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Black Burlesque #1
Black Pearl
This is a standalone, BBW, BWWM romance with no cliffhangers.
Black Pearl, Book 1 of the Black Burlesque Series
Monday through Friday, Devyn Williams is executive assistant to the CFO of one of the top finance firms in the country. But Devyn has a secret. At night she becomes Black Pearl, a rising performer on the Atlanta burlesque scene. Devyn's good at keeping these two aspects of her life separate, even from her company's CEO, Nikola.
Nikola Collins, is CEO of Excel Financial Services, the company his father started more than thirty years ago. After graduating from West Point and serving in the military, Nikola assumed the role he'd been groomed for since he was a child, upon his father's untimely death. With his brother, Andre as CFO, Nikola has helped Excel exceed even his father's expectations. But, Nikola has a secret of his own. For the three years Andre's executive assistant, Devyn, has worked at Excel, he's been harboring a crush. Opting to not cross any professional boundaries, Nikola has kept his distance. All that changes when Nikola and Devyn are tasked with working closely with one another. The pair's attraction for one another finally boils over.
Nikola finding out Devyn's little secret is not all she has to worry about. When an unwelcomed intruder from Devyn's past returns, the new couple's happiness is threatened.
Black Pearl, Book 1 of the Black Burlesque Series
Monday through Friday, Devyn Williams is executive assistant to the CFO of one of the top finance firms in the country. But Devyn has a secret. At night she becomes Black Pearl, a rising performer on the Atlanta burlesque scene. Devyn's good at keeping these two aspects of her life separate, even from her company's CEO, Nikola.
Nikola Collins, is CEO of Excel Financial Services, the company his father started more than thirty years ago. After graduating from West Point and serving in the military, Nikola assumed the role he'd been groomed for since he was a child, upon his father's untimely death. With his brother, Andre as CFO, Nikola has helped Excel exceed even his father's expectations. But, Nikola has a secret of his own. For the three years Andre's executive assistant, Devyn, has worked at Excel, he's been harboring a crush. Opting to not cross any professional boundaries, Nikola has kept his distance. All that changes when Nikola and Devyn are tasked with working closely with one another. The pair's attraction for one another finally boils over.
Nikola finding out Devyn's little secret is not all she has to worry about. When an unwelcomed intruder from Devyn's past returns, the new couple's happiness is threatened.
357 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 25, 2015
919 people are currently reading
953 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 216 reviews
June 28, 2015
This is my first book by this author. I read the story on KU but when I finished reading the book I immediately brought it because I wanted it on own a copy of this great read.
I would like to recommend Black Pearl by Tiffany Patteson as great read. Nikola Collins is my idea of true alpha male. He respects and loves Simone without trying to manipulate or control her! Even whilst trying to protect her he always allows her to be herself and does not degrade or disrespects her in any way. This story is really romantic and I love stories like these. Alpha males can still be that without dominating everything you do!!
I am desperate for the author to write another story. I will be clicking it!
I would like to recommend Black Pearl by Tiffany Patteson as great read. Nikola Collins is my idea of true alpha male. He respects and loves Simone without trying to manipulate or control her! Even whilst trying to protect her he always allows her to be herself and does not degrade or disrespects her in any way. This story is really romantic and I love stories like these. Alpha males can still be that without dominating everything you do!!
I am desperate for the author to write another story. I will be clicking it!
July 10, 2015
Damn I love Nikola and Devyn's story and was sad when I read "The End".
Devyn Williams is the Executive Assistant to the CFO to Andrea Collins of Excel Financial. She is incredible at her job which she loves. A couple of times a month she trades in her suits for costumes and is a Burlesque dancer at the Black Kitty and goes by the fabulous name of "Black Pearl".
Nikola Collins CEO of Excel Financial, is a force like no other, feared and revered, the consummate bachelor and a complete control freak. He is his father's son but one look at Devyn three years ago and he has been lost. So much so that he avoids going down to his brother's office and if he does go, he slips in and out. Devyn drives him mad and when she works with him for three weeks while his brother is out of town the iron shield cracks wide open.
Devyn is a curvy and beautiful sister, that knows her stuff but when she has to work with Nikola all bets are off and she just need for the three weeks to go by as quickly as possible. Nikola on the other hand is like a Lion who has finally trapped his prey and the minute, Devyn believes its safe he pounces on her. The spark that turned into a flame is when Nikola was out on a date and ended up at the Black Kitty and too his surprised when "Black Pearl" hit the stage he knew exactly who it was, it didn't matter that Devyn had her mask on and her face made up, after watching her for three years he knew her even if he were blindfolded.
When Devyn discovers that Nikola has found out her secret, her first reaction is to run but Nikola warned her if you run, I will catch you and the consequences will be worse. She tried to run (bless her heart) but Nikola was on a mission and it was "Her".
Devyn and Nikola had great chemistry together and I loved it. I loved how he was so in tuned to her that he didn't miss a beat. Nikola is a straight up Alpha and controlling especially when it comes to Devyn it is all from a good place but it drove her crazy at times.
But what's a great story like this without an enemy, a person so vile that you wished with everything in you, to be able to reach through your Kindle and beat the ever living breaks off of the fool.
The secondary characters are so great too and I am hoping for stories of Raul, Mercedes and Andre Woot! Woot! Well if you have read the book, we can already tell that something popped off between Raul and Mercedes but now they can't take one another (Hmm..Now what's that about)and Andre I can't wait to see who he falls for.
This is author Tiffany Patterson's first book which is off to an incredible start. I loved her writing style of her characters and she is now an automatic 1-Click for me.
Well Until My Next Review Ciao Bellas!
