The Pearl Trilogy

Pearl #1-3

by Arianne Richmonde

Documentary producer, Pearl Robinson, is a beautiful and smart 40-year-old divorcee but has not had a date for over two years. When she meets Alexandre Chevalier, a young French, Internet success story, she's stunned by his charm, beauty and sophistication, and startled by her strong feelings and desire for a man fifteen years her junior.

His looks, wealth and worldwide triumph with his social media site, HookedUp, means this powerful billionaire can get any woman he chooses, but there is something about Pearl he finds irresistible...

The couple begins a passionate affair and Pearl's body is awakened in ways she never imagined possible. She is consumed by him and his magical touch. But jealous family members, Pearl's insecurities and other external forces are threatening to pull them apart.

This three-book series of the full-length novels Forty Shades of Pearl, Shadows of Pearl and Shimmers of Pearl follow the couple's tumultuous and heart-rending relationship.

Genres: Romance, BDSM, Contemporary, Contemporary Romance, Ebooks, Erotic Romance, Amazon

822 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 22, 2013

About the author

ARIANNE RICHMONDE is the USA TODAY bestselling author of the psychological thrillers, THE WIFE'S HOUSE and THE NEWLYWEDS (published by Bookouture, Hachette UK), and suspense and romance.

Her Pearl series has sold more than half a million copies worldwide. Her stories are always character-driven and full of unexpected twists and turns.

Apart from writing about the passions and fragilities of human nature, she loves to spend time with her husband and their animals, including a femme fatale Husky with one blue eye and one golden eye. Arianne's a chocaholic and sometimes sneaks off to sunny, exotic locations, all in the name of research.

For updates on new releases, sales and giveaways please sign up for her Newsletter by going to: https://bit.ly/2ZoRQVx (copy and paste to your browser). Or join her on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorAriann... or send her an email ariannerichmonde@gmail.com - she loves hearing from readers and will always reply.

Reviews

[Kathleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review posted at: Swept Away By Romance

The Pearl Trilogy starts off with book one Shades of Pearl, where we met the heroine Pearl, and the very sexy and much younger hero, Alexander. I loved reading how these two met and started their relationship. The story line was excellent and a real page turner. The love scenes were scorching hot and very sensual. At the end of this book, I was very eager to read Book 2, Shadows of Pearl where the story continues. I must say that I really enjoyed Shades of Pearl but Shadows of Pearl… BLEW ME AWAY! This part of the series had my emotions all over the place. There were so many twists and turns between these two lovers and I was completely immersed in the book. The ending was a jaw dropping cliffhanger and UNFORGETTABLE!! I had tears running down my face and thinking NO…that did not just happen?!

There was a short wait for book 3, Shimmers of Pearl, and I wasn’t very patient anticipating the book's release. The minute I knew Shimmers of Pearl was available I snagged it and loaded on my Kindle. All the other books I had planned to read were tossed to the side, and I dove right into Shimmers of Pearl. I just had to know what was going to happen next. In book 3, I got all the answers to the questions I was left wondering about at the end of Shadows of Pearl. Of course, Pearl and Alexander experienced major drama again, which I loved, and I was hooked and had a hard time putting the book down. The ending was FANTASTIC and a wonderful conclusion to The Pearl Trilogy!! It left me with a great big smile on my face, very satisfied and a HUGE fan of Arianne Richmonde!


What I loved about the Pearl Trilogy:

1.) I LOVED the fact that I was drawn to into this story by the wonderful characters of Pearl and Alexander. She was an older woman and that did not deter Alexander from wanting all of her, heart, body and soul…PRICELESS!

2.) The story grabbed me in a big way, with many twist and turns, a real page turner, and I needed to know what was going to happen next.

3.) My emotions all over the place; one minute I was happy, the next sad and even mad at times. So much so, that I wanted to hit some of these characters on the head. I really felt what was going on…JUST AMAZING!!

4.) It was SCORCHING HOT!! The love scenes were fantastic. This is where I felt that Arianne Richmonde's writing shined. I could REALLY FEEL the attraction, and desire that Pearl and Alexander had for each other. These scenes were so sensual and passionate, and the love just leapt off the pages.

5.) Most of all, I loved how the story concluded, with an EXCELLENT epilogue that takes Pearl and Alexander to their Happily Ever After ending! It was so sigh-worthy! Ahhhhhh!

This series was AWESOME! I'm happy to see that it is being released in a box set with all 3 books; you can read them one right after the other, no waiting! If you have not read this series, I urge you to give it a try.

Make sure to stop by at Review posted at: Swept Away By Romance You have 8 day's to stop by for a chance to win one of 10 ebook copies of Glass, an erotic short, and a $50 Amazon gift card…wow! So come on by and sign the Rafflecopter, you could be one of the lucky winner's.

[Kel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Where do I start??? I really loved this story! Reading about a woman in her 40s who grabs the attention of a much younger stud was all it took to reel me in. I haven’t come across too many stories like this so when I do, I really enjoy them. To be able to read all three books at one time was such a treat because I didn’t have to wait for the next one to come out :)

Pearl is a woman who is 4o years old and recently divorced. She is successful, beautiful and in need of a man that knows how to treat her right. Her previous husband wasn’t the best in the bedroom and believe me when I say….Pearl missed out on a LOT! She realizes just how much after she meets and falls in love with the gorgeous Alexandre. He helps her experience all kinds of naughty and delicious things along with showing her the meaning of true love.

Alexandre is wealthy and sexy and happens to own a multi-million dollar company. When you first meet him, you know immediately that he is a man who clearly knows what he wants and doesn’t hesitate to go after it. What I love most about Alexandre is how he never once asks Pearl how old she is. To him, it doesn’t matter. All he knows is that he wants to spend more time with her and get to know her even better.

From their first meeting, the drama and turmoil never seems to stop! Don’t get me wrong, there are plenty of wonderful encounters between the two of them but you can’t have a good story without a little drama, right? Pearl deals with Alexandre’s sister, his ex-girlfriend and her own brother who, at times, doesn’t treat her very well. Alexandre, on the other hand, is constantly trying to squash all of Pearl’s insecurities and doubts. I don’t want to give too much away, so you will need to read the story to get all the up close and personal details.

