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The Bet #2
Redemption
Ellie Holbrook has endured a lot in her short life, but after so many years of heart break, she’s set to get her happily ever after and Devlin Westport, her boyfriend of three years, is just the man to give it to her. Fate, however quickly intervenes when the man who shattered her heart so completely ten years ago comes back into her life. But the worst of it comes when Nicholas finally discovers the two little secrets Ellie kept from him all these years. All hell breaks loose soon after that and it’s all Ellie can do to safeguard her heart against heart break once again.
Ruthless business magnate Nicholas Grayson has sacrificed everything to amass his global empire. Seated at the very top, poised at the helm of his corporation nothing can possibly touch him. That is until he learns the truth about the twin children Ellie kept from him. But just when he shakes off the astonishment and works on integrating himself into their lives, an enemy from both Ellie and Nicholas’s past brutally rips his children away from them.
A race against time will yield devastating events and Nicholas and Ellie must rely on each other to save their children
Ruthless business magnate Nicholas Grayson has sacrificed everything to amass his global empire. Seated at the very top, poised at the helm of his corporation nothing can possibly touch him. That is until he learns the truth about the twin children Ellie kept from him. But just when he shakes off the astonishment and works on integrating himself into their lives, an enemy from both Ellie and Nicholas’s past brutally rips his children away from them.
A race against time will yield devastating events and Nicholas and Ellie must rely on each other to save their children
379 pages, ebook
First published December 19, 2012
29 people are currently reading
899 people want to read
About the author
Francette Phal
11books1,292followersFrancette lives in Massachusetts with her amazingly supportive husband of ten years and her darling two year old son. Reading amazing books has led her to writing and she’s dabbled in fan-fiction before self-publishing her own works. She’s constantly thinking up new stories to write and does her best work when music is playing in the background. Romance is where she’s most comfortable but she hopes to one day venture in mystery novels. She has a weakness for coffee ice cream, tropical fruits and a good glass of wine.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 172 reviews
July 1, 2014
4.5 Stars!
I never thought it would be possible, but the angst in the second book in The Bet series had even more angst and turmoil than its predecessor Beautiful Disaster! Ellie and Nicholas have been apart for ten years, ten years! Ellie, has finally been able to move on with her life, she's found a man who would do anything for her and who loves her children as if they were his own. She's perfectly content and feels as if marrying said man would be the obvious next step, until her engagement party... Where Nicholas Grayson, once again uproots her life making her question her feelings and ask herself just how happy she is.
Nicholas, has been living half a life. He's a successful business mogul, feared and respected by many, the one thing he doesn't have is the one woman he ever cared for, and he regrets pushing her away every single day. When he sees her again, and finds out the secrets she's been keeping from him, he's both angry and elated. But Ellie, doesn't need or want him anymore, or so she says. But Nicholas Grayson, has never been the type to take no for an answer. But once again there are people hell bent on keeping them apart, and it works... until a horrible incident shows Ellie, how much she does still loves, Nicholas.
"No matter how many life times we live, know that I'll always find you and our love will always endure."
I really enjoyed, Redemption. I actually enjoy reading the multiple POV's, I thought it brought more dimension to the story and didn't find it distracting in the least. The book read like a love triangle which I abhor, but for some reason I was okay with it in this book. My biggest problem with triangles is that someone always gets hurt and don't get me wrong that's exactly what happened here, but it was very enjoyable reading! I love the fact that this book focuses on family drama, I loved that.I'm a from a family that thinks my business is their business too, so I kind of get where Ellie was coming from. Ellie and Nicholas' relationship was so intense, they both fought their connection really hard but at the end of the day it was futile. A wonderful series and I absolutely love this authors writing so she's a definite automatic one click from now on!
"You are the glue that holds me together, Ellie. If something were to happen to you, I would cease to exist. You are my salvation... my peace."
I never thought it would be possible, but the angst in the second book in The Bet series had even more angst and turmoil than its predecessor Beautiful Disaster! Ellie and Nicholas have been apart for ten years, ten years! Ellie, has finally been able to move on with her life, she's found a man who would do anything for her and who loves her children as if they were his own. She's perfectly content and feels as if marrying said man would be the obvious next step, until her engagement party... Where Nicholas Grayson, once again uproots her life making her question her feelings and ask herself just how happy she is.
Nicholas, has been living half a life. He's a successful business mogul, feared and respected by many, the one thing he doesn't have is the one woman he ever cared for, and he regrets pushing her away every single day. When he sees her again, and finds out the secrets she's been keeping from him, he's both angry and elated. But Ellie, doesn't need or want him anymore, or so she says. But Nicholas Grayson, has never been the type to take no for an answer. But once again there are people hell bent on keeping them apart, and it works... until a horrible incident shows Ellie, how much she does still loves, Nicholas.
"No matter how many life times we live, know that I'll always find you and our love will always endure."
I really enjoyed, Redemption. I actually enjoy reading the multiple POV's, I thought it brought more dimension to the story and didn't find it distracting in the least. The book read like a love triangle which I abhor, but for some reason I was okay with it in this book. My biggest problem with triangles is that someone always gets hurt and don't get me wrong that's exactly what happened here, but it was very enjoyable reading! I love the fact that this book focuses on family drama, I loved that.I'm a from a family that thinks my business is their business too, so I kind of get where Ellie was coming from. Ellie and Nicholas' relationship was so intense, they both fought their connection really hard but at the end of the day it was futile. A wonderful series and I absolutely love this authors writing so she's a definite automatic one click from now on!
"You are the glue that holds me together, Ellie. If something were to happen to you, I would cease to exist. You are my salvation... my peace."
July 12, 2014
4 Stars
Ten years have lapsed since the night Nick broke Ellie’s heart and walked away.
In those ten years Ellie has given birth to their twins, finished school, started a career and gotten engaged to a wonderful man. Nick has increased his late father’s empire and become even wealthier.
Despite both accomplishing what seemed to be important they still long for each other.
This story takes us on the journey of Nick and Ellie and the many obstacles they have to overcome.
My thoughts�
This book has editing issues, but it is written much better then Beautiful Disaster. Additionally, while some scenes are over the top for most part the crazy has been reigned in and is much more believable. Unfortunately, I did think this one did dragged a little bit.
Overall, I did enjoy this one. I loved Nick and watching him fight for redemption. He had some real swoon worthy moments and for as much as I hated him in Beautiful Disaster I loved him in this one.
"For as long as there are stars.�
Ellie is level headed and didn’t play games with other people’s emotions…which scores major points with me since most heroines drive me insane. I enjoyed catching up with the support characters and seeing some get what they deserved.
In the end I am glad I continued on with the series.
Ten years have lapsed since the night Nick broke Ellie’s heart and walked away.
In those ten years Ellie has given birth to their twins, finished school, started a career and gotten engaged to a wonderful man. Nick has increased his late father’s empire and become even wealthier.
Despite both accomplishing what seemed to be important they still long for each other.
This story takes us on the journey of Nick and Ellie and the many obstacles they have to overcome.
My thoughts�
This book has editing issues, but it is written much better then Beautiful Disaster. Additionally, while some scenes are over the top for most part the crazy has been reigned in and is much more believable. Unfortunately, I did think this one did dragged a little bit.
Overall, I did enjoy this one. I loved Nick and watching him fight for redemption. He had some real swoon worthy moments and for as much as I hated him in Beautiful Disaster I loved him in this one.
"For as long as there are stars.�
Ellie is level headed and didn’t play games with other people’s emotions…which scores major points with me since most heroines drive me insane. I enjoyed catching up with the support characters and seeing some get what they deserved.
In the end I am glad I continued on with the series.
June 22, 2014
4 REDEEMING STARS
Well, I SURVIVED! I'm alive and with my sanity and criminal record intact! I managed not to kill anyone despite all my threats.
The conclusion and satisfying end of the story that started with , is a solid read, certainly less disturbing than the first and strangely exciting. But it completely, completely drained me...
My emotions went completely crazy in this one. I was screaming and begging for more and at the same time I was completely exasparated with the heroes, which I swear, made more sense as teenagers...
I was constantly wondering...
So, we are ten years after the events in Beautiful Disaster. Ellie gave birth to twins, never saying anything to Nicholas. She is engaged to a great guy (rich & handsome of course!) and she is content.
Nicholas is a ruthless mogul. Cold as ice and unforgiving he lives the life his father expected of him. When he is confronted with the truth about his kids and Sophie that he still adores, he's once again in Ellie's life. Is he here to stay? Will Ellie ever forgive him? Will they survive a threat they thought past or their fate is not even in their hands...
