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The Virginity Mission
It’s lust at first sight when Mac sees Jason shirtless and sweating on the back of a truck.Jason is the army sergeant assigned to support the six‐week scientific expedition that Mac isparticipating in, and might just be the perfect candidate for another journey of discoverythat Mac is desperate to undertake — sex.
Fraternisation between students and staff might be strictly prohibited, but everybody knowsfruit always tastes better when it’s forbidden.
Fraternisation between students and staff might be strictly prohibited, but everybody knowsfruit always tastes better when it’s forbidden.
76 pages, ebook
First published June 1, 2013
About the author
Cate Ellink
17 books15 followersCate Ellink became intrigued by the erotic when her grandfather used to pass books to her father saying, “Don’t let the girls read page X.” Although her mother and sisters never bothered to chase those pages, Cate always did. Invariably, her imagination was better than what she read.
While pursuing a career in science, Cate amused herself by writing about ordinary events and giving them an erotic twist. It’s taken more than a few years to bravely expose her mind to the public. While the events in her stories may have occurred, it’s highly likely that her imagination is far more exciting than the reality.
Cate lives near the beach in NSW, Australia, with a long-suffering husband.
While pursuing a career in science, Cate amused herself by writing about ordinary events and giving them an erotic twist. It’s taken more than a few years to bravely expose her mind to the public. While the events in her stories may have occurred, it’s highly likely that her imagination is far more exciting than the reality.
Cate lives near the beach in NSW, Australia, with a long-suffering husband.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
May 8, 2013
ARC supplied by Netgalley.
This is Cate’s first novella, and was an enjoyable steamy at times romance. The basic premise is outlined in the description and makes for a simple but effective plot. Its a short novel at just 100 pages and Cate has sensibly concentrated on the main subject rather than throw in a lot of drama – I love drama and angst in my romances but in a book of this size there simply isn’t room to do it well and its best left out rather than put in badly.
I liked Mac, she reminds me in a way of myself, with her always feeling she doesn’t quite fit in, and the way she goes over potential conversations mentally ( yep – guilty of that!) Jason too was very realistic, reminding me of a gentle giant, deep thinker type person rather than the in your face Alpha males we so often see. He’s clearly that type but so much more to him that that. Mac describes him as a Panther – and that’s exactly how he seems. This isn’t your normal romance but one where the heroine has a plan, losing her virginity, whilst on a six week expedition into the rainforest. The barrier of any close association between her as a student and Jason as Staff though is forbidden but the attraction between them is palpable and the sexual tension sizzling. You don’t need blatant sex scenes for them to be erotic, sometimes far more is done with touches and glances to build the eroticism than outright graphic sexual activity.
Jason seemed the strong but silent type at first, for whom the job is all and everything else takes second place but then he sees Mac…and something in him stirs and he can’t stop thinking about her. His team mates notice and he needs to take care nit to risk his career but he can’t seem to stay away from her.
Advice on writing books always seem to say “write about what you know” – well Cate must know a lot about this type of expedition as its so well described I felt I was there with them, trailing through mangrove swamps, scaling down mountain shale and rock jumping ( I think that was the term). It all felt so real so either Cate has done it or has done some really thorough research and the realism went along way to making what was a short novel really enjoyable for me – someone who likes longer books for preference.
The sex scenes were there – not too many and not overly graphic, but well written and fitting within the framework of the novel really well. Ihate when author make there subjects act out of character for the sake of adding sex, Cate doesn’t – she made the scenes work and it meant the novel was so much more entertaining. Its nothing complex, not a book you can’t put down as its so full of action and drama but an easy enjoyable read and a great way to pass some time such as a train journey when you want to escape for a short while.
Its priced at £2.64 for 100 pages on kindle, so quite expensive in comparison to others around, but really that depends on whether you’re likely to re read the book. I won’t – really enjoyed it as a one off but not one for my keepers file, but many people love these shorter, lighter romances and collect them eagerly. If that’s you then this is one you will enjoy.
Stars: I’m hovering over 3 and half to 4, as I said short novels aren’t really my thing but this was so very different from the norm that it was a real treat to read so – four it is :)
This is Cate’s first novella, and was an enjoyable steamy at times romance. The basic premise is outlined in the description and makes for a simple but effective plot. Its a short novel at just 100 pages and Cate has sensibly concentrated on the main subject rather than throw in a lot of drama – I love drama and angst in my romances but in a book of this size there simply isn’t room to do it well and its best left out rather than put in badly.
I liked Mac, she reminds me in a way of myself, with her always feeling she doesn’t quite fit in, and the way she goes over potential conversations mentally ( yep – guilty of that!) Jason too was very realistic, reminding me of a gentle giant, deep thinker type person rather than the in your face Alpha males we so often see. He’s clearly that type but so much more to him that that. Mac describes him as a Panther – and that’s exactly how he seems. This isn’t your normal romance but one where the heroine has a plan, losing her virginity, whilst on a six week expedition into the rainforest. The barrier of any close association between her as a student and Jason as Staff though is forbidden but the attraction between them is palpable and the sexual tension sizzling. You don’t need blatant sex scenes for them to be erotic, sometimes far more is done with touches and glances to build the eroticism than outright graphic sexual activity.
