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Closed Heart
Jackson Rochester's stare pierces through Elyse Mendez's soul, stirring her wildest fantasies. She can’t deny her body’s response to him, but she can control her mind - and her mind is telling her that if Jackson knew the secret she's holding, that he would ruin her.
Jackson is intensely passionate and sinfully dirty. He's a billionaire playboy who has an eye for Elyse, a youth center volunteer, blogger, and college student. Her avoidance of him only makes him more determined to break down her walls - but after he strips her bare, will the cost of the truth be too much for even Jackson to handle?
This is a standalone novel with a HEA. It features characters from The Manhattan Tales series, but can be read completely on its own.
Jackson is intensely passionate and sinfully dirty. He's a billionaire playboy who has an eye for Elyse, a youth center volunteer, blogger, and college student. Her avoidance of him only makes him more determined to break down her walls - but after he strips her bare, will the cost of the truth be too much for even Jackson to handle?
This is a standalone novel with a HEA. It features characters from The Manhattan Tales series, but can be read completely on its own.
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First published January 1, 2016
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
February 11, 2016
Jackson Rochester. Good gravy. What a hot dom.
Okay, so I just finished reading an ARC copy of Willa Thorne's latest and I'm struggling to write a review because this is a book about secrets. I don't want to spoil anything.
So I suppose what I should say is:
--if you like books where the characters have deep hidden secrets--that conflict with each other--this is the book for you.
--if you like FREAKING HOT sex, with a touch of BDSM, and with a hot alpha male, this is the book for you
--if you like books about a genuine heroine, who pulled herself up from a dreadful childhood and made something good, this is the book for you.
--if you like stories about dominant men with their own tangled stories, this is the book for you.
Steamy, sultry, full of secrets and lies, it's a great read. This is not a "dark" book, just the characters have some darkness in their past. And it's awesome to follow them on their journey to get to the light.
I enjoyed it and highly recommend! Can't wait to read more.
Check it out!
Okay, so I just finished reading an ARC copy of Willa Thorne's latest and I'm struggling to write a review because this is a book about secrets. I don't want to spoil anything.
So I suppose what I should say is:
--if you like books where the characters have deep hidden secrets--that conflict with each other--this is the book for you.
--if you like FREAKING HOT sex, with a touch of BDSM, and with a hot alpha male, this is the book for you
--if you like books about a genuine heroine, who pulled herself up from a dreadful childhood and made something good, this is the book for you.
--if you like stories about dominant men with their own tangled stories, this is the book for you.
Steamy, sultry, full of secrets and lies, it's a great read. This is not a "dark" book, just the characters have some darkness in their past. And it's awesome to follow them on their journey to get to the light.
I enjoyed it and highly recommend! Can't wait to read more.
Check it out!
August 20, 2017
First off, this book was
INSANELY
hot!! And when I say that… it really all boils down to how incredibly hot
Jackson Rochester
was.
I know this was supposed to be the grand tale of how Jackson and Elyse found love together, but in all honesty, half the time I forgot her name. She was like a side character to me. This was the Jackson show and I’d like to thank her for coming. Seriously. This man controlled, dominated, and manipulated center stage for this story and he was the only point of focus for me.
Yes, there is more than just sex to this story. It held plenty of depth and heartbreaking bits. Even the secrets were intense. And it all had to do with Jackson. Even Elyse’s angst had everything to do with him. It felt like she would have no purpose in life if it weren’t for him. I’m sure that’s not true, but… he was the end all and be all of this story. I don’t know how else to make this clear. This is not the first book I’ve read from Willa Thorne and it still isn’t the last. She constantly finds ways to capture my attention and have me falling in love, over and over again, with her dominant, alpha, and surprisingly beautiful-hearted heroes.
Release Date: February 13, 2016
Genre: Erotica
POV: Dual - 1st person
Steam: 4.5 out of 5
Type: Standalone
I know this was supposed to be the grand tale of how Jackson and Elyse found love together, but in all honesty, half the time I forgot her name. She was like a side character to me. This was the Jackson show and I’d like to thank her for coming. Seriously. This man controlled, dominated, and manipulated center stage for this story and he was the only point of focus for me.
Yes, there is more than just sex to this story. It held plenty of depth and heartbreaking bits. Even the secrets were intense. And it all had to do with Jackson. Even Elyse’s angst had everything to do with him. It felt like she would have no purpose in life if it weren’t for him. I’m sure that’s not true, but… he was the end all and be all of this story. I don’t know how else to make this clear. This is not the first book I’ve read from Willa Thorne and it still isn’t the last. She constantly finds ways to capture my attention and have me falling in love, over and over again, with her dominant, alpha, and surprisingly beautiful-hearted heroes.
Release Date: February 13, 2016
Genre: Erotica
POV: Dual - 1st person
Steam: 4.5 out of 5
Type: Standalone
Want to read
September 17, 2017
READ SAMPLE. I’M LIKING THE SOUND OF THIS!
Stand-alone.
Purchase: | AMZ US | AMZ UK |
Blurb:
Jackson Rochester's stare pierces through Elyse Mendez's soul, stirring her wildest fantasies. She can’t deny her body’s response to him, but she can control her mind - and her mind is telling her that if Jackson knew the secret she's holding, that he would ruin her.
Jackson is intensely passionate and sinfully dirty. He's a billionaire playboy who has an eye for Elyse, a youth center volunteer, blogger, and college student. Her avoidance of him only makes him more determined to break down her walls - but after he strips her bare, will the cost of the truth be too much for even Jackson to handle?
February 7, 2016
**My first 5 star read of 2016!!**
I LOVED this book so much! I loved the main characters, Jackson & Elyse. The chemistry between these two is SCORCHING HOT!! He's dominant and she's sassy, both with tainted pasts, a perfect combination! And what a small world it is when Elyse's best friend ends up married to Jackson's cousin. He's been wanting her for 2 years and she's been avoiding him because of secrets she's keeping. There are some amazingly HOT & STEAMY sex scenes along with a unique & incredible story line.
I love how Willa Thorne grabs your attention right from the very beginning of the book. I fell hard for Jackson Rochester. Even with his dominance, hardness and a past that haunts him, he's very easy to fall in love with especially his playful side. He has a big heart, he just doesn't wear it on his sleeve.
