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The Alpha Group #2
Lockout
Who is Sebastian Lock?
Sophia had never felt attraction like that before. Raw. Electric. Irresistible. Swept off her feet by the dashing, enigmatic billionaire Sebastian Lock, she was taken on a journey of self-discovery, taken to places she never dreamed she’d go.
But things are never as simple as they appear. Sophia’s trust is a fragile thing, and Sebastian seems insistent on testing it. He has his own demons to battle, and nobody has brought them to the fore like she has.
As their relationship deepens, and Sophia begins to break down his walls, all that greets her are more questions. Why is Sebastian fighting so hard to keep her at a distance? Who is the girl on the background of his phone? And why does the strange tattoo on his chest seem so familiar?
These puzzles plague her, but as Sebastian’s mysteries begin to unravel, she must face an entirely different truth. Staying in the dark may be painful, but finding the answers could be deadly.
Sophia had never felt attraction like that before. Raw. Electric. Irresistible. Swept off her feet by the dashing, enigmatic billionaire Sebastian Lock, she was taken on a journey of self-discovery, taken to places she never dreamed she’d go.
But things are never as simple as they appear. Sophia’s trust is a fragile thing, and Sebastian seems insistent on testing it. He has his own demons to battle, and nobody has brought them to the fore like she has.
As their relationship deepens, and Sophia begins to break down his walls, all that greets her are more questions. Why is Sebastian fighting so hard to keep her at a distance? Who is the girl on the background of his phone? And why does the strange tattoo on his chest seem so familiar?
These puzzles plague her, but as Sebastian’s mysteries begin to unravel, she must face an entirely different truth. Staying in the dark may be painful, but finding the answers could be deadly.
133 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 19, 2013
111 people are currently reading
4,525 people want to read
About the author
Maya Cross
12books1,749followersMaya Cross is writer who enjoys making people blush. Growing up with a mother who worked in a book store, she read a lot from a very young age, and soon enough picked up a pen of her own. Her previous work spans many genres including horror, science fiction, and fantasy, and she has now started this pen name as an outlet for her spicier thoughts (they were starting to overflow). She likes her heroes strong but mysterious, her encounters sizzling, and her characters true to life.
She believes in writing familiar narratives told with a twist, so most of her stories will feel comfortable, but hopefully a little unique. Whatever genre she's writing, finding a fascinating concept is the first, and most important step.
The Alpha Group is her first foray into erotic romance, and she absolutely loved writing it.
When she's not writing, she's playing tennis, trawling her home town of Sydney for new inspiration, and drinking too much coffee.
She believes in writing familiar narratives told with a twist, so most of her stories will feel comfortable, but hopefully a little unique. Whatever genre she's writing, finding a fascinating concept is the first, and most important step.
The Alpha Group is her first foray into erotic romance, and she absolutely loved writing it.
When she's not writing, she's playing tennis, trawling her home town of Sydney for new inspiration, and drinking too much coffee.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 548 reviews
May 22, 2013
"You are mine, every inch of you."
Wow!! I really enjoyed this, even more than I enjoyed Locked. This one is slightly longer. We pick up exactly where we left off with Sophia walking away from Sebastian, angered after what she saw on his phone. They do, of course, get beyond this complication and continue their relationship.
This time around though I really started to get deeper into Sebastian’s head and really started to feel his developing feelings. In the first book Sebastian was very much the controlled dominant, slightly aloof, slightly mocking but yet still very, very sexy. This time it’s apparent that he’s starting to develop much stronger feelings for Sophia and is resisting them for reasons we don’t truly understand yet. He’s holding back, attempting to keep Sophia at a distance but it’s obvious that this is becoming harder and harder for him.
Sebastian is still keeping secrets and Sophia is painfully aware of this and tries to keep to their original deal of kinky D/s sex with no strings but she can feel herself falling hard for him and knows she is about to get her heart broken. She tries to extricate herself before it’s too late but it already is. Sebastian is a much warmer character and he’s also falling in love with Sophia.
The sex is still red-hot and Sebastian still craves to dominate her as they indulge themselves in some really quite in appropriate place but, oh boy, is it ever HAWT!!! They are absolutely perfect for one another, neither one of them has ever had it so good and I really enjoyed this aspect of the story
I love Sophia � she’s a feisty kickass heroine who is not about to lay down and take everything Sebastian throws at her like a doormat. She’s got her own ideas and makes her feelings known. She’s working hard for a living and is very ambitious but, professionally, things take a turn for the worse for her and the cliffhanger…………�.Oh My God, the cliffhanger. What an ending!! I thought something like this was about to happen and this is why Sebastian was trying to keep his distance emotionally even though it was obviously hurting him. I absolutely CANNOT wait for Unlocked due in July.
4 sexy stars
For more reviews, please visit or visit us on .
Wow!! I really enjoyed this, even more than I enjoyed Locked. This one is slightly longer. We pick up exactly where we left off with Sophia walking away from Sebastian, angered after what she saw on his phone. They do, of course, get beyond this complication and continue their relationship.
This time around though I really started to get deeper into Sebastian’s head and really started to feel his developing feelings. In the first book Sebastian was very much the controlled dominant, slightly aloof, slightly mocking but yet still very, very sexy. This time it’s apparent that he’s starting to develop much stronger feelings for Sophia and is resisting them for reasons we don’t truly understand yet. He’s holding back, attempting to keep Sophia at a distance but it’s obvious that this is becoming harder and harder for him.
"There are lots of things I want to share with you, but sharing isn't easy for me. You deserve someone who can give you everything, and I'm afraid if we go any further, I'm going to disappoint you."
Sebastian is still keeping secrets and Sophia is painfully aware of this and tries to keep to their original deal of kinky D/s sex with no strings but she can feel herself falling hard for him and knows she is about to get her heart broken. She tries to extricate herself before it’s too late but it already is. Sebastian is a much warmer character and he’s also falling in love with Sophia.
He drew a heavy breath. "Everything you saw was real, Sophia. I'm a lot of things, things that might not be easy to understand, but I'm also the same man I was a few days ago. The man who danced with you and held you and felt so impossibly lucky to wake up next to you. The man who thinks he's falling in love with you."
The sex is still red-hot and Sebastian still craves to dominate her as they indulge themselves in some really quite in appropriate place but, oh boy, is it ever HAWT!!! They are absolutely perfect for one another, neither one of them has ever had it so good and I really enjoyed this aspect of the story
I love Sophia � she’s a feisty kickass heroine who is not about to lay down and take everything Sebastian throws at her like a doormat. She’s got her own ideas and makes her feelings known. She’s working hard for a living and is very ambitious but, professionally, things take a turn for the worse for her and the cliffhanger…………�.Oh My God, the cliffhanger. What an ending!! I thought something like this was about to happen and this is why Sebastian was trying to keep his distance emotionally even though it was obviously hurting him. I absolutely CANNOT wait for Unlocked due in July.
4 sexy stars
For more reviews, please visit or visit us on .
April 14, 2018
Well, I still don't like Sophia but I can live with her. Sort of. Unfortunately, the end of this book didn't surprise me at all.
May 3, 2015
THE END
Me :
Maya Cross :No,Gabriella really..its over.
Me:
Maya Cross: its a cliffhanger sweetheart,its SUPPOSSED TO be like that..
Me :
maya:*pulls out the plugs from her ears* Are you done ?
me:
Me :
Maya Cross :No,Gabriella really..its over.
Me:
Maya Cross: its a cliffhanger sweetheart,its SUPPOSSED TO be like that..
Me :
maya:*pulls out the plugs from her ears* Are you done ?
me:
May 20, 2013
I think this book is pretty good, but there are a few reasons why perhaps you shouldn't take my word for it.
January 18, 2018
WOW my reading preferences have changed. I haven't listened to the first book in THREE years and I gave the first book 5 stars.
It's a great smutty read. It's 100% sex. It took me 3 years to finally get back into the series because my library finally got the final installments.
The audio is excellent. I love the narrator's voice and I love her accent. She does other accents really well. I think if you want a steamy book in the background for noise this is a good book. It's not too hard to follow along and it helps pass the time. It just doesn't really blow you away with plot or anything. But you take it for what it is.
It's a great smutty read. It's 100% sex. It took me 3 years to finally get back into the series because my library finally got the final installments.
The audio is excellent. I love the narrator's voice and I love her accent. She does other accents really well. I think if you want a steamy book in the background for noise this is a good book. It's not too hard to follow along and it helps pass the time. It just doesn't really blow you away with plot or anything. But you take it for what it is.
January 16, 2014
3.5 Continuing, Slightly Confusing, 007? Stars
This is the continuation of the Alpha Group series Locked. In the last book we met uber sex Sebastian and his "play" friend, Sophia. They had met in an engaging secretive way .... both felt the pull and were entering a casual exclusive relationship... based on attraction and also her need to discover her submissive side. Sebastian was all too happy to comply and get togethers were happening with very "productive "results.
