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Nailed
He’s about to take control of her body…and her dream.
When River set up a fundraiser to kick start her nail polish business, she never expected someone to pay five thousand dollars just to have dinner with her. But when she meets her mysterious benefactor, he turns out to be billionaire Kane Winters—the one man from her past who she never wanted to see again.
Kane is determined to right the wrong that happened to River in college—because of him. She’s been an obsession he can’t escape…and Kane wants River more than he’s ever wanted anything. So he offers her a deal she can’t refuse: marry him and her business will be success. But River’s knight in shining armor isn’t looking for a platonic business deal. He wants their marriage to be real…in every way.
When River set up a fundraiser to kick start her nail polish business, she never expected someone to pay five thousand dollars just to have dinner with her. But when she meets her mysterious benefactor, he turns out to be billionaire Kane Winters—the one man from her past who she never wanted to see again.
Kane is determined to right the wrong that happened to River in college—because of him. She’s been an obsession he can’t escape…and Kane wants River more than he’s ever wanted anything. So he offers her a deal she can’t refuse: marry him and her business will be success. But River’s knight in shining armor isn’t looking for a platonic business deal. He wants their marriage to be real…in every way.
290 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 23, 2016
36 people are currently reading
1193 people want to read
About the author
Opal Carew
166 books1,895 followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author, Opal Carew loves cats, Zentangle, and wild nail polish!
http://www.opalcarew.com/
http://us.macmillan.com/author/opalcarew
http://www.opalcarew.com/
http://us.macmillan.com/author/opalcarew
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 155 reviews
August 23, 2016
I had a bit of a love/hate relationship with this one.
This is the type of second chance romance that I ADORE. The hero pulls some asshole move back in the day, and leaves the heroine weary of men. Now he's back and is ALL about getting her back anyway he can. That part of the book was really good.
That said, unfortunately this one was ALL over the place with angst due to a third party. Now I KNEW where this was going the MINUTE the heroine and this other person were introduced. The signs were not at all subtle. Eve was an excited girl, after all my motto is That said, it wasn't executed in a very believable way. I never felt that loved each other enough to make me believe the ending. I mean Kane didn't even TELL River he was involved with this other person whom he dumped in favor of going after her. She found out by I needed less angst and jealousy, and more relationship building.
So, overall since I did love the whole second chance love thing, and I do love a I'm going to be generous and give this a 3 star rating.
July 14, 2016
Release Date : August 23rd 2016 by St. Martin’s Griffen
Story Rating ~ 4 Stars!
Hero Rating ~ 4 Stars!
Heroine Rating ~ 4 Stars!
Heat Level ~ 4.5 Stars!
Ending ~ 3 Stars
Overall Rating ~ 4, Dreams Really Can Come True Stars!
Nailed is an erotic romance so I went into it knowing that I was in for a SCORCHING read. The story line is a second chance at love theme and I really enjoyed it from start to finish.
The story goes back and forth in time but was NOT confusing in the least. My heart broke for River the heroine as the past was explained.
One day while at college, Kane approaches River and shows some interest in her. At First River could not believe that a rich sexy guy like Kane would bother with someone like her. She is a freak according to most people. After several attempts at getting closer to River, Kane was able to break down River’s forces and they share a passionate evening together. Then the unthinkable happens, it seemed like Kane used River for just a bet that was made between him and his rich friends but as the story unfolds we learn the truth about what really happened.
Kane never forgot about River, she was the one that got away. So when he finds out about River setting up a fundraiser to kick start her nail polish business, he jumps right in and pays $5000.00 for a dinner date to try and right the wrong that was done to her all those years ago.
The whole nail polish business and what River ended up going through to get it up and running was very interesting. Let’s just say that Zane had a heavy hand at helping her, he made her an offer that she just could not refuse.
River fought her feelings for Kane but it was a losing battle. He was just too sweet, too sexy, too generous and also VERY good in bed. Each night they were together I could feel their attraction more and more.
Of course there is some drama to this story and things get shaky between River and Kane. I was glad when everything was out in the open and Kane and River finally admitted the feelings they had for each other.
What bothered me about this story the most was that this was a ménage story. Don’t get me wrong here, I enjoy reading a good erotic ménage book but for me I felt waiting until the epilogue was a little too late even though the scene between the three of them was the best sex scene in the book. For me, it should have happened sooner in the book or not at all.
In the end, this was an enjoyable sexy short read. I have read many of Opal Carew’s books, she is a go to author I always look forward too when wanting to read an erotic romance.
*I received an ARC from St. Martin’s Press/ St. Martin’s Griffin via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.*
Story Rating ~ 4 Stars!
Hero Rating ~ 4 Stars!
Heroine Rating ~ 4 Stars!
Heat Level ~ 4.5 Stars!
Ending ~ 3 Stars
Overall Rating ~ 4, Dreams Really Can Come True Stars!
Nailed is an erotic romance so I went into it knowing that I was in for a SCORCHING read. The story line is a second chance at love theme and I really enjoyed it from start to finish.
The story goes back and forth in time but was NOT confusing in the least. My heart broke for River the heroine as the past was explained.
One day while at college, Kane approaches River and shows some interest in her. At First River could not believe that a rich sexy guy like Kane would bother with someone like her. She is a freak according to most people. After several attempts at getting closer to River, Kane was able to break down River’s forces and they share a passionate evening together. Then the unthinkable happens, it seemed like Kane used River for just a bet that was made between him and his rich friends but as the story unfolds we learn the truth about what really happened.
Kane never forgot about River, she was the one that got away. So when he finds out about River setting up a fundraiser to kick start her nail polish business, he jumps right in and pays $5000.00 for a dinner date to try and right the wrong that was done to her all those years ago.
The whole nail polish business and what River ended up going through to get it up and running was very interesting. Let’s just say that Zane had a heavy hand at helping her, he made her an offer that she just could not refuse.
River fought her feelings for Kane but it was a losing battle. He was just too sweet, too sexy, too generous and also VERY good in bed. Each night they were together I could feel their attraction more and more.
Of course there is some drama to this story and things get shaky between River and Kane. I was glad when everything was out in the open and Kane and River finally admitted the feelings they had for each other.
What bothered me about this story the most was that this was a ménage story. Don’t get me wrong here, I enjoy reading a good erotic ménage book but for me I felt waiting until the epilogue was a little too late even though the scene between the three of them was the best sex scene in the book. For me, it should have happened sooner in the book or not at all.
In the end, this was an enjoyable sexy short read. I have read many of Opal Carew’s books, she is a go to author I always look forward too when wanting to read an erotic romance.
*I received an ARC from St. Martin’s Press/ St. Martin’s Griffin via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.*
August 20, 2016
I can see many people enjoying this book.
Kane and River had a short affair in college. He approached her on a dare/bet. He took her virginity. He and his friends humiliated her. Fast forward and Kane sees River as the girl who got away. And he wants to rekindle the romance. But River is still harboring resentment for how she was treated in the past.
This story would have been enjoyable if it focused on these two characters and their developing connection. But the author kept throwing in Will and shoved the menage theme down my throat. When she kept throwing in this dynamic, she threw away my interest.
Please take my rating with a grain of salt. I'm a bit old fashioned and am not a big fan of sharing or menage themes. However, I would have enjoyed it if the author took the time to develop all three characters and their feelings and made them seem real. Made their relationship seem realistic.
I also had an issue with how there was absolutely no discussion on safety in this book. No condom. No pill. No tests!
Otherwise the story was good and I did like it for the most part.
Enjoy! xo
Copy given in exchange for an honest review
Kane and River had a short affair in college. He approached her on a dare/bet. He took her virginity. He and his friends humiliated her. Fast forward and Kane sees River as the girl who got away. And he wants to rekindle the romance. But River is still harboring resentment for how she was treated in the past.
This story would have been enjoyable if it focused on these two characters and their developing connection. But the author kept throwing in Will and shoved the menage theme down my throat. When she kept throwing in this dynamic, she threw away my interest.
