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Hidden Motives #2
Lara's Journal
Simone Bennet is on a long vacation, trying to heal from the trauma she suffered at the hands of a serial-killer kidnapper. After looking death in the face, she tries to develop a new outlook on life—live in the moment!
Carl, the charming lawyer, is back, asking once more for Simone’s help, this time in analyzing Lara’s journals, which were discovered by her siblings after her death. In her own words, Lara divulges all her secrets, and reveals a dramatic world of betrayal, passion, and the most unusual sexual behaviors, exposing the beautiful architect’s troubled life.
As Simone tries to deal with the contents of Lara's haunting diaries, one of her patients gets himself into a bit of legal trouble, forcing Simone to return early from her vacation. Although she's happy to be back on her home turf, she finds herself surrounded by a whole new set of problems.
A killer is out there, and this time, he seems to be after the people Simone cares about most. Suddenly, people around her are dying, a stalker/admirer keeps showing up at all the wrong times, and Simone’s dear friend Edward has a new girlfriend—forcing Simone to analyze her feelings for him and her attraction to Carl.
Carl, the charming lawyer, is back, asking once more for Simone’s help, this time in analyzing Lara’s journals, which were discovered by her siblings after her death. In her own words, Lara divulges all her secrets, and reveals a dramatic world of betrayal, passion, and the most unusual sexual behaviors, exposing the beautiful architect’s troubled life.
As Simone tries to deal with the contents of Lara's haunting diaries, one of her patients gets himself into a bit of legal trouble, forcing Simone to return early from her vacation. Although she's happy to be back on her home turf, she finds herself surrounded by a whole new set of problems.
A killer is out there, and this time, he seems to be after the people Simone cares about most. Suddenly, people around her are dying, a stalker/admirer keeps showing up at all the wrong times, and Simone’s dear friend Edward has a new girlfriend—forcing Simone to analyze her feelings for him and her attraction to Carl.
651 pages, Paperback
First published February 16, 2017
About the author
A. Gavazzoni
13 books309 followersA. Gavazzoni is a Brazillian Multi-Award-Winning Novelist of five published literary works within two novel series titled, 'Hidden Motives' and 'Where The Road Goes.'
Adriana has become a critically acclaimed popular steamy romance fiction writer of light erotic with cross-genres of steamy murder mystery suspense, historical romantic thrillers, coming-of-age, and women's gripping crime fiction. Adriana's break-out debut of "Behind The Door" book one of the "Hidden Motives" series firmly placed her on the literary map nationally and internationally. All her novels are available on Amazon Books, Amazon Kindle, and Kindles available within Kindle Unlimited. All her novels are featured on online literary book sites, Book Stores, and literary magazines.
Born and raised in Brazil, she is of full Italian lineage. By day she is a Brazillian lawyer, former professor of law, and also writes legal books. She speaks four languages: English, French, Portuguese, and Spanish. When she is not practicing law or writing her next novel, she enjoys many interests as a very active person and is an avid reader.
Adriana loves to dance, especially the (Tango), she enjoys cooking and enjoys good food and good wine. She believes in exercising along with living a healthy lifestyle. She enjoys traveling and visits New York often, but her "Happy Place" is always spending time with her big happy family and her pets as a passionate animal lover. Adriana continues to work and reside in Brazil.
Novel Awards & Achievements For A. Gavazzoni
"Where The Road Goes Novel Series" Book One - Sketches of Life - Gold Pinnacle Book Achievement Award - Honorable Mention-Los Angeles Book Festival 2021 - Finalist - Book Excellence Awards
Book Two - Life Has Other Plans - Gold Pinnacle Book Achievement Award - Book Excellence Award - Finalist - Eric-Hoffer Award - NIEA - National Indie Book Award - Honorable Mentions - Hollywood Book Festival 2022 & Paris Book Festival 2022...
**All Novels Awarded 5-Star Reader's Favorite Editorial Book Reviews and Multiply Awards Won For All Three Novels In The "Hidden Motives" Series.**
Adriana has become a critically acclaimed popular steamy romance fiction writer of light erotic with cross-genres of steamy murder mystery suspense, historical romantic thrillers, coming-of-age, and women's gripping crime fiction. Adriana's break-out debut of "Behind The Door" book one of the "Hidden Motives" series firmly placed her on the literary map nationally and internationally. All her novels are available on Amazon Books, Amazon Kindle, and Kindles available within Kindle Unlimited. All her novels are featured on online literary book sites, Book Stores, and literary magazines.
Born and raised in Brazil, she is of full Italian lineage. By day she is a Brazillian lawyer, former professor of law, and also writes legal books. She speaks four languages: English, French, Portuguese, and Spanish. When she is not practicing law or writing her next novel, she enjoys many interests as a very active person and is an avid reader.
Adriana loves to dance, especially the (Tango), she enjoys cooking and enjoys good food and good wine. She believes in exercising along with living a healthy lifestyle. She enjoys traveling and visits New York often, but her "Happy Place" is always spending time with her big happy family and her pets as a passionate animal lover. Adriana continues to work and reside in Brazil.
Novel Awards & Achievements For A. Gavazzoni
"Where The Road Goes Novel Series" Book One - Sketches of Life - Gold Pinnacle Book Achievement Award - Honorable Mention-Los Angeles Book Festival 2021 - Finalist - Book Excellence Awards
Book Two - Life Has Other Plans - Gold Pinnacle Book Achievement Award - Book Excellence Award - Finalist - Eric-Hoffer Award - NIEA - National Indie Book Award - Honorable Mentions - Hollywood Book Festival 2022 & Paris Book Festival 2022...