All in all, this love story caught me from the beginning and didn’t let me go. The way Pearl and Alexandre connected (both intellectually and sexually) was truly intense. The sex scenes were…were…FREAKING HOT! Kudos to Ms. Richmonde for making me sweat a little ;)

This is a book that everyone should read. I am so excited to be reading the next installment entitled Pearl. It is the story told from Alexandre’s POV and I have no doubt it will be nothing short of fantastic!

[Arianne Richmonde · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best erotica series I have read to date.'
---Megan Cain Loera

'THANK YOU Arianne Richmonde for this EXCELLLENT series. I have found myself another must read author and can hardly wait to read Arianne's next book and see what she has in store for her fans!'
--- Swept Away by Romance

'I was hooked on this book from the very first page. I have read A LOT of books and it is pretty hard to shock me and trick me but Arianne Richmonde did this with The Pearl Trilogy. I had many mouth hanging on the floor moments because I was just so surprised as to what I was reading. I swear you won't see it coming.'
---The Book Enthusiast

'It’s amazing. AMUHZING. HOLY HECK… the trilogy as one is a don’t-miss-read. I promise. Do I recommend any of the part of the trilogy on their own? Nope, not a chance. As a whole bundle? Do. Not. Miss.'
---LoveNBooks

'I can't wait to read more from this author, she is truly a writing genius, she will have you hooked, Highly recommended to all my friends.'
---Confessions of a Bookaholic


Documentary producer, Pearl Robinson, is a beautiful and smart 40-year-old divorcee but has not had a date for over two years. When she meets Alexandre Chevalier, a young French, Internet success story, she's stunned by his charm, beauty and sophistication, and startled by her strong feelings and desire for a man fifteen years her junior.

His looks, wealth and worldwide triumph with his social media site, HookedUp, means this powerful billionaire can get any woman he chooses, but there is something about Pearl he finds irresistible...

The couple begins a passionate affair and Pearl's body is awakened in ways she never imagined possible. She is consumed by him and his magical touch. But jealous family members, Pearl's insecurities and other external forces are threatening to pull them apart.

This three-book series, Forty Shades of Pearl, Shadows of Pearl and Shimmers of Pearl follow the couple's tumultuous and heart-rending relationship.

[Alicia · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not quite done with Book 3. I can't believe anyone could even compare this to 50 Shades Of Grey. Not even close. I thought I'd scream from the use of "inner goddess" in the 50 Trilogy. This ones makes me want to headdesk over and over. The "venus" and "V-8" euphemisms were juvenile. The writing itself seemed more on a teen level. I plan to finish the trilogy and unfortunately I bought the next two as well. Only reading them because I paid good money for the ebooks. First time I've wished I had the actual books so I could return them and get my money back. Can't do that with a kindle.

[Judy Franks · Rating 2 out of 5]

I am embarrassed to admit that I read the entire trilogy! The it was a mess, the heroine was insecure and the romance was nothing but a formula written every twenty pages or so to fill space. The premise of this book was promising. It perhaps the author didn't have the confidence to explore the main idea. There were silly distractions thrown in that even the characters admit were surreal and not to be believed.

[~IreneOust~ · Rating 5 out of 5]

[Gwen · Rating 4 out of 5]

J'ai dévoré la série en à peine 3 jours !!
Très belle trilogie que j’ai lu avec grand plaisir. J’ai accroché dès le début !
On y découvre la relation sentimentale naissante de Pearl et Alexandre et toutes les péripéties qui suivront ; chacun ayant sur différents points un passé douloureux que se soit familial ou affectif.
J’ai bien aimé que le cliché de la différence d’âge ne soit pas utilisé tout au long du livre.
Il rare de voir un homme de 25 ans aussi mature que ne l’est Alexandre, il sait ce qu’il veut et fait tout pour l’avoir. Il comprend, connait…vite Pearl et comment son esprit fonctionne.
Sinon c’est un beau duo que je relirais avec plaisir !


Elle est intitulée The Pearl Trilogy et les tomes sont les suivants: Shades of Pearl, Shadows of Pearl et Shimmers of Pearl. C’est une romance contemporaine et elle nous narre la rencontre puis la relation entre une femme de 40 ans (Pearl Robinson) et un jeune homme de 25 ans (Alexandre Chevalier). J’ai beaucoup aimé cette trilogie, d’autant que la différence d’âge entre eux n’est pas le moteur de l’histoire ni un élément réellement important. Pourtant, ce qui m’a donné envie de lire le livre c’est bien le fait qu’il y ait une « couguar ». Je n’en avais jamais lu.
Je ne connaissais pas non plus l’auteur et ce fut une agréable surprise et une belle découverte.

Bien que des sujets graves soient parfois abordés, l’atmosphère est légère, agréable et l’humour est toujours présent.
J’étais heureuse en finissant ma lecture et j’avais le sourire aux lèvres.
Le ton employé changeait en fonction des évènements : sensualité, drame, humour et même intrigue policière. Le tout sans jamais tomber dans le larmoyant ni dans l’excès.
On y a aussi une belle description de Paris historique lors de la visite de nos héros avec un groupe de jeunes filles dans notre capitale et c’était tellement bien rendu que je n’avais pas besoin de fermer les yeux pour y être.
Nos héros se retrouvent également à New York (là où débute le premier tome de la trilogie), à Nashville, à Los Angeles et à Hawaï.

L’histoire se déroule sur une courte période, c’est la durée de leur séparation qui est longue. Pearl prendra ce temps pour réfléchir et comprendre (seule ou en parlant avec certaines personnes) comment et pourquoi la situation a pu dégénérer à ce point, ce qu’elle a fait de bien et de mal. Par contre, l’auteur ayant écrit un roman selon le point de vue du héros, le lecteur en saura plus sur les ressentis de ce dernier. Le roman est intitulé Pearl et a été publié le 30 août 2013.

Le rythme est soutenu, j’avais beaucoup de mal à lâcher le livre, toujours l’envie de savoir ce qui se allait se passer ensuite. L’auteur nous entraîne dans son histoire, on la suit facilement et elle nous mène où elle le veut. Et bien que l’intrigue ne soit pas des plus originales, elle est très bien écrite et tournée. Bref, on ne s’ennuie pas !
L’intrigue est très riche parce qu’il y a une intrigue principale avec des rebondissements mais également des intrigues secondaires. Le tout est lié mais c’est quelque chose que le lecteur découvre au fur et à mesure. Le suspense est entièrement résolu à la fin du troisième tome. Et ce qui est super, c’est que l’auteur répond à toutes les questions qui se posent dans le livre.