Please take my rating with a grain of salt. I'm a bit old fashioned and am not a big fan of sharing or menage themes. However, I would have enjoyed it if the author took the time to develop all three characters and their feelings and made them seem real. Made their relationship seem realistic.
I also had an issue with how there was absolutely no discussion on safety in this book. No condom. No pill. No tests!
Otherwise the story was good and I did like it for the most part.
Enjoy! xo
Copy given in exchange for an honest review
August 23, 2016
For me, feeling betrayed by an author is worse than reading a badly written book. When you read the back cover blurb for Nailed, it clearly shows a man intent on righting a past wrong he did the heroine, marrying her and making her his. For most of the book, that's exactly where things seem to be going. And then the author throws a major curveball leaving you in WTF Land wondering just where the book is really headed. But I stuck with it because in his POV you repeatedly see he loves her and is completely committed to their marriage. But then you get to the end and for the second time you're blindsided. Unfortunately for me, where it ended up was nowhere I wanted to be or expected to be based on the back cover. So while I don't have any major nits to pick with the mechanics of the book, I ended up hating it and am so pissed off I want to scream. I don't mind an author writing this type of book and I know lots of other readers will be happy with how it turns out. But I expect honesty. At least give a hint in the blurb that things might not be what they seem so readers like me don't waste their time and end up really angry with elevated blood pressure.
For those who want to know why I hated the book and don't mind MAJOR spoilers, you can read on.
For those who want to know why I hated the book and don't mind MAJOR spoilers, you can read on.
August 23, 2016
Nailed is a second chance romance that ended up surprising me with the path the author took this story. River and Kane met in college. River was the shy quirky girl who had a bad upbringing. Kane was the rich popular frat boy who asked River out due to a bet from his college buddies. Kane was surprised to find that he actually connected with River but she found out about the bet and dropped out of college. Now normally this would make me hate the H and couldn't possibly make the reunion believable for me but we find out the humiliation River suffered wasn't completely Kane's fault.
Fast forwards into their adult lives and Kane's BF Will, who was around them at college, finds River and presents an opportunity for Kane to help River start her dream company. Both were feeling guilty for how things played out for River in college but also Kane never truly got over River and is hoping to explore a relationship with her.
While the events to lead them back together wasn't exactly realistic, I was still enjoying the story but then the story took a turn. This turned from a great love story between Kane and River to Will being added to the relationship. This would have been ok except I just didn't feel it flowed very smoothly. I still liked the story but almost wished it stayed between Kane and River. I really liked Will's character and I think maybe if he was part of the package in the beginning, it would have been more believable.
***ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Fast forwards into their adult lives and Kane's BF Will, who was around them at college, finds River and presents an opportunity for Kane to help River start her dream company. Both were feeling guilty for how things played out for River in college but also Kane never truly got over River and is hoping to explore a relationship with her.
While the events to lead them back together wasn't exactly realistic, I was still enjoying the story but then the story took a turn. This turned from a great love story between Kane and River to Will being added to the relationship. This would have been ok except I just didn't feel it flowed very smoothly. I still liked the story but almost wished it stayed between Kane and River. I really liked Will's character and I think maybe if he was part of the package in the beginning, it would have been more believable.
***ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 16, 2016
Hella Hot!!
I've read several of Opal Carew's books before and have enjoyed them all, so when I saw this new release, I was quick to grab it.
I love the premise of the story and certainly could identify with several aspects of it. In college we always have that uncertainty and vulnerability that can tend to follow us through life. So in reading this story that taps into that vulnerability and then turns it into a romance, it made it an interesting subject for me.
I love that the point of view was from both characters and a lot of it was from Kane. You could see his feelings for River and get a glimpse into where he was going with this contract. The author brought us sweaty situations that were so hot and oh, so sexy! I knew where this story was leading and the anticipation was delicious!
One thing that I thought was really lacking was the ending. We missed the whole relationship building of this new three-way connection. And while the story was very hot and intense, it could've really been so much more developed and passionate at the end.
Overall, I really like the story but I just wanted more in depth and an ending that wasn't just leaving the reader feeling incomplete.
I've read several of Opal Carew's books before and have enjoyed them all, so when I saw this new release, I was quick to grab it.
I love the premise of the story and certainly could identify with several aspects of it. In college we always have that uncertainty and vulnerability that can tend to follow us through life. So in reading this story that taps into that vulnerability and then turns it into a romance, it made it an interesting subject for me.
I love that the point of view was from both characters and a lot of it was from Kane. You could see his feelings for River and get a glimpse into where he was going with this contract. The author brought us sweaty situations that were so hot and oh, so sexy! I knew where this story was leading and the anticipation was delicious!
One thing that I thought was really lacking was the ending. We missed the whole relationship building of this new three-way connection. And while the story was very hot and intense, it could've really been so much more developed and passionate at the end.
Overall, I really like the story but I just wanted more in depth and an ending that wasn't just leaving the reader feeling incomplete.
August 18, 2016
'Nailed' by Opal Carew is the story of River and Kane.
River is working and also trying to start her own business. Her friend talked her into doing a online 'kick-starter' type of fund raiser to get her some start up money. River went through with the online money funding raiser. River put up a dinner with her as added bonus to getting a donation. Kane friend and business partner told him about the dinner with River to raise money for her business. Kane was quick to jump on the deal. Kane and River had been on a date or two back in their college days but Kane was involved in something that cause River to up and leave school along with him. Kane has never gotten over what he did and how much he has found that River might have been the 'one to get away'. So he takes this chance to get back with her. But River isn't as fast to jump at the chance as he is. Can they get through the past to move to the future? I enjoyed this story and couldn't put it down...I needed to see how it ended!
I received an eARC, from NetGalley and the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.
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River is working and also trying to start her own business. Her friend talked her into doing a online 'kick-starter' type of fund raiser to get her some start up money. River went through with the online money funding raiser. River put up a dinner with her as added bonus to getting a donation. Kane friend and business partner told him about the dinner with River to raise money for her business. Kane was quick to jump on the deal. Kane and River had been on a date or two back in their college days but Kane was involved in something that cause River to up and leave school along with him. Kane has never gotten over what he did and how much he has found that River might have been the 'one to get away'. So he takes this chance to get back with her. But River isn't as fast to jump at the chance as he is. Can they get through the past to move to the future? I enjoyed this story and couldn't put it down...I needed to see how it ended!
I received an eARC, from NetGalley and the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.
Please follow me on the below sites;
https://www.amazon.com/gp/profile/A2H...
https://www.facebook.com/sally.mae.39...
http://booklikes.com/
https://romancebookreviewforyou.wordp...
https://www.facebook.com/groups/17091...
https://twitter.com/soapsrus68
July 26, 2016
River and Kane are from two different worlds financially. Kane has money, River never did. Certain events caused them to part ways after a brief period together but Kane never forgot the unique and quirky girl he dated. Fast forward to the present and River is still struggling financially but full of dreams. She decides to auction off deals for her custom polish line to get starting capital for her business. This is what brings Kane back into her life. At first River is understandably apprehensive but eventually gives into her desires for Kane after he adds a little extra to their business proposal. I found his reasons for having walked way from her the first time to be crappy but based on his age and upbringing not to be all that unrealistic. They were pretty hot together but nothing really stood out as different or unique. The biggest area of opportunity for me was with Kane's BFF, Will. There is a MM/MFM element to this story that barely scratches the surface of the emotional components within those types of relationships. In fact, I felt incredibly sad for the 3rd as the expanded emotional investment was almost entirely his. I found it difficult to connect with the characters as this new aspect was implemented. The plot has good potential. The writing was good. Safety: Yes to sharing. Yes to OM, though eventually with consent, there were kisses without such. No rape/abuse.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
November 6, 2017
All River ever wanted to do was be her person and create nail polish and become a business owner. After her friend persuades her to do a Kickstarter for her Nail Polish business, she is surprised when she notices that someone has brought all her options and in one single payment completed her Kickstarter amount. She contacts the buyer, and all they want in return is to meet for Dinner. River reluctantly agrees and to her surprise and a little angered the backer is none other than billionaire Kane Winters. To the world, he is the hottest billionaire bachelor, but to River, he is the guy who ruined her life back in college and forced her to drop out after her scholarship was canceled. Now Kane wants a second chance with River as he has never forgiven himself for what happened to her in College. For River, she wants to get away as far as she can from him and never see him again. Though he is offering River the opportunity of a lifetime as with his backing, he can make her Nail polish empire dreams come true. When River finds herself jobless, she reluctantly agrees. What will happen though when she finds herself being asked to be more than just a business partner or investment for Kane? Kane wants to make River his wife, will River accept? Kane, however, is hiding a secret, he is, in fact, bisexual with his partner Will - whom River also knew back in College. Can she accept both of them or will her dreams of being a Nail Polish business owner go down the toilet? Find out in Opal Carew's Nailed - a book that went from being an M/F to an M/F/M.
