub that Blake owns and has found a sense of belonging that she has been missing her entire life.
When Blake finds out his friends have hired a new bartender while he is away he is concerned with their choice both because of her past and his attraction to her. As he and Raven work together the sparks fly but Raven’s past is about to return with a vengeance.
Both Raven and Blake were only looking for a physical relationship but as the threats escalate around them they realize they are destined to be so much more.
When Blake finds out his friends have hired a new bartender while he is away he is concerned with their choice both because of her past and his attraction to her. As he and Raven work together the sparks fly but Raven’s past is about to return with a vengeance.
Both Raven and Blake were only looking for a physical relationship but as the threats escalate around them they realize they are destined to be so much more.
June 9, 2022
This is my first book by Christina Sol, but it won’t be my last book! The situations that Raven had to go through broke my heart. She was the strongest woman in this book. It was heartbreaking to see how a child was treated so badly and then it never seemed to get better until Blake. Raven was a beauty, but I loved her sass and how she always gave back more than she received. Her best friend Kate had been in foster care with her and stayed best friends as adults. I was so glad they were both still best friends as I felt Kate helped keep Raven sane at times. Blake, Parker, and Jake were best friends as well as Blake and Parker being cousins and owned the bar where Raven worked. Blake and Raven had an immediate attraction that neither wanted to admit. It was sad how they both had trust issues. I was so happy how Blake fought to help Raven as time went on. I loved the book, cant wait for the next one, and strongly encourage you to read this one. I was given a copy and voluntarily wrote a review.
June 14, 2022
Raven has finally gotten out of the stripper game with hard work to become an amazing bartender which is how she came across Blake's path as he was co-owner to the bar she was hired at. Raven's past was seriously a nightmare, and I had the utmost respect for this heroine who didn't let it hold her down despite the fact that it would be understandable. These two had an instant attraction that neither saw coming nor wanted to cop to, but the sparks were flying that wouldn't be denied for long at all so they decided on a friends with benefits situation. I do wish we got more of this aspect to the story since it was the beginning of their journey to something different but great. However her nightmare past doesn't want to stay in the past so the best part of the book was at my fingertips since I love me some suspense & the twists started coming in hot leaving me super happy. Look, there were some me things that kept me from giving Redemption a perfect rating despite the fantastic suspense kicker because it's only my opinion so just read it for yourselves since it's super difficult to put down! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
June 14, 2022
Redemption by Christina Sol is the First book in The Spotted Dog Series. This is the story of Raven Magenta Wagner and Blake Sullivan. Blake is well off and with that finds that women just want him for his money. So this has brought him to never commit and keep things emotionless. Blake his cousin Parker and his best friend owns the bar called The Spotted Dog. Raven grew up in foster care and on the streets. So she has no family but Kate who is her best friend also grew up in the system so she is the closest thing to a family. Raven due to how her life began doesn't feel that she can or will have a real family. Raven has been surviving but being a Stripper but now has advanced to being one of the best bartenders. This has lead to her to except a job at The Spotted Dog. Sparks fly between Raven and Blake but both of course have commitment issues. So they trying to keep things loose and playful but when danger starts to come for Raven, Blake goes into protective mode. Enjoyed this book and can't wait to read more from this author.
June 14, 2022
Totally Loved this One!!
Blake returns from a three-month absence to find his Irish pub is being managed by Raven who used to manage the bar at a strip club. Even ‘worse’, profits are up 40%, theme nights have been added and things are run more efficiently. Raven also happens to be smoking hot.
Raven had a tough start, and still has issues from her childhood. She hides it under a snarky front. As these two come to work together, have respect for each other, and build a relationship; items from the past threaten to come between them.
It is emotional, romantic, steamy and wonderful.
*** I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book ***
Blake returns from a three-month absence to find his Irish pub is being managed by Raven who used to manage the bar at a strip club. Even ‘worse’, profits are up 40%, theme nights have been added and things are run more efficiently. Raven also happens to be smoking hot.
