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Hart Brothers #1
Freeing Her
Freeing Her (A Hart Brothers Novel, Book 1)
• This novel contains mature content and it not intended for younger readers.
This is the beginning of a story... the story of two people who were meant to be together. Why? Because unknown to them, they shared terrifying pasts and the cruel circumstances of their births doomed both of them to a life of hell.
Two strangers ... one night ... one accidental meeting that changed their lives forever.
Gabriella Martinelli, Manhattan psychiatrist had only one goal in life—to help abuse victims avoid the horrors she’d experienced herself. She worked late, volunteered, and donated her services to anyone who needed them. Life was good ... until her nightmare resurfaced. He found her, and began stalking her, and she knew he wouldn’t stop until he destroyed every ragged piece of her.
Kolson Hart, Manhattan’s most eligible bachelor, was ruled by his dark past. He liked control, from the boardroom to the bedroom and didn’t care to be involved with someone whose life was just as screwed up as his was. But one look at Gabriella short-circuited everything. Want ... desire ... need ... will sometimes drive a man to do things he swore he never would.
He freed her from a life of fear ... When he couldn’t even save himself.
Librarian's note: See alternate cover edition with this ASIN here.
• This novel contains mature content and it not intended for younger readers.
This is the beginning of a story... the story of two people who were meant to be together. Why? Because unknown to them, they shared terrifying pasts and the cruel circumstances of their births doomed both of them to a life of hell.
Two strangers ... one night ... one accidental meeting that changed their lives forever.
Gabriella Martinelli, Manhattan psychiatrist had only one goal in life—to help abuse victims avoid the horrors she’d experienced herself. She worked late, volunteered, and donated her services to anyone who needed them. Life was good ... until her nightmare resurfaced. He found her, and began stalking her, and she knew he wouldn’t stop until he destroyed every ragged piece of her.
Kolson Hart, Manhattan’s most eligible bachelor, was ruled by his dark past. He liked control, from the boardroom to the bedroom and didn’t care to be involved with someone whose life was just as screwed up as his was. But one look at Gabriella short-circuited everything. Want ... desire ... need ... will sometimes drive a man to do things he swore he never would.
He freed her from a life of fear ... When he couldn’t even save himself.
Librarian's note: See alternate cover edition with this ASIN here.
332 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 26, 2014
214 people are currently reading
1281 people want to read
About the author
A.M. Hargrove
76 books2,460 followersOne day, on her way home from work as a sales manager, USA Today bestselling author, A. M. Hargrove, realized her life was on fast forward and if she didn't do something soon, it would be too late to write that work of fiction she had been dreaming of her whole life. So she made a quick decision to quit her job and reinvented herself as a Naughty and Nice Romance Author.
Reader, Writer, #WalterThePuppy Owner, Dark Chocolate Lover, Ice Cream Worshipper, Vodka Aficionado, Coffee Drinker, she believes coffee and ice cream should be added as part of the USDA food groups.
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Reader, Writer, #WalterThePuppy Owner, Dark Chocolate Lover, Ice Cream Worshipper, Vodka Aficionado, Coffee Drinker, she believes coffee and ice cream should be added as part of the USDA food groups.
Connect with Annie here
Newsletter: http://amhargrove.com/mailing-list/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/amhargroveauthor
Instagram: http://www.instagram/amhargroveauthor
Amazon: http://amazon.com/author/amhargrove
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/a-m-h...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
February 9, 2017
***I was provided a complimentary ARC of this book through Netgalley.com in exchange for honest feedback.***
Gabriella has spent years trying to escape from her past. When it finally catches up to her, in the form of her crazy, rapist cousin Danny, she fears that she will never be free of him. He'll never leave her alone.
She's dedicated her life to helping others survive similar fates. After her own family refused to believe her tormentor over her, eventually writing her off entirely, Gabby put herself through college and Medical School. Now, she's drowning in debt and struggling to keep her Psychiatry practice above water. When she isn't working, she's volunteering for one of the causes she holds dear to her heart.
Her busy schedule had been an effective means of avoiding her own past traumas. When Danny reappears in her life after years without contact, her world comes crashing down. With a single call, she is transformed back into the fearful girl of her past.
Kolson Hart hadn't planned on falling in love. He hadn't planned on more than giving the clearly inebriated lady a ride home, lest she fall prey to someone with bad intentions. When she passed out in his arms before he could get her address, he is forced to take her back to his place for the night.
So begins the story of Gabriella and Kolson...
From the start, Kolson has an unusually strong compulsion to protect Gabby. Within hours of meeting her, he's assigned her a security detail. Within a few days, the two seem to be quite the couple.
For the most part, it worked. What didn't work for me was the speed and open-mindedness with which Gabby jumped into Kolson's BDSM kink. Yes, it was tame compared to many books out there, but I still have trouble believing that she would've been such an eager participant, given her traumatic past. Before she even reveals her big secret to him, he's using sex as a weapon against her to make her tell him the secret she's trying so desperately to hold on to. Maybe it's just me, but this didn't gel for me.
Once I got past that, I have to say that I mostly liked the story. At times it did lose my interest and I skimmed parts. The sex was gratuitous at times, but still pretty hot. The characters were alright. Everything was okay, but nothing was spectacular for me.
Kolson has his own secrets that will be revealed in a subsequent book, I'm sure. I'm curious as to the type of abuse he endured, but I'm not curious enough to run right out and get the next book. Maybe one day.
Gabriella has spent years trying to escape from her past. When it finally catches up to her, in the form of her crazy, rapist cousin Danny, she fears that she will never be free of him. He'll never leave her alone.
She's dedicated her life to helping others survive similar fates. After her own family refused to believe her tormentor over her, eventually writing her off entirely, Gabby put herself through college and Medical School. Now, she's drowning in debt and struggling to keep her Psychiatry practice above water. When she isn't working, she's volunteering for one of the causes she holds dear to her heart.
Her busy schedule had been an effective means of avoiding her own past traumas. When Danny reappears in her life after years without contact, her world comes crashing down. With a single call, she is transformed back into the fearful girl of her past.
Kolson Hart hadn't planned on falling in love. He hadn't planned on more than giving the clearly inebriated lady a ride home, lest she fall prey to someone with bad intentions. When she passed out in his arms before he could get her address, he is forced to take her back to his place for the night.
So begins the story of Gabriella and Kolson...
From the start, Kolson has an unusually strong compulsion to protect Gabby. Within hours of meeting her, he's assigned her a security detail. Within a few days, the two seem to be quite the couple.
For the most part, it worked. What didn't work for me was the speed and open-mindedness with which Gabby jumped into Kolson's BDSM kink. Yes, it was tame compared to many books out there, but I still have trouble believing that she would've been such an eager participant, given her traumatic past. Before she even reveals her big secret to him, he's using sex as a weapon against her to make her tell him the secret she's trying so desperately to hold on to. Maybe it's just me, but this didn't gel for me.
Once I got past that, I have to say that I mostly liked the story. At times it did lose my interest and I skimmed parts. The sex was gratuitous at times, but still pretty hot. The characters were alright. Everything was okay, but nothing was spectacular for me.
Kolson has his own secrets that will be revealed in a subsequent book, I'm sure. I'm curious as to the type of abuse he endured, but I'm not curious enough to run right out and get the next book. Maybe one day.
