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Exquisite Taste
He was a dare she couldn’t walk away from.
She was a game he was determined to win.
Jensen Stone was thriving in her first year of college. So thirsty for success she could already taste the achievements on her lips. Nothing would get in the way of her dreams, not even the social pressures of pledging. Until one night, she finds herself in the lion’s den of sorority row, accepting a dare she knew she couldn’t complete.
Damien Cross was bored. He no longer craved the dominance and control he had swirling in the palms of his powerful hands. He was determined to walk away from the empire he'd spent the last ten years building. What he didn’t factor in was the unexpected distraction. He might be angry at her inconvenient timing, but the urge to break the new toy dangling in front of him was all consuming. It wouldn’t hurt to play one last time.
One night. His rules.
Will she obey his demands to fulfill a dare?
Or will she realize his dark tastes are anything but exquisite?
She was a game he was determined to win.
Jensen Stone was thriving in her first year of college. So thirsty for success she could already taste the achievements on her lips. Nothing would get in the way of her dreams, not even the social pressures of pledging. Until one night, she finds herself in the lion’s den of sorority row, accepting a dare she knew she couldn’t complete.
Damien Cross was bored. He no longer craved the dominance and control he had swirling in the palms of his powerful hands. He was determined to walk away from the empire he'd spent the last ten years building. What he didn’t factor in was the unexpected distraction. He might be angry at her inconvenient timing, but the urge to break the new toy dangling in front of him was all consuming. It wouldn’t hurt to play one last time.
One night. His rules.
Will she obey his demands to fulfill a dare?
Or will she realize his dark tastes are anything but exquisite?
Unknown Binding
First published November 19, 2018
74 people are currently reading
652 people want to read
About the author
J.D. Hollyfield
47 books1,628 followersCreative designer, mother, wife, writer, part-time superhero...
USA Today Bestselling author J.D. Hollyfield is a creative designer by day and superhero by night. When she is not trying to save the world one happy ending at a time, she enjoys the snuggles of her husband, sons, and doxies. With her love for romance, and a head full of book boyfriends, she was inspired to test her creative abilities and bring her own story to life.
J.D. Hollyfield lives in the Midwest and is currently at work on blowing the minds of readers, with the additions of her new books and series, along with her charm, humor, and Happily Ever After's.
USA Today Bestselling author J.D. Hollyfield is a creative designer by day and superhero by night. When she is not trying to save the world one happy ending at a time, she enjoys the snuggles of her husband, sons, and doxies. With her love for romance, and a head full of book boyfriends, she was inspired to test her creative abilities and bring her own story to life.
J.D. Hollyfield lives in the Midwest and is currently at work on blowing the minds of readers, with the additions of her new books and series, along with her charm, humor, and Happily Ever After's.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
September 13, 2020
G U I L T Y P L E A S U R E
RTC soon!
❖❖❖❖❖❖
Characters: had a hate-love relationship with all of them
↳JeNsoN:
She was fun and snarky. She surprised me in a kinda, sorta good way. I didn't like her much though, she could be pretty absurd and childish at times. I hated how she talked about herself and let Damien talk about her too. The author mention too many times how she was "badass" and "stood up for herself" but when the time came to prove, she just turned out to be a doormat and melted easily.
↳DaMieN:
I hated how he criticised her body at first glance but I loved how he showed her that she was beautiful. I hated that he pushed her away but I loved the sweet things he did for her. Hated the things he said to her during their fight but loved that he actually showed that he loved her.
↳ChRiStiNE:
The pathetic best-friend who didn't know that she was doing a pathetic job at being a best friend. Hated her so much, she was one of the characters I didn't have a hate-love relationship with, it was full on hate! She just took and took and took, but never gave anything in return! Like c'mon! No one can be that oblivious! She was just so uninterested in Jenson's life and only cared about what she wanted. I think the thing with the tracker in the end was supposed to be a redemption arc for her, but I just ended up thinking of her as more stupid than before.
↳Sylvia: 99% sure thats her name
She was an evil-bully-bitch. Another character that I full on hated! She was a psycho who tried killing her own mother cause she thought that her father loved her mom more than he loved her. I think the whole psycho bully trope/my mom thinks I'm psycho/I really am psycho trope is overrated, what do you guys think? I mean, I've read three books in the past 2 days with this trope, I'm getting annoyed now! so anyway, she dares Jenson to get her into this sex club and Jenson, the dumb chick takes the dare. When she sees Damien, Jenson's whoever- boyfriend/sex club teacher...? they never defined their relationship she falls in love with him, and then tries to kill Jenson.
↳PatRiCiA: 99% sure thats her name
Again, another character I full on hated. She was pathetic and I felt that her character was unnecessary and totally not related to the plot.
↳KaDE:
Finally a character that I actually kinda liked. He didn't play any real part in the book either but I loved that he was loyal and everything.
↳FrEdRiCK: 99% sure thats his name
Hated him. He didn't play any real part in the book either.
Plot: that I felt was absurd
I really felt that the plot held no real meaning. I don't even have to explain it because if you read the blurb, you'll get the entire story minus the OTT stuff, pathetic character personalities and childish and absurd fights. I hated how the author tried to show Jenson as a character who didn't care what people thought of her, but that was the whole point, wasn't it? She was completing the dare not for Christine, not really, she was doing it to show how better she was than Sylvia. I also hated the so called "plot twist" in the end. not gonna talk about it, its ludicrous
After all of this, I'm actually thinking of rating it less, but its whatever because like I said in the beginning → G U I L T Y P L E A S U R E
Overall, it was a short, kind of enjoyable read with a not so strong BDSM trope. I wouldn't really recommend it unless you're looking for a book like this!
Also, I think I'm gonna change my rating to 2.75 stars rounded up to 3
RTC soon!
❖❖❖❖❖❖
Characters: had a hate-love relationship with all of them
↳JeNsoN:
She was fun and snarky. She surprised me in a kinda, sorta good way. I didn't like her much though, she could be pretty absurd and childish at times. I hated how she talked about herself and let Damien talk about her too. The author mention too many times how she was "badass" and "stood up for herself" but when the time came to prove, she just turned out to be a doormat and melted easily.
↳DaMieN:
I hated how he criticised her body at first glance but I loved how he showed her that she was beautiful. I hated that he pushed her away but I loved the sweet things he did for her. Hated the things he said to her during their fight but loved that he actually showed that he loved her.
↳ChRiStiNE:
The pathetic best-friend who didn't know that she was doing a pathetic job at being a best friend. Hated her so much, she was one of the characters I didn't have a hate-love relationship with, it was full on hate! She just took and took and took, but never gave anything in return! Like c'mon! No one can be that oblivious! She was just so uninterested in Jenson's life and only cared about what she wanted. I think the thing with the tracker in the end was supposed to be a redemption arc for her, but I just ended up thinking of her as more stupid than before.
↳Sylvia: 99% sure thats her name
She was an evil-bully-bitch. Another character that I full on hated! She was a psycho who tried killing her own mother cause she thought that her father loved her mom more than he loved her. I think the whole psycho bully trope/my mom thinks I'm psycho/I really am psycho trope is overrated, what do you guys think? I mean, I've read three books in the past 2 days with this trope, I'm getting annoyed now! so anyway, she dares Jenson to get her into this sex club and Jenson, the dumb chick takes the dare. When she sees Damien, Jenson's whoever- boyfriend/sex club teacher...? they never defined their relationship she falls in love with him, and then tries to kill Jenson.
↳PatRiCiA: 99% sure thats her name
Again, another character I full on hated. She was pathetic and I felt that her character was unnecessary and totally not related to the plot.
↳KaDE:
Finally a character that I actually kinda liked. He didn't play any real part in the book either but I loved that he was loyal and everything.
↳FrEdRiCK: 99% sure thats his name
Hated him. He didn't play any real part in the book either.