Oh God, even thinking about all that messes with me...
The characters aren't particularly likeable. Screw-ups, bastards, murderous and just plain stupid, this story has them all. But they are real. They make huge mistakes, they grovel and they change their minds.
And if you are still looking for a reason to read this book, it has to be the kids!!
AMAZING! Brilliant, adorable, beyond cute, freaking awesome! Not set in the background but taking the spotlight Sophie, Isabella and Dylan RULE this book.
The end was exactly what I needed of this story and now that I'm finished I can finally shout:
Well, I SURVIVED! I'm alive and with my sanity and criminal record intact! I managed not to kill anyone despite all my threats.
The conclusion and satisfying end of the story that started with , is a solid read, certainly less disturbing than the first and strangely exciting. But it completely, completely drained me...
My emotions went completely crazy in this one. I was screaming and begging for more and at the same time I was completely exasparated with the heroes, which I swear, made more sense as teenagers...
I was constantly wondering...
So, we are ten years after the events in Beautiful Disaster. Ellie gave birth to twins, never saying anything to Nicholas. She is engaged to a great guy (rich & handsome of course!) and she is content.
Nicholas is a ruthless mogul. Cold as ice and unforgiving he lives the life his father expected of him. When he is confronted with the truth about his kids and Sophie that he still adores, he's once again in Ellie's life. Is he here to stay? Will Ellie ever forgive him? Will they survive a threat they thought past or their fate is not even in their hands...
Oh God, even thinking about all that messes with me...
The characters aren't particularly likeable. Screw-ups, bastards, murderous and just plain stupid, this story has them all. But they are real. They make huge mistakes, they grovel and they change their minds.
And if you are still looking for a reason to read this book, it has to be the kids!!
AMAZING! Brilliant, adorable, beyond cute, freaking awesome! Not set in the background but taking the spotlight Sophie, Isabella and Dylan RULE this book.
The end was exactly what I needed of this story and now that I'm finished I can finally shout:
December 21, 2012
Lovedddddd this book!
Nicky, Ellie, Sophie, Belle 'n Dylan! ❤❤❤❤�
Nicky, Ellie, Sophie, Belle 'n Dylan! ❤❤❤❤�
December 27, 2012
I'm almost as sad now as I was at the end of the first book. I'd like to start off by saying I absolutely LOVED the first book. I was about to have a mental breakdown at the end, but I can't remember being so emotionally invested in characters in a long time. I was so excited when this was released. I could not wait to see Ellie and Nicholas finally get their HEA.
This book felt completely different then the first one. There was no overriding tension, the passion seemed all gone. A good majority of the story was actually about the secondary characters and their relationships ( and getting you caught up on what happened to them the last ten years). The thing that we don't really learn about is any real details about what Ellie and Nicholas have been doing all that time. In fact, you don't really get down to hashing out their relationship until around 70%.
It also felt like there were a lot of story lines put into play, that never really went anywhere. Samantha's infatuation with Nicholas just gets dropped off - her relationship with Dom is just left hanging. There was some implication at one point that Every was going to cause some trouble for Nicholas, and that never goes anywhere. Roan gets pulled into the story, and you think he's going to have some part in it - but then he fades away too. And Devlin - poor Devlin, I just fel t so crazy bad for the guy - and it looked like his mom was going to try and do some manipulating to try and get he and Ellie back together - but nothing happened there either. Maddie seemed like a random addition to the story that served no purpose. I still can't figure out what the purpose of the whole "find the mole" in the company things was - because it totally got dropped too. And then, we had about 10 different POV's throughout the book, from Ellie to Nicholas, to Gage and Ronnie, Devlin and Roan, Samantha, Tony and more. It sometimes made it really hard to follow.
It was like there was so much background noise, the whole point (for me) of the book (Ellie and Nicholas's relationship ) was lost. I didn't feel any of the urgency, and emotional pull of the first book. The only part that got close was the epilogue. And even with that, there was so much left unresolved (IMHO). There was barely one conversation about how he left her for ten years - they hardly had any conversations about how she didn't tell him about the kids for so long. There was no explanation as to why (and he still thought it was true) he would have destroyed her if he stayed all those years ago, but they were ok together now. There was very little addressed about the fact that he has this "dark side" and he wants to keep that separate from Ellie and the kids, which freaks her out, but nothing more is ever said about it.
Ugh. I guess I just feel totally unsatisfied by the whole thing.
This book felt completely different then the first one. There was no overriding tension, the passion seemed all gone. A good majority of the story was actually about the secondary characters and their relationships ( and getting you caught up on what happened to them the last ten years). The thing that we don't really learn about is any real details about what Ellie and Nicholas have been doing all that time. In fact, you don't really get down to hashing out their relationship until around 70%.
It also felt like there were a lot of story lines put into play, that never really went anywhere. Samantha's infatuation with Nicholas just gets dropped off - her relationship with Dom is just left hanging. There was some implication at one point that Every was going to cause some trouble for Nicholas, and that never goes anywhere. Roan gets pulled into the story, and you think he's going to have some part in it - but then he fades away too. And Devlin - poor Devlin, I just fel t so crazy bad for the guy - and it looked like his mom was going to try and do some manipulating to try and get he and Ellie back together - but nothing happened there either. Maddie seemed like a random addition to the story that served no purpose. I still can't figure out what the purpose of the whole "find the mole" in the company things was - because it totally got dropped too. And then, we had about 10 different POV's throughout the book, from Ellie to Nicholas, to Gage and Ronnie, Devlin and Roan, Samantha, Tony and more. It sometimes made it really hard to follow.
It was like there was so much background noise, the whole point (for me) of the book (Ellie and Nicholas's relationship ) was lost. I didn't feel any of the urgency, and emotional pull of the first book. The only part that got close was the epilogue. And even with that, there was so much left unresolved (IMHO). There was barely one conversation about how he left her for ten years - they hardly had any conversations about how she didn't tell him about the kids for so long. There was no explanation as to why (and he still thought it was true) he would have destroyed her if he stayed all those years ago, but they were ok together now. There was very little addressed about the fact that he has this "dark side" and he wants to keep that separate from Ellie and the kids, which freaks her out, but nothing more is ever said about it.
Ugh. I guess I just feel totally unsatisfied by the whole thing.
August 15, 2017
★★★★! Book 1 & 2 of 2.
There have been some great, in depths reviews already, for example by my GR friend Vikki. I will just second her and add below to help you get started. Books should be read together.
BOOK 1 � 10 years prior to book 2
Nicholas Grayson: 18 years/student-tattoo artist/$$$/black hair/silver-light blue eyes.
Ellie: 18 years/student/African American/tawny hair/hazel eyes.
I loooved Nicholas in this book, just like Ms. Phal initially described him:
“Nicholas Grayson wasn’t a nice person. In fact one could call him an asshole and he wouldn’t dispute it. He was as jaded as they come, eighteen years old, with a moral compass fixed permanently on diabolical…�
BOOK 2 � 10 years after book 1
Nicholas Grayson: 28 years/mogul/$$$$/black hair/silver-light blue eyes.
Ellie: 28 years/teacher/African American/tawny hair/hazel eyes.
I might have liked book 1 just a little more. But you will need to read both to get the whole love story. Enjoy!
***
Hero rating: 5 stars
Heroine rating: 4 stars
Story line rating: 3.5 stars
Overall rating: 4 stars
Would I recommend this book: Yes.
Would I re-read this book: Maybe later.
There have been some great, in depths reviews already, for example by my GR friend Vikki. I will just second her and add below to help you get started. Books should be read together.
BOOK 1 � 10 years prior to book 2
Nicholas Grayson: 18 years/student-tattoo artist/$$$/black hair/silver-light blue eyes.
Ellie: 18 years/student/African American/tawny hair/hazel eyes.
I loooved Nicholas in this book, just like Ms. Phal initially described him:
“Nicholas Grayson wasn’t a nice person. In fact one could call him an asshole and he wouldn’t dispute it. He was as jaded as they come, eighteen years old, with a moral compass fixed permanently on diabolical…�
BOOK 2 � 10 years after book 1
Nicholas Grayson: 28 years/mogul/$$$$/black hair/silver-light blue eyes.
Ellie: 28 years/teacher/African American/tawny hair/hazel eyes.
I might have liked book 1 just a little more. But you will need to read both to get the whole love story. Enjoy!
***
Hero rating: 5 stars
Heroine rating: 4 stars
Story line rating: 3.5 stars
Overall rating: 4 stars
Would I recommend this book: Yes.
Would I re-read this book: Maybe later.
