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Last Call #3
Sugar on the Edge
He’s utterly alone…
Tortured and existing in a dark spiral of despair, bestselling British author, Gavin Cooke, has come to the Outer Banks of North Carolina to escape the seedy lifestyle he had been living in London and in a desperate attempt to regain his writing focus. He’s twisted, bitter and angry at the world. He’s a loner… needing not a single thing other than his Scotch and a laptop upon which he can bang out his next erotic, dark thriller.
She’s running in place and getting nowhere…
Savannah Shepherd’s life is falling apart. Her dream of being a wildlife photographer seems a distant memory and she’s barely able to make ends meet. Driving herself forward with no clear goals apparent, she’s about ready to pack up her bags and head home with her tail between her legs.
Two unlikely lovers…
He’s raw, forceful and a dirty talker. She’s a flowers and romance type of girl. Yet within each other, they find a mutual craving that can only be satisfied by giving in to their desires for one another.
Lust turns into something more… something they were not looking for but tentatively accept. Will it be enough to push them past the obstacles of Gavin’s bitter past?
*SUGAR ON THE EDGE can be read as a stand-alone*
Tortured and existing in a dark spiral of despair, bestselling British author, Gavin Cooke, has come to the Outer Banks of North Carolina to escape the seedy lifestyle he had been living in London and in a desperate attempt to regain his writing focus. He’s twisted, bitter and angry at the world. He’s a loner… needing not a single thing other than his Scotch and a laptop upon which he can bang out his next erotic, dark thriller.
She’s running in place and getting nowhere…
Savannah Shepherd’s life is falling apart. Her dream of being a wildlife photographer seems a distant memory and she’s barely able to make ends meet. Driving herself forward with no clear goals apparent, she’s about ready to pack up her bags and head home with her tail between her legs.
Two unlikely lovers…
He’s raw, forceful and a dirty talker. She’s a flowers and romance type of girl. Yet within each other, they find a mutual craving that can only be satisfied by giving in to their desires for one another.
Lust turns into something more… something they were not looking for but tentatively accept. Will it be enough to push them past the obstacles of Gavin’s bitter past?
*SUGAR ON THE EDGE can be read as a stand-alone*
422 pages, Paperback
First published July 26, 2014
148 people are currently reading
2864 people want to read
About the author
Sawyer Bennett
174 books14.4k followersNew York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal Bestselling author Sawyer Bennett uses real life experience to create relatable stories that appeal to a wide array of readers. From contemporary romance, fantasy romance, and both women’s and general fiction, Sawyer writes something for just about everyone.
A former trial lawyer from North Carolina, when she is not bringing fiction to life, Sawyer is a chauffeur, stylist, chef, maid, and personal assistant to her very adorable daughter, as well as full-time servant to her wonderfully naughty dogs.
If you’d like to receive a notification when Sawyer releases a new book, sign up for her newsletter (sawyerbennett.com/signup).
A former trial lawyer from North Carolina, when she is not bringing fiction to life, Sawyer is a chauffeur, stylist, chef, maid, and personal assistant to her very adorable daughter, as well as full-time servant to her wonderfully naughty dogs.
If you’d like to receive a notification when Sawyer releases a new book, sign up for her newsletter (sawyerbennett.com/signup).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 469 reviews
August 31, 2014
3.7 stars!
Gavin Cooke is a tortured, brooding, too hot for his own good, British novelist in town to finish his latest novel.
Savannah is supposed to be a photographer but got laid off from her job. So while waiting for her next photography gig, she cleans other people's houses. One of her clients is Gavin.
Gavin thinks Savannah is a woman who doesn't have a spine and doesn't know how to stand up to people.
Savannah thinks Gavin is totes hot. Too bad he's an asshole, too.
Despite that, they couldn't help their attraction to each other. After a few false starts, they embarked on a full blown affair. One that could end up breaking Savannah's heart.
This was a little predictable. The moment I already knew what was going to happen. What I didn't know was My heart broke a little for him.
Despite the predictability, I still enjoyed this one. It's readable with lots chemistry between the MCs. I mean, come on, who can resist a brooding British novelist with a sexy accent? I know I can't. So if you're looking for some mindless hot romance, read this book. :)
Gavin Cooke is a tortured, brooding, too hot for his own good, British novelist in town to finish his latest novel.
Savannah is supposed to be a photographer but got laid off from her job. So while waiting for her next photography gig, she cleans other people's houses. One of her clients is Gavin.
Gavin thinks Savannah is a woman who doesn't have a spine and doesn't know how to stand up to people.
Savannah thinks Gavin is totes hot. Too bad he's an asshole, too.
Despite that, they couldn't help their attraction to each other. After a few false starts, they embarked on a full blown affair. One that could end up breaking Savannah's heart.
This was a little predictable. The moment I already knew what was going to happen. What I didn't know was My heart broke a little for him.
Despite the predictability, I still enjoyed this one. It's readable with lots chemistry between the MCs. I mean, come on, who can resist a brooding British novelist with a sexy accent? I know I can't. So if you're looking for some mindless hot romance, read this book. :)
December 30, 2016
I have read all 3 books in The Last Call series and Sugar On The Edge is my favourite so much so that it has ended up on my favourite shelf I loved it that much, this is hot, funny, sweet and sad.
What can I say about Gavin he is sexy as hell has a dirty mind and a filthy mouth I loved him he has everything you need for a bossy alpha. His heart is broken and he has been in a dark place for a long time but with Savannah's love and care he finds true happiness.
Savannah is quiet, shy, hard working and proud but Gavin brings out her wild side and WOW the sex scenes are scorching Sawyer Bennett can definitely write erotica PHEW.
I guessed correctly what was going to happen is the last few chapters but it does not matter as I still love Sugar On The Edge. Loved having a character in this book with the same name as me but spelled differently nobody spells my name the way I do my mum wanted to be different.
What can I say about Gavin he is sexy as hell has a dirty mind and a filthy mouth I loved him he has everything you need for a bossy alpha. His heart is broken and he has been in a dark place for a long time but with Savannah's love and care he finds true happiness.
Savannah is quiet, shy, hard working and proud but Gavin brings out her wild side and WOW the sex scenes are scorching Sawyer Bennett can definitely write erotica PHEW.
I guessed correctly what was going to happen is the last few chapters but it does not matter as I still love Sugar On The Edge. Loved having a character in this book with the same name as me but spelled differently nobody spells my name the way I do my mum wanted to be different.
August 10, 2014
Bad boy/tortured hero meets good girl. A common theme, but this was utterly readable and just unique enough to stand out. Gavin is quite the ass for quite some time, but that's really not who he is deep down. He comes across as blunt and completely lacking tact and respect for others, but really, the guy is just depressed as hell and doesn't know how to deal. I think men handle grief very differently than women, and Gavin is the perfect evidence of that. He's hurting, confused, and digging himself a hole so deep, he won't have time to question the why's of life and loss. He fucks his way through any woman he can, takes on any and all debauched sexual themes, and pours his bitterness and loss into his erotic thrillers.
Savannah is a woman with strong convictions but less backbone to back them up than she probably should have. Although her gumption rears it's head when she really needs it, so she's in no danger of being a complete pushover. In fact, it's that dichotomy that catches Gavin's attention from his new house cleaner. She works herself to exhaustion at her numerous jobs, seems at times utterly timid but has moments of proud indignation. Her girl next door looks are certainly not what Gavin is attracted to, but it is the differences between them that make them such a fantastic couple.
"I'm overwhelmed with desire for her.
Desire,not lust.
Because they are two different things.
Lust suggests a carnal need to slake oneself until there is no futher need.
Desire suggests a craving...something that is pervasive and without end. Something that slowly pulls at you...warms you from the inside out and fogs your senses entirely."
The focus with this couple is really Gavin, and how Savannah's quiet determination and patient love slowly draws him out of his funk. Their pet names for each other made me grin every time. He calls her "Sweet" and she calls him "Filthy". Pretty fitting, but it also becomes slightly ironic because we learn just how many masks each of them can wear before they get to know each other very well.
The sex is hot, and it happens before the first half of the book is over. I usually like more of a build up, but there was still so much tension...sexual and otherwise...between Gavin and Savannah that each new encounter was equally spicy and new. They push each other's boundaries and drag each other's secrets out into the open. What started off as a common theme ended up being uncommonly insightful.
Advance copy provided by the publisher for review.
Savannah is a woman with strong convictions but less backbone to back them up than she probably should have. Although her gumption rears it's head when she really needs it, so she's in no danger of being a complete pushover. In fact, it's that dichotomy that catches Gavin's attention from his new house cleaner. She works herself to exhaustion at her numerous jobs, seems at times utterly timid but has moments of proud indignation. Her girl next door looks are certainly not what Gavin is attracted to, but it is the differences between them that make them such a fantastic couple.
"I'm overwhelmed with desire for her.
Desire,not lust.
Because they are two different things.
Lust suggests a carnal need to slake oneself until there is no futher need.
