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My dream of becoming prima ballerina is dead.
Dropped by the Royal Ballet, I return home to my empty house in Cornwall with nothing but ghosts, and memories of a past I am desperate to forget.
It takes months of depression before I pull myself out of the bleakness and attempt to start living again. With a new job as an assistant to the wealthy but elusive Sachov family, I find myself caught up in a tangled web of desire, pain, and sexual awakening that will either destroy me entirely or bring me back to life.
My name is Rose, and I am their muse.
Contains mature themes.
Dropped by the Royal Ballet, I return home to my empty house in Cornwall with nothing but ghosts, and memories of a past I am desperate to forget.
It takes months of depression before I pull myself out of the bleakness and attempt to start living again. With a new job as an assistant to the wealthy but elusive Sachov family, I find myself caught up in a tangled web of desire, pain, and sexual awakening that will either destroy me entirely or bring me back to life.
My name is Rose, and I am their muse.
Contains mature themes.
1 pages, Audio CD
First published November 17, 2018
944 people are currently reading
2719 people want to read
About the author
Bea Paige
66 books1,575 followersA writer of gritty, dangerous love. A hopeless romantic. A lover of dark heroes. A drinker of red wine and a scoffer of Haribo sweets.
Librarian Note: Also writes under the name Kelly Stock.
Librarian Note: Also writes under the name Kelly Stock.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 246 reviews
November 29, 2018
First: Please read the blurb. It states that it is a dark novel and the triggers warnings. If those things are not for you, avoid this novel. She is not kidding. That said, I do think this could be Bea's best work.
Now for the story itself. Every single character is layered in complexity. They are all tormented individuals with passions and demons that are eating them alive. Rose, our female main character, had to quit her dancing career due to a medical condition that leaves her partially debilitated at 30. Dancing however, was her escape from her inner demons and it has now been denied to her. You learn more about those demons and part of her that she tries to deny as the story goes on. By the end you get a lot of her background, but maybe not the whole details.
You meet all three males in this book, but this is focused on Ivan. Throughout the course of the novel you learn his history. Rose is the first person who's stood up to him and won't back down. An epic battle for control ensues as you learn more about Ivan's demons and past. Their chemistry is off the chart.
You do learn enough about the troubles of the other two males that they will not be strangers when it is their turn. All are equally intriguing. There is also a really really creepy housekeeper adding a bit of a horror feel.
The book is very well written and you can't help being sucked in and feel what they are feeling. I can't wait for the next book.
Now for the story itself. Every single character is layered in complexity. They are all tormented individuals with passions and demons that are eating them alive. Rose, our female main character, had to quit her dancing career due to a medical condition that leaves her partially debilitated at 30. Dancing however, was her escape from her inner demons and it has now been denied to her. You learn more about those demons and part of her that she tries to deny as the story goes on. By the end you get a lot of her background, but maybe not the whole details.
You meet all three males in this book, but this is focused on Ivan. Throughout the course of the novel you learn his history. Rose is the first person who's stood up to him and won't back down. An epic battle for control ensues as you learn more about Ivan's demons and past. Their chemistry is off the chart.
You do learn enough about the troubles of the other two males that they will not be strangers when it is their turn. All are equally intriguing. There is also a really really creepy housekeeper adding a bit of a horror feel.
The book is very well written and you can't help being sucked in and feel what they are feeling. I can't wait for the next book.
November 17, 2018
DNF @ 25%
The FMC was just portrayed in such an ugly and unattractive way. There wasn't a single likeable thing about her, so I had to stop.
The FMC was just portrayed in such an ugly and unattractive way. There wasn't a single likeable thing about her, so I had to stop.
February 4, 2019
Sorry I found this so dull
I usually read a good book in one day, two if I need sleep! This took me four days and I've still not completely finished it. I got to 83%. I really tried but I couldn't bear another paragraph.
It's not dark. It's repetitive. It drags. Yes there's three guys but they're weak and whiney and there's no 'reversing' worth mentioning. The h spends half the book feeling sorry for herself with her achey swollen knee and fingers and her backpain so she limps and slouches, she spends the whole book sorting one H's files as we get repeatedly told about it making her ache.
The author keeps dropping suggestions about the h hiding her inner darkness and the three H's also have mysterious darknesses but at 83% I've decided I don't care anymore whatsoever. The so called darks that have been revealed so far are dull and bland. And the h is just awful. I didn't like her one bit. She walks in (hobbles?) and knows instantly how to handle these troubled men and their problems with nothing much more than a glance and practically takes over.
I doubt I'll try anything else from this author. The whole book is just mindless page filling with no story.
I usually read a good book in one day, two if I need sleep! This took me four days and I've still not completely finished it. I got to 83%. I really tried but I couldn't bear another paragraph.
It's not dark. It's repetitive. It drags. Yes there's three guys but they're weak and whiney and there's no 'reversing' worth mentioning. The h spends half the book feeling sorry for herself with her achey swollen knee and fingers and her backpain so she limps and slouches, she spends the whole book sorting one H's files as we get repeatedly told about it making her ache.
The author keeps dropping suggestions about the h hiding her inner darkness and the three H's also have mysterious darknesses but at 83% I've decided I don't care anymore whatsoever. The so called darks that have been revealed so far are dull and bland. And the h is just awful. I didn't like her one bit. She walks in (hobbles?) and knows instantly how to handle these troubled men and their problems with nothing much more than a glance and practically takes over.
I doubt I'll try anything else from this author. The whole book is just mindless page filling with no story.
February 6, 2019
What did I just read? I seriously don't know. So much mystery and darkness...