Par ailleurs, le fait que Arianne Richmonde vive en France a permis d’éviter de nombreux clichés habituels. Je dois saluer sa culture littéraire, poétique et cinématographique françaises. Par contre, je n’étais pas d’accord avec toutes les comparaisons faites entre la France et les USA. Et si d’autres françaises lisent le livre, je serai ravie d’en discuter pour avoir également leur point de vue.

Les personnages sont plausibles. Je pense notamment à la différence d’âge entre nos héros. En effet, je peux citer deux exemples français très connus, Amanda Lear et Claire Chazal.
Les caractères sont très bien étudiés et décrits. Le livre est écrit à la première personne du point de vue de l’héroïne et c’est par le regard des personnes qui l’entourent qu’on la comprend.
Nos héros sont extrêmement vivants, hauts en couleur et leur histoire les rend attachants. On vibre en même temps qu’eux, on a peur pour eux et on veut qu’ils aient leur happy end.
Les personnages secondaires aussi sont bien décrits et intéressants. Le lecteur a envie de savoir ce qu’il leur arrive, d’autant plus qu’ils participent à la relation entre les personnages principaux et l’intrigue.

La tension sexuelle entre les héros est présente tout au long de la série. Les scènes hot sont très piquantes ; en même temps, c’est ce qui fait le sel de leur relation. Je n’imagine pas le même livre sans elles, pour dire à quel point c’est un élément important de l’histoire. Et cerise sur le gâteau, elles sont bien décrites. J’ai beaucoup aimé le fait que le héros prenne en compte les désirs de l’héroïne avant tout. Il est également affectueux et généreux. Les dialogues coquins sont savoureux ; j’ai juste eu un petit souci avec un mot que j’ai trouvé un peu ridicule. Mais ce détail n’a rien enlevé à mon intérêt pour l’histoire.
J’ai trouvé le jeu de séduction intéressante car il est différent en fonction de leur vécu personnel, de leur différence d’âge et tout simplement de leur différence de sexe. L’évolution de leurs sentiments va de pair avec l’évolution du couple et leur évolution personnelle tout au long de la série.

S’il y a bien une chose que j’ai retenu de la trilogie, c’est que les gens ne sont jamais ce qu’ils semblent parfois être. Il y a ce que l’on voit, ce que l’on veut bien et la vérité, et l’auteur amène parfaitement le lecteur à réfléchir à cela à travers son récit. Arianne Richmonde a également voulu montrer que la découverte de la sexualité, de l’amour n’a pas d’âge et qu’il ne faut pas se freiner dans la découverte sexuelle. Il y a aussi le fait que l’âge n’est pas tout dans une relation, puisque la différence est une complémentarité et que la confiance dépend de beaucoup de paramètres qui n’ont rien à voir avec l’âge.
Le roman aborde différents thèmes tels que les liens familiaux, le poids du regard des autres, ainsi que d’autres aspects que je ne vais pas citer ici pour éviter les spoilers.
Sans forcement être original, l’auteur nous emporte dans son monde où l’intrigue est riche et rebondissante d’autant que la différence d’âge n’est pas le principal moteur de l’histoire.

[Les Romantiques · Rating 4 out of 5]

Posted on Les Romantiques - Le forum du site
Reviewed by Gwen
Review Copy from the Author

Usually, we review each book in a series, but the author agreed to let us read the whole series and, as I read it in barely three days, I was asked to review it as a whole.
It’s called The Pearl Trilogy and the titles are Shades of Pearl, Shadows of Pearl and Shimmers of Pearl. It’s a contemporary romance about the meeting and then the relationship between a forty year old woman (Pearl Robinson) and a twenty five year old young man (Alexandre Chevalier). I really liked the three books, particularly as the difference in age between the heroes is not what gets the story going, or a really important element. Yet, what made me want to read the book was the fact that she was a “cougar”. I had never read a story with such a character.
The author was completely unknown to me and it was a wonderful surprise and a great discovery.

Even though serious subjects are sometimes broached, the atmosphere is light, enjoyable and humor is always present.
I was happy while finishing reading, and I had a smile on my face.
The tone changed according to the events: sensuality, humor, drama and even a little suspense. All this without ever feeling far-fetched or excessive.
We have a beautiful description of historical Paris while they are visiting the city with a group of young girls and it was so well rendered that I did not need to close my eyes to be there. Our heroes also visit New York (where the 1st book begins), Nashville, Los Angeles and Kauai.

The story takes place in a short time span: only their break up is long. Pearl will make the most of this time to think and understand (alone and by speaking with some people) how and why the situation has deteriorated so much, what she has done right or wrong. On the other hand the author has written a novel with the hero’s point of view, so that the reader will know more about his feelings. It is called “Pearl” and was published on 30th of August 2013.

The book is fast paced, I had a lot of trouble closing it, and always wanted to know what was going to happen next. The author leads us into her story, we follow her easily and she takes us where she wants. And although the plot is not one of the most original, it’s very well written. In short, we do not get bored!
The plot is very rich because there is a main story, with many twists, but also secondary stories. Everything is linked, but the reader will find this out gradually. The suspense is entirely resolved at the end of the 3rd book. And what is great is that the author answers all the questions the book raised.

Furthermore, the fact that Arianne Richmonde lives in France has allowed her to avoid many of the usual clichés. I am impressed by her knowledge of French culture, literature, poetry and cinema, even though I did not agree with all the comparisons made between France and USA. If some other French readers read this book, I will be happy to discuss it with them, to have their point of view.

The characters are credible. For instance, for the difference in age between our heroes. In fact, I can quote two well-known French examples, Amanda Lear and Claire Chazal and their younger men.
The characters are very well researched and described. The book is written in the first person from Pearl’s point of view and we get to know her through the eyes of the people around her.
Our heroes are extremely lively, colorful, and their story makes them endearing. We are thrilled when they are, afraid for them and we want them to have their happy ending.
The secondary characters are also well described and interesting. The reader wants to know what is going to happen to them, especially as they contribute to the relationship between the heroes and to the plot.

