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Stealing Beauty
A stubborn beauty….
Anabelle Lehala just wants to spend time with her best friend, finish law school, and provide a good life for her and her father. Her world is knocked upside down when she meets a mysterious, captivating stranger who tempts her like no one before. Refusing to be just another notch in his belt, Belle forces herself to stay away from him at all costs.
An egotistical beast….
Rich, powerful, and handsome, Aleksandr Wolfe has been accustomed to getting whatever he desires. That is, until he meets Belle. Immediately captivated by her, Aleks can’t understand why she won’t give in to the obvious mutual desire between them. Helpless to stay away from her, Aleks wonders if she’ll be the one thing he can never have.
The fight for her life….
When Anabelle finds herself in danger after refusing the advances of Gabriel Avenant, a man who believes she is his and his alone, Aleksandr vows to protect her. As their attraction grows, they each must decide if they are willing to give the ultimate sacrifice—their hearts.
Stealing Beauty is a 99,000-word novel.
Anabelle Lehala just wants to spend time with her best friend, finish law school, and provide a good life for her and her father. Her world is knocked upside down when she meets a mysterious, captivating stranger who tempts her like no one before. Refusing to be just another notch in his belt, Belle forces herself to stay away from him at all costs.
An egotistical beast….
Rich, powerful, and handsome, Aleksandr Wolfe has been accustomed to getting whatever he desires. That is, until he meets Belle. Immediately captivated by her, Aleks can’t understand why she won’t give in to the obvious mutual desire between them. Helpless to stay away from her, Aleks wonders if she’ll be the one thing he can never have.
The fight for her life….
When Anabelle finds herself in danger after refusing the advances of Gabriel Avenant, a man who believes she is his and his alone, Aleksandr vows to protect her. As their attraction grows, they each must decide if they are willing to give the ultimate sacrifice—their hearts.
Stealing Beauty is a 99,000-word novel.
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Published March 28, 2017
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
March 30, 2019
Just NO.
The amount of trigger warnings that should be in this book, but aren’t, are staggering. So, I’ll do what should have been done in the blurb, the intro, or literally anywhere visible before buying this book...
TRIGGERS:
1.) Physical assault
2.) Sexual assault
3.) Emotional abuse
ALSO, there is cheating, and major OW drama.
Now, I love dark erotica, and dark romance, but there are certain themes I avoid. It’s usually easy to avoid books I’m not interested in because most authors include triggers.
The amount of trigger warnings that should be in this book, but aren’t, are staggering. So, I’ll do what should have been done in the blurb, the intro, or literally anywhere visible before buying this book...
TRIGGERS:
1.) Physical assault
2.) Sexual assault
3.) Emotional abuse
ALSO, there is cheating, and major OW drama.
Now, I love dark erotica, and dark romance, but there are certain themes I avoid. It’s usually easy to avoid books I’m not interested in because most authors include triggers.
July 3, 2017
I absolutely love Jessica Collins' spin on a classic fairy tale! As I'm reading the book, I can see the original story in there, but this is a whole new level of romance and erotica brought in! By title alone, I thought Stealing Beauty would be a take on Sleeping Beauty, but it's definitely Beauty and the Beast with the male even nicknamed "The Beast" which was very appropriate! This book shows how couples can make mistakes when they're trying to figure out what they want and how forgiveness and communication is key in relationships...when forgiveness is earned and deserved. Belle is a strong character, but she has her moments where her emotions have her vulnerable and confused. Aleks is headstrong and at times, you want to ring his neck! Of course, these two have undeniable chemistry! There was also action in this book, which added elements of surprise when you're reading and don't know what to expect from a certain villain. I will definitely be reading more in this series! Definitely recommend!
*I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
*I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
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January 17, 2020My God this is completely ridiculous. The guy an excuse for a human being who try seduces her and when she said no he abuses her in every way possible and the author still wants to convince the reader that there is some kind of love in this relationship? And still have "friends" encouraging it. If it weren't so absurd it would be hilarious.
“Do you hear the two of you? You want me to give him credit for feeling guilty about sleeping with someone while I was in the same house?”
Sirena broke in, “Belle, you’re not dating him, there’s no exclusivity. He got drunk and made a decision he now realizes was a mistake. I think that’s a pretty big deal. Especially since he told me he thought about you the whole time.”
“Ah, great; thought about me while his dick was in someone else. I feel so special.”
Of course, the author thought it would be nice to describe in detail how much HE WAS ENJOYING THE SEX WITH OW and how he was not THINKING OF h AT ALL. So we have lying friends in the story too. The question I have is where is the romance in this?
“Do you hear the two of you? You want me to give him credit for feeling guilty about sleeping with someone while I was in the same house?”
Sirena broke in, “Belle, you’re not dating him, there’s no exclusivity. He got drunk and made a decision he now realizes was a mistake. I think that’s a pretty big deal. Especially since he told me he thought about you the whole time.”
“Ah, great; thought about me while his dick was in someone else. I feel so special.”
