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Up in the Air #4
Mr. Beautiful
I’ve been remade four times in my life.
It is a distinct feeling. Impossible to mistake. The very marked sensation of being unraveled and reknit into a new thing, a new person. It can be good or bad, helpful or harmful, but above all, it is unstoppable.
I was remade when my parents died, went from a happy childhood, into navigating a very dark world, with endless responsibilities, surrounded by enemies, and despairingly alone.
It happened again at the hands of a cowardly predator. I’d become angrier with that one, more cynical, and it undoubtedly turned me into the kinky f**k I was today.
The third happened swiftly. One day I looked up into a pair of pale blue eyes and saw the other half of my soul. Checkmate. I went from a completely controlled existence, a life where I made every decision with cold calculation, to a man overcome with feelings and emotions that were foreign but somehow wonderful.
And all too soon after that cataclysmic change was this fourth one, this one where I begged a God I’d never entertained to spare the life of a woman that I could not live without.
Follow all of the characters from the Up in the Air universe in the years after the trilogy, with POVs from James, Stephan, Frankie, Tristan, and Akira.
This book is intended for readers 18 and up.
It is a distinct feeling. Impossible to mistake. The very marked sensation of being unraveled and reknit into a new thing, a new person. It can be good or bad, helpful or harmful, but above all, it is unstoppable.
I was remade when my parents died, went from a happy childhood, into navigating a very dark world, with endless responsibilities, surrounded by enemies, and despairingly alone.
It happened again at the hands of a cowardly predator. I’d become angrier with that one, more cynical, and it undoubtedly turned me into the kinky f**k I was today.
The third happened swiftly. One day I looked up into a pair of pale blue eyes and saw the other half of my soul. Checkmate. I went from a completely controlled existence, a life where I made every decision with cold calculation, to a man overcome with feelings and emotions that were foreign but somehow wonderful.
And all too soon after that cataclysmic change was this fourth one, this one where I begged a God I’d never entertained to spare the life of a woman that I could not live without.
Follow all of the characters from the Up in the Air universe in the years after the trilogy, with POVs from James, Stephan, Frankie, Tristan, and Akira.
This book is intended for readers 18 and up.
390 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 14, 2014
398 people are currently reading
13713 people want to read
About the author
R.K. Lilley
38 books12.7k followersR.K. Lilley has been a writer since she can remember, but has held down some interesting jobs to pay the bills. For several years she was a first class flight attendant, and she always swore that she just had to write a book about it. Mixing her love of romance and all things BDSM, the Up In the Air Trilogy is her debut into the world of contempary romance and erotica. She is currently working on the final installment in the series.
You can contact R.K. at Authorrklilley@gmail.com
Visit her Facebook page to keep up-to-date on what she's working on
https://www.facebook.com/authorrklilley
And check out her website http://www.rklilley.com/
R.K. also writes urban fantasy under the pseudonym: Rebecca K. Lilley
You can contact R.K. at Authorrklilley@gmail.com
Visit her Facebook page to keep up-to-date on what she's working on
https://www.facebook.com/authorrklilley
And check out her website http://www.rklilley.com/
R.K. also writes urban fantasy under the pseudonym: Rebecca K. Lilley
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Want to read
October 15, 2014 MR. BEAUTIFUL - coming October 15th!!!!!
OH. MY. GOD. ➜ Mr. Beautiful will be a male POV continuation of the Up in the Air series!!!
OH. MY. GOD. ➜ Mr. Beautiful will be a male POV continuation of the Up in the Air series!!!
May 20, 2023
I was a little disappointed with this. I still loved the story, but I was expecting more. I think part of it was because the author had already released a lot of the scenes I wanted to read. I sort of wish she would have just added the bonus material to the book instead of adding it to the end of the book. I was just expecting a lot more than I got.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Wait… What?!!
A 4th book?
From James POV?
When does it come out?!!
No release date yet? You mean... not tomorrow?
Fine! I guess I can wait… not like I have much of a choice.
But I'll be watching for this one!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Wait… What?!!
A 4th book?
From James POV?
When does it come out?!!
No release date yet? You mean... not tomorrow?
Fine! I guess I can wait… not like I have much of a choice.
But I'll be watching for this one!
April 20, 2015
4 ‘Team happily ever after’ stars!
Mr. Beautiful has been one of my most highly anticipated reads for the fall. Even though I knew it would be some rehashing of the Up in the Air trilogy, I didn’t care. I love James Cavendish that much. We got a lot of James pov. Several scenes were from the trilogy, but we also got some new stuff. I love the male pov. There is nothing like being in one of your favorite book boyfriends heads. I loved watching James growth, seeing him before Bianca, during and then the after. Being in his head while he lost his heart to her was something special.
As much as I enjoyed being in James head, I have to say I loved being in Stephan’s head even more. He is one of my favorite characters from this series. His and Bianca’s past… well, it destroyed me. There were a few hard to read scenes that made me cry. There are also a lot of sweet and sexy. I especially loved the m/m scene between Stephan and Javier ;)
Bianca and Stephan will always have a special relationship. They’re more than just friends, more than family. They’ve been through so much together, they have such a deep connection, they just can’t be apart. I loved the focus on that and also how understanding both of their partners were of their situations. They truly are a package deal. And both of there speeches… sigh.
Mr. Beautiful has been one of my most highly anticipated reads for the fall. Even though I knew it would be some rehashing of the Up in the Air trilogy, I didn’t care. I love James Cavendish that much. We got a lot of James pov. Several scenes were from the trilogy, but we also got some new stuff. I love the male pov. There is nothing like being in one of your favorite book boyfriends heads. I loved watching James growth, seeing him before Bianca, during and then the after. Being in his head while he lost his heart to her was something special.
I was lost. I was found.
I, James Cavendish, unrepentant dominant, sexual deviant, and prolific slut for more years than I cared to count, was in love.
I’d taken her virgin body, but just as surely, she’d taken my virgin heart.
As much as I enjoyed being in James head, I have to say I loved being in Stephan’s head even more. He is one of my favorite characters from this series. His and Bianca’s past… well, it destroyed me. There were a few hard to read scenes that made me cry. There are also a lot of sweet and sexy. I especially loved the m/m scene between Stephan and Javier ;)
Bianca and Stephan will always have a special relationship. They’re more than just friends, more than family. They’ve been through so much together, they have such a deep connection, they just can’t be apart. I loved the focus on that and also how understanding both of their partners were of their situations. They truly are a package deal. And both of there speeches… sigh.
We are fundamentally connected. We met when we were broken seeds, when we were still being formed into something. We had to grow together to survive. Some part of us will always be like that, connected, growing together. We're different flowers, but we were nurtured from the same damaged root.Overall, this was a good read for me. I liked that it was all from the male pov. I will warn potential readers that the ‘story’ ends at 66%. After that it’s mostly teasers for Lilley’s upcoming books and cut out scenes. The book was written in a way that it jumped around quite a bit. From person to person, past to present. I didn’t find it hard to follow, just a bit odd. James is amazing, Stephan is amazing, and I loved the little snippets of Tristan that were thrown in! Personally, I’m glad I read it. I recommend it to fans of this series that are interested in being in our Mr. Beautiful and Stephan’s heads!
March 4, 2016
Click on picture to watch youtube video
Read Twice:
Kindle
Audio Book Elizabeth Powers (Narrator) Enjoyed
I really enjoyed the hell out of this series the first time I read it and the second.
update:
i hate every bitch who reads this book before me
ps. who do i need to blow to get an arc?
update: is it wrong to totally want 2 more up in the air books
- still no date
- im ready to get to blowing author just tell me where and when? im ready to give out some head for my arc
problems that still need more info
1. i think i want to know more about james life with baby so i can go more nuts over him
2. i think i want more damn frankie james b interaction .. i also want more about frankie girlfriend
3. i want Stephan to have a baby.. i want B to carry said baby maybe.. so we have an "egg debate" possible.. either way. i want him to have and want a child (or possiblity adopt)
4. i want them to adopt a USA baby.. we always talk about adopting over seas in america which nothing is wrong with that but.... there are so many kids who need homes here in the usa .. it's not funny anymore. it's just sad.. and breaks my heart. (id not mind steph adopting as well)
5. i want there to be more about her .. half brother and reconnect
6. i just love the couple and wrongly or rightly i just want more lol
i feel like.. we jump in this story line to the happy ever after.. and altho i love those.. it's the in-between that's where you find love.. a lot more to happy ever after.. and i dont mind reading about that.. come to think about it i love those stories sometimes more than the lets get together in 3 months flat and happy ever after.. books .. which is why i liked D's book so much. it took place over a long time which is rare for these types of series but also..drama tastier.
ps. i dont know about this series for a movie.. it's so rich.. and filled with elements i hope it gets picked up by HBO, or Netflix online cos it's a hit waiting to happen. in a long running tv sort.. it's more next gen sex in the city.. the one element that it could never break into.. about a generation younger.. . the main reason is the character develop.. is right on for TV. they are rich caring characters. you know about them as people and decent casting could do wonders.
truly layered characters are rare...
update: May 5
still no date. im sad about that. but maybe we will get something soon. dear. author i can keep a secret lol throw me a beta read or arc girl. hook a sister up.