Devyn Williams is the Executive Assistant to the CFO to Andrea Collins of Excel Financial. She is incredible at her job which she loves. A couple of times a month she trades in her suits for costumes and is a Burlesque dancer at the Black Kitty and goes by the fabulous name of "Black Pearl".
Nikola Collins CEO of Excel Financial, is a force like no other, feared and revered, the consummate bachelor and a complete control freak. He is his father's son but one look at Devyn three years ago and he has been lost. So much so that he avoids going down to his brother's office and if he does go, he slips in and out. Devyn drives him mad and when she works with him for three weeks while his brother is out of town the iron shield cracks wide open.
Devyn is a curvy and beautiful sister, that knows her stuff but when she has to work with Nikola all bets are off and she just need for the three weeks to go by as quickly as possible. Nikola on the other hand is like a Lion who has finally trapped his prey and the minute, Devyn believes its safe he pounces on her. The spark that turned into a flame is when Nikola was out on a date and ended up at the Black Kitty and too his surprised when "Black Pearl" hit the stage he knew exactly who it was, it didn't matter that Devyn had her mask on and her face made up, after watching her for three years he knew her even if he were blindfolded.
When Devyn discovers that Nikola has found out her secret, her first reaction is to run but Nikola warned her if you run, I will catch you and the consequences will be worse. She tried to run (bless her heart) but Nikola was on a mission and it was "Her".
Devyn and Nikola had great chemistry together and I loved it. I loved how he was so in tuned to her that he didn't miss a beat. Nikola is a straight up Alpha and controlling especially when it comes to Devyn it is all from a good place but it drove her crazy at times.
But what's a great story like this without an enemy, a person so vile that you wished with everything in you, to be able to reach through your Kindle and beat the ever living breaks off of the fool.
The secondary characters are so great too and I am hoping for stories of Raul, Mercedes and Andre Woot! Woot! Well if you have read the book, we can already tell that something popped off between Raul and Mercedes but now they can't take one another (Hmm..Now what's that about)and Andre I can't wait to see who he falls for.
This is author Tiffany Patterson's first book which is off to an incredible start. I loved her writing style of her characters and she is now an automatic 1-Click for me.
Well Until My Next Review Ciao Bellas!
September 13, 2016
Having recently discovered IR books, I must say I am tired, tired of these stories where there is no justifiable basis for the Hs to even have a relationship. I get the sense the authors are trying so hard to maintain "political correctness" and ultimately water down any angst that one, ordinarily, would expect in a romance novel much less one that is IR. I have now read close to 15 IR books and they trend as such:
1. The H falls quickly.
2. The Hs fall into quick lust and have hot sex
3. They never argue.
4. The h often has a secret that could reflect badly on the H
5. They are all billionaires.
Arggghhhhhh!! There, had to get that off my Chest, so, on to this book. I read 75% and had to delete because of the aforementioned reasons, as I just couldn't take one more word.....plus, it needed some serious editing. I should mention that of the 15 books, only "Loving Kyla" remains the most memorable.
November 11, 2018
3.5 Stars
Somehow I missed this series by Tiffany Patterson. So I've decided to rectify the situation by starting with 'Black Pearl'.
I liked elements of this story. However, I needed to know why Nikola was so willing to be in a relationship with Devyn since it's made clear that Nikola isn't interested in a relationship, nor settling down. I needed to know why Devyn was the chosen one and it never was explained.
There were a couple of moments where Nikola and Devyn pampered one another without sex and I liked that. I also enjoyed the reveal about Nikola's mother.
Now ... on to the next book.
Somehow I missed this series by Tiffany Patterson. So I've decided to rectify the situation by starting with 'Black Pearl'.
I liked elements of this story. However, I needed to know why Nikola was so willing to be in a relationship with Devyn since it's made clear that Nikola isn't interested in a relationship, nor settling down. I needed to know why Devyn was the chosen one and it never was explained.
There were a couple of moments where Nikola and Devyn pampered one another without sex and I liked that. I also enjoyed the reveal about Nikola's mother.
Now ... on to the next book.
September 12, 2015
And why did I wait so long to read this?
Okay let me start off by saying that Devyn ex boyfriend was delusional and psychotic!! Oh he pissed me off to the point I wanted to kick his ass!!! Enough about him. Devyn work for Andre which is Nikola little brother. Nikola have been crushing on Devyn ever since she started working for the company. When Andre goes out of town, he suggests that Devyn help out Nikola while his assistant is out on leave. One things leads to another and they can no longer fight their attraction to one another.
Okay let me start off by saying that Devyn ex boyfriend was delusional and psychotic!! Oh he pissed me off to the point I wanted to kick his ass!!! Enough about him. Devyn work for Andre which is Nikola little brother. Nikola have been crushing on Devyn ever since she started working for the company. When Andre goes out of town, he suggests that Devyn help out Nikola while his assistant is out on leave. One things leads to another and they can no longer fight their attraction to one another.
June 27, 2015
Black Pearl, Black Pearl
Talk about hot,hot,hot!!!!!!!! This book was scorching hot!! From beginning to end, I could not get enough. Nikola and Devyn had such passion that is flying off the page. With all of the twists and turns, I didn't certain events to take place. From Devyn's crazy a$$ ex to Nikola being the best knight in shining armor, the books captivates your attention. I'm so happy with how it all ended, and I'm hoping we get to see what went down with Mercedes and Raul....Please continue this!!!!!!!!! I'm dying for moreee!!!!!!!
Talk about hot,hot,hot!!!!!!!! This book was scorching hot!! From beginning to end, I could not get enough. Nikola and Devyn had such passion that is flying off the page. With all of the twists and turns, I didn't certain events to take place. From Devyn's crazy a$$ ex to Nikola being the best knight in shining armor, the books captivates your attention. I'm so happy with how it all ended, and I'm hoping we get to see what went down with Mercedes and Raul....Please continue this!!!!!!!!! I'm dying for moreee!!!!!!!