Plot: that I felt was absurd
I really felt that the plot held no real meaning. I don't even have to explain it because if you read the blurb, you'll get the entire story minus the OTT stuff, pathetic character personalities and childish and absurd fights. I hated how the author tried to show Jenson as a character who didn't care what people thought of her, but that was the whole point, wasn't it? She was completing the dare not for Christine, not really, she was doing it to show how better she was than Sylvia. I also hated the so called "plot twist" in the end. not gonna talk about it, its ludicrous
After all of this, I'm actually thinking of rating it less, but its whatever because like I said in the beginning → G U I L T Y P L E A S U R E
Overall, it was a short, kind of enjoyable read with a not so strong BDSM trope. I wouldn't really recommend it unless you're looking for a book like this!
Also, I think I'm gonna change my rating to 2.75 stars rounded up to 3
November 22, 2018
First off I have to say that this book really took me on a roller coaster of a ride. I love a story where there is an age gap and the man is older because you know the main character is always going to learn something new and exciting! This is that story about two people who are destined to be someone and have worked their a$$ of to get to where they are and they will let nothing get in the way so when one of them is dared to do something out of the norm she takes the challenge and embraces it. I loved that about Jensen she had balls of steel to do what she did.
Then we have our other main character and lord help me I loved him. He was tough as nails but under all that tough exterior he was something special. It took him ten years to build his empire and when he reached his goal and was ready to look for something else in pops miss innocent Jensen and he has to have her. He has to show her what this life is like and what it can offer.
Watching the two of them grow together was amazing and I loved every minute of it. Even when Jensen was stubborn as a mule I loved her because she was willing to try new things and be open with Damien who she trusted with everything in her. this is a MUST MUST read for everyone! Oh and that ending that ending was AMAZING!
Then we have our other main character and lord help me I loved him. He was tough as nails but under all that tough exterior he was something special. It took him ten years to build his empire and when he reached his goal and was ready to look for something else in pops miss innocent Jensen and he has to have her. He has to show her what this life is like and what it can offer.
Watching the two of them grow together was amazing and I loved every minute of it. Even when Jensen was stubborn as a mule I loved her because she was willing to try new things and be open with Damien who she trusted with everything in her. this is a MUST MUST read for everyone! Oh and that ending that ending was AMAZING!
November 20, 2018
Another book, where I am right down the middle with the rating and for various reasons. But please, in no way, take that as a bad thing.
I love the premise for Exquisite Taste - a young college student, Jensen, enters a sex club on a dare and ends up in the hands of the sex club owner, Damien, eventually landing herself in even deeper water.
Without going into details, or giving you more than what the blurb does, I will just say that Jensen spikes Damien's curiosity in ways he never expected. And Jensen's own curiosity and her reactions to certain things, has her looking at things differently.
So here is where I am right down the middle with this one. I loved the added humor that helped with the banter and interactions between Damien and Jensen - it helped with the age barrier and kept the characters more real. There were scenes that I felt were played out perfectly and others that felt too unreal due to Jensen's naivety with BDSM.
J.D. does a great job of blending the erotic elements with the humor and the suspense. It kept the story moving along and I think helped keeping entertaining. You get the bare minimums on background story on both Damien and Jensen with the focus more on the present; Jensen is learning her true desires while Damien is quickly finding out what he truly wants in life. Then there is the quick ending and how everything comes together - everything just felt rushed in the end.
Overall, this was an ok read, for me. It wasn't be a top read, but it wasn't a bad read. I just wasn't overly wow'd by it or the characters. I think this would be a good book for those who want to dip their toes into BDSM but not get fully into all the aspects and the erotic parts of it.
I have no doubt others will enjoy this book much more than I did. I always consider a 3 star book still a good book to read. I love J.D. and her writing and will continue to read more of her work - I love her story lines and the fact they are never dull.
I love the premise for Exquisite Taste - a young college student, Jensen, enters a sex club on a dare and ends up in the hands of the sex club owner, Damien, eventually landing herself in even deeper water.
Without going into details, or giving you more than what the blurb does, I will just say that Jensen spikes Damien's curiosity in ways he never expected. And Jensen's own curiosity and her reactions to certain things, has her looking at things differently.
So here is where I am right down the middle with this one. I loved the added humor that helped with the banter and interactions between Damien and Jensen - it helped with the age barrier and kept the characters more real. There were scenes that I felt were played out perfectly and others that felt too unreal due to Jensen's naivety with BDSM.
J.D. does a great job of blending the erotic elements with the humor and the suspense. It kept the story moving along and I think helped keeping entertaining. You get the bare minimums on background story on both Damien and Jensen with the focus more on the present; Jensen is learning her true desires while Damien is quickly finding out what he truly wants in life. Then there is the quick ending and how everything comes together - everything just felt rushed in the end.
Overall, this was an ok read, for me. It wasn't be a top read, but it wasn't a bad read. I just wasn't overly wow'd by it or the characters. I think this would be a good book for those who want to dip their toes into BDSM but not get fully into all the aspects and the erotic parts of it.
I have no doubt others will enjoy this book much more than I did. I always consider a 3 star book still a good book to read. I love J.D. and her writing and will continue to read more of her work - I love her story lines and the fact they are never dull.
November 24, 2018
Reviewed on behalf of 3 Degrees of Fiction Book Blog
Wow Exquisite Taste was such a whirlwind read, I don't even know where to begin. I had a great feeling this would be one hot story and J.D. Hollyfield definitely didn't disappoint. A dominating alpha male, a female who holds her own with a feisty attitude to match, and a suspenseful thriller and you have something quite perfect and I literally didn't want to stop reading for anything at all.
Jensen Stone has landed herself into a crazy scenario after an argument with a sorority girl turns into accepting a dare to keep her best friend from being banned from pledging. Since Jensen is the type to do anything for those she loves is how she finds herself walking into an exclusive sex club and trying to get a contract to bring back to the sorority. Damien Cross knows what's going on at all times in his club and doesn't tolerate nonsense. But Jensen and her demands intrigue him like no other and a deal is made to spend one night together and she gets the contract she came looking for.
I absolutely love the time that Damien and Jensen spent together. Both are stubborn and set in their ways, pushing buttons to gain the upper hand. Being the owner of a sex club has turned Damien into a hard, commanding man and still turns out to be no match for Jensen and her will to not give in to anyone. Lust wins out leaving both wanting more and one night quickly turns long term but also changes in how they interact and talk to each other, going from a dirty game to something much more special.
I have actually never read anything by J.D. Hollyfield before but now after Exquisite Taste I will sure have to fix that. Not only was there plenty of steamy, sinful scenes but some interesting twists with the club and some of the secondary characters. I was shocked where the story was taken but in a good way that I had to keep going and find out everything that was taking place. Such a thrilling ride where I didn't know where to look. That ending was such a jaw dropper I'm sitting on pins and needles what will be written next but no matter what I know I will love just as much or even more just from how awesome this story was.
Wow Exquisite Taste was such a whirlwind read, I don't even know where to begin. I had a great feeling this would be one hot story and J.D. Hollyfield definitely didn't disappoint. A dominating alpha male, a female who holds her own with a feisty attitude to match, and a suspenseful thriller and you have something quite perfect and I literally didn't want to stop reading for anything at all.
Jensen Stone has landed herself into a crazy scenario after an argument with a sorority girl turns into accepting a dare to keep her best friend from being banned from pledging. Since Jensen is the type to do anything for those she loves is how she finds herself walking into an exclusive sex club and trying to get a contract to bring back to the sorority. Damien Cross knows what's going on at all times in his club and doesn't tolerate nonsense. But Jensen and her demands intrigue him like no other and a deal is made to spend one night together and she gets the contract she came looking for.
I absolutely love the time that Damien and Jensen spent together. Both are stubborn and set in their ways, pushing buttons to gain the upper hand. Being the owner of a sex club has turned Damien into a hard, commanding man and still turns out to be no match for Jensen and her will to not give in to anyone. Lust wins out leaving both wanting more and one night quickly turns long term but also changes in how they interact and talk to each other, going from a dirty game to something much more special.