January 13, 2013
I'll take time to go in depth but I will say this: EDIT!! Learn the difference from to, too and two. Don't be afraid to have a few beta readers who will catch he for her and other epic fails!
I spent more time trying to rearrange sentences then actually enjoying the book. No flow, no depth, no structure. Grammar was a D+ at best. I, honest to God, skipped through most of this bc well over 45% was just words. Each character had to rehash bullshit that we already knew.
I get pissed when I see 4&5 star reviews on books that could use another 3-4 rounds of editing.
I will add more when I'm not likely to drop eff bombs and piss a bunch of ppl off
I spent more time trying to rearrange sentences then actually enjoying the book. No flow, no depth, no structure. Grammar was a D+ at best. I, honest to God, skipped through most of this bc well over 45% was just words. Each character had to rehash bullshit that we already knew.
I get pissed when I see 4&5 star reviews on books that could use another 3-4 rounds of editing.
I will add more when I'm not likely to drop eff bombs and piss a bunch of ppl off
February 7, 2017
Okay so in this book, it's 10 years later ..... and if you know me I HATE time jumps that big !!! I also never fall for second chance romances cause for me the reason they left is never strong enough to convince me they love each other so much but couldn't be together for 10 years.
But my god do Ellie and Nicholas have a special place in my heart. 10 years have passed, Ellie is dating a new guy, she appears to be happy, and 2 new surprises if you know from the first book, she gave birth to Nicholas's twins. And she hasn't told him.
You hear from their POV in the beginning. This author did this book brilliantly. Yes they're both not celibate during separation. He's with OW and her OM. And now dating a good guy.
What I liked? The fact that Nick messed up BIG in the last book and in this one, his suffering is palpable. I'm actually happy that his life sucked. He became some billionaire that got everything the Nicholas in the end of the first book wanted, but his life is empty. It's sad. He pays hookers to look like Ellie and only does them when he's truly in the depth of his sadness. I know this trope has been used before, but hearing g Nicholas's POV, wow his sadness was so strong and I was happy that his regret is deeply routed. I loved when he cried genuinely at the mistake he did. When he so deeply wants to make amends but he's so scared, so scared of asking for redemption because it's not even possible in his eyes.
Likewise, Ellie is terrified to contact Nick in the ten years apart. Even if she know she should for the kids. But she was protecting herself from the pain he could cause. And I understood them both.
This story is truly about redemption. I actually even liked that Ellie was with Devlin when Nicholas came back. Again, her passion with Nick surpasses anything else and even in this book it's not much of a triangle considering that you know it's Nick who's in Ellie's heart.
Nick truly suffered from his actions, and fate brought them together. It was a long journey. Ellie wanted so badly to be with Devlin and ignore Nicholas, but as Maddie said, it's unfair for anyone trying to date either Nick or Ellie, it'll always be them.
I did forgive Nick in the end. I loved watching him here. He was such a great hero.
I couldn't give the full 5 stars cause Of the writing. Simple stuff if you're vs. Your. And "may be vs. Maybe" etc.
Also, this book has dark triggers. But I don't get how the author dealt with them so casually and passively :/ this stands for both books. Like rape... it's a big deal but it said casually in a sad scene but it's not that Kajj.
She incorporated sensitive topics in her books but doesn't follow through realistically with them... i think things were added as a shock factor only ... and that's not okay. (Spoiler like when Nick said his dad raped him with a cane and it's never mentioned again). And what happened to Ellie in the past... this stuff has lasting impacts it's not the happy people they are so casually. This author should tread carefully when incorporating such topics and should treat them with respect.
Also I felt so so so so sad for Devlin :( omg when he spoke to his mom it broke my heart even though i knew that everyone including me is for Nicholas. Their sparks are so strong and I loved that I didn't feel like they only got together for the children.
I read this author's book Monster and I liked it more for 2 reasons: 10 year separation here is TOO long. The writing in Monster is a lot better. The POVs in this book are so crazy!!!!! It was so annoying with all the additional POVs. In Monster the book was ALOT less messy and easy to follow. Also in Monster he was never with OW (pls author's don't use thiiiiiiis).
I'm
Hoping that the fact she did those things In Monster shows she's developing as a writer herself :)
In this book, Ellie is with Nicholas and Nicholas is with no one once they reunite.
Nicholas and Ellie kiss but don't do anything else until she ends things with Devlin.
In essence this book isn't safe, it's raw realistic and I loved it. I'm pushing myself to read more books out of my comfort zone and this one worked :)
But my god do Ellie and Nicholas have a special place in my heart. 10 years have passed, Ellie is dating a new guy, she appears to be happy, and 2 new surprises if you know from the first book, she gave birth to Nicholas's twins. And she hasn't told him.
You hear from their POV in the beginning. This author did this book brilliantly. Yes they're both not celibate during separation. He's with OW and her OM. And now dating a good guy.
What I liked? The fact that Nick messed up BIG in the last book and in this one, his suffering is palpable. I'm actually happy that his life sucked. He became some billionaire that got everything the Nicholas in the end of the first book wanted, but his life is empty. It's sad. He pays hookers to look like Ellie and only does them when he's truly in the depth of his sadness. I know this trope has been used before, but hearing g Nicholas's POV, wow his sadness was so strong and I was happy that his regret is deeply routed. I loved when he cried genuinely at the mistake he did. When he so deeply wants to make amends but he's so scared, so scared of asking for redemption because it's not even possible in his eyes.
Likewise, Ellie is terrified to contact Nick in the ten years apart. Even if she know she should for the kids. But she was protecting herself from the pain he could cause. And I understood them both.
This story is truly about redemption. I actually even liked that Ellie was with Devlin when Nicholas came back. Again, her passion with Nick surpasses anything else and even in this book it's not much of a triangle considering that you know it's Nick who's in Ellie's heart.
Nick truly suffered from his actions, and fate brought them together. It was a long journey. Ellie wanted so badly to be with Devlin and ignore Nicholas, but as Maddie said, it's unfair for anyone trying to date either Nick or Ellie, it'll always be them.
I did forgive Nick in the end. I loved watching him here. He was such a great hero.
I couldn't give the full 5 stars cause Of the writing. Simple stuff if you're vs. Your. And "may be vs. Maybe" etc.
Also, this book has dark triggers. But I don't get how the author dealt with them so casually and passively :/ this stands for both books. Like rape... it's a big deal but it said casually in a sad scene but it's not that Kajj.
She incorporated sensitive topics in her books but doesn't follow through realistically with them... i think things were added as a shock factor only ... and that's not okay. (Spoiler like when Nick said his dad raped him with a cane and it's never mentioned again). And what happened to Ellie in the past... this stuff has lasting impacts it's not the happy people they are so casually. This author should tread carefully when incorporating such topics and should treat them with respect.
Also I felt so so so so sad for Devlin :( omg when he spoke to his mom it broke my heart even though i knew that everyone including me is for Nicholas. Their sparks are so strong and I loved that I didn't feel like they only got together for the children.
I read this author's book Monster and I liked it more for 2 reasons: 10 year separation here is TOO long. The writing in Monster is a lot better. The POVs in this book are so crazy!!!!! It was so annoying with all the additional POVs. In Monster the book was ALOT less messy and easy to follow. Also in Monster he was never with OW (pls author's don't use thiiiiiiis).
I'm
Hoping that the fact she did those things In Monster shows she's developing as a writer herself :)
In this book, Ellie is with Nicholas and Nicholas is with no one once they reunite.
Nicholas and Ellie kiss but don't do anything else until she ends things with Devlin.
In essence this book isn't safe, it's raw realistic and I loved it. I'm pushing myself to read more books out of my comfort zone and this one worked :)
December 24, 2012
First of all. Ten years later????? And nick not knowing he had kids is beyond stupid. Especially when there were so many ties to people . This story is stupid. I skipped over most of it and I felt like she wrote about other peoples life just to fill spaces. Therefore if she would have left half this crap out there could have maybe been one good book. I'm a little disappointed that people gave such rave reviews about both of these books when in all reality they are sub par. And again I hate criticizing people's writing but these books were a hard read because it was such b.s
December 28, 2012
I just do not understand... The first book was so good, but this one I thought just fell a little flat. The book just kept going on and on.
Ellie kept dragging her feet and I felt as though her inner dialogue just went back and forth and was far too wordy. I just didn't feel the same pull to this book as I felt during the first. In this book I thought that the author just went to far with the things that Nicholas did and what Ellie let him get away with. He did some pretty messed up things in this book, but Ellie just kind of got over it. He as usual had an excuse to things, I'll admit that they were very good excuses. However, most rational adults would probably not just let some things go, especially given Ellie's history.