((((((FINAL UPDATE READ)___
i enjoyed this book it felt like it hit on many of the things i wanted her to as well. interesting the whole ending. i always say it's the inbetween. where the real story is and i so wish we got more of it. her coming to terms with the kid .. id love all that. the fight. the feelings the drama .lol but alas it was from his POV so i guess i'll have to be ok with it .. unless she wants to throw us a bone down the line.
I LOVED frankies book ... for some reason in women's lit we dont like a lot of Bi men or women or Lez women im not sure why more dont get written into books but it is what it is.
October 17, 2014
3 MR BEAUTIFUL STARS! ★★★
"I, James Cavendish, unrepentant dominant, sexual deviant, and prolific slut for more years than I cared to count, was in love."
When I heard that RK Lilley was putting up a novella featuring all my favourite men from her series, I quickly jumped at the chance of this one as soon as it was out! I'll be frank that I usually don't have high expectations when it comes to these kinds of novellas because they always seem to be a rehash of the original series.
So how do I explain this book to you? I'll just let Forrest Gump break it down for you.
Jumping into this one, I didn't know what to expect. Will this be James's retelling of the trilogy? Or will it be the events after the trilogy? And where does all the other men's POV come into place in this book?
Well this book was definitely a whole bucketload of surprises.
Unfortunately, this is also where I found the read to be rather off-putting.
If you're hoping for a solid story that takes place after the events of the original trilogy, you're not likely to get one here. This novella was running different stories simultaneously and to put it mildly, all over the place. It alternated between past/present POVs and also concurrently alternating between James and Stephan for a good majority of the book.
And turns out, the actual story for James (aka Mr Beautiful) ended at 66%. Ah geez, why you'd do that Ms Lilley?! D:
The remaining 34% were pretty much bonus POVs/teaser chaps from Tristan/Frankie/Akira/Lourdes and some retelling of the original trilogy in James's POV. And I didn't like that these random chapters/teasers stuck out like a sore thumb since there was no proper flow between each one.
However I did very much enjoyed that we got to see Stephan's story which was the only thing that took me by surprise in this book. And yes, those M/M scenes; well nothing too overly explicit I think but good enough to convince me to join the other side...
********
Overall, a little disappointed with the read considering I paid $6.99 for it and found out the story I was looking most forward to actually ended at 66% (I'm starting to think I'm getting ripped off a lot lately). But for what it's worth, Lilley still brought out some smokin hot smutfest and James Cavendish will be the reason that I'm gonna need PLENTY OF ICE for my ovaries.
So yeah, I paid $6.99 so that my ovaries can have a good time and get a taste of M/M. Don't judge me okay?!
Please note that Mr. Beautiful should only be read after reading the original trilogy: Up in the Air series.
"I, James Cavendish, unrepentant dominant, sexual deviant, and prolific slut for more years than I cared to count, was in love."
When I heard that RK Lilley was putting up a novella featuring all my favourite men from her series, I quickly jumped at the chance of this one as soon as it was out! I'll be frank that I usually don't have high expectations when it comes to these kinds of novellas because they always seem to be a rehash of the original series.
So how do I explain this book to you? I'll just let Forrest Gump break it down for you.
Jumping into this one, I didn't know what to expect. Will this be James's retelling of the trilogy? Or will it be the events after the trilogy? And where does all the other men's POV come into place in this book?
Well this book was definitely a whole bucketload of surprises.
Unfortunately, this is also where I found the read to be rather off-putting.
If you're hoping for a solid story that takes place after the events of the original trilogy, you're not likely to get one here. This novella was running different stories simultaneously and to put it mildly, all over the place. It alternated between past/present POVs and also concurrently alternating between James and Stephan for a good majority of the book.
And turns out, the actual story for James (aka Mr Beautiful) ended at 66%. Ah geez, why you'd do that Ms Lilley?! D:
The remaining 34% were pretty much bonus POVs/teaser chaps from Tristan/Frankie/Akira/Lourdes and some retelling of the original trilogy in James's POV. And I didn't like that these random chapters/teasers stuck out like a sore thumb since there was no proper flow between each one.
However I did very much enjoyed that we got to see Stephan's story which was the only thing that took me by surprise in this book. And yes, those M/M scenes; well nothing too overly explicit I think but good enough to convince me to join the other side...
********
Overall, a little disappointed with the read considering I paid $6.99 for it and found out the story I was looking most forward to actually ended at 66% (I'm starting to think I'm getting ripped off a lot lately). But for what it's worth, Lilley still brought out some smokin hot smutfest and James Cavendish will be the reason that I'm gonna need PLENTY OF ICE for my ovaries.
So yeah, I paid $6.99 so that my ovaries can have a good time and get a taste of M/M. Don't judge me okay?!
Please note that Mr. Beautiful should only be read after reading the original trilogy: Up in the Air series.
April 22, 2015
"I'd taken her virgin body, but just as surely, she'd taken my virgin heart."
It's the first time that I've ever read a M/M scene, it took me by surprise and I couldn't believe how hot it was!!
So it's decided ! my next read will be a M/M one , can't wait for it!!!
Haha anyway..
The ending really pushed up the rating by a full star. What a brilliant series. I couldn't get enough of James. Boy did he worship the ground Bianca walked on. The love and adoration this man has for Bianca is beautiful. Stephan, Bianca and even James overcome so many hurdles in their lives growing up and they've managed to become such truly exceptional people. The only thing I faulted this book and for this reason I only gave it four stars was due to the fact that it kept going back and forwards in time in many people's pov's. I wish there were more scenes about when Bianca was pregnant, the few ones were so funny and cute.
Apart from that I loved this series and think it finished brilliantly!
It's the first time that I've ever read a M/M scene, it took me by surprise and I couldn't believe how hot it was!!
So it's decided ! my next read will be a M/M one , can't wait for it!!!
Haha anyway..
The ending really pushed up the rating by a full star. What a brilliant series. I couldn't get enough of James. Boy did he worship the ground Bianca walked on. The love and adoration this man has for Bianca is beautiful. Stephan, Bianca and even James overcome so many hurdles in their lives growing up and they've managed to become such truly exceptional people. The only thing I faulted this book and for this reason I only gave it four stars was due to the fact that it kept going back and forwards in time in many people's pov's. I wish there were more scenes about when Bianca was pregnant, the few ones were so funny and cute.
Apart from that I loved this series and think it finished brilliantly!
May 26, 2015
I don't know exactly how but as time passed by and I hadn't read James in awhile and I forgot how utterly fucking delicious he is. This book is from his point of view as well as Stefan's. I am always impressed when I read an R.K. Lilley book. Because not only do you get stories that have depth and interesting characters you also get some of the most toe curling raunchy sex ever. Although, this is giving you two characters point of view on a story that if you have read the rest of the series you are familiar with R.K. Lilley did it in a way where you do not feel like you are reading the same thing but just from a different pov. For pulling that off alone I gave it 5 coffee beans/stars.
I just cannot say enough about my love for this woman's writing and these wonderful characters that she has come up with. I am pretty sure I could read a novella at the least on each of the side characters and enjoy it. It's just that good! I read this one obviously as an audiobook so that means that I also had the fantastic, orgasmic, pleasure of listening to Jason Clarke read this story to me. Did I mention that it was orgasmic? Okay, just checking! He definitely did the characters justice. So if you were reticent about this one because it is from the other characters point of view please do yourself the favor of reading it anyway, I can't guarantee it of course but I am pretty sure that you won't regret it. Mmmmm James...
I don't know how I managed to not put two and two together, but obviously if this book is told from James & Stephans point of view then as that teaser at the end of Iris confirmed.... THERE WILL BE M/M IN THIS BOOK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
This Teaser Though.... http://rklilley.com/blog/2013/10/2/mr...
SHUT UP!!!!!!
I just cannot say enough about my love for this woman's writing and these wonderful characters that she has come up with. I am pretty sure I could read a novella at the least on each of the side characters and enjoy it. It's just that good! I read this one obviously as an audiobook so that means that I also had the fantastic, orgasmic, pleasure of listening to Jason Clarke read this story to me. Did I mention that it was orgasmic? Okay, just checking! He definitely did the characters justice. So if you were reticent about this one because it is from the other characters point of view please do yourself the favor of reading it anyway, I can't guarantee it of course but I am pretty sure that you won't regret it. Mmmmm James...
I don't know how I managed to not put two and two together, but obviously if this book is told from James & Stephans point of view then as that teaser at the end of Iris confirmed.... THERE WILL BE M/M IN THIS BOOK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
This Teaser Though.... http://rklilley.com/blog/2013/10/2/mr...