The sexual tension between the main characters is present throughout the series. The sex scenes are very spicy. At the same time; this is what makes their relationship special. I cannot imagine the same book without this element, as it is an important part of the story. And the icing on the cake: they are very well written. I loved the fact that the hero takes into account the heroine’s desire before anything. He is also warm and generous. The tongue in the cheek dialogues are charming, I just had a little problem with a nickname I found a bit ridiculous. But even this detail was not that much of a problem. I found their seduction play interesting because it is in relation with their pasts, their difference in age and simply their gender difference. Throughout the series we can follow the progression of their feelings and of their relationship in parallel to their individual development.

If there is an idea I will retain from the whole series, it is that people are never what they seem to be. There is what we see, what we want to see and the truth, and the author leads the reader to think about this very clearly throughout the story. Arianne Richmonde also wanted to show that the discovery of sexuality and love is not a question of age and that we should not restrain our sexuality.
There is also the idea that age is not everything in a relationship, since differences also attract, and self-confidence depends on a lot of things that have nothing to do with age.

The book touches on different themes such as family links, the importance of other people's opinions, as well as others I am not going to give here to avoid spoilers.
Without being completely original, the author manages to carry us away with this rich and exciting story, where the difference in age is not the main ingredient.

[Debra Presley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review: 4.75-weapons of mass destruction–stars



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I was hooked on this book from the first page. Hot, steamy, shocking, many WTF moments and oh have I mentioned the hot and sexy Alexandre! Holy smokes he is off the charts in soooo many ways!

Pearl is 40 and kind of lost and feeling alone. She works in a producer of documentaries and is given an assignment that brings face to face with Alexandre. The sparks between them were flying immediately. I found myself reading with a big smile on my face because their flirting and Pearl’s inner thoughts were so funny. Pearl is just too much throughout the book. Between her nicknames, her antics and her intense emotions for Alexandre it was difficult to put this book down. I lost many hours of sleep because I would say “just one more chapter” and that chapter led to one more and another (you see how this goes) and before I knew it, it was 3am.

Now I have read A LOT of books and it is pretty hard to shock me and trick me but Arianne Richmonde you did this with The Pearl Trilogy. I had many *mouth hanging on the floor* moments and yelling WTF to no one in particular because I was just so surprised as to what I was reading. I swear you won’t see it coming.

This book is filled with hot and steamy scenes but it is also filled with a great story that will have you rooting for Pearl and Alexandre as a couple. You learn some really important things about their pasts which shed some light on why they are the way they are.

This Trilogy was originally release as three separate books (40 Shades of Pearl; Shadows of Pearl; and Shimmers of Pearl). The release date on
Amazon for both paperback and e-book is on the 23rd. Towards the end there was a bit of a lull but nothing that prevented me from not continuing on. I loved this book/series and recommend that you read it.

[Books,Babes and Cheap Cabernet · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 out of 5 Stars!!!


Warning: This review contains some very HOT content!!! 18 years+ recommended.

I am so glad I was able to read these as a bundle, and not have to wait. Otherwise, I think I might have had a coronary!
If you like 50 shades of Grey and the Bared to You series, you are ABSOLUTELY going to LOVE The Pearl Trilogy. They are addictive, heart-pounding, suspenseful, sexy, and change-your-panties-steamy!!!

I loved that Pearl was not a twenty-something young inexperienced girl. But rather a forty year old divorcee who had been in a dry spell for over two years that she referred to as "the desert". Like most women she believed the magical MO (multiple orgasm) was a lovely myth. That is until she meets Alexander.

Alexader Chevalier is an Alph Male in a very good way. Wise beyond his years. At twenty-five, he is a driven self-made billionare, who owns the Internet company HookedUp, a dating site with a "Twitter" feel. He is serious book boyfriend material.

Their age difference did not seem odd while reading like I originally imagined. They complimented each other very well. You got the sense that they were destined for each other. Although, they had to overcome many internal and external forces.

"I know you, Pearl. I know that if you don't spend the rest of your days with me you won't be truly happy. I don't mean to sound conceited saying that but deep inside me, I feel exactly the same way. If we can't be together we'll both go through life half dead. Without you, I feel like my flame has been snuffed out. Without you I am half the person I should be."

The entire trilogy is super steamy. There were A LOT of fan-yourself HOT scenes!!

"I'm going to fuck you now like you deserve, you greedy little girl. You want my cock? All of it?"

"Please," I cry. "It's so big it scares me, though."

"Too big for you? Too big for your tight little pearlette? It's so tight. Like a virgin. I think it needs to be ripped open by my big cock. I think it needs that."

HOLY-SMOKES!!!!! Alexander is such a dirty talker. I loved every minute of it.

The music that accompanies the series is unique and adds so much depth to the story. There is an entire playlist for you to enjoy while reading it.

So if you are jonesing for an erotic read that will keep you on edge, hot and bothered, with an amazing love story. I highly recommend The Pearl Trilogy.

*Review by Yari*

[✿kawehi.reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omigah! I can't believe I forgot to include this wonderful trilogy into my book reviews!!

"The Pearl Trilogy" gives women in their forties (as well as any group age) who've lost all hope in finding love some light. It doesn't matter what age you are, you can still attain a great catch like sexy French business mogul, Alexandre Chevalier.



I loved the dynamics between Pearl and Alexandre since they are so different as night and day. Pearl is so posh and reserved whereas Alexandre is mature for his age but is also very dominant and alpha male when it comes to Pearl.

Reading this, I thought the big nemesis was this one person but in the end it was another. I figured with Pearl's presence in Alexandre's life that there would cause tensions and jealousies but by book three I never figured that Alexandre's past love could be so complicated. I literally wanted to slap Laura (who is she? well, you have to read to find out!).

As for the plot and it's pacing: everything well flowed and was great.

My main complaint was how the situation with the antagonist was solved. I mean, be reasonable. I can't see that happening so that our heroine's can have their happily ever after. To me, that was a bit unethical and sloppy.

BUT, other than that no further complaints!!

