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The Token #1-3
The Token Series Box Set
TT
Twenty-two year old Faren Mitchell hears the two words that change her abbreviated life forever. They're so final Faren decides she has nothing to lose by seizing every remaining moment of what life has to offer.
Until Faren collides with a motorcycle ridden by billionaire Jared “Mick” McKenna.
Even the dark secret of her past and catharsis as a physical therapist can't save Faren from the sexual spiral that waits for her in the arms of a man who commits to no one. When circumstances force her to get a second job as an exotic dancer, Faren never imagines how close that choice will bring her to the brink of a new reality she is unequipped to handle.
TT2
Faren Mitchell keeps the secret of her second job from the one man who could see her through some of the darkest moments of her life. She doesn't want Jared “Mick” McKenna for the billions he's amassed, but for the one thing she's never given any man: her innocence.
Mick's guilt over the injury he inflicted fuels the beginnings of something more; a sexual consumption of each other that neither were anticipating. When Faren's actions don't match her words, Mick suspicions are raised. His feelings turn to ones of protection after Faren is mugged and he can't reconcile his desire for her with the reality they now find themselves in.
As Faren's bucket list grows, so does the danger that surrounds the choices she's made. Can she take what she needs from Mick and also secure her mother's life? Or will the truth she has weaved between the lies doom them both?
TT3
Faren collapses, narrowly escaping discovery upon hearing traumatic news delivered by Thorn. When Thorn becomes her uneasy accomplice in the deception of Mick, Faren decides she needs to come clean with the truth. Shelving her pride might be the last thing she wants to do, but as facts and actions continue to contradict one another, her hands become tied in the lies she creates to survive.
Faren only needs one last lap dance to erase the final debt that hangs over her mother's head like a cloud of doom. But when Ronnie Bunce circles closer to Faren and threatens the last sanctuary she possesses, circumstances unravel to reveal lies that run deeper than she knew.
Can Faren and Mick consummate their passion before her deceit is discovered? Or will the last dance be the ultimate loss?
This is volume 1-3 in a 6-part novella serial.
Genre: New Adult Dark Romance
Disclaimer: This story contains sexual themes, situations, profanity and violence. Ages 17+.
Twenty-two year old Faren Mitchell hears the two words that change her abbreviated life forever. They're so final Faren decides she has nothing to lose by seizing every remaining moment of what life has to offer.
Until Faren collides with a motorcycle ridden by billionaire Jared “Mick” McKenna.
Even the dark secret of her past and catharsis as a physical therapist can't save Faren from the sexual spiral that waits for her in the arms of a man who commits to no one. When circumstances force her to get a second job as an exotic dancer, Faren never imagines how close that choice will bring her to the brink of a new reality she is unequipped to handle.
TT2
Faren Mitchell keeps the secret of her second job from the one man who could see her through some of the darkest moments of her life. She doesn't want Jared “Mick” McKenna for the billions he's amassed, but for the one thing she's never given any man: her innocence.
Mick's guilt over the injury he inflicted fuels the beginnings of something more; a sexual consumption of each other that neither were anticipating. When Faren's actions don't match her words, Mick suspicions are raised. His feelings turn to ones of protection after Faren is mugged and he can't reconcile his desire for her with the reality they now find themselves in.
As Faren's bucket list grows, so does the danger that surrounds the choices she's made. Can she take what she needs from Mick and also secure her mother's life? Or will the truth she has weaved between the lies doom them both?
TT3
Faren collapses, narrowly escaping discovery upon hearing traumatic news delivered by Thorn. When Thorn becomes her uneasy accomplice in the deception of Mick, Faren decides she needs to come clean with the truth. Shelving her pride might be the last thing she wants to do, but as facts and actions continue to contradict one another, her hands become tied in the lies she creates to survive.
Faren only needs one last lap dance to erase the final debt that hangs over her mother's head like a cloud of doom. But when Ronnie Bunce circles closer to Faren and threatens the last sanctuary she possesses, circumstances unravel to reveal lies that run deeper than she knew.
Can Faren and Mick consummate their passion before her deceit is discovered? Or will the last dance be the ultimate loss?
This is volume 1-3 in a 6-part novella serial.
Genre: New Adult Dark Romance
Disclaimer: This story contains sexual themes, situations, profanity and violence. Ages 17+.
Unknown Binding
First published December 5, 2014
788 people are currently reading
1029 people want to read
About the author
Marata Eros
214 books920 followersNEW RELEASE ALERT: bit.ly/MarataNEWS
Marata Eros is the author of over ninety-five titles, including her NEW YORK TIMES bestselling novel, A TERRIBLE LOVE, and the #1 international bestselling erotic Interracial and African-American TOKEN serial. Marata writes a variety of dark fiction in the genres of erotica, fantasy, romance, suspense and sci-fi. She and her husband live in the midwest with their four sons and three disrespectful dogs. Marata's #1 hobby is reading; she loves interacting with her readers.
http://marataeroseroticaauthor.blogsp...
Tamara Rose Blodgett's Blog: http://tamararoseblodgett.blogspot.com/
FUTURE TITLES 2018:
TRAINER (Road Kill MC)
VIPER (Road Kill MC)
IN BROKEN LOVE
DRUID #11
SIREN #4
THE FIRST SPECIES
Marata Eros is the author of over ninety-five titles, including her NEW YORK TIMES bestselling novel, A TERRIBLE LOVE, and the #1 international bestselling erotic Interracial and African-American TOKEN serial. Marata writes a variety of dark fiction in the genres of erotica, fantasy, romance, suspense and sci-fi. She and her husband live in the midwest with their four sons and three disrespectful dogs. Marata's #1 hobby is reading; she loves interacting with her readers.
http://marataeroseroticaauthor.blogsp...
