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A Good Wife #1
Girl Wife Prisoner
How far would you go to set yourself free?
Drake Blackwell is intelligent, successful, controlling, and hiding a violent family past. He just made his latest investment: Noriko.
Imported from Japan and wed to a stranger, Noriko struggles to stick to the rules of a Good Wife. Drake can’t seem to love her, not the way she wants to be loved. She dreams of freedom beyond the gates of Blackwell Manor.
She meets Keir, a passionate young gardener who shares her desire to break free. He gets under her skin and ignites a fire in her she can't ignore. In the midst of her quiet desperation she thinks she has found happiness. And a glimpse of hope.
But this affair can't last...can it?
There is a darkness lingering, but not how you'd expect. There are monsters, but not as you usually know them. The truth is, in this story, no one is completely innocent. And it's always darkest before the dawn.
Although part of a series, this is a standalone novel with no cliffhanger.
Drake Blackwell is intelligent, successful, controlling, and hiding a violent family past. He just made his latest investment: Noriko.
Imported from Japan and wed to a stranger, Noriko struggles to stick to the rules of a Good Wife. Drake can’t seem to love her, not the way she wants to be loved. She dreams of freedom beyond the gates of Blackwell Manor.
She meets Keir, a passionate young gardener who shares her desire to break free. He gets under her skin and ignites a fire in her she can't ignore. In the midst of her quiet desperation she thinks she has found happiness. And a glimpse of hope.
But this affair can't last...can it?
There is a darkness lingering, but not how you'd expect. There are monsters, but not as you usually know them. The truth is, in this story, no one is completely innocent. And it's always darkest before the dawn.
Although part of a series, this is a standalone novel with no cliffhanger.
ebook
First published September 19, 2015
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243 people want to read
About the author
Hanna Peach
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Hanna is the bestselling author of the Bound romantic suspense series and the Dark Angel fantasy series. Although she writes in more than one genre she can’t write a book without weaving together a complicated plot and filling it with twists. She writes what she believes: good people can do bad things, ordinary people can do great things, and choose love above everything.
If not writing, she can be found wandering a dusty market in Marrakesh or trekking a mountain in Peru, often using her travels as settings in her novels.
I don't spend much time on Goodreads, so head over to my FB page to hang out!
www.facebook.com/HannaPeachAuthor
Hanna is the bestselling author of the Bound romantic suspense series and the Dark Angel fantasy series. Although she writes in more than one genre she can’t write a book without weaving together a complicated plot and filling it with twists. She writes what she believes: good people can do bad things, ordinary people can do great things, and choose love above everything.
If not writing, she can be found wandering a dusty market in Marrakesh or trekking a mountain in Peru, often using her travels as settings in her novels.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
September 19, 2015
Noriko, very young at age but quite manipulative and strong, is Drake's (one of the richest people in the world) mail order bride from Japan. She arrives at his massive mansion being completely in the dark about her husband's physical appearance, financial status and character. Drake's welcome isn't as warm as she expected. He's cold, distant and absolute. He keeps her a 'prisoner' in his mansion denying her even to use the phone or eat what she likes claiming that's for her own good.
Keir, a gardener and one of Drake's employees, is attracted to her and Noriko, although reluctant in the beginning, soon starts to respond to his aspirations.
Noriko is determined to gain her freedom at any cost, even by leaving behind her husband and start anew. But, fate has other plans for her. Who will come out on top in the battle of wills?
The plot was interesting and the secondary characters supportive. This book was well written and worth the read. My only complaint is that I couldn't relate to Noriko. There were several inconsistencies concerning her character and actions, and her character wasn't deep enough.
Overall, I did enjoy this story of power, love, pride and surrender.
**ARC was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.**
Keir, a gardener and one of Drake's employees, is attracted to her and Noriko, although reluctant in the beginning, soon starts to respond to his aspirations.
Noriko is determined to gain her freedom at any cost, even by leaving behind her husband and start anew. But, fate has other plans for her. Who will come out on top in the battle of wills?
The plot was interesting and the secondary characters supportive. This book was well written and worth the read. My only complaint is that I couldn't relate to Noriko. There were several inconsistencies concerning her character and actions, and her character wasn't deep enough.
Overall, I did enjoy this story of power, love, pride and surrender.
**ARC was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.**
February 9, 2021
ARE ALL THE GOOD ONES A THING OF THE PAST? A GOOD BOOK THAT MUST NOT BE FORGOTTEN. WHY READ THIS REVIEW NOW?
THIS IS AN HOMAGE (AND A LITTLE RANTY) TO A FORGOTTEN BOOK THAT DESERVED SO MUCH MORE. What a loss if you never got to read this book in it's original form.
I get it. This book is currently 6 years old and predates many of you. It's not only 2021, but the original book is no longer available, as written. Under heavy pressure from readers, the author revised and re-released the book as Mr. Blackwell's Bride. She was forced to gut her initial story to please some readers who refused to accept it and demanded a different ending. Cancel culture before it even existed.
More's the pity. All of you who read that sanitized, whitewashed version of a brilliant, one-of-a-kind story will never know the true genius of the original. But, we're in a book culture where there are -- frankly -- too many authors. Many can't write their way out of a paper bag ... or even worse ... have ghost writers or plagiarize from those who can write. It's a sorry state of affairs, no? All the more reason to rejoice a book that has been retired, to my great and everlasting dismay. A book that I have never forgotten, or ever will.
A couple years ago, I was gutted upon learning what happened directly from Hannah/Sienna, and that there was no way to get the original book back. Foolishly, I'd read it on KU. There was plenty of time to actually buy it, and there were so many other books to read in between. Lesson learned: NEVER put off buying a book you love for later. [FYI: Under Hannah Peach, she also wrote another brill book Paper Dolls, which was groundbreaking in 2016].
My comments here are to all you book lovers who truly love well-written books, not just the latest craze or famous authors' recycled nonsense, but a book worthy of reading and remembering. One that can take you to a paradoxical place you've never been before, arouse a wide and confusing gamut of emotions, make you question who to root for, and pick you up and drop you down in a place far from expectation. It may not be WHAT was expected or WHERE you thought you'd end up, but believe me it was a memorable journey that I will NEVER forget. This little slice of total originality was written in a special time at the front-end of self-published romance by Hannah Peach. Oh -- you know her today as Sienna Blake, which is the name on the revised book version and her more recent books.
There were three characters in this book -- two men and the woman between them in a most unusual situation. NOT MENAGE. I never thought I could love and hate characters so profoundly, and change my mind about them. Be confused by my own feelings, root for dual outcomes, do a 180 about a heroine's victimization and her choices, come to understand and sympathize with a villain and a shocking turn of events that left me slack-jawed and not sure what I really wanted in the end. The book was a total sleeper hit IMO and so many readers have been denied the privilege of experiencing it in all its original magnificence. It was always more than it seemed on surface about a captive situation, a spoiled and clueless woman, unusual characters with secrets, unrequited love, misjudgments, and tragedy. The revision is not like the original just so whiny readers could have the ending they preferred. How sad.
Books should be judged as written. Is the world and logic created true to itself and believable in the context of the story? Personal feelings always have a place in how a book affects us, but not as a measuring stick to silence a well-written book because some readers want a different outcome. Then read a different book. Personal preference is a separate matter from judging whether a book is well-written and deserves praise. There's no place in literature for basically bullying an author into changing her story -- that's right, HER story, not OURS -- based on reader pressure for our benefit. A book must be judged by its own truth, not a reader's truth.
If more readers had been able to separate those things in this extremely clever and emotional book, the author would not have caved to pressure, and we would still have the original story. Personally, I wished the story would have ended differently, too, because of my emotional investment, but the ending totally fit the story. The impact was far greater because of it, and more credible than my personal wishes. I hate censorship in all forms, and losing this book was a real loss to the reading community.
The memorable and unpredictable, original book remains on my all-time fave list and I wish I could re-read it. I know this is a moot point for all of you, but it deserved to be said and the author deserves credit for the incredible book that she wrote.
THIS IS AN HOMAGE (AND A LITTLE RANTY) TO A FORGOTTEN BOOK THAT DESERVED SO MUCH MORE. What a loss if you never got to read this book in it's original form.