Of course, the author thought it would be nice to describe in detail how much HE WAS ENJOYING THE SEX WITH OW and how he was not THINKING OF h AT ALL. So we have lying friends in the story too. The question I have is where is the romance in this?
June 10, 2017
This was not an easy book to give a rating for. There was a part of me that absolutely loved this book and wanted to give it a five, and there was a part that wanted to give it a 1, so I've settled in the middle with a 3. Let me explain why.
If you read this book as a modern retelling of Beauty and the Beast (which incidentally is one of my favourite fairy tales) then it can stand at a five so easily. The sex scenes were written well, and there was no denying the passion and connection between Aleksandr and Anabelle. Gabriel was the ultimate villain and the amount I hated him was exactly as I dream the author would have wanted. And that scene in the elevator - just wow!
But there were so many incidents and times that I couldn't read this as a fairytale - even a modern retelling of it. Anabelle was in an abusive relationship. There is no way around that fact. A man who holds her in his home and refuses to let her leave, well, that's kidnapping. Add in a 'relationship' to the factor then it's a form of domestic abuse. Anabelle was a strong woman, but again and again she blamed herself for Aleksandr's issues. She would cry, wonder what she could have done differently to make him love her, stop him from having a wandering eye, let alone the fact that she openly doesn't trust him, but she never made a move to leave believing that she couldn't, that she didn't have the freedom to do so. It just screams of a man with dominance over her and of it being an abusive relationship. And for that reason I couldn't stand Aleksandr as a character. At all. As a character he did nothing to enamour me to him as a reader.
Until the last thirty or so pages. It was then that I began to see redeeming characteristics to Aleksandr, and I was so glad for the change! I ended up liking Aleksandr by the end of the book, and yes, I know that the Beast in Beauty and the Beast wasn't overly likeable at first, but in Beauty and the Beast there is a gradual change to the Beast because of Belle. And in the fairytale his goodness shows much earlier than it did here. It would have been so nice to see glimpses of Aleksandr's goodness before he had his epiphany with Sirena, and yes, they were there, such as looking after Anabelle, but it was written in a way it didn't feel like it was done from a place of goodness, but rather from a place of sheer possessiveness and a desire to dominate Anabelle in every way.
It was a good read, and I did ultimately enjoy the book, but it did take me a little while to get there.
3/5
If you read this book as a modern retelling of Beauty and the Beast (which incidentally is one of my favourite fairy tales) then it can stand at a five so easily. The sex scenes were written well, and there was no denying the passion and connection between Aleksandr and Anabelle. Gabriel was the ultimate villain and the amount I hated him was exactly as I dream the author would have wanted. And that scene in the elevator - just wow!
But there were so many incidents and times that I couldn't read this as a fairytale - even a modern retelling of it. Anabelle was in an abusive relationship. There is no way around that fact. A man who holds her in his home and refuses to let her leave, well, that's kidnapping. Add in a 'relationship' to the factor then it's a form of domestic abuse. Anabelle was a strong woman, but again and again she blamed herself for Aleksandr's issues. She would cry, wonder what she could have done differently to make him love her, stop him from having a wandering eye, let alone the fact that she openly doesn't trust him, but she never made a move to leave believing that she couldn't, that she didn't have the freedom to do so. It just screams of a man with dominance over her and of it being an abusive relationship. And for that reason I couldn't stand Aleksandr as a character. At all. As a character he did nothing to enamour me to him as a reader.
Until the last thirty or so pages. It was then that I began to see redeeming characteristics to Aleksandr, and I was so glad for the change! I ended up liking Aleksandr by the end of the book, and yes, I know that the Beast in Beauty and the Beast wasn't overly likeable at first, but in Beauty and the Beast there is a gradual change to the Beast because of Belle. And in the fairytale his goodness shows much earlier than it did here. It would have been so nice to see glimpses of Aleksandr's goodness before he had his epiphany with Sirena, and yes, they were there, such as looking after Anabelle, but it was written in a way it didn't feel like it was done from a place of goodness, but rather from a place of sheer possessiveness and a desire to dominate Anabelle in every way.
It was a good read, and I did ultimately enjoy the book, but it did take me a little while to get there.
3/5
October 30, 2017
Stealing Beauty irritated and frustrated me. Aleks is a really despicable guy throughout most of the story. He plays so many games with Belle, he's so hot and cold that it gave me whiplash. It caused Belle to question herself, when the only person who should have been questioning themselves was Aleks. And then there's the fact that he essentially was holding her hostage when their sexual relationship started. Hm, in my mind that makes their "relationship" a forced one. Yes, he was keeping her there to protect her, but still, she was essentially being held hostage. He even threatened her when she attempted to leave, so yeah...not such a prince charming, definitely a beast.
