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Jax & Gia #1
Afterburn
#1 New York Times bestselling author Sylvia Day, America’s premier author of provocative fiction, delivers the debut novel from Cosmo Red-Hot Reads from Harlequin.
The realization that Jax still affected me so strongly was a jagged pill to swallow. He’d only been part of my life for five short weeks two years ago. But now he was back. Walking into a deal I’d worked hard to close. And God, he was magnificent. His eyes were a brown so dark they were nearly black. Thickly lashed, they were relentless in their intensity. Had I really thought they were soft and warm? There was nothing soft about Jackson Rutledge. He was a hard and jaded man, cut from a ruthless cloth.
In that moment I understood how badly I wanted to unravel the mystery of Jax. Bad enough that I didn’t mind how much it was going to cost me...
The realization that Jax still affected me so strongly was a jagged pill to swallow. He’d only been part of my life for five short weeks two years ago. But now he was back. Walking into a deal I’d worked hard to close. And God, he was magnificent. His eyes were a brown so dark they were nearly black. Thickly lashed, they were relentless in their intensity. Had I really thought they were soft and warm? There was nothing soft about Jackson Rutledge. He was a hard and jaded man, cut from a ruthless cloth.
In that moment I understood how badly I wanted to unravel the mystery of Jax. Bad enough that I didn’t mind how much it was going to cost me...
99 pages, ebook
First published August 1, 2013
602 people are currently reading
20403 people want to read
About the author
Sylvia Day
121 books122k followersAcclaimed for her signature emotionally charged storytelling and the psychological complexity of her characters, Sylvia Day is a number one bestselling author in twenty-nine countries, with translations in forty-one languages and over twenty million copies of her books in print. Day is the #1 New York Times, #1 USA Today, #1 Sunday Times, #1 Globe and Mail, #1 Der Spiegel, and #1 international bestselling author of over twenty award-winning novels, including six Sunday Times, ten New York Times and thirteen USA Today bestsellers. Visit the author at sylviaday.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,398 reviews
August 15, 2017
★★★★ 1/2! Afterburn, part 1 of 2! Electric re-union of two ex-lovers who find themselves on opposing sides in a high-stakes business battle!
“He had the look of a well-fucked man, one who was sated and yet anticipating further pleasures ahead.”
Books in duet should be read in order and together:
Part 1: Afterburn
Part 2: Aftershock
In the opening Afterburn (part 1) we meet college graduate Gianna Rossi, Gia about a year after her fling with venture capitalist, multi-millionaire and heir Jackson Rudledge, Jax. Since their “bad” break-up she has graduated from College and moved to the big city seeking employment for restaurateur Lei Yeung.
Gia lands the job, having discovered at the interview that both women have much in common having been burnt by men. Fast forward a year later they are well on their way to launch their next business venture when their arch enemy shows up with Jax at his side.
Seeing Jax again after two years their chemistry is, much as it was, electric leading to some off-the-charts sex, but them moving forward is overshadowed by their past and present, secrets, villains, hidden agendas and more….
Afterburn follows Gia and Jax in a high stakes game as both sides go to war, while she tries to decipher why Jax has come back, what his agenda is and maybe more importantly why he disappeared?
Seven words to describe Gianna Rossi, Gia: Interesting, strong, charismatic, smart, candid, vulnerable and reflective.
Jackson Rutledge, Jax has so many of the qualities that makes for a larger-than-life hero. Seven words to describe Jax: Captivating, elusive, enigmatic, jaded, slippery, relentless and ruthless.
“Men glanced his way and altered course some, instinctively recognizing and alpha male at rest.”
Afterburn, for being a novella, has lots of substance to the story and it moves at the perfect pace only to come to a screeching halt with a cliffy. But no worries, just open part 2: Aftershock for the conclusion of their story.
Effortless storytelling! Interesting plot! Larger-than-life and delicious hero! Captivating heroine! 4.5 stars!
“I’m an asshole to everyone else in my life. You are the one thing I cherished. Don’t make me stop,”
***
Hero rating: 4.5 stars
Heroine rating: 5 stars
Sexual tension rating: 4.5 stars
Sex scenes rating: 5 stars
Sex scenes frequency: 4 stars
Plot rating: 4.5 stars
Dialogue rating: 5 stars
Storytelling rating: 5 stars
Story ending rating: N/A
Book editing rating (5 = no edits spotted): 5 stars
************************************************
Overall rating: 4.5 stars
Would I recommend this series: Yes.
Would I re-read this series: Yes.
Would I read future books by this author: Yes.
August 15, 2013
First, here's my casting for Jax:
Short, hot, and sinfully delicious!
As soon as I heard about this being released, I one-clicked because I just had to meet the next hero written by the creator of Gideon Cross and let me tell you, Jackson Rutledge can hold his own!
Sitting at about 130 pages, Afterburn was easy to read in one sitting and while I do wish it had been longer, sometimes having a shorter read is exactly what you need.
The writing was in very much the same style as the Crossfire books but the story certainly stood on it's own. Sylvia Day's writing is addictive, sexy and compelling and she has once again managed to make me fall in love with a mouthwateringly gorgeous yet flawed hero. I could just feel the passion and desire between Jax and Gia rolling off the page and I didn't want their story to end.
The story is actually a bit of a second chance romance because Jax and Gia had a history - five incredible weeks that ended very badly. Now, over a year later, they cross paths again on opposite ends of a business deal except this time, Jax isn't walking away.
Gia was a wonderful heroine - strong, determined to make it on her own and not about to get burned twice no matter how strong her feelings were for Jax.
"Back off, Jax."
"I did. It didn't take."
Jax was seductive, alluring, dominant and sexy as hell. Despite the fact that he'd broken Gia's heart in the past, I found myself warming up to him and less than half a page into their first face-to-face scene I could already feel myself melting. It was certainly easy to see why she had fallen in love with him and I'm definitely curious to see find out more about him.
"I fell for you the last time. I can't do it again."
"You're still in love with me… Give me a chance to make that something you stop regretting."
See what I mean? How can you not swoon over that??
There are still a lot of issues to be worked through and many questions to be answered. While there is no direct cliffhanger, the story definitely leaves you wanting more and I will be eagerly awaiting the release of Aftershock to get my next Jax and Gia fix.
