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Lies & Leather #1
Loving Lucas
Perfect for fans of Abbi Glines and Monica Murphy, Violetta Rand’s explosive new Lies & Leather series kicks off with a red-hot motorcycle racer who rides hard and plays for keeps.
Twenty-one-year-old Karlie Augustine is a survivor. She’s smart and tough, but she’s in too deep with a bad boyfriend who isn’t above breaking her spirit—or her body. Luckily, help arrives in the form of a leather-clad, motorcycle-riding hunk on the right side of the law. Lucas Lafontaine is pure muscle, a Corpus Christi cop who ignites something primal deep within Karlie. And when he offers her room and board in exchange for housekeeping, she finally starts to feel safe again.
As their arrangement turns deliciously decadent, Lucas gets hooked on Karlie’s killer body and fighting spirit. He wants to heal the pain he sees behind her eyes, but to protect her he needs to keep her close, especially now that her psycho ex won’t take a hint. Even as Lucas fights his own battle for custody of his young son, he knows that what he’s found with Karlie is real—and that he’d do anything to protect the woman he wants to take to the finish line.
Twenty-one-year-old Karlie Augustine is a survivor. She’s smart and tough, but she’s in too deep with a bad boyfriend who isn’t above breaking her spirit—or her body. Luckily, help arrives in the form of a leather-clad, motorcycle-riding hunk on the right side of the law. Lucas Lafontaine is pure muscle, a Corpus Christi cop who ignites something primal deep within Karlie. And when he offers her room and board in exchange for housekeeping, she finally starts to feel safe again.
As their arrangement turns deliciously decadent, Lucas gets hooked on Karlie’s killer body and fighting spirit. He wants to heal the pain he sees behind her eyes, but to protect her he needs to keep her close, especially now that her psycho ex won’t take a hint. Even as Lucas fights his own battle for custody of his young son, he knows that what he’s found with Karlie is real—and that he’d do anything to protect the woman he wants to take to the finish line.
215 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 20, 2015
14 people are currently reading
418 people want to read
About the author
Violetta Rand
46 books284 followersRaised in Corpus Christi, Texas, Violetta Rand spent her childhood reading, writing, and playing soccer. After meeting her husband in New England, they moved to Alaska where she studied environmental science. Violetta spent a decade working as a scientist before quitting her day job to pursue her dream as a full time writer.
Violetta still lives in Anchorage, Alaska, and spends her days writing evocative contemporary and historical romance. When she’s not reading, writing, or editing, she enjoys time with her husband, pets, and friends.
Violetta still lives in Anchorage, Alaska, and spends her days writing evocative contemporary and historical romance. When she’s not reading, writing, or editing, she enjoys time with her husband, pets, and friends.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 134 reviews
February 19, 2016
***2,5 "Mine(!)" stars***
This book was sounding very good from the blurb, but whatever it shines, it's not always gold!!!
The writing was really good, but i had some issues with the plot...
I don't like particular the insta-love, but i'm not too difficult to accept it when it's given with a more persuative way...
Here, i wasn't convinced and i really got dizzy from the quickness of this insta-thing between our main characters...
But i will tell you more about it in a while!!!
Well, Karlie was in abusive relationship for almost two years.
One night she decided to escape of that asshole's fist, but he was refusing to let her go...
So, from nowhere a man stepped between her and her "boyfriend" and save the day and Karlie, of course!!!
But Karlie wasn't having a family, nor a place to live, nor money of her own...
So this kind Samaritan who met her before 2hours is offering her a place to live... With him!!! With the excuse of cleaning his house and cook for him!!!
What a nice guy, ugh???
Well, Karlie didn't have another choice, so she went to live with this sexy man!!! Poor her!!!
And of course, they ended up really close...
Hmmm.... Okay, there were not only that!!!
Of course, we had the abusive asshole, Lucas had an ex-wife and a son somewhere and Karlie had an unknown past to her and to the rest of the world...
It sounds good as a thought, right???
But i didn't get satisfaction on the development of all those things...
They could be great if they were appearing in a different way and they could be soooo intriguing...
But no, they weren't... At least, for me!!!
I just needed all of those problems to be a bigger part of this book.
It was like they were a part of the book just to add a flash of drama without a good reason...
Just for the teasing... and i didn't like that!!!
I wanted something more!!!!
Well, the good in this book was Lucas...
He was such a gorgeous and amazing guy... But all this perfection seems too good to be true!!!
He wasn't having any flaws, he was caring, nice, thoughtful, sexy, good in bed, he had so much understanding... and of, course, he was a cop...
And yep, with Karlie he was becoming a little bit of caveman(!)...
I honestly don't understand why all the man like to scream that a woman is theirs!!!
My man why he is not acting like that??? Should i'll be worrying???
And then, we had Karlie...
I honestly don't know how i felt about her...
I think that she had no personality... Maybe she wasn't sure of herself and she was becoming a victim of circumstances in her ignorance, but i didn't like her behavior...
When you had live abuse from first hand in your relationship, how can you trust another man so easily???
How can you jumb in bed with another man so quickly???
How can you love someone so soon??? Ugh???
I just think that she was a girl that she didn't know what she wanted...
Her character didn't get into me at all!!!
Now, my main problem was this insta-love between Lucas and Karlie that was making my eyes rolling more than once...
Yep, there was love from first sight but i think that i wanted something more to justify that...
I'm really sorry about how i'm feeling, but i had to be honest...
And believe me when i'm saying that i am an easy person with the books!!!
I don't ask too much, but here i didn't get even the little that i wanted!!!
If you are wondering if i will read another book of Violetta Rand, my answer will be yes!!!
Her writing was good and the general idea was also good, so i would love to read something more from her...
ARC kindly provided via NetGalley in exchange of an honest review!!!
This book was sounding very good from the blurb, but whatever it shines, it's not always gold!!!
The writing was really good, but i had some issues with the plot...
I don't like particular the insta-love, but i'm not too difficult to accept it when it's given with a more persuative way...
Here, i wasn't convinced and i really got dizzy from the quickness of this insta-thing between our main characters...
But i will tell you more about it in a while!!!
Well, Karlie was in abusive relationship for almost two years.
One night she decided to escape of that asshole's fist, but he was refusing to let her go...
So, from nowhere a man stepped between her and her "boyfriend" and save the day and Karlie, of course!!!
But Karlie wasn't having a family, nor a place to live, nor money of her own...
So this kind Samaritan who met her before 2hours is offering her a place to live... With him!!! With the excuse of cleaning his house and cook for him!!!
What a nice guy, ugh???
Well, Karlie didn't have another choice, so she went to live with this sexy man!!! Poor her!!!
And of course, they ended up really close...
Hmmm.... Okay, there were not only that!!!
Of course, we had the abusive asshole, Lucas had an ex-wife and a son somewhere and Karlie had an unknown past to her and to the rest of the world...
It sounds good as a thought, right???
But i didn't get satisfaction on the development of all those things...
They could be great if they were appearing in a different way and they could be soooo intriguing...
But no, they weren't... At least, for me!!!
I just needed all of those problems to be a bigger part of this book.
It was like they were a part of the book just to add a flash of drama without a good reason...
Just for the teasing... and i didn't like that!!!
I wanted something more!!!!
Well, the good in this book was Lucas...
He was such a gorgeous and amazing guy... But all this perfection seems too good to be true!!!
He wasn't having any flaws, he was caring, nice, thoughtful, sexy, good in bed, he had so much understanding... and of, course, he was a cop...
And yep, with Karlie he was becoming a little bit of caveman(!)...
I honestly don't understand why all the man like to scream that a woman is theirs!!!
My man why he is not acting like that??? Should i'll be worrying???
And then, we had Karlie...
I honestly don't know how i felt about her...
I think that she had no personality... Maybe she wasn't sure of herself and she was becoming a victim of circumstances in her ignorance, but i didn't like her behavior...
When you had live abuse from first hand in your relationship, how can you trust another man so easily???
How can you jumb in bed with another man so quickly???