SHUT UP!!!!!!
November 5, 2014
Love James and Cam.
*Sigh*
~
2 Days to go!!
JAMES
I’ve been remade four times in my life.
It is a distinct feeling. Impossible to mistake. The very marked sensation of being unraveled and reknit into a new thing, a new person. It can be good or bad, helpful or harmful, but above all, it is unstoppable.
I was remade when my parents died, went from a happy childhood, into navigating a very dark world, with endless responsibilities, surrounded by enemies, and despairingly alone.
It happened again at the hands of a cowardly predator. I’d become angrier with that one, more cynical, and it undoubtedly turned me into the kinky fuck I was today.
The third happened swiftly. One day I looked up into a pair of pale blue eyes and saw the other half of my soul. Checkmate. I went from a completely controlled existence, a life where I made every decision with cold calculation, to a man overcome with feelings and emotions that were foreign but somehow wonderful.
And all too soon after that cataclysmic change was this fourth one, this one where I begged a God I’d never entertained to spare the life of a woman that I could not live without.
~
Date!!!
15th October, 2014
But its so fucking far!!!!!!!
~
TALK ABOUT COVER PORN! *swoons*
HOLEY FUCKING SHIT!!!!!!
OMG>>>>>>>> Gimme NOW.
I AM SO FUCKING EXCITED! *screaming around like a loon*
2014, Come here now you little bitch. Hogging all the good book.
Mr. Beautiful will be a male POV novel for the Up in the Air series that tells the story of James, and Stephan, and their unwavering love of a woman that would make the two men family.
GAHHHH. I want. NOW.
*Sigh*
~
2 Days to go!!
JAMES
I’ve been remade four times in my life.
It is a distinct feeling. Impossible to mistake. The very marked sensation of being unraveled and reknit into a new thing, a new person. It can be good or bad, helpful or harmful, but above all, it is unstoppable.
I was remade when my parents died, went from a happy childhood, into navigating a very dark world, with endless responsibilities, surrounded by enemies, and despairingly alone.
It happened again at the hands of a cowardly predator. I’d become angrier with that one, more cynical, and it undoubtedly turned me into the kinky fuck I was today.
The third happened swiftly. One day I looked up into a pair of pale blue eyes and saw the other half of my soul. Checkmate. I went from a completely controlled existence, a life where I made every decision with cold calculation, to a man overcome with feelings and emotions that were foreign but somehow wonderful.
And all too soon after that cataclysmic change was this fourth one, this one where I begged a God I’d never entertained to spare the life of a woman that I could not live without.
~
Date!!!
15th October, 2014
But its so fucking far!!!!!!!
~
TALK ABOUT COVER PORN! *swoons*
HOLEY FUCKING SHIT!!!!!!
OMG>>>>>>>> Gimme NOW.
I AM SO FUCKING EXCITED! *screaming around like a loon*
2014, Come here now you little bitch. Hogging all the good book.
Mr. Beautiful will be a male POV novel for the Up in the Air series that tells the story of James, and Stephan, and their unwavering love of a woman that would make the two men family.
GAHHHH. I want. NOW.
October 20, 2014
*****FIVE STARS*****
(BR with Mel, Sharon, and Tiffany)
What an unexpected pleasant surprise this book turned out to be!
I had my reservations when I found out we would get Stephan's POV. I knew that I would be forced to read some m/m scenes and anyone who knows me well, knows that it's not my cuppa. BUT!!!...there weren't too many m/m scenes, and the ones that were in the book were, to me, very SEXY and also beautiful. I really did love getting Stephan and Javier's story!!
This definitely wasn't a regurgitation of all that went on in the previous books! It was interesting getting inside of James' head during certain scenes from his past with Bianca. He was totally a goner for her from the moment he laid eyes on her. OMG!!! When you read how hot he was for her the first time he met her, believe me, you're going to need to change into a fresh pair of panties!!!! R.K. Lilley is an EXPERT when it comes to writing Panty Melting Sexy Times!! We all know there really aren't men like James out there, but a girl can still dream, can't she??
The main focal point of this story was Bianca and how she was blessed enough to have two FANTASTIC men in her life. James and Stephan would do anything to make her happy and keep her safe. Both needed her like they needed air to live and breathe. Her relationship with Stephan was so nurturing and filled with nothing but unconditional love. I think not only does every woman deserve a James, but we most definitely should have our very own Stephan as well. I didn't truly grasp how much these two men loved her until I read this book! It was simply beautiful!!
"We are fundamentally connected. We met when we were broken seeds, when we were still being formed into something. We had to grow together to survive. Some part of us will always be like that, connected, growing together. We're different flowers, but we were nurtured from the same damaged root." ~ Stephan
The real romance in life didn't come in that first sweet taste of love, as profound and life changing as it was. There was love then, yes.
Obsession, passion, infatuation. All of that and more.
But the true romance came from the slow lapse of time, the inexorable passing of days, weeks, months, years, decades.
I'd hold onto her with the last breath in my body. My final thought would be that I hadn't gotten enough, I just knew it.
Because I would never have enough.
Never enough sweet moments. Never enough shared smiles.
Never enough of touching her. ~ James
The book is quite short. It ends at about the 69% mark, but I didn't feel cheated at all. We get Tristan in several parts throughout the book and the Epilogue was amazing, and that just made this book seem like a wonderful gift to us readers from the author!! I know I took about five days to finish this book, but that was only because I had my beautiful Bestie visiting with me!
I highly recommend the "Up In The Air" series, along with the "Tristan & Danika" series. They are MUST READS!!!!
(BR with Mel, Sharon, and Tiffany)
What an unexpected pleasant surprise this book turned out to be!
I had my reservations when I found out we would get Stephan's POV. I knew that I would be forced to read some m/m scenes and anyone who knows me well, knows that it's not my cuppa. BUT!!!...there weren't too many m/m scenes, and the ones that were in the book were, to me, very SEXY and also beautiful. I really did love getting Stephan and Javier's story!!
This definitely wasn't a regurgitation of all that went on in the previous books! It was interesting getting inside of James' head during certain scenes from his past with Bianca. He was totally a goner for her from the moment he laid eyes on her. OMG!!! When you read how hot he was for her the first time he met her, believe me, you're going to need to change into a fresh pair of panties!!!! R.K. Lilley is an EXPERT when it comes to writing Panty Melting Sexy Times!! We all know there really aren't men like James out there, but a girl can still dream, can't she??
The main focal point of this story was Bianca and how she was blessed enough to have two FANTASTIC men in her life. James and Stephan would do anything to make her happy and keep her safe. Both needed her like they needed air to live and breathe. Her relationship with Stephan was so nurturing and filled with nothing but unconditional love. I think not only does every woman deserve a James, but we most definitely should have our very own Stephan as well. I didn't truly grasp how much these two men loved her until I read this book! It was simply beautiful!!
"We are fundamentally connected. We met when we were broken seeds, when we were still being formed into something. We had to grow together to survive. Some part of us will always be like that, connected, growing together. We're different flowers, but we were nurtured from the same damaged root." ~ Stephan
The real romance in life didn't come in that first sweet taste of love, as profound and life changing as it was. There was love then, yes.
Obsession, passion, infatuation. All of that and more.
But the true romance came from the slow lapse of time, the inexorable passing of days, weeks, months, years, decades.
I'd hold onto her with the last breath in my body. My final thought would be that I hadn't gotten enough, I just knew it.
Because I would never have enough.
Never enough sweet moments. Never enough shared smiles.
Never enough of touching her. ~ James
The book is quite short. It ends at about the 69% mark, but I didn't feel cheated at all. We get Tristan in several parts throughout the book and the Epilogue was amazing, and that just made this book seem like a wonderful gift to us readers from the author!! I know I took about five days to finish this book, but that was only because I had my beautiful Bestie visiting with me!
I highly recommend the "Up In The Air" series, along with the "Tristan & Danika" series. They are MUST READS!!!!
December 23, 2016
Once again I couldn't resist the temptation to re-read this book but in audio version this time. The voice of narrator Jason Clarke was mesmerizing and ideally suited for Mr HOTNESS personified James Cavendish. Through the impeccable narration I could feel intensely all the emotions of James and the depth of his feelings for Bianca. Everything about this man is extreme and I love him even more because of it. It was a wonderful experience to rediscover one of the most powerful and beautiful love story that I had the joy of reading and featuring two of the most endearing characters, ever. I fell in love with Bianca and James (and Stephan!!) all over again. And let's not forget all the other amazing supporting characters Danika, Tristan, Frankie, Javier, Lana and Akira who complement this story wonderfully by giving it even more value, depth and emotion. The Up in Air series is still one of my top 3 favorite trilogies of all time! And I officially renew my allegiance to this incredible author I love without restriction.
October 18, 2014
4.5 "She's The One" Stars!
