What do you think?
Rate this book
ACRO #2.5
Hot Nights, Dark Desires
Inspired by the sultry heat and sensual ambiance of New Orleans, this steamy collection delves into the erotic underground of the Big Easy. Here is a tantalizing trio of stories by three rising stars that will tease your imagination—and seduce your senses.
Lush, haunting, and provocative, New Orleans has something to satisfy every desire—as three very lucky women are about to discover. In “Shadow Play” an ex-supermodel desperate to revive her career seeks the help of a gorgeous, reclusive photographer with a special gift—and offers him anything he wants in return. The result is a series of erotic positions captured on film—along with a mind-blowing physical connection neither expected…. In “The Art of Desire” a sheltered young woman turned on by the idea of getting tattooed dares to make her fantasy a reality. But as her arousing sessions with a dangerously handsome tattoo artist move from the tattoo parlor to the bedroom, they make an impression that’s more than skin deep…. And in “Night Vision” when artist Catie Lanford hires professional cooler Bat Kelly to whip the failing bar she’s recently inherited into shape, she’s not looking for a lover—until she lays eyes on the sexy wild man. Soon they’ve agreed to mix business with pleasure, and Catie discovers that Bat is just what she needs to set her artist’s imagination—and her body—on fire.
Abandon your inhibitions and excite your spirit with a gathering of tales that’s as sexy and spicy as the city of New Orleans itself.
Lush, haunting, and provocative, New Orleans has something to satisfy every desire—as three very lucky women are about to discover. In “Shadow Play” an ex-supermodel desperate to revive her career seeks the help of a gorgeous, reclusive photographer with a special gift—and offers him anything he wants in return. The result is a series of erotic positions captured on film—along with a mind-blowing physical connection neither expected…. In “The Art of Desire” a sheltered young woman turned on by the idea of getting tattooed dares to make her fantasy a reality. But as her arousing sessions with a dangerously handsome tattoo artist move from the tattoo parlor to the bedroom, they make an impression that’s more than skin deep…. And in “Night Vision” when artist Catie Lanford hires professional cooler Bat Kelly to whip the failing bar she’s recently inherited into shape, she’s not looking for a lover—until she lays eyes on the sexy wild man. Soon they’ve agreed to mix business with pleasure, and Catie discovers that Bat is just what she needs to set her artist’s imagination—and her body—on fire.
Abandon your inhibitions and excite your spirit with a gathering of tales that’s as sexy and spicy as the city of New Orleans itself.
336 pages, Trade Paperback
First published February 25, 2006
34 people are currently reading
818 people want to read
About the author
Eden Bradley
134 books1,128 followersNew York Times & USA Today Bestselling and award-winning author Eden Bradley aka Eve Berlin has published a number of novels and novellas, both print and e-books, with Berkley Heat, Bantam/Delta, Harlequin Spice & HQN, Black Lace Books and Samhain Publishing, as well as venturing into self-publishing. Her books have been translated into German, French, Romanian, Portuguese, Spanish, Italian, Czech, Polish, Indonesian and Japanese. Eden has appeared regularly on Playboy Radio and conducts workshops on writing craft and writing about sex. Eden speaks regularly on BDSM safety, psychology & practice, as well as sexual positivity for women.
She loves art, shoes, tattoos, reading smutty books, chocolate and sex, of course, not necessarily in that order. You can visit her website: EdenBradley.com or her group FB page Dirty Minds Social Club!
Twitter: https://twitter.com/EdenBradley
Facebook: www.facebook.com/AuthorEdenBradley.Ev...
FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/11102...
Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/edenandeve/
All of her book ratings at Goodreads reflect her favorite books, from those she loved to lifelong keepers.
She loves art, shoes, tattoos, reading smutty books, chocolate and sex, of course, not necessarily in that order. You can visit her website: EdenBradley.com or her group FB page Dirty Minds Social Club!
Twitter: https://twitter.com/EdenBradley
Facebook: www.facebook.com/AuthorEdenBradley.Ev...
FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/11102...
Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/edenandeve/
All of her book ratings at Goodreads reflect her favorite books, from those she loved to lifelong keepers.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
January 17, 2009
This was a very hot, three novella anthology set in post Katrina New Orleans.
The Art of Desire by Eden Bradley features a pretty messed up couple suffering from guilt. Writer Sophie feels guilty for not acting like the "good girl" her ultra religious family expects her to be. She wants to be a little bad, has a fetish for tattoos, and has it bad for local tattoo artist Tristan Batitse.
Tristan's guilt runs a little deeper. He feels guilty for his younger brother's death. Tristan once lived the life of a bohemian artist, much to the dismay of his military father. His younger brother, who grew up idolizing him, heads down the same path, but goes a bit further. He abuses drugs, eventually overdosing. Tristan feels resposible (bad influence and all) and lays a heap of guilt on his shoulders. When he meets Sophie, there's a strong sexual attraction and he feels an instant connection--this girl really 'gets' him. But he can't afford to let her get too close and love him. He feels he doesn't deserve love and he will eventually hurt her. Do these two guilt-ridden people have a chance at love?
Hot, hot, hot love scenes, although the fact of being so turned on (as Sophie was) while being tattooed seemed a little...strange. Sophie wanted to be tattooed everywhere (hard to imagine). But a very hot story and a good, quick read anyway. Sophie was tough and didn't put up with the "I don't deserve love" attitude that Tristan had. These two were a hot, sexy couple and I think they had a good chance for a HEA.
Shadow Play by Sydney Croft features a ghost hunter/medium named Hex, who also works as a photographer. Down and out supermodel Brenna St. James needs Hex's help getting rid of a ghost who's haunting her house and wrecking her career. This ghost, Arlen, thinks she's his lost love Mattie, and he won't leave Brenna alone. Because of his haunting, Brenna's photographs are indecipherable--her image appears blurry. And what's a fashion model who can't be photographed worth? Hex and Brenna must work together to help Arlen find his lost love Mattie, and cross over to the other side. And if Hex and Brenna happen to fall in love in the process...
This was another hot read, and fans of Sydney Croft's ACRO series will want to get to know Hex, who is a friend of fellow ghost hunter Creed. I felt bad for Hex, having to live with his special 'gift', having to fight off spirits who were trying to posess him. I wasn't too thrilled with Brenna at first--she seemed a little spoiled and self centered, and it seemed like she was just using Hex to get back her career. But as the story moved on and she started to form an emotional bond with Hex, I liked her better. And their sex scenes--whew--let's just say you'll never look at a popsicle or your kitchen sink's sprayer the same way again!
And finally, in Night Vision by Stephanie Tyler, aspiring artist Catie Lanford has inherited a bar from her late uncle. The bar's in disarray and losing money. Catie hires professional 'cooler' (sort of like a general manager) and former Marine sniper Bat Kelly (yeah, that's his name) to whip her bar into shape. Once the bar is out of the red, she hopes to sell it and go back to art school. Both Catie and Bat have baggage, issues, whatever you want to call it, and both have never really put down roots anywhere. But working together to get the bar in shape helps these two connect, sexually and emotionally, like they never had before, and start thinking about wanting to put down roots somewhere. But Cate's planning on going to art school in New York, and Bat doesn't want to hold her back, even though he'd love it if she wanted to stay in New Orleans with him. Will these two lovers discover that what they really want may be the same thing?
I loved this one. I thought it was sexy and romantic. There were a couple of hot sex scenes, in front of a mirror and once on a motorcycle, and the scenes where Catie practiced her art by sketching Bat's nude body were smokin' hot. I loved the emotional connection between Bat and Catie, and the support each one gave to the other. I loved the ending too but wished there were about 50 more pages to read!
So, if you're looking for some hot, fast paced reads by a trio of talented writers, you would be wise to check out Hot Nights, Dark Desires. I'm already a fan of the 'Acro' series, and I will definitely check out the other books by these authors. As anthologies go, this one was pretty satisfying. 4 1/2 stars.
The Art of Desire by Eden Bradley features a pretty messed up couple suffering from guilt. Writer Sophie feels guilty for not acting like the "good girl" her ultra religious family expects her to be. She wants to be a little bad, has a fetish for tattoos, and has it bad for local tattoo artist Tristan Batitse.
Tristan's guilt runs a little deeper. He feels guilty for his younger brother's death. Tristan once lived the life of a bohemian artist, much to the dismay of his military father. His younger brother, who grew up idolizing him, heads down the same path, but goes a bit further. He abuses drugs, eventually overdosing. Tristan feels resposible (bad influence and all) and lays a heap of guilt on his shoulders. When he meets Sophie, there's a strong sexual attraction and he feels an instant connection--this girl really 'gets' him. But he can't afford to let her get too close and love him. He feels he doesn't deserve love and he will eventually hurt her. Do these two guilt-ridden people have a chance at love?
Hot, hot, hot love scenes, although the fact of being so turned on (as Sophie was) while being tattooed seemed a little...strange. Sophie wanted to be tattooed everywhere (hard to imagine). But a very hot story and a good, quick read anyway. Sophie was tough and didn't put up with the "I don't deserve love" attitude that Tristan had. These two were a hot, sexy couple and I think they had a good chance for a HEA.