The storyline was great but there was just too much that happened. I love the children, I thought that they were just what the story like needed. Just like the first book with Sophie, she along with Isabella and Dylan, added a sense of humanity to the book. Whilst everyone else is doing things to the highest peak of their feelings, aka lust or anger, they added a sweet and innocent element to the book.
Also, I don't understand the draw to Nicholas. He is handsome, he is sexy, he is the alpha male. What I don't understand is why everyone and their mother seem to obsess over him. Whether it is getting him as a lover or getting him back for revenge, everyone is trying to get him. Three people had crazy obsessive issues in some way with him in the first book and three or four in this book. The one I understand the most is Sophie though, he was the only good father figure that she ever had, so I get the fact that she wanted him back in her life as much as she did. But for everyone else it was like he was made of crack and they were addicted in some way. I just thought it was odd.
Another thing about this book, besides the fact that it was too long, was the amount of errors. Names being switched around, incorrect pronouns, and a lack of commas that made sentences confusing.
All in all, I think if this book had some good editing, (that included removing paragraphs from the book) it would have been a better read and I would have rated it higher. However, since it hadn't, I'm going to give it a three star review.
P.S. I want to see a happy ending for Maddie and Devlin. I really felt bad for Devlin in this book. I think he just lost everything that he wanted and I would like for him to find someone better than Ellie. Maddie just needs to find someone, she seems so full of life, I would like to see her fall in love.
Ellie kept dragging her feet and I felt as though her inner dialogue just went back and forth and was far too wordy. I just didn't feel the same pull to this book as I felt during the first. In this book I thought that the author just went to far with the things that Nicholas did and what Ellie let him get away with. He did some pretty messed up things in this book, but Ellie just kind of got over it. He as usual had an excuse to things, I'll admit that they were very good excuses. However, most rational adults would probably not just let some things go, especially given Ellie's history.
The storyline was great but there was just too much that happened. I love the children, I thought that they were just what the story like needed. Just like the first book with Sophie, she along with Isabella and Dylan, added a sense of humanity to the book. Whilst everyone else is doing things to the highest peak of their feelings, aka lust or anger, they added a sweet and innocent element to the book.
Also, I don't understand the draw to Nicholas. He is handsome, he is sexy, he is the alpha male. What I don't understand is why everyone and their mother seem to obsess over him. Whether it is getting him as a lover or getting him back for revenge, everyone is trying to get him. Three people had crazy obsessive issues in some way with him in the first book and three or four in this book. The one I understand the most is Sophie though, he was the only good father figure that she ever had, so I get the fact that she wanted him back in her life as much as she did. But for everyone else it was like he was made of crack and they were addicted in some way. I just thought it was odd.
Another thing about this book, besides the fact that it was too long, was the amount of errors. Names being switched around, incorrect pronouns, and a lack of commas that made sentences confusing.
All in all, I think if this book had some good editing, (that included removing paragraphs from the book) it would have been a better read and I would have rated it higher. However, since it hadn't, I'm going to give it a three star review.
P.S. I want to see a happy ending for Maddie and Devlin. I really felt bad for Devlin in this book. I think he just lost everything that he wanted and I would like for him to find someone better than Ellie. Maddie just needs to find someone, she seems so full of life, I would like to see her fall in love.
February 5, 2013
DRAMATIC FINALE
Ten years has passed by since Ellie had seen Nicholas. During that time she had rebuilt her relationship with her parents, and become engaged to a really nice guy called Devlin. His mother was arranging their engagement party. Where all the elite of society would attend. But for Ellie one of the elite happens to be Nicholas, and Ellie's secret, that she had hidden from Nicholas for ten years is out in the open.
Now with Ellie's deception, up front and in his face Nicholas is furious. Once again the full force of Nicholas's presence is having a dramatic affect on Ellie's life. She knows she has made a mistake keeping something of such a large magnitude from him. But he had hurt her so badly. She had never quite come to terms with that.
This is the second and final part of this series. Much happens in this, Nicholas is an unwanted fixture in Ellie and Devlin's relationship, thats how Devlin feels. But does Ellie feel the same way? What this might mean to Devlin and Ellie's relationship is not lost on all of their friends and family. Then when an old adversary from the past threatens the most precious beings in the world to them. Nicholas and Ellie find that together they are stronger. Their mutual support of one another is healing past hurts. Unfortunately others are not so lucky and get left by the wayside. This is a highly emotional and at times disturbing read. I feel it only fair to warn readers that there are scenes of violence in this that some might find upsetting.
That said this is another addictive page turner. The focus does not remain soley on the main protagonists, we see more and learn about the other characters this time. Quite honestly I was glad to get a break from the high drama that exists between the H/h it was at times exhausting.
Once again editing was a real issue here. I wish the author would consider getting her work professionally edited. The mistakes at times were distracting.
Ten years has passed by since Ellie had seen Nicholas. During that time she had rebuilt her relationship with her parents, and become engaged to a really nice guy called Devlin. His mother was arranging their engagement party. Where all the elite of society would attend. But for Ellie one of the elite happens to be Nicholas, and Ellie's secret, that she had hidden from Nicholas for ten years is out in the open.
Now with Ellie's deception, up front and in his face Nicholas is furious. Once again the full force of Nicholas's presence is having a dramatic affect on Ellie's life. She knows she has made a mistake keeping something of such a large magnitude from him. But he had hurt her so badly. She had never quite come to terms with that.
This is the second and final part of this series. Much happens in this, Nicholas is an unwanted fixture in Ellie and Devlin's relationship, thats how Devlin feels. But does Ellie feel the same way? What this might mean to Devlin and Ellie's relationship is not lost on all of their friends and family. Then when an old adversary from the past threatens the most precious beings in the world to them. Nicholas and Ellie find that together they are stronger. Their mutual support of one another is healing past hurts. Unfortunately others are not so lucky and get left by the wayside. This is a highly emotional and at times disturbing read. I feel it only fair to warn readers that there are scenes of violence in this that some might find upsetting.
That said this is another addictive page turner. The focus does not remain soley on the main protagonists, we see more and learn about the other characters this time. Quite honestly I was glad to get a break from the high drama that exists between the H/h it was at times exhausting.
Once again editing was a real issue here. I wish the author would consider getting her work professionally edited. The mistakes at times were distracting.
December 28, 2015
I decided to read this book because I love this author. I loved Dom and Knox. I am dying for Knox's story to be released. So I decided to read this while I wait. I didn't want to read this series because it sounded like a one way ticket to angst hell. And it was, but it was so worth it. I LOVE Nicholas, and every time I see the color gray I'll think of him. I don't know if I'll continue with this series since some loser posted the end of the 3rd book without a spoiler warning. I don't want to experience that grief, so in my mind the Greysons are living happily ever after. Where is Knox?!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
January 13, 2013
I really liked the first book in this series so I was excited to read this one, however it just wasn't what I was expecting. It was told from to many point of views I feel and too many extra stories that really went nowhere. I just want Nicholas and Elle story it that did not happen until the very end. It was ok book 3.5 stars!
April 7, 2015
10 year separation with the hero not knowing he fathered twins. That alone is unacceptable. Other triggers: hero turns into a manwhore and both hero and heroine have descriptive sex scenes with OW/OM.
June 11, 2014
2 Why Did I Bother Stars
Minor Spoilers Mixed with all my Ranting --->
Be Warned this review is mostly Emotional and Based on my Feels
It's rare that I despise a character as much as I did with the main character -who I refuse to refer to as the hero- Nicholas AKA Nicky (the nickname alone I found laughable and it doesn't work for an alpha-male character at all.) What makes it worse was in The Bet #1 Nicholas slowly grew on me. When we first meet him, he's a completely self-centered, egotistical eighteen year old who enjoys hurting others to stem his own pain... (Cry me a river...) When he meets Ellie he sees the light so to speak and slowly approaches what appears to be an actual human being. However, the end of the book leaves much to be desired. There's still a lot of push-pull between them and the universe does all it can to keep these two apart, but they can't take a hint.
To get to the heart of the matter I'll just focus on all the (many) things I did not like:
Literally the first three lines started me off on a path of no return where this book is concerned...
* Ten years...I mean are you kidding me. I was immediately separated from the previous story and just knowing that everyone involved let ten years pass with no type of action or reaction on their part left me no room to enjoy...
* Within a few chapters we are given witness to Nicholas's adult life. Let's just say that asshole boy grew up into a REAL MONSTER MAN with little to no concern to anyone but those he considers important and himself of course. Not much in his life has changed. He still uses sex and drugs to cope, something that a 15 year old Ellie was able to move on from, maybe take a page from her pick 'Nicky'..
