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Stripped
Alternate cover edition for B00D1WW1II
Abby Gillis is used to being called a promiscuous, uneducated whore. It’s all in a day’s work when you’re a stripper. Since her job allows her to support her siblings, 24-year-old Abby takes it all off in stride. She’s never had trouble keeping men at arm’s length – until she meets ER physician Chris Reneau, who is sexy, sweet and interested in more than what’s beneath her clothes. As their relationship unfolds, Abby becomes increasingly aware of the desire building in her for the first time, and of her yearning to be wanted by the one man who truly sees all of her.
Commitment-averse Chris finds himself in uncharted territory. He wants Abby, that’s clear, but he can’t accept not having all of her. As the distance between them erodes, he tries to convince Abby to give up stripping for a chance at something real.
As the two of them get closer, Abby realizes that truly baring it all has nothing to do with her body. Chris makes her feel more exposed than she ever has, and she has to grapple with what’s left when her notions about herself and those around her are stripped away, leaving only the naked truth.
Abby Gillis is used to being called a promiscuous, uneducated whore. It’s all in a day’s work when you’re a stripper. Since her job allows her to support her siblings, 24-year-old Abby takes it all off in stride. She’s never had trouble keeping men at arm’s length – until she meets ER physician Chris Reneau, who is sexy, sweet and interested in more than what’s beneath her clothes. As their relationship unfolds, Abby becomes increasingly aware of the desire building in her for the first time, and of her yearning to be wanted by the one man who truly sees all of her.
Commitment-averse Chris finds himself in uncharted territory. He wants Abby, that’s clear, but he can’t accept not having all of her. As the distance between them erodes, he tries to convince Abby to give up stripping for a chance at something real.
As the two of them get closer, Abby realizes that truly baring it all has nothing to do with her body. Chris makes her feel more exposed than she ever has, and she has to grapple with what’s left when her notions about herself and those around her are stripped away, leaving only the naked truth.
154 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 27, 2013
6 people are currently reading
862 people want to read
About the author
Brenda Rothert
90 books2,266 followersBrenda Rothert is the author of more than thirty Contemporary Romance novels. You can learn more about her books at her website, www.brendarothert.com, which features teasers, excerpts and trailers for her books. Follow her here:
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
October 8, 2013
Great read! Review to be posted along with my tour date: 10/8
**FULL REVIEW**
“As she straddled his lap, keeping her feet on the floor, Chris’ eyes closed and inhaled sharply. Abby felt his hardness beneath her and knew he was as turned on as she was. She stroked her fingertips down his cheeks, neck and chest and he threw his head back. As she leaned forward, she grabbed his biceps for support and whispered against his ear. “Touch me,” she said. His hands moved quickly from his sides up her thighs, to her back, and down to cup her bottom, pulling her tight against him.”
I love a good story where the heroine is in a job one might consider “degrading” or “seedy” and she just owns it. Abby is a stripper three nights a week. She’s not one of those girls that needs to be drunk or high before performing on stage and she knows that her dancing is what pays the bills—it keeps her family fed, clothed, and with a roof over their heads. At just 24 years old, Abby is more grown up (and has been for some time) than most. Taking on her three younger siblings and caring for her drug-addicted mother, Abby is a seriously strong woman.
What she lacks is her own self-worth; learning to love herself is the one challenge Abby cannot seem to overcome…until she gets a glimpse into a life she has only ever admired and envied from afar. A life that she just has to submit to, a life where she is the center of another person’s world, cherished, cared for, loved. The surprise is that this life is available and waiting for her; with a man she least expects. A hot doctor she met and tried to dance for once, only to be turned down; and as fate would have it, have him treat her mother in the hospital just a short time later. Doctor Chris Reneau. She has his attention, possibly his heart (which he is very reluctant to give)…now, they just have to find a way to make their two totally different worlds connect.
“Chris had become special to her. He was smart, warm and a good listener. Her admiration for him grew every time she saw him working at the hospital. People came to the emergency room during their worst moments: upset, broken and hurting. He was reassuring and capable, healing people one at a time. And what did she do for people? She got men off for money as a stripper. He was the best side of humanity, and she was the worst. Next to him, she had so little to offer. And she continued feeling more and more self-conscious about him not wanting the one thing she did have: her body.”
This book was like a breath of fresh air. It was different on a level I don’t think I can explain…but let me try.
First, you have a woman who has a job where judgment from anyone not in that field is par for the course…then you have the complete opposite of the spectrum in your man; he’s a doctor. Now, I’m not saying that the stereotype of either determines a persons’ self-worth, because there are strippers with a heart of gold (like Abby) and there are doctors (unlike Chris) who are complete pieces of – yeah, you get my drift. I liked how they tried to be friends first, how the chance meeting after the club is what drew them together, how they established silly rules that neither could follow in a feeble attempt to just remain friends. All of these aspects are what made for a very enjoyable read. I also liked the insinuation of sex, the innuendo, without a ton of graphic details. Don’t get me wrong, I’m all for a steamy, “all up in there” love scene but this book didn’t need it and it was still just as good. This book felt intimate. It touched on various topics without being too heavy in any one specific part (it was just enough for my imagination to run a little wild). It focused on bringing two hearts together that seemingly would not fit, and the alternating POV between Chris and Abby was a definite bonus. I look forward to reading more from this author as her style and storylines are different even though familiar…truly, a breath of fresh air. ~V~
**4 Opposites Attract Stars**
**FULL REVIEW**
“As she straddled his lap, keeping her feet on the floor, Chris’ eyes closed and inhaled sharply. Abby felt his hardness beneath her and knew he was as turned on as she was. She stroked her fingertips down his cheeks, neck and chest and he threw his head back. As she leaned forward, she grabbed his biceps for support and whispered against his ear. “Touch me,” she said. His hands moved quickly from his sides up her thighs, to her back, and down to cup her bottom, pulling her tight against him.”
I love a good story where the heroine is in a job one might consider “degrading” or “seedy” and she just owns it. Abby is a stripper three nights a week. She’s not one of those girls that needs to be drunk or high before performing on stage and she knows that her dancing is what pays the bills—it keeps her family fed, clothed, and with a roof over their heads. At just 24 years old, Abby is more grown up (and has been for some time) than most. Taking on her three younger siblings and caring for her drug-addicted mother, Abby is a seriously strong woman.
What she lacks is her own self-worth; learning to love herself is the one challenge Abby cannot seem to overcome…until she gets a glimpse into a life she has only ever admired and envied from afar. A life that she just has to submit to, a life where she is the center of another person’s world, cherished, cared for, loved. The surprise is that this life is available and waiting for her; with a man she least expects. A hot doctor she met and tried to dance for once, only to be turned down; and as fate would have it, have him treat her mother in the hospital just a short time later. Doctor Chris Reneau. She has his attention, possibly his heart (which he is very reluctant to give)…now, they just have to find a way to make their two totally different worlds connect.
“Chris had become special to her. He was smart, warm and a good listener. Her admiration for him grew every time she saw him working at the hospital. People came to the emergency room during their worst moments: upset, broken and hurting. He was reassuring and capable, healing people one at a time. And what did she do for people? She got men off for money as a stripper. He was the best side of humanity, and she was the worst. Next to him, she had so little to offer. And she continued feeling more and more self-conscious about him not wanting the one thing she did have: her body.”
This book was like a breath of fresh air. It was different on a level I don’t think I can explain…but let me try.