(BR with Sharon, Patty & Tiffany)
I really enjoyed James POV, & seeing how crazy he was over Bianca from the start. He was absolutely infatuated with her, & fell hard quick. All the scenes were even hotter from his POV. He's intense, kinky, gorgeous, & irresistible, & I loved watching him fall in love with his soul mate!
-I went from a completely controlled existence, a life where I made every decision with cold calculation to a man overcome with feelings and emotions that were foreign but somehow wonderful.
-I doubted she was a sub; the chances were just too slim, but I was certain she was suited to be one. I felt as though I was holding her in place with just my force of will, and I loved that feeling.
-She was an instrument already tuned to my touch. Like she was made for me.
-God, had I ever looked upon a more lovely sight? She looked both pure and sinful all at once.
-My obsession with this woman didn't seem to have a limit.
-You are the one that I want, the one that I need.
We also finally get some delicious Stephan sexy time! I adore sweet Stephan, & my heart broke for him learning about his past with his family. I liked getting more back story about Stephan & Bianca. It was sad all they had was each other, but every girl should be lucky enough to have a friend as wonderful as Stephan. I was so happy Stephan finally got his HEA & learned to love & accept himself.
-"They're a package deal."
-"Bianca wouldn't be Bianca without Stephan."
-"They need each other."
-"Who could ever love her as much as she deserved to be loved, as much as I loved her? Who could live up to that? Who on earth could possibly be good enough for my Bianca? And then she met James. A man so perfect for her, so good for her."
And we also get my favorite couple Tristan & Danika. I loved getting a peek into their future, & getting some more of yummy Tristan in the bedroom! ;)) The man is just soooo sexy! It was just all so fabulous!!! :D
-Time had done nothing to diminish her beauty. I personally thought time had enhanced it, added to it with still more depth in those eyes of hers that enslaved me at a glance. She was as beautiful, as sexy, and had me wrapped as tightly around her little finger as she ever had.
-Marriage isn't easy. It's not meant to be. It is picking a partnership over a solo venture. It is choosing to consider another person in every decision you make for the rest of your life, instead of just doing what feels right to you. It is choosing to be selfless over selfish.
(BR with Sharon, Patty & Tiffany)
I really enjoyed James POV, & seeing how crazy he was over Bianca from the start. He was absolutely infatuated with her, & fell hard quick. All the scenes were even hotter from his POV. He's intense, kinky, gorgeous, & irresistible, & I loved watching him fall in love with his soul mate!
-I went from a completely controlled existence, a life where I made every decision with cold calculation to a man overcome with feelings and emotions that were foreign but somehow wonderful.
-I doubted she was a sub; the chances were just too slim, but I was certain she was suited to be one. I felt as though I was holding her in place with just my force of will, and I loved that feeling.
-She was an instrument already tuned to my touch. Like she was made for me.
-God, had I ever looked upon a more lovely sight? She looked both pure and sinful all at once.
-My obsession with this woman didn't seem to have a limit.
-You are the one that I want, the one that I need.
We also finally get some delicious Stephan sexy time! I adore sweet Stephan, & my heart broke for him learning about his past with his family. I liked getting more back story about Stephan & Bianca. It was sad all they had was each other, but every girl should be lucky enough to have a friend as wonderful as Stephan. I was so happy Stephan finally got his HEA & learned to love & accept himself.
-"They're a package deal."
-"Bianca wouldn't be Bianca without Stephan."
-"They need each other."
-"Who could ever love her as much as she deserved to be loved, as much as I loved her? Who could live up to that? Who on earth could possibly be good enough for my Bianca? And then she met James. A man so perfect for her, so good for her."
And we also get my favorite couple Tristan & Danika. I loved getting a peek into their future, & getting some more of yummy Tristan in the bedroom! ;)) The man is just soooo sexy! It was just all so fabulous!!! :D
-Time had done nothing to diminish her beauty. I personally thought time had enhanced it, added to it with still more depth in those eyes of hers that enslaved me at a glance. She was as beautiful, as sexy, and had me wrapped as tightly around her little finger as she ever had.
-Marriage isn't easy. It's not meant to be. It is picking a partnership over a solo venture. It is choosing to consider another person in every decision you make for the rest of your life, instead of just doing what feels right to you. It is choosing to be selfless over selfish.
October 20, 2014
4,5 Beautiful Stars.
This book take us to James mind, while we remember the most important marks of their relationship and its evolution after “the accident”. We get to see more of Stephens love story and it is pretty amazing.
I loved how this felt like a giant epilogue and if you loved this series, you can’t miss this one.
Rating: 4,5 Stars.
Storyline: I loved how this was sort of a mix between a male POV and a prolonged epilogue. Loved to be in James head, loved to see more of Stephen and Javier story and definitely, loved the epilogue. A great addiction to the series.
Writing Style: First person. Male POV. Steamy and engaging.
Character Development: I loved James before and now I loved him even more, even with his slutty past he’s impossible not to love. I liked Bianca before, but seeing her trough James eyes… well, she was WAY annoying. Being in Stephen’s head was also amazing.
Steam: Hot.
HEA:
This book take us to James mind, while we remember the most important marks of their relationship and its evolution after “the accident”. We get to see more of Stephens love story and it is pretty amazing.
I loved how this felt like a giant epilogue and if you loved this series, you can’t miss this one.
Rating: 4,5 Stars.
Storyline: I loved how this was sort of a mix between a male POV and a prolonged epilogue. Loved to be in James head, loved to see more of Stephen and Javier story and definitely, loved the epilogue. A great addiction to the series.
Writing Style: First person. Male POV. Steamy and engaging.
Character Development: I loved James before and now I loved him even more, even with his slutty past he’s impossible not to love. I liked Bianca before, but seeing her trough James eyes… well, she was WAY annoying. Being in Stephen’s head was also amazing.
Steam: Hot.
HEA:
October 21, 2014
This book is a bit of a hodgepodge of POVs from the Up in the Air series and it's spin offs with a few teasers thrown in. It's easiest if I break it down by sections.
The first part of the book, to approximately 65%:
It moves forward from the big event in Grounded and then it goes back and forth to the past - both from James and Stephan's POVs.
I really enjoyed this part and getting James' POV. He is just so insatiable...it was almost unbelievable. His need for Bianca was sooo great.
And I enjoyed getting a small peek into why he became the way he is. Thank goodness for Frankie!
I was happy the "piercing" scene was addressed but was surprised at what came out of it. Then again, I guess I shouldn't have been.
I was taken aback by Stephan's POVs! We get a lot, A LOT, of him and Javier. Lotsa steaminess but also, it was heart breaking reading what he had to go through. I really love his connection with Bianca even though it seemed a bit extreme at times.
We also get to see how things started with James' and Stephan's bromance. I loved how they instantly clicked and were on the same page.
I just can't say it enough about James being insatiable. I would never have made through their honeymoon...heck, I was exhausted just reading it.
And the whole drama with one of the bodyguards, Joseph, was a bit over the top. As was the one with Jules.
But the epilogue more than made up for it. I LOVED all the 'friendships' between the little ones!
Teasers for The Other Man and Crossing Fire:
I'm not a fan of reading teasers/excerpts of books that are coming out so I didn't read these. Plus I haven't read her Heretic Daughters series. (Anybody know if it's good?)
Lovely Trigger Epilogue:
Just what it says but a more extended epilogue. I loved hearing all about their future and the relationships that are developing!
Bonus POVs - JAMES 2D, Karaoke, Sleepover, Wake up Call Part 1 & 2, Breakfast Service, Birthday and Post and Trot :
Some of the same scenes that are in the previous books but from James' POV. I just can say enough of how much of a beast James is!
It was wonderful getting a glimpse of his relationships with Tristan and Clark that we hadn't gotten before.
Bonus Povs Tristan:
Tristan and how he dealt with Milton dating Danika.
Bonus Povs Jared:
Jared's "date" with Danika and the last day.
Bonus Povs Frankie:
Frankie meeting Estella for the first time. Wow...Estella didn't hold back!
Bonus Povs Akira:
Akira and Lana at James' and Bianca's wedding reception...and after.
So there you have it in a nutshell. I was glad I read it and if you're a big fan, I would definitely recommend it.
Favorite quotes
♥ "I'm okay, you're okay, we're okay."
♥ "Have I told you how much I love it when I catch you playing wedding dress up, oh bride of mine?"
♥ "While you were off getting hair and makeup done for the wedding, I was planning bondage and debauchery in the woods."
♥ "I was holding the magical stick. I couldn't stop looking at it."
♥ "Just so you know, these sheets haven't been changed today." I waited a beat. "And we had a busy morning."
"Oh God!" Javier said, jumping up.
"That's messed up, man," Stephan said with a laugh, getting up more slowly."
