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Single #1

Single, Volume 1

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After failing miserably at love, Roxane VanBuren swears off men but not before her determined best friend shows her all the advantages of being single. After a wild weekend full of sex, old-flames, and secrets, Roxane is desperate to forget it ever happened. But she learns it isn't that easy.

Since becoming the President of VanBuren Investments, she knows how important it is for her professional and personal life to remain separate from one another. If the two were to mix, the rumors could possibly ruin her reputation, which is bad for her and bad for business. To avoid that, Roxane allows rules to define and guide her every move. Unfortunately for her, Parker Williams is determined to break them all, one at a time.

161 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 5, 2015

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L. Parish

11 books1 follower

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews
Profile Image for Lyra Parish.
Author 22 books2,340 followers
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January 4, 2015
*Single is Volume #1 in the Single Novella Series. The entire series (ranging between 30k - 45k words per novella) will be released during the first half of 2015. Release dates are TBA. Right now it is slated as a 3 part series, one released per month. I can't guarantee no cliff hangers, but I can guarantee quick quality releases. If you do not want to wait for each part, once the series is complete, they will be boxed together.
Profile Image for Nadine ShelfLove.
444 reviews190 followers
February 3, 2015
4-4.5 I love me some Parker -Stars

"Obviously, he had not experienced the same five minutes of horrible sex that I just had, not by the smile on his face and the lingering hardness of his dick."

You know what I love? When not knowing which book to read but am certain that I'm in the mood for a quick, fun and sizzling story and then pick up a random new release, diving straight in and loving it right away! Yup, that happened with Lyra's new release Single, it was exactly what I wanted and needed. I felt like hitting the jackpot lol.

Single serves as a great start into Lyra's new serial. Despite being it novella size it had everything I wish in a book: laughter, steam, character development and leading plot. It made me giggle, drool and fan many times - I liked every single character in this book, even Roxane's annoying and somewhat creepy ex-boyfriend.

"None of us cared. We were here for one thing, and one thing alone, to fuck and forget. No ties, no relationships, no worries or awkward conversations afterward."

You see, Rox hadn't the best of luck with her hook-ups and being the CEO of VanBuren Investments it isn't always easy to scratch her itch, thus it's a wee bit complicated for her to get laid. When her best friend takes her out to let loose (aka get her freak on) she's somewhat mesmerized by the enticing bartender. The fun part is that both don't really see their face due to masks. This is a special kind of club - yeah you might guess it, it's kinky as hell - so the chances she'd meet/see those people in public are slim and that's perfectly fine with Rox, even though she wouldn't mind seeing his face again!

When fate is on her side she and the mysterious bartender meet yet again on another private party but this time, they've the chance to exchange numbers and talk.

Ladies, let me introduce you to my new favorite Mr. Sex On Legs, Parker Willams. Oh boy, I loved his filthy and seducing mouth. A smile that will make you drop your panties, and a cocky bastard that makes you want to slap his smug smile right off his face.

I'd say Rox has fond her match, especially when Mr. Sex on Legs gets the new job in her company.

Things are about to change drastically, rules are about to get broken, limits tested, and morals thrown over board.

Totally loved this steamy, fun, and sizzling story and can't wait to read what happens in Vol. 2 - I know things are about to get even hotter ;)

"Don't. Ruin. This. Rox," he whispered, (.....) "You taste so f#cking good, babe."
__________________________________

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Profile Image for Rob.
361 reviews46 followers
March 1, 2015
I think this is going to be an interesting series to follow. I do enjoy a Ms Parish book. I like her style of writing. She doesn’t go all descriptive and unnecessary; she leaves plenty of room for the readers imagination to kick in.

I liked Parker. He was definitely a good alpha guy but why oh why is he even wasting his time with Roxane?!! She was soooo immature! I wouldn’t trust her looking after my dog never mind running a multi-million dollar business! Parker did make me laugh when he was arguing the toss with her over things. She wanted to come across as all powerful but then that coupled with how childish she could be, were head-scratchingly annoying! Then there were times where Roxane knew exactly what she wanted, but then at times she showed a vulnerable side.

I think the character of Roxane showed that most people have inner conflicts, and also two different personas…..the business Roxane and the private Roxane.

As I’ve come to expect, Ms Parish didn’t let me down on the sexy times, managing to keep the story flowing while adding in lots of sex!