Shadow Play by Sydney Croft features a ghost hunter/medium named Hex, who also works as a photographer. Down and out supermodel Brenna St. James needs Hex's help getting rid of a ghost who's haunting her house and wrecking her career. This ghost, Arlen, thinks she's his lost love Mattie, and he won't leave Brenna alone. Because of his haunting, Brenna's photographs are indecipherable--her image appears blurry. And what's a fashion model who can't be photographed worth? Hex and Brenna must work together to help Arlen find his lost love Mattie, and cross over to the other side. And if Hex and Brenna happen to fall in love in the process...
This was another hot read, and fans of Sydney Croft's ACRO series will want to get to know Hex, who is a friend of fellow ghost hunter Creed. I felt bad for Hex, having to live with his special 'gift', having to fight off spirits who were trying to posess him. I wasn't too thrilled with Brenna at first--she seemed a little spoiled and self centered, and it seemed like she was just using Hex to get back her career. But as the story moved on and she started to form an emotional bond with Hex, I liked her better. And their sex scenes--whew--let's just say you'll never look at a popsicle or your kitchen sink's sprayer the same way again!
And finally, in Night Vision by Stephanie Tyler, aspiring artist Catie Lanford has inherited a bar from her late uncle. The bar's in disarray and losing money. Catie hires professional 'cooler' (sort of like a general manager) and former Marine sniper Bat Kelly (yeah, that's his name) to whip her bar into shape. Once the bar is out of the red, she hopes to sell it and go back to art school. Both Catie and Bat have baggage, issues, whatever you want to call it, and both have never really put down roots anywhere. But working together to get the bar in shape helps these two connect, sexually and emotionally, like they never had before, and start thinking about wanting to put down roots somewhere. But Cate's planning on going to art school in New York, and Bat doesn't want to hold her back, even though he'd love it if she wanted to stay in New Orleans with him. Will these two lovers discover that what they really want may be the same thing?
I loved this one. I thought it was sexy and romantic. There were a couple of hot sex scenes, in front of a mirror and once on a motorcycle, and the scenes where Catie practiced her art by sketching Bat's nude body were smokin' hot. I loved the emotional connection between Bat and Catie, and the support each one gave to the other. I loved the ending too but wished there were about 50 more pages to read!
So, if you're looking for some hot, fast paced reads by a trio of talented writers, you would be wise to check out Hot Nights, Dark Desires. I'm already a fan of the 'Acro' series, and I will definitely check out the other books by these authors. As anthologies go, this one was pretty satisfying. 4 1/2 stars.
June 12, 2008
Hot Night Dark Desires is a three story anthology written by some of today‘s hottest erotic writers. Eden Bradley, Sydney Croft and Stephanie Tyler contribute very hot, steamy stories set in the sultry New Orleans. What sets this anthology apart from the others I have read is…all of the stories were really good. In my opinion, this is a rarity in multiple author anthologies.
In the Art of Desire by Eden Bradley
When Sophie’s friend asks her to accompany her to the local tattoo parlor to have some ink done, Sophie is very reluctant to do so. Being tattooed is Sophie’s secret fantasy . To Sophie, there is something very sensual about getting a tattoo, but guilt from her parents and her religious beliefs have kept her from fulfilling one of her deepest desires.
Reluctantly, Sophie accompanies her friend to get her tattoo, only to be blindsided by the most desirable man she has ever encountered.
Sexy tattoo artist Tristan is immediately drawn to Sophie. Understanding she is just here to be a supportive shoulder for her friend, Tristan and Sophie soon form a bond as they become more aquainted with one another. Soon Tristan realizes there is more to Sophie than meets the eye. When Sophie sees what a beautiful job Tristan does tattooing her friend, she decides to give into her secret longing and get a tattoo for herself …but Tristan must be the one to permanently mark her virgin skin.
When Tristan and Sophie meet their chemistry was literally heating up the room. When Tristan tattoos Sophie it is very sensual, and they have a deep rooted connection that was very apparent throughout the story. Both Tristan and Sophie must work through their own demons before they can fully commit to one another. As with most of Eden Bradley’s stories, I thought the character development was well written, and I loved every word written in this story.
Shadow Play by Sydney Croft
Brenna St. James was once one of the modeling industries most desired, spoiled, well paid models. Not anymore. The career that was once the focus of her life was taken away by one thing. An entity that is showing up in every picture that is taken of her. Now almost destitute, she is desperate for help. Hearing about Hex, a renowned ghost photographer, she quickly contacts him in hopes that he can rid her of the entity that is haunting her so she can return to fast-paced life she loves.
Going against his instincts, Hex reluctantly shows up on Brenna’s doorstep. When he realizes that there is more going on with Brenna that meets the eye, he stays to help her. Despite his biggest efforts, he cannot help but be attracted and feel connected to Brenna on a deeply emotional level. But, belonging to the ACRO organization he knows that he and the supermodels fast-paced lifestyle will not co-exist.
Both characters go through some deep character development. Brenna’s life and attitude about herself and her priorities change drastically. I love when both characters get deeply attached to one another. Both Hex and Brenna become better people by the end of the story. Shadow Play is both a very sexy read and a real page turner! I couldn’t wait to find out what was going to happen next! While Shadow Play is easily a stand alone story in the ACRO series, there are two full length novels Riding the Storm and Unleashing the Storm are more in depth about the ACRO organization. I really enjoyed reading more about the mysterious ACRO organization, and I anxiously look forward to reading more about it in the upcoming book Seducing the Storm to be released later this year.
Night Vision by Stephanie Tyler
Catie Lanford needs help. Inheriting a run-down bar from an Uncle she has never met, she is determined to whip the bar back into shape. Hoping to sell it, she wants to give herself a fresh start. What she doesn’t count on is Bat Kelly, the cooler she hired get the bar running smoothly and more profitable, to be so mysterious and sexy.
Bat Kelly knows not to mix business with pleasure. Being around Catie makes him want to throw all caution away and hold her in his arms. As they work to get the bar into shape, they find themselves being drawn to each other, and the bar they are trying to save.
I thought that Bat was such a sexy, well written hero. There are many layers to him that I found compelling and lovable. I thought that he and Catie were very well matched. Both characters seem to find an inner-peace at the end that I loved. This was a very interesting, fast-paced story for me. I easily lost myself in the lives of Bat and Catie. I was very sorry for this story to end.
Hot Nights Dark Desires has earned a place on my keeper shelf. After reading this book, I plan on reading more by all of these authors. A word of warning though: If you are offended by strong language and explicit sexual situations, this book is not for you. If you are looking for a stories that will touch you on a emotional level and make you turn down the air condition in your house, this is the book for you.
For more information Eden Bradley and her other works, her website is: www.edenbradley.com.
For more information on Sydney Croft and her ACRO series, her website is: www.sydneycroft.com.
For more information on Stephanie Tyler and her other works, her website is: www.stephanietyler.com.
In the Art of Desire by Eden Bradley
When Sophie’s friend asks her to accompany her to the local tattoo parlor to have some ink done, Sophie is very reluctant to do so. Being tattooed is Sophie’s secret fantasy . To Sophie, there is something very sensual about getting a tattoo, but guilt from her parents and her religious beliefs have kept her from fulfilling one of her deepest desires.
Reluctantly, Sophie accompanies her friend to get her tattoo, only to be blindsided by the most desirable man she has ever encountered.
Sexy tattoo artist Tristan is immediately drawn to Sophie. Understanding she is just here to be a supportive shoulder for her friend, Tristan and Sophie soon form a bond as they become more aquainted with one another. Soon Tristan realizes there is more to Sophie than meets the eye. When Sophie sees what a beautiful job Tristan does tattooing her friend, she decides to give into her secret longing and get a tattoo for herself …but Tristan must be the one to permanently mark her virgin skin.
When Tristan and Sophie meet their chemistry was literally heating up the room. When Tristan tattoos Sophie it is very sensual, and they have a deep rooted connection that was very apparent throughout the story. Both Tristan and Sophie must work through their own demons before they can fully commit to one another. As with most of Eden Bradley’s stories, I thought the character development was well written, and I loved every word written in this story.
Shadow Play by Sydney Croft
Brenna St. James was once one of the modeling industries most desired, spoiled, well paid models. Not anymore. The career that was once the focus of her life was taken away by one thing. An entity that is showing up in every picture that is taken of her. Now almost destitute, she is desperate for help. Hearing about Hex, a renowned ghost photographer, she quickly contacts him in hopes that he can rid her of the entity that is haunting her so she can return to fast-paced life she loves.
Going against his instincts, Hex reluctantly shows up on Brenna’s doorstep. When he realizes that there is more going on with Brenna that meets the eye, he stays to help her. Despite his biggest efforts, he cannot help but be attracted and feel connected to Brenna on a deeply emotional level. But, belonging to the ACRO organization he knows that he and the supermodels fast-paced lifestyle will not co-exist.
Both characters go through some deep character development. Brenna’s life and attitude about herself and her priorities change drastically. I love when both characters get deeply attached to one another. Both Hex and Brenna become better people by the end of the story. Shadow Play is both a very sexy read and a real page turner! I couldn’t wait to find out what was going to happen next! While Shadow Play is easily a stand alone story in the ACRO series, there are two full length novels Riding the Storm and Unleashing the Storm are more in depth about the ACRO organization. I really enjoyed reading more about the mysterious ACRO organization, and I anxiously look forward to reading more about it in the upcoming book Seducing the Storm to be released later this year.
Night Vision by Stephanie Tyler
Catie Lanford needs help. Inheriting a run-down bar from an Uncle she has never met, she is determined to whip the bar back into shape. Hoping to sell it, she wants to give herself a fresh start. What she doesn’t count on is Bat Kelly, the cooler she hired get the bar running smoothly and more profitable, to be so mysterious and sexy.