First, you have a woman who has a job where judgment from anyone not in that field is par for the course…then you have the complete opposite of the spectrum in your man; he’s a doctor. Now, I’m not saying that the stereotype of either determines a persons’ self-worth, because there are strippers with a heart of gold (like Abby) and there are doctors (unlike Chris) who are complete pieces of – yeah, you get my drift. I liked how they tried to be friends first, how the chance meeting after the club is what drew them together, how they established silly rules that neither could follow in a feeble attempt to just remain friends. All of these aspects are what made for a very enjoyable read. I also liked the insinuation of sex, the innuendo, without a ton of graphic details. Don’t get me wrong, I’m all for a steamy, “all up in there” love scene but this book didn’t need it and it was still just as good. This book felt intimate. It touched on various topics without being too heavy in any one specific part (it was just enough for my imagination to run a little wild). It focused on bringing two hearts together that seemingly would not fit, and the alternating POV between Chris and Abby was a definite bonus. I look forward to reading more from this author as her style and storylines are different even though familiar…truly, a breath of fresh air. ~V~
**4 Opposites Attract Stars**
January 7, 2014
3 Stars
Copy provided by author in exchange for honest review
Stripped by Brenda Rothert is one a story that takes you a closer look on the life of Abby Gillis, a 24 year old stripper, dancing and stripping her way to support her two younger sisters, brother, and druggie mother. Abby's life consisted of work and supporting her family so she has no times for relationships. She practically takes on the role of a mom to her younger sisters since their mother is an addicted druggie, who cares more about of getting high than taking care of her children. Although her mom is mean and emotionally abuses Abby with malicious words, Abby feels an obligation to help her mother. When Abby's mom, Kate is rushed to the ER, her life comes to a stand still when she runs into Greek God ER doctor, Chris Reneau. She recognizes Chris as one of the guys who was at the strip club for a Bachelor's Party. Both Chris and Abby are attracted to one another and when Chris reaches out to Abby, they soon find themselves forming a friendship. But as with any friendship where two people are physically and emotionally attracted to each other, Chris and Abby must decide if they want to cross the friendship line into a relationship. Will Chris and Abby have a chance at love? Or will Abby's secret past, family obligation, and job tear them apart?
Stripped was one of those story that you had rooting for their heroine to get her happily ever after. Abby's life was truly heartbreaking because she never got a chance to really experience her childhood since she had to work and support her family. She was the breadwinner of the household putting her younger brother to med school and making sure her two younger sisters are being taken care of. When Abby's painful past and secret are exposed, it makes you understand why Abby acts the way she does when it comes to men. What I like about this book was that Chris was a total sweetheart. He didn't care of what Abby did for a living. He was not ashamed of her and found her to be truly one remarkable woman to support her family. As much as Chris hated to watch Abby get objectified by men at the strip club, he was understanding of her circumstance and obligations.
As much as I love to read friends to lovers story, Stripped's downfall was that the lack of detailed descriptions of the emotional connection between Abby and Chris and the jumping from one scene to another. There were times I got confused when the author jumped from one scene at the strip club and next thing I know Abby is suddenly at another location. I also wished to know what happened to Abby's friend, Sam. But overall, Stripped was a good story but it wasn't great. The book had lots of potential to be great since Abby's past and life was the driving force of this book.
Copy provided by author in exchange for honest review
Stripped by Brenda Rothert is one a story that takes you a closer look on the life of Abby Gillis, a 24 year old stripper, dancing and stripping her way to support her two younger sisters, brother, and druggie mother. Abby's life consisted of work and supporting her family so she has no times for relationships. She practically takes on the role of a mom to her younger sisters since their mother is an addicted druggie, who cares more about of getting high than taking care of her children. Although her mom is mean and emotionally abuses Abby with malicious words, Abby feels an obligation to help her mother. When Abby's mom, Kate is rushed to the ER, her life comes to a stand still when she runs into Greek God ER doctor, Chris Reneau. She recognizes Chris as one of the guys who was at the strip club for a Bachelor's Party. Both Chris and Abby are attracted to one another and when Chris reaches out to Abby, they soon find themselves forming a friendship. But as with any friendship where two people are physically and emotionally attracted to each other, Chris and Abby must decide if they want to cross the friendship line into a relationship. Will Chris and Abby have a chance at love? Or will Abby's secret past, family obligation, and job tear them apart?
Stripped was one of those story that you had rooting for their heroine to get her happily ever after. Abby's life was truly heartbreaking because she never got a chance to really experience her childhood since she had to work and support her family. She was the breadwinner of the household putting her younger brother to med school and making sure her two younger sisters are being taken care of. When Abby's painful past and secret are exposed, it makes you understand why Abby acts the way she does when it comes to men. What I like about this book was that Chris was a total sweetheart. He didn't care of what Abby did for a living. He was not ashamed of her and found her to be truly one remarkable woman to support her family. As much as Chris hated to watch Abby get objectified by men at the strip club, he was understanding of her circumstance and obligations.
As much as I love to read friends to lovers story, Stripped's downfall was that the lack of detailed descriptions of the emotional connection between Abby and Chris and the jumping from one scene to another. There were times I got confused when the author jumped from one scene at the strip club and next thing I know Abby is suddenly at another location. I also wished to know what happened to Abby's friend, Sam. But overall, Stripped was a good story but it wasn't great. The book had lots of potential to be great since Abby's past and life was the driving force of this book.
October 13, 2013
Review Originally Posted at: Book Freak
She’s a stripper…
He's a doctor…
What happens when a stripper falls in love with a doctor???
I work in a big hospital, and when a news like this comes into our midst – everyone is going to have a field day. I don’t want to sound judgmental – but come on – among all the girls in and outside the hospital, why the world would he choose someone who works in a strip club??
The same question popped into my mind when I started reading this novel. Abby Gillis must be someone really special for Chris Reneau to spend time with. She’s been working in a strip club for four years now, it has been easy money. Dance, strip and you have what you need. But Abby has more responsibilities than a 24-year old should have. She’s taking care of her young siblings and sick mother, she’s paying the bills and buying food for the house. The only thing she does in the club is dance, it never troubled her before, until she met the Greek god himself, Dr. Chris Reneau.
I love ER doctors!!! I find them really smart because they work under great pressure and time constraint to save lives. Here’s Chris who is hot, sexy, smart, kind and one of a kind. He likes her, for her, and not just the fact that she has an awesome body and can dance like nobody else. He’s not interested in any relationships, right now.
But as they spend more and more time as friends, they get to know more about each other, no matter how hard they stopped it, the attraction grows and love develops. Can a relationship work with someone who is afraid of commitment and someone who is afraid to trust? Can Chris get past the issue of Abby’s work? Can Abby give up her job and learn to accept help from people who are ready to give it?
Both had past and present issues to deal with – and they are more serious than I would have realized. Heavy stuffs but I’m glad they found each other. It took a lot of effort, time, and hard work before they finally get into their senses, and when they did – it was worth it.
Stripped is not exactly what I imagined it to be – I would have pegged it for a bolder and sexier novel (don’t get me wrong, it’s still hot and sexy), it has depth, emotions, and lessons. Some people may easily judge others because of their work, what they don’t know is that everyone has reasons behind their actions.
*ARC Copy was given in exchange for an honest review.
She’s a stripper…
He's a doctor…
What happens when a stripper falls in love with a doctor???
I work in a big hospital, and when a news like this comes into our midst – everyone is going to have a field day. I don’t want to sound judgmental – but come on – among all the girls in and outside the hospital, why the world would he choose someone who works in a strip club??