Raven had a tough start, and still has issues from her childhood. She hides it under a snarky front. As these two come to work together, have respect for each other, and build a relationship; items from the past threaten to come between them.
It is emotional, romantic, steamy and wonderful.
*** I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book ***
June 13, 2022
I thoroughly enjoyed Redemption, the debut romantic thriller by Christina Sol, the first book in her The Spotted Dog series. Who does not love a romantic thriller with a happily ever after ending? It was an incredible story and I loved reading every moment on every page and could not put it down. She provided her readers with the amazing characters, that I loved, who feel like close friends! Christina Sol is a wonderful storyteller. Her characters in Redemption are so believable and charming, they share great chemistry, lots of laughs, and steamy romance. I love how she developed the story line and the characters. I love that she wrote Redemption from the perspective of the main characters. I love getting inside their minds and knowing their thoughts and how they really feel. Redemption is filled with heartbreaking and heartwarming moments. I love the lighter moments where I find myself smiling and laughing out loud. My favorite moments are the ones that pull at my heartstrings that cause me to sigh, as I read the heartbreaking moments. Redemption is filled with all those things that I have come to love in a romantic thriller love story, especially the poignant and bittersweet moments that filled this page turner. Redemption is the story of Raven Wagner, former stripper and current bartender at The Spotted Dog and Blake Sullivan, co-owner of The Spotted Dog. Blake returns from a three-month safari with his mother and her fifth husband only to discover a new bartender. Blake put one of his co-owners and chef, Parker Cunningham and Kate Peterson, his friend in charge of The Spotted Dog in his absence and not happy that they put a stripper behind his bar. Kate explains that not only has Raven created new drinks, but the bar also now has a forty percent profit. I love the chemistry between Raven and Blake and how the sparks fly when they are near one another. Raven and Blake decide they need to get each other out of their systems and start a friends with benefits with relationship. As Blake and Raven continue to spend time together, they each realize that they have feelings for one another. Raven and Kate met in the foster care system and have remained friends. Raven never felt like she belonged in a loving home after the events she did in her past. I love that Raven would always seek refuge in the Peterson family tree house. After her past comes back to haunt her when someone breaks into her apartment and destroys it, Raven temporarily moves in with Blake. I love all the things that Blake does for Raven, especially the earrings her gives her. I love that Raven shares secrets with Blake that she has not told anyone before, and that Blake shares his own secrets with Raven. I love Blake and Raven’s love story, and how Raven shows her vulnerable side to Blake. Then an unexpected plot twist changes things between them, puts Raven’s life in danger, and truly shows her vulnerable side, and all that Blake is willing to do for Raven to prove his love and that he will put her first. I love all the changes that both Raven and Blake are willing to make in their lives because of their love for one another. I love the amazing chemistry between Raven and Blake, and that it was more than chemistry, it was love. My favorite part of the story was the epilogue and how it went above and beyond a happily ever after, especially Blake’s proposal. I love the characters and the family dynamic in Redemption, the characters feel like family and friends. I enjoyed all the interactions between Blake and his friends, it feels like real family love and makes me laugh at their teasing. Who does not love family and friends that always have each other’s backs? Redemption is filled with all those things that I love in a romantic thriller, incredible characters, amazing story, poignant and bittersweet moments, and surprise plot twists. Christina Sol did not disappoint in her delivery of those things. I love how she resolved the surprise plot twist; it was truly a heartwarming moment. I am so looking forward to reading the other books in the series. It was an amazing story and I highly recommend Redemption if you love a romantic thriller.
June 21, 2023
This book has many ups and downs – good and bad, happy and sad. Though I did enjoy the overall story, I struggled with some parts. I loved the bar atmosphere and most of the characters; I did struggle a bit with Raven at times. Once I learned more about her upbringing, I understood more why she was the way she was and that helped take some of the edge off her attitude. But there were still times I felt she was just too much. With that said, I still loved the overall story. The setting, the rest of the characters, and the family-type atmosphere meshed well and kept the story flowing.