**All Novels Awarded 5-Star Reader's Favorite Editorial Book Reviews and Multiply Awards Won For All Three Novels In The "Hidden Motives" Series.**
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
May 7, 2017
After surviving a psycho serial killer, Simone is slowly rebuilding her life; and she gets to learn more about the mysterious Lara. But life is still going to prove dangerous for this therapist.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
I absolutely loved the first part of this series, Behind the Door, and I was excited at the prospect of finding out more about Lara. Lara's diary is mentioned in the first book, along with a few details of her past, but it is really laid out in this book.
After reading Behind the Door, we already know how vile Lara's mother is; and we know what Arthur did to young Lara for years. In Lara's Journal, you realise that knowing the rough facts is absolutely nothing compared to reading in detail her mother's betrayal and Arthur's perversion, which happens so frequently that poor Lara never had a chance.
Her story is really beautifully told. Her naivety is so sad, and every time there's a glimmer of hope, Lara gets screwed over.
I also loved getting to know John and Emma. These characters are seen briefly in the first book, but you get to appreciate just how awesome they are in this sequel.
Simone's storyline follows the therapist recovering from her recent ordeal and returning to work. There's a harsh reality, as Simone has to assess her life - she has been existing, instead of really living.
There are also a few romantic options open to her, as the attractive lawyer Carl seeks her help again; she has to work out her feelings towards her best friend after he admitted he loved her; and there is the new, passionate Armando.
I didn't enjoy the thriller aspect as much this time around. It felt like an echo of what happened in the first book. People associated with Simone are turning up dead. But this time it didn't have the same sort of tension or terror for Simone.
Lara's story was definitely much stronger this time.
The ending is quite the cliffhanger, leaving things open for an exciting part three.
Overall, it was an entertaining book, and I look forward to the next book. It will be interesting to see if Lara will still be involved.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
I absolutely loved the first part of this series, Behind the Door, and I was excited at the prospect of finding out more about Lara. Lara's diary is mentioned in the first book, along with a few details of her past, but it is really laid out in this book.
After reading Behind the Door, we already know how vile Lara's mother is; and we know what Arthur did to young Lara for years. In Lara's Journal, you realise that knowing the rough facts is absolutely nothing compared to reading in detail her mother's betrayal and Arthur's perversion, which happens so frequently that poor Lara never had a chance.
Her story is really beautifully told. Her naivety is so sad, and every time there's a glimmer of hope, Lara gets screwed over.
I also loved getting to know John and Emma. These characters are seen briefly in the first book, but you get to appreciate just how awesome they are in this sequel.
Simone's storyline follows the therapist recovering from her recent ordeal and returning to work. There's a harsh reality, as Simone has to assess her life - she has been existing, instead of really living.
There are also a few romantic options open to her, as the attractive lawyer Carl seeks her help again; she has to work out her feelings towards her best friend after he admitted he loved her; and there is the new, passionate Armando.
I didn't enjoy the thriller aspect as much this time around. It felt like an echo of what happened in the first book. People associated with Simone are turning up dead. But this time it didn't have the same sort of tension or terror for Simone.
Lara's story was definitely much stronger this time.
The ending is quite the cliffhanger, leaving things open for an exciting part three.
Overall, it was an entertaining book, and I look forward to the next book. It will be interesting to see if Lara will still be involved.
January 28, 2017
Ahhhh this book killed me!
So the story picks up a month after the events that take place in, Behind The Door, and Simone is trying to deal with what happened to her and also ends up helping Carl read through Lara’s journal in order to help him cope. It was painfully brutal and nice to see everything from Lara’s perspective. I really liked Lara when I was reading Behind The Door and seeing her from Mark’s perspective but I also loved her more reading it directly from her point-of-view, especially since it explained so much about why she was the way she was and how certain things influenced her life. Also, Blue Lagoon reference! I watched that movie when I was a child, I still have it on VHS somewhere, and like Lara, I asked my grandma what Emmeline and Richard were doing. My grandma’s response was not as nice as Lara’s grandma’s was! Also, Emms is like the greatest grandma to ever exist. So getting back to the journal, it doesn’t get to the part where she meets Mark but it does start from the beginning of where her life goes to hell in a hand basket and up to when she was with John. Meanwhile, Simone is going through her own difficulties. I’m not really sure how I feel about the whole Armando/Simone plotline that had been going on throughout book. My mind is still trying to process it but one thing is for sure that I didn’t like him at all. Also, why is Ed so perfect? That’s a rhetorical question, don’t answer it. Near the end of the book, it did start to feel a little rushed with everything but I think that’s just because the bulk of the story was about Lara’s side of the story/life which makes sense because her name is in the title of the book but I wished it wouldn’t have felt so rushed. But that ending! I should have known it was going to happen but I didn’t! I’m anticipating the next book! Is it done yet? How about now? Maybe we’ll see a continuation of Lara’s journal and see her perspective on Mark? I like being inside Lara’s head, even though it just makes my heart hurt because I know the outcome of her life. And also, Carl needs some love. I demand he get some love. Also John needs love too.
