Flying by Megan Hart

Mar 13, 2014 Duchess Nicole rated it liked it

Shelves: arc-net-galley, read-in-2014, genre-contemp-romance, hero-is-a-beta, make-me-cry, 3-star-read, arc-for-review, genre-erotica, lessons-learned, kids-in-the-picture

I'm not entirely sure how I feel about this book. At around 95%, I still had no idea which direction the story was headed. The story started out interesting, it had that same Megan Hart feeling. Somewhat slow, you can feel the build up toward something elusive and BIG. Very strong emotions were alluded to, and of course, there is tragedy somewhere in the past.

My favorite thing about Hart is what sets her apart from every other erotic romance author out there...she writes as if women have every I'm not entirely sure how I feel about this book. At around 95%, I still had no idea which direction the story was headed. The story started out interesting, it had that same Megan Hart feeling. Somewhat slow, you can feel the build up toward something elusive and BIG. Very strong emotions were alluded to, and of course, there is tragedy somewhere in the past.

My favorite thing about Hart is what sets her apart from every other erotic romance author out there...she writes as if women have every right to be just as sexual as men...completely in tune with their bodies and deserving of satisfaction. As long as they feel good about it, there's nothing wrong with the hunt, nothing wrong with being sexy AND sexual.

Now, one thing I DON'T agree with is how some of her heroines go after married men...or, not so much go after them as they don't shy away from them. Just because YOU don't believe in monogamy doesn't mean nearly everyone around you does.

I never received that punch to the gut that both Dirty and Broken gave me. Both of those books just laid me bare, knocked me flat, and shredded me. And yet, somehow when I put the books down, I was completely satisfied, sated, and if not happy...at least content with the ending. But this ending was so back and forth, it felt like each page I turned led the story in a different direction. I was never fully convinced that Michael was a good enough guy. Sure, the sex was great. He was attentive to a point, and he sure did love being with Stella. But the ex wife and that whole situation, the eventual secrets that come out, and his ridiculous habit of being with Stella only when convenient seemed like too much bother to bother with.

Honestly, I kept hoping that Stella would spend more time with Craig than she did. He and she had a strong connection before. And Stella's habit of "flying", or traveling for one night stands, gave her at least some sexual gratification. What she really needed was someone who was loyal. A true friend? A lover that she could completely bond with, in and out of bed? I don't know, but I wasn't convinced that either Michael or Craig could be both.

However...with all of this lackluster emotion and my confusion about the romantic aspects of this story, the very end of the book just slayed me. I'm telling you...it's a hand-over-your-heart moment, as only Megan Hart can do. She is a master of emotions, and for that reason alone, she continues to be a favorite author of mine.

Advance copy provided by the publisher for review ...more

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Jan 22, 2014 Ash Wednesday rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Recommends it for: I'll fill this in on release day :D

Shelves: adult, netgalley, review, erotica, forty-somethings, smexy

4 STARS

2 books after, I think I’m starting to become a Megan Hart fan. Something about the way she writes, the themes she chooses to tackle and the way she presents the emotional conflicts in them leaves a lot of room to think. Which is all sorts of perfect for the unapologetic over thinker. She never spoon-feeds the reader. She allows you to mold the characters however you deem fit and devise your own conclusions about them based on your own ethos and experiences and in the end you are gift ...more

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May 27, 2014 Glamdring rated it did not like it

Shelves: stand-alone, 2014, romantica, 50-states-challenge, buddy-read-with-v

*Buddy read with V <3<3<3*

1,5 stars

For me, Megan Hart is a go to author. I might not read her books straight when they are released but I know that eventually I will read them – unless they are serials and in that case I'll just boycott them.

Unlike her other contemporary Erotica, Flying is written in the third POV. Like her other contemporary Erotica the building is slow, unfortunately and unlike her other books that I've read so far, the slow building leads to... nowhere .

For the first tim ...more

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Jan 28, 2014 Vishous rated it did not like it

Shelves: are-you-shittin-me, most-irritating-couple-ever, frustrating-as-hell, romance, somebody-put-a-bullet-in-my-head, read-2014, horror-i-tell-you-horror, review, oh-for-the-love-of-god, adult

I have no words to describe how disappointed I was with this book. One of the worst books I read.

One of the most irritating female characters I have ever read. Seriously, I just wanted to simply delete her from the face of fiction earth.
She was so inconsistent, and yet like giving you a picture like she isn't.
Being so immature, and yet like showing you how mature she is.

Then him... Seriously... *eyeroll*.... After being so mysterious all the time and so whipped by his ex, I honestly expected ...more

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Jan 22, 2014 Rose rated it really liked it

Shelves: arc-or-galley, psychological, romance, contemporary, drama, mature, realistic-fiction, better-than-i-expected, netgalley, tough-subjects

Usually in any experience with reading one of Megan Hart's novels, she always manages to surprise or immerse me in the tales she narrates. I didn't think I'd end up connecting to Stella's character in "Flying" and the whole scenario from the blurb, but I was pleasantly surprised. That's not to say that there weren't moments I disconnected from the narrative, but I was impressed with the storytelling, the insight into the characters, the steamy love scenes, as well as the eye to the flaws and har Usually in any experience with reading one of Megan Hart's novels, she always manages to surprise or immerse me in the tales she narrates. I didn't think I'd end up connecting to Stella's character in "Flying" and the whole scenario from the blurb, but I was pleasantly surprised. That's not to say that there weren't moments I disconnected from the narrative, but I was impressed with the storytelling, the insight into the characters, the steamy love scenes, as well as the eye to the flaws and hardships with the cast of "Flying."

