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Dark #1
Dark Paradise
A Political Romantic Suspense
There’s a name for girls like me: Sugar Baby. I’m used to being passed around the sexually depraved, middle-aged senators of Washington D.C. like candy, but when I meet him - the mysterious man who buys my exclusivity for three months for price that should frighten me more than his demands - everything changes.
He's younger than the others. His touch is softer. His lips sweeter. His need fiercer. He has only one requirement...
A blindfold to protect his identity... and to protect me from the danger I'd face if our affair leaked to the world.
No phones. No light. No real names. He says I'm his dark paradise, and we have to keep it that way. He promises I'll thank him someday.
But what is he really hiding? And what happens if I find out?
AUTHOR'S NOTES:
1. This is a standalone, full-length romance with HEA and NO cliffhanger. It will not become a series, and there is no bonus content included. What you see is what you get. :-)
2. If you're looking for a true-to-life political thriller, this isn't it. If you want a forbidden political romance with twists, turns, suspense, and a generous amount of steamy love scenes, then this is your book. As my heroine says, "The fantasy is always better than the reality."
Happy reading! xoxo
There’s a name for girls like me: Sugar Baby. I’m used to being passed around the sexually depraved, middle-aged senators of Washington D.C. like candy, but when I meet him - the mysterious man who buys my exclusivity for three months for price that should frighten me more than his demands - everything changes.
He's younger than the others. His touch is softer. His lips sweeter. His need fiercer. He has only one requirement...
A blindfold to protect his identity... and to protect me from the danger I'd face if our affair leaked to the world.
No phones. No light. No real names. He says I'm his dark paradise, and we have to keep it that way. He promises I'll thank him someday.
But what is he really hiding? And what happens if I find out?
AUTHOR'S NOTES:
1. This is a standalone, full-length romance with HEA and NO cliffhanger. It will not become a series, and there is no bonus content included. What you see is what you get. :-)
2. If you're looking for a true-to-life political thriller, this isn't it. If you want a forbidden political romance with twists, turns, suspense, and a generous amount of steamy love scenes, then this is your book. As my heroine says, "The fantasy is always better than the reality."
Happy reading! xoxo
264 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 7, 2015
982 people are currently reading
1689 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 278 reviews
August 15, 2017
★★★★! Dark Paradise (stand-alone). A high profile client books sexual concierge for 3 months, but must protect his family name against scandal!
“He makes me come alive. He makes me forget I’m just a high-class whore who fucks men for money.”
Dark Paradise (stand-alone) opens up to sexual concierge Camille Buchanan meeting her latest client. Ordered to blindfold herself she is introduced to “John”, an the enigmatic stranger who seduces and masters her sexually, but only gives her bits and pieces of himself.
A three-month affair with the price tag of $1 Million!
It’s supposed to be just another rendezvous for both, but their connection is intense, the sex addictive yet their future uncertain.
With the secret service guarding him he must be high profile.
From political royalty, heir to a legacy Ronan Montgomery has much to protect. The last thing he needs is to get mixed up in is a scandal. With villains closing in his name is not the only thing at stake.
But nothing is a coincidence and the truth paves the wave for deception, intrigue and indeed scandal…
Eight words to describe Ronan Montgomery: Charming, determined, secretive, noble, responsible, elusive, commanding and unattainable.
Seven words to describe Camille Buchanan: Calculated, smart, observant, motivated, humble, naïve and cautious.
Dark paradise, told from dual POVs, grabbed me from page one. It has that sizzling feel of a mystery, obsession, political intrigue, forbidden and impossible romance with a bit of suspense. Other than the ending feeling a bit rushed and enjoyed it.
This is a sexy in-between-read; fast paced, enthralling yet feel-good!
“She doesn’t look at anyone, but everyone within a fifty-foot radius looks at her.”
***
Hero rating: 4 stars
Heroine rating: 4 stars
Sexual tension rating: 4.5 stars
Sex scenes rating: 4.5 stars
Sex scenes frequency: 4 stars
Plot rating: 4 stars
Dialogue rating: 4 stars
Storytelling rating: 4.5 stars
Story ending rating: 4 stars
**********************************************
Overall rating: 4 stars
Would I recommend this book: Yes.
Would I re-read this book: Maybe later.
Would I read future books by this author: Yes.
December 16, 2015
The plot is essentially a political version of "Pretty Woman." The blurb does an excellent job summarizing what the subject matter is in the book.
Enjoyability
It's okay. There's nothing monumental, swoony, hawt, or otherwise brag-worthy here, but there's also not really anything absolutely horrible to say, either. It's all just ~Meh~
Plot
Suspense?
There are a few suspense elements, but readers of average intelligence won't have any big surprises. It's all pretty obvious, and the few elements that aren't obvious are purposefully withheld and aren't of any real shock or moment value anyway. So, unlike the author, I would NOT label this as a "thriller" or "suspense." It's not!