Bat Kelly knows not to mix business with pleasure. Being around Catie makes him want to throw all caution away and hold her in his arms. As they work to get the bar into shape, they find themselves being drawn to each other, and the bar they are trying to save.
I thought that Bat was such a sexy, well written hero. There are many layers to him that I found compelling and lovable. I thought that he and Catie were very well matched. Both characters seem to find an inner-peace at the end that I loved. This was a very interesting, fast-paced story for me. I easily lost myself in the lives of Bat and Catie. I was very sorry for this story to end.
Hot Nights Dark Desires has earned a place on my keeper shelf. After reading this book, I plan on reading more by all of these authors. A word of warning though: If you are offended by strong language and explicit sexual situations, this book is not for you. If you are looking for a stories that will touch you on a emotional level and make you turn down the air condition in your house, this is the book for you.
For more information Eden Bradley and her other works, her website is: www.edenbradley.com.
For more information on Sydney Croft and her ACRO series, her website is: www.sydneycroft.com.
For more information on Stephanie Tyler and her other works, her website is: www.stephanietyler.com.
April 8, 2012
This is one of the best anthologies I've had the pleasure to read.
It consists of three stories by: Eden Bradley, Sydney Croft and Stephanie Tyler.
They all take place in New Orleans , but have very different themes. My favorite was Tyler's " Night Vision", about a woman who inherits a ramshackle bar in New Oreleans and the über hot guy , named Bat, whom she hires to help her clean it up. The scenes between the two are so hot I thought the book might burst into flames (if I didn't first!!!) . And wait until you find out why his name is "Bat" !
The other two stories are also well written, have good story lines and great sex scenes you won't soon forget.
It consists of three stories by: Eden Bradley, Sydney Croft and Stephanie Tyler.
They all take place in New Orleans , but have very different themes. My favorite was Tyler's " Night Vision", about a woman who inherits a ramshackle bar in New Oreleans and the über hot guy , named Bat, whom she hires to help her clean it up. The scenes between the two are so hot I thought the book might burst into flames (if I didn't first!!!) . And wait until you find out why his name is "Bat" !
The other two stories are also well written, have good story lines and great sex scenes you won't soon forget.
June 14, 2015
There were three short, erotic, stories in this trade paperback. All set in Louisiana after hurricane Katrina. Overall, they were all nicely written and entertaining. All romantic, one was modern, another a paranormal, the last had a touch of suspense.
1. The Art of Desire by Eden Bradley
- Who'd'a thought getting a tattoo would be such a turn-on? The premise was silly, but the story and the way the author touched on the character's--Tristan Bastiste and Sophie Fiore--backgrounds helped make this a neat little read. Tristan owned the tattoo shop, Beneath the Skin. Sophie was an author trying to be okay with herself because her way of life went against the grain of her biological family and they weren't shy about letting their disapproval show, either.
3 1/2 Stars
2. Shadow Play by Sydney Croft
- I bought this book for this story. It is #2.5 in the ACRO series that I've enjoyed, mostly. This one definitely falls into the 2.5 category because it's not necessary in the series. One character, Creed, is mentioned--twice--and the ACRO business. That was the only link to the series
- Hex was a troubled ghostwhisperer who's job was to help lost spirits go to the light. How that worked into the ACRO business...? He was moody, hung-up on one incident of his past like it was a big deal, and sex starved. Brenna was a spoiled, super-model. They deserved each other.
Brenna was being haunted and Hex was there to help the spirit home. For someone that that was his j. o. b., he sure handled it badly.
2 1/2 Stars
3. Night Vision by Stephanie Tyler
- For me, this was the best of the three. Nice characters (Bat and Catie). It reminded me a lot of the movie "Road House" with Patrick Swayze. Bat was a "cooler." Hired to clean up rowdy bars. There was a touch of suspense in this one and it could have been expanded to stand on its own.
4 Stars
1. The Art of Desire by Eden Bradley
- Who'd'a thought getting a tattoo would be such a turn-on? The premise was silly, but the story and the way the author touched on the character's--Tristan Bastiste and Sophie Fiore--backgrounds helped make this a neat little read. Tristan owned the tattoo shop, Beneath the Skin. Sophie was an author trying to be okay with herself because her way of life went against the grain of her biological family and they weren't shy about letting their disapproval show, either.
3 1/2 Stars
2. Shadow Play by Sydney Croft
- I bought this book for this story. It is #2.5 in the ACRO series that I've enjoyed, mostly. This one definitely falls into the 2.5 category because it's not necessary in the series. One character, Creed, is mentioned--twice--and the ACRO business. That was the only link to the series
- Hex was a troubled ghostwhisperer who's job was to help lost spirits go to the light. How that worked into the ACRO business...? He was moody, hung-up on one incident of his past like it was a big deal, and sex starved. Brenna was a spoiled, super-model. They deserved each other.
Brenna was being haunted and Hex was there to help the spirit home. For someone that that was his j. o. b., he sure handled it badly.
2 1/2 Stars
3. Night Vision by Stephanie Tyler
- For me, this was the best of the three. Nice characters (Bat and Catie). It reminded me a lot of the movie "Road House" with Patrick Swayze. Bat was a "cooler." Hired to clean up rowdy bars. There was a touch of suspense in this one and it could have been expanded to stand on its own.
4 Stars
Read
August 10, 2022I read this collection of short stories because it contains Shadow Play (ACRO 2.5) by Sydney Croft. The theme of the stories is New Orleans and bayou areas post-Katrina. The first story is The Art of Desire by Eden Bradley. In general, I like to finish stories I start and that's the only thing that made me finish this story. The characters weren't relatable or admirable, caught in self-destructive loops either as punishment to themselves or as reactions to other's approval or lack thereof. The leading woman has a fetish about tattoos to the point that she wants her entire body tattooed mostly to prove to herself that she can rebel. I wonder what she'll do for thrills once there's no unmarred skin remaining. The characters seemed immature, although there was a tiny bit of growth through the story. Mostly, it was a big, annoying waste of time. On to the next story. 1/5. Shadow Play by Sydney Croft has Hex, a ghost hunter from ACRO, reluctantly helping Brenna who is a supermodel who no longer can be seen in photos due to the interference of a ghost. There’s lots of steamy scenes and a problem to work out. It was an okay ACRO novella. 3/5. The final story was Night Vision by Stephanie Tyler. She's half of the writing team of Sydney Croft. Catie has inherited her uncle’s bar in New Orleans and comes to town to get it in shape to sell but ends up discovering her roots plus Bat, a sexy “cooler”, who is like a manager she hires to turn around the rough and tumble bar. At first, it was a bit hard to follow, but it was an enjoyable reed overall. The love scenes were steamy, fitting to the weather, and the characters grew through the story. 4/5 Overall for the book… 3/5
December 19, 2010
Wow! What a sexy erotic anthology I've come across. I guess you could say right after this book, I've turned into an Eden Bradley and Syndey Croft fan because wowzers, it was smokin' hot! My least favorite story out of the three is the first one by Eden Bradley. Sorry m'am, I love your other works but this didn't exactly connect with your H/hr as well as Sydney Crofts'. I admit it was sexy but the plot itself was kind of sketchy and I didn't like the hero, Tristan as much.
Now let's talk about the smokin' so hot that this story will have you read it over and over again and become one of your favorites. Sydney Croft, I have my hats off to you! I mean woah, I absolutely loved the hero, Hex, in this story because he's not only a sexy blonde, but he's also very sweet. The sex scenes were hot, let me just say that again. *coughs* The paranormal-ness in this short story was very interesting and it reminded me of The Dark Power series by Kelley Armstrong. It was interesting how both the lead in the story were able to see and talk to ghosts. Very intriguing indeed! But yes, definitely a hot read by this amazing author. I am definitely going to start the ACRO series after this.
The last story was also very sweet and it's by one of the same authors as the second story under the name Sydney Croft. Very talented writer and as always, I must say that the love scenes made me blush. Heh, I'll just wrap this short review up by saying if you're an erotica + paranormal romance lover, you should definitely try out this book! It will leave you "hungry" for more. ;)
Now let's talk about the smokin' so hot that this story will have you read it over and over again and become one of your favorites. Sydney Croft, I have my hats off to you! I mean woah, I absolutely loved the hero, Hex, in this story because he's not only a sexy blonde, but he's also very sweet. The sex scenes were hot, let me just say that again. *coughs* The paranormal-ness in this short story was very interesting and it reminded me of The Dark Power series by Kelley Armstrong. It was interesting how both the lead in the story were able to see and talk to ghosts. Very intriguing indeed! But yes, definitely a hot read by this amazing author. I am definitely going to start the ACRO series after this.
The last story was also very sweet and it's by one of the same authors as the second story under the name Sydney Croft. Very talented writer and as always, I must say that the love scenes made me blush. Heh, I'll just wrap this short review up by saying if you're an erotica + paranormal romance lover, you should definitely try out this book! It will leave you "hungry" for more. ;)
August 26, 2010
This anthology is a collection of three stories. In The Art of Desire, Eden Bradley creates two characters who are "twisted up inside." The eroticism takes second place to character growth, as it should in a great book. I like the ending, where, instead of having the characters being "cured" of their problems as many other authors do, these two decide to stay together regardless of their problems. As her last sentence says, "That was more than enough." A solid four and a half-star experience.