So the story picks up a month after the events that take place in, Behind The Door, and Simone is trying to deal with what happened to her and also ends up helping Carl read through Lara’s journal in order to help him cope. It was painfully brutal and nice to see everything from Lara’s perspective. I really liked Lara when I was reading Behind The Door and seeing her from Mark’s perspective but I also loved her more reading it directly from her point-of-view, especially since it explained so much about why she was the way she was and how certain things influenced her life. Also, Blue Lagoon reference! I watched that movie when I was a child, I still have it on VHS somewhere, and like Lara, I asked my grandma what Emmeline and Richard were doing. My grandma’s response was not as nice as Lara’s grandma’s was! Also, Emms is like the greatest grandma to ever exist. So getting back to the journal, it doesn’t get to the part where she meets Mark but it does start from the beginning of where her life goes to hell in a hand basket and up to when she was with John. Meanwhile, Simone is going through her own difficulties. I’m not really sure how I feel about the whole Armando/Simone plotline that had been going on throughout book. My mind is still trying to process it but one thing is for sure that I didn’t like him at all. Also, why is Ed so perfect? That’s a rhetorical question, don’t answer it. Near the end of the book, it did start to feel a little rushed with everything but I think that’s just because the bulk of the story was about Lara’s side of the story/life which makes sense because her name is in the title of the book but I wished it wouldn’t have felt so rushed. But that ending! I should have known it was going to happen but I didn’t! I’m anticipating the next book! Is it done yet? How about now? Maybe we’ll see a continuation of Lara’s journal and see her perspective on Mark? I like being inside Lara’s head, even though it just makes my heart hurt because I know the outcome of her life. And also, Carl needs some love. I demand he get some love. Also John needs love too.
January 30, 2017
I am writing this review because I feel that Adriana is an excellent Mystery Thrilling Suspense writer!
To be fair and honest to this fabulous author, I'm not fond of explicit sex, abuse, slavery or aberration. LOL.
So normally, I would have passed this book by, until someone suggested I read it. I am writing this review because I feel that Adriana is an excellent mystery and suspense writer. I appreciate her skilled knowledge of psychiatry and law. Her plot twists had me suspecting everyone, from her "too perfect" secretary, to her lawyer friend, her client and admitted a killer, to her office partner, to the spoiled one night stand, which turned into trouble with a capital "T".
She couldn't trust anyone. I wouldn't have either!
Adriana, I look forward to more mystery and suspense. You are a wonderful writer. If I was a fan of steamy sensual novels I would perhaps have rated the book as a *****.
To be fair and honest to this fabulous author, I'm not fond of explicit sex, abuse, slavery or aberration. LOL.
So normally, I would have passed this book by, until someone suggested I read it. I am writing this review because I feel that Adriana is an excellent mystery and suspense writer. I appreciate her skilled knowledge of psychiatry and law. Her plot twists had me suspecting everyone, from her "too perfect" secretary, to her lawyer friend, her client and admitted a killer, to her office partner, to the spoiled one night stand, which turned into trouble with a capital "T".
She couldn't trust anyone. I wouldn't have either!
Adriana, I look forward to more mystery and suspense. You are a wonderful writer. If I was a fan of steamy sensual novels I would perhaps have rated the book as a *****.
February 4, 2017
Can't wait for book 3.
September 27, 2018
Sexy thriller extravaganza! While trying to rebuild her life Simone goes on vacation, and while on that vacation she does kind of break out her character but its refreshing. Carl gets Simone to look into Laras diary to try to get a grasp of what happened and what turned her into the woman she was. Simone also deals with different challenges in her life. Towards the end it seems like many things were rushed but it was very good. Love her writing style and love the characters! I could definitely see myself reading another novel of this authors she definitely has a way with words. If you enjoy erotic books with a splash of suspense this is definitely for you!!!
November 22, 2017
I most definitely enjoyed reading this book. I found the author's style to be refreshing and the story to be on the creative side. I was bothered by so many of the characters using the same terminology and phraseology, even characters that had never met each other. But regardless, I still had trouble putting it down at times.
But be cautioned, it is most certainly an adult read as far as the sexual content goes.
But be cautioned, it is most certainly an adult read as far as the sexual content goes.
May 26, 2017
A. Gavazzoni has an incredible way with words. When I read her first book, Behind the Door, I didn’t think she could get any spicier in her writing, but she did. This might be a bit of a spoiler but it is important to note that if you do not enjoy explicit erotic encounters, especially things that stray from the “norm,” this book is not for you.
In this book after a terrifying experience at the hands of a serial killer Simone goes on a much needed vacation. She goes on this vacation and does things that are out of character. Her actions lead to assorted scenarios that provide her with frustration and reprieve from her current woes. She is also drawn back into the life of Lara and Carl. Carl needs further understanding about his relationship with Lara and her life. He wishes to have Simone read Lara’s journal to help them both better understand what caused Lara to become the wild woman she was when alive.
While learning more about Lara, Simone is also faced to deal with a new assistant/secretary in her office, issues in her personal life with her friend, and yet another series of murders. A. Gavazzoni does not fail to pull you into Simone and Lara’s worlds yet again. I found myself unable to put the book down until I reached the last page! She deals with difficult subjects in a very real way and shows how with a lot of hard work, it is possible to move past horrific pain. I cannot wait for A. Gavazonni’s next book!
In this book after a terrifying experience at the hands of a serial killer Simone goes on a much needed vacation. She goes on this vacation and does things that are out of character. Her actions lead to assorted scenarios that provide her with frustration and reprieve from her current woes. She is also drawn back into the life of Lara and Carl. Carl needs further understanding about his relationship with Lara and her life. He wishes to have Simone read Lara’s journal to help them both better understand what caused Lara to become the wild woman she was when alive.
While learning more about Lara, Simone is also faced to deal with a new assistant/secretary in her office, issues in her personal life with her friend, and yet another series of murders. A. Gavazzoni does not fail to pull you into Simone and Lara’s worlds yet again. I found myself unable to put the book down until I reached the last page! She deals with difficult subjects in a very real way and shows how with a lot of hard work, it is possible to move past horrific pain. I cannot wait for A. Gavazonni’s next book!