Gah, I want to read "Pearl, Alexandre's Story" so bad now!! I love him!! He's one of my book boyfriends. Hehe. <3

[Nelle L'Amour · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is one regret I have about reading this series --that I waited so long to read it. It is, by far, one of the best erotic romance series I've read. Initially, I was turned off by some reviewers comparing it to Fifty Shades of Grey, but this is so far from the truth. The Pearl Trilogy is a different as different can be.

I loved Pearl and Alexandre--Pearl was very real and Alexandre was so dreamy! The secondary characters were also very well developed and include an outrageous love to hate villainess that you will want to slap! Ms. Richmonde possesses a lyrical writing style that give me writer's envy! She injects her writing with beautiful images and metaphors that will tug at your heartstrings and witty dialogue that will make you laugh out loud. And what a great storyteller she is. The series is filled with page-turner twists and turns. Last but not least, the sex scenes are bountiful and steamy --just amazing!

The Pearl Trilogy made me smile, cry, sigh, and tingle all over. I didn't want it to end. My takeaway from this wonderful book series is that love knows not age. Don't wait to read The Pearl Trilogy. Read it now!

[OhEmG · Rating 2 out of 5]

Two stars looks like a low rating, but I picked 2 because when I think of this series "It's ok" is exactly what I think.

Not amazing....but not horrible, it really was ok.

[JENNIFER NEWHALL · Rating 1 out of 5]

Fifty shades knock off.

This book was poorly written, abruptly adding unrealistic scenarios. A lot of Christian Grey scenes.I couldn't finish this series. Save your money.

[Dee McGee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I discovered the Pearl Trilogy by Arianne Richmonde during the height of my voracious billionaire romance reading binge. I read all the popular books-- Fifty Shades of Grey by E.L. James, the Up in the Air series by R.K. Lilley, the Crossfire series by Sylvia Day, the This Man series by Jodi Ellen Malpas, and the Blackstone Affair series by Raine Miller. All these books have the qualities I love in this genre--the wonderful sense that you're Cinderella being swept away by the man of your dreams. Of course, these books are peppered with the realities of today. But they still require a suspension of disbelief, the reason I love to read these book in the first place. They take me to places I can't possibly go in real life. The Pearl Trilogy did the same thing for me. I fell in love with her characters and count this series among my favorite billionaire romance series.

In the first book Forty Shades of Pearl, we meet Pearl Robinson. She's a forty year old documentary film-maker and divorcee. She a beautiful, smart, and independent woman. Did I mention she hasn't dated for two years. Yeah, she's going through a bit of a dry spell. After missing an interview with the hot new geeky social media billionaire, Pearl bumps into a beautiful young man at the coffee shop, Alexandre Chevalier. OMG, it's the billionaire! He is not the uber-geeky man she suspects him to be. He is tall, well muscled, tanned, and utterly gorgeous European hunk of man! Pearl and Alexandre connect over lattes and he asks her out on an unconventional date. From this day forward, Pearl is thrust into a relationship with a man 15 years young than she. Pearl experiences the highs and lows that come with a "Mrs. Robinson" type of relationship. Can Pearl and Alexandre withstand the obstacles thrown at them by family, friends, and misunderstandings?

I love this unconventional love story. The fact that Pearl is a mature, experience woman instead the typical naive girl that attracted me to the story. She's got life experience under her belt. A failed marriage complete with a sex life sorely lacking, Pearl doesn't expect this to change anytime soon. She immerses herself in work to distract her from her mundane, loveless personal life. When she meets Alexandre, she's unsure of herself. She's doesn't believe that she could possibly attract such a hot young guy. I like that Arianne works that angle--an older woman with a younger man. But she still keeps the sexual tension high as Pearl and Alexandre navigate through their new relationship. Forty Shades of Pearl includes all the delicious angst I've come to love in this genre--sibling drama, aloof parents, shady exes, and the constant fear that she isn't good enough for him. A few times I wanted to shake Pearl and tell her to snap out of it. But my heart broke for her at times because she was so insecure and naïve despite her age. It was those characteristics that made my root for her. Because don't we all have those qualities in some way or another, no matter our age?

I enjoyed the secondary characters in Forty Shades of Pearl. Pearl has a very good support system of friends, Natalie and Daisy. Pearl's family, on the other hand, is a bit screwy. Her brother is mean to her and her father is kind of flighty and aloof. Alex's sister Sophie is a straight up bitch! She made me mad quite a few times while I was reading.

The sex is deliciously hot between Alexandre and Pearl. Despite her lack of good sex in the past, Alex brings out the wanton lust out in Pearl. She's does things sexually that she never expects out of herself. Honestly, Pearl shocks me! It's like a switch is flipped and she getting everything (and sometimes things she didn't realize she wanted) from her newly found sex life. It's a refreshing sexual rebirth for her.

I found Arianne's writing style very smooth and descriptive without over doing it. There are many hilarious conversations, especially between Pearl and her friends. And some of the antics Alex comes up with to win over Pearl made me laugh and had my heart melting. I also enjoyed the little nicknames Arianne came up with to describe Pearl's "special places".

I really enjoyed Forty Shades of Pearl. The book doesn't end in a cliffhanger. The next book is just a continuation of the story. Even then, I'm very happy I started this series with all of the books available to buy.

The story picks up with Alexandre and Pearl blissfully happy together. Pearl has accepted Alex's proposal and are planning to get married in Lapland. (I didn't realize Lapland existed, much less that you could get married there.) Unfortunately, an undercurrent of doubt and suspicion has Pearl thinking Alex's sister, Sophie, is out to destroy her. Bolstered by a call from a person in Alex's past and memories of her turbulent younger days, can Pearl overcome these obstacles to find happiness?

Shadows of Pearl is the most angst filled book of the series. Pearl is filled with so much doubt and insecurity, it's frustrating. For a woman who has "been around the block" so to speak, she doesn't handle her new found love life very well. But I have to give her a break considering this type of connection to another person is all very new to her. It doesn't help that as Pearl communicates her suspicions to Alex, he seems to dismiss her. Arianne perfectly communicates Pearl's feelings as if she's experienced them herself. You feel the betrayal and the growing doubt in Pearl. It doesn't help that Alexandre isn't exactly forthcoming with his past, especially about his ex-girlfriend and his father.