Shadow Play by Sydney Croft was a fun paranormal tale with characters whose motives are never really made clear to the reader. It seems their protection from being possessed by spirits is ... (drumroll please) ... sexual intercourse. Good light fluff, three-stars worth. I was happy to learn that this copy I'd picked up at Half Price Books was autographed by Croft, in two places.
Night Vision by Stephanie Tyler is a story of two lonely people who learn that they are better off together. The setting is a raunchy roadhouse that has been inherited by a city-girl artist who is unable to handle that kind of trouble, so she hires someone to cool things down. He ends up heating her up very well. This tale had the best love scenes of the three, but the plot was weaker than Bradley's. Four out of five stars.
I'd read this again.
Shadow Play by Sydney Croft was a fun paranormal tale with characters whose motives are never really made clear to the reader. It seems their protection from being possessed by spirits is ... (drumroll please) ... sexual intercourse. Good light fluff, three-stars worth. I was happy to learn that this copy I'd picked up at Half Price Books was autographed by Croft, in two places.
Night Vision by Stephanie Tyler is a story of two lonely people who learn that they are better off together. The setting is a raunchy roadhouse that has been inherited by a city-girl artist who is unable to handle that kind of trouble, so she hires someone to cool things down. He ends up heating her up very well. This tale had the best love scenes of the three, but the plot was weaker than Bradley's. Four out of five stars.
I'd read this again.
July 28, 2011
All of these stories are set in New Orleans
"The Art of Desire" by Eden Bradley: A short romance about a tattoo artist, Tristan Baptiste, and Sophie, a paranormal author. This was a touching story and I liked the character portrayal. I enjoyed the emotion between the characters as Sophie tries to break through to Tristan. 4 stars
"Shadow Play" by Sydney Croft: In this short, Hex is an ACRO agent that can photograph ghosts. He meets Brenna St. James, a model who is being haunted. As he helps her with her haunting, they become intimate and he falls for her, but can he convince her to give up her modeling career to stay with him? 4 stars
"Night VIsion" by Stephanie Tyler: Catie inherits a bar from her uncle and hires Bat Kelly to come in and clean up her bar and get it running smoothly. Catie's intention is to sell the bar and return to NYC to go to art school. Neither Bat nor Kelly plan to stick around after the bar is sold but sometimes you just have to stop running. 5 stars.
"The Art of Desire" by Eden Bradley: A short romance about a tattoo artist, Tristan Baptiste, and Sophie, a paranormal author. This was a touching story and I liked the character portrayal. I enjoyed the emotion between the characters as Sophie tries to break through to Tristan. 4 stars
"Shadow Play" by Sydney Croft: In this short, Hex is an ACRO agent that can photograph ghosts. He meets Brenna St. James, a model who is being haunted. As he helps her with her haunting, they become intimate and he falls for her, but can he convince her to give up her modeling career to stay with him? 4 stars
"Night VIsion" by Stephanie Tyler: Catie inherits a bar from her uncle and hires Bat Kelly to come in and clean up her bar and get it running smoothly. Catie's intention is to sell the bar and return to NYC to go to art school. Neither Bat nor Kelly plan to stick around after the bar is sold but sometimes you just have to stop running. 5 stars.
December 31, 2010
4.5 stars.
I really enjoyed the three different sizzling stories in this book. I particularly liked the last one with Bat & Catie.
Highly recommend.
I really enjoyed the three different sizzling stories in this book. I particularly liked the last one with Bat & Catie.
Highly recommend.
April 30, 2018
Lush, haunting, and provocative, New Orleans has something to satisfy every desire—as three very lucky women are about to discover. In “Shadow Play” an ex-supermodel desperate to revive her career seeks the help of a gorgeous, reclusive photographer with a special gift—and offers him anything he wants in return. The result is a series of erotic positions captured on film—along with a mind-blowing physical connection neither expected…. In “The Art of Desire” a sheltered young woman turned on by the idea of getting tattooed dares to make her fantasy a reality. But as her arousing sessions with a dangerously handsome tattoo artist move from the tattoo parlor to the bedroom, they make an impression that’s more than skin deep…. And in “Night Vision” when artist Catie Lanford hires professional cooler Bat Kelly to whip the failing bar she’s recently inherited into shape, she’s not looking for a lover—until she lays eyes on the sexy wild man. Soon they’ve agreed to mix business with pleasure, and Catie discovers that Bat is just what she needs to set her artist’s imagination—and her body—on fire.
I had previously read the first and last story. My least favorite was the first, although honestly I didn't really like any of them. I felt they actually had too much sex and not enough plot (which I found astonishing considering some of the writers). None of the stories really gelled for me.
I had previously read the first and last story. My least favorite was the first, although honestly I didn't really like any of them. I felt they actually had too much sex and not enough plot (which I found astonishing considering some of the writers). None of the stories really gelled for me.
December 27, 2019
The Art of Desire: 2 stars......This one was only ok. I liked the idea of her meeting up and falling for a tattooist. I liked them together well enough. What threw me off this story was the constant "penance" talk and the whole religious thing. She just seemed to go on and on about it. Also, the tattoo fetish got a little odd at times and unsanitary (i.e. the kitchen counter scene) I also couldn't help think that the girl is gonna run out of skin eventually, so what then?
Shadow Play: 3.5 starts....This is the reason I bought the book. I found the story line about the ghost interesting and at times a bit creepy (in a page turning way). The relationship between the 2 characters was a rocky road that eventually worked out. I liked them together but there were times they seemed on opposite sides of the road. But I really like this story.
Night Vision: 3 stars....I liked this one and I found the 2 characters engaging. They had a fast relationship but in the end they worked out their differences and ended up wanting the same thing...a place to call home. Good story.
Shadow Play: 3.5 starts....This is the reason I bought the book. I found the story line about the ghost interesting and at times a bit creepy (in a page turning way). The relationship between the 2 characters was a rocky road that eventually worked out. I liked them together but there were times they seemed on opposite sides of the road. But I really like this story.
Night Vision: 3 stars....I liked this one and I found the 2 characters engaging. They had a fast relationship but in the end they worked out their differences and ended up wanting the same thing...a place to call home. Good story.
February 14, 2022
I borrowed this book for the ACRO 2.5. This anthology isn't bad. It was just okay for me. It wasn't hot or sexy for me either. It was depressing. All three stories dealt with characters who are "broken". They come from broken homes or dysfunctional ones. I couldn't get into any of the sexy parts because I wanted to send these characters to a therapy couch so that they could learn their own self worth. This is not what I was expecting and I don't like stories likes this. Maybe this is better for others, not for me.
January 19, 2018
This book has three different stories- The art of desire by Eden Bradley, Shadow Play by Sydney Croft & Night Vision by Stephanie Tyler. I didn't care for Shadow Play because it was a paranormal story and for some reason they just don't hold my interest but it was still written good. The other two stories I liked- the stories flowed and were interesting.
August 16, 2018
Pretty good short stories that hold your attention above and below the belt.
July 21, 2019
Rated 3.5 Stars
February 21, 2023
I liked it
February 28, 2023
The Art of Desire by Eden Bradley: (3.5 stars)
Sophie has a tattoo fetish. Well, she has a very strange tattoo fetish. It's not just that she loves a guy with tattoos. She has a secret fantasy of being tattooed. This fantasy is of quite a sexual nature. When her friend Crystal asks her to go with her to the tattoo shop because she's getting a tattoo, she's leery at first. She's not sure she can handle seeing someone being tattooed without losing it. But, she decides to go anyways. There she meets Tristan, the tattoo artist. It's sort of love at first site-ish. They make googly eyes at each other and she is pretty sure he might be the man that could fulfill all her wildest fantasies.
I kind of have mixed feelings about this one. The romance between the two of them was pretty smokin' and Tristan was uber hot. But, a couple things bugged me. First of all her fetish is a little too strange for me. I'm all for tattoos on a hot guy -- it's sexy. But to have a fetish about the actual process of BEING tattooed to the point that you literally come while you're under the needle and with no other sexual stimulation...well, that just makes no sense to me. It just seems really weird. The other thing that kind of bugged me was that they were both a bit whiny about their lives and their pasts. I mean, yeah, they had some bad things that happened and I feel for both of them in that sense -- especially in Tristan's case. But they both -- but mostly Tristan -- just seemed to linger too much on it. Their own personal issues were the only thing holding them back from a relationship and I found their(his) reasons to hold back loving each other to be pretty weak.
But anyways, I did like her writing style and I read this in one sitting so that's a good sign. Overall, a hot little story. Some weird stuff, but still pretty good nonetheless.
-----------------------------------
-----------------------------------
Shadow Play by Sydney Croft: (3.5 stars)
(ACRO, #2.5)
This story was the reason I picked up this anthology. However, the story is about a couple of characters that aren't in any of the previous ACRO books, although one of them does work for ACRO, he's not even really on an ACRO mission.
Hex is a medium who can see and communicate with ghosts, but he can only see them through the lens of his camera. His job at ACRO is generally to help lost souls to cross over, especially when they seem to be causing trouble in the human population. When he gets a request from a supermodel named Brenna to help her, he's a little skeptical. He's seen her photographs and knows she's beautiful, but he doesn't quite believe she's haunted. When he sees what she's dealing with though, he realizes he was quite wrong. While trying to get rid of her ghost, the chemistry between them is overflowing and quickly turns undeniable.