Romance?
The first 75% is PURELY a sex story involving a prostitute call girl and a faceless political affiliate having tons of sex scenes followed by musing about each other until the next sex scene. Any traditional sense of romance and emotions do not even enter the picture until the epilogue lol.
I never felt anything, chemistry or love, between these two. They, themselves, reject all emotions until the very end where suddenly the dude too afraid to even let her see his face grows a pair of nuts and makes a grandstand for her. The epilogue simply wasn't enough to suddenly say, 'hey, now we love each other and ride off to HEA.' Forced! Manufactured! Not believable in the least!
The sex scenes are run of the mill: insert x in y, rub here, suck there = voodoo vagina and hoodoo penis explode in best orgasms ever. Needless to say, the lackluster combined with the astronomical number of sex scenes this author wrote wore thin quickly.
There is a scene with kissing another man. She wonders if this man could be her mystery John. It doesn't go past kissing. Otherwise, there are no OW/OM scenes.
The Writing
The author's style, tempo, word choices, sentence structure, etc were all fine. I didn't notice any editing errors.
The main problems in the book were in the actual content 1) the author didn't develop the characters individually nor as a couple outside of lust for each other and sex scenes. 2) the plot wasn't developed, never had a peak or climax, and then just faded to black for a HEA.
Final Thoughts
I finished only because this wasn't a grating read. There's nothing to rant about - good or bad. It's the book version of slightly sweetened oatmeal. 2 stars.
Enjoyability
It's okay. There's nothing monumental, swoony, hawt, or otherwise brag-worthy here, but there's also not really anything absolutely horrible to say, either. It's all just ~Meh~
Plot
Suspense?
There are a few suspense elements, but readers of average intelligence won't have any big surprises. It's all pretty obvious, and the few elements that aren't obvious are purposefully withheld and aren't of any real shock or moment value anyway. So, unlike the author, I would NOT label this as a "thriller" or "suspense." It's not!
Romance?
The first 75% is PURELY a sex story involving a
I never felt anything, chemistry or love, between these two. They, themselves, reject all emotions until the very end where suddenly the dude too afraid to even let her see his face grows a pair of nuts and makes a grandstand for her. The epilogue simply wasn't enough to suddenly say, 'hey, now we love each other and ride off to HEA.' Forced! Manufactured! Not believable in the least!
The sex scenes are run of the mill: insert x in y, rub here, suck there = voodoo vagina and hoodoo penis explode in best orgasms ever. Needless to say, the lackluster combined with the astronomical number of sex scenes this author wrote wore thin quickly.
There is a scene with kissing another man. She wonders if this man could be her mystery John. It doesn't go past kissing. Otherwise, there are no OW/OM scenes.
The Writing
The author's style, tempo, word choices, sentence structure, etc were all fine. I didn't notice any editing errors.
The main problems in the book were in the actual content 1) the author didn't develop the characters individually nor as a couple outside of lust for each other and sex scenes. 2) the plot wasn't developed, never had a peak or climax, and then just faded to black for a HEA.
Final Thoughts
I finished only because this wasn't a grating read. There's nothing to rant about - good or bad. It's the book version of slightly sweetened oatmeal. 2 stars.
February 14, 2017
4.5 DC stars from me
This was the first time I've read anything by Winter Renshaw and I am so glad I took the plunge with this one.
I just thought this was going to be a sexy read were a politian falls for a call girl. Nothing new. Ha! It kinda blew my socks off because it was so much more than that.
Camille didn't use her position to get herself ahead with blackmail as you typically find in these cases. She was smart ,honest and a lot more likeable than I expected.
Ronan was a commanding man in the bedroom but stiffled by an over bearing mother. A rich kid with everything but nothing that counted.
This book kept me on my toes all the way through and I didn't put it down til I was finished. Just the right mix of naughty, politics and suspense. I loved it.
This was the first time I've read anything by Winter Renshaw and I am so glad I took the plunge with this one.
I just thought this was going to be a sexy read were a politian falls for a call girl. Nothing new. Ha! It kinda blew my socks off because it was so much more than that.
Camille didn't use her position to get herself ahead with blackmail as you typically find in these cases. She was smart ,honest and a lot more likeable than I expected.
Ronan was a commanding man in the bedroom but stiffled by an over bearing mother. A rich kid with everything but nothing that counted.
This book kept me on my toes all the way through and I didn't put it down til I was finished. Just the right mix of naughty, politics and suspense. I loved it.
May 9, 2019
This is free on kindle right now.
This happens very rarely - free book, contemporary romance I enjoy.
Full review to come someday but if you are like me -- "less is more" then this might be read for you. I am surprised even after suspecting it to be 'Dark' romance, it is not as dark as I expected, and which I truly appreciate. Now going on to the next one....