I can get behind damaged characters acting like complete asses if they redeem themselves fairly quickly in the story, but here, Aleks didn't redeem himself until the very end. That's far too late for me. I can firmly say that had Aleks been a more likable character, or had he redeemed himself earlier in the story, I would have been able to give this a higher rating. It's sexy, definitely, and well written, but Aleks is unlikable for me, and the games being played, the back and forth and hot and cold were simply too much for me. It all gave me a headache, and made my reading experience pretty unpleasant. Thankfully there was an electric chemistry between Aleks and Belle, or I'd have rated this even lower.
I can accept this as a modern retelling of Beauty and the Beast, but I simply can't say that I enjoyed it or liked it. If it hadn't been so passionate, I'd have rated it even lower. You may feel differently, though, and I know I'm in the minority, but I just cannot get behind a story where I dislike one of the leads.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I can get behind damaged characters acting like complete asses if they redeem themselves fairly quickly in the story, but here, Aleks didn't redeem himself until the very end. That's far too late for me. I can firmly say that had Aleks been a more likable character, or had he redeemed himself earlier in the story, I would have been able to give this a higher rating. It's sexy, definitely, and well written, but Aleks is unlikable for me, and the games being played, the back and forth and hot and cold were simply too much for me. It all gave me a headache, and made my reading experience pretty unpleasant. Thankfully there was an electric chemistry between Aleks and Belle, or I'd have rated this even lower.
I can accept this as a modern retelling of Beauty and the Beast, but I simply can't say that I enjoyed it or liked it. If it hadn't been so passionate, I'd have rated it even lower. You may feel differently, though, and I know I'm in the minority, but I just cannot get behind a story where I dislike one of the leads.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 1, 2017
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I love this Dark romance. Aleksandr Wolfe is in for it. He has finely found a women that does not fall at his feet. Belle down to won't to be just another women to him but when she finds herself in a bad spot will she give in to Aleksandr.
I fell in love with the character's and story line. This well written story has twists and turns hot chemistry and danger.
I love this Dark romance. Aleksandr Wolfe is in for it. He has finely found a women that does not fall at his feet. Belle down to won't to be just another women to him but when she finds herself in a bad spot will she give in to Aleksandr.
I fell in love with the character's and story line. This well written story has twists and turns hot chemistry and danger.
March 18, 2018
Amazing book but the middle of it confused me... it started out really good then the middle was confusing then it draw me back at the end. I would have have it a 3.5 stars but I did a four. I wish the middle wasnt messed up but I really liked the book. I do reccomed it but eh maybe one day the middle part will be fixed. It's a really good book. I hope others would love this book. First book i read by the author and i cant wait to see what her other books are like
June 11, 2017
I found this book hard to review. It was quite well-written, but while reading I found myself swinging between loving and hating it.
This is a modern, erotic retelling of Disney's Beauty and the Beast. For those who love the Disney version, you'll enjoy the references scattered throughout the book. Annabelle (Belle) was intelligent, but she lacked the strength I love about Beauty, often coming across as a damsel-in-distress.
The reasons I couldn't give this story a higher rating - the sexual assault in the beginning came across as glorified for the purpose of the erotic genre. Most of all Belle and Aleksandr's relationship was emotionally abusive and this really makes me cringe especially when portrayed as romance. I really struggled with a large part of the story because of this. Why can't we have book when the girl isn't emotionally abused for the purpose of having an 'alpha male'?
The story slipped into a better space in the end.
This is a modern, erotic retelling of Disney's Beauty and the Beast. For those who love the Disney version, you'll enjoy the references scattered throughout the book. Annabelle (Belle) was intelligent, but she lacked the strength I love about Beauty, often coming across as a damsel-in-distress.
The reasons I couldn't give this story a higher rating - the sexual assault in the beginning came across as glorified for the purpose of the erotic genre. Most of all Belle and Aleksandr's relationship was emotionally abusive and this really makes me cringe especially when portrayed as romance. I really struggled with a large part of the story because of this. Why can't we have book when the girl isn't emotionally abused for the purpose of having an 'alpha male'?
The story slipped into a better space in the end.
July 31, 2017
“There sat his beauty, trying not to cry as tears pooled in her lower lids, still looking radiant.”
Jessica Collins recreates Beauty and the Beast in this thrilling and sensual twisted tale, ‘Stealing Beauty.’
‘Stealing Beauty’ centres around ANABELLE LEHALA, a beautiful law student who wants to spend time with her best friend, and provide a good life for her and her father. ANABELLE is constantly sought after by GABRIEL AVENANT, a man who believes she is his and his alone. That is until ANABELLE finds that her life has been turned upside down.
She meets a mysterious, captivating stranger who tempts her like no one has before; ALEKSANDR WOLFE, the beast. As the novel progresses, ANABELLE finds herself in danger as GABRIEL’S advancements become more possessive and violent. ANABELLE finds a protector in ALEKSANDR and finds that there is more to him than meets the eye.
Collins provides a refreshing twist to an old tale, coupled with fierce romance with instantaneous chemistry. The story stays somewhat true to the underlying foundation of ‘Beauty and the Beast’ with little nods or Easter eggs to the original story.
