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Love Drunk #2
Venture Forward
Raw. Cold. Detached. Domineering...
Paul Emerson lives life like he f*cks. It’s the only way to survive, to battle the demons forever lurking in his subconscious, to resist succumbing to the darkness that perpetually overshadows his existence. As a ruthless venture capitalist with an insatiable appetite for power and control, he has no tolerance for emotion or any tryst spanning more than a few hours. Feelings equate to weakness and weakness destroys livelihoods.
Driven. Focused. Bitter. Guilty…
Avery Hunter is tormented by what she can’t change, but letting go is never the preferred option. Her successes aren’t nearly enough to fill the gaping void in her heart and soul. No, revenge always begets satisfaction and fulfillment…except when it extinguishes the last source of brightness in her life. Karma is a bitch and irony is her evil twin sister.
Damaged. Rejected. Broken…
The woman who harbors and the man who resists. With so much baggage and even more angst, can their wounded souls finally find solace in one another? Or is their future happiness doomed to be ravaged by the lies and deceit that litter their pasts?
Paul Emerson lives life like he f*cks. It’s the only way to survive, to battle the demons forever lurking in his subconscious, to resist succumbing to the darkness that perpetually overshadows his existence. As a ruthless venture capitalist with an insatiable appetite for power and control, he has no tolerance for emotion or any tryst spanning more than a few hours. Feelings equate to weakness and weakness destroys livelihoods.
Driven. Focused. Bitter. Guilty…
Avery Hunter is tormented by what she can’t change, but letting go is never the preferred option. Her successes aren’t nearly enough to fill the gaping void in her heart and soul. No, revenge always begets satisfaction and fulfillment…except when it extinguishes the last source of brightness in her life. Karma is a bitch and irony is her evil twin sister.
Damaged. Rejected. Broken…
The woman who harbors and the man who resists. With so much baggage and even more angst, can their wounded souls finally find solace in one another? Or is their future happiness doomed to be ravaged by the lies and deceit that litter their pasts?
- GenresRomance
252 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 15, 2016
24 people are currently reading
151 people want to read
About the author
Kristen Luciani
86 books1,574 followers
Kristen Luciani is a USA Today bestselling romance author, momtrepreneur, and a beauty product junkie with a penchant for stilettos, Silicon Valley, plunging necklines and grapefruit martinis. As a deep-rooted romantic who prefers juicy drama to fill the lives of anyone other than her, she tried her hand at creating a world of enchantment, sensuality, and intrigue, finally uncovering her true passion. No pun intended…
***FREE BOOK OFFER!*** Click here to get a free copy of my MAYHEM!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
February 12, 2016
Venture Forward is one of those books that had me changing my mind, a lot. I wasn’t sure if I really liked it or not. I think it was because the characters confused me.
I’ll start with the first person I ‘met’, Paul Emerson. There were times I really didn’t like him, but the more I got to ‘know’ him, the more I liked him. I think this was because it took a while before the author allowed me to know him and his background.
I liked Avery from the very beginning and I was annoyed that there were so many who didn’t understand her, but I suppose that was her fault because she didn’t let many people in. She was also a bit of a mystery until the author revealed her background.
These are the two main characters in Venture Forward, but there were plenty of others, maybe too many because I started to get confused about who was who because there were so many.
Don’t get me wrong, I liked Venture Forward, but there were a few things that annoyed me and I’m not just talking about some of the minor characters. Although I like a bit of mystery in the books I read, I felt I was kept in the dark too long. I also wanted to get the Paul and Avery in the same room so they could talk to each other. I also thought the ending was too rushed. Avery’s mother, who I didn’t like, changed her mind so suddenly, I was surprised. I would have like more a build up to this situation.
I gave Venture Forward 3 and a half stars.
Written by Karen from A Thousand Lives Book Blog
I’ll start with the first person I ‘met’, Paul Emerson. There were times I really didn’t like him, but the more I got to ‘know’ him, the more I liked him. I think this was because it took a while before the author allowed me to know him and his background.
I liked Avery from the very beginning and I was annoyed that there were so many who didn’t understand her, but I suppose that was her fault because she didn’t let many people in. She was also a bit of a mystery until the author revealed her background.
These are the two main characters in Venture Forward, but there were plenty of others, maybe too many because I started to get confused about who was who because there were so many.
Don’t get me wrong, I liked Venture Forward, but there were a few things that annoyed me and I’m not just talking about some of the minor characters. Although I like a bit of mystery in the books I read, I felt I was kept in the dark too long. I also wanted to get the Paul and Avery in the same room so they could talk to each other. I also thought the ending was too rushed. Avery’s mother, who I didn’t like, changed her mind so suddenly, I was surprised. I would have like more a build up to this situation.
I gave Venture Forward 3 and a half stars.
Written by Karen from A Thousand Lives Book Blog
March 4, 2016
I loved this very much. The book started with a bang and the action begins. As the book started I was engrossed in Avery's life and how much she has achieved and her pain. Paul Emerson is cold, domineering and yet I found him too intense, raw, and too passionate. I loved Avery as well and how she tried to make her name. She was flawed but quick to always realize her mistake. Both of them were broken and I was rooting for them. As and when the story moved forwards, the secrets started coming out, I was scared, so scared that I wanted to shield them the truth. Lol, that's how invested I was. I loved the sexual tension between them, it was so hot that I wanted to push their head together *KISS* lol.