August 13, 2014
This is a tough one for me. When I finished this book, I was left feeling conflicted. I didn’t not like it, however I didn’t absolutely love it either. I just…liked it. The story was an original plotline which I liked, and the writing style was very thorough. The writing community these days is very competitive – there’s new releases everyday and in order to stay in the game, I think its important to have unique characters and storylines that are intriguing. This book did have those attributes, however it was a bit of a slower paced novel. With it being a suspense, I was looking for a bit more to keep me engaged. Having said that, Freeing Her does have moments that will touch your heart and moments that are so damn hot you’ll be left breathless. So let’s chat about it and see what your thoughts are…
Gabriella Martinelli is a woman with a tortured past. Sinking to her lowest caused her to realize that giving in to her demons wasn’t the answer. She finds the strength to overcome, the strength to make something of herself. A psychiatrist who dedicates her career to helping victims of abuse. Between her countless hours of volunteering and seeing her patients in her practice, there is little time left for romance in her life. A fact that suits her fine, as she is still suffering the after effects of her own nightmare. When her tormenter resurfaces – sending ominous notes and phone calls, she panics, seeking solace in the bottom of a bottle at a local bar. A few martinis later and she’s face to face with a ridiculously handsome man.
Kolson Hart. A powerful, demanding man with his own dark past. He’s not a man that usually gets involved, he prides himself on keeping his life very private. Witnessing the beautiful woman in the bar chase her demons away with an alcoholic shield, he recognizes something in her. He knows pain when he sees it, and she is a woman in desperate need of a protector. Rescuing her before she ends up wandering the streets drunkenly, he brings her home. The two begin a cat and mouse relationship, tip toeing around their building desire for each other and avoiding what they really want – each other. Although it was a slow build, when they did come together – the scenes were hot and full of that demanding, dominating authority that I love to read about in a male character.
Overall, this as a good read if you are a fan of romantic suspense. There was enough twists to keep my interest and I enjoyed the way the author set the stage for the next books in the series. There’s some dark secrets waiting to be uncovered in Kolson’s past, and the few hints we were given in this book were just enough to tease me into wanting to read the next installment.
xo Cassia
deliciouslywickedbooks.com
Gabriella Martinelli is a woman with a tortured past. Sinking to her lowest caused her to realize that giving in to her demons wasn’t the answer. She finds the strength to overcome, the strength to make something of herself. A psychiatrist who dedicates her career to helping victims of abuse. Between her countless hours of volunteering and seeing her patients in her practice, there is little time left for romance in her life. A fact that suits her fine, as she is still suffering the after effects of her own nightmare. When her tormenter resurfaces – sending ominous notes and phone calls, she panics, seeking solace in the bottom of a bottle at a local bar. A few martinis later and she’s face to face with a ridiculously handsome man.
Kolson Hart. A powerful, demanding man with his own dark past. He’s not a man that usually gets involved, he prides himself on keeping his life very private. Witnessing the beautiful woman in the bar chase her demons away with an alcoholic shield, he recognizes something in her. He knows pain when he sees it, and she is a woman in desperate need of a protector. Rescuing her before she ends up wandering the streets drunkenly, he brings her home. The two begin a cat and mouse relationship, tip toeing around their building desire for each other and avoiding what they really want – each other. Although it was a slow build, when they did come together – the scenes were hot and full of that demanding, dominating authority that I love to read about in a male character.
Overall, this as a good read if you are a fan of romantic suspense. There was enough twists to keep my interest and I enjoyed the way the author set the stage for the next books in the series. There’s some dark secrets waiting to be uncovered in Kolson’s past, and the few hints we were given in this book were just enough to tease me into wanting to read the next installment.
xo Cassia
deliciouslywickedbooks.com
August 27, 2015
So, I finished this book, but decided to write its review after I’ve read all four books in the series. With that being said, I can honestly say that this book was my third favorite of the four. The book kind of started off a little weird to me. I know that’s hard to understand what I mean. But, the writing seemed a little immature. Sure there was graphic language and elicit situations, but the writing just didn’t jive with the adult maturity level. I decided to stick with the book, though, and I’m totally glad that I did because the story and writing just got better and better; so much so that it improved tremendously by the end. But, then when it came to that shocking climax, it just sealed the deal for me to continue the series since it improved the story overall.
So onto the story...
This was a sadly gripping story that had my heart in my throat as two damaged people so desperately needed saving. They don’t actually realize it, however, until they meet each other and begin to understand just what is missing in their lives. This story is told mostly about Gabby and her current situation, a young woman unmercilessly abused both sexually and physically for years by her deranged cousin. A cousin who has her whole family thinking that Gabby is making the whole thing up. She is a smart caring person that totally puts herself out there to help others. What could she possibly have to gain to lie about what her cousin has done to her over and over? When she meets wealthy Kolson Hart all he wants to do is help her. But, how can she trust him with her secrets? He’s a stranger. A man. And, when her psychiatrist’s intuition kicks in, she knows he’s hiding a deeply disturbing past as well.
This was one scorching book. Wow!! Erotically scintillating was the intimacy level between these two. And, Kolson’s hidden piercings, which are beyond sensuous, justs added to the sexy times that this couple engaged in. Off-the-chart smokin’ HOT!!!
With secrets regarding Kolson’s past finally somewhat emerging, it’s with love and understanding that Gabby touches his soul. There’s so much more to come with this amazing couple as Kolson’s story is told in more depth just as to how scarred this beautiful man is when his past is revealed detail by detail in book two of this riveting series.
“Somehow this man had managed to take her perfectly constructed fortress of protection and tear it down, stone by stone, until she stood fully exposed and naked before him. Not only that, he had achieved the unachievable. He had wriggled the truth out of her. Every secret she’d ever had, every mystery had been revealed and exposed to him. She’d dragged the last skeleton out of her closet, dressed it up in all its finery, and willingly displayed it for him to see.
And the greatest part? The burden that had weighed her down all these years lifted, freeing her from its gruesome memory. The air she inhaled was cleaner, fresher, and her lungs expanded more because of it. The vertebrae in her back separated incrementally, allowing her spine to life higher. She reached a fuller height, all due to Kolson. One man and his persistence and his promise to believe her.” – (Chap. 17)
So onto the story...
This was a sadly gripping story that had my heart in my throat as two damaged people so desperately needed saving. They don’t actually realize it, however, until they meet each other and begin to understand just what is missing in their lives. This story is told mostly about Gabby and her current situation, a young woman unmercilessly abused both sexually and physically for years by her deranged cousin. A cousin who has her whole family thinking that Gabby is making the whole thing up. She is a smart caring person that totally puts herself out there to help others. What could she possibly have to gain to lie about what her cousin has done to her over and over? When she meets wealthy Kolson Hart all he wants to do is help her. But, how can she trust him with her secrets? He’s a stranger. A man. And, when her psychiatrist’s intuition kicks in, she knows he’s hiding a deeply disturbing past as well.
This was one scorching book. Wow!! Erotically scintillating was the intimacy level between these two. And, Kolson’s hidden piercings, which are beyond sensuous, justs added to the sexy times that this couple engaged in. Off-the-chart smokin’ HOT!!!
With secrets regarding Kolson’s past finally somewhat emerging, it’s with love and understanding that Gabby touches his soul. There’s so much more to come with this amazing couple as Kolson’s story is told in more depth just as to how scarred this beautiful man is when his past is revealed detail by detail in book two of this riveting series.
“Somehow this man had managed to take her perfectly constructed fortress of protection and tear it down, stone by stone, until she stood fully exposed and naked before him. Not only that, he had achieved the unachievable. He had wriggled the truth out of her. Every secret she’d ever had, every mystery had been revealed and exposed to him. She’d dragged the last skeleton out of her closet, dressed it up in all its finery, and willingly displayed it for him to see.
And the greatest part? The burden that had weighed her down all these years lifted, freeing her from its gruesome memory. The air she inhaled was cleaner, fresher, and her lungs expanded more because of it. The vertebrae in her back separated incrementally, allowing her spine to life higher. She reached a fuller height, all due to Kolson. One man and his persistence and his promise to believe her.” – (Chap. 17)
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August 8, 2014
Quick review:
Cover: Nice
Rating: NC-17
Steaminess: Super Hot
Thumbs Up: 4.5
Overall: A great start to a series
Characters: Well Done
Plot: A stranger maybe the protection she needs
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont.? Yes
Recommend: Yes
Book Boyfriend: Kolson
SUMMARY (50 words or less)
Although this book is a part of a series, this story focuses on Gabby’s problems. Thus, you will get resolution in this book. No need to wait. And I’m just so freaking fascinated about Kolson, I didn’t want it to end.