Jason seemed the strong but silent type at first, for whom the job is all and everything else takes second place but then he sees Mac…and something in him stirs and he can’t stop thinking about her. His team mates notice and he needs to take care nit to risk his career but he can’t seem to stay away from her.
Advice on writing books always seem to say “write about what you know” – well Cate must know a lot about this type of expedition as its so well described I felt I was there with them, trailing through mangrove swamps, scaling down mountain shale and rock jumping ( I think that was the term). It all felt so real so either Cate has done it or has done some really thorough research and the realism went along way to making what was a short novel really enjoyable for me – someone who likes longer books for preference.
The sex scenes were there – not too many and not overly graphic, but well written and fitting within the framework of the novel really well. Ihate when author make there subjects act out of character for the sake of adding sex, Cate doesn’t – she made the scenes work and it meant the novel was so much more entertaining. Its nothing complex, not a book you can’t put down as its so full of action and drama but an easy enjoyable read and a great way to pass some time such as a train journey when you want to escape for a short while.
Its priced at £2.64 for 100 pages on kindle, so quite expensive in comparison to others around, but really that depends on whether you’re likely to re read the book. I won’t – really enjoyed it as a one off but not one for my keepers file, but many people love these shorter, lighter romances and collect them eagerly. If that’s you then this is one you will enjoy.
Stars: I’m hovering over 3 and half to 4, as I said short novels aren’t really my thing but this was so very different from the norm that it was a real treat to read so – four it is :)
May 27, 2013
A cute read and a great love story.
June 22, 2013
3.5 Stars
The Virginity Mission is set in Australia. Mac/Willow is 21 years old, has graduated from University, and is on a science expedition in the jungle. The one thing that is weighing on her mind a lot more than the science expedition is the fact that she hasn't lost her virginity yet, which is something she seeks to rectify on this trip. Jason is the Army Sergeant in charge of the support team that is escorting the expedition. He's in his late 20's, hot, very hot, and when Mac sees him, she can't take her eyes off of him. There is just one problem. There are strict rules about fraternization with the army guys.....it is forbidden, which makes them both only want each other more.
The Virginity Mission is a short read, but is very sexy and steamy. The story line was entertaining and I enjoyed it very much. The story is told from Mac's POV. I liked her and enjoyed watching her come out of her shell and blossom, something that Jason helps foster in her. Jason is the quite type, but he is really hot. I also enjoyed the secondary characters in the story, and the romance was great. Overall, this is a great short contemporary read and if you are a fan of the New Adult genre, then this is something you might want to check out.
The Virginity Mission is set in Australia. Mac/Willow is 21 years old, has graduated from University, and is on a science expedition in the jungle. The one thing that is weighing on her mind a lot more than the science expedition is the fact that she hasn't lost her virginity yet, which is something she seeks to rectify on this trip. Jason is the Army Sergeant in charge of the support team that is escorting the expedition. He's in his late 20's, hot, very hot, and when Mac sees him, she can't take her eyes off of him. There is just one problem. There are strict rules about fraternization with the army guys.....it is forbidden, which makes them both only want each other more.
The Virginity Mission is a short read, but is very sexy and steamy. The story line was entertaining and I enjoyed it very much. The story is told from Mac's POV. I liked her and enjoyed watching her come out of her shell and blossom, something that Jason helps foster in her. Jason is the quite type, but he is really hot. I also enjoyed the secondary characters in the story, and the romance was great. Overall, this is a great short contemporary read and if you are a fan of the New Adult genre, then this is something you might want to check out.
May 14, 2013
I loved this book, the inner and outer (physical) journey of the character meshed really well, and Ellink captured all the insecurities and hopes of the female protagonist perfectly (she's great at writing emotion). Also, the main character is very authentic and credible, someone you could imagine running into in real life. Author does a great job of stringing out the suspense, so watch out, this one's a page-turner (I read the whole thing in one sit). Those hoping for a giant raptor to show up and eat half the characters will be disappointed, but if you're after a satisfying, believable romance then you can't go wrong with this one.
June 4, 2013
Slick‘s review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
Review copy provided for an honest review.
3 STARS
So, I almost didn’t request this book because of the title. Anyone who reads my reviews knows I really, really, really hate titles that spell out the fact virginity is involved; I’ve always wondered why announce it in the title, we’ll know soon enough and who the hell cares? But, the cover ( I know but I can’t help it…a nice chest and dog tags…who the hell can resist?) and the synopsis got me…it says “an erotic new adult romance”….well, I guess what I consider erotic and what others consider erotic are very different. It was sexy and even somewhat hot, but it was far from erotic. That’s not to say it wasn’t a good story and I didn’t enjoy it because I did,but I think it is somewhat mislabeled.