I highly recommend this book who loved to read good story about two broken people trying to avoid falling in love yet can't help gravitating towards each other.
I highly recommend this book who loved to read good story about two broken people trying to avoid falling in love yet can't help gravitating towards each other.
May 8, 2016
This book was given to me in exchange for an honest review.
Venture Forward is the third book in the Venture series, and it follows Paul Emerson and a lady called Avery Hunter. I think this book was my favourite of the series because of it's angst, drama, romance and the business aspect of the book. The plot was amazing and I loved how they became intertwined with other problems, as well as finding out hidden secrets. Avery and Paul both have troubled pasts, but only one of the decided to attempt to do something cathartic about it. I loved the use of a novel being created through an alias in an attempt to preserve their identity and protect their family. But what if the circumstances weren't what you expected and they disproved your emotion completely? How would you feel if that novel could potentially destroy that person's life? These are the questions that are answered beautifully in Venture Forward.
Paul. He is a serious hottie, but I liked how he had a ruthless side as well as a softer and more loving side. His history was something I didn't expect, but I could see how it would make him how he is. Paul was seen in book one and two, and yet I always wanted to know what drives him. I certainly got my answer and I loved it! His interactions with Avery were hot and I loved the surfing scenes. The first time they met at the beach had me in laughter, as the character's were so real and I could believe everything that had happened. But what had me hooked was the fact that Paul never got what he wanted for the first time in his life. That is one of the reasons I had to finish the book, to see if he got the happily ever after!
Avery is a young woman who was determined to make something of herself. I found this admirable, especially when I heard about her sister, as she was hell-bent in making her creation available to the masses. Her strength to get through and make her family proud was amazing, as I don't think I could have done that. But what I found really inspiring was that she gave up her own dream to make her sister's a reality. That takes some real dedication and guts but she made it work. Her reactions to Paul are steamy and I kept wanting to push them together, especially as I felt they could make it work. But *sigh* friends is all they want... Or is it???
This book is told through two perspectives allowing for the addition of extra-depth that made the book feel complete and completely thrilling for me to read. I will be recommending this to anyone I can, as it really is an amazing book! Kristen deserves way more than 5 stars!
Venture Forward is the third book in the Venture series, and it follows Paul Emerson and a lady called Avery Hunter. I think this book was my favourite of the series because of it's angst, drama, romance and the business aspect of the book. The plot was amazing and I loved how they became intertwined with other problems, as well as finding out hidden secrets. Avery and Paul both have troubled pasts, but only one of the decided to attempt to do something cathartic about it. I loved the use of a novel being created through an alias in an attempt to preserve their identity and protect their family. But what if the circumstances weren't what you expected and they disproved your emotion completely? How would you feel if that novel could potentially destroy that person's life? These are the questions that are answered beautifully in Venture Forward.
Paul. He is a serious hottie, but I liked how he had a ruthless side as well as a softer and more loving side. His history was something I didn't expect, but I could see how it would make him how he is. Paul was seen in book one and two, and yet I always wanted to know what drives him. I certainly got my answer and I loved it! His interactions with Avery were hot and I loved the surfing scenes. The first time they met at the beach had me in laughter, as the character's were so real and I could believe everything that had happened. But what had me hooked was the fact that Paul never got what he wanted for the first time in his life. That is one of the reasons I had to finish the book, to see if he got the happily ever after!
Avery is a young woman who was determined to make something of herself. I found this admirable, especially when I heard about her sister, as she was hell-bent in making her creation available to the masses. Her strength to get through and make her family proud was amazing, as I don't think I could have done that. But what I found really inspiring was that she gave up her own dream to make her sister's a reality. That takes some real dedication and guts but she made it work. Her reactions to Paul are steamy and I kept wanting to push them together, especially as I felt they could make it work. But *sigh* friends is all they want... Or is it???
This book is told through two perspectives allowing for the addition of extra-depth that made the book feel complete and completely thrilling for me to read. I will be recommending this to anyone I can, as it really is an amazing book! Kristen deserves way more than 5 stars!
April 24, 2016
I have been waiting to FINALLY get Paul Emerson’s story since the very first book in this great series! The wait was so worth it…Kristen Luciani did not disappoint! Not only was I looking forward to really getting to know the secrets of this mysterious man who has made an appearance in every book in the series, but I was also looking forward to meeting the woman who would finally break past his icy heart and make him finally fall in love!
Paul meets Avery on the beach where he goes to surf after rescuing her from drowning. They are both in for quite a surprise. Paul is used to women swooning over him, and Avery most definitely doesn’t do that. She doesn’t look at him with lust or adoration but with anger and disdain. Not only does he find her beautiful, but he finds her intriguing as well because of her attitude toward him. She knows who Paul is and doesn’t care for him in the least, well that’s what she tells herself. The two will continue to run into one another, and Avery will find out that he isn’t the “monster” she thinks he is. As the two spend time together and develop a friendship fraught with electric sexual chemistry, they discover they have a lot in common, especially painful pasts. Paul and Avery have a chance to heal one another, but secrets will threaten to tear them apart and destroy any chance they may have at happiness.
I had no idea how complex Paul really was. With every chapter, another layer of Paul’s personality was revealed. I finally learned why he is so cold and unfeeling. He wields his control as a way to deal with his pain. When reading about his childhood in flashbacks, it was at times hard to read. And, Avery, was no different. When she fell to her knees and sobbed on the beach, my heart broke for her. This couple deserves to be happy, and you will find yourself cheering them on!