Tamara Rose Blodgett's Blog: http://tamararoseblodgett.blogspot.com/
FUTURE TITLES 2018:
TRAINER (Road Kill MC)
VIPER (Road Kill MC)
IN BROKEN LOVE
DRUID #11
SIREN #4
THE FIRST SPECIES
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
August 15, 2017
★★★★ 1/2! The Token, part 1-3 of 6. Compelling heroine, Faren & mysterious hero, Jared McKenna’s worlds have collided. But both have pasts & secrets they rather keep to themselves!
“Hanging onto my virginity isn't such an accomplishment when innocence is taken in increments. Chunks of who I am are stolen right from underneath my nose.”
This box sets for part 1-3 of The Token serial. I recommend these novellas be read in order:
Part 1: The Token
Part 2: The Token 2
Part 3: The Token 3
Part 4: The Token 4
Part 5: The Token 5
Part 6: The Token 6
The Token opens up with physical therapist, Faren Mitchell at the doctor’s office receiving the news that she has a brain tumor. She runs out into the street and is hit by a Harley Davidson driven by billionaire Jared “Mick” McKenna.
A month prior to help pay for her mom’s mounting medical care she started working grave yard at a strip club owned by Jared “Mick” McKenna. Faren has had trauma in her past, what exactly will unfold with the story.
After the accident Mick pays her hospital bills and tries to court her and her past trauma unfolding. But he doesn’t know that Faren is working at his strip club nor about her brain tumor and the fact that she is a virgin.
Their budding romance is quickly overshadowed by her lies and past and his secrets and dark forces out to hurt them yet they cannot stay away from each other.
The sexual tension is off-the-charts leading to some sizzling foreplay only to come to a screeching halt when everything starts to unravel…. Expect the unexpected and… watch out for villains!
FAREN MITCHELL: 22 years/physical therapist, part-time exotic dancer/caramel blond hair/light gray eyes/5’9”/ex-ballerina/virgin.
Faren Mitchell grabbed me. Maybe it is her brain tumor diagnosis and the fact the she has a slightly deformed hand, is skittish and a recluse. Or maybe it’s her innocence and she has secrets and trauma in her past. At any rate she pulled me in and I am rooting for her to be OK on all accounts.
Seven words to describe Faren: Lonely, reflective, loyal, broken, innocent, strong and naïve.
“Rehab’s not a well-paying profession. But there's more than money, sometimes the soul needs edification.”
JARED MCKENNA, “MICK”: ~30 years/Billionaire/Mogul/Owner of Gentleman’s clubs/$$$$/dark auburn hair/dark brown eyes/tattoo.
Jared “Mick” McKenna is still enigma. We know he is a billionaire and that he owns several gentlemen and strip clubs. When he is not riding his black Harley he’s driven around in a limo. The rest will unfold with the story.
Seven words to describe Jared: Enigmatic, mysterious, noble, caring, jaded, elusive and determined.
“He punishes me tenderly. Each kiss erases the hurt of his words. A man could never speak an apology as perfect as the one he makes with his mouth.”
The Token 1-3 ends with a shocking cliffy! But just skip to part 4, The Token 4 for the continuation of their story.
Mysterious and enigmatic hero! Compelling heroine! Eclectic and poignant story-telling. Suspenseful plot! I’m hooked!
“I can keep him with me tonight like a seed of goodness in the awful garden of my choices. It's a lie I cling to without complaint.”
***
Hero rating: 4.5 stars
Heroine rating: 4.5 stars
Sex scenes rating: 4.5 stars
Sex scenes frequency: 4 stars
Storyline concept rating: 4 stars
Storytelling skills rating: 4.5 stars
Story ending rating: N/A
Book editing rating (5 = no edits spotted): 4.5 stars
************************************************
Overall rating: 4.5 stars
Would I recommend this series: Yes.
Would I re-read this series: Maybe later.
Would I read future books by this author: Yes.
ARC provided to me by author, Marata Eros in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks Marata! xo
Want to read
December 24, 2017💝 FREE on Amazon today (12/24/2017)! 💝
October 20, 2019
Well i have read other books by this author either I love them or i don't. this one didn't do anything for me really. It had nothing special that other books like this don't. I just couldn't relate to the characters or really visualize the world.
October 26, 2016
STORY: 2.5-3 stars
PERFORMANCE: 1 star
OVERALL: 2.5 stars (rounded up to 3)
STORY
THE TOKEN series is about a woman who, while down on her luck for numerous reasons, goes to great lengths to earn some much needed money. With strip clubs (as well as other clubs where women will do more than strip for the right price), a stalker, terminal illness, steamy romance, a virgin and a history of abuse, this series has a ton of potential! Unfortunately, each of the 3 installments were filled with inconsistencies that were not just distracting but detracted from the believability of the storyline. Although there were numerous occasions where I literally quit reading, too frustrated to continue, there were also a few very impressive scenes. In the first installment, there was a scene with such palpable sexual tension that I didn't want to put the book down, staying up late to find out what happened. At one point, I didn't plan on continuing on in the series until one of the books ended with such a great curveball/twist that I felt compelled to keep reading! My point is that Marata Eros does have talent; in the hands of a good editor, I'm sure THE TOKEN SERIES could be something special.