Willow MacIntosh (Mac) is on a six week scientific expedition and while she’s excited about the challenge of it, she’s also hoping to find someone with whom she can lose her virginity with. When she spots one of supporting Army staff loading equipment she decides he’s the perfect candidate but is afraid he’s out of her league not to mention the no fraternization policy. However when Jason approaches her later that day, she begins to think it might be a possibility and she decides to pursue him.
Written in first person, we see everything from Mac’s point of view and while she is 21 at times she seems much younger. While book smart, her personal skills are lacking which becomes even more noticeable when she’s around people her age and those older than her. I liked her and I even admired the fact that she signed up for the expedition to challenge herself. I also love that even though it was hard for her she stuck with it even if her reason’s for sticking with is were at times self serving. Jason is between a rock and a hard place, he finds Mac intriguing but he’s already been busted once because some of his people broke the rules with the last group of scientists. However, he begins to realize that sometimes rules are made to be broken. It’s hard not to like him when he tries to make things as special as he can for Mac.
With Jason being so much older, I think knowing what he was thinking or feeling was important. At what point I can’t help but wonder as what point will Mac’s immaturity and their age difference get in the way? While I enjoyed The Virginity Mission, I didn’t love it. This is a new adult book that kind of missed the mark for me, it is one of those books where seeing both sides of the story would have made it better.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
3 STARS
So, I almost didn’t request this book because of the title. Anyone who reads my reviews knows I really, really, really hate titles that spell out the fact virginity is involved; I’ve always wondered why announce it in the title, we’ll know soon enough and who the hell cares? But, the cover ( I know but I can’t help it…a nice chest and dog tags…who the hell can resist?) and the synopsis got me…it says “an erotic new adult romance”….well, I guess what I consider erotic and what others consider erotic are very different. It was sexy and even somewhat hot, but it was far from erotic. That’s not to say it wasn’t a good story and I didn’t enjoy it because I did,but I think it is somewhat mislabeled.
Willow MacIntosh (Mac) is on a six week scientific expedition and while she’s excited about the challenge of it, she’s also hoping to find someone with whom she can lose her virginity with. When she spots one of supporting Army staff loading equipment she decides he’s the perfect candidate but is afraid he’s out of her league not to mention the no fraternization policy. However when Jason approaches her later that day, she begins to think it might be a possibility and she decides to pursue him.
Written in first person, we see everything from Mac’s point of view and while she is 21 at times she seems much younger. While book smart, her personal skills are lacking which becomes even more noticeable when she’s around people her age and those older than her. I liked her and I even admired the fact that she signed up for the expedition to challenge herself. I also love that even though it was hard for her she stuck with it even if her reason’s for sticking with is were at times self serving. Jason is between a rock and a hard place, he finds Mac intriguing but he’s already been busted once because some of his people broke the rules with the last group of scientists. However, he begins to realize that sometimes rules are made to be broken. It’s hard not to like him when he tries to make things as special as he can for Mac.
With Jason being so much older, I think knowing what he was thinking or feeling was important. At what point I can’t help but wonder as what point will Mac’s immaturity and their age difference get in the way? While I enjoyed The Virginity Mission, I didn’t love it. This is a new adult book that kind of missed the mark for me, it is one of those books where seeing both sides of the story would have made it better.
June 18, 2013
I'm giving this book 3.5 stars because it wasn't what I was expecting. I seriously thought it was a m/m romance! I mean, look at the cover....sexy manly chest. Okay, now read the description. No where in that description was the pronoun she or even he for that matter. The main characters name's are Jason and Mac. I read about 20% before I realized that Mac was a woman! I kept reading it though because it captured my interest and I don't read very many books set in Australia. Jason was definitely the strong silent hunky type of man that I love reading about and always want more of. Mac, whose real name is Willow Macintosh, was the very inexperienced virgin (never been kissed either). She was shy and sweet and seemed almost backwards at times. The building of their relationship wasn't rushed although out of six weeks they only spent a part of that together. Overall, it was an enjoyable book....even if it was completely different then I was expecting. So, I guess the low rating is my fault and has nothing to do with the story itself. I think the description needs to be rewritten.
July 6, 2013
This novella is a quick read that gets straight to the point; Mac wants to lose her V-card. Who better than the army sergeant Jason that is in charge of the expedition that Mac is a part of; with a rule that no fraternization is allowed. We always want what we can’t have.
What I liked about this is the fact that even though she sees Jason in the first chapter and lusts after him (hard core,) she doesn’t get him right off the bat. Timing was not in Mac’s favor for a good portion of the book because there was never a moment when they could really be alone together. It made me want for that moment even more because Ellink’s held off on giving it to me. When the moment came, I had all this anticipation built up that it was like a little party in my head.