ANABELLE came across as a strong, driven character, however, was sometimes driven too much by her emotions rather than her head which made for an interesting character arc. ALEKSANDR had all the elements of a mysterious and passionate love interest, whilst GABRIEL provided the story with a true, evil villain.
Personally, I believe the ‘Stealing Beauty’ was an interesting read. I won’t lie when I say that it took me a little while to get into the story, however, was captivated by the underlying foundation that stayed true to the original ‘Beauty and the Beast’ storyline. One issue I found somewhat frustrating was the fact that, in my opinion, ANABELLE’S and ALEKSANDR’S relationship came across as somewhat abusive at times, and lowered ANABELLE’S character to make ALEKSANDR’S rise from the pages.
This issue, however, I chose to overlook as there is much debate surrounding the abuse in the original ‘Beauty and the Beast’ story. This theme throughout the novel is not distasteful, rather contributes to the overall storyline and the relationships that build throughout the novel.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Do I recommend this novel: Yes (but not for children)
Jessica Collins recreates Beauty and the Beast in this thrilling and sensual twisted tale, ‘Stealing Beauty.’
‘Stealing Beauty’ centres around ANABELLE LEHALA, a beautiful law student who wants to spend time with her best friend, and provide a good life for her and her father. ANABELLE is constantly sought after by GABRIEL AVENANT, a man who believes she is his and his alone. That is until ANABELLE finds that her life has been turned upside down.
She meets a mysterious, captivating stranger who tempts her like no one has before; ALEKSANDR WOLFE, the beast. As the novel progresses, ANABELLE finds herself in danger as GABRIEL’S advancements become more possessive and violent. ANABELLE finds a protector in ALEKSANDR and finds that there is more to him than meets the eye.
Collins provides a refreshing twist to an old tale, coupled with fierce romance with instantaneous chemistry. The story stays somewhat true to the underlying foundation of ‘Beauty and the Beast’ with little nods or Easter eggs to the original story.
ANABELLE came across as a strong, driven character, however, was sometimes driven too much by her emotions rather than her head which made for an interesting character arc. ALEKSANDR had all the elements of a mysterious and passionate love interest, whilst GABRIEL provided the story with a true, evil villain.
Personally, I believe the ‘Stealing Beauty’ was an interesting read. I won’t lie when I say that it took me a little while to get into the story, however, was captivated by the underlying foundation that stayed true to the original ‘Beauty and the Beast’ storyline. One issue I found somewhat frustrating was the fact that, in my opinion, ANABELLE’S and ALEKSANDR’S relationship came across as somewhat abusive at times, and lowered ANABELLE’S character to make ALEKSANDR’S rise from the pages.
This issue, however, I chose to overlook as there is much debate surrounding the abuse in the original ‘Beauty and the Beast’ story. This theme throughout the novel is not distasteful, rather contributes to the overall storyline and the relationships that build throughout the novel.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Do I recommend this novel: Yes (but not for children)
March 28, 2017
Stealing Beauty is a emotional roller coaster of feeling's, a beautiful spin off of Beauty and the beast vs Alpha bad boy romance that is HOT. There is some serious intense scenes, spots that make you cringe, as well as swoon. The beauty is Belle AKA Annabelle by real name her father Pierre and her own a bar, they offer weekend burlesque show's which are what's keeping the bar afloat and from paying for it self.she's a smart hard working woman who doesn't need a man, she's almost finished with school to be a real estate lawyer she wants to own her own real Burlesque Club someday, her father and her would like to carry on for her mother, she's disgusted by Gabriel and his constant come on's which are never ending. Gabriel is Gaston oh is he a Gaston Ewe from moment one, I just had a gut YICK feeling from his introduction, he's Alpha alright however not how we want it, he's most definitely the town villian and no matter how hard you try to forget him you just can't. Aleks is the Beast ,but handsome and just right in all the areas that count, he's hot and loves woman, he was a professional MMA undefeated fighter before taking over the family business after the loss of his father he inherited a real estate Business, earned a degree, dubbed himself the "love em and leave em" ,King but even a beast can't resist his Beauty.
Sirena is both Aleksandr and Belle's friend shes the rationale middle gal if you know what I'm saying. Cynthia is supermodel beautiful best friend and burlesque dancing friend of Belle's , they do every thing together and have each other's back's.
I really enjoyed and couldn't put this Book down, it was as such a beautiful story with suspension, heart ache, anger, pure happiness, laughs If you want something that makes you feel, this book is exactly what your looking for.
Sirena is both Aleksandr and Belle's friend shes the rationale middle gal if you know what I'm saying. Cynthia is supermodel beautiful best friend and burlesque dancing friend of Belle's , they do every thing together and have each other's back's.
I really enjoyed and couldn't put this Book down, it was as such a beautiful story with suspension, heart ache, anger, pure happiness, laughs If you want something that makes you feel, this book is exactly what your looking for.
March 11, 2018
Steamy! That’s the first word that comes to mind after reading this book. The sex scenes are very well written with some of them being off the charts in the steam factor!