She was learning the excitement of doing very sexual things at work without anyone being the wiser... he was learning to let his guard down a bit... share a little bit about himself with her and both were blossoming from the experience.
But life and habits have a way of intruding... she has co workers at the firm who just get such glee demeaning her and giving her crap work to do instead of the cases she deserves. He has an on going battle of wills to fight... his desire for her and his need to control and make sure nothing bad ever happens to those he becomes attached to...
They stay the course... somehow breaching the unwritten line in the sand... and she unfortunately does again the unthinkable... she goes to his office building uninvited... and we are left not knowing what will happen now...
This second book bridges the gap from the first... continues the hot attraction between these characters and pushes the story down the lane....
Am I totally happy with all of the ways these characters think and react... no... But I am interested enough to click click and get the conclusion to this tale.... Because between that hot sex I mentioned and the intrigue...I have my theories.... and I will not be denied.... so I will have it all Unlocked.
For more reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
This is the continuation of the Alpha Group series Locked. In the last book we met uber sex Sebastian and his "play" friend, Sophia. They had met in an engaging secretive way .... both felt the pull and were entering a casual exclusive relationship... based on attraction and also her need to discover her submissive side. Sebastian was all too happy to comply and get togethers were happening with very "productive "results.
She was learning the excitement of doing very sexual things at work without anyone being the wiser... he was learning to let his guard down a bit... share a little bit about himself with her and both were blossoming from the experience.
But life and habits have a way of intruding... she has co workers at the firm who just get such glee demeaning her and giving her crap work to do instead of the cases she deserves. He has an on going battle of wills to fight... his desire for her and his need to control and make sure nothing bad ever happens to those he becomes attached to...
They stay the course... somehow breaching the unwritten line in the sand... and she unfortunately does again the unthinkable... she goes to his office building uninvited... and we are left not knowing what will happen now...
This second book bridges the gap from the first... continues the hot attraction between these characters and pushes the story down the lane....
Am I totally happy with all of the ways these characters think and react... no... But I am interested enough to click click and get the conclusion to this tale.... Because between that hot sex I mentioned and the intrigue...I have my theories.... and I will not be denied.... so I will have it all Unlocked.
For more reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
December 4, 2013
Review posted at:
Story Rating ~ 5 Stars
Romance Rating ~ 5 Stars
Hero Rating ~ 5 Stars
Heroine Rating ~ 4.5 Stars
Heat Level ~ 4.5 SCORCHING STARS!
End Rating ~ One of the biggest cliffhangers that I've ever read!!
Overall Rating ~ 5 STARS!!!
OMG! I thought book one, Locked, was a good read, I have to say book 2, Lockout, hit it out of the ball park and I absolutely LOVED IT!!
Lockout takes place right where Locked ended with Sophia distressed and refusing to speak with Sebastian, because she saw a picture of another woman on the background of his phone. Sebastian chases her down and he's finally able to talk Sophia into forgiving him. Right after she forgives him, he has to take a flight out for work and he tells Sophia that he may be gone for a while. While he's away the games begin. Sebastian is a Dom and loves having Sophia do kinky things that he's ordered her to do through text messages and special notes that are sent inside of packages with special gifts. As she performs these acts, she is told that she must not find her own release; he does not permit her to orgasm. I have to say that I felt for the woman and if I had to do what she had to do, there would be NO WAY that I'd be able to contain myself. By the time Sebastian returns, these two can hardly wait to get it on, and OH MY scenes were EXTREMELY HOT!! The relationship between Sophia and Sebastian is supposed to be NO strings attached, just down and dirty, hard, raw sex. As the story moves along, Sophia is trying hard not to form feelings for Sebastian, but it’s not working. It seems some of Sebastian's walls are crumbling too and through his words and actions towards Sophia; it's just getting harder for her not to want more.
I LOVED reading about the dates these two had, they were very romantic and I could really feel them falling for each other in and out of the bedroom. Once in the bed, wall, limo, and too many more places to count, these two were on FIRE for each other and these scenes rank right up there with the best erotic scenes that I have read to date.
Then something happens near the end that had me crying like a baby. If that's not bad enough, something else happens and it has my heart breaking even more for Sophia. At this point I'm a total emotional mess; I'm thinking what else could happen to this woman. Right when things start getting better for her WHAM!!! And OMG!!! Of course I'm not going to ruin it and tell you what happened. All I can say is, my jaw was on the floor and I kept chanting…OMG…OMG…OMG…over and over!! As I've already said up above in my ratings, this was one of the biggest cliffhangers that I've ever read. Maya Cross left me wanting more and I wanted it RIGHT NOW!!
Now my I'm going to wait, not very patiently I might add, for the release of book 3, Unlocked to be released at the end of June/July…I hope. I just have to know what happens to Sophia and what secrets Sebastian is keeping.
I HIGHLY recommend the The Alpha Group series for anyone who enjoys erotic romance, with a great story line, fantastic characters and so much more.
*A copy of the book was provided by the author for an honest review*
Story Rating ~ 5 Stars
Romance Rating ~ 5 Stars
Hero Rating ~ 5 Stars
Heroine Rating ~ 4.5 Stars
Heat Level ~ 4.5 SCORCHING STARS!
End Rating ~ One of the biggest cliffhangers that I've ever read!!
Overall Rating ~ 5 STARS!!!
OMG! I thought book one, Locked, was a good read, I have to say book 2, Lockout, hit it out of the ball park and I absolutely LOVED IT!!
Lockout takes place right where Locked ended with Sophia distressed and refusing to speak with Sebastian, because she saw a picture of another woman on the background of his phone. Sebastian chases her down and he's finally able to talk Sophia into forgiving him. Right after she forgives him, he has to take a flight out for work and he tells Sophia that he may be gone for a while. While he's away the games begin. Sebastian is a Dom and loves having Sophia do kinky things that he's ordered her to do through text messages and special notes that are sent inside of packages with special gifts. As she performs these acts, she is told that she must not find her own release; he does not permit her to orgasm. I have to say that I felt for the woman and if I had to do what she had to do, there would be NO WAY that I'd be able to contain myself. By the time Sebastian returns, these two can hardly wait to get it on, and OH MY scenes were EXTREMELY HOT!! The relationship between Sophia and Sebastian is supposed to be NO strings attached, just down and dirty, hard, raw sex. As the story moves along, Sophia is trying hard not to form feelings for Sebastian, but it’s not working. It seems some of Sebastian's walls are crumbling too and through his words and actions towards Sophia; it's just getting harder for her not to want more.
I LOVED reading about the dates these two had, they were very romantic and I could really feel them falling for each other in and out of the bedroom. Once in the bed, wall, limo, and too many more places to count, these two were on FIRE for each other and these scenes rank right up there with the best erotic scenes that I have read to date.
Then something happens near the end that had me crying like a baby. If that's not bad enough, something else happens and it has my heart breaking even more for Sophia. At this point I'm a total emotional mess; I'm thinking what else could happen to this woman. Right when things start getting better for her WHAM!!! And OMG!!! Of course I'm not going to ruin it and tell you what happened. All I can say is, my jaw was on the floor and I kept chanting…OMG…OMG…OMG…over and over!! As I've already said up above in my ratings, this was one of the biggest cliffhangers that I've ever read. Maya Cross left me wanting more and I wanted it RIGHT NOW!!
Now my I'm going to wait, not very patiently I might add, for the release of book 3, Unlocked to be released at the end of June/July…I hope. I just have to know what happens to Sophia and what secrets Sebastian is keeping.
I HIGHLY recommend the The Alpha Group series for anyone who enjoys erotic romance, with a great story line, fantastic characters and so much more.
*A copy of the book was provided by the author for an honest review*
October 23, 2015
5 All Mine Stars
"I don't know. There's something about you Sophia. I can't explain it, but the moment I saw you at our party I knew I had to have you. And after last night......the way you taste, the way you smell, the feeling of your body underneath mine; I'm not ready to give that up."
As Sophia and Sebastian continue their "simple" relationship, Sophia's heart begins to attach to Sebastian and his undeniable charm and sexiness. He tells her from the beginning that he can't offer her much, but being true to her will stay.
"I don't need to know all your deepest darkest secrets right away. All I need to know is that this is realm because if we go any further and I find out that it's not, I think it will break me."
When fun and passion are darkened by a secret life, their relationship will be rocked to the core but outside hands. Sebastian can't stand by and watch the woman his heart has attached to fall to danger. He does the only thing he can.....
“Everything you saw was real, Sophia. I'm a lot of things, things that might not be easy to understand, but I'm also the same man I was a few days ago. The man who danced with you and held you and felt so impossibly lucky to wake up next to you. The man who thinks he's falling in love with you.�
Love is not enough this time...
Then the darkness sets in, Sophia is rocked with multiple blows that leave her at her lowest point. As she works herself back into some sort of normalcy, the unthinkable happens.......
CLIFFHANGER TIME And this one is GOOD!!