Stella is a woman searching for an escape from her life, probably made even more notable by the fact that she used to be a flight attendant. She finds her escape through frequently taking trips and engaging in no-strings hookups under the guises of alter-egos. It was interesting for me to see more of Stella's life aside from (maybe in addition to) that factor - considering she's raising a 16 year old son (Tristan) and still in contact with her ex-husband (Jeff, who really comes across as a jerk in more ways than one when the narrative begins - they notably had a huge falling out, and it did have to do with some cheating scenarios). Stella's usual "love and leave" pattern is broken when she meets Matthew, a man at a bar with whom she finds a connection with, but matters within his own life complicate their being together and somehow the two of them have to overcome those things (and their own apparent flaws).

I just, on the whole, loved the way this novel did the characterizations. It's a slow burn, but I read this book over the course of two weeks during my commutes to work and lunch breaks. I could put it down, pick it back up, and feel like I knew what these characters were thinking and feeling in their encounters with appropriately articulated tensions. I knew who Stella was - I recognized her insecurities with her protectiveness over her only son remaining, the loss she felt with the accident, and even the broken relationship she had with her husband. I understood her need, her implied longing for a connection, but I also understood her reactive distancing (even when it was annoying as all heck). I understood Matthew's character - his need for connection with Stella, his ex-wife and family, his indecisiveness/unwillingness to let go (even when it made me want to rage), but perhaps that was even further punctuated by his own insecurities revealed with an incident that ties to the thematic of the novel (and ultimately the book's title).

I loved Jen, even with the little times we see her in the novel (she gives the novel some good points of humor). Tristan I thought felt like a real 16-year old boy with his own insecurities, briefly noted through the narrative. Cynthia's characterization was strong for being Jeff's new wife, and I thought she came across as well rounded, even with her brief focus. Caroline and the kids (Matthew's ex-wife and children) had brief focus, but even for the momentary glimpse, I could see how they fit into the larger part of this story. I just - it's like having a lens into all of these characters lives and seeing how they interact. It's handled maturely, and the development is there, even if the scenarios themselves and the way you feel about the characters may be hit or miss. I actually think the third-person narration worked really well for it, though there are times, when the narrative hits the flashbacks to give a greater eye, it may come across a bit jarring/awkward.

I'm glad that I had the chance to savor the story for what it offered. Strong writing, strong development, maybe some parts of it I was a little at odds about the progression/transition and character responses, but I still liked the story and experience it provided. It did give me feels, and even a few chuckles for humored moments, but all felt like a real glimpse into Stella's experiences for what they provided.

Overall score: 3.5/5 stars

Note: I received this as an ARC from NetGalley from Harlequin MIRA, but I also bought a copy of the book as well. ...more

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Apr 13, 2014 AH rated it liked it

Shelves: arc-netgalley, zzread-apr-2014, romance, erotic, contemporary

Initial Thoughts: This was an OK read for me - I was kind of annoyed at the way the main character's relationship kept going. Stella has free flights because her ex is an airline CEO so she chooses a destination, flies to it, has a fling under an assumed name, and returns home. Until she meets Matthew in Chicago who seems to be a nice guy. Matthew is a bit of a prick and his ex-wife is manipulative, keeping him at her beck and call. This drove me crazy.

The Review:
I'm not really sure what to thi ...more

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Mar 22, 2014 ✰ Bianca ✰ BJ's Book Blog ✰ rated it it was amazing

Shelves: first-reads

MY THOUGHTS

Stella is a divorced mom of a 16 year old - Tristan.

During the week she works and does the usual mom-ly things, but on the weekends she's FLYING.

Since she got free flights in the divorce from her airline CEO-husband, she uses those flights to fly to airports in and outside of Pennsylvania - where she sits in airport bars to wait for a guy.

Some guy always starts to talk to her, flirt with her - and the resulting one-night-stand - she calls 'Flying'. Then she leaves again. She never ...more

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Jan 26, 2014 ☾ Dαɴιyα ☽ rated it liked it

Shelves: romance, m-f, megan-hart, my-precious, english-original, read-in-2015, contemporary

3,5 stars, actually.

In little over two years I've been a Goodreads member I've discovered quite a few amazing authors whose books keep knocking my socks off. One of such authors is most definitely Megan Hart. Ever since I read Broken I've been on a mission to read as much of her books as possible. Some I liked, some I loved, and some I really, really, really loved. But even so I've grown a bit reluctant to read her latest books -- a lot of mixed reviews I've been seeing of those. That is what ha
3,5 stars, actually.