I enjoyed this book and will be following the series.
Profile Image for Michele A..
3,136 reviews16 followers
November 16, 2014
Roxane is a woman with a lot of issues. She wants sex without attachment and goes about finding it by using dating sites and attending parties with her friend. Parker and Roxane meet by accident when they meet each other at a party held by his brother. Roxane heads up her family's investment brokerage company and finds herself face to face with Parker when he is hired as an attorney at their firm. Parker sees through Roxane and doesn't play her game. I will say that Roxane was so childish in parts of this book that I had a hard time believing she is in such a high position in her family's firm. She acted so immature and childish towards Parker at one point that I was astounded she claimed to be a professional. Then it turned out he caught an error for the company and she turned that around to give herself a pat on back for Parker catching it and thinking she did a good thing. Not really my cup of tea, but others may enjoy it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Richa.
474 reviews43 followers
July 19, 2016
This is a run-of-the-mill book.
By that, I mean that it is full of sex and cliched romance.
But, its a good one at that. I got excited by it and that means something.
I wont be reading any in the series though.
Mills and Boons and Romance genre fans will enjoy this book immensely. There are no surprises here... everything is very familiar.
1,254 reviews1 follower
April 29, 2018
Heroine is an upright neurotic bitch who gave me whiplash with her actions. If you're a president of a major company a fake name isn't going to protect you from bad press of one night stands. She kept talking about she didn't want to be known by her real identity but never seems to think that someone could recognize her. She also plays at being a ball buster but kowtows to daddy at every turn. Whines about how hard her life is and how she has to work fifty hour weeks. Bitch I know people working eighty hour weeks for less than you're making and daddy didn't hand them their job. Hero was lovely in his masked character but once he gets unmasked his real character is such a douche. I was gonna finish this because I was far along enough to think "might as well" but then I remembered this was part of a serial which was why I had avoided reading it so long and I didn't want to deal with a cliffhanger I might feel the need to resolve.

Tldr: terrible unlikable characters all around. don't bother
Profile Image for Dai.
672 reviews41 followers
October 22, 2016

Bueno, haciendo honor a la verdad el libro no me gustó. Para ser una historia corta dan demasiadas vueltas, los primeros cinco o seis capítulos la protagonista se los pasa tonteando con su mejor amiga.

Al protagonista lo conocemos prácticamente al final y pasan en un segundo de verse a estar enredados en un romance de oficina. Tampoco conocemos mucho de su personalidad, sabemos que es arrogante pero eso es en parte para molestar a Roxanne.

Ella es demasiado liberal para mis gustos, pero no la juzgo es joven y quiere divertirse no hay nada mal con eso. hay por allí otras cosas que hacen que la historia no sea del todo de mi agrada pero bueno, nada es perfecto en esta vida.

Profile Image for BeautyandtheBooks.
272 reviews17 followers
November 9, 2017
Just popped my Lyra Parish cherry and I am ordering book two as we speak because holy crap I need more Parker and Roxane!!
Profile Image for FMR Book Grind.
2,189 reviews125 followers
January 14, 2015
TRACY'S REVIEW:

RATING: 5 STARS

I received an Arc of Single volume 1 for an honest review.

Congratulations Lyra Parish, this is my first 5 star read of 2015! God where to I begin with this review?!

There was so much happening in this story I don’t know what to talk about first.

Let’s start with Roxane VanBuren, lead female character. Roxane is a late 20 something year old who has as the world at her finger tips thanks to her job. Being burned by love in the past Roxane heads out looking for one thing…a mind blowing orgasm. So much so that she goes into what I would call a “sex club”. Come on, we call all relate to this at some point in our lives. (maybe not the sex club but you get my drift)

Enter Parker Williams. Hot bartender at the club, hot stranger at a house party and HOT new lawyer that was just hired at her company. Except Roxane didn’t know all this because at both the club and house party, a mask was mandatory (privacy for the rich and famous I suppose). Parker knew right away who Roxane was but poor Roxane was clueless, she thought Parker Williams was an arrogant new lawyer that they hired.

Will Parker be exactly what Roxane needs to believe in love again or will she guard herself and only look for the perfect O?

HOT! That’s all I can say about these 2. I so want to find myself a Parker Williams for myself. Can’t wait to see what happens between these two. Bring on Volume 2!

AMY'S REVIEW:

RATING: 4 STARS

This was my first read by Lyra Parish and I am so glad I got the chance to read this book. It was edgy and provocative and left me totally wanting more!! Lyra did a fantastic job with the setting and characters meshing them both perfectly. This book was a very easy read and very enjoyable. There was flawless flow and everything was tied up nicely.