Blake, I really liked. Returning from a three-month leave of absence, which he spent with his mother on a safari as a celebration of her beating cancer, he had a lot of immediate changes to his bar thrown in his face he had to suddenly adjust to. Things moved around, new equipment, shift changes/additions, theme nights, a decent raise in profits, and an ex-stripper with an attitude who was now his bar manager. He struggled a bit to come to terms with the abruptness of the changes while he was trying to get back in the swing of things. Constant snarky words and attitude from his new bar manager did not help. Neither did the fact that she was smoking hot and his brain kept taking a detour in the wrong direction nor the fact that any time they were in close proximity sparks flew around them. Agreeing to no strings attached hook ups helped take the edge off the attraction but as feelings changed and outside influences caused problems, Blake had to decide how he really felt about Raven and if he’d be able to walk away or watch her do the same.
Raven had a worse than horrible childhood and fought for every second of normal she had as an adult. Determined not to give up and to make her life better, she landed an awesome job as a bar manager with a great atmosphere and great friends until he came back. Blake was a thorn in her side from the beginning, a sexy hot one, and she knew he was going to cause her problems in more ways than one. She was immediately attracted to him but he came with all sorts of complications – some she was unaware of until they literally appeared in her face when her past comes back with a vengeance. Ultimately, she has to decide if she’ll let him in and share all the awful things in her past that she’s sure will push him away. She’s finally found a safe place with love, acceptance, and understanding and one wrong misstep will have it all crashing down for good.
Strong emotions, suspense, mystery, angst, chemistry, sexy times, family drama, and more are included in this read. Also, be aware of trigger warnings - explicit language, graphic sex, physical abuse/violence, sexual abuse/rape, and drug use. *Some are only mentioned as part of the backstory, not in explicit detail.
Blake, I really liked. Returning from a three-month leave of absence, which he spent with his mother on a safari as a celebration of her beating cancer, he had a lot of immediate changes to his bar thrown in his face he had to suddenly adjust to. Things moved around, new equipment, shift changes/additions, theme nights, a decent raise in profits, and an ex-stripper with an attitude who was now his bar manager. He struggled a bit to come to terms with the abruptness of the changes while he was trying to get back in the swing of things. Constant snarky words and attitude from his new bar manager did not help. Neither did the fact that she was smoking hot and his brain kept taking a detour in the wrong direction nor the fact that any time they were in close proximity sparks flew around them. Agreeing to no strings attached hook ups helped take the edge off the attraction but as feelings changed and outside influences caused problems, Blake had to decide how he really felt about Raven and if he’d be able to walk away or watch her do the same.
Raven had a worse than horrible childhood and fought for every second of normal she had as an adult. Determined not to give up and to make her life better, she landed an awesome job as a bar manager with a great atmosphere and great friends until he came back. Blake was a thorn in her side from the beginning, a sexy hot one, and she knew he was going to cause her problems in more ways than one. She was immediately attracted to him but he came with all sorts of complications – some she was unaware of until they literally appeared in her face when her past comes back with a vengeance. Ultimately, she has to decide if she’ll let him in and share all the awful things in her past that she’s sure will push him away. She’s finally found a safe place with love, acceptance, and understanding and one wrong misstep will have it all crashing down for good.
Strong emotions, suspense, mystery, angst, chemistry, sexy times, family drama, and more are included in this read. Also, be aware of trigger warnings - explicit language, graphic sex, physical abuse/violence, sexual abuse/rape, and drug use. *Some are only mentioned as part of the backstory, not in explicit detail.
November 25, 2022
Blake had just returned home after a three-month-long safari with his mother as she celebrated beating cancer. Now he is sitting in his bar listening in disbelief while his cousin Parker tells him that he hired a bartender while he was away...not that that was the issue. No, Parker had hired a stripper to bartend their Irish pub, The Spotted Dog.
She was evidently their friend and bookkeeper Kate's friend...but he still couldn't wrap his mind around Parker hiring a stripper. And when Kate returns from letting in the person knocking on the back door his jaw drops. The most beautiful woman he has ever seen is now standing before him...and evidently his new bartender.