In little over two years I've been a Goodreads member I've discovered quite a few amazing authors whose books keep knocking my socks off. One of such authors is most definitely Megan Hart. Ever since I read Broken I've been on a mission to read as much of her books as possible. Some I liked, some I loved, and some I really, really, really loved. But even so I've grown a bit reluctant to read her latest books -- a lot of mixed reviews I've been seeing of those. That is what happened with Flying. It took me almost a year for my curiosity about this book to make me read it, but I got there, and I'm glad I did.

The first books by M. Hart I read, Broken, and Dirty, were so emotional reading them at times proved to be difficult, and I loved them for it, Broken especially. Flying didn't give those feels, but it certainly had that sorrowful atmosphere about it that I look for in Hart's novels. The Megan Hart magic was felt here, too. I just felt it more before.

There was one thing about the writing that took time getting used to: third person narrative. Normally, I'd pick the third person over first anytime. However, all her other novels I've read so far were written in first person narrative, and it worked so great, that I missed that terribly. I missed it so much that I'm writing a sentence I never thought I would write: I would have preferred had Flying been written in first person.

What's most important is the key part I look forward to when picking up this author's book, and that's having one woman's life--her present, her past, and hints of her future, the significant people that make her life both good and complicated--written on these pages in a manner that make the story interesting to read. This time it was Stella, a divorced mom of a teenage boy, working at a photo editing job. The title, however, comes from another part of her life she kept hidden: whenever she could, Stella would fly somewhere, don a new outfit and with it a new name and personality, then she'd find a man, hook up with him, leave him, and go back to her life, all of which is perfectly said in the blurb. The blurb also perfectly introduces Matthew, another man Stella met in an airport bar, but with him everything was different from the very beginning. She wasn't "flying", she met him as Stella, shared with him more time and more information than she expected. She gave a lot more than she expected.

I have to admit, as much as I did like Matthew at the beginning, he soon turned into a character that annoyed me. He pissed me off majorly, is what he did. It started off nice between him and Stella, but the more was revealed about him, and by this I mean how whipped he was by his ex-wife all the friggin time, he lost my sympathy. It was enough to make one want to punch him in the face, and then punch him in the face again because once was not enough! One might want to throw in a third punch for crazy behavior he caused in Stella. All her frustration over his not answering his goddamn phone got to me, too. Phew, still gets to me, it would seem. Needless to say, I was less than happy when that strong, confident woman turned into a, I'm sorry to say, pathetic one over Matthew. When all his story came out, yes, I understood him more, but it was not enough to let go of everything else. No matter how much they were great together, my advice to Stella would've been: Kick him to the curb! Because they were great when it was just the two of them, but it would never be just the two of them. They both had failed marriages, and they both had children that tied them to their exes.

Usually with Hart's novels come The End, I feel such relief that the main characters somehow got to a happy ending despite everything. This time that relief was missing. I was just having a hard time picturing them getting past the issues they kept having throughout the book. Honestly, I was actually sad and disappointed Stella was over Craig, another man that came back into her life. On the other hand, I loved all those comparisons of her feelings for him years ago and now. It's incredible how much changes over time, and the change in those feelings was perfectly captured, in my opinion.

Through Stella's interactions with Matthew, Craig, her ex-husband, her son, her painful past was revealed part by part. It was brutal, and as much as I'd like to be all judgey about the way she was or wasn't handling it so many years later, I can't find in me to actually do it. It's easy to stand aside and pass judgment, especially about fictional characters, but that would make me a hypocrite. Plus, all those flaws, bad decisions, and somewhat irrational behavior makes these characters more real. Oftentimes, I feel as though I like Megan Hart's characters because of their flaws, not despite. Stella is one of them.

I suppose the conclusion would be I have mixed feelings about this book, but that I did like it. More importantly, my doubts about this author's newer books have shrunk. Now I'm looking forward to reading them.

***This review is also posted on Way Too Hot Books blog.*** ...more

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Jul 18, 2018 Cheri rated it it was amazing

I absolutely loved this book! Very deep reading for sure. I am conflicted about how I feel about Matthew. Stella was a trip.

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Apr 23, 2014 Mandi rated it liked it

Shelves: erotic, contemporary

Sometimes Megan Hart writes books that make me have all the feels – for example here and here. And sometimes she writes books that don’t work for me. Flying gave me feels, but annoyed me a little bit too. But overall I’m glad I read it. I crave this author’s voice and it satisfied me this time.

Stella’s ex-husband is the CEO of an airline, and as part of the divorce settlement, she gets free flights whenever she wants them – and she craves them a lot. I don’t want to spoil too much, but I will sa Sometimes Megan Hart writes books that make me have all the feels – for example here and here. And sometimes she writes books that don’t work for me. Flying gave me feels, but annoyed me a little bit too. But overall I’m glad I read it. I crave this author’s voice and it satisfied me this time.

