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The Black Widow Trainer (The Black Widow Trainer #1)

by Craig Odanovich (Goodreads Author)

3.5 of 5 stars 3.50 · rating details · 46 ratings · 28 reviews

Bored with tedium of her passionless marriage, Misty's life explodes after a weekend of mind-blowing sex with the man of her dreams. Exploring the physical limits of her newfound desire, she combines the lure of her honed, disciplined body with cunning business acumen and redefines herself as the Black Widow Trainer, a high-price personal trainer/escort. Negotiating an ope...more

Paperback, 314 pages

Published January 1st 2011 by Emerald Book Co (first published October 14th 2010)

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Jan 23, 2011 Dimity rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: reviewed, 2011, first-reads, read-men-fiction, sold

I won a copy of this book through the First Reads program. This is far outside my usual reading material but I signed up to win it on a whim, looking for books I could read while caring for a newborn. “The Black Widow Trainer” fit that bill and I flew through it. This is an entertaining read that’s easy to get into but it does suffer from a lack of thorough editing and I caught several spelling and other errors.

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Aug 18, 2011 The Chaotic Reader rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: adventure

My review of The Black Widow Trainer is posted on The Chaotic Reader.

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Feb 20, 2011 Kate rated it 1 of 5 stars

Shelves: first-reads

I won this through Good Reads First Reads program.

Tedious with very little character development. Instead of focusing on Misty's point of view (she is the main character after all), the book tells me what nearly everyone is thinking and feeling. Frankly, I don't give a damn about those characters. I would rather have read about Misty growing as a person, or having any reason other than boredom for abandoning her husband for months at a time.

The concept is interesting, but I dislike the execution...more

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Feb 06, 2011 Shannon rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: first-reads, own

I won the book The Black Widow Trainer, by Craig Odanovich, in a firstreads giveaway on Goodreads. Maybe if I'd read the blurb, I'd have noticed that this was "an erotic adventure novel." Maybe I would have entered to win, maybe not. Anyway, that being said, I still read the book.

Misty is a personal trainer who has grown bored with her lackluster marriage to longtime best friend Rob. After about eight years of not enough passion, she finally understands that she will never love him the way he lo...more I won the book The Black Widow Trainer, by Craig Odanovich, in a firstreads giveaway on Goodreads. Maybe if I'd read the blurb, I'd have noticed that this was "an erotic adventure novel." Maybe I would have entered to win, maybe not. Anyway, that being said, I still read the book.

Misty is a personal trainer who has grown bored with her lackluster marriage to longtime best friend Rob. After about eight years of not enough passion, she finally understands that she will never love him the way he loves her. Away from her husband for a weekend at a yoga retreat in Maui, she meets "The Man," the one that sets both her body and mind racing. After her one night stand, she returns to Rob.

She confesses to Rob, who is actually understanding about her affair. They agree that she should go back home to Malibu while Rob finishes up his business in Hawaii, and they will discuss their options in a few months. When Rob comes home, Misty has convinced herself that her only options would be trying to stay together and playing her part as a "good wife," or getting divorced. But Rob surprises her with a third option, an open marriage, in which the "don't ask, don't tell" rule applies, but only if the other person involved is "only a fling." He says that he doesn't want to own Misty and wants her to have her freedom, but he loves her too much to lose her completely. Misty finally agrees to this and reminds Rob that if she is to have this freedom, it's only fair that he is able to see other people as well.

Misty has always wanted adventure and travel, and she's very good at her job as a personal trainer, thus the "Black Widow Trainer" is born. She accepts applications and choses her clients based on her own preferences, which include their location and attractiveness, of course. Her contract is for three months of training sessions, and she will sleep with the client only once, if he so chooses. However, once he decides to sleep with her, she delivers the "bite" of the black widow and returns home, and whether it's been a week or two months of training, she is paid in full.

She travels include such places as Ireland, Buenos Aires, Denver, Alaska, New Orleans, and London. As a professional, she tries not to get too attached to her clients, but one does in fact steal a bit of her heart. When she arrives in Buenos Aires, she is shocked to discover that her client is a woman, Gabriella. However, the two become quite good friends and Misty feels deep regret upon leaving after her three month contract is up. But Gabriella issues an open invitation for her and the two keep in touch on the phone.