June 24, 2017
Great Read! I love that Nikola was finally like, damn it, I've wait too long and ain't waiting no more…lol. Then Devon, trying to act shy in front of Nikola then brave enough to shake a tail feather as a burlesque dancer. That crazy ex of her was something else too. Highly entertaining and a joy to ready from start to finish.
July 23, 2015
Devyn is the kind of heroine I love to find in a romance. Devyn is resilient, focused, and determined to live her life to the fullest after being knocked down by circumstances out of her control. Despite being treated very badly by a man that she thought that she loved Devyn has managed to remain kind and open to others. After surviving and leaving an emotionally abusive relationship Devyn doesn't give up on herself or find herself in another bad relationship. Instead, Devyn allows herself to grieve what she thought that she had but afterwards, with the help and encouragement of her best friend, Devyn finds herself. Devyn takes back her life by focusing on her work and her own well being. She is able to look back over her bad relationship and see that the signs were there, she just chose to ignore them. To me that shows great personal character for Devyn to be able to see and acknowledge her own weaknesses and blind spots that helped to keep her in that bad relationship. When she decided to focus on herself Devyn takes it a step further than many women would by exercising and learning to love her body through the art of burlesque. AWESOME! Devyn claims and embraces her curves and learns to appreciate herself as a real woman and not measuring herself against a standard that so many women can not live up to.
Nikola is the brother of Devyn's boss and CEO of the company that she works for. Nikola has tried to maintain strict boundaries between himself and his employees but that hasn't kept him from noticing his brother's executive assistant despite all of his efforts to ignore her. After being put in a situation where he will be working closely with Devyn Nikola finally decides that denying himself what he wants is no longer on the agenda. Nikola proves to be a sexy take charge man who also knows how to bend when he is in the wrong.
I really enjoyed the relationship between Nikola and Devyn. Devyn's secret life outside of her professional life is unique and I loved the reaction from Nikola when he discovers it. The only thing that I would have liked to have seen explored a bit more was Devyn's insecurity when it came to sex with Nikola. Devyn is comfortable with her body overall but there is a scene where she is hesitant to do something sexually that Nikola has asked of her that was resolved very quickly and simply. I would have loved to have seen that explored a bit more. Nikola responded well to it but it could have led to a LOT of fun sexiness between them if they would have needed to explore more positions in order for Nikola to show Devyn just how much he enjoys her body. I realize that is a nit picky complaint because the chemistry between Nikola and Devyn is wonderful and well played out.
BLACK PEARL is a very enjoyable debut novel by Tiffany Patterson. Patterson presents a well written romance and I look forward to reading more in the BLACK BURLESQUE series. Patterson makes it pretty clear who the next book will focus on and I am looking forward to finding out just what happened between Devyn's sassy best friend Mercedes and Raul, the sexy Brazilian best friend of Nikola. I am so glad that my book group voted for this one as our group read and I look forward to experiencing what Patterson has in store for her readers next!
You can find more from me at
•(♥).•*Monlatable Book Reviews*•.(♥)•
http://www.monlatablereviews.com/
Nikola is the brother of Devyn's boss and CEO of the company that she works for. Nikola has tried to maintain strict boundaries between himself and his employees but that hasn't kept him from noticing his brother's executive assistant despite all of his efforts to ignore her. After being put in a situation where he will be working closely with Devyn Nikola finally decides that denying himself what he wants is no longer on the agenda. Nikola proves to be a sexy take charge man who also knows how to bend when he is in the wrong.
I really enjoyed the relationship between Nikola and Devyn. Devyn's secret life outside of her professional life is unique and I loved the reaction from Nikola when he discovers it. The only thing that I would have liked to have seen explored a bit more was Devyn's insecurity when it came to sex with Nikola. Devyn is comfortable with her body overall but there is a scene where she is hesitant to do something sexually that Nikola has asked of her that was resolved very quickly and simply. I would have loved to have seen that explored a bit more. Nikola responded well to it but it could have led to a LOT of fun sexiness between them if they would have needed to explore more positions in order for Nikola to show Devyn just how much he enjoys her body. I realize that is a nit picky complaint because the chemistry between Nikola and Devyn is wonderful and well played out.
BLACK PEARL is a very enjoyable debut novel by Tiffany Patterson. Patterson presents a well written romance and I look forward to reading more in the BLACK BURLESQUE series. Patterson makes it pretty clear who the next book will focus on and I am looking forward to finding out just what happened between Devyn's sassy best friend Mercedes and Raul, the sexy Brazilian best friend of Nikola. I am so glad that my book group voted for this one as our group read and I look forward to experiencing what Patterson has in store for her readers next!
You can find more from me at
•(♥).•*Monlatable Book Reviews*•.(♥)•
http://www.monlatablereviews.com/
June 29, 2016
Tiffany Patterson has gained a new fan after reading her first novel in The Black Burlesque Series. If you enjoy reading BWWM novels, I highly recommend adding Black Pearl to your library. You won’t be disappointed.
Nikola lifestyle is rigid which rarely allows anyone to see his playful side, including his dates. A woman who’s headstrong might find it difficult being Nikola’s date because he sets the tone and they follow. He learned early that Devyn did not fit into that category. As much as I love the character there were a few times he got underneath my skin; especially when he ended things with Cindy. Describing his choice of words as insensitive or rude would be an understatement. But I love the fact that when he was ready to put away his playboy ways, he didn’t care what others thought. The only thing they needed to know…Devyn was off-limits.