*** To read reviews for each individual installment, view my e-book reviews on Amazon and Goodreads.***
PERFORMANCE
Before I even heard the first sentence of THE TOKEN I, I became concerned that I would have an issue with narrator Lacy Laurel's performance. While Ms. Laurel read the title and the author's name, she sounded waaaaaaay too excited, speaking with much more emotion than is necessary to state the title of a book. Unfortunately, Ms Laurel's overeagerness never waned even while she read parts of the book that should have been read with a morose or solemn tone of voice. In fact, the only time I noticed Ms. Laura adjust her tone of voice was when she read sex scenes, suddenly narrating in a whisper. Most abhorrent though was her attempts to read dialogue for the male characters in the book. Not every female narrator can pull off a good male voice yet the voice Ms. Laurel used wasn't just a poor attempt but IMO was absolutely ridiculous! Most of the time, the dialogue of the male characters didn't even sound human! Ms. Laurel is either very new to narrating or she has no acting skills, obviously reading instead of providing us with a performance. I am sad to say that eventually I couldn't bear to listen to her recording anymore. Even though I was given books #1-3 for free in exchange for my unbiased review (provided via Audiobook Boom), I couldn't stand listening to the entire first book. Due to Ms. Laurel's poor performance, at 75% into book #1 I stopped listening and switched to reading the books instead.
PERFORMANCE: 1 star
OVERALL: 2.5 stars (rounded up to 3)
STORY
THE TOKEN series is about a woman who, while down on her luck for numerous reasons, goes to great lengths to earn some much needed money. With strip clubs (as well as other clubs where women will do more than strip for the right price), a stalker, terminal illness, steamy romance, a virgin and a history of abuse, this series has a ton of potential! Unfortunately, each of the 3 installments were filled with inconsistencies that were not just distracting but detracted from the believability of the storyline. Although there were numerous occasions where I literally quit reading, too frustrated to continue, there were also a few very impressive scenes. In the first installment, there was a scene with such palpable sexual tension that I didn't want to put the book down, staying up late to find out what happened. At one point, I didn't plan on continuing on in the series until one of the books ended with such a great curveball/twist that I felt compelled to keep reading! My point is that Marata Eros does have talent; in the hands of a good editor, I'm sure THE TOKEN SERIES could be something special.
*** To read reviews for each individual installment, view my e-book reviews on Amazon and Goodreads.***
PERFORMANCE
Before I even heard the first sentence of THE TOKEN I, I became concerned that I would have an issue with narrator Lacy Laurel's performance. While Ms. Laurel read the title and the author's name, she sounded waaaaaaay too excited, speaking with much more emotion than is necessary to state the title of a book. Unfortunately, Ms Laurel's overeagerness never waned even while she read parts of the book that should have been read with a morose or solemn tone of voice. In fact, the only time I noticed Ms. Laura adjust her tone of voice was when she read sex scenes, suddenly narrating in a whisper. Most abhorrent though was her attempts to read dialogue for the male characters in the book. Not every female narrator can pull off a good male voice yet the voice Ms. Laurel used wasn't just a poor attempt but IMO was absolutely ridiculous! Most of the time, the dialogue of the male characters didn't even sound human! Ms. Laurel is either very new to narrating or she has no acting skills, obviously reading instead of providing us with a performance. I am sad to say that eventually I couldn't bear to listen to her recording anymore. Even though I was given books #1-3 for free in exchange for my unbiased review (provided via Audiobook Boom), I couldn't stand listening to the entire first book. Due to Ms. Laurel's poor performance, at 75% into book #1 I stopped listening and switched to reading the books instead.
May 25, 2014
TT1
Faren Mitchell receives terrible news that sets off a chain of events that change her life irrevocably. Caught in an emotional sandstorm she is literally hit by stunning Jared "Mick" McKenna. Something unspoken passes between the two and Faren feels herself falling further down the rabbit hole. Mick is immediately entranced by Faren's gravitational pull yet Faren keeps him at a safe distance. I felt Mick was a good guy and I enjoyed reading his and Faren's blossoming relationship- but he's definitely hiding something.
The Token 1 does an excellent job setting up the world Faren lives in. We learn a lot about her character, life, and struggles. I instantly adored Faren for her innocent yet worldly persona, unmistakable devotion to others, and her feisty go-getter attitude. Faren works two dead-end jobs in order to maintain a suitable living condition for her comatose mother. As expenses rise and time is running out Faren turns to desperate measures to secure her mother's care- including becoming an exotic dancer.
TT2
Although Faren despises her new job choice she still maintains her innocence and virtue. As a reader it was impossible not to sympathize with her and hope all would work out in the end. After The Token 1's hell of a cliffhanger, The Token 2 starts out fast and doesn't slow down! I enjoyed the pick up in the pace of this serial and a lot changes and happens in this installment. Faren is losing the reigns on her virtuous existence and is being thrust farther and farther into danger and darkness. Mick starts to reveal more of his character, caring, protective, and- a billionaire owner which includes the establishment Faren is working at.
"My moral compass no longer points true north. It's guided by circumstance and fate, neither conferring with the other."
Faren fights to keep more than one secret from Mick which is proving harder than she thought. I became a little bit annoyed with Faren during this novella since she seemed kind of "whiny." I would have enjoyed if she embraced her "dark side" a little more. Despite everything else going on she also wonders about Mick's business dealings and feels many doubts about how he claims he made all of his money.
Also, we learn more about Faren's life prior to The Token. She has a heart-breaking past which strengthens the admiration I have for her character. I read this one eagerly and quickly to find out what would happen next. I have definitely been hooked by the author's eloquent and flawless writing style. The Token serial is definitely turning out to be a new favorite of mine!
TT3
One more dance. That's what Faren holds onto while she prepares to finish paying the debt for her mother's care. It's just one dance- but as her and Mick's relationship becomes more intense it may cost her everything.
Wow. I devoured this one quicker than the first two! The Token 3 was fast-paced, full of action and a dash of passion. Each installment is proving to be better than the last!
In this installment, we learn more about Thorn and discover he does have a soft side. I am highly curious on his back story and the role he's beginning to play in Faren's life. Mick shows his protective side as he takes care of business and looks out for Faren. Faren sees the light at the end of the tunnel but bad luck doesn't seem to let her go.