"I don't know. There's something about you Sophia. I can't explain it, but the moment I saw you at our party I knew I had to have you. And after last night......the way you taste, the way you smell, the feeling of your body underneath mine; I'm not ready to give that up."
As Sophia and Sebastian continue their "simple" relationship, Sophia's heart begins to attach to Sebastian and his undeniable charm and sexiness. He tells her from the beginning that he can't offer her much, but being true to her will stay.
"I don't need to know all your deepest darkest secrets right away. All I need to know is that this is realm because if we go any further and I find out that it's not, I think it will break me."
When fun and passion are darkened by a secret life, their relationship will be rocked to the core but outside hands. Sebastian can't stand by and watch the woman his heart has attached to fall to danger. He does the only thing he can.....
“Everything you saw was real, Sophia. I'm a lot of things, things that might not be easy to understand, but I'm also the same man I was a few days ago. The man who danced with you and held you and felt so impossibly lucky to wake up next to you. The man who thinks he's falling in love with you.�
Love is not enough this time...
Then the darkness sets in, Sophia is rocked with multiple blows that leave her at her lowest point. As she works herself back into some sort of normalcy, the unthinkable happens.......
CLIFFHANGER TIME And this one is GOOD!!
May 20, 2013
4.5 stars
Beta read
I thoroughly enjoyed the continuing story of Sebastian and Sophia. Having left #1 on a cliffy, we see the story unfold, learning a little more about Sebastian and his delicious, controlling ways. We are left with quite a few questions unanswered, and a definitive curiosity of Sebastian's past.
Not wanting to inject any spoilers, I will only say that if you enjoyed Locked, you will certainly enjoy Lockout even more. I was delighted to be involved in the beta reading of this fantastic series..great work, Maya!
Beta read
I thoroughly enjoyed the continuing story of Sebastian and Sophia. Having left #1 on a cliffy, we see the story unfold, learning a little more about Sebastian and his delicious, controlling ways. We are left with quite a few questions unanswered, and a definitive curiosity of Sebastian's past.
Not wanting to inject any spoilers, I will only say that if you enjoyed Locked, you will certainly enjoy Lockout even more. I was delighted to be involved in the beta reading of this fantastic series..great work, Maya!
May 29, 2013
Solid follow up. It wasn't extraordinary it wasn't bad either. Looking forward to reading the conclusion.
May 22, 2013
This review is also posted on
A copy of this book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
First of all, I love the second cover as much as the first book's cover! Who makes them? They're really amazing and fit the book with its elegance and sensuality. I also saw the Locked cover on several other books.
So this novella is a direct continuation after the first book where we were left confused over the picture on Sebastian's phone. It wasn't a big matter to solve and it pasted quickly but with it we began to get more about Sebastian and his past. Throughout the book there were several small things revealed and I really liked the pace of it. It was not yet a big boom, which I expect in the final book considering the ending. It ware details about his life that are very painful and it was just that reason that Sebastian ans Sophia were getting closer to each other, not only sexually but emotionally.
But when I first started the novella I was afraid that I won't like it. There was this stupid thing Sebastian, as a dominant and... playful, I guess, man told Sophia to do.
Well I didn't enjoy it.
I don't know. It was ridiculous to ask a woman who was never penetrated in the ass to wear a butt plug while she's working. I know that if goddamn Channing Tatum asked me to do it, I wouldn't. It was just unrealistic. The balls for the p*ssy in the Fifty Shades books were more acceptable and more comfortable.
But thank God it got much better. The chess scene showed how great they are as a couple and a team. I think that was a part where they saw how good they are together. The sex has as hot as in the first book.
But now.. they began to develop a more emotional connection, the sure sign being the sleepovers. But Sebastian was afraid of emotion and I really loved how Sophia confronted him about it. She stays true to herself, the woman we met in the first book - confident and strong; she's careful and not sure about the future but she still knows what she wants and she realized she wants a relationship with Sebastian and all that comes with it. And she knows that's not easy and she talks! Doesn't make assumptions or runs away from the smallest sign of possible complication. And after Sebastian's little break down, they began to get closer to each other.
The night when he took her to that small restaurant, when they danced and later watched the view was just sweet. That whole night was so sweet! It's probably my favorite past of the book. It was how a date should go.
But trouble is not far away. Sophia was suspicious from the beginning that there is something more about that Sebastian's tattoo. She discovers more things but that ultimately led to a disaster. Coupled with trouble at work... And then the ending and the cliffhanger... This really needs to get fixed fast!!! Damn, Sebastian should have trusted her more.
Now I really can't want for the third and final part. Sebastian, solve this mess!
I loved the book, but because of the rocky beginning I gave it 4 stars. The author still does awesome job with the characters and their relationship, and not to forget the law stuff (you can see that she does many research for it) which is still not boring. But some thing were just too much.
Maya Cross, keep kicking ass with this story. We want a big finale :)
A copy of this book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
First of all, I love the second cover as much as the first book's cover! Who makes them? They're really amazing and fit the book with its elegance and sensuality. I also saw the Locked cover on several other books.
So this novella is a direct continuation after the first book where we were left confused over the picture on Sebastian's phone. It wasn't a big matter to solve and it pasted quickly but with it we began to get more about Sebastian and his past. Throughout the book there were several small things revealed and I really liked the pace of it. It was not yet a big boom, which I expect in the final book considering the ending. It ware details about his life that are very painful and it was just that reason that Sebastian ans Sophia were getting closer to each other, not only sexually but emotionally.
"I knew it was a side of him that he rarely shared, which made it all the more special that he was doing so with me. One by one, his walls were tumbling down."
But when I first started the novella I was afraid that I won't like it. There was this stupid thing Sebastian, as a dominant and... playful, I guess, man told Sophia to do.
"It was a company steeped in tradition, yet there I was marching the hallways with a pair of sodden panties in a box in my hands and a sex toy between my legs. It was crazy. For the hundredth time I asked myself why I was giving Sebastian so much control, but of course I knew the answer. Because I enjoyed it as much as he did."
Well I didn't enjoy it.
I don't know. It was ridiculous to ask a woman who was never penetrated in the ass to wear a butt plug while she's working. I know that if goddamn Channing Tatum asked me to do it, I wouldn't. It was just unrealistic. The balls for the p*ssy in the Fifty Shades books were more acceptable and more comfortable.
But thank God it got much better. The chess scene showed how great they are as a couple and a team. I think that was a part where they saw how good they are together. The sex has as hot as in the first book.
"I'd enjoyed being in control of his pleasure, but there was something erotic about having him fuck my mouth too. It was base, it was possessive, and it was hot as hell watching his self control unravel before my eyes."
But now.. they began to develop a more emotional connection, the sure sign being the sleepovers. But Sebastian was afraid of emotion and I really loved how Sophia confronted him about it. She stays true to herself, the woman we met in the first book - confident and strong; she's careful and not sure about the future but she still knows what she wants and she realized she wants a relationship with Sebastian and all that comes with it. And she knows that's not easy and she talks! Doesn't make assumptions or runs away from the smallest sign of possible complication. And after Sebastian's little break down, they began to get closer to each other.
The night when he took her to that small restaurant, when they danced and later watched the view was just sweet. That whole night was so sweet! It's probably my favorite past of the book. It was how a date should go.
But trouble is not far away. Sophia was suspicious from the beginning that there is something more about that Sebastian's tattoo. She discovers more things but that ultimately led to a disaster. Coupled with trouble at work... And then the ending and the cliffhanger... This really needs to get fixed fast!!! Damn, Sebastian should have trusted her more.
Now I really can't want for the third and final part. Sebastian, solve this mess!
I loved the book, but because of the rocky beginning I gave it 4 stars. The author still does awesome job with the characters and their relationship, and not to forget the law stuff (you can see that she does many research for it) which is still not boring. But some thing were just too much.
Maya Cross, keep kicking ass with this story. We want a big finale :)
May 23, 2013
This is the second book in the Alpha Group Series. If you haven't read book 1 you need to because this book picks up right where the first book left off.
In this book we get to see Sebastian and Sophia's relationship begin to turn into something more serious.
"I don't need to know all of your deepest, darkest secrets right away. I need to know is that this is real because if we go any further and I find out that it's not, I think it will break me."
He studied me for several seconds, small smile managing to puncture through his her wise grim expression. "This is the realist thing I know, Sophia."
Sebastian has lots of secrets which threaten their relationship. Sophia stumbles upon a few coincidences that revolve around the letter "A"' but when she questions Sebastian about it he closes up.
While there was a bit of panty dropping sex going on (and who doesn't love that!)...
this book leaves off with another cliffhanger. I can't wait to see how the trilogy ends. The last book "Unlocked" is due out June/July 2013!
In this book we get to see Sebastian and Sophia's relationship begin to turn into something more serious.
"I don't need to know all of your deepest, darkest secrets right away. I need to know is that this is real because if we go any further and I find out that it's not, I think it will break me."