The same question popped into my mind when I started reading this novel. Abby Gillis must be someone really special for Chris Reneau to spend time with. She’s been working in a strip club for four years now, it has been easy money. Dance, strip and you have what you need. But Abby has more responsibilities than a 24-year old should have. She’s taking care of her young siblings and sick mother, she’s paying the bills and buying food for the house. The only thing she does in the club is dance, it never troubled her before, until she met the Greek god himself, Dr. Chris Reneau.
I love ER doctors!!! I find them really smart because they work under great pressure and time constraint to save lives. Here’s Chris who is hot, sexy, smart, kind and one of a kind. He likes her, for her, and not just the fact that she has an awesome body and can dance like nobody else. He’s not interested in any relationships, right now.
But as they spend more and more time as friends, they get to know more about each other, no matter how hard they stopped it, the attraction grows and love develops. Can a relationship work with someone who is afraid of commitment and someone who is afraid to trust? Can Chris get past the issue of Abby’s work? Can Abby give up her job and learn to accept help from people who are ready to give it?
Both had past and present issues to deal with – and they are more serious than I would have realized. Heavy stuffs but I’m glad they found each other. It took a lot of effort, time, and hard work before they finally get into their senses, and when they did – it was worth it.
Stripped is not exactly what I imagined it to be – I would have pegged it for a bolder and sexier novel (don’t get me wrong, it’s still hot and sexy), it has depth, emotions, and lessons. Some people may easily judge others because of their work, what they don’t know is that everyone has reasons behind their actions.
*ARC Copy was given in exchange for an honest review.
October 10, 2013
Stripped was one of those books that took me by surprise. I have read a lot of books where the bad girl gets the good guy and they run off into the sunset but what I really enjoyed about this book was the fact that both main characters had defects and were broken in one way or another but they worked together to be one. That is special to me because I hate when their is instant love. I know that it happens but dam can I have some bantering back and forth and some dam fore play between the characters.
I felt so bad for Abby because she had to raise her siblings and take care of her mother. Her mother has checked out and left Abby who is the oldest to take care of the family and provide for the family. Who does that? With all this going on in Abby's life she has no choice but to become a stripper in order to provide for the family and keep everything in order. So stripping she does and does it well making a lot of money and supporting her family. Then she meets Chris and her life changes.
Chris is an ER doctor and loves to help people. He is so kind and passionate and full of love for his patients. Working like a mad man in the ER he really has no time for love but when he meets Abby she does something to his heart. The only thing is Chris wants Abby but he does not do commitment but he knows deep down he wants all of Abby no matter what.
Can these two strip away all the bad and raw hurt feelings and become one? That is the question they will have to answer.
I felt so bad for Abby because she had to raise her siblings and take care of her mother. Her mother has checked out and left Abby who is the oldest to take care of the family and provide for the family. Who does that? With all this going on in Abby's life she has no choice but to become a stripper in order to provide for the family and keep everything in order. So stripping she does and does it well making a lot of money and supporting her family. Then she meets Chris and her life changes.
Chris is an ER doctor and loves to help people. He is so kind and passionate and full of love for his patients. Working like a mad man in the ER he really has no time for love but when he meets Abby she does something to his heart. The only thing is Chris wants Abby but he does not do commitment but he knows deep down he wants all of Abby no matter what.
Can these two strip away all the bad and raw hurt feelings and become one? That is the question they will have to answer.
May 31, 2013
I do love a good stripper love story.
All the characters were good & the story between Abbi & Chris was fun, emotional & romantic.
All the characters were good & the story between Abbi & Chris was fun, emotional & romantic.
June 14, 2013
A very interesting from a very unlikely characters. I really enjoyed reading this one.
May 30, 2013
http://blue-moon.fr/spip.php?article8349
Voilà encore un joli roman délicat, bien plus que le thème de l’histoire ne pourrait le laisser supposer. En effet, l’héroïne Abby est une strip-teaseuse dans un club et elle pratique comme personne danse sur une barre ou les fameuses lap dances où les clients masculins regardent , ressentent mais ne touchent pas. Ne croyez pas que vous allez lire des scènes très chaudes à toutes les pages, le roman est très mesuré dans ce domaine et Abby est un personnage à l’opposé de ce que son métier laisse croire à certains.
Abby va faire la connaissance d’un charmant médecin des urgences lors d’une hospitalisation de sa mère, très malade. Chris est à l’opposé d’Abby. Celle-ci travaille dur pour pouvoir nourrir sa famille, aider sa mère qui non seulement est malade mais est droguée et est un poids supplémentaire. Abby a de plus connu une enfance terrible et d’abus qui l’ont rendue très méfiante vis à vis des hommes. Chris est le golden by qu’elle ne pouvait imaginer rencontrer : il est équilibré, plutôt riche, a un métier qu’elle admire beaucoup. Une belle histoire peut commencer mais évidemment tout sera compliqué à cause du métier de la jeune femme.
L’auteure évite beaucoup des écueils liés à une telle histoire. Elle ne fait pas du métier d’Abby un boulot comme les autres mais elle montre combien ca l’est tout de même. Il faut juste gérer cela au quotidien. Elle donne même quelques détails très terre à terre sur ce que vivent ces danseuses et la façon dont les hommes les considèrent ou même d’autres personnes. Abby est totalement convaincante dans ses doutes, ses peurs tout autant que le charmant Chris, patient et qui n’est pas sans rappeler les charmants médecins que l’on a pu rencontrer dans diverses séries téélviées. Ah le charme du stéthoscope autour du cou ! L’auteure prend la peine de donner des détails plut^to téalistes sur son métier et cela sonne très juste.
Le style de l’auteure est parfois un peu simple et plat, les faits s’enchainant un peu mécaniquement parfois mais à part cette petite limite, il faut reconnaître que cette jolie histoire se lit vite et est très agréable. Cela ne révolutionnera pas la romance contemporaine mais l’auteure a du potentiel.
Voilà encore un joli roman délicat, bien plus que le thème de l’histoire ne pourrait le laisser supposer. En effet, l’héroïne Abby est une strip-teaseuse dans un club et elle pratique comme personne danse sur une barre ou les fameuses lap dances où les clients masculins regardent , ressentent mais ne touchent pas. Ne croyez pas que vous allez lire des scènes très chaudes à toutes les pages, le roman est très mesuré dans ce domaine et Abby est un personnage à l’opposé de ce que son métier laisse croire à certains.
Abby va faire la connaissance d’un charmant médecin des urgences lors d’une hospitalisation de sa mère, très malade. Chris est à l’opposé d’Abby. Celle-ci travaille dur pour pouvoir nourrir sa famille, aider sa mère qui non seulement est malade mais est droguée et est un poids supplémentaire. Abby a de plus connu une enfance terrible et d’abus qui l’ont rendue très méfiante vis à vis des hommes. Chris est le golden by qu’elle ne pouvait imaginer rencontrer : il est équilibré, plutôt riche, a un métier qu’elle admire beaucoup. Une belle histoire peut commencer mais évidemment tout sera compliqué à cause du métier de la jeune femme.
L’auteure évite beaucoup des écueils liés à une telle histoire. Elle ne fait pas du métier d’Abby un boulot comme les autres mais elle montre combien ca l’est tout de même. Il faut juste gérer cela au quotidien. Elle donne même quelques détails très terre à terre sur ce que vivent ces danseuses et la façon dont les hommes les considèrent ou même d’autres personnes. Abby est totalement convaincante dans ses doutes, ses peurs tout autant que le charmant Chris, patient et qui n’est pas sans rappeler les charmants médecins que l’on a pu rencontrer dans diverses séries téélviées. Ah le charme du stéthoscope autour du cou ! L’auteure prend la peine de donner des détails plut^to téalistes sur son métier et cela sonne très juste.