How can you love someone so soon??? Ugh???
I just think that she was a girl that she didn't know what she wanted...
Her character didn't get into me at all!!!
Now, my main problem was this insta-love between Lucas and Karlie that was making my eyes rolling more than once...
Yep, there was love from first sight but i think that i wanted something more to justify that...
I'm really sorry about how i'm feeling, but i had to be honest...
And believe me when i'm saying that i am an easy person with the books!!!
I don't ask too much, but here i didn't get even the little that i wanted!!!
If you are wondering if i will read another book of Violetta Rand, my answer will be yes!!!
Her writing was good and the general idea was also good, so i would love to read something more from her...
ARC kindly provided via NetGalley in exchange of an honest review!!!
September 30, 2015
So Karlie (with a K) is really super pretty. A lot of effort and mention was made to make sure you know she is a tiny little thing with a tiny little waste and massive 36DD titties. Remind you of anyone?
She is really tiny and she’s just lost 5 pounds too.
Anyway Karlie is saved from a 2 year abusive relationship by this dude named Lucas. So then Mr Alpha on a white horse offers her a place to stay in return for her cleaning his house and cooking. (Dinner to be served at 6pm sharp every night, if you please). On her first night at his house, the day after leaving said 2 year abusive relationship, he gives her the first orgasm she’s ever had.
Ok, now I understand that there are women out there who love the idea of taking care of a big strong man in return for him protecting you, but I am defo not one of those and the traditional roles glorified in this book made me super uncomfortable. As did the immediate insta-love after JUST LEAVING A 2 YEAR ABUSIVE RELATIONSHIP.
There are descriptions of her cooking and cleaning, I guess to up the romance levels.
“There are streaks on the mirror, so I wash them off, then the countertop. The bathtub and toilet are now sparkling clean. So I vacuum the hallway and living room next.”
Isn’t that just the most romantic thing you’ve ever heard?
“Lay down, darlin’.” I gaze at the perfectly made bed.
Sigh.
I couldn’t help but wonder whether this book was written by a man because this chick seems to be every guy’s fantasy. A tiny wasted, big titted docile girl who loves cooking and cleaning for you and as a bonus she doesn’t even need an orgasm every time.
Meanwhile Lucas is a total douche-canoe obsessed with Karlie and her 36 DD’s and her tiny body and how well he can fuck her.
I chuckle, rather pleased I wore her tiny body out.
But he says some funny fucking shit.
Why do girls believe guys want to be friends? Gay guys, maybe. I still have my doubts about that, too.
Call me a Neanderthall, but I don’t like my girlfriend hanging out at a bar alone.
“I’d expect you to sign a no divorce agreement through my church.”
So no, really did not enjoy this book at all. Karlie was too good to be true and too easy to trust and Lucas was a controlling ass who treated Karlie like a plaything.
The dialogue also felt juvenile and choppy, I didn't buyinto the connection of these two characters and there are thigs I found offensive. I found this boring for the most part with not much happening until about 70% in where there are some twists and we get a little action. Still, not enough to turn this around for me.
(ARC provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.)
She is really tiny and she’s just lost 5 pounds too.
Anyway Karlie is saved from a 2 year abusive relationship by this dude named Lucas. So then Mr Alpha on a white horse offers her a place to stay in return for her cleaning his house and cooking. (Dinner to be served at 6pm sharp every night, if you please). On her first night at his house, the day after leaving said 2 year abusive relationship, he gives her the first orgasm she’s ever had.
Ok, now I understand that there are women out there who love the idea of taking care of a big strong man in return for him protecting you, but I am defo not one of those and the traditional roles glorified in this book made me super uncomfortable. As did the immediate insta-love after JUST LEAVING A 2 YEAR ABUSIVE RELATIONSHIP.
There are descriptions of her cooking and cleaning, I guess to up the romance levels.
“There are streaks on the mirror, so I wash them off, then the countertop. The bathtub and toilet are now sparkling clean. So I vacuum the hallway and living room next.”
Isn’t that just the most romantic thing you’ve ever heard?
“Lay down, darlin’.” I gaze at the perfectly made bed.
Sigh.
I couldn’t help but wonder whether this book was written by a man because this chick seems to be every guy’s fantasy. A tiny wasted, big titted docile girl who loves cooking and cleaning for you and as a bonus she doesn’t even need an orgasm every time.
Meanwhile Lucas is a total douche-canoe obsessed with Karlie and her 36 DD’s and her tiny body and how well he can fuck her.
I chuckle, rather pleased I wore her tiny body out.
But he says some funny fucking shit.
Why do girls believe guys want to be friends? Gay guys, maybe. I still have my doubts about that, too.
Call me a Neanderthall, but I don’t like my girlfriend hanging out at a bar alone.
“I’d expect you to sign a no divorce agreement through my church.”
So no, really did not enjoy this book at all. Karlie was too good to be true and too easy to trust and Lucas was a controlling ass who treated Karlie like a plaything.
The dialogue also felt juvenile and choppy, I didn't buyinto the connection of these two characters and there are thigs I found offensive. I found this boring for the most part with not much happening until about 70% in where there are some twists and we get a little action. Still, not enough to turn this around for me.
(ARC provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.)
Read
May 24, 2015
DNF 51%
Previously to reading this book I wrote in my review "Hopefully this one will be better then the last Violetta Rand book I read..."
But surprise surprise it wasn't. Apparently me and this author don't match so there is no point in insisting.
I decided not to rate it because there is nothing seriously wrong with the book...it's just did nothing for me.
*ARC generously provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
Previously to reading this book I wrote in my review "Hopefully this one will be better then the last Violetta Rand book I read..."
But surprise surprise it wasn't. Apparently me and this author don't match so there is no point in insisting.
I decided not to rate it because there is nothing seriously wrong with the book...it's just did nothing for me.
*ARC generously provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
July 14, 2015
I have to say that I normally like Violetta Rand's stuff and rate it around a 4 star but this time around I just wasn't really feeling the story. It has a sweet enough premise with a sweet cop who gives an abused and needy college student a way out. They eventually have some sex, fall in love, and kind of have a happy ending. The story just didn't flow well because the heroine's kind of stupid, the end for the cop is kind of awkward, and everything just felt rushed. I liked bits and pieces of things and was able to finish the story but not as quickly as I normally would because I found myself getting bored or annoyed. Loving Lucas receives 2.75 bored stars from me.
February 15, 2017
This book has instalove, cheese and stereotypical "hot" characters but putting that aside the writing flowed and it was easy to read. I felt the chemistry between Karlie and Lucas but I didn't like how quick it all happened between them.
The slow build up in romance books and the sexual tension is what does it for me, but this book didn't give me that. On top there wasn't really a lot of character development or much of a story line.
October 31, 2015
Loving Lucas is the first book in the Lies and Leather contemporary romance series by Violetta Rand.
Karlie Augustine’s life has not been easy, she’s tough and determined to make life for herself though. But there’s one thing or rather person in her way, her boyfriend of almost two years who is equally resolved in keeping her by any means necessary, including force. As luck or fate would have it, Karlie is saved by a police badge wearing knight in shining… motorcycle?
Lucas Lafontaine just transferred to the Corpus Christi police force and found himself not just helping a beautiful damsel in distress but also getting to keep to clean and cook in exchange for a roof over her head. But his motives are not as selfless as wanting to protect her. He’s undeniably attracted to her and wants to help heal the invisible wounds inflicted by Karlie’s past, including her ex-boyfriend. Even with a custody battle for his son on his hands, he’s also intent on fighting for the woman he loves.
Right from the start I found it difficult to process the insta-love between Lucas and Karlie. I usually don’t have a problem with this when it feels believable, but the way in which the hero and heroine met suggested Karlie was in a delicate psychological state after leaving a two year relationship under frightful circumstances which should have been treated with patience and care and not rushed into a move in with me within a few minutes and sex in less than 24 hrs.