I liked the totally raw sensuality of the story line in this book. It was sexy and made me crave more for the characters. I loved how Lyra places the main characters in a very dramatic surreal world and challenges them to figure out what each other really wants. The supporting characters added a quirky angsty dynamic that was a great contrast.

Total 4 star read here! This was an easy book and a pleasure to read. I can’t wait for Vol.2 to come out to finish what Lyra started! This book left me hungry for more!

LEEANN'S REVIEW:

RATING: 4 STARS

Ok this story is all about Life in the fast lane!!

Roxane is single, she holds a high profile position as the president of the family company, and she likes sex. Fantastic, hot satisfying sex.

Parker is also single. He is a sought after up and coming lawyer posing as a bartender at a swingers club.

Roxane has one big rule.. Never mix business with pleasure. This rule comes crashing down around her ears when her personal and professional life collide in the most embarrassing ways.

This book has some quite amusing moments that will have you shaking your hear laughing!! Roxane tries so hard to maintain her ‘ruthless’ image at work. She has to, she is a young woman in high profile position.
She can’t afford to let anyone see a softer side to her. She has been placed into the president’s position by her father when he semi- retired, and before him, was held by her grandfather. She has a lot of
Pressure on her to not only fill their shoes but to exceed their expectations of her. She also places a lot of pressure on herself. She is determined to be the best of the best.
Life isn’t all business for Roxane though. The weekends are her down time. That is when she really lets loose and loses her tough business persona. On the weekend it is Tequila and sex all the way!

Parker is doing a favour for his brother. First he spent the night working in a swingers club on masquerade night and then he is working a house party for him. He is really a lawyer by day and
has no particular interest in this lifestyle.
On both of these occasions Roxane and Parker have met. On the second occasion Parker gives her his number, but she is dragged out of the party by her best friend before they can exchange any other information.
Imagine her surprise when she gets to work on Monday morning to conduct interviews for an in house Lawyer and they come face to face. Well she isn’t really surprised because both times they met they were both masked.
So she really has no idea who she is and cannot work out what it is about him that bothers her so much!!

There are some serious but funny things happening everything they communicate and they really keep each other on their toes. Once the realisation dawns, they have to fight hard against their attraction because
‘Business and pleasure just don’t mix…’ Do they???

Can’t wait for book 2 to see what happens next!!

Profile Image for Tiffany Willams.
583 reviews31 followers
November 6, 2014
*ARC given as part of the Owned: An Alpha Anthology in exchange for an honest review*

Roxane VanBuren doesn’t want love in her life. Her first love, her best friend’s stepbrother, ended badly and then she lost her fiancé tragically six years ago. So, she sticks to online dating just to get a quick lay, and then she moves on. Seems crazy, but it works for her.

When her best friends gets her a ticket into the hottest swingers club, how can she say no? Plus, you wear a mask. Good thing since she was the president of her family’s Investment company. No need to bring the media into it. Also, she uses a fake name to help hide her identity.

As she endures pleasure and freedom for one night, something unexpected happens. She finds comfort in a certain bartender. There is something about him that she can’t shake. Maybe it’s the blue eyes or the sinful voice. But fate wasn’t done for them yet.

“Masks. I think everyone who walks in that door wears a mask, regardless of whether their faces are covered or not.”

When they are thrown together again, it seems like maybe this guy might be worth giving a chance. Too bad fate isn’t always easy. Sometimes it throws you for a loop, and you weren’t ready for it. Parker Williams might just be the one to finally break through Roxane’s walls.

“You think you’re a closed book, Rox, but I am reading all of your f**king pages, and already have most of them memorized.”

I loved every single part of this book! The banter, the sex, the suspense of wondering what will happen next. So good! I can’t wait to see what happens next with these two!!

“Parker Williams would be the beginning of my end. Parker Williams would completely destroy me.”
Profile Image for Raunchyrudereadersblog.
191 reviews15 followers
November 9, 2014
I started my reading journey saying I'd never like Novellas, but its Author's like Lyra Parish that blow these statements out of the water.

I've never been a fan of short stories because, you no sooner get into them they're over.
Now i can't say i wasn't gutted when i got to the end of Single, but it left me Craving more.

This story is so well written, it has your emotions all over the place.
You've got Lust, angst, passion humor and secrets.

The story itself is about Roxane VanBuren, President of VanBuren Investments.
Roxane has sworn off relationships, after her relationship ended badly with her best friends brother.