However, I will say that Mac and Jason did not have the connection that I wanted between them. While they were a cute couple, they weren’t the best couple. If I could change this book, I would make it longer so that I could really get to know Mac and Jason and see the chemistry develop between them besides just their lust for each other.~BookWhisperer Reviewer MC~
What I liked about this is the fact that even though she sees Jason in the first chapter and lusts after him (hard core,) she doesn’t get him right off the bat. Timing was not in Mac’s favor for a good portion of the book because there was never a moment when they could really be alone together. It made me want for that moment even more because Ellink’s held off on giving it to me. When the moment came, I had all this anticipation built up that it was like a little party in my head.
However, I will say that Mac and Jason did not have the connection that I wanted between them. While they were a cute couple, they weren’t the best couple. If I could change this book, I would make it longer so that I could really get to know Mac and Jason and see the chemistry develop between them besides just their lust for each other.~BookWhisperer Reviewer MC~
July 5, 2013
2 1/2 stars
Thanks to NetGalley for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The simplistic premise of the story is, virginal Mac meets hunky army sergeant, Jason when she is chosen to be a part of a six week scientific expedition into the Australian wilderness. Of course fraternisation isn't allowed between the scientists and the military, but gosh darn it, they're going to do it anyways.
Their connection is (of course) instantaneous and Mac spends the entire book trying to figure out a way to lose her virginity with the hunky man she has only met for 5 seconds.
I found Mac not quite fully developed. It felt like Ellink wasn't sure what type of MC she wanted. Mac waffled between completely naive and a harlot. Her character confused me. Then there was Jason. He was sweet, handsome and completely conflicted, but a worthy hero.
All in all, the story was okay, the characterizations were a bit off for me, but for someone else they might connect with Mac more than I did. Just a ho-hum sort of read for me.
Thanks to NetGalley for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The simplistic premise of the story is, virginal Mac meets hunky army sergeant, Jason when she is chosen to be a part of a six week scientific expedition into the Australian wilderness. Of course fraternisation isn't allowed between the scientists and the military, but gosh darn it, they're going to do it anyways.
Their connection is (of course) instantaneous and Mac spends the entire book trying to figure out a way to lose her virginity with the hunky man she has only met for 5 seconds.
I found Mac not quite fully developed. It felt like Ellink wasn't sure what type of MC she wanted. Mac waffled between completely naive and a harlot. Her character confused me. Then there was Jason. He was sweet, handsome and completely conflicted, but a worthy hero.
All in all, the story was okay, the characterizations were a bit off for me, but for someone else they might connect with Mac more than I did. Just a ho-hum sort of read for me.
April 20, 2018
Mac is a 20 some year old virgin on a scientific expedition in the Australian rainforest. She's stepping outside of her comfort zone to push herself into opening up more and hoping that she will also find someone with a taste for cherry. Right from the start her lust is fueled by Jason, the Army sergeant that is there with his team to support the expedition. The problem is that everyone has been warned that fraternization between the solders and the students is strictly prohibited. You know what they say about forbidden fruit....
This is a very short and quick read, about 100 pages. It starts out with Mac's sighting of Jason and takes off from there. There is a little push and pull in the beginning but you pretty much get the idea from the start that Jason is as attracted to Mac as she is to him. Jason is in his 30's and much more experienced and Mac comes off quite naive but for being a complete story that's wrapped up as little time as it is, it's a good read. Check it out!
This is a very short and quick read, about 100 pages. It starts out with Mac's sighting of Jason and takes off from there. There is a little push and pull in the beginning but you pretty much get the idea from the start that Jason is as attracted to Mac as she is to him. Jason is in his 30's and much more experienced and Mac comes off quite naive but for being a complete story that's wrapped up as little time as it is, it's a good read. Check it out!
June 3, 2013
I love first person writing, and I particularly enjoy first person, present tense.
I read The Virginity Mission on my Kindle over Saturday and Sunday, sitting in the sun yesterday afternoon.
I thought the characterisation of 'Mac' aka Willow, was excellent - she thinks of herself as a gawky, bony girl that no man could find desirable, and hence she's a 21-year-old virgin, with best friends who make 'man magnets.'
This research trip and camping expedition to the mangroves and rainforest of North Queensland is her opportunity to lose her cherry.
Cate Ellink's descriptions of the rainforest are wonderful - extremely vivid and realistic and having read more about Cate, I know this is because she has a science background and many years ago, went on just this type of expedition.
Thank you Cate, I loved this story.
I read The Virginity Mission on my Kindle over Saturday and Sunday, sitting in the sun yesterday afternoon.
I thought the characterisation of 'Mac' aka Willow, was excellent - she thinks of herself as a gawky, bony girl that no man could find desirable, and hence she's a 21-year-old virgin, with best friends who make 'man magnets.'
This research trip and camping expedition to the mangroves and rainforest of North Queensland is her opportunity to lose her cherry.