May 4, 2021
All Rose ever dreamed about was being a Prima Ballerina and dancing for the rest of her life with those graceful and fluid moves. That was until tragedy struck in the form of an illness which caused her to never professionally dance again. Even when she dances, it ends in pain. Desperate for money and a job, she applies for the PA job for reclusive billionaire Ivan Sachov. She just gets the job but with it comes a list of requirements, one being that she can't dance and has to be out by 4 pm and do not enter any locked doors. Rose is surprised that it isn't just Ivan living here but two others Anton and Erik. As the book goes along, we learn that each of the three is dealing with their dark demons and it seems that by hiring Rose, Mrs. Hadley may have discovered the one person who can save not just one of them but all three and bring them each out of their shells and face their demons. We have Ivan who was also a former Ballet star but dances for punishment after his wife died and he also loves to partake in BDSM which this part was quite dark as includes blood. Erik was a former soldier but suffered bad PTSD due to torture by a female terrorist and Anton, an artist who happens to be colour-blind and sees just black and white. Rose herself also faces her demons which included her parents and her former lover. Is Rose - the muse that the boys have been looking for and in return, will the boys help Rose face her demons? Steps by Bea Paige was a dark romance and a reverse harem tale. Though each book features all three boys, Steps was primarily focused on Ivan and Rose's connection with one another.
September 19, 2023
Every so often an author will write a book that makes you view the world differently. That challenges the way you view works that the author has previously written and opens your mind to new ideas and experiences. Bea Paige has done that for me with this book. I normally do not like dark romance books. However, this book drew me in with the first words. I was immediately drawn to the character of Rose. Rose is broken in so many ways, from her debilitating illness to the experiences that she had as a teenager, each has shaped her in such a way that when she recognizes the same "demons" in Ivan, Anton, and Erik, she is immediately drawn to them and finally begins to feel "whole" again. These men need her in the same way that she needs them in order feel "whole." Erik breaks my heart because I have a loved one who struggles at times with PTSD, so I know the ravages of that disease. This book is thought-provoking, haunting, and beautifully written, and I cannot wait for Anton's story.
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January 18, 2020
3.75 Stars
I have a lot of mixed feelings on this book. On one hand, it combined a lot of themes that I absolutely adore and wove them together beautifully. On the other hand, certain parts of the story I just couldn’t connect with and I had a hard time empathizing with the characters.
Dark themes have always fascinated and drawn me in to a story like nothing else. Seeing a dark and broken character just trying to survive and attempt to heal themself is so profoundly enamoring to me. This book certainly has that in spades. This story is dark. The characters are broken and don’t really have a hope to heal anymore. This appeals to me so much and I just wish I could have connected with them more and understood their different struggles.
I don’t know if I will be continuing the series. While the story has drawn me in, I’m struggling to connect with the characters and understand their actions. Time will tell I guess.
I have a lot of mixed feelings on this book. On one hand, it combined a lot of themes that I absolutely adore and wove them together beautifully. On the other hand, certain parts of the story I just couldn’t connect with and I had a hard time empathizing with the characters.
Dark themes have always fascinated and drawn me in to a story like nothing else. Seeing a dark and broken character just trying to survive and attempt to heal themself is so profoundly enamoring to me. This book certainly has that in spades. This story is dark. The characters are broken and don’t really have a hope to heal anymore. This appeals to me so much and I just wish I could have connected with them more and understood their different struggles.
I don’t know if I will be continuing the series. While the story has drawn me in, I’m struggling to connect with the characters and understand their actions. Time will tell I guess.
June 4, 2019
Ivan and Rose’s story is so heartbreakingly shattering that you can’t help but fall into the deep dark abyss immediately. As the story continues you’ll be introduced to the other men that will join the two of them - Anton and Erik.
I’m throughly impressed with Bea Paige’s ability to capture raw emotion and despair with Steps. The characters thoughts and emotions leap off the page and right into your heart and soul.
I highly recommend the first book in the Finding Their Muse series, and look forward to the next instalment with Strokes.
Side note: I’m disappointed with myself that I didn’t read Steps as soon as it was released, and delayed taking the plunge into this brilliant series. I definitely won’t be waiting for Strokes.
I’m throughly impressed with Bea Paige’s ability to capture raw emotion and despair with Steps. The characters thoughts and emotions leap off the page and right into your heart and soul.
I highly recommend the first book in the Finding Their Muse series, and look forward to the next instalment with Strokes.
Side note: I’m disappointed with myself that I didn’t read Steps as soon as it was released, and delayed taking the plunge into this brilliant series. I definitely won’t be waiting for Strokes.
May 24, 2021
This was dark and very emotional. Bea Paige created 4 very complex characters, all tormented and broken. Each emotion captured so rawly, painful, and vivid. It’s a beautifully written story that sucks you in completely.
November 22, 2018
As the blurb states, this book is dark, but it's also gripping and quite erotic with some BDSM thrown in for good measure! It alternated between the viewpoints of Rose and Ivan. Little known to Rose when she answered the job assistant advert, Ivan is someone she knows from the past. The other 2 males Anton and Eric are introduced, just enough to pipe my interest in them! All main characters have secrets and troubled pasts. Ivan isn't used to not getting his way - Rose has him questioning his actions and doing things he has never done before (apologising for example!!). I can't wait to see how the relationships with Anton and Eric play out.
July 21, 2019
Beautiful prose describing such tortured souls....
February 16, 2020
This was surprisingly good. I am not a fan of stories when the hero pines over a dead wife because the heroine can never compete with a dead wife. However, even though the hero pined, it was done well. The reader understood that the heroine was so much more to the hero even if it was in a different way.