I have actually never read anything by J.D. Hollyfield before but now after Exquisite Taste I will sure have to fix that. Not only was there plenty of steamy, sinful scenes but some interesting twists with the club and some of the secondary characters. I was shocked where the story was taken but in a good way that I had to keep going and find out everything that was taking place. Such a thrilling ride where I didn't know where to look. That ending was such a jaw dropper I'm sitting on pins and needles what will be written next but no matter what I know I will love just as much or even more just from how awesome this story was.
November 16, 2018
Fifty Shades meets Criminal Minds in this sultry tale of finding love in the last place you expect.
Exquisite Taste is unlike anything I have read recently, it's provocative and seductive, and perfectly balanced with humor.
I went into the story fairly blind, because although the blurb is awesome it doesn't really give you much to go on beyond just a small taste. I loved having no idea what I was heading into. What I got was gritty, sexy AF and all around swoon worthy.
There is an age gap in Exquisite Taste and I loved watching Damien teach Jensen and watching her learned to own her body and find herself beautiful and becoming and empowered woman. The first half is filled with a lot of sex but there is so much more happening that I still stayed with the story.
What could have easily stayed a simple, easy smutty read became complicated and twisty with an ending that I never saw coming! I thought I had if figured out but dang it man. I was shocked!
Exquisite Taste is an intense read all around and you won't want to put it down. Ever.
Exquisite Taste is unlike anything I have read recently, it's provocative and seductive, and perfectly balanced with humor.
I went into the story fairly blind, because although the blurb is awesome it doesn't really give you much to go on beyond just a small taste. I loved having no idea what I was heading into. What I got was gritty, sexy AF and all around swoon worthy.
There is an age gap in Exquisite Taste and I loved watching Damien teach Jensen and watching her learned to own her body and find herself beautiful and becoming and empowered woman. The first half is filled with a lot of sex but there is so much more happening that I still stayed with the story.
What could have easily stayed a simple, easy smutty read became complicated and twisty with an ending that I never saw coming! I thought I had if figured out but dang it man. I was shocked!
Exquisite Taste is an intense read all around and you won't want to put it down. Ever.
November 6, 2018
OMG. I fucking LOVED this book. I have read every word that the Ms. Hollyfield has written but this one...for me this one was on another level. Best. One. Yet. Damien Cross and Jensen were FIRE. There back and forth, tit for tat, and sexual tension bled off the pages. The relationship that hesitantly bloomed between these two was addicting, heartwarming and HAWT AF. The writing is on point and I was absolutely taken with every twist turn, alpha asshole thing that came out of both of their mouths. Jessica WINNER WINNER CHICKEN DINNER. You nailed it girl. CHEERS!
November 15, 2018
***5 Stars***
This book surprised me, in the best of ways, but it still surprised me. After reading the blurb, I had a few ideas of how things would play out, and some came to pass, but I couldn’t have imagined ALL that actually came to pass and how much fun it was, even in the batshit crazy moments, and how I became totally invested in Jensen and Damien’s journey and wanted more of them when everything was said and done.
I adored Jensen from the start. She’s sweet, snarky, loyal and determined aka stubborn. And though she has moments of “insert foot in mouth” disease, which highlight just how young and innocent she is, she has a sense of self that is pretty solid considering everything she’s experienced.
Damien took me a bit to really get a handle on him, I ended up adoring him, but with him it was a process and it took him dropping his titanium infused walls to see that the man behind it was pretty damn amazing. He is Alpha AF and may have some control issues, but he has a good heart beneath it all.
Jensen and Damien’s journey to their HEA was definitely unconventional, but it was a fun and interesting one to experience. The chemistry between them from the start was explosive and the insta-lust was strong, but there was no insta-love, though things do progress between them at a quick pace. While their relationship was definitely not the norm, through it they got to see the best and worst in each other, as well as themselves, and by doing that they became more to each other than they could have ever imagined.
As I said at the start, this one surprised me and while I’d love to truly give you a rundown as to why, I can’t. It would spoil everything and that wouldn’t be any fun for you. But this was a fun ride and I loved how everything played out. There is one situation that I would have liked to have gotten a little more of, but it’s a me thing and doesn’t have any bearing on the story as a whole since it is addressed in the end. The secondary characters were all well written, though most I wanted to gut with a spoon, but they definitely gave depth to the story and made for some interesting reading. But all in all this was a fun, deliciously dirty read and I cannot wait for the next one!
~ Copy provided by the author & voluntarily reviewed ~
This book surprised me, in the best of ways, but it still surprised me. After reading the blurb, I had a few ideas of how things would play out, and some came to pass, but I couldn’t have imagined ALL that actually came to pass and how much fun it was, even in the batshit crazy moments, and how I became totally invested in Jensen and Damien’s journey and wanted more of them when everything was said and done.
I adored Jensen from the start. She’s sweet, snarky, loyal and determined aka stubborn. And though she has moments of “insert foot in mouth” disease, which highlight just how young and innocent she is, she has a sense of self that is pretty solid considering everything she’s experienced.
Damien took me a bit to really get a handle on him, I ended up adoring him, but with him it was a process and it took him dropping his titanium infused walls to see that the man behind it was pretty damn amazing. He is Alpha AF and may have some control issues, but he has a good heart beneath it all.
Jensen and Damien’s journey to their HEA was definitely unconventional, but it was a fun and interesting one to experience. The chemistry between them from the start was explosive and the insta-lust was strong, but there was no insta-love, though things do progress between them at a quick pace. While their relationship was definitely not the norm, through it they got to see the best and worst in each other, as well as themselves, and by doing that they became more to each other than they could have ever imagined.
As I said at the start, this one surprised me and while I’d love to truly give you a rundown as to why, I can’t. It would spoil everything and that wouldn’t be any fun for you. But this was a fun ride and I loved how everything played out. There is one situation that I would have liked to have gotten a little more of, but it’s a me thing and doesn’t have any bearing on the story as a whole since it is addressed in the end. The secondary characters were all well written, though most I wanted to gut with a spoon, but they definitely gave depth to the story and made for some interesting reading. But all in all this was a fun, deliciously dirty read and I cannot wait for the next one!
~ Copy provided by the author & voluntarily reviewed ~
November 13, 2018
Jensen Stone is a young, naive college kid (yes, I say kid because she’s barely 18). She moved to a college that wasn’t her first choice, so that she could be with her bestie. While her friend is trying to fit in with the top sorority, she’s dragging a reluctant Jensen with her.
Sororities are totally not her scene. She more of the artsy book worm type. But she wants to be a good friend, so she sucks it up and deals with the torment of being completely out of place. While she’s there she’s given a date of sorts, an ultimatum really, get yourself into the super, secret sex club or else your bestie is blackballed from all sorority life.
Enter, Damien Cross, owner of Exquisite. The super, secret sex club owner. When he sees Jensen in his club, completely out of place and then he’s met with her sassy mouth, well that’s all she wrote. He must have her.
I don’t want to give too much away, there are definitely some twists and turns to the plot that keep you absolutely interested in this love story. I laughed so much! And maybe even had an allergy attack for a moment or two. Despite the age gap, these two fit like a glove!
Loved it!!
Sororities are totally not her scene. She more of the artsy book worm type. But she wants to be a good friend, so she sucks it up and deals with the torment of being completely out of place. While she’s there she’s given a date of sorts, an ultimatum really, get yourself into the super, secret sex club or else your bestie is blackballed from all sorority life.
Enter, Damien Cross, owner of Exquisite. The super, secret sex club owner. When he sees Jensen in his club, completely out of place and then he’s met with her sassy mouth, well that’s all she wrote. He must have her.
I don’t want to give too much away, there are definitely some twists and turns to the plot that keep you absolutely interested in this love story. I laughed so much! And maybe even had an allergy attack for a moment or two. Despite the age gap, these two fit like a glove!