♦ BR w/Melissa, Patty & Tiffany
The first part of the book, to approximately 65%:
It moves forward from the big event in Grounded and then it goes back and forth to the past - both from James and Stephan's POVs.
I really enjoyed this part and getting James' POV. He is just so insatiable...it was almost unbelievable. His need for Bianca was sooo great.
And I enjoyed getting a small peek into why he became the way he is. Thank goodness for Frankie!
I was happy the "piercing" scene was addressed but was surprised at what came out of it. Then again, I guess I shouldn't have been.
I was taken aback by Stephan's POVs! We get a lot, A LOT, of him and Javier. Lotsa steaminess but also, it was heart breaking reading what he had to go through. I really love his connection with Bianca even though it seemed a bit extreme at times.
We also get to see how things started with James' and Stephan's bromance. I loved how they instantly clicked and were on the same page.
I just can't say it enough about James being insatiable. I would never have made through their honeymoon...heck, I was exhausted just reading it.
And the whole drama with one of the bodyguards, Joseph, was a bit over the top. As was the one with Jules.
But the epilogue more than made up for it. I LOVED all the 'friendships' between the little ones!
Teasers for The Other Man and Crossing Fire:
I'm not a fan of reading teasers/excerpts of books that are coming out so I didn't read these. Plus I haven't read her Heretic Daughters series. (Anybody know if it's good?)
Lovely Trigger Epilogue:
Just what it says but a more extended epilogue. I loved hearing all about their future and the relationships that are developing!
Bonus POVs - JAMES 2D, Karaoke, Sleepover, Wake up Call Part 1 & 2, Breakfast Service, Birthday and Post and Trot :
Some of the same scenes that are in the previous books but from James' POV. I just can say enough of how much of a beast James is!
It was wonderful getting a glimpse of his relationships with Tristan and Clark that we hadn't gotten before.
Bonus Povs Tristan:
Tristan and how he dealt with Milton dating Danika.
Bonus Povs Jared:
Jared's "date" with Danika and the last day.
Bonus Povs Frankie:
Frankie meeting Estella for the first time. Wow...Estella didn't hold back!
Bonus Povs Akira:
Akira and Lana at James' and Bianca's wedding reception...and after.
So there you have it in a nutshell. I was glad I read it and if you're a big fan, I would definitely recommend it.
Favorite quotes
♥ "I'm okay, you're okay, we're okay."
♥ "Have I told you how much I love it when I catch you playing wedding dress up, oh bride of mine?"
♥ "While you were off getting hair and makeup done for the wedding, I was planning bondage and debauchery in the woods."
♥ "I was holding the magical stick. I couldn't stop looking at it."
♥ "Just so you know, these sheets haven't been changed today." I waited a beat. "And we had a busy morning."
"Oh God!" Javier said, jumping up.
"That's messed up, man," Stephan said with a laugh, getting up more slowly."
♦ BR w/Melissa, Patty & Tiffany
October 18, 2014
3 stars
"I'm team happily ever after, love. And as impossible as it seems now, those two won't be happy with anyone but each other."
Well, this is awkward. I didn't love an RK Lilley book.
Basically I completely agree with everything Jasmine had to say in her review <------ you can read it here.
This book was all over the place. I was very happy about getting the POV from James, Stephan and Tristan, but the book jumped around so much I got confused. Especially the point in time from which the review was being told from. I honestly think this book would have been much better and less confusing if it was done in 3 segments, in chronological order. One for each of the men.
Stephan's story was beautiful, I was so glad that as a reader we got a more in depth history to his relationship with Javier. In the original trilogy it had felt like their strong relationship had come out of left field and this book does a great job at building a good history behind them.
Overall, while I enjoyed this book I don't feel as if it is super necessary to read. Yes it introduces new storylines, but in my personal opinion it didn't really expand upon the characters or give much insight, other than Stephan's story. And I felt the bodyguard plot was unnecessary, I didn't care for it.
I'm sorry RK! I still love your other books!!
And $6.99 was waaaaaaaaaaayyyyyyyyyyy too much to charge on this one. I rarely spend this much on e-books but I thought it would be worth it. (It wasn't).
"I'm team happily ever after, love. And as impossible as it seems now, those two won't be happy with anyone but each other."
Well, this is awkward. I didn't love an RK Lilley book.
Basically I completely agree with everything Jasmine had to say in her review <------ you can read it here.
This book was all over the place. I was very happy about getting the POV from James, Stephan and Tristan, but the book jumped around so much I got confused. Especially the point in time from which the review was being told from. I honestly think this book would have been much better and less confusing if it was done in 3 segments, in chronological order. One for each of the men.
Stephan's story was beautiful, I was so glad that as a reader we got a more in depth history to his relationship with Javier. In the original trilogy it had felt like their strong relationship had come out of left field and this book does a great job at building a good history behind them.
Overall, while I enjoyed this book I don't feel as if it is super necessary to read. Yes it introduces new storylines, but in my personal opinion it didn't really expand upon the characters or give much insight, other than Stephan's story. And I felt the bodyguard plot was unnecessary, I didn't care for it.
I'm sorry RK! I still love your other books!!
And $6.99 was waaaaaaaaaaayyyyyyyyyyy too much to charge on this one. I rarely spend this much on e-books but I thought it would be worth it. (It wasn't).
Want to read
October 18, 2014
EXCERPT: WARNING: THIS TEASER CONTAINS SPOILERS FOR THE UP IN THE AIRSERIES
JAMES
I couldn’t sleep after the shooting.
Bianca slept like a baby, like she never had before, like every worry she’d ever had had disappeared with the death of her father.
But not me. I was more restless than ever. A miracle had saved her, not me, and I felt helpless because of it. That was not a feeling that fit me well. In fact, it made my skin crawl in discomfort. In anger.
It had been months since the attack. She and Stephan were healed physically, and it seemed, emotionally, but I felt the wounds as though they were fresh. What had almost happened haunted me. I was a man that needed control, and I’d been shown, in the starkest way possible, that I hadnone.
I sat scant feet away from our bed, watching Bianca sleep. She was nude, with not so much as a sheet covering her. I’d seen to that. I watched her lithe form shift on the bed, one long leg hitching up to give me a glimpse of the pink between her legs.
I felt like a fucking stalker. Truth be told, I was one, watching her for hours on end, night after night.
I tensed when I realized she’d roused. It upset her that I couldn’t sleep, when she deserved peace more than anyone.
She sat up, and I watched her heavy breasts swaying with the movement. “James.” Her voice was the softest utterance.
“Love,” I answered, feeling the dark mood that had overtaken me lift in an instant. Just having her eyes on me could do that.
She crawled across the bed toward me. She’d always had an uncanny ability to do exactly the thing that would drive me the most wild, and she’d only gotten better at that over time. She didn’t hide her body from me as she moved. In fact, she posed for me, even the exposure of her body an act of submission. As though reading my thoughts, as though even those were a command, she paused on the edge of the bed, parting her legs to let me look my fill before she rose, approaching my chair.
I stood to meet her, my body drawn tight, my cock throbbing as though I hadn’t come, buried inside of her, just hours before.
I was a statue as she leaned up to my ear, my brows drawing together in a question. Her lips touched my ear as she spoke.
“Hurt me,” she whispered raggedly.
My eyes shut tight, my jaw went slack, and a shudder wracked my entire body. This woman destroyed my self-control.
I’d avoided all of the rough stuff since she’d been injured, but God had I missed it.
“We don’t have to, Bianca. It’s not necess-“
She gripped my hair, pulling my face down to her injured cheek. She dug her jaw into me so hard that I knew it must be hurting her badly.
“I need it,” she rasped into my ear. “I’ll never stop needing it. Please.”
I pulled back, and my hands trembled as I cupped her face in my hands, my eyes searching hers desperately for what I wanted to see. Need. Yes. She needed this as much as I did. Perhaps more so.
“Get on the bed,” I told her thickly.
OOHH!! I WANT THIS!!
Want to read
August 12, 2016Update: COVER REVEAL + TEASER.
From the author's blog: Mr. Beautiful will be a male POV continuation of the UITA series. The bulk of the novel will take place after the events in Grounded. However, there will also be many, many bonus male POV scenes from the first three books.
A TEASER FROM MR. BEAUTIFUL
COMING 2014
WARNING: THIS TEASER CONTAINS SPOILERS FOR THE UP IN THE AIR SERIES
JAMES
I couldn’t sleep after the shooting.
Bianca slept like a baby, like she never had before, like every worry she’d ever had had disappeared with the death of her father.
But not me. I was more restless than ever. A miracle had saved her, not me, and I felt helpless because of it.
It was not a feeling that fit me well.
In fact, it made my skin crawl in discomfort. In anger.
It had been months since the attack. She and Stephan were healed physically, and it seemed emotionally, but I felt the wounds as though they were fresh. What had almost happened haunted me. I was a man that needed control, and I’d been shown, in the starkest way possible, that I had none.