The book is a spin on the classic fairytale, Beauty and the Beast, and really shows the spirit of the classic story, with a modern spin. I absolutely loved it! There were lines here and there that were very similar to the original tale that I adored. The fact that the book starts out kind of making you hate the male lead, Aleksandr fits as well. Just like with the classic you hate the beast until he starts showing redeeming qualities at the end and ultimately saves Belle.
You can tell throughout the story that Aleks was confused by what he was feeling and in many aspects reacted the WRONG way. There were many moments where I wanted to smack Belle to get her to open up her eyes to what was really happening instead of making the situation between her and Aleks worse because of his off base reactions to his feelings.
Oh, and let’s not forget Gabriel! Man I wanted him hurt so bad! He made the ultimate villain and clearly thought in his psychotic stalker way that Belle was his just because he saw her first. The scene in the elevator towards the end was SUPER action packed and amazingly written!
This is the first book I’ve read by Jessica Collins and I can’t wait to read more!!
**I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review**
The book is a spin on the classic fairytale, Beauty and the Beast, and really shows the spirit of the classic story, with a modern spin. I absolutely loved it! There were lines here and there that were very similar to the original tale that I adored. The fact that the book starts out kind of making you hate the male lead, Aleksandr fits as well. Just like with the classic you hate the beast until he starts showing redeeming qualities at the end and ultimately saves Belle.
You can tell throughout the story that Aleks was confused by what he was feeling and in many aspects reacted the WRONG way. There were many moments where I wanted to smack Belle to get her to open up her eyes to what was really happening instead of making the situation between her and Aleks worse because of his off base reactions to his feelings.
Oh, and let’s not forget Gabriel! Man I wanted him hurt so bad! He made the ultimate villain and clearly thought in his psychotic stalker way that Belle was his just because he saw her first. The scene in the elevator towards the end was SUPER action packed and amazingly written!
This is the first book I’ve read by Jessica Collins and I can’t wait to read more!!
**I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review**
March 22, 2018
This book is a difficult one for me to rate and review. I love modern retellings of fairytales and Beauty and the Beast is a favorite of mine. I am also a big fan of darker books. Stealing Beauty by Jessica Collins had me very intrigued from the start. I loved Belle and the author followed through on a lot of the themes from the original fairytale. I felt that the author was playing with the idea of a darker romance but would never quite cross over into that territory. That's fine, the book doesn't need to be dark for me to enjoy it and I did enjoy this book in the end. However, it felt as though it was having an identity crisis, especially once it got to the middle part. I would get really excited with the build up and the darkness that the author flirted with throughout only to be disappointed with the follow through.
What saved the book was Ms. Collins' beautiful writing and engaging story telling. In addition, the book was deliciously sexy and I enjoyed the way the author portrayed Belle's friendships which made her more relatable. I would have liked to get more insight into the Beast as he seemed a bit one dimensional to me.
All in all, it was an enjoyable read that I would characterize as a contemporary romance with some mild dark elements. I would definitely Ms. Collins' future work.
What saved the book was Ms. Collins' beautiful writing and engaging story telling. In addition, the book was deliciously sexy and I enjoyed the way the author portrayed Belle's friendships which made her more relatable. I would have liked to get more insight into the Beast as he seemed a bit one dimensional to me.
All in all, it was an enjoyable read that I would characterize as a contemporary romance with some mild dark elements. I would definitely Ms. Collins' future work.
March 17, 2018
Jessica Collins stayed true to the fairy tale but brought it right up to date with her re-working.
This book has alpha males and women that are strong as well as a horrible character.
Belle was the strong willed woman who lived with her father and worked in the burlesque bar that they opened in memory of her mother that died years earlier. She had caught the eye of Gabriel Avenant while still at high school and he had told her that she was his and she was to become his wife. This did not fit in with the plans Belle had and she told him this at every opportunity.
While working at the bar a handsome built stranger came in and asked to talk to he, she talked brushed him off and went back to her life. Belle and her father were about to lose their bar due to things beyond their control. Belle found out that Gabriel had put in an offer and was to become her boss.
This book has twists and turns that a roller coaster would be proud of. there is happy, sad, euphoria and angst to contend with, this is a very easy book to read as the author holds your hand and leads you through every turn with her words.
This book has an HEA
This book has alpha males and women that are strong as well as a horrible character.
Belle was the strong willed woman who lived with her father and worked in the burlesque bar that they opened in memory of her mother that died years earlier. She had caught the eye of Gabriel Avenant while still at high school and he had told her that she was his and she was to become his wife. This did not fit in with the plans Belle had and she told him this at every opportunity.
While working at the bar a handsome built stranger came in and asked to talk to he, she talked brushed him off and went back to her life. Belle and her father were about to lose their bar due to things beyond their control. Belle found out that Gabriel had put in an offer and was to become her boss.
This book has twists and turns that a roller coaster would be proud of. there is happy, sad, euphoria and angst to contend with, this is a very easy book to read as the author holds your hand and leads you through every turn with her words.