Raven knew her looks were all she had going for her and she didn't know what her genetics had in store for her since her father was a faceless John and her mother was strung out junkie and she never finished school, but she was an awesome bartender and getting this job was a fresh start for her.
Growing up in the foster system and being used since she was ten years old she was determined to be known more than her past and stand on her own. Now she is facing down her livid absentee boss. Too bad he was so gorgeous.
I loved this book! It is very well written and the characters are fully developed and relatable. Raven was put in foster care after her mother caught her boyfriend having sex with Raven when she was ten years old. Instead of putting the blame on the man abusing her daughter, she blamed Raven. That is all Raven knew...being used by men. After many bad choices in the boyfriend department, she has decided never to have anything other than a casual fling in the future.
Blake doesn't do relationships and he makes sure that women know that from the beginning, but the moment he sets eyes on Raven he can't imagine anything other than a relationship. And that totally scares him.
This book is action-packed from page one and so full of angst. Raven is trying to leave her past behind except her past seems to keep showing up. This book is full of danger, smoking-hot chemistry and tons of twists and turns. Raven's past comes full circle with horrifying revelations that threaten to take away the future she wishes for.
Highly recommend this book!
She was evidently their friend and bookkeeper Kate's friend...but he still couldn't wrap his mind around Parker hiring a stripper. And when Kate returns from letting in the person knocking on the back door his jaw drops. The most beautiful woman he has ever seen is now standing before him...and evidently his new bartender.
Raven knew her looks were all she had going for her and she didn't know what her genetics had in store for her since her father was a faceless John and her mother was strung out junkie and she never finished school, but she was an awesome bartender and getting this job was a fresh start for her.
Growing up in the foster system and being used since she was ten years old she was determined to be known more than her past and stand on her own. Now she is facing down her livid absentee boss. Too bad he was so gorgeous.
I loved this book! It is very well written and the characters are fully developed and relatable. Raven was put in foster care after her mother caught her boyfriend having sex with Raven when she was ten years old. Instead of putting the blame on the man abusing her daughter, she blamed Raven. That is all Raven knew...being used by men. After many bad choices in the boyfriend department, she has decided never to have anything other than a casual fling in the future.
Blake doesn't do relationships and he makes sure that women know that from the beginning, but the moment he sets eyes on Raven he can't imagine anything other than a relationship. And that totally scares him.
This book is action-packed from page one and so full of angst. Raven is trying to leave her past behind except her past seems to keep showing up. This book is full of danger, smoking-hot chemistry and tons of twists and turns. Raven's past comes full circle with horrifying revelations that threaten to take away the future she wishes for.
Highly recommend this book!
June 13, 2022
Raven and Blake's story had a little of everything and while some elements didn't work for me in the beginning, I ended up enjoying their story and everything that came with it.
I liked Raven. She had a rough past, yet she carried herself with confidence and possessed a great amount of inner-strength that carried her through the tough times. I think she made an admirable partner for Blake even though I had my doubts about their romance in the beginning. However, as the story progressed and their connection settled and developed further, I could see that they complemented each other nicely. It also helped that their attraction was evident and their chemistry jumped off the page whenever they interacted. Lots and lots of steam in this one! 🔥
In addition, I found the premise of the story intriguing and loved reading the interactions between all the characters. I did feel like the pace dragged bit in places and that the overall drama brought to the page felt too heavy at times and took away from the romance. Having said that, I appreciated the fact that everything that was brought to the page was wrapped up in a cohesive and entertaining way and that the romance developed fully by the end of the story.
All in all, an entertaining read with plenty of steam and drama.
I liked Raven. She had a rough past, yet she carried herself with confidence and possessed a great amount of inner-strength that carried her through the tough times. I think she made an admirable partner for Blake even though I had my doubts about their romance in the beginning. However, as the story progressed and their connection settled and developed further, I could see that they complemented each other nicely. It also helped that their attraction was evident and their chemistry jumped off the page whenever they interacted. Lots and lots of steam in this one! 🔥
In addition, I found the premise of the story intriguing and loved reading the interactions between all the characters. I did feel like the pace dragged bit in places and that the overall drama brought to the page felt too heavy at times and took away from the romance. Having said that, I appreciated the fact that everything that was brought to the page was wrapped up in a cohesive and entertaining way and that the romance developed fully by the end of the story.