I get it. This book is currently 6 years old and predates many of you. It's not only 2021, but the original book is no longer available, as written. Under heavy pressure from readers, the author revised and re-released the book as Mr. Blackwell's Bride. She was forced to gut her initial story to please some readers who refused to accept it and demanded a different ending. Cancel culture before it even existed.
More's the pity. All of you who read that sanitized, whitewashed version of a brilliant, one-of-a-kind story will never know the true genius of the original. But, we're in a book culture where there are -- frankly -- too many authors. Many can't write their way out of a paper bag ... or even worse ... have ghost writers or plagiarize from those who can write. It's a sorry state of affairs, no? All the more reason to rejoice a book that has been retired, to my great and everlasting dismay. A book that I have never forgotten, or ever will.
A couple years ago, I was gutted upon learning what happened directly from Hannah/Sienna, and that there was no way to get the original book back. Foolishly, I'd read it on KU. There was plenty of time to actually buy it, and there were so many other books to read in between. Lesson learned: NEVER put off buying a book you love for later. [FYI: Under Hannah Peach, she also wrote another brill book Paper Dolls, which was groundbreaking in 2016].
My comments here are to all you book lovers who truly love well-written books, not just the latest craze or famous authors' recycled nonsense, but a book worthy of reading and remembering. One that can take you to a paradoxical place you've never been before, arouse a wide and confusing gamut of emotions, make you question who to root for, and pick you up and drop you down in a place far from expectation. It may not be WHAT was expected or WHERE you thought you'd end up, but believe me it was a memorable journey that I will NEVER forget. This little slice of total originality was written in a special time at the front-end of self-published romance by Hannah Peach. Oh -- you know her today as Sienna Blake, which is the name on the revised book version and her more recent books.
There were three characters in this book -- two men and the woman between them in a most unusual situation. NOT MENAGE. I never thought I could love and hate characters so profoundly, and change my mind about them. Be confused by my own feelings, root for dual outcomes, do a 180 about a heroine's victimization and her choices, come to understand and sympathize with a villain and a shocking turn of events that left me slack-jawed and not sure what I really wanted in the end. The book was a total sleeper hit IMO and so many readers have been denied the privilege of experiencing it in all its original magnificence. It was always more than it seemed on surface about a captive situation, a spoiled and clueless woman, unusual characters with secrets, unrequited love, misjudgments, and tragedy. The revision is not like the original just so whiny readers could have the ending they preferred. How sad.
Books should be judged as written. Is the world and logic created true to itself and believable in the context of the story? Personal feelings always have a place in how a book affects us, but not as a measuring stick to silence a well-written book because some readers want a different outcome. Then read a different book. Personal preference is a separate matter from judging whether a book is well-written and deserves praise. There's no place in literature for basically bullying an author into changing her story -- that's right, HER story, not OURS -- based on reader pressure for our benefit. A book must be judged by its own truth, not a reader's truth.
If more readers had been able to separate those things in this extremely clever and emotional book, the author would not have caved to pressure, and we would still have the original story. Personally, I wished the story would have ended differently, too, because of my emotional investment, but the ending totally fit the story. The impact was far greater because of it, and more credible than my personal wishes. I hate censorship in all forms, and losing this book was a real loss to the reading community.
The memorable and unpredictable, original book remains on my all-time fave list and I wish I could re-read it. I know this is a moot point for all of you, but it deserved to be said and the author deserves credit for the incredible book that she wrote.
September 24, 2015
Originally reviewed at SmexyBooks- http://smexybooks.com/2015/09/review-...
Girl Wife Prisoner reminded me heavily of Daphne du Maurier’s Rebecca in its overall construct though the author does attempt to modernize with some basic changes and unexpected twists. Narrated by the heroine (whom is named), we hear her tale of love, loss, deception, revenge, and redemption. We learn of the ultimate sacrifice one can make for love only to discover that the devil is always in the details. This is not a romance in the truest sense of the genre. This is more of a cautionary tale. A tragedy. There is a love story in here but it is used more as a learning experience to show readers the psychological and physical ramifications of lost hopes and shattered dreams.
Noriko, a young woman (approx. 17 years of age) from Japan, arranges to be a wealthy man’s mail order bride in exchange for payment of her beloved father’s medical bills. Filled with trepidation and hope, Noriko comes to her future home with every intention of honoring her commitment and being the “good wife” that her new husband, Drake Blackwell, has bought and paid for.
When she arrives at Blackwell Manor, her husband is nowhere to be found and she is instead greeted by her new husband’s jealous personal assistant and the over zealous housekeeper. She is left to her own devices for days at a time. In her loneliness she goes looking for a friend only to learn that the staff have specific instructions on how to interact with the new mistress. Her introduction and subsequent relationship with Drake does not go as she has envisioned and Noriko discovers her marriage is little more than a gilded cage she voluntarily walked it. A chance meeting with an attractive gardener gives her an outlet for the desolation and loneliness she is feeling but as their friendship turns to something deeper, Noriko finds that everything has a price and sometimes that price is your soul.
Similarities to du Maurier’s Rebecca are seen throughout the story. A young penniless bride and an older wealthy man marry. A home shrouded in sorrow and darkness by it’s former owners. Isolation and secrets are alluded to over the former mistress’s death. The husband never spends the night in bed with his wife. There is a wing that the heroine is warned is off limits. We have a Mrs. Danvers and a Frank-though their roles are revised in here. There’s even a scene where Noriko is tricked into wearing something of the former mistress’s in hopes her husband, Drake, will react negatively. Yet regardless of the similarities, Peach does strive to make this her own with her development of Noriko and the channeling of her youthful voice and strong emotions. She reminds us constantly she is nothing like Mrs. De Winters.
While reading it was very easy to forget Noriko is essentially a child who has been tossed into an unknown situation with no one at her back. She is in a strange country with no friends, no family, and most importantly, no money. She is utterly dependant on her husband who seems to completely ignore her one minute and dominate her every move the next. Though in the beginning she seems at times to be reacting purely on an emotional level, striking out at everyone around her, you soon see she is far more complex and intelligent then she lets on. When she finally lets down her guard, we begin to see the true Noriko and it’s here that the story picks up the pace and it’s similarities to Rebecca ease off. We begin to see the cracks in Noriko’s psyche that Drake’s actions have caused. Peach doesn’t as spend much time as I would have liked in developing Blackmore or its master though. I would have liked to have seen Drake as more than just a prop in Noriko’s evolution. Or devolution as it may be.
The ending surprised me and further complicated my final impressions of Noriko. Rather than ease us in, Peach chooses to go for the jugular, taking us at a whiplash pace of speed and allowing the reader to draw their own conclusions about the events taking place. Noriko’s choices were unusual, extremely dramatic at one point, yet somewhat understandable when the picture is viewed as a whole. Love can make us commit horrific acts when we are driven to the edge of the abyss. The story leaves off on a hopeful note, giving us the impression that Noriko has a chance at the happiness she tried desperately to find at Blackwell.
RATING: C+
Girl Wife Prisoner reminded me heavily of Daphne du Maurier’s Rebecca in its overall construct though the author does attempt to modernize with some basic changes and unexpected twists. Narrated by the heroine (whom is named), we hear her tale of love, loss, deception, revenge, and redemption. We learn of the ultimate sacrifice one can make for love only to discover that the devil is always in the details. This is not a romance in the truest sense of the genre. This is more of a cautionary tale. A tragedy. There is a love story in here but it is used more as a learning experience to show readers the psychological and physical ramifications of lost hopes and shattered dreams.
Noriko, a young woman (approx. 17 years of age) from Japan, arranges to be a wealthy man’s mail order bride in exchange for payment of her beloved father’s medical bills. Filled with trepidation and hope, Noriko comes to her future home with every intention of honoring her commitment and being the “good wife” that her new husband, Drake Blackwell, has bought and paid for.
When she arrives at Blackwell Manor, her husband is nowhere to be found and she is instead greeted by her new husband’s jealous personal assistant and the over zealous housekeeper. She is left to her own devices for days at a time. In her loneliness she goes looking for a friend only to learn that the staff have specific instructions on how to interact with the new mistress. Her introduction and subsequent relationship with Drake does not go as she has envisioned and Noriko discovers her marriage is little more than a gilded cage she voluntarily walked it. A chance meeting with an attractive gardener gives her an outlet for the desolation and loneliness she is feeling but as their friendship turns to something deeper, Noriko finds that everything has a price and sometimes that price is your soul.