This was a hot little story that takes place in the ACRO world. I liked it for the most part, but like with a lot of the ACRO books, the sex just gets to be too much (as in quantity) for me. You know how when an erotica story has sex thrown in like every ten pages or so, how it just gets a little staid? That's kind of what it gets like. So that was kind of meh at times. But it did have it's hot moments for sure, don't get me wrong there! The only other thing I didn't like was that every time they had sex they literally would go from hot (during the sex) to completely cold and arguing all the time right after sex (even before the clothes were put back on). That just got old and made them both seem childish. But, overall it was pretty good and had a lot of hot moments in it.
-----------------------------------
-----------------------------------
Night Vision by Stephanie Tyler: (3 stars)
This is my first Stephanie Tyler story. Although I'm reading the ACRO series (Sydney Croft is Stephanie Tyler and Larissa Ione), I haven't read one of Stephanie's own stories. It was decent. Nothing too special, but still okay.
Bat is a man that doesn't like to stay in one place too long. His job takes him to bars all over the place, in order to renovate and bring them back to life. When he's brought back to his hometown bar, he meets Catie -- the new owner. The immediate attraction between them is undeniable. While he's trying to get the bar in shape for her to be able to sell it, their romance is brewing and they're both falling hard for each other.
I thought this was okay. What I like most about it is that their relationship felt pretty gradual and realistic. I like that they weren't using the love word too quickly and I just felt it was pretty believable. But -- and this is why I'm generally not a big fan of contemporary romance -- it didn't have any action. It was just their relationship and that can get a bit boring. So, this was good, but not anything overly special.
Sophie has a tattoo fetish. Well, she has a very strange tattoo fetish. It's not just that she loves a guy with tattoos. She has a secret fantasy of being tattooed. This fantasy is of quite a sexual nature. When her friend Crystal asks her to go with her to the tattoo shop because she's getting a tattoo, she's leery at first. She's not sure she can handle seeing someone being tattooed without losing it. But, she decides to go anyways. There she meets Tristan, the tattoo artist. It's sort of love at first site-ish. They make googly eyes at each other and she is pretty sure he might be the man that could fulfill all her wildest fantasies.
I kind of have mixed feelings about this one. The romance between the two of them was pretty smokin' and Tristan was uber hot. But, a couple things bugged me. First of all her fetish is a little too strange for me. I'm all for tattoos on a hot guy -- it's sexy. But to have a fetish about the actual process of BEING tattooed to the point that you literally come while you're under the needle and with no other sexual stimulation...well, that just makes no sense to me. It just seems really weird. The other thing that kind of bugged me was that they were both a bit whiny about their lives and their pasts. I mean, yeah, they had some bad things that happened and I feel for both of them in that sense -- especially in Tristan's case. But they both -- but mostly Tristan -- just seemed to linger too much on it. Their own personal issues were the only thing holding them back from a relationship and I found their(his) reasons to hold back loving each other to be pretty weak.
But anyways, I did like her writing style and I read this in one sitting so that's a good sign. Overall, a hot little story. Some weird stuff, but still pretty good nonetheless.
-----------------------------------
-----------------------------------
Shadow Play by Sydney Croft: (3.5 stars)
(ACRO, #2.5)
This story was the reason I picked up this anthology. However, the story is about a couple of characters that aren't in any of the previous ACRO books, although one of them does work for ACRO, he's not even really on an ACRO mission.
Hex is a medium who can see and communicate with ghosts, but he can only see them through the lens of his camera. His job at ACRO is generally to help lost souls to cross over, especially when they seem to be causing trouble in the human population. When he gets a request from a supermodel named Brenna to help her, he's a little skeptical. He's seen her photographs and knows she's beautiful, but he doesn't quite believe she's haunted. When he sees what she's dealing with though, he realizes he was quite wrong. While trying to get rid of her ghost, the chemistry between them is overflowing and quickly turns undeniable.
This was a hot little story that takes place in the ACRO world. I liked it for the most part, but like with a lot of the ACRO books, the sex just gets to be too much (as in quantity) for me. You know how when an erotica story has sex thrown in like every ten pages or so, how it just gets a little staid? That's kind of what it gets like. So that was kind of meh at times. But it did have it's hot moments for sure, don't get me wrong there! The only other thing I didn't like was that every time they had sex they literally would go from hot (during the sex) to completely cold and arguing all the time right after sex (even before the clothes were put back on). That just got old and made them both seem childish. But, overall it was pretty good and had a lot of hot moments in it.
-----------------------------------
-----------------------------------
Night Vision by Stephanie Tyler: (3 stars)
This is my first Stephanie Tyler story. Although I'm reading the ACRO series (Sydney Croft is Stephanie Tyler and Larissa Ione), I haven't read one of Stephanie's own stories. It was decent. Nothing too special, but still okay.
Bat is a man that doesn't like to stay in one place too long. His job takes him to bars all over the place, in order to renovate and bring them back to life. When he's brought back to his hometown bar, he meets Catie -- the new owner. The immediate attraction between them is undeniable. While he's trying to get the bar in shape for her to be able to sell it, their romance is brewing and they're both falling hard for each other.
I thought this was okay. What I like most about it is that their relationship felt pretty gradual and realistic. I like that they weren't using the love word too quickly and I just felt it was pretty believable. But -- and this is why I'm generally not a big fan of contemporary romance -- it didn't have any action. It was just their relationship and that can get a bit boring. So, this was good, but not anything overly special.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 7, 2015
"Hot Nights, Dark Desires" an anthology by Eden Bradley, Stephanie Tyler and Sydney Croft.
This anthology consists of three novellas. "The Art of Desire" by Eden Bradley, "Shadow Play" by Sydney Croft and "Night Vision" by Stephanie Tyler. I know that "Shadow Play" is part of the ACRO series but the others are not part of a series. Each story can be read as a stand alone. Each story focuses on at least one of the characters having some interest in an art form.
3.5 stars
The Art of Desire by Eden Bradley
This is the first time that I have read anything from Ms. Bradley. I liked it. Sophie and Tristan were very interesting characters, to say the least. Sophie is an author with a tattoo fetish and Tristan is a tattoo artist.
When Sophie's friend goes to get a tattoo and brings Sophie with her, the last thing she expects is to be getting a tattoo herself and to be inexplicably drawn to the tattoo artist, Tristan. When an angel walks into Tristin's shop, he knows he's not good enough for her. But he just can't deny the attraction that he has for her. It's not just sexual for both of them, it's emotional as well.
This novella is very erotic if you don't mind fetishes and a little pain with your pleasure. Sophie and Tristan's pasts are revealed and show you why they act the way they do in their relationship. Very deep emotionally. Overall, I liked it.
5 stars
Shadow Play by Sydney Croft. (aka: Larissa Ione and Stephanie Tyler) Book 2.5 in the ACRO series.
This was a great novella starring Hex and Brenna set in the ACRO world. If you have not read the series, that is OK. This novella stands on it's own.
Brenna is a model who is down to her last couple of dollars. Ever since she inherited her mother's house, she knows that she's being haunted and every photo taken of her now, doesn't turn out. Her image is all blurry. As a last resort, she calls Hex. He is known for taking pictures of ghosts...and getting rid of them. Hex doesn't take pictures of people. But he just can't help the feeling that he has to help Brenna. He also can't deny the attraction he has for her ever since reading about her in a men's magazine.
This novella about Brenna and Hex, both denying their gifts that allow them to speak with ghosts, was just fantastic! Both struggle with emotions about letting someone into their hearts. Very sensual and erotic! Just a really great read.
2 stars
Night Vision by Stephanie Tyler.
So this novella was OK. The characters of Bat and Catie were interesting. The only problem I had was that I had no idea what a "cooler" was and wished that it was explained off-the-bat in story. FYI - a "cooler" is someone who's called in to "fix" a failing bar/club. Who knew?!
Catie is an artist that just inherited her uncle's bar and all she wants to do is get rid of it. But the bar is losing money and it's reputation so she calls in a cooler. Bat is supposed to be the best at what he does; fixing up bars that need help. When he meets the owner, Catie, he knows he's in more than he bargained for.
There's a little, kind of, mystery thrown into this novella (not really that interesting actually) and a lot of lusty sex and ferious drawing of Bat who becomes Catie's muse (basically). The erotic scenes between Catie and Bat were really very well done but the rest of the storyline was just OK for me. I didn't really like Bat's "job" because basically he just comes in and takes over the whole business while he tells Catie to "go upstairs" and draw and wait for him. But the ending was really nice. Each character realizing what they both really want.
OVERALL IMPRESSION OF THIS ANTHOLOGY
I quite enjoyed reading all these novellas. Each author has a good writing style and the language used was very easy to understand and flowed really nicely. I liked it.
This anthology consists of three novellas. "The Art of Desire" by Eden Bradley, "Shadow Play" by Sydney Croft and "Night Vision" by Stephanie Tyler. I know that "Shadow Play" is part of the ACRO series but the others are not part of a series. Each story can be read as a stand alone. Each story focuses on at least one of the characters having some interest in an art form.
3.5 stars
The Art of Desire by Eden Bradley
This is the first time that I have read anything from Ms. Bradley. I liked it. Sophie and Tristan were very interesting characters, to say the least. Sophie is an author with a tattoo fetish and Tristan is a tattoo artist.