October 6, 2017
This book failed miserably for me. The 'chemistry' between River and Kane was not there. Nothing about their relationship felt organic. Kane said he didn't want River to change, that he wanted her to be herself, but he contradicted himself multiple times.
He might find her stimulating and sexy in bed, but in life he wanted her to be the model wife who dressed and acted the way he expected.
"It's you I was thinking of. Yes, some of them might raise an eyebrow at a purple streak in your hair. And I'm afraid that might steal your confidence."
Things happened in the storyline that didn't make sense at the time, until the end when everything came together haphazardly. It felt like it was just a mad scramble to make all the pieces of the puzzle fit together.
River cheated on Kane with Will (Kane's BFF) by kissing Will not once, but TWICE (she's a married woman kissing another man, which to me is cheating). She was a hypocrite who kept putting herself in situations she shouldn't have.
"Kane, I'm telling you that I care about you—both of us do—and I want you to be happy. So I won't do anything that would hurt you."
Pffft.
Every time River and Will were together alone, I was uncomfortable about the situation. Yet I was kind of hoping something would develop between River and Will, seeing as there was a spark between them.
Then she finds out that Kane and Will were once lovers - but Will says he's not gay...? There was no indication of Kane and Will's prior relationship, aside from the video River accidentally came across. No lingering feelings from either man for the other. It felt like a plot device to make way for the ending - the solution to everything was for River and Kane to have an open marriage with Will.
At first I was kicking myself for not reading the book's blurb before reading. Open marriage and infidelity are not my thing, so I avoid reading romances that feature either. (I went into this book blind because I read a sneak peek of it at the end of Meat and was intrigued.) But then I read the blurb to see what it said about the book and there was NO indication of either, or a menage, or a 3rd party to the hero and heroine's relationship, which feels dishonest.
As was with Meat, this book had a lot of unprotected sex without any conversation taking place about it. I'm surprised River didn't get knocked up by the end of the book. And sex seemed to be the answer for everything. River and Kane got in a fight - SEX! Kane caught River and Will in a compromising position - SEX! Then SEX! with Will.
He might find her stimulating and sexy in bed, but in life he wanted her to be the model wife who dressed and acted the way he expected.
"It's you I was thinking of. Yes, some of them might raise an eyebrow at a purple streak in your hair. And I'm afraid that might steal your confidence."
Things happened in the storyline that didn't make sense at the time, until the end when everything came together haphazardly. It felt like it was just a mad scramble to make all the pieces of the puzzle fit together.
River cheated on Kane with Will (Kane's BFF) by kissing Will not once, but TWICE (she's a married woman kissing another man, which to me is cheating). She was a hypocrite who kept putting herself in situations she shouldn't have.
"Kane, I'm telling you that I care about you—both of us do—and I want you to be happy. So I won't do anything that would hurt you."
Pffft.
Every time River and Will were together alone, I was uncomfortable about the situation. Yet I was kind of hoping something would develop between River and Will, seeing as there was a spark between them.
Then she finds out that Kane and Will were once lovers - but Will says he's not gay...? There was no indication of Kane and Will's prior relationship, aside from the video River accidentally came across. No lingering feelings from either man for the other. It felt like a plot device to make way for the ending - the solution to everything was for River and Kane to have an open marriage with Will.
At first I was kicking myself for not reading the book's blurb before reading. Open marriage and infidelity are not my thing, so I avoid reading romances that feature either. (I went into this book blind because I read a sneak peek of it at the end of Meat and was intrigued.) But then I read the blurb to see what it said about the book and there was NO indication of either, or a menage, or a 3rd party to the hero and heroine's relationship, which feels dishonest.
As was with Meat, this book had a lot of unprotected sex without any conversation taking place about it. I'm surprised River didn't get knocked up by the end of the book. And sex seemed to be the answer for everything. River and Kane got in a fight - SEX! Kane caught River and Will in a compromising position - SEX! Then SEX! with Will.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 29, 2017
What a turn of events this book had me witness... Words actually cannot describe the feeling of awareness I am currently at and how shocked I am over this really good book by Opal Carew!
BLUR: He’s about to take control of her body…and her dream. When River set up a fundraiser to kick-start her nail polish business, she never expected someone to pay five thousand dollars just to have dinner with her. But when she meets her mysterious benefactor, he turns out to be billionaire Kane Winters—the one man from her past who she never wanted to see again. Kane is determined to right the wrong that happened to River in college—because of him. She’s been an obsession he can’t escape…and Kane wants River more than he’s ever wanted anything. So he offers her a deal she can’t refuse: marry him and her business will be success. But River’s knight in shining armor isn’t looking for a platonic business deal. He wants their marriage to be real…in every way.
Opal Carew has done it again, by creating a story that will shock you all!
From the summary, we are well aware that River has her own nail polish business, which is a really good start to the book because you don't usually read about the protagonist in such a status.
The first interaction of River and Kane is somewhat intense. Kane's plan to talk to River without her knowledge knowing that it's him went on a different turn I was not expecting. Kane has a determined mind to have River not only in his bed, but also for her to take a part of his future. Which is a really sweet but somewhat disappointing that the reader is aware of his feelings for her so early in the story. It makes sense because those feelings began evolving in college, which is what is stated. But for me, it seems rather early to be expressing himself to the reader.
Kane's wealth is not specifically stated in the beginning of the story, but it is shown that he is a wealthy person because of the scene of their first interaction;
The restaurant had provided Kane with a small buzzer that he’d put in his pocket. It allowed him to signal the staff with a push of a button when they were ready for the next course.
Like... Woah! I have never heard of such a thing before. But maybe that's because I'm not a rich bachelor...
The sweet moments come and go, when he does and remembers things she likes back from college. The addition of the flashback, remembering on what caused them to separate is really great! Their attraction for each other is just so strong, and beyond level of sweetness. More like smoking HOT!
River's background from her parents is really strong, and beyond emotional. The fact that Kane does not pity her, but shows compassion to her is really a good advocate to the story. When you begin to find out the reason why they separated and why River hates Kane's balls, you seriously should just instantly hate Kane as well... Cause GOD! I would cut his balls if he did such a thing to me!
But that never stops Kane- in the present day- to confront River about it and get her to take a part of his life. And then the big climax reveal comes like a big crash of symbols hitting you right in front of your face! LIKE WOAHHHH! I was NOT expecting that climax and the proposition of Kane's to come out of the blue, because it sure did! Something that also has taken me by surprise, is how demanding she is when they are intimate. And it takes me by surprise because one) she is a shy person and two) I actually like her demanding tone towards him. It's an odd combination because he himself is a demanding person, but not verbally like she is, he is more physically demanding and shows it physically, while she expresses it verbally.