December 29, 2017
Laras Journal is racy and sassy, it takes the edge to a whole new platform. The character's are outliers whose lives have crossed thresholds that most of us can never imagine in our darkest moments. The author is a genius when it comes to eliciting curiousity and conflicting emotions. She has the ability to turn the reader inside out and then suddenly upside down. Using wickedness to unsettle the reader, drawing boundaries somewhere near mars, she takes the reader on a violent and passionate journey where one's sanity frays just enough but not too much. She pushes you over the edge into delicious and devilish places then quickly pulls you back to safety just when you are about to go too far. This book was incredibly entertaining, jarring in parts and erotic beyond the average imagination. Adriana is talented in the art of story telling and she knows how to create believable characters who most people would be able to relate to. Even if you don't want to resonate with a monster, you will anyway. This book makes you feel and it makes you think. A work of art. The triology should be made into a movie.
November 15, 2018
Such a fabulous book! Definitely an adult novel and be wary of you are easily triggered. It is a thrilling read! Amazing mix of action, intrigue, and erotical. So upset when it ended! Cannot wait to read the next book!
February 18, 2017
Amount of sex 5 / 5
How explicit is the sex scenes 5 / 5
Amount of BDSM/Fetish 4 / 5
Story 4.5 / 5
Overall: 4.5 / 5
Lara’s Journal is the second book in the Hidden Motives series and it's a deliciously suspenseful novel. So you are aware, it's essential to read Behind the Door, the first book in the series, to fully understand and appreciate this story. Lara’s Journal begins a month after Behind the Door with Simone on vacation. She is contacted by Carl stating that Lara’s siblings found her journal and they would like Simone to read them for her professional opinion.
This story flips back and forth between Simone, in the present time, and Lara’s experiences as told from her diary. Even though it does switch often, Ms. Gavazzoni does a wonderful job of not making it confusing. I enjoyed reading from Lara's perspective, and like the first book, this was a thrilling page-turner!
The storyline is well paced and the characters are complex and well-developed. I was guessing ‘who-done-it’ until the very last pages. There is so many twists and turns that I was gripping my Kindle late into the night.
A definite one-click series for those who love an erotic thriller with lots of twists!
Voluntarily Reviewed a Gifted Copy
(Review Updated 1/19)
How explicit is the sex scenes 5 / 5
Amount of BDSM/Fetish 4 / 5
Story 4.5 / 5
Overall: 4.5 / 5
Lara’s Journal is the second book in the Hidden Motives series and it's a deliciously suspenseful novel. So you are aware, it's essential to read Behind the Door, the first book in the series, to fully understand and appreciate this story. Lara’s Journal begins a month after Behind the Door with Simone on vacation. She is contacted by Carl stating that Lara’s siblings found her journal and they would like Simone to read them for her professional opinion.
This story flips back and forth between Simone, in the present time, and Lara’s experiences as told from her diary. Even though it does switch often, Ms. Gavazzoni does a wonderful job of not making it confusing. I enjoyed reading from Lara's perspective, and like the first book, this was a thrilling page-turner!
The storyline is well paced and the characters are complex and well-developed. I was guessing ‘who-done-it’ until the very last pages. There is so many twists and turns that I was gripping my Kindle late into the night.
A definite one-click series for those who love an erotic thriller with lots of twists!
Voluntarily Reviewed a Gifted Copy
(Review Updated 1/19)
February 25, 2017
I have read both of the author books in March of 2017. Her books address child abuse, sexual abuse, healing from abuse, drug abuse, and so much more.
I delayed this review for both of her books are personal to me. I still not ready to share my story. I apologized. I just say in my past I danced with the Grin Reaper so many times, we became bedt friends and I meet his family. Life could be worst.
I am putting this review for both of her books. Again, too personal to get into. If you been through this and things like it, read this book. Again, it help the healing. Especially if you have nightmares still like me.
🙏🇺🇸
I delayed this review for both of her books are personal to me. I still not ready to share my story. I apologized. I just say in my past I danced with the Grin Reaper so many times, we became bedt friends and I meet his family. Life could be worst.
I am putting this review for both of her books. Again, too personal to get into. If you been through this and things like it, read this book. Again, it help the healing. Especially if you have nightmares still like me.
🙏🇺🇸
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 7, 2017
Wow, things unraveled with purpose and I was floored by the revelations of Lara. I was not expecting that outcome, my money was on anyone else. The author rolled with the punches made my hair stand on the back of my neck and definitely left me wanting more. I can't believe the book ended the way it did, but I am going to be breaking my head till I get to the next book in this series. I am in love with the characters. Namely Lara, Emms and Simone. So many different lives and still so similar. The encounters were disturbing , sexually alluring and hard to tear away from. Like nothing I've read before.
March 28, 2019
Laura's Journal by A. Gavazzoni is the second installment in the Hidden Motives book series. A psychological suspense novel that follows psychiatrist Simmone Bennet after her abduction and torture by psychopath Peter Hay.
Merely a month had passed since Simmone's abduction and torture by Peter Hay. While trying to work through all that had happened to her, Simmone has developed a new outlook on her life, live for today. While staying at her good friend's house in Miami, Simmone gets a call that she is urgently needed back home. One of her psychiatric patients had trashed a club and was in police custody. Soon Simmone finds herself, yet again, in the middle mysterious deaths. This time, it is her patients that are dying. Could Peter be back in the US and coming after her again? Will the killer turn their eyes on her next?
Oh my gosh, I could not put this book down. When I had to put it down, I couldn't stop thinking about where the book was going and what was going to happen next. This book sucks you in right from the beginning. Jumping between Lara's journal and Simmone's present day life makes for an even more interesting read. The author did a wonderful job of making these transitions smoothly and without confusion. You do not get burned out on all the horrific things happening to Lara, which is probably what would have happened.