Le style de l’auteure est parfois un peu simple et plat, les faits s’enchainant un peu mécaniquement parfois mais à part cette petite limite, il faut reconnaître que cette jolie histoire se lit vite et est très agréable. Cela ne révolutionnera pas la romance contemporaine mais l’auteure a du potentiel.
October 10, 2013
This was a story that I was able to devour in one sitting. Abby is an intelligent woman trying to make the best life that she can for herself and her brother, sisters, and a drug addicted mother. Stripping and the fast money that it brings, provide her with what appears to be her best option...and an unexpected chance at love.
Chris is a young, handsome doctor, and when he refuses a lap dance from a beautiful stripper on the night of his best friend Reed's bachelor party; he has no idea that she will be the one who will change his life forever.
The story told here is one of two wounded souls learning to love and trust both each other and themselves. This story's author takes great care to weave a great deal of realism into her work without making the subject matter unpalatable for the reader. This is no easy feat when dealing with the evils of drug abuse, molestation, and self esteem.
The thing that makes this story great is it's balance. What I mean by that is, while there is some "saving of the princess" on the part of Chris; Abby proves herself to be a very strong and resourceful young woman, quite capable of saving her prince as well.
The love scenes are very well done; with just enough build up to make readers anticipate the fireworks just as much if not more than the characters.
As if all of this is not enough...everything is tied together with a surprisingly beautiful "happily ever after" bow that is sure to melt any heart.
- See more at: http://www.wtfareyoureading.com/#stha...
Chris is a young, handsome doctor, and when he refuses a lap dance from a beautiful stripper on the night of his best friend Reed's bachelor party; he has no idea that she will be the one who will change his life forever.
The story told here is one of two wounded souls learning to love and trust both each other and themselves. This story's author takes great care to weave a great deal of realism into her work without making the subject matter unpalatable for the reader. This is no easy feat when dealing with the evils of drug abuse, molestation, and self esteem.
The thing that makes this story great is it's balance. What I mean by that is, while there is some "saving of the princess" on the part of Chris; Abby proves herself to be a very strong and resourceful young woman, quite capable of saving her prince as well.
The love scenes are very well done; with just enough build up to make readers anticipate the fireworks just as much if not more than the characters.
As if all of this is not enough...everything is tied together with a surprisingly beautiful "happily ever after" bow that is sure to melt any heart.
- See more at: http://www.wtfareyoureading.com/#stha...
December 8, 2018
Stripped starts out with Abby being a stripped at a pretty seedy strip club. One night while working she meets a man who says no to a lap dance. It totally throws her off because she's never been turned before. While this thought is odd forever its soon forgotten when she goes home and has to deal with her mother. Her mother isn't such a great mom, and Abby does everything she can to take care of her two sisters, and brother. But when her mother is in trouble, and Abby rushes her to the ER, she meets that same man again who turned down her lap dance.
From then on they start to form a friendship because neither one want a relationship. Abby because she's been hurt in her past, and because she has too many responsibilities. And Chris doesn't want a relationship because he doesn't want commitment. But as they spend more time together, and learn more about each other things seem to change for both of them. They both start working through problems they never really knew they had until they found each other.
I have to say I liked most of the story. It was okay. I liked the stripping part of the story, and how both Chris, and Abby had problems with it. But some of the other stuff just sort of seemed thrown out of left field. However, I did enjoy the book. It did keep my interest, and I did feel connections to the characters.
From then on they start to form a friendship because neither one want a relationship. Abby because she's been hurt in her past, and because she has too many responsibilities. And Chris doesn't want a relationship because he doesn't want commitment. But as they spend more time together, and learn more about each other things seem to change for both of them. They both start working through problems they never really knew they had until they found each other.
I have to say I liked most of the story. It was okay. I liked the stripping part of the story, and how both Chris, and Abby had problems with it. But some of the other stuff just sort of seemed thrown out of left field. However, I did enjoy the book. It did keep my interest, and I did feel connections to the characters.
October 9, 2013
I do love these stories where a girl is working as a stripper just to make it by and help support her siblings.
Some of the verbiage felt awkward but it was not enough for me to want to stop reading. I really wanted to know how everything was going to work out. I did not skim. The story did not drag. The author did a great job keeping me interested in the plot and the characters.
One thing and I am not sure if this is just in the edition I received but I wish there was some “break” when a scene would change. Sometimes I did not know where the scene ended and another began. It was confusing at times.
Overall it was a nice, sweet love story. Chris and Abby were great together. I just wish that Abby would stop trusting her mother so much. It got frustrating when it was obvious what her mother was doing for drugs and yet Abby did not want to kick her out. However, Abby was such a good person with a big heart. The book did have great characters.
A copy was provided in exchange for an honest review. Thank you.
Some of the verbiage felt awkward but it was not enough for me to want to stop reading. I really wanted to know how everything was going to work out. I did not skim. The story did not drag. The author did a great job keeping me interested in the plot and the characters.
One thing and I am not sure if this is just in the edition I received but I wish there was some “break” when a scene would change. Sometimes I did not know where the scene ended and another began. It was confusing at times.
Overall it was a nice, sweet love story. Chris and Abby were great together. I just wish that Abby would stop trusting her mother so much. It got frustrating when it was obvious what her mother was doing for drugs and yet Abby did not want to kick her out. However, Abby was such a good person with a big heart. The book did have great characters.
A copy was provided in exchange for an honest review. Thank you.
August 18, 2013
What was the complete sell for me with this book was the premise--a doctor and a stripper! A truly novel idea. ;) Some people might think it hard to make a stripper a sympathetic character but I loved Abby, with all her insecurities and problems. You really want to see this girl get her happily ever after! I like that in the end she made her own decision, that it wasn't forced by Chris.
Chris was a definite hottie and Rothert did a great job of playing up that inherent sexiness of a man in scrubs--in charge, holding people's lives in their hands, but sensitive and caring. The author also built her secondary characters and subplots well. The conflicts presented were very real, not forced. I can't wait to read more from her!
Chris was a definite hottie and Rothert did a great job of playing up that inherent sexiness of a man in scrubs--in charge, holding people's lives in their hands, but sensitive and caring. The author also built her secondary characters and subplots well. The conflicts presented were very real, not forced. I can't wait to read more from her!
December 4, 2013
Stripped is definitely a good time read, mixed with a bunch of heaviness. And it works, ooooh it works so well! Abby is a strong independent woman with the weight of her entirely family on her shoulders. Chris is a successful doctor, who is immediately drawn to Abby.
However, Abby, is a stripper. Yet, in some ways, she isn't your typical stripper-in-a-book, she has a day job, and a family that is counting on her. She also has ZERO interest in meeting a guy.. until Chris comes barging into her life unexpectedly.
Full review Here: http://illbereading.blogspot.com/2013...
However, Abby, is a stripper. Yet, in some ways, she isn't your typical stripper-in-a-book, she has a day job, and a family that is counting on her. She also has ZERO interest in meeting a guy.. until Chris comes barging into her life unexpectedly.
Full review Here: http://illbereading.blogspot.com/2013...
August 15, 2013
I enjoyed this book. Abby works a second job as a stripper to support her family. She meets Chris, an ER doctor. Abby doesn't think a relationship between them can work so they agree to be friends. I love a book with sexual tension, and there was definitely tension between Chris and Abby. They each have their own issues to deal with, but they are able to help each other.