I also felt the character development to be forced and unrealistic, trying the blend together a mix of every book boyfriend and tough heroine quality one could think of. Although Karlie handled situations immaturely, I’m giving her a pass because of her age, but I can’t find it in me to do the same with Lucas who is older, should be wiser and just came across as selfish at times or overbearing at others.
The story incorporated too many clichés which coupled with odds bits made me not enjoy it. For instance, never having Lucas’ son appear in the story. The boy was just mentioned and it seemed incredibly irresponsible on Lucas’ part as a father to fight for full custody while rushing into a serious relationship of the forever kind with a girl he barely knows and have her be his son’s stepmother without them having even meet.
I was drawn in to this book by its cover and blurb which seamed appealing and something I would enjoy, because I love Abbi Glines’ Rosemary Beach series and Monica Murphy’s One Week Girlfriend one. I’m sorry to say my review is not a favorable one. It could be that others will like this book very much and it’s simply not for me. I really like the idea of a romance in the motorcycle world, so perhaps I'll give this series another try.
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via NetGalley. The excerpts are from that copy. *
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Karlie Augustine’s life has not been easy, she’s tough and determined to make life for herself though. But there’s one thing or rather person in her way, her boyfriend of almost two years who is equally resolved in keeping her by any means necessary, including force. As luck or fate would have it, Karlie is saved by a police badge wearing knight in shining… motorcycle?
Lucas Lafontaine just transferred to the Corpus Christi police force and found himself not just helping a beautiful damsel in distress but also getting to keep to clean and cook in exchange for a roof over her head. But his motives are not as selfless as wanting to protect her. He’s undeniably attracted to her and wants to help heal the invisible wounds inflicted by Karlie’s past, including her ex-boyfriend. Even with a custody battle for his son on his hands, he’s also intent on fighting for the woman he loves.
Right from the start I found it difficult to process the insta-love between Lucas and Karlie. I usually don’t have a problem with this when it feels believable, but the way in which the hero and heroine met suggested Karlie was in a delicate psychological state after leaving a two year relationship under frightful circumstances which should have been treated with patience and care and not rushed into a move in with me within a few minutes and sex in less than 24 hrs.
I also felt the character development to be forced and unrealistic, trying the blend together a mix of every book boyfriend and tough heroine quality one could think of. Although Karlie handled situations immaturely, I’m giving her a pass because of her age, but I can’t find it in me to do the same with Lucas who is older, should be wiser and just came across as selfish at times or overbearing at others.
The story incorporated too many clichés which coupled with odds bits made me not enjoy it. For instance, never having Lucas’ son appear in the story. The boy was just mentioned and it seemed incredibly irresponsible on Lucas’ part as a father to fight for full custody while rushing into a serious relationship of the forever kind with a girl he barely knows and have her be his son’s stepmother without them having even meet.
I was drawn in to this book by its cover and blurb which seamed appealing and something I would enjoy, because I love Abbi Glines’ Rosemary Beach series and Monica Murphy’s One Week Girlfriend one. I’m sorry to say my review is not a favorable one. It could be that others will like this book very much and it’s simply not for me. I really like the idea of a romance in the motorcycle world, so perhaps I'll give this series another try.
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via NetGalley. The excerpts are from that copy. *
More reviews * Stalk us on FaceBook * As well as Twitter * Pinterest Board for Book Teasers
View all my reviews
October 20, 2015
ARC graciously provided by NetGalley.
This book is a very easy read. Not a lot of drama and a huge amount of chemistry and heat between the H/h. While the story is the usual strong bossy alpha and innocent heroine, I was sucked into the story and enjoyed it for a relaxing afternoon read.
This book is a very easy read. Not a lot of drama and a huge amount of chemistry and heat between the H/h. While the story is the usual strong bossy alpha and innocent heroine, I was sucked into the story and enjoyed it for a relaxing afternoon read.
not-interested
July 9, 2025why? ~ “I’d expect you to sign a no divorce agreement through my church.”🤢 cause...w...t...f
October 15, 2015
I have been wanting to read Loving Lucas for what feels like ever. A sexy cop helping a heroine in distress? What's not to love about that?! Unfortunately, I think my anticipation is what made me not enjoy this one quite as much as I hoped I would. Don't get me wrong, it's a good read, I was just hoping for a little more.
Having grown up in foster care, Karlie has never known real love... Which is probably why she stayed with an abusive boyfriend for so long. Finally deciding she's had enough, Karlie attempts to make her escape, and that's when she meets Lucas.
Lucas has always had a habit of rescuing women in distress and Karlie was no exception. Offering her a place to stay in exchange for cooking and cleaning seemed like a logical thing to him... Of course I'm sure it helped that he thought she was smoking hot.
Their attraction for each other is instant and their relationship starts up fairly quickly. Unfortunately I had a hard time believing their connection was more than just mutual lust. Plus, Lucas' reactions when it came to his ex, and the fact that he still had a picture of her sitting on his dresser, made it hard for me to believe that he wasn't still in love with her and if Karlie wasn't there he probably would have taken her back.
Along with the romance, there's a little drama with both of their exes, and a little twist towards the end that I didn't see coming. Unfortunately, I'm not really sure that any of their issues were resolved and that left me feeling a little unsettled when I got to the end.
Overall, Loving Lucas was an easy, low-angst, new adult romance and while I did enjoy it, it wasn't exactly the winner that I thought it would be.
*ARC kindly provided through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Having grown up in foster care, Karlie has never known real love... Which is probably why she stayed with an abusive boyfriend for so long. Finally deciding she's had enough, Karlie attempts to make her escape, and that's when she meets Lucas.
Lucas has always had a habit of rescuing women in distress and Karlie was no exception. Offering her a place to stay in exchange for cooking and cleaning seemed like a logical thing to him... Of course I'm sure it helped that he thought she was smoking hot.
Their attraction for each other is instant and their relationship starts up fairly quickly. Unfortunately I had a hard time believing their connection was more than just mutual lust. Plus, Lucas' reactions when it came to his ex, and the fact that he still had a picture of her sitting on his dresser, made it hard for me to believe that he wasn't still in love with her and if Karlie wasn't there he probably would have taken her back.
Along with the romance, there's a little drama with both of their exes, and a little twist towards the end that I didn't see coming. Unfortunately, I'm not really sure that any of their issues were resolved and that left me feeling a little unsettled when I got to the end.
Overall, Loving Lucas was an easy, low-angst, new adult romance and while I did enjoy it, it wasn't exactly the winner that I thought it would be.
*ARC kindly provided through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 20, 2015
**I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.**
Loving Lucas started off with a bang. Karlie and Connor have a very explosive abusive relationship. They've been in the relationship for two years, none of which seems to have been good. When Karlie finally decides she's had enough, Lucas becomes her knight in shining armor.
The story line had so much potential, but unfortunately just didn't pull through. The beginning was strong and had backbone. It was a blink of an eye and it was a day later and orgasms were being had, insta-love occurred and then the downfall happened. Lucas's character was intriguing but Karlie just was lacking for me. The sex scenes between the two were steamy, but it wasn't enough to carry a connection to the characters. I really wanted to like this one more than I did.
Loving Lucas started off with a bang. Karlie and Connor have a very explosive abusive relationship. They've been in the relationship for two years, none of which seems to have been good. When Karlie finally decides she's had enough, Lucas becomes her knight in shining armor.
The story line had so much potential, but unfortunately just didn't pull through. The beginning was strong and had backbone. It was a blink of an eye and it was a day later and orgasms were being had, insta-love occurred and then the downfall happened. Lucas's character was intriguing but Karlie just was lacking for me. The sex scenes between the two were steamy, but it wasn't enough to carry a connection to the characters. I really wanted to like this one more than I did.
October 20, 2015
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is a romantic read, with a really delicious guy and a very lucky woman who is the centre of his world. Lucas has been burned before, so he is very measured and careful in his behaviour, wanting to get it right, and give Karlie the life he thinks she deserves. Karlie is a little annoying in places - but we know she has made some bad choices, and had a difficult start in life, so it is easy to forgive her most of the time. Their connection is quick and the story unfolds over a very short period of time. The writing is good, the humour, chemistry and drama works well - I will be reading some of her other books very soon.