I sat scant feet away from our bed, watching Bianca sleep. She was nude, with not so much as a sheet covering her. I’d seen to that. I watched her lithe form shift on the bed, one long leg hitching up to give me a glimpse of the pink between her legs.
I felt like a fucking stalker.
In fact, I was one, watching her for hours on end, night after night.
I tensed when I realized she’d roused. It disturbed her that I couldn’t sleep, when she deserved peace more than anyone.
She sat up, and I watched her heavy breasts swaying with the movement. “James.” Her voice was the softest utterance.
“Love,” I answered, feeling the dark mood that had overtaken me lift in an instant. Just having her eyes on me could do that.
She crawled across the bed toward me. She’d always had an uncanny ability to do exactly the thing that would drive me the most wild, and she’d only gotten better at that over time. She didn’t hide her body from me as she moved. In fact, she posed for me, even the exposure of her body an act of submission. As though reading my thoughts, as though even those were a command, she paused on the edge of the bed, parting her legs to let me look my fill before she rose, approaching my chair.
I stood to meet her, my body drawn tight, my cock throbbing as though I hadn’t come, buried inside of her, just hours before.
I was a statue as she leaned up to my ear, my brows drawing together in a question. Her lips touched my ear as she spoke.
“Hurt me,” she whispered raggedly.
My eyes shut tight, my jaw went slack, and a shudder wracked my entire body.
I’d avoided all of the rough stuff since she’d been injured, but God had I missed it.
“We don’t have to, Bianca. It’s not necess-”
She gripped my hair, pulling my face down to her injured cheek. She dug her jaw into me so hard that I knew it must have been hurting her badly. It was healed now, but I knew it was still sore.
“I need it,” she rasped into my ear. “I’ll never stop needing it. Please.”
I pulled back, and my hands trembled as I cupped her face in my hands, my eyes searching hers desperately for what I wanted to see. Need. Yes. She needed this as much as I did. Perhaps more so.
“Get on the bed,” I told her thickly.
CAN'T WAIT FOR THIS BOOK!!!
October 30, 2014
****4.5 Mr. Oh-So-Beautiful- Stars*****
My heart bursted and all my senses were awakened by not one, but two Mr. Beautiful. This might be R.K Lilley best book yet, not only was I deeply moved by the immense love Stephan and James felt for Bianca, but we get another glimpse into Tristan and Danika's past and present, this was all too much for my fragile little heart to take, Thank you, Ms. Lilley!!!
This book was sort of like a tribute to all the amazing characters that we already loved from previous books, but told from all the guys POV. Mainly the story is about Stephan and James, a closer look into their deepest, darkest emotions and experiences which always revolve around Bianca.
There is the always present erotic and BDSM aspect of the story as well as some mild M/M action from Stephan and Javier, but all done in exquisite taste. The overall theme of the book is unconditional love, from a friend or a lover, as well as the importance of acceptance and respect from their closest, most important people; and it was not only romantic but utterly beautiful…
That is all I can say without spoiling this amazing story, that for sure will grab your heart….
PS. Make sure you continue reading after the ending (66%), we get a few previews from some of this author's upcoming books but then there's more lovely and delicious scenes to enjoy…
My Mr. Beautiful Playlist:
*Secrets by Mary Lamebert
*Friends By Ed Sheeran
*Partition by Beyonce
*Burning Up by Jessie J
❤️❤️❤️❤️
My heart bursted and all my senses were awakened by not one, but two Mr. Beautiful. This might be R.K Lilley best book yet, not only was I deeply moved by the immense love Stephan and James felt for Bianca, but we get another glimpse into Tristan and Danika's past and present, this was all too much for my fragile little heart to take, Thank you, Ms. Lilley!!!
This book was sort of like a tribute to all the amazing characters that we already loved from previous books, but told from all the guys POV. Mainly the story is about Stephan and James, a closer look into their deepest, darkest emotions and experiences which always revolve around Bianca.
There is the always present erotic and BDSM aspect of the story as well as some mild M/M action from Stephan and Javier, but all done in exquisite taste. The overall theme of the book is unconditional love, from a friend or a lover, as well as the importance of acceptance and respect from their closest, most important people; and it was not only romantic but utterly beautiful…
That is all I can say without spoiling this amazing story, that for sure will grab your heart….
PS. Make sure you continue reading after the ending (66%), we get a few previews from some of this author's upcoming books but then there's more lovely and delicious scenes to enjoy…
My Mr. Beautiful Playlist:
*Secrets by Mary Lamebert
*Friends By Ed Sheeran
*Partition by Beyonce
*Burning Up by Jessie J
❤️❤️❤️❤️
September 17, 2015
“I saved her life. She saved my soul.”
4 beautiful stars
In my experience, male POV books are hugely hit or miss. Authors either get it totally right, or they risk tainting a much loved book with either too much repetition, an excess of information that we didn’t really want to know, or by changing our perception of a much loved character to the point where you’re really not sure if you like them anymore. I am happy to say that RK Lilley has done a great job with this book, getting us into the head of the elusive and controlling James Cavendish, and the wonderful Stephan, and giving us a well-rounded finish to the Up In the Air series that I absolutely loved.
I had just finished a reread of the Up in the Air books, so James and Bianca’s tumultuous, mildly obsessive and intense love story was still very fresh for me, and at no point did this book feel like a retelling. Yes, there are some key scenes from the series revisited from a different POV, but most of the content is new.
The book is not really written in story format, more like a collection of scenes that flick between the past and the present. We see the depth of James’ attraction to Bianca from their first meeting, and his deepening love for her over their time together.
We also see more detail of the aftermath of the big climax in Grounded, and see snippets of the years that follow – the good, the bad, the swoony and the smutty (so, so hot!!!!!), and up to and beyond the epilogue we’ve already seen with a sneak peak of James and Bianca’s future (kids included), and it’s beautiful!
As a bonus, we get the mini-love story of Stephan and Javier from Stephan’s perspective - their first meeting, some sexy time, falling in love, more of the reconnection that we have already seen, and their happy ever after. There’s also a bit more insight into Tristan and Danika’s story with James and Tristan opening up and supporting each other through their romantic dramas.
And as much as this is a love story (or multiple love stories, really), it also delves deeper into the relationship between Bianca and Stephan, showing truly heartbreaking scenes from their past from Stephan’s POV, we come to understand what bound these two together from a young age. There is also lots of both Stephan and James reflecting on the closeness of the BFFs and their importance in each other’s lives. It’s an amazing relationship, the way that they are there for each other is gorgeous, and the way that their partners accept that relationship is beautifully (and sometimes hilariously) shown.
The kindle edition of the book actually finishes at 66%, and the rest of the book is made up of teasers from RK’s other books and bonus features from this series and the Tristan & Danika series. Scenes from the Up In The Air books from James’ POV, and bonus scenes from the POVs of Tristan, Jared (From T&D), Frankie and Akira, from both series (so make sure you've read them all first!), it’s a little treasure trove for mad fans of these books.
While the Up in the Air books do finish beautifully, I’m really pleased that I read this book. It’s a beautiful way to round out and finish the series, and a true celebration of the relationships that feature in the story.
Beautiful - 4 stars.
4 beautiful stars
In my experience, male POV books are hugely hit or miss. Authors either get it totally right, or they risk tainting a much loved book with either too much repetition, an excess of information that we didn’t really want to know, or by changing our perception of a much loved character to the point where you’re really not sure if you like them anymore. I am happy to say that RK Lilley has done a great job with this book, getting us into the head of the elusive and controlling James Cavendish, and the wonderful Stephan, and giving us a well-rounded finish to the Up In the Air series that I absolutely loved.
I had just finished a reread of the Up in the Air books, so James and Bianca’s tumultuous, mildly obsessive and intense love story was still very fresh for me, and at no point did this book feel like a retelling. Yes, there are some key scenes from the series revisited from a different POV, but most of the content is new.
The book is not really written in story format, more like a collection of scenes that flick between the past and the present. We see the depth of James’ attraction to Bianca from their first meeting, and his deepening love for her over their time together.
I was lost. I was found.
I, James Cavendish, unrepentant dominant, sexual deviant, and prolific slut for more years that I cared to count, was in love.
I’d taken her virgin body, but just as surely, she’d taken my virgin heart.
We also see more detail of the aftermath of the big climax in Grounded, and see snippets of the years that follow – the good, the bad, the swoony and the smutty (so, so hot!!!!!), and up to and beyond the epilogue we’ve already seen with a sneak peak of James and Bianca’s future (kids included), and it’s beautiful!
True love was a language, so many looks, touches and one word references that told the other more than full sentences of paragraphs, more than full outpourings of speech.
Our language was extensive and beautiful, and over a joyful lifetime together, we stayed fluent in it.
As a bonus, we get the mini-love story of Stephan and Javier from Stephan’s perspective - their first meeting, some sexy time, falling in love, more of the reconnection that we have already seen, and their happy ever after. There’s also a bit more insight into Tristan and Danika’s story with James and Tristan opening up and supporting each other through their romantic dramas.