Roxane turns to internet dates to get her pleasure, but after the last failed internet date leaves her without that Big O she decides to stay in and mope.
Her best friend has other ideas, she introduces Roxane to a whole new side to being single, starting with a masked swingers party.

Roxane meets a gorgeous blue eyed bartender at this party and although shes never actually seen the guys face, she can't seem to shake him from her thoughts.

I won't go into great details about the story because I want everyone to enjoy the experience.
But i will tell you Roxane and the bartender meet again and enjoy themselves, but then things look they are about to fall down around Roxane in her organised life, and her reputation is left hanging in the balance.

Will Roxane get her happy ever after or will she have to find another way to get her rocks off?!

I guess you'll have to read to find out.

This book is seriously hot and definitely one novella not to be missed. I can't wait till part 2 is out.

5 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ well deserved stars for this Novella.
Profile Image for Cassandra.
155 reviews13 followers
December 19, 2014
********** ARC given to my blog for honest review *************

Single Volume 1 by Lyra Parish


Cover: Like it!
Rating: Adult
Starts: 4 to 4.5
Overall: Really Good
Characters: All very strong personalities that draw you in
Plot: Mixing Business & Pleasure
Page turner: Yes
Series cont: Yes
Recommend: Yes
Book Boyfriend: Won't give it away (Mr. Blue eyes)


Wasn't sure what the story would entail but I'm glad I had the opportunity to read this quick read. The beginning of the story had me hooked. I loved her opinion on love at first sight

“Love was an emotion that took time, an investment, and I didn't believe in love at first sight. It always seemed like a silly concept to me. Love is a complicated emotion within itself. Add the first-sight bullshit to love, and I become completely lost on the subject.”

She meets a guy and the true reality a majority of us have faced when it comes to sex. The 1 minute man or in this case the 5 minute man that only gets his lol. Such a sad reality many can relate to. I love what she said to him and how she reacted. I enjoyed Roxane's attitude she knows who she is and what she wants and how she's going to get it. She's set in her single ways until the mysterious Mr. Blue eyes comes into the picture. I love how he won't take her crap and tells her how it is. She's so used to running the show and he lets her know that when it comes to them that will not be the case. Can't wait to see what's to come.-CASSANDRA T.
Profile Image for Derna.
590 reviews290 followers
November 10, 2014
I received a copy of this book in exchange for honest review*

Read as part of the OWNED Alpha Anthology. A set of never before seen novellas from by Lilliana Anderson, Chelle Bliss, Callie Hart, Lesley Jones, Jani Kay, Nina Levine, Lyra Parish, Lila Rose, Pepper Winters. The Anthology has a mixed range of novellas some are complete, some are series starters, and some are preview for full novellas that are going to released at a later date.

SINGLE VOLUME ONE by Lyra Parish is the first part in the single Novella series. Roxane VanBuren President of VanBuren Investments has not had much luck when it comes to love and for that reason, she swears off men. She uses online dating for nights casual hook ups with no strings attached and follows a set of rules to define and guide her every move, so they don’t know the real her.

When her best friend shows her a different way, she could get what she needs with no strings attached. She meets Parker Williams, someone who stirs up feelings that she hasn’t felt in a long time, and who is going to break all her rules.

“Parker Williams would be the beginning of my end. Parker Williams would completely destroy me.”

I loved this one it was a hot sexy read, and I can’t wait to read more and see how it all works out for Roxane and Parker.
Profile Image for Jen Cothran.
477 reviews43 followers
January 8, 2015
Single – book 1 by Lyra Parish
5 Stars
Ohhh how I loved this book! I mean who doesn’t love a kick ass woman who knows her worth and what she wants. She is fully aware of her sexuality and needs as a woman who has her career in life and needs for little else. With the aid of her BF she finds a whole other world of sexual exploration with a swingers club. Not one to shy away, she embraces the ambiguity of being masked at the function and being able to lose herself to her desires. Little does she know, the one man whom captivates her and has eyes to get lost in, will bring her worlds crashing together. And holy smokes, (yes I needed a cigarette), do these two ignite the pages. She has had to work hard to make her way in a man’s world…but it’s nothing compared to the man who will make her want…him.
Book two can’t get here fast enough for me…but wanting more is always a good thing!! See for yourself when you pick up book one of this series!