There is so much about this book that I loved! First and foremost, the writing and the character depth is absolutely wonderful. Correctly writing about the emotions during and after the rape scene, the manipulations, and Arthur. I cannot give enough praise for this. With everything happening to Lara, all the betrayal, the heart wrenching sadness and depression, it is somewhat relieving to have such a matriarch as her grandmother in the story. The sex scenes were so well written, it was not overdone by any means. One thing I do not care for is when the sex scenes take over the actual plot of the book, this is not true of this book. By the time I got to the end of the book, there was no way I could have guessed how it was going to end.
It was hard to find parts of this book that I did not like. Even when I did find parts that i didn't like, it didn't take away from the book. The scene where Armando puts his hands on Simmone's throat, is one of the things I didn't like. Simmone acts like it is not a big deal, even after that she talks with Armando. I would have to believe that any psychiatrist worth their grit would have taken steps to make sure this person got the help they needed and made sure this never happened again. There also were a few times that the wrong names were used, Emma instead of Emms, Oliver instead of Oscar, Teresa instead of Tereza.
I will give this book a rating of 4 out of 5 stars. I cannot give it a full 4 stars, even though I would love to, because it does not seem to be professionally edited. This book I would suggest to anyone who enjoys reading murder mystery, thriller, or C/T/M/H. I would strongly advise a trigger warning for the rape and manipulations. Those parts of the book would make a sensitive person to never pick up a book by this author again. I would suggest to the author to have this book professionally edited, but everything else is a keeper. I cannot wait to read more books by this author!
Merely a month had passed since Simmone's abduction and torture by Peter Hay. While trying to work through all that had happened to her, Simmone has developed a new outlook on her life, live for today. While staying at her good friend's house in Miami, Simmone gets a call that she is urgently needed back home. One of her psychiatric patients had trashed a club and was in police custody. Soon Simmone finds herself, yet again, in the middle mysterious deaths. This time, it is her patients that are dying. Could Peter be back in the US and coming after her again? Will the killer turn their eyes on her next?
Oh my gosh, I could not put this book down. When I had to put it down, I couldn't stop thinking about where the book was going and what was going to happen next. This book sucks you in right from the beginning. Jumping between Lara's journal and Simmone's present day life makes for an even more interesting read. The author did a wonderful job of making these transitions smoothly and without confusion. You do not get burned out on all the horrific things happening to Lara, which is probably what would have happened.
There is so much about this book that I loved! First and foremost, the writing and the character depth is absolutely wonderful. Correctly writing about the emotions during and after the rape scene, the manipulations, and Arthur. I cannot give enough praise for this. With everything happening to Lara, all the betrayal, the heart wrenching sadness and depression, it is somewhat relieving to have such a matriarch as her grandmother in the story. The sex scenes were so well written, it was not overdone by any means. One thing I do not care for is when the sex scenes take over the actual plot of the book, this is not true of this book. By the time I got to the end of the book, there was no way I could have guessed how it was going to end.
It was hard to find parts of this book that I did not like. Even when I did find parts that i didn't like, it didn't take away from the book. The scene where Armando puts his hands on Simmone's throat, is one of the things I didn't like. Simmone acts like it is not a big deal, even after that she talks with Armando. I would have to believe that any psychiatrist worth their grit would have taken steps to make sure this person got the help they needed and made sure this never happened again. There also were a few times that the wrong names were used, Emma instead of Emms, Oliver instead of Oscar, Teresa instead of Tereza.
I will give this book a rating of 4 out of 5 stars. I cannot give it a full 4 stars, even though I would love to, because it does not seem to be professionally edited. This book I would suggest to anyone who enjoys reading murder mystery, thriller, or C/T/M/H. I would strongly advise a trigger warning for the rape and manipulations. Those parts of the book would make a sensitive person to never pick up a book by this author again. I would suggest to the author to have this book professionally edited, but everything else is a keeper. I cannot wait to read more books by this author!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 12, 2017
A.Gavazzoni has done it again with Lara’s Journal. This book is a psychological erotic book that delves into the life of a young woman. The characters are well thought out, and the story arc comes to a cliffhanger that leaves you wanting more. I was on the edge of my seat waiting to see what happened to Lara and Simone. Gavazzoni is a master of keeping your interest page after page. Lara’s Journal is one of the better sequels that I have come across.
The story starts off where Behind the Door left off. Simone is coming back from having dealt with the incident with Peter. She is trying to go back to being herself. She does some things that she is not proud of and ends up regretting them later. She reads the journal of the woman that is in the previous book. This journal sends her on journey of sorts that brings her into a life she didn’t ask for. She becomes closer to Edward and they cultivate their relationship. The ending had a lovely twist that I did not expect.
I love that Simone is trying to get into the mind of Lara and is trying to understand what happened to her in the past. Gavazzoni delivers again with these fantastic characters and story line. I love that we get to see some insight into the history of Lara and more growth on Simone’s character. This brings the reader in closer and we can understand each of the characters more deeply. One of my favorite parts is when Simone and Edward finally see what their relationship can be. It is very heartwarming and well worth the wait.
I did not like that there is a cliffhanger. I wanted to know what was going to happen next. I also didn’t like the character of Armando, but I see why his character was necessary. The interaction with Simone made me feel uneasy at times, but that is not a bad thing. The character was a necessary evil the made Simone more fleshed out, and we as readers can appreciate her more because of him.