* Ellie at this point is HAPPY. She's been in a relationship with a wonderful man for three years. 3 YEARS!!! I knew how this was going to go but it still broke my heart. Devlin was ten times the man Nicholas ever was even at his best and was willing to do and be anything Ellie needed. After a ten year absence and a refusal to not be in her life, Nicholas butts in where he knows he doesn't belong.
* Another issue aside from the stupidity of the characters (and they're all pretty stupid) was so many side stories and POV's. Some of these characters matter little, I could care less about their pasts when their roles felt too much like filler to me.
* The writing and editing was pretty bad this time, worse actually. There were times characters were misnamed and shifts between paragraphs became a jumbled mess of timelines. Seemed like someone went through spell-check and picked the first option each time even if it was the wrong word choice.
* So many story-lines, a 4-year later epilogue and the only story to wrap up is Nicholas and Ellie. (Don't get me started on this forced HEA that left me anything but happy.) There is talk of so much chemistry but I never felt it or saw it. Sure these two were lustful animals but nowhere did I feel the 'LOVE.' I wanted to know what happened to Devlin, to Maddie and even between Sam and Dom, what was the point of including all these characters then while leaving their futures up in the air? Sophie may get her own story next but what about everyone else and I'm assuming her's must be must later... (P.S. I'm glad I read spoilers of the final book, there's no way I am touching it now!!)
* There was one scene in which Nicholas get's revenge on someone from their past for hurting 'his kids' and he's really gruesome about it. I didn't have a problem with the scene exactly and I can understand the need for revenge, but I had a problem more with his pompous-I can do anything to anyone and get away with it-persona. I was surprised by the graphic nature of this and even more so when Ellie (as a mother) didn't behave as I expected. I mean is this really someone you want around your child. Someone who thinks so little of human life and value, no matter how sick and twisted they are. WHO ARE THESE PEOPLE??? It was crazy. Had this been a dark read I could grasp this. Even if Nicholas was like a mob boss it would be okay, but nothing worked for me.
* I just did not connect with this book. Starting with a ten year difference alone was an immediate NO-NO. Add the fact that Nicholas is an even worse asshole and I was not happy. He is and never was someone I would want near or even around my kids, I give Ellie props for thinking he's decent. Where I liked her last time, this time her fawning and lusting after Nicholas only turned my stomach.
* I did like that some of the side characters were back such as Gabe and Ronnie. They were somehow the only likeable people in the book aside from the children.
Overall I can't recommend this book. In fact what I would recommend personally is a Men in Black mind-swipe so I can erase this book from my head. I'll admit things were more predictable in this book and tame whereas the last one was a high-school nightmare. I could have done without the endless number of pages of them 'doing it' in the end. I get it, their together, I don't need to witness it crammed twenty times into the last chapters of the book just to take a hint. This is certainly a love it or hate it series and unfortunately even though I made it through the first one and had high hopes, there is not a single 'Good' fact sticking out for me to mention. Read at the risk of you're own sanity.
Minor Spoilers Mixed with all my Ranting --->
Be Warned this review is mostly Emotional and Based on my Feels
It's rare that I despise a character as much as I did with the main character -who I refuse to refer to as the hero- Nicholas AKA Nicky (the nickname alone I found laughable and it doesn't work for an alpha-male character at all.) What makes it worse was in The Bet #1 Nicholas slowly grew on me. When we first meet him, he's a completely self-centered, egotistical eighteen year old who enjoys hurting others to stem his own pain... (Cry me a river...) When he meets Ellie he sees the light so to speak and slowly approaches what appears to be an actual human being. However, the end of the book leaves much to be desired. There's still a lot of push-pull between them and the universe does all it can to keep these two apart, but they can't take a hint.
To get to the heart of the matter I'll just focus on all the (many) things I did not like:
Literally the first three lines started me off on a path of no return where this book is concerned...
Ten Years Later
* Ten years...I mean are you kidding me. I was immediately separated from the previous story and just knowing that everyone involved let ten years pass with no type of action or reaction on their part left me no room to enjoy...
* Within a few chapters we are given witness to Nicholas's adult life. Let's just say that asshole boy grew up into a REAL MONSTER MAN with little to no concern to anyone but those he considers important and himself of course. Not much in his life has changed. He still uses sex and drugs to cope, something that a 15 year old Ellie was able to move on from, maybe take a page from her pick 'Nicky'..
* Ellie at this point is HAPPY. She's been in a relationship with a wonderful man for three years. 3 YEARS!!! I knew how this was going to go but it still broke my heart. Devlin was ten times the man Nicholas ever was even at his best and was willing to do and be anything Ellie needed. After a ten year absence and a refusal to not be in her life, Nicholas butts in where he knows he doesn't belong.
* Another issue aside from the stupidity of the characters (and they're all pretty stupid) was so many side stories and POV's. Some of these characters matter little, I could care less about their pasts when their roles felt too much like filler to me.
* The writing and editing was pretty bad this time, worse actually. There were times characters were misnamed and shifts between paragraphs became a jumbled mess of timelines. Seemed like someone went through spell-check and picked the first option each time even if it was the wrong word choice.
* So many story-lines, a 4-year later epilogue and the only story to wrap up is Nicholas and Ellie. (Don't get me started on this forced HEA that left me anything but happy.) There is talk of so much chemistry but I never felt it or saw it. Sure these two were lustful animals but nowhere did I feel the 'LOVE.' I wanted to know what happened to Devlin, to Maddie and even between Sam and Dom, what was the point of including all these characters then while leaving their futures up in the air? Sophie may get her own story next but what about everyone else and I'm assuming her's must be must later... (P.S. I'm glad I read spoilers of the final book, there's no way I am touching it now!!)
* There was one scene in which Nicholas get's revenge on someone from their past for hurting 'his kids' and he's really gruesome about it. I didn't have a problem with the scene exactly and I can understand the need for revenge, but I had a problem more with his pompous-I can do anything to anyone and get away with it-persona. I was surprised by the graphic nature of this and even more so when Ellie (as a mother) didn't behave as I expected. I mean is this really someone you want around your child. Someone who thinks so little of human life and value, no matter how sick and twisted they are. WHO ARE THESE PEOPLE??? It was crazy. Had this been a dark read I could grasp this. Even if Nicholas was like a mob boss it would be okay, but nothing worked for me.
* I just did not connect with this book. Starting with a ten year difference alone was an immediate NO-NO. Add the fact that Nicholas is an even worse asshole and I was not happy. He is and never was someone I would want near or even around my kids, I give Ellie props for thinking he's decent. Where I liked her last time, this time her fawning and lusting after Nicholas only turned my stomach.
* I did like that some of the side characters were back such as Gabe and Ronnie. They were somehow the only likeable people in the book aside from the children.
Overall I can't recommend this book. In fact what I would recommend personally is a Men in Black mind-swipe so I can erase this book from my head. I'll admit things were more predictable in this book and tame whereas the last one was a high-school nightmare. I could have done without the endless number of pages of them 'doing it' in the end. I get it, their together, I don't need to witness it crammed twenty times into the last chapters of the book just to take a hint. This is certainly a love it or hate it series and unfortunately even though I made it through the first one and had high hopes, there is not a single 'Good' fact sticking out for me to mention. Read at the risk of you're own sanity.
May 9, 2023
Now the book cover got ugly too.
April 6, 2013
I was'nt sure how they were going to make amends for how the 1st book ended. Nicholas was a broken man and the only way he knew how to survive was to push Ellie away and turn himself into his father, relentless. I hated it!!
Ellie was a broken hearted woman. Nicholas smashed her heart, i knew why but it still hurt like hell. Then until he came back into her life, she didn't realise that it was still broken and she had only just patched it up, just Going through the motions of life, more for her children than herself. Ellie was a selfless parent, she gave her all for her children, Sophie,Dylan and Isabella.
Ellie had another love ( if that's what you'd call it) Devlin. He was very loving to her, would give her the world and she thought that he was the right person for her to be happy. I never liked him, sorry!! Nicholas and Ellie meet again, at her engagement party ( veerryy drama filled just like the first!!) Wow what a reunion. All is revealed, he sees the twins, sees himself in them and The shit hits the fan lol!
Gabe tries to warn Nicholas off. Devlin is threatened by the return of the ex. There is so much going on in this now disfunctional family. Sophie is extactic, this is what she wished for on her birthday, for the return of Nicholas. Isabella is over the moon to think she may have 2 dads, Dylan at first is not so sure, a bit of hard yards needed for that relationship. Everyone has an opinion, Ellie is in denial. She is so infuriating!!!!!