Not only was this a great romance, mixed with secret business dealings, and some mystery, but it was a great story about life. Sometimes we think we can fill our lives with things like prestige, control, and success to fill the holes in our hearts, but I saw through Paul and Avery, it’s love that fills those holes and brings you happiness. I just have to add…the last line in the book was perfect…it was so classically Paul! Perfect ending! But, don’t you dare read that last line until you have savored every word in this fantastic book!
***Reviewed for Devilishly Delicious Book Reviews***
Paul meets Avery on the beach where he goes to surf after rescuing her from drowning. They are both in for quite a surprise. Paul is used to women swooning over him, and Avery most definitely doesn’t do that. She doesn’t look at him with lust or adoration but with anger and disdain. Not only does he find her beautiful, but he finds her intriguing as well because of her attitude toward him. She knows who Paul is and doesn’t care for him in the least, well that’s what she tells herself. The two will continue to run into one another, and Avery will find out that he isn’t the “monster” she thinks he is. As the two spend time together and develop a friendship fraught with electric sexual chemistry, they discover they have a lot in common, especially painful pasts. Paul and Avery have a chance to heal one another, but secrets will threaten to tear them apart and destroy any chance they may have at happiness.
I had no idea how complex Paul really was. With every chapter, another layer of Paul’s personality was revealed. I finally learned why he is so cold and unfeeling. He wields his control as a way to deal with his pain. When reading about his childhood in flashbacks, it was at times hard to read. And, Avery, was no different. When she fell to her knees and sobbed on the beach, my heart broke for her. This couple deserves to be happy, and you will find yourself cheering them on!
Not only was this a great romance, mixed with secret business dealings, and some mystery, but it was a great story about life. Sometimes we think we can fill our lives with things like prestige, control, and success to fill the holes in our hearts, but I saw through Paul and Avery, it’s love that fills those holes and brings you happiness. I just have to add…the last line in the book was perfect…it was so classically Paul! Perfect ending! But, don’t you dare read that last line until you have savored every word in this fantastic book!
***Reviewed for Devilishly Delicious Book Reviews***
April 25, 2016
Avery is trying not to let her guilty, grief, and her mother ruin her life. She has been living in the shadow of her sister's death trying to make up for the loss. She will never be able to make it up to her mother and everyday it claws at her heart. She did everything she could and it was not enough. She feels like she is never enough.
Paul has a chip the size of the state of Texas on his shoulder. Everyone can see it, but few know why its there. Paul doesn't tie himself to anyone or thing other than his company Blue Coat Capital. HE runs the show. Unfortunately, it seems his ego has gotten in the way of his company. Someone is out to destroy him and his company. He won't stand for it. Paul will take them down.
What happens when the good in your life might not be good? When the person responsible for your downfall was also your savior? Read it and find out!
I really enjoyed learning more about Paul's story. I knew that big old chip on his shoulder wasn't from some women he did't care about. I was very glad to learn his wrath had reasons and not shallow ones. Humanizing Paul has definitely kept my interest in the series! I can't wait to see whose next?
Potential romances are popping up everywhere. I have an idea but with so many new introductions- I'm left guessing whose next.
Kristen Luciani made me cry. I had to say it. The up and down,the ifs, and then reality of the story made me cry. She did it on purpose. I have heard that authors get sick enjoyment out of making readers cry. But don't worry, I'll fight harder not to fall prey to her vicious tactics...
Bull, I will probably crumble in the next book too. I'm on to you though, Kristen, I've got my guard up now!
If you all can't tell, I really had a blast with the feisty Avery and the stubbornly, sexy Paul. It was a quick read for me because I got pulled into the immediate conflicts. You will too.
Paul has a chip the size of the state of Texas on his shoulder. Everyone can see it, but few know why its there. Paul doesn't tie himself to anyone or thing other than his company Blue Coat Capital. HE runs the show. Unfortunately, it seems his ego has gotten in the way of his company. Someone is out to destroy him and his company. He won't stand for it. Paul will take them down.
What happens when the good in your life might not be good? When the person responsible for your downfall was also your savior? Read it and find out!
I really enjoyed learning more about Paul's story. I knew that big old chip on his shoulder wasn't from some women he did't care about. I was very glad to learn his wrath had reasons and not shallow ones. Humanizing Paul has definitely kept my interest in the series! I can't wait to see whose next?
Potential romances are popping up everywhere. I have an idea but with so many new introductions- I'm left guessing whose next.
Kristen Luciani made me cry. I had to say it. The up and down,the ifs, and then reality of the story made me cry. She did it on purpose. I have heard that authors get sick enjoyment out of making readers cry. But don't worry, I'll fight harder not to fall prey to her vicious tactics...
Bull, I will probably crumble in the next book too. I'm on to you though, Kristen, I've got my guard up now!
If you all can't tell, I really had a blast with the feisty Avery and the stubbornly, sexy Paul. It was a quick read for me because I got pulled into the immediate conflicts. You will too.
February 15, 2016
3 and a half Stars
This book was just okay for me. I found it difficult to get into the first half of the book and when I finally got into it started to drag in places and then bam everything was quickly resolved. The writing was good and I liked the approach the author took in adding a little mystery.