This book has an HEA
June 18, 2018
I usually don't like fairytale retells but this one was different. It caught my interest right from the beginning and I could hardly put it down! There is a really good story line that keeps moving.
This is the love story of Belle and Aleksander, she is a real estate law student in the last year of school and helps run her father’s club. Belle is a real “beauty”, feisty and one smart cookie. She is independent and nobody runs over her.
Aleks “the Beast “ is a rich lawyer and retired fighter. He is also the owner of Belles club which he is about to sell out from under her.
Gabriel is the bad guy, he wants Belle, period, so sets out to buy the club.
After “Beauty" meets “Beast" at the club the storm strikes…..no spoilers now !
Let’s see: Aggression, laughs, tears, angst, sex, sweet friendships, sex, a little violence, assault, love, sex, lol. This is really a good book and I for one enjoyed it all. No skipping around here ! Good job Jessica Collins, I would never have guessed it was your first book, I am looking forward to the next. May I say the editing was excellent and a pleasure to read. ….pat….
June 19, 2018
*4.5 Stars*
This is a modern day retelling of Beauty and the Beast and it absolutely nails it. A couple minor issues which is the half star deduction but overall this delivers exactly what I needed! It's a sexy book with the swirls of darkness like the original. This does not water it down so be prepared that for that darkness!
The character development overall is solid. It felt like the characters were real though I do believe the author could have gone a little further especially with secondary characters. However, the characters did draw me in. The world building was really excellent, I felt like I was there and the sex scenes were amazing!
Overall I love the story itself, the take on it and the grown-up deliciousness that stayed true to the darkness as well. However, the middle part could have used some refinement as it started to drag occasionally. Due to that, I deducted a half star but it is nothing that prevented me from finishing it and I definitely look forward to more from this author.
4.5 stars for a sexy not watered down retelling of a classic! Definitely recommend.
This is a modern day retelling of Beauty and the Beast and it absolutely nails it. A couple minor issues which is the half star deduction but overall this delivers exactly what I needed! It's a sexy book with the swirls of darkness like the original. This does not water it down so be prepared that for that darkness!
The character development overall is solid. It felt like the characters were real though I do believe the author could have gone a little further especially with secondary characters. However, the characters did draw me in. The world building was really excellent, I felt like I was there and the sex scenes were amazing!
Overall I love the story itself, the take on it and the grown-up deliciousness that stayed true to the darkness as well. However, the middle part could have used some refinement as it started to drag occasionally. Due to that, I deducted a half star but it is nothing that prevented me from finishing it and I definitely look forward to more from this author.
4.5 stars for a sexy not watered down retelling of a classic! Definitely recommend.
October 19, 2017
Jessica Collins shines in this seductive and intoxicating retelling of the classic fairytale, Beauty and the Beast.
Annabelle is a strong, driven law student striving for a better life for her father and herself. She is relentlessly pursued by a man, Gabriel, who is extremely possessive of her and seems to somehow believe she belongs to him. As time goes on Gabriel becomes more obsessed and aggressive in his pursuit of Annabelle, but she finds help and protection in a stranger named Aleksandr. Aleksandr is enigmatic, alluring, and as time goes on Annabelle discovers that there's much more to him than what he appears to be on he surface.
Stealing Beauty is a sensual, mysterious, and passionate new take on an old tale. Jessica Collins creates a story that is fresh and keeps readers guessing, but with plenty of underlying references to the original story. Filled with twists, suspense, and brimming with great chemistry between the two central characters. And let's not forget a super sexy and completely swoon-worthy hero, Aleksandr. *fans self* An absolute five star read!
Annabelle is a strong, driven law student striving for a better life for her father and herself. She is relentlessly pursued by a man, Gabriel, who is extremely possessive of her and seems to somehow believe she belongs to him. As time goes on Gabriel becomes more obsessed and aggressive in his pursuit of Annabelle, but she finds help and protection in a stranger named Aleksandr. Aleksandr is enigmatic, alluring, and as time goes on Annabelle discovers that there's much more to him than what he appears to be on he surface.
Stealing Beauty is a sensual, mysterious, and passionate new take on an old tale. Jessica Collins creates a story that is fresh and keeps readers guessing, but with plenty of underlying references to the original story. Filled with twists, suspense, and brimming with great chemistry between the two central characters. And let's not forget a super sexy and completely swoon-worthy hero, Aleksandr. *fans self* An absolute five star read!
November 4, 2017
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. This is a tribute to Beauty and the Beast in many ways and is fun to read. Alecs cannot understand why Belle will not succumb to his charms as he can see that she desires him just as he desires her. But Belle is made of stronger stuff and doesn't want a one night stand with wealthy Alecs. She has to care for herself and her dad after finishing law school. It is only when she is threatened by Gabriel who believes that she is his that Alecs says he will protect her. As they get closer will they maintain their stance or give into the passion that is lurking between them? beautifully written by Jessica Collins who is a new author to me and I will be looking out for more books by her.
DEFINITELY RECOMMENDED.