As much as Nicholas has hurt Ellie in the past, they are 2 halves of 1 soul and will always and forever be destined to belong to each other. together always <3
There are other characters and their relationships all playing out around these 2, but it's theirs we hold our breath for. From the dramatic entrance to world that the twins had right to the end and all the relationships that are healed, including hers with her parents and all the pain/heartache for everyone throughout, breathtaking.
Tony, Sophie's dad makes a horrible return and is set to cause more heartache. He shows his true colours and they are not very nice. There is more to Nicholas's tallents than Billionaire business mogul and sex god. He saves the day and reveals to Ellie all his secrets. There's another wow there, thinking I'm greatful he's on her side.
There is so much hot and heavy that as the reader I feel sated, my god Nicholas wow, did I say wow. We get a fantastic HEA I think all the box's of great erotic romance get ticked. There is probably more to be told in this story, like the hinting of what it is that Nicholas can't tell her. Other characters in the book try to paint Nicholas as being worse than his father was, but all I see is someone who uses the power he has for good. I quite like the way he dealt with Tony !!
Grammar and such was off. I find it extremely frustrating to have to re-read sentences. It really is my pet peeve.
Ellie was a broken hearted woman. Nicholas smashed her heart, i knew why but it still hurt like hell. Then until he came back into her life, she didn't realise that it was still broken and she had only just patched it up, just Going through the motions of life, more for her children than herself. Ellie was a selfless parent, she gave her all for her children, Sophie,Dylan and Isabella.
Ellie had another love ( if that's what you'd call it) Devlin. He was very loving to her, would give her the world and she thought that he was the right person for her to be happy. I never liked him, sorry!! Nicholas and Ellie meet again, at her engagement party ( veerryy drama filled just like the first!!) Wow what a reunion. All is revealed, he sees the twins, sees himself in them and The shit hits the fan lol!
Gabe tries to warn Nicholas off. Devlin is threatened by the return of the ex. There is so much going on in this now disfunctional family. Sophie is extactic, this is what she wished for on her birthday, for the return of Nicholas. Isabella is over the moon to think she may have 2 dads, Dylan at first is not so sure, a bit of hard yards needed for that relationship. Everyone has an opinion, Ellie is in denial. She is so infuriating!!!!!
As much as Nicholas has hurt Ellie in the past, they are 2 halves of 1 soul and will always and forever be destined to belong to each other. together always <3
There are other characters and their relationships all playing out around these 2, but it's theirs we hold our breath for. From the dramatic entrance to world that the twins had right to the end and all the relationships that are healed, including hers with her parents and all the pain/heartache for everyone throughout, breathtaking.
Tony, Sophie's dad makes a horrible return and is set to cause more heartache. He shows his true colours and they are not very nice. There is more to Nicholas's tallents than Billionaire business mogul and sex god. He saves the day and reveals to Ellie all his secrets. There's another wow there, thinking I'm greatful he's on her side.
There is so much hot and heavy that as the reader I feel sated, my god Nicholas wow, did I say wow. We get a fantastic HEA I think all the box's of great erotic romance get ticked. There is probably more to be told in this story, like the hinting of what it is that Nicholas can't tell her. Other characters in the book try to paint Nicholas as being worse than his father was, but all I see is someone who uses the power he has for good. I quite like the way he dealt with Tony !!
Grammar and such was off. I find it extremely frustrating to have to re-read sentences. It really is my pet peeve.
May 5, 2013
I would give this one about a 3.75 stars. Some of the plot lines was contrived (kidnapping, failed engagement, former enemy, etc). I'm glad that the book opens years later (10 to be exact). So Ellie is now the mother of three children, Sophie, Dylan and Isabella. (I think naming your kid after a dead baby is a bit bizarre, but oh well.)
Ellie is also in a committed relationship with a great guy who happens to have a son a few years older than Sophie. Roan adores Ellie so much that he makes it quite known that he wants her to be his mother. However, Sophie has other plans. She remembers Nicholas Grayson and she wants him back in the picture.
From there things spiral out of control. Devlin Westport asks Ellie to marry him, she accepts. He's a rich, successful business man who is trying to negotiate a deal with another corporation. Turns out it's Nick's corp. So what does Devlin do? He invites the devil himself to his engagement party.
Dev, not a smart move, said everyone!
Nick finds out that Dylan and Isabella are his and is crushed that Ellie never told him. But the weakest link in Nick's life are children and he will be beholden to them forever. Sophie is thrilled that he's back in her life. Dylan hates his father and Bella is beyond happy to have a daddy.
As Nick and Ellie get close, Devlin sees his life unraveling. He does what he can to keep his fiancee, but Nick fights dirty and he wants her back.
Of course it takes all three children to be kidnapped (by Sophie's rat bastard daddy, Tony) to really bring the two lovebirds together. Nick has resources and he will use them to get his kids home safe.
One scene that was quite brutal was Tony beating up on Sophie. Granted, Tony is a SOB, but that his daughter! Anyhoo, Nick locates the kids and hires professionals to take care of the situation.
Children returned to the Manor (Nick's home) and of course Ellie comes crashing through.
You would think that the story would end there, but nope. We still have another 100 pages left. Basically we see Ellie's relationship with Devlin fail. Her romance rekindled with Nick and the rehabilitation of Sophie (who was seriously injured).
We also find out that Nick is a scary man. We knew that he had no problems with violence when he beat up his best friend, Matthew Bates. (who wanted to be Nick's lovers). We know that he had not problem hiring prostitutes. Just when you think Tony Carlysle is dead. Nope, Nick has him in a warehouse, torturing him.
The final scene of Tony's life reminded me of DEXTER. It is gruesome.
There were some pronoun issues, some spelling errors and continuity errors. But I looked past those and enjoyed the series. I'm curious to see if she'll continue on with Sam and Dom's story. Seems like she left that dangling.
Also, I'm curious about Matt's life prior to his institutionalization. Were Nick and Matt ever lovers? Nick did seem to be equal opportunity. All in all, a good read.
Ellie is also in a committed relationship with a great guy who happens to have a son a few years older than Sophie. Roan adores Ellie so much that he makes it quite known that he wants her to be his mother. However, Sophie has other plans. She remembers Nicholas Grayson and she wants him back in the picture.
From there things spiral out of control. Devlin Westport asks Ellie to marry him, she accepts. He's a rich, successful business man who is trying to negotiate a deal with another corporation. Turns out it's Nick's corp. So what does Devlin do? He invites the devil himself to his engagement party.
Dev, not a smart move, said everyone!
Nick finds out that Dylan and Isabella are his and is crushed that Ellie never told him. But the weakest link in Nick's life are children and he will be beholden to them forever. Sophie is thrilled that he's back in her life. Dylan hates his father and Bella is beyond happy to have a daddy.
As Nick and Ellie get close, Devlin sees his life unraveling. He does what he can to keep his fiancee, but Nick fights dirty and he wants her back.
Of course it takes all three children to be kidnapped (by Sophie's rat bastard daddy, Tony) to really bring the two lovebirds together. Nick has resources and he will use them to get his kids home safe.
One scene that was quite brutal was Tony beating up on Sophie. Granted, Tony is a SOB, but that his daughter! Anyhoo, Nick locates the kids and hires professionals to take care of the situation.
Children returned to the Manor (Nick's home) and of course Ellie comes crashing through.
You would think that the story would end there, but nope. We still have another 100 pages left. Basically we see Ellie's relationship with Devlin fail. Her romance rekindled with Nick and the rehabilitation of Sophie (who was seriously injured).
We also find out that Nick is a scary man. We knew that he had no problems with violence when he beat up his best friend, Matthew Bates. (who wanted to be Nick's lovers). We know that he had not problem hiring prostitutes. Just when you think Tony Carlysle is dead. Nope, Nick has him in a warehouse, torturing him.
The final scene of Tony's life reminded me of DEXTER. It is gruesome.
There were some pronoun issues, some spelling errors and continuity errors. But I looked past those and enjoyed the series. I'm curious to see if she'll continue on with Sam and Dom's story. Seems like she left that dangling.
Also, I'm curious about Matt's life prior to his institutionalization. Were Nick and Matt ever lovers? Nick did seem to be equal opportunity. All in all, a good read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 23, 2013
3.5 STARS
Luckily, I got into this when both books have already been out and with an editor (or even just a friend who knows English and owns a red marker, even) this would've been a 5-star read. The plot was predictable (really, in contemporary romance, its kinda hard not to be) and cliches were EVERYWHERE but it's really the execution of the tired and weary story that you stay for.