4 - 4.5 stars
And here's my complete casting:
****************************
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October 24, 2017
Baby we've never had simple.
Why haven't I read this before? I mean I loved Gideon and Eva. I know that everything Sylvia Day produces is a hit which will talk straight to my soul. I was bound to fall in love with the story of Jax (Jackson Rutledge) and Gia (Gianna Rossi).
Gia had a short beautiful love story with Jax while she was in college and a really bad breakup which was initiated by Jax without explanations.
A few years later, Gia works in her dream job for the launch of a new restaurant .Suddenly Jax appears in front of her as a business partner of her company’s rival.
Gia has so many questions for their breakup and obviously she does not trust Jax. If she trusts him again, it would be easy for him to double-cross her.
Gia is the next-door girl. Easygoing with Italian roots and strong family ties. Her family owns a successful Italian restaurant in New York, but she tries really hard to build her own career .
Jax is the typical Alpha male. Ruthless and stubborn. He comes from a rich family with many dirty secrets which has strong political connections. Maybe Jax’s future is in politics. Maybe it is not a good idea to get involved with Gia again.
The chemistry between Gia and Jax is scorching hot. There is enough fire between them to burn not only the sheets, but also the condo and maybe the whole New York City.
If you loved the “Crossfire” series, this is highly recommended!
Their story is coming November 3, 2017 to PassionFlix.
Why haven't I read this before? I mean I loved Gideon and Eva. I know that everything Sylvia Day produces is a hit which will talk straight to my soul. I was bound to fall in love with the story of Jax (Jackson Rutledge) and Gia (Gianna Rossi).
Gia had a short beautiful love story with Jax while she was in college and a really bad breakup which was initiated by Jax without explanations.
A few years later, Gia works in her dream job for the launch of a new restaurant .Suddenly Jax appears in front of her as a business partner of her company’s rival.
Gia has so many questions for their breakup and obviously she does not trust Jax. If she trusts him again, it would be easy for him to double-cross her.
Gia is the next-door girl. Easygoing with Italian roots and strong family ties. Her family owns a successful Italian restaurant in New York, but she tries really hard to build her own career .
Jax is the typical Alpha male. Ruthless and stubborn. He comes from a rich family with many dirty secrets which has strong political connections. Maybe Jax’s future is in politics. Maybe it is not a good idea to get involved with Gia again.
The chemistry between Gia and Jax is scorching hot. There is enough fire between them to burn not only the sheets, but also the condo and maybe the whole New York City.
If you loved the “Crossfire” series, this is highly recommended!
Their story is coming November 3, 2017 to PassionFlix.
January 22, 2022
Day's deft touch at tumultuous relationships continues to hold and deliver.
Jax and Gia have an explosive affair and this book is perfect for a fast intense read. I do have issues with the ending which is a bit abrupt but I can gloss over it.
This book is great for a fast, intense read.
Jax and Gia have an explosive affair and this book is perfect for a fast intense read. I do have issues with the ending which is a bit abrupt but I can gloss over it.
This book is great for a fast, intense read.
August 5, 2016
How can Sylvia Day pack so much into so few pages?!?
Perhaps all the more awesome because I waited until both books in the duet were published before starting...
This book is written from the perspective of Gianna, a fierce modern woman determined to make her way in this world. She's been taking the restaurant business world by storm as the protégé of the owner of Savor...
Unfortunately, her professional veneer is cracked when an old flame shows up to a business meeting. Gia and Jax had an affair two years ago which ended in Jax disappearing without a word, and Gia nursing a broken heart.
All of the emotions from their past fling are quickly rekindled. As they begin Affair Round Two, Gia is left to wonder if sheet-twisting sex can compensate for a lack of commitment...
Why did Jax leave the first time?
What brought him back into her life now?
What can she do to keep him from disappearing again?
I kind of feel like an ass for saying that I picked this up to tide me over while I wait for the new Crossfire Book (Captivated by You) but it is true. I was having Gideon Cross withdrawals...
Lucky for everyone, Sylvia Day is awesome. The only similarities between this book and the Crossfire series were the scorching hot sex, strong female MC, and an obvious love for Manhattan...
Some of My Favorite Moments:
My Other Reviews in this Duet:
Afterburn - You're Reading it
Aftershock - My review here
Afterburn and Aftershock - My review here
Have you ever wanted something so bad, you couldn't imagine not having it?I'll be jumping right into book two, Aftershock, so I'm going to make this brief. This book can be read in a few hours, and it is fucking awesome.
There were two things in my life I’d felt that way about: the man I’d stupidly fallen in love with and the administrative assistant position I was about to interview for.
The man had turned out to be really bad for me; the job could change my life in an amazing way.
Perhaps all the more awesome because I waited until both books in the duet were published before starting...
This book is written from the perspective of Gianna, a fierce modern woman determined to make her way in this world. She's been taking the restaurant business world by storm as the protégé of the owner of Savor...
Unfortunately, her professional veneer is cracked when an old flame shows up to a business meeting. Gia and Jax had an affair two years ago which ended in Jax disappearing without a word, and Gia nursing a broken heart.
All of the emotions from their past fling are quickly rekindled. As they begin Affair Round Two, Gia is left to wonder if sheet-twisting sex can compensate for a lack of commitment...
Why did Jax leave the first time?
What brought him back into her life now?
What can she do to keep him from disappearing again?
I kind of feel like an ass for saying that I picked this up to tide me over while I wait for the new Crossfire Book (Captivated by You) but it is true. I was having Gideon Cross withdrawals...
Lucky for everyone, Sylvia Day is awesome. The only similarities between this book and the Crossfire series were the scorching hot sex, strong female MC, and an obvious love for Manhattan...
Some of My Favorite Moments:
My Other Reviews in this Duet:
Afterburn - You're Reading it
Aftershock - My review here
Afterburn and Aftershock - My review here
December 9, 2013
*WARNING: VULGAR LANGUAGE IN THE POST BELOW*
Okay so I read the Crossfire series and they were slightly (read: SLIGHTLY) better than the Fifty Shades of Grey disaster so I decided to check out Day's other works. I picked this one to start off with first since the lead male character's name is Jackson and I have a weak spot for Jax Teller on the show Sons of Anarchy (Yes, I literally decided to choose this book to read for that reason and that alone.) Needless to say, I regret my decision.