Stella’s ex-husband is the CEO of an airline, and as part of the divorce settlement, she gets free flights whenever she wants them – and she craves them a lot. I don’t want to spoil too much, but I will say Stella gets divorced because of a tragic event in her life. Her marriage cannot survive this, and now years later, Stella still tries to have control over everything. She thinks if she can control every detail in her life, nothing else bad will happen. She has a sixteen year old son name Tristan who splits his time between her and her ex. He is your typical moody, sloppy, hungry teenager, and she loves him to death. Because of this tragedy and grief that followed, Stella finds a way to act out. Every few weekends, she dresses up, dons a blonde wig and flies to whatever city fits her fancy that day. She lands, goes to the airport bar and picks out the man she wants to sleep with that night. The flirting and seduction dance follows and then sex tops off the evening. She goes by different names and different personas to lose herself. We see this for a good part of the first half of this book. She sleeps with a priest and a married man among others – so beware of that if you think you would take offense.

One weekend she actually has to travel for business, and gets stuck in the Chicago airport and meets a man named Matthew. Because it’s a business trip she isn’t in disguise, and surprises herself by giving Matthew her real name. One thing leads to another, and she finds herself at his apartment. But Stella is not her usual confident, sexual self. She feels too revealed as “Stella” and is nervous and hesitant to go forward..but she also really likes Matthew so they do sleep together. From here, the story unfolds as she comes to know Matthew and to face her past and try to move forward with her life.

This book is messy and complicated and I love that about Hart’s voice. Stella has issues–so many issues– but it felt real. Her grief comes through so strong. Her frustration over trying to raise a moody, head-strong teenager fighting with how much she loves him comes across so strong. I think the author does a nice job with letting us really feel Stella.

But Stella also annoyed me.

Matthew is recently divorced and Stella is the first person he has dated/slept with since his separation. He has two young daughters with his ex-wife and she still drops in all the time and there are not a lot of boundaries. Matthew is hesitant to tell his ex about Stella, which leads to her walking in when Stella is at his apartment – there is awkwardness and such. Stella spends the latter part of the book freaking out about this. She hates playing second string to his ex. She hates that he answers the phone immediately when she calls. She hates that he doesn’t return her calls when he has his daughters for the weekend. I get that Matthew is being pulled around by his balls by his ex-wife. I wanted to shake him at times too. But he is newly divorced and I don’t think Stella gave him time to adjust. She became very needy and a little whiny and I didn’t like that about her. I wanted her to have someone to comfort her when she had to deal with her past and her grief, but she also needed to act more mature at times.

And as always, the ending may make some of you groan. It’s a little messy. There is a HEA, but it’s not super solid. It ends abruptly and leaves you with that – are they happy enough to stay together forever? Will it work?

I’m glad I read this one though.

Rating: B- ...more

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Apr 23, 2014 Melissa rated it really liked it

*Complimentary copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*

4.5 Stars!

Another great book from Megan Hart! There is something about her writing that I just love. She doesn't write the typical cookie cutter romance. Her characters are always unexpected and her storylines take you on an emotional journey.

Stella loves the power she feels when she knows a man wants her. Her ex-husband is the CEO of an airline, so free flights were a part of her divorce settlement. She selects a destin *Complimentary copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*

4.5 Stars!

Another great book from Megan Hart! There is something about her writing that I just love. She doesn't write the typical cookie cutter romance. Her characters are always unexpected and her storylines take you on an emotional journey.

Stella loves the power she feels when she knows a man wants her. Her ex-husband is the CEO of an airline, so free flights were a part of her divorce settlement. She selects a destination, puts on some sexy lingerie and sometimes even changes up her look with a wig. She's playing a part. Seeking out the right guy in the airport bar to seduce. Nothing more than a night of sex back in his hotel room. She has no desire to see them again, so she doesn't exchange contact information or give them her real name.

Until she meets Matthew. It's totally unexpected when he starts talking to her at a bar in the Chicago airport. She's on the way home from a work training, not on the hunt for a man. There is no sexy lingerie or makeup and she's shocked when her real name slips so easily from her lips. Right from the start you can tell that he's going to be different.

They end up back at Matthew's apartment and have a memorable night together. Stella gets really emotional and ends up sharing her tragic past with him. Something she has never done with a stranger before. But, there is still no exchanging of phone numbers in the morning. He's impossible to forget so a few weeks later she's back in Chicago airport hoping to run into him. Of course, he's in the bar hoping to spot her.

"She shouldn't miss him this much so soon. He shouldn't mean so much to her...but he did."

They both have a lot of baggage and it's a struggle trying to make a long distance relationship work. Especially when one person feels like they are contributing more to the relationship than the other. Will they be able to make it work or would Stella be better off resuming her flights?

Stella was such a strong woman, especially after all she had been through. She was always direct and to the point with all of the men that she met. I admired her for not playing games, but instead being honest and telling them all, even Matthew what she wanted. Stella and Matthew had a great connection, but there were times that he really disappointed me. I just wanted to shake Stella and tell her to walk away and not respond to any more of his messages! Overall, I really enjoyed this book, but the ending did leave me wanting just a little bit more.

4.5/5 Fangs
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It
...more

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Jan 23, 2014 Laura rated it really liked it

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. Stella likes to fly.

Every other weekend, Stella dons a new outfit/disguise, and flies to a different city and experiences encounters with men. She never gives her name, never tells more than is necessary, and expects nothing in return. Stella likes the feeling of being someone different each time, but more than that; she likes the feeling of making a man want her.