He studied me for several seconds, small smile managing to puncture through his her wise grim expression. "This is the realist thing I know, Sophia."
Sebastian has lots of secrets which threaten their relationship. Sophia stumbles upon a few coincidences that revolve around the letter "A"' but when she questions Sebastian about it he closes up.
While there was a bit of panty dropping sex going on (and who doesn't love that!)...
this book leaves off with another cliffhanger. I can't wait to see how the trilogy ends. The last book "Unlocked" is due out June/July 2013!
May 7, 2013
I read this as a beta reader for the author and I enjoyed both the book and the beta reading task.
The main character, Sophia, is smart and funny and there were some nice surprises in the story. Aside from the romance and sex (and don't worry, there's plenty of both and it's all good) I enjoyed hearing her thoughts as she tried to apply reason and logic to her feelings. I also loved the scenes with her girlfriends and the subplot involving her woes at work.
I recommend reading LOCKED (book #1) first because we're dropped right into the middle of the story without any hand holding for new readers. (I like that, btw. The rehashing of previous books usually bores me and in this case, it set a good pace for our story.) I'll definitely buy the 3rd book because (1) I enjoyed this one; and (2) it ended on a cliffhanger that I simply must see the end of.
I realize that for me, the act of being a beta reader probably impacted my rating in a positive way. I enjoyed writing notes to the author as I was reading. And at some point in the process - when I was particularly caught up in the story - I actually quit speaking to the author and starting talking directly to the characters. Regardless, that alone would not make me think (or say) that I liked it if I didn't. (And I did.)
So, when's that 3rd book coming out again? :)
The main character, Sophia, is smart and funny and there were some nice surprises in the story. Aside from the romance and sex (and don't worry, there's plenty of both and it's all good) I enjoyed hearing her thoughts as she tried to apply reason and logic to her feelings. I also loved the scenes with her girlfriends and the subplot involving her woes at work.
I recommend reading LOCKED (book #1) first because we're dropped right into the middle of the story without any hand holding for new readers. (I like that, btw. The rehashing of previous books usually bores me and in this case, it set a good pace for our story.) I'll definitely buy the 3rd book because (1) I enjoyed this one; and (2) it ended on a cliffhanger that I simply must see the end of.
I realize that for me, the act of being a beta reader probably impacted my rating in a positive way. I enjoyed writing notes to the author as I was reading. And at some point in the process - when I was particularly caught up in the story - I actually quit speaking to the author and starting talking directly to the characters. Regardless, that alone would not make me think (or say) that I liked it if I didn't. (And I did.)
So, when's that 3rd book coming out again? :)
May 26, 2013
Look what's out! Whoop whoop
May 21, 2013
This Book Was Given To Me In Exchange For An Honest Review
I was super excited to get my hands on Lockout (Book #2 in the Alpha Group Series) and Maya Cross has proven that she couldn't disappoint me even if she tried. I absolutely loved Locked (Book #1) and I adored Lockout (Book #2) far far more.
One reason why I'm praising book #2 more than I did for book #1 is because it's longer - Book #1 (Locked) was more of a sort of novella read really and I do love novella's, especially if it's your first read from a particular author. (It gives you a feel as to what to expect from their writing, without spending to much time on a full novel)
Now because it's longer, it's jam packed with even more delicious Seb � Soph - Yum. With a longer book you get more for your money and with Lockout -> not only do you get more bang for your buck, you also get for banging…lol :) No seriously, Maya Cross has an amazing ability to present you with sexy, sultry and seductive sexcapades that don't feel like the churned out skin crawling cliche's that are infecting the book world lately� We all know it's true� there are a handful of authors out their who think that if they add naked and lust together in a book, it's automatically a sexy erotic romance� blah� it's not the case at all� I have found many over the course of my blogging life (and post Fifty) to be extremely Tongue-in-cheek. True erotic romance is done with class and yes ladies and authors, there is a fine line between naked lust and sexy naked lust.
Anyway,I was smitten and did a girly swoon every time Sebastian open's his gorgeous mouth�. to speak and to� um� smile? Haha� #flustered :)
If you have yet to read book #1, you don't need to worry, I won't spoil anything for you in this review. But speaking of which, if you have not read Locked yet, get it immediately�
So the story of Sebastian Lock & Sophia continues in yet another amazing offering from Maya Cross. I love that they are based out of Australia� Yes, there are Dom / Sub relationships that take place outside of Seattle haha� I know I'm not the only one who wonders if there's something in the water over there� how come majority of the dom/sub books are based in the Emerald City? Who know's but like I said, it's great to see that it does happen all around the world� gives some of us girls hope that one day we too could find our own Christen / Gideon / Sebastian.
If you have read book #1, a little warning� Lockout has a really "Gasp" ending. Yes, there's a major cliffer, just so you know. But don't let that stop you or make you hold out until you can get your hands on Book #3. I still felt somewhat fulfilled with this book even considering the way in which it ends.
Another aspect I did love about Lockout was that it took off where Locked ended. No time was wasted reminding us of what happened� but I'll admit, I did reread the last chapter of Locked before I started Lockout� because I wanted the full effect again before I went on with the second book. So I do suggest you do that� it does add to the drama :)
Anyhoo�. So yes, another winner from author Maya Cross� another one of those Time Well Spent books, another book that you can just tell has been well thought-out and I must add that's it's very well written� (and I received an ARC copy, so WOW)� oh and of course another reason I simply can't wait for July to arrive� Book #3 will be released then� along with many other long awaited books (for me at least)� and um it's my birthday month :)
Lockout (The Alpha Group, #2) is sinful, sexy, sultry and it just so happens to contain the swoon worthy Sebastian L˥ck�
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June 3, 2013
SUCH A POWERFUL STORY I'M LEFT UNDONE!
This is such a powerful story that will leave you breathless, it is packed with raw emotions it will take you for a ride, a wild ride of conflicting emotions.
The hero in almost all stories are the ones being focused on, somewhat revered and ooh'd and aah'd by most reviewers ( including me ) and seldom the heroine. This book should actually be all about the heroine, Sophia Pearce...an extraordinary woman. Incredibly strong, straightforward, never a pushover. What most would try to ignore and put at the back burner of their mind and avoid to confront, Sophia forges head on. Having had to confront the law firms most senior partner, she didn't even flinch or had second thoughts telling it to his face he's undermining her and her well earned accomplishments.
Sophia's accidental discovery of something sinister when she made a surprise visit to Sebastian at his office made her angry and fearful. So sure that Sebastian was a big part of it threw her out of bound. To say this book is impressive is truly an understatement, there was one scene that was so intense Sophia was cold with fear, desperate to ran out and when she did, she knew that was the end of her and Sebastian.
Sebastian is charming, incredibly handsome, sweet and romantic, he does things spontaneously that makes Sophia fall in love with him. The night he took Sophia out to dinner and had a surprise dancing, what they did together during and in between was just intense and awesome.Just when she thinks everything is going great between them, he would do something that would make Sophia feel that he's done with her.
Sebastian has a great fear of losing someone he really deeply cares for, losing his fiancee who was murdered a few years back, he tried to pull himself away from Sophia. Try as he might, he has fallen in love with her. But he is not completely forthcoming, he has a secret, though it may cause losing Sophia if he keeps it, the secret is not his to tell.
Just as Sophia thinks she can cope with her devastating loss as long as she keeps herself busy, she gets the final boot from the prestigious law firm she loves and works for. Everything started to fall apart, then she gets a letter from Sebastian telling her goodbye, that this would be his final and last communication with her, also asking her to do the same and stay away. The letter completely broke Sophia, the feeling of loss was so profound I cried with her, got angry with her, and felt sorry for her...the end got me so fearful for her! I was reeling with so many emotions after reading this, I'm quite undone. This story will stay in my mind for a very long time, I honestly do not know how I can wait for the final book.
There is not a doubt in my mind Ms. Maya Cross is a brilliant writer and one of my all time favorite...Congratulations Ms. Cross, well done! If you were on stage, it's a standing ovation!
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
This is such a powerful story that will leave you breathless, it is packed with raw emotions it will take you for a ride, a wild ride of conflicting emotions.
The hero in almost all stories are the ones being focused on, somewhat revered and ooh'd and aah'd by most reviewers ( including me ) and seldom the heroine. This book should actually be all about the heroine, Sophia Pearce...an extraordinary woman. Incredibly strong, straightforward, never a pushover. What most would try to ignore and put at the back burner of their mind and avoid to confront, Sophia forges head on. Having had to confront the law firms most senior partner, she didn't even flinch or had second thoughts telling it to his face he's undermining her and her well earned accomplishments.
Sophia's accidental discovery of something sinister when she made a surprise visit to Sebastian at his office made her angry and fearful. So sure that Sebastian was a big part of it threw her out of bound. To say this book is impressive is truly an understatement, there was one scene that was so intense Sophia was cold with fear, desperate to ran out and when she did, she knew that was the end of her and Sebastian.