Avery comes from a broken family and when tragedy strikes she is determined to have a successful start-up company, one her sister would be proud of. Paul is a complex individual who doesn’t let anyone in. He too is from a broken family, one he is determined to out run. I liked Paul. He was deemed a “bad, untouchable” man but I didn’t see him that way. I had a hard time connecting with these characters. I didn’t feel the connection they had together. There were several moments where I wanted to scream “get out of your head and just talk! Stop going back and forth and just say something!”
Besides Avery and Paul, this story was loaded with side characters….so many characters that I got a little confused about who was who at times. I really liked Mia and Chris. They were sweet together. I liked that even though Mia and Avery were friends, she really had Paul’s back.
Like I said, this book was just okay for me. Would I read another book from this author? Absolutely.
This book was just okay for me. I found it difficult to get into the first half of the book and when I finally got into it started to drag in places and then bam everything was quickly resolved. The writing was good and I liked the approach the author took in adding a little mystery.
Avery comes from a broken family and when tragedy strikes she is determined to have a successful start-up company, one her sister would be proud of. Paul is a complex individual who doesn’t let anyone in. He too is from a broken family, one he is determined to out run. I liked Paul. He was deemed a “bad, untouchable” man but I didn’t see him that way. I had a hard time connecting with these characters. I didn’t feel the connection they had together. There were several moments where I wanted to scream “get out of your head and just talk! Stop going back and forth and just say something!”
Besides Avery and Paul, this story was loaded with side characters….so many characters that I got a little confused about who was who at times. I really liked Mia and Chris. They were sweet together. I liked that even though Mia and Avery were friends, she really had Paul’s back.
Like I said, this book was just okay for me. Would I read another book from this author? Absolutely.
April 23, 2016
I couldn't wait to read Paul's story. I wasn't disappointed either. When Paul meets Avery on the beach and saves her life that's not their first connection. With Avery hating Paul she couldn't even thank him for saving her life. Both have regrets and family issues and could really help each other but Paul's past is coming back to haunt him and doesn't want to hurt Avery, but Avery has a secret that could ruin everything. When Avery secret is exposed Paul feels betrayed and leaves her and doesn't look back but Avery is in the wrong spot at the wrong time. Was that the last Paul will see of Avery? Great story, love seeing the other characters from the other books. Can't wait to read Joint Venture when it's released
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review
February 19, 2016
I think this was a great continuation of this series. I fell in love with Paul and Avery, just like I had the previous characters. I liked the depth of these two, they had inner demons that they were able to work through and finally find peace within themselves. Kristin did a great job of bringing back the previous characters, adding to their stories without overshadowing the current tale. I like it when the old friends come back to visit. I look forward to seeing where she takes me in the next book.
March 1, 2016
Received an ARC for an honest review. I have not read the first two books in the Venture series and I was able to follow the story of Paul and Avery. The story held my attention and I loved the amount of mystery that was presented. Paul and Avery were extremely hot with chemistry that went beyond the charts. Kristen Luciani made this story line easy to follow for me. I love when an author can pull you in and make you feel like you are in the book. I look forward to reading more and seeing what the future holds.
July 28, 2016
What happens when a book captures your attention from the start, keeps you on edge, and has you screaming "Nooooooo" when you know the book is almost over!! You have to tell a friend. I'm telling you this was a good book.
Even though this is the third book in the series, you are able to jump right in. Avery thought she hated Paul for crushing her dream. Paul was taken with Avery from the moment they met. The two learn that not everything is what it seems. In the end love wins. This book has plot twists that keep you on edge, is steamy, and has a sweet HEA.
Even though this is the third book in the series, you are able to jump right in. Avery thought she hated Paul for crushing her dream. Paul was taken with Avery from the moment they met. The two learn that not everything is what it seems. In the end love wins. This book has plot twists that keep you on edge, is steamy, and has a sweet HEA.
March 20, 2016
Pretty good story. It started out a little slow for me. People holding past grudges and a book written about it? But the more I got into the book the more I enjoyed it. I did like the chemistry between the two main characters, just seemed like I was missing back story.
February 23, 2016
Review coming soon
June 24, 2017
This story is soooooo fantastic! It has everything...lies, deceit, betrayal, humor and some sexy scenes! And and some tears. I loved these two together, Paul and Avery had some serious sexual tension and it explodes BIG! I just loved how Kristen keeps a reader on their toes and has some intense scenes and ones that'll make you want to reach into book and smack someone. Paul and Avery may be my fave Venture couple because they both have hard pasts and come out so much stronger!
July 28, 2020
I love the "hate to love" in this book!! I love how Paul has all these hidden layers behind this ruthless businessman. Avery doesn't make it easy for Paul to like her but she has her reasons.. Great chemistry between these two. Lots of drama and gripping suspense!
September 17, 2019
Fantastic romance!!!
July 23, 2020
Paul and Avery
Awesome enemy to lovers with Paul and Avery. Both characters having ghosts in their past that haunt them, non stop build up and amazing chemistry. A must read
Awesome enemy to lovers with Paul and Avery. Both characters having ghosts in their past that haunt them, non stop build up and amazing chemistry. A must read
January 26, 2022
A little disappointing
Even though it was good. It was too much of a replica of the first one. Same story, just different characters.
Even though it was good. It was too much of a replica of the first one. Same story, just different characters.
February 25, 2017
Good read, interesting characters and storyline. Part of a series but can be read as a stand alone.
