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Taking in Dani

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Dani Torkaz has no room in her life for a romance with anyone, let alone with 'God's gift to women' Adam Fiori, but everything changes when circumstances compel her to accept a job as a nanny to his two young children.Adam makes it clear that he will have no patience for rudeness, and it isn't long before her sharp tongue earns Dani a painful, humiliating bare-bottom spanking. The stern punishment sets more than just her backside on fire, however, and she is left begging to be taken hard and thoroughly.As she settles into her new position, Dani finds herself feeling like she is part of a real family for the first time in her life, and her lust for her stern, handsome boss begins to blossom into love. But Adam has secrets he isn't sharing, and Dani has been hurt too many times to give him the benefit of the doubt. Can he win her trust before the wounds of the past destroy their future?Publisher's Taking in Dani includes spankings and sexual scenes. If such material offends you, please don't buy this book.

245 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 13, 2017

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110 people want to read

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Kara Kelley

30 books110 followers

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5 stars
83 (51%)
4 stars
41 (25%)
3 stars
20 (12%)
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7 (4%)
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10 (6%)
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
Profile Image for Camy.
1,675 reviews49 followers
February 6, 2017
Aaaaaaand I'm done. Skimmed the last 10 pages and finally DNFing this trash at 58%. It's this negative, roller coaster, drama llama, immature soap opera bastardised version of a Daddy/little girl relationship.

Disgusting characters and an exhausting string of events in place of an actual plot. Stupid no-communication trope and emotionally stunted people masquerading as adults. This is not kink, it's dysfunction. Absolutely horrid, and a waste of money. I'm sorry I ever purchased it. To Lendle it goes.

Don't listen to these misleading paid/friend reviews.
Profile Image for EpicRomanceReviews.
770 reviews142 followers
March 27, 2017
“Do you need incentive to do as you’re told, little girl?”

Oh Sweet Heavens!!! I just read the most spectacular debut novel that totally BLEW. ME. AWAY!!! TAKING IN DANI by Kara Kelley, a searingly emotional erotic romance about a down on her luck nurse who falls helplessly in love with an brusque attorney and his sweet, vagabond charges, was PURE PERFECTION!!!

The heroine, Daniela Torkaz had a love/hate relationship with Adam Fiori, the rich, high-powered "too-handsome womanizing jerk" who has lived in the condo across the hall for several years. She holds him in great disdain because he comes across as cold and elitist but her perceptions start to change when she loses her job as a live-in health care nurse to a charming invalid named Ollie, a man who is like a dad to her, and is on the verge of being tossed out on the street with her college age sister.

Swooping in, Adam sets her up in an apartment and in exchange she will fill in as a part-time nanny for his two sweet, sad faced kids who he seems to consider an obligation than anything else. This sexy, INFURIATINGLY controlling man brings out the best and worst in the adorably snarky nurse.

""He sets off warning bells inside me. On the other hand, I’ve never been so attracted to anyone in my entire life. The way he looks at me with deep concern and care is like a being given a nutrient I’ve been deprived of and desperately need to survive, but it’s the desire he evokes in me that causes me to feel like a starving beast. He pushes and pulls me like the tide, both drowning and saving in the same moment."

But even while she she resents him for being a "deadbeat" dad, which dredges up painful memories for her of being unwanted and unloved, starved for attention and affection whilst growing up in the foster care, there is something irresistibly alluring about this strong, gentle yet firm dominant who calls her on her bs, doles out the discipline, structure and loving guidance she craves, and fulfills her forbidden bedroom fantasies beyond her wildest dreams!f

"You don’t have to be strong, Dani. You don’t have to pretend to be tough. You don’t have to hide the girl inside from me or anyone else. It’s okay to be vulnerable. It’s okay to be human. I never want you to run away from me, Dani, but I’ll accept it if you do."

Adam fiercely arouses her like none other but how can she reconcile her feelings of aching need for this cold hearted man who has caused irreparable damage to his children. Or HAS he? There is much more to her handsome, tight-lipped employer than meets the eye but will unraveling his devastating secrets cause her to lose the family she has been searching for her entire life?

Gah!!! I am not even sure how to convey the riptide of swelling emotions this book triggered in me but I will try! But first and foremost, I must say this. TAKING IN DANI may be technically categorized as a BDSM spanking romance, but I think putting a label on it does not do this FANTASTIC book justice! While there are undoubtedly plenty of panty melting hot spankings and explosively kinky and sexy encounters, this book is SO MUCH MORE than that! It is the type of romance that is so immersive it seeps into your heart and leaves a lasting imprint on your soul!