Add all of this to one shocking ending- and wow! I'm blown away! 5 well-deserved stars.
Overall
The Token 1-3 definitely exceeded my expectations and is a new favorite. I'm thoroughly invested in the serial now and will continue on with the subsequent installments. The author is truly talented and manages to capture such a unique and thrilling story through the course of novellas. Although this is labeled as "dark" to me personally, this serial isn't dark. Yes, there are some "darker" topics discussed and placed in the plot, but I don't feel the story itself, overall, is part of the dark genre. For some reason I thought this was a paranormal romance, but it isn't- which has also spiked my interest! I enjoy reading about heroines I can connect with or feel empathetic towards and Faren's character has definitely succeeded in grabbing my attention. Last but not least kudos to the GORGEOUS covers!
*Received an arc in exchange for an honest review*
August 26, 2014
This is a great freebie to get you hooked on the series. It says its considered dark erotic romance or somthing or another but really was tame compared to some I've read. Yes it eludes to some dark things like her abuse and near rape from her step-dad but you only get glimpses of the event in flashback forms.
Anywhoo the point is I enjoyed it. Blew through the first 3 parts of this and wanted to immediatly jump into number 4 and so on.
Basic plot of girl finds out she has cancer and months to live. So what does she do? Go splurg on shopping trips, vacation, dive into her bucket list? Nope she is super resonsible wanting to build up funds for her mother, who is in a coma, care. Forced to take a second job as a pole dancer to make a little extra and later thanks to her best friend KiKi lap dancing for rich men.
So now you have a twenty something woman whos a terminally ill virgin working as a physical therapist by day and a stripper/lap dancer by night with a tragic past.
I liked it. This may not be right for everyone but for me I really enjoyed it.
Anywhoo the point is I enjoyed it. Blew through the first 3 parts of this and wanted to immediatly jump into number 4 and so on.
Basic plot of girl finds out she has cancer and months to live. So what does she do? Go splurg on shopping trips, vacation, dive into her bucket list? Nope she is super resonsible wanting to build up funds for her mother, who is in a coma, care. Forced to take a second job as a pole dancer to make a little extra and later thanks to her best friend KiKi lap dancing for rich men.
So now you have a twenty something woman whos a terminally ill virgin working as a physical therapist by day and a stripper/lap dancer by night with a tragic past.
I liked it. This may not be right for everyone but for me I really enjoyed it.
July 30, 2015
All three volumes were intense! There were moments when I wanted to climb right into the book and shake some sense into Faren and Jared! It's a strange thing to see everything so clearly from the outside, like you're a part of all of it. That's what this felt like. The danger was palpable. The fear and sadness were disheartening. I kept thinking, if only she would open up, so many things could change. All of the details drew me in. I felt like, I knew each of the characters. You know, you're reading something meaningful when it brings out emotions. These definitely did. I was angry, frustrated, sympathetic and sad. It was intense and personal. I finished these first three at 1:30 am and turned on my computer to buy the next set. I'm looking forward to seeing what happens next.
December 4, 2014
You know, I thought I was going to really dislike this series cause again I'm judging it from the book cover and what the excerpt is telling.
So let's just say I had the last laugh yep I sure did cause I actually enjoyed this series and each book is like a short story.
Really really recommend to those that want's a quick read.
So let's just say I had the last laugh yep I sure did cause I actually enjoyed this series and each book is like a short story.
Really really recommend to those that want's a quick read.
April 29, 2018
Wow that was bad storytelling. What a waste of my time.
This was the most all over the place novel I have read . I feel stupid for finishing it. Ick
This was the most all over the place novel I have read . I feel stupid for finishing it. Ick
October 20, 2021
It should be noted I read "Provocation," the novellas that were combined into one story.
This story drew me in right away and I couldn't stop reading! It was fast-paced and had some great characters. Faren has a traumatic past and a lot on her plate currently. I admire how she sucks it up and does what she needs to get by; however, there were times she bit off her nose to spite her face, which made me roll my eyes. Mick is a bit of a mystery to me still but there are some hints as to his past and I hope we learn more in the next books. Thorn is a complete creep but still an intriguing character, and later in the story we get more background on him, which makes him more likable. Kiki is a riot and we all need a girlfriend like her in our lives.
Despite enjoying it very much, I only gave four stars because there were a lot of grammatical errors and the author could have used a thesaurus . The tense changed from past to present pretty regularly, even within the same sentence! There were some proofreading errors, such as words that were repeated that were likely from a prior draft that weren't deleted. I am hoping the next book doesn't contain these flaws.
I cannot wait to move onto the next book!!
This story drew me in right away and I couldn't stop reading! It was fast-paced and had some great characters. Faren has a traumatic past and a lot on her plate currently. I admire how she sucks it up and does what she needs to get by; however, there were times she bit off her nose to spite her face, which made me roll my eyes. Mick is a bit of a mystery to me still but there are some hints as to his past and I hope we learn more in the next books. Thorn is a complete creep but still an intriguing character, and later in the story we get more background on him, which makes him more likable. Kiki is a riot and we all need a girlfriend like her in our lives.
Despite enjoying it very much, I only gave four stars because there were a lot of grammatical errors and the author could have used a thesaurus . The tense changed from past to present pretty regularly, even within the same sentence! There were some proofreading errors, such as words that were repeated that were likely from a prior draft that weren't deleted. I am hoping the next book doesn't contain these flaws.
I cannot wait to move onto the next book!!