On one particular flight, Stella meets Matthew. Always careful to not expose her true identity, she surprises herself by not only tel Stella likes to fly.

Every other weekend, Stella dons a new outfit/disguise, and flies to a different city and experiences encounters with men. She never gives her name, never tells more than is necessary, and expects nothing in return. Stella likes the feeling of being someone different each time, but more than that; she likes the feeling of making a man want her.

On one particular flight, Stella meets Matthew. Always careful to not expose her true identity, she surprises herself by not only telling Matthew what her real name is, but also revealing her most painful secret. Stella doesn’t expect to continue to see Matthew, but the two quickly discover that they cannot get enough of each other. Through Stella’s painful past, and Matthew’s on going shenanigans with his ex-wife, the pair faces a difficult path. And although Stella has no problem flying out to meet Matthew and spend time with him, it quickly becomes evident that Matthew has no desire to fly and meet her.

I requested this book specifically because it is authored by Megan Hart. I am a huge fan of hers, and I enjoy almost everything she writes. When I first read the description about the book, I was expecting a sexy erotic read about Stella and all of her “encounters” with random men, as well as finding out about the man that finally “tames” her and makes her desire subside. Although the story is indeed very much about that, that part of the book, in my opinion, really takes a back seat to the internal conflict that is going on with Stella.

Stella had two sons, and one was tragically killed at a very young age. Divorced now from her husband, Stella lives with her second now teenage son, Tristan. I very much enjoyed reading about Stella’s relationship with her sons, as I have two sons of my own. Being a mother myself, reading this story was extremely difficult for me, and in fact, I have put off writing my review now for several days. The heaviness of this story has stuck with me since finishing the story.

The book does have a quasi-happy ending, although at the end of the book, I was ready to punch Matthew in the face and tell him where he could go. After discovering the real reason why Matthew won’t come to see Stella, I did soften towards him a bit, and was very satisfied with the way this novel ended.

I brought my rating down one star for this because I don’t think this novel was categorized appropriately. It’s indicated as an erotic romance, but I feel that this is more along the lines of erotic fiction. This story was excellent, and told in the way that Megan Hart fans have come to appreciate. Four stars for an enjoyable, yet very heavy deep read.

***This book was provided to me via NetGalley***
...more

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Sep 16, 2016 Sammy Loves Books rated it it was ok · review of another edition

Shelves: due-to-review, erotic-contemporary-romance, contemporary-romance, library-audio, as-many-dicks-as-you-can-get, no-happy-ending

I never thought Megan Hart could write a bad book. This one was torturous, yet I couldn't stop reading it. Hind sight is 20/20. Now that I have finally finished reading, I realize this should have been a DNF. ...more

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Feb 27, 2014 Quinn rated it it was ok

Nope, not for me. For being in the Erotica section on Netgalley this book was boring and whiny. An all around fail.

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Jan 24, 2014 BookAddict ✒ La Crimson Femme rated it liked it

Shelves: arc, netgalley-reviews, romance, oblreview

Ms. Hart is a mistress of tormented contemporary romance. In this one, even if there is a bit of sex, the focus isn't on an erotic smoking hawt romance. Instead, it's a chronicle of broken people trying hard to patch themselves up. Stella is a sexually free woman. She flies to whatever city with a direct flight from Pennsylvania. She finds a guy at the bar, lets him pick her up and then she tops it off with a little one-night stand. It's not exactly a game for her. It's more of a way to escape f Ms. Hart is a mistress of tormented contemporary romance. In this one, even if there is a bit of sex, the focus isn't on an erotic smoking hawt romance. Instead, it's a chronicle of broken people trying hard to patch themselves up. Stella is a sexually free woman. She flies to whatever city with a direct flight from Pennsylvania. She finds a guy at the bar, lets him pick her up and then she tops it off with a little one-night stand. It's not exactly a game for her. It's more of a way to escape from her pain.

From the start of this story, I'm trying to understand Stella. She's sexually liberated which I like. There is no slut shaming which is good. What is confusing is why Stella is a one-night stand addict. The life she lives on her getaway weekends compared to her life through the weekdays is night and day. During the week, she shares custody of her son with her ex-husband. She works a job which is rather mundane. On weekends, she flings herself onto the cock of a new man and then takes the next flight out without a goodbye.

As Ms. Hart pulls back the layers on Stella, each new reveal is painful because it exposes all the disappointments and pain in her life. From a character perspective, this story very well crafted. Stella and Matthew are both broken people who try to get through life. They haven't moved on from the trauma which is now defining them. The way these characters behave is painful to watch and at times, one really wants to smack them upside the head. There is a reason to their madness. The reasons are quite depressing. Ms. Hart really knows how to pull the heart strings in this one.