Another character that makes an appearance in this story is Will, Kane's best friend from college and now his business partner; the one and only who helped Kane build his empire next to his shoulder. Will is a strange character, not gonna lie, due to the "history" he had with Kane... Their situation makes me uncomfortable and also brings a sense of uncomfortable pity towards River when you find out the situation in hand. It sure is something that shocked me completely when I read it... I was legitimately shell-shocked for a full minute and just staring at the page...
That change of scenery and the change of tone that Will is described in after River finds out about the situation Will and Kane had, changes everything... It changes the way I see Will and River being friends, and it also changes the way I see River and Kane as being lovers. The attraction and chemistry is still there for sure, but the idea and knowledge of what Will has done has not left their environment. The turn of events is one that I would not chose because I'm not into that sort of lifestyle, but it would have been rather appropriate if Opal would have suggested this sort of scenery in the summary of the story.
In general, the story was well written and well described. My emotions are sort of mixed, and beyond confused in a certain level, but I enjoyed the reading for sure.
Goodreads rating: THREE STARS
Daily Readers Blog: https://dailyreadersblog.wordpress.co...
BLUR: He’s about to take control of her body…and her dream. When River set up a fundraiser to kick-start her nail polish business, she never expected someone to pay five thousand dollars just to have dinner with her. But when she meets her mysterious benefactor, he turns out to be billionaire Kane Winters—the one man from her past who she never wanted to see again. Kane is determined to right the wrong that happened to River in college—because of him. She’s been an obsession he can’t escape…and Kane wants River more than he’s ever wanted anything. So he offers her a deal she can’t refuse: marry him and her business will be success. But River’s knight in shining armor isn’t looking for a platonic business deal. He wants their marriage to be real…in every way.
Opal Carew has done it again, by creating a story that will shock you all!
From the summary, we are well aware that River has her own nail polish business, which is a really good start to the book because you don't usually read about the protagonist in such a status.
The first interaction of River and Kane is somewhat intense. Kane's plan to talk to River without her knowledge knowing that it's him went on a different turn I was not expecting. Kane has a determined mind to have River not only in his bed, but also for her to take a part of his future. Which is a really sweet but somewhat disappointing that the reader is aware of his feelings for her so early in the story. It makes sense because those feelings began evolving in college, which is what is stated. But for me, it seems rather early to be expressing himself to the reader.
Kane's wealth is not specifically stated in the beginning of the story, but it is shown that he is a wealthy person because of the scene of their first interaction;
The restaurant had provided Kane with a small buzzer that he’d put in his pocket. It allowed him to signal the staff with a push of a button when they were ready for the next course.
Like... Woah! I have never heard of such a thing before. But maybe that's because I'm not a rich bachelor...
The sweet moments come and go, when he does and remembers things she likes back from college. The addition of the flashback, remembering on what caused them to separate is really great! Their attraction for each other is just so strong, and beyond level of sweetness. More like smoking HOT!
River's background from her parents is really strong, and beyond emotional. The fact that Kane does not pity her, but shows compassion to her is really a good advocate to the story. When you begin to find out the reason why they separated and why River hates Kane's balls, you seriously should just instantly hate Kane as well... Cause GOD! I would cut his balls if he did such a thing to me!
But that never stops Kane- in the present day- to confront River about it and get her to take a part of his life. And then the big climax reveal comes like a big crash of symbols hitting you right in front of your face! LIKE WOAHHHH! I was NOT expecting that climax and the proposition of Kane's to come out of the blue, because it sure did! Something that also has taken me by surprise, is how demanding she is when they are intimate. And it takes me by surprise because one) she is a shy person and two) I actually like her demanding tone towards him. It's an odd combination because he himself is a demanding person, but not verbally like she is, he is more physically demanding and shows it physically, while she expresses it verbally.
Another character that makes an appearance in this story is Will, Kane's best friend from college and now his business partner; the one and only who helped Kane build his empire next to his shoulder. Will is a strange character, not gonna lie, due to the "history" he had with Kane... Their situation makes me uncomfortable and also brings a sense of uncomfortable pity towards River when you find out the situation in hand. It sure is something that shocked me completely when I read it... I was legitimately shell-shocked for a full minute and just staring at the page...
That change of scenery and the change of tone that Will is described in after River finds out about the situation Will and Kane had, changes everything... It changes the way I see Will and River being friends, and it also changes the way I see River and Kane as being lovers. The attraction and chemistry is still there for sure, but the idea and knowledge of what Will has done has not left their environment. The turn of events is one that I would not chose because I'm not into that sort of lifestyle, but it would have been rather appropriate if Opal would have suggested this sort of scenery in the summary of the story.
In general, the story was well written and well described. My emotions are sort of mixed, and beyond confused in a certain level, but I enjoyed the reading for sure.
Goodreads rating: THREE STARS
Daily Readers Blog: https://dailyreadersblog.wordpress.co...
July 23, 2016
***ARC Provided by the Publisher and NetGalley***
I liked this one overall, but I had some issues with the resolution of the story that left me a little dissatisfied at the end of this book.
The relationship with Kane and River was interesting and watching the development of their relationship was intriguing. The idea that Kane never got over River, that he has always wanted more with her, gave it a second chance feeling even though there was not a real relationship developed with them at the flashback scenes. I appreciated that there was an acknowledgement of the wrongs and things that happened in the past and that, while they played a part, this wasn’t drug out too long.
I liked the arranged marriage idea, the thought that Kane wanted River so badly that he was willing to go to any lengths to achieve that goal.
What I didn’t like: the dishonestly about the relationships in Kane’s life currently and the odd inclusion of the friend. I thought this added to the story and made it feel unfinished, like the inclusion was at the end, an afterthought. I also didn’t like that this book ended without really considering the change of the relationship. We didn’t see any of the new relationship, other than the sex. And I thought the inclusion of this without any real addition of the extra relationship made the entire thing not work as well. The book developed the relationship with River and Kane, but I think it dropped the ball with the additional ones.
The writing was strong, the characters believable, the plot and pacing worked, except for at the end, where I think it was tied up to quickly to be realistic.
I do recommend this overall, however the recommendation is with some hesitation.
***This and other reviews also featured on http://www.imasweetandsassybookwhore.com***
I liked this one overall, but I had some issues with the resolution of the story that left me a little dissatisfied at the end of this book.
The relationship with Kane and River was interesting and watching the development of their relationship was intriguing. The idea that Kane never got over River, that he has always wanted more with her, gave it a second chance feeling even though there was not a real relationship developed with them at the flashback scenes. I appreciated that there was an acknowledgement of the wrongs and things that happened in the past and that, while they played a part, this wasn’t drug out too long.
I liked the arranged marriage idea, the thought that Kane wanted River so badly that he was willing to go to any lengths to achieve that goal.
What I didn’t like: the dishonestly about the relationships in Kane’s life currently and the odd inclusion of the friend. I thought this added to the story and made it feel unfinished, like the inclusion was at the end, an afterthought. I also didn’t like that this book ended without really considering the change of the relationship. We didn’t see any of the new relationship, other than the sex. And I thought the inclusion of this without any real addition of the extra relationship made the entire thing not work as well. The book developed the relationship with River and Kane, but I think it dropped the ball with the additional ones.
The writing was strong, the characters believable, the plot and pacing worked, except for at the end, where I think it was tied up to quickly to be realistic.
I do recommend this overall, however the recommendation is with some hesitation.
***This and other reviews also featured on http://www.imasweetandsassybookwhore.com***
August 23, 2016
⭐️⭐️⭐️ Stars
I seriously wish I could give this one more stars. I loved the H, he was all alpha love at first sight yummy that I like. Yes there was some history between the H and h but once that misunderstanding was out of the way I liked their relationship. The thing that killed this for me was And I would have liked more info on will. It would have been nice to see all aspects of the relationship which is what most readers want from a ménage story. So that was a disappointment. But the concept was great and it was fast paced and easy to read. I liked it but didn't love it
I seriously wish I could give this one more stars. I loved the H, he was all alpha love at first sight yummy that I like. Yes there was some history between the H and h but once that misunderstanding was out of the way I liked their relationship. The thing that killed this for me was And I would have liked more info on will. It would have been nice to see all aspects of the relationship which is what most readers want from a ménage story. So that was a disappointment. But the concept was great and it was fast paced and easy to read. I liked it but didn't love it
August 23, 2017
I don't know what to think about this book. I honestly don't know.