It has taken Devyn almost two years to transform herself from being timid, dejected and defeated to a wholesome, confident, and fierce woman. As Nikola made his advances known, she tried to run in the opposite direction. Which only fueled his desire. Just when Devyn acknowledged her feelings for Nikola, Marcus’s jealousy manifested into rage, leaving her starring down the barrel of a handgun. From the beginning Nikola made it known he would protect Devyn no matter what. However, a business trip could hinder this declaration. As Devyn struggled with insecurities, Nikola was determined to prove she’s all he would ever need or desire. I was surprised when she told Nikola what she would and would not tolerate. Words unspoken translated to “been there done that”.
Unfortunately, before Nikola and Devyn are able to love one another unconditionally barriers must be broken. Or will egos and the rage of a jealous ex keep them apart?
There are two scenes I can read over and over again. The first is when Nikola meets Marcus for the first time and says “…make you regret the day your mother ever met your father” and when Devyn earns the nick name “killer”.
-Reviewed by LaMonaThis review was originally posted on Romance Novels in Color
Nikola lifestyle is rigid which rarely allows anyone to see his playful side, including his dates. A woman who’s headstrong might find it difficult being Nikola’s date because he sets the tone and they follow. He learned early that Devyn did not fit into that category. As much as I love the character there were a few times he got underneath my skin; especially when he ended things with Cindy. Describing his choice of words as insensitive or rude would be an understatement. But I love the fact that when he was ready to put away his playboy ways, he didn’t care what others thought. The only thing they needed to know…Devyn was off-limits.
It has taken Devyn almost two years to transform herself from being timid, dejected and defeated to a wholesome, confident, and fierce woman. As Nikola made his advances known, she tried to run in the opposite direction. Which only fueled his desire. Just when Devyn acknowledged her feelings for Nikola, Marcus’s jealousy manifested into rage, leaving her starring down the barrel of a handgun. From the beginning Nikola made it known he would protect Devyn no matter what. However, a business trip could hinder this declaration. As Devyn struggled with insecurities, Nikola was determined to prove she’s all he would ever need or desire. I was surprised when she told Nikola what she would and would not tolerate. Words unspoken translated to “been there done that”.
Unfortunately, before Nikola and Devyn are able to love one another unconditionally barriers must be broken. Or will egos and the rage of a jealous ex keep them apart?
There are two scenes I can read over and over again. The first is when Nikola meets Marcus for the first time and says “…make you regret the day your mother ever met your father” and when Devyn earns the nick name “killer”.
-Reviewed by LaMonaThis review was originally posted on Romance Novels in Color
August 24, 2015
Meet Devyn Williams a shy, insecure executive assistant by day ,but every other Saturday she becomes the star of her own burlesque show. She is sexy, confident and turns heads, she is Black Pearl. Working with the CFO of a company Devyn keeps her job and her person life separate, that is until she catches the eye of the company's sexy CEO Nicola. Nicola Collins is the CEO of Excel Financial and a man use to getting his way. He has always been attracted to his brother & CFO Andre's assistant but keeps his distant to try and be professional, but when his assistant is out taking care of a sick family member and his brother is out of town on business, Devyn has to work for Nicola for the next few weeks. working closely together the pair soon give in to there desire for one another and they both fall hard, but there are unexpected forces at work which may tear thee two apart.
Ok read. I liked the concept of this book more than the book itself. The story had a nice flow, the sex was so hot, hot, hot and it made the book for me, the secondary characters where great and honestly I was more interested in Andre and Mercedes than I was with Devyn and Nicola. There romance was OK, but sometimes the story seemed to be a little farfetched and overdone. I have read a lot of books like this but this one was not my favorite. Don't get me wrong it wasn't a bad read and I liked it,but at about 75% it was kind of hard for me to finish, mostly because of the grammatical and spelling errors. Now I have read books I really didn't like, this was not one of them it had a lot of potential and I see why it got good reviews from others but this one was just not for me. .
Ok read. I liked the concept of this book more than the book itself. The story had a nice flow, the sex was so hot, hot, hot and it made the book for me, the secondary characters where great and honestly I was more interested in Andre and Mercedes than I was with Devyn and Nicola. There romance was OK, but sometimes the story seemed to be a little farfetched and overdone. I have read a lot of books like this but this one was not my favorite. Don't get me wrong it wasn't a bad read and I liked it,but at about 75% it was kind of hard for me to finish, mostly because of the grammatical and spelling errors. Now I have read books I really didn't like, this was not one of them it had a lot of potential and I see why it got good reviews from others but this one was just not for me. .
May 30, 2022
Great Premise.. So so Execution
I picked this book up weeks ago after seeing it on Tiktok. It sounded like something right up my alley. And on paper this book hits all the right notes for me but something about the execution is left to be desired. The storytelling just isn’t.. polished enough for me. The story doesn’t flow seamlessly for me. Devyn and Nokola’s relationship moves at a very rapid and uneven pace for me. I didn’t actually feel their connection. The words were on the page but it just wasn’t enough for me. There wasn’t enough nuanced imagery for me. Again the vision is there it just needs more finesse to make the book great. For me as it is. I’ll give it 3 stars.
I picked this book up weeks ago after seeing it on Tiktok. It sounded like something right up my alley. And on paper this book hits all the right notes for me but something about the execution is left to be desired. The storytelling just isn’t.. polished enough for me. The story doesn’t flow seamlessly for me. Devyn and Nokola’s relationship moves at a very rapid and uneven pace for me. I didn’t actually feel their connection. The words were on the page but it just wasn’t enough for me. There wasn’t enough nuanced imagery for me. Again the vision is there it just needs more finesse to make the book great. For me as it is. I’ll give it 3 stars.