While the story spends a good amount of time on meaningless sexual hook ups and a rocky romance, the underlying message is a bit more subtle. For me, it is about how people rebuild themselves when their whole world crumbs. Can they put it all back together again or will this be a prolonged slow death? The conflicts and situations which arise are well written and completely believable. The miscommunications here are not contrived to cause a conflict between two characters. Instead, the purposeful lack of communication packs a powerful punch when the reader realizes why it's such a painful point for Stella. The way the anger manifests and expresses itself may not be the best way. At least it doesn't stay under the surface, festering and becoming worse. This is what I liked most about Stella. She spoke her mind and didn't play games. She didn't sugarcoat when she was placed into situations where in the eyes of society, she could have or should have placated the male to smooth his hurt feelings. This refreshing attitude makes me smile because it frees a woman from the shackles of societal dictation that women should put their needs always behind others.

I think this is what really pulled me into the book. Stella no longer puts a man before her desires. Nor does she relegate her needs as secondary to her son's. Because when it comes down to it, looking at the males in her life, ex-husband, son, lover, male friend, none of them put her first. Yet they all expect her to be there for them. If they looked out for her first, then I'd have no issues. Their lack of reciprocation until near the end when they realize how she's been there for them in the past, is sad and all too familiar. This contemporary novel is for those who have tragically lost a loved one and want to believe tomorrow will be a better day.

*provided by NetGalley ...more

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Feb 15, 2014 Lady Raven RAVE! rated it liked it

Shelves: arc, contemporary-rom, erotica-contemporary

Length: 384 pages
Style: Contemporary Romance
Story: GOOD
Intimacy: GOOD
Enjoyment: FAIR
Series: N/A

I am torn as I review, this story. I have two reviews for this book as I am conflicted with the book.

4****stars
I would give this story 4****stars for the story. I think the author went very deep with this book as it seems more of an emotional read/ story with very well developed characters. The storyline for each character makes you feel like you can relate in some ways to the characters. If you are ...more

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Apr 17, 2014 *P rated it liked it

3 star read but extra credit for the racy scenes

This is my first Megan Hart book and I found the storyline to be interesting but it just never gave me a complete understanding of the characters. Stella, the heroine is 10 years past tragedy and is still haunted by it. Divorced from her airline CEO husband she takes advantage of the perk of her divorce settlement which entitled her to free flights. This is where Stella takes on new personas in an effort to have no strings hook ups. She definitely 3 star read but extra credit for the racy scenes

This is my first Megan Hart book and I found the storyline to be interesting but it just never gave me a complete understanding of the characters. Stella, the heroine is 10 years past tragedy and is still haunted by it. Divorced from her airline CEO husband she takes advantage of the perk of her divorce settlement which entitled her to free flights. This is where Stella takes on new personas in an effort to have no strings hook ups. She definitely knows what she wants sexually and she is not afraid to go for it. Then she meets Matt at a time when she truly was travelling for business and she goes off for a night with him but as herself. This is when things get tricky for Stella and for the first time in awhile she is feeling more than lust for someone.

I did love the real feel of her life struggles with her son Tristan and her ex-husband. The problem was I didn't always get what was going on throughout the story. There are flashback events or explanations which I found confusing. At this time I am not one hundred percent what happened with Craig. I was disturbed that ten years later it doesn't sound like she has ever had any counselling or help dealing with issues that truly needed to be dealt with. Matt and his dealings with Stella were totally infuriating and at times I found Stella's interactions with Matt to be contradictory: confident and in your face honest alternating with emotional train wreck and needy. I really was unsure how this story was going to unfold and as I approached ninety-eight percent and still no inkling as to what was going to happen I was frustrated. I really think the story would have ended much better if an epilogue was included because I don't think anything is really different and Stella likely will run into the same issues with Matt over and over again. Since the book comes across as a stand alone I just feel unsettled not knowing whatever happens.

Thanks to NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. ...more

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Apr 29, 2014 Simply Love Book Reviews rated it it was amazing

Shelves: simply-love-kitty

Kitty‘s review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews

5 STARS

Review copy provided for an honest review

Well, neat concept. Who wouldn’t want the freedom of flying off, finding a hot man and having anonymous sex? But, when you look deep down into the heart of the person doing this, maybe you’ll find a lot more than you bargained for. Megan Hart brings us on a wicked ride through the friendly skies and drops us in the middle of Chicago and, in doing so, opens us up to a world where the past collide Kitty‘s review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews

5 STARS

Review copy provided for an honest review

Well, neat concept. Who wouldn’t want the freedom of flying off, finding a hot man and having anonymous sex? But, when you look deep down into the heart of the person doing this, maybe you’ll find a lot more than you bargained for. Megan Hart brings us on a wicked ride through the friendly skies and drops us in the middle of Chicago and, in doing so, opens us up to a world where the past collides with the present and pain definitely becomes pleasure.

Stella is a single mother of a teen-aged son. Living a life that has left her heartbroken, desolate, desperate and bitter. She knows that she’ll never open herself up to love but sometimes needs the connection that sex brings her. The part of her divorce settlement that she fought for is what makes her dreams come trues. Flying off to different places, finding a man, feeling the connection. Never with the same man twice assures her of no attachments, even if she sometimes comes off as a cold-hearted bitch.