Let's split this review into two parts:
PART 1: before 69%
The book had such amazing potential! Kane was incredibly hot and intense -- and so was the sex. River seemed to stand up for herself in the beginning but then kind of stopped doing that after a while , which mildly annoyed me.
The amount of sex in this book was just too much. I know people will give the "but it's an erotica novel" argument, but to me it was too much. I have read other erotic novels with a lot less sex scenes and much more dialogue that were hotter than this book.
A minor thing that started to irritate me after a while, was the use of "...", because it was often used when a full stop or a comma would've had the same effect.
I did have a few "WHAT?! Omg, plottwist!" moments during this part, and did NOT see those coming at all. I loved those moments because this kept the story going and made me curious about what was about to happen.
I did enjoy this part of the book, even though I had some points of critique.
***SPOILERS FROM NOW ON*** (The conclusion is spoiler free, if you want to read that!)
TURNING POINT: 69%
At this point, Kane walks in on River and Will and lashes out. Let's talk about this, shall we?
I get that Kane was shocked, jealous, furious, etc. BUT what I don't get is how someone who loves another person, can suddenly become such a coldhearted bastard and order that person to go down on him and then to have sex without consent. Because let's be honest here: he was clearly using River's guilt to pressure her into doing stuff to make it up to him. I did not like this at all. In my opnion, it was uncalled for.
This changed everything for me: Kane went from "hot" to "asshole" right away and River lost my respect because she didn't stand up for herself.
PART 2: After 69%
So after that incident, I became really critical of everything I read. I found Kane and River to be very immature about problems they were faced with and got annoyed by their constant "he/she doesn't love me anyway" reasoning.
Also the amount of sex, which at this point had lost its hotness because of what happened at 69%, really annoyed me. I had the feeling their lives consisted solely of having sex. I was desperate for some sort of dialogue, even if it was the two of them fighting about what was happening instead of walking away or having sex.
Then the end... I don't know what happened there. Kane had enough, but then River telling him she loves him makes everything okay and then he decides to usher her into a threesome and THE END. It was such an abrupt ending... I really don't know what to say about that.
*** NO SPOILERS ***
CONCLUSION
I am disappointed by this book. I had read another book by the same author and loved it! So when the publisher contacted me through NetGalley to review this one, I was thrilled.
It is not a bad book, I just didn't like it as much as I thought I would've.
**ARC provided through NetGalley by the publisher, St. Martin's Press, in exchange for an honest review**
Thank you!
September 22, 2016
This is the first book that I have read from Opal Carew and I really enjoyed it. Raine is a sweet, charismatic, eccentric woman who had a rough upbringing.
Kane is your typical privileged, pampered playboy living the high life.
The two meet in college and seem to have an instant connection. Things take a turn for the worse when Kane humiliates Raine and breaks her heart.
Years later Raine is trying to launch her own nail polish business through a Kickstarter campaign and is shocked to learn Kane is her top benefactor.
Kane has always regretted how things ended with Raine and now wants to make things right with her. He will do just about anything to win her over including forcing her into a situation she doesn't want. But desperate times calls for desperate measures.
I really liked Raine. She has had a rough upbringing and the heartbreak with Kane didn't help her trust or confidence. You really feel for her and the situation she finds herself in. She is really sweet and lovely.
I did like Kane but wish we got a little more of his POV. He did feel really bad for what happened in college and has carried that guilt for years. She really was the one that got away. He is now trying his best to make it up to her and win her heart but a very unusual way.
I wish the part of the story that dealt with Will was longer and more defined. I would have liked to see the relationship between the three of them blossom and grow. I would have also liked an epilogue to see how the three are doing. Otherwise I really enjoyed it and will definitely read more by Ms. Carew.
I received an arc copy from NetGalley for an honest review!
Kane is your typical privileged, pampered playboy living the high life.
The two meet in college and seem to have an instant connection. Things take a turn for the worse when Kane humiliates Raine and breaks her heart.
Years later Raine is trying to launch her own nail polish business through a Kickstarter campaign and is shocked to learn Kane is her top benefactor.
Kane has always regretted how things ended with Raine and now wants to make things right with her. He will do just about anything to win her over including forcing her into a situation she doesn't want. But desperate times calls for desperate measures.
I really liked Raine. She has had a rough upbringing and the heartbreak with Kane didn't help her trust or confidence. You really feel for her and the situation she finds herself in. She is really sweet and lovely.
I did like Kane but wish we got a little more of his POV. He did feel really bad for what happened in college and has carried that guilt for years. She really was the one that got away. He is now trying his best to make it up to her and win her heart but a very unusual way.
I wish the part of the story that dealt with Will was longer and more defined. I would have liked to see the relationship between the three of them blossom and grow. I would have also liked an epilogue to see how the three are doing. Otherwise I really enjoyed it and will definitely read more by Ms. Carew.
I received an arc copy from NetGalley for an honest review!
Want to read
September 6, 2016I wanted to read this until I saw that price for an eBook. No thank you.
September 11, 2016
Another "what the fuck did I just read?" Everything was too rushed and I did not believe in their love. The ending was the perfect examle of the whatthefuckery the book was.
April 4, 2017
Nailed is the first novel I have read from Opal Carew and I have to say I was pleasantly surprised! This novel had me intrigued and hooked from the start. I liked how it jumped from the Past to the Present, giving us the whole story of River and Kane's relationship.
Kane Winters has been intrigued by River since he first met her in college. What started off as a bet to ask her out turned into so much more for him. Two days of pure bliss ended drastically when River finds out Kane has deceived her in the worst possible and humiliating way.
Now years later, River is on the verge of starting up he own Nail Polish line, but with all the promoting and product launching, she realizes this is getting expensive. She starts a Kick Starter fund-raiser in hopes of earning money. What she doesn't factor in is the blast from her past that is about to storm into her life and cause a complete uproar. Kane is motivated by guilt, lust, and love. He has a plan to help River out in starting this business venture, but she has to play by his rules and settle on his terms.
I loved how fast paced this novel is. I loved Kane and River, it was interesting to see how the two reacquired the lust and chemistry they once felt for each other and to see River actually let go of all the wrong that was done to her.
I also really enjoyed the little twist at the end of this novel. Even though I was expecting it and I did see it coming halfway through the novel, it was still a fun little scene.
Nailed is jam-packed full of sexy scenes and igniting chemistry!
Okay now onto the reason why I had to drop a star. Around the middle of the novel a couple of the scenes were a little to repetitive for me.
Overall, I really enjoyed this novel. I consumed Nailed in one sitting. I recommend this novel to anyone looking for a highly erotic read with a kick ass story line!
read below for a spoiler warning..........If you don't want a spoiler warning stop here!
This novel does have a Menage scene that involves MMF...If you aren't into that type of thing I recommend not reading the last chapter. That's the only chapter it takes place in, the rest of the novel is all MF.
February 18, 2017
Thanks to NetGalley for a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Carew writes a good sexy story. The characters are full and well-built, even if I don't understand their motivations and/or can't really relate to them. The sex scenes are hot, and the conversations are smooth. It just seemed as though she wrote the great sex scenes, then worked the story about them. They rang true and exciting, but the story seemed somewhat contorted, trying to fit. I often wished River's angst over her college "humiliation" would just end already--get over it! And Kane's obsession with her was a little stalkerish, although he was a pretty sexy and handsome hero. Will's relationship with both of them was very complicated and somewhat surprising at the end. The nail polish business deal was good, but it didn't go far enough. The interaction with a potential client was good, but I was hoping to see more from that angle. The whole book was very readable but didn't quite hit the mark for me. All in all, I felt that more could have been developed with the story rather than focusing on the sex, building both together so it would have been more balanced. All that being said, I will definitely read more from this author, though.