All in all, an entertaining read with plenty of steam and drama.
June 14, 2022
Raven and Blake start off this book as very unlikable characters, at least for me personally. She’s very abrasive and frankly insubordinate to Blake, her boss. While Blake is grumpy and a player, it’s his judgmental attitude that rubbed me the wrong way. But a couple chapters in and I was on board with them both and the story.
Raven has been through the wringer, to say the least. And a huge part of her attitude and personality is what she’s been through. But she’s a fighter and you can’t help but want something good to happen to her. Blake is that good thing…he and the staff/friends at the Spotted Dog bar.
I probably should have guessed this story might be a bit murky by the title, but I think readers need to check out the content warnings on the author’s website. There are some dark and troubling themes in Raven’s life. And just when you think, oh boy…didn’t see that one coming…another pops up. If I had known about these things beforehand, I still would have read the book. But I realize others might not.
I rounded this 3.5-3.75 star read to 4 for ease, plus I think the author wrote a compelling read. There were some picky things, but a really good debut book. I’m interested to read the next book in th3 series for sure.
Raven has been through the wringer, to say the least. And a huge part of her attitude and personality is what she’s been through. But she’s a fighter and you can’t help but want something good to happen to her. Blake is that good thing…he and the staff/friends at the Spotted Dog bar.
I probably should have guessed this story might be a bit murky by the title, but I think readers need to check out the content warnings on the author’s website. There are some dark and troubling themes in Raven’s life. And just when you think, oh boy…didn’t see that one coming…another pops up. If I had known about these things beforehand, I still would have read the book. But I realize others might not.
I rounded this 3.5-3.75 star read to 4 for ease, plus I think the author wrote a compelling read. There were some picky things, but a really good debut book. I’m interested to read the next book in th3 series for sure.
June 18, 2022
3.5/5 stars
Raven and Blake. The sparks that flied between this couple were instant and they jumped straight into a friends with benefits situation. The first point that made me want to read this story was the friends with benefits turned relationship trope honestly.
Raven is one strong woman. Her past is one no one should have to go through but she fights her demons everyday and you see that throughout the story.
Blake is so caring even if we don’t witness that at first. He owns the bar where Raven now bartends even though he’s not so happy about it at first. The moment where Raven is threatened though, everything begins to change and we begin to see the Blake he tries to hide.
The story caught my attention and intrigued me to continue on. At first, it was slightly difficult to get into/even start it but once it started moving, it became a whole lot better.
This book includes some themes that many would most likely not be comfortable with so do look at the content warnings on the author’s site before diving in. I was caught off guard as I didn’t do so.
A compelling debut novel and I applaud the author for that!
I received an advanced reader copy from Grey’s Promotions and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
Raven and Blake. The sparks that flied between this couple were instant and they jumped straight into a friends with benefits situation. The first point that made me want to read this story was the friends with benefits turned relationship trope honestly.
Raven is one strong woman. Her past is one no one should have to go through but she fights her demons everyday and you see that throughout the story.
Blake is so caring even if we don’t witness that at first. He owns the bar where Raven now bartends even though he’s not so happy about it at first. The moment where Raven is threatened though, everything begins to change and we begin to see the Blake he tries to hide.
The story caught my attention and intrigued me to continue on. At first, it was slightly difficult to get into/even start it but once it started moving, it became a whole lot better.
This book includes some themes that many would most likely not be comfortable with so do look at the content warnings on the author’s site before diving in. I was caught off guard as I didn’t do so.
A compelling debut novel and I applaud the author for that!
I received an advanced reader copy from Grey’s Promotions and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
June 22, 2022
This book is an emotional roller coaster. Raven is sassy, strong, independent and hiding a lot of emotional scars. She has moved away from the stripper life and now is a bartender/manager at Blake’s bar. Her past his heartbreaking and left her damaged. As soon as this happens go good, her past keeps popping up. What she went through the survive was not pretty. She feels she doesn’t deserve love and commitment. As with most victims, she blames herself.