Sebastian is charming, incredibly handsome, sweet and romantic, he does things spontaneously that makes Sophia fall in love with him. The night he took Sophia out to dinner and had a surprise dancing, what they did together during and in between was just intense and awesome.Just when she thinks everything is going great between them, he would do something that would make Sophia feel that he's done with her.
Sebastian has a great fear of losing someone he really deeply cares for, losing his fiancee who was murdered a few years back, he tried to pull himself away from Sophia. Try as he might, he has fallen in love with her. But he is not completely forthcoming, he has a secret, though it may cause losing Sophia if he keeps it, the secret is not his to tell.
Just as Sophia thinks she can cope with her devastating loss as long as she keeps herself busy, she gets the final boot from the prestigious law firm she loves and works for. Everything started to fall apart, then she gets a letter from Sebastian telling her goodbye, that this would be his final and last communication with her, also asking her to do the same and stay away. The letter completely broke Sophia, the feeling of loss was so profound I cried with her, got angry with her, and felt sorry for her...the end got me so fearful for her! I was reeling with so many emotions after reading this, I'm quite undone. This story will stay in my mind for a very long time, I honestly do not know how I can wait for the final book.
There is not a doubt in my mind Ms. Maya Cross is a brilliant writer and one of my all time favorite...Congratulations Ms. Cross, well done! If you were on stage, it's a standing ovation!
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
May 21, 2013
Reviewed for Read Your Writes Book Reviews
I never realized how much I was anticipating a book coming out, until I got my hands on Maya Cross' second book, Lockout, The Alpha Group Book Two. Nothing else in the world mattered, except for me and the book. I originally gave Locked, The Alpha Group Book One a 4 Star rating. But since I'm still thinking about it, two months after reading the book and waiting patiently or impatiently, if you ask Maya, for the second book, obviously it deserved a 5 Star rating. With that said, I had high expectations for this book. But never in my wildest dreams did I think Maya would be able to pull it off. She did.
Sebastian Lock and Sophia Pearce are back in Lockout, which picks up where Locked left off. From the first word, I was immediately drawn into the book and did not want to put it down. The cliffhanger at the end of the first book was resolved in a believable fashion. Lockout had me falling for Sebastian Lock like nobody's business. That is either pretty sad for me or a FABULOUS job on Maya's part since I know nothing about the guy. Luckily, some questions about Sebastian get answered. I was surprised to find the book heartbreaking. I want to say the book turns out to be a little predictable at the end, but it comes out of nowhere. I honestly had flashbacks of Tiffany Snow's Kathleen Turner series.
With Lockout, you also get to learn a little bit more about Sophia's past relationship. It seems she has a pattern that maybe she doesn't even realize she's following. The sex is off the charts. I'm talking the back of a limo, a bed or two, a public place. Wow... You also get to see a softer unexpected side of Sebastian. You get a sense of the love that's building between the two.
There are still a lot of secrets to be revealed. And of course, Lockout ends with a cliffhanger.... UGH!!!! But sadly, that probably adds a little appeal to the book for me. Lockout will definitely have you wanting more. I can't wait to find out what Sebastian is going to do. July can NOT get here fast enough for me to be able to read Unlocked, the third book in the series.
Source: Author
I never realized how much I was anticipating a book coming out, until I got my hands on Maya Cross' second book, Lockout, The Alpha Group Book Two. Nothing else in the world mattered, except for me and the book. I originally gave Locked, The Alpha Group Book One a 4 Star rating. But since I'm still thinking about it, two months after reading the book and waiting patiently or impatiently, if you ask Maya, for the second book, obviously it deserved a 5 Star rating. With that said, I had high expectations for this book. But never in my wildest dreams did I think Maya would be able to pull it off. She did.
Sebastian Lock and Sophia Pearce are back in Lockout, which picks up where Locked left off. From the first word, I was immediately drawn into the book and did not want to put it down. The cliffhanger at the end of the first book was resolved in a believable fashion. Lockout had me falling for Sebastian Lock like nobody's business. That is either pretty sad for me or a FABULOUS job on Maya's part since I know nothing about the guy. Luckily, some questions about Sebastian get answered. I was surprised to find the book heartbreaking. I want to say the book turns out to be a little predictable at the end, but it comes out of nowhere. I honestly had flashbacks of Tiffany Snow's Kathleen Turner series.
With Lockout, you also get to learn a little bit more about Sophia's past relationship. It seems she has a pattern that maybe she doesn't even realize she's following. The sex is off the charts. I'm talking the back of a limo, a bed or two, a public place. Wow... You also get to see a softer unexpected side of Sebastian. You get a sense of the love that's building between the two.
There are still a lot of secrets to be revealed. And of course, Lockout ends with a cliffhanger.... UGH!!!! But sadly, that probably adds a little appeal to the book for me. Lockout will definitely have you wanting more. I can't wait to find out what Sebastian is going to do. July can NOT get here fast enough for me to be able to read Unlocked, the third book in the series.
Source: Author
May 23, 2013
I am giving this 3 stars because, even though I enjoyed the book, I really really disliked Sophia's character in the process. I am sorry, Maya, but I really did. I didn't quite connect with her in book 1 & really thought she'd grow on me in this one but no luck ...
First of all, she needs to grow a backbone and stop being a doormat @ work.
Once she'd done that, she needs to find a friend who might want to fill her in on the fact that you don't pick out wedding china (metaphorically speaking, of course) after you slept over at your f*ck buddy's (wasn't that the arrangement, Sophia???) house ... once! Am I wrong???
OK, so that's that but now can we please talk about how NOT cool it is to WHY would you want to do that??? I think somebody needs a lesson on personal space and how not to invade it at inappropriate times.
The rest of the book is great! I like the mystery aspect of it, I love Sebastian as well as his and Sophia's friends.
I still want to know what it is that he does though because after reading "Lockout" I have more questions than answers.
As for Liv,
First of all, she needs to grow a backbone and stop being a doormat @ work.
Once she'd done that, she needs to find a friend who might want to fill her in on the fact that you don't pick out wedding china (metaphorically speaking, of course) after you slept over at your f*ck buddy's (wasn't that the arrangement, Sophia???) house ... once! Am I wrong???
OK, so that's that but now can we please talk about how NOT cool it is to WHY would you want to do that??? I think somebody needs a lesson on personal space and how not to invade it at inappropriate times.
The rest of the book is great! I like the mystery aspect of it, I love Sebastian as well as his and Sophia's friends.
I still want to know what it is that he does though because after reading "Lockout" I have more questions than answers.
As for Liv,
May 19, 2013
Lockout, book 2 in Maya Cross's exciting new serial The Alpha Group, picks up Sebastian and Sophia's story directly after the cliff-hanger ending of Locked. This is a fast-paced, erotic romance with just enough suspense and mystery to give the story amazing depth all while maintaining the intense level of passion begun in Locked.
This installment explores the growth of Sebastian and Sophia's relationship from initial attraction and casual affair to something quite more serious. Some of Sebastian's secrets (which broke my heart) are revealed, yet other, more darker secrets remain threatening the couple's happiness and leaving us with another (and much more dramatic) cliffhanger. I can't wait to see how the trilogy ends with Unlocked due out June/July 2013!
For anyone looking for a quick, smart and sexy read then this is the series for you!
Notes:
This book is the first part of a trilogy that is designed to be read together, much like The Blackstone Affair. Sebastian and Sophia will get their happily ever after, but not until the last book.
Contains light BDSM, including spanking, restraint, and anal play.
This installment explores the growth of Sebastian and Sophia's relationship from initial attraction and casual affair to something quite more serious. Some of Sebastian's secrets (which broke my heart) are revealed, yet other, more darker secrets remain threatening the couple's happiness and leaving us with another (and much more dramatic) cliffhanger. I can't wait to see how the trilogy ends with Unlocked due out June/July 2013!
For anyone looking for a quick, smart and sexy read then this is the series for you!
Notes:
This book is the first part of a trilogy that is designed to be read together, much like The Blackstone Affair. Sebastian and Sophia will get their happily ever after, but not until the last book.
Contains light BDSM, including spanking, restraint, and anal play.
June 24, 2013
I liked this book much better than the first one. There's a little bit of drama and mystery, whole lot of hot hot sex, and many questions left unanswered. Of course there is a cliffhanger, but at least the cliffhanger in book 2 didn't leave me wanting to toss my Kindle against the wall like the one in book 1. I can't wait to read more about Sebastion and Sophia.
October 28, 2013
Story Rating 4 Stars
Character Rating 4 Stars
Romance Rating 4 Stars
Heat Level 4 Stars
Overall Rating 4 Stars
Character Rating 4 Stars
Romance Rating 4 Stars
Heat Level 4 Stars
Overall Rating 4 Stars
August 11, 2016
3 Stars. -
May 21, 2013
FORE MORE REVIEWS LIKE THIS ONE, CHECK OUT MY BLOG ~
I loved this book even more than the first one in the series! The sex scenes were hotter. the plot was more addictive, and the cliffhanger at the end was even more dramatic. I need the next one NOW!
Again, just like with LOCKED, there was something about this book that just pulled me in, and refused to let me go! Picking up right where the first book left off, this one goes much further into Sophia and Sebastian’s relationship, as they begin to develop feelings for each other. However, no matter how much she wants to, Sophia soon finds that she may not be able to fully trust Sebastian, and because of this finds herself questioning everything about the man she’s falling for.
I liked Sebastian so much more in this book, than I did in the first one. Although he was still controlling and dominant with Sophia…in the best way, it was also really nice to see him finally open up to her, as you got to see that he is so much more than you might have first thought.
…”You terrify me, Sophia. I’ve never felt so consumed by another person before. And every time we see each other, it’s like I lose another piece of myself in you…�
The sex scenes in this book were in a league of their own, they were so hot! Especially the one with the gift and Sophia at her work�. However, they were never too much or used too often which is what I really appreciated, as with erotic fiction it, at times, seems like an author is just sticking a sex scene in there because they can’t think of anything better to write. This one had the perfect mix of sex scene and storyline, and each one added more to the story as a whole.
With Sebastian, there was no give, only take. He wasn’t giving me an orgasm, he was taking it from me, claiming it for himself, and he did it with a fervour that bordered on frightening.
The situation with Sophia’s job is something that I particularly liked in this book. Not only was she working her ass off to make her way up in a company that she had been with for 6 years, and getting nothing back in return, but she was also getting manipulated and kept in her place by her ‘superior�, Jennifer, causing some serious backlash. This made my blood boil, especially at the end when the head of the company brings her in for not working late, and taking long lunches ~ she has been dedicated for years and got nothing in return, but they have the nerve to pull her up about not putting in enough of her time! I’m having to hold myself back from having a serious rant about this, and I don’t even know why (maybe it’s because I’m studying sociology, and Marxist theories…haha), but I felt that what she was experiencing was written so well that I totally believed it, and it got me pissed!!! I just wanted her to tell them where to stick their job, and leave with some dignity, which I didn’t feel she did.
The cliffhanger at the end was awesome ~ what a way to make you want the next book! It brought so many theories to my mind as to what is going on with Sebastian’s job ~I have a strong feeling that his fiances death, and what happens to Sophia is all going to end up being connected and also, I don’t really trust the character of Thomas, although I could be wrong on both accounts. I guess I will have to wait and see�
Overall I loved this book and would highly recommend it. For me it was like a cross between the Crossfire series by Sylvia Day, and the Bad Boys Series by M. Leighton, and way up there with both. After reading this book, Maya Cross is definitely one of my favorite authors, and I would definitely stop what I was reading, in order to read one of her books instead!
“I’m addicted to you. It’s not enough, It’s never enough.�
I loved this book even more than the first one in the series! The sex scenes were hotter. the plot was more addictive, and the cliffhanger at the end was even more dramatic. I need the next one NOW!
Again, just like with LOCKED, there was something about this book that just pulled me in, and refused to let me go! Picking up right where the first book left off, this one goes much further into Sophia and Sebastian’s relationship, as they begin to develop feelings for each other. However, no matter how much she wants to, Sophia soon finds that she may not be able to fully trust Sebastian, and because of this finds herself questioning everything about the man she’s falling for.
I liked Sebastian so much more in this book, than I did in the first one. Although he was still controlling and dominant with Sophia…in the best way, it was also really nice to see him finally open up to her, as you got to see that he is so much more than you might have first thought.
…”You terrify me, Sophia. I’ve never felt so consumed by another person before. And every time we see each other, it’s like I lose another piece of myself in you…�
The sex scenes in this book were in a league of their own, they were so hot! Especially the one with the gift and Sophia at her work�. However, they were never too much or used too often which is what I really appreciated, as with erotic fiction it, at times, seems like an author is just sticking a sex scene in there because they can’t think of anything better to write. This one had the perfect mix of sex scene and storyline, and each one added more to the story as a whole.
With Sebastian, there was no give, only take. He wasn’t giving me an orgasm, he was taking it from me, claiming it for himself, and he did it with a fervour that bordered on frightening.
The situation with Sophia’s job is something that I particularly liked in this book. Not only was she working her ass off to make her way up in a company that she had been with for 6 years, and getting nothing back in return, but she was also getting manipulated and kept in her place by her ‘superior�, Jennifer, causing some serious backlash. This made my blood boil, especially at the end when the head of the company brings her in for not working late, and taking long lunches ~ she has been dedicated for years and got nothing in return, but they have the nerve to pull her up about not putting in enough of her time! I’m having to hold myself back from having a serious rant about this, and I don’t even know why (maybe it’s because I’m studying sociology, and Marxist theories…haha), but I felt that what she was experiencing was written so well that I totally believed it, and it got me pissed!!! I just wanted her to tell them where to stick their job, and leave with some dignity, which I didn’t feel she did.
The cliffhanger at the end was awesome ~ what a way to make you want the next book! It brought so many theories to my mind as to what is going on with Sebastian’s job ~I have a strong feeling that his fiances death, and what happens to Sophia is all going to end up being connected and also, I don’t really trust the character of Thomas, although I could be wrong on both accounts. I guess I will have to wait and see�
Overall I loved this book and would highly recommend it. For me it was like a cross between the Crossfire series by Sylvia Day, and the Bad Boys Series by M. Leighton, and way up there with both. After reading this book, Maya Cross is definitely one of my favorite authors, and I would definitely stop what I was reading, in order to read one of her books instead!
“I’m addicted to you. It’s not enough, It’s never enough.�
July 14, 2013
I received a copy of this story for an honest review.
When I finished “Locked (The Alpha Group Book One)� I became a fan of Maya Cross. After finishing “Lockout (The Alpha Group Book Two)� I officially elevated to straight up crushing on her. “Lockout� is the best kind of story, face-paced, fun, and exciting. There are two solid leads I can’t help but love and the story is a kick-butt blend of romance, hotness, mystery, and suspense. “Lockout� sucked me in early. I finished the story in one straight read, only to decide to read it again the very next day.
“Lockout� picks up right where “Locked� left off, with Sophia running away from Sebastian after intercepting sexy texts from his former secretary. Sebastian makes a fairly grand gesture to prove himself to Sophia and implores her to give their relationship a chance. What originally started as a no-strings physical relationship hits a turning point as Sophia is challenged to give Sebastian the same amount of trust in their day-to-day lives that she gives him in the bedroom.
“Sure, I’d been afraid, but it was fear of pain, fear of the unknown, and in spite of that fear, I’d given myself to him anyway, trusting that he’d take care of me.�
Sebastian and Sophia’s physical relationship is still ridiculously hot (a scene in a restaurant/dance hall definitely altered my breathing, just insanely passionate, intimate, steamy goodness) but “Lockout� spends a good amount of time on the two leads developing stronger feelings for each other. “Lockout� strengthened my investment in Sophia and Sebastian and I found myself cheering for them to eventually find a HEA together.
“As inconvenient as it might be for the both of us, this thing means something to me now, and I want everything that comes with that, including your complications.�
Sexy books are fun but to be truly great I have to see some value in the main characters relationship. Cross achieves that with “Lockout.� She has created perfect foils in Sebastian and Sophia � they’re both beautiful, smart, and successful, but each is slightly damaged. Giving into their relationship and investing in each other, in and out of the bedroom, might be the one true key to happiness for both characters.
“To tell you the truth, I would have been perfectly content to spend the whole night there, cradled in his arms, his fingers gently stroking my cheek. I’d never felt happier in my entire life.�
Though Sebastian promised never to lie to Sophia, he never promised not to keep secrets. Those secrets mount to the point where Sophia can no longer ignore them. As her professional life takes a serious blow, Sophia realizes she can’t tolerate Sebastian keeping her in the dark. Challenging him to open up, her pleas for answers only lead to heartache.
“He gazed at me, his face utterly distraught. It was the look of a man with an impossible choice to make, and it sent a fresh wave of dread rolling through me.�
“Lockout� ends with one whopper of a cliffhanger. Cross has upped the danger level and I’m going to be biting my nails waiting for “Unlocked,� the conclusion to Sophia and Sebastian’s story.
Grab “Lockout,� you won’t regret it. If you’re new to The Alpha Group Book series, you are missing out. Pick these books up!
Happy Reading.
When I finished “Locked (The Alpha Group Book One)� I became a fan of Maya Cross. After finishing “Lockout (The Alpha Group Book Two)� I officially elevated to straight up crushing on her. “Lockout� is the best kind of story, face-paced, fun, and exciting. There are two solid leads I can’t help but love and the story is a kick-butt blend of romance, hotness, mystery, and suspense. “Lockout� sucked me in early. I finished the story in one straight read, only to decide to read it again the very next day.