~~EXCERPT~~
The sight of her was exquisite, and I think the world might have stopped spinning for a moment as I drank in her beauty. I found her on the balcony, away from the glitz and glamour of the party below us.
A black, feathered mask covered half of her face, but I could tell from those rich, maroon lips that she was everything I wanted and needed to satiate this growing hunger within my core. Creamy skin complimented her lush, black hair. I continued to watch her, realizing that I might have found a new distraction.
----
I love Elyse, she is a spitfire and has become one of my favorite heroines! Things have not been easy for Elyse most of her life and she's not one to ask for a handout. She's strong willed and has overcome a lot to become the strong and caring person she is.
~~EXCERPT~~
How can I accurately describe Jackson Rochester? He’s intense, and daring. When he stares at me, it’s like he’s boring holes through my soul. It’s intimidating. He’s tall, and built like a god. But really, the best question I should be asking myself is this:
What’s it like to want a man I can never have? I know my best friend thinks I’m being stubborn when I insist that I can’t have him, but it’s true.
----
I highly recommend this book to all of my friends. It's a great read and one I'll re-read again & again!
Closed Heart can be read as stand alone novel, but also includes characters from Manhattan Tales Series (so you can always read the series afterwards to learn more about the secondary characters).
**I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review**
I LOVED this book so much! I loved the main characters, Jackson & Elyse. The chemistry between these two is SCORCHING HOT!! He's dominant and she's sassy, both with tainted pasts, a perfect combination! And what a small world it is when Elyse's best friend ends up married to Jackson's cousin. He's been wanting her for 2 years and she's been avoiding him because of secrets she's keeping. There are some amazingly HOT & STEAMY sex scenes along with a unique & incredible story line.
I love how Willa Thorne grabs your attention right from the very beginning of the book. I fell hard for Jackson Rochester. Even with his dominance, hardness and a past that haunts him, he's very easy to fall in love with especially his playful side. He has a big heart, he just doesn't wear it on his sleeve.
~~EXCERPT~~
The sight of her was exquisite, and I think the world might have stopped spinning for a moment as I drank in her beauty. I found her on the balcony, away from the glitz and glamour of the party below us.
A black, feathered mask covered half of her face, but I could tell from those rich, maroon lips that she was everything I wanted and needed to satiate this growing hunger within my core. Creamy skin complimented her lush, black hair. I continued to watch her, realizing that I might have found a new distraction.
----
I love Elyse, she is a spitfire and has become one of my favorite heroines! Things have not been easy for Elyse most of her life and she's not one to ask for a handout. She's strong willed and has overcome a lot to become the strong and caring person she is.
~~EXCERPT~~
How can I accurately describe Jackson Rochester? He’s intense, and daring. When he stares at me, it’s like he’s boring holes through my soul. It’s intimidating. He’s tall, and built like a god. But really, the best question I should be asking myself is this:
What’s it like to want a man I can never have? I know my best friend thinks I’m being stubborn when I insist that I can’t have him, but it’s true.
----
I highly recommend this book to all of my friends. It's a great read and one I'll re-read again & again!
Closed Heart can be read as stand alone novel, but also includes characters from Manhattan Tales Series (so you can always read the series afterwards to learn more about the secondary characters).
**I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review**
February 13, 2016
5 Scorching Stars!
Willa completely blew me away with this story. The characters emotions flew off the pages, I was hooked from the first chapter, actually, from the first word. What a rollercoaster of angst, scorching sex, and so much more.
Elyse has been avoiding Jackson for a long time, but there connection is intense, heated and when she sees him at a masked dinner party, they share a kiss, but that’s all it can ever be. Elyse makes a decision to stay away, because the secret she holds will never let them be together. 
Jackson, sinfully dirty, but incredibly guarded. He is determined to make Elyse his. There relationship is a rollercoaster, but it pulls you in and before you know it, you’re lost in their story. Willa wove the story of the characters so beautifully that you can’t help feeling everything they are.
This was my first Willa Thorne book and it will not be my last. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a sinfully hot billionaire who has a penchant for something darker.
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Dani from Alpha Book Club
February 7, 2016
Wow! Willa Thorne has went and blown my mind again! I seriously didn't know how she was going to top Jillian and Mason's story , but I think she just did. I was lucky enough to get to read an ARC of this amazing book and let me tell you. I started and could NOT put it down!
Elyse and Jackson's story was nothing short of amazing! I totally did not expect the back story that Elyse and Jax had. I was completely blown away by that. But you always knew there was an intense connection between them.
Jackson is very strong, powerful and has major alpha tendencies, but that makes him all the more sexy! Elyse is very strong willed but longs to have someone take the lead and care for her, to liberate her! This book blew my mind in so many ways! I absolutely fell in love with the characters and their story!
This is a must read people! I promise you that you will not regret it! Elyse and Jackson will make you blush, it will make you cry, but it will make you fall in love with them for sure! Fantastic read!!!
Elyse and Jackson's story was nothing short of amazing! I totally did not expect the back story that Elyse and Jax had. I was completely blown away by that. But you always knew there was an intense connection between them.
Jackson is very strong, powerful and has major alpha tendencies, but that makes him all the more sexy! Elyse is very strong willed but longs to have someone take the lead and care for her, to liberate her! This book blew my mind in so many ways! I absolutely fell in love with the characters and their story!
This is a must read people! I promise you that you will not regret it! Elyse and Jackson will make you blush, it will make you cry, but it will make you fall in love with them for sure! Fantastic read!!!
February 15, 2016
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Elyse has a past, like everyone, but the one man that tempts her the most she denied herself because of her past. Jackson wants Elyse, has done since the first time he saw her. Elyse is determined to avoid him at all costs, but Jax is determined to make her his.
This book is amazing, the heat, the tension. Once you start reading you don't want to put it down. The secrets each hide from the other and the intensity of their feelings have butterflies somersaulting in your tummy. You can't help but wonder and wait for the truth to emerge and for it all to come crumbling down while hoping against hope they're strong enough to love each other no matter what.
Elyse has a past, like everyone, but the one man that tempts her the most she denied herself because of her past. Jackson wants Elyse, has done since the first time he saw her. Elyse is determined to avoid him at all costs, but Jax is determined to make her his.