Carew writes a good sexy story. The characters are full and well-built, even if I don't understand their motivations and/or can't really relate to them. The sex scenes are hot, and the conversations are smooth. It just seemed as though she wrote the great sex scenes, then worked the story about them. They rang true and exciting, but the story seemed somewhat contorted, trying to fit. I often wished River's angst over her college "humiliation" would just end already--get over it! And Kane's obsession with her was a little stalkerish, although he was a pretty sexy and handsome hero. Will's relationship with both of them was very complicated and somewhat surprising at the end. The nail polish business deal was good, but it didn't go far enough. The interaction with a potential client was good, but I was hoping to see more from that angle. The whole book was very readable but didn't quite hit the mark for me. All in all, I felt that more could have been developed with the story rather than focusing on the sex, building both together so it would have been more balanced. All that being said, I will definitely read more from this author, though.
January 20, 2018
This could have been a 5 star short novel if it weren't for 2 things I hate finding in stories. 1. So much assuming causing problems. I hate when characters don't talk and just make assumptions about what each other thinks or feels. It's always wrong and causes unnecessary stress for me as a reader. 2. The part I kept wanting to happen, the best part, didn't happen until the last few pages. I knew it was going to happen but the wait was ridiculous. It was like too much foreplay. Get to the good stuff. LOL
November 20, 2016
I am usually a big fan of Opal Carew's but for some reason I just couldn't get into this book. This story takes us back to when Kane and River were in college and then to the present day where River is working at a boutique and has a Kickstarter page hoping to make her dream of starting her own nail polish company a reality.
When River and Kane attended college together, Kane had asked River out on a dare but after they went out he realized he really liked her and wanted to see more of her...so they did. Only things didn't go according to plan on their next date and it caused so much humiliation for River that she dropped out of school.
Now fast forward several years and Kane is still thinking about the one that got away, and he now has the perfect opportunity to make things right with River by backing her business...only there's one catch, she needs to marry him and he will do everything in his power to make her business a success.
It's no surprise that she does marry him but there are several surprises along the way. One big one that I figured out early on and wondered how that would play out in the story. I have to say that the second half of the book was a fast paced read, the story unfolded and I felt it to be a bit rushed. Especially the last 20% of the book.
There were a lot of sexy moments that Opal Carew is know for in her books but again, I just couldn't get into the story. I guess I did't really feel the connection between the characters, the chemistry just wasn't there for me. I guess it felt rushed and unrealistic...seriously who falls in love after two days, a humiliating experience, and holds that love/hate for years after no contact what-so-ever by either party? Do I believe in insta-love? absolutely Do I believe in holding a grudge against someone that did something so humiliating to you? absolutely What I guess I don't believe in is still loving that person years later without any contact, and the fact that they did something to you that you still can't get over. I don't care how good the sex was.
Would I recommend this book to family or friends? I doubt it, but hey you never know. There are plenty of awesome reviews for this book so it could be just me and the only way you'll know if you will enjoy this book or not is to read it yourself. But I will warn you to go into it with an open mind because of some of the plot twists you need to be open minded, I will say that I enjoyed the twist but it's just the way it played out that I didn't like.
Amy, the genius behind Literary Lacquers, paired up with Opal Carew and made a collection inspired by her erotic romance novel Nailed
***I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book that I requested from St. Martin's Press - Griffin through Netgalley*** https://www.netgalley.com/
When River and Kane attended college together, Kane had asked River out on a dare but after they went out he realized he really liked her and wanted to see more of her...so they did. Only things didn't go according to plan on their next date and it caused so much humiliation for River that she dropped out of school.
Now fast forward several years and Kane is still thinking about the one that got away, and he now has the perfect opportunity to make things right with River by backing her business...only there's one catch, she needs to marry him and he will do everything in his power to make her business a success.
It's no surprise that she does marry him but there are several surprises along the way. One big one that I figured out early on and wondered how that would play out in the story. I have to say that the second half of the book was a fast paced read, the story unfolded and I felt it to be a bit rushed. Especially the last 20% of the book.
There were a lot of sexy moments that Opal Carew is know for in her books but again, I just couldn't get into the story. I guess I did't really feel the connection between the characters, the chemistry just wasn't there for me. I guess it felt rushed and unrealistic...seriously who falls in love after two days, a humiliating experience, and holds that love/hate for years after no contact what-so-ever by either party? Do I believe in insta-love? absolutely Do I believe in holding a grudge against someone that did something so humiliating to you? absolutely What I guess I don't believe in is still loving that person years later without any contact, and the fact that they did something to you that you still can't get over. I don't care how good the sex was.
Would I recommend this book to family or friends? I doubt it, but hey you never know. There are plenty of awesome reviews for this book so it could be just me and the only way you'll know if you will enjoy this book or not is to read it yourself. But I will warn you to go into it with an open mind because of some of the plot twists you need to be open minded, I will say that I enjoyed the twist but it's just the way it played out that I didn't like.
Amy, the genius behind Literary Lacquers, paired up with Opal Carew and made a collection inspired by her erotic romance novel Nailed
***I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book that I requested from St. Martin's Press - Griffin through Netgalley*** https://www.netgalley.com/
June 20, 2016
*ARC from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for a review*
In Opal Carew's latest book, we meet up and coming nail polish designer River. She has started a Kickstarter campaign to help her raise funds to bottle, package and sell her designs. The highest bidder gets a dinner on her as thanks. Except that the highest bidder turns out to be her ex from college, Kane, who broke her heart so bad, she dropped out of college to stay away from him.
Kane has a proposal for her that would have her nail polishes sold exclusively at a posh boutique store, in exchange for becoming partners. However, River does not want to get involved with the man who essentially broke her. But when River loses her job, she's forced to reconsider Kane's deal. Except now he has upped the ante. He wants River as his wife.
Can a woman get into "bed" with a man she's in love with, but knows he doesn't return the sentiment, and wants to change everything that makes her unique, or will River figure something else out?
Once again, the title has a dual meaning, of the nail polish business, and being nailed. Unfortunately, I didn't love this book. There was a huge disconnect between Kane and River. I'm not sure if it's because he came from money and kind of looked down on River in college because she wasn't from the same social class, or if River was insecure in her home life, having a convict dad and a prostitute/exotic dancer mom.
I got the feeling that River didn't know what she wanted. She started off hating Kane, and one kiss later, she loves him again. Then she hates him, the she sleeps with him, and loves him again. Add in Kane's best friend Will, who turns out to be more than a friend, and someone who River is also insanely attracted to, and you've got a story that is a bit confused. River couldn't forgive Kane for what happened in college, but when she finds out that Will was not only involved, but was the cause, she forgave him instantly. Kane didn't quite get that River's odd style of dress is what makes her, her, so when he attempts to change her, River is convinced that Kane only wants her because they are great in bed.
I think if Ms. Carew rethinks the love triangle aspect, or makes River a little less wishy-washy, this story would be amazing.
In Opal Carew's latest book, we meet up and coming nail polish designer River. She has started a Kickstarter campaign to help her raise funds to bottle, package and sell her designs. The highest bidder gets a dinner on her as thanks. Except that the highest bidder turns out to be her ex from college, Kane, who broke her heart so bad, she dropped out of college to stay away from him.
Kane has a proposal for her that would have her nail polishes sold exclusively at a posh boutique store, in exchange for becoming partners. However, River does not want to get involved with the man who essentially broke her. But when River loses her job, she's forced to reconsider Kane's deal. Except now he has upped the ante. He wants River as his wife.
Can a woman get into "bed" with a man she's in love with, but knows he doesn't return the sentiment, and wants to change everything that makes her unique, or will River figure something else out?