When Sophie's friend goes to get a tattoo and brings Sophie with her, the last thing she expects is to be getting a tattoo herself and to be inexplicably drawn to the tattoo artist, Tristan. When an angel walks into Tristin's shop, he knows he's not good enough for her. But he just can't deny the attraction that he has for her. It's not just sexual for both of them, it's emotional as well.
This novella is very erotic if you don't mind fetishes and a little pain with your pleasure. Sophie and Tristan's pasts are revealed and show you why they act the way they do in their relationship. Very deep emotionally. Overall, I liked it.
5 stars
Shadow Play by Sydney Croft. (aka: Larissa Ione and Stephanie Tyler) Book 2.5 in the ACRO series.
This was a great novella starring Hex and Brenna set in the ACRO world. If you have not read the series, that is OK. This novella stands on it's own.
Brenna is a model who is down to her last couple of dollars. Ever since she inherited her mother's house, she knows that she's being haunted and every photo taken of her now, doesn't turn out. Her image is all blurry. As a last resort, she calls Hex. He is known for taking pictures of ghosts...and getting rid of them. Hex doesn't take pictures of people. But he just can't help the feeling that he has to help Brenna. He also can't deny the attraction he has for her ever since reading about her in a men's magazine.
This novella about Brenna and Hex, both denying their gifts that allow them to speak with ghosts, was just fantastic! Both struggle with emotions about letting someone into their hearts. Very sensual and erotic! Just a really great read.
2 stars
Night Vision by Stephanie Tyler.
So this novella was OK. The characters of Bat and Catie were interesting. The only problem I had was that I had no idea what a "cooler" was and wished that it was explained off-the-bat in story. FYI - a "cooler" is someone who's called in to "fix" a failing bar/club. Who knew?!
Catie is an artist that just inherited her uncle's bar and all she wants to do is get rid of it. But the bar is losing money and it's reputation so she calls in a cooler. Bat is supposed to be the best at what he does; fixing up bars that need help. When he meets the owner, Catie, he knows he's in more than he bargained for.
There's a little, kind of, mystery thrown into this novella (not really that interesting actually) and a lot of lusty sex and ferious drawing of Bat who becomes Catie's muse (basically). The erotic scenes between Catie and Bat were really very well done but the rest of the storyline was just OK for me. I didn't really like Bat's "job" because basically he just comes in and takes over the whole business while he tells Catie to "go upstairs" and draw and wait for him. But the ending was really nice. Each character realizing what they both really want.
OVERALL IMPRESSION OF THIS ANTHOLOGY
I quite enjoyed reading all these novellas. Each author has a good writing style and the language used was very easy to understand and flowed really nicely. I liked it.
Read
September 3, 2012I felt like I just read the same story three times, each with a slightly different twist.
Each female lead enjoys living in denial. At some point, one or both characters will run away from the other in an attempt to avoid future heartache.
But it was Art of Desire that sticks out in my mind. That story was kinda fucked up. The story is about Sophie and Tristan. Sophie has a tattoo fetish - the idea of it turns her on immensely. I get this. But then she while getting tattooed by Tristan, she freakin' comes on the table!
THAT IS UNSANITARY.
Then we get deeper into her character development and find out she has unbelievable amounts of guilt for all sorts of things due to her strict Catholic upbringing. Though purposely defying her parents by not becoming a nun or something, she still can't let go of the guilt and feels that, due to her sexual desires, she deserves to be punished. This girl has dreams about people throwing buckets of water on her while they call her a whore - that's some serious fucking guilt.
Awesomely enough, Tristan feels the need to be punished, too. His younger brother idolized him and ended up ODing on drugs. Totally Tristan's fault, obviously. He can never be in a relationship because he will inevitably hurt them, fail them, and somehow cause their death. They're in New Orleans, he could have easily have gone with the "I'm cursed" line.
So, now we have two guilt-ridden pain fetishists falling in love, but trying to fight it at the same time because they don't deserve to be happy, la la that nonsense. Which leads us to the super sexy fun time scenes that give us gems like:
"He drove deeper, hurting her, but she needed it. Penance, yes."
"“I’m gonna hurt you, Sophie.”
“Yes. Do it.”"
"“Christ, Sophie…yes, bite it, bite it hard.” She paused, bit into the tender flesh at the head of his cock. It fucking hurt. He deserved it. Needed it."
I don't even have a dick, but it hurts right now.
There was a lot of pain and punishment in this story. I felt guilty just reading it.
The other two stories... the ACRO story, Shadow Play was another female lead I didn't like - Brenna. She had this air of naive entitlement about her and I'm really not sure why Hex was attracted to her after she opened her mouth. But the plot was interesting. The last story, Night Vision, made me LOL when Bat revealed how he got his name. But Catie came across as weak and scared until the very end. I didn't believe for a moment that she worked the bar scene in New York City. She was too meek.
Each female lead enjoys living in denial. At some point, one or both characters will run away from the other in an attempt to avoid future heartache.
But it was Art of Desire that sticks out in my mind. That story was kinda fucked up. The story is about Sophie and Tristan. Sophie has a tattoo fetish - the idea of it turns her on immensely. I get this. But then she while getting tattooed by Tristan, she freakin' comes on the table!
THAT IS UNSANITARY.
Then we get deeper into her character development and find out she has unbelievable amounts of guilt for all sorts of things due to her strict Catholic upbringing. Though purposely defying her parents by not becoming a nun or something, she still can't let go of the guilt and feels that, due to her sexual desires, she deserves to be punished. This girl has dreams about people throwing buckets of water on her while they call her a whore - that's some serious fucking guilt.
Awesomely enough, Tristan feels the need to be punished, too. His younger brother idolized him and ended up ODing on drugs. Totally Tristan's fault, obviously. He can never be in a relationship because he will inevitably hurt them, fail them, and somehow cause their death. They're in New Orleans, he could have easily have gone with the "I'm cursed" line.
So, now we have two guilt-ridden pain fetishists falling in love, but trying to fight it at the same time because they don't deserve to be happy, la la that nonsense. Which leads us to the super sexy fun time scenes that give us gems like:
"He drove deeper, hurting her, but she needed it. Penance, yes."
"“I’m gonna hurt you, Sophie.”
“Yes. Do it.”"
"“Christ, Sophie…yes, bite it, bite it hard.” She paused, bit into the tender flesh at the head of his cock. It fucking hurt. He deserved it. Needed it."
I don't even have a dick, but it hurts right now.
There was a lot of pain and punishment in this story. I felt guilty just reading it.
The other two stories... the ACRO story, Shadow Play was another female lead I didn't like - Brenna. She had this air of naive entitlement about her and I'm really not sure why Hex was attracted to her after she opened her mouth. But the plot was interesting. The last story, Night Vision, made me LOL when Bat revealed how he got his name. But Catie came across as weak and scared until the very end. I didn't believe for a moment that she worked the bar scene in New York City. She was too meek.
January 23, 2012
For me a pretty typical anthology by three favorite authors.
All stories took place in New Orleans post Katrina. It put me in a mood for all my fav paranormal romances set in New Orleans. I even spent a few hours hunting and pecking my way through pictures in search of the locations mentioned, hot men ;), and museums, etc.
It is not often anyone will ever hear me say this - in fact I am not sure I ever have before. But this compilation of stories and authors satisfied my "steamy hot smut factor"! I was sated - er I mean satisfied in all things sensual in these stories.
The first story: Art of Delight, Eden Bradley
A woman with a tattoo fetish realizes her fantasies and her dream man.
The second story and the reason I bought the book: Shadow Play, Sydney Croft.
It is 2.5 in the ARCO Series. I liked this story well enough because of the immensely talented author(s) and the story tellers they are - AND of course because they do pervy so very very well.
But I was disappointed in the story. In my humble estimation it seems it was mostly likely a first attempt at creating the ARCO series and shelved (temporarily) as the rest of the seriest developed. Rather than keep it on a shelf, which would have been most unfortunate they opted to publish it and share it. For which I truly appreciate. Because sometimes even a lesser version of a favorite series is just fine.
It's just that the characters mentioned in this story didn't surface (that I recall) in the other books. Creed is referenced, and the head of the group is as well. The only problem is it wasn't the leader in all the other books.
But all that aside - I enjoyed the story and I am so glad to have read it.
The third story: Night Vision by Stehpanie Tyler
A woman Catie-Chere inherits a bar. Bat, is a "cooler" she hired to help gain control of a very disreputable atmosphere. I learned what a cooler is - which is just as I described (I didn't realize there was a name for it ;) ). Bat is F.I.N.E. and his character as Ms. Tyler described is my new lead man fantasy. So sexy, so strong, so... um, yeah. I'm in love.
I have known of Ms. Tylers other work as for years now and have always just skipped past the reads. BUT I find myself sitting here debating my next read. Being good and reading my library book (Mercy Burns) or buying the ebook of Hard to Hold by Ms. Tyler. Yes. These are the tough calls I have to make as a reader. :)
All stories took place in New Orleans post Katrina. It put me in a mood for all my fav paranormal romances set in New Orleans. I even spent a few hours hunting and pecking my way through pictures in search of the locations mentioned, hot men ;), and museums, etc.
It is not often anyone will ever hear me say this - in fact I am not sure I ever have before. But this compilation of stories and authors satisfied my "steamy hot smut factor"! I was sated - er I mean satisfied in all things sensual in these stories.
The first story: Art of Delight, Eden Bradley
A woman with a tattoo fetish realizes her fantasies and her dream man.
The second story and the reason I bought the book: Shadow Play, Sydney Croft.
