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Summer of Surrender
Sex is the only thing they have in common. Total surrender the name of the game.
James had it all. Good education. City job and a wife he would have been willing to die for. Their motto had been work hard, play hard, but she’d pushed the boundaries too far and he’d walked. Became the man he felt he needed to be. Detached. In control.
Free spirit Kezia lives each day at a time; sharing, loving and giving are unconditional. And sex is part of the sharing.
When fate leaves James and Kezia trapped together for the summer, her openness is an invitation he just can’t resist. The attraction is instant, the sex all-consuming. And as their fantasies become reality, James begins to realise that willing surrender is a far different pleasure to forced submission…
- See more at: http://www.harperimpulseromance.com/b...
James had it all. Good education. City job and a wife he would have been willing to die for. Their motto had been work hard, play hard, but she’d pushed the boundaries too far and he’d walked. Became the man he felt he needed to be. Detached. In control.
Free spirit Kezia lives each day at a time; sharing, loving and giving are unconditional. And sex is part of the sharing.
When fate leaves James and Kezia trapped together for the summer, her openness is an invitation he just can’t resist. The attraction is instant, the sex all-consuming. And as their fantasies become reality, James begins to realise that willing surrender is a far different pleasure to forced submission…
- See more at: http://www.harperimpulseromance.com/b...
- GenresRomance
182 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 7, 2013
25 people are currently reading
54 people want to read
About the author
Zara Stoneley
34 books348 followersZara Stoneley is the USA Today bestselling author of The Wedding Date.
Born in a small village in the UK, she wanted to be a female James Herriot, a spy, or an author when she grew up. After many (many) years, and many different jobs, her dream of writing a bestseller came true.
She writes about friendship, dreams, love, and happy ever afters, and hopes that her tales make you laugh a lot, cry a little, and occasionally say 'ahhh'.
Zara now lives in a Cheshire village with her family, a lively cockapoo called Harry, and a very bossy (and slightly evil) cat called Saffron.
Zara’s bestselling novels include 'The Wedding Date', 'The Holiday Swap', 'Summer with the Country Village Vet', 'Blackberry Picking at Jasmine Cottage' and the popular Tippermere series - 'Stable Mates', 'Country Affairs' and 'Country Rivals'.
Born in a small village in the UK, she wanted to be a female James Herriot, a spy, or an author when she grew up. After many (many) years, and many different jobs, her dream of writing a bestseller came true.
She writes about friendship, dreams, love, and happy ever afters, and hopes that her tales make you laugh a lot, cry a little, and occasionally say 'ahhh'.
Zara now lives in a Cheshire village with her family, a lively cockapoo called Harry, and a very bossy (and slightly evil) cat called Saffron.
Zara’s bestselling novels include 'The Wedding Date', 'The Holiday Swap', 'Summer with the Country Village Vet', 'Blackberry Picking at Jasmine Cottage' and the popular Tippermere series - 'Stable Mates', 'Country Affairs' and 'Country Rivals'.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
November 8, 2013
I'm sat reading this and thinking it reminded me of something I've read before, the more I read the more I thought it. I was right, I read 'Riding High' last year, and whilst this book isn't a continuation it's the same location.
Between the book cover and the description I thought I was in for a hot and steamy book, instead I found a beautiful story. Don't get me wrong it has it's hot moments, but this book is about the sensual side, letting go, the difference between submission and surrender, between what's healthy and loving and what is twisted and controlling.
James is a leave me alone, I'm not getting involved, I have a twisted past that hurt me a lot, sex therapist.
Kezia couldn't be more of a free spirit, she's pretty forward come to think of it, but she's hurt deeply after recently losing her parents tragically.
It's one of those books where the hero doesn't want to get caught, refuses to love or let anyone in, and you have that anticipation and suspense through the book.
There's a small element of mystery in Kezia's background that is hinted at here and there, but it doesn't overpower the story.
The story is mainly set at a stables and the scenes with the horses are really well written, James is a bit of a horse whisperer, Kezia is just loud, jerky and the antithesis of James. It makes for some really lovely scenes.
It's a lovely story that draws you in, has well written scenes and characters you can enjoy and like.
Between the book cover and the description I thought I was in for a hot and steamy book, instead I found a beautiful story. Don't get me wrong it has it's hot moments, but this book is about the sensual side, letting go, the difference between submission and surrender, between what's healthy and loving and what is twisted and controlling.
James is a leave me alone, I'm not getting involved, I have a twisted past that hurt me a lot, sex therapist.
Kezia couldn't be more of a free spirit, she's pretty forward come to think of it, but she's hurt deeply after recently losing her parents tragically.
It's one of those books where the hero doesn't want to get caught, refuses to love or let anyone in, and you have that anticipation and suspense through the book.
There's a small element of mystery in Kezia's background that is hinted at here and there, but it doesn't overpower the story.
The story is mainly set at a stables and the scenes with the horses are really well written, James is a bit of a horse whisperer, Kezia is just loud, jerky and the antithesis of James. It makes for some really lovely scenes.
It's a lovely story that draws you in, has well written scenes and characters you can enjoy and like.