Meanwhile, Rob is getting lonely and drives to an inconveniently located Starbucks in order to get to know Amelia, who looks as if she could have been Misty's sister. As the two become closer, Rob conveniently forgets to inform Amelia about the unconventional nature of his marriage. After the two have spent the night together for the first time, he lets it slip, and Amelia throws him out of her house, telling him she never wants to see him again.

Rob thinks about his options, and through the advice of a mutual friend, Becca, decides to tell Misty that he wants her to be his full-time wife again. She tells him that she will think about this decision, but in the meantime, travels to London to meet her latest client. After more adventure than she really wanted, and barely escaping with her life, she returns home planning to tell Rob that is ready to give up her career and be his wife again. Hearing splashing coming from their bathroom, she strips and plans to surprise her husband, but walks in to find Rob in the bathtub with Becca, who actually has had ulterior motives for a while. After a few days to herself, she and Rob ultimately decide to divorce, and Misty speaks to Amelia, convincing her to give Rob another chance. Misty returns to Buenos Aires to Gabriella and finally feels as if she's home.

Overall, this was an entertaining and quick read, and although sex did play a role in the book, it was not the "erotic" book I had anticipated from the cover. Not that that's a bad thing. However, I did have some issues, (besides the complete lack of morals of all of the characters). Rob's character was initially completely unbelievable. Oh, and there was a paragraph that had the following lines:

"The plane was well over the Atlantic when Misty finished her bagel with cream cheese. She thought maybe now would be a good time to take some Ambien to help her relax. To prevent snoring and her fear of having a little drool roll down the side of her mouth, she only took enough to take the edge off."

Um, excuse me? Ambien is a sleep aid. To "take the edge off," Misty probably just needed a benzodiazepine, such as alprazolam, clonazepam, diazepam, etc. Oh, maybe I should mention brand names instead, seeing as how more people know what they are. So that would be a choice of Xanax, Klonopin, or Valium, but definitely not Ambien. Why didn't a pharmacist get a turn at editing?

Moving on... It was an entertaining read. There were many interesting, even if not quite believable, characters. And I did like how the scene changed with each new client Misty took, from ski slopes to tropical paradises. This is the first book in the "Black Widow Trainer Series," and although I'm curious about what happens to Misty, I can't say that I'll go out and buy the second book. But I'd still read it if a copy was given to me, though.
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Jan 09, 2011 Rachel Thompson rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: first-reads, erotica

I won this through Good Reads First Reads program.

Misty is a personal trainer who's grown bored with her life and realizes she doesn't love her husband. She uses this excuse to have an affair, after which she and her husband, Rob, discuss having an open marriage. Misty, with the help of one of her clients, comes up with the idea of The Black Widow Trainer, where Misty will train someone for three months. The client can have sex with her once during those three months, but after that happens, she...more

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Feb 04, 2011 Laya White rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: first-reads, fiction

I've been debating on whether to give this book three or four stars. Here's the thing.

The book has some flaws. It told a whole lot more than it showed. At times I felt like I was reading a movie synopsis or actor instructions moreso than a novel - too much "he felt/she felt". It could have used at least one more edit. I even caught one particularly vivid metaphor being used twice in successive chapters - a huge put off. The sex scenes were definitely from the perspective of the "male gaze" despi...more

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Feb 05, 2011 Diane Sallans rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: first-reads

I found this an easy book to read, it flowed rather well and I wanted to see what happened next. Apparently, to really find that I'd have to read the next book in the series (Tangled Web). Unfortunatly, I'd rather read something else, something with romance. As another commentor said, I felt bad for Misty's husband Rob, and would have liked it better if Misty wasn't married. It had some good travlogue descriptions, especially Argentina, so I wonder if the author traveled to all the settings. I a...more

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Apr 25, 2011 Laurie Little-Watkins rated it 5 of 5 stars Recommends it for: all age 18 and over