Similarities to du Maurier’s Rebecca are seen throughout the story. A young penniless bride and an older wealthy man marry. A home shrouded in sorrow and darkness by it’s former owners. Isolation and secrets are alluded to over the former mistress’s death. The husband never spends the night in bed with his wife. There is a wing that the heroine is warned is off limits. We have a Mrs. Danvers and a Frank-though their roles are revised in here. There’s even a scene where Noriko is tricked into wearing something of the former mistress’s in hopes her husband, Drake, will react negatively. Yet regardless of the similarities, Peach does strive to make this her own with her development of Noriko and the channeling of her youthful voice and strong emotions. She reminds us constantly she is nothing like Mrs. De Winters.
While reading it was very easy to forget Noriko is essentially a child who has been tossed into an unknown situation with no one at her back. She is in a strange country with no friends, no family, and most importantly, no money. She is utterly dependant on her husband who seems to completely ignore her one minute and dominate her every move the next. Though in the beginning she seems at times to be reacting purely on an emotional level, striking out at everyone around her, you soon see she is far more complex and intelligent then she lets on. When she finally lets down her guard, we begin to see the true Noriko and it’s here that the story picks up the pace and it’s similarities to Rebecca ease off. We begin to see the cracks in Noriko’s psyche that Drake’s actions have caused. Peach doesn’t as spend much time as I would have liked in developing Blackmore or its master though. I would have liked to have seen Drake as more than just a prop in Noriko’s evolution. Or devolution as it may be.
The ending surprised me and further complicated my final impressions of Noriko. Rather than ease us in, Peach chooses to go for the jugular, taking us at a whiplash pace of speed and allowing the reader to draw their own conclusions about the events taking place. Noriko’s choices were unusual, extremely dramatic at one point, yet somewhat understandable when the picture is viewed as a whole. Love can make us commit horrific acts when we are driven to the edge of the abyss. The story leaves off on a hopeful note, giving us the impression that Noriko has a chance at the happiness she tried desperately to find at Blackwell.
RATING: C+
September 17, 2015
This isn't exactly a dark erotica, but the overall mood is dark and heavy. From the beginning introduction of the main characters to the bitter end, the language used is evocative of the first moments of spring. It paints a picture of early daffodil and redbud sprouts, weighed down after a cruel, relentless winter storm. Ya just know that winter will hang on a little longer still.
I liked Keir, the gardner. I understood Drake, the maligned (IMO) husband. I didn't connect with Noriko, the oft daft, immature, and manipulative wife. I wanted to like her, but I couldn't. In the end, I really didn't.
At times, I wondered if this was a translation as some of the wording was slightly off. Not off enough to ruin the read, but enough to make me wonder. There were also some inconsistencies I felt with Noriko's character. She was so unknowledgeable of her husband and his culture, yet she used a good deal of idioms and pop culture references. I found these slightly distracting and perhaps added to my lack of connection with her.
I received an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, Hanna!
I liked Keir, the gardner. I understood Drake, the maligned (IMO) husband. I didn't connect with Noriko, the oft daft, immature, and manipulative wife. I wanted to like her, but I couldn't. In the end, I really didn't.
At times, I wondered if this was a translation as some of the wording was slightly off. Not off enough to ruin the read, but enough to make me wonder. There were also some inconsistencies I felt with Noriko's character. She was so unknowledgeable of her husband and his culture, yet she used a good deal of idioms and pop culture references. I found these slightly distracting and perhaps added to my lack of connection with her.
I received an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, Hanna!
September 30, 2015
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
HOOKED from the start! This is the first book I have read of Hanna Peach and I just love her writing. It flows perfectly keeping the reader wanting more and more. I felt like I was there with Keir and Noriko through their love triangle. The passion that drips off these two characters is just unbelievable. It is an emotional roller coaster, one minute you are feeling sadness for Noriko, rage against Drake and passion when Keir gets involved. I am totally team Keir. I usually don't find myself falling so hard for a character but I couldn't help falling for Keir. Noriko's character is so complex, the author has you really getting into Noriko's head while following this story. I didn't think the turn of events would happen, I can't tell you but you really really need to read this book. It is a look into mail order brides and also a passionate love story between two people that shouldn't fall in love. There are some negative scenes in this story as their are abusive, physically & emotionally but then there are some very hot sex scenes. This is NOT a clean romance at all.
I powered through this book as I couldn't put it down. When I had to I was dying to pick it up and get back into the story. I was so very sad to see this come to an end but happy that the story isn't quite over yet. There is more....
I give this book a 5 out of 5, can I give it a 6 out of 5? This has been by far my favorite romance novel and I can't wait to read on.
HOOKED from the start! This is the first book I have read of Hanna Peach and I just love her writing. It flows perfectly keeping the reader wanting more and more. I felt like I was there with Keir and Noriko through their love triangle. The passion that drips off these two characters is just unbelievable. It is an emotional roller coaster, one minute you are feeling sadness for Noriko, rage against Drake and passion when Keir gets involved. I am totally team Keir. I usually don't find myself falling so hard for a character but I couldn't help falling for Keir. Noriko's character is so complex, the author has you really getting into Noriko's head while following this story. I didn't think the turn of events would happen, I can't tell you but you really really need to read this book. It is a look into mail order brides and also a passionate love story between two people that shouldn't fall in love. There are some negative scenes in this story as their are abusive, physically & emotionally but then there are some very hot sex scenes. This is NOT a clean romance at all.
I powered through this book as I couldn't put it down. When I had to I was dying to pick it up and get back into the story. I was so very sad to see this come to an end but happy that the story isn't quite over yet. There is more....
I give this book a 5 out of 5, can I give it a 6 out of 5? This has been by far my favorite romance novel and I can't wait to read on.
September 19, 2015
Noriko is a young girl who has sacrificed herself, having done a selfless, honorable act for her loved one.
She’s made herself into something she wasn’t, hoping to save a life.
In the end will it be enough?
Drake is a workaholic and known for being the most-wealthiest bachelor. His secrets are his to keep, and has reasons behind his actions.
She travels from Japan to start a new life with a man she’s never met or even talked to, but is now married to him.
Upon her arrival, she’s not exactly welcomed with open arms, which hurt my heart all in its own.
Living in luxury in an enormous mansion; she’s taken care of, fed and groomed to certain specifications. No wants or needs for anything, but of course for that one thing that Mr. Drake won’t and can’t provide.
He uses and abuses her and she allows it because that’s what a good wife does.
Noriko is not one to back down, keeping her head held high and chin up, pushing through. However, after the many rejections and broken promises doubt creeps it way in.
Not liking the lonliness, and becoming miserable in her own skin, Norkia seeks solice in Keir, the help.
Two people from different worlds……. Are not so different after all.
Never judge a book by its cover. But that’s exactly what happens between this stubborn bull-headed couple.
Noriko & Keir have built a unique relationship that I find refreshing.
The sex is amazing! It’s the deep hunger of sexual needs while making it a heartfelt & romantic experience.
I was graciously gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review!!:)
She’s made herself into something she wasn’t, hoping to save a life.
In the end will it be enough?
Drake is a workaholic and known for being the most-wealthiest bachelor. His secrets are his to keep, and has reasons behind his actions.
She travels from Japan to start a new life with a man she’s never met or even talked to, but is now married to him.
Upon her arrival, she’s not exactly welcomed with open arms, which hurt my heart all in its own.
Living in luxury in an enormous mansion; she’s taken care of, fed and groomed to certain specifications. No wants or needs for anything, but of course for that one thing that Mr. Drake won’t and can’t provide.
He uses and abuses her and she allows it because that’s what a good wife does.
Noriko is not one to back down, keeping her head held high and chin up, pushing through. However, after the many rejections and broken promises doubt creeps it way in.
Not liking the lonliness, and becoming miserable in her own skin, Norkia seeks solice in Keir, the help.
Two people from different worlds……. Are not so different after all.
Never judge a book by its cover. But that’s exactly what happens between this stubborn bull-headed couple.