I have a weakness for gruff, taciturn heroes with a tender side and omfg did a hot AF Adam strike a chord! With his penetrating brown eyes, thick coppery brown hair and sculpted six-foot-plus frame, he exudes a magnetic sex appeal that is oh-so-tantalizing. He is just sooooooo commanding and dominantly sexy and through Dani's encouragement winds up being incredibly nurturing with his kids. His emotional transformation throughout was riveting!! And I just ADORE his chemistry with Dani, a beautiful, strong, and high-spirited nurse/caretaker who, whether she wants to admit it or not, needs his loving dominance more than her next breath!

This novel is beautifully crafted, the writing is evocative and incredibly dynamic, and I thought the author did a bang up job of infusing the protagonists with stunning depth and complexity. I enjoyed the tantalizing fusion of passion and pathos, love and lust, dominance and submission throughout! And HOLY SMOKES!!! The rough, wanton sex, yummy bdsm power exchanges and gloriously sweet aftercare made me all warm and tingly inside!

Torrid sex aside, I love how FLAWED and HUMAN and RAW and REAL these characters are. It's evident from the start that Dani's tough girl persona is merely a front--a guard that keeps the broken little girl inside her hidden and safe--and though she fights her feelings every step of the way, it's abundantly clear that she has more than met her match in her broodingly sexy boss!

Of course, at first Dani, who has never been very good at holding her tongue, assumes "Mr. Shiny-Shoes" is public enemy number one but once she gets past her stubborn, headstrong pride, misconceptions and unfair stereotypes, and allows Adam to break down her self protective walls, she comes to see that he just might be the MAN, the DOM, the LOVER and SOULMATE she has been searching for her whole life! And she awakens a lifelong need in him for love as well.

The blistering tension between this couple is PALPABLE, their sexual chemistry is OFF THE CHARTS, and I was completely swept up in the passionate discord, delightful battle of wits and and emotion-fueled interplay between these characters throughout! Adam's dominance and brusque tenderness intensifies every feeling in Dani but she can't help but challenge his authority at every turn, which makes for some deliciously sexy spanky time!

"I want to hold you—take care of you. I want to f**k you. And I want to put you over my knee all at the same time.”

The supporting characters...star-crossed seniors Ollie and Fran, and Adam's two adorable charges--Charlie, age 3 and Nadia, age 8--were an integral part of the fabric of this story and a wonderful catalyst for bringing Adam and Dani together. I just ached for these downtrodden kids and it warms my heart my heart how, against all odds, they all manage to become a family. There is also an overarching mystery thread that involves all the intersecting storylines, culminating in a couple of plot twists that gave me GOOSEBUMPS and had me choking back tears!!!

In closing, TAKING IN DANI is a sinfully sexy, SOUL-CONSUMING romance that hits you right in the FEELS, puts you through the emotional wringer and is guaranteed to leave you with a big smile on your face! I can't wait to read more from this talented newcomer. Kara Kelley has the makings of a bona fide bookstar and is definitely an author to watch!

5 Spankalicious Shiny Shoes Stars!
Profile Image for wiwi.
211 reviews12 followers
December 9, 2017
i kinda love it.. but i need more for MC.. it's a little bit insta love, but not. just need more history about these two
Profile Image for JD (on semi-hiatus).
984 reviews228 followers
June 16, 2019
I've left a lot of 0ne-star reviews recently: for books that are non-consensual and/or include rape and/or include emotional abuse (I suggest that if authors don't want one-star reviews, they provide more detailed disclaimers).

So, I thought it was only fair that I leave a five-star review for a book I really liked. Now, I'm not saying that this book is War and Peace -- none of these books are. What I am saying is that, for this genre, this was well-written (grammatically correct, few editing errors, sentences are varied and flow easily); had a plot that contained a beginning, middle, and end; and, within the rules of this world, was believable and consistent. In addition, the characters had some complexity and were not stereotypical (that is, though the H is a millionaire and the h is working-class, a common trope in this genre, they had some specific character traits).

What I liked best about this book was that it was consensual; that both characters satisfied a mutually fulfilling kink; that the female character was strong/independent and the male character apologized when he was wrong; and that both characters mutually respected each other (there was none of that "I'm a man and know best, and you, a woman, are lesser than I am and must obey" that is very common in these books). In addition, the "punishments" never crossed a line into the kind of abuse (welts, bruises) that is also common in this genre.