It is 2.5 in the ARCO Series. I liked this story well enough because of the immensely talented author(s) and the story tellers they are - AND of course because they do pervy so very very well.
But I was disappointed in the story. In my humble estimation it seems it was mostly likely a first attempt at creating the ARCO series and shelved (temporarily) as the rest of the seriest developed. Rather than keep it on a shelf, which would have been most unfortunate they opted to publish it and share it. For which I truly appreciate. Because sometimes even a lesser version of a favorite series is just fine.
It's just that the characters mentioned in this story didn't surface (that I recall) in the other books. Creed is referenced, and the head of the group is as well. The only problem is it wasn't the leader in all the other books.
But all that aside - I enjoyed the story and I am so glad to have read it.
The third story: Night Vision by Stehpanie Tyler
A woman Catie-Chere inherits a bar. Bat, is a "cooler" she hired to help gain control of a very disreputable atmosphere. I learned what a cooler is - which is just as I described (I didn't realize there was a name for it ;) ). Bat is F.I.N.E. and his character as Ms. Tyler described is my new lead man fantasy. So sexy, so strong, so... um, yeah. I'm in love.
I have known of Ms. Tylers other work as for years now and have always just skipped past the reads. BUT I find myself sitting here debating my next read. Being good and reading my library book (Mercy Burns) or buying the ebook of Hard to Hold by Ms. Tyler. Yes. These are the tough calls I have to make as a reader. :)
February 19, 2010
The art of desire by Eden Bradley:
Sophie has been fascinated by tattoos her whole life, but she never had the nerve to get one. But she is tired of being the good girl, so when her best friend ask her to go with her when she’s getting her tattoo, Sophie knows this might be her only change. Then she meets Tristan, the artist of skin ink, he is the one who design her first tattoo but also brings her to higher ground with his touch and kisses.
Shadow play by Sydney Croft:
Brenna St. James nightmare is coming true, her modeling career is falling apart and if she doesn’t get back in the saddle soon; her career will be over. Brenna knows she’s being haunted by a ghost, because she cannot be seen on film, only a blur and consider her paranormal background, she know she is right. The only man who can help her is Hex, the photographer and an expert on paranormal field. Now they have to work together and help the ghost to move on before things are getting out of hand.
Night Vision by Stephanie Tyler:
Catie Lanford inherited a bar from her uncle and her only goal is to restore the bar back to health and sell it as quickly as possible. Catie wants to return back to art school. So Catie hires Bat Kelly, a cooler, in the hope he can have the job done within weeks. But nobody could have predicted the huge chemistry between them, especially when Catie ask Bat to posse for her sexual art drawings.
Holy Moly what an awesome anthology, all three stories are full of steamy scenes and great sexy characters. I couldn’t put the book down, it lured me right into it and I wasn’t surprised that I finished the book a few hours later. After each story I wanted to get involved with the male character; an ink artist who could tattoo the way Tristan did to Sophie, or having a photo shoot with the sexy photographer Hex, and last but not least Bat can pouring me a drink anytime anywhere.
I cannot say otherwise then those three authors are a must read.
Sophie has been fascinated by tattoos her whole life, but she never had the nerve to get one. But she is tired of being the good girl, so when her best friend ask her to go with her when she’s getting her tattoo, Sophie knows this might be her only change. Then she meets Tristan, the artist of skin ink, he is the one who design her first tattoo but also brings her to higher ground with his touch and kisses.
Shadow play by Sydney Croft:
Brenna St. James nightmare is coming true, her modeling career is falling apart and if she doesn’t get back in the saddle soon; her career will be over. Brenna knows she’s being haunted by a ghost, because she cannot be seen on film, only a blur and consider her paranormal background, she know she is right. The only man who can help her is Hex, the photographer and an expert on paranormal field. Now they have to work together and help the ghost to move on before things are getting out of hand.
Night Vision by Stephanie Tyler:
Catie Lanford inherited a bar from her uncle and her only goal is to restore the bar back to health and sell it as quickly as possible. Catie wants to return back to art school. So Catie hires Bat Kelly, a cooler, in the hope he can have the job done within weeks. But nobody could have predicted the huge chemistry between them, especially when Catie ask Bat to posse for her sexual art drawings.
Holy Moly what an awesome anthology, all three stories are full of steamy scenes and great sexy characters. I couldn’t put the book down, it lured me right into it and I wasn’t surprised that I finished the book a few hours later. After each story I wanted to get involved with the male character; an ink artist who could tattoo the way Tristan did to Sophie, or having a photo shoot with the sexy photographer Hex, and last but not least Bat can pouring me a drink anytime anywhere.
I cannot say otherwise then those three authors are a must read.
November 20, 2011
Overall what the stories had in common is they were all set in the NOLA area and Katrina's impact on at least 2 of them. I rated them individually below and would overall give the book a 3star based on the 2stories that I read completely.
First up is Eden Bradley's Art of Desire is not a very good entry point as far as I can see. I only read the first three chapters because it didn't hold my interest. It is about the sensuality and sexiness of obtaining a tattoo and a subsequent affair with the tattoo artist. This one I'd have at 1.5 stars and that may be overly generous.
The middle child here is Sydney Croft's Shadow Play from the ACRO series & my main reasonf or trying this anthology. Hex & his talent for Ghosts fits in the universe but his time with Brenna was a little different from the norm for this series but was a quick read. Hex assists Brenna who is being haunted by a ghost that is convinced she is his lover re-incarnated. On its own I'd give this story a 3star.
The last of this trio is Stephanie Tyler's Night Vision. Catie inherits a bar in Bayou Rouge, Louisiana that is rowdy and in the red. Her goal is to make the place "respectable" and restore it to its former glory so she can sell it and get on with her life as a promising art student in New York. So she arranges to hire the best cooler in the business Bat Kelly who happens hail from these parts. It doesn't take long for the world to become all about Catie & Bat. They were both likable characters for me and I thought the story was just long enough. On its own this is a 3star story for me.
First up is Eden Bradley's Art of Desire is not a very good entry point as far as I can see. I only read the first three chapters because it didn't hold my interest. It is about the sensuality and sexiness of obtaining a tattoo and a subsequent affair with the tattoo artist. This one I'd have at 1.5 stars and that may be overly generous.
The middle child here is Sydney Croft's Shadow Play from the ACRO series & my main reasonf or trying this anthology. Hex & his talent for Ghosts fits in the universe but his time with Brenna was a little different from the norm for this series but was a quick read. Hex assists Brenna who is being haunted by a ghost that is convinced she is his lover re-incarnated. On its own I'd give this story a 3star.
The last of this trio is Stephanie Tyler's Night Vision. Catie inherits a bar in Bayou Rouge, Louisiana that is rowdy and in the red. Her goal is to make the place "respectable" and restore it to its former glory so she can sell it and get on with her life as a promising art student in New York. So she arranges to hire the best cooler in the business Bat Kelly who happens hail from these parts. It doesn't take long for the world to become all about Catie & Bat. They were both likable characters for me and I thought the story was just long enough. On its own this is a 3star story for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 14, 2012
Just finished the first story. Was pretty good. Could have been a little better but I enjoyed it.
Skipping the ACRO story for now...
Night Vision by Stephanie Tyler
This story is the reason I bought this book! I'm a huge fan of Stephanie's. I love love love her romantic suspense series' and this story pretty much goes along the lines of those except there isn't much suspense, but that's ok.
My favorite kind of male lead character in romance is a wounded warrior, whether on the inside or on the outside. After reading this one, Bat has become one of my favorites. He's big, he's bad, he's scarred and he's really intense! All things essentials in my favorite books. I think I've totally fallen in love with him. I so wish this story had been longer because I want more of him!
Catie chere, now she's my favorite kind of female lead too. Me being small and vulnerable makes it easier to relate to characters like her. I'm not a fighter, I'm a lover and that's what Catie is too. She's the exact opposite of Bat, small, vulnerable, a little feisty and very artsy, yet they fit together so very well!
The love scenes were scorching and beyond perfect if you ask me. They just really complemented each other so well. I found myself re-reading a couple of them. Like the scratching scene. Whew! I needed a cold shower after that. ;)
All in all, this last story in this anthology is the best and now one of my favorite stories of Stephanie's. I'll definitely be adding this to my re-read pile for future enjoyment!
Skipping the ACRO story for now...
Night Vision by Stephanie Tyler
This story is the reason I bought this book! I'm a huge fan of Stephanie's. I love love love her romantic suspense series' and this story pretty much goes along the lines of those except there isn't much suspense, but that's ok.
My favorite kind of male lead character in romance is a wounded warrior, whether on the inside or on the outside. After reading this one, Bat has become one of my favorites. He's big, he's bad, he's scarred and he's really intense! All things essentials in my favorite books. I think I've totally fallen in love with him. I so wish this story had been longer because I want more of him!
Catie chere, now she's my favorite kind of female lead too. Me being small and vulnerable makes it easier to relate to characters like her. I'm not a fighter, I'm a lover and that's what Catie is too. She's the exact opposite of Bat, small, vulnerable, a little feisty and very artsy, yet they fit together so very well!
The love scenes were scorching and beyond perfect if you ask me. They just really complemented each other so well. I found myself re-reading a couple of them. Like the scratching scene. Whew! I needed a cold shower after that. ;)
All in all, this last story in this anthology is the best and now one of my favorite stories of Stephanie's. I'll definitely be adding this to my re-read pile for future enjoyment!