January 15, 2019
This book was hot! I really enjoyed Devyn and Nikola’s story. The plot was great. Looking forward to more.... Raul and Mercedes?!
July 12, 2016
Rating: 4.5
Welp, THAT HAPPENED!
Welp, THAT HAPPENED!
April 29, 2018
This is the first book I've read by Tiffany Patterson and I must say, I am a fan. I know, the story line is a bit clique in this contemporary BW/WM romance novel genre with the controlling, super rich, super successful, impossibly good looking white alpha that falls for the slightly flawed, not rich, slightly submissive, but very sexy Black heroine, that is Devyn. You have to like this type of dynamic to get into these stories. I rather enjoy the dominant control freak, alpha that Nikola is, so I find his ways to be sexy. I mean despite the politically incorrect dynamic of a CEO basically pouncing sexually and aggressively on his underling at work is not exactly appropriate especially during this day and age, but Lord, I am sorry, but I found this story hot. I don't care lol I mean, Tiffany Patterson is skilled at writing some love scenes because each one is delicious. I actually had to go back and read their initially encounters again.
I think this is a fun read and even though Devyn is submissive, she is resilient after having been through a lot in a past abusive relationship and she does have a good sense of herself and what she wants. She doesn't let Nikola control her every move, especially when it comes to her doing burlesque, which she sees as a passion of hers. So I definitely liked the two of them together and even though it gets sticky about her being an employee (although not supervised under him directly), it's still something you'll enjoy sinking your teeth into and be prepared to be entertained. I'll be reading the others in this series too because I want to see what happens with Mercedes and Raul and also with Andre!
I think this is a fun read and even though Devyn is submissive, she is resilient after having been through a lot in a past abusive relationship and she does have a good sense of herself and what she wants. She doesn't let Nikola control her every move, especially when it comes to her doing burlesque, which she sees as a passion of hers. So I definitely liked the two of them together and even though it gets sticky about her being an employee (although not supervised under him directly), it's still something you'll enjoy sinking your teeth into and be prepared to be entertained. I'll be reading the others in this series too because I want to see what happens with Mercedes and Raul and also with Andre!
August 26, 2018
The Apple doesn't fall far from the tree!
Nikola Collins was his father's mini-me in more ways than one. When he first laid eyes on his brother Andre's assistant Devyn Williams three years prior, he knew he was in trouble and tried to keep away from her. But, what they did not know they had help with being forced to spend time together at work, when Andre has a business trip and Nikola's assistant is on leave for two weeks. Nikola accidentally discovered Black Pearl doing her thing at the Black Kitty and was immediately turned on by discovering Devyn's secret. It was on and popping until Devyn's corrupt cop ex boyfriend Marcus Thomas, decided he wanted his pound of flesh from her after Nicola had him fired from his side jobs. Nikola knew then that he could not live without her. She was the love of his life. Devin refused to be controlled by any man from her failed relationship with her ex and how he berated her and cheated on her. He rubbed it in her face that her rich boyfriend was only using her and that he had a stable of better looking women waiting in the wings.
Tiffany wrote a very romantic story about a couple succumbing to their attractions to each other. An attraction they both had been hiding from the other for various reasons. Nicola was the consummate single playboy and had not found the right woman yet. Devyn was beaten down mentally by what Marcus did to her. Her burlesque dancing was her way of recovering her self esteem. Devyn turned out to be the woman Nikola would do anything to protect the love of his life, and he would stop at nothing to get their HEA.
Nikola Collins was his father's mini-me in more ways than one. When he first laid eyes on his brother Andre's assistant Devyn Williams three years prior, he knew he was in trouble and tried to keep away from her. But, what they did not know they had help with being forced to spend time together at work, when Andre has a business trip and Nikola's assistant is on leave for two weeks. Nikola accidentally discovered Black Pearl doing her thing at the Black Kitty and was immediately turned on by discovering Devyn's secret. It was on and popping until Devyn's corrupt cop ex boyfriend Marcus Thomas, decided he wanted his pound of flesh from her after Nicola had him fired from his side jobs. Nikola knew then that he could not live without her. She was the love of his life. Devin refused to be controlled by any man from her failed relationship with her ex and how he berated her and cheated on her. He rubbed it in her face that her rich boyfriend was only using her and that he had a stable of better looking women waiting in the wings.
Tiffany wrote a very romantic story about a couple succumbing to their attractions to each other. An attraction they both had been hiding from the other for various reasons. Nicola was the consummate single playboy and had not found the right woman yet. Devyn was beaten down mentally by what Marcus did to her. Her burlesque dancing was her way of recovering her self esteem. Devyn turned out to be the woman Nikola would do anything to protect the love of his life, and he would stop at nothing to get their HEA.
August 19, 2016
Predictable pregnancy/baby formula at the expense of a good story
What a waste of an interesting, engaging, and sexy read.
Since I'm not a fan of "surprise" pregnancy/baby stories, I try my best to read the reviews hoping to get a heads up on if this formula is used in a story; obviously I didn't read enough of the reviews.
My disappointment and frustration about this formula is it often does not flow with the characters' personality traits or back story; it's like split personality complex. The moment of "OMG I'm pregnant" is so ridiculously annoying that you are jolted out of the flow of the story--sometimes the reader feels as if the original characters in the story have been replaced. It's just weird! It appears that writers of this genre use the pregnancy/baby formula to fulfill the book's word count. Devyn and Nikola's story deserved more and better than dumping a word filler formula.
IR HEAs do not have to involve pregnancy/baby drama.
What a waste of an interesting, engaging, and sexy read.
Since I'm not a fan of "surprise" pregnancy/baby stories, I try my best to read the reviews hoping to get a heads up on if this formula is used in a story; obviously I didn't read enough of the reviews.