Shelves: 1st-reads-won, favorites

There should be ten stars to rate this book. This is the first book I have read like this and I am absolutely hooked. But be warned, once you pick it up and start reading, your going to not want to set it down. Filled with different experiances and beliefs you will learn that there is no "right" way of living. There is no need to judge. No one person is better than the other. From Rob, to Becca and from 'The Man' to Teake, this is an absolute must read. And by the way, you may want company after...more There should be ten stars to rate this book. This is the first book I have read like this and I am absolutely hooked. But be warned, once you pick it up and start reading, your going to not want to set it down. Filled with different experiances and beliefs you will learn that there is no "right" way of living. There is no need to judge. No one person is better than the other. From Rob, to Becca and from 'The Man' to Teake, this is an absolute must read. And by the way, you may want company after each of "The Black Widow's" sessions. I love this book! I may even look into getting a personal trainer. Or better yet, become one, as I can see by this book that the benefits are out of this world! Misty is one lady who knows her job may be able to teach Jillian Michaels a thing or two. It also helps that she has a body to die for. She is well paid and travels abroad to get her clients in shape. There is a clause in her contracts though, if you don't finish the program she has designed for you before giving in to her sensuous and lustful ways she is to be paid in full and leaves before the alloted time frame. Misty is a tempting cookie and once you become entwined in her web, you are bound to be seduced and pleased beyond your wildest dreams. However, Misty is not just an escort, she is a friend to her clients, a mentor and a challenge. She has a body guard who travels with her. She and her husband have an open relationship which will keep you guessing. Some of the sexcapades that Misty accepts (as her clients are screaned very thoroughly for safety precautions) take her to Alaska, while she is also in contract with a woman, which expands her own experiances. Misty is very open and eager to please. Her disciplined body and mind work together to keep her new found profession balanced. Along the way she makes many friends and is truely a woman who gets what she wants. The oldest profession in the world is still alive and well today, as Misty proves in this absolute wonderful erotic novel. Following this book is the next is the series called "Captured Prey". Without posting a "spoiler" I will say that the characters involved are well rounded and extremely real. Some you will remember from the previous book and others you will enjoy getting to know. There is a suprise at the end, a couple of "former friends" from Alaska that add a twist to the story. Can't tell you what to expect, then it would ruin the books. I just can't wait for the next one to come out now! This is a great book, the author has a one in a million style of writting and is awesome! His talent goes above and beyond. Thank you Craig Odanavich and family! I will be waiting to find out how well Misty and Monique "get along", or not. Misty continues her ventures and is reunited with some of the clients from the past, who by the way, are very elated to see her. The love for Gabriella which only grew more in Argentina is sure to amaze you. There is no wrong way to show feelings when the chemistry is there. Believe me, this lady is steaming, and learns to adapt to her clients imagination and demands. "The Man" appears again in this next book and once again, he is mysterious and sultry. These two books are a must read for anyone who enjoys wet and wild sex between two consenting adults. If it feels good, do it. Mr. Odanavich, if you are reading this please don't stop writting!
One suggestion while reading this is not to read it alone, unless you want to take a cold shower, or find a playmate.(less)

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Jan 30, 2011 Cookie Lopez rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: first-reads, series

I won this as a Goodreads First-Reads book.

The storytelling in this novel was OK, but lacked as far as story development. Instead of reading like a complete novel, it read like mini-stories all put together in one book. Had there been more character development, I think I would have enjoyed the story more. With that said, I am intrigued by the idea of reading more books in this series. However, just as one must decide to see a movie in the theater, at the discount show, when it's first available...more

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Mar 07, 2011 Monica rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: reviewed

I am still so up in the air about this book. I like the concept...there are just a few things that threw me about it. I mean...why personal trainer? Also...the author switched characters quite often sometimes in adjacent paragraphs and now that I have started noticing that stuff in my own writing it drives me nuts.

All of the above aside, the story is pretty cool, interesting, and I like the character progression and plot. I am so glad about how it ended, I was sorta surprised and not expecting t...more

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Feb 06, 2011 Lauren rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: erotica, read-in-2011

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here.

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May 02, 2013 Danielle rated it 1 of 5 stars

Shelves: didn-t-finish

I was really looking forward to this book. I wanted it to be good since not very often do guys write romance and he is from Texas, but it was lack luster. The dialog is robotic and unrealistic. The plot could have been good but it wasn't executed well. I probably could have finished it but there are other books that I want to read more instead of wasting my time with one that I only think is so-so.

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Feb 01, 2011 Roger Davidson rated it 5 of 5 stars

A great escape novel by Mr. Odanovich. For me it was a cross between James Bond and La Femme Nikita. I did not have to think real hard; just went along for the ride to some exciting places filled with unique characters. And of course I must say that I did enjoy being a voyeur while Misty worked her way in and out of various predicaments. Looking forward to the next novel Mr. O!

Roger

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Jan 19, 2011 Sadie rated it 5 of 5 stars

New fresh writing. Misty's cool job as an elite fitness trainer threads through some great situations and adventures. Believable. Easy to bond to the characters with desire to know what happens to each of them. Sensual implications add pizazz to the story. Story locales are rich with detail. Glad I read it and waiting on the sequel.

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Jan 19, 2011 Tiffany rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: first-reads, out-of-the-norm-reading

I rather enjoyed the book. I have to admit I was more drawn to Miguel and Rob than the main character Misty. I felt that Misty was very selfish and wasn't out for anyone, but herself - at first. By the end of the book I realized that what she was doing wasn't just about her, but was something she could do for herself and others. She had a sexual awakening that was well utilized to let her explore herself and others.
Hope to learn more about Miguel and even Rob in future books.

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Nov 13, 2011 Mary Meyer rated it 1 of 5 stars

I did not care for this book. I kept reading it hoping it would get better. I read it only because one niece If you like to read about someone having sex with a trave guide thrown in, this book is for you. But if you are into good fiction, find another one.

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Dec 28, 2010 Amy Evans rated it 5 of 5 stars

This book is great. It is not just about sex. It's about a woman you find yourself rooting for. You want her to win and/or kick butt. Just reading it gives you more confidence in yourself. I can't wait to see what Odanovich puts out next.

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Jan 22, 2011 Clarrissa Moon rated it 5 of 5 stars

Great book. Well written and flowed nicely. I enjoyed Misty's adventure in finding out who she is through her growth in sexuality. Great job by the author in bringing a different perspective in the world of fitness and intrigue.

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Feb 06, 2011 Evelyn rated it 3 of 5 stars

This book was a giveaway from the Goodreads First Reads program
Not my typical reading choice. I don't usually read erotica (ok I did read Lolita does that count?) I had hoped for a little more fitness but it was entertaining enough

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Feb 09, 2011 Camille rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: the-distinguished-first-reads

So, this isn't typically the kind of things I read but it was definitely interesting. I wasn't in love with it but I definitely would read the next book in the series. One of my misgivings about the book is the relationship that allows this type of thing to go on. I understand not being alone but at what cost? Also, Misty, the main character, seems to be having some issues of her own that come to light. While the prose is at times far fetched as to what is said, some of it is right on. I recomme...more

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Feb 21, 2011 Patty rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: new-reads

Very interesting premise...but just couldn't invest in the characters. Didn't think they were developed enough. I guess I wanted more about the characters reasonings and thoughts than I got.

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Jan 03, 2011 Lynne marked it as to-read

Thank you so much for letting me win this free book from First Reads. Looking forward to reading it. Thank you.

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Jun 09, 2011 Nicole Morse rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: goodreads-giveaways

I won this book in a firstreads giveaway on Goodreads. I really enjoyed Misty in this book. I liked the way it ended and look forward to the next one!

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Jan 06, 2011 Jen rated it 5 of 5 stars

This was a Great book! Cant wait for the next!

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Feb 26, 2011 Lura rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: to-be-reviewed

Going back and forth between 2 and 3 stars on this one. While I liked the ending, the beginning was pretty rough.

Full review (and final rating) to come...

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Apr 17, 2011 Angela rated it 5 of 5 stars

Loving this book. Misty is a hot mess....lol. This book was well worth the time it took to read. Peter/Ivan was really a shocker. Definitely looking forward to the next installment. Who knows what Misty will get into next.

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Mar 15, 2011 Janet R rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: read-2011, goodreads-win

I won this book from Goodreads. I really enjoyed it. Misty and Rob both made me like and not like them at times. I enjoyed the way the book ended and can't wait for the next one.

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Oct 18, 2012 Tina rated it 4 of 5 stars

I won this through Good Reads First Reads program a while back.

Good story with interesting characters.

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May 20, 2013 micki marked it as to-read

Shelves: 1st-in-series

Apr 30, 2013 Pam marked it as owned-and-ready · review of another edition

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About Craig Odanovich

Steven Craig Odanovich grew up in Flour Bluff, Texas, only minutesfrom the beaches of Padre Island. His creative roots are firmly grounded in the muscle car culture of the seventies. As a young music business entrepreneur, Odanovich launched a successful record store at a time when neighborhood record stores were still a prime point of connection between popular music and the public. His genuine a...more

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Captured Prey (The Black Widow Trainer #2)

Hanging by a Thread (The Black Widow Trainer #3)

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