April 23, 2016
Ok so we all know this is the story we have all been waiting for ever since we bumped paths with the driving force of Blue Coat Paul Emerson. He has been the eye of the hurricane in the past two books in this series and ladies let me tell you he doesn't disappoint. Beginning with a bang he is haunted by blue eyes and a wicked tongue. Intrigued by the beauty he met in the surf their paths are destined to intermingle...
Avery is lost in a sea of grief and her career is founded in love for her sister. Struggling to make her sisters wishes come true has driven her to beat down doors and take everything one step at a time until she has built the next big thing. Successful and a name on everyone's tongue being turned down by the great Paul Emerson has only added fuel to her fire yet she hasn't been able to let the feelings of deep disappoint go. Brought together by shared business interests and mutal friends they can't deny their attraction for one another. Paul is fighting his own demons with a past he has locked deep inside can she break down his barriers? Yet with more secrets between them that are just poised to be revealed can they ever find their happily ever after?
Another amazing addition to this series. Paul is a haunted man and this book reveals his tortured soul and the lengths he goes to to pay it forward which was a real eye opener and made him far more appealing. Avery is very broken and a little angry but at the wrong person, misplaced blame to assuage her hurt. Yet some how together these two solitary figures make each other complete. A little business orientated this book takes us out of the corporate world and provides us with a little look at Paul's personal life and all the side projects he is involved in with a view of his family life too. It's a wonderful one click read.
A four and a half star I want to learn how to surf read.
Avery is lost in a sea of grief and her career is founded in love for her sister. Struggling to make her sisters wishes come true has driven her to beat down doors and take everything one step at a time until she has built the next big thing. Successful and a name on everyone's tongue being turned down by the great Paul Emerson has only added fuel to her fire yet she hasn't been able to let the feelings of deep disappoint go. Brought together by shared business interests and mutal friends they can't deny their attraction for one another. Paul is fighting his own demons with a past he has locked deep inside can she break down his barriers? Yet with more secrets between them that are just poised to be revealed can they ever find their happily ever after?
Another amazing addition to this series. Paul is a haunted man and this book reveals his tortured soul and the lengths he goes to to pay it forward which was a real eye opener and made him far more appealing. Avery is very broken and a little angry but at the wrong person, misplaced blame to assuage her hurt. Yet some how together these two solitary figures make each other complete. A little business orientated this book takes us out of the corporate world and provides us with a little look at Paul's personal life and all the side projects he is involved in with a view of his family life too. It's a wonderful one click read.
A four and a half star I want to learn how to surf read.
April 22, 2016
As the third book in the series, this was a great continuation. We met Paul Emerson in the previous books and the hardness and merciless personality continues. If you hated him before, here we are given his backstory and the reasons for the way he is. Not coming from the best of childhoods can certainly take a toll on a person and we see how and why he turned out to be this way. He’s handsome, has determination and assurance to last a lifetime, yet, his hard exterior keeps people away, only giving him the time when they want something from him.
Avery is also harboring some inner demons that plague her every day and cause her heart to hide from those around her, not letting anyone in. A promise to her sister and a desire to fulfill that promise help her achieve the goals she’s set out to accomplish, but sometimes at a great cost to her sanity. She is a great friend, beautiful, and determined, yet hasn’t been able to find someone to break down those barriers she’s set around her heart.
Paul and Avery are explosive. Their first encounter proving to not be the best, yet they both can’t stop thinking about the other. But as you get to read the story, you see that they are perfect for each other, complementing their personalities and making the other better. They did get annoying at times, not talking about issues and being mad at each other instead, yet you just knew they would resolve them and be together.
The side characters added much to the story, helping Avery and Paul grow as people and as a couple. It was nice to see what they were up to from the previous books.
Kristen’s writing is improving so much with each book and her stories and characters are addicting. Can’t wait to see what she comes up with next.
Avery is also harboring some inner demons that plague her every day and cause her heart to hide from those around her, not letting anyone in. A promise to her sister and a desire to fulfill that promise help her achieve the goals she’s set out to accomplish, but sometimes at a great cost to her sanity. She is a great friend, beautiful, and determined, yet hasn’t been able to find someone to break down those barriers she’s set around her heart.
Paul and Avery are explosive. Their first encounter proving to not be the best, yet they both can’t stop thinking about the other. But as you get to read the story, you see that they are perfect for each other, complementing their personalities and making the other better. They did get annoying at times, not talking about issues and being mad at each other instead, yet you just knew they would resolve them and be together.
The side characters added much to the story, helping Avery and Paul grow as people and as a couple. It was nice to see what they were up to from the previous books.
Kristen’s writing is improving so much with each book and her stories and characters are addicting. Can’t wait to see what she comes up with next.
April 23, 2016
Kristen....Thank you! The third book in a series does not disappoint. This can be read as a standalone, but do yourself a literary favor....start the series at the beginning and enjoy the characters that only Kristen can bring to life.
This was another solid storyline without errors of any kind. The characters were strong within themselves, just like every person should be. They are defensive, protective, broken, angry, engaged in walls that only they could break each other out of.
Paul Emerson. We meet him in the other books first. This one exposes why he is the shrewd venture capitalist that needs everything his way. He runs his company like he runs his love life. He knows what he wants and he goes for it. With an exterior that tough and cocky, you just know his background story is hell. Oh, don't think you will extract the information from Paul that quickly. That's not how you get in, ever. Let Avery handle this journey. It is totally worth it! Until?!?