From what I've read by this author so far, the sex scenes are good (if you can stand reading the word "cunt" every three or so pages) but they eventually get stale and boring and all so very similar to the point where it's not even enjoyable.
Couple that with the fact that her lead characters are ALL THE SAME! The petite, curvy, exotic looking lead female character with strong moral values that sets out to make her life better than ever after being scorned or wounded in a very painful memory from her past. And then you have the big, masculine, God-like male counterpart with the biggest cock and sex-drive ever! LIKE, OMG LADIES, HE'S STILL HARD EVEN AFTER HE EJACULATES! He's also extremely possessive and stalks the protagonist because he's secretly in love with her but he's too dark and brooding to ever actually reveal how he feels about her and that's okay because she knows he has secrets and she doesn't care. Actually, NOBODY in this story cares about his secrets or his actions. Why? BECAUSE HE'S A TOTAL MEGA-FUCKIN-HOTTIE, DUH!!! I mean who can argue with good looks, even if the man in question has recent pictures of you all over his apartment when you haven't seen him in over a year? I mean, those actions just make me super horny, am I right ladies?
Even without the creep-factor, this all sounds SUPER familiar, doesn't it? Yeah, it sounds like *GASP* -- Gidean Cross from Sylvia Day's other sex-filled series Crossfire!
Well...fuck, that's just lazy writing.
And I was going to give this three stars because I can easily overlook the dominating male character and the stupid, naive female protagonist's actions because I'm a sucker for sex written in literature. I come from a world of fan fiction, what can I say?
However, before anyone decides to read this despite all my other warnings, please know before you do that this book is only 99 pages. That's about ten chapters.
Yep..........let that sink in.
Oh and the next one in the series isn't coming out until March of 2014. That's if it isn't pushed back again like all of Day's other novels.
In conclusion, this author is about as original as her character's personalities. Sorry, I'm not sorry.
Okay so I read the Crossfire series and they were slightly (read: SLIGHTLY) better than the Fifty Shades of Grey disaster so I decided to check out Day's other works. I picked this one to start off with first since the lead male character's name is Jackson and I have a weak spot for Jax Teller on the show Sons of Anarchy (Yes, I literally decided to choose this book to read for that reason and that alone.) Needless to say, I regret my decision.
From what I've read by this author so far, the sex scenes are good (if you can stand reading the word "cunt" every three or so pages) but they eventually get stale and boring and all so very similar to the point where it's not even enjoyable.
Couple that with the fact that her lead characters are ALL THE SAME! The petite, curvy, exotic looking lead female character with strong moral values that sets out to make her life better than ever after being scorned or wounded in a very painful memory from her past. And then you have the big, masculine, God-like male counterpart with the biggest cock and sex-drive ever! LIKE, OMG LADIES, HE'S STILL HARD EVEN AFTER HE EJACULATES! He's also extremely possessive and stalks the protagonist because he's secretly in love with her but he's too dark and brooding to ever actually reveal how he feels about her and that's okay because she knows he has secrets and she doesn't care. Actually, NOBODY in this story cares about his secrets or his actions. Why? BECAUSE HE'S A TOTAL MEGA-FUCKIN-HOTTIE, DUH!!! I mean who can argue with good looks, even if the man in question has recent pictures of you all over his apartment when you haven't seen him in over a year? I mean, those actions just make me super horny, am I right ladies?
Even without the creep-factor, this all sounds SUPER familiar, doesn't it? Yeah, it sounds like *GASP* -- Gidean Cross from Sylvia Day's other sex-filled series Crossfire!
Well...fuck, that's just lazy writing.
And I was going to give this three stars because I can easily overlook the dominating male character and the stupid, naive female protagonist's actions because I'm a sucker for sex written in literature. I come from a world of fan fiction, what can I say?
However, before anyone decides to read this despite all my other warnings, please know before you do that this book is only 99 pages. That's about ten chapters.
Yep..........let that sink in.
Oh and the next one in the series isn't coming out until March of 2014. That's if it isn't pushed back again like all of Day's other novels.
In conclusion, this author is about as original as her character's personalities. Sorry, I'm not sorry.
February 1, 2016
***4.5 stars***
For a 99 page novella, I sure do feel awfully satisfied. Goes to show, sometimes size doesn't matter!
I have no idea how she did it, but Sylvia Day amazes me. It's like you walked into the middle of a story, and so simply, little by little Sylvia catches you up on everything that you've missed.
I felt the connection between Gia and Jax instantly. In the beginning you don't know much about their history, but it doesn't matter because you feel it as you read and it only deepens as the story unravels.
Can I just say that I LOVED Gia! She was independent, intelligent, vulnerable yet confident and SASSY.
Jax.....Oh YUMMY Jax. You've won over my mind, my heart and my lady bits! He was sexy, dominant, endearing and at times sweet all in the same breath.
And lets not forget the smoldering sex that you've come to expect from Sylvia Day!!
There's still so much more that needs to be explained about Jax's background and what happened to make him leave Gia after their five week relationship while she was in college. I have a feeling there's more to the Rutledge family than meets the eye.
I'm glad I waited to read this until the second book is out because I need my answers, but mostly I need more Gia and Jax!
“I’m on to you, Jackson Rutledge.” My voice was low and hard, unwavering. “I’m going to figure you out.”
September 22, 2013
3.5 stars
Gianna just landed her dream job, finally a chance to make something of herself without relying on her family’s success in the restaurant industry. The only regret she has is giving her heart away and never getting it back. Helping her boss Lei get her revenge on her former partner couldn’t be more satisfying until Lei's ex-partner shows up with an unexpected ally, Jackson Rutledge. For her chance to move on, it’s time that she gets the answers she needed to hear once and for all,
Jackson knows he should stay away from Gianna, nothing good could come from being seen with him, and the political social circle is something he doesn’t want Gianna exposed to. She deserves better, but knowing that the woman standing a few feet away as if she was made just for him, is even harder to resist the second time around. He does whatever it takes to get Gianna back, even if it is temporary, after all that is all he has to give
The more she is exposed to his world things begin to unravel and she realizes there is more to him that he lets on. Jackson is a sexy-mysterious-arrogant man and Gianna is a beautiful heroine, who was strong outside the bedroom but lost herself inside, but who could blame her, Jackson knew her body inside out. Not willing to give up this time without a fight, Gianna knows it's up to her to save this once in a lifetime kind of connection.
I should have known there was gonna be more to this story, there was no way it could all be wrapped up in the pages I had left. I think this was one time where I may have been happy that there is more to this story, luckily for me there was no shocking nail-biting cliffhanger, just a promise of more. Afterburn has an interesting plot that has me counting down the days till the next release.
“You could never hide from me, Gia. I’d recognize you blindfolded.”
Gianna just landed her dream job, finally a chance to make something of herself without relying on her family’s success in the restaurant industry. The only regret she has is giving her heart away and never getting it back. Helping her boss Lei get her revenge on her former partner couldn’t be more satisfying until Lei's ex-partner shows up with an unexpected ally, Jackson Rutledge. For her chance to move on, it’s time that she gets the answers she needed to hear once and for all,
“I made the right decision walking away.” His breath gusted over my temple. “That doesn’t mean I don’t regret it.”
Jackson knows he should stay away from Gianna, nothing good could come from being seen with him, and the political social circle is something he doesn’t want Gianna exposed to. She deserves better, but knowing that the woman standing a few feet away as if she was made just for him, is even harder to resist the second time around. He does whatever it takes to get Gianna back, even if it is temporary, after all that is all he has to give
"I felt the pull inside me, that inexorable tugging between us. I didn’t know how to turn it off or ignore it. Some sick cosmic joke had made me hardwired to crave him with every fiber of my being."
The more she is exposed to his world things begin to unravel and she realizes there is more to him that he lets on. Jackson is a sexy-mysterious-arrogant man and Gianna is a beautiful heroine, who was strong outside the bedroom but lost herself inside, but who could blame her, Jackson knew her body inside out. Not willing to give up this time without a fight, Gianna knows it's up to her to save this once in a lifetime kind of connection.
“I’m on to you, Jackson Rutledge.” My voice was low and hard, unwavering. “I’m going to figure you out.”
I should have known there was gonna be more to this story, there was no way it could all be wrapped up in the pages I had left. I think this was one time where I may have been happy that there is more to this story, luckily for me there was no shocking nail-biting cliffhanger, just a promise of more. Afterburn has an interesting plot that has me counting down the days till the next release.
July 20, 2014
Something new from Sylvia Day?
I was so pleased to get a chance to read something else from Sylvia Day. My only Day-experience came at the hands of the one and only Gideon Cross, so I was excited to see what she had up her sleeve. I adored the writing style of this and loved that it felt so different than the Crossfire style.
In the first installment, we meet Gia - she is driven and determined. But she is still hung up on the man that walked out of her life. She has succeeded at her career but that job is now at fault for bringing her face to face with the man that she fell in love with - the one she never fell out of love with. Jax.
Jax makes no mistake about making his claim on what he wants from Gia and what he is able to give in return. But pleasure soon starts to tangle with business. But the closer Gia gets to Jax the more she needs to figure out why he ran all those years ago and if she can get him to give her what she truly desires
Jax was a little big arrogant, a lot sexy and was all sorts of romantic in that alpha-male-staking-a-claim way that I love. Both he and Gia were both likable characters and I loved that Gia was not at all weak. Although a short read, the story was so put together that it felt much longer and the mini-cliffy-curb ending will make you crave to know what happens next - but won't drive you nuts until the next installment.
I have a feeling that when this is all over I am going to want so much more of Jax than just these two short series installments.
How can anyone else be imagined while thinking of Jax???
I was so pleased to get a chance to read something else from Sylvia Day. My only Day-experience came at the hands of the one and only Gideon Cross, so I was excited to see what she had up her sleeve. I adored the writing style of this and loved that it felt so different than the Crossfire style.
In the first installment, we meet Gia - she is driven and determined. But she is still hung up on the man that walked out of her life. She has succeeded at her career but that job is now at fault for bringing her face to face with the man that she fell in love with - the one she never fell out of love with. Jax.
Jax makes no mistake about making his claim on what he wants from Gia and what he is able to give in return. But pleasure soon starts to tangle with business. But the closer Gia gets to Jax the more she needs to figure out why he ran all those years ago and if she can get him to give her what she truly desires
Jax was a little big arrogant, a lot sexy and was all sorts of romantic in that alpha-male-staking-a-claim way that I love. Both he and Gia were both likable characters and I loved that Gia was not at all weak. Although a short read, the story was so put together that it felt much longer and the mini-cliffy-curb ending will make you crave to know what happens next - but won't drive you nuts until the next installment.
I have a feeling that when this is all over I am going to want so much more of Jax than just these two short series installments.
How can anyone else be imagined while thinking of Jax???
October 17, 2017
I hold
Sylvia Day
close to my heart, since she was the first author that led me into the erotica/ romance reads at the time that was a bit challenging for me...and her book was a perfect escapism...
And then the Crossfire series happened...and well the rest is history...
So, I have read this a while ago, obviously but i haven't written a review...
Well, just perfect...
Cause, with all the movie announcements on Passionflix...I might as well re-read it *sly smile*
And Afterburn is just the perfect title that says it all...
It's the unfinished personal business between Gianna Rossi & Jackson "Jax" Rutledge, a young career in restaurants driven woman from a loud Italian family and a man driven by the success in anything other than his family's trade-politics...
They had a passionate affair that lead to Gia falling in love with him, and him walking out for reasons never spoken out loud.
And now, passion and business collide again, and they are two people who are doomed into collision, crash and burn...
But Gia is not the same, naive young love spelled girl, she 's aware of the rules...she's aware of the limitation and the time span...and yet she needs to call the shots, controlling the physical need for him over the ruthless business they lead on opposite/rival sides...
And yet, she realizes that she never knew the man she gave her heart to and now, she's still not sure of him but she's goddamned sure of her own posture and the game...
The rules have changed and she's going straight for the heart.
And then the Crossfire series happened...and well the rest is history...
So, I have read this a while ago, obviously but i haven't written a review...
Well, just perfect...
Cause, with all the movie announcements on Passionflix...I might as well re-read it *sly smile*
And Afterburn is just the perfect title that says it all...
It's the unfinished personal business between Gianna Rossi & Jackson "Jax" Rutledge, a young career in restaurants driven woman from a loud Italian family and a man driven by the success in anything other than his family's trade-politics...
They had a passionate affair that lead to Gia falling in love with him, and him walking out for reasons never spoken out loud.
And now, passion and business collide again, and they are two people who are doomed into collision, crash and burn...
But Gia is not the same, naive young love spelled girl, she 's aware of the rules...she's aware of the limitation and the time span...and yet she needs to call the shots, controlling the physical need for him over the ruthless business they lead on opposite/rival sides...
And yet, she realizes that she never knew the man she gave her heart to and now, she's still not sure of him but she's goddamned sure of her own posture and the game...
You two going to work it out?”
“No, it’s temporary. But this time, I know the rules.
He’s in love with you, you know.”
“He’s in lust,” I countered drily, picking at the label on the bottle. “And that’s okay, I can live with that.
The rules have changed and she's going straight for the heart.
I’m going to be in every aspect of your life—get used to it.”
Jax was silent for a long minute, then quietly asked, “What do you think you’re doing?”
“I’m processing the fact that you’re in love with me, Jax."
"Still, you bailed on me. And now you’re sabotaging my work and your own chances with me.”
“Gia—”
“I’m on to you, Jackson Rutledge.” My voice was low and hard, unwavering. “I’m going to figure you out."
February 27, 2023
Среща между пошло, долнопробно порно с лицемерна политкоректност и поучения кое е “правилно”.
Толкова изумително зле написано, че е истинска обида за читателя. Една похвала (и наличието на безплатна опция) за Силвия Дей събуди любопитството ми, но след лек и крайно неизчерпателен преглед на ускорен вентилатор, пуснах това нещо с усещането, че е токсичен ядрен отпадък.
Никак не е лесно за писател и сюжет в този жанр да се заключи, че е едновременно вулгарен и бездарен, но примерът тук е такъв. Бррр. Сериозно - 50 нюанса сиво е класика в сравнение с това.
Минус всички възможни звезди
Толкова изумително зле написано, че е истинска обида за читателя. Една похвала (и наличието на безплатна опция) за Силвия Дей събуди любопитството ми, но след лек и крайно неизчерпателен преглед на ускорен вентилатор, пуснах това нещо с усещането, че е токсичен ядрен отпадък.
Никак не е лесно за писател и сюжет в този жанр да се заключи, че е едновременно вулгарен и бездарен, но примерът тук е такъв. Бррр. Сериозно - 50 нюанса сиво е класика в сравнение с това.
Минус всички възможни звезди
May 9, 2017
I'm not impressed with Sylvia Day thus far.
August 19, 2013
Why are we ALWAYS getting small slivers of stories? Just once I want the whole story in one sitting. It makes it so hard to rate a book. Anyhow, this one sliver of a slice will have to be enough to hold me over till November when Aftershock is scheduled to be released.
I really liked the main characters Gia and Jax. Their connection was hot and addicting. I found the business side of this story very interesting. Gia’s family is just FANTASTIC. I really enjoyed the plot and found it very intriguing, it’s not just a story of past loves reuniting but there’s mystery, business and one swoon worthy male lead named Jackson Ruthledge.
"Damn it. I didn't know you were in love with me, Gia." My eyes closed against the pain of hearing those words from his lips. "If that's true, you didn't know me at all."
“You could never hide from me, Gia. I’d recognize you blindfolded.”
Overall, I was left hungry. Perhaps the next book will offer more than a sliver maybe even a whole slice!
By the way, I loved the ending…
“I’m on to you, Jackson Rutledge.” My voice was low and hard, unwavering. “I’m going to figure you out.”
January 29, 2018
3.5 Stars
“You’re still in love with me. Give me a chance to make that something you stop regretting.”
- Jax
* * *
“This time, I was going to haunt the man the way he haunted me.”
- Gia
* * *
“It’s tough when you’re working toward something...when the excitement builds and you can almost taste it...then someone takes it away from you, isn’t it?”
- Gia
* * *
“Your mystery-man days are numbered.”
- Gia
“You’re still in love with me. Give me a chance to make that something you stop regretting.”
- Jax
* * *
“This time, I was going to haunt the man the way he haunted me.”
- Gia
* * *
“It’s tough when you’re working toward something...when the excitement builds and you can almost taste it...then someone takes it away from you, isn’t it?”
- Gia
* * *
“Your mystery-man days are numbered.”
- Gia
November 18, 2017
Ами прочетох я и трябва да призная, че беше по-добре от очакваното. Бях толкова негативно настроена, заради всички коментари колко е зле, но много бързо и леко я прочетох, та се разтоварих в неделния ден. Не, че е нещо кой знае какво като сюжет, но пък съм чела и по-зле на Силвия Дей. Пък и главната героиня е италианка с няколко братя все мачовци, а те италианците са с гореща кръв, лесно се палят. Надявам се Джия да му разкаже играта на Джакс и да му го върне тъпкано, затова че я е изоставил, но ще видим в следващата част. Тази свърши прекалено рязко, като отрязана, а тези тестове и глупости накрая какви бяха, голяма излагация, само да запълнят място, че страниците иначе са малко.
October 20, 2017
I had this book since the release but I was passing other in front on my reading list and I forgot completely.
Now I decided to read because I read several comments about the story and we'd have a movie about the book.
I was extremely disappointed with the story and thought it too without depth or character development.
Shallow history and that there was no need for the second book.
The author could have deepened in the mysteries of the family of the hero and his reasons to submit to the whims of his father. I wanted to know more about the motivations and everything else.
I think that books with only sex don't hold my attention these days.
Now I decided to read because I read several comments about the story and we'd have a movie about the book.
I was extremely disappointed with the story and thought it too without depth or character development.
Shallow history and that there was no need for the second book.
The author could have deepened in the mysteries of the family of the hero and his reasons to submit to the whims of his father. I wanted to know more about the motivations and everything else.
I think that books with only sex don't hold my attention these days.
November 18, 2013
I will probably be lynched for this but I actually preferred Jax and Gia, to Eva and Gideon.
I really enjoyed this novella, once again what could essentially be one full book has been split into two parts to enable double bubble profits wise, at least we only have to wait until November for the other half though.
UPDATE - Aftershock Horror!! The release date for the second installment has now been pushed from November 2013 to March 2014! I can't say I am surprised, but this constant moving of release dates is rapidly putting me off reading anymore of this authors work, at least until all installments of any particular series have been released.
I really enjoyed this novella, once again what could essentially be one full book has been split into two parts to enable double bubble profits wise, at least we only have to wait until November for the other half though.
UPDATE - Aftershock Horror!! The release date for the second installment has now been pushed from November 2013 to March 2014! I can't say I am surprised, but this constant moving of release dates is rapidly putting me off reading anymore of this authors work, at least until all installments of any particular series have been released.
August 18, 2013
Well.... I did like this one but not enough to push me over that 3 stars.. mainly because I felt like I really needed a better history of Gia and Jax to totally understand their relationship. This book starts off 2 years after they spent 5 weeks together and Jax left her with no explanation. She was in love with him when he left but apparently he didn't realize it and didn't want to end up hurting her. So 2 years later they meet up again on opposite sides of a business deal and Jax wants to pick up where they left off. Their chemistry was really good and the sex was very hot.. but the story was too short to be able to really get a good feel for them. I think if this first book in this series had started off with how they first met and take us through those 5 weeks together this book probably would have been a hit with me. I'm hoping the 2nd book goes back and shows us more of their history. I'm intrigued enough to continue the series.. but just barely.
February 4, 2015
Review of Afterburn by Sylvia Day I was a little disappointed with this short story series. I guess I should have read this before the Crossfire Series because CS was much better and was written after Aftershock and Afterburn.
I did listen to this one on audiobook which might have been the reason for the lower score. I didn't like the narrator or how she was portraying the female character. There were opportunities where this story could have really developed and been interesting and I was disappointed that there wasn't more substance.
I'm a reader who likes to read a great captivating story that needs to be told even around the steamy sex scenes.
I did listen to this one on audiobook which might have been the reason for the lower score. I didn't like the narrator or how she was portraying the female character. There were opportunities where this story could have really developed and been interesting and I was disappointed that there wasn't more substance.
I'm a reader who likes to read a great captivating story that needs to be told even around the steamy sex scenes.
January 17, 2023
I'm not going to read the next one, I have no interest to find out what the hella secret he's hiding!
It's a short okay-able read. I liked the last 3 books in the crossfire series, that's why I wanted to give this a try, but ..!
It's a short okay-able read. I liked the last 3 books in the crossfire series, that's why I wanted to give this a try, but ..!
October 14, 2017
Надявам се книга 2 да разкрие смисъла на книга 1, защото от това,което прочетох до сега останах с една голяма питанка - Какво въобще се случи?
August 15, 2013
“I’d know you blindfolded.”
Sylvia Day does it again! Just when I though that there was no way that she could possibly grab my attention so completely like with the Crossfire series, she gives us Gia and Jax. Two e-novella instalments that will eventually make up a complete novel, Afterburn gives us our first taste of the very passionate and utterly captivating love affair between a young woman trying to leave her mark in the business world and a powerful and very wealthy man whom she met while at college and never quite got over.
“I wasn’t me when I was in bed with him; I was his. Willing and ready to do whatever he wanted, to take whatever he chose to give me, knowing he would make me come again and again…”
Gianna “Gia” Rossi is ambitious, capable, hungry to succeed in the cutthroat restaurant industry. Fresh out of college with a degree in restaurant management, she lands her first job as administrative assistant to one of the most successful restaurateurs in New York. After a year of earning her stripes, Gia has evolved into a sophisticated young woman with a keen business sense and has gained the trust and respect of her employer. But her first big project throws her in the path of the man she fell in love with while at college, a man with whom she spent five passionate weeks and never heard from again.
“I’d known who he was, knew his reputation, yet I’d thought I was sophisticated enough to take him on.”
Jackson “Jax” Rutledge comes from money. He is confident, indomitable and he always gets what he wants. When he walks into Gia’s life after two years of silence, he is not only there to mess with her business, he also wants her back in his bed. What follows is a delicious cat-and-mouse dance between two people who cannot keep their hands or minds off each other.
“Back off, Jax.”
“I did. It didn’t take.”
Jax and Gia come from two very different families – one being a loving and down-to-earth close-knit Italian family, and the other being modern ‘American royalty’, all old money and ostentatious lifestyles – making them two very different people with two very dissimilar support networks. But while Gia believes her five-week romance with Jax had meant nothing to him and was just another notch on his belt, the more she gets to know him in his element, the more she realises she might have never known the real Jackson Rutledge. Or the reason he left her in the first place.
“Damn it. I didn’t know you were in love with me, Gia.”
In a high-stakes world of multi-million dollar deals and ‘every man for himself, and the devil take the hindmost’, nothing is as dangerous as a woman in love determined to make the love of her life never forget her again.
“You were made for me,” he said fiercely. “No one else, Gia. You’re mine.”
I truly loved every minute of this book and I did not put it down until I reached the very last page. Jax and Gia are very “Gideon and Eva”-ish so if you’re a Crossfire fan, you’ll undoubtedly love this story as well. It is very short, novella-sized, so it is a quick but very satisfying read. If I’m allowed to be greedy, I would have preferred it to have been longer and to get the whole story all at once, but this is the format it was always intended to have – two shorter instalments that in reality make up a full novel. We are left in an OK place story-wise, having been given small but satisfying revelations and hints of what is to come, but no nail-biting I’m-going-to-put-my-head-in-the-oven-if-I-don’t-get-the-sequel-now kind of cliffhanger. The writing is pure Sylvia Day – direct, effective, mouthwatering. A seasoned storyteller, she grabs our attention in every scene and gives us such emotionally intense interactions between characters, we are not just reading them, we are living them.
Aftershock cannot come soon enough because I get the feeling Ms Day has left the best for last.
“I’m on to you, Jackson Rutledge.” My voice was low and hard, unwavering. “I’m going to figure you out.”
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August 15, 2013
4/4.5 Stars!
I was very curious about this book/series...I was interested to see how it compared to the Crossfire series. And I have to say, I really really enjoyed it. I knew going in that it was part 1 of 2--so I was a little nervous about there being a cliffhanger ending. Afterburn was a short, quick read--about 100 pages. And I am pleased to say that it DID NOT end with a big cliffy. Yay!
I really liked the plot/setting--I thought it was different--having to do with the restaurant industry. The story begins with Gianna interviewing for a position with Lei Yueng, a major player in the restaurant world. A year later, Lei and Gianna are looking to close on a big deal when someone from Gianna's past re-appears throwing all kinds of kinks in the deal and in Gianna's life.
Because this is a two part series, there is still a lot of story left to be told and a lot of questions to be answered. I will say I liked all of the characters--epsecially Gianna and Jax. They were super HOT together. I am definitely interested to see where the story goes and will be anxiously awaiting part 2.
I was very curious about this book/series...I was interested to see how it compared to the Crossfire series. And I have to say, I really really enjoyed it. I knew going in that it was part 1 of 2--so I was a little nervous about there being a cliffhanger ending. Afterburn was a short, quick read--about 100 pages. And I am pleased to say that it DID NOT end with a big cliffy. Yay!
I really liked the plot/setting--I thought it was different--having to do with the restaurant industry. The story begins with Gianna interviewing for a position with Lei Yueng, a major player in the restaurant world. A year later, Lei and Gianna are looking to close on a big deal when someone from Gianna's past re-appears throwing all kinds of kinks in the deal and in Gianna's life.
Because this is a two part series, there is still a lot of story left to be told and a lot of questions to be answered. I will say I liked all of the characters--epsecially Gianna and Jax. They were super HOT together. I am definitely interested to see where the story goes and will be anxiously awaiting part 2.
March 22, 2014
Creí que no viviría para verlo, pero me equivocaba.
Señoras y señores: este es el primer libro de Sylvia Day casi sin sexo.
¡A por la segunda parte!
Señoras y señores: este es el primer libro de Sylvia Day casi sin sexo.
¡A por la segunda parte!
October 29, 2017
With the movie premiere being only a few days away I decided to read this bite-sized series!
August 16, 2013
A is for Alpha B is for Books has 2 eBook Copies of Afterburn up for Grabs...
Head on over to the blog to enter!
Enter Give Away Here
★ 5 Bite Sized and Dangerously Delicious Stars ★
~ Have you ever wanted something so bad, you couldn't imagine not having it? ~
Gianna Rossi, strong, beautiful and driven. There are only two things in Gia's life that she has wanted that bad.
One, Jackson Rutledge. The man she stupidly fell in love with.
And Two, an internship under the one of the most successful restaurateur in the industry.
Gia had Jax for 5 weeks, then it all ended abruptly. Never hearing for him again.
Now set on making herself known in the the restaurant industry her main focus is her career.
A year later, under the guidance of her Mentor/now friend, she has evolved into a sophisticated, successful woman. Slowly making a name for herself.
When her current business deal crosses path with the elusive Jackson, Gia ins't prepared for the realisation that he can still affect her so much.
With Jax cutting in on her business deal, and the undeniable chemistry between the two, Gia suddenly finds herself drawn back into his life.
There is nothing soft about Jackson Rutledge, He works hard, plays hard and fucks harder. A jaded man cut from a ruthless cloth. He comes from a wealthy and powerful family.
He gets what he wants and he want's Gia. Jax isn't walking away this time.
"There you are," he said, with an unmistakeable note of triumph. "You almost had me fooled into thinking the Gia I knew was gone."
"Don't toy with me, Jax. It's beneath you."
"I want you beneath me."
He is direct when it comes to what he wants. But you find yourself feeling weary on what exactly his intentions are. He clearly has feelings for her and can't seem to get enough, but without an explanation as to why he just stopped calling or coming around, you are really left guessing like Gia.
Gia's not quite the same girl she was when she was last with Jax, but Jax slowly starts to pull the sassy Gia back. With his persistent presence in her life, Gia, finds it hard to fight what her body is craving…. Jax. What they had was hot and passionate and neither one could ever get enough. She fights desperately to not let him back in.
~ My body didn't care that he'd dumped me without a word. It wanted Jax. Desperately… ~
She succumbs to the pressure building in her and surrenders to it. He ignites her so bad she refuses to fight it anymore. But Jax wants more without having to define what it is they have. Gia refuses to fall back into the way their relationship headed last time. She's confused and doesn't have the answers to her questions. It felt like a game and she didn't know the rules.
"Don't." He caught my chin, tilting my head up. "You can't ask me to give you everything I've got, then take it lightly. It's not fair."
"No," I agreed."It isn't, is it?"
Sassy Gia was great. I loved her. I loved her honesty and strength. She was fiery. She might of succumbed to the temptation that was the sex god Jax, but you really felt she learnt something from the first experience with him, and refused to accept anything less than what she wanted.
"One night to screw me out of your system? That's a cliché, Jax. It never works. Great sex doesn't stop being great just because you gorge on it."
But your still left with that sneaky suspicion of what really is at play here. You have these powerful players that clearly are hiding things. Jax is persistent and resistant at the same time. She has the business deal going south, Jax in her bed, and the realisation she still loves this man. He holds a power over her she can't control.
But he pulls her close only to push her back. It's a mystery. You're constantly trying to come up with some sort of explanation.
"You fucked me over, Jax. Right after you fucked me literally. Did you take a shower first? Or were you still smelling like me when you made the call?"
When her business deal gets screwed over by Jax, she realises it's game on. Jackson Rutledge is about to learn a thing or two about playing with her. She can play this game and she can win.
"I'm on to you, Jackson Rutledge…. I'm going to figure you out."
"I'm an open book…"
"You're a head trip… And your mystery-man days are numbered.
I really enjoyed Aftershock. I didn't realise how much I missed Day's writing until I started reading. This is the first book in the Afterburn/Aftershock series. It's doesn't end in cliffy, but more.. "I wonder what the hell is going on…"
I liked that it wasn't dragged out with angst or unnecessary drama.I think because it is on the short side, we don't get a lot of detail on certain aspects. I loved Gia's family and her relationship with her brothers. I would of loved to have more development between them. But I guess I could be feeling like that because I just really loved everything and wanted to savour it all.
I enjoyed the mystery, going back over my notes I picked up a few random hints that has me guessing.. Can't wait to find out.
I'm gonna have to put it out there that this, was a lot more enjoyable for me than 'Bared to you.' Don't get me wrong Love Ava and Gideon, But Gia…. damn she kinda is a bit badass… hahhahaha
Afterburn is the first instalment of a 2 part series that will complete the novel. Aftershock is set to be released in November.
★ 5 Stars ★
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September 26, 2021
3 STARS!
YUP as soon as I knew the creator of the one and only Gideon Cross has a new book coming out, I had no doubt that I'll be reading it as soon as it comes out!!
Let me tell you that IT’S SHORT, LIGHT AND EXTREMELY SEXY!
We have the story of Gia and Jax told in two novellas, Gia never really got over Jax whom she knew in college, loved deeply but he ended up breaking her heart. We meet her a few years after they depart ways and she is a stronger, more ambitious, a different woman from the one Jax knew before.
I loved how Jax pursued Gia and the delicious little game they had going on, in business and in the bedroom. The reader can see that they are both still very much in love with each other!
Afterburn is continued in Aftershock coming out in November but does not end in a cliffhanger, I actually thought the ending was perfect- leaves you wanting to know what comes next without being left in despair.
I cannot wait to see what Gia has in store for Jax in Aftershock.
“I’m on to you, Jackson Rutledge.” My voice was low and hard, unwavering. “I’m going to figure you out.”
An enjoyable read.
YUP as soon as I knew the creator of the one and only Gideon Cross has a new book coming out, I had no doubt that I'll be reading it as soon as it comes out!!
Let me tell you that IT’S SHORT, LIGHT AND EXTREMELY SEXY!
We have the story of Gia and Jax told in two novellas, Gia never really got over Jax whom she knew in college, loved deeply but he ended up breaking her heart. We meet her a few years after they depart ways and she is a stronger, more ambitious, a different woman from the one Jax knew before.
I loved how Jax pursued Gia and the delicious little game they had going on, in business and in the bedroom. The reader can see that they are both still very much in love with each other!
Afterburn is continued in Aftershock coming out in November but does not end in a cliffhanger, I actually thought the ending was perfect- leaves you wanting to know what comes next without being left in despair.
I cannot wait to see what Gia has in store for Jax in Aftershock.
“I’m on to you, Jackson Rutledge.” My voice was low and hard, unwavering. “I’m going to figure you out.”
An enjoyable read.
October 9, 2013
3 1/2 stars.... "Not happy Jan!" I should seriously do my research BEFORE reading a book. Love Sylvia Day and loved the story, but I've got a feeling this is going to be one of those long drawn out series that leaves you hanging EVERY SINGLE TIME! Hence my expression......Not happy Jan. 30 second clip to follow......
http://youtu.be/2akt3P8ltLM
http://youtu.be/2akt3P8ltLM
February 3, 2016
Er no. This book is horrible. There is zero chemistry between the two main characters. Apparently they fell in love years before the book started after a 5 week affair. But I felt nothing other than annoyance at both charecters. Being in love makes you stupid for sure. Seeing an ex you're still hung up on also makes you stupid. But with out these two's back story I hated the stupidity.
October 26, 2014
Overall rating: 1) Afterburn 4 stars. 2) Aftershock 3.5 stars--- not as good as some of her other books. I actually enjoy her Historical erotica and paranormal erotica more than her contemporary romances!
I listened to this in one day while I was doing all kinds of errands, gardening, housecleaning, laundry...it made it more enjoyable! At first the Brooklyn accent of the narrator was very harsh and I thought I have to listen to hours of this!??? I should have listened to a sample before using my valuable credit on this (I might ask for a refund...) But then I got used to it and started enjoying the story. Gianna and Jaxon Rutledge (my spelling of their names may be incorrect because this was the audiobook)
Mild spoilers----
It is very similar to lots of other contemporary romances out there, a powerful, rich, good looking urban male and a strong but weak (where he is concerned) young woman. Their chemistry is HAWT, and JAX knows how to TALK to turn Gia (and the reader) on, and melt off her panties. There was not much of a plot, she is developing restaurants/chefs/marketing and he is...not sure what his job is all about but he comes from a political fam and he does political stuff.
The first one had quite a bit of erotic tension that was erupted in a conflagration! And then ended with him suggesting that they move in together, kind of a HEA in modern times. There is some fam tragedy that is hinted at in his past, and Gia has a wonderful nosy, Italian fam with older bros who drop F-bombs left and right...seems very familiar actually! Gia does something very stupid in Aftershock(the second one) that causes a huge rift...you just want to scream at her. Then they get back together after her fam helps fix her problems. Her family was really the best, Vincent, Nico and Angelo? You just want to hug them and I actually wouldn't mind having a story told about these guys...
Great for fans of the crossfire series and CR in general.
I listened to this in one day while I was doing all kinds of errands, gardening, housecleaning, laundry...it made it more enjoyable! At first the Brooklyn accent of the narrator was very harsh and I thought I have to listen to hours of this!??? I should have listened to a sample before using my valuable credit on this (I might ask for a refund...) But then I got used to it and started enjoying the story. Gianna and Jaxon Rutledge (my spelling of their names may be incorrect because this was the audiobook)
Mild spoilers----
It is very similar to lots of other contemporary romances out there, a powerful, rich, good looking urban male and a strong but weak (where he is concerned) young woman. Their chemistry is HAWT, and JAX knows how to TALK to turn Gia (and the reader) on, and melt off her panties. There was not much of a plot, she is developing restaurants/chefs/marketing and he is...not sure what his job is all about but he comes from a political fam and he does political stuff.
The first one had quite a bit of erotic tension that was erupted in a conflagration! And then ended with him suggesting that they move in together, kind of a HEA in modern times. There is some fam tragedy that is hinted at in his past, and Gia has a wonderful nosy, Italian fam with older bros who drop F-bombs left and right...seems very familiar actually! Gia does something very stupid in Aftershock(the second one) that causes a huge rift...you just want to scream at her. Then they get back together after her fam helps fix her problems. Her family was really the best, Vincent, Nico and Angelo? You just want to hug them and I actually wouldn't mind having a story told about these guys...
Great for fans of the crossfire series and CR in general.
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