Desire suggests a craving...something that is pervasive and without end. Something that slowly pulls at you...warms you from the inside out and fogs your senses entirely."
The focus with this couple is really Gavin, and how Savannah's quiet determination and patient love slowly draws him out of his funk. Their pet names for each other made me grin every time. He calls her "Sweet" and she calls him "Filthy". Pretty fitting, but it also becomes slightly ironic because we learn just how many masks each of them can wear before they get to know each other very well.
The sex is hot, and it happens before the first half of the book is over. I usually like more of a build up, but there was still so much tension...sexual and otherwise...between Gavin and Savannah that each new encounter was equally spicy and new. They push each other's boundaries and drag each other's secrets out into the open. What started off as a common theme ended up being uncommonly insightful.
Advance copy provided by the publisher for review.
August 1, 2014
I've loved all of Sawyer Bennett's books that I've read in the past and the Last Call series is one of my guilty pleasure series. I was thrilled to get a copy of Sugar on the Edge and I immediately jumped into the book as soon as I got it. While the book started off decently for me, it all went downhill towards the end and I'm sad that this book is my least favorite Sawyer Bennett read. Even before starting the book, I knew that I would have some issues with Gavin. Just from reading the blurb, he sounded like a tough character to like, but I was ready to give him the benefit of the doubt because I liked Savannah, his love interest. While Savannah was a sweet and hard working girl, who I respected tremendously for being independent in the face of her poverty, Gavin was someone who never grew on me. Still, he and Savannah had off the charts chemistry together and I liked that he made Savannah's wilder and more sexually free side come out. It was all going well and I was enjoying myself until Savannah wound up pregnant and from there on, everything started crashing down. Gavin has some past issues that he had to deal with, but I honestly can't believe that he left Savannah knowing well that she had absolutely no money to raise a child on her own for months. He was already a douche, but when he did that, he turned into a complete villain to me. What's worse though is that he wasn't the one to make the first effort to repair things with Savannah. Savannah, who turned into a doormat at this point, ran to one of his book signings to meet him. I wanted him to grovel hard, but Savannah was so easy to forgive him. All this just didn't bode well for me and by the end, I was left with a bitter taste in my mouth. I despise heroes like Gavin and in the end, not even the hot chemistry between the two characters could make me want to love Sugar on the Edge.
November 4, 2015
Firstly, has anyone else noticed that the steam factor increases with each book in this series? Hot dayum!! This book's blurb states that it could be read as a stand-alone but I don't recommend it. Although some facts are repeated in this book to flush out the significance of side characters such as Brody, reading the first two books gives you a better picture of how all of these characters work together. I suggest reading these books in order so that key details aren't missed. Besides, you can't go wrong because the books are great. Hello?! It's Sawyer Bennett people!!
My favourite part: Instead, I’m overwhelmed with desire for her.
Desire, not lust.
Because they are two different things.
Lust suggests a carnal need to slake oneself until there is no further need.
Desire suggests a craving… something that is pervasive and without end. Something that slowly pulls at you… warms you from the inside out and fogs your senses entirely.
Who in their right mind doesn't want to inspire this feeling???
I really felt Gavin's pain regarding Charlie. The pain never goes away. But I loved how he learned to live again with Savannah. What a "sweet" girl!
I had confusion on one part. Maybe someone can explain it to me. The first time Gavin went home to England he stated that Savannah couldn't come because she didn't have a passport. Then how was she able to go to St. Lucia? At first I thought maybe her passport expired. But he clearly states that she never got a passport because she's never left the U.S. I'm truly baffled by this. I would like some clarification on this issue.
Other than that, overall this was another awesome book by an awesome author.
On to book #4!!
My favourite part: Instead, I’m overwhelmed with desire for her.
Desire, not lust.
Because they are two different things.
Lust suggests a carnal need to slake oneself until there is no further need.
Desire suggests a craving… something that is pervasive and without end. Something that slowly pulls at you… warms you from the inside out and fogs your senses entirely.
Who in their right mind doesn't want to inspire this feeling???
I really felt Gavin's pain regarding Charlie. The pain never goes away. But I loved how he learned to live again with Savannah. What a "sweet" girl!
I had confusion on one part. Maybe someone can explain it to me. The first time Gavin went home to England he stated that Savannah couldn't come because she didn't have a passport. Then how was she able to go to St. Lucia? At first I thought maybe her passport expired. But he clearly states that she never got a passport because she's never left the U.S. I'm truly baffled by this. I would like some clarification on this issue.
Other than that, overall this was another awesome book by an awesome author.
On to book #4!!
August 21, 2019
I enjoy this book. It is a bit different from the other Miss Bennett's books/ series. Sugar on Edge have what its promises. Edgy, dirty, hot, sweet. There is that insta lust between Gavin and Savannah. However when the story progresses, the chemistry is build. I think the chemistry more building from Gavin side instead of Savannah.
Gavin is a A class jerk. He is selfish and he only takes. He is closed off and he has a dark past. A heart breaking past. He is steam hot and dirty in the bedroom. I really like the dirty mouth of his. Miss Bennet knows how to build up that steamy hot dirty sex. I have to admit I blush a bit. Savannah meanwhile is doormat. I wish she can be more pushy toward Gavin instead of succumb to him.
The story develops well enough to enjoy. There is that moment we were introduced to the characters, the moment they met and that insta lust. Then it progresses into Gavin's past. But not too deep. Just a brief moment we see Gavin vulnerability. But enough to keep my heart clenches a bit. Then the break up, the grovelling. HEA.
Overall I do enjoy this book very much. An easy reading after a long day at work.
4 stars
Gavin is a A class jerk. He is selfish and he only takes. He is closed off and he has a dark past. A heart breaking past. He is steam hot and dirty in the bedroom. I really like the dirty mouth of his. Miss Bennet knows how to build up that steamy hot dirty sex. I have to admit I blush a bit. Savannah meanwhile is doormat. I wish she can be more pushy toward Gavin instead of succumb to him.
The story develops well enough to enjoy. There is that moment we were introduced to the characters, the moment they met and that insta lust. Then it progresses into Gavin's past. But not too deep. Just a brief moment we see Gavin vulnerability. But enough to keep my heart clenches a bit. Then the break up, the grovelling. HEA.
Overall I do enjoy this book very much. An easy reading after a long day at work.
4 stars
August 22, 2014
Title: Sugar On The Edge
Series: Yes, Can be read as Stand Alone
Author: Sawyer Bennett
Release Date: 28th July , 2014
Rating: 3.5 "Heroine" Stars
Cliffhanger: No
HEA:
Sugar on the Edge was a bitter sweet story of Bad Boy meets Good Girl.
The Bad Boy in question is Gavin Cooke, successful best selling Author of Erotic dark thrillers. Most likely to be found behaving badly, getting drunk & chasing skirt. The only thing he’s not doing so well is completing his eagerly awaited follow up book.
Sent from London to America by his Editor as a last ditch attempt to get him to focus, and curb his destructive ways he finds himself in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Home to Wildlife Photographer, come sanctuary volunteer, come cleaner; Savannah Shepherd.
Savannah is definitely the sweet to Gavin’s filthy. Hooked up by her room mate with a new cleaning gig she desperately needs to keep herself afloat, she’s treated to Gavin’s usual less than friendly welcome. Left feeling cold by his behaviour but undeniably hot with the heat ignited by his innuendo filled conversation, Savannah is confused by him and wavers on her decision her position to work for him.
The confusion extends to Gavin also who can’t help but wonder why he’s determined to make her stay. He’s intrigued by her and wrongly pegs her weak and forgettable masquerading as something she’s not.
I want to prove to myself that she's nothing special... that she's exactly as I imagine her to be. An uninteresting sort of woman who thinks more of herself than she actually is, and in the grand scheme of things, she'll never amount to more.
He knowingly tries to embarrass and antagonise her, hoping for her to fall into the mould he has created for her. As she continues to surprise him, he finds himself inspired by her; personally and professionally. His lust turns to desire and he actively seeks out wanting to get to know her better.
Once there relationship moves past the employer/employee stage, they easily fall into the role of a couple in a short amount of time with Gavin embracing their relationship he was very sweet (sometimes sickly) and tender with Savannah:
"I wish I were a poet," Gavin murmurs as he starts moving in and out of me. "I wish I were a poet because then... and only then, would I have the words that would be salient enough to describe the way you feel to me. I'd be a best seller every time if I could describe how I feel... at this very moment, when I'm lodged deep inside of you."
They both have had traumatic experiences in their past which they are eventually open with each other about and it came as quite a shock to me the extent of his behaviour once they hit a rough patch around the 80% mark. When he finally sees sense and throws himself at her mercy I can’t help but feel their reconciliation is a tiny bit rushed but luckily for me the epilogue made up for it.
"Did you feel that exact moment?" He asks, almost urgently.
"I felt it," I reassure him....
Copy provided in exchange for an honest review. Thank you.
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March 23, 2017
4.5 stars...