Loved it!!
November 27, 2018
***Received an Advanced Readers Copy during a blog tour with InkSlingerPR in exchange for an honest Review***
Wow. Yeah. That is definitely the word I want to go with here... you should probably read this! I kid, I have more to say, though lets see if I can make it coherent because Exquisite Taste blew me away. I can never turn down some scrumptious, naughty humor to soak up my dream world.
Right off the bat, I can admit that probably my favorite aspect is that the age gap between Damien and Jensen was tasteful, it reached a very sexually appetizing atmosphere of the characters. The way Damien took control of Jensen, teaching her things her the real meaning of beauty without demoralizing her character. So yeah, there is an age gap, but not one that is underage, so don't fear there kiddos if that was your concern, but definitely still an age gap.
So speaking of the characters, Jensen stole my heart. It was something about her real essence that attracted me towards her. She isn't described as this stereotypical hot chick, but she is rather down to earth, relatable lady, one that I could see myself in. Something else I enjoyed was that Jensen was a gal who stood her ground, though she had this self-esteem issue (which, don't we all) but still took the punches to the fight. I liked her spunk. Damien on the other hand was just memorizing. At first he does appear as this cocky, overly confident somewhat lethal personality but he grows on you, like a delicious weed, he is delicious.
And oh my lanta, their personalities were just panty-dropping amazing. I cannot deny that their chemistry melted off the pages, because honestly, it did. They were intense from the very beginning and as a reader, the connection is there, I couldn't get enough of them!
Honestly, this was such a tantalizingly intense read, I was hooked from start to finish. Exquisite Taste was not only that deliciously smut read that needs to be drooled over repeatedly, but it had a multitude of complexities with both the main characters, supporting characters and the plot, the twists and turns were enough to leave me panting viciously on the edge of my seat. It wasn't a cut and dry romance for sure, I really enjoyed everything.
Though for me, I did see the webs of the surrounding characters a little more obvious than I had hoped, it nonetheless deterred any level of enjoyment I had for this reader. Seriously, it was drop dead scrumptious! Cannot wait to add more of Hollyfield to my TBR, right where the author needs to be for sure.
Wow. Yeah. That is definitely the word I want to go with here... you should probably read this! I kid, I have more to say, though lets see if I can make it coherent because Exquisite Taste blew me away. I can never turn down some scrumptious, naughty humor to soak up my dream world.
Right off the bat, I can admit that probably my favorite aspect is that the age gap between Damien and Jensen was tasteful, it reached a very sexually appetizing atmosphere of the characters. The way Damien took control of Jensen, teaching her things her the real meaning of beauty without demoralizing her character. So yeah, there is an age gap, but not one that is underage, so don't fear there kiddos if that was your concern, but definitely still an age gap.
So speaking of the characters, Jensen stole my heart. It was something about her real essence that attracted me towards her. She isn't described as this stereotypical hot chick, but she is rather down to earth, relatable lady, one that I could see myself in. Something else I enjoyed was that Jensen was a gal who stood her ground, though she had this self-esteem issue (which, don't we all) but still took the punches to the fight. I liked her spunk. Damien on the other hand was just memorizing. At first he does appear as this cocky, overly confident somewhat lethal personality but he grows on you, like a delicious weed, he is delicious.
And oh my lanta, their personalities were just panty-dropping amazing. I cannot deny that their chemistry melted off the pages, because honestly, it did. They were intense from the very beginning and as a reader, the connection is there, I couldn't get enough of them!
Honestly, this was such a tantalizingly intense read, I was hooked from start to finish. Exquisite Taste was not only that deliciously smut read that needs to be drooled over repeatedly, but it had a multitude of complexities with both the main characters, supporting characters and the plot, the twists and turns were enough to leave me panting viciously on the edge of my seat. It wasn't a cut and dry romance for sure, I really enjoyed everything.
Though for me, I did see the webs of the surrounding characters a little more obvious than I had hoped, it nonetheless deterred any level of enjoyment I had for this reader. Seriously, it was drop dead scrumptious! Cannot wait to add more of Hollyfield to my TBR, right where the author needs to be for sure.
November 10, 2018
Exquisite Taste by JD Hollyfield is the story of Jensen. A young lady from a small town in Kansas whi isnow a college freshman in Chicago. Her best friend is dragging her from one sorority party to the next. Jensen has no interest in joining but her roommate and best friend from home insist. At one party she finds herself accepting a dare to go the BDSM club. Damien owns a club that caters to the kinky side of sex. One night a young lady illegally enters his club. There is something about her that excites him. He knows she is way to young for him but one night wont hurt. Jensen bit off more than she can chew but she has to follow through with the dare.This story was much more than I had thought it was going to be. Not only was this a story of facing one's demons, coming into one's own and finding love when not looking for it but was also given a dash of mean girls with a side of crazy. The interaction between Jensen and Damien was not only hilarious but sweet and really sexy. There were other forces at play that wanted to get in between the two of them that wasn't expected. Truly enjoyed the journey the author took me on when telling this story. I had previously read some dark stories from this author and really didn't know what to expect. I was pleasantly surprised by this story. 4 stars for me.
November 19, 2018
Steamy, feisty romance with some mystery and a few bad guys thrown in to keep you on your toes. I really loved the twists mixed up with the whole older guy and girl on the verge of complete innocence with a sassy mouth that she really can’t backup. I’m like you want to be a badass but you just got attitude. This story was fun to read and kept my interest every single page with spicy trysts and some girl drama. Fun fun!
November 20, 2018
3.5 stars
November 21, 2018
It’s been a while since I’ve read a book that blew my mind. But this one blew it out of the park for me. Such a thrillingly sexy read!
November 19, 2018
Feels 3
Steam 5
Storyline 5
Overall Rating 5
Kindle eArc provided by Author
Reviewed by Robin
Jensen Stone isn’t someone who likes to play games. She’s focused on college and spending time with her best friend. Except her bestie wants to join a sorority and Jensen doesn’t have time for those fake Barbie dolls. When the leader of the pack decides to challenge Jensen to get into Damien Cross’ sex club, she can’t seem to back down from the dare. And that’s when her life becomes a little bit complicated.
“The last seventy-two hours of my life have been so crazy, yet so confusing. Hello! I am not a sexual person. I barely use my vibrator the right way, but in the last few days, I’ve experienced things that have never even crossed my mind. Whips? Swings? Public indecency? Jesus, what would my mother say if she saw me now?”
Steamy, feisty romance with some mystery and a few bad guys thrown in to keep you on your toes. I really loved the twists mixed up with the whole older guy and girl on the verge of complete innocence with a sassy mouth that she really can’t backup. I’m like you want to be a badass but you just got attitude. This story was fun to read and kept my interest every single page with spicy trysts and some girl drama. Fun fun! I want everyone to pick this one up just to enjoy all of the sexy, crazy adventure.
If you enjoy sassy mixed in with some spicy and a little mystery in the mix…you would love this book! I happen to love many different genres of books but when I find one that satisfies multiple genres **heh heh** “multiples”…I am not quick to give it up!
Steam 5
Storyline 5
Overall Rating 5
Kindle eArc provided by Author
Reviewed by Robin
Jensen Stone isn’t someone who likes to play games. She’s focused on college and spending time with her best friend. Except her bestie wants to join a sorority and Jensen doesn’t have time for those fake Barbie dolls. When the leader of the pack decides to challenge Jensen to get into Damien Cross’ sex club, she can’t seem to back down from the dare. And that’s when her life becomes a little bit complicated.
“The last seventy-two hours of my life have been so crazy, yet so confusing. Hello! I am not a sexual person. I barely use my vibrator the right way, but in the last few days, I’ve experienced things that have never even crossed my mind. Whips? Swings? Public indecency? Jesus, what would my mother say if she saw me now?”