This RH is done very differently. Book 1 focuses on the first hero, Ivan, who used to dance ballet with his dead wife who committed suicide. Ivan has blamed himself for many years for the death of his wife. Rose comes to work for Ivan as his assistant. Rose knows that Ivan wants her, but she knows if she gives in she will go back to the darkness that surrounded and almost destroyed her when she was 16 years old and involved with a different man, Roman. She gave everything to that relationship, but it only destroyed her. I want to know it all!!! We got a small flashback and for someone who hates flashbacks...this was done very well.
Ivan has two men who live in the house with him that also have very dark secrets. Anton and Erik have dark pasts and the reader is only given a glimpse of them. Anton paints and is looking for his muse. Erik was in the military and was tortured. Both Ivan and Anton are looking for someone who can help Erik. They are hoping that Rose is the answer.
Rose was introduced to all three men. Now this book involves BDSM Dom/sub relationships. However, there is a big twist revolving the Dom/sub relationship. One, I did not see coming and another, I am not sure how I feel about. What I will say I am intrigued. The last 15% of the book, the author wrote the twist very well and if it continues to be tasteful, I will continue reading. That is all I can say about that without giving the story away.
Book 1 is a dual POV between Rose and Ivan. My understanding is that book 2 involves Rose and Anton. Book 3 will involve Rose and Erik.
The epilogue was written in Anton's POV. So dark and mysteries. I can not wait to read book 2. Please do not disappoint.
Besides Anton's secrets there are so many other secrets in this series. There is Erik, who does not like to be touched and is not only dangerous to himself, but to other people. Ivan still has many secrets. How will the arrangement between Rose and Ivan continue and will it work??? Also about Ivan's dead wife I am not sure if anyone will agree with me. I am curious to see if I am right about that one. The reader only got a glimpse of what happened between Roman and Rose when she was 16 years old so I want to learn more about that whole "relationship".
This RH is done very differently. Book 1 focuses on the first hero, Ivan, who used to dance ballet with his dead wife who committed suicide. Ivan has blamed himself for many years for the death of his wife. Rose comes to work for Ivan as his assistant. Rose knows that Ivan wants her, but she knows if she gives in she will go back to the darkness that surrounded and almost destroyed her when she was 16 years old and involved with a different man, Roman. She gave everything to that relationship, but it only destroyed her. I want to know it all!!! We got a small flashback and for someone who hates flashbacks...this was done very well.
Ivan has two men who live in the house with him that also have very dark secrets. Anton and Erik have dark pasts and the reader is only given a glimpse of them. Anton paints and is looking for his muse. Erik was in the military and was tortured. Both Ivan and Anton are looking for someone who can help Erik. They are hoping that Rose is the answer.
Rose was introduced to all three men. Now this book involves BDSM Dom/sub relationships. However, there is a big twist revolving the Dom/sub relationship. One, I did not see coming and another, I am not sure how I feel about. What I will say I am intrigued. The last 15% of the book, the author wrote the twist very well and if it continues to be tasteful, I will continue reading. That is all I can say about that without giving the story away.
Book 1 is a dual POV between Rose and Ivan. My understanding is that book 2 involves Rose and Anton. Book 3 will involve Rose and Erik.
The epilogue was written in Anton's POV. So dark and mysteries. I can not wait to read book 2. Please do not disappoint.
Besides Anton's secrets there are so many other secrets in this series. There is Erik, who does not like to be touched and is not only dangerous to himself, but to other people. Ivan still has many secrets. How will the arrangement between Rose and Ivan continue and will it work??? Also about Ivan's dead wife I am not sure if anyone will agree with me. I am curious to see if I am right about that one. The reader only got a glimpse of what happened between Roman and Rose when she was 16 years old so I want to learn more about that whole "relationship".
November 20, 2018
Utterly haunting and tragically beautiful.
When a dark romance is done right, it can show the ugliest side to a flawed character and make your heart yearn for their redemption. It should be raw and painful while maintaining the alluring spell of wanting to flip to the next page to read how it will all play out.
Bea Paige did this beautifully with her stunning prose and captivating characters. From the first chapter, I could not put this book down and felt immersed in this twisted tale of dominance and submission.
A must-read for anyone who loves a bit of dark in their love stories.
But take caution.
While ‘Steps’ is the beginning to a love that may give salvation to all these four main characters; to the reader, it will condemn you to a biting nail anticipation of the next installment in this series.
But aren’t the good ones always like that?
When a dark romance is done right, it can show the ugliest side to a flawed character and make your heart yearn for their redemption. It should be raw and painful while maintaining the alluring spell of wanting to flip to the next page to read how it will all play out.
Bea Paige did this beautifully with her stunning prose and captivating characters. From the first chapter, I could not put this book down and felt immersed in this twisted tale of dominance and submission.
A must-read for anyone who loves a bit of dark in their love stories.
But take caution.
While ‘Steps’ is the beginning to a love that may give salvation to all these four main characters; to the reader, it will condemn you to a biting nail anticipation of the next installment in this series.
But aren’t the good ones always like that?
November 28, 2019
This book was so good. It’s really different in that all of the characters have many sides and personality traits that keep you on your toes. Obviously, with the ending I know something big is coming but I feel like there’s another character that is big trouble. I hope on book two, we get to see how all of their darkness comes together. Very excited for book two.
November 27, 2018
Holy mother of Toledo. This book threw me for a loop, but damn am I ready for more. The blurb isn't wrong, it is dark and there are moments that could be triggers.
When I first met Rose I had her pegged as a certain type of woman. Being an ex-ballerina I expected her to be poised, gracefully, and honestly docile. When I noted the BDSM hints I felt I knew exactly where the story was going with the meek ballerina stereotype and was intrigued on how the aspect of a reverse harem was going to play into the story. Then I really got to know Rose. She is more than an ex-ballerina and she doesn't fall into your normal stereotypes. Yes she is gracefully and she is poised, but she is also brash, resilient, and one hell of a fighter. She will not bow down to anyone just because they think they know who she is and what she is all about. She is feisty. Playful. Powerful. As each of her layers are peeled back throughout the story you discover who Rose truly is and you can't help but stare in awe at the dark beauty that lies beneath.