I really loved Gavin and Savannah together <3 :)
The only thing I wish was different was that . But other than that, it was pretty perfect for me!
I really loved Gavin and Savannah together <3 :)
The only thing I wish was different was that . But other than that, it was pretty perfect for me!
August 18, 2014
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
Title:Sugar on the Edge
Series:Last Call #3
Author: Sawyer Bennett
Release Date: July 28 , 2014
Rating:3.5 stars
Cliffhanger:No
HEA:
Sugar on the Edge is a book about the Beauty and the Beast. The good girl and the bad boy. The anti-heroine and the anti-hero. At first glance, these two main characters don't seem like the ideal couple. He's brutally blunt, rude, and even calls himself an asshole. She's introverted, quiet, and doesn't appear to have much of a backbone. So that would pretty much make the worst couple in history, right? It's a good thing they have more to them than what you first see. I can't say I totally loved these two characters, but they did grow on me some and there were some good moments there. There were a few things that bothered me however, and that really brought down my rating.
Gavin is a famous British author trying to escape his excessive lifestyle by working on his next manuscript in the States. He's extremely rude, and has a hard edge to him that keeps people at a distance. Ever since he lost his son, his grief has completely changed him into a man that is inconsolable. There's a darkness to him that he tries to ease with alcohol, impersonal sex, and keeping his feelings subdued. I did sympathize with him to an extent, but his behavior and rude ways made it very hard to like him.
Savannah is a sweet girl just trying to make ends meet after she lost her photography job. When the opportunity arises for her to clean Gavin's house a few times a week and make good money she can't pass it up despite her feeling that her new boss is going to be very hard to deal with. Gavin is feeling attracted to her despite the fact that she's the complete opposite of what he normally gravitates to. She's too sweet and timid but there's something about her that makes him soften up. (Just a little bit) And he's not too happy about that.
I normally steer clear of any type of situation that takes me out of my comfort zone, and she definitely makes me uncomfortable.
Although Gavin judges Savannah as the "anti-heroine" type, the more he learns about her, the more he finds that his preconceptions aren't quite adding up. She's stronger than she looks and the more he pushes her, the more she stands up to him and proves that she has a hidden strength. And that's a whole lot of sexy to him.
Sawyer Bennet knows how to write some steamy bedroom scenes and this was no exception. Gavin's "brand" of filthy that almost allowed me to overlook some of my issues with him. It was that good!
"I'm going to possess you, Sweet. I'm going to take my time doing it. I'm not going to let you up out of this bed until I've had my fill of you, and honestly...I'm not sure how long that will take."
He knew how to bring out her confidence and she started to blossom. Pretty soon, he was hiring her as his assistant and she was practically living with him. He was finding it more difficult by the day spending time apart from her. But what would happen when he was finished with his manuscript? He had planned to go back to England, but the thought of leaving her seems impossible now. And she's just as ensnared by him.
What I didn't like:
It took me a while to warm up to Gavin. He was so flipping rude!
Once I did start liking him some, he did something to really reconsider that towards the end.
I feelings felt rushed to me because of his intense issues. I think it would have worked better if they had more time to develop.
What I liked:
The steam was plentiful and pleasurable.
The story was fast paced and though I wasn't crazy about the hero for a lot of the book, I couldn't stop reading.
The appearance of characters from books 1-2
Overall, while I didn't love this book, I enjoy Sawyer Bennett's writing style. It's a fast and smooth read despite my issues. This couple still had their sweet moments, though I wish there would have been a few more.
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Title:Sugar on the Edge
Series:Last Call #3
Author: Sawyer Bennett
Release Date: July 28 , 2014
Rating:3.5 stars
Cliffhanger:No
HEA:
Sugar on the Edge is a book about the Beauty and the Beast. The good girl and the bad boy. The anti-heroine and the anti-hero. At first glance, these two main characters don't seem like the ideal couple. He's brutally blunt, rude, and even calls himself an asshole. She's introverted, quiet, and doesn't appear to have much of a backbone. So that would pretty much make the worst couple in history, right? It's a good thing they have more to them than what you first see. I can't say I totally loved these two characters, but they did grow on me some and there were some good moments there. There were a few things that bothered me however, and that really brought down my rating.
Gavin is a famous British author trying to escape his excessive lifestyle by working on his next manuscript in the States. He's extremely rude, and has a hard edge to him that keeps people at a distance. Ever since he lost his son, his grief has completely changed him into a man that is inconsolable. There's a darkness to him that he tries to ease with alcohol, impersonal sex, and keeping his feelings subdued. I did sympathize with him to an extent, but his behavior and rude ways made it very hard to like him.
Savannah is a sweet girl just trying to make ends meet after she lost her photography job. When the opportunity arises for her to clean Gavin's house a few times a week and make good money she can't pass it up despite her feeling that her new boss is going to be very hard to deal with. Gavin is feeling attracted to her despite the fact that she's the complete opposite of what he normally gravitates to. She's too sweet and timid but there's something about her that makes him soften up. (Just a little bit) And he's not too happy about that.
I normally steer clear of any type of situation that takes me out of my comfort zone, and she definitely makes me uncomfortable.
Although Gavin judges Savannah as the "anti-heroine" type, the more he learns about her, the more he finds that his preconceptions aren't quite adding up. She's stronger than she looks and the more he pushes her, the more she stands up to him and proves that she has a hidden strength. And that's a whole lot of sexy to him.
Sawyer Bennet knows how to write some steamy bedroom scenes and this was no exception. Gavin's "brand" of filthy that almost allowed me to overlook some of my issues with him. It was that good!
"I'm going to possess you, Sweet. I'm going to take my time doing it. I'm not going to let you up out of this bed until I've had my fill of you, and honestly...I'm not sure how long that will take."
He knew how to bring out her confidence and she started to blossom. Pretty soon, he was hiring her as his assistant and she was practically living with him. He was finding it more difficult by the day spending time apart from her. But what would happen when he was finished with his manuscript? He had planned to go back to England, but the thought of leaving her seems impossible now. And she's just as ensnared by him.
What I didn't like:
It took me a while to warm up to Gavin. He was so flipping rude!
Once I did start liking him some, he did something to really reconsider that towards the end.
I feelings felt rushed to me because of his intense issues. I think it would have worked better if they had more time to develop.
What I liked:
The steam was plentiful and pleasurable.
The story was fast paced and though I wasn't crazy about the hero for a lot of the book, I couldn't stop reading.
The appearance of characters from books 1-2
Overall, while I didn't love this book, I enjoy Sawyer Bennett's writing style. It's a fast and smooth read despite my issues. This couple still had their sweet moments, though I wish there would have been a few more.
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August 19, 2014
ARC provided on behalf of Season Publishing from NetGalley.
Gavin arrives in North Carolina for two reasons. Escape the spiral his life has taken after a tragedy that rocked him to his core and finish his book. Buying a house that offered him the seclusion he sought, but would soon find he no longer wanted.
Savannah has been running herself ragged trying to make ends meet. When Casey offers up a new client, she takes the chance and what begins as a twice per week house cleaning gig suddenly turns into so much more.
She's a little on the shy side, a bit more innocent than the type he usually craves, but he finds himself unable to end the longing he feels for wanting her. But when Savannah slowly begins to show that she isn't just a weak girl, that she has a backbone - Gavin's desire turns into obsession and has him reaching for the light he thought he long gave up on.
This was my first Sawyer Bennett novel, I know jumping in mid-series is usually not the way to go, and admittedly I did skim over the parts of story were the character's back stories were retold (to avoid ruining the angst of the first two books). What I discovered was clear, I should have picked up one of her books long ago. That is a mistake that I am going to be rectifying soon.
I found it refreshing to read a romance that just that, a romance. I can often get caught up in the darker reads, the more erotic types and often times I am locked away with one that carries far more suspense - but this was just pure candy-sweet-back-to-basic-romance. I enjoyed every second of these two. From the initial stubborn arguments to the sexual laced tension, the explosion once they gave in and then finally the conclusion as they fought for what they wanted.
The angst level was very low considering where this story went towards the end, I was torn with wanting far more to transpire before it moved forward and wanting it to be quick and painless, not dragging out the drama. I was also surprised to find that although Gavin had his issues and the heart of those issues drove the story plot, that he was not a jerk for the sake of being tortured - I sort of fell in love with the way that he recognized what was happening and how he embraced it.
So now, I'll be going back to the beginning of this series to get the stories on Brody & Hunter, from what little bits did not escape my eyes during this, I have a feeling those might be a little more angst driven - but I am excited to add another author to the growing list of instant reads.
Gavin arrives in North Carolina for two reasons. Escape the spiral his life has taken after a tragedy that rocked him to his core and finish his book. Buying a house that offered him the seclusion he sought, but would soon find he no longer wanted.
Savannah has been running herself ragged trying to make ends meet. When Casey offers up a new client, she takes the chance and what begins as a twice per week house cleaning gig suddenly turns into so much more.