Steamy, feisty romance with some mystery and a few bad guys thrown in to keep you on your toes. I really loved the twists mixed up with the whole older guy and girl on the verge of complete innocence with a sassy mouth that she really can’t backup. I’m like you want to be a badass but you just got attitude. This story was fun to read and kept my interest every single page with spicy trysts and some girl drama. Fun fun! I want everyone to pick this one up just to enjoy all of the sexy, crazy adventure.
If you enjoy sassy mixed in with some spicy and a little mystery in the mix…you would love this book! I happen to love many different genres of books but when I find one that satisfies multiple genres **heh heh** “multiples”…I am not quick to give it up!
February 25, 2019
Delicious is the best word to describe this read!
Intense, edgy and seductive read, this story swept me in and before I knew I finished it.
Unique perspective on an unconventional cooling situation all the characters in this read gave as good as they got. The banter amongst the characters was sharp, snarky with a whole lot of attitude. The chemistry between the main characters was intense, and hot.
The result was a highly entertaining well paced story that was easy to follow and an ending that was priceless!
Intense, edgy and seductive read, this story swept me in and before I knew I finished it.
Unique perspective on an unconventional cooling situation all the characters in this read gave as good as they got. The banter amongst the characters was sharp, snarky with a whole lot of attitude. The chemistry between the main characters was intense, and hot.
The result was a highly entertaining well paced story that was easy to follow and an ending that was priceless!
February 11, 2019
DNF 28%
Not for me felt young & dumb.
Not for me felt young & dumb.
November 20, 2018
Exquisite Taste revolves around a sex club, it's reluctant owner and the naive young girl who went there on a dare.
Damien Cross inherited a club that's robbed him of his soul. Despite his many dreams to get out and live his own life, he can't break free. Being surrounded by the depravity of Exquisite, he's sampled all that it offers but it's all left him completely bored and unfulfilled. When an unexpected visitor crashes through the club doors, he feels alive for the first time in ten years. He's angry with the intruder but deeply intrigued by her. Entering into a one night only "contract" to show her what Exquisite is all about, he's determined to break her but instead, she just might help him break free.
Jensen is a typical young person full of piss and vinegar off to her first independent adventure. Brilliant beyond her own notice, she's on scholarship to the University of Chicago, her second choice school. She'd chosen the second place school when her best friend, Christina, was rejected from their first choice. All her life, Jensen wanted a friend so she wasn't about to leave the only one she had. But the college experience that they each have in mind is turning out to be very different. Christina would sell her soul to get into the top sorority while Jensen loathes the mean girl clubs. However, she loves her friend and would do anything to help her so when the head mean girl sets her sights on her, Jensen is determined to give her whatever she wants to help her friend. She just didn't realize it'd involve a dare at a sex club.
The storyline was intense and seductive and empowering from the perspective of a young girl finding herself, her true desires and learning about loyalty but I had some issues with this book. The writing as usual was fantastic and there was humor to break up the intense parts. Jensen was snarky and cute against Damien's intense domination. I enjoyed their respective backstories a great deal and appreciated the opportunity to understand what led them both to Exquisite.
Trigger warning: while normally I devour all of JD Hollyfield's words with glee, I had difficulty with several parts of Exquisite Taste. I understand this book wasn't fully in the BDSM label but it definitely has an over-arching theme of bondage and domination and unfortunately, the safe, sane and consensual ethos didn't exactly make an appearance. There were situations where a concerning amount of force was used, without consent being given, nor was there any kind of safe word. Although the writing was excellent and parts of the storyline were compelling, it it just wasn't my cup of tea.
Damien Cross inherited a club that's robbed him of his soul. Despite his many dreams to get out and live his own life, he can't break free. Being surrounded by the depravity of Exquisite, he's sampled all that it offers but it's all left him completely bored and unfulfilled. When an unexpected visitor crashes through the club doors, he feels alive for the first time in ten years. He's angry with the intruder but deeply intrigued by her. Entering into a one night only "contract" to show her what Exquisite is all about, he's determined to break her but instead, she just might help him break free.
Jensen is a typical young person full of piss and vinegar off to her first independent adventure. Brilliant beyond her own notice, she's on scholarship to the University of Chicago, her second choice school. She'd chosen the second place school when her best friend, Christina, was rejected from their first choice. All her life, Jensen wanted a friend so she wasn't about to leave the only one she had. But the college experience that they each have in mind is turning out to be very different. Christina would sell her soul to get into the top sorority while Jensen loathes the mean girl clubs. However, she loves her friend and would do anything to help her so when the head mean girl sets her sights on her, Jensen is determined to give her whatever she wants to help her friend. She just didn't realize it'd involve a dare at a sex club.
The storyline was intense and seductive and empowering from the perspective of a young girl finding herself, her true desires and learning about loyalty but I had some issues with this book. The writing as usual was fantastic and there was humor to break up the intense parts. Jensen was snarky and cute against Damien's intense domination. I enjoyed their respective backstories a great deal and appreciated the opportunity to understand what led them both to Exquisite.
Trigger warning: while normally I devour all of JD Hollyfield's words with glee, I had difficulty with several parts of Exquisite Taste. I understand this book wasn't fully in the BDSM label but it definitely has an over-arching theme of bondage and domination and unfortunately, the safe, sane and consensual ethos didn't exactly make an appearance. There were situations where a concerning amount of force was used, without consent being given, nor was there any kind of safe word. Although the writing was excellent and parts of the storyline were compelling, it it just wasn't my cup of tea.
December 6, 2018
Interesting Perspective
Jensen Stone is starting college in Chicago and rooming with Christine, her best friend from high school. Although Jensen has no interest in Greek life, Christine desperately wants to join a top sorority and has been dragging Jensen with her to various events. Sylvia, a powerful sorority mean girl, has been harassing and bullying Jensen, who decides to lie to Sylvia about being familiar with sex clubs in retaliation for some nasty comments Sylvia made. Sylvia realizes that Jensen will do anything to help her best friend achieve her dream of joining a top sorority and threatens to block Christine from all Greek life unless Jensen gets a copy of a BDSM dom/sub contract from Exquisite, a private and exclusive sex club in Chicago. This necessitates a trip to Exquisite where Jensen meets its dom owner, Damien Cross, after he observed the minor girls attempting to infiltrate the club.
Damien Cross is miserable with a life he never planned but was thrust into after his father's death - running Exquisite, which has been in the family for two generations of Crosses before him. But after more than a dozen years he has learned all the ropes and become the controlling dom needed to run the club. He becomes intrigued by the innocent brat who won't be dissuaded from attempting to gain access to the club's BDSM contract and, after repeatedly refusing to provide it to Jensen, finally agreed to let her have one only if Jensen agrees, in return, to sign one for a night with him (which he then converts to a month). Not wanting to let her best and only college friend and roommate down, Jensen ultimately agrees to this plan. This begins the very abnormal D/s relationship between them.
I found this book very enjoyable for at least the first half which primarily addressed the character and relationship development of Jensen and Damien. But once the story began to bring in additional side plots and Damien's previously unaddressed dissatisfaction with his life, it began to feel a bit too contrived for the sole purpose of the storyline. Even so, it never caused me to want to discontinue reading the story or jump ahead as I sometimes have with other books I've read. It was still a good book with a somewhat different BDSM perspective, and one that I would certainly be willing to recommend to others who enjoy this genre.
Jensen Stone is starting college in Chicago and rooming with Christine, her best friend from high school. Although Jensen has no interest in Greek life, Christine desperately wants to join a top sorority and has been dragging Jensen with her to various events. Sylvia, a powerful sorority mean girl, has been harassing and bullying Jensen, who decides to lie to Sylvia about being familiar with sex clubs in retaliation for some nasty comments Sylvia made. Sylvia realizes that Jensen will do anything to help her best friend achieve her dream of joining a top sorority and threatens to block Christine from all Greek life unless Jensen gets a copy of a BDSM dom/sub contract from Exquisite, a private and exclusive sex club in Chicago. This necessitates a trip to Exquisite where Jensen meets its dom owner, Damien Cross, after he observed the minor girls attempting to infiltrate the club.