With the nods to Rose's past and the type of man Ivan is I felt I knew where their relationship was going. Then I was bitch slapped with the realization that Rose is so much more than that. I was squealing from excitement at the revelation as to where her relationships with all three men were going. For real, just ask my roommate because I then tracked her down so that I could gush about this revelation. It's so different from other BDSM books I've read and was just what I needed when I didn't realize I needed it.
This book focuses more on her relationship with Ivan, but you do get to see the blossoming relationships she has with Anton and Erik. She needs Anton and Erik just as much as she needs Ivan. They each give her something that her soul needs and craves. I'm practically on the edge of my seat to see where her relationships with the other two will go, especially after that epilogue. That epilogue was just cruel, but I loved every cruel moment of it. I cannot wait to see just how dark and gritty Bea gets with the next books in the Finding Their Muse series.
When I first met Rose I had her pegged as a certain type of woman. Being an ex-ballerina I expected her to be poised, gracefully, and honestly docile. When I noted the BDSM hints I felt I knew exactly where the story was going with the meek ballerina stereotype and was intrigued on how the aspect of a reverse harem was going to play into the story. Then I really got to know Rose. She is more than an ex-ballerina and she doesn't fall into your normal stereotypes. Yes she is gracefully and she is poised, but she is also brash, resilient, and one hell of a fighter. She will not bow down to anyone just because they think they know who she is and what she is all about. She is feisty. Playful. Powerful. As each of her layers are peeled back throughout the story you discover who Rose truly is and you can't help but stare in awe at the dark beauty that lies beneath.
With the nods to Rose's past and the type of man Ivan is I felt I knew where their relationship was going. Then I was bitch slapped with the realization that Rose is so much more than that. I was squealing from excitement at the revelation as to where her relationships with all three men were going. For real, just ask my roommate because I then tracked her down so that I could gush about this revelation. It's so different from other BDSM books I've read and was just what I needed when I didn't realize I needed it.
This book focuses more on her relationship with Ivan, but you do get to see the blossoming relationships she has with Anton and Erik. She needs Anton and Erik just as much as she needs Ivan. They each give her something that her soul needs and craves. I'm practically on the edge of my seat to see where her relationships with the other two will go, especially after that epilogue. That epilogue was just cruel, but I loved every cruel moment of it. I cannot wait to see just how dark and gritty Bea gets with the next books in the Finding Their Muse series.
November 16, 2018
Rose danced to live, she danced to survive and when her dancing was taken away, her past threatened to overcome her. Months of mental depression and physical pain took over her world. Finally, she resurfaced to take a job as the personal assistant to the mysterious Ivan Sachov. She immediately discovers that the Sachov family holds secrets as dark as her own. Sex, violence, pain, and desire. The Sachov's each hold demons as dangerous as Rose's. This job will either bring her back to life or destroy her once and for all.
***Warning: This is a dark story that contains suicide, self-harm and other topics that may be triggering. Read at your own discretion.***
I have enjoyed Bea Paige's Brother's Freed and Sisters of the Hex series. I had an idea of who she is as an author. I had an incomplete image of her talent. Steps is an enthralling story. This is her best work to date in my opinion. Set in Browlace Manor, more a prison than a home under the watchful, cruel eyes of Ms. Hadley, Rose comes to know Ivan, Anton, and Erik. Three men consumed by inner demons, broken by violence, loss, and a need to hurt others. Rose's own darkness immediately recognizes and claims them as her own. The question will be, is she strong enough to survive? Can she help them and herself or is this her end?
This is a dark, disturbing book, full of pain. Damaged men who want to control, to harm, to destroy women. I was haunted by each page. I am not usually drawn to the darker human elements but I am drawn to the broken. These men know what they do but they only think they understand why. Their damage rules them. They do what they must to survive. Just as Rose does. There is a definite beauty found among the broken pieces. The story-arc wraps up in a sense and the epilogue gives a frightening glance at what is next in the continuing nightmare of Browlace Manor's men and their muse. I eagerly look forward to this second book.
***Warning: This is a dark story that contains suicide, self-harm and other topics that may be triggering. Read at your own discretion.***
I have enjoyed Bea Paige's Brother's Freed and Sisters of the Hex series. I had an idea of who she is as an author. I had an incomplete image of her talent. Steps is an enthralling story. This is her best work to date in my opinion. Set in Browlace Manor, more a prison than a home under the watchful, cruel eyes of Ms. Hadley, Rose comes to know Ivan, Anton, and Erik. Three men consumed by inner demons, broken by violence, loss, and a need to hurt others. Rose's own darkness immediately recognizes and claims them as her own. The question will be, is she strong enough to survive? Can she help them and herself or is this her end?
This is a dark, disturbing book, full of pain. Damaged men who want to control, to harm, to destroy women. I was haunted by each page. I am not usually drawn to the darker human elements but I am drawn to the broken. These men know what they do but they only think they understand why. Their damage rules them. They do what they must to survive. Just as Rose does. There is a definite beauty found among the broken pieces. The story-arc wraps up in a sense and the epilogue gives a frightening glance at what is next in the continuing nightmare of Browlace Manor's men and their muse. I eagerly look forward to this second book.
November 19, 2018
Holy moly guys!
Be prepared for a dark and twisted romance.
I'm not going to lie, when I first started to read this, I was skeptical.