The thing with this book is that it felt like it was written as if in a stream of consciousness -- as in no editing whatsoever happened. Grammatical slips here and there were easy to overlook (your brain fills in the right word anyway) and didn't really crimp the plot. Its how she delivered it that niggles.
It felt like talking to someone who's been telling me multiple, mildly interesting stories and then, right when she's already had you all worked up about it, she gets up and say, "okay thanks bye!"
I think the author was trying to relay Ellie and Nicholas' story through the perspectives of the people they surround themselves with in the 10 years that they've been apart. It's actually a creative way to escape the myopic trap of keeping the plot so tightly adherent to the main protagonists. Instead, it just got TOO expansive. Too much of every character from the first book that weren't even developed well then were getting their own third person POVs. It started to sound as if the author was rambling (what was the point of Matt? Really? Was it stipulated somewhere that everyone from Beautiful Disaster has to make an appearance in this book?). I DID enjoy some of the ramblings (not enough Ethan!) but some just went from cliched (i.e. Samantha's character) to annoying to downright confusing They really didn't even have anything to do with the "redemption" theme even. Then, as if in apology, the author brings out all the sexy in successive blows.
At the heart of all that confusion is Ellie and Nicholas' story. Which has been done over and over again but still manages to be interesting. There were moments of originality and brilliance . I'm just a sucker for the kids, they were adorbs! In my opinion, they half-carried this book in their teeny-tiny shoulders. Them and one Ellie Holbrook who is still one of my favorite heroine template.
Luckily, I got into this when both books have already been out and with an editor (or even just a friend who knows English and owns a red marker, even) this would've been a 5-star read. The plot was predictable (really, in contemporary romance, its kinda hard not to be) and cliches were EVERYWHERE but it's really the execution of the tired and weary story that you stay for.
The thing with this book is that it felt like it was written as if in a stream of consciousness -- as in no editing whatsoever happened. Grammatical slips here and there were easy to overlook (your brain fills in the right word anyway) and didn't really crimp the plot. Its how she delivered it that niggles.
It felt like talking to someone who's been telling me multiple, mildly interesting stories and then, right when she's already had you all worked up about it, she gets up and say, "okay thanks bye!"
I think the author was trying to relay Ellie and Nicholas' story through the perspectives of the people they surround themselves with in the 10 years that they've been apart. It's actually a creative way to escape the myopic trap of keeping the plot so tightly adherent to the main protagonists. Instead, it just got TOO expansive. Too much of every character from the first book that weren't even developed well then were getting their own third person POVs. It started to sound as if the author was rambling (what was the point of Matt? Really? Was it stipulated somewhere that everyone from Beautiful Disaster has to make an appearance in this book?). I DID enjoy some of the ramblings (not enough Ethan!) but some just went from cliched (i.e. Samantha's character) to annoying to downright confusing They really didn't even have anything to do with the "redemption" theme even. Then, as if in apology, the author brings out all the sexy in successive blows.
At the heart of all that confusion is Ellie and Nicholas' story. Which has been done over and over again but still manages to be interesting. There were moments of originality and brilliance . I'm just a sucker for the kids, they were adorbs! In my opinion, they half-carried this book in their teeny-tiny shoulders. Them and one Ellie Holbrook who is still one of my favorite heroine template.
January 23, 2013
Hoo boy! I'm a bit at a loss for words here.
I was hesitant to read The Bet duet based on all the mixed reviews I read, but decided to give it a shot. Even though these 2 books are a duet, they couldn't be more different for me.
Meet Nicholas
It has been 10 years since that fateful night and both Ellie and Nicholas have moved on...or have they?
Nicholas is still the sadistic and heartless businessman. He has acquired his billions and is happy to be where he is...except for one thing: when he closes his eyes, it's still the familiar hazel eyes he dreams of.
Ellie is now engaged to Devlin, she is happy and contempt, raising her children and planning the rest of her life.
This all changes at her engagement party where Nicholas Grayson comes storming back into her life.
I was eagerly anticipating the moment when Ellie and Nicholas would reunite, and couldn't wait to see what happened. But then this book took a turn for me.
Nicholas went from
to
What would happen if Martin Scorsese wrote a romance novel? Well, about 2/3rds of this book!
There was a psycho ex, a stalkerish "Crush"-like PA, kidnappings, murders, torture...good god!
The author does a fantastic job in showing the reader everything, painting the story beautifully. However, I felt there was just TOO much going on. Even though the author does a good job in transitioning view points, there were just too many of them. I don't think it was necessary for every single character to get their own POV.
Francette Phal does have a beautiful writing style. So much so, that I was able to overlook the grammatical errors. The story itself is what fizzled my enjoyment.
Ellie and Nicholas do get their HEA...but HOW they get there...well...
It was almost too much at times. No wait! scratch that! it WAS too much at times.
I was glad to read their HEA, but I will definitely not be coming back to this book.
I was hesitant to read The Bet duet based on all the mixed reviews I read, but decided to give it a shot. Even though these 2 books are a duet, they couldn't be more different for me.
Meet Nicholas
It has been 10 years since that fateful night and both Ellie and Nicholas have moved on...or have they?
Nicholas is still the sadistic and heartless businessman. He has acquired his billions and is happy to be where he is...except for one thing: when he closes his eyes, it's still the familiar hazel eyes he dreams of.
Ellie is now engaged to Devlin, she is happy and contempt, raising her children and planning the rest of her life.
This all changes at her engagement party where Nicholas Grayson comes storming back into her life.
I was eagerly anticipating the moment when Ellie and Nicholas would reunite, and couldn't wait to see what happened. But then this book took a turn for me.
Nicholas went from
to
What would happen if Martin Scorsese wrote a romance novel? Well, about 2/3rds of this book!
There was a psycho ex, a stalkerish "Crush"-like PA, kidnappings, murders, torture...good god!
The author does a fantastic job in showing the reader everything, painting the story beautifully. However, I felt there was just TOO much going on. Even though the author does a good job in transitioning view points, there were just too many of them. I don't think it was necessary for every single character to get their own POV.
Francette Phal does have a beautiful writing style. So much so, that I was able to overlook the grammatical errors. The story itself is what fizzled my enjoyment.
Ellie and Nicholas do get their HEA...but HOW they get there...well...
It was almost too much at times. No wait! scratch that! it WAS too much at times. I was glad to read their HEA, but I will definitely not be coming back to this book.
April 13, 2015
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Redemption
Plot: 5
Characters: 5
Cover 3.5
OVERALL RATING: 5
"You were my greatest joy and I didn't know how to keep you."
After ten years Ellie is finally going to marry someone and it's not Nicholas.
On the day if her engagement party, Nicholas comes back and demands to be their for his children.
Will she allow him to be with them and to also go back with him and with a certain someone from their past returns, wll they still have their happily ever after?
I said I wasn't going to cry but this book was really very emotional, so it was very hard not to.
This is the second book to the bet me trilogy and it starts ten years after Ellie has last seen Nicholas.
Second chances, revenge and boundless love was what made this book a very great read for me.
Nicholas, compared to the boy he was before was now a man and is not afraid of getting what he wants in life.
Ellie, was more stronger emotionally compared to the Ellie from the first book.
Sophie, is now twelve years old and still wants her mom and Nicky to get back together.
Bella and Dylan the new addition to the book was Ellie and Nicky's twin.
Compared to the first book, this was a whole lot better since Ellie and Nicholas has been more mature.
Redemption
Plot: 5
Characters: 5
Cover 3.5
OVERALL RATING: 5
"You were my greatest joy and I didn't know how to keep you."
After ten years Ellie is finally going to marry someone and it's not Nicholas.
On the day if her engagement party, Nicholas comes back and demands to be their for his children.
Will she allow him to be with them and to also go back with him and with a certain someone from their past returns, wll they still have their happily ever after?
I said I wasn't going to cry but this book was really very emotional, so it was very hard not to.
This is the second book to the bet me trilogy and it starts ten years after Ellie has last seen Nicholas.
Second chances, revenge and boundless love was what made this book a very great read for me.
Nicholas, compared to the boy he was before was now a man and is not afraid of getting what he wants in life.
Ellie, was more stronger emotionally compared to the Ellie from the first book.
Sophie, is now twelve years old and still wants her mom and Nicky to get back together.
Bella and Dylan the new addition to the book was Ellie and Nicky's twin.
Compared to the first book, this was a whole lot better since Ellie and Nicholas has been more mature.