She's a little on the shy side, a bit more innocent than the type he usually craves, but he finds himself unable to end the longing he feels for wanting her. But when Savannah slowly begins to show that she isn't just a weak girl, that she has a backbone - Gavin's desire turns into obsession and has him reaching for the light he thought he long gave up on.
This was my first Sawyer Bennett novel, I know jumping in mid-series is usually not the way to go, and admittedly I did skim over the parts of story were the character's back stories were retold (to avoid ruining the angst of the first two books). What I discovered was clear, I should have picked up one of her books long ago. That is a mistake that I am going to be rectifying soon.
I found it refreshing to read a romance that just that, a romance. I can often get caught up in the darker reads, the more erotic types and often times I am locked away with one that carries far more suspense - but this was just pure candy-sweet-back-to-basic-romance. I enjoyed every second of these two. From the initial stubborn arguments to the sexual laced tension, the explosion once they gave in and then finally the conclusion as they fought for what they wanted.
The angst level was very low considering where this story went towards the end, I was torn with wanting far more to transpire before it moved forward and wanting it to be quick and painless, not dragging out the drama. I was also surprised to find that although Gavin had his issues and the heart of those issues drove the story plot, that he was not a jerk for the sake of being tortured - I sort of fell in love with the way that he recognized what was happening and how he embraced it.
So now, I'll be going back to the beginning of this series to get the stories on Brody & Hunter, from what little bits did not escape my eyes during this, I have a feeling those might be a little more angst driven - but I am excited to add another author to the growing list of instant reads.
March 22, 2017
I'll admit sometimes I'm a shallow girl.....I judge books by their covers. Well, I was so right about this one! Not only is the cover hot (♥ ♥ ♥ this cover), but so are Gavin and Savannah.
Gavin is brash and rude and looking for nothing more than an escape. He spends his days drinking and looking for the next girl willing to give it up. The only problem is he's under a deadline to get his next bestseller written. His agent convinces him to get out of London and spend some time in North Carolina with no distractions.
Under recommendation, he hires Savannah to clean his house a few times a week. Her shy demeanor captures his attention, even inspiring a new character for his book. At first he just relishes in the thought of breaking this timid girl and having his wicked way with her. But to his surprise she is more than just the innocent girl she appears to be. She's "Sweet" and he's "Filthy" and together they are HOT!
Gavin is brash and rude and looking for nothing more than an escape. He spends his days drinking and looking for the next girl willing to give it up. The only problem is he's under a deadline to get his next bestseller written. His agent convinces him to get out of London and spend some time in North Carolina with no distractions.
Under recommendation, he hires Savannah to clean his house a few times a week. Her shy demeanor captures his attention, even inspiring a new character for his book. At first he just relishes in the thought of breaking this timid girl and having his wicked way with her. But to his surprise she is more than just the innocent girl she appears to be. She's "Sweet" and he's "Filthy" and together they are HOT!
"Touching you is the best part of my every day. We could live to the end of time, and even when the sun would finally die out, I'd still never have enough of you."This is the first book I've read in the series and it's made me want to go back and read the rest. I loved Gavin and Savannah together! They truly brought out the best in one another. I also enjoyed the secondary characters, especially Brody.
April 23, 2015
I am a big Sawyer Bennett fan but this book was a tough one to rate. There were parts I liked but many parts I did not.
Firstly, he was a sex addict, at least in my definition. The book called it kinky but that is much too mild a word for what he was into...which was anything and everything you can possibly imagine and then so much more! Another disturbing factor was the tragedy he had been dealt in his life and the way he chose to use sex, drugs, and alcohol to survive it. There was so many other positive steps that could have been added along with the bad choices, especially as he became famous. It would have gone a long way in educating the public and possibly saving lives but he chose debauchery and filth as his coping mechanism. I know that not everyone takes a tragedy and turns it into good but he was so far out there. The things he did were disgusting to me and, personally, I could never be with a man who had done the things he had done with hundreds or even thousands of women and possibly even men since there were orgies, group sex, partner swapping, Bondage, Sadism Discipline, and Masochism in the underbelly of England. Don't misunderstand please. If the sexual acts would have been between a consenting monogamous couple...well okay, but I would have more self respect than to get involved with someone who is that depraved/filthy. He took this debauchery and depravity to such an extreme and the health risk would have terrified a lot of people. All he had to say was I was wrapped and so therefore I am fine. She just took his word for it.
Secondly, I love a couple with chemistry but...well it would have been so refreshing to see Sweet and Filthy actually making love more than once as opposed to what was referred to as dirty sex. The rest was dominated by Gavin's desires and Savannah went along for the ride. Now if you are into that...that is your choice and I don't begrudge or judge anyone. But when a woman asks and pleads for you to stop multiple times as she is lying on a bed with hands and feet tied up so tightly that she has lost circulation in her legs, that is just too much. And he continues to barrage her with sex until she blacks out....come on folks. Yes, she does say how great it was afterwards, but if a man is asked to stop he should respect the woman enough to stop.
Thirdly, I was a bit shocked and disgruntled at the relationship between Brody and Savannah. I found it very disappointing and inappropriate. She says he is her closet friend and they are together all day long - five or six days a week. He is her confidant and she spills all of her problems and feelings to him...like girl talk!!! She gives him good news and he hugs her, picks her up, twirling her in circles and kisses her on the head. There are other instances of him comforting her, hugging her, and I have to wonder if he would have been that demonstrative if Alyssa was present during those times. I thought it odd that it only happened when he and Savannah were alone which was way too much, in my opinion. There are many actions between them and never once is Alyssa around when they happened. They had been asked by Gavin at the bar if they were lovers because of the way Savannah looked at Brody and how attentive Brody was with her. Brody also usually bought all of Savannah's drinks for her. That WAS NOT the Brody I grew to love so much in book 2. I was so disappointed that the author added this to the story because, for me, it sullied Brody in a big way. There is only one word to describe this relationship and their actions----INAPPROPRIATE, inappropriate for a man who is 'taken' and I really believed from watching Brody in book 2, that he was a much smarter and wiser man than he displayed - to act like that with another woman when his own woman was not around. He was her protector...admittedly. I think we all know women and men can be friends but being alone with said friend of the opposite sex on a regular basis is taking it too far, let alone him being her protector and champion. There have been studies done that show men and women can be friends but after awhile one of them always thinks about wanting more, taking it further. I am so saddened that I have lost some respect for Brody. It seemed this relationship was innocent but the problem was that Brody was portrayed in the previous book as a very smart, maybe brilliant man with very good common sense but that is missing in this book. Where the heck did the real Brody go???
Another thing that was troubling as Savannah and Gavin became a couple was that it revolved around sexcapades. They could not go out for a night with friends without lust overwhelming them so much that they would leave early...or find a storage room. I did feel that he loved her but there is so much more to a relationship than sex. What happens if that is no longer on the table for some unforeseen reason? What is left when the relationship seems to revolve around wild sex?
To say I was put off by Gavin is an understatement but there were some times he was sweet and loving...until he walked away from her. What a coward. I have to wonder if he would have ever made the first move to seek her out and Savannah took him back much too quickly. After what he put her through she should have held out longer, made him prove himself. The ending seemed much too rushed and abrupt for my taste.
I believe this book had big potential, to be more than what it was. I was disturbed most of the way through the book and it took something that could have been so lovely and beautiful and turned it dark and sullied.
The rest of this series has been very good and I plan to complete the series but, gosh, I am so disheartened with this one.
Firstly, he was a sex addict, at least in my definition. The book called it kinky but that is much too mild a word for what he was into...which was anything and everything you can possibly imagine and then so much more! Another disturbing factor was the tragedy he had been dealt in his life and the way he chose to use sex, drugs, and alcohol to survive it. There was so many other positive steps that could have been added along with the bad choices, especially as he became famous. It would have gone a long way in educating the public and possibly saving lives but he chose debauchery and filth as his coping mechanism. I know that not everyone takes a tragedy and turns it into good but he was so far out there. The things he did were disgusting to me and, personally, I could never be with a man who had done the things he had done with hundreds or even thousands of women and possibly even men since there were orgies, group sex, partner swapping, Bondage, Sadism Discipline, and Masochism in the underbelly of England. Don't misunderstand please. If the sexual acts would have been between a consenting monogamous couple...well okay, but I would have more self respect than to get involved with someone who is that depraved/filthy. He took this debauchery and depravity to such an extreme and the health risk would have terrified a lot of people. All he had to say was I was wrapped and so therefore I am fine. She just took his word for it.
Secondly, I love a couple with chemistry but...well it would have been so refreshing to see Sweet and Filthy actually making love more than once as opposed to what was referred to as dirty sex. The rest was dominated by Gavin's desires and Savannah went along for the ride. Now if you are into that...that is your choice and I don't begrudge or judge anyone. But when a woman asks and pleads for you to stop multiple times as she is lying on a bed with hands and feet tied up so tightly that she has lost circulation in her legs, that is just too much. And he continues to barrage her with sex until she blacks out....come on folks. Yes, she does say how great it was afterwards, but if a man is asked to stop he should respect the woman enough to stop.