My only complaint about the author is that she will use of lot of these same plot points in all her subsequent books so the later ones are more formulaic and less original than this one. She also now writes in the daddy dom genre, which is not my kink, so I, personally, prefer this first book to the others. While I understand that this is a popular sub-genre and to each his/her own, it's also a sub-genre that's over-used, whereas the enlightened gendered dynamics Ms. Kelley presents here are not so I would love to see her write another book like this one.
Profile Image for Heart5.
766 reviews
January 28, 2017
This book left me with lukewarm feelings after the first couple of chapters, but by the end the author had me fully committed to the story. The story seemed a little predictable at first, but by the end the author had worked in numerous plot twists that I didn't see coming. This was my first book by this author, but I definitely look forward to reading more from her in the future.

I received an ARC of this book from Stormy Night Publications.
733 reviews8 followers
February 26, 2021
His kid is sick in the next room and he’s wanting to spank the neighbor RN for scuffing his shoes weeks before? What a douchebag.
Profile Image for Misty Sulouff.
199 reviews13 followers
February 6, 2017
I loved this story. Dani is a woman who had to grow up way sooner then she should have. Adam is misunderstood. From the outside he seems like the rich "I'm better than you" kind of guy, but in reality, Dani and he have more in common than either thought. Dani isn't looking for a relationship. She finds it hard to trust, being she was abandoned by her mom and placed from home to home in foster care. That is until she really gets to know Adam. It wasn't easy but finally she lets her guard down. I fell in love with the whole story. I cannot wait to read more of Kara Kelley's work. I would definitely recommend this book to everyone
Profile Image for Kathy Heare Watts.
7,078 reviews175 followers
July 12, 2017
BELIEVE ME; THIS HURTS ME MORE THAN IT DOES YOU.

This is one of those stories that wreaks havoc on your emotions with all the ups and downs on this roller coaster ride of people and relationships. It is full of anger, angst, deceit, lies, betrayal, secrets, abuse, and misuse of people. So many lives have been irrevocably harmed by the evil deeds of others. I know, that makes it sound like a book that you would want to avoid, but oh my, there is redemption, restoration, and new beginnings.

For some people, it is the hardships they have suffered, sadly from a young age, that makes them some of the strongest, most durable people because of the bitter pill life has handed them. While they can be loving and supportive of someone in their care, a more innocent party, they build a wall around themselves and that fortress will be almost impenetrable. It will take a stronger force to break down those walls.

Daniela “Dani” Torkaz is a woman who has placed self on the side, taking care of her baby sister, Jenny, providing a safe home and now putting her through college. She works a day job taking care of Ollie, a former comedian, which is also a live-in employment, and nights as an RN in the emergency room at the hospital. Dani doesn’t have time for men, dating, or even friends; her goal is to get Jenny through medical school.

Adam Fiori is a man who comes off as self-centered. He shares the penthouse floor along with Ollie, and for three years now, Dani has created wild scenarios involving the stiff Adam Shiney-shoes and Ollie’s daughter, Tahlia.

The plot will have a woman showing up at Adam’s home and dropping off eight-year-old Nadia and three-year-old Charlie that will spin this tale into motion. Adam is unprepared for two children, Dani is placed between a rock and a hard place, and everything goes wrong at once. The adage of “no good deed goes unpunished” could become the saying for this story.

Eventually, Adam and Dani will come to a working arrangement, but there is more in the works that employer and employee. Adam’s dominance will prove stronger than Dani’s determination for constant control. For once in her life, she will submit and allow someone else to take care of her. But what happens when the trust she surrenders is bitterly turned against her and thrown back in her face?

So many secrets, bitter lies, and poor choices by people who should have been adults watching out for children, will cause so much heartache and bitterness. Life and death situations and secrets uncovered will offer hope, forgiveness, and new beginnings for several people.

The story has many spankings scenes, including erotic, stress-relief, and punishment. The sex scenes are explicit. The story does have several happy results in the end and makes all the emotions you will encounter along the way worth the ride.
Profile Image for Lady Raven Books.
1,208 reviews31 followers
September 29, 2018
This book is absolutely fantastic. Adam and Dani are perfect for each other. This story takes you on one really good emotional journey. There is a part where I did cry a little. You'll understand why. I would really love to read Jenny's story. The secondary characters are well written too. The writing and flow of this book is done wonderfully. I absolutely recommend this book.
Profile Image for Katy Watson.
7 reviews1 follower
July 17, 2017
Just the right amount of spice

This book was wonderful I had trouble putting it down. It's a fast paced sweet and antagonistic love story. I look forward to reading more of Kara Kelley's books,I know I will not be disappointed.
Profile Image for Jo.
1,182 reviews4 followers
April 7, 2019
BEST BOOK EVER!