There are certain aspects about it that I'm not a fan of.
Nothing concerning the dark side of it.
But more personal things-like cheating.
Ivan, one of the main male characters in the story, doesn't care if the women he brings back to the manor are married and have kids.
So that's something I wasn't really happy about, but I powered through knowing eventually he would stop.
This story is told from dual POV- Rose and Ivan.
We get another POV in the epilogue as well.
Rose has ghosts she is running from.
Things she has trouble getting away from.
After months of living in depression, she finally starts living again.
Interviewing for a new job as an assistant to the wealthy but elusive Sachov family.
It is here that she finds her true self.
The girl she has been shoving aside for years, but is able to release in the presence of these strange men.
I wasn't sure what to expect from this story except it was reverse harem.
However, it pleasantly surprised me.
The men in this story are dark and twisted.
Each in their own unique way.
However, this story focuses mostly on Ivan.
This is his book.
I have a feeling we will get a book for each man.
Which will be awesome.
Rose is dark and twisted in her own way as well.
Her desires have made her feel like she is wrong.
Especially once you learn why she feels that way-what she did to cause such a reaction.
Everything about this story was eye-opening and page-turning.
Once I got past the aspects I didn't like (which was only in one chapter), I devoured the rest of the story.
There is a warning on the synopsis, but I feel I should reiterate it.
If you are not a fan of suicide, self-harm, and depraved intimate scenes-this is not a book for you.
But overall, I really enjoyed this book and can't wait to see what is in store for us in the next installment.
Be prepared for a dark and twisted romance.
I'm not going to lie, when I first started to read this, I was skeptical.
There are certain aspects about it that I'm not a fan of.
Nothing concerning the dark side of it.
But more personal things-like cheating.
Ivan, one of the main male characters in the story, doesn't care if the women he brings back to the manor are married and have kids.
So that's something I wasn't really happy about, but I powered through knowing eventually he would stop.
This story is told from dual POV- Rose and Ivan.
We get another POV in the epilogue as well.
Rose has ghosts she is running from.
Things she has trouble getting away from.
After months of living in depression, she finally starts living again.
Interviewing for a new job as an assistant to the wealthy but elusive Sachov family.
It is here that she finds her true self.
The girl she has been shoving aside for years, but is able to release in the presence of these strange men.
I wasn't sure what to expect from this story except it was reverse harem.
However, it pleasantly surprised me.
The men in this story are dark and twisted.
Each in their own unique way.
However, this story focuses mostly on Ivan.
This is his book.
I have a feeling we will get a book for each man.
Which will be awesome.
Rose is dark and twisted in her own way as well.
Her desires have made her feel like she is wrong.
Especially once you learn why she feels that way-what she did to cause such a reaction.
Everything about this story was eye-opening and page-turning.
Once I got past the aspects I didn't like (which was only in one chapter), I devoured the rest of the story.
There is a warning on the synopsis, but I feel I should reiterate it.
If you are not a fan of suicide, self-harm, and depraved intimate scenes-this is not a book for you.
But overall, I really enjoyed this book and can't wait to see what is in store for us in the next installment.
November 11, 2018
A compelling, powerful, outstanding book introduces us to Bea's very dark new series
Bea Paige is one of my favourite authors and certainly one of the best authors I have had the privilege of reading on my Kindle. I have read all of the Sisters of Hex books that she has written so far and loved them. The world building is excellent, the characters are real, the imagination fantastic and the series is going from strength to strength. The Brothers Freed trilogy grabbed me and still won't let go, so many months after I finished the trilogy. I already know that this series will have the same effect on me because I can't stop thinking about it now, to the detriment of everything else I should be doing, including sleeping. I cannot begin to imagine where Bea conjures up her stories from but I am very glad that she chooses to share the magic with us.
I'm not sure where to start with this book because it's breathtaking, literally. It is dark, thrilling, unexpected, thought-provoking, surprising, a grab-you-by-the-throat-and-don't-let-go-till-the-last-page kind of book. It took me longer to read it than it should because I just couldn't get past so many of the sentences and passages without reading them again, or over and over in some cases. Her writing was so beautiful, as usual, and sometimes I think I forgot to breathe. As I was reading, I thought it was possibly going to be her best book yet and now, I'm convinced of it because I already want to re-read it.
Rose and the men of the Sachov family are incredibly complex characters. They are all broken, all in different ways, all lost inside prisons of their own making. Nothing in this book is what it seems on the face of it, and throughout the story there are many hints, details, glimpses that suggest thoughts, feelings, facts, but it is impossible to guess how everything will unfold. I cannot give any details because there would be little worse than spoiling this remarkable book for you but the story builds with every page leading to the incredible ending, which is unexpected and outstanding. The epilogue is scary but thrilling, giving us a taste of what is to come in Strokes (the next book of the series) and, whilst not a cliff-hanger, it definitely leaves us very near the edge. I have no idea what awaits Rose, and us, but I know it will be remarkable and I am already so impatient to find out.
Bea Paige is one of my favourite authors and certainly one of the best authors I have had the privilege of reading on my Kindle. I have read all of the Sisters of Hex books that she has written so far and loved them. The world building is excellent, the characters are real, the imagination fantastic and the series is going from strength to strength. The Brothers Freed trilogy grabbed me and still won't let go, so many months after I finished the trilogy. I already know that this series will have the same effect on me because I can't stop thinking about it now, to the detriment of everything else I should be doing, including sleeping. I cannot begin to imagine where Bea conjures up her stories from but I am very glad that she chooses to share the magic with us.