My disappointment and frustration about this formula is it often does not flow with the characters' personality traits or back story; it's like split personality complex. The moment of "OMG I'm pregnant" is so ridiculously annoying that you are jolted out of the flow of the story--sometimes the reader feels as if the original characters in the story have been replaced. It's just weird! It appears that writers of this genre use the pregnancy/baby formula to fulfill the book's word count. Devyn and Nikola's story deserved more and better than dumping a word filler formula.
IR HEAs do not have to involve pregnancy/baby drama.
October 16, 2016
This was truly a love story. The chemistry between Devyn and Nikola was beautiful. Marcus got on my damn nerves and if I was in the book I would had shot him twice in the face. But thank goodness he got what he deserved at the end. I really enjoyed this book and I can't wait to read book book and the love story between Raul and Mercedes.
June 27, 2015
Wow seriously!!
I chose this rating because I seriously was enraptured the whole time. Couldn't put it down!! I loved their journey and honestly hope for more from the other characters. Even the playlist was on point!! Thank you for a great read and writing.
I chose this rating because I seriously was enraptured the whole time. Couldn't put it down!! I loved their journey and honestly hope for more from the other characters. Even the playlist was on point!! Thank you for a great read and writing.
June 13, 2016
Wow!!!
I am so glad I finally got around to giving this author's book a try. I thoroughly enjoyed this story. It had the right amount of chemistry, suspense and great sex scenes to make this a page turner for me.
I am so glad I finally got around to giving this author's book a try. I thoroughly enjoyed this story. It had the right amount of chemistry, suspense and great sex scenes to make this a page turner for me.
June 27, 2015
Loved it
I really enjoyed the book. Loved the funny parts. Sad parts also. I really enjoyed reading it read it in one day.
I really enjoyed the book. Loved the funny parts. Sad parts also. I really enjoyed reading it read it in one day.
June 30, 2015
That was good! Love an alpha male! I do recommend!
August 7, 2015
4 1/2⭐️
Want to read
March 6, 2022🎁 FREE on Amazon today (3/6/2022)! 🎁
July 21, 2015
Awesome love story.
September 27, 2023
Trigger Warnings include:
cheating (not between MCs), emotional/verbal & physical abuse on page (not between MCs), stalking, manipulation (including non-consensual pornography), involvement of a gun, threats of rape
This poor man has had a crush on his brother’s assistant for years. So of course, he avoided her at all costs. Devyn hardly ever saw Nikola, but the few moments she saw him, it was enough for him to hold her attention. When his assistant takes a leave of absence, it seemed to only make sense that he borrow Devyn since his brother would also be out of the office. And that was the universe aligning all the stars! Neither of them had anything issue crossing the line. It was obvious from the start that he was a goner, and was willing to do whatever it took to have her, keep her. Nik is a boss in the boardroom and the bedroom, and anywhere that involves Devyn. It wasn’t about him always getting his way, or even expecting to. He just wanted and needed her. The electricity and tension between them was so yummy! I’ll never understand the FMCs that leave the possessive rich man, with deep pockets and deeper reach, because they were told to, without having a conversation first. Even as hurt as he was, Nik NEVER would have hesitated to be there for her. That’s the only thing that kept this from being five stars.
My Favorite Quotes:
• “So you’re not sorry for driving me crazy for the last three weeks?”
• “Next time I will be tasting this instead of wiping it away.”
• “When I want something there is nothing or no one that can stop me.”
• “And what I want is you.”
• “I love the way you say my name.”
• “I’m the guy that’s going to make you regret the day your mother ever met your father if you don’t let her arm go.”
• “Yes, that’s the sound I want to hear you making later on tonight while I’m between your thighs, deep inside you.”
• “I’m going to explore and lick every inch of you tonight.”
• “Keep these on. They’ll look good on my shoulders.”
• “Three f!cking years, I’ve avoided my brother’s office just so I wouldn’t be tempted to bend you over your desk in the middle of the day.”
• “A burlap sack wouldn’t be able to hide those sexy curves.”
• “Are you going to stand over there and watch me all night or are you going to f!ck me?”
• “My p!ssy tastes good in the morning.”
9/10 Dirty Birdy
6/10 Forced Proximity
5/10 Second Chance
9/10 The CEO Type
8/10 Workplace
cheating (not between MCs), emotional/verbal & physical abuse on page (not between MCs), stalking, manipulation (including non-consensual pornography), involvement of a gun, threats of rape
This poor man has had a crush on his brother’s assistant for years. So of course, he avoided her at all costs. Devyn hardly ever saw Nikola, but the few moments she saw him, it was enough for him to hold her attention. When his assistant takes a leave of absence, it seemed to only make sense that he borrow Devyn since his brother would also be out of the office. And that was the universe aligning all the stars! Neither of them had anything issue crossing the line. It was obvious from the start that he was a goner, and was willing to do whatever it took to have her, keep her. Nik is a boss in the boardroom and the bedroom, and anywhere that involves Devyn. It wasn’t about him always getting his way, or even expecting to. He just wanted and needed her. The electricity and tension between them was so yummy! I’ll never understand the FMCs that leave the possessive rich man, with deep pockets and deeper reach, because they were told to, without having a conversation first. Even as hurt as he was, Nik NEVER would have hesitated to be there for her. That’s the only thing that kept this from being five stars.
My Favorite Quotes:
• “So you’re not sorry for driving me crazy for the last three weeks?”
• “Next time I will be tasting this instead of wiping it away.”
• “When I want something there is nothing or no one that can stop me.”
• “And what I want is you.”
• “I love the way you say my name.”
• “I’m the guy that’s going to make you regret the day your mother ever met your father if you don’t let her arm go.”