November 13, 2013
SUMMER OF SURRENDER is Sweet, Sexy and Heartbreaking. It was much more than I expected just from reading the blurb. Yes, it was steamy, and the sex was off the charts and smoking hot...in the barn...in the bed...yeah...it was that good!
Yet, the emotions that build between James and Kez, even from the first moment they meet, just grows and grows where physical becomes more than just physical and James and Kez begin to fall for each other, but they both have ISSUES...of course.
You will find yourself truly routing for these two to make a go at the "Relationship" and I had fun watching them fall in love!!
Yet, the emotions that build between James and Kez, even from the first moment they meet, just grows and grows where physical becomes more than just physical and James and Kez begin to fall for each other, but they both have ISSUES...of course.
You will find yourself truly routing for these two to make a go at the "Relationship" and I had fun watching them fall in love!!
November 25, 2013
3.5 stars –
Kezia has spent her life never worrying about where she’ll be or what she’ll be doing tomorrow. She’s a free-spirit but when her parents are taken from her, she isn’t sure what to do with herself. A chance meeting with a woman named Maria provides her with an opportunity she can’t help but jump on.
Maria’s offer takes her back to the UK and lands her on the front step of a home surrounded by a locked gate… which she decides isn’t going to keep her out.
James had planned to spend the summer in quiet and peace… when he sees a young, beautiful woman climbing his fence in just a dress he wants nothing more than for her to turn back around and leave. But that isn’t going to happen, and he recognizes immediately that she is going to be nothing but trouble for him.
James and Kezia are complete opposites yet they can’t deny the desire and intrigue they have for each other. But James had his fill of relationships and heartbreak in his other life… The one he left behind. And despite how strong Kezia is, she doubts her decisions and wonders if this place is meant for her.
I enjoyed this quick story… and it really is a quick read – less than 200 pages, but within those pages we get some fairly well-developed characters.
Kezia is strong willed and carefree… on the outside. Underneath all that, all she really is looking for is a place to call home, someplace to feel grounded and her own. Instead from the second she meets James, she’s almost unsure of everything she has done. When Maria convinced her to give them a try, she knew she would be leaving her friend Simon behind, but she also knew that what they had wasn’t permanent. Unfortunately he wasn’t of the same mind.
Can I just say right now, that I was suspicious of him from the get-go – he was creepy stalker dude.
James has been burned in the past… his last relationship took everything out of him and he promised himself he wasn’t going to care about anyone that way anymore. James has some obvious control issues, but I honestly really enjoyed his character, even when he was being kind of a jerk. I don’t know what that says about me, but there you have it. Maybe it was the things that came out of his mouth?
”I can make you come,” He took another step closer. Stroked along her lip with one finger, “without touching you where you want me to most.”
“Slightly bigger deal, but if I get in the zone, think the right things…” Her voice tailed off as he eased his thumb between her teeth.
… he just wanted her. To see her surrender, for him. To him.
“All you have to do is say please.”
But this isn’t just a story about two people fighting for control and falling and love… It’s more about submitting and surrendering to the person you love. But there also ends up being a bit of a mystery to this story, because Kezia’s parents died under mysterious circumstances, which you slowly learn as the characters start to reveal more of themselves to each other.
A couple things I wasn’t quite on board with… Kezia’s questioning of her decisions about 2/3 of the way through the story. I felt it was a bit out of character. To me, she didn’t really come across as someone who would let another manipulate her and her feelings. I felt like she was stronger than that the entire book, so when it happened, I was caught off guard.
Another thing… I wasn’t quite sure what this farm/property was exactly. Sex Therapy was thrown around, and James said he was a therapist, but … at times, the place sounded like it was a bit shady. I think I would have liked a bit more explanation as to what exactly was going on at this place when it was actually in business.
If you’re looking for a quick and entertaining read that has a bit of heartbreak mixed with hope and some definite steam and heat filled moments … complex characters that are well-developed and interesting then this story is for you.
Thank you to Harper Impulse for the advance copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Kezia has spent her life never worrying about where she’ll be or what she’ll be doing tomorrow. She’s a free-spirit but when her parents are taken from her, she isn’t sure what to do with herself. A chance meeting with a woman named Maria provides her with an opportunity she can’t help but jump on.
Maria’s offer takes her back to the UK and lands her on the front step of a home surrounded by a locked gate… which she decides isn’t going to keep her out.
James had planned to spend the summer in quiet and peace… when he sees a young, beautiful woman climbing his fence in just a dress he wants nothing more than for her to turn back around and leave. But that isn’t going to happen, and he recognizes immediately that she is going to be nothing but trouble for him.
James and Kezia are complete opposites yet they can’t deny the desire and intrigue they have for each other. But James had his fill of relationships and heartbreak in his other life… The one he left behind. And despite how strong Kezia is, she doubts her decisions and wonders if this place is meant for her.
I enjoyed this quick story… and it really is a quick read – less than 200 pages, but within those pages we get some fairly well-developed characters.
Kezia is strong willed and carefree… on the outside. Underneath all that, all she really is looking for is a place to call home, someplace to feel grounded and her own. Instead from the second she meets James, she’s almost unsure of everything she has done. When Maria convinced her to give them a try, she knew she would be leaving her friend Simon behind, but she also knew that what they had wasn’t permanent. Unfortunately he wasn’t of the same mind.