Noriko & Keir have built a unique relationship that I find refreshing.
The sex is amazing! It’s the deep hunger of sexual needs while making it a heartfelt & romantic experience.
I was graciously gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review!!:)
November 6, 2015
“I was Mrs. Blackwell. The name hung about me like an ill-fitting coat.”
A young girl from a small fishing village in Japan, Noriko, arrived in the United States, already married to billionaire CEO Drake Blackwell, to little fanfare. She was greeted by her husband’s driver and then welcomed to his estate by his suspicious and jealous assistant, Sasha. No shrinking violet, Noriko quickly put the condescending Sasha in her place and attempted to set the tone for their relationship. It would be several days before she’d meet her husband for the first time. Essentially an afterthought to Drake, this is of note as this is basically how he treats her throughout the book.
“Maybe, one day, I could learn to love him.”
Alone, lonely and with nothing to occupy her time, Noriko begins to explore her new home. She stumbles upon the estate’s beautiful gardens, a replica of a Japanese garden, and it’s there that the she meets the young and incredibly handsome gardener, Keir. The attraction between them is instantaneous, and they talk animatedly about Japan and Japanese culture. That is until Keir learns that he is speaking with Mr. Blackwell’s new wife, Riko, and not a new employee as he assumed.
“I felt lost and very alone.”
A virtual prisoner in the estate, not permitted to leave the property or use the phone to call her family in Japan, having no friends or even anyone to talk to or spend time with, Noriko is left to her own devices day after day. Her time with Drake is very limited – occasionally dinner followed by sex – and only when he isn’t otherwise occupied with or traveling for work. They sleep in separate rooms, and he does not spend any time with her. Desperate for someone to talk to, she ultimately finds herself seeking out Keir, and after several tense run-ins, a fragile friendship is formed. They both know that they can never be more – they shouldn’t even be friends – but so powerful is the draw to one another, they both find it difficult to fight the pull.
“We would never just be friends.”
Inevitably, they cross the line from friends to lovers. Unsurprisingly, as the relationship progresses, Noriko becomes increasingly desperate for her freedom. She longs to be able to love freely, to be loved freely and to be free to leave the confines of the estate, or as she thinks of it, her prison. The risks are very high, and they both know that nothing more can happen with Noriko being married to another man – a very powerful man, who also happens to be Keir’s boss. Drake is a dark man, with demons from his past, and Keir has every reason to be worried about Noriko’s safety should Drake learn about their relationship. Of course he does find out, but who will pay the price?
This book was a departure from my normal type of book. I generally only read books with a HEA, and there really wasn’t one here, at least not in the typical sense expected by a romance reader. Noriko was just so miserable in her situation; her loneliness and desperate longing for freedom drove her to behave so recklessly and the consequences – ones she wasn’t truly mature or worldly enough to contemplate beforehand – she bore for those actions were grave. The author did a great job conveying Noriko’s sadness, loneliness and homesickness, as the reader spent a lot of time in this girl’s head, and you couldn’t help but feel it.
I didn’t dislike the book, not at all, but it isn’t really the kind of book that you “love.” It was fairly dark, very emotional and a bit of a head-trip, especially considering no one in this tale was innocent. There was no one, single bad guy to heap all the blame on here; everyone played somewhat of a role in what happened, although it was Noriko who ultimately had to live with end result.
This book was very well written and edited. I was impressed with the author’s attention to detail, the character development, and the plot and storyline were both interesting and well fleshed out. Again, not my usual type of book, but I still found myself turning the pages curious as to what would happen next. If you were looking for something a bit twisted and on the darker side, I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Girl Wife Prisoner by Hanna Peach. 4 smooches from me!
~ Danielle Palumbo
A young girl from a small fishing village in Japan, Noriko, arrived in the United States, already married to billionaire CEO Drake Blackwell, to little fanfare. She was greeted by her husband’s driver and then welcomed to his estate by his suspicious and jealous assistant, Sasha. No shrinking violet, Noriko quickly put the condescending Sasha in her place and attempted to set the tone for their relationship. It would be several days before she’d meet her husband for the first time. Essentially an afterthought to Drake, this is of note as this is basically how he treats her throughout the book.
“Maybe, one day, I could learn to love him.”
Alone, lonely and with nothing to occupy her time, Noriko begins to explore her new home. She stumbles upon the estate’s beautiful gardens, a replica of a Japanese garden, and it’s there that the she meets the young and incredibly handsome gardener, Keir. The attraction between them is instantaneous, and they talk animatedly about Japan and Japanese culture. That is until Keir learns that he is speaking with Mr. Blackwell’s new wife, Riko, and not a new employee as he assumed.
“I felt lost and very alone.”
A virtual prisoner in the estate, not permitted to leave the property or use the phone to call her family in Japan, having no friends or even anyone to talk to or spend time with, Noriko is left to her own devices day after day. Her time with Drake is very limited – occasionally dinner followed by sex – and only when he isn’t otherwise occupied with or traveling for work. They sleep in separate rooms, and he does not spend any time with her. Desperate for someone to talk to, she ultimately finds herself seeking out Keir, and after several tense run-ins, a fragile friendship is formed. They both know that they can never be more – they shouldn’t even be friends – but so powerful is the draw to one another, they both find it difficult to fight the pull.
“We would never just be friends.”
Inevitably, they cross the line from friends to lovers. Unsurprisingly, as the relationship progresses, Noriko becomes increasingly desperate for her freedom. She longs to be able to love freely, to be loved freely and to be free to leave the confines of the estate, or as she thinks of it, her prison. The risks are very high, and they both know that nothing more can happen with Noriko being married to another man – a very powerful man, who also happens to be Keir’s boss. Drake is a dark man, with demons from his past, and Keir has every reason to be worried about Noriko’s safety should Drake learn about their relationship. Of course he does find out, but who will pay the price?
This book was a departure from my normal type of book. I generally only read books with a HEA, and there really wasn’t one here, at least not in the typical sense expected by a romance reader. Noriko was just so miserable in her situation; her loneliness and desperate longing for freedom drove her to behave so recklessly and the consequences – ones she wasn’t truly mature or worldly enough to contemplate beforehand – she bore for those actions were grave. The author did a great job conveying Noriko’s sadness, loneliness and homesickness, as the reader spent a lot of time in this girl’s head, and you couldn’t help but feel it.
I didn’t dislike the book, not at all, but it isn’t really the kind of book that you “love.” It was fairly dark, very emotional and a bit of a head-trip, especially considering no one in this tale was innocent. There was no one, single bad guy to heap all the blame on here; everyone played somewhat of a role in what happened, although it was Noriko who ultimately had to live with end result.
This book was very well written and edited. I was impressed with the author’s attention to detail, the character development, and the plot and storyline were both interesting and well fleshed out. Again, not my usual type of book, but I still found myself turning the pages curious as to what would happen next. If you were looking for something a bit twisted and on the darker side, I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Girl Wife Prisoner by Hanna Peach. 4 smooches from me!
~ Danielle Palumbo
September 7, 2015
Imagine being a mail-order bride ? Would you enjoy it and go through with the transaction ? What if the person who brought you was horrible ? For Noriko, she needed money and fast to help save her father as he is dying from Cancer . So she did what she could and signed up to be a mail-order bride as she had heard from a friend that this pays very well. Noriko has been brought and is now the new Mrs. Blackwell. She has yet to meet her husband Drake , but hopes for happiness. This will be dashed though as she discovers that she is a prisoner in her own home. Life would be a bit dull, if it wasn't for Keir the gardener and soon the two of them despite the consequences start an affair of sorts. What will happen though for one of them when the wrong person catches them ? This leads onto the next person in Noriko's life Dr. Carter whom is a shrink, can Noriko get him to help her escape or will the plan go terribly wrong all over again, this time leading to more deaths, but resulting in freedom ? Girl, Wife, Prisoner was a fast-paced and intriguing story of how far when we are pushed and have everything and nothing to lose, will we go in order to be free and allowed to start fresh ?
If you love a dark romance read with a hint of suspense , then Girl, Wife, Prisoner by Hanna Peach is the read for you.