Matthew has his own demons from the past, plus an ex-wife who is still totally dependent upon him. His past haunts him and he finds solace in a bottle. This is exactly what he is doing when Stella walks into the airport bar. When their flights are canceled due to bad weather, he invites her to his home. Stella knows this is a bad idea … she actually gave him her real name, let him see the real her. After a round of sex, Stella opens up to him and tells him about the one thing that she can never talk about … Gage. But, she feels there’s something he’s hiding – she won’t push but she’s told him everything and he’s holding back.

I was blown away by Flying. An interesting concept, as I said in the beginning. I was a little confused, as I started the book, trying to keep the men in the airports separate from the men in her life. But, all the characters were written with such a depth that you actually understood who and what they were and wanted. Matthew was an enigma but, when all is finally revealed, you understand, you feel for him and you can’t help but feel sorry for both Stella and Matthew, what they are going through and went through to get where they are today and wonder if there will be an HEA. In the end, he comes through and you sit, stunned, at the way she ends the story. I wanted more – I wanted to know where they go from here – I wanted to know Stella’s family’s reaction …. there was so much more that I wanted and I didn’t get. I could only hope …. ...more

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Mar 17, 2014 Britt Marczak rated it did not like it

Shelves: contemporary, did-not-finish, netgalley-arc, i-cant

I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

I was instantly wary of this book because of how similar the cover is to Tiffany Reisz's Original Sinners series. So I hesitated, but asked to review this book, anyway. I hoped it would have something great in it, and the blurb sounded interesting.

The second strike for me was that the first man the heroine seduces is a priest. Not that I mind that. I don't care about that. But it was too eerily similar to Tiffany Reisz's books aga ...more

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Feb 22, 2015 DKristin rated it liked it

Shelves: audiobooked, big-o-s, own-a-copy

I have probably read a handful of Megan Hart books prior to reading this one. I must say that it was not up to the same quality as some of her others. That is not to say that it was not a good book. I enjoyed it I just have enjoyed some of her other titles a great deal more. Flying is the story of Stella a divorcee, single mother, who has a tragic past and utilizes her flying benefits that she received in her divorce to escape on a regular basis from the heaviness of real life. Matthew was also ...more

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Mar 15, 2014 The Book Junkie Reads . . . rated it liked it

Shelves: author_free_reads, first_reads, netgalley

Stella has some issues and the way she work things out could turn heads. She took to flying to some place new each weekend. Things come to a change when one weekend she meets a man that can match her in every way. Matthew may have found what he was not looking for. I found this to be a deep, deep read. It gave so much more that a romance. There was some deep emotional aspects that drew you in to the read.

If the romance is what your looking for and not the baggage that can cling to it then you h ...more

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Jun 09, 2014 Mina Khan rated it it was amazing

I read this one day and I think I have found my favorite book of 2014. Every time I thought I knew where the story was going, MH threw in a new twist. I cried, I wondered, I spoke out loud, and cheered through this book...if you like complex, real, messy characters, raw emotions and intriguing stories, this one is for you.

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May 27, 2014 Billie Lawson rated it liked it

3.5 stars. The beginning was a little slow, but about halfway through it grabbed me and I didn't want to put it down. You can't help but root for the main character and want her to find true happiness. Very enjoyable read. ...more

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May 01, 2015 Kenya Wright rated it liked it

This one was beautifully done by Megan Hart, who commands emotions and writing very well. I would say that the low rating is just due to the fact that I couldn't connect with the heroine. Other than that, I'll be waiting and drooling for more Megan Hart. ...more

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Jul 15, 2014 Stephanie Ooley rated it did not like it

So disappointed in this one. Haven't read any Megan Hart books before this. There are no words... ...more

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Aug 17, 2014 Autumn Review rated it it was amazing

Shelves: arc, review

4.5 stars
Unpredictable and I liked it. A lot. It was emotional and a bit heartbreaking. Definitely recommend this one if you're in the mood for something different. ...more

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Jan 30, 2014 The Romance Evangelist rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: review-books

A copy of this book was provided by the publisher for an honest review at The Romance Evangelist.

Megan Hart was one of the very first writers I found when I started looking for quality contemporary erotic romance books in the past few years, and she’s still one of the best. To be fair, what she writes is more erotic women’s fiction than romance specifically, since there is absolutely no guarantee that any of her books will have a true Happy Ever After for her main characters, but enough of her b A copy of this book was provided by the publisher for an honest review at The Romance Evangelist.

Megan Hart was one of the very first writers I found when I started looking for quality contemporary erotic romance books in the past few years, and she’s still one of the best. To be fair, what she writes is more erotic women’s fiction than romance specifically, since there is absolutely no guarantee that any of her books will have a true Happy Ever After for her main characters, but enough of her books have qualified that she’s one of my favorites in the genre. However, and I’ll acknowledge this is on me more than her, her last few books haven’t been as enjoyable for me as her earlier works, and I was becoming concerned that I might have to stop reviewing her books, as we just didn’t seem to mesh well anymore.

So it was with some trepidation that I started reading FLYING, although the blurb made it sound like something I would absolutely love. I’m so happy to say FLYING is Megan Hart back to where I love her - ripping my heart out for a heroine who could just have easily been me, in a situation that only she could make me understand and want to see end in a better place than where it began.