Can I just say right now, that I was suspicious of him from the get-go – he was creepy stalker dude.
James has been burned in the past… his last relationship took everything out of him and he promised himself he wasn’t going to care about anyone that way anymore. James has some obvious control issues, but I honestly really enjoyed his character, even when he was being kind of a jerk. I don’t know what that says about me, but there you have it. Maybe it was the things that came out of his mouth?
”I can make you come,” He took another step closer. Stroked along her lip with one finger, “without touching you where you want me to most.”
“Slightly bigger deal, but if I get in the zone, think the right things…” Her voice tailed off as he eased his thumb between her teeth.
… he just wanted her. To see her surrender, for him. To him.
“All you have to do is say please.”
But this isn’t just a story about two people fighting for control and falling and love… It’s more about submitting and surrendering to the person you love. But there also ends up being a bit of a mystery to this story, because Kezia’s parents died under mysterious circumstances, which you slowly learn as the characters start to reveal more of themselves to each other.
A couple things I wasn’t quite on board with… Kezia’s questioning of her decisions about 2/3 of the way through the story. I felt it was a bit out of character. To me, she didn’t really come across as someone who would let another manipulate her and her feelings. I felt like she was stronger than that the entire book, so when it happened, I was caught off guard.
Another thing… I wasn’t quite sure what this farm/property was exactly. Sex Therapy was thrown around, and James said he was a therapist, but … at times, the place sounded like it was a bit shady. I think I would have liked a bit more explanation as to what exactly was going on at this place when it was actually in business.
If you’re looking for a quick and entertaining read that has a bit of heartbreak mixed with hope and some definite steam and heat filled moments … complex characters that are well-developed and interesting then this story is for you.
Thank you to Harper Impulse for the advance copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
December 8, 2013
See the full review and book details/excerpts at Foxylutely Book Reviews
http://foxylutely.blogspot.com/2013/1...
3.5 stars
*ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
The surrender in the book title is not remotely connected to BDSM but of more of a surrender of past emotions and constraints and learning to move forward into a life you never thought possible.
James is working through his past issues with his ex-wife and her controlling and deceptive persona. He has moved entirely away from his past and his family and taken root deep in the English countryside working as a sex therapist at a remote hideaway run by his friend Marie and her husband. Over the summer Marie and her husband shut up shop and go traveling leaving James to have the whole house and horse farm to himself which is just how he likes it. But then the day arrives that Kez fell into his arms….literally.
Kez has been out of the UK for a while dealing with the death of her parents under suspicious circumstances. She has always been a free spirit as were her parents and she has never taken root in any one place but now she decides the time is right. After making friends with Marie in Italy, Marie offers her a job at her retreat back in the UK which Kez jumps at. However when she eventually gets to the gates she finds they are padlocked shut so she climbs over them and gets stuck. It’s here she meets James for the first time when she falls off the gate and he catches her. Both feel a soupçon of something between them but James dismisses this in his usual negative demeanour. Kez being Kez takes everything in her stride and keeps her options open as always.
The story then revolves around the relationship development between these two total opposites, each learning to trust and understand each other’s differences. James is some kind of a horse whisperer and he tries to show Kez how to learn this skill. However I think the skill of understanding horses could help them both to learn about each other. Not being someone who knows much about horses I loved the analogy the author gifted the reader with and it was a thought provoking experience.
As the genre highlights this is an erotic read and there certainly were some hot and sensuous scenes. I did however not totally feel the emotional connection was as deep as I would have thought for James and Kez and just a little more could have been given to push this read to another level.
I did enjoy this book and that it was UK based with slang terms I love. You can’t beat a good shagging LOL. Oh and we talk about knickers not pants!
I would definitely recommend you read this as it kept me entertained and came to the ending with a satisfied smile
http://foxylutely.blogspot.com/2013/1...
3.5 stars
*ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
The surrender in the book title is not remotely connected to BDSM but of more of a surrender of past emotions and constraints and learning to move forward into a life you never thought possible.
James is working through his past issues with his ex-wife and her controlling and deceptive persona. He has moved entirely away from his past and his family and taken root deep in the English countryside working as a sex therapist at a remote hideaway run by his friend Marie and her husband. Over the summer Marie and her husband shut up shop and go traveling leaving James to have the whole house and horse farm to himself which is just how he likes it. But then the day arrives that Kez fell into his arms….literally.
Kez has been out of the UK for a while dealing with the death of her parents under suspicious circumstances. She has always been a free spirit as were her parents and she has never taken root in any one place but now she decides the time is right. After making friends with Marie in Italy, Marie offers her a job at her retreat back in the UK which Kez jumps at. However when she eventually gets to the gates she finds they are padlocked shut so she climbs over them and gets stuck. It’s here she meets James for the first time when she falls off the gate and he catches her. Both feel a soupçon of something between them but James dismisses this in his usual negative demeanour. Kez being Kez takes everything in her stride and keeps her options open as always.