If you love a dark romance read with a hint of suspense , then Girl, Wife, Prisoner by Hanna Peach is the read for you.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 2, 2015
Received ARC in exchange for an honest review.
My first read of Hanna's work and I stand dumbfounded.
As I started reading, I kept trying to imagine how this story would end and each time I was proved wrong !.
Drake is a successful, controlling man with a shady past. Noriko is a strong soul with an incredible big heart who tried her best to fulfill her husbands (Drake) needs. Keir was a gardner at the Blackwell Mansion and unbelievably easy to love.
Through Girl Wife Prisoner, I certainly cried, swooned and cried again until my heart couldn't take it anymore. This story will stay with me forever.
I can't wait for it to come out and for everyone to experience this unique and oh so wonderfully told story.
In love, Utterly and Irreversibly.
My first read of Hanna's work and I stand dumbfounded.
As I started reading, I kept trying to imagine how this story would end and each time I was proved wrong !.
Drake is a successful, controlling man with a shady past. Noriko is a strong soul with an incredible big heart who tried her best to fulfill her husbands (Drake) needs. Keir was a gardner at the Blackwell Mansion and unbelievably easy to love.
Through Girl Wife Prisoner, I certainly cried, swooned and cried again until my heart couldn't take it anymore. This story will stay with me forever.
I can't wait for it to come out and for everyone to experience this unique and oh so wonderfully told story.
In love, Utterly and Irreversibly.
February 28, 2016
Received ARC in exchange for an honest review.
My first read of Hanna's work and I stand dumbfounded.
As I started reading, I kept trying to imagine how this story would end and each time I was proved wrong !.
Drake is a successful, controlling man with a shady past. Noriko is a strong soul with an incredible big heart who tried her best to fulfill her husbands (Drake) needs. Keir was a gardner at the Blackwell Mansion and unbelievably easy to love.
Through Girl Wife Prisoner, I certainly cried, swooned and cried again until my heart couldn't take it anymore. This story will stay with me forever.
I can't wait for it to come out and for everyone to experience this unique and oh so wonderfully told story.
In love, Utterly and Irreversibly.
My first read of Hanna's work and I stand dumbfounded.
As I started reading, I kept trying to imagine how this story would end and each time I was proved wrong !.
Drake is a successful, controlling man with a shady past. Noriko is a strong soul with an incredible big heart who tried her best to fulfill her husbands (Drake) needs. Keir was a gardner at the Blackwell Mansion and unbelievably easy to love.
Through Girl Wife Prisoner, I certainly cried, swooned and cried again until my heart couldn't take it anymore. This story will stay with me forever.
I can't wait for it to come out and for everyone to experience this unique and oh so wonderfully told story.
In love, Utterly and Irreversibly.
August 9, 2015
An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review. There have been very few times that I've read a book that completely throws me for a loop, and Girl Wife Prisoner totally achieved that! When I began reading Noriko's story, I remember thinking that I could see where it was headed. Well, I gladly admit that I was very wrong! There were so many different elements to this story that made it a gripping and unique one!
Noriko is a very enigmatic character---she's vibrant, sassy, and self-confident; not at all the meek bride that everyone was expecting when she arrives at Blackwell Manor to serve as Drake Blackwell's wife. At first the circumstances of this marriage are unknown, but we are later exposed to another of Noriko's qualities---her strength and love for her family. Enter the striking gardener of Blackwell Manor, Keir, and you have a fantastic plot with mind-blowing twists that you will not see coming! Hanna Peach has once again proven her amazing talent as a writer with Girl Wife Prisoner. I highly recommend it!
Noriko is a very enigmatic character---she's vibrant, sassy, and self-confident; not at all the meek bride that everyone was expecting when she arrives at Blackwell Manor to serve as Drake Blackwell's wife. At first the circumstances of this marriage are unknown, but we are later exposed to another of Noriko's qualities---her strength and love for her family. Enter the striking gardener of Blackwell Manor, Keir, and you have a fantastic plot with mind-blowing twists that you will not see coming! Hanna Peach has once again proven her amazing talent as a writer with Girl Wife Prisoner. I highly recommend it!
September 19, 2015
HAPPY RELEASE DAY FOR GIRL WIFE PRISONER!
Purchase Links Here:
Amazon: http://amzn.to/1EKmpcr
B&N: http://tinyurl.com/qzy6qw4
iBooks: http://tinyurl.com/p6qojlo
Kobo: http://tinyurl.com/o4e5rx7
Help share the release and enter to win a $50 Amazon Gift Card - details here: www.hannapeach.com/gwp
May 21, 2016
Although well written, it was just too depressing to read. Managed to finish the book though I skimmed the book last quarter of the book. It has such a good potential to be awesome but for me it wasn't.
September 18, 2015
After reading and enjoying Ms. Peach's Bound series, I jumped at her offer to review Girl Wife Prisoner. Unfortunately, I didn't enjoy it as much as I was hoping to. While I found the premise intriguing, I felt the execution of it could have been stronger.
Noriko is a young Japanese girl newly arrived in the U.S. She finds herself moving into a grand home complete with a staff and luxuries she couldn't have imagined. But there is a price for all these amenities. See, Noriko is a purchased bride. Her husband, Drake, is older. He's rich...insanely rich. He's also surrounded by rumors and suspicions concerning the death of his parents. And then there is Keir, the young gardener. He is smitten with Noriko until he realizes who she is. Once they become better acquainted though, he comes to understand she's not who he thought she was.
Like I said, the premise really captured my attention. And Ms. Peach created compelling characters. But I'd have preferred more backstory and character development. I didn't feel very connected to any of the characters. Noriko was a rather feisty and outspoken young woman. While I admire that in a heroine, it wasn't what I'd expect from a timid, young Japanese girl. She also vacillated between behaving maturely and very childishly. This was probably realistic considering she wasn't even eighteen but it had me curious as to who the real Noriko was. Drake, who would be considered the villain, wasn't developed enough for me to revile him. I didn't like him - he's distant, aloof, and doesn't always treat Noriko very well, but I never feared him. Yes, he did purchase a young bride. Yes, he wouldn't allow Noriko outside the walls of his compound. Yes, he showed hints he could be violent. But he was also tender with Noriko at times. Keir, who was my favorite character, was young and idealistic. He would have made a better match for Noriko under different circumstances. He does care for her and wants to protect her, even at the risk of dire consequences for himself. There is a spark between them that is obvious. But Noriko is tied to Drake.
I did enjoy the mystery surrounding Drake and how it played out between the characters. The knowledge of what had happened and the suspicions aimed at Drake did have me worrying for Noriko and Keir at times. I also liked the motivations behind Noriko's circumstances. It made her 'sale' feel not so despicable - at least on her part. I had several moments of heartbreak for Noriko, too. It seemed a pity she had to endure all she did. And then Ms. Peach threw a curve ball where I wondered just how many layers this girl had.
Overall, there were elements I liked and elements that could have been better. The story was good but better character development would have made it gripping.
**I received a complimentary copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.**
Noriko is a young Japanese girl newly arrived in the U.S. She finds herself moving into a grand home complete with a staff and luxuries she couldn't have imagined. But there is a price for all these amenities. See, Noriko is a purchased bride. Her husband, Drake, is older. He's rich...insanely rich. He's also surrounded by rumors and suspicions concerning the death of his parents. And then there is Keir, the young gardener. He is smitten with Noriko until he realizes who she is. Once they become better acquainted though, he comes to understand she's not who he thought she was.
Like I said, the premise really captured my attention. And Ms. Peach created compelling characters. But I'd have preferred more backstory and character development. I didn't feel very connected to any of the characters. Noriko was a rather feisty and outspoken young woman. While I admire that in a heroine, it wasn't what I'd expect from a timid, young Japanese girl. She also vacillated between behaving maturely and very childishly. This was probably realistic considering she wasn't even eighteen but it had me curious as to who the real Noriko was. Drake, who would be considered the villain, wasn't developed enough for me to revile him. I didn't like him - he's distant, aloof, and doesn't always treat Noriko very well, but I never feared him. Yes, he did purchase a young bride. Yes, he wouldn't allow Noriko outside the walls of his compound. Yes, he showed hints he could be violent. But he was also tender with Noriko at times. Keir, who was my favorite character, was young and idealistic. He would have made a better match for Noriko under different circumstances. He does care for her and wants to protect her, even at the risk of dire consequences for himself. There is a spark between them that is obvious. But Noriko is tied to Drake.