This book is amazing, the heat, the tension. Once you start reading you don't want to put it down. The secrets each hide from the other and the intensity of their feelings have butterflies somersaulting in your tummy. You can't help but wonder and wait for the truth to emerge and for it all to come crumbling down while hoping against hope they're strong enough to love each other no matter what.
February 7, 2016
Closed Heart
Willa Thorne
4 stars
The first night Jackson Rochester saw Elyse Mendez she had on headphone singing softly. He heard the voice of an angel. Funny enough through her feathered mask at the party she was blowing breaths onto the windows and doodling in the condensation. Enchanted with her, Jackson was curious to know who would attend a party and then wear headphones just to get away from it all.
Jackson Rochester made Elyse’s heart stop. He was the most beautiful , intense and daring man she had ever seen. Avoiding him since Jillian and Mason’s wedding was the best thing to do. He was Mason’s cousin and Elyse had done a fantastic job not being around the man until now. Jillian is insistence that she get out as well as her not understand why her friend was avoiding Jax.
Reminding Jillian of her mistakes and that her life is full with her blog and the kids from the center Jillian lets up. There are too many secrets that involved that man directly from Elyse being the cause of his heartaches. She can never give in …
This was a really good read and although there are characters in the book from a preivous series I have not read I didn’t feel lost. However I can say I will go back and read The Manhattan Tales Trilogy for sure now. I want to know everything that went on between Jillian Pryor and Mason Woodward.
Jax and Elyse are characters who are written very well. My heart went out to Elyse being thrown into the system and enduring abuse. She harbored the faults of her mother and never felt she was worthy of much and certainly not Jax. The truth was brutal but I promise you keep reading. I mean you talk about a character being stripped bare. Elyse is a strong woman … she just needed help getting there.
Great read and very enjoyable! Thank you Willa for the ARC! I cant wait to go back and read the other books as well as the ones yet to come.
Review to post to Ramblings From Beneath The Sheets.
Willa Thorne
4 stars
The first night Jackson Rochester saw Elyse Mendez she had on headphone singing softly. He heard the voice of an angel. Funny enough through her feathered mask at the party she was blowing breaths onto the windows and doodling in the condensation. Enchanted with her, Jackson was curious to know who would attend a party and then wear headphones just to get away from it all.
Jackson Rochester made Elyse’s heart stop. He was the most beautiful , intense and daring man she had ever seen. Avoiding him since Jillian and Mason’s wedding was the best thing to do. He was Mason’s cousin and Elyse had done a fantastic job not being around the man until now. Jillian is insistence that she get out as well as her not understand why her friend was avoiding Jax.
Reminding Jillian of her mistakes and that her life is full with her blog and the kids from the center Jillian lets up. There are too many secrets that involved that man directly from Elyse being the cause of his heartaches. She can never give in …
This was a really good read and although there are characters in the book from a preivous series I have not read I didn’t feel lost. However I can say I will go back and read The Manhattan Tales Trilogy for sure now. I want to know everything that went on between Jillian Pryor and Mason Woodward.
Jax and Elyse are characters who are written very well. My heart went out to Elyse being thrown into the system and enduring abuse. She harbored the faults of her mother and never felt she was worthy of much and certainly not Jax. The truth was brutal but I promise you keep reading. I mean you talk about a character being stripped bare. Elyse is a strong woman … she just needed help getting there.
Great read and very enjoyable! Thank you Willa for the ARC! I cant wait to go back and read the other books as well as the ones yet to come.
Review to post to Ramblings From Beneath The Sheets.
February 23, 2016
Closed Heart is a sexy, suspenseful, soulful read, that grabbed my heart and mind from the very start.
Willa took my attention and held it captive from the prologue alone. I absolutely adore Willa's writing and the heat and love she puts into her words. Closed Heart is without doubt Willa's best work yet. Her progression in the storyline and character development is second to none and done so perfectly that there is literally nothing bad to say about this book. It's obvious that these characters mean a lot to Willa as is clear to see the devotion packed into the story comes straight from Willa's heart. She literally has given Jackson and Elyse the best story!
Jackson is an outstanding, deep, stupidly HOT character that ran away with my heart, mind, panties, hell EVERYTHING.
Elyse is a character I love, super feisty and fresh. However after harbouring deep painful secrets throughout her life she's desperate to be loved. I loved her, and the effect she had on Jackson. I was also happy to see Mason & Jillian feature as I'd missed them a lot.
Told from dual POV, Closed Heart packs plenty of punches and will run a mock with your emotions as it did with mine. This book gripped me emotionally. It filled me with love and lust, pleasure and pain, it kept me dangling through a web of secrets and lies and had me wishing and hoping for the best outcome I could have imagined. And I got that outcome and SO MUCH MORE. Closed Heart is also one of the hottest books I've read, the sex scenes….OH MY!
As I said this is Willa's best work yet and she can only grow from here and i cannot wait to see where her next work takes us.
Willa took my attention and held it captive from the prologue alone. I absolutely adore Willa's writing and the heat and love she puts into her words. Closed Heart is without doubt Willa's best work yet. Her progression in the storyline and character development is second to none and done so perfectly that there is literally nothing bad to say about this book. It's obvious that these characters mean a lot to Willa as is clear to see the devotion packed into the story comes straight from Willa's heart. She literally has given Jackson and Elyse the best story!
Jackson is an outstanding, deep, stupidly HOT character that ran away with my heart, mind, panties, hell EVERYTHING.
Elyse is a character I love, super feisty and fresh. However after harbouring deep painful secrets throughout her life she's desperate to be loved. I loved her, and the effect she had on Jackson. I was also happy to see Mason & Jillian feature as I'd missed them a lot.
Told from dual POV, Closed Heart packs plenty of punches and will run a mock with your emotions as it did with mine. This book gripped me emotionally. It filled me with love and lust, pleasure and pain, it kept me dangling through a web of secrets and lies and had me wishing and hoping for the best outcome I could have imagined. And I got that outcome and SO MUCH MORE. Closed Heart is also one of the hottest books I've read, the sex scenes….OH MY!
As I said this is Willa's best work yet and she can only grow from here and i cannot wait to see where her next work takes us.
March 16, 2017
First of all, JACKSON ROCHESTER has now claimed a spot in my top book boyfriends list. This man is unbelievably hot! Where do I sign up to be his muse?
Okay, so Closed Heart is the story of NY elite Jackson Rochester and youth center volunteer, Elyse Mendez. As you go along with the book, you will be surprised with how their lives are connected. This is not just boy meets girl romance.
It's a romantic erotic story filled with twists and secrets that will make every reader crave for more.
I have loved this book since page one, because it was INTENSELY hot, sweet and heartwarming. It had left my emotions all over the place!
I never wanted Jax and Elyse's love story to end, but man, I couldn't stop flipping the pages. Closed Heart has everything I've been wanting from a book. A hot alpha, a sassy heroine and an exciting plot.
So, if you are looking for:
* a hot alpha
* a story filled with secrets and excitement
* sexy as hell book that will make you go for a cold shower and change your undies in between reading>
I'm telling you now, this book is PERFECT for you!
Willa Thorne's Closed Heart deserves more than 5 stars! And I declare that this is one of my TOP READS of 2016!
Oh by the way, it is a complete standalone with HEA so you'll never have to worry. ;)
February 18, 2016
To say that I was excited for Closed Heart is an understatement. I've been itching to get my hands on Jackson and Elyse's story ever since End Game released (book three in the Manhattan Tales series and a must read). And Ms. Thorne definitely delivered.
Both Jackson and Elyse are hiding secrets. Secrets so deep that they've helped turn them into the people they are today. But we all know that secrets have a way of being revealed.
I love Elyse. She's such a strong character after all that she's been through but she craves love. Like we all do. And watching her tear down the walls surrounding Jackson's heart was heartwarming. And Jackson, holy hell of hotness!! He's sexy as sin and pure alpha male.
"If any man has his hands on her, it will be mine. And only mine."
I volunteer!!! Put your hands on me!!
Seriously though, you have to read this book. Willa Thorne was a new to me author several months ago and now she's one of my automatic buys.
Both Jackson and Elyse are hiding secrets. Secrets so deep that they've helped turn them into the people they are today. But we all know that secrets have a way of being revealed.
I love Elyse. She's such a strong character after all that she's been through but she craves love. Like we all do. And watching her tear down the walls surrounding Jackson's heart was heartwarming. And Jackson, holy hell of hotness!! He's sexy as sin and pure alpha male.
"If any man has his hands on her, it will be mine. And only mine."
I volunteer!!! Put your hands on me!!
Seriously though, you have to read this book. Willa Thorne was a new to me author several months ago and now she's one of my automatic buys.
Read
March 10, 2016
I felt in love with Jackson as soon as i read about him on The Manhattan series. His humor, roughness and brokenness called to me. When it was mentioned that a book about was going to happen I was so ecstatic! So I started reading it and I just felt more in love with him and Elyse, both so headstrong and closed hearted. I love watching how their relationship grow for just physical attraction to love, how they will do everything to keep each other safe and happy. I wouldn't mind reading more about them!
February 15, 2016
Loved this book so much!!!! It was steamy, heartbreaking, an emotional roller coaster that will take you on a great ride!!! I especially love Celia and Valentina!!! :-) want to paint with them! I highly. Recommend this book!!! It's just awesome!!!!
March 13, 2017
After reading the Manhattan Series, I had to know what Jackson and Elyse's story was. There was more to Jackson that I had thought and Elyse was the perfect woman for him. She challenged him and helped him recover the pieces of himself he thought he had lost.
February 17, 2016
Willa Thorne is one of my Favorite authors. I read her series Manhattan Tales. Which has the story of Mason and Jillan. Now the main male character is this book Jackson is cousins with Mason and the main female character Elyse is best friends with Jillan. So the two basically met through them. Or did they??
Elyse grew in the foster system when her own mother gave her up when she was young. Jackson grew up pretty much with a sliver spoon in his mouth but he lost his parents and one sister when he was seventeen. So him and his twin sister Piper were left to pick up the pieces after that and this is when Jackson starts to lock his heart away. He also discovers this dark side.
Elyse has her ups and downs she starts volunteering at a community center for kids like her but when is about nineteen she falls into the bad crowd and does something really bad that eats away at her over the years and it has something to do with Jackson. So after the two meet at a Masked Ball at Jacksons home. They both know who the other is but they each don't know that. Jackson knows at least one of Elyse's secret but the other could really rip them apart. When after two of dancing around each they finally start a Dom/sub relationship.
Jackson know Elyse is Ver submissive but can he get her to completely let go and let her guard down and trust him. He hopes so. But Elyse doesn't want to lose Jackson and she feels that if he found out about her two big secrets that he will never forgive her.
There are a lot of super hot sexy scenes. Jackson is very hot dirty talking Dom. Now this is Light BDSM not real hard core. He does spank, tie up and blindfold Elyse and its really hot.
Now my opinion of the book was that I loved it!! I wish that we could have gotten inside Jacksons head alittle more. I feel his POV was some what lacking. But all and all it was totally awesome!! I have to say I wanted to shake the crap out of both of them sometimes. I loved how Willa made both Jackson and Elyse very real characters and made them very relatable. I'm sad that it's over but I'm dying to see what Willa comes up with next!!
Elyse grew in the foster system when her own mother gave her up when she was young. Jackson grew up pretty much with a sliver spoon in his mouth but he lost his parents and one sister when he was seventeen. So him and his twin sister Piper were left to pick up the pieces after that and this is when Jackson starts to lock his heart away. He also discovers this dark side.
Elyse has her ups and downs she starts volunteering at a community center for kids like her but when is about nineteen she falls into the bad crowd and does something really bad that eats away at her over the years and it has something to do with Jackson. So after the two meet at a Masked Ball at Jacksons home. They both know who the other is but they each don't know that. Jackson knows at least one of Elyse's secret but the other could really rip them apart. When after two of dancing around each they finally start a Dom/sub relationship.
Jackson know Elyse is Ver submissive but can he get her to completely let go and let her guard down and trust him. He hopes so. But Elyse doesn't want to lose Jackson and she feels that if he found out about her two big secrets that he will never forgive her.
There are a lot of super hot sexy scenes. Jackson is very hot dirty talking Dom. Now this is Light BDSM not real hard core. He does spank, tie up and blindfold Elyse and its really hot.
Now my opinion of the book was that I loved it!! I wish that we could have gotten inside Jacksons head alittle more. I feel his POV was some what lacking. But all and all it was totally awesome!! I have to say I wanted to shake the crap out of both of them sometimes. I loved how Willa made both Jackson and Elyse very real characters and made them very relatable. I'm sad that it's over but I'm dying to see what Willa comes up with next!!
February 14, 2016
In the world of romance novels, it seems like every 10 minutes a new author emerges with the next hot, uber rich, dominating alpha male. Although some start out with a bang, many end with a disappointing whimper.
When it comes to Jackson Rochester… That’s definitely NOT the case! He is truly swoon worthy! This dominant, sexy man has managed to claw his way to my #1 spot for book boyfriends! A spot that he rightfully deserves. Jax has piqued my attention since he was introduced as Mason’s mysterious cousin in The Manhattan Tales series. I was so amped when I found out that he would be featured next.
The tale of Closed Heart began at a masquerade ball two years prior. Elyse Mendez, a proud, feisty college student has an unexpected encounter with masked attendee, Jackson Rochester. Their connection is magnetic from the beginning. The story of their relationship is filled with many, many twists and turns. Every time you suspect what will happen next, Willa throws in the unexpected bomb that changes EVERYTHING!
Jackson and Elyse have both dealt tragedies that have directly impacted the choices in their lives. These two broken puzzle pieces are connected in way that could ruin their relationship before it even begins. Will love or lust prevail? Will the past ruin everything? You better READ THIS BOOK and find out!
I don’t believe in ruining reads with spoilers, but I’ll just say that Jackson DOES NOT disappoint in the bedroom. His scenes with Elyse are FREAKING HOT! I literally squealed (very loudly) on the airplane while reading one scene in particular. Just plain FILTHY & DIRTY! (In a good way, of course..lol)
I adore Willa Thorne, and can’t wait see what she comes up with next. Stop setting the bar so high! Thanks for another awesome read.
Yes, I received an ARC for an honest, no bullshit opinion. I gave the rating that I felt this book truly deserved.
When it comes to Jackson Rochester… That’s definitely NOT the case! He is truly swoon worthy! This dominant, sexy man has managed to claw his way to my #1 spot for book boyfriends! A spot that he rightfully deserves. Jax has piqued my attention since he was introduced as Mason’s mysterious cousin in The Manhattan Tales series. I was so amped when I found out that he would be featured next.
The tale of Closed Heart began at a masquerade ball two years prior. Elyse Mendez, a proud, feisty college student has an unexpected encounter with masked attendee, Jackson Rochester. Their connection is magnetic from the beginning. The story of their relationship is filled with many, many twists and turns. Every time you suspect what will happen next, Willa throws in the unexpected bomb that changes EVERYTHING!
Jackson and Elyse have both dealt tragedies that have directly impacted the choices in their lives. These two broken puzzle pieces are connected in way that could ruin their relationship before it even begins. Will love or lust prevail? Will the past ruin everything? You better READ THIS BOOK and find out!
I don’t believe in ruining reads with spoilers, but I’ll just say that Jackson DOES NOT disappoint in the bedroom. His scenes with Elyse are FREAKING HOT! I literally squealed (very loudly) on the airplane while reading one scene in particular. Just plain FILTHY & DIRTY! (In a good way, of course..lol)
I adore Willa Thorne, and can’t wait see what she comes up with next. Stop setting the bar so high! Thanks for another awesome read.
Yes, I received an ARC for an honest, no bullshit opinion. I gave the rating that I felt this book truly deserved.
February 13, 2016
I am very thankful for the opportunity to read Closed Heart in advance. Thank you Willa Thorne.
The characters in this story are intense and each have secrets, if you read The Manhattan Tales trilogy you will know this book will finally give us the story of Elyse and Jackson.
I immediately felt Elyse pain and struggle, she has been through so much in life and refuses to ask or get help from anyone. She lives with the reject and abandonment of the person who should have protected her instead discarded her like an old pair of shoes at the early age of nine, this marked her life and made her closed hearted, she thought this way no one could hurt her again.
Jackson handsome and very wealthy man has his own secrets he rather keep locked in a room(s) of his state. He has been struggling to stay away from Elyse however, something about her calls to him and wants to explore on the challenge that she is to him.
What happens next is an epic story of secrets, heart break, rejection, guilt and love. Elyse and Jack show us the side of two wounded souls with regrets and secrets who desire one another but are afraid to open their hearts they live each day with closed hearts thinking no one will hurt them this way or find out their secrets however, when secrets are revealed hearts are open and the past come crashing without warning the lives of these wounded and lonely hearts will never be the same. Can love be stronger than the guilt and loneliness or will forever close the heart. To find out I highly recommend reading this story you will enjoy every single chapter.
I can't wait for the next story this Author will bring to us. I can definitely guarantee you she will not disappoint. I am definitely happy with the results of her work.
The characters in this story are intense and each have secrets, if you read The Manhattan Tales trilogy you will know this book will finally give us the story of Elyse and Jackson.
I immediately felt Elyse pain and struggle, she has been through so much in life and refuses to ask or get help from anyone. She lives with the reject and abandonment of the person who should have protected her instead discarded her like an old pair of shoes at the early age of nine, this marked her life and made her closed hearted, she thought this way no one could hurt her again.
Jackson handsome and very wealthy man has his own secrets he rather keep locked in a room(s) of his state. He has been struggling to stay away from Elyse however, something about her calls to him and wants to explore on the challenge that she is to him.
What happens next is an epic story of secrets, heart break, rejection, guilt and love. Elyse and Jack show us the side of two wounded souls with regrets and secrets who desire one another but are afraid to open their hearts they live each day with closed hearts thinking no one will hurt them this way or find out their secrets however, when secrets are revealed hearts are open and the past come crashing without warning the lives of these wounded and lonely hearts will never be the same. Can love be stronger than the guilt and loneliness or will forever close the heart. To find out I highly recommend reading this story you will enjoy every single chapter.
I can't wait for the next story this Author will bring to us. I can definitely guarantee you she will not disappoint. I am definitely happy with the results of her work.
February 9, 2016
I received this book via the author in exchange for my honest review.
I enjoyed this book and would recommend it to any reader who is looking for a story that is about trust, will power, and the pursuit of happiness.
Closed Heart follow Jackson Rochester and Elyse Mendez's lives whom we met in the Manhattan Tales Series which brought us the infamous Mason and the beautiful Jillian. I loved this series so much that I looked forward to this book and patiently waited to see what Elyse’s story was going to entail. I did not expect anything close to what had happened to her life. In the previous books she seemed to be strong person and confidant for Jillian. I found Elyse to be a likable, she is strong willed, stubborn, sassy, and lives life to the fullest while still fearing her past.
I found Jackson to be confident, commanding, powerful, mysterious, provocative, and handsome, well that doesn’t do him justice. Jackson is an alpha male on the outside but a teddy bear on the inside. Jackson is pulled to Elyse and he doesn’t understand why. He has a strong need to care for and protect her but he doesn't know why. Will she let him or will she run?
I didn’t just fall in love with Elyse and Jackson, I found that the writing made me fall in love with their souls. The way author Willa Thorne uses written words to make the reader want more, to fall in love with the characters, to make them feel real is amazing.
This is another fantastic book by Author Willa Thorne. I strongly recommend it and I patiently look forward to her next work.
I enjoyed this book and would recommend it to any reader who is looking for a story that is about trust, will power, and the pursuit of happiness.
Closed Heart follow Jackson Rochester and Elyse Mendez's lives whom we met in the Manhattan Tales Series which brought us the infamous Mason and the beautiful Jillian. I loved this series so much that I looked forward to this book and patiently waited to see what Elyse’s story was going to entail. I did not expect anything close to what had happened to her life. In the previous books she seemed to be strong person and confidant for Jillian. I found Elyse to be a likable, she is strong willed, stubborn, sassy, and lives life to the fullest while still fearing her past.
I found Jackson to be confident, commanding, powerful, mysterious, provocative, and handsome, well that doesn’t do him justice. Jackson is an alpha male on the outside but a teddy bear on the inside. Jackson is pulled to Elyse and he doesn’t understand why. He has a strong need to care for and protect her but he doesn't know why. Will she let him or will she run?
I didn’t just fall in love with Elyse and Jackson, I found that the writing made me fall in love with their souls. The way author Willa Thorne uses written words to make the reader want more, to fall in love with the characters, to make them feel real is amazing.
This is another fantastic book by Author Willa Thorne. I strongly recommend it and I patiently look forward to her next work.
February 15, 2016
5 Stars
If I could give this book a standing ovation, I would! There is so much emotion with these characters, and you can feel the turmoil they are dealing with. It's also super hot! The sex scenes definitely had me fanning myself on more than one occasion!
Elyse Mendez has not had the best life. She's was in the foster care system from the time she was nine, her mom caused a horrific car accident that killed three, and she hung out with the wrong crowd. Until one night fate changed her direction entirely. Now she has made it a habit of avoiding wealthy philanthropist Jackson Rochester. He doesn't know it, but their lives are intertwined more than Elyse would like. However, with her best friend being married to Jackson's cousin, their run ins are too frequent for comfort. Jackson is intrigued with Elyse and has made it his quest to have her, but for some reason she has herself closed off to him. Why does Elyse go out of her way to avoid Jackson? Can they put aside their pasts to find love? Will Elyse ever feel a sense of belonging?
I cannot reiterate enough how much I enjoyed this book! It is a spinoff of The Manhattan Tales series, but you don't have to have read that series to love this book. I want to go back and read that series though, just because I loved this author's style. The characters are well written and have a lot of depth. The story will break your heart and then put it back together. Well done Willa Thorne!
~ Renee
If I could give this book a standing ovation, I would! There is so much emotion with these characters, and you can feel the turmoil they are dealing with. It's also super hot! The sex scenes definitely had me fanning myself on more than one occasion!
Elyse Mendez has not had the best life. She's was in the foster care system from the time she was nine, her mom caused a horrific car accident that killed three, and she hung out with the wrong crowd. Until one night fate changed her direction entirely. Now she has made it a habit of avoiding wealthy philanthropist Jackson Rochester. He doesn't know it, but their lives are intertwined more than Elyse would like. However, with her best friend being married to Jackson's cousin, their run ins are too frequent for comfort. Jackson is intrigued with Elyse and has made it his quest to have her, but for some reason she has herself closed off to him. Why does Elyse go out of her way to avoid Jackson? Can they put aside their pasts to find love? Will Elyse ever feel a sense of belonging?
I cannot reiterate enough how much I enjoyed this book! It is a spinoff of The Manhattan Tales series, but you don't have to have read that series to love this book. I want to go back and read that series though, just because I loved this author's style. The characters are well written and have a lot of depth. The story will break your heart and then put it back together. Well done Willa Thorne!
~ Renee
February 16, 2016
"We'll start slow and explore together."
Jackson Rochester is rich, sexy as hell, dominant, intimidating, and full of secrets! When he wants something, he will stop at nothing to get it and he wants Elyse! In his bed, against the wall, in his playroom, he wants her submission and to figure her out.
Elyse Mendez, a girl from the other side of the tracks, has been trying to avoid Jackson for the past 2 years after a steamy encounter at his party. She is hiding something big from him that could ruin her, however she is unable to deny the chemistry between them.
Jackson and Elyse are two very different, beautiful people with scarred pasts. The passion between them is shattering! As they learn more about each other and open up their hearts, their bond is stunningly beautiful but will that be enough when Elyse's secret is revealed?
Closed heart is an incredible love story! Jackson and Elyse are captivating and you can't help but fall in love! Jackson will definitely enrapture you!!!
"Tell me your fantasies, little mouse."
Jackson Rochester is rich, sexy as hell, dominant, intimidating, and full of secrets! When he wants something, he will stop at nothing to get it and he wants Elyse! In his bed, against the wall, in his playroom, he wants her submission and to figure her out.
Elyse Mendez, a girl from the other side of the tracks, has been trying to avoid Jackson for the past 2 years after a steamy encounter at his party. She is hiding something big from him that could ruin her, however she is unable to deny the chemistry between them.
Jackson and Elyse are two very different, beautiful people with scarred pasts. The passion between them is shattering! As they learn more about each other and open up their hearts, their bond is stunningly beautiful but will that be enough when Elyse's secret is revealed?
Closed heart is an incredible love story! Jackson and Elyse are captivating and you can't help but fall in love! Jackson will definitely enrapture you!!!
"Tell me your fantasies, little mouse."
February 10, 2016
Closed Heart by Willa Thorne is a sexy romance with twist. Closed Heart has characters from The Manhattan Tales series but can be read as a standalone. Elyse Mendez has always felt like an outsider, growing up in the foster care system after her mother gave her up when she was 9. Life hasn't been easy for Elyse trying to making it on her own and she's had slip ups along the way that haunt her. Elyse has run into Jackson Rochester over the years at parties and events due to mutual friends and the attraction is undeniable. When Jackson offers Elyse an opportunity will she grab hold or will the things in her past hold her back?
I adored this book! I did not expect but loved the kink we received. The chemistry between the main characters drew you deeper into the story which didn't let me put it down. I devoured it in less than 24 hrs. This was my first book I've read of Willa's and now I can't wait to dive into her prior work. 4.5 Stars for Closed Heart by Willa Thorne
*** Reviewed for Sweet & Spicy Reads - ARC provided for a honest review ***
I adored this book! I did not expect but loved the kink we received. The chemistry between the main characters drew you deeper into the story which didn't let me put it down. I devoured it in less than 24 hrs. This was my first book I've read of Willa's and now I can't wait to dive into her prior work. 4.5 Stars for Closed Heart by Willa Thorne
*** Reviewed for Sweet & Spicy Reads - ARC provided for a honest review ***
February 15, 2016
Omg! I loved this book and didn't want it to end! This is the first book of Willa's I’ve read but will be going back to read Mason and Jillian’s story!!
Jackson Rochester is your typical Dom. No commitment and no strings just a sub when he needs... That's until he gets Ellyse under his skin. Ellyse is a normal everyday girl with a dark secret past. She knows Jackson through her best friend as he is her husband’s cousin so they meet up from time to time with family events and find it hard to stay away from each other. They finally give into their feelings and Ellyse becomes his next sub. But will both their pasts come back to haunt them?? You will have to read this book to find out. I honestly couldn't wait to find out!
Jackson Rochester is your typical Dom. No commitment and no strings just a sub when he needs... That's until he gets Ellyse under his skin. Ellyse is a normal everyday girl with a dark secret past. She knows Jackson through her best friend as he is her husband’s cousin so they meet up from time to time with family events and find it hard to stay away from each other. They finally give into their feelings and Ellyse becomes his next sub. But will both their pasts come back to haunt them?? You will have to read this book to find out. I honestly couldn't wait to find out!
February 13, 2016
I received an ARC of Closed Heart and let me tell you it was just fucking ah-mazing!!! The whole book is just so freaking hot and sexy I couldn’t stop from obsessing over it. I soooooo loved this book. And omg Jackson is just so freaking sexy.
The whole book drew me in instantly and I couldn’t stop reading it. It is a unique, sexy and hot story and made my panties melt instantly. The main characters, Jackson and Elyse, are both sweet and sexy. The book doesn’t give away everything instantly and keeps you wanting to know more and more.
I can’t wait for the next book that’s coming from Willa Thorne.
The whole book drew me in instantly and I couldn’t stop reading it. It is a unique, sexy and hot story and made my panties melt instantly. The main characters, Jackson and Elyse, are both sweet and sexy. The book doesn’t give away everything instantly and keeps you wanting to know more and more.
I can’t wait for the next book that’s coming from Willa Thorne.
February 9, 2016
i gave a 5star rating to this book because it is honestly one of my favorites !!!
its a story that doesnt give up the goods right away if you know what i mean and for me thats what a good book is about to keep on edged so you dont lose interest its one of the few books of 2016 for me it just put the bar really high so thank Willa for that!.
just dont let us hang to long for one of your next books :D
its a story that doesnt give up the goods right away if you know what i mean and for me thats what a good book is about to keep on edged so you dont lose interest its one of the few books of 2016 for me it just put the bar really high so thank Willa for that!.
just dont let us hang to long for one of your next books :D
February 23, 2016
There's nothing spectacular about this book; I went through this with low expectations. I enjoyed it but it's quite cliche. Regardless of that, I'm inclined to give this one 3 stars because I DNF'ed 3 books today because they didn't manage to keep me focused and this BOOK happened to keep me reading. So YEAH.
I'm really interested in Jillian and Mason though, so I might pick up their book later.
I'm really interested in Jillian and Mason though, so I might pick up their book later.
February 14, 2016
This book is absolutely amazing.
If it wasn't for me working double shifts I would have read it in one sitting as I didn't want to put it down.
Jax is one hell of a dirty talker and the sex scenes got very hot.I loved Elyse and Jax together it's as if they were ment to be together.This book had me laughing and crying.well done Willa Thorne for writing an excellent book
If it wasn't for me working double shifts I would have read it in one sitting as I didn't want to put it down.
Jax is one hell of a dirty talker and the sex scenes got very hot.I loved Elyse and Jax together it's as if they were ment to be together.This book had me laughing and crying.well done Willa Thorne for writing an excellent book
February 18, 2016
The heat between Jackson and Elyse is almost too hot to handle! Having been introduced to these characters from Manhattan Tales, I have been rooting for them and anxiously anticipating when they finally cross that line. I was not disappointed. This book has it all. Laughter, tears, dramatics, love, and hot sex.
February 25, 2016
I liked this story but there was something about it that I can't quite put my finger on that is holding me back from saying I love it.
February 18, 2016
Secrets, Hearts of Gold, Dirty Talking & Awesome Storyline
There is no denying that the trope of dominant billionaire has been done time and time again in the romance genre. And while Willa Thorne may have decided to write a story that follows down this road, what she has produced in Closed Heart is anything BUT ordinary.
Willa’s writing and storylines has the ability to make the reader forget that it is a tried and tested trope and transports them on a journey that is solely for her characters. Without a doubt she stands out above the pack.