This happens very rarely - free book, contemporary romance I enjoy.
Full review to come someday but if you are like me -- "less is more" then this might be read for you. I am surprised even after suspecting it to be 'Dark' romance, it is not as dark as I expected, and which I truly appreciate. Now going on to the next one....
June 16, 2021
3 stars
It’s just okay for me. The writing is good and escorts are one of my fav tropes but I’m just not sold on their romance & connection. The physical yes but not emotionally. It could also be a me thing.
It’s just okay for me. The writing is good and escorts are one of my fav tropes but I’m just not sold on their romance & connection. The physical yes but not emotionally. It could also be a me thing.
December 21, 2018
Overview:
Ronan & Camille. Dual POV. It has a HEA and an epilogue. I would not classify this as a romantic suspense as the blurb suggests.
"One million dollars for twelve short weeks"
Ronan:
Ronan is considered American royalty as his father is the current POTUS and his grandfather used to be POTUS. His future has been mapped out, planned and controlled by his mother as she expects him to follow in his father's footsteps and become president one day. "Taking a turn in the Oval Office is a burden only a few Americans will ever have the privilege of experiencing. It’s my proud destiny, my reason for living." . Ronan has been raised to believe his family's legacy will live on forever, and they will be in history books and their paintings will grace the White House walls. He does what he can to avoid scandal so that when he runs for office there won't be any skeletons in his closet.
Camille:
According to Camille, "The only thing I’ve ever wanted in my entire life is to be unforgettable." Wow, that's a high and lofty life goal. NOT. She came off as conceited, and she's a high priced call girl. "I don’t think of myself as a prostitute, and I never have. As far as I’m concerned, I am a sexual concierge for the well to do and influential." Whatever. She sleeps with men for money, so pretty sure that means she’s a prostitute. That didn't bother me, but her condescending attitude about her profession did irritate me. She's proud of her looks and extremely confident in her ability to please a man. "I’ve created a work of art, something a man can cherish and appreciate on a superficial level because a man soliciting my services doesn’t care what’s on the inside. Presenting myself as an ideal fantasy at all times is the foundation upon which I’ve built my “business."
Together:
Camille spends the first half of the book blindfolded with no idea who is paying her $1M for her services. When Ronan first saw her, he fixated on finding out everything he could about her and then ruined her current "arrangement" so that he could make his offer. It kind of made him feel like a bit of a stalker. He finds her alluring and views her as his escape from reality. They have chemistry in the bedroom, but there was just something I couldn't connect with.
Somewhere along the way after meeting Camille, he realizes he no longer wants to follow the family legacy. However, as a reader I never really understood why he changed his mind. I honestly thought the book would end with him pursuing the White House with her by his side and giving the middle finger to anyone who would have something to say about them. Instead, he literally walked away from his family and politics without any clue he was giving it all up. Just bam...out of politics, wants to move to CA. That made my head spin a little.
I felt there were some holes in the story as it ended abruptly and left things unanswered or potentially unfinished.
These types of things could have enhanced the story, but instead I was left questioning what happened after the big reveal.
And finally, I don’t even know if Ronan ever declared his love for her. Right before the epilogue they were deciding they could try to make a relationship work and in the epilogue they are going strong together. So the step in between where they profess their undying love was missing and the transition felt odd. It felt a little forced and didn't flow well for me.
The story that I read I liked, but I just felt like there was more to the story that could’ve been written and I didn’t necessarily like that, thus the three stars
Ronan & Camille. Dual POV. It has a HEA and an epilogue. I would not classify this as a romantic suspense as the blurb suggests.
"One million dollars for twelve short weeks"
Ronan:
Ronan is considered American royalty as his father is the current POTUS and his grandfather used to be POTUS. His future has been mapped out, planned and controlled by his mother as she expects him to follow in his father's footsteps and become president one day. "Taking a turn in the Oval Office is a burden only a few Americans will ever have the privilege of experiencing. It’s my proud destiny, my reason for living." . Ronan has been raised to believe his family's legacy will live on forever, and they will be in history books and their paintings will grace the White House walls. He does what he can to avoid scandal so that when he runs for office there won't be any skeletons in his closet.
Camille:
According to Camille, "The only thing I’ve ever wanted in my entire life is to be unforgettable." Wow, that's a high and lofty life goal. NOT. She came off as conceited, and she's a high priced call girl. "I don’t think of myself as a prostitute, and I never have. As far as I’m concerned, I am a sexual concierge for the well to do and influential." Whatever. She sleeps with men for money, so pretty sure that means she’s a prostitute. That didn't bother me, but her condescending attitude about her profession did irritate me. She's proud of her looks and extremely confident in her ability to please a man. "I’ve created a work of art, something a man can cherish and appreciate on a superficial level because a man soliciting my services doesn’t care what’s on the inside. Presenting myself as an ideal fantasy at all times is the foundation upon which I’ve built my “business."