The story then revolves around the relationship development between these two total opposites, each learning to trust and understand each other’s differences. James is some kind of a horse whisperer and he tries to show Kez how to learn this skill. However I think the skill of understanding horses could help them both to learn about each other. Not being someone who knows much about horses I loved the analogy the author gifted the reader with and it was a thought provoking experience.
As the genre highlights this is an erotic read and there certainly were some hot and sensuous scenes. I did however not totally feel the emotional connection was as deep as I would have thought for James and Kez and just a little more could have been given to push this read to another level.
I did enjoy this book and that it was UK based with slang terms I love. You can’t beat a good shagging LOL. Oh and we talk about knickers not pants!
I would definitely recommend you read this as it kept me entertained and came to the ending with a satisfied smile
December 9, 2013
Summer of Surrender is a sensuous erotic romance about two people who meet and learn to let go of their pasts, learn the difference between sexual submission and surrender, losing control and finding love.
Kezia Martin is a free-spirit who has lived a nomadic lifestyle. She is now looking for a new start and something more in her life after the tragic deaths of her parents. Working at an Italian spa she meets Marie, an Englishwoman who offers her a position at her countryside horse farm. Kezia decides to take Marie up on her offer, but she's in for a surprise when she arrives at the horse farm.
James is a sex therapist with a troubled past that has left him cold and wanting to be alone. After a bitter divorce, he left everything behind to join his friends Marie and Dan in running their sex therapy business in the English countryside. With the business closed for the summer while Marie and San are away on vacation, James is looking after the horse farm and some much needed solitude and time on his own. But all that changes when an unexpected visitor climbs over the gate and literally falls into his arms.
Can the five weeks that Kezia and James spend together provide them with a summer of surrender to their true sexual desires?
Summer of Surrender is so much more than just an erotic tale of romance, it is a beautiful and sensuous story of two opposite people who become attracted and discover that they are perfect for each other. James and Kezia's attraction is intense and sizzling from the moment they meet, and as they gradually learn and explore each other, they learn to let go of the past, and surrender to their fears, fantasies and desires. With an element of mystery and conflict surrounding both James and Kezia's past, the reader follows along on their journey as these two flawed and complex people learn to overcome their dark secrets and troubled pasts to achieve an emotional connection and fall deliciously in love.
Summer of Surrender is a captivating erotic romance story full of emotional depth and heartbreaking moments interwoven with hope, steamy sex scenes, and finding true love. This is a thoroughly enjoyable and entertaining quick read!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author / publisher in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Book Promotions by Literary Nook.
http://jerseygirlsizzlingbookreviews....
Kezia Martin is a free-spirit who has lived a nomadic lifestyle. She is now looking for a new start and something more in her life after the tragic deaths of her parents. Working at an Italian spa she meets Marie, an Englishwoman who offers her a position at her countryside horse farm. Kezia decides to take Marie up on her offer, but she's in for a surprise when she arrives at the horse farm.
James is a sex therapist with a troubled past that has left him cold and wanting to be alone. After a bitter divorce, he left everything behind to join his friends Marie and Dan in running their sex therapy business in the English countryside. With the business closed for the summer while Marie and San are away on vacation, James is looking after the horse farm and some much needed solitude and time on his own. But all that changes when an unexpected visitor climbs over the gate and literally falls into his arms.
Can the five weeks that Kezia and James spend together provide them with a summer of surrender to their true sexual desires?
Summer of Surrender is so much more than just an erotic tale of romance, it is a beautiful and sensuous story of two opposite people who become attracted and discover that they are perfect for each other. James and Kezia's attraction is intense and sizzling from the moment they meet, and as they gradually learn and explore each other, they learn to let go of the past, and surrender to their fears, fantasies and desires. With an element of mystery and conflict surrounding both James and Kezia's past, the reader follows along on their journey as these two flawed and complex people learn to overcome their dark secrets and troubled pasts to achieve an emotional connection and fall deliciously in love.
Summer of Surrender is a captivating erotic romance story full of emotional depth and heartbreaking moments interwoven with hope, steamy sex scenes, and finding true love. This is a thoroughly enjoyable and entertaining quick read!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author / publisher in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Book Promotions by Literary Nook.
http://jerseygirlsizzlingbookreviews....
November 12, 2013
Summer of Surrender by Zara Stoneley is a sexually-charged romance between two completely opposite characters who are absolutely perfect for one another.
Looking forward to some much needed alone time, James is not at all pleased when he discovers Kezia will be spending the summer with him. He is also less than thrilled by his intense attraction to the bohemian beauty but their passion for one another is impossible to resist. Just as things are heating up between them, their relationship is threatened by someone from Kezia's past.
James and Kezia are a study in contrasts and that is what makes their pairing so wonderful. Kezia is an only child who adored her parents and fully embraced their wandering lifestyle. She is a delightful breath of fresh air-exuberant, open and confident with just a hint of insecurity stemming from her unconventional upbringing. In the aftermath of a tragic loss, Kezia is finally ready to put down some roots when she meets James.
James's childhood was traditional and as an adult, he followed the predictable path to a successful job and marriage. After his divorce, he walked away from both his career and family and James now keeps tight control of every aspect of his life. He is quite enigmatic and it takes him most of the novel to reveal his secrets.