Cate Ellink's descriptions of the rainforest are wonderful - extremely vivid and realistic and having read more about Cate, I know this is because she has a science background and many years ago, went on just this type of expedition.
Thank you Cate, I loved this story.
June 9, 2013
The Virginity Mission is a book that grew on me as I got deeper into the story. The concept intrigued me quickly, and the author went into a great deal of detail about the scientific expedition. Due to my lack of experience with science, some of the details slowed the story for me or went over my head, but I never lost the sense that the author had accurately portrayed the job Mac was sent to do. Mac's characterization was a little jarring early on the in the book, but smoothed out as the story went on. My favorite part of the book by far was Jason, and the narration style (first-person, present tense). Definitely enjoyed this one, and am glad I picked it up.
July 15, 2013
Okay, so this short story was never intended to win The Booker but it was just what I fancied reading yesterday morning. What I liked best:
- How the expedition forced Mac to realise that she’s allowed her personality to limit her…
"How have I become an ‘okay-achiever’ with no confidence?"
- And how her relationship with Jason made her more comfortable with her body shape.
- That the story was sexy, but not just an excuse for those scenes.
http://bookblather.wordpress.com/2013...
- How the expedition forced Mac to realise that she’s allowed her personality to limit her…
"How have I become an ‘okay-achiever’ with no confidence?"
- And how her relationship with Jason made her more comfortable with her body shape.
- That the story was sexy, but not just an excuse for those scenes.
http://bookblather.wordpress.com/2013...
June 5, 2013
2 Stars
This is an Australia erotica story. Mac is on a special scientific research trip that will have her hiking in and out of the Australian jungle. While on this trip it is Mac’s intention to lose her virginity. She feels she is too old (22) to still be in hold of this commodity. Arriving at base camp she meets a shirtless Jason and falls head over heels in lust. This book seems overly long and drawn out.
This is an Australia erotica story. Mac is on a special scientific research trip that will have her hiking in and out of the Australian jungle. While on this trip it is Mac’s intention to lose her virginity. She feels she is too old (22) to still be in hold of this commodity. Arriving at base camp she meets a shirtless Jason and falls head over heels in lust. This book seems overly long and drawn out.
February 11, 2014
I love this book. It was sexy and fun and just long enough for me to read in one sitting without feeling guilty that I hadn't done the dishes! I've reread it twice since I bought it and can't wait for Ms. Ellink's next one to come out.
June 9, 2013
A little too instalovey for me. I'll be posting a full review shortly.
November 25, 2013
Was originally posted on Paranormal Sisters: http://paranormalsisters.blogspot.com...
*was given a copy from the author for my honest opinions*
I honestly feel like I don’t have many words for this because I honestly don’t remember that being the summary back when I requested this book, because with that blurb I so wouldn’t have wanted to read this (probably, if I had this summary before my opinion might have been different). That blurb is so accurate, it’s showing this book is just all about sex while the rest is absolutely boring! When it’s just Mac and no Jason around, I was completely bored! I even stopped reading the book for a couple of months, it was just so easy to walk away.
The only interesting parts about this book was the lust between Mac (Willow) and Jason. Yet that’s all I see between them, however at the end they somehow fall in love? I didn’t see how but I guess there was that kind of connection between the characters. I just didn’t see what they had in common to give them that kind of connection.
Oh the characters. Mac, our female lead, was boring. I had no connection to her or her journey. I really didn’t care what she did when she wasn’t with Jason. But when Jason got into the picture, things would pick up and I would become interested in the story. Mainly cause whenever those two got together it would lead into a hot make out scene or more. So who wouldn’t find interest in that, those scenes were the best thing about this book ;)
Now see, this is where I’m torn. Ugh! Sometimes I hated Jason, like this one scene where he got Mac completely naked and played with her but when she tried to have fun with him, he stopped it saying this was wrong. Yet it’s fine if you play with her even though there’s that “no fraternization” rule. So apparently that rule only applies to her, not you? I get it, things can get out of hand when you’re attracted to someone but still, that scene made me dislike you Jason.
Anyways, why I’m torn is because the author wrote that amazing connection I feel when I’m with the man I love. When our flesh is touching, our legs are tangled, and our hearts are beating as one. She wrote that perfectly into the scenes when Mac and Jason were getting it on and that’s when I was able to feel somewhat connected to the story, because I know how that feels. I also know how bad it hurts to have to walk away from a man in the military, from my Marine. It’s because we too can’t be completely together because of the “rules”, because I’m not yet his wife. So by the end of the book, I was swept away and hoping for a happily ever after.
There was another time where I would get connected, when Mac would get confident because of Jason. I've gotten my confidence from my boyfriend, he helped bring it out of me which made me fall in love with him. But I still wasn't a big fan of this. Again, I'm being torn because of two those little situations in this novella. Overall I wouldn't completely recommend it but who knows, you might enjoy it more than me.