For a full review and yummy pic, see my blog post at:
http://www.mybookboyfriend.net/2014/0...
Cover: Nice
Rating: NC-17
Steaminess: Super Hot
Thumbs Up: 4.5
Overall: A great start to a series
Characters: Well Done
Plot: A stranger maybe the protection she needs
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont.? Yes
Recommend: Yes
Book Boyfriend: Kolson
SUMMARY (50 words or less)
Although this book is a part of a series, this story focuses on Gabby’s problems. Thus, you will get resolution in this book. No need to wait. And I’m just so freaking fascinated about Kolson, I didn’t want it to end.
For a full review and yummy pic, see my blog post at:
http://www.mybookboyfriend.net/2014/0...
August 21, 2014
Freeing Her just may be my favorite book by Anne to date.
I love how her stories just pull you in and keep you guessing what is going to happen next. The plot is very interesting and you truly have no idea what is going to happen. And the writing – very well done and I love the added whit and humor.
“But twenty? Give or take? Not including one-nighters? What the hell are you? A fuck machine?”
Gabriella and Kolson may live in completely different ways but their pasts haunt them just the same. But they are both rising above their pasts and trying to move past it. Gabriella finally frees herself of her past by confiding in Kolson. He helps her in every way he can to keep her safe and to finally get justice for her. However – he’s having difficulties opening to her about his past. But when people become close to one another, those secrets will eventually come out – whether you want them to or not.
“If you fuck as passionately was you kiss, we’re in for a wild ride.”
Freeing Her is definitely a suspenseful romance novel. It has all the hot, sweaty sex scenes that will have you panting and wishing you were Gabby. But it also keeps you entertained and intrigued by the suspenseful plot that will have you guessing til the end! And damnit – that cliffhanger kills me!!! I must know what happens now!
Superb writing as always and highly recommended!!!
***VISIT LOVENBOOKS.COM FOR MORE REVIEWS***
I love how her stories just pull you in and keep you guessing what is going to happen next. The plot is very interesting and you truly have no idea what is going to happen. And the writing – very well done and I love the added whit and humor.
“But twenty? Give or take? Not including one-nighters? What the hell are you? A fuck machine?”
Gabriella and Kolson may live in completely different ways but their pasts haunt them just the same. But they are both rising above their pasts and trying to move past it. Gabriella finally frees herself of her past by confiding in Kolson. He helps her in every way he can to keep her safe and to finally get justice for her. However – he’s having difficulties opening to her about his past. But when people become close to one another, those secrets will eventually come out – whether you want them to or not.
“If you fuck as passionately was you kiss, we’re in for a wild ride.”
Freeing Her is definitely a suspenseful romance novel. It has all the hot, sweaty sex scenes that will have you panting and wishing you were Gabby. But it also keeps you entertained and intrigued by the suspenseful plot that will have you guessing til the end! And damnit – that cliffhanger kills me!!! I must know what happens now!
Superb writing as always and highly recommended!!!
***VISIT LOVENBOOKS.COM FOR MORE REVIEWS***
September 6, 2015
Dnf. The first chapter and I was done. The h is a psychiatrist. She is suppose to be helping others. One pet peeve I have is she can't be lecturing anyone about facing their pasts and being strong when the first things out of her mouth is she can't stand up to a guy who obviously did some terrible things to her. She gets a phone call from psycho who threats terrible things and it's obvious he knows where she lives etc.. So Miss intelligent decides she needs to get out and go somewhere at night where there is liquor. She walks there and downs several powerful drinks and starts hitting on some strange. There is so many things wrong in that one chapter I refuse to continue reading about such an obviously stupid heroine. I expect 21 year old girls to make dumb decisions but don't make your heroine 30+ and a psychiatrist and pull something only a 16-21 year old may do!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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November 7, 2020dnf
July 22, 2015
This book reminded me a lot of the Bared to You series. We have a strong, wealthy, dominate male who wants to protect the woman he falls in love with. Like Bared To You, our male character has a terrible secret that we never learn about in this book. This was probably the most disappointing parts of this book for me. The blurb makes it known that both main characters have demons from their past that doom their life from the start, yet by the end of the first book we know very little if anything about Kolson. I had hoped for a little more of a glimpse into what his demons were, what his fears were and what on earth was wrong with his family but unfortunately we don't get that from this book. Be warned, this book ends on a cliff hanger and that you will need to read at least the second book in this series before you find the answers you are looking for.
Overall the book was written well with great character development. I could relate to some parts of both major characters and could feel the love they shared for one another.
I will say that one other thing that annoyed me in this book was the lack of legal knowledge by the author. (Spoiler alert) Towards the end of the book, the author writes that Danny was being charged with an array of crimes including rape and child molestation. First off, there was no medical exam conducted at the time of the rape meaning no evidence was collected. There were no pictures of the abuse she suffered. I find it very difficult to believe that a district attorney was prepared to file charges of rape on something that happened years before with no proof and without having questioned Danny. The child molestation charges wouldn't have stuck either as the statue of limitations would have passed years prior. I don't think they could charge him with assault unless the abuse was more recent however the reader is made to think the physical abuse happened when Gabby was much younger. I don't understand why they didn't seek a protection from abuse order against Danny. He was clearly stalking her, leaving her threatening notes at her place of business and broke into her apartment yet at no time did they consider going to the police with that information. Also, am I to believe that in her apartment building, in her work building and then even in the building he lives in and owns that there were no security cameras to document Danny breaking in? Again, information that could have been brought to the police. I also don't think she can civilly sue her parents in court and if she did, they wouldn't the news would not report "crimes" she was alleging against them. Unless her family was very wealthy (which it seems like they were at least somewhat wealthy), what could she have hoped to gain from suing them in court? I don't think anyone listened to Gabby when she said she didn't want to sue them.
Despite these issues, I enjoyed the story and the fast pace which kept me interested from the beginning. I haven't decided if I'm going to read the second book in this series but if I do I can only hope that the author did her research this time and at least made the issues more realistic.
** ARC received from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review **
Overall the book was written well with great character development. I could relate to some parts of both major characters and could feel the love they shared for one another.
I will say that one other thing that annoyed me in this book was the lack of legal knowledge by the author. (Spoiler alert) Towards the end of the book, the author writes that Danny was being charged with an array of crimes including rape and child molestation. First off, there was no medical exam conducted at the time of the rape meaning no evidence was collected. There were no pictures of the abuse she suffered. I find it very difficult to believe that a district attorney was prepared to file charges of rape on something that happened years before with no proof and without having questioned Danny. The child molestation charges wouldn't have stuck either as the statue of limitations would have passed years prior. I don't think they could charge him with assault unless the abuse was more recent however the reader is made to think the physical abuse happened when Gabby was much younger. I don't understand why they didn't seek a protection from abuse order against Danny. He was clearly stalking her, leaving her threatening notes at her place of business and broke into her apartment yet at no time did they consider going to the police with that information. Also, am I to believe that in her apartment building, in her work building and then even in the building he lives in and owns that there were no security cameras to document Danny breaking in? Again, information that could have been brought to the police. I also don't think she can civilly sue her parents in court and if she did, they wouldn't the news would not report "crimes" she was alleging against them. Unless her family was very wealthy (which it seems like they were at least somewhat wealthy), what could she have hoped to gain from suing them in court? I don't think anyone listened to Gabby when she said she didn't want to sue them.
Despite these issues, I enjoyed the story and the fast pace which kept me interested from the beginning. I haven't decided if I'm going to read the second book in this series but if I do I can only hope that the author did her research this time and at least made the issues more realistic.
** ARC received from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review **
August 9, 2014
Gabriella Martinelli has is a woman who has spent her life helping people face and conquer their psychological demons, but on the day that the greatest evil from her past insinuates itself onto her present...all she wants to do is RUN!