Pearl does a good amount of running in this book. Oh Pearl, don't you know running doesn't solve anything? I can only imagine the amount of airline miles she racked up running from Alex. Some of the ways she escapes Alex is hilarious, but most of the time it's maddening. You want to stop her and ask her why she's doing this?

We get to meet many of the shady and aloof characters complicating Pearl and Alex's life. We met Laura, the ex-girlfriend of Alex. Laura is a calculating bitch! You know immediately something is not right with this woman. She's got all those qualities you hate in an ex-girlfriend of your man. She's beautiful, rich, and haughty. We meet Pearl's dad and get a glimpse of his life and why he wasn't in her life early on. All this to say the secondary characters and the accompanying story lines keep you interested as well. You invest in these characters because their stories are well written.

The sex scenes in Shadows of Pearl are smoking! The one particular scene that stands out in my mind involves secondary character, Alessandra Demarr. This minx is the female version of Alexandre and she works all her charms on Pearl. It had me writhing a bit...okay maybe a lot more than that. She had a filthy mouth and a seductive, bossy charm about her. Her character mixed up the sex factor in a way I liked.

Shadows of Pearl ends in a major cliffhanger. I was seriously pissed off at a few characters and thought I might not read on. Of course that thought lasted about five seconds and I immediately started the next book.

Shimmers of Pearl picks up where Shades of Pearl left off. Pearl is devastated by the realization that Alex is "with" his ex-girlfriend, Laura. However, she is only going on she and Laura's conversation. Defeated, Pearl hightails it back to NYC. Is all this drama worth it? Will Pearl and Alexandre's relationship withstand the secrets and lies they're holding back to protect each other? Miscommunication is a part of the angst in this series, but Pearl and Alex communicate a lot of their feelings in this book. Pearl refuses to see Alexandre until he opens up and tells her the truth about everything. Unfortunately, Alex is still holding out on her. He refuses to discuss this current relationship with Laura and will not budge on the subject of his father and his disappearance.

I like that Arianne keeps the drama high without putting you through as much angst in the second book. At this point you want to know Alex and Pearl are working through their issues and are committed to each other. I love the way they fight with each other. Pearl passion is fiery with the accusations she flings at Alex. I think this makes him love her even more.

The secondary character's story lines really ramp up in this book. Daisy, Pearl's best friend, is facing a troubled marriage and I found myself looking forward to her parts in the book. I also really invested in Natalie, Daisy's friend and former boss. She's a spitfire like Pearl and I enjoyed reading about her and her love life. I would like to have seen a bit more story line with Sophie (Alex's sister) and her love life. I would read a novella about her story in a heartbeat.

The sex gets a little more inventive in Shimmers of Pearl. Alex's filthy mouth get even more filthy and Pearl becomes insatiable. These scenes had me squirming quite a bit. Arianne is gifted with her dirty talk!

I was surprised at how the story wraps up. I was expecting a little more action--possibly a kidnapping or shootout. But I'm glad it ended they way it did. Karma comes back to this character in a way that is clever. The last chapter and the epilogue in Shimmers of Pearl satisfied all my HEA needs.

In my opinion, The Pearl Trilogy stands on it own as a billionaire romance novel. I've seen many people say it's a blatant rip off of Fifty Shades of Grey. I don't agree with that opinion. The only thing these two books share is that the male protagonist is rich. Everything else in The Pearl Trilogy is completely original. If I felt this book was a clone of any of the other series I read, I wouldn't bother reading it. Pearl and Alex's story will grab you because it's a great love story between two unlikely people who come together by chance. I give The Pearl Trilogy 5 out of 5 stars. If you love this genre of romance, go pick it up right now!

[Patricia Anne Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely fantastic story!!

If you liked Fifty Shades of Grey or Bared To You, you will absolutely love this story of The Pearl Trilogy! Actually there are 5 Books as you will see once your through with the first three. Pearl is an older woman in her 40's who falls in love with a 25 year old man. It is truly an amazing love story, steamy sexy and hot!! I really recommend it with a 5 Stars rating!!!!

[Bookgypsy]

I barely made it to the second book before I threw in the towel. I should have known better though. This was compared to 50 Shades and I HATED that rubbish. I enjoy a good erotic romance but it has to be new and exciting. This was a typical formulated erotica...shallow, insecure heroine. cocky, rich hero, they meet and he ties her up...so dull and boring. The writing style was nice and I'm sure the author is good. I'm just incredibly jaded for this type of story.

[Lesley Badham · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was drawn in from the start with many twist and turns and i needed to know what was going to happen next.

Read this as a bundle.

If you like 50 shades of Grey and the Bared to You series, you are ABSOLUTELY going to LOVE The Pearl Trilogy. They are addictive, heart-pounding, suspenseful, sexy, and change-your-panties-steamy!!!

[Linda Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved the books by Arianne Richmonde

I chose this rating because the books never got boring. Although some of sex scene was a little to pornograhic, the storyline was on point. I love Alexander and Pearl on how they HookedUp, I definitely felt the love between the characters. It was my second time reading this book. I recommend this book to adults only with an open mind.

[Jennifer Stickler · Rating 1 out of 5]

I tried really hard to get through this book, but ended up giving up. I have a really hard time with whiny women and men that think they can boss them around in a derogatory way. I wanted to like it as I love books that continue with a story...just not for me.

[Amanda Werrell · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed the trilogy and overall l. I did find the main male character a little bit too controlling and manipulative at times which made me uncomfortable almost wishing she found it as off putting as I did but it was written well and I enjoyed it over all.

[Glo · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was good to see an older woman with a younger man who is a mature person. I liked the twist and turns and how uncertain she is about the relationship and age. The plot was good and interesting

[Brenda Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it!!

[Jennifer Noe (The Book Blog) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
What an awesome, sexy, funny, heartbreaking, gripping story! Do you want to know what I loved about it? Well for one, the heroine is older than me!! I love all kinds of stories but the fact that Pearl is 40 years old, well; it made me love her all the more. Second, Alexandre is one sexy Frenchman! His character was strong and once he figured out what he wanted, he would stop at nothing to have it. There is so much that I loved about this story but I’m ready to talk about the book!