This is a romantic read, with a really delicious guy and a very lucky woman who is the centre of his world. Lucas has been burned before, so he is very measured and careful in his behaviour, wanting to get it right, and give Karlie the life he thinks she deserves. Karlie is a little annoying in places - but we know she has made some bad choices, and had a difficult start in life, so it is easy to forgive her most of the time. Their connection is quick and the story unfolds over a very short period of time. The writing is good, the humour, chemistry and drama works well - I will be reading some of her other books very soon.
November 11, 2015
Loving Lucas 2.5-3 stars
I struggle to rate this because I’m a huge fan on Ms. Rand’s Devil’s Den series and her other books but this one didn’t do it for me for a number of reasons to which I will get to in a moment.
Karlie Augustine has been riding the Powder Puff circuit for years where her boyfriend is one of the top riders and a celebrity in his field. However he is not a nice guy at all. He is not only alcohol and drug dependent but also possessive and violent. Karlie fears for her life every day until the night that she meets Lucas Lafontaine and he comes to her aid saving her from being beaten once again. Lucas is a cop that has ridden for years and while he’s new to this particular circuit he has won a number of titles from where he recently moved. When Lucas see’s what’s going on between Connor and Karlie, he immediately steps in stops it, helps her to get her things and makes friends with Karlie’s friends. Now this is where I start to get a little turned off… Karlie moves in with Lucas the very next day with free room and board in exchange for cooking and cleaning his house! I get that he’s a cop with a exemplary record but that doesn’t mean you should move in someone that you have known for less than 24 hours!!!
Dislikes: I get that Karlie has never felt loved having grown up in foster care and treated differently than the other kids. This doesn’t explain why she cooks like a five star chef, someone had to teach her something or did she grow up like Cinderella, always have to do all of the cooking and cleaning? I also didn’t like how her character came off as looking. She’s described as a tiny little thing, barely 5ft tall, with a tiny little waste but with 36DD’s, this makes her sound like a Barbie Doll or something that races motorcycles. Lucas is obsessed with her size and figure and even though he is a cop and supposedly her wellbeing is his top priority, he puts the moves on her the very first night knowing that she has just come out of an two year abusive relationship. Another thing that didn’t add up….She is a 21 year woman, that has never had an orgasm, has barely had sex with her ex because all of the alcohol and drugs has made him impotent so therefor is she is hardly sexually active, is trying to save every penny she can, rarely spends a dime but yet she has large tattoos around both nipples... Oh and they didn’t use protection even though she knew that her ex was not always faithful… These are just a few of the long list of things that bothered me.
Likes: With the exception of Lucas attempting to get in her pants the very first night, he was always nice to Karlie. He did come off as being a stand-up guy, even when dealing with his ex-wife whom he was going through a custody battle with. He never pushed Karlie into doing anything that she didn’t want to, I just think he should have waited longer. Karlie, even though I didn’t like how she was written to look was making the best of what life had dealt to her. She had worked her to get into the college that she wanted and was working to make her life better even though she was struggling to makes ends meet. And while I didn’t care for Lucas’ cousin all that much at first, I did love Karlie’s best friends from the get go.
Anyway this is just my opinion but there are plenty of others that really liked this book. It’s the first in the series and because the author is Violetta Rand, I will read the next book because this is the first time that I have ever not cared whole heartedly for one of her books.
I received an ARC from the publisher through Netgalley in return for an honest review.
I struggle to rate this because I’m a huge fan on Ms. Rand’s Devil’s Den series and her other books but this one didn’t do it for me for a number of reasons to which I will get to in a moment.
Karlie Augustine has been riding the Powder Puff circuit for years where her boyfriend is one of the top riders and a celebrity in his field. However he is not a nice guy at all. He is not only alcohol and drug dependent but also possessive and violent. Karlie fears for her life every day until the night that she meets Lucas Lafontaine and he comes to her aid saving her from being beaten once again. Lucas is a cop that has ridden for years and while he’s new to this particular circuit he has won a number of titles from where he recently moved. When Lucas see’s what’s going on between Connor and Karlie, he immediately steps in stops it, helps her to get her things and makes friends with Karlie’s friends. Now this is where I start to get a little turned off… Karlie moves in with Lucas the very next day with free room and board in exchange for cooking and cleaning his house! I get that he’s a cop with a exemplary record but that doesn’t mean you should move in someone that you have known for less than 24 hours!!!
Dislikes: I get that Karlie has never felt loved having grown up in foster care and treated differently than the other kids. This doesn’t explain why she cooks like a five star chef, someone had to teach her something or did she grow up like Cinderella, always have to do all of the cooking and cleaning? I also didn’t like how her character came off as looking. She’s described as a tiny little thing, barely 5ft tall, with a tiny little waste but with 36DD’s, this makes her sound like a Barbie Doll or something that races motorcycles. Lucas is obsessed with her size and figure and even though he is a cop and supposedly her wellbeing is his top priority, he puts the moves on her the very first night knowing that she has just come out of an two year abusive relationship. Another thing that didn’t add up….She is a 21 year woman, that has never had an orgasm, has barely had sex with her ex because all of the alcohol and drugs has made him impotent so therefor is she is hardly sexually active, is trying to save every penny she can, rarely spends a dime but yet she has large tattoos around both nipples... Oh and they didn’t use protection even though she knew that her ex was not always faithful… These are just a few of the long list of things that bothered me.
Likes: With the exception of Lucas attempting to get in her pants the very first night, he was always nice to Karlie. He did come off as being a stand-up guy, even when dealing with his ex-wife whom he was going through a custody battle with. He never pushed Karlie into doing anything that she didn’t want to, I just think he should have waited longer. Karlie, even though I didn’t like how she was written to look was making the best of what life had dealt to her. She had worked her to get into the college that she wanted and was working to make her life better even though she was struggling to makes ends meet. And while I didn’t care for Lucas’ cousin all that much at first, I did love Karlie’s best friends from the get go.
Anyway this is just my opinion but there are plenty of others that really liked this book. It’s the first in the series and because the author is Violetta Rand, I will read the next book because this is the first time that I have ever not cared whole heartedly for one of her books.
I received an ARC from the publisher through Netgalley in return for an honest review.
October 21, 2015
The emotional punches just keep coming in Violetta Rand's newest New Adult novel, Loving Lucas.
Whether it's the fallout from leading lady Karlie's dramatic split from her abusive ex, the intensity of her deepening attraction to her literal "white knight" Lucas, or the heartbreaking custody battle that Lucas is unfairly subjected to at the hands of his vindictive ex-wife; there is certainly never a dull moment to be had with this read.
Dealing with issues such as domestic violence, child custody, and trust issues on the parts of both Karlie and Lucas. This read is not the sort that one just picks up, peruses, and leaves behind. Lucas and Karlie are characters that readers will cheer for, cry with, and fret over.
While the first half of the read is mostly concerned with the ups and downs of Karlie's rough and tumble existence. The second half gives readers the ins on things with Lucas...letting us get up close and personal with a few the cracks in his armor as well.
Rating this book is very hard. Due to the fact that the things that could be seen as pluses in some instances, could just as easily be seen as negatives in others.
Cases In Point:
Lucas
He is one of those characters who does things in a big way, and for the most part, that can be a good thing. In the beginning...at least. When Lucas marches in, guns blazing, (figuratively) and saves Karlie from her ex; you want to nominate him for sainthood. As things progress however, and you begin to see how consumed he becomes with both Karlie and the details of her life...not so much.
Karlie
She is trying so hard to make something of herself, and she has been through so much at such a young age, that it is really hard to see her hurt. Understanding her need for love, it is very easy to see how a man like Lucas serves as such a powerful draw for her.
The problem?
The rapid fire speed with which this poor girl goes from abusive ex to Loving Lucas. There is no down time.