A love like that makes you better, even if you lose it all, even if it was for one precious moment in your life, you can’t be sorry that you had it. Trust me on this.
And as much as this is a love story (or multiple love stories, really), it also delves deeper into the relationship between Bianca and Stephan, showing truly heartbreaking scenes from their past from Stephan’s POV, we come to understand what bound these two together from a young age. There is also lots of both Stephan and James reflecting on the closeness of the BFFs and their importance in each other’s lives. It’s an amazing relationship, the way that they are there for each other is gorgeous, and the way that their partners accept that relationship is beautifully (and sometimes hilariously) shown.
“We are fundamentally connected. We met when we were broken seeds, when we were still being formed into something. We had to grow together to survive. Some part of us will always be like that, connected, growing together. We're different flowers, but we were nurtured from the same damaged root.”
The kindle edition of the book actually finishes at 66%, and the rest of the book is made up of teasers from RK’s other books and bonus features from this series and the Tristan & Danika series. Scenes from the Up In The Air books from James’ POV, and bonus scenes from the POVs of Tristan, Jared (From T&D), Frankie and Akira, from both series (so make sure you've read them all first!), it’s a little treasure trove for mad fans of these books.
While the Up in the Air books do finish beautifully, I’m really pleased that I read this book. It’s a beautiful way to round out and finish the series, and a true celebration of the relationships that feature in the story.
The real romance in life didn’t come in that first sweet taste of love, as profound and life changing as it was. There was love then, yes. Obsession, passion, infatuation. All of that and more.
But the true romance came from the slow lapse of time, the inexorable passing of days, weeks, months, years decades.
I’d hold onto her with the last breath in my body.
Beautiful - 4 stars.
October 14, 2017
While I'll take anything this author will give me with James and Bianca, I will admit, I was a bit disappointed it wasn't the story in his version. We did get some scenes from the original series in his POV and some new scenes that I greatly appreciated so I wasn't THAT disappointed. Just getting the tidbits of James/Bianca and Tristan/Danika with their kids in the future was well worth the purchase of this book. What I wouldn't give for R.K. Lilley to write books on the kids when they've grown. Yes, no matter how much she gives us, I'll always want more. That's how much I love these fictional characters.
Want to read
December 26, 2014
Up In The Air Books & EXTRAS (links below):
1. James POV 0.5: http://sinfullysexybooks.blogspot.co....
2. In Flight, book 1, chapter 1 & 2 – stop!
3. James POV 1.1: http://totallybookedblog.com/2013/02/...
4. In Flight, book 1, chapter 3-6 – stop!
5. James POV 1.2 (scroll down): http://aestasbookblog.com/wp-content/...
6. James POV 1.3: http://anas-attic.com/anas_diary/up-i...
7. In Flight, book 1, chapter 7 – stop!
8. James POV 1.4: http://shhmomsreading.com/exclusive-e...
9. In Flight, book 1, chapter 8 – stop!
10. James POV 1.5: http://beccathebibliophile.blogspot.c...
11. In Flight, book 1, rest of book
12. Mile High, book 2, chapter 1 & 2 – stop!
13. James POV 2.1: http://jessysbookclub.wordpress.com/2...
14. Grounded, book 3
15. James POV 3.1:TBD
BLURB:
I’ve been remade four times in my life.
It is a distinct feeling. Impossible to mistake. The very marked sensation of being unraveled and reknit into a new thing, a new person. It can be good or bad, helpful or harmful, but above all, it is unstoppable.
I was remade when my parents died, went from a happy childhood, into navigating a very dark world, with endless responsibilities, surrounded by enemies, and despairingly alone.
It happened again at the hands of a cowardly predator. I’d become angrier with that one, more cynical, and it undoubtedly turned me into the kinky f**k I was today.
The third happened swiftly. One day I looked up into a pair of pale blue eyes and saw the other half of my soul. Checkmate. I went from a completely controlled existence, a life where I made every decision with cold calculation, to a man overcome with feelings and emotions that were foreign but somehow wonderful.
And all too soon after that cataclysmic change was this fourth one, this one where I begged a God I’d never entertained to spare the life of a woman that I could not live without.
Want to read
October 15, 2014LIVE http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00O...
I am just now seeing this book is coming out!!!
Putting on the calendar now!
I am just now seeing this book is coming out!!!
Putting on the calendar now!
November 5, 2014
James Cavendish at his gritty, deep, soul-searching best, in what is my favorite read of the Up in the Air series. His words, his thoughts, his emotions cut right to the essence of what he feels for Bianca. Beautifully written in words that don't clutter, but move forward with intensity, keeping me turning the pages until there were none left. One sitting. Mr. Beautiful will always be my #1.
October 23, 2014
***3 I Don't Understand the Purpose Stars***
At first I was really excited about this extra book. An extra book dealing with the events of Up in the Air and after with the boys' POV?!?!
But unfortunately, this was awkwardly put together. The book jumps from event to event without any real focus. The beginning flip flops between past and present James. "Past" James recalls random moments from the Up in the Air series, while "Present" James is dealing with Bianca's recovery. We then move into Stephan's POV. He recalls memories from his early years with Bianca, along with his relationship with Javier. From there we move back to "Present" James, and snippets of his relationship with Bianca after the Up in the Air trilogy. Again, random moments with no real story, direction or focus.
My biggest head scratcher is that the book ends at around 65%. Seriously?? The remaining 30% or so are teasers for upcoming releases, James' previously released POV's, a couple of short POV's from Tristan, and one from Akira.
Frankly, I feel like this whole thing could have been something offered for free on the author's website as a thank you to her fans. I feel jipped. You definitely DO NOT get $6.99 worth of content!
Honestly, all three of my stars are for the Stephan and Javier "section" and for the heartwarming epilogue.
At first I was really excited about this extra book. An extra book dealing with the events of Up in the Air and after with the boys' POV?!?!
But unfortunately, this was awkwardly put together. The book jumps from event to event without any real focus. The beginning flip flops between past and present James. "Past" James recalls random moments from the Up in the Air series, while "Present" James is dealing with Bianca's recovery. We then move into Stephan's POV. He recalls memories from his early years with Bianca, along with his relationship with Javier. From there we move back to "Present" James, and snippets of his relationship with Bianca after the Up in the Air trilogy. Again, random moments with no real story, direction or focus.
My biggest head scratcher is that the book ends at around 65%. Seriously?? The remaining 30% or so are teasers for upcoming releases, James' previously released POV's, a couple of short POV's from Tristan, and one from Akira.
Frankly, I feel like this whole thing could have been something offered for free on the author's website as a thank you to her fans. I feel jipped. You definitely DO NOT get $6.99 worth of content!
Honestly, all three of my stars are for the Stephan and Javier "section" and for the heartwarming epilogue.
November 28, 2014
I absolutely loved this series and it’s definitely on my favorite books list. So what could be more exciting than getting more of James & Bianca!!!
Let’s start with the cover of Mr Beautiful…….OH MY….beyond gorgeous…….I loved it!!!
I was looking forward to reading James POV, which we get here…but then we also have Stephen’s POV...now don’t get me wrong….I adored Stephan…who wouldn’t want a friend like him??? But having the two POV’s was really a distraction for me. But it was great seeing him finding true happiness and love with Javier!!!
I was waiting for on more of Bianca & James’s life after Grounded…but Mr Beautiful is like a rehash of the previous books really…..okay, let’s just say that the last couple of chapters did have something new…which I found pretty fabulous….James will have his hands full with his offsprings!!!! No way are they going to….
Besides that little moan….there was some things I loved….….
…getting more of James Cavendish….this is one of my favorite book boyfriends…
……connecting again with the best ever flight attendant…no wait…I’m the best…Bianca comes a close second….
….James & Bianca’s simply gorgeous wedding….
The biggest “gripe”….Mr Beautiful just ended…and I still had loads of pages left on my reader…what’s going on!!! Then I get it…all these epilogues for all the other books in the series!!!! I must be honest…I did not read any of them….I wanted more of Mr Beautiful……
So, it’s au revoir to James, Bianca, Stephan and the gang!!!
It’s been lovely knowing you!!! How about some stories of their kids????? Wishful thinking I suppose!!!!
For my reviews of this series:
In Flight- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
Mile High- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
Grounded- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
Let’s start with the cover of Mr Beautiful…….OH MY….beyond gorgeous…….I loved it!!!
I was looking forward to reading James POV, which we get here…but then we also have Stephen’s POV...now don’t get me wrong….I adored Stephan…who wouldn’t want a friend like him??? But having the two POV’s was really a distraction for me. But it was great seeing him finding true happiness and love with Javier!!!