Avery Hunter. This woman is Paul in Louboutins. She is a determined and success company owner. When doors closed in her face, she made new ones....strong ones. Behind those baby blues lies a broken woman. She can stand on her own. She is one hell of a negotiator, an internet success and a bestsellIng Author. She invites you piece by piece into her world. She is a multifaceted jewel that only a man like Paul can handle. Well, he is thrown for a couple of loops. Maybe he can handle?
You will meet family members, old loves, old psychotic freebies, chaos....name it, Kristen threw it in. Mystery, death, secrets, truths, deceit, romance, love and a bunch pain. Sometimes it takes love to knock down our walls and shake us up. After the dust settles, what happens? Go read and find out! See ya next book........
This was another solid storyline without errors of any kind. The characters were strong within themselves, just like every person should be. They are defensive, protective, broken, angry, engaged in walls that only they could break each other out of.
Paul Emerson. We meet him in the other books first. This one exposes why he is the shrewd venture capitalist that needs everything his way. He runs his company like he runs his love life. He knows what he wants and he goes for it. With an exterior that tough and cocky, you just know his background story is hell. Oh, don't think you will extract the information from Paul that quickly. That's not how you get in, ever. Let Avery handle this journey. It is totally worth it! Until?!?
Avery Hunter. This woman is Paul in Louboutins. She is a determined and success company owner. When doors closed in her face, she made new ones....strong ones. Behind those baby blues lies a broken woman. She can stand on her own. She is one hell of a negotiator, an internet success and a bestsellIng Author. She invites you piece by piece into her world. She is a multifaceted jewel that only a man like Paul can handle. Well, he is thrown for a couple of loops. Maybe he can handle?
You will meet family members, old loves, old psychotic freebies, chaos....name it, Kristen threw it in. Mystery, death, secrets, truths, deceit, romance, love and a bunch pain. Sometimes it takes love to knock down our walls and shake us up. After the dust settles, what happens? Go read and find out! See ya next book........
March 16, 2016
When Paul rescues a woman from the surf, he expects a little bit more than what he gets. And when he runs into her later at the office, he's not afraid to rub the earlier event in her face.
Avery put together a company for her sister, and when Paul's team, or rather Paul, dismissed the idea, he forever put himself on her shitlist. Nothing he could possibly do could make up for the fact her sister missed out on her dream, but her sister's dream lives on through Avery.
I enjoyed Paul's cold ways, to be honest. I found it made him a more interesting character. You could simply feel there was more to the man than what he showed, and I couldn't wait for everything to unfold.
Equally, I enjoyed Avery's fierceness and her drive. She wasn't one to give up and she pushed and pushed until she received the results she desired.
These two hard-headed people, on paper, shouldn't be such a perfect match, but my goodness, did they work well with one another.
So character wise, I found them to be well-rounded. I do like my well-rounded characters. And for the most part, the plotline worked for me. It was the writing style that occasionally lost me. This was another one of those books I had to start and re-start a number of times before I was finally able to get to "the good stuff", the part of the book that drew me in and finally kept me in. I liked the tension and the back-and-forth with our characters, but occasionally it became just this side of too much.
I will be spending the weekend reading the previous two books, and likely revisiting Paul and Avery.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review
Avery put together a company for her sister, and when Paul's team, or rather Paul, dismissed the idea, he forever put himself on her shitlist. Nothing he could possibly do could make up for the fact her sister missed out on her dream, but her sister's dream lives on through Avery.
I enjoyed Paul's cold ways, to be honest. I found it made him a more interesting character. You could simply feel there was more to the man than what he showed, and I couldn't wait for everything to unfold.
Equally, I enjoyed Avery's fierceness and her drive. She wasn't one to give up and she pushed and pushed until she received the results she desired.
These two hard-headed people, on paper, shouldn't be such a perfect match, but my goodness, did they work well with one another.
So character wise, I found them to be well-rounded. I do like my well-rounded characters. And for the most part, the plotline worked for me. It was the writing style that occasionally lost me. This was another one of those books I had to start and re-start a number of times before I was finally able to get to "the good stuff", the part of the book that drew me in and finally kept me in. I liked the tension and the back-and-forth with our characters, but occasionally it became just this side of too much.
I will be spending the weekend reading the previous two books, and likely revisiting Paul and Avery.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review
March 17, 2016
Paul is an in control, domineering, self assured, top notch businessman who just so happens to be sexy as hell! Avery is an independent, self assured woman, who created her own business from the ground up for her sister! They both have a past that is heart breaking and they both worked their asses off to get where they are. When they meet, Avery has no time for his egotistical insults. But there is something that she can't seem to do and that is get him out of her mind. Paul is not a relationship kind of guy. He likes his freedom to come and go as he pleases, but what you don't see is the real reason behind it.
This story totally did Paul justice! At the beginning of the story he was the same egotistical, self assured, ass that he was in the other books. However, this is where you get to really seem him. He is like this giant puzzle that needs put together! You get to see why he is the way he is. My heart opened and broke for him and his story! Avery faced her own tragedy and to heal from that she took to writing, little did she know that the writing would crash into a path that she would hurt others. This book grabbed my attention quickly. I laughed so much. There were times I wanted to jump in the book and smack people! I cried my eyes out! Kristen took her words and ripped my heart out but then put me all back together again! I loved Paul before this book, but now I have a complete new respect and compassion for his story! This is Kristen's best writing to date!!! You will fall in love with Paul and Avery! I did!!