None!
Then she is put in the middle of Lucas's personal issues and facing the possibility of an insta-family!
At 21!
Ummmmmmm...
Anybody else want to Cher-slap these people while screaming "snap out of it" at the top of your lungs?
Yes...I am well aware that without said drama THERE WOULD BE NO STORY!
Yes...I am also aware that these types of relationships happen everyday.
Yes...I an also aware that Lucas is a "good guy". (In spite of his bad choices.)
But there is just never a line of rational thought with these two.
As you can well imagine...
Where there is an abundance of attraction, high emotion, and a severe lack of rational thought, there is going to be GREAT SEX.
This book being no exception.
While it is true that the love scenes found here are decidedly vanilla. They are very sensual and very become increasingly intimate, as things progress between Karlie and Lucas.
And finally...the bikes.
The motorcycle racing circuit acts more as setting than action. As such, it provides a springboard for much of the drama in the read, but its details are never put in sharp enough relief to switch reader focus away from character interplay.
Reviewer's Note:
Loving Lucas is the first in a series. Because said series is new to me, I can not say whether it can be read independently, or if it must be read in serial succession.
*Review copy provided by Loveswept via Netgalley.*
Whether it's the fallout from leading lady Karlie's dramatic split from her abusive ex, the intensity of her deepening attraction to her literal "white knight" Lucas, or the heartbreaking custody battle that Lucas is unfairly subjected to at the hands of his vindictive ex-wife; there is certainly never a dull moment to be had with this read.
Dealing with issues such as domestic violence, child custody, and trust issues on the parts of both Karlie and Lucas. This read is not the sort that one just picks up, peruses, and leaves behind. Lucas and Karlie are characters that readers will cheer for, cry with, and fret over.
While the first half of the read is mostly concerned with the ups and downs of Karlie's rough and tumble existence. The second half gives readers the ins on things with Lucas...letting us get up close and personal with a few the cracks in his armor as well.
Rating this book is very hard. Due to the fact that the things that could be seen as pluses in some instances, could just as easily be seen as negatives in others.
Cases In Point:
Lucas
He is one of those characters who does things in a big way, and for the most part, that can be a good thing. In the beginning...at least. When Lucas marches in, guns blazing, (figuratively) and saves Karlie from her ex; you want to nominate him for sainthood. As things progress however, and you begin to see how consumed he becomes with both Karlie and the details of her life...not so much.
Karlie
She is trying so hard to make something of herself, and she has been through so much at such a young age, that it is really hard to see her hurt. Understanding her need for love, it is very easy to see how a man like Lucas serves as such a powerful draw for her.
The problem?
The rapid fire speed with which this poor girl goes from abusive ex to Loving Lucas. There is no down time.
None!
Then she is put in the middle of Lucas's personal issues and facing the possibility of an insta-family!
At 21!
Ummmmmmm...
Anybody else want to Cher-slap these people while screaming "snap out of it" at the top of your lungs?
Yes...I am well aware that without said drama THERE WOULD BE NO STORY!
Yes...I am also aware that these types of relationships happen everyday.
Yes...I an also aware that Lucas is a "good guy". (In spite of his bad choices.)
But there is just never a line of rational thought with these two.
As you can well imagine...
Where there is an abundance of attraction, high emotion, and a severe lack of rational thought, there is going to be GREAT SEX.
This book being no exception.
While it is true that the love scenes found here are decidedly vanilla. They are very sensual and very become increasingly intimate, as things progress between Karlie and Lucas.
And finally...the bikes.
The motorcycle racing circuit acts more as setting than action. As such, it provides a springboard for much of the drama in the read, but its details are never put in sharp enough relief to switch reader focus away from character interplay.
Reviewer's Note:
Loving Lucas is the first in a series. Because said series is new to me, I can not say whether it can be read independently, or if it must be read in serial succession.
*Review copy provided by Loveswept via Netgalley.*
October 20, 2015
ARC provided in exchange of an honest review
Review original post:
http://collectorofbookboyfriends.com/...
This book had caught my attention as soon as I saw it. From the one hand the hot and delicious cover and from the other the tantalizing description. I just couldn’t walk away from it.
Its prologue is really one of a kind although it describes an intense moment. It gives you a picture of what is happening.
The real fun though starts in the middle of the first chapter. And want to know why? Because the heroine, Karlie, comes face to face with her hero and her future, Lucas. But let’s take each one separately.
Karlie Augustine is a young woman who has been through a lot since she was a baby. A woman who is still going through terrible things. She has came to not believe and lean on herself, although she thrives in her college classes, because of the fact that she’s a victim of domestic violence. You get affected in a great level from just reading her experience from that horrible situation. My heart broke a little every time she didn’t trust herself because it’s sad to see a woman of 21st century behaving like she is not worth something.
But her hero is not far away. Just a few pages. And Lucas Lafontaine is that hero. A cop
that is also a biker
– hot combination, right? – comes in and changes her life forever. She’s instantly transpired by him but he’s not going back either. He can’t get her out if his mind and, also, can’t turn his back on her when she’s in need. So he takes drastic measures: he offers her to be housemate. And that’s how their love starts!
Each one of them has something that makes their relationship even more special. The combination of Karlie’s lack of trust on herself and Lucas’s natural instinct to protect those he cares about makes their feelings stronger and the strength of their love greater.
I really liked Violetta’s writing because it’s sweet and intense at the same time. But I have to say that I wanted something more for the end. I really wanted to see what happens to them after that end. I can’t wait for the second book in this lovely Lies & Leather series whose the name is enough to make you want to read it.
Review original post:
http://collectorofbookboyfriends.com/...
This book had caught my attention as soon as I saw it. From the one hand the hot and delicious cover and from the other the tantalizing description. I just couldn’t walk away from it.
Its prologue is really one of a kind although it describes an intense moment. It gives you a picture of what is happening.
The real fun though starts in the middle of the first chapter. And want to know why? Because the heroine, Karlie, comes face to face with her hero and her future, Lucas. But let’s take each one separately.
Karlie Augustine is a young woman who has been through a lot since she was a baby. A woman who is still going through terrible things. She has came to not believe and lean on herself, although she thrives in her college classes, because of the fact that she’s a victim of domestic violence. You get affected in a great level from just reading her experience from that horrible situation. My heart broke a little every time she didn’t trust herself because it’s sad to see a woman of 21st century behaving like she is not worth something.
But her hero is not far away. Just a few pages. And Lucas Lafontaine is that hero. A cop
“I bet most women are impressed with all that cop stuff. Flash a badge, instantly naked.”
that is also a biker
Oh. My. God. I think I’m in love. With the bike and Lucas.
– hot combination, right? – comes in and changes her life forever. She’s instantly transpired by him but he’s not going back either. He can’t get her out if his mind and, also, can’t turn his back on her when she’s in need. So he takes drastic measures: he offers her to be housemate. And that’s how their love starts!
Mercy. That’s all I can ask for, because this girl has sucked the strength out of me.
Each one of them has something that makes their relationship even more special. The combination of Karlie’s lack of trust on herself and Lucas’s natural instinct to protect those he cares about makes their feelings stronger and the strength of their love greater.
Wrapped in Lucas’s arms, I feel alive. I have a home. I have love.
I really liked Violetta’s writing because it’s sweet and intense at the same time. But I have to say that I wanted something more for the end. I really wanted to see what happens to them after that end. I can’t wait for the second book in this lovely Lies & Leather series whose the name is enough to make you want to read it.
June 7, 2017
Karlie Augustine was in the foster care system as a child. She never was given love but she was taught and made to cook and clean. At 18 she was given $500.00 and put on the street no longer their responsibility. She did however find out they would pay for her college education, so she decided to make a go of it.
A year and a half ago she meets Connor Seville at a bar. They spent the night dancing, drinking, and talking the whole night. The one thing they had in common was motorcycle racing. You see Connor is a National winner making a hometown favorite. So when Karlie started showing up at the hospital with odd injuries no one questioned the fact she could be being abused by Connor their hero. Yet, she was.