I was waiting for on more of Bianca & James’s life after Grounded…but Mr Beautiful is like a rehash of the previous books really…..okay, let’s just say that the last couple of chapters did have something new…which I found pretty fabulous….James will have his hands full with his offsprings!!!! No way are they going to….
Besides that little moan….there was some things I loved….….
…getting more of James Cavendish….this is one of my favorite book boyfriends…
……connecting again with the best ever flight attendant…no wait…I’m the best…Bianca comes a close second….
….James & Bianca’s simply gorgeous wedding….
The biggest “gripe”….Mr Beautiful just ended…and I still had loads of pages left on my reader…what’s going on!!! Then I get it…all these epilogues for all the other books in the series!!!! I must be honest…I did not read any of them….I wanted more of Mr Beautiful……
So, it’s au revoir to James, Bianca, Stephan and the gang!!!
It’s been lovely knowing you!!! How about some stories of their kids????? Wishful thinking I suppose!!!!
For my reviews of this series:
In Flight- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
Mile High- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
Grounded- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
February 25, 2016
This is more of an optional book to the series. It's more of James and Stephan's perspective on the past and present (after the events happened on Grounded). Also, we get to see the perspectives from other side characters in the story. It's a quick read and I finished this in one sitting. I still enjoyed this book as a last hurrah. If you want more of James Cavendish's sexiness, then give this one a go.
October 23, 2014
⭐️⭐️ 1.5 STARS ⭐️⭐️
I'm giving 1.5 stars to Stephan and Javier's "story". What I really mean by that is "tidbits".
I'm sorry to say but I felt completely ripped off by this book. $7 for literally unorganized POVs...
The James' POV at the beginning was completely irrelevant. We knew already what happened, and his point of view didn't reveal a thing we didn't know already before. I would even state that I did not recognize the James I knew in the trilogy. He seemed... out of it.
Plus the constant back and forth between present and past was incohesive and left me in a complete dubious state.
The same applies to Stephan POV, while I did appreciate and liked learning all about his story with Javier, it felt rushed, and I don't understand the way it was threaded into this "collection".
At 30%, I was about to DNF, I was really bored, but I've been encouraged by friends to continue. That some "new" material was ahead of me...
Well, I did, but it did not give me a better impression of Mr. Beautiful.
My main complain about this "collection of excerpts" isn't that there wasn't new material to it, I have read books that offered the same story with a different POV before, and when I do pick a book like this, I expect to learn something NEW. I don't mean that I need NEW events, but from a new POV I expect to learn more about a character. In this case I didn't.
Additionally, I needed those POVs to be part of a plot. Or a least following a time line. It really was like a collection of previously discarded scenes, and it didn't invite me to read furthermore.
For the price this book is sold, I expected a lot more than what was offered, and this really comfort me in my idea that the author did this purely with commercial intents, when she could have offered this on her blog, website, or newsletter.
I would not recommend this to the fans of the Up in the Air trilogy, this really doesn't add much -if nothing at all- to the story. (or at least I'd recommend you to wait until this is free or in promotion, to get it at a more affordable and suitable price.)
•*´¨`*•.¸¸.•*´¨`*•.¸¸.•*´¨`*•.¸¸.•*´¨`*•*´¨`*•.¸¸.•*´¨`*•.¸
Wonder Woman, over.
I'm giving 1.5 stars to Stephan and Javier's "story". What I really mean by that is "tidbits".
I'm sorry to say but I felt completely ripped off by this book. $7 for literally unorganized POVs...
The James' POV at the beginning was completely irrelevant. We knew already what happened, and his point of view didn't reveal a thing we didn't know already before. I would even state that I did not recognize the James I knew in the trilogy. He seemed... out of it.
Plus the constant back and forth between present and past was incohesive and left me in a complete dubious state.
The same applies to Stephan POV, while I did appreciate and liked learning all about his story with Javier, it felt rushed, and I don't understand the way it was threaded into this "collection".
At 30%, I was about to DNF, I was really bored, but I've been encouraged by friends to continue. That some "new" material was ahead of me...
Well, I did, but it did not give me a better impression of Mr. Beautiful.
My main complain about this "collection of excerpts" isn't that there wasn't new material to it, I have read books that offered the same story with a different POV before, and when I do pick a book like this, I expect to learn something NEW. I don't mean that I need NEW events, but from a new POV I expect to learn more about a character. In this case I didn't.
Additionally, I needed those POVs to be part of a plot. Or a least following a time line. It really was like a collection of previously discarded scenes, and it didn't invite me to read furthermore.
For the price this book is sold, I expected a lot more than what was offered, and this really comfort me in my idea that the author did this purely with commercial intents, when she could have offered this on her blog, website, or newsletter.
I would not recommend this to the fans of the Up in the Air trilogy, this really doesn't add much -if nothing at all- to the story. (or at least I'd recommend you to wait until this is free or in promotion, to get it at a more affordable and suitable price.)
•*´¨`*•.¸¸.•*´¨`*•.¸¸.•*´¨`*•.¸¸.•*´¨`*•*´¨`*•.¸¸.•*´¨`*•.¸
Wonder Woman, over.
October 16, 2014
~2.5 stars~
They say don't expect anything so you won't be disappointed. Well I guess I expected TOO MUCH because I'm awfully regretting this purchase.
Why I was disappointed:
Let me start off by saying, this book is ALL OVER THE PLACE. It isn't a story but more like Past/Present short chapters from various male characters. (Tristan & Anika included.) I was confused for awhile and a little weird out with James.
Why I kept reading:
Honestly? Because of Stephan. If you don't enjoy M/M scenes (even though we get very short scenes) then this book might not be up your alley. (Regardless, you must read the other three books in the Up in the Air series in order to understand this book. --just a heads up.)
All in all, I found myself skimming so much, I'm surprised I didn't DNF this book. Truth is, if I would've known what I know now, I would've skipped this in a blink of an eye.
They say don't expect anything so you won't be disappointed. Well I guess I expected TOO MUCH because I'm awfully regretting this purchase.
Why I was disappointed:
Let me start off by saying, this book is ALL OVER THE PLACE. It isn't a story but more like Past/Present short chapters from various male characters. (Tristan & Anika included.) I was confused for awhile and a little weird out with James.
Why I kept reading:
Honestly? Because of Stephan. If you don't enjoy M/M scenes (even though we get very short scenes) then this book might not be up your alley. (Regardless, you must read the other three books in the Up in the Air series in order to understand this book. --just a heads up.)
All in all, I found myself skimming so much, I'm surprised I didn't DNF this book. Truth is, if I would've known what I know now, I would've skipped this in a blink of an eye.
October 16, 2014
I was so excited for more James!!
Well.....
It just didn't live up to the hype for me. I found myself skimming. The book was weirdly put together too.
Oh well until next time Ms. Lily
Well.....
It just didn't live up to the hype for me. I found myself skimming. The book was weirdly put together too.
Oh well until next time Ms. Lily
Want to read
October 17, 2013Woooo, I would cut a bitch to get my hands on this before it's released!! ;). More Mr. Beautiful, what a treat!!!!
March 1, 2015
RK Lilley brings us various scenes of the Up in the Air series in the POV of both James and Stephen. But rather just give us a chunked together book of various scenes, we experience these encounters while James (for the most part) is sitting in the hospital after Bianca’s attack.
I loved getting a chance to get James’ point of view from the first meeting, experience and throughout the series. But I loved the extended epilogue the most. That scene alone was worth the purchase of this book. I was in love with this series and I admit, Danika & Tristan’s story overshadowed this series originally for me. This reminded me of how much I loved these two.
With Stephen’s POV you get to see what it was like to fight not only for his own survival, but for Bianca. These scenes reinforce the bond that these two shared. But we also find out the details of his relationship with Javier. From the first steamy encounter, to what split them up and ultimately what brought them back together. The m/m action in these scenes were off the charts hot.
But it got even better. We got a few key scenes with Tristan.... as he wanted to win Danika back. And the flash to the future with the relationship and bond that these two share with James & Bianca. I would love to see the author give us a treat of going back to these characters at some point to give us the stories of the next generation. For fans of the series, this is a must read.
I loved getting a chance to get James’ point of view from the first meeting, experience and throughout the series. But I loved the extended epilogue the most. That scene alone was worth the purchase of this book. I was in love with this series and I admit, Danika & Tristan’s story overshadowed this series originally for me. This reminded me of how much I loved these two.
With Stephen’s POV you get to see what it was like to fight not only for his own survival, but for Bianca. These scenes reinforce the bond that these two shared. But we also find out the details of his relationship with Javier. From the first steamy encounter, to what split them up and ultimately what brought them back together. The m/m action in these scenes were off the charts hot.
But it got even better. We got a few key scenes with Tristan.... as he wanted to win Danika back. And the flash to the future with the relationship and bond that these two share with James & Bianca. I would love to see the author give us a treat of going back to these characters at some point to give us the stories of the next generation. For fans of the series, this is a must read.
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