Pearl’s company, Haslit Films, makes documentaries and she wants to interview a brother and sister, Alexandre Chevalier and Sophie Dumas. Problem is, they are very private and never grant interviews. Hoping she will get her chance at a conference she is attending. Bad luck is on her side at the moment, because she missed their seminar and they have already left. Missing that chance, her boss decides to forget the whole thing and they will come up with a new idea. Problem solved, Pearl heads across the street for a coffee before she heads back to the office.

Pearl and Alexandre see each other for the first time at the coffee shop and while getting to know each other a bit, she keeps her secret of the requests for an interview. It’s not happening now anyway, why ruin the moment.
They have their first date and days go by and she hears nothing from Alexandre. But soon, everything is going to change. They begin an incredible affair but she has so many doubts about herself. He decides he needs to help her get past those doubts. And he does an incredible job of it too!

Every moment the two of them are together, to put it simply, is HOT! Neither of them can get enough and now that Pearl is coming out her shell, haha, she has become obsessed with Alexandre. And what happens when Sophie and Alexandre find out that Pearl had been trying to get an interview with them. Well, it’s not pretty and I was a nervous wreck! I could feel the anger and disappointment rolling off Alexandre. As well as the heartache from Pearl. He doesn’t let her try to explain, feeling used and too angry to listen; he leaves her where she is sitting.

Luckily there is so much more to happen in the story and Arianne does a beautiful job of pulling you deeper into their lives. I am so relieved this was released as a trilogy. Even though there will be a cliffhanger somewhere within the book, luckily, you don’t have to wait on another part to be released. We are whisked away to France, England and places in between. The twists and turns we are given left me in pieces or angry enough to want to throw my kindle. Other times, it was so sweet or incredibly sexy that I didn’t think I’d be able to get enough. I found it very hard to put it down. The Pearl Trilogy is a definite page turner and absolutely loved the way it ended. I gave this beautiful erotic romance 4.75 stars and I am very much looking forward what Arianne Richmonde releases in the future!!

[Kylee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am beginning to find that I love the older women, recently divorced, looking for romance genre. That is exactly how I can explain Pearl in this book. She works hard at what she does and when the time comes that she crosses paths with Alexandre, her whole world changes. There is always that struggle that an older woman, younger man have to overcome...how society/family perceives their relationship. Is she a Cougar? Is he looking for maturity? Are they crazy?

Definitely a steamy read here. Pearl is introduced to all sorts of sexual adventures when it comes to Alexandre. Maybe the French are more sexually inclined than we Americans, but DAMN...that man can make a Nun sweat in the nether regions! I love that Alexandre has worked his way to the top and defines his "love interest" as someone mature, life-experienced. There are many dark secrets that begin to unfold in this book that carry on into the other books and eventually become clear.

Pearl and Alexandre sure know how to take a reader on a whirlwind adventure! Pearl REALLY experiences knew avenues in this book, and not just with Alexandre. Although there is no disappointing there in their steamy scenes. Just when it seems that all is well on the homefront, a piece of Pearl or Alexandre's pasts come to cause havoc and strain on their relationship. Pearl really has not had to deal with this kind of strain and causes her to act out in ways that potentially could end her new found love.

I wish that Pearl was more independent and assertive with her needs/wants/desires. She tends to be more dramatic in this book and lets others control her feelings, which in the end makes you question if her and Alexandre are right for each other. All in all, still a great read and leaves you wanting to know more!

So much left hanging in limbo after book #2, now the reader has to wonder...can the relationship stand the ultimate test of love...trust??? And the unraveling begins... The darkness begins to see light and its learned why the characters have walls up and what about their pasts they must now overcome. Here in this book, Pearl learns confidence and independence like it's a second nature to her! She wants everything to be back to normal with her and Alexandre, she will stop at nothing to make sure she never loses what she loves most again. Alexandre seems to be the same. He finally overcomes his past barriers and learns that he must also fight for love.

Distance makes the heart grow fonder? Ummm, with these two...they never disappoint! Oh and a couple surprises at the end make the ending of this book complete! Great story of overcoming past demons, current barriers, and fighting for what/whom you love most!

[Tracey Murphy · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author gave me a copy of the trilogy for an honest review. I finished these books a couple of days ago, but needed to get my thoughts together first.

I was very excited to read a book with an older heroine. Pearl is a beautiful and sophisticated 40 year old woman with a great career. However, a violent incident of abuse when she was in college, abandonment by her father, and a divorce from a passionless marriage, combined with a very strained relationship with her brother, has made her a very fragile and vulnerable creature on the inside. And also very wary of men.

She meets gorgeous 25 year old French billionaire Alexandre, and they begin a very intense affair. Alexandre is very much a mystery, as are the women he surrounds himself with. Pearl is full of so much self doubt she goes being clingy and jealous to downright unstable at times. I felt like I was losing my mind with her at times in this book, not knowing who to believe, who is really after her, can Alexandre be trusted? She actually described my feelings perfectly when she referred to her life as a Hitchcock movie.

Pearl may have been older than Alexandre in years, but he was her senior in every other way, especially sexually. Because of her earlier abuse, Pearl was very detached from that part of herself and Alexandre was the first man she ever really wanted since that trauma.

Alexandre and Pearl are amazing together, but have a ton of issues on both sides. She drove me crazy every time she just ran without trying to figure out what's going on first. I'm very used to reading about young girls with self esteem issues that don't feel worthy of the amazing man who wants them, but adding in Pearl's age, her past, and her significant difference in age from Alexandre, you can understand why she had no idea how to rationally deal or feel confident about herself and her relationship.

The author takes you on a very wild ride. With all the plot twist and turns and the obsession Pearl and Alexandre have with each other, I can honestly say I was very surprised at the ending. From the glimpse of Alexandre's POV we got in book #3, I'm anxious to read Pearl, where we find out how he really reacted to Pearl in those intense and passionate moments. He's full of intrigue, hot as hell, and totally in love with Pearl. In the end, I couldn't blame Pearl for wanting to attach herself to him and yet at the same time run as far away as possible.

[Sugar and Spice Book Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars.....

First, let me begin with that it was really nice to be able to have all 3 books combined. No cliff hangers for me. I was able to flip through pages with no waiting. And in no way was this book anything like Fifty Shades of Grey.