I did enjoy the mystery surrounding Drake and how it played out between the characters. The knowledge of what had happened and the suspicions aimed at Drake did have me worrying for Noriko and Keir at times. I also liked the motivations behind Noriko's circumstances. It made her 'sale' feel not so despicable - at least on her part. I had several moments of heartbreak for Noriko, too. It seemed a pity she had to endure all she did. And then Ms. Peach threw a curve ball where I wondered just how many layers this girl had.
Overall, there were elements I liked and elements that could have been better. The story was good but better character development would have made it gripping.
**I received a complimentary copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.**
September 13, 2015
100% perfection. I sobbed, clutched my chest like my heart was breaking, but it was perfect in every way! 5 stars, full review to follow.
edit. full review
Hanna Peach just knows how to hit every dot. ‘Girl Wife Prisoner’ was absolute perfection! Seriously, like 100% amazing! I sobbed, clutched my chest like my heart was breaking, but it was perfect in every way!
I was first introduced to Hanna Peach by her ‘Bound’ duet, and I knew right away that this was a writer with a LOT of talent! (If you haven’t read the ‘Bound’ duo, you simply must!) So needless to say I was super excited to get my hands on ‘Girl Wife Prisoner’. It is a very different story, but still captures that dark, uncertain essence that really spoke to me in ‘Bound’, and I literally devoured this book in hours, it was that good!
Noriko was a heroine that you have to come to understand, which is what made this reading experience so powerful. She had secrets, ones that are hid from the reader for a little while, and the pace at which her story is told, and how she adjusts to life in the US after leaving her family in Japan, was timed to perfection. As a reader you will want the best for this young, naive girl who knows so little of the world, yet you will fear for her as she fights for her right to freedom. I really loved seeing how her relationship with Drake turned, and how at first you almost wanted to root for them, so that she could be happy in her marriage, until you see the darker side to his life. These two characters had such fantastic scenes, where we really see how their relationship affects their psychological health. Seeing Noriko gradually come to understand and accept the reality of her situation had me a bundle of nerves!
Keir was a superb character, who I fell for in an instant, which is what made his passionate fight for a relationship with Niko and their subsequent quest for freedom all the more heartbreaking. This really is a story that you need to read to see what I mean, but although you will cry and rage, you will not want to change a single thing of his and Niko’s story!
5+ Stars!
*Review copy kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
edit. full review
Hanna Peach just knows how to hit every dot. ‘Girl Wife Prisoner’ was absolute perfection! Seriously, like 100% amazing! I sobbed, clutched my chest like my heart was breaking, but it was perfect in every way!
I was first introduced to Hanna Peach by her ‘Bound’ duet, and I knew right away that this was a writer with a LOT of talent! (If you haven’t read the ‘Bound’ duo, you simply must!) So needless to say I was super excited to get my hands on ‘Girl Wife Prisoner’. It is a very different story, but still captures that dark, uncertain essence that really spoke to me in ‘Bound’, and I literally devoured this book in hours, it was that good!
Noriko was a heroine that you have to come to understand, which is what made this reading experience so powerful. She had secrets, ones that are hid from the reader for a little while, and the pace at which her story is told, and how she adjusts to life in the US after leaving her family in Japan, was timed to perfection. As a reader you will want the best for this young, naive girl who knows so little of the world, yet you will fear for her as she fights for her right to freedom. I really loved seeing how her relationship with Drake turned, and how at first you almost wanted to root for them, so that she could be happy in her marriage, until you see the darker side to his life. These two characters had such fantastic scenes, where we really see how their relationship affects their psychological health. Seeing Noriko gradually come to understand and accept the reality of her situation had me a bundle of nerves!
Keir was a superb character, who I fell for in an instant, which is what made his passionate fight for a relationship with Niko and their subsequent quest for freedom all the more heartbreaking. This really is a story that you need to read to see what I mean, but although you will cry and rage, you will not want to change a single thing of his and Niko’s story!
5+ Stars!
*Review copy kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
September 20, 2015
Overall Stars: 5 STARS
Affair
Culture shock
Is history repeating itself or is the change in players all it takes?
Drake Blackwell is intelligent, successful, controlling, and hiding a violent family past. He just made his latest investment: Noriko. Imported from Japan, and wed to a stranger, Noriko struggles to stick to the rules of a Good Wife. Drake can't seem to love her, not the way she wants to be loved. She dreams of freedom beyond the Gateshead of Blackwell Manor. She meets Keir, a passionate young gardener who shares her desire to break free. He gets under her skin and ignites a fire in her she can't ignore. In the midst of her quiet desperation she thinks she has found happiness. And a glimpse of hope. (Amazon Blurb)
Honestly, I don't know how to describe Noriko. At first I thought she was a woman in her mid to late twenties, Japanese but from an English-American background, to account for her English. Then I thought, seeing as how she 'met' Drake in Japan, that it was a whirlwind affair between the two of them and they were to meet back in America after a business deal of some sort. The list goes on and on. But I never would have figured that neither would have met before, that Noriko was not even eighteen yet (explaining in part the title of the book), and still a virgin. What is more puzzling is the staffs' reaction to Drake Blackwell's name or Noriko's, that is, before she tries to make friends with some of them, and how quickly they disappear when Drake is home. Et relationship between Keir, the gardener, and Noriko is hilarious, like brother and sister, constantly trying to insult, anger or avoiding one another, and other times, their sexual connection is strong enough that even I can't deny it's there, almost tangible. Although part of a series, this novel can be read as a standalone and had no cliffhanger. As a first time reader of Hanna Peach's, I'm incredibly happy I took the chance to read this novel and impressed at the number of emotions I went through in so short a time.
**Received a copy in exchange for an honest review. Read and reviewed by Kathleen for Alpha Book Club**
Affair
Culture shock
Is history repeating itself or is the change in players all it takes?
Drake Blackwell is intelligent, successful, controlling, and hiding a violent family past. He just made his latest investment: Noriko. Imported from Japan, and wed to a stranger, Noriko struggles to stick to the rules of a Good Wife. Drake can't seem to love her, not the way she wants to be loved. She dreams of freedom beyond the Gateshead of Blackwell Manor. She meets Keir, a passionate young gardener who shares her desire to break free. He gets under her skin and ignites a fire in her she can't ignore. In the midst of her quiet desperation she thinks she has found happiness. And a glimpse of hope. (Amazon Blurb)
Honestly, I don't know how to describe Noriko. At first I thought she was a woman in her mid to late twenties, Japanese but from an English-American background, to account for her English. Then I thought, seeing as how she 'met' Drake in Japan, that it was a whirlwind affair between the two of them and they were to meet back in America after a business deal of some sort. The list goes on and on. But I never would have figured that neither would have met before, that Noriko was not even eighteen yet (explaining in part the title of the book), and still a virgin. What is more puzzling is the staffs' reaction to Drake Blackwell's name or Noriko's, that is, before she tries to make friends with some of them, and how quickly they disappear when Drake is home. Et relationship between Keir, the gardener, and Noriko is hilarious, like brother and sister, constantly trying to insult, anger or avoiding one another, and other times, their sexual connection is strong enough that even I can't deny it's there, almost tangible. Although part of a series, this novel can be read as a standalone and had no cliffhanger. As a first time reader of Hanna Peach's, I'm incredibly happy I took the chance to read this novel and impressed at the number of emotions I went through in so short a time.
**Received a copy in exchange for an honest review. Read and reviewed by Kathleen for Alpha Book Club**
September 19, 2015
There was so much beauty in this book. It was a stunning read that filled my heart
with joy even as it bled with anguish and pain.
Tragic and heartrending, Noriko's story left me breathless. A complex character filled wth compassion, love and innocence, she was one of the most amazing people I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. I hated that her selfless act saw her caged, unable to share her beautiful heart and soul with the world, but I was happy that she was able to find some light in the darkness - Keir.
He understood her in every possible way, especially those that counted and I loved watching their romance blossom, even if it was ill-fated from the very beginning. There was a purity to their love and I was rooting for them every step of the way. The tabooness of their relationship gave this story a thrilling edge. I was waiting for the moment when they'd be discovered, and there were a few times when I believed perhaps Drake knew something was going on between them.