August 6, 2017
So confusing
Well this was like a lot of books in one. The first three are part of the token series and the others are a mixture of other stuff. I thought that the token had a decent story line but it finished with an unhappy cliffhanger. There were some fun parts but parts of the story we're pretty confusing. I think that the author expects you to read between the lines on some of the content but isn't very clear on parts of it. Probably not something I will read again
Well this was like a lot of books in one. The first three are part of the token series and the others are a mixture of other stuff. I thought that the token had a decent story line but it finished with an unhappy cliffhanger. There were some fun parts but parts of the story we're pretty confusing. I think that the author expects you to read between the lines on some of the content but isn't very clear on parts of it. Probably not something I will read again
July 7, 2018
😀
She’s terminal and her mother in a coma and she must come up with some quick cash but when her new life interferes with her deeps secret will it cost her everything so she can support her mother so she doesn’t get transferred to a state facility.
She’s terminal and her mother in a coma and she must come up with some quick cash but when her new life interferes with her deeps secret will it cost her everything so she can support her mother so she doesn’t get transferred to a state facility.
February 21, 2019
So good!
Well written, engaging, realistic and interesting characters, a plot that continues to surprise and delight... what could be better? Add a hilarious best friend and a passion that melts your Kindle and you have the Token series. So good!
Well written, engaging, realistic and interesting characters, a plot that continues to surprise and delight... what could be better? Add a hilarious best friend and a passion that melts your Kindle and you have the Token series. So good!
June 14, 2017
This is hardcore! Loved it! Fell in love with characters! Great story plot! I definitely recommend it! A must read! Can't wait to read the next book!
May 22, 2018
Fast paced
I like this author. She is brilliant in my opinion. Her stories are rivating. They hold your attention from the first word to the last.
I like this author. She is brilliant in my opinion. Her stories are rivating. They hold your attention from the first word to the last.
June 9, 2018
Good read.
The main story had me kicked into reading all the craziness, and falling asleep and it evolving into it's own story!!
The main story had me kicked into reading all the craziness, and falling asleep and it evolving into it's own story!!
January 21, 2019
Wow!
This is a definite must read!! This is a series that you can't put down and I absolutely cannot wait to finish this. Totally recommend
This is a definite must read!! This is a series that you can't put down and I absolutely cannot wait to finish this. Totally recommend
August 18, 2019
My first book I've read written by Eros.The storyline was sexy and exciting.The characters where great had awesome chemistry. Thanks
November 3, 2019
Token. Series
I found it very interesting reading it kept me interested from beginning to the end of the book the characters are strong and very loving
I found it very interesting reading it kept me interested from beginning to the end of the book the characters are strong and very loving
November 11, 2014
TT
Twenty-two year old Faren Mitchell hears the two words that change her abbreviated life forever. They're so final Faren decides she has nothing to lose by seizing every remaining moment of what life has to offer.
Until Faren collides with a motorcycle ridden by billionaire Jared “Mick” McKenna.
Even the dark secret of her past and catharsis as a physical therapist can't save Faren from the sexual spiral that waits for her in the arms of a man who commits to no one. When circumstances force her to get a second job as an exotic dancer, Faren never imagines how close that choice will bring her to the brink of a new reality she is unequipped to handle.
TT2
Faren Mitchell keeps the secret of her second job from the one man who could see her through some of the darkest moments of her life. She doesn't want Jared “Mick” McKenna for the billions he's amassed, but for the one thing she's never given any man: her innocence.
Mick's guilt over the injury he inflicted fuels the beginnings of something more; a sexual consumption of each other that neither were anticipating. When Faren's actions don't match her words, Mick suspicions are raised. His feelings turn to ones of protection after Faren is mugged and he can't reconcile his desire for her with the reality they now find themselves in.
As Faren's bucket list grows, so does the danger that surrounds the choices she's made. Can she take what she needs from Mick and also secure her mother's life? Or will the truth she has weaved between the lies doom them both?
TT3
Faren collapses, narrowly escaping discovery upon hearing traumatic news delivered by Thorn. When Thorn becomes her uneasy accomplice in the deception of Mick, Faren decides she needs to come clean with the truth. Shelving her pride might be the last thing she wants to do, but as facts and actions continue to contradict one another, her hands become tied in the lies she creates to survive.
Faren only needs one last lap dance to erase the final debt that hangs over her mother's head like a cloud of doom. But when Ronnie Bunce circles closer to Faren and threatens the last sanctuary she possesses, circumstances unravel to reveal lies that run deeper than she knew.
Can Faren and Mick consummate their passion before her deceit is discovered? Or will the last dance be the ultimate loss?
Read this review and others here
Twenty-two year old Faren Mitchell hears the two words that change her abbreviated life forever. They're so final Faren decides she has nothing to lose by seizing every remaining moment of what life has to offer.
Until Faren collides with a motorcycle ridden by billionaire Jared “Mick” McKenna.
Even the dark secret of her past and catharsis as a physical therapist can't save Faren from the sexual spiral that waits for her in the arms of a man who commits to no one. When circumstances force her to get a second job as an exotic dancer, Faren never imagines how close that choice will bring her to the brink of a new reality she is unequipped to handle.
TT2
Faren Mitchell keeps the secret of her second job from the one man who could see her through some of the darkest moments of her life. She doesn't want Jared “Mick” McKenna for the billions he's amassed, but for the one thing she's never given any man: her innocence.
Mick's guilt over the injury he inflicted fuels the beginnings of something more; a sexual consumption of each other that neither were anticipating. When Faren's actions don't match her words, Mick suspicions are raised. His feelings turn to ones of protection after Faren is mugged and he can't reconcile his desire for her with the reality they now find themselves in.
As Faren's bucket list grows, so does the danger that surrounds the choices she's made. Can she take what she needs from Mick and also secure her mother's life? Or will the truth she has weaved between the lies doom them both?