James and Kezia's attraction to one another is sizzling hot and their sex scenes are quite steamy. With James, Kezia is finally able to explore her fantasies of submitting to a dominant partner. James relishes Kezia's submissiveness but he also learns to relinquish control on occasion.
Zara Stoneley's Summer of Surrender is a lovely, angst-free romance that I greatly enjoyed. James and Kezia are extremely charming and likable and they both learn some valuable lessons from one another. The plot is well-developed and unique and there is quite a bit of substance to the overall storyline. A must read for anyone who enjoys erotic romances.
Looking forward to some much needed alone time, James is not at all pleased when he discovers Kezia will be spending the summer with him. He is also less than thrilled by his intense attraction to the bohemian beauty but their passion for one another is impossible to resist. Just as things are heating up between them, their relationship is threatened by someone from Kezia's past.
James and Kezia are a study in contrasts and that is what makes their pairing so wonderful. Kezia is an only child who adored her parents and fully embraced their wandering lifestyle. She is a delightful breath of fresh air-exuberant, open and confident with just a hint of insecurity stemming from her unconventional upbringing. In the aftermath of a tragic loss, Kezia is finally ready to put down some roots when she meets James.
James's childhood was traditional and as an adult, he followed the predictable path to a successful job and marriage. After his divorce, he walked away from both his career and family and James now keeps tight control of every aspect of his life. He is quite enigmatic and it takes him most of the novel to reveal his secrets.
James and Kezia's attraction to one another is sizzling hot and their sex scenes are quite steamy. With James, Kezia is finally able to explore her fantasies of submitting to a dominant partner. James relishes Kezia's submissiveness but he also learns to relinquish control on occasion.
Zara Stoneley's Summer of Surrender is a lovely, angst-free romance that I greatly enjoyed. James and Kezia are extremely charming and likable and they both learn some valuable lessons from one another. The plot is well-developed and unique and there is quite a bit of substance to the overall storyline. A must read for anyone who enjoys erotic romances.
January 19, 2014
James is looking forward to a relaxing summer by himself, when Kezia turns up. She wants work and a place to stay and neither of them want anything more. But their attraction to each other is too strong to deny and soon they can't keep their hands off each other.
I have to admit that when this story began I wasn't a huge fan of either Kezia or James. I found both irritating and a little pathetic, and honestly wanted to give both of them a good slap. But as the story continues and they begin to open up to each other, it's impossible not to sympathize with these two. Both are damaged and both need to learn to surrender emotionally and physically to each other if they want to take control of their pasts. As a result, the story is by turns emotionally heartbreaking and sexy.
Most of the novella is spent with Kezia and James getting to know each other on the farm where James works as a sex therapist - an occupation that doesn't quite fit for James in my mind given his own emotional and sexual issues, but it doesn't actually come into the story much anyway. The setting, however, makes for the perfect escapist location for this summer seduction. I could practically smell the grass and horses and desire.
One of the things I most enjoyed about this story was the treatment of fantasy. As the story progresses physical sex overtakes fantasies, as Kezia and James begin to put their desires into action. Yet, particularly at the beginning the expressed fantasies are almost more intense than the sex scenes themselves and I sort of loved that. In their story, Kezia and James' sexual fantasies play an important role of their emotional development and in the plot. Given that erotica is, at its core, a literary expression of sexual fantasy, I liked the idea of playing with this within the story. Perhaps I'm reading too much into this... but I thought it worked well.
There's also a little mystery subplot which was a bit of fun too. It made me wonder whether Zara Stoneley has ever written or considered writing romantic suspense, because I'd totally read it.
I have to admit that when this story began I wasn't a huge fan of either Kezia or James. I found both irritating and a little pathetic, and honestly wanted to give both of them a good slap. But as the story continues and they begin to open up to each other, it's impossible not to sympathize with these two. Both are damaged and both need to learn to surrender emotionally and physically to each other if they want to take control of their pasts. As a result, the story is by turns emotionally heartbreaking and sexy.
Most of the novella is spent with Kezia and James getting to know each other on the farm where James works as a sex therapist - an occupation that doesn't quite fit for James in my mind given his own emotional and sexual issues, but it doesn't actually come into the story much anyway. The setting, however, makes for the perfect escapist location for this summer seduction. I could practically smell the grass and horses and desire.
One of the things I most enjoyed about this story was the treatment of fantasy. As the story progresses physical sex overtakes fantasies, as Kezia and James begin to put their desires into action. Yet, particularly at the beginning the expressed fantasies are almost more intense than the sex scenes themselves and I sort of loved that. In their story, Kezia and James' sexual fantasies play an important role of their emotional development and in the plot. Given that erotica is, at its core, a literary expression of sexual fantasy, I liked the idea of playing with this within the story. Perhaps I'm reading too much into this... but I thought it worked well.
There's also a little mystery subplot which was a bit of fun too. It made me wonder whether Zara Stoneley has ever written or considered writing romantic suspense, because I'd totally read it.
November 22, 2013
Kezia has grown up always moving around and never staying in one place for very long. Her parents believed in living in the present and wanted to travel a lot. After the tragic death of her parents, Kezia starts to desire some stability. She is happy to be given a job in a new place and a chance to start over and run from some of the demons in her past. There are a few problems though… She has no idea what she is doing working with horses and cleaning stables, and the guy who she’s working with for the summer makes it clear from the very beginning that he’s not happy she’s there and she’s not welcome.
James is a sex therapist and works with horses. He expected to spend the summer by himself working on the farm in peace. He was hurt deeply by his last relationship and since then doesn’t want to open his heart to anyone and care for someone again. Everything changes when he is stuck having to work with Kezia for the summer and they both find themselves having to learn to surrender.
My Thoughts
Summer of Surrender was a quick story with some very hot and steamy scenes. There was a bit of a mystery to this book which I was not expecting when I read the blurb. I liked that both Kezia and James had parts of their past that made it more difficult to surrender to each other. Both of them needed to grow and learn to deal with their pasts and I enjoyed watching them help each other. The attraction between Kezia and James is undeniable and intensely hot! I also enjoyed that there were very few other characters in this book. Therefore, most scenes were focused solely on James and Kezia. I would recommend this book to someone looking for a quick,hot and sexy book about people learning to deal and move on from their pasts.
Originally posted at http://crossroadreaders.wordpress.com
James is a sex therapist and works with horses. He expected to spend the summer by himself working on the farm in peace. He was hurt deeply by his last relationship and since then doesn’t want to open his heart to anyone and care for someone again. Everything changes when he is stuck having to work with Kezia for the summer and they both find themselves having to learn to surrender.
My Thoughts
Summer of Surrender was a quick story with some very hot and steamy scenes. There was a bit of a mystery to this book which I was not expecting when I read the blurb. I liked that both Kezia and James had parts of their past that made it more difficult to surrender to each other. Both of them needed to grow and learn to deal with their pasts and I enjoyed watching them help each other. The attraction between Kezia and James is undeniable and intensely hot! I also enjoyed that there were very few other characters in this book. Therefore, most scenes were focused solely on James and Kezia. I would recommend this book to someone looking for a quick,hot and sexy book about people learning to deal and move on from their pasts.
Originally posted at http://crossroadreaders.wordpress.com
November 21, 2013
What promises to be a hot and steamy, sexually charged story developed into so much more, with characters that were complex and flawed, a story line that promises only a summer but leaves everyone looking for more.
James is a sex therapist, and far from being open to the possibilities, he is closed off and wants nothing of emotional entanglement. In fact, he discourages entanglements by insisting on surrender, a common misconception of the lifestyle from those not familiar with Dominants. Despite his control issues, James clearly displayed his flaws and fears in his approach, and it was interesting to watch him grow and develop.
Kezia is loud, brash and brazen, the complete opposite of James in every way, except one. She too hides a deep sadness, manifesting in her bold and often forward behavior. Also a fan of no commitments or entanglements, the struggles between she and James for control of situations is often cleverly displayed.
As the two battle it out for supremacy, the true essence of submission as a means of power, and the trust needed to truly engage in the lifestyle is beautifully developed. As they start to share with one another, the walls start to come down and the two start to form a bond.
Heartbreaking moments are perfectly intermingled with moments of hope and joy, mixed with some seriously steamy sexual play. Far from just being a voyeuristic view, the emotional development between the characters and their own personal growth makes this a story well worth reading.
I received an eBook copy from the author for purpose of honest review with Tasty Book Tours. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
James is a sex therapist, and far from being open to the possibilities, he is closed off and wants nothing of emotional entanglement. In fact, he discourages entanglements by insisting on surrender, a common misconception of the lifestyle from those not familiar with Dominants. Despite his control issues, James clearly displayed his flaws and fears in his approach, and it was interesting to watch him grow and develop.
Kezia is loud, brash and brazen, the complete opposite of James in every way, except one. She too hides a deep sadness, manifesting in her bold and often forward behavior. Also a fan of no commitments or entanglements, the struggles between she and James for control of situations is often cleverly displayed.
As the two battle it out for supremacy, the true essence of submission as a means of power, and the trust needed to truly engage in the lifestyle is beautifully developed. As they start to share with one another, the walls start to come down and the two start to form a bond.
Heartbreaking moments are perfectly intermingled with moments of hope and joy, mixed with some seriously steamy sexual play. Far from just being a voyeuristic view, the emotional development between the characters and their own personal growth makes this a story well worth reading.
I received an eBook copy from the author for purpose of honest review with Tasty Book Tours. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
December 4, 2013
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'Summer of Surrender' is a beautifully written erotic romance.
James is sex therapist. Kezia is a free spirit. From the outside you wouldn't think they could learn anything from each other. As their emotional layers are peeled back its clear their past experience fuel real fears of being alone in Kezia's case and being dominated in James'.
Sensual heat burns from their first encounter. Kezia is a lovely character full of charm with a self-depreciating sense of humour. James is sinfully sexy, a man who wields his sexual prowess as a weapon to exert his dominance. The perfect man for a hot steamy night but not someone Kezia can rely on or is he?
Kezia and James' sexual encounters chart their emotional journey as they explore their fantasies and fears. Coupled with a plot which has the necessary twists and turns to hold the reader's interest 'Summer of Surrender' is an enjoyable read.
I received a copy of this book from Harper Collins UK HarperImpulse via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Zara Stoneley
February 4, 2014
*I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
Kezia moves back to the UK, in hopes of a new beginning after a tragedy affects her family. A friend (Marie), tells her to come stay at her ranch style home and business. When Kezia gets there, no one comes to the gate to let her in. Determined and stranded with no money, she climbs the gate, when a handsome stranger appears. James is the only one there. Marie and her husband are on vacation. James is not happy to see Kezia and he is not shy about showing it. He was enjoying quiet time alone with the horses in the stable. James just got a divorce and he is definitely not in the mood to deal with a pretty woman.
Kezia is determined to stay and learn how to care for the horses, and Marie tells James to help her. During their time together they grow close and their sexual frustration gets stronger, to the point that James cant hold back any longer.
James is a sex therapist and Kezia has never had more than boring sex in her past. So, when Kezia gets a taste of what James has to offer, she is not shy to ask for what she wants.
Then Kezia's past comes back to haunt her. So, when she goes missing, James wants to find her for more reasons than one.
This book had some good sex scenes and ok story line. It just felt like something was missing for me. It felt a bit rushed. The characters were great. Especially, Kezia. I really liked her personality.
Kezia moves back to the UK, in hopes of a new beginning after a tragedy affects her family. A friend (Marie), tells her to come stay at her ranch style home and business. When Kezia gets there, no one comes to the gate to let her in. Determined and stranded with no money, she climbs the gate, when a handsome stranger appears. James is the only one there. Marie and her husband are on vacation. James is not happy to see Kezia and he is not shy about showing it. He was enjoying quiet time alone with the horses in the stable. James just got a divorce and he is definitely not in the mood to deal with a pretty woman.
Kezia is determined to stay and learn how to care for the horses, and Marie tells James to help her. During their time together they grow close and their sexual frustration gets stronger, to the point that James cant hold back any longer.
James is a sex therapist and Kezia has never had more than boring sex in her past. So, when Kezia gets a taste of what James has to offer, she is not shy to ask for what she wants.
Then Kezia's past comes back to haunt her. So, when she goes missing, James wants to find her for more reasons than one.
This book had some good sex scenes and ok story line. It just felt like something was missing for me. It felt a bit rushed. The characters were great. Especially, Kezia. I really liked her personality.
November 15, 2013
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley.
This was a very sexy and quick read.
Kezia is a free spirit, a lifetime of constantly traveling around with her parents, never settling down she has not had a traditional upbringing. Staying in only one place for a few months at a time she has not made any deep connections with people. After tragedy strikes she finds herself for the first time looking to put down some roots.
James is cold as ice, emotionally turned off after damage from a former relationship, the last thing her is looking for is a relationship. As a sex therapist he see's sex and emotion as two very separate things.
Kenzia shows up at the ranch where James works after meeting his boss while working in Italy. She had offered her a job and Kezia saw it as a good place to settle in and start a new life. James thought he had the place to himself for the summer and is none too happy to see her. However different these two people are their attraction is magnetic! I don't want to give too much more away but these two are super hot together. I only wish that this book had an epilogue!!!
This was a very sexy and quick read.
Kezia is a free spirit, a lifetime of constantly traveling around with her parents, never settling down she has not had a traditional upbringing. Staying in only one place for a few months at a time she has not made any deep connections with people. After tragedy strikes she finds herself for the first time looking to put down some roots.
James is cold as ice, emotionally turned off after damage from a former relationship, the last thing her is looking for is a relationship. As a sex therapist he see's sex and emotion as two very separate things.
Kenzia shows up at the ranch where James works after meeting his boss while working in Italy. She had offered her a job and Kezia saw it as a good place to settle in and start a new life. James thought he had the place to himself for the summer and is none too happy to see her. However different these two people are their attraction is magnetic! I don't want to give too much more away but these two are super hot together. I only wish that this book had an epilogue!!!
November 11, 2013
I’ve had a bit of an overdose of reading BDSM lately, so it was fab to find that despite the ‘surrender’ in the title, this story is a BDSM-free zone. I first came across James in Riding High, and was delighted to discover that he has his own story here, still with the evocative backdrop of Cheshire, complete with horses. Yay! As a rider, I appreciate that Zara always gets the riding detail spot on, and a hero at one with horses, who meets a heroine who isn’t, makes for some great scenes. I love that hot, yet reluctant James, damaged by a previous twisted relationship where control was the name of the game, gets to meet free-spirit Kezia, who gives him a new take on letting go, and falling in love. And how fab to have a sex-therapist hero! The characters are beautifully drawn, the conflicts they face are truly compelling, so much so, I didn’t want to put the book down. Zara Stoneley is queen of steam, and here the sex ranges from sensual to graphic and hot, hot, hot, but it always fits into what is, in the end, a captivating love story, with huge emotional depth, about two people who discover they can give each other more than they ever imagined. Summer of Surrender is flawless, totally fabulous, and delicious. Now I can’t wait for more from the awesome Zara Stoneley!
December 18, 2013
James doesn’t want anything to do with Kezia when she shows up. His boss, Maria, hired her but Maria won’t be home for a couple weeks. So they are together at the house, alone. They are attracted to each other but neither want to get attached. James has been damaged by a past relationship and Kezia isn’t sure she wants to stay in one place long enough to get attached. Someone killed her parents and she fears they might be after her. Does she stay with James and work for Maria or does she leave and take the possible danger with her?
There was a lot of substance to the story. It was not your typical boy meets girl romance. There is a darkness in James that is hard to describe and makes you want to hug him. He’s not evil but sort of troubled from a past relationship. The story starts out as more of a mystery, suspense story. More towards the middle and end of the book the story takes on a dark romance feel. It’s not a hearts and flowers romance but more of two people that need that human connection but fight it until the end. Much more happens in this story, so go get your copy and enjoy reading Summer of Surrender by Zara Stoneley.
Reviewed bu Cheryl
*free copy provided for honest review
for more reviews visit welovekink(dot)com
There was a lot of substance to the story. It was not your typical boy meets girl romance. There is a darkness in James that is hard to describe and makes you want to hug him. He’s not evil but sort of troubled from a past relationship. The story starts out as more of a mystery, suspense story. More towards the middle and end of the book the story takes on a dark romance feel. It’s not a hearts and flowers romance but more of two people that need that human connection but fight it until the end. Much more happens in this story, so go get your copy and enjoy reading Summer of Surrender by Zara Stoneley.
Reviewed bu Cheryl
*free copy provided for honest review
for more reviews visit welovekink(dot)com
February 9, 2014
James doesn’t want anything to do with Kezia when she shows up. His boss, Maria, hired her but Maria won’t be home for a couple weeks. So they are together at the house, alone. They are attracted to each other but neither want to get attached...
For more on this review and others please visit http://www.welovekink.com/category/re...
For more on this review and others please visit http://www.welovekink.com/category/re...
January 10, 2014
When Kezia lands herself at James' door all she expects is a job. But from their first encounter it's obvious there's going to be so much more than that.
Both characters are alone for different reasons, they're both headstrong and capable, a perfect mix for passion to explode. And it does!
A sexy read with hot scenes to melt your Kindle and a story you'll remember. Recommended!
Both characters are alone for different reasons, they're both headstrong and capable, a perfect mix for passion to explode. And it does!
A sexy read with hot scenes to melt your Kindle and a story you'll remember. Recommended!
February 6, 2014
Not usually an erotica reader, sometimes I find they make me cringe, but Zara's work is sensitively written with great plot and characterisation. The intimate scenes are well written and cold showers are definitely needed! Recommended.
September 27, 2021
I normally love love love Zara’s stories..this one fell a bit short for me, maybe as it was a short story, so things happened quickly.
James sounds delish, a bit damaged but smouldering!
Kez was a drifter, I was interested in her backstory which came out to readers out of the blue and bizarrely.. just all of a sudden something about sirens and burning..I thought I’d missed a page or two but I hadn’t.
I didn’t find these two to be a good match, but the sex was on fire!
I still have Zara towards the top of my author list, and as soon as she releases a book I’m snapping them up.
James sounds delish, a bit damaged but smouldering!
Kez was a drifter, I was interested in her backstory which came out to readers out of the blue and bizarrely.. just all of a sudden something about sirens and burning..I thought I’d missed a page or two but I hadn’t.
I didn’t find these two to be a good match, but the sex was on fire!
I still have Zara towards the top of my author list, and as soon as she releases a book I’m snapping them up.
November 9, 2013
ARC provided by the publisher, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review
When I read the blurb for this book I thought it was going to be a rather erotic D/s romantic type of book - which I something I enjoy reading. Instead, well I'm not entirely sure to be honest. Yes there are some fairly hot sex scenes in it, a touch of dominant male and feisty female and some romance as well. But although the book was very well written it just lacked something for me, it didn't grab me and scream "Read Me until you've finished" if anything at times just reading it felt like hard work.
When I read the blurb for this book I thought it was going to be a rather erotic D/s romantic type of book - which I something I enjoy reading. Instead, well I'm not entirely sure to be honest. Yes there are some fairly hot sex scenes in it, a touch of dominant male and feisty female and some romance as well. But although the book was very well written it just lacked something for me, it didn't grab me and scream "Read Me until you've finished" if anything at times just reading it felt like hard work.
December 12, 2013
Received from NetGalley.
Sometimes you read a short story and wish it was a full length book. Sometimes you read a full length book and wish it was a short story. At barely 180 pages, I'm not sure what this was but I think it was a little over the top. I feel like it was mostly sex with some plot thrown in just for filler. If you want to write sex, fine, go ahead, I don't care but don't throw in a flimsy plot just for the heck of it. Not one I think I will be recommending.
Sometimes you read a short story and wish it was a full length book. Sometimes you read a full length book and wish it was a short story. At barely 180 pages, I'm not sure what this was but I think it was a little over the top. I feel like it was mostly sex with some plot thrown in just for filler. If you want to write sex, fine, go ahead, I don't care but don't throw in a flimsy plot just for the heck of it. Not one I think I will be recommending.
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