Damien Cross is miserable with a life he never planned but was thrust into after his father's death - running Exquisite, which has been in the family for two generations of Crosses before him. But after more than a dozen years he has learned all the ropes and become the controlling dom needed to run the club. He becomes intrigued by the innocent brat who won't be dissuaded from attempting to gain access to the club's BDSM contract and, after repeatedly refusing to provide it to Jensen, finally agreed to let her have one only if Jensen agrees, in return, to sign one for a night with him (which he then converts to a month). Not wanting to let her best and only college friend and roommate down, Jensen ultimately agrees to this plan. This begins the very abnormal D/s relationship between them.
I found this book very enjoyable for at least the first half which primarily addressed the character and relationship development of Jensen and Damien. But once the story began to bring in additional side plots and Damien's previously unaddressed dissatisfaction with his life, it began to feel a bit too contrived for the sole purpose of the storyline. Even so, it never caused me to want to discontinue reading the story or jump ahead as I sometimes have with other books I've read. It was still a good book with a somewhat different BDSM perspective, and one that I would certainly be willing to recommend to others who enjoy this genre.
November 21, 2018
This book was not what I expected. I knew it was erotica and there would be a lot of sex scenes. What I didn't expect was how suspenseful the storyline would be. There were times I had no idea what would happen next. Having a bat shit crazy character in the mix definitely added a new level to the book--I'm not going to tell you who is bat shit crazy. I read this in two days barely putting the book down. Many times, I wanted to beat each of the characters for being idiots or straight up denying themselves what they wanted. The intrigue is what keep me reading until 3am to finish the book.
Jensen Stone is a Freshmen at the University of Illinois in Chicago. A long way from her hometown in Oklahoma. But that's exactly what she planned. To get out of the small town life and pettiness that she had to endure in high school. Until her best friend Christine wanted to pledge. Of course since the two never did anything apart, Christine talked Jensen into joining her during pledge week. This is where Jensen begins to find trouble particularly with one mean girl, Sylvia. Jensen being the sassy take no crap stands up for herself--kinda. Jensen actually walks into a dare that changes her life forever.
Damien Cross is bored with his life. Actually, he never chose this life--it was thrust upon him when his father and older brother were killed in a car accident. He controls everything in life from the women he beds to his employees. Now he's stuck in his father's club--Exquisite. A place that used to be full of excitement has dulled him. Nothing satisfies Damien which is why he wants to sell and get out of the club. But first, he finds a new toy that he wants to break. What he doesn't know is that she's wants everything he gives her and more. They start a game of who can outsmart the other. Somewhere along the way, the game becomes personal. Neither of them want it to end. Most of all Damien. Damien struggles to maintain control over his club and his emotions. Events happen that changes everything for him.
Jensen Stone is a Freshmen at the University of Illinois in Chicago. A long way from her hometown in Oklahoma. But that's exactly what she planned. To get out of the small town life and pettiness that she had to endure in high school. Until her best friend Christine wanted to pledge. Of course since the two never did anything apart, Christine talked Jensen into joining her during pledge week. This is where Jensen begins to find trouble particularly with one mean girl, Sylvia. Jensen being the sassy take no crap stands up for herself--kinda. Jensen actually walks into a dare that changes her life forever.
Damien Cross is bored with his life. Actually, he never chose this life--it was thrust upon him when his father and older brother were killed in a car accident. He controls everything in life from the women he beds to his employees. Now he's stuck in his father's club--Exquisite. A place that used to be full of excitement has dulled him. Nothing satisfies Damien which is why he wants to sell and get out of the club. But first, he finds a new toy that he wants to break. What he doesn't know is that she's wants everything he gives her and more. They start a game of who can outsmart the other. Somewhere along the way, the game becomes personal. Neither of them want it to end. Most of all Damien. Damien struggles to maintain control over his club and his emotions. Events happen that changes everything for him.
November 25, 2018
4.5 Stars
Jensen Stone is in over her head. With no desire to join a sorority, or even associate with the kinds of girls her BFF is so desperate to be accepted by, she finds herself giving in to be a friend in any way she can. Until, she let's her mouth get carried away, and ends up accepting a dare she has no business even thinking about...
Damien Cross is just about as jaded as it gets. Spending day in and day out in his club, where the women are too easy to come by, and nothing ever changes. When he spots Jensen he is immediately drawn to her innocence... and her unwavering insolence.
So, he generously offers to help her fulfill her dare... in exchange for one night with him... where he is in complete control...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Exquisite Taste was an incredibly sexy, heart pounding escape into the world of Club Exquisite... from the man who pulls it's strings, to the pristine young woman he has no business wanting so badly...
Jensen has just started college and while she is young and fairly naive, she has no problem standing up for herself. With the dare and subsequent run in with Damien, she holds her own and refuses to give up, much to Damien's delight... and absolute interest.
Damien hasn't been innocent in a long time, and spending time with someone like Jensen has him remembering what he used to want in life. She is not only irresistible to him sexually, but he has started to crave her fresh outlook on the world.
Jensen and Damien's relationship was endlessly hot, with their sexual encounters and their constantly charged banter, I couldn't get enough of their unique brand of verbal foreplay. With countless obstacles to any kind of a permanent relationship between them, they have a lot in store before they can get even the slightest glimpse of a HEA.
This book had it all, with all kinds of hot sex (of course), well written characters, interesting relationship drama, and a twist that you. will. not. see. coming.
I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest and unbiased review.
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Jensen Stone is in over her head. With no desire to join a sorority, or even associate with the kinds of girls her BFF is so desperate to be accepted by, she finds herself giving in to be a friend in any way she can. Until, she let's her mouth get carried away, and ends up accepting a dare she has no business even thinking about...
Damien Cross is just about as jaded as it gets. Spending day in and day out in his club, where the women are too easy to come by, and nothing ever changes. When he spots Jensen he is immediately drawn to her innocence... and her unwavering insolence.
So, he generously offers to help her fulfill her dare... in exchange for one night with him... where he is in complete control...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Exquisite Taste was an incredibly sexy, heart pounding escape into the world of Club Exquisite... from the man who pulls it's strings, to the pristine young woman he has no business wanting so badly...
Jensen has just started college and while she is young and fairly naive, she has no problem standing up for herself. With the dare and subsequent run in with Damien, she holds her own and refuses to give up, much to Damien's delight... and absolute interest.
Damien hasn't been innocent in a long time, and spending time with someone like Jensen has him remembering what he used to want in life. She is not only irresistible to him sexually, but he has started to crave her fresh outlook on the world.
Jensen and Damien's relationship was endlessly hot, with their sexual encounters and their constantly charged banter, I couldn't get enough of their unique brand of verbal foreplay. With countless obstacles to any kind of a permanent relationship between them, they have a lot in store before they can get even the slightest glimpse of a HEA.
This book had it all, with all kinds of hot sex (of course), well written characters, interesting relationship drama, and a twist that you. will. not. see. coming.
I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest and unbiased review.
Check out the Blog!
https://nightbirdnovels.com/2018/11/2...
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November 19, 2018
JD Hollyfield just knocked my socks off with Exquisite Taste... or perhaps she melted those bad boys clean off with her hot and sultry words. I feel the need to fan myself even finishing 20 minutes ago. I enjoyed Jensen so much. She brought some much needed humor to the story and it was so desperately needed combined with Damiens sex appeal. Maybe I should’ve been prepared but I was not prepared for the intense sexual attraction or that intense need. I think I was expecting something a little sweeter but that is not Exquisite Taste, Exquisite Taste is electric... its pulsating with this reckless abandon that Jensen and Damien are incapable of fighting. Ahhh... this was just amazing!!!