Stella is hanging on to her sanity by her fingertips, and it’s only by spending weekends away from home with strangers she picks up on airplanes and airports that she can temporarily forget all the loss in her life. Matthew starts out as yet another sexual escape for Stella, but ends up being someone who could make her break all her rules, including the one about never letting another man into her heart.

I had a tremendous amount of sympathy for Stella and refused to judge her for how she had chosen to cope with what had happened to her family. So when she found herself falling for Matthew, I was more worried about how she could possibly survive another loss than about any repercussions in her real life. But as damaged as Stella might be, Matthew is even more, and although I loved them together, I was so proud of how she finally called him out for not valuing her as much as she had him, and how she forced him to take the next step toward a genuine relationship with her if that’s what he really wanted. So when she went on to finally deal with all the dangling ends in her real life after the events which had blown it apart, I was cheering and happy even before the surprise happy ending, because I knew that she was going to be okay with or without Matthew.

The only problem I had with FLYING was what kept me from giving it a full 5 star review, and that’s the deliberate use of the third person present voice for all the scenes where Stella is living through one of her “flying” sequences. I realize that was done to help set those off from her “real” life, and it definitely works in that respect. But that type of writing is extremely difficult for me to read, and when the entire first chapter of the book was in that style, it took me several days to finish, resisting my impulse to DNF the whole book at that point. Once the second chapter began in third person past voice, I was able to read and enjoy the rest of the book without issue. It’s likely most other readers won’t have this problem reading third person present, but if you do, just hang in there and finish that first chapter, because FLYING is definitely worth every effort. ...more

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Jan 22, 2014 Kay rated it really liked it

Shelves: 2014-reads, contemporary, erotica, rc, arc

Stella disguises herself and flies to different cities to sleep with random men. These exploits are hot while the reader wonders why she puts herself in these situations. As the book progresses, we learn that she has conflict with her ex-husband and her teenage son as well as issues within herself due to a tragic event that messed with her happy family. She does her best to deal with these problems but there are just times when she wants to fly off to another city to pretend to be someone else. Stella disguises herself and flies to different cities to sleep with random men. These exploits are hot while the reader wonders why she puts herself in these situations. As the book progresses, we learn that she has conflict with her ex-husband and her teenage son as well as issues within herself due to a tragic event that messed with her happy family. She does her best to deal with these problems but there are just times when she wants to fly off to another city to pretend to be someone else. While on a business trip, she meets Matthew as herself, without being disguised. She feels an instant connection with him and opens up about issues she hasn’t shared with anyone before which leads to the beginnings of a relationship.

I liked Stella because she has been through a lot and doesn’t have time to put up with BS. She knows what she wants and she goes out there to get it. Unfortunately, her relationships at home are a different story. She does try to mend wounds with her ex-husband and son and we see her good attempts. But she is tortured and the reader realizes that she has to fix herself first.

As for Matthew, I didn’t really connect well with him. Sure, the sex was hot just as it always is in Megan Hart books but he seemed very selfish and suspect. There were times when he'd disappear and leave Stella waiting for hours especially when his needy ex-wife would come calling. His priorities were just not aligned with Stella's so it really urked me that he was so selfish and not understanding of Stella's needs. He also came off really shady and secretive who never gave Stella a straight answer when she questioned him. We soon discover his reasons for being so suspect but he didn’t redeem himself in my eyes.

By the end, I'm glad Stella let go of her grief, healed her guilt and made up with her son. She fixed some bridges with her ex husband and bonded with his new wife. She figured out what she wants and deserves. The ending leaves me wondering if she will continue down this path of self improvement or will her wounded cycle repeat itself.

There's no surprise here that Megan Hart has written an emotionally driven and realistic romance with an ending that leaves me feeling conflicted. I will settle for a “happy for now” ending even though I don't quite agree with how it ended. Some readers might be turned off by this HFN ending, but if you want truthful storytelling, then check out Megan Hart. Just don’t be surprised if everything is not tied up nicely with a bow.

3.5 Stars

* ARC provided by Harlequin MIRA via Netgalley
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Feb 13, 2014 Lucie Paris rated it really liked it

Surprising by its sweet, ugly, simple reality and complicated emotions.

By starting this book, I was expecting a light story. What's got the best of my curiosity? Knowing that the heroine acts like a man... A guy in every port or rather in every airport ...

Then, the first meeting between Stella and a priest hooked in a bar, I was concerned whether the story was going to be sordid.

Indeed, Stella plays a persona who puts distance between herself and the men she meets. It's a cold, sad and a little ...more

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Apr 13, 2014 Cynthia rated it liked it

Shelves: erotic-romance, harlequin

Stella is a divorce mom of a 15 year old, during the week she works but every other weekend she flies to different places to have a good time with men she has never met and never will again. This is her me time away from her home and troubles. She doesn’t want a boyfriend and she is always happy to leave them behind until she meets Matthew. For some reason she gives him her real name and tells him her troubles. He has something that other men do not have and she can’t get enough of it.

When I th ...more

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