June 20, 2013
I really enjoyed the book...it was hard to put down...I really enjoyed all the directions the book was taking..better understanding of Abbi's lifestyle...and it wasn't one of those easy to get relationships...have to work on it..loved the book
September 2, 2013
Such a enjoyable, sweet, and tender read. I truly loved it and would recommend it !! It's a must read. I will be doing a full review on October 7th in my book blog so please stop by once it's up! :)
http://two-tall-tales.blogspot.com
http://two-tall-tales.blogspot.com
May 29, 2013
A great read about two unlikely characters falling for each other. Love Chris's protective nature & Abby's mothering nature. A great read!
June 19, 2013
A must read! I loved the way this book had a nice flow to it and I really enjoyed the storyline. I also LOVE HEA!!!
July 2, 2013
It was a cute rags to riches story.
September 12, 2013
Fortunate to read this Arc & will have a full review on our blog on Oct 12, 2013. Please stop by our blog than...
www.jmbookdiaries.com
www.jmbookdiaries.com
April 1, 2014
It was ok nothing to exciting, not bad but I wanted more. Overall it was a good book
December 31, 2021
Abby is a stripper by night, a personal assistant by day, and a carer for her family all the time. She does what she must to support her younger brother and sisters, as well as her very ill, drug addicted, and difficult mother.
Chris is a doctor just out of a brief but disastrous relationship, the last thing he wants is attachment to another woman.
They agree to be friends without, at least in his opinion, benefits. Abby, on the other hand, wants love but not, initially, a sexual relationship.
It gets complicated!
There's a strong underlying sense of Biblical justice as the story unfolds and a seriously sappy, but satisfying HEA.
3 Stars
Chris is a doctor just out of a brief but disastrous relationship, the last thing he wants is attachment to another woman.
They agree to be friends without, at least in his opinion, benefits. Abby, on the other hand, wants love but not, initially, a sexual relationship.
It gets complicated!
There's a strong underlying sense of Biblical justice as the story unfolds and a seriously sappy, but satisfying HEA.
3 Stars
September 28, 2019
Just wow. I loved this book. Chris and Abby worked through some serious stuff together. They developed so much as friends or lovers that I stopped thinking about them as characters and legit thought they were real people. I don't know what happened to Amber after she got beaten up at the strip club, or to Sam, who was using drugs and working there. But I can't say I wasn't glad about the outcome. Abby deserved Chris and I loved the fact that Chris taught her how to value herself.
A great novel!
A great novel!
January 25, 2022
Such a sweet and satifying read! There is so much character growth for both main leads in this. You see more than their titles of doctor and dancer. The book had a lot of heart and how each person works through their issues to come together is refreshing.
October 15, 2013
Full review at: http://bookscoffeeandwine.blogspot.co...
3.5 Stars
“As she straddled his lap, keeping her feet on the floor, Chris’ eyes closed and inhaled sharply. Abby felt his hardness beneath her and knew he was as turned on as she was. She stroked her fingertips down his cheeks, neck and chest and he threw his head back. As she leaned forward, she grabbed his biceps for support and whispered against his ear. “Touch me,” she said. His hands moved quickly from his sides up her thighs, to her back, and down to cup her bottom, pulling her tight against him.”
This story focused on the life of 24 year old Abby, office assistant by day and stripper by night! She is stripping for one simple reason, her family. Her mother is no help with her siblings as she is s drug addict with medical problems….oh and also a bitch! But that getting ahead in the story!
Its not the ideal job for any woman but Abby owns it, she works hard and with her dancing background she manages to convince herself that thats all she is doing here, she's just simply dancing….in very little clothes. I will say that she manages to still keep her dignity throughout the whole story, she may take her clothes off but she never allows any of the men to make her feel cheap.
She is living a simple life, work in the offices of Case Publications through the day, strip three nights a week and look after her brother and sisters. She has no time for anything else, but that doesn't stop fate dropping Dr Chris Reneau into her lap….even though technically she was trying to be in his lap. Not many men would turn down a lap dance from a hot stripper but thats exactly what he does! He's hot, sexy and he doesn't want to use women……well there is a guy we all want. A second chance encounter at the hospital has Chris looking for excuses to contact her, but will she ever get over her issues to give him a chance?
Abby has been through so much in her life it has effected her self worth, she thinks that no one will ever love her. She struggles when Chris wants to show her that someone can love her , even when she doesn't love herself. She doesn't understand how he can overlook the fact that she strips, especially when he is a well thought of doctor…why would he want her?
He struggles to get to believe that he wants to give her more,more than using her for her body, more than just a quick fling and more than she has ever had in her life. He truly wants to help her like no one else in her life has and he tries to do it in such a sweet way, he wants to spoil her, take some of her burden and love her without sex. He is a lovely character and you can see that he really does care for her.
A lot happens in this book, a lot of topics are covered some of which are delicate but I think it adds to the feeling of the book. It shows where Abbys low self esteem comes from and what she is working to get over. For example her mother, she is a drug addict but not a nice on in the slightest. The things that she calls Abby and the things she does would make the strongest person crumble! But the story shows the internal battle that Abby is going through, does she give her heart and risk everything she has worked for being destroyed? Can she truly be loved after everything that has happened in her past? Is he really the guy who can give her everything she ever dreamed of?
I enjoyed reading this book, it was a new story topic for me. I thought that it was done well and the topic was handled with respect and it was well written. The reason I am giving it 3.5 stars is I just felt that it was a very happy story…even the sad bits didn't feel sad. The angst never really came for me through out it and I was waiting on it the whole time I was reading. If you like a nice story with sweet characters and the instant love theme then this is the book for you. I hope you enjoy!!
3.5 Stars
“As she straddled his lap, keeping her feet on the floor, Chris’ eyes closed and inhaled sharply. Abby felt his hardness beneath her and knew he was as turned on as she was. She stroked her fingertips down his cheeks, neck and chest and he threw his head back. As she leaned forward, she grabbed his biceps for support and whispered against his ear. “Touch me,” she said. His hands moved quickly from his sides up her thighs, to her back, and down to cup her bottom, pulling her tight against him.”
This story focused on the life of 24 year old Abby, office assistant by day and stripper by night! She is stripping for one simple reason, her family. Her mother is no help with her siblings as she is s drug addict with medical problems….oh and also a bitch! But that getting ahead in the story!
Its not the ideal job for any woman but Abby owns it, she works hard and with her dancing background she manages to convince herself that thats all she is doing here, she's just simply dancing….in very little clothes. I will say that she manages to still keep her dignity throughout the whole story, she may take her clothes off but she never allows any of the men to make her feel cheap.
She is living a simple life, work in the offices of Case Publications through the day, strip three nights a week and look after her brother and sisters. She has no time for anything else, but that doesn't stop fate dropping Dr Chris Reneau into her lap….even though technically she was trying to be in his lap. Not many men would turn down a lap dance from a hot stripper but thats exactly what he does! He's hot, sexy and he doesn't want to use women……well there is a guy we all want. A second chance encounter at the hospital has Chris looking for excuses to contact her, but will she ever get over her issues to give him a chance?
Abby has been through so much in her life it has effected her self worth, she thinks that no one will ever love her. She struggles when Chris wants to show her that someone can love her , even when she doesn't love herself. She doesn't understand how he can overlook the fact that she strips, especially when he is a well thought of doctor…why would he want her?