This really borders on a light 50 Shade of Grey but with a man that I liked 100% of the time! Hollyfield writing is perfection. She writes these scenes so you’re wiggling in your seat, clenching your thighs... so damn hot! I love how this storyline just explodes through the gate like a bull seeing red. It didn’t let up the entire book. I read this book within one day... I could not stop! If you’re looking for something that is serious in its sexual designs, something superbly written with in-depth description, want and need that is felt through every single page and this non-stop persistence... look no further. Just a warning... it could increase your likelihood of pregnancy! Yup, you’re gonna want it... want it now! Hard. Fast. Dirty. Raw. My husband thanks you Miss Hollyfield!!
I received an ARC of this book with the hope that I would leave an Unbiased Opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that... my opinions.
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This really borders on a light 50 Shade of Grey but with a man that I liked 100% of the time! Hollyfield writing is perfection. She writes these scenes so you’re wiggling in your seat, clenching your thighs... so damn hot! I love how this storyline just explodes through the gate like a bull seeing red. It didn’t let up the entire book. I read this book within one day... I could not stop! If you’re looking for something that is serious in its sexual designs, something superbly written with in-depth description, want and need that is felt through every single page and this non-stop persistence... look no further. Just a warning... it could increase your likelihood of pregnancy! Yup, you’re gonna want it... want it now! Hard. Fast. Dirty. Raw. My husband thanks you Miss Hollyfield!!
I received an ARC of this book with the hope that I would leave an Unbiased Opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that... my opinions.
Check out my Blog: Next Book Review
Check out my Facebook Page: Next Book Review Facebook
November 21, 2018
So, Exquisite Taste was definitely not like my usual reads, and I think it was probably the first book I’ve ever read by J. D. Hollyfield! 🤷🏼♀️
I’m just going to get this started with some of my issues... I like my hero’s bossy, broody, grumpy, physical, etc. and Damien was all of those things, but I needed some real darkness. Just because you own some secret sex club doesn’t make you dark in the slightest. He just fell a little flat for me. I did, however, enjoy how brutal he was with his words towards Jenson. It was refreshing to read him tearing into her - in a non sexual way! 🙄
Now, that brings me on to my next point. I do not read about sex clubs. I find it cliche how writers always refer back to Fifty Shades of Grey and honestly it just bores me.
I feel like Jenson’s humour really kept me interested in this story. She was actually pretty hilarious here and there. BUT! it was thoroughly frustrating reading about how she constantly defended herself to herself, saying things like, “I can look after myself.” and “I don’t need you to fight my battles.” blah, blah, blah. It’s exhausting because I really don’t think she fought very hard to stand up for herself at all. Also, the backwards and forwards between her and Damien got quite boring after a while. If you tell her to leave and not come back, don’t go looking for her afterwards! 🤦🏼♀️ If you tell him you want nothing to do with him, don’t go home and stare at your phone while pining over him! 🙈
It pains me to say, I very much doubt I’ll be reading this book again. I think it was more me than anything else; it just didn’t fit my usual taste and I think that’s why I’ve picked it apart so much. I fully admit that the cover is what caught my immediate attention. It’s crazy hot!!! 🤤😍
I’m just going to get this started with some of my issues... I like my hero’s bossy, broody, grumpy, physical, etc. and Damien was all of those things, but I needed some real darkness. Just because you own some secret sex club doesn’t make you dark in the slightest. He just fell a little flat for me. I did, however, enjoy how brutal he was with his words towards Jenson. It was refreshing to read him tearing into her - in a non sexual way! 🙄
Now, that brings me on to my next point. I do not read about sex clubs. I find it cliche how writers always refer back to Fifty Shades of Grey and honestly it just bores me.
I feel like Jenson’s humour really kept me interested in this story. She was actually pretty hilarious here and there. BUT! it was thoroughly frustrating reading about how she constantly defended herself to herself, saying things like, “I can look after myself.” and “I don’t need you to fight my battles.” blah, blah, blah. It’s exhausting because I really don’t think she fought very hard to stand up for herself at all. Also, the backwards and forwards between her and Damien got quite boring after a while. If you tell her to leave and not come back, don’t go looking for her afterwards! 🤦🏼♀️ If you tell him you want nothing to do with him, don’t go home and stare at your phone while pining over him! 🙈
It pains me to say, I very much doubt I’ll be reading this book again. I think it was more me than anything else; it just didn’t fit my usual taste and I think that’s why I’ve picked it apart so much. I fully admit that the cover is what caught my immediate attention. It’s crazy hot!!! 🤤😍
February 19, 2019
Usually right after I finish a book, I can open up the Notes app on my phone and write a review, barring something like life getting in the way, but I couldn’t immediately put the thoughts I have about Exquisite Taste down on “paper” yet. I not only felt like I had to stop and just savor the amazingness of this book, but I also knew that once I finished writing my review for it, I would officially be done with the book and I didn’t want to be done with it! I loved Exquisite Taste so much and so hard, it was FAN-FLIPPING-TASTIC! When I saw it on my kindle, I literally jumped up and down, screamed with joy and I dove in the minute I had time and I only tore myself away from it when I absolutely had to — I could not get enough of Damien and Jensen.
I loved them and their story from the little preview that was in the second Wild in the Windy City anthology and I have been dying for the whole of it ever since! I’ve just been obsessed with this book and it was so much better than I could have ever hoped for! It was funny and naughty and so sexy and a little dangerous. It put a silly, goofy smile on my face and made me feel all warm and gooey inside. Exquisite Taste might have even taken Creed’s Expectations as my favorite J.D. Hollyfield book, but we’ll have to see after my book afterglow is over. All you need to know is that I floved this book, I can’t wait for her next one, and you NEED to read this book!
~ Sonja, 5 Stars
I loved them and their story from the little preview that was in the second Wild in the Windy City anthology and I have been dying for the whole of it ever since! I’ve just been obsessed with this book and it was so much better than I could have ever hoped for! It was funny and naughty and so sexy and a little dangerous. It put a silly, goofy smile on my face and made me feel all warm and gooey inside. Exquisite Taste might have even taken Creed’s Expectations as my favorite J.D. Hollyfield book, but we’ll have to see after my book afterglow is over. All you need to know is that I floved this book, I can’t wait for her next one, and you NEED to read this book!
~ Sonja, 5 Stars
November 14, 2018
Ooooo this story is an exquisite taste indeed!
This is the story of Jensen and Damien.
Jensen is a newly minted college student. She is giving her all to her friendship to he BFF. Love her defiance!! I applaud her ability to deflect the "mean girls", but you can also see how it really effects her.
Jensen's mouth gets away from her brain and she makes claims that aren't true. And with that she gets into a bit of trouble.
Enter Damien, the owner of Exquisite, the club that's more than just dancing and drinks. He is excellent at his job, almost too good. But is it really what he wants?
When Jensen and Damien meet, fireworks fly! Their chemistry is off the charts. Damien knows what he wants and Jensen is far from what he expected. Jensen doesn't know what she wants until Damien shows her what she needs! A whole lotta steaminess and bit of kink is what makes this story great!
There is some action and adventure in this story too! This story is a page turner and I couldn't put it down once I started.
And of course, at the end, you too will wonder about a secondary character...what happened, where are they! I hope we don't have to wait long to find out!
This is a fast paced, smokin hot read! Get your hands on it!
This is the story of Jensen and Damien.
Jensen is a newly minted college student. She is giving her all to her friendship to he BFF. Love her defiance!! I applaud her ability to deflect the "mean girls", but you can also see how it really effects her.
Jensen's mouth gets away from her brain and she makes claims that aren't true. And with that she gets into a bit of trouble.
Enter Damien, the owner of Exquisite, the club that's more than just dancing and drinks. He is excellent at his job, almost too good. But is it really what he wants?