I'm not sure where to start with this book because it's breathtaking, literally. It is dark, thrilling, unexpected, thought-provoking, surprising, a grab-you-by-the-throat-and-don't-let-go-till-the-last-page kind of book. It took me longer to read it than it should because I just couldn't get past so many of the sentences and passages without reading them again, or over and over in some cases. Her writing was so beautiful, as usual, and sometimes I think I forgot to breathe. As I was reading, I thought it was possibly going to be her best book yet and now, I'm convinced of it because I already want to re-read it.
Rose and the men of the Sachov family are incredibly complex characters. They are all broken, all in different ways, all lost inside prisons of their own making. Nothing in this book is what it seems on the face of it, and throughout the story there are many hints, details, glimpses that suggest thoughts, feelings, facts, but it is impossible to guess how everything will unfold. I cannot give any details because there would be little worse than spoiling this remarkable book for you but the story builds with every page leading to the incredible ending, which is unexpected and outstanding. The epilogue is scary but thrilling, giving us a taste of what is to come in Strokes (the next book of the series) and, whilst not a cliff-hanger, it definitely leaves us very near the edge. I have no idea what awaits Rose, and us, but I know it will be remarkable and I am already so impatient to find out.
November 19, 2018
Wow...what a different and darkly intriguing new story by Bea Paige. This insanely talented author has gone away from everything I have read from her and come out all guns firing in this intense story that revolves around four damaged and at time disturbing characters. In this first book we just scratch the service on who Rose is and what has happened to her in the past, but what I have learnt so far just want me wanting more! Rose is at times quite brittle and off putting but she has that vulnerability and toughness that captivates. We mostly get to know who Ivan is in this book and learn about his dark past and try to understand his demons...but I loved how Rose helps him to cope with these and there is a glimmer of hope for him for the future. We just a bit of a glimpse on Anton and Erik..but I can see that they are going to have a lot of demons to overcome in the next books...demons that hopefully Rose can appease! But then Rose needs to meet and overcome her own demons while with these guys as well!! I will say though Ms Hadley really peeved me off in this book and I just wanted Rose to give her a slap...Rose does deal with her a bit but I can see she is going to be a problem in the next book! This book is very different to other Bea Paige’s books but I loved it...even if I was I uncomfortable at times...and I cannot wait to read more from this dark and intriguing world!
November 17, 2018
Holy wow! The cover is stunning, the writing enthralling and dark, and the characters are unforgettable, addicting and bury themselves in your heart. Bea Paige has outdone herself with this dark and and heartbreaking story of three broken men and the woman that is unknowingly strong enough to build them back into the men they once were.
These men have demons riding them hard and only someone that understands demons can help soothe their inner beasts. Paige constructs worlds, storylines and characters that are so believable, easy to relate to, and burrow into your mind and heart. This book touched my heart and will not leave my mind, the way Ivan let his guilt overtake every aspect of his life, Rose and her drive and fight using that to fight back Ivans darkness.
I very much look forward to reading more, and digging deeper into Anton’s past, and reading of his demons, and the darkness we got hints of in this book. As well as the real story behind Erik’s PTSD, because I got the impression there is a lot more to that story. I highly recommend this beautifully written, haunting, thought-provoking and powerfully compelling story.
These men have demons riding them hard and only someone that understands demons can help soothe their inner beasts. Paige constructs worlds, storylines and characters that are so believable, easy to relate to, and burrow into your mind and heart. This book touched my heart and will not leave my mind, the way Ivan let his guilt overtake every aspect of his life, Rose and her drive and fight using that to fight back Ivans darkness.
I very much look forward to reading more, and digging deeper into Anton’s past, and reading of his demons, and the darkness we got hints of in this book. As well as the real story behind Erik’s PTSD, because I got the impression there is a lot more to that story. I highly recommend this beautifully written, haunting, thought-provoking and powerfully compelling story.
November 18, 2018
Layers of Beauty and Darkness
Oh, I have been waiting anxiously for this story since I first read the teaser! I was so easily drawn into the mystery, the heartache and the pain surrounding these characters. I'm such a mystery lover at heart, I had to dig deeper, I want to know all the secrets these characters carry. We get glimpses and start to understand some of the truth in this story, but the author is determined to tease it out and make us wait to see the full picture. Wow! I love her vision, and the layers of pain she created with this story. With the pain, though, also comes great beauty, a potential for redemption, and love. She knows how to write broken men and make you fall in love with them, despite and because of their pain and darkness. Their demons call to mine, I want to soothe their pain while I'm also so enamored with them. I'm already anxious for the next book. Thank you for this beautiful story, I cannot wait for the next one!
Oh, I have been waiting anxiously for this story since I first read the teaser! I was so easily drawn into the mystery, the heartache and the pain surrounding these characters. I'm such a mystery lover at heart, I had to dig deeper, I want to know all the secrets these characters carry. We get glimpses and start to understand some of the truth in this story, but the author is determined to tease it out and make us wait to see the full picture. Wow! I love her vision, and the layers of pain she created with this story. With the pain, though, also comes great beauty, a potential for redemption, and love. She knows how to write broken men and make you fall in love with them, despite and because of their pain and darkness. Their demons call to mine, I want to soothe their pain while I'm also so enamored with them. I'm already anxious for the next book. Thank you for this beautiful story, I cannot wait for the next one!
November 18, 2018
*I recieved a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All my thoughts and opinions are my own, I am in no way obligated to sway my review.*
When I first read the blurb I was honestly a little worried that the dancing element wouldn't translate well. That it might muddle the story or become a boring element. That it wouldn't be well incorporated into the story. I was worried this would be pure smut with no substance. I needn't have worried, and it didn't take me long to realize it. The entire book is beautifully written, and perfectly balanced. It's dark, but digestible, not overly dramatic, but rather realistic and captivativating. The author does a wonderful job of developing the plot, the charachters, and the ever ignored setting. In fact it's been a long while since I've seen such well developed and out-of-the-box development in a charachter, as I have in the charachters in Steps. Those dirty scenes are more than just fantasy material! They drive the plot, they are well thought out and written. There aren't too many for the plot to support, but just enough to fit the pace. I can honestly say I'm on pins and needles waiting for the next book.