TT3
Faren collapses, narrowly escaping discovery upon hearing traumatic news delivered by Thorn. When Thorn becomes her uneasy accomplice in the deception of Mick, Faren decides she needs to come clean with the truth. Shelving her pride might be the last thing she wants to do, but as facts and actions continue to contradict one another, her hands become tied in the lies she creates to survive.
Faren only needs one last lap dance to erase the final debt that hangs over her mother's head like a cloud of doom. But when Ronnie Bunce circles closer to Faren and threatens the last sanctuary she possesses, circumstances unravel to reveal lies that run deeper than she knew.
Can Faren and Mick consummate their passion before her deceit is discovered? Or will the last dance be the ultimate loss?
Read this review and others here
April 9, 2015
This was given to me by the publisher for an HONEST review.
Rating: 3.5 stars
This is definitely a story that holds an interesting concept, which is what drew me in from the beginning. I was interested in how Eros would turn a potentially gimmicky, cheesy of exotic dancer and club owner into a story that I believed. And I will say that, in spite of the major cliffhanger, she did a decent job. I am still interested and eager to know what happens next.
The Token follows the lives of Faren Mitchell, a physical therapist by day and an exotic dancer by night. Why? Well, it all connects to the tragic past that slowly unravels throughout these novellas. The Token is a 6-part novella series and I am reviewing the first 3 parts. Faren's path crosses that of the club owner, Jared "Mick" McKenna, who I personally liked right of the bat. He's not your typically overly controlling, dominant, "what I say goes" kind of guy. He is just someone who, like Faren, has a part that he'd like forgotten and wants to save the "damsel in distress".
One thing that I really like Eros for doing is not making Faren a whiny brat who can't save herself. Granted, she makes some really bad calls through the story. I kept wanting to shake some sense into her. But for the most part, I enjoyed her. The supporting characters from Thorn to Kiki were really fun to read about. Kiki was definitely a favorite of mine and once I got to know and understand Thorn, he grew on me a bit more as well.
The world of The Token is very simple, very one dimensional. And that is not a bad thing. In fact, if you want to focus on characters and their development, simple worlds are my personal preference. I, as a reader, don't like it when a ton of information is constantly thrown my way.
The one gripe I have about this story, and it's the biggest reason why I can't rate this higher than a 3.5 (which is still a great rating for me) is that the execution of this concept didn't feel as authentic as it could have been. As I've said there were moments that I wanted to slam Faren against a wall for her stupidity, not because she's was stupid, but because I just couldn't believe the logic behind some of her choices. I feel like she keeps secrets unnecessarily, especially in the case of dealing with people involved in her past. It just doesn't make sense that she wouldn't try to avoid that situation again. Of course there are other circumstance that prevent her from doing so right away, but when she was offered a solution -- she shoots it down. Why??!
The third installment ends at a horrible cliffhanger, which upsets me but also excites me and makes me want to read more. I can't wait for the next parts.
Rating: 3.5 stars
This is definitely a story that holds an interesting concept, which is what drew me in from the beginning. I was interested in how Eros would turn a potentially gimmicky, cheesy of exotic dancer and club owner into a story that I believed. And I will say that, in spite of the major cliffhanger, she did a decent job. I am still interested and eager to know what happens next.
The Token follows the lives of Faren Mitchell, a physical therapist by day and an exotic dancer by night. Why? Well, it all connects to the tragic past that slowly unravels throughout these novellas. The Token is a 6-part novella series and I am reviewing the first 3 parts. Faren's path crosses that of the club owner, Jared "Mick" McKenna, who I personally liked right of the bat. He's not your typically overly controlling, dominant, "what I say goes" kind of guy. He is just someone who, like Faren, has a part that he'd like forgotten and wants to save the "damsel in distress".
One thing that I really like Eros for doing is not making Faren a whiny brat who can't save herself. Granted, she makes some really bad calls through the story. I kept wanting to shake some sense into her. But for the most part, I enjoyed her. The supporting characters from Thorn to Kiki were really fun to read about. Kiki was definitely a favorite of mine and once I got to know and understand Thorn, he grew on me a bit more as well.
The world of The Token is very simple, very one dimensional. And that is not a bad thing. In fact, if you want to focus on characters and their development, simple worlds are my personal preference. I, as a reader, don't like it when a ton of information is constantly thrown my way.
The one gripe I have about this story, and it's the biggest reason why I can't rate this higher than a 3.5 (which is still a great rating for me) is that the execution of this concept didn't feel as authentic as it could have been. As I've said there were moments that I wanted to slam Faren against a wall for her stupidity, not because she's was stupid, but because I just couldn't believe the logic behind some of her choices. I feel like she keeps secrets unnecessarily, especially in the case of dealing with people involved in her past. It just doesn't make sense that she wouldn't try to avoid that situation again. Of course there are other circumstance that prevent her from doing so right away, but when she was offered a solution -- she shoots it down. Why??!
The third installment ends at a horrible cliffhanger, which upsets me but also excites me and makes me want to read more. I can't wait for the next parts.
May 19, 2014
I'll start off by saying this isn't my usual genre. The whole billionaire/poor girl with shades of kinky sex isn't something I usually go for. I gave Fifty Shades of Grey a try, but couldn't get past the third chapter. Mostly because the characters were too unlikeable. Don't get me wrong, I'm all for erotica, but if I want to read erotica, I buy it, not something with a thin plot that tries to pass as something else. But there was something about this series that intrigued me and this is definitely not dressed up erotica. It is truly dark romantic suspense.
It started off a little slow, but by midway through the first book, it had me hooked. By the middle of the second book, it had me turning pages when I should have been doing something else, and by the end of the third book, I couldn't get to Amazon.com fast enough to pick up the fourth book in the series. It's a thoroughly engaging and fascinating romance.