Once again, the title has a dual meaning, of the nail polish business, and being nailed. Unfortunately, I didn't love this book. There was a huge disconnect between Kane and River. I'm not sure if it's because he came from money and kind of looked down on River in college because she wasn't from the same social class, or if River was insecure in her home life, having a convict dad and a prostitute/exotic dancer mom.
I got the feeling that River didn't know what she wanted. She started off hating Kane, and one kiss later, she loves him again. Then she hates him, the she sleeps with him, and loves him again. Add in Kane's best friend Will, who turns out to be more than a friend, and someone who River is also insanely attracted to, and you've got a story that is a bit confused. River couldn't forgive Kane for what happened in college, but when she finds out that Will was not only involved, but was the cause, she forgave him instantly. Kane didn't quite get that River's odd style of dress is what makes her, her, so when he attempts to change her, River is convinced that Kane only wants her because they are great in bed.
I think if Ms. Carew rethinks the love triangle aspect, or makes River a little less wishy-washy, this story would be amazing.
September 6, 2016
Nailed is a romance for second chances at love. River sets up a fundraiser program to jumpstart her new nail polish business. She had a supporter pay a whopping five thousand just for a dinner with her-among other items. When she meets with this person, it turns out to be the man that broke her heart back in college.
Kane is now a self-made billionaire and he is determined to give River what he thinks will make up for a bad choice he made back in college. He's been obsessed with her ever since, but she wants nothing to do with him. He ends up offering her a deal with her company that she can not refuse-marry him and she will want for nothing and she will see her company succeed. Kane isn't looking for a marriage of convenience. He wants River to be his wife in every sense of the word.
River has always been that quirky girl who beat to her own drummer. Kane was the proverbial rich frat boy. I didn't like how he manipulated her in college. When the crap hit the fan, he didn't stand up to his friends and lost River. She ended up dropping out of college. Kane becomes obsessed with her-but never appeared to really try and find her. When his best friend, Will, finds the fundraiser, it sets a plan in motion to win her back. He still feels really guilty-and I get that-but to give her that contract was over the top. I didn't feel this was very realistic. River felt railroaded into doing it. That being said I did enjoy how their romance between them was moving along and loved how they were falling for each other. I wasn't really expecting the left turn the author made by adding Will in the mix. I think it would have been easier to accept if Will had been integrated much earlier. It seemed to be almost an afterthought. Now I really love me some menage storylines and the scene with the three of them was scorch the sheets hot, it was just a little to late in the story for me to really embrace.
Opal Carew is always coming up with something new and enjoyable. You can count on her to give you sexy and fun reads. This fit the bill!
3.5 stars/4 flames
This book was gifted to me by the Jeep Diva for the express purpose of an honest review. The review and rating are solely my opinion and in no way was I compensated.
Kane is now a self-made billionaire and he is determined to give River what he thinks will make up for a bad choice he made back in college. He's been obsessed with her ever since, but she wants nothing to do with him. He ends up offering her a deal with her company that she can not refuse-marry him and she will want for nothing and she will see her company succeed. Kane isn't looking for a marriage of convenience. He wants River to be his wife in every sense of the word.
River has always been that quirky girl who beat to her own drummer. Kane was the proverbial rich frat boy. I didn't like how he manipulated her in college. When the crap hit the fan, he didn't stand up to his friends and lost River. She ended up dropping out of college. Kane becomes obsessed with her-but never appeared to really try and find her. When his best friend, Will, finds the fundraiser, it sets a plan in motion to win her back. He still feels really guilty-and I get that-but to give her that contract was over the top. I didn't feel this was very realistic. River felt railroaded into doing it. That being said I did enjoy how their romance between them was moving along and loved how they were falling for each other. I wasn't really expecting the left turn the author made by adding Will in the mix. I think it would have been easier to accept if Will had been integrated much earlier. It seemed to be almost an afterthought. Now I really love me some menage storylines and the scene with the three of them was scorch the sheets hot, it was just a little to late in the story for me to really embrace.
Opal Carew is always coming up with something new and enjoyable. You can count on her to give you sexy and fun reads. This fit the bill!
3.5 stars/4 flames
This book was gifted to me by the Jeep Diva for the express purpose of an honest review. The review and rating are solely my opinion and in no way was I compensated.
June 19, 2016
This book begins with River, trying to make a go of her nail polish business and auctioning off a dinner with her in exchange for a large donation to her go fund me account. She is shocked at the donation she receives and even more shocked when she shows up to the dinner to discover that her benefactor is the one person she hoped to never see again.
Kane has never forgiven himself for the way things ended with River back in college. When he sees an opportunity to make a go of things with her again, Kane jumps at the chance. Now, he just has to get River to agree.
Kane will stop at nothing to win River back, even if it means he has to threaten her business to tie her to him forever.
My review:
This book was just ok for me. The characters had potential, but River is too quick to forgive and there is not a lot of character development for either of them. Throw in the twist with Kane's best friend, and the character development felt even more lacking.
I have read quite a few books by this author and while this one had a lot of sex, it lacked the heat that I have come to expect from her books. Her books are usually ménages and this does have one (yes only one) but not until the last 3% of the book...major bummer.
My thoughts:
POV switches between River and Kane
Quick hook or slow starter? 3.5(It took some time to hook me)
Character development: 2.5
Level of Romance between characters: 3
Passion/Heat level: 4 (there is a lot of sex but not to the level I have come to expect from the author)
Angst/Heartbreak: 2 (a little drama toward the end but not very angsty)
Cliffhanger?: No, the story is wrapped up in the end.
Overall, it was just ok. A little more character development or a lot more heat and it would have been a lot more enjoyable.
I received an ARC of this story from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Kane has never forgiven himself for the way things ended with River back in college. When he sees an opportunity to make a go of things with her again, Kane jumps at the chance. Now, he just has to get River to agree.
Kane will stop at nothing to win River back, even if it means he has to threaten her business to tie her to him forever.
My review:
This book was just ok for me. The characters had potential, but River is too quick to forgive and there is not a lot of character development for either of them. Throw in the twist with Kane's best friend, and the character development felt even more lacking.
I have read quite a few books by this author and while this one had a lot of sex, it lacked the heat that I have come to expect from her books. Her books are usually ménages and this does have one (yes only one) but not until the last 3% of the book...major bummer.
My thoughts:
POV switches between River and Kane
Quick hook or slow starter? 3.5(It took some time to hook me)
Character development: 2.5
Level of Romance between characters: 3
Passion/Heat level: 4 (there is a lot of sex but not to the level I have come to expect from the author)
Angst/Heartbreak: 2 (a little drama toward the end but not very angsty)
Cliffhanger?: No, the story is wrapped up in the end.
Overall, it was just ok. A little more character development or a lot more heat and it would have been a lot more enjoyable.
I received an ARC of this story from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
September 6, 2016
River set up a fundraiser to help get her business off of the ground. While she thought it would be a great idea she knew that it would take some time to really make a difference... until in walks someone who gives her fundraiser the boost it needs to get her right where she needs her company to go!
Kane unintentionally made a mistake that changed River's life as she knew it. Although he was unable to help her in the past he insists on helping her now... with a couple of stipulations of course.
Kane is ready to make all of River's dreams come true, if and only if she agrees to marry him...not just for show but a 100% real marriage for better of for worse.
The real question is can River and Kane turn their marriage with benefits into a real deal through sickness and in health kind of marriage or will the only happiness they experience be when they sign their divorce paperwork? Read and find out!
I received this book from Net Galley for my honest review
What I have noticed from Opal Carews book is that I find them incredibly hot and super sexy. Opal does a great job creating this environment where feeling's are strong and emotions run high.
While Kane and River's past was incredibly interesting and tear jerking their current situation left me very....confused. At one point I wondered exactly when this book was written because no one was using their cell phones. At another point Kane got on my nerves big time with his selfish attitude. When it came to River I felt like she was just oh so understanding about everything after the marriage vows were made. I really wanted her to show some backbone when it came to certain situations going on within their marriage.