He struggles to get to believe that he wants to give her more,more than using her for her body, more than just a quick fling and more than she has ever had in her life. He truly wants to help her like no one else in her life has and he tries to do it in such a sweet way, he wants to spoil her, take some of her burden and love her without sex. He is a lovely character and you can see that he really does care for her.
A lot happens in this book, a lot of topics are covered some of which are delicate but I think it adds to the feeling of the book. It shows where Abbys low self esteem comes from and what she is working to get over. For example her mother, she is a drug addict but not a nice on in the slightest. The things that she calls Abby and the things she does would make the strongest person crumble! But the story shows the internal battle that Abby is going through, does she give her heart and risk everything she has worked for being destroyed? Can she truly be loved after everything that has happened in her past? Is he really the guy who can give her everything she ever dreamed of?
I enjoyed reading this book, it was a new story topic for me. I thought that it was done well and the topic was handled with respect and it was well written. The reason I am giving it 3.5 stars is I just felt that it was a very happy story…even the sad bits didn't feel sad. The angst never really came for me through out it and I was waiting on it the whole time I was reading. If you like a nice story with sweet characters and the instant love theme then this is the book for you. I hope you enjoy!!
March 1, 2014
This is a newer author for me. I have read one book by Ms. Rothert previously, and I liked it enough to try others. Of course, this caught my attention as the possibility of a quick, guilty pleasure read. While it did have many of those elements, Stripped also had a lot of emotion and a lot of heart. The main character, Abby, is a stripper by night, but uses her college degree working as an executive assistant during the day. This was very much a scenario of a stripper with a heart of gold, because Abby worked as a stripper only because her mother was a recovering drug and alcohol addict with an abusive ex-- though she's not so much recovering as still using-- and Abby has three younger siblings who she's determined to give a better life than she had.
Abby doesn't have time for love or dating, and the idea of dating any of the men she meets at the strip club nauseates her. But then she meets Chris. At the club with his best friend's bachelor party, not only does he refuse the lap dance his friends try to buy for him, but he also sparks a much dormant spark in Abby. Neither Chris or Abby pursue anything, but by chance they meet again in a local hospital emergency room when Abby's mom has a major respiratory attack. Chris is the doctor on call, and Abby feels horribly embarrassed that he may recognize her from her night job. He doesn't, but still finds a reason to call her and ask her out. Abby refuses at first until Chris talks her into a friendly lunch. Abby is fairly upfront about her work and her jam-packed schedule that won't leave room for dating. Chris manages to talk Abby into continuing to meet only as friends, and a genuine friendship begins.
Chris and Abby have feelings for each other, but Abby does everything she can to keep a romantic relationship at bay, and Chris also doesn't want to start anything because he's not a "relationship" guy. This starts to change as Chris's admiration for Abby's grit and hardwork grows. Abby's job begins to cause more issues as Chris grows more attached, because he's worried for her safety and because he knows he isn't comfortable with someone he cares for exposing herself for money-- let alone letting creepy guys touch her in any way. Abby is determined to retain her independence and knows she couldn't earn the same money at a regular job, so this becomes a major source of conflict.
Of course, first instinct is that a book about a stripper would be trashy. Though the job was pretty gross (and was supposed to be), the characters were extremely genuine, and the story made a lot of sense. I admire a person who does something they find really unpleasant because they are determined to make life better for those around them. Abby was a mother to her younger sisters, and was allowing her brother to go to medical school without having to work other jobs 24-7. That doesn't even count the amount of abuse she takes by taking care of her mother! Who was an absolute train-wreck by the way. I really liked this book, and I really liked both Chris and Abby a lot. Stripped had a lot of perhaps unexpected depth, and I would definitely recommend it to others, especially romance readers.
Abby doesn't have time for love or dating, and the idea of dating any of the men she meets at the strip club nauseates her. But then she meets Chris. At the club with his best friend's bachelor party, not only does he refuse the lap dance his friends try to buy for him, but he also sparks a much dormant spark in Abby. Neither Chris or Abby pursue anything, but by chance they meet again in a local hospital emergency room when Abby's mom has a major respiratory attack. Chris is the doctor on call, and Abby feels horribly embarrassed that he may recognize her from her night job. He doesn't, but still finds a reason to call her and ask her out. Abby refuses at first until Chris talks her into a friendly lunch. Abby is fairly upfront about her work and her jam-packed schedule that won't leave room for dating. Chris manages to talk Abby into continuing to meet only as friends, and a genuine friendship begins.
Chris and Abby have feelings for each other, but Abby does everything she can to keep a romantic relationship at bay, and Chris also doesn't want to start anything because he's not a "relationship" guy. This starts to change as Chris's admiration for Abby's grit and hardwork grows. Abby's job begins to cause more issues as Chris grows more attached, because he's worried for her safety and because he knows he isn't comfortable with someone he cares for exposing herself for money-- let alone letting creepy guys touch her in any way. Abby is determined to retain her independence and knows she couldn't earn the same money at a regular job, so this becomes a major source of conflict.
Of course, first instinct is that a book about a stripper would be trashy. Though the job was pretty gross (and was supposed to be), the characters were extremely genuine, and the story made a lot of sense. I admire a person who does something they find really unpleasant because they are determined to make life better for those around them. Abby was a mother to her younger sisters, and was allowing her brother to go to medical school without having to work other jobs 24-7. That doesn't even count the amount of abuse she takes by taking care of her mother! Who was an absolute train-wreck by the way. I really liked this book, and I really liked both Chris and Abby a lot. Stripped had a lot of perhaps unexpected depth, and I would definitely recommend it to others, especially romance readers.
October 11, 2013
I was drawn to Stripped by it's synopsis. I know a little something about having a lot of responsibility at a young age, so I figured I'd be able to identify with Abby. I liked the premise, obviously. And I liked the characters. I ended up liking Stripped, but I felt I could have liked it so much more.
Abby Gillis is a strong, determined young woman. She's had to give up a lot in her life to care and provide for her younger siblings due to their mother's drug abuse and chronic illness. It's quite admirable. In order to support her family, she works as a stripper. She's okay wither her lot, seemingly shrugging off criticism and disconnecting from things while at work. Until she meets Dr. Chris Reneau.
Chris Reneau is an ER doctor without the time or inclination for relationships. But then Abby Gillis walks into his life. Not only does Abby bring about feelings he's never had, she also pulls a piece of his past into the present...something that allows them to bond but something Chris would rather not remember.
When Abby and Chris meet, first at her club and later when she brings her mom into the ER, they have an immediate connection. But because Chris doesn't do relationships and Abby doesn't do normal, they settle on being friends. This allows them to get to know one another gradually and their relationship to grow organically. And I enjoyed this part of the book. I also liked getting to know Abby's siblings and bosses, as well as Chris' friends. I enjoyed watching the emotional growth of Abby and Chris as their relationship progresses. I particularly liked Abby's realizations where confidence versus self-worth were concerned.
But what I longed for was, more. I wanted more depth for Abby and Chris - particularly in regards to their pasts. I felt like I was only getting surface information and therefore couldn't feel all I should have felt for them. We are privy to a horrific incident that Abby endured - which explained some of the animosity between Abby her her mother but I felt like it was not explored enough considering it made such a significant impact on Abby's life. The same goes for Chris' past. I really wanted more explanation so I could feel the connection between Abby and Chris I was looking for. I would also have liked a bit more background on Abby's bosses, Marla and Mickey. She apparently feels a deep trust for them both, but we don't really understand why.