Blake has is a serial dater. His hookups barely make it to a month. After witnessing his mom 5 marriages, he is not high on relationships. In his twenties he was a wild child and was headed down a bad path with people using him for his money and connections. Raven was different. She didn’t want anything from him.
When they meet it’s instant heat. A hookup that turned to a relationship. The story has plenty of dark moments and it was hard to read a lot of the situations Raven lived through. Their chance at a HEA does not come easy. Raven’s past, a stalker and insecurities put them through the ringer.
Blake has is a serial dater. His hookups barely make it to a month. After witnessing his mom 5 marriages, he is not high on relationships. In his twenties he was a wild child and was headed down a bad path with people using him for his money and connections. Raven was different. She didn’t want anything from him.
When they meet it’s instant heat. A hookup that turned to a relationship. The story has plenty of dark moments and it was hard to read a lot of the situations Raven lived through. Their chance at a HEA does not come easy. Raven’s past, a stalker and insecurities put them through the ringer.
June 14, 2022
I was not expecting the emotional damage this book gave me. This book is about Raven, a thousand percent. The hero may as well be a side character.
Raven’s story is heart wrenching and inspiring. We get so much of her backstory that when her past meets the present, the reader can’t help but feel dread. I applaud the author for making Raven such a complex heroine. Her life certainly wasn’t easy and it must have been difficult to write.
I didn’t one hundred percent buy into the love between Blake and Raven but I liked their banter. Their HEA ending felt a bit rushed.
I will say, for a book that’s premise was about a friends with benefits situation, I was expecting more spice. This barley had any. Maybe two scenes and they were short. Supposedly they were hooking up a ton off page though (not sure why we couldn’t see that but oh well).
I think the length of the story worked. I never felt that the story was dragging. I flew through the story within a couple of hours. Solid 3.5/5
🚨 TW for domestic abuse, sexual abuse, sexual assault on child and adult. 🚨
Raven’s story is heart wrenching and inspiring. We get so much of her backstory that when her past meets the present, the reader can’t help but feel dread. I applaud the author for making Raven such a complex heroine. Her life certainly wasn’t easy and it must have been difficult to write.
I didn’t one hundred percent buy into the love between Blake and Raven but I liked their banter. Their HEA ending felt a bit rushed.
I will say, for a book that’s premise was about a friends with benefits situation, I was expecting more spice. This barley had any. Maybe two scenes and they were short. Supposedly they were hooking up a ton off page though (not sure why we couldn’t see that but oh well).
I think the length of the story worked. I never felt that the story was dragging. I flew through the story within a couple of hours. Solid 3.5/5
🚨 TW for domestic abuse, sexual abuse, sexual assault on child and adult. 🚨
June 13, 2022
Blake and Raven!!! Wow this book turned out to be way more than I was expecting. Raven holy crap this woman right here is one of the most selfless women ever she would sacrifice herself to make sure everyone else is taken care of and the crap that she has endured in her life is enough to have anyone curled up in a ball on the floor crying and never wanting to function again her walls around her heart are built so freaking high but then she meets Blake and there attraction is instant and the pull to one another is strong. Neither of them are wanting a relationship so they strike up a no strings deal but you can see things slowly start the change between these two before they even know it.. Blake this man is swoon! He wants to be there for Raven and he wants more!!! This book has drama, suspense, mystery and heat oh man them spicy scenes are straight Fire!!! This was an amazing read!