All Kolston Hart wants to do is FORGET! Forget that he is not and will never be the Golden Boy that his brother is. Forget his undeserved status as a pampered playboy. Forget the horrors of his past that drive him to succeed, drive him to live the lies, drive him to be alone.
What neither of these broken souls have any way of knowing is that one chance meeting, a few light-hearted and seemingly benign exchanges, and one selfless act will entangle their lives and hearts with an all consuming passion that will result in his FREEING HER!
This book offers readers quite the story! And while you may assume that you have heard this story a time or two...just wait.
Yes, Kolston Hart is rich.
Yes, Gabriella Meirtinelli is a damsel in distress.
That however is where the similarities to anything that you have read before and FREEING HER come to a screeching halt.
Gabriella has worked hard to escape the darkness of her past, and is doing her damnedest to help others do the same.
When she meets the enigmatic Mr. Hart, she seems far more interested in putting distance between them, than getting "up close and personal."
Kolston, it seems, has other plans, and the more that he finds out about the 'good Dr...the more he is determined to know.
As circumstances and the evil that is waiting to reclaim Gaby push the two further and further into each other's lives; they find that they share an attraction too intense for either to ignore.
For readers, this is the part where all the magic happens. We get to see walls come down, old scars exposed and new bonds of trust and self acceptance forged.
This is also where all the panty-ripping sex is!
As we any great story, the power couple that is Kolston and Gabriella prove that their broken pieces come together to form a fortress stronger than any evil that can come against them. True to his hard won "knight in shining..." status Kolston proves that he is more than willing to go the distance for his lady love with a surprise cliff hanging decision that has to be read to be..
All Kolston Hart wants to do is FORGET! Forget that he is not and will never be the Golden Boy that his brother is. Forget his undeserved status as a pampered playboy. Forget the horrors of his past that drive him to succeed, drive him to live the lies, drive him to be alone.
What neither of these broken souls have any way of knowing is that one chance meeting, a few light-hearted and seemingly benign exchanges, and one selfless act will entangle their lives and hearts with an all consuming passion that will result in his FREEING HER!
This book offers readers quite the story! And while you may assume that you have heard this story a time or two...just wait.
Yes, Kolston Hart is rich.
Yes, Gabriella Meirtinelli is a damsel in distress.
That however is where the similarities to anything that you have read before and FREEING HER come to a screeching halt.
Gabriella has worked hard to escape the darkness of her past, and is doing her damnedest to help others do the same.
When she meets the enigmatic Mr. Hart, she seems far more interested in putting distance between them, than getting "up close and personal."
Kolston, it seems, has other plans, and the more that he finds out about the 'good Dr...the more he is determined to know.
As circumstances and the evil that is waiting to reclaim Gaby push the two further and further into each other's lives; they find that they share an attraction too intense for either to ignore.
For readers, this is the part where all the magic happens. We get to see walls come down, old scars exposed and new bonds of trust and self acceptance forged.
This is also where all the panty-ripping sex is!
As we any great story, the power couple that is Kolston and Gabriella prove that their broken pieces come together to form a fortress stronger than any evil that can come against them. True to his hard won "knight in shining..." status Kolston proves that he is more than willing to go the distance for his lady love with a surprise cliff hanging decision that has to be read to be..
December 30, 2014
This book was a pleasant surprise. The H really blew me away. He was dominant, obsessive, and fiercely protective of the h. The h, on the other hand, was an idiot. She was sexually abused by her cousin throughout her childhood and not even her parents believed her. She spends all of her free time volunteering to help abused victims. I felt that the author went too far with the h's martyr complex. Also, her actions were confusing. She was afraid that her cousin had found her so she goes to a small bar and gets crazy drunk. So drunk that she can't remember anything and the H takes her home. This was an incredibly stupid thing to do if you think you are in danger. During the day she is looking over her shoulder afraid all the time. She again goes out with her friends and gets super drunk. This is when her cousin has escalated his threats. When she gets together with her friends all they want to talk about is men and sex. They weren't real characters but awful stereotypes of women. I thought the h was described to be a smart woman but she became a joke when with her group of friends. Plus, her friends were former patients which is never a good idea. The relationship btw the H and h develops immediately. The H inserts himself into the h's life and you are left confused as to why. Even stranger the h doesn't mind that the H is hiring men to follow her, drive her around, and bring her food. The H's past is a complete mystery and won't be revealed till the next book. Once the h meets the H's family the H quickly turns on the h. Then the h overreacts to the H's anger and gives him the silent treatment. She behaves extremely immature for her age. Nevertheless, it was an ok read. Just a warning that this book is very similar to the Crossfire books and FSOG.
August 8, 2014
How the {frickingfrackingfrucking} did I not notice this was book 1? I kept waiting for Kolson to divulge what happened in his background and I got to 93% and thought, it has to be here somewhere. Come on! There’s only 7% left! Then it was over. And now I’m dying. Probably figuratively, but dying none the less.
I feel better now that I got that out.
Now I can start my review.
In Freeing Her, Gabriella feels like she is finally safe from her past until it comes back to stalk her. She grew up with an alcoholic mother who couldn’t care less and an atrocious father who didn’t believe a word that she said. Now the past has found her and he isn’t backing down.
Kolson has a dark past too, but I, ahem, have no idea what it is. And it’s driving me crazy. I can’t even share what I do know cuz I don’t want to give any spoilers. Let’s just say, I loved Kolson. He is a take charge, protect what’s his, knows what he wants kind of man.
There’s darkness and drama and suspense and some hotness.
I’m at a loss for words though. I loved this book so much and I cannot wait to read the second one because I feel like I can’t really understand completely and totally until I get the next story.
I want it now.
Please?
With a cherry on top?
I suppose I’ll wait. 5 stars. I was hanging on every word, swiping as fast as I could, and completely and totally absorbed in the story, which is why reality probably jarred me so cruelly when I hit 100%. It was a huge slap in the face with the real world when I still wanted to be in the world of Kolson and Gabriella.
Thank you so much for my copy of Freeing Her! Now I need Freeing Him. I said that already. I really really need it.
I feel better now that I got that out.
Now I can start my review.
In Freeing Her, Gabriella feels like she is finally safe from her past until it comes back to stalk her. She grew up with an alcoholic mother who couldn’t care less and an atrocious father who didn’t believe a word that she said. Now the past has found her and he isn’t backing down.
Kolson has a dark past too, but I, ahem, have no idea what it is. And it’s driving me crazy. I can’t even share what I do know cuz I don’t want to give any spoilers. Let’s just say, I loved Kolson. He is a take charge, protect what’s his, knows what he wants kind of man.
There’s darkness and drama and suspense and some hotness.
I’m at a loss for words though. I loved this book so much and I cannot wait to read the second one because I feel like I can’t really understand completely and totally until I get the next story.
I want it now.
Please?
With a cherry on top?
I suppose I’ll wait. 5 stars. I was hanging on every word, swiping as fast as I could, and completely and totally absorbed in the story, which is why reality probably jarred me so cruelly when I hit 100%. It was a huge slap in the face with the real world when I still wanted to be in the world of Kolson and Gabriella.
Thank you so much for my copy of Freeing Her! Now I need Freeing Him. I said that already. I really really need it.
August 14, 2014
This was the book I almost didn't finish. (Hang with me while I explain.) When I got to a certain part of the book I was cringing a bit...I felt a certain scene was encroaching upon my comfort zone. I got to the point I felt I needed to put it down. I decided during this time that the book wasn't for me. So then I emailed Hargrove I told her just that. But Hargrove, being the amazing author she is, talked me down from the literary edge I was standing on. She then told me what was going to happen in the book since I wouldn't be reading it. Of course, after spilling to me what was to come, I knew I had to finish it.