When I first read the blurb I was honestly a little worried that the dancing element wouldn't translate well. That it might muddle the story or become a boring element. That it wouldn't be well incorporated into the story. I was worried this would be pure smut with no substance. I needn't have worried, and it didn't take me long to realize it. The entire book is beautifully written, and perfectly balanced. It's dark, but digestible, not overly dramatic, but rather realistic and captivativating. The author does a wonderful job of developing the plot, the charachters, and the ever ignored setting. In fact it's been a long while since I've seen such well developed and out-of-the-box development in a charachter, as I have in the charachters in Steps. Those dirty scenes are more than just fantasy material! They drive the plot, they are well thought out and written. There aren't too many for the plot to support, but just enough to fit the pace. I can honestly say I'm on pins and needles waiting for the next book.
March 11, 2021
¡No hubo caso!
Chicos, lo intenté, en serio que lo hice, pero la historia me aburrió. ¿Puede que no haya sido el momento para leerlo? Quien sabe… sólo sé, que me obligué a terminarlo.
A ver, por partes. Nada que decir de la protagonista. Con algunas enfermedades por aquí y por allá, su personalidad fue un poco meh, haciendo que resaltara bien poco. No le encontré ni una gracia.
Los protagonistas son cuento aparte. Intenté créeme el cuento con ellos, pero la imagen que me daba la historia vs el desarrollo de esta… no sé, no me cuadraban. Ninguno de ellos me llamó la atención. Ya recién al final del libro te enteras más o menos de sus personalidades. Mientras la historia avanza, no tienes la foto clara.
La historia tenía potencial, de hecho, doy a suponer que esta trilogía era más que el RH… pero me aburrió :(
¿Puede que lo vuelva a intentar más adelante? Sip, puede que sí. Pero por ahora voy a dejar de leer la trilogía porque no le veo gracia por ahora…
Una lástima :(
Chicos, lo intenté, en serio que lo hice, pero la historia me aburrió. ¿Puede que no haya sido el momento para leerlo? Quien sabe… sólo sé, que me obligué a terminarlo.
A ver, por partes. Nada que decir de la protagonista. Con algunas enfermedades por aquí y por allá, su personalidad fue un poco meh, haciendo que resaltara bien poco. No le encontré ni una gracia.
Los protagonistas son cuento aparte. Intenté créeme el cuento con ellos, pero la imagen que me daba la historia vs el desarrollo de esta… no sé, no me cuadraban. Ninguno de ellos me llamó la atención. Ya recién al final del libro te enteras más o menos de sus personalidades. Mientras la historia avanza, no tienes la foto clara.
La historia tenía potencial, de hecho, doy a suponer que esta trilogía era más que el RH… pero me aburrió :(
¿Puede que lo vuelva a intentar más adelante? Sip, puede que sí. Pero por ahora voy a dejar de leer la trilogía porque no le veo gracia por ahora…
Una lástima :(
May 14, 2021
Definitely an interesting start to a series, though it didn’t wind up being what I expected.
Rose is a ballerina with a dark past and a desperate present. She was dropped by the Royal Ballet after being diagnosed with arthritis and now lives with daily pain. She’s back in her childhood home and haunted by the ghosts of her past, and needing to find a job quickly. She finds one as assistant to a mysterious man with an equally tortured past.
Through this book we see a bit of the mystery of the series set up through the side characters. Who lives in the house Rose works at? Is Ms Hadley evil? Who is Ivan, the man she was hired as an assistant to? Why does he want her?
This is a reverse harem series but set up very uniquely. Each of the first three books focuses on a different man with dual POV between that man and Rose. The fourth book switches POV between the four of them.
This book was the best of the first three. I thought Ivan’s submission to Rose was sexy and well written.
Rose is a ballerina with a dark past and a desperate present. She was dropped by the Royal Ballet after being diagnosed with arthritis and now lives with daily pain. She’s back in her childhood home and haunted by the ghosts of her past, and needing to find a job quickly. She finds one as assistant to a mysterious man with an equally tortured past.
Through this book we see a bit of the mystery of the series set up through the side characters. Who lives in the house Rose works at? Is Ms Hadley evil? Who is Ivan, the man she was hired as an assistant to? Why does he want her?
This is a reverse harem series but set up very uniquely. Each of the first three books focuses on a different man with dual POV between that man and Rose. The fourth book switches POV between the four of them.
This book was the best of the first three. I thought Ivan’s submission to Rose was sexy and well written.
November 18, 2018
Beautiful prose describing such tortured souls
Wow! Since day one of learning Bea Paige was doing a dark tale about dance I was intrigued. Ballet has always captivated my attention and I always found the stories ballerinas tried to recount with their flawless movements to be tragic and heart wrenching. I read this story in one sitting and can tell you that Bea, put pen to paper and described this beautiful art form to its finest degree. Accompany that with the four tragically flawed characters and this story grew wings. Utterly haunting and tragically beautiful. Although in this book Ivan was the one who held Ross's attentiveness, I got one can not wait to see how she will take the artist who is already obsessed with his muse and rebuild the pained vulnerable soldier. Erik the one I need to read as soon as possible! A must read for anyone who loves a bit of dark to their love stories. To the author, you lady are a true talent and I think the dark romance just found itself a writer do to it justice.