http://momentsinwestfl.blogspot.com/2...#
Profile Image for Kelly.
524 reviews7 followers
November 16, 2014
Single, Volume 1 by Lyra Parish is a fantastic book!!! I laughed so hard at some of the comments that the characters made throughout the story. I highlighted many quotes that made me laugh and I enjoyed reading. This book is SO GOOD!!! Parker and Rox's story is a HOT one to say the least. When they first meet they both have a strong attraction to one another. Other chance meetings bring them together once again. You will have to read to find out their feelings for one another and how their chance meetings turn out. I highly recommend this book, the author did a fabulous job of getting the reader hooked to the story right away. I love the authors writing style and her sense of humor throughout the story. This book is amazing and I can not wait for Volume #2!!!
Profile Image for Erin McKinley.
282 reviews17 followers
November 30, 2014
First book reading from Lyra Parish and I loved it! This story is available in the Owned Anthology.

Rox is one of those woman that you look up to. She's independent, strong, sexy, smart..the whole package! I love how this story plays out. Single is the way to go sometimes, especially if you're a busy woman and just need some hanky panky once in a while haha.

No spoiling but this story is just great! Hilarious where it ended for now and can't wait for Vol 2
Profile Image for Cynthia.
2,097 reviews22 followers
June 28, 2017
This was a cute little read with a few surprises for Roxane which will leave her speechless and on the run. She isn’t your normal type of women being the President of her father and grandfathers company she has a lot to live up to. This doesn’t leave her much time for romance which she really isn’t interested in. What she is interested in is what happens between the sheets. After her last romance that ended bad with him complaining over how much time she spent on your job she decided to have a few one nightstands. Her friend talked her into going to a special club where no one knows who you are. She meets a man there who intrigues her but won’t give in to her wants. She puts the dream man behind her putting herself into her work. The next man she meet is the lawyer her father hirers that gets under her skin. She can’t stand him, he is everything she dislikes in a man. Parker has other ideas and is driving her crazy in so many ways. That is all I am going to tell you, it is easy for the reader to work out the ins and outs but not for Roxane who is left in a tail spin.

Ms. Langola narration is wonderful she has a powerful voice that is very pleasant to listen to. Her character voices are great it is easy to know who is talking and just what they are feeling. Her tones are right on the money giving a compelling listen that pulls the reader in. There are no background noise, no volume changes, if any breaks were taken I could not tell. You can feel the emotions in her voice from anger to chuckling this is a wonderful narration. Her character voice and her normal voice are very pleasant to the listener’s ears giving you a story that you won’t want to put down. It is a very clean and clear audio. The plot flows easy and without interruption as the narrator puts the correct voice to the correct character which gave life to this listen. This is the first time I have listen to this narrator and really like how she performs. I am looking forward to listening to more of her work.

At first I didn’t care too much for this story line but as the author leads you into the plot I found I totally enjoyed it. The only issue I have is that this is a cliffhanger and book two has not been narrated at this time. I do not care very much for cliffhanger and most likely will forget to buy this when book 2 does come out. I enjoyed the mystery and how the plot plays out. It will be interesting to see just how and if Parker can win this lady over. I have a few chuckles and there was a few OH MY’S as well as a couple OH NO’s. It was a good plot that does hold the reader’s attention. The listener can feel the chemistry between these two as well as the shock, anger, disappointment and excitement. The characters keep you entertained as they dance around each other. For the most part they are likable and at times very funny.
Profile Image for The Clover Club LG.
101 reviews8 followers
December 7, 2016
- Bueno, haciendo honor a la verdad el libro no me gustó. Para ser una historia corta dan demasiadas vueltas, los primeros cinco o seis capítulos la protagonista se los pasa tonteando con su mejor amiga.
Al protagonista lo conocemos prácticamente al final y pasan en un segundo de verse a estar enredados en un romance de oficina. Tampoco conocemos mucho de su personalidad, sabemos que es arrogante pero eso es en parte para molestar a Roxanne. Ella es demasiado liberal para mis gustos, pero no la juzgo es joven y quiere divertirse no hay nada mal con eso. hay por allí otras cosas que hacen que la historia no sea del todo de mi agrada pero bueno, nada es perfecto en esta vida.

- No puedo decir que me gusto, porque falto mucho para que llegara a esa categoría.
Para mi punto de vista partió muy bien, me gustaba la chica desinhibida, sin tapujo y que sabía lo que quería en su vida, tanto en el ámbito laboral como sexual... pero todo eso quedo en la primera percepción, entre más avanzaba… más termina desencantada de este mujer con índole de Puta (gratuita)... nada dentro del corto libro fue novedoso todo predecible y muy parecido a un centenar de otros libros que he tomado.