June 13, 2022
This is the first in a new series, and this is Blake and Raven’s journey. Blake is successful and wealthy and is now the co-owner with two of his best friends, of an Irish Pub in Seattle. Raven has had a tough life growing up within the foster system, as well as the streets, and she is sassy, strong, and resilient. Raven has worked hard to move on from being a stripper, to a top bartender, and she is thrilled when she is hired at The Spotted Dog. This is a well written story which has combustible chemistry, danger, twists, suspense, intrigue, emotions, secrets, drama, and love, which leads to a heartwrenching and addictive page turner. I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
I received a free copy of this book via Greys Promotions and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Greys Promotions and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 22, 2022
This is the first book in the Spotted Dog Series. In circles around two main characters Raven and Blake. Blake returns from his 3 months vacation and comes back to several changes done at his pub. Who did it? Raven the new bar manager who used to work at a strip club. What Blake can't stand is how well the bar turned out with the new changes. Also Raven is super hot and he would like to have sex with her.
Raven had a tough start with her childhood and her life has not improved much since. But she is able to hide it behind her snarky and sassy personality. After Blake and Raven stop butting heads they are able to start work together, and build a relationship. B ut every time they take one step forward they are pushed back but Ravens past.
This was an emotional, romantic, and steamy read and I loved every second of it.
ARC REVIEWD****
Raven had a tough start with her childhood and her life has not improved much since. But she is able to hide it behind her snarky and sassy personality. After Blake and Raven stop butting heads they are able to start work together, and build a relationship. B ut every time they take one step forward they are pushed back but Ravens past.
This was an emotional, romantic, and steamy read and I loved every second of it.
ARC REVIEWD****
June 12, 2022
🚨🚨 Before I go any further into this review I would like to give a content/trigger warning that this book includes domestic violence and sexual assault on both an adult and child!
My review:
I got this book as an ARC and I’m not gonna lie, Raven and Blake really made me hate them at first. Both characters felt very shallow to me and it really took me some concentration to make myself get into the book. I will say once I made it a few chapters in though I did end up enjoying the book! I like the premise of the workplace/bar setting and how the characters do struggle with things personally and you get to see/hear how they came to terms and worked with their pasts. I truly did end up enjoying this and I do think I’ll be reading the next book following Parker!
My review:
I got this book as an ARC and I’m not gonna lie, Raven and Blake really made me hate them at first. Both characters felt very shallow to me and it really took me some concentration to make myself get into the book. I will say once I made it a few chapters in though I did end up enjoying the book! I like the premise of the workplace/bar setting and how the characters do struggle with things personally and you get to see/hear how they came to terms and worked with their pasts. I truly did end up enjoying this and I do think I’ll be reading the next book following Parker!
June 14, 2022
Blake Sullivan is the wealthy owner of a neighborhood bar and likes to keep things casual. Raven was raised in the Foster system and worked hard to get ahead. She is one of the top bartenders in Seattle and worked hard to get there. She went through some bad times in her past and there are some 'triggers' for sexual abuse. It takes a while to really connect with the characters at first as they seem self absorbed and shallow. Their casual affair becomes more when her life is in danger and feelings begin to surface. She is a very giving and kind person . They both grow on you as the story progresses. Raven is one of the top bartenders in Seattle and worked hard to get there. I read a free advance copy via Grey's Promotions and voluntarily chose to review it.
June 16, 2022
This is Book 1 in The Spotted Dog Series and my first read by this author, and I must say that I quite enjoyed the storyline and characters. It is a suspenseful romance between bar co-owner Blake and stripper turned bartender Raven. These flawed but likeable characters and the unique plot make for an intriguing read. It is an emotional journey filled with drama, action, steam, frustrating moments, unexpected twists, and passion, plus appealing secondary characters to keep the reader interested. The main characters share an undeniable chemistry and connection. An engaging page turner with a happy ending.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Grey's Promotions and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Grey's Promotions and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
June 15, 2022
Redemption by Christina Sol
This is the diary book from this author for me and I’m not sure how to feel yet. This book yea it’s emotional and heartwarming. I loved Ravens back story very much she is so complex but that is in my opinion what makes the book what it is. Then there is Blake I think that is where the disconnect is in not sure he is who Raven should have ended up with. There is just something missing there that just was disconnected for them like he want the love she deserves I mean I may be wrong but not feeling him for her. I liked Blake don’t get me wrong but it just wasn’t an explosive meant to be love. But Raven did steal the entire story she makes the book work.