Plot
The plot is the strongest part of the first three books in the series. There are plenty of turns and twists and some unexpected moments. I have to admit, the author totally threw me at one point. I thought I had it figured out and at the end of Book 1, and was instead left with my mouth hanging open. Things go from shocking to interesting and then tragic as I worked my way through Books 2 and 3.
Characters
I started off feeling like the characters were superficial and not particularly interesting. Especially the main character, Faren. She describes herself as having creamy skin and hair that is rich and honey-colored. I couldn't help wondering who the hell thinks about themselves that way? I didn't much care for her and I wasn't a fan of billionaire Jared "Mick" McKenna either. I mean what kind of man owns a series of strip clubs. And then there's strip club manager, Ty, who is a total lecherous perv.
But once again, Marata Eros surprised me. She actually created far deeper characters than I expected. No one is exactly as they seem and as we get to know them through the books, we learn that while they're far from perfect, they are human and each one of them has redeeming qualities that we can't help liking.
Bottom Line
This is a surprisingly good story with far more depth and breadth than I expected and I'm very glad I gave it a try.
It started off a little slow, but by midway through the first book, it had me hooked. By the middle of the second book, it had me turning pages when I should have been doing something else, and by the end of the third book, I couldn't get to Amazon.com fast enough to pick up the fourth book in the series. It's a thoroughly engaging and fascinating romance.
Plot
The plot is the strongest part of the first three books in the series. There are plenty of turns and twists and some unexpected moments. I have to admit, the author totally threw me at one point. I thought I had it figured out and at the end of Book 1, and was instead left with my mouth hanging open. Things go from shocking to interesting and then tragic as I worked my way through Books 2 and 3.
Characters
I started off feeling like the characters were superficial and not particularly interesting. Especially the main character, Faren. She describes herself as having creamy skin and hair that is rich and honey-colored. I couldn't help wondering who the hell thinks about themselves that way? I didn't much care for her and I wasn't a fan of billionaire Jared "Mick" McKenna either. I mean what kind of man owns a series of strip clubs. And then there's strip club manager, Ty, who is a total lecherous perv.
But once again, Marata Eros surprised me. She actually created far deeper characters than I expected. No one is exactly as they seem and as we get to know them through the books, we learn that while they're far from perfect, they are human and each one of them has redeeming qualities that we can't help liking.
Bottom Line
This is a surprisingly good story with far more depth and breadth than I expected and I'm very glad I gave it a try.
October 29, 2018
It is a great book to read
October 25, 2016
While the story was entertaining and enjoyable overall, it had so much more potential but it fell a bit short. Some parts of the story just didn't flow well. Then on top of that it ends on a cliffhanger. I wouldn't rate it as one of the best stories I've listened to but it does have me interested enough to know what happens next. So with that in mind the story was worth the listen.
You really need to suspend common sense while listening to this book. There is an interesting plotline and a good cast of characters both good and bad. Everyone seems to have a secret or past they would like to forget. But as we all know the past never stays buried. Lying, even if by omission is always going to come back and bite you.
Mick sees her coming and going in her stripper outfits, but he has no clue what she's doing? He can forgive the poles but not the lap dances? (Although I get his perspective in many ways) He owns a strip club and he's going to be judgmental of a girl who works for him?
She meets guy who wants to help her and she still keeps secrets. She works at his strip club but doesn't want him to know. So again she keeps it secret. She finds out her stepfather is after her and she still decides to keep secrets. She continually puts herself in a situations that are a risk to her. There is just no logic to her decisions.
Lacy Laurel does an good job with the narration overall. She has a pleasant voice. Some of her character voices are great. Although, there is not much difference between male and female voices at times. Sometimes you can tell which character is speaking and sometimes you can't. Her narration is a bit to fast at times which effects the clarity and flow of the narration at times. Even with this she is by far better than some narrators I have heard and I would listen to her narrate other books.
This audiobook was provided by the author, narrator or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review.
You really need to suspend common sense while listening to this book. There is an interesting plotline and a good cast of characters both good and bad. Everyone seems to have a secret or past they would like to forget. But as we all know the past never stays buried. Lying, even if by omission is always going to come back and bite you.
Mick sees her coming and going in her stripper outfits, but he has no clue what she's doing? He can forgive the poles but not the lap dances? (Although I get his perspective in many ways) He owns a strip club and he's going to be judgmental of a girl who works for him?
She meets guy who wants to help her and she still keeps secrets. She works at his strip club but doesn't want him to know. So again she keeps it secret. She finds out her stepfather is after her and she still decides to keep secrets. She continually puts herself in a situations that are a risk to her. There is just no logic to her decisions.
Lacy Laurel does an good job with the narration overall. She has a pleasant voice. Some of her character voices are great. Although, there is not much difference between male and female voices at times. Sometimes you can tell which character is speaking and sometimes you can't. Her narration is a bit to fast at times which effects the clarity and flow of the narration at times. Even with this she is by far better than some narrators I have heard and I would listen to her narrate other books.
This audiobook was provided by the author, narrator or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review.
November 3, 2016
I have wanted to read – or in that case listen to – THE TOKEN for so long. It is about a woman who has had a streak of bad luck her whole life – she has to strip to somehow make some money and now she has even become to terms with a fatal diagnosis. Yet, she is holding it together pretty well, deciding on what she wants from the remainder of her life. Add to that a stalker and a virgin – all which promised to be a great dark read. But somehow the story was never able to really get and hold my attention. A few weeks have passed since I listened to the audio book and I honestly cannot remember much of the storyline at all. Even the cliffhanger did not leave a lasting impression on me. Whereas, yes, I should have written my review sooner, I imagine most of it can be ascribed to the narration. I am not one to easily tear apart something in my reviews, but in this case I have not one good word to say about the narrator. In fact, I found it close to awful. Everything was told overly excited and in such a quick pace – not leaving the slightest pauses between characters, which made it quite hard to follow in whose mind we currently were or who was speaking to whom. I hung on, did not give up on the books, although in hindsight it might have been better if I had switched to the ebooks instead, maybe I would have enjoyed this book, which clearly had potential, some more.