This story totally did Paul justice! At the beginning of the story he was the same egotistical, self assured, ass that he was in the other books. However, this is where you get to really seem him. He is like this giant puzzle that needs put together! You get to see why he is the way he is. My heart opened and broke for him and his story! Avery faced her own tragedy and to heal from that she took to writing, little did she know that the writing would crash into a path that she would hurt others. This book grabbed my attention quickly. I laughed so much. There were times I wanted to jump in the book and smack people! I cried my eyes out! Kristen took her words and ripped my heart out but then put me all back together again! I loved Paul before this book, but now I have a complete new respect and compassion for his story! This is Kristen's best writing to date!!! You will fall in love with Paul and Avery! I did!!
April 23, 2016
I had really been looking forward to Paul's story and overall I wasn't disappointed. There's the saying that no one really knows what goes on behind closed doors and that was certainly true of Paul Emerson, who ended up being a much more multi dimensional character than I could ever have imagined.
Venture Forward is the third book in this series and while it can be read as a S/A, I would recommend reading the series in order. This was by far my favourite book in this series so far. It still very much centred around the business/finance world but it wasn't as full of the technicalities as the previous books which I much preferred. It was an enjoyable romance but it had an edge of suspense and mystery intertwined and had a nice kick of emotion.
I found that I easily fell into the book and was wrapped up in the story. If I had to grumble, the ending was far too rushed for me and to be honest, without giving away spoilers, there was some things towards the end that just seemed far too beyond realistic. I would have liked to have had some more scenes between Paul and Avery early on to give them a bigger build up. All being said, as I mentioned, I really did like this book, it's just the ending tipped it from great to good. This is still definitely worth a read and I will look forward to the next book in the series.
3.5 stars
I was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Venture Forward is the third book in this series and while it can be read as a S/A, I would recommend reading the series in order. This was by far my favourite book in this series so far. It still very much centred around the business/finance world but it wasn't as full of the technicalities as the previous books which I much preferred. It was an enjoyable romance but it had an edge of suspense and mystery intertwined and had a nice kick of emotion.
I found that I easily fell into the book and was wrapped up in the story. If I had to grumble, the ending was far too rushed for me and to be honest, without giving away spoilers, there was some things towards the end that just seemed far too beyond realistic. I would have liked to have had some more scenes between Paul and Avery early on to give them a bigger build up. All being said, as I mentioned, I really did like this book, it's just the ending tipped it from great to good. This is still definitely worth a read and I will look forward to the next book in the series.
3.5 stars
I was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 24, 2016
Paul Emerson doesn't let feelings get in his way. He's ruthless and driven - and successful. He "doesn't do relationships" - they get too messy. And just because some blue-eyed, blond, gorgeous woman has captured his attention, he won't change his mind. Will he?
Avery Hunter has built an extremely successful company, skyrocketing stars to the top, all without the help of Paul Emerson, the cocky, cold venture capitalist. She did it on her own. She didn't need him, and doesn't now. Then why does he occupy more and more of her thoughts? How can me make her feel so calm and crazy at the same time? She cannot and will not fall for him. Or so she tells herself
Wow.... what a book!! Venture Forward made me change my mind about Paul Emerson. Having read Kristen Luciani's first two books in the Venture Series (Unlikely Venture and Nothing Ventured), I kept waiting for the ruthless Paul Emerson to emerge and ruin James' and Chris' business because of Jessica. But that didn't happen. And as I read on, I started liking Paul, feeling for Paul, rooting for Paul. How did that happen?? I absolutely loved Venture Forward. I loved Paul and Avery's stories. Although their backgrounds were so different, they were drawn together, perhaps by their pain. They need each other and they belong together.
Another amazing story by Kristen Luciani. If you haven't read her books, what are you waiting for? You will not be disappointed, I promise.
Avery Hunter has built an extremely successful company, skyrocketing stars to the top, all without the help of Paul Emerson, the cocky, cold venture capitalist. She did it on her own. She didn't need him, and doesn't now. Then why does he occupy more and more of her thoughts? How can me make her feel so calm and crazy at the same time? She cannot and will not fall for him. Or so she tells herself
Wow.... what a book!! Venture Forward made me change my mind about Paul Emerson. Having read Kristen Luciani's first two books in the Venture Series (Unlikely Venture and Nothing Ventured), I kept waiting for the ruthless Paul Emerson to emerge and ruin James' and Chris' business because of Jessica. But that didn't happen. And as I read on, I started liking Paul, feeling for Paul, rooting for Paul. How did that happen?? I absolutely loved Venture Forward. I loved Paul and Avery's stories. Although their backgrounds were so different, they were drawn together, perhaps by their pain. They need each other and they belong together.
Another amazing story by Kristen Luciani. If you haven't read her books, what are you waiting for? You will not be disappointed, I promise.
April 23, 2016
I am absolutely loving this authors work and I can't get enough of this series. It just keeps getting better and keeps me wanting to read more on this series.
We meet Paul Emerson who lives the same way he treats hus life and women. He's cold hearted, is able to detach himself from everything and everyone in his life. And oh my Paul.is so domineering. But this is the way he battles the Demon's that are sub conciously in the back.
As you read further into the book you can't but help feel for Paul and you find yourself hoping that one day he will be able to put his demons to.rest and have a chance of love and happiness.