December 24, 2013
Thank you to Escape Publishing for allowing me to read and review this book
Find this review on more on my blog The Rest Is Still Unwritten
The Virginity Mission is a sleek and sexy debut by Cate Ellink, set in the Australian rainforest and featuring a sensual and easy romance in the middle of an adventure.
In all honesty it’s difficult to wrap my head around The Virginity Mission. It was exactly what I expected and at the same time it wasn’t. Featuring twenty-one year old Willow "Mac" MacIntosh, on her "mission" to lose her virginity while on a scientific expedition in north Queensland, The Virginity Mission details Mac’s relationship with solider Jason who accompanies Mac’s group during their escapades and who is the object of Mac’s desire.
I will admit I did enjoy this book. I’m a sucker for a tension filled romance which this certainly is. The Virginity Mission is quite quick, but centers pretty much only around Mac’s desire to lose her virginity and the start of her relationship with Jason. If you’re looking for a long drawn out romance with plenty of depth, then this probably isn’t the book for you but if you're looking for a sexy, physical story then this is definitely for you!
The Virginity Mission really just centers around Mac and her desire to connect with someone and sleep with them for the first time, but that’s not to say that there isn’t a connection between Mac and Jason because there is. Their relationship is sexy and thrilling, with an aspect of forbidden thrown in for good measure.
I quite liked Mac and I think Ellink wrote her fears and insecurities very realistically. It's no hard feat to imagine that someone experiencing a sexual relationship for the first time would act like Mac did. In fact, it was quite easy for me to put myself in Mac's shoes. Her self doubts and her second guessing herself really are quite normal and I liked that Ellink didn't write Mac as too self-assured and confidant. Rather she was a young woman discovering lust and desire for the first time.
Personally I liked Jason, even if I felt like there was so much more to him we could have learnt and I enjoyed seeing his and Mac's romance spice up. My biggest issue with this story, is that I really would have liked to explore the characters more and see a bit more depth to the story.
Still, encompassing romance, sex and adventure, The Virginity Mission is a fun, easy book to pass the day and will easily sweep you up into a passionate and exciting romance that is enjoyable to read. Worth a go!
Find this review on more on my blog The Rest Is Still Unwritten
The Virginity Mission is a sleek and sexy debut by Cate Ellink, set in the Australian rainforest and featuring a sensual and easy romance in the middle of an adventure.
In all honesty it’s difficult to wrap my head around The Virginity Mission. It was exactly what I expected and at the same time it wasn’t. Featuring twenty-one year old Willow "Mac" MacIntosh, on her "mission" to lose her virginity while on a scientific expedition in north Queensland, The Virginity Mission details Mac’s relationship with solider Jason who accompanies Mac’s group during their escapades and who is the object of Mac’s desire.
I will admit I did enjoy this book. I’m a sucker for a tension filled romance which this certainly is. The Virginity Mission is quite quick, but centers pretty much only around Mac’s desire to lose her virginity and the start of her relationship with Jason. If you’re looking for a long drawn out romance with plenty of depth, then this probably isn’t the book for you but if you're looking for a sexy, physical story then this is definitely for you!
The Virginity Mission really just centers around Mac and her desire to connect with someone and sleep with them for the first time, but that’s not to say that there isn’t a connection between Mac and Jason because there is. Their relationship is sexy and thrilling, with an aspect of forbidden thrown in for good measure.
I quite liked Mac and I think Ellink wrote her fears and insecurities very realistically. It's no hard feat to imagine that someone experiencing a sexual relationship for the first time would act like Mac did. In fact, it was quite easy for me to put myself in Mac's shoes. Her self doubts and her second guessing herself really are quite normal and I liked that Ellink didn't write Mac as too self-assured and confidant. Rather she was a young woman discovering lust and desire for the first time.
Personally I liked Jason, even if I felt like there was so much more to him we could have learnt and I enjoyed seeing his and Mac's romance spice up. My biggest issue with this story, is that I really would have liked to explore the characters more and see a bit more depth to the story.
Still, encompassing romance, sex and adventure, The Virginity Mission is a fun, easy book to pass the day and will easily sweep you up into a passionate and exciting romance that is enjoyable to read. Worth a go!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 24, 2014
The Virginity Mission by Cate Ellink
Source: Netgalley
My Rating: 2½/5 stars
My Review:
Willow MacIntosh – Mac to everyone – is young and inexperienced in so many ways. In an effort to rectify the situation and on somewhat of a whim, she applied for a six week research trip that will take her through the north Queensland rainforest. Though she is excited about the research and the opportunity to spread her wings, Mac also has an ulterior motive, to lose her virginity. As Mac explains:
“I haven’t meant to remain a virgin. University should be full of sex and fun, but for me it’s been full of study. The years slipped by and now I’m about to finish uni and enter the adult world as an untested girl. This trip could solve my problem. Six weeks of girls and guys camping together. Surely I could get lucky.”