December 31, 2012
I loved it all until the ending. Completely rushed with other characters side stories. Once again you have to get used to her writing style. A lot of POV's mixed together. I didn't mind it, just had to get thru it.
The book is apropos named with all the characters. Ellie, Nicholas, Ellie's parents and others had a lot to redeem themselves. Nicholas is still bad. Ellie knows this but she loves him enough to look past this. In the beginning Ellie is in a relationship with Devlin. He worships her and treats her the way she needs to be treated. She has three children now. Sophie from her psycho ex and twins Dylan and Bella from Nicholas who doesn't know about them.(In the end of Beautiful Disaster she was gonna tell him but with the way he acted and the hurtful things he said, Ellie decided to keep it from him). While Ellie and Devlin are together, Nicholas is abroad with his company and his "girls" who look like Ellie.
They meet again during Ellie and Devlin's engagement party and from there he learns the truth about his children. He wants to be in their lives and from this he begins to be in Ellie's life which throws Ellie and Devlin love away. For Ellie, it's always been Nicholas and vice versa. Psycho ex comes into play and he gets his due from Nicholas's hands. Ellie and Nicholas get their HEA but I still felt it was rushed. Hopefully Ms. Phal will write a spin off on the side characters.
Favorite line:
"Redemption, my dear, is something not easily found when the error of your deeds constantly plagues you."
The book is apropos named with all the characters. Ellie, Nicholas, Ellie's parents and others had a lot to redeem themselves. Nicholas is still bad. Ellie knows this but she loves him enough to look past this. In the beginning Ellie is in a relationship with Devlin. He worships her and treats her the way she needs to be treated. She has three children now. Sophie from her psycho ex and twins Dylan and Bella from Nicholas who doesn't know about them.(In the end of Beautiful Disaster she was gonna tell him but with the way he acted and the hurtful things he said, Ellie decided to keep it from him). While Ellie and Devlin are together, Nicholas is abroad with his company and his "girls" who look like Ellie.
They meet again during Ellie and Devlin's engagement party and from there he learns the truth about his children. He wants to be in their lives and from this he begins to be in Ellie's life which throws Ellie and Devlin love away. For Ellie, it's always been Nicholas and vice versa. Psycho ex comes into play and he gets his due from Nicholas's hands. Ellie and Nicholas get their HEA but I still felt it was rushed. Hopefully Ms. Phal will write a spin off on the side characters.
Favorite line:
"Redemption, my dear, is something not easily found when the error of your deeds constantly plagues you."
February 24, 2013
Another emotional rollercoaster!...and their stories finally come to an end. With this story taking ten years later, so much has changed.
There are so many POVs that go on, and so many side stories left hanging. I would have thought that there would have been a third story because there's build ups to nothing. Such as
I did enjoy this story, but then all of a sudden there's a darker side to the story that I didn't expect. The characters are all realistic, and I loved the children. None of the characters are perfect, and they each have their own flaws. I honestly felt bad for
Overall, I liked the ending, but I expected more from this book. Anyhow, I'm looking forward to reading more from Francette Phal.
There are so many POVs that go on, and so many side stories left hanging. I would have thought that there would have been a third story because there's build ups to nothing. Such as
I did enjoy this story, but then all of a sudden there's a darker side to the story that I didn't expect. The characters are all realistic, and I loved the children. None of the characters are perfect, and they each have their own flaws. I honestly felt bad for
Overall, I liked the ending, but I expected more from this book. Anyhow, I'm looking forward to reading more from Francette Phal.
January 9, 2016
Oh how I hate giving this book a 3 star review! I loved the raw emotion, the authentic characters, and the premise! However, too many POV's by "everyone and his brother" plus all the typos took me out of the story constantly or bored me to skimming.
10 years after Nicholas told Ellie he had no feelings for her and she walked out of his life, a chance encounter brings them face to face and things get complicated to say the least...
10 years after Nicholas told Ellie he had no feelings for her and she walked out of his life, a chance encounter brings them face to face and things get complicated to say the least...
January 4, 2013
2.5 stars
March 28, 2013
Probably more of a 3.5....
May 8, 2023
I read the first two books in one day. The ANGST. GOOD LORD.
If you want to read a soap opera I definitely recommend this one. It’ll have you grinding your teeth in frustration, wanting to reach through the screen and strangle the side characters. And lemme tell you the side characters had me wanting to rip out my hair. I had to go to my voice memos just to rant to SOMEONE. or well something
I’m talking about lil miss Maddie. Woman get a fucking GRIP. She is someone that truly deserves an ass whooping. Tony…I would love to beat his ass too.
I did feel bad for Delvan and Roan :( I was kinda wishing he would be a villain so I could root for Nicky and Ellie in peace. But I guess that wouldn’t make it a good soap opera without the drama.
Also Sophie had me wishing she was 2 again. I found her to be oddly manipulative for a 12 year old
If you want to read a soap opera I definitely recommend this one. It’ll have you grinding your teeth in frustration, wanting to reach through the screen and strangle the side characters. And lemme tell you the side characters had me wanting to rip out my hair. I had to go to my voice memos just to rant to SOMEONE. or well something
I’m talking about lil miss Maddie. Woman get a fucking GRIP. She is someone that truly deserves an ass whooping. Tony…I would love to beat his ass too.
I did feel bad for Delvan and Roan :( I was kinda wishing he would be a villain so I could root for Nicky and Ellie in peace. But I guess that wouldn’t make it a good soap opera without the drama.
Also Sophie had me wishing she was 2 again. I found her to be oddly manipulative for a 12 year old
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 6, 2018
I didn’t like how their relation quickly evolved and went back to where they left off after 10 years !!!
C’mon it’s 10 years not months !!
He abandoned her, kicked her out, left her to raise their children by herself (even if he didn’t know, she’s living in the same city as his parents and friends and he visited a lot! It’s nonsense that nobody knew )
And after all this she blamed herself for not telling him about his children
She didn’t for once think about revenge for her broken heart !
I would’ve believed it slightly if she had fallen out of love and moved on !!
What is the importance of Samantha and Dom in the story ? It’s like they’re parallel lives that cross at her being his assistant
Ok, She had a crush on Nicholas but she had no role in their story at all
Let’s not mention the ending that was a week or so of continuous (literally continuous) sex,
And i don’t know why the writer chose to write it as separated paragraphs.
C’mon it’s 10 years not months !!
He abandoned her, kicked her out, left her to raise their children by herself (even if he didn’t know, she’s living in the same city as his parents and friends and he visited a lot! It’s nonsense that nobody knew )
And after all this she blamed herself for not telling him about his children
She didn’t for once think about revenge for her broken heart !
I would’ve believed it slightly if she had fallen out of love and moved on !!
What is the importance of Samantha and Dom in the story ? It’s like they’re parallel lives that cross at her being his assistant
Ok, She had a crush on Nicholas but she had no role in their story at all
Let’s not mention the ending that was a week or so of continuous (literally continuous) sex,
And i don’t know why the writer chose to write it as separated paragraphs.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 2, 2021
I can’t decide whether book 1 or 2 is my favorite
This was another well written book by Francette Phal. I’m happy that this series was recommended to me. I enjoyed reading it from the beginning to the end. I loved all the added POVs and I’m happy Ellie & Nicky got their HEA. In spite of me rooting for Nick I did feel sorry for Dev and his son. Unfortunately they were casualties in Nick & Ellie finding their way back to each other.
I highly recommend reading this series
This was another well written book by Francette Phal. I’m happy that this series was recommended to me. I enjoyed reading it from the beginning to the end. I loved all the added POVs and I’m happy Ellie & Nicky got their HEA. In spite of me rooting for Nick I did feel sorry for Dev and his son. Unfortunately they were casualties in Nick & Ellie finding their way back to each other.
I highly recommend reading this series
February 2, 2021
I can't decide whether book 1 or 2 is my favorite
This was another well written book by Francette Phal. I’m happy that this series was recommended to me. I enjoyed reading it from the beginning to the end. I loved all the added POVs and I’m happy Ellie & Nicky got their HEA. In spite of me rooting for Nick I did feel sorry for Dev and his son. Unfortunately they were casualties in Nick & Ellie finding their way back to each other.
I highly recommend reading this series
This was another well written book by Francette Phal. I’m happy that this series was recommended to me. I enjoyed reading it from the beginning to the end. I loved all the added POVs and I’m happy Ellie & Nicky got their HEA. In spite of me rooting for Nick I did feel sorry for Dev and his son. Unfortunately they were casualties in Nick & Ellie finding their way back to each other.
I highly recommend reading this series
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