I give this book 5 out of 5 stars. The reason for this rating is that Gavazzoni delivered to us one of the best sequels I have read. She continued on this journey with Simone and Lara and gave the reader more understanding of each. I would recommend that anyone that loves a good erotic thriller then they should pick up this book. This book is not for young readers and those who do not like erotic books. It is not for the people that don’t like explicit scenes.
The story starts off where Behind the Door left off. Simone is coming back from having dealt with the incident with Peter. She is trying to go back to being herself. She does some things that she is not proud of and ends up regretting them later. She reads the journal of the woman that is in the previous book. This journal sends her on journey of sorts that brings her into a life she didn’t ask for. She becomes closer to Edward and they cultivate their relationship. The ending had a lovely twist that I did not expect.
I love that Simone is trying to get into the mind of Lara and is trying to understand what happened to her in the past. Gavazzoni delivers again with these fantastic characters and story line. I love that we get to see some insight into the history of Lara and more growth on Simone’s character. This brings the reader in closer and we can understand each of the characters more deeply. One of my favorite parts is when Simone and Edward finally see what their relationship can be. It is very heartwarming and well worth the wait.
I did not like that there is a cliffhanger. I wanted to know what was going to happen next. I also didn’t like the character of Armando, but I see why his character was necessary. The interaction with Simone made me feel uneasy at times, but that is not a bad thing. The character was a necessary evil the made Simone more fleshed out, and we as readers can appreciate her more because of him.
I give this book 5 out of 5 stars. The reason for this rating is that Gavazzoni delivered to us one of the best sequels I have read. She continued on this journey with Simone and Lara and gave the reader more understanding of each. I would recommend that anyone that loves a good erotic thriller then they should pick up this book. This book is not for young readers and those who do not like erotic books. It is not for the people that don’t like explicit scenes.
January 21, 2018
My review is 4.39 stars.
This book is better than the previous one. Previous on is interesting and this one is more interesting. After reading 'Behind The Door', I couldn't wait to read this one. Simone is scared and recovering from the trauma. The situation she had been disastrous. Well, I'll shut up now. I'm not a spoiler, now I don't wanna become.
This book is awesome. In previous book 'Behind The Door', I fell in love with the character 'Simone'. This time I fell in love with the Author. The previous book made be Author's fan and this one made me fall in love with her. What an amazing Author she's.
The way Author wrote the story, the turns, the mystery, the thrill everything is amazing. If I would comment on the book it'll be:
Story - Awesome
Plot - Interesting
Characters - Lovely [My favourite Simone]
Mystery - Ooooooooo
Thill - I still have goosebumps
Her next book is coming in February Month and that's not fair because waiting isn't my strong suit. But still, I have to wait. No other option.
This book is better than the previous one. Previous on is interesting and this one is more interesting. After reading 'Behind The Door', I couldn't wait to read this one. Simone is scared and recovering from the trauma. The situation she had been disastrous. Well, I'll shut up now. I'm not a spoiler, now I don't wanna become.
This book is awesome. In previous book 'Behind The Door', I fell in love with the character 'Simone'. This time I fell in love with the Author. The previous book made be Author's fan and this one made me fall in love with her. What an amazing Author she's.
The way Author wrote the story, the turns, the mystery, the thrill everything is amazing. If I would comment on the book it'll be:
Story - Awesome
Plot - Interesting
Characters - Lovely [My favourite Simone]
Mystery - Ooooooooo
Thill - I still have goosebumps
Her next book is coming in February Month and that's not fair because waiting isn't my strong suit. But still, I have to wait. No other option.
January 25, 2019
Lara's JournalA. Gavazzoni
Sweeping suspense with dual storylines and steamy erotic scenes make for a hard-to-put-down read.
Simone is a psychiatrist who is recovering from being kidnapped by a serial killer. She is haunted by her memories, a stalker, a murderous villain, and more! While fighting to get her life back on track she agrees to help a patient to understand who his deceased lover really was, by reviewing the deceased woman's journal. The journal exhumes the abuse and degradation that the formed the younger years of the woman, Lara.
The characters are vivid and make the reader feel like a friend, chatting by the pool. This page-turner is not for immature readers! However, if you like a little heat and surprise in your reading, check this one out!
Sweeping suspense with dual storylines and steamy erotic scenes make for a hard-to-put-down read.
Simone is a psychiatrist who is recovering from being kidnapped by a serial killer. She is haunted by her memories, a stalker, a murderous villain, and more! While fighting to get her life back on track she agrees to help a patient to understand who his deceased lover really was, by reviewing the deceased woman's journal. The journal exhumes the abuse and degradation that the formed the younger years of the woman, Lara.
The characters are vivid and make the reader feel like a friend, chatting by the pool. This page-turner is not for immature readers! However, if you like a little heat and surprise in your reading, check this one out!
June 16, 2020
Having loved the first series, Behind The Door, I finally read Lara’s journal. From the first series, we have a rough sketch about her mother and Arthur, but reading in detailed is beyond one’s comprehension. It’s a sad story of Lara, who sees light at the end of the tunnel to only realise it’s the lamp of the oncoming train! It was nice meeting Emma and John in this series, as we got acquainted with them in the previous one.
Simone, on the other hand, is rebuilding her life after escaping a serial killer, she’s back to work, with Carl seeking her services again, she also has to work out her feelings towards her best friend and business partner, and there is also new interest on the horizon, Armando. Above all, she is also learning a lot about Lara.
There is a thriller ride onboard, the ending giving room to part three!
Gavazzoni craftily entices you with her writing and keeps you entertained, and you look forward to her next book.
Simone, on the other hand, is rebuilding her life after escaping a serial killer, she’s back to work, with Carl seeking her services again, she also has to work out her feelings towards her best friend and business partner, and there is also new interest on the horizon, Armando. Above all, she is also learning a lot about Lara.