-
Profile Image for Jane | Book Flutter ♥.
603 reviews18 followers
September 6, 2022
oxane is done with relationships, instead preferring to try her luck with online dating sites to get a get hop in bed to alleviate her needs. Her best friend convinces her to go to a new club where things get hot and steamy with an old flame. Using her alto-ego, Katie, she is intrigued by a blue-eyed, masked bartender. Fate leads her and her bestie to a lifestyle party where she once again runs into the masked bartender who she spends a wonderful evening dancing with.
As President of an investment firm, Roxane meets Parker Williams, a cocky, confident and very sexy lawyer who her father and grandfather love and want to hire, with sparkling blue eyes. Relations go from tense to steamy between Rox and Parker and sparks fly when she figures out who he is and tries to ignore her attraction while he tries to push her into it.
Roxane is cold in the business world and most men are afraid of her and she has become untouchable. She may have met her match in Parker Williams.
167 reviews6 followers
November 17, 2017
Roxane Van Buren is super smart, sexy, and successful. She has rules for her love life, and number one? Never mix business with pleasure. She tries all different options for blowing off steam, always being up front with relationship rules. She will not have one, it is simply, too complicated.
After going out for fun with her best friend Stacey, she meets someone she just might break her rules for.
I loved this novella. The characters are all strong in different ways, and even the side characters have a story to tell. They aren't simply there for the sake of more characters, and I loved that! The story had me in the first couple of pages, and I finished it in only an hour or two because I couldn't put it down. It is super sexy and fun, and when we meet the love interest, there is definitely the addition of mystery. I cannot wait for volume 2!
Profile Image for Kim Howlett.
839 reviews
January 13, 2015

Single is the first Novella in a 3 part series by Lyra Parish. This novella has been released previously in the OWNED:AlPHA ANTHOLOGY. I didn't read this book in the owned boxset as I didn't want a massive wait in between books because I read a lot of books in a week so I tend to forget what happens if they is more than a month in between books releasing.
Lyra Parish has been a author that I have loved and followed since she released her debut book, Weak For Him. As a big fan of her writing I knew when her new books are coming out, what they are called and what they are about. I have been really looking forward to Lyras Single novellas for quite some time and it defintly didn't disappoint as I knew it wouldn't.
Even thought the story was just getting going when it ended, Lyra managed to pack quite a lot in such a short time. The first volume had lots of angst, lust, passion, humour and secrets. I was so gripped and in to the story that I didn't realise that I had come to the end of volume 1. The characters and story sucked me in so much that I was so focused on the story, I was left shocked and wanting more from the book straight away. I was really disappointed that I had read it so fast, but the disappointed wasn't anything to do with how the book was wrote, the characters or story, the disappointment was because I wanted more and that I had been so engrossed I lost track of everything happening around me and the length of the story.
Roxane is a women who has suffered a massive loss. She no longer believes in love after losing the love of her life tragically 6 years before. She May of become very strong, loyal, independent and smart, but she keeps true self hidden and will never let anybody really get to know her anymore, so she will only have one night stands to keep herself from having to deal with her past and letting people no her. She doesn't want any feelings involved at all as letting her self become closer to somebody again and making herself vaunerable means she could end up heart broken again and she doesn't want to go through alone pain she felt before ever again, I connected with Roxane and really understood her story and motives. I felt Lyra made Roxanes character very easy for people to connect with and very realistic. Everybody is scared to get their hearts broken or has been through similar circumstances that Roxane is in and I loved Lyra created a character that every single person could understand and sympathise with.
All Roxane focuses on is her career, that is everything to her and it keeps her very busy. As she us so busy with work She does try online dating, but finds out very fast that it isn't going anywhere. It isn't until her friend talks her in to attending a "lifestyle" weekend that things change for Roxane. She meets Parker Williams and he has the ability to break down all Roxanes walls.
Will Roxane be able to mix buisness with pleasure? Will Parker be the man that Rixanes been waiting for, or will Parker be the person to destroy Roxane forever wth the secrets he knows?
Roxane and Parkers relationship is very much a love/hate relationship at the moment. He knows far to much about Roxane,her past and her secrets for her liking. She also hates how Parker knows how to push her buttons.
I really enjoyed their Banter and love/hate relationship and I'm looking forward for more of that in the next book. The sexual tension between them both is off the scale. I felt my kindle was going to blow up with how much heat was coming from them both.
I'm not the biggest fan of novella series, but as it was Lyra's book I had to read it and I'm so glad I did. The story is just starting to really get going and I'm really looking forward to book 2 very soon.
4.5 Stars
Profile Image for Kim BookJunkie ~ Editor & Proofreader.
2,134 reviews55 followers
June 1, 2015
STORY: 4 stars
PERFORMANCE: 5 stars
OVERALL: 4-4.5 stars

I received this audiobook free from the narrator in exchange for my honest review.