Overall this book was good. I just wish that we would have gotten more of the story after a decision is made about certain things... but like I said it was still a good book, because you can not deny Opal's talent when it comes to spinning a tale.
Kane unintentionally made a mistake that changed River's life as she knew it. Although he was unable to help her in the past he insists on helping her now... with a couple of stipulations of course.
Kane is ready to make all of River's dreams come true, if and only if she agrees to marry him...not just for show but a 100% real marriage for better of for worse.
The real question is can River and Kane turn their marriage with benefits into a real deal through sickness and in health kind of marriage or will the only happiness they experience be when they sign their divorce paperwork? Read and find out!
I received this book from Net Galley for my honest review
What I have noticed from Opal Carews book is that I find them incredibly hot and super sexy. Opal does a great job creating this environment where feeling's are strong and emotions run high.
While Kane and River's past was incredibly interesting and tear jerking their current situation left me very....confused. At one point I wondered exactly when this book was written because no one was using their cell phones. At another point Kane got on my nerves big time with his selfish attitude. When it came to River I felt like she was just oh so understanding about everything after the marriage vows were made. I really wanted her to show some backbone when it came to certain situations going on within their marriage.
Overall this book was good. I just wish that we would have gotten more of the story after a decision is made about certain things... but like I said it was still a good book, because you can not deny Opal's talent when it comes to spinning a tale.
August 23, 2016
Nailed by Opal Carew is definitely hot. A very sexy version of She's All That, but with a heaping amount of relationship drama. Throw in a curveball I didn't expect from reading the synopsis, and you have yourself one intriguing story.
River Cassidy is excited when her Kickstarter campaign to start her nail polish business is a huge success, even bringing a mysterious benefactor willing to pay $5,000 to have dinner with her. However, when she meets her generous supporter, she's shocked to find the man who humiliated her and hurt her horribly in college, billionaire Kane Winters.
Kane Winters has been obsessed with River since their one time together in college. He's determined to make things right for what happened in college and have River back in his life and his bed. Going so far as offering the deal of a lifetime: he'll make it possible for her to run her nail polish business but only if he marries her. Can River forgive and forget? Can she risk falling in love with Kane?
Nailed was a very entertaining read and I enjoyed the characters of River and Kane. Kane is very much the obsessive and possessive alpha hero, who will let nothing deter him from getting what he wants. While River is a likable heroine. I cheered when she showed some sass and stood up to Kane especially when he surprises her as her mysterious benefactor. Though I would have liked her to continue to go toe to toe with Kane especially when he was not being very charming. Another character I liked and would have loved more of was Will, Kane's best friend.
Overall, Nailed was an enjoyable romance and I happily recommend.
(Received a copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.)
River Cassidy is excited when her Kickstarter campaign to start her nail polish business is a huge success, even bringing a mysterious benefactor willing to pay $5,000 to have dinner with her. However, when she meets her generous supporter, she's shocked to find the man who humiliated her and hurt her horribly in college, billionaire Kane Winters.
Kane Winters has been obsessed with River since their one time together in college. He's determined to make things right for what happened in college and have River back in his life and his bed. Going so far as offering the deal of a lifetime: he'll make it possible for her to run her nail polish business but only if he marries her. Can River forgive and forget? Can she risk falling in love with Kane?
Nailed was a very entertaining read and I enjoyed the characters of River and Kane. Kane is very much the obsessive and possessive alpha hero, who will let nothing deter him from getting what he wants. While River is a likable heroine. I cheered when she showed some sass and stood up to Kane especially when he surprises her as her mysterious benefactor. Though I would have liked her to continue to go toe to toe with Kane especially when he was not being very charming. Another character I liked and would have loved more of was Will, Kane's best friend.
Overall, Nailed was an enjoyable romance and I happily recommend.
(Received a copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.)
September 6, 2016
I'm a big Opal Carew fan and was excited to read this because the female lead is trying to start a nail polish business. I'm a nail polish addict and it isn't something you read about in many books so I thought that would be a fun addition to the storyline! This is a second chance romance that had a twist at the end (I won't mention it so as not spoil anything, but it just made the romance hotter in my opinion).
River sets up an online crowd source funding to help her start her nail polish business. She adds a dinner with her as a high ticket donation, never expecting it to be purchased. Much to her surprise it is and she finds out Kane, her college sweetheart was the buyer, Kane and a River have complicated abs messy history and it becomes clear pretty quickly neither is quite over the other. Add in some interesting developments with Kane's best friend Will and this is another interesting and well written addition to Carew's sexy erotic reads.
A copy was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
River sets up an online crowd source funding to help her start her nail polish business. She adds a dinner with her as a high ticket donation, never expecting it to be purchased. Much to her surprise it is and she finds out Kane, her college sweetheart was the buyer, Kane and a River have complicated abs messy history and it becomes clear pretty quickly neither is quite over the other. Add in some interesting developments with Kane's best friend Will and this is another interesting and well written addition to Carew's sexy erotic reads.
A copy was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 28, 2016
This is more of a second chance romance with a twist. River and Kane met in college, he went out with her on a bet and it ended with her total humiliation. River disappears from college, but to Kane she was the "one", he fell for her. Fast forward to present day, Kane and his best friend from college Will are super rich now. Will has always been searching for River, and when he locates her it gives Kane the opportunity to help her with the start up of her dream company and continue where they left off.
The twist of the story is that Kane and Will have a relationship. I thought that when Will and River started getting closer that Kane's jealousy was because of River, but I think he was more afraid of her finding out. When she does Kane is surprised at her response.
ARC provided by Netgalley for a honest review.
The twist of the story is that Kane and Will have a relationship. I thought that when Will and River started getting closer that Kane's jealousy was because of River, but I think he was more afraid of her finding out. When she does Kane is surprised at her response.
ARC provided by Netgalley for a honest review.
August 15, 2016
In this book we experience Kane and River in the here and now working through past issues from their college years. The book jumps back and forth to further explain exactly what happened in college in order for us to get the full affect of who they were then and now.
Pain and humiliation is never easy to forget as you will see in this book, but attraction and emotion pretty much rule our hearts. When an opportunity arises to fix past hurts Kane jumps on the chance to insert himself back into River's life. That is with the help of his long time best friend Will.
I won't lie and say I didn't see a certain scene coming but that made it no less enthralling. I thoroughly enjoyed this book as I have with ones by this author in the past. She offers up interesting characters with captivating stories.
A fun and sexy, hot read~
Pain and humiliation is never easy to forget as you will see in this book, but attraction and emotion pretty much rule our hearts. When an opportunity arises to fix past hurts Kane jumps on the chance to insert himself back into River's life. That is with the help of his long time best friend Will.
I won't lie and say I didn't see a certain scene coming but that made it no less enthralling. I thoroughly enjoyed this book as I have with ones by this author in the past. She offers up interesting characters with captivating stories.
A fun and sexy, hot read~
October 10, 2016
copy received from Netgalley
this story started off pretty good. Kane and River met in college. He went out with her on a bet. Once her started talking to her, he actually liked her. They got caught up in a mess and she quit school and moved away. Once Kane found a way to get her back her jumped on it. I enjoyed Kane and River together and that would have been great. A second chance at love along with a marriage of convenience. It would have worked until the third person joined in. I am not a fan of menage and I have tried a few books. I always seem to lose interest. So the rating is not against the author or her writing, it is more my issue.
this story started off pretty good. Kane and River met in college. He went out with her on a bet. Once her started talking to her, he actually liked her. They got caught up in a mess and she quit school and moved away. Once Kane found a way to get her back her jumped on it. I enjoyed Kane and River together and that would have been great. A second chance at love along with a marriage of convenience. It would have worked until the third person joined in. I am not a fan of menage and I have tried a few books. I always seem to lose interest. So the rating is not against the author or her writing, it is more my issue.
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