Thirdly, I was a bit shocked and disgruntled at the relationship between Brody and Savannah. I found it very disappointing and inappropriate. She says he is her closet friend and they are together all day long - five or six days a week. He is her confidant and she spills all of her problems and feelings to him...like girl talk!!! She gives him good news and he hugs her, picks her up, twirling her in circles and kisses her on the head. There are other instances of him comforting her, hugging her, and I have to wonder if he would have been that demonstrative if Alyssa was present during those times. I thought it odd that it only happened when he and Savannah were alone which was way too much, in my opinion. There are many actions between them and never once is Alyssa around when they happened. They had been asked by Gavin at the bar if they were lovers because of the way Savannah looked at Brody and how attentive Brody was with her. Brody also usually bought all of Savannah's drinks for her. That WAS NOT the Brody I grew to love so much in book 2. I was so disappointed that the author added this to the story because, for me, it sullied Brody in a big way. There is only one word to describe this relationship and their actions----INAPPROPRIATE, inappropriate for a man who is 'taken' and I really believed from watching Brody in book 2, that he was a much smarter and wiser man than he displayed - to act like that with another woman when his own woman was not around. He was her protector...admittedly. I think we all know women and men can be friends but being alone with said friend of the opposite sex on a regular basis is taking it too far, let alone him being her protector and champion. There have been studies done that show men and women can be friends but after awhile one of them always thinks about wanting more, taking it further. I am so saddened that I have lost some respect for Brody. It seemed this relationship was innocent but the problem was that Brody was portrayed in the previous book as a very smart, maybe brilliant man with very good common sense but that is missing in this book. Where the heck did the real Brody go???
Another thing that was troubling as Savannah and Gavin became a couple was that it revolved around sexcapades. They could not go out for a night with friends without lust overwhelming them so much that they would leave early...or find a storage room. I did feel that he loved her but there is so much more to a relationship than sex. What happens if that is no longer on the table for some unforeseen reason? What is left when the relationship seems to revolve around wild sex?
To say I was put off by Gavin is an understatement but there were some times he was sweet and loving...until he walked away from her. What a coward. I have to wonder if he would have ever made the first move to seek her out and Savannah took him back much too quickly. After what he put her through she should have held out longer, made him prove himself. The ending seemed much too rushed and abrupt for my taste.
I believe this book had big potential, to be more than what it was. I was disturbed most of the way through the book and it took something that could have been so lovely and beautiful and turned it dark and sullied.
The rest of this series has been very good and I plan to complete the series but, gosh, I am so disheartened with this one.
November 21, 2014
Ladies grab (or drop if you prefer :P) your panties to meet Gavin fucking Cooke!! If like me you can't resist a dirty talker then what are you waiting for?
It's Savannah's turn to discover true love and she meets Gavin, new boy in town.
Gavin is an English man who is struggling with the loss of his son.
Being a writer, he comes in town to find some peace and inspiration far from London.
At first, our dirty talker here finds Savanna too shy and doesn't think she can handle his dark part. He will find soon she's bolder than he thoughts ^^
I haven't a lot of Sawyer Bennett's books but everytime I read one, it gets better and better. And she can soon became one of my fav' writer.
If you have read her Legal Affairs series and you like it, this one is for you!
: Meet Hunter
: Meet Brody
To come: Shaken not stirred + With a twist (no dates)
It's Savannah's turn to discover true love and she meets Gavin, new boy in town.
Gavin is an English man who is struggling with the loss of his son.
Being a writer, he comes in town to find some peace and inspiration far from London.
At first, our dirty talker here finds Savanna too shy and doesn't think she can handle his dark part. He will find soon she's bolder than he thoughts ^^
I haven't a lot of Sawyer Bennett's books but everytime I read one, it gets better and better. And she can soon became one of my fav' writer.
If you have read her Legal Affairs series and you like it, this one is for you!
: Meet Hunter
: Meet BrodyTo come: Shaken not stirred + With a twist (no dates)
September 10, 2014
5 Sweet and Filthy Stars!!!
Sawyer hit an easy out of the park home run on this one! I devoured Gavin and Savannah’s story… ate it up!
It was HOT!
It was Sweet!!
It was Soooooooo Sexy!!
And I LOVED it!!!
Sawyer hit an easy out of the park home run on this one! I devoured Gavin and Savannah’s story… ate it up!
It was HOT!
It was Sweet!!
It was Soooooooo Sexy!!
And I LOVED it!!!
March 18, 2017
Team "pissed because Savannah forgave him too quickly".
The story was going fine, not perfect, but okay, I guess it felt real. The big fallout happens and I understand The sting of betrayal is real with this one. Also, all the descriptions of everything make the storytelling in this book border on purple prose. smh
The story was going fine, not perfect, but okay, I guess it felt real. The big fallout happens and I understand The sting of betrayal is real with this one. Also, all the descriptions of everything make the storytelling in this book border on purple prose. smh
July 28, 2014
Received an ARC for review
Job well done. You made me cry...twice.
I've read previous books by Ms. Bennett, but this is the first one in this series. You don't need to have read the previous ones (but you'll want to when you're done). Gavin is dark, brooding, sexy, hot author with a sad past, and Savannah comes in and pushes the clouds away. Loved their nicknames for each other, esp hers for him. One of my favorite scenes is at the dinner party at Gavin's and Casey calls out his nickname...and all the guys turn and look. Can't wait for the next book, Casey, and now I need to try to find time to read the previous two.
Job well done. You made me cry...twice.
I've read previous books by Ms. Bennett, but this is the first one in this series. You don't need to have read the previous ones (but you'll want to when you're done). Gavin is dark, brooding, sexy, hot author with a sad past, and Savannah comes in and pushes the clouds away. Loved their nicknames for each other, esp hers for him. One of my favorite scenes is at the dinner party at Gavin's and Casey calls out his nickname...and all the guys turn and look. Can't wait for the next book, Casey, and now I need to try to find time to read the previous two.
October 25, 2016
To most Savannah Sheppard comes off as a shy and timid girl but to those who know her past and a secret she hides from most she is anything but that. When her friend's client, Gavin Cooke, a UK author, is in need of a house cleaner she takes the job. When he calls her an anti-hero type person she takes offense. But the more time Gavin spends with her the more he sees his initial judgment is far from correct.
Gavin Cooke wrote a best-seller and is now in NC to finish his next manuscript. His main priority is to finish his manuscript, his second priority is to not get lost in the bottom of a bottle. Using booze to hide immense intense loss and heartache is not the answer his darkness needs a little light and that light might just be his new sexy mystery of a housekeeper.
As they see more of each other immense attraction leads to a near incident that both want but one is reluctant to bypass their own fear. When said fear is put to rest a blossoming relationship starts, what kind of relationship and where it will lead who knows.
But alas, life has a way of throwing a wrench in the works when things are good. Just like when they shine the light when things are bad. When an accident leads to a mistake, one of our couple will act rash and put in jeopardy any chance for a happily ever after. Will they be able to realize their fears and make amends in time to regain their love and their chance at happiness?
4 stars, a good read series so far.
Gavin Cooke wrote a best-seller and is now in NC to finish his next manuscript. His main priority is to finish his manuscript, his second priority is to not get lost in the bottom of a bottle. Using booze to hide immense intense loss and heartache is not the answer his darkness needs a little light and that light might just be his new sexy mystery of a housekeeper.
As they see more of each other immense attraction leads to a near incident that both want but one is reluctant to bypass their own fear. When said fear is put to rest a blossoming relationship starts, what kind of relationship and where it will lead who knows.
But alas, life has a way of throwing a wrench in the works when things are good. Just like when they shine the light when things are bad. When an accident leads to a mistake, one of our couple will act rash and put in jeopardy any chance for a happily ever after. Will they be able to realize their fears and make amends in time to regain their love and their chance at happiness?
4 stars, a good read series so far.
May 29, 2018
Gavin and Savannah. The book starts of great and I love Gavin's drunken a-hole, 'I don't give a sh*t' persona. But unfortunately it doesn't last long. Way too soon he morphs into a heartbroken sweety-pie thanks to Savannah's saccharine sweetness. I started to get bored and skimmed ahead to the big douche b*g kiss-off and the ending was good. Savannah was annoyingly perfect for much of the story and even though I wouldn't call her a doormat...
To remind myself why I didn't like this book, this gal says just right;
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
To remind myself why I didn't like this book, this gal says just right;
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
February 26, 2016
4.5 stars.
This is probably Sawyer Bennett’s raciest book to date. Gavin Cooke is darker than any of her previous heroes, including Nixon Caldwell. Gavin’s tragedy is soul-deep and as such, he strikes out at the world by being as mean and curmudgeonly as possible. Although she is commenting on Gavin’s book, Killing the Tides, Savanna describes him best when she says it’s “raw, disturbing, and overwhelming”. Gavin is easy to dislike and yet, when we learn the reasons why, I had tears streaming down my face.