And in the end I did finish the book and actually enjoyed it. It did have some kink, but I would skip past those parts. See? I am an old fashion girl…a prude if you will. ;) But I have mad love for Hargrove and her suspenseful stories. To me, she takes suspense to a whole new level. And that is what I love about her. She is not afraid to write what she loves and she does it well.
I didn't connect well with Kolson, or Gabriella for that matter, but I still liked what they brought to the story. Both are tortured souls that have a lot of crap to wade through. But both had each other to rely on the whole way. Are they over their troubles in the end? Absolutely not. In fact, there is much more trouble on the way. I am interested in seeing where Hargrove is going to take Kolson's character. The end definitely left me intrigued.
All in all, I thought FREEING HER was a good read and a great start to a series. I am eager to know what is coming next and seeing the story unfold further. 4 Stars!
And in the end I did finish the book and actually enjoyed it. It did have some kink, but I would skip past those parts. See? I am an old fashion girl…a prude if you will. ;) But I have mad love for Hargrove and her suspenseful stories. To me, she takes suspense to a whole new level. And that is what I love about her. She is not afraid to write what she loves and she does it well.
I didn't connect well with Kolson, or Gabriella for that matter, but I still liked what they brought to the story. Both are tortured souls that have a lot of crap to wade through. But both had each other to rely on the whole way. Are they over their troubles in the end? Absolutely not. In fact, there is much more trouble on the way. I am interested in seeing where Hargrove is going to take Kolson's character. The end definitely left me intrigued.
All in all, I thought FREEING HER was a good read and a great start to a series. I am eager to know what is coming next and seeing the story unfold further. 4 Stars!
November 24, 2014
(((ARC Review)))
Hmm…I can’t even. Isn’t that the saying? Lol.
This book got off on the wrong foot for me…I was confused right off the bat. It was written in MULTIPLE POV’s and when I say multiple, I mean almost everyone got their 2 cents in the book. We even got to hear what the bartender was thinking. I am fine with multiple POV’s, but when the POV changes within paragraphs/chapters, I tend to get lost. This might be a personal issue lol, but I just couldn’t wrap my head around it.
Here’s the story in a nutshell: Gabby has an abusive past that she’s running away from, past catches up with her threatening to ruin her life again, in enters “tall, dirty blonde and handsome” aka Kolson with his own issues and Dom tendencies, he rocks girls world ;), Gabby’s past keeps showing up and threatening her, Kolson comes to the rescue, Gabby’s past comes after her over and over and OVER and Kolson finally finds a way to save her for good, and then it ends.
I felt like it could’ve ended about 100 pages shorter and/or combined both Freeing Her and Freeing Him (sequel) and made it one book. It felt repetitive…
I genuinely tried to like this book! I even made myself read it to the end. But at around 43% I was just hoping for it to end or have something major from Kolson’s side of the story to make me love it, but unfortunately it didn’t :(
I'm willing to give this book a 2 star bc it was ok...just ok. I didn't all out hate it bc I finished it. In the end, it just wasn't my type of book, which happens time and again.
2 stars
Hmm…I can’t even. Isn’t that the saying? Lol.
This book got off on the wrong foot for me…I was confused right off the bat. It was written in MULTIPLE POV’s and when I say multiple, I mean almost everyone got their 2 cents in the book. We even got to hear what the bartender was thinking. I am fine with multiple POV’s, but when the POV changes within paragraphs/chapters, I tend to get lost. This might be a personal issue lol, but I just couldn’t wrap my head around it.
Here’s the story in a nutshell: Gabby has an abusive past that she’s running away from, past catches up with her threatening to ruin her life again, in enters “tall, dirty blonde and handsome” aka Kolson with his own issues and Dom tendencies, he rocks girls world ;), Gabby’s past keeps showing up and threatening her, Kolson comes to the rescue, Gabby’s past comes after her over and over and OVER and Kolson finally finds a way to save her for good, and then it ends.
I felt like it could’ve ended about 100 pages shorter and/or combined both Freeing Her and Freeing Him (sequel) and made it one book. It felt repetitive…
I genuinely tried to like this book! I even made myself read it to the end. But at around 43% I was just hoping for it to end or have something major from Kolson’s side of the story to make me love it, but unfortunately it didn’t :(
I'm willing to give this book a 2 star bc it was ok...just ok. I didn't all out hate it bc I finished it. In the end, it just wasn't my type of book, which happens time and again.
2 stars
August 18, 2019
This book was a lot more screwed up then I thought it would be.
First off the writing was annoying. It constantly switched between POVs at random times. It was hard to follow.
Gabby... If she was my phycologist, and I knew all about her, I would seriously reconsider ever going to her. Yes, it may help for her to understand her patients point of view. But honestly she doesn't handle her own issues very well. She freaks out over being stalk, but takes no actions about it. What does she do? Puts herself in danger by drinking alone. And if Kolson hadn't taken over things after that, Gabby would have been locked away for Danny's sick pleasure within a week. See calls herself independent and yet let's Kolson take over without an argument and without even knowing him. She continued to say how she didn't like to psychoanalyze her friends, and yet that's pretty much exactly what she did. She surrounds herself with people who major issues that she wants to fix, tries to fix. Same with Kolson, she keeps saying how he needs to come to her, but pushes him anyway.
And Kolson... Man got major issues. I don't know how Gabby let him do some of the things she did with his anger so out of control. They don't even talk about it, they just have at it and hope they are on the same page. It's just not okay in my book. Sorry, not sorry. He really was unfair in dragging her secrets through the mud, but not opening up to her. If I wasn't dying to know what the hell happened to him I probably wouldn't even read the next book.
First off the writing was annoying. It constantly switched between POVs at random times. It was hard to follow.
Gabby... If she was my phycologist, and I knew all about her, I would seriously reconsider ever going to her. Yes, it may help for her to understand her patients point of view. But honestly she doesn't handle her own issues very well. She freaks out over being stalk, but takes no actions about it. What does she do? Puts herself in danger by drinking alone. And if Kolson hadn't taken over things after that, Gabby would have been locked away for Danny's sick pleasure within a week. See calls herself independent and yet let's Kolson take over without an argument and without even knowing him. She continued to say how she didn't like to psychoanalyze her friends, and yet that's pretty much exactly what she did. She surrounds herself with people who major issues that she wants to fix, tries to fix. Same with Kolson, she keeps saying how he needs to come to her, but pushes him anyway.
And Kolson... Man got major issues. I don't know how Gabby let him do some of the things she did with his anger so out of control. They don't even talk about it, they just have at it and hope they are on the same page. It's just not okay in my book. Sorry, not sorry. He really was unfair in dragging her secrets through the mud, but not opening up to her. If I wasn't dying to know what the hell happened to him I probably wouldn't even read the next book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 20, 2014
This book hit my like a freight train, in a good way. I'd even go to 4¼ ♥'s- it really needs that smidge extra. Had Goodreads offered ½♥'s, I might even go up to 4½♥. My full review will be ready on Dark Obsession Chronicles and A Diva a Day on the 20th (links will be added at that time)...
But until then, it's sexy, dark (and I mean ebony dark) pasts, and unfettered kink without all the restrictions. I'm kicking myself for forgetting my Kindle at home, so I can't share some of my favorite quotes- but know, there was highlighting going on. And maybe a panty change or two.
Can not WAIT until the next book. *starts jittering like a crack addict*
I received a complimentary eBook from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.
Dark Obsession Chronicles
A Diva a Day
But until then, it's sexy, dark (and I mean ebony dark) pasts, and unfettered kink without all the restrictions. I'm kicking myself for forgetting my Kindle at home, so I can't share some of my favorite quotes- but know, there was highlighting going on. And maybe a panty change or two.
Can not WAIT until the next book. *starts jittering like a crack addict*
I received a complimentary eBook from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.
Dark Obsession Chronicles
A Diva a Day
August 2, 2015
***ARC kindly provided for the exchange of an honest review from Netgalley***
4 stars!