Not even sure where to begin with my review.....This could have been a 5 star review because the story itself was FABULOUS!! I so loved it but I had a few dilemmas.....first, the writing was choppy throughout the trilogy and second, the transition from POVs were not well defined. But I do have to say that as I progressed through each book the story got more interesting with all the twist and turns and drama. And at times the book had me laughing so much. I absolutely LOVED how the author's dialogue pegged how the characters spoke (especially Sophie) with their French/British accents when speaking English.

I loved Pearl.....The author really spent time defining her character.....She is 40 and divorced with no children. Her career is her life. It is what she does best. That is until the HOT FRENCH Alexandre comes into her life. He is her next assignment which she knows little about this man (well how HOT he is). The assignment falls apart and she believes her chance at meeting Alexandre, for work purposes is gone.......then, POOF!!! Alexander appears at a chance run-in while Pearl is getting coffee....This is where it all begins.....HOT, STEAMY, SEXY Love story......

Alexandre....well what would this book be without this HOT Frenchman......Enough said! He is 15 years younger than Pearl... This doesn't seem to bother him....He is so captivated by Pearl's confidence, her outgoing personality, and her beauty......He is immediately attracted to her.

Majority of this trilogy was written in Pearl's POV. Throughout the story we learn about Alexandre and his past but I did not really connect with him especially when the author threw in a few chapters with his POV. I think it confused me more. I guess I just like everything laid out and maybe this is just how the author wanted Alexandre portrayed. It is my selfish way of saying that I wanted more from Alexandre.


'The Pearl Trilogy' is so worth the read...don't miss out on this HOT FRENCH ADVENTURE!

Congrats Arianne Richmonde on your release and I look forward to reading more from you in the future!!!

*Review by Kim

[Mary Tatar · Rating 4 out of 5]

What an amazing series this was. I got to read all three at once. No anxious waiting for the next to be released. I loved every minute of this book. Plus there aren't enough stories about older women being with younger men. Almost like it is a taboo subject. I say bring it on, I want more stories centered around this kind of love.

Pearl is a forty year old divorcee. She feels that her dreams of getting married and having children is a flash in the pan. She then meets Alexandre he is twenty five year old business savy man. She immediately is attracted to him, but she doesn't think that he would want to be with her. Boy is she mistaken. Alexandre is just as attracted to Pearl as she is to him. He wants a mature woman like Pearl. They start a hot and steamy love affair. Which will blow you away. These two were made for each other. Nothing is easy in their relationship. They work very hard to make things work. They run into some problems along the way. Problems that will test their love for each other. The question is can their relationship survive her insecurities and his secrets?

My take on Pearl and Alexandre as a couple. They have a lot in common both fearless and very passionate people. He awakens her when they are together. They change one another. They are meant for each other. Alexandre is such a poet. The words that come out of his mouth are beautiful. He cherishes her and makes her feel loved. Pearl will do anything for him she has fallen in love with his soul. They truly have found their soul mates. Which makes you think that love is so unexpected. Once you have it fight for it, don't let it slip through your fingers. These two gave it their all very inspiring if I don't say so myself.

I recommend you give this one nice long read. Three books that will knock your socks off. Getting to know Pearl and Alexandre is definitely a must. I am so glad I did. I look forward to more books from Arianne, she is a very talented story teller

[Tori · Rating 5 out of 5]

Don't let the title fool you...this is NOT a Fifty Shades knock off in the least! It is a beautiful story of Pearl, a beautiful a 40-year old divorcee and is a successful independent women who is missing something...a man in her life after two years of not dating. She is on a business assignment to meet the very private Alexandre who is a successful (and very French) Internet mogul! When her plans don't turn out like she wanted she heads over to a coffee shop to get her wits about her and runs into Alexandre and his sister....and the sparks begging to fly and they are damn good sparks!!!

I loved that Pearl is older and Alexandre is determined to not let their age be an issue. I found him endearing and honest, which is hard to find in some books. While Pearl questioned a lot of things, she wasn't super annoying like other female characters. I contribute that to her being more experienced in life. While there was angst and major heart palpitations I trusted the storyline and stuck it out and I was extremely pleased! It was HOT, funny, adventurous and real. You could feel the characters emotions and struggles and you were entwined in every aspect of their lives.

Thankfully it was released in a trilogy, so when you get to that cliffhanger you are only left hanging for 30-seconds until you can click the next book open. Thank you Arianne for not making us suffer!!! I gave this series 5-stars because it was creative, raw, real and it captured my undivided attention. It held my interest the entire time and did not lack in storyline. I loved Pearl and Alexandre...well who wouldn't love a 20-ish French Internet mogul who is athletic, witty, respectful and sexy?!?! He is alpha all the way...but he does not condone pain or disrespect Pearl in the bedroom! A true gentleman...a super sexy one to boot!

If you want a happy ending...this is your book. It is so sweet and my heart melted completely!! Totally left me feeling satisfied and happy!!! Sigh...I need more Alexandre...

[Donna Barr · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arianne Richmond has definitely struck gold on this trilogy. They reach out and grab your attention from start to finish with a massive cliff hanger in between. Ms Richmonde has you laughing, crying and in absolute shock throughout each book with characters who jump off the page.
You first meet 40 year old divorcee Pearl who feels the only kind of success she has is that of her professional life. When first setting eyes on Alexandre Chevalier and Sophie Dumas (brother and sister) while in a coffee shop Pearl is automatically attracted not realising until she begins to speak to him that these are the duo she was meant to interview.
Book 1 goes on into detail of there dating with Pearl being whisked of her feet literally. It also leaves you beginning to feel a little bitter towards Sophie feeling she is an extremely annoying sister who likes to get her penny worth in. By the time you delve deep into shadow of pearl (book 2) you feel Sophie is a very calculated women who will do anything in her power to break Pearl and Alexandre apart.
Throughout this book you get to know Alexandre's ex Laura who you feel a little sorry for although I will not give you the reason behind this. As this book comes to a close you are left feeling extremely angry, frustrated and most of all in shock.
By the time you reach Shimmers of Pearl which brings the trilogy to a close you have everything rooting for this couple to have the happy ending they deserve. You may also feel you have been on a rollercoaster ride with each character.
Arianne Richmonde has really excelled in making a french man very attractive and also making each character come alive.
These books are an amazing read which will capture your attention from start to finish. I only hope you enjoy as much as I did.