Together:
Camille spends the first half of the book blindfolded with no idea who is paying her $1M for her services. When Ronan first saw her, he fixated on finding out everything he could about her and then ruined her current "arrangement" so that he could make his offer. It kind of made him feel like a bit of a stalker. He finds her alluring and views her as his escape from reality. They have chemistry in the bedroom, but there was just something I couldn't connect with.
Somewhere along the way after meeting Camille, he realizes he no longer wants to follow the family legacy. However, as a reader I never really understood why he changed his mind. I honestly thought the book would end with him pursuing the White House with her by his side and giving the middle finger to anyone who would have something to say about them. Instead, he literally walked away from his family and politics without any clue he was giving it all up. Just bam...out of politics, wants to move to CA. That made my head spin a little.
I felt there were some holes in the story as it ended abruptly and left things unanswered or potentially unfinished.
These types of things could have enhanced the story, but instead I was left questioning what happened after the big reveal.
And finally, I don’t even know if Ronan ever declared his love for her. Right before the epilogue they were deciding they could try to make a relationship work and in the epilogue they are going strong together. So the step in between where they profess their undying love was missing and the transition felt odd. It felt a little forced and didn't flow well for me.
The story that I read I liked, but I just felt like there was more to the story that could’ve been written and I didn’t necessarily like that, thus the three stars
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 8, 2018
Ronan and Camille
Political intrigue in the dark world of high class prostitution... how do you mine an HEA out of that stew?
Apparently, quite easily and with a manipulative witch of a mother thrown into the mix! I was all in for it.
Political intrigue in the dark world of high class prostitution... how do you mine an HEA out of that stew?
Apparently, quite easily and with a manipulative witch of a mother thrown into the mix! I was all in for it.
July 19, 2016
2 "Fallen Short" stars
I had really high expectations for this book, because I haven't come across very many politically inclined books. The blurb was interesting enough, but the actual content of the book was underwhelming. I had quite a few issues with the protagonist to fully enjoy the story.
- Who, with a degree from Georgetown decides to become an escort? There is no mention in the story as to why she needs to become a sugar baby. To pursue a career in acting in Hollywood? Did the good old fashioned hard work become too good for you? If a Georgetown graduate has to become a prostitute to "make ends meet", there's no hope for the rest of us. Ever think of putting the degree you paid thousands for to good use?
- Who in their right mind pays a million fucking dollars for sex? I guess I answered my own question there.
- She doesn't know her father, but knows he's from DC - THE SAME FUCKING CITY WHERE SHE'S WORKING AS AN ESCORT. FOR DEPRAVED OLD MEN. Need I say more?
- She says she's got a moral compass - I didn't see it. She says she'll take care of her mom when she's rich and famous in Hollywood. Her mom is struggling, or at least not living a lavish lifestyle. She can walk around in designer clothes and shoes all day long but she can't help her mom out? Right.
I found way too many holes in the story to enjoy it. There was no character building or growth of any sort - they literally go from fucking to falling in love - with no proper dialogue to facilitate their attraction. That's lust, not love. I was not feeling this at all.
I had really high expectations for this book, because I haven't come across very many politically inclined books. The blurb was interesting enough, but the actual content of the book was underwhelming. I had quite a few issues with the protagonist to fully enjoy the story.
- Who, with a degree from Georgetown decides to become an escort? There is no mention in the story as to why she needs to become a sugar baby. To pursue a career in acting in Hollywood? Did the good old fashioned hard work become too good for you? If a Georgetown graduate has to become a prostitute to "make ends meet", there's no hope for the rest of us. Ever think of putting the degree you paid thousands for to good use?
- Who in their right mind pays a million fucking dollars for sex? I guess I answered my own question there.
- She doesn't know her father, but knows he's from DC - THE SAME FUCKING CITY WHERE SHE'S WORKING AS AN ESCORT. FOR DEPRAVED OLD MEN. Need I say more?
- She says she's got a moral compass - I didn't see it. She says she'll take care of her mom when she's rich and famous in Hollywood. Her mom is struggling, or at least not living a lavish lifestyle. She can walk around in designer clothes and shoes all day long but she can't help her mom out? Right.
I found way too many holes in the story to enjoy it. There was no character building or growth of any sort - they literally go from fucking to falling in love - with no proper dialogue to facilitate their attraction. That's lust, not love. I was not feeling this at all.
Want to read
November 12, 2018💝 FREE on Amazon today (11/12/2018)! 💝
Blurb:
There’s a name for girls like me: Sugar Baby. I’m used to being passed around the sexually depraved, middle-aged senators of Washington D.C. like candy, but when I meet him - the mysterious man who buys my exclusivity for three months for price that should frighten me more than his demands - everything changes.
He's younger than the others. His touch is softer. His lips sweeter. His need fiercer. He has only one requirement...
A blindfold to protect his identity... and to protect me from the danger I'd face if our affair leaked to the world.
No phones. No light. No real names. He says I'm his dark paradise, and we have to keep it that way. He promises I'll thank him someday.
But what is he really hiding? And what happens if I find out?
Blurb:
There’s a name for girls like me: Sugar Baby. I’m used to being passed around the sexually depraved, middle-aged senators of Washington D.C. like candy, but when I meet him - the mysterious man who buys my exclusivity for three months for price that should frighten me more than his demands - everything changes.
He's younger than the others. His touch is softer. His lips sweeter. His need fiercer. He has only one requirement...
A blindfold to protect his identity... and to protect me from the danger I'd face if our affair leaked to the world.
No phones. No light. No real names. He says I'm his dark paradise, and we have to keep it that way. He promises I'll thank him someday.
But what is he really hiding? And what happens if I find out?
January 9, 2016
This was good. But it had the potential to be so much better. This had great elements to it, mystery, sex and a politician hiring an escort for 3 months. I mean, come on, that sounds good! However the ending felt very rushed. I think the author should have dove more into the secrets. There was a pretty big reveal towards the end, and then it just wrapped up very quickly.
All in all a decent read that could have been great.
All in all a decent read that could have been great.
Want to read
December 16, 2015On SALE on Amazon US at the moment (Dec 16 2015)
Sounds good!!
Sounds good!!
December 16, 2015
I have loved Winter’s books since I read the first one and she never disappoints. Dark Paradise tells the story of Camille Buchanan. She is an elite escort to some of the most powerful men in DC. She gets an offer she cannot refuse, to be exclusive to someone named “John” for three months. Only thing is she can never see his face. She knows he is different than her usual clients but she is yet to realize how different he is.
“John” is part of a DC dynasty. He wanted Camille ever since he first laid eyes on her and made it a point to make her his. Camille knows her time is limited in DC and has made precautions to keep herself safe from the powerful men there. She just doesn’t realize how much those precautions will come into play in her deal with John.
I really liked this book. It was romance but it also had a little romantic suspense in the story which I really like. I like books where the female has an unconventional job and Camille was an escort with morals if that is a thing. I also like how even though we got John’s perspective in the book, his true identity was hidden for a good part of the book. I won’t reveal his real name in this review because I really think guessing who he was enhanced the reading experience.
If you haven’t read any of Winter Renshaw’s books this is a really good one to start with. 4.5 Stars!!
“John” is part of a DC dynasty. He wanted Camille ever since he first laid eyes on her and made it a point to make her his. Camille knows her time is limited in DC and has made precautions to keep herself safe from the powerful men there. She just doesn’t realize how much those precautions will come into play in her deal with John.
I really liked this book. It was romance but it also had a little romantic suspense in the story which I really like. I like books where the female has an unconventional job and Camille was an escort with morals if that is a thing. I also like how even though we got John’s perspective in the book, his true identity was hidden for a good part of the book. I won’t reveal his real name in this review because I really think guessing who he was enhanced the reading experience.
If you haven’t read any of Winter Renshaw’s books this is a really good one to start with. 4.5 Stars!!
January 1, 2016
Complimentary copy provided by author for an honest review.
Again an amazing story of Winter Renshaw I love to read her stories, you get everything in this one, suspense, political secrets and lots of love. But can Camille and Ronan survive their love or will the first lady destroy everything.
I'm sure this is not only fiction and these things happen in the political world but we have to keep in mind that all these politicians are only just people and they also can make mistakes.
Again an amazing story of Winter Renshaw I love to read her stories, you get everything in this one, suspense, political secrets and lots of love. But can Camille and Ronan survive their love or will the first lady destroy everything.
I'm sure this is not only fiction and these things happen in the political world but we have to keep in mind that all these politicians are only just people and they also can make mistakes.
March 13, 2020
Dark Paradise was a slow burner for me.
At the start, the attraction and connection between Camille and her “mystery man” just seemed as if it was nothing more than physical. And this really annoyed me.
Once the book progressed, it became more emotional and I began to be more interested in the book. It began to be less frustrating to read.
I really liked the synopsis of the book. It’s slightly cliche, but I do enjoy a romance about two lovers from different social classes.
One thing that did annoy me was how abruptly it ended. Nevertheless, I still enjoyed it :)
Stars ~ 4
At the start, the attraction and connection between Camille and her “mystery man” just seemed as if it was nothing more than physical. And this really annoyed me.
Once the book progressed, it became more emotional and I began to be more interested in the book. It began to be less frustrating to read.
I really liked the synopsis of the book. It’s slightly cliche, but I do enjoy a romance about two lovers from different social classes.
One thing that did annoy me was how abruptly it ended. Nevertheless, I still enjoyed it :)
Stars ~ 4
November 14, 2024
Like House of Cards only smut. Lots of fun, political intrigue, and secret journals written by an escort. No complaints.
April 4, 2018
The book revolves about a girl who lives her life as an escort to the powerful men and one day she meets the secretive and seductive man who seems to meet all her needs but she can never see who he is because he always puts a blindfold on her when they are together.
Both of them start to feel more than just lust for each other and neither one if prepared for the storm that is coming their way.
This was a pretty quick and satisfying read I must say and the potential for more was everywhere and I kept hoping for more depth to the story but it didn’t quit work the way I hoped.
Characters were very easy to understand and get a feel for.
Would love to read an extended epilogue or something similar to it.
Narration was OK, nothing mind blowing but it passed the test.
November 14, 2017
Unexpected Delight
I really didn’t imagine that I’d fall head over heels for this book as much as I did. I worried about the connection to politics. But I had zero reason to worry. This novel kept me glued to the pages from start to finish. I didn’t want to stop reading but, alas, I had to in order to work. I adored the characters, the plot, the tiny glimpse into what a life in the political spotlight may be like. The dirty naughtiness that that is plaguing DC these days comes to life but in a less-sleazy way than in real life LOL. I loved it so much that I’m starting book 2 now!
I really didn’t imagine that I’d fall head over heels for this book as much as I did. I worried about the connection to politics. But I had zero reason to worry. This novel kept me glued to the pages from start to finish. I didn’t want to stop reading but, alas, I had to in order to work. I adored the characters, the plot, the tiny glimpse into what a life in the political spotlight may be like. The dirty naughtiness that that is plaguing DC these days comes to life but in a less-sleazy way than in real life LOL. I loved it so much that I’m starting book 2 now!
December 14, 2015
Pretty Woman goes to DC
I loved this.
It had twist, turns, and mystery.
Camille takes on last job. She wants to get out of the life, and "John" makes an offer she can' t refuse.
The only catch is that she can't see his face. It's for her own protection.
"John" wants out of his life. They use each other as an escape, and its sexy.
Good stuff
I loved this.
It had twist, turns, and mystery.
Camille takes on last job. She wants to get out of the life, and "John" makes an offer she can' t refuse.
The only catch is that she can't see his face. It's for her own protection.
"John" wants out of his life. They use each other as an escape, and its sexy.
Good stuff
December 21, 2015
Loved this book.
This book will pull you in and keep you on the edge. It's a great story. I don't want to give anything away but you need to read this book and follow the journey. This is a love story. One click immediately.
This book will pull you in and keep you on the edge. It's a great story. I don't want to give anything away but you need to read this book and follow the journey. This is a love story. One click immediately.
January 18, 2016
My first Winter Renshaw read.
Not a dark romance and not super dirty but an enjoyable read with a likeable h and a hot H that kept me glued from start to finish.
Definitely going to check out more by this author.
Not a dark romance and not super dirty but an enjoyable read with a likeable h and a hot H that kept me glued from start to finish.
Definitely going to check out more by this author.
October 23, 2017
Great story!!
This author has written a truly beautiful and intrigued story which had me hooked and intrigued throughout. I look forward to reading more of her work in the future. Brilliant work Winter!
This author has written a truly beautiful and intrigued story which had me hooked and intrigued throughout. I look forward to reading more of her work in the future. Brilliant work Winter!
November 23, 2017
Wow
I was not expecting to like this book at all. The naughty parts are off the charts. Today is Thanksgiving, and I sort of put cooking on hold to read it. I hope my turkey breasts aren't dry by the time I get the mashed potatoes done.
I was not expecting to like this book at all. The naughty parts are off the charts. Today is Thanksgiving, and I sort of put cooking on hold to read it. I hope my turkey breasts aren't dry by the time I get the mashed potatoes done.
January 8, 2016
Great book , felt the end was a bit rushed , could have developed into so much more
March 11, 2020
“I’ve never wanted romance. I’ve never wanted some larger-than-life love story or that clichéd happily ever after every woman my age would kill for. I just want to be unforgettable.”
Not a prostitute, not a hooker. A luxury escort. And put that luxury, since not everyone can hire the services of Camille Buchanan. And her goal with her customers is only one: to be unforgettable.
John, or rather, Ronan Montgomery is the eldest son of the President of the United States. Responsible for continuing the family's political legacy. A legacy he doesn't want, because the only power that seduces him is that who only Camille has. The power to turn any place into a dark paradise.
And what starts in dark, blindfolded rooms increasingly threatens to make it into daylight, while doubts in the minds and hearts of two people travel between reality and fantasy. Are there feelings involved or is it all just a business transaction with secrecy and exclusivity?
An interesting way to look behind the scenes of wealthy families, renowned and with strong political influence anywhere in the Western world. And in this trajectory where so many interests are at stake, who needs enemies, when manipulation and lies begin within their own family?
From well-planned and executed rumors to unusual marriage proposals, where what really matters is maintaining status, power and money, this relationship tries to develop in broken hearts, who do not believe in love and cannot distinguish what is real or what is part of a detailed seduction plan.
Secrets, blackmail, intrigue and all kinds of dangers. The book has several twists and turns without being tiring, and manages to be intriguing and sensual, without being appealing. The ending has jaw-dropping revelations and shows that, we can achieve things that go far beyond what we believe and dream about.
Not a prostitute, not a hooker. A luxury escort. And put that luxury, since not everyone can hire the services of Camille Buchanan. And her goal with her customers is only one: to be unforgettable.
John, or rather, Ronan Montgomery is the eldest son of the President of the United States. Responsible for continuing the family's political legacy. A legacy he doesn't want, because the only power that seduces him is that who only Camille has. The power to turn any place into a dark paradise.
And what starts in dark, blindfolded rooms increasingly threatens to make it into daylight, while doubts in the minds and hearts of two people travel between reality and fantasy. Are there feelings involved or is it all just a business transaction with secrecy and exclusivity?
An interesting way to look behind the scenes of wealthy families, renowned and with strong political influence anywhere in the Western world. And in this trajectory where so many interests are at stake, who needs enemies, when manipulation and lies begin within their own family?
From well-planned and executed rumors to unusual marriage proposals, where what really matters is maintaining status, power and money, this relationship tries to develop in broken hearts, who do not believe in love and cannot distinguish what is real or what is part of a detailed seduction plan.
Secrets, blackmail, intrigue and all kinds of dangers. The book has several twists and turns without being tiring, and manages to be intriguing and sensual, without being appealing. The ending has jaw-dropping revelations and shows that, we can achieve things that go far beyond what we believe and dream about.
July 12, 2018
This is the first book in the Montgomery Brothers series by Winter Renshaw. Camille is 24 years old, a theater major who graduated from Georgetown University with a MENSA IQ. Her dream is to become a famous actress, she wants nothing more than to be unforgettable. Her and her roommate, Araminta came up with a plan while they were still in college. They would be very high priced prostitutes for the elite in Washington DC for five years. After they made plenty of money they would move to Los Angeles and pursue their dreams of becoming actresses. Camille has rules and does not have married clients until Senator Trey Bancroft. He was her client a year ago and he lied and said he was legally separated from his wife. She has a new client who is high profile and he requires her to wear a blindfold when they’re together. She doesn’t even know his name, he tells her to call him John. Their contract is exclusive for twelve weeks and at the end she’ll be paid one million dollars. “John” first saw Camille at a charity masquerade ball almost a year ago when she attended with Senator Bancroft. She wasn’t wearing a mask and when he looked in her eyes he felt paralyzed and couldn’t breathe. He searched for her the rest of the night but couldn’t find her. He vowed then and there that she would belong to only him. I didn’t really like Camille, she was shallow and just a very bland character. I find it hard to believe that someone with a very high IQ who graduated from Georgetown would be dreaming of being an actress.
July 2, 2017
Camille is a high end escort for the well to do and influential men. When her new mysterious client buys her services for the next 3 months, she doesn't even realize what she's getting into. She's blindfolded to protect his identity and to protect her from the danger she'd face if their affair leaked to the world.
Ronan Montgomery has lived a very controlled life, controlled by his political parents. Being an active Presidents's son has not been easy for Ronan. Camille's and Ronan's 3 months affair become serious when their true identities are revealed. But not everyone is happy with this affair and it very well be a matter of life and death now.
It was an okay book. I wasn't a fan of Camille. She seemed like a shallow girl who just wants fame and acknowledgement . I couldn't feel anything for her. Ronan, on the other hand, was the saving grace for me, a dashing, very influential man.
Ronan Montgomery has lived a very controlled life, controlled by his political parents. Being an active Presidents's son has not been easy for Ronan. Camille's and Ronan's 3 months affair become serious when their true identities are revealed. But not everyone is happy with this affair and it very well be a matter of life and death now.
It was an okay book. I wasn't a fan of Camille. She seemed like a shallow girl who just wants fame and acknowledgement . I couldn't feel anything for her. Ronan, on the other hand, was the saving grace for me, a dashing, very influential man.
September 21, 2019
3.6 star rating - Very...open-ended. And short.
High stakes, rendezvous, great sex, and political games anyone?.
This was different, to say the least. It was short, very abrupt--from start to finish, in my opinion--and ironically romantic given the circumstances the characters were conveniently placed by the author. The connections between one scene to another involving certain characters seemed like a plot gimmick, but they sufficed.
Overall, I loved the concept, the intimate connection between the two main characters, the sex, the blindfold aspect... It was lovely.
High stakes, rendezvous, great sex, and political games anyone?.
This was different, to say the least. It was short, very abrupt--from start to finish, in my opinion--and ironically romantic given the circumstances the characters were conveniently placed by the author. The connections between one scene to another involving certain characters seemed like a plot gimmick, but they sufficed.
Overall, I loved the concept, the intimate connection between the two main characters, the sex, the blindfold aspect... It was lovely.
June 9, 2020
Fun quick read. Enjoyed the reading experience, but looking back I didn’t love the plot etc.
January 7, 2021
I read this book in like no time at all! It was a fun, easy read.
December 12, 2015
Dark Paradise by Winter Renshaw
Purchased: Kindle - $.99 [Sale for a limited time!]
My Rating: 5 of 5 Stars
Spoilers!
What’s It All About:
“There’s a name for girls like me: Sugar Baby. I’m used to being passed around the sexually depraved, middle-aged senators of Washington D.C. like candy, but when I meet him - the mysterious man who buys my exclusivity for three months for price that should frighten me more than his demands - everything changes.
He's younger than the others. His touch is softer. His lips sweeter. His need fiercer. He has only one requirement...
A blindfold to protect his identity...and to protect me from the danger I'd face if our arrangement leaked to the world.
No phones. No light. No real names. He says I'm his dark paradise, and we have to keep it that way. He promises I'll thank him someday.
But what is he really hiding? And what happens if I find out? ”
Description taken from Amazon.
The Best Parts:
I love my romance novels, but there was something about this one that was different. A good different. There was romance and sex and steamy scenes, but there was mystery and the unknown, and basically a blindfold. Just like Camille with “John” we are blinded from what is there but we can feel it and touch it and learn to love it for everything that it truly is. This romance novel has all the working of a typic smutty book, but then there is the underlying story and the sensual nature of what it really means to be with someone, and there you have an amazing novel.
This work is so different from Renshaw’s others, but by far my favorite read from her. I couldn’t keep my mind off of these characters! Even though there is so little we actually do know I feel like we know so much or even at times too much. Like if we know too much we will be hurt just like “John” thought Camille would be. Such a strategic move on the authors part.
The Worst Parts:
Now I do think the ending was rushed, but then I thought about it all day at work and realized it wasn’t. It was meticulous and laid out and “John thought of everything he needed to do to keep his woman safe. The year epilogue guides you towards what happened in the mean time, but I do have to say I was disappointed about one thing. I know that the relationship in this book isn’t about love, but just once I would have loved to have heard them say it each other.
Final Thoughts:
I’m not much into politics, but if DC had been like this when I visited I probably would have stayed around for the long haul and not just a few days. This novel is a must read and one that you won’t be able to put down <3
Purchased: Kindle - $.99 [Sale for a limited time!]
My Rating: 5 of 5 Stars
Spoilers!
What’s It All About:
“There’s a name for girls like me: Sugar Baby. I’m used to being passed around the sexually depraved, middle-aged senators of Washington D.C. like candy, but when I meet him - the mysterious man who buys my exclusivity for three months for price that should frighten me more than his demands - everything changes.
He's younger than the others. His touch is softer. His lips sweeter. His need fiercer. He has only one requirement...
A blindfold to protect his identity...and to protect me from the danger I'd face if our arrangement leaked to the world.
No phones. No light. No real names. He says I'm his dark paradise, and we have to keep it that way. He promises I'll thank him someday.
But what is he really hiding? And what happens if I find out? ”
Description taken from Amazon.
The Best Parts:
I love my romance novels, but there was something about this one that was different. A good different. There was romance and sex and steamy scenes, but there was mystery and the unknown, and basically a blindfold. Just like Camille with “John” we are blinded from what is there but we can feel it and touch it and learn to love it for everything that it truly is. This romance novel has all the working of a typic smutty book, but then there is the underlying story and the sensual nature of what it really means to be with someone, and there you have an amazing novel.
This work is so different from Renshaw’s others, but by far my favorite read from her. I couldn’t keep my mind off of these characters! Even though there is so little we actually do know I feel like we know so much or even at times too much. Like if we know too much we will be hurt just like “John” thought Camille would be. Such a strategic move on the authors part.
The Worst Parts:
Now I do think the ending was rushed, but then I thought about it all day at work and realized it wasn’t. It was meticulous and laid out and “John thought of everything he needed to do to keep his woman safe. The year epilogue guides you towards what happened in the mean time, but I do have to say I was disappointed about one thing. I know that the relationship in this book isn’t about love, but just once I would have loved to have heard them say it each other.
Final Thoughts:
I’m not much into politics, but if DC had been like this when I visited I probably would have stayed around for the long haul and not just a few days. This novel is a must read and one that you won’t be able to put down <3
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