I'm sounding like I didn't like Stripped and I really did. Aside from feeling like the dialog was stilted in a few places and wanting more character development, I enjoyed the story overall. Abby is a character I genuinely admired for her ability to move beyond her past and her selflessness in providing for her family. If only I had that little more I could have loved this!
**I received an eARC of this book, as part of a blog tour, in exchange for an honest review.
Abby Gillis is a strong, determined young woman. She's had to give up a lot in her life to care and provide for her younger siblings due to their mother's drug abuse and chronic illness. It's quite admirable. In order to support her family, she works as a stripper. She's okay wither her lot, seemingly shrugging off criticism and disconnecting from things while at work. Until she meets Dr. Chris Reneau.
Chris Reneau is an ER doctor without the time or inclination for relationships. But then Abby Gillis walks into his life. Not only does Abby bring about feelings he's never had, she also pulls a piece of his past into the present...something that allows them to bond but something Chris would rather not remember.
When Abby and Chris meet, first at her club and later when she brings her mom into the ER, they have an immediate connection. But because Chris doesn't do relationships and Abby doesn't do normal, they settle on being friends. This allows them to get to know one another gradually and their relationship to grow organically. And I enjoyed this part of the book. I also liked getting to know Abby's siblings and bosses, as well as Chris' friends. I enjoyed watching the emotional growth of Abby and Chris as their relationship progresses. I particularly liked Abby's realizations where confidence versus self-worth were concerned.
But what I longed for was, more. I wanted more depth for Abby and Chris - particularly in regards to their pasts. I felt like I was only getting surface information and therefore couldn't feel all I should have felt for them. We are privy to a horrific incident that Abby endured - which explained some of the animosity between Abby her her mother but I felt like it was not explored enough considering it made such a significant impact on Abby's life. The same goes for Chris' past. I really wanted more explanation so I could feel the connection between Abby and Chris I was looking for. I would also have liked a bit more background on Abby's bosses, Marla and Mickey. She apparently feels a deep trust for them both, but we don't really understand why.
I'm sounding like I didn't like Stripped and I really did. Aside from feeling like the dialog was stilted in a few places and wanting more character development, I enjoyed the story overall. Abby is a character I genuinely admired for her ability to move beyond her past and her selflessness in providing for her family. If only I had that little more I could have loved this!
**I received an eARC of this book, as part of a blog tour, in exchange for an honest review.
October 10, 2013
Stripped by Brenda Rothert was a quick enjoyable read. In this book, we have a nice mix of characters. Abby is an assistant by day and a stripper by night. She is doing everything in her power to give the best she can offer to her mom, sisters and brother. Her job as a stripper has ups and downs like any other job, but she goes through a lot of problems to get the bills paid and food on the table. Chris is a doctor who has commitment problems, but once he sees Abby he wants to change her world and get over all his insecurities. Abby thinks that Chris is the best side of humanity and she is the worst. Chris will work hard to make her change the way she feels about herself.
I liked the match-up in this book. The stripper/doctor combo was a winner in my books! These two got pretty steamy at each other's work ;) Both main characters have issues to deal with and with each other's help they get over those issues. It was a quick romance from the moment they meet at the ER. I found it a bit strange that they did not connect from the start at the strip club. It took me a bit of time to connect with both these characters. I found myself reading the story more than feeling it until we got a bit more details on Chris and Abby's past troubles. After that the story took a more interesting turn. They both had to work hard for their relationship to work and I think that both characters complemented each other very well. I liked the way he handled Abby's stripper job. He was not happy with it, but he stuck by her side and he even gave her a taste of her own medicine.
The other characters in the story were great. Two people stood out the most to me. I loved her sister Audrey! She was one courageous young lady and I loved the way she was dealing with all these difficult situations. She was mature about it. The other character that stood out was Abby's mom ... What a despicable woman! Many times while reading the story I was telling myself.... What the freak is wrong with this Lady?! How can she act like that when Abby is working two jobs to take care of her and her family? She's a really mean person! *Virtual Book Slap*
I did have a bit of trouble reading the story. The scenes did not seem to intertwine very easily. It took me a while to get used to that. I liked the story, but the scenes not really connecting to one another was an issue for me. I liked the way their relationship wrapped up and that Abby and Chris got exactly what they deserved, which was to find happiness and fix their insecurities.
I give Stripped by Brenda Rothert 3.5 enjoyable stars!
**eArc received in exchange of an honest review**
I liked the match-up in this book. The stripper/doctor combo was a winner in my books! These two got pretty steamy at each other's work ;) Both main characters have issues to deal with and with each other's help they get over those issues. It was a quick romance from the moment they meet at the ER. I found it a bit strange that they did not connect from the start at the strip club. It took me a bit of time to connect with both these characters. I found myself reading the story more than feeling it until we got a bit more details on Chris and Abby's past troubles. After that the story took a more interesting turn. They both had to work hard for their relationship to work and I think that both characters complemented each other very well. I liked the way he handled Abby's stripper job. He was not happy with it, but he stuck by her side and he even gave her a taste of her own medicine.
The other characters in the story were great. Two people stood out the most to me. I loved her sister Audrey! She was one courageous young lady and I loved the way she was dealing with all these difficult situations. She was mature about it. The other character that stood out was Abby's mom ... What a despicable woman! Many times while reading the story I was telling myself.... What the freak is wrong with this Lady?! How can she act like that when Abby is working two jobs to take care of her and her family? She's a really mean person! *Virtual Book Slap*
I did have a bit of trouble reading the story. The scenes did not seem to intertwine very easily. It took me a while to get used to that. I liked the story, but the scenes not really connecting to one another was an issue for me. I liked the way their relationship wrapped up and that Abby and Chris got exactly what they deserved, which was to find happiness and fix their insecurities.
I give Stripped by Brenda Rothert 3.5 enjoyable stars!
**eArc received in exchange of an honest review**
November 6, 2013
3.5 Stars
I was excited to start Stripped because I wanted to know what it would be like for a stripper to fall in love. It must be hard to be in this kind of work, and then have to deal with a relationship too. Stripped is a fun read, but it manages to deal with some important issues and everyday lives.
Abby is more than a stripper as we find out. She is smart and beautiful with a kind heart. She actually works two jobs, one for the insurance, the other to support her family: brother in college and two young sisters. Her mother is living with her as well, but is more of a nuisance than anything. Abby is a well liked person and she likes to have control over all aspects of her life. She finds it hard to accept help from people, who she knows she can trust. It was nice to see her step out of her comfort zone and build a new relationship.
Chris is an awesome guy. He is honourable and a gorgeous doctor. He doesn't remember where he met Abby in the beginning, but soon their connection grows and they began to spend more and more time together. You can see that there are sparks and Chris takes everything about Abby pretty well. He becomes very protective of her and they are able to open up to each other. I enjoyed watching their relationship grow, they are a good together, and make a cute couple.
I loved the concept of this story and watching Abby and Chris' story unfold, but unfortunately I feel that I wasn't able to connect to the characters as much as I would've liked. The characters are very honest to each other, in my opinion a little too honest. And Chris expects Abby to change her ways immediately while they continued to have that yoyo relationship – friends or more, back and forth. But there is no denying Abby's commitment to her family and Chris wants to support her no matter what. They are able to work together to make themselves better people and lives. However, it has not in the least turned me away from this author. She has done a remarkable job and I would definitely check out more books from her in the future.
I received a copy of this book from the Author in exchange for an honest review.