Speaking of Mr. Blackwell, there was a small part of me that was rooting for him too. I was hoping against all hope that he'd redeem himself, but the monster within reared its head far too many times, until he did the unthinkable and I knew his soul was damned.
The wonderful thing about this story, was that even with all the tragedy and darkness that filled Noriko's life, she flourished, growing into a stronger, more amazing woman. She could have easily given up, at any point, but she persevered. And, although her final goal wasn't exactly honorable, she knew that it was up to her to find the freedom she so desperately craved - and sometimes desperate times called for desperate measures.
This book made me smile, it made me cry and it tore my heart into pieces more times than I can count. A sunset will never be just another sunset ever again. And the precious moments throughout this book will live in my heart forever. It was a spectacular read that I fell in love with. Utterly. Irreversibly.
with joy even as it bled with anguish and pain.
Tragic and heartrending, Noriko's story left me breathless. A complex character filled wth compassion, love and innocence, she was one of the most amazing people I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. I hated that her selfless act saw her caged, unable to share her beautiful heart and soul with the world, but I was happy that she was able to find some light in the darkness - Keir.
He understood her in every possible way, especially those that counted and I loved watching their romance blossom, even if it was ill-fated from the very beginning. There was a purity to their love and I was rooting for them every step of the way. The tabooness of their relationship gave this story a thrilling edge. I was waiting for the moment when they'd be discovered, and there were a few times when I believed perhaps Drake knew something was going on between them.
Speaking of Mr. Blackwell, there was a small part of me that was rooting for him too. I was hoping against all hope that he'd redeem himself, but the monster within reared its head far too many times, until he did the unthinkable and I knew his soul was damned.
The wonderful thing about this story, was that even with all the tragedy and darkness that filled Noriko's life, she flourished, growing into a stronger, more amazing woman. She could have easily given up, at any point, but she persevered. And, although her final goal wasn't exactly honorable, she knew that it was up to her to find the freedom she so desperately craved - and sometimes desperate times called for desperate measures.
This book made me smile, it made me cry and it tore my heart into pieces more times than I can count. A sunset will never be just another sunset ever again. And the precious moments throughout this book will live in my heart forever. It was a spectacular read that I fell in love with. Utterly. Irreversibly.
August 16, 2015
I read and enjoyed Hanna’s Bound series and when I heard that she was coming out with Girl Wife Prisoner I jumped at the chance to read it!
Girl Wife Prisoner was a page turner for me. I was curious to find out how Noriko ended up where she was at that moment in her life. My mind was all over with the possibilities and it was a question that kept running through my mind until the answer finally came out.
I am leaning both ways on how I feel about Noriko. I’m torn between sympathy and not quite understanding how she could have gone to the lengths she did, though I do understand near the end why she went the way she did. (How confusing am I trying to explain my thoughts without giving spoilers?) I think if it would have been a bit darker, a bit more menacing on the part of Drake, I would have tipped over to the side of complete sympathy for her. I think I would have liked it to go a bit more in depth inside of Drake’s head so we could see how much darkness truly resided there. As it was, I understood his reasoning behind some of the things he forbid, I would have fought it too, but I understand why he requested that one thing.
Now Keir I loved, thought his dream kind of took me by surprise. Why not though? He was definitely not like every other hero in a book. :) My emotions while reading the book were tied to him mostly.
All in all this was an enjoyable read that left me pondering my thoughts for awhile after I was done reading. I really just wanted to analyze Noriko and her actions that she took and know what actually was the cause behind Drake’s violent family past. We have the rumors, I want to know what happened.
Girl Wife Prisoner was emotional with interesting characters and a great story line.
4 stars from me!
Thank you to Hanna Peach for sending me over a copy of Girl Wife Prisoner to read.
Girl Wife Prisoner was a page turner for me. I was curious to find out how Noriko ended up where she was at that moment in her life. My mind was all over with the possibilities and it was a question that kept running through my mind until the answer finally came out.
I am leaning both ways on how I feel about Noriko. I’m torn between sympathy and not quite understanding how she could have gone to the lengths she did, though I do understand near the end why she went the way she did. (How confusing am I trying to explain my thoughts without giving spoilers?) I think if it would have been a bit darker, a bit more menacing on the part of Drake, I would have tipped over to the side of complete sympathy for her. I think I would have liked it to go a bit more in depth inside of Drake’s head so we could see how much darkness truly resided there. As it was, I understood his reasoning behind some of the things he forbid, I would have fought it too, but I understand why he requested that one thing.
Now Keir I loved, thought his dream kind of took me by surprise. Why not though? He was definitely not like every other hero in a book. :) My emotions while reading the book were tied to him mostly.
All in all this was an enjoyable read that left me pondering my thoughts for awhile after I was done reading. I really just wanted to analyze Noriko and her actions that she took and know what actually was the cause behind Drake’s violent family past. We have the rumors, I want to know what happened.
Girl Wife Prisoner was emotional with interesting characters and a great story line.
4 stars from me!
Thank you to Hanna Peach for sending me over a copy of Girl Wife Prisoner to read.
September 19, 2015
First off thank you Hanna Peach for reaching out to me and wanting me to read this book. I have to say that this book was written perfectly. Your attention to details is crazy amazing. I now in fact want to go to Japan and I wish I could see Mr. Blackwell’s garden. The way you described it was pure Perfection!
Noriko is a young woman who had to make a very hard decision but she did it with her family in mind. She had to grow up really fast and become a completely different woman...But that isn't who she really is. She partially lived two different lives. She is headstrong, feisty, smart, beautiful, and very fierce.
Drake Blackwell is a very successful man who can anyone he wants but he chooses Noriko out of tons of woman that can and will make the perfect wife. Little did he know that he was getting way more...?
Ok....I am going to stop right there. I am trying really hard not to spoil this book, so here goes...This book is bittersweet. I without a doubt loved this book, hell I was bragging about it to my friends. Out of every character in this book I have to say that I fell head over heels for Drake. To me in my opinion this book is all about him in a weird strange way, since we really didn't get to know him. The real him. He is a lost soul just begging for someone to save him and in a bittersweet way, his soul did get saved....so to speak.
Once you read this book and get to the end everything will make complete since.... I will not lie, I may have cursed the author for just a moment but that was because...well I can't tell you that part now can I.
Happy reading!
Noriko is a young woman who had to make a very hard decision but she did it with her family in mind. She had to grow up really fast and become a completely different woman...But that isn't who she really is. She partially lived two different lives. She is headstrong, feisty, smart, beautiful, and very fierce.
Drake Blackwell is a very successful man who can anyone he wants but he chooses Noriko out of tons of woman that can and will make the perfect wife. Little did he know that he was getting way more...?
Ok....I am going to stop right there. I am trying really hard not to spoil this book, so here goes...This book is bittersweet. I without a doubt loved this book, hell I was bragging about it to my friends. Out of every character in this book I have to say that I fell head over heels for Drake. To me in my opinion this book is all about him in a weird strange way, since we really didn't get to know him. The real him. He is a lost soul just begging for someone to save him and in a bittersweet way, his soul did get saved....so to speak.
Once you read this book and get to the end everything will make complete since.... I will not lie, I may have cursed the author for just a moment but that was because...well I can't tell you that part now can I.
Happy reading!
September 17, 2015
This book grabbed my attention from the very first page and I could not put it down. It was suspenseful and captivating, sexy and dark, and a completely entertaining story. Noriko is essentially a mail-order bride from Japan, who agreed to marry the billionaire Drake Blackwell in order to help her ailing father. She soon learns that she is a prisoner in her own home under the control of her domineering husband. When she crosses paths with Keir, the wickedly hot gardener, she finds herself going down a path she did not expect.
Noriko was an awesome heroine, and I loved how she was far from demure and had no problem putting people in their place. She was intelligent and confident, and far from a pushover. I felt for her so much. She was literally pulled from her life and thrust into a whole new world of wealth and secrets that was unfamiliar to her. Hanna Peach is so great with her character development. I love that she writes complex characters who you want to know more about. Noriko is far from a simple girl, as she holds secrets just as her husband does. She really does try to make her relationship with Drake work, until his true nature is revealed.