Sawyer Bennett once again taps into a deep emotional well in her characters. This is a story of contrasts: where Gavin is emotionally in a black hole, Savannah is total light. Her life is difficult and she is struggling to live her dream, but she has a spirit that draws him in. As Gavin describes Savannah, “I’m dark that way. I’m way too bitter for your brand of sweet.”
For a Sawyer Bennett book, this pushes the sexual envelope a little. She offers one of the best contrasts between lust and desire:
Lust suggests a carnal need to slake oneself until there is no further need. Desire suggests a craving… something that is pervasive and without end. Something that slowly pulls at you…warms you from the inside out and fogs your senses entirely.
There are several truly heart-dropping, stomach-clenching moments in this book. This is a book about discovery, perceptions, forgiveness,and perseverance. We learn that one can exist without truly living:
When you just exist, you have no emotions. No passion. But when you live...you seize opportunity, you drink of a joyful life, and you'r motivated. The man I know...the man I've let into my heart, he's a man that lives.
IN A NUTSHELL:
The dialogue is both harsh at times, and other times flirty. There are grin-worthy and jaw dropping moments. You love him, you hate him. You want more. Speaking of which, I hope Sawyer Bennett gives us an update on Gavin's second book - what did the editors think? How did the public receive it? We need a footnote!
This is probably Sawyer Bennett’s raciest book to date. Gavin Cooke is darker than any of her previous heroes, including Nixon Caldwell. Gavin’s tragedy is soul-deep and as such, he strikes out at the world by being as mean and curmudgeonly as possible. Although she is commenting on Gavin’s book, Killing the Tides, Savanna describes him best when she says it’s “raw, disturbing, and overwhelming”. Gavin is easy to dislike and yet, when we learn the reasons why, I had tears streaming down my face.
Sawyer Bennett once again taps into a deep emotional well in her characters. This is a story of contrasts: where Gavin is emotionally in a black hole, Savannah is total light. Her life is difficult and she is struggling to live her dream, but she has a spirit that draws him in. As Gavin describes Savannah, “I’m dark that way. I’m way too bitter for your brand of sweet.”
For a Sawyer Bennett book, this pushes the sexual envelope a little. She offers one of the best contrasts between lust and desire:
Lust suggests a carnal need to slake oneself until there is no further need. Desire suggests a craving… something that is pervasive and without end. Something that slowly pulls at you…warms you from the inside out and fogs your senses entirely.
There are several truly heart-dropping, stomach-clenching moments in this book. This is a book about discovery, perceptions, forgiveness,and perseverance. We learn that one can exist without truly living:
When you just exist, you have no emotions. No passion. But when you live...you seize opportunity, you drink of a joyful life, and you'r motivated. The man I know...the man I've let into my heart, he's a man that lives.
IN A NUTSHELL:
The dialogue is both harsh at times, and other times flirty. There are grin-worthy and jaw dropping moments. You love him, you hate him. You want more. Speaking of which, I hope Sawyer Bennett gives us an update on Gavin's second book - what did the editors think? How did the public receive it? We need a footnote!
January 12, 2015
5 SUGAR STARS
It's no secret that I am hooked on this series. Each book which focuses on two different characters has a different feel to it. It's great to still read about all the others in the group ~ this story is about Savannah who we met before, and Gavin, a British Author who is trying to escape his demons. Good story. More scenes of a sexual nature in this one. Quite a dark feel to it but every page was addictive. Sawyer Bennett is now firmly in my top 5 favourite authors list. I'm moving straight on to Wyatt's story now.
It's no secret that I am hooked on this series. Each book which focuses on two different characters has a different feel to it. It's great to still read about all the others in the group ~ this story is about Savannah who we met before, and Gavin, a British Author who is trying to escape his demons. Good story. More scenes of a sexual nature in this one. Quite a dark feel to it but every page was addictive. Sawyer Bennett is now firmly in my top 5 favourite authors list. I'm moving straight on to Wyatt's story now.
September 19, 2014
5 I Freaking Loved Gavin Stars!!!
August 23, 2014
I'm done! I'm done! I'm done reading.
OMG SAVANNAH!!!!
I think this series had just gotten hotter...
Although I was looking forward for Cassie’s turn for her HEA, I think Savannah needed hers ASAP. This girl had been through a lot, as what we have learned in book two, but she had survived it all. She didn’t want to go back home after what happened, but here, in North Carolina, her life seems to be falling apart. She lost her dream job, her remaining job is with a boss who is constantly making a pass on her, she had been cleaning homes – not really what she had envisioned herself in. But beggars couldn’t be choosers and that’s probably the best way to describe her currently since she has been finding it hard to make ends meet for quite some time. Nevertheless, you will love her, very much, despite of her awful big pride. Because she never gave up, she strive so hard so that she wouldn’t ask for anyone’s help, and she wouldn’t be in debt to anyone. Which has its pros and cons of course – I mean, her friends are great, really, really great. Sometimes, it’s not a weakness to accept help.
As for Gavin Cooke – there is something attractive with a man who is intelligent and knows how to play with words. But before you swoon, better be warned, that he might be sexy, and the mystery that surrounds him might serve as a magnet to attract but he’s in a dark, dark place. A painful experience from his past had pushed him in there, and the only thing good that came up with it has been his best-selling novel. Now, he’s spending time North Carolina trying to finish the sequel to the novel. He’s bitterness and anger is palpable, he can be rude, he can be definitely annoying he wants too, and he likes his solitude. All he wants is his whiskey and his laptop. Until she came along, his anti-heroine. Only that he didn’t expect that there is more to this woman.
He’s filthy, he takes what he wants, he talks dirty (which was a total turn on) – and Savannah? She’s the romantic type who wants prince charming. They are so different, but the attraction was too powerful to ignore. Day by day it only grew, until they can no longer deny it and both started to give in into their desires. Lust is a powerful emotion, but there is one greatest feeling that both of them are still hesitant to accept. Are both of them strong enough to let go of the past, and accept what the future holds? Or will both of them let go of what might have been the best thing that can happen in their lives?
They were so perfect for each other, and you can feel them falling too. Even the change in Gavin was pretty much amazing. I didn’t know how she handled him, and made him open up a bit, but it was there. Light was beginning to creep up into his world, until something happened that shook it once again. And Gavin broke her heart… OUCH. You’ll want to hate him too, but his grand gesture was pretty much too sweet to ignore, so he’s easily forgiven.
I didn’t think I’d be more in love with this series as I can ever be, UNTIL I read THIS book! Sugar on the Edge had me speechless for quite a while, stunned, a little bit mesmerized, gah, another book hangover for me. This might be my favorite among the three because of its character: a combination of the darkness and light, two people who seems too different but yet similar on some aspects. It’s HOT, it’s RAW, it’s PRIMAL, it’s ROMANTIC, it’s SEXY, and yes, It’s SWEET - it’s SAWYER BENNETT!!!! You will miss half of your life not reading this! So better pick this up right now, settle on your seats, prepare for some extra panties (and yes, batteries) – because this is going to be a one hot exciting ride.
HEAT LEVEL = 6
•Complimentary Copy was given in exchange for an honest review.•
More of my reviews at http://reviewsofabookmaniac.blogspot.com
OMG SAVANNAH!!!!
I think this series had just gotten hotter...
Although I was looking forward for Cassie’s turn for her HEA, I think Savannah needed hers ASAP. This girl had been through a lot, as what we have learned in book two, but she had survived it all. She didn’t want to go back home after what happened, but here, in North Carolina, her life seems to be falling apart. She lost her dream job, her remaining job is with a boss who is constantly making a pass on her, she had been cleaning homes – not really what she had envisioned herself in. But beggars couldn’t be choosers and that’s probably the best way to describe her currently since she has been finding it hard to make ends meet for quite some time. Nevertheless, you will love her, very much, despite of her awful big pride. Because she never gave up, she strive so hard so that she wouldn’t ask for anyone’s help, and she wouldn’t be in debt to anyone. Which has its pros and cons of course – I mean, her friends are great, really, really great. Sometimes, it’s not a weakness to accept help.
As for Gavin Cooke – there is something attractive with a man who is intelligent and knows how to play with words. But before you swoon, better be warned, that he might be sexy, and the mystery that surrounds him might serve as a magnet to attract but he’s in a dark, dark place. A painful experience from his past had pushed him in there, and the only thing good that came up with it has been his best-selling novel. Now, he’s spending time North Carolina trying to finish the sequel to the novel. He’s bitterness and anger is palpable, he can be rude, he can be definitely annoying he wants too, and he likes his solitude. All he wants is his whiskey and his laptop. Until she came along, his anti-heroine. Only that he didn’t expect that there is more to this woman.
He’s filthy, he takes what he wants, he talks dirty (which was a total turn on) – and Savannah? She’s the romantic type who wants prince charming. They are so different, but the attraction was too powerful to ignore. Day by day it only grew, until they can no longer deny it and both started to give in into their desires. Lust is a powerful emotion, but there is one greatest feeling that both of them are still hesitant to accept. Are both of them strong enough to let go of the past, and accept what the future holds? Or will both of them let go of what might have been the best thing that can happen in their lives?