Adam 'Shiny-Shoes ' and Dani are just too perfect! This book had me panting, laughing and crying. I love all of Kara's books but this one has shot to the top of my all time favorites!
1,112 reviews5 followers
August 24, 2020
Loved it..

A beautiful and at times heart breaking story...the characters were so different and the influence that Dani has on each of them tells an amazing journey for them all. A must read with a happy ever after...what more could you ask for....
Profile Image for Holly.
890 reviews
July 14, 2017
I really wanted to like this book, but I barely got through it skimming the last half. Could the heroine be any more immature and abrasive. Yuk!
Too bad, it had potential,
Profile Image for Jasmaine.
149 reviews
October 2, 2017
I actually liked this book. Maybe you won't but that's up to you to decide. Don't go by others reviews on a book because something they don't like could be something you'll enjoy.
386 reviews4 followers
April 12, 2019
A pretty good read

While this book had the potential to be amazing, there were a few blips along the way for me such as Dani not asking who the kids where right off the bat.
3,299 reviews27 followers
January 17, 2017
This will be one of my favorites and I cannot wait for more from this Author,it was so captivating I could not put it down.Dani and Adam both have there separate demons to deal with and are very complex but when they do wholly god the sparks fly with so much passion its beautiful.Two people could not be more deserving of each other.Adams Dom side and Dani's saucey mouth Love it
Profile Image for Ceeri Jay.
513 reviews51 followers
January 15, 2017
It seems there's nothing a lil spanking can't fix!
Kara Kelly has written this novel with a depth, humour and an understanding of the genre that belies the claims of maiden novel.

Blushing Books / Stormy Knight Publications are known for the spanking genre which frankly isn't my kink.

But this story was well written and held my attention with the plots, subplots and torturous journey to HEA for Adam, the H and Daniela/Dani, the h.


I can't really do the plot justice. It's a lot of story in this shortish book.
Well worth read even if you aren't into spanking.

Gets 4 stars because it's a good story, well written and with enough smexy-ness to soothe the spanking that goes on. And there is a lot.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Summer Graystone.
Author 17 books114 followers
January 17, 2017
First of all let me mention this is a new author to me and it won't be the last time I get a book from her. I think we all have some of Dani in us and we all desperately want need and crave someone as dominant, caring and loving as Adam in our own lives. The author did an incredible job on this story.

I'm simply blown away by the real raw emotion in this story and how connected we can all feel by it. It's as if I am friends with Adam and Dani and not just reading a book. Now I admit. I'm addicted to this book. When I first got it I stayed up all night reading it. I couldn't stop. It's heart pounding and sexy and so emotional. It's a roller coaster of amazing wonderful emotions - a ride I never wanna get off. I laughed and I cried...like a baby a super ugly cry but it was amazing at the same time. The love. The care between these two is so cherished that you can't help but cry.

Now I have to mention that there is spankings so if that bothers you then don't read it but oh such yummy spankings they are and the sex? Don't get me started on that. It will light your kindle on fire.

So what are you waiting for? Get your copy and message me so we can girl talk about Adam cause he is my new book boyfriend and will be for a while.
Profile Image for Samm Lynn.
1,328 reviews21 followers
February 6, 2017
I received a copy from Stormy Night Publications and voluntarily reviewed this book.

All I can say is WOW! This is my first Kara Kelley book and it was an engrossing story. The story has so much going on (I don't want to give away any of the book but there are at least six different subplots) and it all centers around Dani. The author did such a fantastic job interweaving all the subplots that at no point do you become lost or overwhelmed. There was one time that was a total WTF moment but it was explained within a couple of chapters and just added more drama to the story. There are so many unique characters in this story and they were all fabulously crafted and given life. I look forward to many more stories from Ms. Kelley.
Profile Image for Daverba.
187 reviews1 follower
February 27, 2018
Mr. Shine shoes Fiori

I voluntarily read and Advanced Readers Copy of this book.

I really didn't know what to expect from this book, at times it seemed that it was a lot of things happening at the same time but I have to say it they work together at the end. I would like to read more of Kara Kelley books in the future especially Dani's sister story.
458 reviews9 followers
January 16, 2017
This was a great book. The content was great it was well written. Dani thought Adam was these children's father and we had everything handed to him. What she didn't understand is that he had a rough life and everything he had he had to work for he works for.
Profile Image for Mary.
602 reviews29 followers
January 17, 2017
Nice sexy story, though I was a bit confused with the cast of characters in the beginning. I look forward to more books by Ms. Kelley.

I volunteered to review an ARC of this book.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews