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The Surrender Trilogy #1
Falling In
The debut of an emotionally charged and highly erotic contemporary romance trilogy, in which love and trust are the most dangerous games of all…
With a dark past that would have shattered most people, Evelyn “Scout” Keats is doing what no one in her bleak world thinks possible—getting off the streets and leaving her impoverished life behind. She’s a new maid at the luxurious Patras Hotel, and aims to keep her job no matter what. But that doesn’t mean she’s going to sacrifice her dignity, or let anyone into her heart. The risk of losing either is just too great.
When hotel tycoon Lucian Patras discovers Evelyn in a compromising position, he uses everything at his disposal to seduce her—a proposition that both surprises and frightens her.
Ignorant to her true circumstances, Lucian relentlessly pursues Scout as a prize to be won. But he is soon given an unforgettable lesson in love and sacrifice when he learns how far Scout has gone to gain her independence and discovers that there are some things money can never buy.
LOOK FOR THE NEXT BOOK IN THE SERIES, BREAKING OUT
With a dark past that would have shattered most people, Evelyn “Scout” Keats is doing what no one in her bleak world thinks possible—getting off the streets and leaving her impoverished life behind. She’s a new maid at the luxurious Patras Hotel, and aims to keep her job no matter what. But that doesn’t mean she’s going to sacrifice her dignity, or let anyone into her heart. The risk of losing either is just too great.
When hotel tycoon Lucian Patras discovers Evelyn in a compromising position, he uses everything at his disposal to seduce her—a proposition that both surprises and frightens her.
Ignorant to her true circumstances, Lucian relentlessly pursues Scout as a prize to be won. But he is soon given an unforgettable lesson in love and sacrifice when he learns how far Scout has gone to gain her independence and discovers that there are some things money can never buy.
LOOK FOR THE NEXT BOOK IN THE SERIES, BREAKING OUT
402 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 17, 2013
155 people are currently reading
5516 people want to read
About the author
Lydia Michaels
183 books1,674 followersLydia Michaels is the bestselling and award-winning author of more than forty novels. She writes heart-clenching, unpredictable romance with dark elements and high heat. Her work is character-driven and bursting with broken heroes and badass females. With a sweet spot for overbearing, territorial types, her deeply emotional books are spicy, emotionally satisfying, and guaranteed to leave readers with many book hangovers.
Lydia is the consecutive winner of the 2018 & 2019 Author of the Year Award from Happenings Media and the recipient of the 2014 Best Author Award from the Courier Times. She has been featured by USA Today, Romantic Times Magazine, the Women in Publishing Summit, and more.
Michaels has been a recognized presence in the author community since starting her career in 2007. She is the CEO of LMC Consulting and a certified author coach specializing in characterization and plot development. She takes great joy in hosting author events celebrating diversity within the book industry. She has bridged connections among many authors since founding renowned events such as the East Coast Author Convention and the Annual Behind the Keys Author Retreat. However, the gem of her work is, by far, her extensive backlist (see LydiaMichaelsBooks.com).
She is happily married to her childhood sweetheart. Her favorite things include cooking Italian cuisine, hosting extravagant dinner parties, sipping martinis, listening to her husband play piano, and escaping to her coastal home on the Jersey Shore. She’s an LGBTQ ally, a BLM supporter, and a firm believer that the patriarchy must burn (women’s rights are human rights).
You can follow Lydia on Instagram, TikTok, & Facebook!
Instagram: @lydia_michaels_books
Facebook: @LydiaMichaels
TikTok: @LydiaMichaels
Lydia is the consecutive winner of the 2018 & 2019 Author of the Year Award from Happenings Media and the recipient of the 2014 Best Author Award from the Courier Times. She has been featured by USA Today, Romantic Times Magazine, the Women in Publishing Summit, and more.
Michaels has been a recognized presence in the author community since starting her career in 2007. She is the CEO of LMC Consulting and a certified author coach specializing in characterization and plot development. She takes great joy in hosting author events celebrating diversity within the book industry. She has bridged connections among many authors since founding renowned events such as the East Coast Author Convention and the Annual Behind the Keys Author Retreat. However, the gem of her work is, by far, her extensive backlist (see LydiaMichaelsBooks.com).
She is happily married to her childhood sweetheart. Her favorite things include cooking Italian cuisine, hosting extravagant dinner parties, sipping martinis, listening to her husband play piano, and escaping to her coastal home on the Jersey Shore. She’s an LGBTQ ally, a BLM supporter, and a firm believer that the patriarchy must burn (women’s rights are human rights).
You can follow Lydia on Instagram, TikTok, & Facebook!
Instagram: @lydia_michaels_books
Facebook: @LydiaMichaels
TikTok: @LydiaMichaels
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 365 reviews
January 14, 2015
Evelyn "Scout" Keats
Lucian Patras
Mini Playlist
Stronger - Kelly Clarkson
Love Me Like You Do - Ellie Goulding
First Love - Jennifer Lopez
You & Me - Disclosure
Titanium - David Guetta
This story is riveting. You start off with a girl named Scout who has only ever known life on the streets and who has a chance encounter with a charismatic and brooding Lucian Patras, CEO of internationally acclaimed Patras Hotels. And with that, my review begins :) Brace yourselves, because it's about to go down.
When Lucian and Evelyn first meet and he has his bitchy attitude I was all..
That proposition though *fans self*....
One word. Pearl.
The Hanky-Panky.....
Two words. Motherfucking Slade
Reading the book through Evelyn's perspective..
When Lucian goes to find Evelyn...
Another word. Parker.
THAT ENDING...
This isn't your average lovey-dovey woopie sorta love story. Evelyn has only ever known a world where people wanted something in return for a favor. With no roof over her head and the inability to do tasks that many of us often forsake, Evelyn's struggle to survive in and of itself was a battle that tore me apart throughout the book. Evelyn has got to be one of my most favorite/respected heroines in a series that I have EVER read. This girl isn't only a through and through survivor, but she is disciplined to the point of total incomprehensibility. I love, love, LOVE her strength throughout the book and there are so may parts where I cried in the book that she just shook off as if it were nothing. Her strength throughout her journey with Lucian intrigued me at the beginning and left me utterly speechless by the end. If you want yourself a KICK-ASS heroine, you go ahead and read this book. Like now. No scratch that, like yesterday.
Lucian striked me immediately as an unique character when the scene with Jamie,Evelyn, and him played out. I was intrigued by his exhibitionist ways and his need for even a slice of pleasure while going about his miserable and snobby life. When he decided to in a sense "share" intimacy with his voyeuristic friend and Evelyn (I mean, c'mon..don't be afraid to JUST LOVE HER.), I lost a great deal of my respect for him until the moment he decided to bargain with Parker. After that, my respect amounted to the point where he is definitely a character I will not be forgetting anytime soon.
This man is broken. Ironic because hes the one in the story with a seemingly perfect life. Evelyn is beautifully made despite the tragedies that she has had to face. When they both come together.. they really had no choice. They're Falling In.
Until next time my lovely readers,
Tierra x
Lucian Patras
Mini Playlist
Stronger - Kelly Clarkson
Love Me Like You Do - Ellie Goulding
First Love - Jennifer Lopez
You & Me - Disclosure
Titanium - David Guetta
This story is riveting. You start off with a girl named Scout who has only ever known life on the streets and who has a chance encounter with a charismatic and brooding Lucian Patras, CEO of internationally acclaimed Patras Hotels. And with that, my review begins :) Brace yourselves, because it's about to go down.
When Lucian and Evelyn first meet and he has his bitchy attitude I was all..
That proposition though *fans self*....
One word. Pearl.
The Hanky-Panky.....
Two words. Motherfucking Slade
Reading the book through Evelyn's perspective..
When Lucian goes to find Evelyn...
Another word. Parker.
THAT ENDING...
This isn't your average lovey-dovey woopie sorta love story. Evelyn has only ever known a world where people wanted something in return for a favor. With no roof over her head and the inability to do tasks that many of us often forsake, Evelyn's struggle to survive in and of itself was a battle that tore me apart throughout the book. Evelyn has got to be one of my most favorite/respected heroines in a series that I have EVER read. This girl isn't only a through and through survivor, but she is disciplined to the point of total incomprehensibility. I love, love, LOVE her strength throughout the book and there are so may parts where I cried in the book that she just shook off as if it were nothing. Her strength throughout her journey with Lucian intrigued me at the beginning and left me utterly speechless by the end. If you want yourself a KICK-ASS heroine, you go ahead and read this book. Like now. No scratch that, like yesterday.
Lucian striked me immediately as an unique character when the scene with Jamie,Evelyn, and him played out. I was intrigued by his exhibitionist ways and his need for even a slice of pleasure while going about his miserable and snobby life. When he decided to in a sense "share" intimacy with his voyeuristic friend and Evelyn (I mean, c'mon..don't be afraid to JUST LOVE HER.), I lost a great deal of my respect for him until the moment he decided to bargain with Parker. After that, my respect amounted to the point where he is definitely a character I will not be forgetting anytime soon.
This man is broken. Ironic because hes the one in the story with a seemingly perfect life. Evelyn is beautifully made despite the tragedies that she has had to face. When they both come together.. they really had no choice. They're Falling In.
Until next time my lovely readers,
Tierra x
November 9, 2014
5 Amazing Stars!! Awesome book!!!
This is more than a Cinderella story, it's a story that will steal you completely. Two fantastic heroes, an amazing story plot and beautiful writing.
Lucien Patras is a billionaire, coming from a family that made a fortune from generations to generations. He's like a "Hilton" heir, he owns a chain of more than 20 luxury hotels all around the world and other businesses. He's in his mid thirties, is dark, sexy as hell, a total alpha man, commanding, controlling, dominant and one of the most eligible bachelors.
Evelyn "Scout" Keats is a homeless 22 years old girl. She sleeps in a shelter, but that's the best she ever had. Her mother Pearl is a drug addicted sleeping in a mill, who sells herself just to get high. Evelyn cares deeply about her even though that woman is hateful. She never knew her dad who was murdered in a drug deal before she was born. She born into drugs and never had a home, never had a bed, never had a closet, never ate a proper meal, never went to a school, never left Folsom, never had a real bath, never saw the sea, never felt loved, never heard her mother said that she loved her, never had a family, never had a birth-date or an ID. She's beautiful, smart, a fighter but also so fragile, she has such a beautiful and rich soul, dark hair, blue-grey eyes, innocent looking. Her whole life she was always hungry for something more, she never left that horrible life drown her. She wanted to be a normal person, living in a home, sleeping in a bad, eating, having a job. She finally made her first step into that road beginning her work as a maid at Patras Hotel. Less she know her life will completely change in the Suite C of that hotel when she met Lucien Patras.
This is a beautiful story of love, of people who fight to survive and determination to never let the bad swallow you. I totally recommend it!!
This is more than a Cinderella story, it's a story that will steal you completely. Two fantastic heroes, an amazing story plot and beautiful writing.
Lucien Patras is a billionaire, coming from a family that made a fortune from generations to generations. He's like a "Hilton" heir, he owns a chain of more than 20 luxury hotels all around the world and other businesses. He's in his mid thirties, is dark, sexy as hell, a total alpha man, commanding, controlling, dominant and one of the most eligible bachelors.
Evelyn "Scout" Keats is a homeless 22 years old girl. She sleeps in a shelter, but that's the best she ever had. Her mother Pearl is a drug addicted sleeping in a mill, who sells herself just to get high. Evelyn cares deeply about her even though that woman is hateful. She never knew her dad who was murdered in a drug deal before she was born. She born into drugs and never had a home, never had a bed, never had a closet, never ate a proper meal, never went to a school, never left Folsom, never had a real bath, never saw the sea, never felt loved, never heard her mother said that she loved her, never had a family, never had a birth-date or an ID. She's beautiful, smart, a fighter but also so fragile, she has such a beautiful and rich soul, dark hair, blue-grey eyes, innocent looking. Her whole life she was always hungry for something more, she never left that horrible life drown her. She wanted to be a normal person, living in a home, sleeping in a bad, eating, having a job. She finally made her first step into that road beginning her work as a maid at Patras Hotel. Less she know her life will completely change in the Suite C of that hotel when she met Lucien Patras.
This is a beautiful story of love, of people who fight to survive and determination to never let the bad swallow you. I totally recommend it!!
December 5, 2019
HOW IS THIS BOOK NOT MORE POPULAR?
Re-upping this post because it’s still one of my all-time favorite romance ever.
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Title: Falling In (The Surrender Trilogy #1)
Series: yes
Author: Lydia Michaels
Release Date: September 17, 2013
Rating: 4.5 brilliantly surprising stars
POV: 3- Scout,Lucien, and Parker
HEA:
Any Hard Limits?
Cliffhanger: . Yes.
Intolerable Heroine .No.
Über Douchebagery .No.
Taboo Subject Matter .No.
Cheating:
Love Triangle
I've been steering away from billionaire stories for quite some time now so I was hesitant to start this one. I was so pleasantly surprised by how spectacular this book really is!
Evelyn “Scout” Keats is a young homeless woman that's never known what it's like to sleep in a bed, take a real bath, or a life without struggling just to survive. When she stumbles upon Lucian Patras he (surprise surprise) makes her an offer she can't refuse. Now I know what you're thinking. But you're wrong. This isn't a story about a scared, emotionally stunted, and damaged hero who has difficulty accepting his feelings for the heroine. In fact, it's Scout that is closed off from feeling or at least openly expressing how she ends up feeling for him throughout their relationship.
This book was beautiful. Now I normally hate stories about innocent, virginal, and timid type heroines but I ABSOLUTELY LOVED Scout. She's not a virgin or unaware of her beauty because she's insecure but because she's been too busy spending her entire life just trying to survive. With a heroin addicted mother and life on the streets men are the last thing on her mind. I loved the fact that Scout's character was consistent throughout the entire story and she doesn't ever back down to Lucian. She doesn't turn into a puddle of mush at his touch like most of the heroines we read in this type of story. No. She is a force to be reckoned with.
I'm glad the author didn't gloss over the gritty parts of the story about Evelyn's life of poverty. It just breaks your heart reading about her struggles and her ability to survive despite the odds.
Now the intimacy between Lucian and Scout is OFF THE CHARTS. I'm talking absolutely deliciously sexy and so filthy that it could make a hooker blush.
This story is told in three parts. Part I is in Scout's POV, Part II is Lucian's, and Part III (although very short) is told in Parker's, Scout's best friend who is also homeless, POV.
Just a warning: for the first half of the book you will probably dislike Lucian quite a bit. He is an insensitive, arrogant, and cold BUT do not give up on him because I promise you you will fall absolutely in love with him. I've finished the entire series and he is QUITE high up there on my list of book boyfriends. Do not let his behavior in the first half of the book deter you from this book because you will not be let down.
This story does not use the same billionaire tropes as other romance novels. There are no psycho ex-girlfriends coming out of the woodworks, no misunderstandings, no skeletons in anyones closets, etc.
Re-upping this post because it’s still one of my all-time favorite romance ever.
Title: Falling In (The Surrender Trilogy #1)
Series: yes
Author: Lydia Michaels
Release Date: September 17, 2013
Rating: 4.5 brilliantly surprising stars
POV: 3- Scout,Lucien, and Parker
HEA:
Any Hard Limits?
Cliffhanger: . Yes.
Intolerable Heroine .No.
Über Douchebagery .No.
Taboo Subject Matter .No.
Cheating:
Love Triangle
I've been steering away from billionaire stories for quite some time now so I was hesitant to start this one. I was so pleasantly surprised by how spectacular this book really is!
Evelyn “Scout” Keats is a young homeless woman that's never known what it's like to sleep in a bed, take a real bath, or a life without struggling just to survive. When she stumbles upon Lucian Patras he (surprise surprise) makes her an offer she can't refuse. Now I know what you're thinking. But you're wrong. This isn't a story about a scared, emotionally stunted, and damaged hero who has difficulty accepting his feelings for the heroine. In fact, it's Scout that is closed off from feeling or at least openly expressing how she ends up feeling for him throughout their relationship.
This book was beautiful. Now I normally hate stories about innocent, virginal, and timid type heroines but I ABSOLUTELY LOVED Scout. She's not a virgin or unaware of her beauty because she's insecure but because she's been too busy spending her entire life just trying to survive. With a heroin addicted mother and life on the streets men are the last thing on her mind. I loved the fact that Scout's character was consistent throughout the entire story and she doesn't ever back down to Lucian. She doesn't turn into a puddle of mush at his touch like most of the heroines we read in this type of story. No. She is a force to be reckoned with.
I'm glad the author didn't gloss over the gritty parts of the story about Evelyn's life of poverty. It just breaks your heart reading about her struggles and her ability to survive despite the odds.
Now the intimacy between Lucian and Scout is OFF THE CHARTS. I'm talking absolutely deliciously sexy and so filthy that it could make a hooker blush.
This story is told in three parts. Part I is in Scout's POV, Part II is Lucian's, and Part III (although very short) is told in Parker's, Scout's best friend who is also homeless, POV.
Just a warning: for the first half of the book you will probably dislike Lucian quite a bit. He is an insensitive, arrogant, and cold BUT do not give up on him because I promise you you will fall absolutely in love with him. I've finished the entire series and he is QUITE high up there on my list of book boyfriends. Do not let his behavior in the first half of the book deter you from this book because you will not be let down.
This story does not use the same billionaire tropes as other romance novels. There are no psycho ex-girlfriends coming out of the woodworks, no misunderstandings, no skeletons in anyones closets, etc.
April 28, 2014
6 UNBELIEVABLY AWESOME STARS !!!
WOW where do I start with this book of awesomeness?
Our heroine, Evelyn (Scout), had an absolutely awful sad disadvantaged upbringing. Not sure if the word upbringing is even appropriate for the cards this poor girl was dealt.
The writing was very good. I spent my two days off glued to my kindle, immersed in Scout's fucked up world. The book made me sad in parts but I was so rooting (pardon pun) for this girl.
The setting was just as good. Down-on-her-luck maid meets Mr Money Bags. All she wants is to be normal, and all Lucien wants is Scout. The sex was hot. The build-up intense. Lucien has "certain" exhibitionist (hope that's a word?) tastes and we saw some of them in this book.
Ms Michaels is a huge talent. Bloody brilliant.
I'm on a roll with good reads this year and I believe this to be one my favourite books of 2014. I cannot wait to start the next one. Yes folks, there is a cliffhanger but thankfully all three books are out.
I would gladly recommend this book to all my GR friends.
WOW where do I start with this book of awesomeness?
Our heroine, Evelyn (Scout), had an absolutely awful sad disadvantaged upbringing. Not sure if the word upbringing is even appropriate for the cards this poor girl was dealt.
The writing was very good. I spent my two days off glued to my kindle, immersed in Scout's fucked up world. The book made me sad in parts but I was so rooting (pardon pun) for this girl.
The setting was just as good. Down-on-her-luck maid meets Mr Money Bags. All she wants is to be normal, and all Lucien wants is Scout. The sex was hot. The build-up intense. Lucien has "certain" exhibitionist (hope that's a word?) tastes and we saw some of them in this book.
Ms Michaels is a huge talent. Bloody brilliant.
I'm on a roll with good reads this year and I believe this to be one my favourite books of 2014. I cannot wait to start the next one. Yes folks, there is a cliffhanger but thankfully all three books are out.
I would gladly recommend this book to all my GR friends.
June 2, 2018
I really enjoyed this story. However, I felt as though the end was a little rushed. I will most likely not read the next book because I dont want Scout to be with anyone else lol.
September 21, 2014
i ve really enjoyed this book its reminds me of a few books al rolled into 1 which is good the overall story is great there is great sexy time strong men characters romantic part sad heartbrokin part and great arguments al these things i luvd but i luv the character will nearly al them except slade (arsehole would luv 2 punch him in the balls)but i totally luvd scout/evelyn she as been through a lot an is still havin a hard time even when she is with lucian but she is so strong sees everything in a positive way i really like her an then there is lucian patras what can i say ye he is gorgeous sexy as hell and loaded but he can b so annoyin an argumentative at times 2 but u just know that he luvs evelyn/scout toward the end of the book which i just luvd i m dyin 2 read the second book after the way its ended xxx
i need the second book like now haha xxx
i enjoyed my BR with me girlies luv ya xxxx
i need the second book like now haha xxx
i enjoyed my BR with me girlies luv ya xxxx
October 14, 2014
2.5 stars
Well I was really drawn into this book. Until about 70% in. Then it was almost a dnf.
Scout is a homeless girl who gets a job as a maid in a fancy hotel. She cleans the suite of the owner, knocks over some papers on his desk and in walks said hotel asshole mogul. I really didn't warm to Lucian. He was a skeevy arrogant, self absorbed asshole.
I really liked Scout in the beginning and even half way through the book. I could understand the draw to take up with a billionaire to get out of her circumstance. Even when he punched her v card. She knew the price of admission. She paid it. But his reaction to that deed? Didn't ring true. He had a long standing menage with his bud Slade. He also let his bff watch. Then he was all like, I didn't know, and now I am freaked. Nope didn't buying it. Then Scout was after a painful first experience wanting to get it on with Lucian? What exactly was the draw to each other? Money? Someone to manipulate and boss?
I also didn't buy the love relationship of these two. I didn't understand Scouts insistence to keep her housekeeping job. People talk. Coworkers gossip. She is supposed to be so street smart and world weary but most of her actions spoke otherwise.
Then the sex marathon after she returned from being homeless again. So worn, after caring for a horrible mother who defecates and vomits all over the room. she hadn't slept nor eaten very very little in days? weeks? Lucian couldn't keep his hands off her? No that's not selfish and icky. Blah.
Ok also, Scout and the sushi thing? After coming off her homeless binge, I was thinking she would at least try the sushi. She annoyed me. Especially after her drunken bar scene.
Lucian draw to her was what exactly? Besides that she was beautifully hairy and hadn't bathed fully in forever? Yeah that is what was going through my mind. I don't care how well you wash up. You don't bath regularly, you aren't gonna smell so fresh. It didn't seem like she washed her uniform either.
I was really invested into the book, but it really fell short two thirds the way in. I just didn't feel the love and I didn't really care for the rest of the way the book was going. The story started off great and then went some weird place with the story. The last third of the book was about sex. Skeevy Lucian telling/teaching gullible Scout all about kinky sex. Scout who used to not like to be touched, who was just a few weeks ago a homeless virgin, agreed readily with everything Lucian wanted. Of course Lucian "loved" Evelyn. Scout became Evelyn and just like every other socialite wanna be. When she did speak up it seemed almost in a manipulative pouty whiny way.
This was not the book for me. Lydia Michaels is a superb story teller. I just didn't care for the end direction of this story.
I really don't care what happens to any of these characters to read any more from this series.
Well I was really drawn into this book. Until about 70% in. Then it was almost a dnf.
Scout is a homeless girl who gets a job as a maid in a fancy hotel. She cleans the suite of the owner, knocks over some papers on his desk and in walks said hotel asshole mogul. I really didn't warm to Lucian. He was a skeevy arrogant, self absorbed asshole.
I really liked Scout in the beginning and even half way through the book. I could understand the draw to take up with a billionaire to get out of her circumstance. Even when he punched her v card. She knew the price of admission. She paid it. But his reaction to that deed? Didn't ring true. He had a long standing menage with his bud Slade. He also let his bff watch. Then he was all like, I didn't know, and now I am freaked. Nope didn't buying it. Then Scout was after a painful first experience wanting to get it on with Lucian? What exactly was the draw to each other? Money? Someone to manipulate and boss?
I also didn't buy the love relationship of these two. I didn't understand Scouts insistence to keep her housekeeping job. People talk. Coworkers gossip. She is supposed to be so street smart and world weary but most of her actions spoke otherwise.
Then the sex marathon after she returned from being homeless again. So worn, after caring for a horrible mother who defecates and vomits all over the room. she hadn't slept nor eaten very very little in days? weeks? Lucian couldn't keep his hands off her? No that's not selfish and icky. Blah.
Ok also, Scout and the sushi thing? After coming off her homeless binge, I was thinking she would at least try the sushi. She annoyed me. Especially after her drunken bar scene.
Lucian draw to her was what exactly? Besides that she was beautifully hairy and hadn't bathed fully in forever? Yeah that is what was going through my mind. I don't care how well you wash up. You don't bath regularly, you aren't gonna smell so fresh. It didn't seem like she washed her uniform either.
I was really invested into the book, but it really fell short two thirds the way in. I just didn't feel the love and I didn't really care for the rest of the way the book was going. The story started off great and then went some weird place with the story. The last third of the book was about sex. Skeevy Lucian telling/teaching gullible Scout all about kinky sex. Scout who used to not like to be touched, who was just a few weeks ago a homeless virgin, agreed readily with everything Lucian wanted. Of course Lucian "loved" Evelyn. Scout became Evelyn and just like every other socialite wanna be. When she did speak up it seemed almost in a manipulative pouty whiny way.
This was not the book for me. Lydia Michaels is a superb story teller. I just didn't care for the end direction of this story.
I really don't care what happens to any of these characters to read any more from this series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 24, 2013
What starts with an awesome heroine who has been homeless her entire life, living on the street with her heroine-addicted mother ended up with her being paired with a billionaire asshole hero. Not a fun alpha-hole...just an asshole. No romance (maybe tiny bit at the end) no love. Just ownership. Blah blah.
If this had been Scout and Parker (Scout's friend also homeless) book, I would have been ALL over it. Disliked the hero SO much. Enjoyed Scout until she fell into the hero's clutches.
If this had been Scout and Parker (Scout's friend also homeless) book, I would have been ALL over it. Disliked the hero SO much. Enjoyed Scout until she fell into the hero's clutches.
November 27, 2016
I have a friend who couldn't stop raving about how good this series was a couple months ago. I came across the paperback while in a book store and bought the first book in the series. I started it last night and and was hooked. I really liked Evelyn "Scout" Keats character. She's tough and determined to make something of herself. She's loyal to those she loves even if she's afraid and mistrusts love.
Lucian Paras grew on me. I wasn't much of a fan in the beginning, but by the time I got to the part of the book told from his perspective, I felt a lot differently. I certainly liked him a lot more and some of his behavior and past had been explained to me.
This is the first book in a trilogy and just so you know, it doesn't end on a cliffhanger, but it still has me really eager to read the next book and see what happens next. While the story mainly focuses on Scout and Lucian, I'm really intrigued by Parker and Slade and their plans.
I know a lot of people are over the billionaire and average girl trope, but there's something about Lydia Michael's way of telling Scout and Lucian's story that really pulled me in. It doesn't hurt that it's easy to like and understand Scout, or the fact the book is super hot, but it has some pizzaz that makes it all the more enjoyable.
Lucian Paras grew on me. I wasn't much of a fan in the beginning, but by the time I got to the part of the book told from his perspective, I felt a lot differently. I certainly liked him a lot more and some of his behavior and past had been explained to me.
This is the first book in a trilogy and just so you know, it doesn't end on a cliffhanger, but it still has me really eager to read the next book and see what happens next. While the story mainly focuses on Scout and Lucian, I'm really intrigued by Parker and Slade and their plans.
I know a lot of people are over the billionaire and average girl trope, but there's something about Lydia Michael's way of telling Scout and Lucian's story that really pulled me in. It doesn't hurt that it's easy to like and understand Scout, or the fact the book is super hot, but it has some pizzaz that makes it all the more enjoyable.
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March 29, 2014
03/27/2014 --
Overall Rating = 3.5 Stars
Book Cover / Book Blurb / Book Title = 3 / 3 /4 = 3.5 Stars
Writer’s Voice = 4 Stars
Character Development = 4 Stars
Story Appreciation = 3 Stars
Ending = 3 Stars
Worth the Chili = 5 Stars -- [$2.99 on Amazon]
Smexy [HEAT] Rating = Moderate to Heated
337 pages
Okay, this is my second book by this author and I really like her. This is how Lydia Michaels does a twisted FSOG. In my opinion, she does it so much better. The twist is the characters. Scout or Evelyn is homeless and illiterate, but BEAUTIFUL. Lucia really does have a heart and you see it immediately. He's successful in everything but keeps his heart to himself until he bargains with Evelyn for her time. She sees him as a means to an end and agrees to his terms ... so it goes.
What did I like?
1 -- The rich character development. I think this is the style of this author. She gives each character a rich back story and a depth of emotion you don't find often. I'm getting to where I really hate all the "surface" characters you find in so many books now. Where the author doesn't take the necessary time to build these people in your mind before proceeding with the story. Ms. Michaels takes the time. She really does this well.
2 -- The ending. This is a first in the series and you could stop with this first one and be satisfied. It doesn't have the dreaded "cliffhanging" ending. Kudo's! I did go on to read the second one and am trying to decide if I want to read the third, but I could have stopped here and that's nice to know. Why then didn't I give it 5 Stars? Because it is a series and the story really isn't complete, even though it is satisfying. It also doesn't really "compel" me to read on. I could have stopped. Make sense? Maybe only to me -- which is completely okay because this is MY review!
3 -- The secondary characters are well developed and add to the story. They aren't just pictures on the wall, but actually add to your enjoyment of the story.
4 -- I love the title of this book. Lucia and Evelyn are Falling In ...
Now, what did I think could be better?
1 -- Some of the story was predictable and lacked a pull for me. The whole thing became draggy at points and then clunky in others. Like she wasn't sure if she wanted to really do something, so she started and left it. Because I think this author is so good, it is noticeable when the polish is missing and the story lags. Not sure if this is laziness or something a really good editor could help with. Don't get me wrong, there are no real obvious editing issues, just places where the story clunks or drags.
2 -- Not a real fan of the book cover. I know what the author was trying to do, but not sure she pulls it off.
3 -- I have a love / hate thing going with the ending. Not sure I was pulled by the characters into the next one. I think I really just wanted to see what the author could do. I'm not a fan of the second [which could be influencing me now .. do I read #3 or not??] in the series, but more on that later.
Okay, so I'm not a fan of the FSOG thing with the Cinderella undertones. I'm not sure why, but there it is. Saying this, I do think, at least for the first book in either series, that this author does a better job. We definitely have a better Cinderella and I loved our Prince in this one. This author may not get kudo's because its been done before and we will make the comparisons, but she does it a bit better - my opinion only.
If you liked FSOG and are looking for another, similar book -- a better book, give this one a shot. I don't think you will be disappointed.
My definition of better: The characters, not the BDSM components -- which are really non-existent in both books [again, my opinion only].
Happy Reading!!
Overall Rating = 3.5 Stars
Book Cover / Book Blurb / Book Title = 3 / 3 /4 = 3.5 Stars
Writer’s Voice = 4 Stars
Character Development = 4 Stars
Story Appreciation = 3 Stars
Ending = 3 Stars
Worth the Chili = 5 Stars -- [$2.99 on Amazon]
Smexy [HEAT] Rating = Moderate to Heated
337 pages
Okay, this is my second book by this author and I really like her. This is how Lydia Michaels does a twisted FSOG. In my opinion, she does it so much better. The twist is the characters. Scout or Evelyn is homeless and illiterate, but BEAUTIFUL. Lucia really does have a heart and you see it immediately. He's successful in everything but keeps his heart to himself until he bargains with Evelyn for her time. She sees him as a means to an end and agrees to his terms ... so it goes.
What did I like?
1 -- The rich character development. I think this is the style of this author. She gives each character a rich back story and a depth of emotion you don't find often. I'm getting to where I really hate all the "surface" characters you find in so many books now. Where the author doesn't take the necessary time to build these people in your mind before proceeding with the story. Ms. Michaels takes the time. She really does this well.
2 -- The ending. This is a first in the series and you could stop with this first one and be satisfied. It doesn't have the dreaded "cliffhanging" ending. Kudo's! I did go on to read the second one and am trying to decide if I want to read the third, but I could have stopped here and that's nice to know. Why then didn't I give it 5 Stars? Because it is a series and the story really isn't complete, even though it is satisfying. It also doesn't really "compel" me to read on. I could have stopped. Make sense? Maybe only to me -- which is completely okay because this is MY review!
3 -- The secondary characters are well developed and add to the story. They aren't just pictures on the wall, but actually add to your enjoyment of the story.
4 -- I love the title of this book. Lucia and Evelyn are Falling In ...
Now, what did I think could be better?
1 -- Some of the story was predictable and lacked a pull for me. The whole thing became draggy at points and then clunky in others. Like she wasn't sure if she wanted to really do something, so she started and left it. Because I think this author is so good, it is noticeable when the polish is missing and the story lags. Not sure if this is laziness or something a really good editor could help with. Don't get me wrong, there are no real obvious editing issues, just places where the story clunks or drags.
2 -- Not a real fan of the book cover. I know what the author was trying to do, but not sure she pulls it off.
3 -- I have a love / hate thing going with the ending. Not sure I was pulled by the characters into the next one. I think I really just wanted to see what the author could do. I'm not a fan of the second [which could be influencing me now .. do I read #3 or not??] in the series, but more on that later.
Okay, so I'm not a fan of the FSOG thing with the Cinderella undertones. I'm not sure why, but there it is. Saying this, I do think, at least for the first book in either series, that this author does a better job. We definitely have a better Cinderella and I loved our Prince in this one. This author may not get kudo's because its been done before and we will make the comparisons, but she does it a bit better - my opinion only.
If you liked FSOG and are looking for another, similar book -- a better book, give this one a shot. I don't think you will be disappointed.
My definition of better: The characters, not the BDSM components -- which are really non-existent in both books [again, my opinion only].
Happy Reading!!
September 14, 2014
This was another trilogy that had great reviews but didn't live up to it. The story started ok with the h being homeless and starting a job at a high-end hotel. The H meets her once and decides to make her an offer to be a kept woman. I was disappointed that despite the h being very prideful she quickly jumps at the offer. She had no problem giving her virginity to a stranger. In fact it seemed odd that she was so naive about things but once she starts her arrangement with the H she is at ease with spending his money and ordering things at the hotel. Didn't she realize that her coworkers at the hotel would know what she is doing with the H? In the beginning she is adamant that she wants to continue working but then we never see her work again. She behaved shamelessly at one point going to drink at the bar and making a fool of herself. This didn't mesh with the kind of person she is described to be in the beginning of the story. Plus, every time she had an argument with the H she runs away. I can't believe she allowed the H to be intimate with her in front of his friend. I didn't see her being any different from the other people on the street who were willing to degrade themselves for money. I was hoping she would be different. Parker had potential but he did a 180 at the end when he suddenly wants the H's help getting a job. The execution of the story and the characters was poor. Lastly, I didn't believe for a second that someone who is homeless and does not have access to basic hygiene products is so beautiful the rich guy suddenly wants her. I mean she is 22 and has never shaved or used moisturizer on her face. That means the hair on her legs, arms, underarms, etc, would be very long. How then is the H so taken with her body when he sees her in the changing room? The H and h lacked chemistry so their relationship was hard to believe. I will not be continuing this series.
August 1, 2015
Great start to the series
Bought this book on the recommendation of friends. I'm really glad I bought all three of the books at the same time as I can see that I will be busy reading for the next couple of days.
This book has a sexy Alpha H and a sweet but strong h. This is a very sexy read.
The author shows depth and understanding of the struggle to be living on the streets and dealing with a loved one addicted to drugs.
Not sure if I'm a big fan of Parker, but we'll see how it all turns out.
On to the next one.
Bought this book on the recommendation of friends. I'm really glad I bought all three of the books at the same time as I can see that I will be busy reading for the next couple of days.
This book has a sexy Alpha H and a sweet but strong h. This is a very sexy read.
The author shows depth and understanding of the struggle to be living on the streets and dealing with a loved one addicted to drugs.
Not sure if I'm a big fan of Parker, but we'll see how it all turns out.
On to the next one.
May 21, 2014
"Evelyn", Girl,simply love your strength to endure that shit!!
Admire the way this author has brought out the issue of homelessness and created a beautiful heroine out of it!!
Admire the way this author has brought out the issue of homelessness and created a beautiful heroine out of it!!
March 2, 2015
4+ stars
October 29, 2014
3.5 Mildly Kinky and Very Steamy Stars
Falling In is a great break-me-into-erotica novel. If you are looking for a damsel to be saved by a rich billionaire (because sometimes you just need that fix), then Falling In is for you.
The Heroine
Evelyn is poor. She lives in the streets and works odd jobs to help support her also homeless mother. Her mother is addicted to drugs and is off the wagon. Evelyn has never had a stable home life and she’s doing the best she can do.
She just got a job as a maid and she’s booked to clean the suites.
Lucian’s suite who happens to own the hotel.
The Hero
Lucian is the rich billionaire who owns the hotel. He’s a busy man and doesn’t have the time to fuss with relationships. He also likes relationships a certain way, meaning, he’s dominate. When he sees pretty Evelyn cleaning his room, he propositions her. He will pay for her life style, if she does everything he says.
Overall
I didn’t dislike Falling In, but I had a few issues. I thought Evelyn was a little to damsel for me. What can I say, I like a little damsel, not too damsel. The poor girl is poor, living on the streets, tend to her drug addict mom and there’s another slew of issues that come about. It was just all too much.
I get Lucian, he’s the alpha hero we are suppose to swoon for and even though I didn’t have too many issues with him, there was just something off. I think it was the relationship between Lucian and Evelyn.
Everything happened so fast. One moment Evelyn is a maid and the next she’s Lucian’s play thing. What I did like is that Evelyn wasn’t that stupid shy girl I dislike reading. There’s some nice banter between Lucian and Evelyn and it kept me interested.
I liked the chase and I liked how Evelyn stood up for herself. There’s plenty of drama with another person coming into the mix and Evelyn coming to terms with her feelings towards Lucian. Overall, Falling In was a pleasant read and I will continue with the series.
An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review
AMAZON
Falling In is a great break-me-into-erotica novel. If you are looking for a damsel to be saved by a rich billionaire (because sometimes you just need that fix), then Falling In is for you.
The Heroine
Evelyn is poor. She lives in the streets and works odd jobs to help support her also homeless mother. Her mother is addicted to drugs and is off the wagon. Evelyn has never had a stable home life and she’s doing the best she can do.
She just got a job as a maid and she’s booked to clean the suites.
Lucian’s suite who happens to own the hotel.
The Hero
Lucian is the rich billionaire who owns the hotel. He’s a busy man and doesn’t have the time to fuss with relationships. He also likes relationships a certain way, meaning, he’s dominate. When he sees pretty Evelyn cleaning his room, he propositions her. He will pay for her life style, if she does everything he says.
Overall
I didn’t dislike Falling In, but I had a few issues. I thought Evelyn was a little to damsel for me. What can I say, I like a little damsel, not too damsel. The poor girl is poor, living on the streets, tend to her drug addict mom and there’s another slew of issues that come about. It was just all too much.
I get Lucian, he’s the alpha hero we are suppose to swoon for and even though I didn’t have too many issues with him, there was just something off. I think it was the relationship between Lucian and Evelyn.
Everything happened so fast. One moment Evelyn is a maid and the next she’s Lucian’s play thing. What I did like is that Evelyn wasn’t that stupid shy girl I dislike reading. There’s some nice banter between Lucian and Evelyn and it kept me interested.
I liked the chase and I liked how Evelyn stood up for herself. There’s plenty of drama with another person coming into the mix and Evelyn coming to terms with her feelings towards Lucian. Overall, Falling In was a pleasant read and I will continue with the series.
An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review
AMAZON
January 17, 2015
3.5 stars
October 1, 2014
What can I say about this book? Definite Recommend
Hooked from the start! Lydia is an amazingly talented writer, therefore it’s flawlessly written story.
An erotic romance with sparkles of Pretty Woman (minus the hooker part), Cinderella and another famous dominant billionaire book, but with its very own and unique voice.
Evelyn a.k.a Scout, is homeless. A girl who grew up in the streets, yet she is determined to make it in order to survive and help her addict mother. She finds a job as a maid at Patras Hotel and there, she meets Mr. Lucien Patras in the flesh!
Lucien is arrogant, dominant and prone to “other kinky deviances”. The minute he meets Scout, he’s drawn to her believing she would be perfect in order to have an “arrangement”. He was totally in for a surprise.
For all purposes, Scout is innocent. Nevertheless, she is also very sharp. She understands the horrors of life, yet she doesn’t know how regular people truly behave. She sees Lucien as a means to an end: He will be the bridge that will help her cross from one life to another, even if she isn’t completely on board with the aforementioned “arrangement”.
Both of them never thought they’d fall in love. Fast. Especially Lucien, when he becomes possessive of her, in a way he’s never been with anyone else. They collide hard and fast. They complement each other and day by day, Scout keeps finding herself and begins to unravel her sexuality as well as her fears, her shame and her need to learn, to become more. Her need to please Lucian. His need to spoil her rotten… What a pair they are, but I loved every minute of them getting to know and explore each other with no boundaries.
I really liked this book. It was different even with the similarities to other stories. I believe the author did an awesome job, mainly portraying the horrors of living in the streets. The necessities, the abandonment and the blind eye of the rich and powerful towards such a bitter reality.
The book leaves us guessing. There is no relationship cliffhanger but, there is still a debt to pay and I wonder how everything will turn out. I don’t like Slade one bit. Parker I understand, but it doesn’t mean I agree with his decisions. I wonder, I wonder… I foresee drama in book 2, lots of drama….
For more of my reviews and those of my best book buds, updates and giveaways.
Visit our blog
Stalk us on FaceBook
As well as Twitter
Hooked from the start! Lydia is an amazingly talented writer, therefore it’s flawlessly written story.
An erotic romance with sparkles of Pretty Woman (minus the hooker part), Cinderella and another famous dominant billionaire book, but with its very own and unique voice.
Evelyn a.k.a Scout, is homeless. A girl who grew up in the streets, yet she is determined to make it in order to survive and help her addict mother. She finds a job as a maid at Patras Hotel and there, she meets Mr. Lucien Patras in the flesh!
Lucien is arrogant, dominant and prone to “other kinky deviances”. The minute he meets Scout, he’s drawn to her believing she would be perfect in order to have an “arrangement”. He was totally in for a surprise.
For all purposes, Scout is innocent. Nevertheless, she is also very sharp. She understands the horrors of life, yet she doesn’t know how regular people truly behave. She sees Lucien as a means to an end: He will be the bridge that will help her cross from one life to another, even if she isn’t completely on board with the aforementioned “arrangement”.
Both of them never thought they’d fall in love. Fast. Especially Lucien, when he becomes possessive of her, in a way he’s never been with anyone else. They collide hard and fast. They complement each other and day by day, Scout keeps finding herself and begins to unravel her sexuality as well as her fears, her shame and her need to learn, to become more. Her need to please Lucian. His need to spoil her rotten… What a pair they are, but I loved every minute of them getting to know and explore each other with no boundaries.
I really liked this book. It was different even with the similarities to other stories. I believe the author did an awesome job, mainly portraying the horrors of living in the streets. The necessities, the abandonment and the blind eye of the rich and powerful towards such a bitter reality.
The book leaves us guessing. There is no relationship cliffhanger but, there is still a debt to pay and I wonder how everything will turn out. I don’t like Slade one bit. Parker I understand, but it doesn’t mean I agree with his decisions. I wonder, I wonder… I foresee drama in book 2, lots of drama….
For more of my reviews and those of my best book buds, updates and giveaways.
Visit our blog
Stalk us on FaceBook
As well as Twitter
February 2, 2020
Heroine-homeless, illiterate, virgin with protective best friend + Hero alpha/ahole, dominant billionaire with interfering possibly evil partner= a book I could not put down. It’s gonna get real in book 2. - 5 stars
March 10, 2015
Review courtesy of Dark Faerie Tales
Quick & Dirty: A very emotional, erotic romance that tugs at your heartstrings. Unfortunately for me, I have come to realize that I am just not a fan of the erotic genre so this was not a great read for me, but I imagine fans of the genre will really enjoy it.
Opening Sentence: The early morning sky was the color of steel wool, sharp, ominous gray hanging low over the city without a hint of softness, but Scout Keats’ trajectory was somewhere brighter.
The Review:
Evelyn Scout Keats is twenty-two years old and she has been homeless her entire life. She was born in an alley with a mother that was addicted to heroine and a father that was already dead. Even though her life has been full of horrors most people can only imagine, Evelyn has never given up on changing her situation. She has worked hard to secure a job as a maid at a very prestigious hotel, and it looks as if things might finally change for her. After working for only two weeks she is assigned to clean the penthouse suites, and that is when her life changes forever.
When Lucien Patras, the owner of the hotel and one of the richest men in the world discovers Scout cleaning his room, he can’t help but take notice. He decides that he wants her and he will stop at nothing to own her. He offers her a deal that she just can’t resist and they embark on a very erotic and emotional journey together. Soon Lucien realizes that Scout is not at all what she seemed at first and as her past starts to unfold Lucien finds all of his expectations unraveling. Scout makes him feel things he never thought possible and he soon finds that he doesn’t want to ever live without her. But can they really make a relationship work when they are so different in so many ways?
Evelyn or better known as Scout was by far my favorite thing about this book. She is a very inspiring character that brought out a lot of emotions in me. I loved that she wanted to make a better life for herself even if the odds were way against her. She is the type of person that demands a certain respect because she has endured so much in her short life. I also found the way she treated her mother very endearing and heartwarming. I can honestly say I have no idea what it is like to be in Scout’s shoes because I have never gone without in my life, but the way her character was written it gave me a glimpse into what it is like for people like her. Reading her story made me appreciate the life I have so much more, but it also helped me develop a deeper respect for those that are less fortunate then me. I really loved getting to know her character and wish that I would have the liked the rest of the book as much as I liked her.
Lucien is a rich man that is use to getting what he wants. He has a very dominating personality, which he uses to get ahead in business and he likes to use it to control things in the bedroom. I was really torn on how I felt about Lucien. On the one hand he seemed like a genuinely good person that wanted to do right by the people he cared about. But on the other hand he was a real jerk most of the time and it was kind of a turn off for me. His relationship with Scout is filled with lots of great tension and steamy moments. But Lucien was very hot and cold with Scout which annoyed me. Overall, he was just an ok character for me. I wouldn’t say I hated him, but I didn’t love him either.
Falling In was a very interesting read for me and in the end it wasn’t really my cup of tea. I can honestly say that I really enjoyed the first half of this book tremendously. I was able to feel a very emotional connection to the story and I actually found myself crying a few times while reading about Scout’s situation. It is very rare that I actually shed tears while reading a book, so this is pretty significant. But once I got to the second part of the story, I pretty much lost all interest. It ended up being more erotic then I was expecting and the few times I have read this genre I realize it just isn’t for me. This is totally a personal preference and I imagine if you like erotic romance you will probably really enjoy this book immensely. There was one other thing that I didn’t love about the book and that was how fast the couple fell in love. I’m actually ok with insta-love if the relationship felt realistic to me, but this one didn’t. From the moment Lucian noticed Scout it all felt a little forced to me and honestly didn’t really make much sense. Sure, she is a beautiful girl that intrigued him, but I just didn’t feel that connection between like I wanted to. Overall, this was a really disappointing read for me, but I imagine many people will really enjoy it, especially if you are an erotic romance fan.
Notable Scene:
“Momma?” Pearl hugged her belongings defensively and scowled at her. It hurt, waiting for her mother to recognize her. “Momma, it’s me.”
“Scout?” Pearl grinned, cracked lips stretching over gray gums. “Oh, you should see all the goods I scouted out today. Traded a can of fruit for this here sock. What you got for me, Scout?”
Scout reached into her bag and pulled out a small jug of milk, a half pound of sliced turkey, a handful of bananas, and four cans of stew. Pearl cooed and greedily took the bounty.
“Good, good,” she mumbled as she eyed the door and quickly stowed the food out of sight, keeping a banana and peeling it back.
Scout sat on the edge of her mother’s pallet and rifled through her bag.
“I also got you these, Momma.” She dropped a collection of half-used shampoos and bars of soap from Patras.
She picked up a bottle and frowned. “What is it?”
“Soap.”
Pearl tucked it away in the corner and continued to eat her banana, quietly singing over each bite. “I’m going to bring you more stuff tomorrow. Do you need anything specific?”
“I need a hit.”
Scout sighed. The life of a heroin addict was a never-ending cycle of scavenging for that next fix and strategizing ways to secure it. Finishing the banana, Pearl tossed the skin into a pile of odorous compost in the corner. Flies and maggots terrorized the new addition.
“How much do you have left?” Scout asked wearily.
“A bit. Hank’ll be back tomorrow. I can get some from him.”
“Don’t do that, Momma. I’ll give you the money.”
FTC Advisory: Intermix/Berkley/Penguin provided me with a copy of Falling In. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
Quick & Dirty: A very emotional, erotic romance that tugs at your heartstrings. Unfortunately for me, I have come to realize that I am just not a fan of the erotic genre so this was not a great read for me, but I imagine fans of the genre will really enjoy it.
Opening Sentence: The early morning sky was the color of steel wool, sharp, ominous gray hanging low over the city without a hint of softness, but Scout Keats’ trajectory was somewhere brighter.
The Review:
Evelyn Scout Keats is twenty-two years old and she has been homeless her entire life. She was born in an alley with a mother that was addicted to heroine and a father that was already dead. Even though her life has been full of horrors most people can only imagine, Evelyn has never given up on changing her situation. She has worked hard to secure a job as a maid at a very prestigious hotel, and it looks as if things might finally change for her. After working for only two weeks she is assigned to clean the penthouse suites, and that is when her life changes forever.
When Lucien Patras, the owner of the hotel and one of the richest men in the world discovers Scout cleaning his room, he can’t help but take notice. He decides that he wants her and he will stop at nothing to own her. He offers her a deal that she just can’t resist and they embark on a very erotic and emotional journey together. Soon Lucien realizes that Scout is not at all what she seemed at first and as her past starts to unfold Lucien finds all of his expectations unraveling. Scout makes him feel things he never thought possible and he soon finds that he doesn’t want to ever live without her. But can they really make a relationship work when they are so different in so many ways?
Evelyn or better known as Scout was by far my favorite thing about this book. She is a very inspiring character that brought out a lot of emotions in me. I loved that she wanted to make a better life for herself even if the odds were way against her. She is the type of person that demands a certain respect because she has endured so much in her short life. I also found the way she treated her mother very endearing and heartwarming. I can honestly say I have no idea what it is like to be in Scout’s shoes because I have never gone without in my life, but the way her character was written it gave me a glimpse into what it is like for people like her. Reading her story made me appreciate the life I have so much more, but it also helped me develop a deeper respect for those that are less fortunate then me. I really loved getting to know her character and wish that I would have the liked the rest of the book as much as I liked her.
Lucien is a rich man that is use to getting what he wants. He has a very dominating personality, which he uses to get ahead in business and he likes to use it to control things in the bedroom. I was really torn on how I felt about Lucien. On the one hand he seemed like a genuinely good person that wanted to do right by the people he cared about. But on the other hand he was a real jerk most of the time and it was kind of a turn off for me. His relationship with Scout is filled with lots of great tension and steamy moments. But Lucien was very hot and cold with Scout which annoyed me. Overall, he was just an ok character for me. I wouldn’t say I hated him, but I didn’t love him either.
Falling In was a very interesting read for me and in the end it wasn’t really my cup of tea. I can honestly say that I really enjoyed the first half of this book tremendously. I was able to feel a very emotional connection to the story and I actually found myself crying a few times while reading about Scout’s situation. It is very rare that I actually shed tears while reading a book, so this is pretty significant. But once I got to the second part of the story, I pretty much lost all interest. It ended up being more erotic then I was expecting and the few times I have read this genre I realize it just isn’t for me. This is totally a personal preference and I imagine if you like erotic romance you will probably really enjoy this book immensely. There was one other thing that I didn’t love about the book and that was how fast the couple fell in love. I’m actually ok with insta-love if the relationship felt realistic to me, but this one didn’t. From the moment Lucian noticed Scout it all felt a little forced to me and honestly didn’t really make much sense. Sure, she is a beautiful girl that intrigued him, but I just didn’t feel that connection between like I wanted to. Overall, this was a really disappointing read for me, but I imagine many people will really enjoy it, especially if you are an erotic romance fan.
Notable Scene:
“Momma?” Pearl hugged her belongings defensively and scowled at her. It hurt, waiting for her mother to recognize her. “Momma, it’s me.”
“Scout?” Pearl grinned, cracked lips stretching over gray gums. “Oh, you should see all the goods I scouted out today. Traded a can of fruit for this here sock. What you got for me, Scout?”
Scout reached into her bag and pulled out a small jug of milk, a half pound of sliced turkey, a handful of bananas, and four cans of stew. Pearl cooed and greedily took the bounty.
“Good, good,” she mumbled as she eyed the door and quickly stowed the food out of sight, keeping a banana and peeling it back.
Scout sat on the edge of her mother’s pallet and rifled through her bag.
“I also got you these, Momma.” She dropped a collection of half-used shampoos and bars of soap from Patras.
She picked up a bottle and frowned. “What is it?”
“Soap.”
Pearl tucked it away in the corner and continued to eat her banana, quietly singing over each bite. “I’m going to bring you more stuff tomorrow. Do you need anything specific?”
“I need a hit.”
Scout sighed. The life of a heroin addict was a never-ending cycle of scavenging for that next fix and strategizing ways to secure it. Finishing the banana, Pearl tossed the skin into a pile of odorous compost in the corner. Flies and maggots terrorized the new addition.
“How much do you have left?” Scout asked wearily.
“A bit. Hank’ll be back tomorrow. I can get some from him.”
“Don’t do that, Momma. I’ll give you the money.”
FTC Advisory: Intermix/Berkley/Penguin provided me with a copy of Falling In. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
February 26, 2014
4.5 stars. Well I was certainly hooked on this from the beginning. It's a storyline that just called out to me and caused me to neglect the real world whilst I read this at every available opportunity. The story at its heart is a hybrid of the movie Pretty Woman and Shayla Black's 'Fever'. Evelyn or Scout is such a positive person considering her sad situation of growing up on the streets and dealing with her drug-addict mother. I mean, she doesnt even know her Birthday! She sees the positive in everything. Who else would look forward to waking up at the crack of dawn to clean hotel rooms for the filthy rich? And that's what Scout does and how she meets Lucien - hotel tycoon billionaire. Ahhh Lucien. What can I say about him? Well he's a giant, arrogant SOB! He's lead a life of luxury and has only known wealth and power. He is a dominant character who scares the crap out of Scout when she first meets him.
Now, the story. I'll cut to the chase for those that think this is a copy of FsOG, what with Lucien's 'proposition'. Whilst the essentials are similar, ill highlight the differences.
Firstly, the style of writing is much more sophisicated and 'real'. There are no cheesy lines or moments in this and I didnt roll my eyes once! In fact, I ploughed through this book desperate to see what happened next because it was so unpredictable. Just when I thought Lucien, once he discovered Scout's life on the streets, would charge in on his great steed to save the day with all his money and power.....well....he didnt. Yes he did sort of rescue Scout in some ways, but it definitely wasnt romantic. More in his 'I always get what I want' kinda way, made worse because Scout didnt understand why he was doing it.
This leads onto the second difference or rather unexpected turn of events. Like I said, I thought Lucien would solve all of Scout's problems once he realised her situation. Whilst he didnt do that, (something that had me gritting my teeth), he did try in the only way he knew.....by lavishing her with gifts and clothes. He also made a colossal mistake in letting her go when Scout thought that he only 'rescued' her due to pity. He allows weeks to pass before he finally decides to get off he arse and so something....all the while knowing she could be on the streets! Yes.....I said he was a SOB!
What redeems him?? Well he realises that money wont solve everything and gets his finger out, finds Scout and helps her with her mum. He also stops with the mind games and makes it clear to Scout that he loves her.....so.....sigh!
The ending, well lets say Lucien has his work cut out for him if he wants to keep Scout.
How has this book not crossed my radar before now?
If you like, hot, alpha, possessive and controlling heros with a kinky side (yes there is some d/s in there....but no st.andrews' crosses or dungeons - yet) with less than conventional decision-making, then this is for you! Straight onto book 2 now!
Now, the story. I'll cut to the chase for those that think this is a copy of FsOG, what with Lucien's 'proposition'. Whilst the essentials are similar, ill highlight the differences.
Firstly, the style of writing is much more sophisicated and 'real'. There are no cheesy lines or moments in this and I didnt roll my eyes once! In fact, I ploughed through this book desperate to see what happened next because it was so unpredictable. Just when I thought Lucien, once he discovered Scout's life on the streets, would charge in on his great steed to save the day with all his money and power.....well....he didnt. Yes he did sort of rescue Scout in some ways, but it definitely wasnt romantic. More in his 'I always get what I want' kinda way, made worse because Scout didnt understand why he was doing it.
This leads onto the second difference or rather unexpected turn of events. Like I said, I thought Lucien would solve all of Scout's problems once he realised her situation. Whilst he didnt do that, (something that had me gritting my teeth), he did try in the only way he knew.....by lavishing her with gifts and clothes. He also made a colossal mistake in letting her go when Scout thought that he only 'rescued' her due to pity. He allows weeks to pass before he finally decides to get off he arse and so something....all the while knowing she could be on the streets! Yes.....I said he was a SOB!
What redeems him?? Well he realises that money wont solve everything and gets his finger out, finds Scout and helps her with her mum. He also stops with the mind games and makes it clear to Scout that he loves her.....so.....sigh!
The ending, well lets say Lucien has his work cut out for him if he wants to keep Scout.
How has this book not crossed my radar before now?
If you like, hot, alpha, possessive and controlling heros with a kinky side (yes there is some d/s in there....but no st.andrews' crosses or dungeons - yet) with less than conventional decision-making, then this is for you! Straight onto book 2 now!
February 20, 2014
"He needed to possess her ruthlessly in a way that the sense of him would never leave her, his presence entombing itself so deeply that once removed she would feel hollow without him, steadfastly aware that something was missing. Him."
Given popular ratings, was anxious to dig into this trilogy and am so glad I did! A very strong 4.25 star read!!!
This is definitely an erotic emotionally charged book. It's not your run of the mill billionaire CEO romance, at least at first. Lucien is NOT a book boyfriend for the majority of this book, he is an arrogant, insensitive, dominant, crude, cold man. While Evelyn is a innocent but jaded woman who has yet to really live her life and is faced with unknowns every step of the way. The writing is superb, very detailed and well thought out, with Evelyn and later on in the book Lucien's POV separated as "parts" to the story - in fact when it finally became Lucien's POV is when I started to warm up to him. Lydia Michaels does an especially amazing job depicting certain scenes and visualizing them to the reader:
"Death favored the poor. People of wealth had an astounding ability to not see them. As insignificant as litter, there were merely unfortunate crumbles of trash lining the curbs they hoped would soon blow away, and each night they did, retreating back to the warmest corners of Folsom to barter their scaveneged finds of the day, sleep with one eye open and strategize how to outmaneuver their pretend friends the next morning, because in reality, you had no friends when you were homeless. You only had yourself and your only objective was to stay alive."
I would compare some of the storyline to the second book Fever in Maya Cross' trilogy.
What held me back from giving it 5 stars (cause it does indeed suck you in)? I was a bit jarred when
I know some things to anticipate in book 2, but really curious to see if this plotline can warrant three books, look like some surprises are on the way, really excited to continue with this series.
Given popular ratings, was anxious to dig into this trilogy and am so glad I did! A very strong 4.25 star read!!!
This is definitely an erotic emotionally charged book. It's not your run of the mill billionaire CEO romance, at least at first. Lucien is NOT a book boyfriend for the majority of this book, he is an arrogant, insensitive, dominant, crude, cold man. While Evelyn is a innocent but jaded woman who has yet to really live her life and is faced with unknowns every step of the way. The writing is superb, very detailed and well thought out, with Evelyn and later on in the book Lucien's POV separated as "parts" to the story - in fact when it finally became Lucien's POV is when I started to warm up to him. Lydia Michaels does an especially amazing job depicting certain scenes and visualizing them to the reader:
"Death favored the poor. People of wealth had an astounding ability to not see them. As insignificant as litter, there were merely unfortunate crumbles of trash lining the curbs they hoped would soon blow away, and each night they did, retreating back to the warmest corners of Folsom to barter their scaveneged finds of the day, sleep with one eye open and strategize how to outmaneuver their pretend friends the next morning, because in reality, you had no friends when you were homeless. You only had yourself and your only objective was to stay alive."
I would compare some of the storyline to the second book Fever in Maya Cross' trilogy.
What held me back from giving it 5 stars (cause it does indeed suck you in)? I was a bit jarred when
I know some things to anticipate in book 2, but really curious to see if this plotline can warrant three books, look like some surprises are on the way, really excited to continue with this series.
July 24, 2014
For a challenge in one of the groups I’m part of here I’m reading books with “men in suits”. So earlier this week, started this one out of the blue. And was expecting another billionaires story , which I got, there will always be some similarities in these type of stories, but there was definitely a lot more to the story which was really good and really liked. It had a Pretty Woman feel to it with the difference that the heroine was homeless instead.
The book had a bit of a slow start. But after the 10% I really connected and got really immersed in the story and could barely put it down.
Evelyn (Scout) is 22 years old, homeless all of her life, born to a crack addict mom and still taking care of her. She’s lived her life in and out of shelters and barely getting by. She finally gets a job as a maid at the Patras hotel and sees it as a real opportunity to finally make it out of the streets. While working, she meets the owner Lucian Patras. Without knowing her real situation Lucian makes a proposition to Evelyn to become his companion, in exchange for lodge, clothing, food, etc.
I really liked Scout’s character and found her very endearing. Despite the age and circumstances, loved her attitude of wanting to make it better for herself. I really felt her pain for when she went to care for her homeless/addicted mom. It broke my heart reading those parts.
Lucian’s character I wasn’t sure what to think of initially. He was very sexy and mysterious but in some parts and scenes, he came as very cold and callous, especially since I really like Scout’s character. But as the book progresses, you see more of him, especially since we get his pov later on in the book. His character definitely warmed up to me.
The book is told 3rd person and the majority told from Evelyn’s pov but some parts after the halfway point are told in Lucian. There is very light BDSM in the story. The main "kink" for Lucian is exhibitionism.
The book doesn’t end in a cliffhanger, in fact has a pretty good ending but at the same time some things happen in the book, towards the end that aren’t resolved and made me curious about the outcome that I started book 2 right away.
The book had a bit of a slow start. But after the 10% I really connected and got really immersed in the story and could barely put it down.
Evelyn (Scout) is 22 years old, homeless all of her life, born to a crack addict mom and still taking care of her. She’s lived her life in and out of shelters and barely getting by. She finally gets a job as a maid at the Patras hotel and sees it as a real opportunity to finally make it out of the streets. While working, she meets the owner Lucian Patras. Without knowing her real situation Lucian makes a proposition to Evelyn to become his companion, in exchange for lodge, clothing, food, etc.
I really liked Scout’s character and found her very endearing. Despite the age and circumstances, loved her attitude of wanting to make it better for herself. I really felt her pain for when she went to care for her homeless/addicted mom. It broke my heart reading those parts.
Lucian’s character I wasn’t sure what to think of initially. He was very sexy and mysterious but in some parts and scenes, he came as very cold and callous, especially since I really like Scout’s character. But as the book progresses, you see more of him, especially since we get his pov later on in the book. His character definitely warmed up to me.
The book is told 3rd person and the majority told from Evelyn’s pov but some parts after the halfway point are told in Lucian. There is very light BDSM in the story. The main "kink" for Lucian is exhibitionism.
The book doesn’t end in a cliffhanger, in fact has a pretty good ending but at the same time some things happen in the book, towards the end that aren’t resolved and made me curious about the outcome that I started book 2 right away.
September 25, 2014
Overall this book in and of itself was very good. It does leave me wanting more, so I'll wait to do my big review until the very end LOL The end means EVERYTHING when it comes to me and books. I have to agree with most people that absolutely hated Lucian in the beginning. I also agree with my friend Rachel about that one scene that made me slightly uncomfortable in the very beginning. I am looking forward to reading more about Lucian's past and how he will continue to love and support Evelyn. I was pleased as pie to note that this heroine is not a push over. She definitely stands her ground with Lucian which I like. Many would compare this to FSoG and I can totally see that. There are some major differences, but it does essentially start off with a billionaire/hotel tycoon offering a young virgin a "proposition". Everything else is different about the story. I do love reading these billionaire type eroticas though with obsessed heros!!! :D
February 12, 2018
I have read a lot of books of BDSM, dominant males, submission, torture, rape, violence towards women, but I have never been so offended by a book. For the first time in my life, a book made me furious.
The difference between this thing and Pretty Woman is the fact that in there the heroine has the decency of assuming the fact that she is a whore. Here, because this chick is a virgin, considers herself superior and judges everybody that judges her. Darling, you are selling your body for food and shelter; you are a whore. I don't care the situation that she comes from, I understand why she would accept his proposition, but accept what you become too.
I hated everything about this story; her, him, the frivolity, the fast pace of actions. It's a shame actually, because I like the use of words of the author, just not with this resulting end. I gave up at about 60% and I do not plan on opening another book by this author ever again.
The difference between this thing and Pretty Woman is the fact that in there the heroine has the decency of assuming the fact that she is a whore. Here, because this chick is a virgin, considers herself superior and judges everybody that judges her. Darling, you are selling your body for food and shelter; you are a whore. I don't care the situation that she comes from, I understand why she would accept his proposition, but accept what you become too.
I hated everything about this story; her, him, the frivolity, the fast pace of actions. It's a shame actually, because I like the use of words of the author, just not with this resulting end. I gave up at about 60% and I do not plan on opening another book by this author ever again.
September 20, 2013
Falling In is like no other romance novel you have ever read. Lydia Michaels doesn't know how to write ordinary heroines, and Evelyn "Scout" Keats is no exception. I can't tell you much about Scout's circumstances, because I don't give spoilers, but as a person she is incredibly strong, resilient,loyal and forgiving.
Lucian Patras comes off as kind of an ass when we first meet him in Falling In, but his arrogant facade hides secret charms. Slade, on the other hand is a self-righteous prick and I'm not sure he is redeemable in my eyes.
Falling In was a very emotional character driven story, but I must warn you, the story doesn't end. This is a trilogy and you won't get the whole story until the very last book! However, it is a journey worth taking.
Surrender to the pain and pleasure will be your reward.
Lucian Patras comes off as kind of an ass when we first meet him in Falling In, but his arrogant facade hides secret charms. Slade, on the other hand is a self-righteous prick and I'm not sure he is redeemable in my eyes.
Falling In was a very emotional character driven story, but I must warn you, the story doesn't end. This is a trilogy and you won't get the whole story until the very last book! However, it is a journey worth taking.
Surrender to the pain and pleasure will be your reward.
October 11, 2020
I usually avoid billionaire romances like the plague, so not sure what made me want to read this, but I am glad I did because I loved it! Totally safe, no OW drama. h was a virgin with no experience but it didn't bother me at all.
September 17, 2014
This was soooo good, moving on to book 2!
March 2, 2016
MOST. USELESS. HEROINE. EVER!
January 31, 2025
So much potential unrealized. Womp-womp
January 3, 2015
Evelyn “Scout” Keats is homeless. She spends her nights at the shelter. She wants more in life. She seeks stability. She has one friend named Parker Hughes, who’s very smart but doesn’t seem to want to improve his life and she takes care of her heroin addict mother. Her recent job is at the Patras Hotel. She works as a maid and she wants to make enough money to feel safe. When she’s asked to clean the Penthouse, her life takes a dramatic turn for the better. She meets Lucian Patras, the owner. He takes an immediate liking to her and will do whatever he can to keep her.
I’m so glad my friend told me to read this book. It was quite different.
Yes, the hero is a millionaire hotel owner. Yes, he’s not into vanilla sex but he can be so sweet when he wants to be. He’s not scared of admitting his feelings when he has too.
Scout is homeless and even though her life is anything but ideal, she’s strong, funny and feisty when she needs to be.
“Brazil must be filled with a bunch of sick, sadistic bastards.”
Since we get multiple POV’s, it helps with their character development.
When I was in Scout’s head, I felt terrified of her loosing her job and loosing the small stability she has acquired. I was so mad with Lucian in a certain scene but luckily he redeems himself a few pages later. That's what I liked about him, when he realizes a mistake, he's smart enough to say it. He's a fast learner and when he becomes protective of Scout he shines.
As per the secondary characters, I hated Slade and I want Lydia to make me happy and write about Jamie and Antoinette.
“Baby, Jamie and I are very similar. If there’s something we want, we go after it. It doesn’t matter who’s guarding it from us. Once we set our sights on it, it’s already considered ours. And we always get what we consider ours.”
“Well, what about Antoinette’s boyfriend? Surely Jamie wouldn’t fight—”
“Antoinette’s boyfriend couldn’t kill a spider. He’s a tissue. Jamie would destroy him if it came to that.”
Now, I must read the other two books in this trilogy. Luckily for me, both are out.
“Two, Lucian loved her very much. Three, she loved him more. And four, this would end very badly and her heart would likely never beat right again.”
Cliffhanger: Yes, a mild one.
4/5 Fangs
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It
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I’m so glad my friend told me to read this book. It was quite different.
Yes, the hero is a millionaire hotel owner. Yes, he’s not into vanilla sex but he can be so sweet when he wants to be. He’s not scared of admitting his feelings when he has too.
Scout is homeless and even though her life is anything but ideal, she’s strong, funny and feisty when she needs to be.
“Brazil must be filled with a bunch of sick, sadistic bastards.”
Since we get multiple POV’s, it helps with their character development.
When I was in Scout’s head, I felt terrified of her loosing her job and loosing the small stability she has acquired. I was so mad with Lucian in a certain scene but luckily he redeems himself a few pages later. That's what I liked about him, when he realizes a mistake, he's smart enough to say it. He's a fast learner and when he becomes protective of Scout he shines.
As per the secondary characters, I hated Slade and I want Lydia to make me happy and write about Jamie and Antoinette.
“Baby, Jamie and I are very similar. If there’s something we want, we go after it. It doesn’t matter who’s guarding it from us. Once we set our sights on it, it’s already considered ours. And we always get what we consider ours.”
“Well, what about Antoinette’s boyfriend? Surely Jamie wouldn’t fight—”
“Antoinette’s boyfriend couldn’t kill a spider. He’s a tissue. Jamie would destroy him if it came to that.”
Now, I must read the other two books in this trilogy. Luckily for me, both are out.
“Two, Lucian loved her very much. Three, she loved him more. And four, this would end very badly and her heart would likely never beat right again.”
Cliffhanger: Yes, a mild one.
4/5 Fangs
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It
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