I wasn't expecting SINGLE to be anything extraordinary since the story is not an uncommon one...... Roxane VanBuren is a strong, intelligent, independent woman. She's wealthy and powerful, working 50+ hours a week as President of her family's company, VanBuren Investments. Roxane is beautiful, single and has sexual needs she is determined to have sated without having to delve into another unsuccessful relationship.

Each weekend Roxanne trades her business suit in for leather catsuits and Pretty Woman style hooker boots. With a best friend in the modeling industry with lots of connections, Roxane plays as hard on the weekends as she works during the week. Whatever she does, Roxane is always careful to keep her private life just that; private. News of her weekend sexual escapades would not only disappoint the elder VanBurens (Roxane's father and grandfather) but would also undermine her authority at work. She's never had difficulty keeping these two aspects of her life separate until now. Until she meets HIM. Roxane's long held beliefs about not mixing business with pleasure are suddenly not an option.

With talented author Lyra Parish creating exciting, taboo weekend adventures for Roxane (a masked swingers party? Yes please!) coupled with the powerful, believable voice of Lia Langola narrating, this book is far from boilerplate! From the moment I started listening, I was immediately hooked! I am not sure if it was the author's writing style or the authentic, genuine feel of the narration but I honestly felt like I was in the board room and at parties with Roxane! There is something very special about this audio book as I have only experienced this a handful of times despite having read hundreds of books.

Having listened to many audiobooks, I can say with certainty that Lia Langola is one of the best in the business. Her strong, confident voice made her the perfect fit for Roxane; I honestly can't think of another narrator that would have been a better fit. Because Ms. Langola is a master at adjusting her voice just the right amount, creating different voices for each character. Yes, most fiction narrators are capable of altering their voice to differentiate between characters yet Ms. Langola doesn't over do it. When I listen to a book narrated by her l, I know I won't have to force myself to listen to any ridiculous, overly exaggerated voices which to me are like nails on a chalkboard. It's refreshing to listen to a narrator like Ms. Langola who doesn't try to fake anything. For example, she doesn't speak in accents she hasn't fully mastered. Ms. Langola is natural and unpretentious which has a huge positive impact on whatever she is narrating.

I will definitely be waiting in line to purchase the next installment in this series, buying the audiobook if this format is available. I highly recommend this anyone over the age of 18 who likes erotic romance. Having listened to this on audiobook, I strongly suggest spending a few extra dollars to get the audiobook - you won't be sorry you did!
Profile Image for Angela Goodrich.
1,608 reviews102 followers
January 23, 2015
While I enjoyed Single, it’s not a book that lends itself well to the serial novella format in my opinion – at least that’s where I’m assuming the author is going with it. Please take cover before reading the next sentence because the sky is likely to fall, but… I think there was too much of a focus on sex in the book to allow for ample storyline development. I know. Honestly I never thought I’d ever use the phrase “too much of a focus on sex” in a review, but there it is. While I understand that Ms. Parish was making a point about Roxane’s life and relationships, the sex scenes took up too much of the book and distracted from the character development. In a standalone novella, that’s not an actual problem. But when you’re writing a series of novellas you have to hook the reader and, for me, this overemphasis on the sex translated into a lack of connection to the characters and failed to hook me.

That said, I did like Roxane’s character but not the way the men in her life interacted with her. Despite working at the family-owned business, she is the President of the company that answers to a Board so she is obviously an intelligent woman. However, her father and her grandfather treat her like she’s still a child. Prior personal relationship or not, Parker’s behavior toward her was unnecessarily antagonistic, borderline insubordinate, and would have gotten him written up by a male superior immediately and possibly fired. Yet Roxane accepted Parker’s behavior as if it were no big deal. This bothered me because in nearly every conversation regarding her job, everything points to Roxane being a major ball-buster but time and time again she does nothing but lose her cool. I’m not sure why this bothered me so much, just that it did. Single is one of those books that was a good read. It’s the kind of book whose sequel will go on my Amazon wish list so I can catch it on sale because while I am interested in reading the next book in the series, I won’t be devastated if I miss it.