“Lockout� picks up right where “Locked� left off, with Sophia running away from Sebastian after intercepting sexy texts from his former secretary. Sebastian makes a fairly grand gesture to prove himself to Sophia and implores her to give their relationship a chance. What originally started as a no-strings physical relationship hits a turning point as Sophia is challenged to give Sebastian the same amount of trust in their day-to-day lives that she gives him in the bedroom.
“Sure, I’d been afraid, but it was fear of pain, fear of the unknown, and in spite of that fear, I’d given myself to him anyway, trusting that he’d take care of me.�
Sebastian and Sophia’s physical relationship is still ridiculously hot (a scene in a restaurant/dance hall definitely altered my breathing, just insanely passionate, intimate, steamy goodness) but “Lockout� spends a good amount of time on the two leads developing stronger feelings for each other. “Lockout� strengthened my investment in Sophia and Sebastian and I found myself cheering for them to eventually find a HEA together.
“As inconvenient as it might be for the both of us, this thing means something to me now, and I want everything that comes with that, including your complications.�
Sexy books are fun but to be truly great I have to see some value in the main characters relationship. Cross achieves that with “Lockout.� She has created perfect foils in Sebastian and Sophia � they’re both beautiful, smart, and successful, but each is slightly damaged. Giving into their relationship and investing in each other, in and out of the bedroom, might be the one true key to happiness for both characters.
“To tell you the truth, I would have been perfectly content to spend the whole night there, cradled in his arms, his fingers gently stroking my cheek. I’d never felt happier in my entire life.�
Though Sebastian promised never to lie to Sophia, he never promised not to keep secrets. Those secrets mount to the point where Sophia can no longer ignore them. As her professional life takes a serious blow, Sophia realizes she can’t tolerate Sebastian keeping her in the dark. Challenging him to open up, her pleas for answers only lead to heartache.
“He gazed at me, his face utterly distraught. It was the look of a man with an impossible choice to make, and it sent a fresh wave of dread rolling through me.�
“Lockout� ends with one whopper of a cliffhanger. Cross has upped the danger level and I’m going to be biting my nails waiting for “Unlocked,� the conclusion to Sophia and Sebastian’s story.
Grab “Lockout,� you won’t regret it. If you’re new to The Alpha Group Book series, you are missing out. Pick these books up!
Happy Reading.
August 11, 2013
What another fabulous part in the Alpha Group Trilogy!
Sophia and Sebastian's relationship develops slowly and beneath that tough, brooding exterior is a sensitive, deep man that is battling with many demons. We are given snippets of Sebastian's past and it just adds to the intensity. The tattoo plays a large part, along with the secret rooms and the mysterious death of the Environmental Secretary from the British Government.
I love the sweet sensitive side of Sebastian and he manages to pull it off while being super sexy and powerful at the same time, a very rare combination!
"This is what it is to submit, Sophia" he said "To put your pleasure in the hands of another and trust that they'll take care of you"
It is obvious that their feelings are deepening and fast, I think it's fair to say that they are starting to fall in love, the very thing Sebastian was trying to avoid in the beginning. They stoke a fire in each other, but what sells it for Sebastian is that it stirs something deep inside him emotionally, but that also scares him for more reasons than he's letting on. There is of course a threat looming in the background. You can feel it brewing even if I can't quite put my finger on the how's and why's.
"You see how you make me loose control Sophia?" He rasped, his face contorted in pleasure. "I'm addicted to you. It's not enough. It's never enough." Every statement was punctuated by a powerful pivot of his hips.
There are lots of parts to this book that I absolutely loved. The poker game was great, Sophia earned great respect from Sebastian and his associates, from her sheer guts and determination. The gift, oh my goodness, she was so close to being discovered! And then there's the dancing, oh my heart just swelled at that point. It was the pivotal point for me in their relationship.
I really felt for Sophia as she tries her hardest to make a name for herself in 'Little Bell' but there is just one little bitch who is out to sabotage her every move. I can't help but feel there is more to the big case that she was working on and I can't wait to see where this story goes next, luckily for me it's a matter of days before its due out! (August 18th)
"I don't need to know all of your deepest, darkest secrets right away. I need to know is that this is real because if we go any further and I find out that it's not, I think it will break me."
He studied me for several seconds, small smile managing to puncture through his her wise grim expression. "This is the realist thing I know, Sophia."
4 OMG!! Holy Cliff-hanger Stars!!
Sophia and Sebastian's relationship develops slowly and beneath that tough, brooding exterior is a sensitive, deep man that is battling with many demons. We are given snippets of Sebastian's past and it just adds to the intensity. The tattoo plays a large part, along with the secret rooms and the mysterious death of the Environmental Secretary from the British Government.
I love the sweet sensitive side of Sebastian and he manages to pull it off while being super sexy and powerful at the same time, a very rare combination!
"This is what it is to submit, Sophia" he said "To put your pleasure in the hands of another and trust that they'll take care of you"
It is obvious that their feelings are deepening and fast, I think it's fair to say that they are starting to fall in love, the very thing Sebastian was trying to avoid in the beginning. They stoke a fire in each other, but what sells it for Sebastian is that it stirs something deep inside him emotionally, but that also scares him for more reasons than he's letting on. There is of course a threat looming in the background. You can feel it brewing even if I can't quite put my finger on the how's and why's.
"You see how you make me loose control Sophia?" He rasped, his face contorted in pleasure. "I'm addicted to you. It's not enough. It's never enough." Every statement was punctuated by a powerful pivot of his hips.
There are lots of parts to this book that I absolutely loved. The poker game was great, Sophia earned great respect from Sebastian and his associates, from her sheer guts and determination. The gift, oh my goodness, she was so close to being discovered! And then there's the dancing, oh my heart just swelled at that point. It was the pivotal point for me in their relationship.
I really felt for Sophia as she tries her hardest to make a name for herself in 'Little Bell' but there is just one little bitch who is out to sabotage her every move. I can't help but feel there is more to the big case that she was working on and I can't wait to see where this story goes next, luckily for me it's a matter of days before its due out! (August 18th)
"I don't need to know all of your deepest, darkest secrets right away. I need to know is that this is real because if we go any further and I find out that it's not, I think it will break me."
He studied me for several seconds, small smile managing to puncture through his her wise grim expression. "This is the realist thing I know, Sophia."
4 OMG!! Holy Cliff-hanger Stars!!
May 21, 2013
I was browsing amazon, late at night, as you do and found that "Lockout" was out a day early!!!
Needless to say, I brought it and started reading straight away - cue sleepless night - as once you start you cant stop, even when the sun starts to come up and you know your day offically stats in a mere hour or two.
My plan had been to re-read "Locked" to re-aquaint myself with Sebastian and Sophia, but I was just too excited and jumped straight in.... The book picks up exactly where Maya left off, no messing around, no flashbacks, just straight in there (and even though I hadn't re-visited S&S's Story since I finished it months ago), it was like no time had passed and I just picked up where I left off..... Thats how good Maya and her writing/storytelling is.
I wont spoil it by divulging too many details, but this book was even better than the first for me, you saw more of Sophia's feistiness and her insecurities,her heart and her passion for Sebastian, which only made you love her more. And as for Sebastian...hmmmmmm..... you get to see aside of him that, you knew deep down might reside within him, but weren't too sure it would surface. But Sophia's trust, openness and fearlessness, bring it to the fore-front, as he lets himself "truly" feel...... And Maya, once again effortlessly brings us into their world, of secrets, passion, desire, fear and dare I say it love. The side charcthers are there to help the story along and are as good as always, with a few more to add to the mix, mainly Sebastians "work collegues"....just to add a little more intrigue. I liked Thomas and have a feeling we will see him more in book 3????
And as for the end, just when you thought your heart and mind could take no-more......What an effing cliffhanger!!!! So glad the next book, isn't to far away....And we will (hopefully) get to see Sebastian in all his Alpha/Dom glory.....And finger crossed a HEA.
My only critisisms.....Lockout being released 3/4 days earlier than expected and I didnt know, lol and I wish it was longer.
If you have not read "Locked", please do....your missing out.
Needless to say, I brought it and started reading straight away - cue sleepless night - as once you start you cant stop, even when the sun starts to come up and you know your day offically stats in a mere hour or two.
My plan had been to re-read "Locked" to re-aquaint myself with Sebastian and Sophia, but I was just too excited and jumped straight in.... The book picks up exactly where Maya left off, no messing around, no flashbacks, just straight in there (and even though I hadn't re-visited S&S's Story since I finished it months ago), it was like no time had passed and I just picked up where I left off..... Thats how good Maya and her writing/storytelling is.