Jackson is one sizzling, delicious, dirty talking dominant. He knows his preferences and is not afraid to use them to his advantage. What I loved about his character is that while he is a tortured soul, he was able to see what he wanted and go for it – regardless of the personal cost to himself. And underneath it all, his heart of gold is just begging to find a like minded soul.
Elyse is exactly everything that I love in a heroine. She has this tough exterior shell which she faces the world with every day. But as you delve deeper into her character, she has an absolute heart of gold and only really wants someone to love and accept her as she is. That Jackson was willing to work on these walls to smash through them because he recognised what was lurking underneath endeared me to him even more.
Let me tell you that this book is smoking hot and explicit. Jackson is a dominant and so all of the sex scenes take on this flavour. But the chemistry between these two is explosive and Willa does an amazing job of bringing the tension to the read so that they feel as frustrated and relieved as the characters.
The writing in this story was captivating and flowed easily. The words took me on the journey with the characters.
While this story does follow on from characters in the first trilogy, it can be read as a standalone.
There is no denying that I absolutely adore Willa, her stories and her brand of writing. Her steamy romances, alpha’s and strong females just drag me in every time and don’t release me – even after
I have read the last words. I cannot recommend Willa and all of her books enough to anyone who loves their romance on the steamy and dominant side while giving storylines that make you feel and draw you in. I am excited to see what comes next and know that it will be a no brainer for me.
For more reviews, preorders and new releases:
Redhot Romance Website
FREE weekly Redhot Romance Magazine
There is no denying that the trope of dominant billionaire has been done time and time again in the romance genre. And while Willa Thorne may have decided to write a story that follows down this road, what she has produced in Closed Heart is anything BUT ordinary.
Willa’s writing and storylines has the ability to make the reader forget that it is a tried and tested trope and transports them on a journey that is solely for her characters. Without a doubt she stands out above the pack.
Jackson is one sizzling, delicious, dirty talking dominant. He knows his preferences and is not afraid to use them to his advantage. What I loved about his character is that while he is a tortured soul, he was able to see what he wanted and go for it – regardless of the personal cost to himself. And underneath it all, his heart of gold is just begging to find a like minded soul.
Elyse is exactly everything that I love in a heroine. She has this tough exterior shell which she faces the world with every day. But as you delve deeper into her character, she has an absolute heart of gold and only really wants someone to love and accept her as she is. That Jackson was willing to work on these walls to smash through them because he recognised what was lurking underneath endeared me to him even more.
Let me tell you that this book is smoking hot and explicit. Jackson is a dominant and so all of the sex scenes take on this flavour. But the chemistry between these two is explosive and Willa does an amazing job of bringing the tension to the read so that they feel as frustrated and relieved as the characters.
The writing in this story was captivating and flowed easily. The words took me on the journey with the characters.
While this story does follow on from characters in the first trilogy, it can be read as a standalone.
There is no denying that I absolutely adore Willa, her stories and her brand of writing. Her steamy romances, alpha’s and strong females just drag me in every time and don’t release me – even after
I have read the last words. I cannot recommend Willa and all of her books enough to anyone who loves their romance on the steamy and dominant side while giving storylines that make you feel and draw you in. I am excited to see what comes next and know that it will be a no brainer for me.
For more reviews, preorders and new releases:
Redhot Romance Website
FREE weekly Redhot Romance Magazine
February 20, 2016
** ARC provided by the author for an honest review **
This is the first novel I have read from this amazingly talented writer and I will confess right now that as soon as I finished Closed Heart I one clicked The Manhattan Tales to find out more about the secondary characters .. you know why? Because this read, the characters, plot pulled me in and did not let go !
If you want to read a story that will enthrall you, captivate you, make you blush, laugh, and cry this is IT!
Secrets can taint your soul, make everyday a nightmare ultimately making you stop living because you are constantly looking over your shoulder waiting for then other shoe to drop. That is the reality that Elyse is living. All her life she has been dealt a bad hand. Her childhood heartbreaking, her youth troubled and her now .. a waiting game.
Finding solace in the Youth Center, her life now revolves around school, work, friends and the center. Her dreams .. around one man who is forbidden.
Jackson .. rich, dominant, sexy and haunted. He has demons that have a hold on him so strong that it will take a miracle to break the shackles and walls he has built around his heart and soul. Work keeps him going, his pastime .. keeps the inner turmoil at bay.
Elyse and Jackson have ties that bound them together eternally however only one person knows the real reason why. Secrets, lies, love and passion all come to head in this emotionally charged read.
When the one person who has a hold on you has the power to destroy you completely do you stay away or succumb to the overwhelming pull towards them. Does love conquer all ? Does it have the power to heal ?
Read and find out, go on this roller coaster right along side the characters that are so well written they seem to pull you right into the story. You will not regret it and probably like me become a life long fan of this fantastic author.
This is the first novel I have read from this amazingly talented writer and I will confess right now that as soon as I finished Closed Heart I one clicked The Manhattan Tales to find out more about the secondary characters .. you know why? Because this read, the characters, plot pulled me in and did not let go !
If you want to read a story that will enthrall you, captivate you, make you blush, laugh, and cry this is IT!
Secrets can taint your soul, make everyday a nightmare ultimately making you stop living because you are constantly looking over your shoulder waiting for then other shoe to drop. That is the reality that Elyse is living. All her life she has been dealt a bad hand. Her childhood heartbreaking, her youth troubled and her now .. a waiting game.
Finding solace in the Youth Center, her life now revolves around school, work, friends and the center. Her dreams .. around one man who is forbidden.
Jackson .. rich, dominant, sexy and haunted. He has demons that have a hold on him so strong that it will take a miracle to break the shackles and walls he has built around his heart and soul. Work keeps him going, his pastime .. keeps the inner turmoil at bay.
Elyse and Jackson have ties that bound them together eternally however only one person knows the real reason why. Secrets, lies, love and passion all come to head in this emotionally charged read.
When the one person who has a hold on you has the power to destroy you completely do you stay away or succumb to the overwhelming pull towards them. Does love conquer all ? Does it have the power to heal ?
Read and find out, go on this roller coaster right along side the characters that are so well written they seem to pull you right into the story. You will not regret it and probably like me become a life long fan of this fantastic author.
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