• “Yes, that’s the sound I want to hear you making later on tonight while I’m between your thighs, deep inside you.”
• “I’m going to explore and lick every inch of you tonight.”
• “Keep these on. They’ll look good on my shoulders.”
• “Three f!cking years, I’ve avoided my brother’s office just so I wouldn’t be tempted to bend you over your desk in the middle of the day.”
• “A burlap sack wouldn’t be able to hide those sexy curves.”
• “Are you going to stand over there and watch me all night or are you going to f!ck me?”
• “My p!ssy tastes good in the morning.”
9/10 Dirty Birdy
6/10 Forced Proximity
5/10 Second Chance
9/10 The CEO Type
8/10 Workplace
December 8, 2021
Could be better
The beginning of the book started off pretty well, so I had really high hopes for this story but as it got further along...the quality of the writing & the story line got worse.
Like Nikola had a reputation typical rich white playboy who only dated models & celebrities that he got bored with every few months and Devyn was a had huge trauma, trust, & insecurity issues from her last relationship w/ her abusive ex-boyfriend. So when Nikola asked her to stop dancing burlesque after a week of dating, I could not understand Devyn getting more angry asking her not to dance burlesque b/c she thought it was "CONTROLLING", than him being ENTITLED enough to think he had the right to ask her to stop dancing burlesque when they had only been dating a week (so he clearly hadn't had enough time to prove he was trustworthy) nor had he made it clear that he was serious about her & wasn't just casually dating her. Let's be real: a lot of men don't want their women dancing nude in front of other men. That's normal. But most men understand that's a boyfriend or husband level request. And with Devyn's extreme trust issues & unwillingness to emotionally invest in Nikola b/c she thought he would get bored & drop her for some model, wouldn't she get more mad that he hadn't stated any intention to commit to her but expected her to make life changing decisions at his request? It was just the one of the weirdest, most off-putting things I've ever read considering Devyn's initial deep-seated lack trust & security concerning Nikola b/c of his rich white playboy reputation.
Another issue: I like sex scenes erotic romances, but if they are too many of sex scenes it goes from being erotic romance to being cheap pornography. In this book, not only did the sex scenes grow to be too much, become boring & start distracting from the ACTUAL story, some of the dialogue in sex scenes became too corny for words. That's what happens when you put too much sex into your book, you run out of creative ways to describe it without sounding corny & tacky. And "plot twist" at where Nikola's mother Iris had been a burlesque dancer who knew that Devyn was a burlesque dancer was beyond unnecessary, implausible, stupid, and weird.
The beginning of the book started off pretty well, so I had really high hopes for this story but as it got further along...the quality of the writing & the story line got worse.
Like Nikola had a reputation typical rich white playboy who only dated models & celebrities that he got bored with every few months and Devyn was a had huge trauma, trust, & insecurity issues from her last relationship w/ her abusive ex-boyfriend. So when Nikola asked her to stop dancing burlesque after a week of dating, I could not understand Devyn getting more angry asking her not to dance burlesque b/c she thought it was "CONTROLLING", than him being ENTITLED enough to think he had the right to ask her to stop dancing burlesque when they had only been dating a week (so he clearly hadn't had enough time to prove he was trustworthy) nor had he made it clear that he was serious about her & wasn't just casually dating her. Let's be real: a lot of men don't want their women dancing nude in front of other men. That's normal. But most men understand that's a boyfriend or husband level request. And with Devyn's extreme trust issues & unwillingness to emotionally invest in Nikola b/c she thought he would get bored & drop her for some model, wouldn't she get more mad that he hadn't stated any intention to commit to her but expected her to make life changing decisions at his request? It was just the one of the weirdest, most off-putting things I've ever read considering Devyn's initial deep-seated lack trust & security concerning Nikola b/c of his rich white playboy reputation.
Another issue: I like sex scenes erotic romances, but if they are too many of sex scenes it goes from being erotic romance to being cheap pornography. In this book, not only did the sex scenes grow to be too much, become boring & start distracting from the ACTUAL story, some of the dialogue in sex scenes became too corny for words. That's what happens when you put too much sex into your book, you run out of creative ways to describe it without sounding corny & tacky. And "plot twist" at where Nikola's mother Iris had been a burlesque dancer who knew that Devyn was a burlesque dancer was beyond unnecessary, implausible, stupid, and weird.
March 25, 2022
Good grief, Nikola Collins!! This book—what a delicious, romantic ride! This is the first time I read Tiffany Patterson’s romance book, but this will not be the last. This book is an unputdownable, fun, flirty, and yet suspenseful, sensual, and an emotional story at the same time. Nikola Collins became the CEO of Excel Financial Services Corp. at a young age after his father passed away. His father trained him to take over the company, since he was the oldest, after his father retired, but he never got the chance to retire. Nikola is an enigma of a man who is a very handsome billionaire, playboy extraordinaire, a-hole, overconfident, most eligible bachelor, workaholic, arrogant, and he usually gets what he wants—right now, he want Devyn. Devyn Williams is a beautiful Black independent woman who is good at her job, and she works for Nikola’s brother, Andre who is CFO, as his administrative assistant. Devyn has always had a crush on her boss’s brother, but she would never show it at work. Unbeknownst to Devyn, Nikola had a crush on her for three years—since she started working for his brother. There is no denying the attraction, but the chemistry like the one they have can only be denied for so long. Devyn has a secret that she does not want anyone from her job to know, especially Nikola, what she does outside of work. What is Devyn’s secret? Devyn encountered problems with her abusive ex-boyfriend, Marcus, of five years, and she became a force to be reckoned with. Everything about Nikola and Devyn seemed too good to be true, but none of that mattered until a situation with Devyn’s ex-boyfriend turns her idyllic life upside down. Find out what happened—you will be astonished! Their journey is intoxicatingly quirky, perfectly paced and all-around fun with a surprise HEA. I can’t wait to read the book 2 of Mercedes (Devyn’s BFF) and Raul’s (Nikola BF) story.