May 16, 2014
4 stars! and SIZZLING
After living through a horrible attack that left one hand useless and her mother in very critical care, Farren pushes herself to get better and is inspired to become a physical therapist using her own short comings as motivation to help others in a way that she cannot help herself. Only when her debt to her mother's care facility accumulates to an exhorbent amount of money she has to turn to "other" means to get out of debt and back on top again.... only to have her life given an experation date. Finding out that she has terminal brain cancer pushed her into the arms of her unknown boss and eventually the man who quickly became her everything, only can Mick handle all that she has had to do and all that she has going on when he finds out what happens piece by piece and his working to recover from his own terrible past? We shall see.... Token parts 1-3 have left me breathless, and I am waiting on pins and needles to see what happens next. Aside from a few miss understandings Marata tells a very vivid, exciting and emotional tale that has quite ingeniously left me wanting more This is a solid four star read!
After living through a horrible attack that left one hand useless and her mother in very critical care, Farren pushes herself to get better and is inspired to become a physical therapist using her own short comings as motivation to help others in a way that she cannot help herself. Only when her debt to her mother's care facility accumulates to an exhorbent amount of money she has to turn to "other" means to get out of debt and back on top again.... only to have her life given an experation date. Finding out that she has terminal brain cancer pushed her into the arms of her unknown boss and eventually the man who quickly became her everything, only can Mick handle all that she has had to do and all that she has going on when he finds out what happens piece by piece and his working to recover from his own terrible past? We shall see.... Token parts 1-3 have left me breathless, and I am waiting on pins and needles to see what happens next. Aside from a few miss understandings Marata tells a very vivid, exciting and emotional tale that has quite ingeniously left me wanting more This is a solid four star read!
June 28, 2014
There is a lot of stuff to cover about the Token. 6 whole volumes in fact. Unfortunately, and this really is unfortunate since Marata is one of my all time favorite authors, I have only read the first 3 volumes.
I was slapping myself upside the head (mentally of course) for missing out on these little books of awesome while they are coming out. The market right now is literally FULL of NA romance. And to be honest some of it is getting to be the same. But not with Marata, NEVER with Marata. I love her writers voice. It’s so strong, and breathes life into her characters.
Her characters are always complicated, and thick and chunky. I’m pretty hungry right now so I’m going to compare them to the best kind of salsa. It’s subtle, and it’s got kick, and it just explodes in your mouth. That’s Farren. That’s Mick. They just explode off the page.
If you are looking for some quick reads, that are unique, fun, flirty, and sexy as hell then DO pick up the Token Series. It’s unputdownable.
I was slapping myself upside the head (mentally of course) for missing out on these little books of awesome while they are coming out. The market right now is literally FULL of NA romance. And to be honest some of it is getting to be the same. But not with Marata, NEVER with Marata. I love her writers voice. It’s so strong, and breathes life into her characters.
Her characters are always complicated, and thick and chunky. I’m pretty hungry right now so I’m going to compare them to the best kind of salsa. It’s subtle, and it’s got kick, and it just explodes in your mouth. That’s Farren. That’s Mick. They just explode off the page.
If you are looking for some quick reads, that are unique, fun, flirty, and sexy as hell then DO pick up the Token Series. It’s unputdownable.
February 13, 2017
Idk
After she knew his life why but tell him? Pride messes up a lot of things. This sucks on so many levels.
After she knew his life why but tell him? Pride messes up a lot of things. This sucks on so many levels.
May 31, 2016
Good read
At first I thought this was a series of one book, however it is a series out of three separate books. The first book is about a girl who is a journalist and was abused by her father. Her mother is in a home and she needs to make enough money to keep her mom in the same hospital. A friend gets her to work the poles and then she moves into making more money at a club. She meets billionaire Mick and he falls in love with her until he discovers what she really is. Great read.
I did not read the second book
The last book is about a group of kids that have special abilities. Caleb discovers he can raise the dead, as well as being someone back to life. A dog got hit by a car and Caleb brought him back to life. This is the first book of others to follow m
At first I thought this was a series of one book, however it is a series out of three separate books. The first book is about a girl who is a journalist and was abused by her father. Her mother is in a home and she needs to make enough money to keep her mom in the same hospital. A friend gets her to work the poles and then she moves into making more money at a club. She meets billionaire Mick and he falls in love with her until he discovers what she really is. Great read.
I did not read the second book
The last book is about a group of kids that have special abilities. Caleb discovers he can raise the dead, as well as being someone back to life. A dog got hit by a car and Caleb brought him back to life. This is the first book of others to follow m
September 22, 2014
The Token Series 1-3
The first work I've read of Marata Eros. The story brings you in full swing from page one. Well written story and characters. I felt Faren's pain and struggles. The story is about a young girl who learns out she doesn't have long to live and starts stripping and doing private dances to ensure her mother who is in a nursing home will be adequately taken care of. She falls for the boss and they have a hot and steamy romance. So many lies and deceit...Will her and Mick make it? And what about her inevitable death? I highly recommend this series!
The first work I've read of Marata Eros. The story brings you in full swing from page one. Well written story and characters. I felt Faren's pain and struggles. The story is about a young girl who learns out she doesn't have long to live and starts stripping and doing private dances to ensure her mother who is in a nursing home will be adequately taken care of. She falls for the boss and they have a hot and steamy romance. So many lies and deceit...Will her and Mick make it? And what about her inevitable death? I highly recommend this series!
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