I was excited to start Stripped because I wanted to know what it would be like for a stripper to fall in love. It must be hard to be in this kind of work, and then have to deal with a relationship too. Stripped is a fun read, but it manages to deal with some important issues and everyday lives.
Abby is more than a stripper as we find out. She is smart and beautiful with a kind heart. She actually works two jobs, one for the insurance, the other to support her family: brother in college and two young sisters. Her mother is living with her as well, but is more of a nuisance than anything. Abby is a well liked person and she likes to have control over all aspects of her life. She finds it hard to accept help from people, who she knows she can trust. It was nice to see her step out of her comfort zone and build a new relationship.
Chris is an awesome guy. He is honourable and a gorgeous doctor. He doesn't remember where he met Abby in the beginning, but soon their connection grows and they began to spend more and more time together. You can see that there are sparks and Chris takes everything about Abby pretty well. He becomes very protective of her and they are able to open up to each other. I enjoyed watching their relationship grow, they are a good together, and make a cute couple.
I loved the concept of this story and watching Abby and Chris' story unfold, but unfortunately I feel that I wasn't able to connect to the characters as much as I would've liked. The characters are very honest to each other, in my opinion a little too honest. And Chris expects Abby to change her ways immediately while they continued to have that yoyo relationship – friends or more, back and forth. But there is no denying Abby's commitment to her family and Chris wants to support her no matter what. They are able to work together to make themselves better people and lives. However, it has not in the least turned me away from this author. She has done a remarkable job and I would definitely check out more books from her in the future.
I received a copy of this book from the Author in exchange for an honest review.
September 29, 2013
I was given an ARC of this book for an honest review.
Honestly it took me a few chapters to get into this book. But when I got hooked, I couldn’t put it down. Abby is a big sister to brother and two sisters. Her so-called drug-using self-medicating mother hates her. Dear old Mom takes every opportunity to talk down to Abby and steal money from her. Meanwhile, Abby is working full-time plus works a few nights a week as a stripper. She’s the care-giver to her siblings and does not want to let them down.
One night while working at the club. She and her co-stripper are giving a lap dance to the groom-to-be at a bachelor party. His friend seems very interested in Abby. Abby offers him a lap dance but he refuses. She can’t help to be offended yet attracted to him at the same time. She doesn’t feel “worthy” of him. She could never land a guy like that.
A few days later her mom needs to be rushed to the hospital. They are in the ER and in walks Bachelor Party guy who refuses the lap dance – and he’s the doctor! Dr. Chris Reneau!
Not to give away all the good parts....it turns out they are very much attracted to each other. They each have their own “issues” to work through. Abby has very little self-esteem. Chris is nervous about relationships..... can it work out? Hmmmm you’ll have to read it to find out!
There were many times I yelled at my Kindle! ABBY WHAT ARE YOU THINKING!! DON’T THROW AWAY A PERFECTLY GOOD MAN! And CHRIS, GO AFTER THAT GIRL! Oh, it was frustrating! But I’m so glad that I read it!
Overall Rating: 4 stars
Hero Hotness: 4 stars
Heroine Hotness: 4
Lovableness of couple: 4 stars
Tearjerker: 3 stars
Story Depth: 3 stars
Story Plot: 4 stars
Published May 2013
• Would I read future books by this author: Yes
• Was there a cliffhanger: no
• Do I love the characters: Yes
• Do I want more of their story: yes
• Is this part of a series: no
Honestly it took me a few chapters to get into this book. But when I got hooked, I couldn’t put it down. Abby is a big sister to brother and two sisters. Her so-called drug-using self-medicating mother hates her. Dear old Mom takes every opportunity to talk down to Abby and steal money from her. Meanwhile, Abby is working full-time plus works a few nights a week as a stripper. She’s the care-giver to her siblings and does not want to let them down.
One night while working at the club. She and her co-stripper are giving a lap dance to the groom-to-be at a bachelor party. His friend seems very interested in Abby. Abby offers him a lap dance but he refuses. She can’t help to be offended yet attracted to him at the same time. She doesn’t feel “worthy” of him. She could never land a guy like that.
A few days later her mom needs to be rushed to the hospital. They are in the ER and in walks Bachelor Party guy who refuses the lap dance – and he’s the doctor! Dr. Chris Reneau!
Not to give away all the good parts....it turns out they are very much attracted to each other. They each have their own “issues” to work through. Abby has very little self-esteem. Chris is nervous about relationships..... can it work out? Hmmmm you’ll have to read it to find out!
There were many times I yelled at my Kindle! ABBY WHAT ARE YOU THINKING!! DON’T THROW AWAY A PERFECTLY GOOD MAN! And CHRIS, GO AFTER THAT GIRL! Oh, it was frustrating! But I’m so glad that I read it!
Overall Rating: 4 stars
Hero Hotness: 4 stars
Heroine Hotness: 4
Lovableness of couple: 4 stars
Tearjerker: 3 stars
Story Depth: 3 stars
Story Plot: 4 stars
Published May 2013
• Would I read future books by this author: Yes
• Was there a cliffhanger: no
• Do I love the characters: Yes
• Do I want more of their story: yes
• Is this part of a series: no
October 11, 2013
Stripped has a pretty unique story line, which was initially what made me fascinated by the book. It seemed like a pretty easy yet romantic novel to read, and it was.
Stripped revolves around 24-year-old Abby Gillis, who is a part-time stripper. The reason she "dances" for a living is because she is the main provider in her family, which consists of two younger sisters, a younger brother, and a sick, recovering drug addict of a mother. So... she has a good reason for doing what she does. Then, one day in the club, she stumbles across a guy who she nicknames "Greek God."
This man is 32-year-old Chris Reneau, who not only has the face of an angel but also - a respectable job. He's a doctor. As you can imagine, it's difficult for Abby to believe that Chris wants anything other than sex from her, so she becomes guarded and wary around him. Despite her job occupation, Abby is quite shy with the opposite sex, probably because she's used to seeing... well, let's just say, less than respectable men at the club that she dances at. Over time though, she realizes that he is very different than any guy she's every met.
Stripped was an easy book to get absorbed in. The plot starts right at page 1, which is necessary for someone who has a similar attention span to me, or lack thereof I should say. The only thing I didn't like was the limited amount of description that was used in the novel. Certain events, physical appearances, emotional feelings - all of these things need to be discussed in detail. If they aren't, I - as a reader - will sort of feel like they didn't happen, or they aren't important.
Stripped revolves around 24-year-old Abby Gillis, who is a part-time stripper. The reason she "dances" for a living is because she is the main provider in her family, which consists of two younger sisters, a younger brother, and a sick, recovering drug addict of a mother. So... she has a good reason for doing what she does. Then, one day in the club, she stumbles across a guy who she nicknames "Greek God."
This man is 32-year-old Chris Reneau, who not only has the face of an angel but also - a respectable job. He's a doctor. As you can imagine, it's difficult for Abby to believe that Chris wants anything other than sex from her, so she becomes guarded and wary around him. Despite her job occupation, Abby is quite shy with the opposite sex, probably because she's used to seeing... well, let's just say, less than respectable men at the club that she dances at. Over time though, she realizes that he is very different than any guy she's every met.
Stripped was an easy book to get absorbed in. The plot starts right at page 1, which is necessary for someone who has a similar attention span to me, or lack thereof I should say. The only thing I didn't like was the limited amount of description that was used in the novel. Certain events, physical appearances, emotional feelings - all of these things need to be discussed in detail. If they aren't, I - as a reader - will sort of feel like they didn't happen, or they aren't important.
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