I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Angela at Crystal's Many Reviewers!
Profile Image for Mandie Foxylutely.
948 reviews96 followers
January 4, 2015
*ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review

A great start to this new novella series. I t had everything I want in a good read – plenty of passion, intermingled with lots of humour, a strong storyline and captivating characters. Oh and a new book boyfriend to lust over!

Roxane is sworn off men due to her past loss of her fiancé and a complicated relationship with her best friend, Stacey’s stepbrother. So no more looking for love, she is searching for sex and after some disastrous one night stands (including a five minute man!) Roxane agrees to a night out at a new swingers club with Stacey. It’s there she first meets the blue eyed bartender with whom she feels a connection. Nothing comes of that meeting but then by chance she sees him again at a party the week after and she gets to know more about him, along with a passionate session.

Roxane is the president of her family business and always keeps her private life exactly that, private. So much so she gives a different name when she has her hook ups. Imagine her surprise when she walks into work to hold some interviews for a new finance officer that the ‘bartender’ is sat there. After her initial panic, she calms down as he cannot recognise her, as both times they met she was wearing a mask. Or can he?

I won’t divulge any more of the storyline, but suffice to say it is a definite attention grabber. Yes there is a small cliff hanger but it does leave the reader on a HFN ending rather than a WTF ending. I was left with a few questions which I hope get covered in the next novella (due out in February) such as what will happen with Parker and what about Jake? Ooh the mind is baffled but eagerly awaiting in anticipation, if only to have some more Parkerlicious moments! Rawr.
Profile Image for Books and Soap Book Reviews.
156 reviews15 followers
March 20, 2015
Title: Single, Volume 1
Author: Lyra Parish
Series: Single #1
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Finished Reading: January 26, 2015
Review Date: January 26, 2015
My Rating: 4.5 Stars
Goodreads Bookshelves: 4-5-stars, arcs, arcs-read, korenas-review, read

Reviewed By: Korena

☆☆ ARC PROVIDED BY Lyra Parish FOR MY HONEST REVIEW ☆☆

At an alternative lifestyle club, Orleans. Roxane, aka Katie, meets a masked blue-eyed bartender who she could not forget. The same masked blue-eyed shows up the next night at a lifestyle party that Stacey, Roxane's best friend, got invites to. Masked man and "Katie" danced and kissed. A connection was felt. "Katie" was taken out of the party abruptly by Stacey, who was recognized as a model and posted on You Tube.

Roxane has her identity hidden because she is president of Van Buren Investments. Van Buren Investments has three positions open. Parker's previous mentor where he interned in New York, gives a high recommendation. With Roxane's father and grandfather in total awe of Parker, he was hired. Tension is definitely building in the office.

She is an alpha businesswoman who is trying to prove herself because she is only 28 and is president of her family's investment firm. Roxane appears vulnerable in her personal life thinking she won't find love after her fiance's, Charlie, motorcycle accident. Parker is a hot, muscled, blue-eyed man. He is a confident corporate attorney who takes to detail in contracts that saves Van Buren Investments millions. The chemistry between them is scorching hawt! I cannot wait for the next installment.
Profile Image for Louise Seraphim Reviews.
498 reviews25 followers
January 8, 2015
This was the first story I read from the Owned anthology.
To start with, it was catchy and I was enjoying it. It didn't immediately blow my mind but the story was captivating, and the characters held my attention. It soon changed to an addictive, funny, and hot read.
Roxane is the President of VanBuren Investments. It's a family business, but she has worked hard to get where she is. She is sharp and takes no messing in her role. I loved Roxane from the start, she was feisty and knew exactly what she wanted, and how to get it. Although her career is at it's best, her love life is a little lacking. After failed romances and heartbreak, Rox swears off relationships, and goes after what she needs. Although her way of getting what she needs, doesn't always work out.
After a w/end of craziness, with her best friend. She manages to catch the attention of a very hot and intense bartender. Yet each time she has met him, they have had on masquerade masks, but his eyes left a lasting impression on her.
From here on, there is some really hilarious and tension gripping moments. I started to find the book really addictive and was dying to know what would happen next. The chemistry between Rox and a certain blue eyed bartender was incredibly intense, and the story just got better and better as it continued. Of course this is the first part in a novella series, so not long to wait for the next part, thank goodness. I'm dying to read more, when Rox heads to NY. :)
Fantastic short read, but full of action, intensity and steamy hotness. Gonna be a great series. 4.5 stars.

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