There is a thriller ride onboard, the ending giving room to part three!
Gavazzoni craftily entices you with her writing and keeps you entertained, and you look forward to her next book.
November 12, 2018
Another book out of my comfort zone! I would rate 3.5 stars if I could. I think this book flowed a little bit better than the first in the series, but I just couldn't rate it any higher because of Lara. I'm so tired of Lara! I am committed to Simone and I want to continue to read about her, but Lara kept getting in the way. I feel terrible for her, but Lara's journal read like a 12 year old's too often. Of course, that could have been intentional as her childhood was 'interrupted'...But she ended up with years of higher education. The journal was disjointed and made me want to stop reading many times. I understand why Lara is still so prevalent in the story, but less Lara and more Simone! I'm interested to see how this series ends.
April 25, 2018
Lara's Journal was a riveting continuation to Behind the Door. Full of unexpected twists and turns, this book kept me intrigued. It was very difficult to put this book down and even more difficult to reach the last page. The characters are deep and complicated, taking the reader to places they would seldom go to on their own. The book is well written, unpredictable and very thought provoking. Anther stunning piece of work by Adriana Gavazzoni. She is a genius when it comes to story telling. I'm just glad that she wrote the third book. I need to know what happens to the Psycho. Another outstanding achievement!
October 20, 2017
Lara's Journal - a review by Rosemary Kenny
Move over 50 Shades of Grey! This novel is far more sophisticated in characters and plot-line.
Simone is a well-developed character and deals with her own emotions and fears as well as, (if not better than she does with her patients).
I liked the added bonus of a murder/mystery/thriller theme within the erotica; this was also well-handled by the author with believable psychological twists and turns that kept me enthralled up to the very last page - definitely another winner by A Gavazzoni!
Move over 50 Shades of Grey! This novel is far more sophisticated in characters and plot-line.
Simone is a well-developed character and deals with her own emotions and fears as well as, (if not better than she does with her patients).
I liked the added bonus of a murder/mystery/thriller theme within the erotica; this was also well-handled by the author with believable psychological twists and turns that kept me enthralled up to the very last page - definitely another winner by A Gavazzoni!
November 18, 2018
Simone is unbelievable and boring. Every character is annoying, ridiculous, and/or boring.
There are GRAPHIC scenes where a child/teenager is being molested, raped, gang raped at an orgy party. It's one thing to explain what happened. But it's written like it's supposed to be sexy. It's not. Who (besides pedophiles and perverts) wants to read about a 15 year old being drugged and then raped by two men 20+ years her senior (anal and vaginal at the same time)? I sure didn't! It is disgusting.
There are GRAPHIC scenes where a child/teenager is being molested, raped, gang raped at an orgy party. It's one thing to explain what happened. But it's written like it's supposed to be sexy. It's not. Who (besides pedophiles and perverts) wants to read about a 15 year old being drugged and then raped by two men 20+ years her senior (anal and vaginal at the same time)? I sure didn't! It is disgusting.
December 8, 2017
Have a feeling I should have read #1 before I read this one. Too many plots all rolled into one book. Good character development. The psychological element was strong ... but not a fan of the eroticism included.
November 20, 2019
Never Ending Thriller
This was a really good book there were so many twist and turns that it brings about no dull moments. I wish the ending could have lead on a little bit more as tho who is actually behind the killings
This was a really good book there were so many twist and turns that it brings about no dull moments. I wish the ending could have lead on a little bit more as tho who is actually behind the killings
September 16, 2017
a long book but a beautiful story! you should read Behind The Door first, both great stories, waiting for the next one
September 23, 2018
Another great story by Gavazzoni! I don’t want to do any spoilers but this book definitely gives insight on Lara’s life.
October 9, 2019
Thrilling and full of suspense!
Page turner I couldn’t put down. This book is full of hidden secrets and a past that will make your jaw drop.
Page turner I couldn’t put down. This book is full of hidden secrets and a past that will make your jaw drop.
July 25, 2018
I was really unsure how we could continue on from the previous book when the killer has fled the country and we’ve solved the murder. Other than literally just reading Lara’s side to her relationship with Carl (which I wanted to read anyway) I wasn’t sure what else could be done. Like really, what would you have done if you were the author? Because I am a big fan of, if you’ve gotten it right don’t ruin it by trying to make more money out of sequels when you had never planned on writing them.
Now the set up for this book is no where near as good as the set up for the third novel so I get the feeling that Adriana finished the first book intending to wrap it up there. Then really wanted to share more. Whereas the ending of this book is a total, blatant set up for a third book. Which I don’t mind because it show’s there’s a plan. And she’s ended it on a cliff hanger. And I am a TOTAL sucker for a good cliff hanger!
Anyway I feel like I’ve jumped ahead because I’m SOOOO eager to read the next book! Like normally I’d space it out a bit to give you guys, my readers, a bit of variety but I don’t think I can with this one 😐
ANYWAY! I must move on to give you reason’s why I liked this one so much! So we start off with a girl hooking up with a guy at a nightclub and having sex in the bathroom. Since I thought this was Lara, whatevs! Only, it turns out it’s Simone, and she’s slept with her friends cousin! How completely unlike Simone! But then again she had been kidnapped and drunk A LOT of wine and it’s not like she’s in a relationship. So she can totally live her life the way she want’s to!
Next thing we know one of her reliable crazy patients has attacked his mistress, wife and the club his mistress works in so Simone has to rush home. Just in time to find out that the cousin is a crazy stalker. Just what she needs when she’s still recovering from being kidnapped!