This time though they were at a race when Connor lost control letting his temper out. He and she were in their trailer and he didn’t want her to go out to the fire pit alone where their friends were but she said she was going so he went after her by yanking, pulling her hair, trying to break her big toe, when she was able to stumbling out of the trailer. She looked around for her best friend Marie and her boyfriend Brandon, but they weren’t there. The only ones there were all Connor’s friends. None wanted to make an enemy of their hero.
When Connor was getting ready to strike her Lucas La Fontaine came to her rescue. Knocking Connor on his ass to the ground. At this point Marie and Brandon had already shown up and taken her away from the fire that Connor had almost backed her into. So he told Marie to go with Karlie to get her packed up. While he held Connor down with his foot on the chest. They did and Marie and Brandon invited him to their camp to talk and have a drink. At which point they start to learn about each other. All three knowing now that she is homeless and will need to find a part time job. Lucas offers her something she can’t resist. It is not without wanting to get close to her that is for sure. He lost his heart for her the minute he saw her and then to see Connor man handle her pissed him off.
This was an interesting erotic story. There were some very gripping moments that kept me on the edge of my seat for sure. Yet, there were tender moments that made you think. But those love scenes did at times make me fan myself that is for sure. All in all a very good storyline. I give this 5 stars. Provided by netgalley.com. Follow us at: www.1rad-readerreviews.com.
A year and a half ago she meets Connor Seville at a bar. They spent the night dancing, drinking, and talking the whole night. The one thing they had in common was motorcycle racing. You see Connor is a National winner making a hometown favorite. So when Karlie started showing up at the hospital with odd injuries no one questioned the fact she could be being abused by Connor their hero. Yet, she was.
This time though they were at a race when Connor lost control letting his temper out. He and she were in their trailer and he didn’t want her to go out to the fire pit alone where their friends were but she said she was going so he went after her by yanking, pulling her hair, trying to break her big toe, when she was able to stumbling out of the trailer. She looked around for her best friend Marie and her boyfriend Brandon, but they weren’t there. The only ones there were all Connor’s friends. None wanted to make an enemy of their hero.
When Connor was getting ready to strike her Lucas La Fontaine came to her rescue. Knocking Connor on his ass to the ground. At this point Marie and Brandon had already shown up and taken her away from the fire that Connor had almost backed her into. So he told Marie to go with Karlie to get her packed up. While he held Connor down with his foot on the chest. They did and Marie and Brandon invited him to their camp to talk and have a drink. At which point they start to learn about each other. All three knowing now that she is homeless and will need to find a part time job. Lucas offers her something she can’t resist. It is not without wanting to get close to her that is for sure. He lost his heart for her the minute he saw her and then to see Connor man handle her pissed him off.
This was an interesting erotic story. There were some very gripping moments that kept me on the edge of my seat for sure. Yet, there were tender moments that made you think. But those love scenes did at times make me fan myself that is for sure. All in all a very good storyline. I give this 5 stars. Provided by netgalley.com. Follow us at: www.1rad-readerreviews.com.
October 20, 2015
Okay so I did enjoy this book. It was a real good read but somehow I expected more. This book could have had so much more potential. I mean this book had Karlie who was in abusive relationship and she finds the strength to get herself free, there is one hot cop what races motorcycles and wants to save Karlie. Then there were funny and loving friends so this book should have been a great book but sadly it did not wow me so much. I just hoped for so much more.
Now this book is about a girl who was in an abusive relationship and she never knew how she would get away from Connor until one night on the tracks where they race. Lucas was there and saw what happened, he and Karlie’s friends helped Karlie get away from Connor. Lucas is definitely an alpha and protector but somehow I just thought he was a bit naïve. I would not just let someone move into my house if you just met. He did not know Karlie or anyone else at the time and you can’t just know a person just by the looks of them.
There was a few things we learned about Karlie like who a family were. She found out who her parents because she was an orphan all her live and she always felt alone except when she had her best friend and what not. One more thing I can say is that Karlie was also very naïve I mean who would go back to her ex just to get earrings back. If you get away from an abusive boyfriend then don’t go back to them!
Anyway the romance was okay, there was a little drama with the exes and a twist towards the end that I did not see coming. Unfortunately, I’m not really sure that any of the issues were resolved that left me feeling unsettled when I got to the end. Overall, this was an easy read, low-angst and a new adult romance and while I did enjoy it, it just needed something more.
Now this book is about a girl who was in an abusive relationship and she never knew how she would get away from Connor until one night on the tracks where they race. Lucas was there and saw what happened, he and Karlie’s friends helped Karlie get away from Connor. Lucas is definitely an alpha and protector but somehow I just thought he was a bit naïve. I would not just let someone move into my house if you just met. He did not know Karlie or anyone else at the time and you can’t just know a person just by the looks of them.
There was a few things we learned about Karlie like who a family were. She found out who her parents because she was an orphan all her live and she always felt alone except when she had her best friend and what not. One more thing I can say is that Karlie was also very naïve I mean who would go back to her ex just to get earrings back. If you get away from an abusive boyfriend then don’t go back to them!
Anyway the romance was okay, there was a little drama with the exes and a twist towards the end that I did not see coming. Unfortunately, I’m not really sure that any of the issues were resolved that left me feeling unsettled when I got to the end. Overall, this was an easy read, low-angst and a new adult romance and while I did enjoy it, it just needed something more.
MORE REVIEWS ON MY BLOG:
July 27, 2015
There is lots of potential in Loving Lucas. Girl in abusive relationship finds the strength to get herself free, hot cop that races motorcycles who wants to save her, funny and loving friends, this should have been a slam dunk. It wasn’t a bad book but it didn’t really wow me either.
Lucas is a cop, who just relocated to Corpus Christi after a rather messy divorce. He is also still in an ongoing custody battle for his young son. He is definitely alpha and a protector but I found him a bit naive in how he meets Karlie in the middle of a domestic dispute and is immediately offering her a place to live – with him of course. He didn’t know her, or anyone else around at the time so it seemed premature and kind of dumb to say the least, especially considering that custody battle he’s in.
Karlie had been with her abusive ex, Conner, for two years. She does have a best friend, but other than that she is alone in the world. She’s a college student, and also races. I was a little taken aback at her getting beat up by her boyfriend and agreeing to move in with a total stranger, cop or not, all in one night but I’m willing to suspend belief for the sake of fiction.
There was some stalking going on by the ex, and a past Karlie didn’t know she had catches up to her. Unfortunately both plot lines just kind of fizzled. I’m not even really sure what happened with the ex other than some vague reference at the end. I would have loved to have been shown his downfall like maybe a fight scene ending in an arrest or something. Same with the other “stalker” she had. At least we get a somewhat confrontational scene for that part. A few other things were left unanswered or tied up too easily, with some questions left hanging.
Still, not a bad book, just not an overwhelmingly interesting one.
Spice’s Rating: 3 Stars
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Lucas is a cop, who just relocated to Corpus Christi after a rather messy divorce. He is also still in an ongoing custody battle for his young son. He is definitely alpha and a protector but I found him a bit naive in how he meets Karlie in the middle of a domestic dispute and is immediately offering her a place to live – with him of course. He didn’t know her, or anyone else around at the time so it seemed premature and kind of dumb to say the least, especially considering that custody battle he’s in.
Karlie had been with her abusive ex, Conner, for two years. She does have a best friend, but other than that she is alone in the world. She’s a college student, and also races. I was a little taken aback at her getting beat up by her boyfriend and agreeing to move in with a total stranger, cop or not, all in one night but I’m willing to suspend belief for the sake of fiction.
There was some stalking going on by the ex, and a past Karlie didn’t know she had catches up to her. Unfortunately both plot lines just kind of fizzled. I’m not even really sure what happened with the ex other than some vague reference at the end. I would have loved to have been shown his downfall like maybe a fight scene ending in an arrest or something. Same with the other “stalker” she had. At least we get a somewhat confrontational scene for that part. A few other things were left unanswered or tied up too easily, with some questions left hanging.
Still, not a bad book, just not an overwhelmingly interesting one.
Spice’s Rating: 3 Stars
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review.
August 10, 2015
Karlie Augustine is a survivor; she has survived being abandoned by her parents and abused by her boyfriend. On a day when she is done taking what her boyfriend has to dish out, she tries to leave only to find out that he is not above putting his hands on her to make her stay.
Luckily for her Lucas Lafontaine steps in to save the day. Lucas steps up in a way that givers her a new sense of confidence and security that she has never experienced.
Can Lucas prove to Karlie that he is everything she could ever need or will Karlies need for survival leave her fighting the love of the only man who has ever cared about her? Read and find out!
I received this book as an ARC from Net Galley for my honest review
This is the 3rd book that I have read from Violetta Rand and I was not disappointed. Although this book is centered around the same town the characters where very different, proving that Rand is not a one trick pony.
In this book Karlie was a little bit more vulnerable and afraid to put her heart out there after repeatedly being hurt. When you compare the Lies and Leather series book 1 to the Devil's Den series; those woman from the den were kicking butt and taking names later. In reality it is a great balance. As women we all want to say that we are fierce but after constantly getting knocked down you cant help but be a little afraid sometimes or want someone to stop and offer a helping hand.
Overall I liked the contrast, I felt as though Karlies feelings were relevant she did not come off as a weak woman waiting for a hand out.
I know that keep talking about Karlie but when you read it you will see why; Karlie is basically the glue that holds the story together. Lucas is a great character, he is strong enough to stand beside Karlie and show her that she deserves more than life has dealt her.
This book is selling right now for 2.99 on amazon kindle and I would pay more for it. Great job Violetta Rand can't wait for the next book.
Luckily for her Lucas Lafontaine steps in to save the day. Lucas steps up in a way that givers her a new sense of confidence and security that she has never experienced.
Can Lucas prove to Karlie that he is everything she could ever need or will Karlies need for survival leave her fighting the love of the only man who has ever cared about her? Read and find out!
I received this book as an ARC from Net Galley for my honest review
This is the 3rd book that I have read from Violetta Rand and I was not disappointed. Although this book is centered around the same town the characters where very different, proving that Rand is not a one trick pony.
In this book Karlie was a little bit more vulnerable and afraid to put her heart out there after repeatedly being hurt. When you compare the Lies and Leather series book 1 to the Devil's Den series; those woman from the den were kicking butt and taking names later. In reality it is a great balance. As women we all want to say that we are fierce but after constantly getting knocked down you cant help but be a little afraid sometimes or want someone to stop and offer a helping hand.
Overall I liked the contrast, I felt as though Karlies feelings were relevant she did not come off as a weak woman waiting for a hand out.
I know that keep talking about Karlie but when you read it you will see why; Karlie is basically the glue that holds the story together. Lucas is a great character, he is strong enough to stand beside Karlie and show her that she deserves more than life has dealt her.
This book is selling right now for 2.99 on amazon kindle and I would pay more for it. Great job Violetta Rand can't wait for the next book.
December 11, 2015
The book starts off with Karlie's abusive boyfriend having a fit over a birthday dinner she made for him, I knew then that things weren't going to go well for her for at least a little while. While the author gives us glimpses into her abusive relationship I was extremely grateful that it wasn't dragged on, Lucas "the knight in shinning amour" came to Karlie's rescue rather quickly. Marie and Brandon are the only friends that Karlie has, she grew up in foster care with a family that showed her no love at all, Karlie believes that she is someone that doesn't deserve love which makes total sense that she would stay in an unhealthy relationship. Marie and Brandon along with Lucas show Karlie that she is someone worth cherishing, even Charlie one of her classmates tries to help her see how special she is. The chemistry between Lucas and Karlie is so hot that I am surprised there were no firemen in this story.
This is a great start to what I think will be a one-click worthy series. Violetta Rand keeps the seriousness of domestic abuse while infusing some hope to not only Karlie but also to her friends that want to see her removed from the situation, with some laughter and support from the tall and extremely attractive Sargent Lafontaine everyone gets what they need.
***I have received this book from Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept through netgalley in exchange for my honest review*** https://www.netgalley.com/
This is a great start to what I think will be a one-click worthy series. Violetta Rand keeps the seriousness of domestic abuse while infusing some hope to not only Karlie but also to her friends that want to see her removed from the situation, with some laughter and support from the tall and extremely attractive Sargent Lafontaine everyone gets what they need.
***I have received this book from Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept through netgalley in exchange for my honest review*** https://www.netgalley.com/
August 1, 2015
What a ride! Rand took me on an emotional, heartbreaking, at times bone breaking journey through love, loss, redemption, and friendship. I loved the indepth stories for each of the characters. Their pasts are as important to the current events as their present choices. Rand mixes chemistry and sheer sensuality with the hardships of overcoming abuse and missing family. It broke my heart to watch the characters go through these trials, yet the story was so heartfelt and hot that I was hooked. That said, I found that everything was tied up in just a little bit too neat of a bow at the end, after the turmoil throughout the story, and the difficulties that preceded it. This was a fantastic story and a great launch to this new series, but it just seemed to be missing a dash of Rand’s usual flair. Don’t get me wrong, I loved this novel, but it was missing the ‘can’t put it down’ quality that this author usually has.
The characters in this novel were quite well developed and fun to get to know. My heart broke for Karlie. Her past would be something very difficult to overcome. I loved the patience and compassion that Lucas has for her, even as he’s trying to work through his own issues. The supporting cast was quite unique as well. Karlie’s best friend definitely made me giggle a time or two, while Craig & Mariesela’s appearance will bring a smile to the faces of all those who enjoyed Rand’s foray into the Devil’s Den.
All in all, this was a fantastic, heartfelt, hot & hard hitting novel that I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend to others. I can’t wait to see where Rand goes with this series from here.
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
The characters in this novel were quite well developed and fun to get to know. My heart broke for Karlie. Her past would be something very difficult to overcome. I loved the patience and compassion that Lucas has for her, even as he’s trying to work through his own issues. The supporting cast was quite unique as well. Karlie’s best friend definitely made me giggle a time or two, while Craig & Mariesela’s appearance will bring a smile to the faces of all those who enjoyed Rand’s foray into the Devil’s Den.
All in all, this was a fantastic, heartfelt, hot & hard hitting novel that I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend to others. I can’t wait to see where Rand goes with this series from here.
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
May 10, 2015
Loving Lucas by author Violetta Rand is the first book that I have read by this author. I really wanted to give it more than 3 stars but it just was not meant to be. There is a lack of flow and the story seemed at times to be rushed or maybe disjointed. It just did not make sense in a lot of areas.
This is a story that right off the bat is a "insta-love" or "insta-attraction" setting which is common in the New Adult genre. But, I found this one to be off the mark. There were many details that were only partially explained or just given a very abrupt conclusion.
The story of Karlie being an abused woman and Lucas basically being her hero at times rang hallow to me. Karlie gets away from one controlling man to go straight into another mans bed, that at time is almost as controlling. Then almost towards the end Lucas all of a sudden back tracks and stops being as controlling. This is just one of the areas that totally confused me.
I 100% believe that the idea of the story was a good one. But the lack of the development, of the plot and characters is just not believable.
I want to be clear that just because this story did not sit well with me does not mean that another reader might not enjoy it. Please read and draw your own conclusions.
*I received an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review from NetGlley
December 21, 2015
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads Review Team~
This is the first book I have read by this author and honestly, I wasn’t impressed. I felt no emotional connection to the characters; I didn’t even feel the connection between the two characters as I read the book. It just seemed thrown together. I mean the ex-boyfriend kept coming back and then poof then he was gone. Then the ex-wife started calling and then poof Lucas was being all hard and tough about wanting his son. The actual sex scenes weren’t really descriptive, just the oral sex parts were and honestly, they were BORING. The book dragged on but then in the last chapter BAM everything happened at once. Just didn’t work for me, highly disappointed.
Characters: couldn’t connect with them
Sex: yes
Religious: no
Would I recommend to others: yes
More than one book in the series: yes this is book 1
Genre: Romance
Would I read more by this author: maybe
~Wicked Reads Review Team~
This is the first book I have read by this author and honestly, I wasn’t impressed. I felt no emotional connection to the characters; I didn’t even feel the connection between the two characters as I read the book. It just seemed thrown together. I mean the ex-boyfriend kept coming back and then poof then he was gone. Then the ex-wife started calling and then poof Lucas was being all hard and tough about wanting his son. The actual sex scenes weren’t really descriptive, just the oral sex parts were and honestly, they were BORING. The book dragged on but then in the last chapter BAM everything happened at once. Just didn’t work for me, highly disappointed.
Characters: couldn’t connect with them
Sex: yes
Religious: no
Would I recommend to others: yes
More than one book in the series: yes this is book 1
Genre: Romance
Would I read more by this author: maybe
~Wicked Reads Review Team~
October 21, 2015
I received a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads
The story started off with a nice bang, Karlie is in a bad relationship with fellow Motor-cross motorcyclist boyfriend. While trying to escape his daily verbal and physical abuse she tumbles pretty much right into Lucas...our hero. Walking out on her boyfriend that night Karlie ends up living with Lucas almost immediately. She's his personal assistant and a bit more than that too. There's some good chemistry written in there. Lucas is a decently written character. He has good backstory & backbone along with many alpha male tendencies we tend to love. But, Karlie is almost vapid. She's overly emotional and written very immature. Not exactly my favorite type of leading character. The story falls apart a bit midway. We have some strife with ex-boyfriend, an odd sex party and her estranged father come into play but not enough to keep my full interest. The story picks up a bit in the end and finishes well.
Overall, fairly entertaining. Enough to give 3.5-4 stars. Lucas pretty much carries the book for me.
The story started off with a nice bang, Karlie is in a bad relationship with fellow Motor-cross motorcyclist boyfriend. While trying to escape his daily verbal and physical abuse she tumbles pretty much right into Lucas...our hero. Walking out on her boyfriend that night Karlie ends up living with Lucas almost immediately. She's his personal assistant and a bit more than that too. There's some good chemistry written in there. Lucas is a decently written character. He has good backstory & backbone along with many alpha male tendencies we tend to love. But, Karlie is almost vapid. She's overly emotional and written very immature. Not exactly my favorite type of leading character. The story falls apart a bit midway. We have some strife with ex-boyfriend, an odd sex party and her estranged father come into play but not enough to keep my full interest. The story picks up a bit in the end and finishes well.
Overall, fairly entertaining. Enough to give 3.5-4 stars. Lucas pretty much carries the book for me.
November 21, 2015
My first read by this author and won’t be my last…
Karlie Augustine was very young and she seemed to go from one precarious situation to the next. Escaping an abusive situation in part with Lucas Lafontaine’s help, Karlie needs a safe place to make a new start. Lucas is happy to offer a helping hand that will help him sort out his own personal problems. They are both trying to “fix” their lives and looking to the other for support to do that. Is that the best time to be starting a romance? Time will tell…
Things happen very fast in this “starting over” romance as the intimacy between Karlie and Lucas escalates quickly. Very quickly. Going from an abusive relationship to a new love seemed a bit too quick though the story did seem quite plausible given Karlie’s background and her matter-of-fact way of dealing with life as it came. Lucas was protective and he had the strong cop persona down pat.
More time and more character development would have been welcome but a solid start to the series.
August 18, 2015
I don't know but it seems that the more I read the more I expect of a story. What initially drew me to this story was the premise. I predicted it would have some sort of insta-love scenario and I was ready to overlook my general dislike of them. But I couldn't.
I need more than an intriguing concept and great chemistry for me to enjoy a romance. The characters need to feel real and their situation to have some semblance of reality in them. I know this is fiction, but there's only so much I could overlook in a story for me to be able to enjoy it. If I find myself constantly rolling my eyes, sighing in exasperation or just plain bored, then there's something in the story that's just not working for me.
And that was the case with this story. I just could not for the life of me get into it. I didn't like Karlie and thought Lucas was way too good to be true.
Just not for me.
I need more than an intriguing concept and great chemistry for me to enjoy a romance. The characters need to feel real and their situation to have some semblance of reality in them. I know this is fiction, but there's only so much I could overlook in a story for me to be able to enjoy it. If I find myself constantly rolling my eyes, sighing in exasperation or just plain bored, then there's something in the story that's just not working for me.
And that was the case with this story. I just could not for the life of me get into it. I didn't like Karlie and thought Lucas was way too good to be true.
Just not for me.
May 4, 2015
I loved Lucas, "trust me, darlin’,” I say, patting my stomach . “This Texas boy never misses a meal." He can be such a caveman with his thoughts, "Karlie is asleep now. Something most women complain that men do after brisk lovemaking. I chuckle, rather pleased I wore her tiny body out." After doing the naughty in his truck Lucas is always willing to give his woman a hand, "want my help?” I ask, tucking myself back inside my jeans. When I look up, she’s staring at me like I’m crazy." When his woman complains about having to eat shirtless he evens the playing field, "he shrugs, then strips his own T-shirt off, throwing it to me. “Your prerogative , darlin’. But I dare say we’re even now." I really enjoyed this book, every book I've read by Violetta I haven't been disappointed
October 22, 2015
Loved it! The hero in this book Lucas reminded me a lot of Garrick in Surrender. Loving Lucas is a very well written, emotional & heart wrenching story. Lucas & Karlie fall fast & hard but neither realize it right off. Coming off an abusive relationship Karlie finds herself trying to believe that she's everything good that Lucas says she is & having her missing past come back in the form of her dead father, she's having a hard time dealing with everything. Lucas can only hope & pray that when the dust clears that Karlie will come to realize that he is her heart & always will be. Definitely recommend to read. Can't wait for the next book.
May 5, 2015
Wow!! Lucas isn't just sweet but a man in uniform!! When you first see him he is saving her but by the end they are saving each other. Karlie has had a rough past and she is timid but the attraction to Lucas is spot on. They rush into things a bit fast for my liking but they fit in a certain way so you can tell it works. I think he can be over protective at time but her best interest is at heart. I think maybe this story didn't lack as much drama but at sometimes it was enough. From how it started I expected more from the ex and not Karlies background.
October 24, 2015
Copy courtesy of Netgalley
I enjoyed the previous series "Devil's Den". Lucas is the cousin of one the characters. The story of Karlie and Lucas was very rushed. Day one Lucas is rescuing Karlie from an abusive boyfriend. Day two she moves in with him. They start sexing each within days of that. 6 weeks later they are engaged. So insta love is a definite. Normally that is not a deterrent. But with Karlie's past, I would think she would have been a little more cautious. I liked Lucas. He was protective and possessive but not stifling. Overall it was an ok read.
I enjoyed the previous series "Devil's Den". Lucas is the cousin of one the characters. The story of Karlie and Lucas was very rushed. Day one Lucas is rescuing Karlie from an abusive boyfriend. Day two she moves in with him. They start sexing each within days of that. 6 weeks later they are engaged. So insta love is a definite. Normally that is not a deterrent. But with Karlie's past, I would think she would have been a little more cautious. I liked Lucas. He was protective and possessive but not stifling. Overall it was an ok read.
January 16, 2016
ARC graciously provided by NetGalley.
I very much enjoyed this book. It was easy to get into. Perfect for quick read.
Let me say that it had a major drama. That's how Karlie and Lucas meet. He is a hot as hell cop that comes to her rescue. He helps her out and bamb the chemistry is off the charts.
I very much enjoyed this book. It was easy to get into. Perfect for quick read.
Let me say that it had a major drama. That's how Karlie and Lucas meet. He is a hot as hell cop that comes to her rescue. He helps her out and bamb the chemistry is off the charts.
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