Almost immediately Mac sets her sights on the one and only man she absolutely cannot have, Jason. Jason is an army sergeant assigned to a unit sent with the research group to protect them while in the rainforest. There is a very strict “no fraternization” policy in place so naturally, Mac can’t stop thinking about the hotness that is Jason. The thinking and wanting only get worse when in a moment of weakness, Jason and Mac kiss. For the next six weeks the two play a sort of cat and mouse game with one another and everyone in their respective groups. Mac is determined to have Jason and complete the research trip and Jason is determined to have Mac and keep his job.
The Bottom Line: For me, the only redeeming quality of this read is Jason. He is strong and confident, funny and intelligent and, capable and competent. Jason’s easy-going nature is a fine compliment to his strong sense of duty and I was pretty smitten with him from the beginning. On the other hand, there is Mac and I had a really hard time with her. Mac is absolutely filled with self-doubt about every aspect of her life. I could certainly understand a small amount of self-doubt – who doesn’t have that? – but Mac is nearly consumed with it. Since this read is told predominately from Mac’s POV, I found myself becoming frustrated with her very early on and simply skimming through some of her inner dialogue. This read would have been far, far more enjoyable with less introspection, less self-doubt, more humor and way more naked Jason. In all, The Virginity Mission fell a bit short for me.
Source: Netgalley
My Rating: 2½/5 stars
My Review:
Willow MacIntosh – Mac to everyone – is young and inexperienced in so many ways. In an effort to rectify the situation and on somewhat of a whim, she applied for a six week research trip that will take her through the north Queensland rainforest. Though she is excited about the research and the opportunity to spread her wings, Mac also has an ulterior motive, to lose her virginity. As Mac explains:
“I haven’t meant to remain a virgin. University should be full of sex and fun, but for me it’s been full of study. The years slipped by and now I’m about to finish uni and enter the adult world as an untested girl. This trip could solve my problem. Six weeks of girls and guys camping together. Surely I could get lucky.”
Almost immediately Mac sets her sights on the one and only man she absolutely cannot have, Jason. Jason is an army sergeant assigned to a unit sent with the research group to protect them while in the rainforest. There is a very strict “no fraternization” policy in place so naturally, Mac can’t stop thinking about the hotness that is Jason. The thinking and wanting only get worse when in a moment of weakness, Jason and Mac kiss. For the next six weeks the two play a sort of cat and mouse game with one another and everyone in their respective groups. Mac is determined to have Jason and complete the research trip and Jason is determined to have Mac and keep his job.
The Bottom Line: For me, the only redeeming quality of this read is Jason. He is strong and confident, funny and intelligent and, capable and competent. Jason’s easy-going nature is a fine compliment to his strong sense of duty and I was pretty smitten with him from the beginning. On the other hand, there is Mac and I had a really hard time with her. Mac is absolutely filled with self-doubt about every aspect of her life. I could certainly understand a small amount of self-doubt – who doesn’t have that? – but Mac is nearly consumed with it. Since this read is told predominately from Mac’s POV, I found myself becoming frustrated with her very early on and simply skimming through some of her inner dialogue. This read would have been far, far more enjoyable with less introspection, less self-doubt, more humor and way more naked Jason. In all, The Virginity Mission fell a bit short for me.
October 18, 2013
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I received this book from Netgalley in exchange of an honest review.
The blurb appealed to me when I was looking for books to request on Netgalley and I must say that I was expecting something else.
The writing style of the author is quite flawless so I can’t – and won’t – rate The Virginity Mission badly. That being said, I didn’t enjoy this story all that much. Half of the time I was bored, missing something to make this whole book more addictive.
There are too many descriptions and while I love descriptions, this time around I think they mostly broke the rhythm of the story. The whole expedition thing could have been more thrilling and even interesting to see more of the interactions between the people in Mac’s group. Instead there are more descriptions.
Also, we still don’t know a thing about Fiona. There were a few hints about her character and I thought that there would be more about her, but not at all, which means that I don’t understand her purpose all that much.
The chemistry between Mac and Jason was good enough, but nothing that will stay with me now that I’m finished reading. It’s too bad because when you’re reading that kind of book, what you’re primarily looking for is a strong and sizzling kind of chemistry between the lead characters. At least, that’s what I’m looking for.
I hate writing such a review because the author is really talented, but I think the plot and characterization are a miss for me. It happens and believe me, it’s difficult for me too.
This novel is not long, the writing is great and maybe Mac and Jason’s story will win you over more than it did it for me.
Let me know what you think about it.
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange of an honest review.
The blurb appealed to me when I was looking for books to request on Netgalley and I must say that I was expecting something else.
The writing style of the author is quite flawless so I can’t – and won’t – rate The Virginity Mission badly. That being said, I didn’t enjoy this story all that much. Half of the time I was bored, missing something to make this whole book more addictive.