This is the diary book from this author for me and I’m not sure how to feel yet. This book yea it’s emotional and heartwarming. I loved Ravens back story very much she is so complex but that is in my opinion what makes the book what it is. Then there is Blake I think that is where the disconnect is in not sure he is who Raven should have ended up with. There is just something missing there that just was disconnected for them like he want the love she deserves I mean I may be wrong but not feeling him for her. I liked Blake don’t get me wrong but it just wasn’t an explosive meant to be love. But Raven did steal the entire story she makes the book work.
July 29, 2025
I loved this book dealing with a very difficult topic!
This is the story of Raven and Blake. Raven was sexually abused at the age of 10 by her mother‘s boyfriend And I was in and out of foster homes that were abusive until she aged out. Her circumstances pushed her to become a prostitute at a very young age. She didn’t think love was ever gonna be possible for her. Then she met Blake a wealthy bar owner. At first, the relationship was sex only. That eventually it progressed into a relationship. There was also some suspense in the book.
This is the story of Raven and Blake. Raven was sexually abused at the age of 10 by her mother‘s boyfriend And I was in and out of foster homes that were abusive until she aged out. Her circumstances pushed her to become a prostitute at a very young age. She didn’t think love was ever gonna be possible for her. Then she met Blake a wealthy bar owner. At first, the relationship was sex only. That eventually it progressed into a relationship. There was also some suspense in the book.
June 13, 2022
The first part of this book was full of snark and chemistry between the main characters Raven and Blake. Then we get some glimpses to her past and references to her having a disturbing history. Due to this, she has learned to keep people at arm's distance. So when things take a dark turn, she doesn't realize she has people she can trust and turn to. There were some dark twists that were hard to read but in the end they got their HEA.
July 8, 2022
This book contains a lot of trigger warnings for rape and abuse. The characters are well written and you find yourself cheering for Blake and Raven as you read their story. There are other characters that appear with the trigger warnings and some very tough subjects are brought to the forefront due to Raven dealing with her past.
Overall if you can handle the triggers you will enjoy the banter between Blake and Raven and how their romance develops.
Overall if you can handle the triggers you will enjoy the banter between Blake and Raven and how their romance develops.
June 6, 2022
This one definitely has a heroine with A LOT of issues (trigger warnings). And the hero definitely thinks with his johnson the majority of the time but he redeems himself in the end.
It also amazed me that Raven was so intertwined with the upper crust society that Blake was part of.
But overall, a good read.
It also amazed me that Raven was so intertwined with the upper crust society that Blake was part of.
But overall, a good read.
June 20, 2022
This was a good story in my opinion but a little heart wrenching to hear about Raven’s backstory. She was certainly strong and rose above it all. Not a lot of heat to speak of though between her and Blake. Overall, it was a good read with a nice HEA. I received an advanced reader copy and I’m leaving this review voluntarily.
July 5, 2025
rough starts and middles but a HEA
I wondered how much of Blake’s bit of his rough past helped him realize the things he was feeling and realizing that he wanted more with Raven but he got there, without damage to anyone else despite his feelings once truth came out. Wonderful story, really hard life for Raven but it ends well for her.
I wondered how much of Blake’s bit of his rough past helped him realize the things he was feeling and realizing that he wanted more with Raven but he got there, without damage to anyone else despite his feelings once truth came out. Wonderful story, really hard life for Raven but it ends well for her.
June 13, 2022
The synopsis had me looking forward to reading this book. This was a book that had plenty of drama and twists in the storyline. The bar is the focal point where most of the interactions between the characters take place and I did enjoy the banter between them all. Raven is confident and outspoken she isn't afraid to speak her mind and doesn't worry too much about how others feel about her. At first Blake came across as grumpy and judgemental, I did enjoy when she pushed his buttons. Parts of the story seemed to drag and I did feel all the drama surrounding Raven was a bit much and at times dominated rather than the love story.
June 10, 2022
This book dragged a lot with lots of drama. The heroine was very grumpy, (different trope then I normally read) not really my thing. This book had a very different plot, which I did find a tad enjoyable
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