DEFINITELY RECOMMENDED.
March 18, 2018
I rated this book 3.5*. The premise of this book had good bones but I had some issues with where the author's intentions were as to what genre she was going for; be it dark, contemporary or romcom. That confused me. I also found the main characters childish/immature as adults. They would fight, say extremely hurtful things to each other to internationally make the situation worse like children do. I felt Aleks and Belle were "wishy- washy" with their feelings with the hot-cold back and forth. That irritated me. The antagonist Gabriel should not have had such easy access to Belle in the office, etc. Aleks being a billionaire should have had security for Belle 24/7. The steamy scenes were great and I enjoyed the relationships the characters had with Sirena and Cynthia and Belle's dad. Since this is the author's debut novel, I advise her to tweak the book to improve it.
May 24, 2017
Steamy Fairy Tale
Think contemporary beauty and the beast. Belle (Annabelle) is beauty. While struggling with saving her family's bar and trying to get a law degree, she is pursued by an arrogant high school acquaintance. Enter the beast, Aleks, a real estate developer who is also Belle's landlord. The chemistry between the two is instantaneous and tangible.
Belle is backed into a corner and ends up working as an intern for the wildly successful beast. After a couple run ins with the angry young man from her past, Aleks has Belle stay with him at his 'castle'. Sparks fly and there is enough twists and turns to keep you reading long into the night.
Think contemporary beauty and the beast. Belle (Annabelle) is beauty. While struggling with saving her family's bar and trying to get a law degree, she is pursued by an arrogant high school acquaintance. Enter the beast, Aleks, a real estate developer who is also Belle's landlord. The chemistry between the two is instantaneous and tangible.
Belle is backed into a corner and ends up working as an intern for the wildly successful beast. After a couple run ins with the angry young man from her past, Aleks has Belle stay with him at his 'castle'. Sparks fly and there is enough twists and turns to keep you reading long into the night.
May 30, 2017
This is my first Jessica Collins books and I enjoyed it! Let me first start off with that I thought this would be about sleeping beauty so when I started reading it and saw where I had made my mistake I was like *in my Mathew McConaughey voice* alright alright alright!! I'm a huge fan of Beauty and the Beast and this one was great with its modern twist. I have been on a quest to find as many B&tB themed books to see how the author puts their own twist to it and this author has done a great job making this her own brand of story. This will be an author I put on my watch list so I can make sure I get my hands on more of her work.
June 12, 2017
Beauty and the Beast meets 50 Shades of Grey
This was a refreshing tale of Beauty and the Beast! This is the first book I have read from this Author and I will definitely be reading a lot in the future. Also, this is the kind of book that you will want a glass of wine and a comfy couch to curl up on while you read it's pages.
I love how the Author modernized it and remembered to add the key parts of the story. This story had me laughing out loud as well as crying and screaming at the characters too. The Burlesque club was a nice twist to the story too and she added some heart clenching violence into the story line.
I give this book a well earned 5 Stars!
This was a refreshing tale of Beauty and the Beast! This is the first book I have read from this Author and I will definitely be reading a lot in the future. Also, this is the kind of book that you will want a glass of wine and a comfy couch to curl up on while you read it's pages.
I love how the Author modernized it and remembered to add the key parts of the story. This story had me laughing out loud as well as crying and screaming at the characters too. The Burlesque club was a nice twist to the story too and she added some heart clenching violence into the story line.
I give this book a well earned 5 Stars!
July 27, 2017
Thanks to a day off, I was able to devour this book in one sitting... and thank goodness because it was so intense that I couldn't put it down. The classic story of beauty and the beast meets erotica except with characters that actually have amazing chemistry together, and they were tastefully written. The build up for the relationship to happen was just perfection.
Belle and her beast's story will have you turning the pages faster than you can read them anxious to see what happens next. I love the chapters that had reference to the original story we all know and love, and especially how Collins made the Gaston character. Just amazing, wish I had more stars to give!
Belle and her beast's story will have you turning the pages faster than you can read them anxious to see what happens next. I love the chapters that had reference to the original story we all know and love, and especially how Collins made the Gaston character. Just amazing, wish I had more stars to give!
March 14, 2018
Belle has been fending off Gabriel since High School then she meets Aleksandr a man used to getting what he wants.