Next we Avery Hunter who I liked straight.she is a mysterious character who like Paul and carrying baggage around and refuses to let anybody get close enough to her.
Avery is battling problems with her mum who is trying to ruin her life after the death of her sister. Poor girl is constantly having to live in the shadow of her sister whilst dealing with her own grief at her sisters death. As you can her bitch of a mum isn't going to let this drop.
When Avery and Paul.are introduced by mutual friends the attraction between the two of them is immediate.
The chemistry between the two of them is hot hot hot but with both of them hiding so many secrets will they be able to help each other bring down the other ones walls and let each other in.
We meet Paul Emerson who lives the same way he treats hus life and women. He's cold hearted, is able to detach himself from everything and everyone in his life. And oh my Paul.is so domineering. But this is the way he battles the Demon's that are sub conciously in the back.
As you read further into the book you can't but help feel for Paul and you find yourself hoping that one day he will be able to put his demons to.rest and have a chance of love and happiness.
Next we Avery Hunter who I liked straight.she is a mysterious character who like Paul and carrying baggage around and refuses to let anybody get close enough to her.
Avery is battling problems with her mum who is trying to ruin her life after the death of her sister. Poor girl is constantly having to live in the shadow of her sister whilst dealing with her own grief at her sisters death. As you can her bitch of a mum isn't going to let this drop.
When Avery and Paul.are introduced by mutual friends the attraction between the two of them is immediate.
The chemistry between the two of them is hot hot hot but with both of them hiding so many secrets will they be able to help each other bring down the other ones walls and let each other in.
April 24, 2016
He was in the first two but now his time has come. He has witnessed a couple already bite the dust to love and romance but funny Paul has not plans for it does not think he can or lets himself have it. Avery has a tormented past also but she has taken a built a successful business, written a book under a pen name plus her friend also is one of those who is soon to be married. Unexpected meeting is only the beginning of their dance with each other. She will also realize that what she thought is not exactly the case but words have been written, thank goodness it is fiction. This author will take us along with them on a turbulent ride, revealing pasts, love that will start to heal but it is not all up hill for them. Someone from the past that is around now starts a attack that will have some serious hits plus with the fall out from a certain book things seem to being falling apart. This one carries alot of weight and emotional upheaval that a reader just eats up in a romance read. When the final explosion happens that causes some severe consequences it causes a long hard look at what is really important and what can be let go of for several of the characters. So needless to say you will be into this one from beginning to end because you just have to see what life has in store for Paul.
March 18, 2016
There were times in this book when I really didn't like Paul at all but then there were others that I liked a whole lot and by the end I was wholly in his corner. Avery was a bit of mystery to me until her background was revealed which just made me like her even more. She was really misunderstood by people but that was because she just didn't let people in. Paul is very cold at times but you just get the sense that is so much more to him that you can't wait for it to come to the surface. I knew he was softer and deeper than he like to show. While Avery was so fierce that it was simply wonderful.
This entire book was really great and while these two seemed like such an unlikely match they worked well together. They are one of those couples that you see together and just think "How do they not kill one another?" Yet they have such chemistry and heat that you know they were gonna be the ones to make forever.
This entire book was really great and while these two seemed like such an unlikely match they worked well together. They are one of those couples that you see together and just think "How do they not kill one another?" Yet they have such chemistry and heat that you know they were gonna be the ones to make forever.
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A copy of the book was provided in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are 100% my own.
April 11, 2016
I want to start off by saying that PAUL EMERSON is MINE!!! I claimed him even back in book 1 when we first met him and after reading this one he has completely stolen my heart and gave me quite a few panty melting moments too. Goodness gracious!!! Book one, Unlikely Venture, has a special place in my heart and I really loved book two, Nothing Ventured, but this book man oh man, I AM IN LOVE with!!! Through this series I have seen how much the author has grown as a writer and story teller. Her writing style I think has been perfected, her flow is great, the attention to detail is awesome and even down to the littliest thing, it honestly has been written perfectly in my opinion. This author has grown so much since the first book and while truly I did love the first one this one is leaps and bounds better. Paul is written to make us think he is a cold and detached man, but really that is so far from the truth. And Avery, oh Avery, she was the perfect counterpart to my man Paul. I am convinced the character of Avery is actually me. LOL Words honestly can't describe how much I love this book. I really need this one in paperback. I will be reading this one over and over again. This was easily 5++ AMAZEBALLS stars!!!
Review by Tabitha
Review by Tabitha
April 23, 2016
This is the third book in the series and I am just loving it. It can be read as a standalone but the series is so good you should read one and two also. This story focuses on Avery and Paul and they both have some stuff in the past that comes back to haunt them. Avery wrote a book based loosely on Paul and his company, you see Avery wanted his company Bluecoat to help the startup of her company CrowdRok and she was denied by one of his assistants. Avery really needed to start the company for her sister Tara who had dreams of signing but with her cancer she would never have gotten the chance. Paul on the other hand had a partner that was cheating with the investments and Pauls girlfriend and rather than turn him in Paul let him go with no hope to do it again. Well Avery get saved from drowning by Paul and isn't to happy to see him but they finally decide to be friends because they both need one. The friendship continues to grow into something more but Avery's secret is holding her back and James ex is coming to spoil it too. I loved reading about the struggles they both were having and finally seeing Paul as a nice guy. I enjoyed reading about their strengths and also weakness for each other.
I received this book for an honest review
I received this book for an honest review
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