Wow! Since day one of learning Bea Paige was doing a dark tale about dance I was intrigued. Ballet has always captivated my attention and I always found the stories ballerinas tried to recount with their flawless movements to be tragic and heart wrenching. I read this story in one sitting and can tell you that Bea, put pen to paper and described this beautiful art form to its finest degree. Accompany that with the four tragically flawed characters and this story grew wings. Utterly haunting and tragically beautiful. Although in this book Ivan was the one who held Ross's attentiveness, I got one can not wait to see how she will take the artist who is already obsessed with his muse and rebuild the pained vulnerable soldier. Erik the one I need to read as soon as possible! A must read for anyone who loves a bit of dark to their love stories. To the author, you lady are a true talent and I think the dark romance just found itself a writer do to it justice.
November 19, 2018
This story is great for those who seek the darkness of despair and desolation, without wanting to step away from the light so many of us live in.
Have you ever felt like the demons of your past continue to haunt you? Felt like decisions you once made shaped your future? From the first page, Bea Paige is able to captivate you with the story of Ivan, who is tormented by his guilt, and Rose, who refuses to back down from those who seek to destroy her. There is also Anton and Erik, both character who we see play a significant part of this story, but have their own stories to tell as well.
Steps captures the beauty in giving yourself completely to another person. Whilst the characters still have their secrets, we are slowly learning that perhaps all it takes is for one person to understand to truly help you overcome the darkness that tries to drag you under.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author for review consideration**
Have you ever felt like the demons of your past continue to haunt you? Felt like decisions you once made shaped your future? From the first page, Bea Paige is able to captivate you with the story of Ivan, who is tormented by his guilt, and Rose, who refuses to back down from those who seek to destroy her. There is also Anton and Erik, both character who we see play a significant part of this story, but have their own stories to tell as well.
Steps captures the beauty in giving yourself completely to another person. Whilst the characters still have their secrets, we are slowly learning that perhaps all it takes is for one person to understand to truly help you overcome the darkness that tries to drag you under.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author for review consideration**
November 20, 2018
“In these men, I’ve found a place to belong, and with me they’ve found a way to be set free.” Rose
Steps is the amazing first book in the Finding Their Muse trilogy. It is heart wrenching to live with these characters, learning about how each has been damaged and scarred, particularly Ivan and Rose in this novel. But in all the pain, there is hope that they will find their place to belong, their way to be set free. As the tension mounts, these characters emerge as broken but not defeated and their triumph over the demons that rule them assured in the relationship they form with each other. This novels probes at some issues and behaviors that the reader may find uncomfortable so be forewarned. However, I found that it was handled carefully and not overwhelming. I can not wait for the next book and recommend it highly.
Steps is the amazing first book in the Finding Their Muse trilogy. It is heart wrenching to live with these characters, learning about how each has been damaged and scarred, particularly Ivan and Rose in this novel. But in all the pain, there is hope that they will find their place to belong, their way to be set free. As the tension mounts, these characters emerge as broken but not defeated and their triumph over the demons that rule them assured in the relationship they form with each other. This novels probes at some issues and behaviors that the reader may find uncomfortable so be forewarned. However, I found that it was handled carefully and not overwhelming. I can not wait for the next book and recommend it highly.
November 20, 2018
Dark, beautiful and oh so enticing.
I honestly cannot recall a time that I was this invested in characters from chapter one. Rose, Ivan, Anton and Erik stole my heart, their pasts had me teary eyed and I felt as if I were watching a movie. Like I was sitting on the edge of my seat, trying to guess the direction the story would go, attempting to guess their secrets, willing them to be good guys, praying they could find control, willing them to find a way to be whole again, hoping for HEA, but this was just the beginning. I absolutely loved the fact that throughout this emotional rollercoaster, there were moments of such beautifully raw passion, unexpected humor and heart wrenchingly deep pain. Can't wait to read what unfolds in Browlace Manor next! Just an amazingly great job from Bea Paige :)
I honestly cannot recall a time that I was this invested in characters from chapter one. Rose, Ivan, Anton and Erik stole my heart, their pasts had me teary eyed and I felt as if I were watching a movie. Like I was sitting on the edge of my seat, trying to guess the direction the story would go, attempting to guess their secrets, willing them to be good guys, praying they could find control, willing them to find a way to be whole again, hoping for HEA, but this was just the beginning. I absolutely loved the fact that throughout this emotional rollercoaster, there were moments of such beautifully raw passion, unexpected humor and heart wrenchingly deep pain. Can't wait to read what unfolds in Browlace Manor next! Just an amazingly great job from Bea Paige :)
November 17, 2018
Having read this book in less than 4 hours, I can absolutely say that it was compelling. Couldn't put it down.
The story of Rose and Ivan is quite riveting with an end that will be surprising. Both characters are riddled with secrets and consumed by dark thoughts. Ivan with his wife's death and Rose with glimpses of a past that is not entirely revealed in this book.
The author also introduces Anton and Eric in this book, assuming these character will be completing the HR for Rose. But how about Ms. Hadley (emphasis on the Ms please)? This character seems to be holding a role that is not entirely clear. Will she be playing a part in the death of Ivan wife's, Sveltana's death?
If you would like to read a captivating book, I recommend it without any reservations.
The story of Rose and Ivan is quite riveting with an end that will be surprising. Both characters are riddled with secrets and consumed by dark thoughts. Ivan with his wife's death and Rose with glimpses of a past that is not entirely revealed in this book.
The author also introduces Anton and Eric in this book, assuming these character will be completing the HR for Rose. But how about Ms. Hadley (emphasis on the Ms please)? This character seems to be holding a role that is not entirely clear. Will she be playing a part in the death of Ivan wife's, Sveltana's death?
If you would like to read a captivating book, I recommend it without any reservations.
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