They were so perfect for each other, and you can feel them falling too. Even the change in Gavin was pretty much amazing. I didn’t know how she handled him, and made him open up a bit, but it was there. Light was beginning to creep up into his world, until something happened that shook it once again. And Gavin broke her heart… OUCH. You’ll want to hate him too, but his grand gesture was pretty much too sweet to ignore, so he’s easily forgiven.
I didn’t think I’d be more in love with this series as I can ever be, UNTIL I read THIS book! Sugar on the Edge had me speechless for quite a while, stunned, a little bit mesmerized, gah, another book hangover for me. This might be my favorite among the three because of its character: a combination of the darkness and light, two people who seems too different but yet similar on some aspects. It’s HOT, it’s RAW, it’s PRIMAL, it’s ROMANTIC, it’s SEXY, and yes, It’s SWEET - it’s SAWYER BENNETT!!!! You will miss half of your life not reading this! So better pick this up right now, settle on your seats, prepare for some extra panties (and yes, batteries) – because this is going to be a one hot exciting ride.
HEAT LEVEL = 6
•Complimentary Copy was given in exchange for an honest review.•
More of my reviews at http://reviewsofabookmaniac.blogspot.com
July 26, 2014
☆I received an ARC of this title via ATOMR Tours in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!!☆"
3.25-3½ "Filthy-Sweet" Stars!!
"There's nothing formal about love, Savannah. It's hot, messy, and totally disjointed...without planning."
Sugar on the Edge started off great but in the end floundered a bit for me. I mean, the first 70% was good although the romance went a bit faster than my preference; and then the last 30% was over corny and unnecessary to a point where I felt the story dragged and needed to get to the point.
The story:
Gavin Cooke, a big time international bestselling British author is not the man he once was. Now bitter, angry, and a shell of a man, a lives his life in seclusion while splurging himself on alcohol and countless one night stands.
He meets our female heroine, Savannah Shephard, when he takes a trip to the U.S. and ends up hiring her as his cleaning lady while he finishes up the manuscript to his next big hit.
If only he wasn’t so head over heels attracted to his new employee…
Shall he indulge in mixing business with sensual, erotic pleasure like how writes in his novels?
And Savannah. A woman with a past of her own, Savannah is just trying to get by. With student loans piling up and a dream career that’s going nowhere, she takes up this job with the temperamental, sex on a stick writer, only to be blinded with lust for her boss.
Will giving into temptation be the greatest sin for these two lost souls?
And when they collide, will Gavin’s haunted past leave their new beginnings in tatters?
#An over all, okay but good read!! I just wish some parts were edited, the diagloue didn’t get so cheesy, and the ending wasn’t so rushed.
Nevertheless, a great installment in the Last Call series!! I REALLY HOPE for Casey’s story to be next!! Pretty please!!
3.25-3½ "Filthy-Sweet" Stars!!
"There's nothing formal about love, Savannah. It's hot, messy, and totally disjointed...without planning."
Sugar on the Edge started off great but in the end floundered a bit for me. I mean, the first 70% was good although the romance went a bit faster than my preference; and then the last 30% was over corny and unnecessary to a point where I felt the story dragged and needed to get to the point.
The story:
Gavin Cooke, a big time international bestselling British author is not the man he once was. Now bitter, angry, and a shell of a man, a lives his life in seclusion while splurging himself on alcohol and countless one night stands.
He meets our female heroine, Savannah Shephard, when he takes a trip to the U.S. and ends up hiring her as his cleaning lady while he finishes up the manuscript to his next big hit.
If only he wasn’t so head over heels attracted to his new employee…
Shall he indulge in mixing business with sensual, erotic pleasure like how writes in his novels?
And Savannah. A woman with a past of her own, Savannah is just trying to get by. With student loans piling up and a dream career that’s going nowhere, she takes up this job with the temperamental, sex on a stick writer, only to be blinded with lust for her boss.
Will giving into temptation be the greatest sin for these two lost souls?
And when they collide, will Gavin’s haunted past leave their new beginnings in tatters?
#An over all, okay but good read!! I just wish some parts were edited, the diagloue didn’t get so cheesy, and the ending wasn’t so rushed.
Nevertheless, a great installment in the Last Call series!! I REALLY HOPE for Casey’s story to be next!! Pretty please!!
January 5, 2016
Couldn't finish because I hate reading about heroine that makes stupid life / financial choices. The heroine, Savannah, works multiple jobs to just make ends meet (pay off student loans, pay bills, survive). In one scene, her friend, Casey, offered her some food because Savannah was surviving only on apples and carrots (since, her reasoning is, she can't afford anything more b/c of debts and in financial hardship). Her friend confronts her and tells her that she's wasting away and she needs to take better care of herself. Not only does Savannah gets a bit snippy at her friend, she insist on doing things her way as to not feel like a charity case. But in the next chapter, she's all dressed up to go out drinking with her friends, claiming that she's going to get drunk that night. Brody, another friend of hers, offers her "drink on the house", but she is insisting to pay for it. I had to stop there. Couldn't finish it because... really? Priorities in life. Fucking priorities. Really, Savannah, you can't afford to buy better food to take care of yourself, but you'll fucking go out drinking? Stupid bitch.
It reminded me of another story I read a while back, can't remember the title, but it was about this main girl character that was also hard up for cash, and she really needed a job at the golf club, so instead of spending her last few dollars on some food or something else she really needs, she buys a fucking mascara because she thinks it helps her "look older", and will help her secure the job. LOL So fucking stupid! As if your employer is going to look at you and goes, "Oh, let me hire you because you have on mascara and that helps you look older than what your age states on your resume".
The hunt for another good book continues.
It reminded me of another story I read a while back, can't remember the title, but it was about this main girl character that was also hard up for cash, and she really needed a job at the golf club, so instead of spending her last few dollars on some food or something else she really needs, she buys a fucking mascara because she thinks it helps her "look older", and will help her secure the job. LOL So fucking stupid! As if your employer is going to look at you and goes, "Oh, let me hire you because you have on mascara and that helps you look older than what your age states on your resume".
The hunt for another good book continues.
Want to read
July 8, 2014 Looking forward to this one!!!
He’s utterly alone…
Tortured and existing in a dark spiral of despair, bestselling British author, Gavin Cooke, has come to the Outer Banks of North Carolina to escape the seedy lifestyle he had been living in London and in a desperate attempt to regain his writing focus. He’s twisted, bitter and angry at the world. He’s a loner… needing not a single thing other than his Scotch and a laptop upon which he can bang out his next erotic, dark thriller.
She’s running in place and getting nowhere…
Savannah Shepherd’s life is falling apart. Her dream of being a wildlife photographer seems a distant memory and she’s barely able to make ends meet. Driving herself forward with no clear goals apparent, she’s about ready to pack up her bags and head home with her tail between her legs.
Two unlikely lovers…
He’s raw, forceful and a dirty talker. She’s a flowers and romance type of girl. Yet within each other, they find a mutual craving that can only be satisfied by giving in to their desires for one another.
Lust turns into something more… something they were not looking for but tentatively accept. Will it be enough to push them past the obstacles of Gavin’s bitter past?
*SUGAR ON THE EDGE can be read as a stand-alone*
He’s utterly alone…
Tortured and existing in a dark spiral of despair, bestselling British author, Gavin Cooke, has come to the Outer Banks of North Carolina to escape the seedy lifestyle he had been living in London and in a desperate attempt to regain his writing focus. He’s twisted, bitter and angry at the world. He’s a loner… needing not a single thing other than his Scotch and a laptop upon which he can bang out his next erotic, dark thriller.
She’s running in place and getting nowhere…
Savannah Shepherd’s life is falling apart. Her dream of being a wildlife photographer seems a distant memory and she’s barely able to make ends meet. Driving herself forward with no clear goals apparent, she’s about ready to pack up her bags and head home with her tail between her legs.
Two unlikely lovers…
He’s raw, forceful and a dirty talker. She’s a flowers and romance type of girl. Yet within each other, they find a mutual craving that can only be satisfied by giving in to their desires for one another.
Lust turns into something more… something they were not looking for but tentatively accept. Will it be enough to push them past the obstacles of Gavin’s bitter past?
*SUGAR ON THE EDGE can be read as a stand-alone*
June 12, 2015
~3 stars?
This books started off nicely, I was so into it, I couldn't bare to take my eyes off of it or even stop reading it. But then when it got to approximately 60% in the story, I just got... idk... tired of it. I didn't see their relationship bloom in any way, it looked like it was centered around sex. And that's all they did, there was barely a relationship component...
Then the ending, holy crap, I was so pissed. It's like she took him back so quickly, it made me so angry. She didn't even make him work for it, he just cried and she took him back. I get that she still loved him, but really? Like, he left for 12 weeks and I'm 100000% sure that if she didn't go visit him then he wouldn't have come back for her, such a spineless man. He didn't even bother to contact her for TWELVE WHOLE WEEKS. Excuse me! That is definitely not okay.