Belle is studying law and works in her fathers bar while fending off the unwanted advances of Gabriel who she met in high school. After a storm leaves the bar closed for a month the landlord wants them out soon. She goes to see the landlord Aleksandr Wolfe and they reach an agreement that she will work for him. An attraction flares but Belle resists as she views him as a womanizer. A romance story to curl up and enjoy.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Belle is studying law and works in her fathers bar while fending off the unwanted advances of Gabriel who she met in high school. After a storm leaves the bar closed for a month the landlord wants them out soon. She goes to see the landlord Aleksandr Wolfe and they reach an agreement that she will work for him. An attraction flares but Belle resists as she views him as a womanizer. A romance story to curl up and enjoy.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 18, 2018
WOW … This book made my Sunday!! It has everything – drama, fighting, humour, suspense, friendship, crazy, love, romance and hot amazing sex. The chemistry between Anabelle and Aleksandr is sizzling, the sexual tension is so thick you can almost cut it with a knife - page after page it drove me crazy (in a good way). Well written, flows smoothly, consistent and engaging – I read none stop, I was that enamoured. The characters you will fall in love with, laugh and cry along with, and will not get enough of. This is not a book to miss; it is A MUST READ!! I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 12, 2018
I loved this retelling of Beauty and the Beast. The relationship between Belle and Aleks has been masterfully crafted to give it a more modern feel, whilst still somewhat keeping to the fairytale storyline. Aleks is a self-absorbed beast who doesn't understand his feelings for Belle and is frustrated by his overwhelming need to protect her.
The sex scenes are off-the-charts hot!
Sometimes a woman wants some tender lovemaking and sometimes she just wants to be screwed senseless. And Aleks is just the man... uhm, beast, for the job.
I look forward to reading more of Ms. Collins' work. Fairytales and some scorching sex... yes, please, don't mind if I do!
The sex scenes are off-the-charts hot!
Sometimes a woman wants some tender lovemaking and sometimes she just wants to be screwed senseless. And Aleks is just the man... uhm, beast, for the job.
I look forward to reading more of Ms. Collins' work. Fairytales and some scorching sex... yes, please, don't mind if I do!
June 20, 2018
he debut novel by this author is a loose retelling of Beauty and the Beast.
I enjoyed the book for the most part. I loved the interaction and banter between Aleks, Belle and their friends. The steamy scenes between Aleks and Belle were well done and really hot. And i love how he protected Belle from Gabe.
Gabe was despicable, but I didn’t get why he had such an easy access to Aleks office. Where was his security?
I got a bit annoyed at both Aleks and Belle for being hot and cold and acting like kids at time. Both of them do and say mean things. I did appreciate Aleks admitting he was wrong. There wasn’t a lot of trust between them.
I do look forward to the next book.
I enjoyed the book for the most part. I loved the interaction and banter between Aleks, Belle and their friends. The steamy scenes between Aleks and Belle were well done and really hot. And i love how he protected Belle from Gabe.
Gabe was despicable, but I didn’t get why he had such an easy access to Aleks office. Where was his security?
I got a bit annoyed at both Aleks and Belle for being hot and cold and acting like kids at time. Both of them do and say mean things. I did appreciate Aleks admitting he was wrong. There wasn’t a lot of trust between them.
I do look forward to the next book.
June 3, 2017
Loved it!
I normally do not read a lot of erotic romance and I also don't read adaptations of fairytales. Many in these genres leave me disappointed because they either don't have enough plot, or the similarities to the fairytale leave me pining for the memories of the original story. But this book is different! I honestly could not put it down during our car ride from northern Texas to the northeast!
If you enjoy a twist on a fairytale that respects the old tale, while breathing new light into it, you HAVE to read this book!
I normally do not read a lot of erotic romance and I also don't read adaptations of fairytales. Many in these genres leave me disappointed because they either don't have enough plot, or the similarities to the fairytale leave me pining for the memories of the original story. But this book is different! I honestly could not put it down during our car ride from northern Texas to the northeast!
If you enjoy a twist on a fairytale that respects the old tale, while breathing new light into it, you HAVE to read this book!
June 12, 2017
What a beautiful read!! I loved Stealing Beauty from the very beginning. It is a spin off from Beauty and the Beast. Aleks and Belle have an intense draw to one another. The chemistry between the two is insane. Aleks, is happy going through life being single. He never thought he would be able to love. Belle is doing all she can to finish school and save her families bar. There are twists and turns that you never see coming. This is my first book from this author and it will not be the last!!!
October 14, 2017
I voluntarily read an arc of this book provided by Booksprout for a fair and honest review. It’s 4:38 am and I just finished this book. Before reading this author’s take on Beauty and the Beast I thought the story had been done to death. This is my first Jessica Collins book and boy is it a winner! I mean stay up all night, park yourself in a chair page turner. This book was loaded with story, the pacing as divine and hold your kindle with oven mitts hot. Can’t wait for the next book. Easiest⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ever.
October 29, 2017
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Stealing Beauty is a emotional rollercoaster ride. Annabelle is a lawyer striving for a better life for her and her father. Annabelle is pursued by Gabriel who is obsessed with her. She finds herself rescued and living with Aleksandr so he can protect her from Gabriel. The chemistry between Belle and Alek was intense. The story was well written and kept my interest. This was a very enjoyable take on a fairytale classic.
Stealing Beauty is a emotional rollercoaster ride. Annabelle is a lawyer striving for a better life for her and her father. Annabelle is pursued by Gabriel who is obsessed with her. She finds herself rescued and living with Aleksandr so he can protect her from Gabriel. The chemistry between Belle and Alek was intense. The story was well written and kept my interest. This was a very enjoyable take on a fairytale classic.
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