Within a couple of weeks of returning like 3 or 4 of her patients have turned up dead, the FBI don’t know whether to suspect her or Peter Hay (the guy that kidnapped her). And I was tossing up between the stalker boyfriend, the new receptionist, Peter, Peter’s sister, Carl and Edward as to who the guilty party could be! Now to give you a bit of an idea where’s why I suspect each of them:
Stalker boyfriend rocked up then everything turned to shit for Simone in a way that’s different to before which suggests someone new
The new receptionist doesn’t seem to smile, is happy to take the job of someone who was just killed. And no one died until after she started…
Peter Hay because you know, he did kidnap her and kill all those other people!
His sister, for revenge against Simone for Peter having to flee the country, and poison is typically known to be a female choice
Carl because both times he entered Simone’s life shit hits the fan
And finally Edward, with him I don’t really have a tangible reason why, it’s just a gut feeling
Since this book ends on a cliff hanger I never get to find out who the one responsible for this round of deaths is. But my main suspects are the new receptionist and Peter’s sister but with her I feel that Peter would have to be involved somehow. Ideally my gut is telling me the receptionist and Peter’s sister are either one and the same or somehow linked.
https://proudbookreviews.com/2018/08/...
Now the set up for this book is no where near as good as the set up for the third novel so I get the feeling that Adriana finished the first book intending to wrap it up there. Then really wanted to share more. Whereas the ending of this book is a total, blatant set up for a third book. Which I don’t mind because it show’s there’s a plan. And she’s ended it on a cliff hanger. And I am a TOTAL sucker for a good cliff hanger!
Anyway I feel like I’ve jumped ahead because I’m SOOOO eager to read the next book! Like normally I’d space it out a bit to give you guys, my readers, a bit of variety but I don’t think I can with this one 😐
ANYWAY! I must move on to give you reason’s why I liked this one so much! So we start off with a girl hooking up with a guy at a nightclub and having sex in the bathroom. Since I thought this was Lara, whatevs! Only, it turns out it’s Simone, and she’s slept with her friends cousin! How completely unlike Simone! But then again she had been kidnapped and drunk A LOT of wine and it’s not like she’s in a relationship. So she can totally live her life the way she want’s to!
Next thing we know one of her reliable crazy patients has attacked his mistress, wife and the club his mistress works in so Simone has to rush home. Just in time to find out that the cousin is a crazy stalker. Just what she needs when she’s still recovering from being kidnapped!
Within a couple of weeks of returning like 3 or 4 of her patients have turned up dead, the FBI don’t know whether to suspect her or Peter Hay (the guy that kidnapped her). And I was tossing up between the stalker boyfriend, the new receptionist, Peter, Peter’s sister, Carl and Edward as to who the guilty party could be! Now to give you a bit of an idea where’s why I suspect each of them:
Stalker boyfriend rocked up then everything turned to shit for Simone in a way that’s different to before which suggests someone new
The new receptionist doesn’t seem to smile, is happy to take the job of someone who was just killed. And no one died until after she started…
Peter Hay because you know, he did kidnap her and kill all those other people!
His sister, for revenge against Simone for Peter having to flee the country, and poison is typically known to be a female choice
Carl because both times he entered Simone’s life shit hits the fan
And finally Edward, with him I don’t really have a tangible reason why, it’s just a gut feeling
Since this book ends on a cliff hanger I never get to find out who the one responsible for this round of deaths is. But my main suspects are the new receptionist and Peter’s sister but with her I feel that Peter would have to be involved somehow. Ideally my gut is telling me the receptionist and Peter’s sister are either one and the same or somehow linked.
https://proudbookreviews.com/2018/08/...
October 4, 2021
Not quite there.
This story at its base is good. It’s exciting and interesting. It just fell so far below the mark for me due to the way it was written. It seems like English may be a second language for the writer. There were so many phrases used incorrectly or just spoken wired. It made the characters seem very fake and almost childish. Also, there were some references to people in the LGBTQ + community and people with ADHD that seemed very ignorant. Not intentionally mean, more very misinformed. Saying a man who isn’t masculine must be homosexual, like masculine gay men don’t exist? And saying someone with ADHD will never live a normal productive life because their mental condition is too much. “Sigh” I normally wouldn’t point this kinda stuff out if it fit with what was happening in the story but it doesn’t. It could have been left out entirely and would not have effected anything. It’s a bummer but like I said the base is very good, I just can’t get past the negative stuff.
This story at its base is good. It’s exciting and interesting. It just fell so far below the mark for me due to the way it was written. It seems like English may be a second language for the writer. There were so many phrases used incorrectly or just spoken wired. It made the characters seem very fake and almost childish. Also, there were some references to people in the LGBTQ + community and people with ADHD that seemed very ignorant. Not intentionally mean, more very misinformed. Saying a man who isn’t masculine must be homosexual, like masculine gay men don’t exist? And saying someone with ADHD will never live a normal productive life because their mental condition is too much. “Sigh” I normally wouldn’t point this kinda stuff out if it fit with what was happening in the story but it doesn’t. It could have been left out entirely and would not have effected anything. It’s a bummer but like I said the base is very good, I just can’t get past the negative stuff.
March 12, 2017
Great characters and emotional depth, but the writing was a little awkward and overdramatized at several parts.
October 20, 2019
Gripping, emotional and powerful.
This book captured a piece of me and never let go. It was heartbreaking and heartwarming all at the same time. As a warning - There were a lot of graphic scenes throughout the book. I am definitely a huge fan of this author after this read!
This book captured a piece of me and never let go. It was heartbreaking and heartwarming all at the same time. As a warning - There were a lot of graphic scenes throughout the book. I am definitely a huge fan of this author after this read!
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