There are too many descriptions and while I love descriptions, this time around I think they mostly broke the rhythm of the story. The whole expedition thing could have been more thrilling and even interesting to see more of the interactions between the people in Mac’s group. Instead there are more descriptions.
Also, we still don’t know a thing about Fiona. There were a few hints about her character and I thought that there would be more about her, but not at all, which means that I don’t understand her purpose all that much.
The chemistry between Mac and Jason was good enough, but nothing that will stay with me now that I’m finished reading. It’s too bad because when you’re reading that kind of book, what you’re primarily looking for is a strong and sizzling kind of chemistry between the lead characters. At least, that’s what I’m looking for.
I hate writing such a review because the author is really talented, but I think the plot and characterization are a miss for me. It happens and believe me, it’s difficult for me too.
This novel is not long, the writing is great and maybe Mac and Jason’s story will win you over more than it did it for me.
Let me know what you think about it.
August 9, 2013
Sometimes the quest to lose your virginity can be more difficult than hiking to the highest peak in the Rainforest, at least it is for Mac. This was a great short story and while it’s about Mac wanting to lose that pesky virginity, there is so much more to it!
I love the way Jason helps Mac learn so much about herself. It’s more of a story of self-discovery than anything else. While she thinks losing her virginity will be the biggest accomplishment of this adventure she’s undertaken, she slowly learns that sometimes, the journey is more important.
There is a great message about how one’s environment can shape their personality without even realizing it. Jason is more than just a fling. He pushes Mac to push herself. To be daring and discover who she is and what she wants. The trip is a complete eye opener for her, and while Jason plays a huge role in her transformation, even she doesn’t see how much of herself she’s found until she returns home.
The Virginity Mission, while short and enticing, will challenge readers to question themselves. To take a serious look at their personality and actions and say, why am I the way I am? The Virginity Mission is a little Australian gem of a story that will captivate your heart and challenge your spirit to test the confines of your own experiences.
**ARC provided by Netgalley for honest review.
I love the way Jason helps Mac learn so much about herself. It’s more of a story of self-discovery than anything else. While she thinks losing her virginity will be the biggest accomplishment of this adventure she’s undertaken, she slowly learns that sometimes, the journey is more important.
There is a great message about how one’s environment can shape their personality without even realizing it. Jason is more than just a fling. He pushes Mac to push herself. To be daring and discover who she is and what she wants. The trip is a complete eye opener for her, and while Jason plays a huge role in her transformation, even she doesn’t see how much of herself she’s found until she returns home.
The Virginity Mission, while short and enticing, will challenge readers to question themselves. To take a serious look at their personality and actions and say, why am I the way I am? The Virginity Mission is a little Australian gem of a story that will captivate your heart and challenge your spirit to test the confines of your own experiences.
**ARC provided by Netgalley for honest review.
July 6, 2013
This novella is a quick read that gets straight to the point; Mac wants to lose her V-card. Who better than the army sergeant Jason that is in charge of the expedition that Mac is a part of; with a rule that no fraternization is allowed. We always want what we can’t have.
What I liked about this is the fact that even though she sees Jason in the first chapter and lusts after him (hard core,) she doesn’t get him right off the bat. Timing was not in Mac’s favor for a good portion of the book because there was never a moment when they could really be alone together. It made me want for that moment even more because Ellink’s held off on giving it to me. When the moment came, I had all this anticipation built up that it was like a little party in my head.
However, I will say that Mac and Jason did not have the connection that I wanted between them. While they were a cute couple, they weren’t the best couple. If I could change this book, I would make it longer so that I could really get to know Mac and Jason and see the chemistry develop between them besides just their lust for each other.
What I liked about this is the fact that even though she sees Jason in the first chapter and lusts after him (hard core,) she doesn’t get him right off the bat. Timing was not in Mac’s favor for a good portion of the book because there was never a moment when they could really be alone together. It made me want for that moment even more because Ellink’s held off on giving it to me. When the moment came, I had all this anticipation built up that it was like a little party in my head.
However, I will say that Mac and Jason did not have the connection that I wanted between them. While they were a cute couple, they weren’t the best couple. If I could change this book, I would make it longer so that I could really get to know Mac and Jason and see the chemistry develop between them besides just their lust for each other.
July 17, 2013
I read this one on my kindle and truly enjoyed Mac's/heroine's self-deprecating humor and self-doubts. Also loved the first person pov that dragged me even further into the book. The setting was great, the hero charismatic and earthy. A nice read 5 stars =)
October 5, 2014
3.5 stars. I won this from a giveaway and it was a quick read. There isn't too much information about the main character, Mac, and how she ended up in this group. I wish there was a continuation to share more about her relationship with Jason when she returned to work in the mangroves.
August 10, 2013
Booktube review: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=URrjEB...
July 29, 2013
Review to come.
October 9, 2013
Cute, fast read. It suffered a little from "insta-love" syndrome, but not enough to ruin the story. I really liked the characters and plot. I won't hesitate to read more from this author.
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