When Jensen and Damien meet, fireworks fly! Their chemistry is off the charts. Damien knows what he wants and Jensen is far from what he expected. Jensen doesn't know what she wants until Damien shows her what she needs! A whole lotta steaminess and bit of kink is what makes this story great!
There is some action and adventure in this story too! This story is a page turner and I couldn't put it down once I started.
And of course, at the end, you too will wonder about a secondary character...what happened, where are they! I hope we don't have to wait long to find out!
This is a fast paced, smokin hot read! Get your hands on it!
November 18, 2018
Her mind full of ambitious goals and dreams, to achieve and excel at.
She's her own person, not a submissive puppet. Realism is her, lies and masks not her playground.
His first impression wasn't all that fantastic. She didn't wow him, or even come close to what he liked but still he wanted her life story.
Determination and confrontation. Stubborn and surprising and the world shifts on its axis.
Jensen and her unruly mouth that runs her into trouble and strife. Loyalty like no other, herself last never foremost and first.
Damien the cold callous brutal domineering master of his world. The club his life.
Two worlds collide one of innocence the other of seedy interactions of the sexual kind. Can they live in harmony or will it be a catastrophy?
Wowsers!! My J.D Hollyfield viginity was ripped away and torn to shreds with this. Gentle a word unused.
I felt his hunger, because that was me as I devoured each and every page. More more more!
Their interactions were sweet and spicy, hot and tangy. Dangerous and delectable what a mouth watering read!
Characters that draw you in and pulverize your heart and mind. Sensational!
An all round tremendous read that is near to impossible to put down.
I can't wait for Kades story!!!
She's her own person, not a submissive puppet. Realism is her, lies and masks not her playground.
His first impression wasn't all that fantastic. She didn't wow him, or even come close to what he liked but still he wanted her life story.
Determination and confrontation. Stubborn and surprising and the world shifts on its axis.
Jensen and her unruly mouth that runs her into trouble and strife. Loyalty like no other, herself last never foremost and first.
Damien the cold callous brutal domineering master of his world. The club his life.
Two worlds collide one of innocence the other of seedy interactions of the sexual kind. Can they live in harmony or will it be a catastrophy?
Wowsers!! My J.D Hollyfield viginity was ripped away and torn to shreds with this. Gentle a word unused.
I felt his hunger, because that was me as I devoured each and every page. More more more!
Their interactions were sweet and spicy, hot and tangy. Dangerous and delectable what a mouth watering read!
Characters that draw you in and pulverize your heart and mind. Sensational!
An all round tremendous read that is near to impossible to put down.
I can't wait for Kades story!!!
November 21, 2018
*5+ Stars*
This book was absolutely not what I was expecting but in all the best ways!
The blurb for this story gives some basic plot lines away but there is so much more to this story! I don’t want to spoil anything about this book because it was so surprising and so great! I highly recommend you go into this book not knowing anything other than what you read in the synopsis.
Jensen and Damien’s relationship was fast, fun, and super steamy! Jensen is my favorite kind of heroine! She’s sassy, fiercely loyal, and determined to live life her way regardless of what others say. Damien, is older than Jensen, and is very strong and powerful. He has an empire that he has spent a decade building but he is determined to finally be able to walk away. I couldn’t get enough of these two!
This book has a twist I never saw coming and I ate up every word. It was so entertaining to be taken down this complicated road and I couldn’t put the book down until I had finished it!
Don’t wait! Go pick this book up right now! It just might be one of my favorite’s I’ve read this year!
Grateful to have received a complimentary ARC copy to honestly review.
This book was absolutely not what I was expecting but in all the best ways!
The blurb for this story gives some basic plot lines away but there is so much more to this story! I don’t want to spoil anything about this book because it was so surprising and so great! I highly recommend you go into this book not knowing anything other than what you read in the synopsis.
Jensen and Damien’s relationship was fast, fun, and super steamy! Jensen is my favorite kind of heroine! She’s sassy, fiercely loyal, and determined to live life her way regardless of what others say. Damien, is older than Jensen, and is very strong and powerful. He has an empire that he has spent a decade building but he is determined to finally be able to walk away. I couldn’t get enough of these two!
This book has a twist I never saw coming and I ate up every word. It was so entertaining to be taken down this complicated road and I couldn’t put the book down until I had finished it!
Don’t wait! Go pick this book up right now! It just might be one of my favorite’s I’ve read this year!
Grateful to have received a complimentary ARC copy to honestly review.
November 8, 2018
Exquisite Taste by JD Hollyfield is book three in her #HotCom Series, and can be read as a standalone. For better understanding I recommend to read the books in order.
Meet Jensen Stone and Damien Cross. The girl destined to be made fun off and the successful tycoon.
Jensen is a freshman at college and her mouth gets her in a lot of predicaments. She's feisty, but this time she's way over her head and out of her league when she takes Damien on.
Damien is a very successful business owner, has build an empire, is bored out of his mind - till a shiny new toy dangles in front of him, Jensen.
I started reading and pretty quick had my first what????? moment. Jensen seems not like the brightest bulb, mouthing off to Damien. But then, yes then I was totally captivated with the story and the characters.
There's just the right amount of danger, drama and rom/com to keep me at the edge of my seat.
Take one spunky college freshman, one business mogul, a witty and fun story and you get a good read like Exquisite Taste.
Meet Jensen Stone and Damien Cross. The girl destined to be made fun off and the successful tycoon.
Jensen is a freshman at college and her mouth gets her in a lot of predicaments. She's feisty, but this time she's way over her head and out of her league when she takes Damien on.
Damien is a very successful business owner, has build an empire, is bored out of his mind - till a shiny new toy dangles in front of him, Jensen.
I started reading and pretty quick had my first what????? moment. Jensen seems not like the brightest bulb, mouthing off to Damien. But then, yes then I was totally captivated with the story and the characters.
There's just the right amount of danger, drama and rom/com to keep me at the edge of my seat.
Take one spunky college freshman, one business mogul, a witty and fun story and you get a good read like Exquisite Taste.
October 30, 2019
I very much enjoyed the bumpy ride between Damien and Jensen in this book. The chemistry between these two was palpable and off the charts hot. Of course when you take an alpha male, owner of a sex club and a type A, driven, young woman and put them together, that is to be expected. I feel some of the secondary characters were not as well developed as I would have liked, but they seemed to drown out into the background anyway. The author did manage to make me hate the antagonists in this story, so they fit into the storyline well. Whether the back and forth sexual and emotion tension between Damien and Jensen, or the reality they both seemed to be drowning in, all you could hope for was a happily ever after for them. Forget anything else, the story remained focused on Damien and Jensen and their growing need for each other emotionally and sexually.
This book was not dark to my standards, but had some elements of domination. In the end this was a love story and was an excellent read.
This book was not dark to my standards, but had some elements of domination. In the end this was a love story and was an excellent read.
November 19, 2018
Omg do I have a new favorite book by this author! This book is intense from the first page and will leave you on the edge of your seat until the very end. There may also be some giggles and cuss words flying out of your mouth while reading! The chemistry from Damian and Jensen was amazing to read and they truly helped make this story an absolute pleasure to read!!
Jensen is starting college with her best friend and is hoping to start fresh after leaving the mean girls from high school behind. When her best friend’s mission becomes joining a sorority she realizes her troubles are just starting. Now she has to prove herself or her friend is blacklisted...
Damian runs his club with an iron fist and will not show any leniency. So when a young woman shows up he is infuriated by her nerve but when opens her mouth it only gets worse.
Now it a battle of wills, lust and temptations to see who comes out on top.
Jensen is starting college with her best friend and is hoping to start fresh after leaving the mean girls from high school behind. When her best friend’s mission becomes joining a sorority she realizes her troubles are just starting. Now she has to prove herself or her friend is blacklisted...
Damian runs his club with an iron fist and will not show any leniency. So when a young woman shows up he is infuriated by her nerve but when opens her mouth it only gets worse.
Now it a battle of wills, lust and temptations to see who comes out on top.
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