Because I am not a fan of third person narrative, I could not give it a five star rating. The story was good, but in my opinion, I think the first person narrative can raise the emotional stakes in the story because the first person is living the action in the story and can put more emphasis on how the story is told.
Because I am not a fan of third person narrative, I could not give it a five star rating. The story was good, but in my opinion, I think the first person narrative can raise the emotional stakes in the story because the first person is living the action in the story and can put more emphasis on how the story is told.
March 5, 2018
Color me unimpressed. Such a nice beginning, just rushing into the story and a new, wonderful world. Like a recipe really. For sweetness add some nice super cool ingredients - the background, characters, etc. Then suddenly for some sourness add some dragging and repetitive complaining about their life and how nothing is good enough. Then for peppers add some crazy ex-boyfriend who left her alone for a year, but then suddenly BOOM. Honey, I am home. For better texture, Add some insta, possessive love with a hero, who is handsome, nice, war-her, insanely rich entrepreneur and of course totally alpha, while afraid of the little woman. Resolve the problem with ex by simply telling on him to his boss (police chief). Simple, right? She went terrified for two weeks and never thought to do that. *Eye-roll*. Then let it simmer on a slow fire - add some dragging, boringly long descriptions about her life with her new BF. When it starts bubbling you will see some tantrums. ( I am a thirty year old grown up woman, I do not need controlling man in my life, I can do everything myself *lets her ex abuse her for five years and decides to strip under disguise of dancing, while being constantly scared and worried about how people at work would react, instead of just switching to goddamn salsa classes and throws "I don't wanna talk to you" tantrums, cries or gets angry every other chapter[hormonal much?]) Then just for the special touch - the big BOOM nr.2 - EX is baaaack. "Honey, I am home again. I do not like you, you mean nothing to me, but I will ruin your life, because I enjoy you pain and you humiliated me." *Facepalm*. Then of course she suddenly becomes kick-boxing ninja who beats her boyfriend to a bloody pulp [after crying and being a terrified damsel in distress of course].
And of course, you will know your dish is ready when there is the usual marriage, kids and HAE package. It was an average read, really. Everything predictable, foreseeable and utterly cliche-ed. There was literally nothing in this story that would excel it from other stories. No "OMG, I didn't see that coming" moments. More like "Oooh reaaaly. You don't saaaaay..." *insert heavy sarcastic voice*.
Cover - 4
Plot - 2
Hero- 3
Heroine - 2
Avoiding cliche - 2
Romance - 2
Fluency - 4
Ending - 3
-------------
Overall - 2.75
And of course, you will know your dish is ready when there is the usual marriage, kids and HAE package. It was an average read, really. Everything predictable, foreseeable and utterly cliche-ed. There was literally nothing in this story that would excel it from other stories. No "OMG, I didn't see that coming" moments. More like "Oooh reaaaly. You don't saaaaay..." *insert heavy sarcastic voice*.
Cover - 4
Plot - 2
Hero- 3
Heroine - 2
Avoiding cliche - 2
Romance - 2
Fluency - 4
Ending - 3
-------------
Overall - 2.75
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 3, 2023
While I enjoyed the overall story, I was a little surprised at how not well-written this was. And I wondered if the author had changed editors, or just didn't have one. But from the stories I've read, I think she does better writing first perspective-- I love reading what the characters are thinking in their minds.
What also bothered me was the very surface skating of information and descriptions. For example, a scene would play out and rather than delve deeper into it, the author just would skim the surface and then move on. Even with the characters. We never really get deep dives into the characters and their motivations-- we aren't shown why they all connect and why they get along, we're just told and moved on. We're told Nikola's a protector, but we aren't shown his motivations behind it. He'd spent time in the military-- was that a factor? Was it his upbringing during his childhood? We're never told. We also don't really get a glimpse into the relationship with his brother. Yes they have some banter back and forth, and they had standing lunch dates each week, but we aren't really shown why they're so close.
If you wanna see a great family dynamic that this author really delves into, check out Carter's Flame and then Aaron's Patience. I feel the author did a MUCH better job there than here.
Also, the constant shifting POVs within a single paragraph were taking me out of the story. So yes, an interesting premise but the poor writing kinda overshadowed it. Which is weird because I loved Aaron's Patience and that was written before this story. But until I looked it up, I would've thought Black Pearl was the first story written.
I will continue to read her Townsends series, but I'm not sure if I'll continue this Burlesque series.
What also bothered me was the very surface skating of information and descriptions. For example, a scene would play out and rather than delve deeper into it, the author just would skim the surface and then move on. Even with the characters. We never really get deep dives into the characters and their motivations-- we aren't shown why they all connect and why they get along, we're just told and moved on. We're told Nikola's a protector, but we aren't shown his motivations behind it. He'd spent time in the military-- was that a factor? Was it his upbringing during his childhood? We're never told. We also don't really get a glimpse into the relationship with his brother. Yes they have some banter back and forth, and they had standing lunch dates each week, but we aren't really shown why they're so close.
If you wanna see a great family dynamic that this author really delves into, check out Carter's Flame and then Aaron's Patience. I feel the author did a MUCH better job there than here.
Also, the constant shifting POVs within a single paragraph were taking me out of the story. So yes, an interesting premise but the poor writing kinda overshadowed it. Which is weird because I loved Aaron's Patience and that was written before this story. But until I looked it up, I would've thought Black Pearl was the first story written.
I will continue to read her Townsends series, but I'm not sure if I'll continue this Burlesque series.
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