This books has twists that you will not see coming, and a storyline that will have you hanging on to every word. The ending will truly leave you reeling. I am so excited for the upcoming novella that will follow this book, because we will be getting Keir's POV. This author has a talent for writing truly unique stories that are emotional and captivating, and this book is no exception.
Noriko was an awesome heroine, and I loved how she was far from demure and had no problem putting people in their place. She was intelligent and confident, and far from a pushover. I felt for her so much. She was literally pulled from her life and thrust into a whole new world of wealth and secrets that was unfamiliar to her. Hanna Peach is so great with her character development. I love that she writes complex characters who you want to know more about. Noriko is far from a simple girl, as she holds secrets just as her husband does. She really does try to make her relationship with Drake work, until his true nature is revealed.
This books has twists that you will not see coming, and a storyline that will have you hanging on to every word. The ending will truly leave you reeling. I am so excited for the upcoming novella that will follow this book, because we will be getting Keir's POV. This author has a talent for writing truly unique stories that are emotional and captivating, and this book is no exception.
September 19, 2015
Ok, for this book I will say one thing….read the warning. If you don't come the end of the book you will feel like you were placed on an emotional roller coaster to which you didn't get off! It will leave you realing. I knew the ending was going to be jaw dropping but I didn't imagine just how much so.
This whole book is through Noriko’s eyes, this means that you will hate Drake, love Keir, despise the housekeeper and, in my case at least, not know what to make of Noriko.
Hanna Peach is one of those authors I have learned to expect the unexpected from and to just jump on for the ride. You will have your fingers crossed for every character to be happy and throughout the course of the novel this could have happened in a multitude of ways. Now I won't ruin this roller coaster for you, needless to say you may be surprised how you end up feeling about some/all of the characters, I know I was and have begged Ms Peach for a POV from one of the characters………ahem, Drake…..!!
Will everyone out their love the ending? Probably not. Will everyone feel the same about the characters involved? Probably not. Will you regret buying yet another EPIC read from this fabulous author? Definitely not. All I can say is give it a go, jump on, hold tight and enjoy the ride.
This whole book is through Noriko’s eyes, this means that you will hate Drake, love Keir, despise the housekeeper and, in my case at least, not know what to make of Noriko.
Hanna Peach is one of those authors I have learned to expect the unexpected from and to just jump on for the ride. You will have your fingers crossed for every character to be happy and throughout the course of the novel this could have happened in a multitude of ways. Now I won't ruin this roller coaster for you, needless to say you may be surprised how you end up feeling about some/all of the characters, I know I was and have begged Ms Peach for a POV from one of the characters………ahem, Drake…..!!
Will everyone out their love the ending? Probably not. Will everyone feel the same about the characters involved? Probably not. Will you regret buying yet another EPIC read from this fabulous author? Definitely not. All I can say is give it a go, jump on, hold tight and enjoy the ride.
September 28, 2015
What a story! Suspenseful, frustrating, tumultuous, heart breaking, dark and thought provoking. At times, I wanted to fling my iPad, upset with the very heroine we're supposed to love and cheer for. But that's the crux of it all, isn't it? Heroes aren't perfect and they can be as flawed as the villains we love to hate. I found myself vacillating between liking and disliking Noriko, the mail order bride, acquired and purchased like a prized piece of art, by the very wealthy, Drake Blackwell.
Each of the characters presented were flawed too, in their own ways, just as in real life. This is no fairy tale, if you're looking for a happy ending, forget it! You'll end up with more than that, there will be questions, what ifs, and sadness.
I can't help but feel conflicted, because I loved so much of this tale, told through the eyes of Noriko, yet hated as much of it too. Hanna Peach did a fantastic job in pulling me in, eliciting emotions and feelings, good or bad!
Thank you for allowing me the pleasure of reading this book! :) I look forward to reading more.
Each of the characters presented were flawed too, in their own ways, just as in real life. This is no fairy tale, if you're looking for a happy ending, forget it! You'll end up with more than that, there will be questions, what ifs, and sadness.
I can't help but feel conflicted, because I loved so much of this tale, told through the eyes of Noriko, yet hated as much of it too. Hanna Peach did a fantastic job in pulling me in, eliciting emotions and feelings, good or bad!
Thank you for allowing me the pleasure of reading this book! :) I look forward to reading more.
September 19, 2015
I truly do not know where to begin. For one, I couldn't put the book down and second, the story stays with you till the end. Drake was a successful, demanding business man that lives in a mansion with secrets. Noriko came from Japan and had an arrangement to married Drake. She's was young and innocent and wanted to be a good wife to Drake. She tried everything to gain his attention. Kier was the young gardener and tried everything to avoid Noriko. Loved the story. No cliffhanger but very emotional and suspense to the end.
August 18, 2015
ARC given in exchange for an honest review.
Hanna does it again!!! I've loved her ever since Bound by Lies. When she offered me an ARC for this, I couldn't say no. In fact, I was jumping for joy!!!
Noriko is a young Japanese woman who has just married the billionaire Drake. And..... I can't say anymore, I don't want to spoil anything for anyone.
I was glued to my iPad until finished. It has sex, drama, suspense, love, hate, and any other emotion you can think of! I fell in love, utterly and irreversibly.
Get this book on September 19th, you will not be disappointed!
Hanna does it again!!! I've loved her ever since Bound by Lies. When she offered me an ARC for this, I couldn't say no. In fact, I was jumping for joy!!!
Noriko is a young Japanese woman who has just married the billionaire Drake. And..... I can't say anymore, I don't want to spoil anything for anyone.
I was glued to my iPad until finished. It has sex, drama, suspense, love, hate, and any other emotion you can think of! I fell in love, utterly and irreversibly.
Get this book on September 19th, you will not be disappointed!
August 29, 2015
Shocked and pleased, these are my feeling upon finishing. This is definitely not your typical story. This story will pull you in and have you hoping everything will workout. There are twists an turns that left me completely shocked. I have to say if you are looking for the sweet loving story with a perfect HEA - this is not the book for you, but if you are looking for something a little different then this just may be the book you need to read.
I was gifted a copy for an honest review.
I was gifted a copy for an honest review.
August 26, 2015
ARC from the author
I suck at writing review's but I'm gonna just say that this book really is a must read, The story was like nothing i had read before, this for me was new and refreshing, It's a hard story but there are lots of parts that were so good to read. The character's were written so well, Noriko and Keir's i found so attached to that i didn't want it to end. I hope you give this book a chance, Thank you Hanna for letting me read this.
I suck at writing review's but I'm gonna just say that this book really is a must read, The story was like nothing i had read before, this for me was new and refreshing, It's a hard story but there are lots of parts that were so good to read. The character's were written so well, Noriko and Keir's i found so attached to that i didn't want it to end. I hope you give this book a chance, Thank you Hanna for letting me read this.
October 8, 2015
OMG ! Im an emotional wreck , I could barely see through my tears to finish the book !
Not what I was expecting , but so much more . ! This was an amazing story and Im so glad I read it , this will last a long time in my memory and will not be forgotten as just another book .
I seriously recommend you read this !
Not what I was expecting , but so much more . ! This was an amazing story and Im so glad I read it , this will last a long time in my memory and will not be forgotten as just another book .
I seriously recommend you read this !
November 6, 2015
4 SMOOCHES!
I read and reviewed this book on behalf of RED CHEEKS READS.
Review: http://redcheeksreads.com/girl-wife-p...
Red Cheeks Reads blog: www.redcheeksreads.com
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I read and reviewed this book on behalf of RED CHEEKS READS.
Review: http://redcheeksreads.com/girl-wife-p...
Red Cheeks Reads blog: www.redcheeksreads.com
Follow Red Cheeks Reads on:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/redcheeksreads
Twitter: https://twitter.com/redcheeksreads
September 23, 2015
What a dark yet beautiful read...with smut!! Check the full review (shameless self promotion) http://getyoursmuton.com/2015/09/18/r...
July 6, 2024
Placeholder for the Dramione fanfic the good prisoner.
My absolute fav way for prisoner and captor to be.
My absolute fav way for prisoner and captor to be.
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