I wont spoil it by divulging too many details, but this book was even better than the first for me, you saw more of Sophia's feistiness and her insecurities,her heart and her passion for Sebastian, which only made you love her more. And as for Sebastian...hmmmmmm..... you get to see aside of him that, you knew deep down might reside within him, but weren't too sure it would surface. But Sophia's trust, openness and fearlessness, bring it to the fore-front, as he lets himself "truly" feel...... And Maya, once again effortlessly brings us into their world, of secrets, passion, desire, fear and dare I say it love. The side charcthers are there to help the story along and are as good as always, with a few more to add to the mix, mainly Sebastians "work collegues"....just to add a little more intrigue. I liked Thomas and have a feeling we will see him more in book 3????
And as for the end, just when you thought your heart and mind could take no-more......What an effing cliffhanger!!!! So glad the next book, isn't to far away....And we will (hopefully) get to see Sebastian in all his Alpha/Dom glory.....And finger crossed a HEA.
My only critisisms.....Lockout being released 3/4 days earlier than expected and I didnt know, lol and I wish it was longer.
If you have not read "Locked", please do....your missing out.
May 23, 2013
As posted on
I was excited to get back to Sophie and Sebastian’s story. And this one begins exactly where Book #1 (review here) left off.
Sophie is angry at Sebastian, she’s convinced he’s lying to her and decides to leave him. But Sebastian doesn’t give up that easy. He pursues her relentlessly and eventually she decides to hear him out. They eventually settle back into their steamy relationship but Sophie can’t ignore the fact that there’s something about Sebastian that doesn’t sit well with her.
As you many remember from Book #1, Sebastian has a peculiar tattoo and it’s clear there’s a lot he’s hiding. In Book #2 we get to know much more about him. We finally find out where the sexy accent comes from, we learn more about his background� but there’s still something he’s hiding�
There’s also a lot more happening in Sophie’s life. Her law firm is still sidelining her, giving her assignments no one else wants to do. But while things are bad at work, at least she has Sebastian to cheer her up and boy does he ever! These two couldn’t keep their hands off each other! But things are changing, Sophia is starting to feel more for Sebastian. But can he let her in?
I liked that we got to know Sebastian more and I liked the suspense of it all. But there was was something present in book #1 that I found missing in book #2� which is the reason I use the word ‘liked� and not ‘loved�. I loved book #1 and was expecting even more� like a steady climb to an explosive finish. But I feel like I got more of a flat line that eventually spiked up at the end.
I am definitely still on the look out for the last book in the trilogy. So many unanswered questions; What does Sebastian really do for a living? Whats the significance of the tattoo? What exactly does his company do? What does all this have to do with the British Government?
3 stars.
Finally I’d like to thank the author for providing this copy for my review.
I was excited to get back to Sophie and Sebastian’s story. And this one begins exactly where Book #1 (review here) left off.
Sophie is angry at Sebastian, she’s convinced he’s lying to her and decides to leave him. But Sebastian doesn’t give up that easy. He pursues her relentlessly and eventually she decides to hear him out. They eventually settle back into their steamy relationship but Sophie can’t ignore the fact that there’s something about Sebastian that doesn’t sit well with her.
As you many remember from Book #1, Sebastian has a peculiar tattoo and it’s clear there’s a lot he’s hiding. In Book #2 we get to know much more about him. We finally find out where the sexy accent comes from, we learn more about his background� but there’s still something he’s hiding�
There’s also a lot more happening in Sophie’s life. Her law firm is still sidelining her, giving her assignments no one else wants to do. But while things are bad at work, at least she has Sebastian to cheer her up and boy does he ever! These two couldn’t keep their hands off each other! But things are changing, Sophia is starting to feel more for Sebastian. But can he let her in?
I liked that we got to know Sebastian more and I liked the suspense of it all. But there was was something present in book #1 that I found missing in book #2� which is the reason I use the word ‘liked� and not ‘loved�. I loved book #1 and was expecting even more� like a steady climb to an explosive finish. But I feel like I got more of a flat line that eventually spiked up at the end.
I am definitely still on the look out for the last book in the trilogy. So many unanswered questions; What does Sebastian really do for a living? Whats the significance of the tattoo? What exactly does his company do? What does all this have to do with the British Government?
3 stars.
Finally I’d like to thank the author for providing this copy for my review.
May 22, 2013
OMG, this book was awesome!
This book clips along at such a great pace, while being a shorter novel it still packs a punch and doesn't feel rushed. I absolutely love Sophia, she is such a strong woman! Not too many novels show a woman not afraid to stick up for herself (without undue pages of indecisiveness) - both in the workplace and within her relationship. It was so easy to relate to her workplace situation and when uncertainty in her relationship arose I admired how she didn't simply push it under the rug but addressed it head on and dealt with the consequences of potentially losing the relationship.
Sebastian is such a complex character too that they complement each other so beautifully. Chemistry is great and underlying plotline about Sebastian's mysterious work provided just the right amount of suspense. While being somewhat of a dominant (NOT Fifty Shades, much less intense) there is this refreshing amount of respect between the two characters that is also hard to come by in most alpha-male books.
Very well written story, I am so excited for the next novel! Hope I am not kept in suspense for too many months ;-)
This book clips along at such a great pace, while being a shorter novel it still packs a punch and doesn't feel rushed. I absolutely love Sophia, she is such a strong woman! Not too many novels show a woman not afraid to stick up for herself (without undue pages of indecisiveness) - both in the workplace and within her relationship. It was so easy to relate to her workplace situation and when uncertainty in her relationship arose I admired how she didn't simply push it under the rug but addressed it head on and dealt with the consequences of potentially losing the relationship.
Sebastian is such a complex character too that they complement each other so beautifully. Chemistry is great and underlying plotline about Sebastian's mysterious work provided just the right amount of suspense. While being somewhat of a dominant (NOT Fifty Shades, much less intense) there is this refreshing amount of respect between the two characters that is also hard to come by in most alpha-male books.
Very well written story, I am so excited for the next novel! Hope I am not kept in suspense for too many months ;-)
July 17, 2015
Sebastian Magnetic Mysterious Lock.!!
Sophia had never felt attraction like that before. Raw. Electric. Irresistible. Swept off her feet by the dashing, enigmatic billionaire Sebastian Lock, she was taken on a journey of self-discovery, taken to places she never dreamed she’d go.
But things are never as simple as they appear. Sophia’s trust is a fragile thing, and Sebastian seems insistent on testing it. He has his own demons to battle, and nobody has brought them to the fore like she has.
As their relationship deepens, and Sophia begins to break down his walls, all that greets her are more questions.
Sebastian is still a mystery but a charming, incredibly handsome, sweet and romantic one..
It felt like a roller-coaster. Their relationship was one second "on" and the other it was "off". The secrets are still there which weaken their relationship but Sophia has her doubts.. which are too many.
I gave up guessing about Sebastian.. cause the the possiblities of what he might be were big..
I don't understand why Maya has to make three parts where it could be easily made into one.
The ending was great!!
I enjoyed reading this one too..
Sophia had never felt attraction like that before. Raw. Electric. Irresistible. Swept off her feet by the dashing, enigmatic billionaire Sebastian Lock, she was taken on a journey of self-discovery, taken to places she never dreamed she’d go.
But things are never as simple as they appear. Sophia’s trust is a fragile thing, and Sebastian seems insistent on testing it. He has his own demons to battle, and nobody has brought them to the fore like she has.
As their relationship deepens, and Sophia begins to break down his walls, all that greets her are more questions.
Sebastian is still a mystery but a charming, incredibly handsome, sweet and romantic one..
It felt like a roller-coaster. Their relationship was one second "on" and the other it was "off". The secrets are still there which weaken their relationship but Sophia has her doubts.. which are too many.
I gave up guessing about Sebastian.. cause the the possiblities of what he might be were big..
I don't understand why Maya has to make three parts where it could be easily made into one.
The ending was great!!
I enjoyed reading this one too..
November 10, 2014
Still steamy but their relationship starts to evolve from just hot steamy hook ups to something more.
Sophia lays her feelings out on the line, mainly that she has some for Sebastian than just casual sexual encounters, however hot they are.
He struggles with his feelings and we get a glimpse of his past. It's intriguing and still his work is shrouded in mystery. Just when she thinks she knows him better, he can't tell her everything.
It's only at the very end that this book goes from fun to suddenly very mysterious and then bam, in the end pulls at your heart string some. That surprised me in a good way...
Sophia's relationship with Sebastian (OMG his letter to her choked me up) is he left hanging and so is her job...ahhhhhhh
Good strategy though cause now I am looking forward to the 3rd and final book.
Sophia lays her feelings out on the line, mainly that she has some for Sebastian than just casual sexual encounters, however hot they are.
He struggles with his feelings and we get a glimpse of his past. It's intriguing and still his work is shrouded in mystery. Just when she thinks she knows him better, he can't tell her everything.
It's only at the very end that this book goes from fun to suddenly very mysterious and then bam, in the end pulls at your heart string some. That surprised me in a good way...
Sophia's relationship with Sebastian (OMG his letter to her choked me up) is he left hanging and so is her job...ahhhhhhh
Good strategy though cause now I am looking forward to the 3rd and final book.
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