That was a great and intense story! This story has everything I was looking in a book. It has erotic tension, mystery, suspense, secrets and fantastic sex scenes! The writing is really smooth and direct. It wasn't written from a specific POV but it was ok. It was always clear for whom the author was writing and what exactly was going on.
Gabby is a great character and really nicely developed! She has issues like everyone else -her words, not mine-. I really liked her for being down to earth and fighting her demons.
Kolson is a totally another story. I liked him also. He has a mystery around him and it's really attractive. He is also really protective and it's nice to see.
The end of the story is simple fantasti! It's not really a cliff hanger, it's a teaser and it's working. I'd love to read the next book and to find out what happens next among them and what are the secrets of Kolson.
4 stars!
That was a great and intense story! This story has everything I was looking in a book. It has erotic tension, mystery, suspense, secrets and fantastic sex scenes! The writing is really smooth and direct. It wasn't written from a specific POV but it was ok. It was always clear for whom the author was writing and what exactly was going on.
Gabby is a great character and really nicely developed! She has issues like everyone else -her words, not mine-. I really liked her for being down to earth and fighting her demons.
Kolson is a totally another story. I liked him also. He has a mystery around him and it's really attractive. He is also really protective and it's nice to see.
The end of the story is simple fantasti! It's not really a cliff hanger, it's a teaser and it's working. I'd love to read the next book and to find out what happens next among them and what are the secrets of Kolson.
February 8, 2017
Major cliche with a hint of cringe.
From the incredibly overdone meet cute at the bar, the irrelevant nicknames which was a desperate attempt to be romantic I'm guessing, also a young attractive billionaire with a dominating nature and bdsm fetish? Sounds familiar, her complete dependence on an incredibly wealthy stranger, the lack of description with the characters was odd, I couldn't figure out the authors vision at all, I didn't finish this book, I stopped when he started trying to admit she's a rape victim by sexually pleasuring her. Have no idea in what world that would be seen as appropriate by either party
- wrote this review sleep deprived and with no glasses on, so apologies for grammar mistakes or just not making sense!
From the incredibly overdone meet cute at the bar, the irrelevant nicknames which was a desperate attempt to be romantic I'm guessing, also a young attractive billionaire with a dominating nature and bdsm fetish? Sounds familiar, her complete dependence on an incredibly wealthy stranger, the lack of description with the characters was odd, I couldn't figure out the authors vision at all, I didn't finish this book, I stopped when he started trying to admit she's a rape victim by sexually pleasuring her. Have no idea in what world that would be seen as appropriate by either party
- wrote this review sleep deprived and with no glasses on, so apologies for grammar mistakes or just not making sense!
November 6, 2015
I did not like this book. I didn't like how the heroine's family never believed that her cousin abused her. I didn't like how the hero runs a security company and yet does a terrible job of protecting her.
I especially didn't like the point of the view of the rapist cousin. It was disgusting to read how he wanted to rape her again and read about his flashbacks of when he raped her before.
Did not finish.
I especially didn't like the point of the view of the rapist cousin. It was disgusting to read how he wanted to rape her again and read about his flashbacks of when he raped her before.
Did not finish.
September 15, 2014
Review to come.
August 17, 2020
Gabriella Martinetti, a psychiatrist specialize in drug addicts, sexually abused victims and she volunteered in many places so she could help people in need. Until her past caught up to her, her abuser Danny left a message on her phone. She thought she was safe from him. She has bee abused by Danny for last 16 years and she had to get away from it all. So she enters a bar to forget his message and has way too many drinks and ends up in Skippy's guest room.
Something about Gabriella intrigues him. Kolson never met a person like her before and when he faces her again, and witnesses Danny and how pale she turned. He wanted to protect her and he does. He wants to free her from Dany and all the other demons.
Gabriella is living in fear and she is not sure if Danny will leave her alone. She has been raped by Danny and his family was on his side from the beginning and she is not sure why he is still haunting her.
Kolson and Gabriella is getting closer and he wants to help her in anyway he can. Gabriella doesn't have free time to see Kolson but Danny's appearances keeping away from the job she loves. Will she able to be finally be free from Danny?
Not only Gabriella has dark past, Kolson has darker past with his father he won't share with anyone. He is not comfortable enough to share it but he keeps promising he will do it someday. Their chemistry is hot but it won't be the end.
Thanks to netgalley and A.M. Hargrove, LLC for ARC in exchange for honest review.
Something about Gabriella intrigues him. Kolson never met a person like her before and when he faces her again, and witnesses Danny and how pale she turned. He wanted to protect her and he does. He wants to free her from Dany and all the other demons.
Gabriella is living in fear and she is not sure if Danny will leave her alone. She has been raped by Danny and his family was on his side from the beginning and she is not sure why he is still haunting her.
Kolson and Gabriella is getting closer and he wants to help her in anyway he can. Gabriella doesn't have free time to see Kolson but Danny's appearances keeping away from the job she loves. Will she able to be finally be free from Danny?
Not only Gabriella has dark past, Kolson has darker past with his father he won't share with anyone. He is not comfortable enough to share it but he keeps promising he will do it someday. Their chemistry is hot but it won't be the end.
Thanks to netgalley and A.M. Hargrove, LLC for ARC in exchange for honest review.
March 2, 2019
Anxiety Level: Creeping through a haunted house
Wow. I read all of the West Brother novels and Secret Nights before this popped up on my recommendations. I already respected Gabby, but this story was so enlightening, heart breaking and honestly agonizing. I was antsy and on eggshells through most of this book. Every page turn felt like peaking around the corner in a haunted house, knowing you have to proceed, but terrified of the ghosts that may wait on the other side. I was wrecked with anticipation for what I knew would come eventually. Gabby is a shining example of breaking the cycle of awful and deciding to use the horrible examples you are given in childhood as examples what NOT to do instead of following in those footsteps. Although ending with such a large cliffhanger is dreadful, I am anxious to continue to the next book in search of more answers. My only complaint about this book is the slight disconnect between Skyler’s story between this book and Secret Nights. The name change of Ryder to Reese and the incorrect order of events was glaring after finishing that book less than 24 hours before reading this one. Since both books were amazing and had several years between them, I’m willing to overlook it.
Wow. I read all of the West Brother novels and Secret Nights before this popped up on my recommendations. I already respected Gabby, but this story was so enlightening, heart breaking and honestly agonizing. I was antsy and on eggshells through most of this book. Every page turn felt like peaking around the corner in a haunted house, knowing you have to proceed, but terrified of the ghosts that may wait on the other side. I was wrecked with anticipation for what I knew would come eventually. Gabby is a shining example of breaking the cycle of awful and deciding to use the horrible examples you are given in childhood as examples what NOT to do instead of following in those footsteps. Although ending with such a large cliffhanger is dreadful, I am anxious to continue to the next book in search of more answers. My only complaint about this book is the slight disconnect between Skyler’s story between this book and Secret Nights. The name change of Ryder to Reese and the incorrect order of events was glaring after finishing that book less than 24 hours before reading this one. Since both books were amazing and had several years between them, I’m willing to overlook it.
October 16, 2018
Holy cow... where has this author been all of my life? I could not get enough of this book!!!
Kolston & Gabriella meet by chance late one night. Little do they know, both of them are tortured by dark demons and the way into the light is in the arms of one another. Can they both get through their abusive pasts?
Freeing Her is a suspenseful erotic romance with some violent content, so please be mindful of that if it isn’t something that you’re comfortable with. There’s just enough erotic content to keep you feeling a little flush and enough suspense to keep you on the edge of your seat. There are so many twists and turns to this story, and the way they unfold was superb. I cannot wait to to get my hands on the second book of this series!!!
The only thing that I would have changed about this book is the way that it’s written. Freeing Her is written from the third person POV and sometimes the transition between characters can be hard to follow. This is such a minor thing to me though in the grand scheme of things.
Kolston & Gabriella meet by chance late one night. Little do they know, both of them are tortured by dark demons and the way into the light is in the arms of one another. Can they both get through their abusive pasts?
Freeing Her is a suspenseful erotic romance with some violent content, so please be mindful of that if it isn’t something that you’re comfortable with. There’s just enough erotic content to keep you feeling a little flush and enough suspense to keep you on the edge of your seat. There are so many twists and turns to this story, and the way they unfold was superb. I cannot wait to to get my hands on the second book of this series!!!
The only thing that I would have changed about this book is the way that it’s written. Freeing Her is written from the third person POV and sometimes the transition between characters can be hard to follow. This is such a minor thing to me though in the grand scheme of things.
August 20, 2014
Freeing Her is a very angsty novel about two people who have spent their lives going through the motion and wanting to forget the difficult pasts they were dealt with. It’s a story about two formidable characters who made a name for themselves despite everything that they have been through.
Gabriella Martinelli is a psychiatrist. She has a reason why she was on that field. At a very young age, she already learned that there’s only one you can trust, yourself. She had been a victim of abuse from his psychotic cousin. She was molested physically and was manipulated emotionally. Her cousin was a charming dude who had everyone eating at his fingers every time he uses his façade. Even her family were charmed by him, so no matter what she did to convince them that she was the one battered, everyone still believed him. So when she finally went to college, she saw it as an escape for a freedom she obviously craves. She finally has time to do whatever she wants and to finally make it on her own. She went to Princeton, then to Columbia Med School. She did her residency at NYU School of Medicine. She devoted her time to work with the sexually abuse victims and drug addicts, and to Narcotics Anonymous and other organizations that helped people with addictive disorders, and she even volunteered at a women’s shelter.
Just when she thought she had left everything behind her, a past came barreling forward with just a simple call. All the emotions – fear mainly - she had concealed behind were revisited. How will she move forward if in every step she takes, she takes two steps backward? How will she ever escape from his shadow? Add that to her student loan problems? It would take a lot of alcohol to drown her predicaments.
The moment Gabby entered the bar, Kolson Hart already took an interest on her. With a woman as gorgeous as her, a man would take interest. And when she drinks herself to stupor. Hmmm. That spells T-R-O-U-B-L-E. With his nefarious past, that would make two of them. Kolson Hart is in some ways similar to Gabby’s upbringing. Wanting to get out of his father’s shadow, he began to work as a taxi driver. He’s basically the embodiment of “rags to riches”. From being a taxi driver, his work picked up until he has earned enough money to start his own company. At a very young age, he is now the proud owner and CEO of HTS Enterprises, a.k.a. Hart Transportation Services. It even branched out to charter airlines and helicopter services.
Gabby is certainly a giver. She loves to help people in need, even if it means not earning enough money. This was why she’s struggling to pay her student loans. What I like about her is that, she’s very passionate about her job. Despite everything, her compassion was still intact. She was able to help people who are truly in need. On the other hand, as a psychiatrist herself, she should have known the right thing to do when Danny started terrorizing her again. Yes, I understand where she’s coming from but, as difficult as it is to let go of the past, she should have acted upon it when she had landed a stable job. Her parents deserved to be castigated for what they did to her. No child should suffer from such a horrible situation.
Kolson Hart on the rescue. I admit, it’s sort of creepy when someone you barely knew, suddenly knows so much about you. He has his ways. And although it’s borderline stalking, I liked because he did it out of concern. She was lucky enough to had met him that night. His character reminds me of Christian Grey. Yeah yeah. He’s sort of possessive, full of passion and of course, bossy. He goes alpha male mode on her every time she doesn’t approve of his actions.
“God, Gabriella. No one has ever made me as happy as you have. Some days I want to walk out of my office and come straight to yours, grab your hand, and do all sorts of crazy shit. Act like we’re twelve. Do things we should’ve been doing when we were teenagers but never did because we were living fucked-up lives. I want to do so many things with you. But then I stop myself because I’m afraid I’ll scare you off. Or that you’ll think I’m a freak. Or that I’m moving too fast. I’ve never wanted anything like this before or anything this badly.”
“I love you, Gabriella. Did you know that? Absolutely, unequivocally, with everything in my heart. I didn’t think I was capable of loving anyone. But you, you’ve short-circuited me, taken me apart, bit by bit, placed yourself inside me and rewired me, made me whole again. You’ve reconstructed me, kea, and you don’t even know it. There are times when I can’t imagine how I ever breathed without you. You are the most perfect human being God ever created and to think He sent you to me. I marvel at that constantly. And then I start to freak thinking you’ll be snatched away from me, or somehow you’re a fantasy I’ve conjured in my fucked-up mind. Because you don’t want anything from me. You only want to give. And you only want the happy. And that’s why I adore you.”
Kolson and Gabby were tailored for each other. They both found solace in each other. Meeting Kolson freed Gabby from all her miseries. He believed in her. He made her stronger. He made her believe in happilu-ever-after again. Kolson wanted to give her everything. If he can only absorb all her worries, he would do it. He would even kill just to protect her. He wants to spend every waking moment of his life with her. He knows Gabby loves her, but would she still love her when she learn about his past? Would he possibly be as free as she was once he let go of all his skeletons in his cupboard?
As much as I loved the story, I only gave it a four. I’m more of the HEA kind of girl. Freeing Her is just the first book in the series. I hope the next book will be the last one. I’m looking forward to reading the next installment in this series. I’d love to see how Kolson will hurdle the deal he’d done with the devil.
Gabriella Martinelli is a psychiatrist. She has a reason why she was on that field. At a very young age, she already learned that there’s only one you can trust, yourself. She had been a victim of abuse from his psychotic cousin. She was molested physically and was manipulated emotionally. Her cousin was a charming dude who had everyone eating at his fingers every time he uses his façade. Even her family were charmed by him, so no matter what she did to convince them that she was the one battered, everyone still believed him. So when she finally went to college, she saw it as an escape for a freedom she obviously craves. She finally has time to do whatever she wants and to finally make it on her own. She went to Princeton, then to Columbia Med School. She did her residency at NYU School of Medicine. She devoted her time to work with the sexually abuse victims and drug addicts, and to Narcotics Anonymous and other organizations that helped people with addictive disorders, and she even volunteered at a women’s shelter.
Just when she thought she had left everything behind her, a past came barreling forward with just a simple call. All the emotions – fear mainly - she had concealed behind were revisited. How will she move forward if in every step she takes, she takes two steps backward? How will she ever escape from his shadow? Add that to her student loan problems? It would take a lot of alcohol to drown her predicaments.
The moment Gabby entered the bar, Kolson Hart already took an interest on her. With a woman as gorgeous as her, a man would take interest. And when she drinks herself to stupor. Hmmm. That spells T-R-O-U-B-L-E. With his nefarious past, that would make two of them. Kolson Hart is in some ways similar to Gabby’s upbringing. Wanting to get out of his father’s shadow, he began to work as a taxi driver. He’s basically the embodiment of “rags to riches”. From being a taxi driver, his work picked up until he has earned enough money to start his own company. At a very young age, he is now the proud owner and CEO of HTS Enterprises, a.k.a. Hart Transportation Services. It even branched out to charter airlines and helicopter services.
Gabby is certainly a giver. She loves to help people in need, even if it means not earning enough money. This was why she’s struggling to pay her student loans. What I like about her is that, she’s very passionate about her job. Despite everything, her compassion was still intact. She was able to help people who are truly in need. On the other hand, as a psychiatrist herself, she should have known the right thing to do when Danny started terrorizing her again. Yes, I understand where she’s coming from but, as difficult as it is to let go of the past, she should have acted upon it when she had landed a stable job. Her parents deserved to be castigated for what they did to her. No child should suffer from such a horrible situation.
Kolson Hart on the rescue. I admit, it’s sort of creepy when someone you barely knew, suddenly knows so much about you. He has his ways. And although it’s borderline stalking, I liked because he did it out of concern. She was lucky enough to had met him that night. His character reminds me of Christian Grey. Yeah yeah. He’s sort of possessive, full of passion and of course, bossy. He goes alpha male mode on her every time she doesn’t approve of his actions.
“God, Gabriella. No one has ever made me as happy as you have. Some days I want to walk out of my office and come straight to yours, grab your hand, and do all sorts of crazy shit. Act like we’re twelve. Do things we should’ve been doing when we were teenagers but never did because we were living fucked-up lives. I want to do so many things with you. But then I stop myself because I’m afraid I’ll scare you off. Or that you’ll think I’m a freak. Or that I’m moving too fast. I’ve never wanted anything like this before or anything this badly.”
“I love you, Gabriella. Did you know that? Absolutely, unequivocally, with everything in my heart. I didn’t think I was capable of loving anyone. But you, you’ve short-circuited me, taken me apart, bit by bit, placed yourself inside me and rewired me, made me whole again. You’ve reconstructed me, kea, and you don’t even know it. There are times when I can’t imagine how I ever breathed without you. You are the most perfect human being God ever created and to think He sent you to me. I marvel at that constantly. And then I start to freak thinking you’ll be snatched away from me, or somehow you’re a fantasy I’ve conjured in my fucked-up mind. Because you don’t want anything from me. You only want to give. And you only want the happy. And that’s why I adore you.”
Kolson and Gabby were tailored for each other. They both found solace in each other. Meeting Kolson freed Gabby from all her miseries. He believed in her. He made her stronger. He made her believe in happilu-ever-after again. Kolson wanted to give her everything. If he can only absorb all her worries, he would do it. He would even kill just to protect her. He wants to spend every waking moment of his life with her. He knows Gabby loves her, but would she still love her when she learn about his past? Would he possibly be as free as she was once he let go of all his skeletons in his cupboard?
As much as I loved the story, I only gave it a four. I’m more of the HEA kind of girl. Freeing Her is just the first book in the series. I hope the next book will be the last one. I’m looking forward to reading the next installment in this series. I’d love to see how Kolson will hurdle the deal he’d done with the devil.
June 17, 2019
Read as part of a boxed set. Reviewed individually. Books tell the story of brothers, the horror of their childhood, the women they meet, and the strength they find to rise above.
Fairly well edited.
Freeing Her revolves around Kolson and Gabby. Both of these characters have had traumatic childhoods at the hands of family members. Kolson used his background to propel him into a successful business of his own. Gabby used hers to pursue psychiatry in an attempt to help others get the help she was denied. They meet in a bar on the night the demon from her past finds Gabby again. From there, Kolson and Gabby begin a relationship. As their feelings grow, so does Kolson's desperation to keep Gabby safe. What lengths will he go to? Will he succeed? Will Kolson and Gabby survive to find a future together?
The story moved along rather well. This one ends with a cliffhanger - Kolson's attempt to help Gabby has led to consequences for himself. The conclusion in in Freeing Him. Enjoy!
Fairly well edited.
Freeing Her revolves around Kolson and Gabby. Both of these characters have had traumatic childhoods at the hands of family members. Kolson used his background to propel him into a successful business of his own. Gabby used hers to pursue psychiatry in an attempt to help others get the help she was denied. They meet in a bar on the night the demon from her past finds Gabby again. From there, Kolson and Gabby begin a relationship. As their feelings grow, so does Kolson's desperation to keep Gabby safe. What lengths will he go to? Will he succeed? Will Kolson and Gabby survive to find a future together?
The story moved along rather well. This one ends with a cliffhanger - Kolson's attempt to help Gabby has led to consequences for himself. The conclusion in in Freeing Him. Enjoy!
January 18, 2018
Let me start off by saying I did not like this book, it was boring, it dragged on and the dialogue was the worst I had ever read.
Gabriella has a secret, Kolson has a secret. Kolson forces her to tell hers but when she even brings up his he shuts down. Ridiculous, right?
For the most part, the reason I did not like this book was the similarities between Kolson and Danny, and I mean SIMILARITIES like they could be brothers almost. They are both wildly territorial over Gabriella, love rough sex and even speak in the same way. They are both so manipulative yet Gabriella stays with Kolson and I don’t get it. Is it the money, the good looks? How can she love a man that resembles her attacker so much? I will not be reading the rest of the series, I had high hopes and they certainly weren’t met.
Gabriella has a secret, Kolson has a secret. Kolson forces her to tell hers but when she even brings up his he shuts down. Ridiculous, right?
For the most part, the reason I did not like this book was the similarities between Kolson and Danny, and I mean SIMILARITIES like they could be brothers almost. They are both wildly territorial over Gabriella, love rough sex and even speak in the same way. They are both so manipulative yet Gabriella stays with Kolson and I don’t get it. Is it the money, the good looks? How can she love a man that resembles her attacker so much? I will not be reading the rest of the series, I had high hopes and they certainly weren’t met.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 29, 2019
DNF at 6%.
Too much POV-changes within paragraphs for comfortable reading. The hero, a man not in his late teens, getting hard as granite when the heroine, drunk at the bar, smiles at him is just... disturbing to me on too many levels. Also, the meet cute at the bar, while no doubt intended as sweet, felt really condescending to me: the hero and the bartender making comments on how the heroine should stop drinking after two martinis. I know they’re supposed to be considerate, but I felt like it was judgement because she was a woman.
I know I didn’t give this book a fair chance, but with this many things rubbing me wrong, all I would end up doing was look for more things to be wrong, and I read to enjoy and not annoy myself.
Hope other people have more luck.
Too much POV-changes within paragraphs for comfortable reading. The hero, a man not in his late teens, getting hard as granite when the heroine, drunk at the bar, smiles at him is just... disturbing to me on too many levels. Also, the meet cute at the bar, while no doubt intended as sweet, felt really condescending to me: the hero and the bartender making comments on how the heroine should stop drinking after two martinis. I know they’re supposed to be considerate, but I felt like it was judgement because she was a woman.
I know I didn’t give this book a fair chance, but with this many things rubbing me wrong, all I would end up doing was look for more things to be wrong, and I read to enjoy and not annoy myself.
Hope other people have more luck.
May 4, 2019
Kelson and Gabby’s story is heartbreaking and beautiful, yet horrific at the same time.
Both characters are profound, with multi-layered personalities. On the surface everything seems to be wonderfully perfect. Both are very successful in their jobs. But deep down they are broken by their yet to be revealed terrible past.
With its slowly building-up tension and the only now and then revealed tiny bits of the horror that happened to them this romance resembles more a crime story or a thriller at times.
It literally kept me on the edge of my seat and I hated every second I had to attend to my daily life and not to this amazing read!
Both characters are profound, with multi-layered personalities. On the surface everything seems to be wonderfully perfect. Both are very successful in their jobs. But deep down they are broken by their yet to be revealed terrible past.
With its slowly building-up tension and the only now and then revealed tiny bits of the horror that happened to them this romance resembles more a crime story or a thriller at times.
It literally kept me on the edge of my seat and I hated every second I had to attend to my daily life and not to this amazing read!
February 24, 2018
mildly unbelievable. I like the plot it had enough suspense to pull me along. I just couldn't get behind some of Gabby's choices. Creepy guy shows up again...don't run, don't call the cops,get drunk. life time of abuse and secret keeping, let someone screw secrets out of you and let that person keep a mountain of secrets. Creepy guy shoots people you care about, don't leave the city, don't take some self defense classes, go with him into a dark tunnel and bring a gun you don't know how to use. A decent read. I just couldn't connect with the leading lady.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 23, 2019
I did enjoy this book. However at times I didn't think some of the character's actions would have actually happened because of their backgrounds. And although I love a steamy sex scene, there were too many for me in this book. I found myself skimming pages to get back to the story. This book does end in a cliffhanger and I have already started the next book. Good enough suspense that I will finish the series.
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