I am soOOOOooo disappointed in this book, I didn't even want to finish the last few pages.
This books started off nicely, I was so into it, I couldn't bare to take my eyes off of it or even stop reading it. But then when it got to approximately 60% in the story, I just got... idk... tired of it. I didn't see their relationship bloom in any way, it looked like it was centered around sex. And that's all they did, there was barely a relationship component...
Then the ending, holy crap, I was so pissed. It's like she took him back so quickly, it made me so angry. She didn't even make him work for it, he just cried and she took him back. I get that she still loved him, but really? Like, he left for 12 weeks and I'm 100000% sure that if she didn't go visit him then he wouldn't have come back for her, such a spineless man. He didn't even bother to contact her for TWELVE WHOLE WEEKS. Excuse me! That is definitely not okay.
I am soOOOOooo disappointed in this book, I didn't even want to finish the last few pages.
August 15, 2016
4.25 stars
October 26, 2014
Liked this a lot!
This is an erotic contemporary romance between a tortured but successful writer and a do-it-all girl. I would classify this as a New Adult romance, I believe the heroine is under 25, out of college but not very successful at her career(s).
Gavin Cooke is a successful author, having written some paranormal-dark erotica-suspense-thriller-ish types of books. He drinks too much and has some sad events in his past which he drowned out with excesses of deviant sex and drugs/drinking in London. He has to get his writing done so he decided to move across the Atlantic to a new quiet environment away from all the darkness of his past in London. He buys a house in the small town of North Carolina where the bar Last Call is located. Casey Markham is his realtor, and after he gets the keys to his new beachfront house, he mentions to her that he needs a housekeeper. Casey says her roommate Savannah Shepherd is doing housekeeping, does a better job than the big companies and is the same price. Gavin says, "okay".
Savannah is in her early 20's, and she and Casey are the only ones in their small circle of young women that are single. One of her best friends, Alyssa is happily with Brody, another one of her best friends, who has been protective of her since high school, when she stood up for herself and suffered for it. She is quiet and Gavin thinks at first that she is an anti-heroine and he is inspired to create a character in the book he is writing based upon her.
Their relationship develops and Gavin decides he wants her and he toys with her responses to him, writing them into his stories, but then wanting her and fantasizing that she would say dirty things to him. Soon however, neither one of them can resist
Gavin is a dirty talker, in places, but for some reason I did not find it super steamy; I guess I didn't like his character that much and didn't find his personal emotional journey very much of a leap or challenge for him. Savannah calls him "Filthy" as nickname, and Gavin calls Savannah "Sweet" or "Honey". Maybe it would have been hotter had there been more erotic tension or something. Some of my friends thought this book was hotter than Book 2 of this series, and maybe I should have read this one, a Stand-alone, before Last Call Book 2, Make It a Double, because that one was a 6+ star book for me, and anything I read after that crazy hot-emotional book would be a letdown! I think if Gavin had struggled with his alcoholic tendencies or dark sexual or drug excesses in the book it would have been more interesting and inspirational. But he's hot even if he's not as inspirational as Brody had been in Make It a Double. There are quite a few love scenes and he is well-endowed so that is really fun! *wink*
Savannah is not an anti-heroine but she is stronger than she seemed upon first impressions to Gavin, and they fall farther and faster in love. Gavin finishes his book, however, and then they face the next relationship challenge of their lives. I found that part to be a little bit predictable based upon Gavin's history but I thought it was really wonderful too.
This was a very solid and enjoyable installment to the "Last Call" series by a wonderful author!
This was an ARC that I read and reviewed!
This is an erotic contemporary romance between a tortured but successful writer and a do-it-all girl. I would classify this as a New Adult romance, I believe the heroine is under 25, out of college but not very successful at her career(s).
Gavin Cooke is a successful author, having written some paranormal-dark erotica-suspense-thriller-ish types of books. He drinks too much and has some sad events in his past which he drowned out with excesses of deviant sex and drugs/drinking in London. He has to get his writing done so he decided to move across the Atlantic to a new quiet environment away from all the darkness of his past in London. He buys a house in the small town of North Carolina where the bar Last Call is located. Casey Markham is his realtor, and after he gets the keys to his new beachfront house, he mentions to her that he needs a housekeeper. Casey says her roommate Savannah Shepherd is doing housekeeping, does a better job than the big companies and is the same price. Gavin says, "okay".
Savannah is in her early 20's, and she and Casey are the only ones in their small circle of young women that are single. One of her best friends, Alyssa is happily with Brody, another one of her best friends, who has been protective of her since high school, when she stood up for herself and suffered for it. She is quiet and Gavin thinks at first that she is an anti-heroine and he is inspired to create a character in the book he is writing based upon her.
Their relationship develops and Gavin decides he wants her and he toys with her responses to him, writing them into his stories, but then wanting her and fantasizing that she would say dirty things to him. Soon however, neither one of them can resist
Gavin is a dirty talker, in places, but for some reason I did not find it super steamy; I guess I didn't like his character that much and didn't find his personal emotional journey very much of a leap or challenge for him. Savannah calls him "Filthy" as nickname, and Gavin calls Savannah "Sweet" or "Honey". Maybe it would have been hotter had there been more erotic tension or something. Some of my friends thought this book was hotter than Book 2 of this series, and maybe I should have read this one, a Stand-alone, before Last Call Book 2, Make It a Double, because that one was a 6+ star book for me, and anything I read after that crazy hot-emotional book would be a letdown! I think if Gavin had struggled with his alcoholic tendencies or dark sexual or drug excesses in the book it would have been more interesting and inspirational. But he's hot even if he's not as inspirational as Brody had been in Make It a Double. There are quite a few love scenes and he is well-endowed so that is really fun! *wink*
Savannah is not an anti-heroine but she is stronger than she seemed upon first impressions to Gavin, and they fall farther and faster in love. Gavin finishes his book, however, and then they face the next relationship challenge of their lives. I found that part to be a little bit predictable based upon Gavin's history but I thought it was really wonderful too.
This was a very solid and enjoyable installment to the "Last Call" series by a wonderful author!
This was an ARC that I read and reviewed!
September 27, 2016
Each of these Last Call books have improved since the first one. I won't go on about my issues with the first one in this review. ;)
This one was a bit hard for me to read because of what happened in the hero's past because of my little boy. Anyway, I wanted to read this story so I continued with it and I am so glad I did. I loved this story. I liked our dirty talkin hero and our sweet, yet tough heroine. Their story was sweet and I loved their relationship with each other, once Gavin got past his angry.
This was a very entertaining story and I enjoyed my read of it. I loved their nicknames for each other. His for her: My Sweet. Hers for his: Filthy (LOL - because of his dirty talking)
Faves:
♥ "Incredible," I agree as I stare down at her, wanting more than anything to see that look on her face over and over again, from here to eternity.
♥ Touching you is the best part of my every day
♥ We could live to the end of time, and even when the sun would finally die out, I'd still never have enough of you.
♥ They are wide, open, and vulnerable when he asks, "Will you also start falling in love with me?"
♥ "...his heart gets hopelessly lost to her?"
This one was a bit hard for me to read because of what happened in the hero's past because of my little boy. Anyway, I wanted to read this story so I continued with it and I am so glad I did. I loved this story. I liked our dirty talkin hero and our sweet, yet tough heroine. Their story was sweet and I loved their relationship with each other, once Gavin got past his angry.
This was a very entertaining story and I enjoyed my read of it. I loved their nicknames for each other. His for her: My Sweet. Hers for his: Filthy (LOL - because of his dirty talking)
Faves:
♥ "Incredible," I agree as I stare down at her, wanting more than anything to see that look on her face over and over again, from here to eternity.
♥ Touching you is the best part of my every day
♥ We could live to the end of time, and even when the sun would finally die out, I'd still never have enough of you.
♥ They are wide, open, and vulnerable when he asks, "Will you also start falling in love with me?"
♥ "...his heart gets hopelessly lost to her?"
August 1, 2014
3 I tried to like it stars! This is really a 2.5 star read with both its predictability and awful characters. Gavin is a very wealthy author from the UK with a broken heart and a drinking problem. He is apparently able to cure his drinking problem with love or great sex. He made millions on one book he self-published and has yet to publish book 2 but has enough money to purchase multi-million dollar beach houses and a $140K car and weeks in St Lucia and custom mural painters while working on nothing but his books and pay an agent. Savannah is the broken house cleaner with the creepy photographer boss and no backbone. She is poor and trying to make it on her own. She has so much pride she would rather starve than accept a bowl of pasta from her best friend and roommate, She gets a job cleaning Gavins house and you guessed it, they fall in deep lust and inch toward true love always. Then all the secrets are bared and they are in love and happy and then a surprise you could see coming from 5 chapters back. Gavin proves himself to be an awful cruel and terrible person and then is totally and completely forgiven in an instant. I am not sure if I can can back for more of this series.
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