November 25, 2015
"The Art of Desire" by Eden Bradley - 1 1/2 stars
I know most readers gave this emotionally angsty short story rave reviews, but I had a hard time connecting to Sophie, the messed-up girl with religious hang-ups and tattoo needle cravings, and Tristan, the tattooed bad boy who predictably runs at the first mention of the "L" word. And in the back of my mind, I kept wondering, what happens when they run out of skin for new tattoos?
"Shadow Play" by Sydney Croft - 3 1/2 stars
Part of the paranormal romance series "ACRO" by writing duo Sydney Croft, "Shadow Play" tells the story of a fashion model with a ghostly haunting, and Hex, the ghost photographer who tries to help her. Fans of ACRO will enjoy this tale; those who aren't into PNR or familiar with the series, not so much. I enjoyed it a lot and considered it the best of the three offerings.
"Night Vision" by Stephanie Tyler - 3 stars
Sweet and steamy, I enjoyed this short of a lost artist who moves back to post-Katrina Louisiana to claim a run-down bar she's just inherited from her family. As the bar is full of vice and corruption, she hires a cooler to clean it up. No contrived plots or misunderstandings here, and the ending sequence is poignant and well done.
I know most readers gave this emotionally angsty short story rave reviews, but I had a hard time connecting to Sophie, the messed-up girl with religious hang-ups and tattoo needle cravings, and Tristan, the tattooed bad boy who predictably runs at the first mention of the "L" word. And in the back of my mind, I kept wondering, what happens when they run out of skin for new tattoos?
"Shadow Play" by Sydney Croft - 3 1/2 stars
Part of the paranormal romance series "ACRO" by writing duo Sydney Croft, "Shadow Play" tells the story of a fashion model with a ghostly haunting, and Hex, the ghost photographer who tries to help her. Fans of ACRO will enjoy this tale; those who aren't into PNR or familiar with the series, not so much. I enjoyed it a lot and considered it the best of the three offerings.
"Night Vision" by Stephanie Tyler - 3 stars
Sweet and steamy, I enjoyed this short of a lost artist who moves back to post-Katrina Louisiana to claim a run-down bar she's just inherited from her family. As the bar is full of vice and corruption, she hires a cooler to clean it up. No contrived plots or misunderstandings here, and the ending sequence is poignant and well done.
January 8, 2012
Three fantastic stories by three very talented authors:
"The Art of Desire" by Eden Bradley. Never read anything by her before but I will again! While the story wasn't fantastic (if Tristan had one more crisis about how screwed up he was, I might have thrown the book down), the sex was off-the-charts hot!
"Shadow Play" by Sydney Croft. So, it's official - Sydney Croft can do no wrong. Stephanie Tyler and Larissa Ione (under the pen name of SC) have created such a fantastic world with their ACRO agents. Every story (including this novella, "Shadow Play") has a great plot, wonderful characters, beautiful romance and sizzlingly hot sex. Hex is a strong, slightly tortured hero and Brenna is the perfect woman for him. LOVED IT!!!
"Night Vision" by Stephanie Tyler. I am seriously starting to think that Stephanie Tyler knows me and writes just for me! Her heroes are always the kind of man I would kill to have in my bed and in my life. Bat Kelly (yes, that is his name) is to die for!!! Again, the romance was awesome and the sex was sizzling!!!! Do these men really exist or is Ms Tyler just being mean by setting these unrealistic expectations! (Oh, and you'll love the reason the book is called "Night Vision" he he he)
All in all, this is a book you cannot miss!
"The Art of Desire" by Eden Bradley. Never read anything by her before but I will again! While the story wasn't fantastic (if Tristan had one more crisis about how screwed up he was, I might have thrown the book down), the sex was off-the-charts hot!
"Shadow Play" by Sydney Croft. So, it's official - Sydney Croft can do no wrong. Stephanie Tyler and Larissa Ione (under the pen name of SC) have created such a fantastic world with their ACRO agents. Every story (including this novella, "Shadow Play") has a great plot, wonderful characters, beautiful romance and sizzlingly hot sex. Hex is a strong, slightly tortured hero and Brenna is the perfect woman for him. LOVED IT!!!
"Night Vision" by Stephanie Tyler. I am seriously starting to think that Stephanie Tyler knows me and writes just for me! Her heroes are always the kind of man I would kill to have in my bed and in my life. Bat Kelly (yes, that is his name) is to die for!!! Again, the romance was awesome and the sex was sizzling!!!! Do these men really exist or is Ms Tyler just being mean by setting these unrealistic expectations! (Oh, and you'll love the reason the book is called "Night Vision" he he he)
All in all, this is a book you cannot miss!
August 31, 2009
2.5 stars.
There were three stories and I didn't love any of them. The first one was just odd - really psychologically messed up characters who found comfort in each other, but the "resolution" at the end was just that they ended up together but didn't solve any of their issues. Just weird.
Second story was Sydney Croft, the ACRO 2.5, and the whole reason I got the book. It was okay, but nothing as good as her other books. I think she should stick to novels, not novellas. This didn't include any of the other characters from the story or advance ACRO's story at all, so I just felt like it wasn't part of the series.
The last story was okay - just lukewarm with the characters. I just didn't feel much for them at all, especially compared to some other fun anthologies.
The sex in these was okay - but not as steamy as others. All in all, I'd pass it for some others. Reading Croft's later ACRO series will show if this is important to read in the series, but I'd guess no?
There were three stories and I didn't love any of them. The first one was just odd - really psychologically messed up characters who found comfort in each other, but the "resolution" at the end was just that they ended up together but didn't solve any of their issues. Just weird.
Second story was Sydney Croft, the ACRO 2.5, and the whole reason I got the book. It was okay, but nothing as good as her other books. I think she should stick to novels, not novellas. This didn't include any of the other characters from the story or advance ACRO's story at all, so I just felt like it wasn't part of the series.
The last story was okay - just lukewarm with the characters. I just didn't feel much for them at all, especially compared to some other fun anthologies.
The sex in these was okay - but not as steamy as others. All in all, I'd pass it for some others. Reading Croft's later ACRO series will show if this is important to read in the series, but I'd guess no?
January 22, 2012
3 1/2 stars The Art of Desire by Eden Bradley: Sophie Fiore discovers a tattoo artist in New Orleans who frees her to act on her desires to ink her body even as they begin an incandescent relationship. Neither is quite able to handle their relationship outside of the intense lust they feel for each other but they will have to decide if they are better together than apart.
3 stars Shadow Play by Sydney Croft. An ACRO tale featuring the operative Hex, who is able to see ghosts through the lens of a camera, and his efforts to free model Brenna St. James, who cannot be photographed due to the actions of a ghost.
4 stars Night Vision by Stephanie Tyler Catie Lanford hopes that the rundown bar that she has inherited from her uncle will be her ticket to her dreams but first she needs somebody to get it in order. Bat Kelly makes it a practice to be a "cooler" and control everything about a bar, including handling the rowdy clientele, the staff and the supplies. He doesn't usually "handle" the employer but this time he might just make an exception. A great read.
3 stars Shadow Play by Sydney Croft. An ACRO tale featuring the operative Hex, who is able to see ghosts through the lens of a camera, and his efforts to free model Brenna St. James, who cannot be photographed due to the actions of a ghost.
4 stars Night Vision by Stephanie Tyler Catie Lanford hopes that the rundown bar that she has inherited from her uncle will be her ticket to her dreams but first she needs somebody to get it in order. Bat Kelly makes it a practice to be a "cooler" and control everything about a bar, including handling the rowdy clientele, the staff and the supplies. He doesn't usually "handle" the employer but this time he might just make an exception. A great read.
February 12, 2012
Read the ACRO short only. This story was interesting with regard to the paranormal aspect of it - mediums dealing with haunting and possession - and as always, with any ACRO book, the story was full of really hot smexy time. However, I only rate it 3 stars because for one of the first times in a long time, I didn't really care for the heroine, Brenna. She was a supermodel, whose career and friends went bye-bye when plagued by a ghost. She called on Hex, ACRO agent, and photographer extraordinaire, to try and have him get rid of the ghost for her. When they weren't having really intense, hot sex, they were fighting. And so often, it came back to Brenna and her very selfish ways. In the end, she came around, but still, it was really hard to see what Hex fell in love with.
July 23, 2009
My favorite anthology read to date. Eden Bradley's story about a woman with an obsession for tattoos and a tattoo artist is intense and sexual. Sydney Croft's ACRO story was a great addition in a fantastic series. And my first stand-alone read from Sydney Croft-co author Stephanie Tyler did not disappoint. Three great reads that absolutely prove length doesn't matter to accomplish a moving romance.
February 13, 2010
This review is only for "Shadow Play" (ACRO #2.5) by Sydney Croft
3.5 stars. This story is basically a stand-alone, where Hex, an ACRO operative that can capture Earth-bound lost souls from Camera, meet Brenna St. James, a model that is being hunted by one. It's steamy, hot, creepy, set in New Orleans and I enjoy it very much. There is something mysteriously sexy about New Orleans and these are two sexy people in one delicious story.
3.5 stars. This story is basically a stand-alone, where Hex, an ACRO operative that can capture Earth-bound lost souls from Camera, meet Brenna St. James, a model that is being hunted by one. It's steamy, hot, creepy, set in New Orleans and I enjoy it very much. There is something mysteriously sexy about New Orleans and these are two sexy people in one delicious story.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews