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The Age Between Us #1
Old Enough
AN OLDER WOMAN YOUNGER MAN ROMANCE
Society says I'm too young for her. What do they know? It's not my age that matters. It's my experience. I’m everything she never knew she needed. Meeting her was no coincidence. How and why our paths crossed are every shade of twisted and wrong, but she’ll never know. I'm taking those sinister secrets to my grave. I’m keeping her forever, no matter what it takes.
(Old Enough is Book 1 of The Age Between Us duology. Young Enough (Book 2) concludes the story.)
Society says I'm too young for her. What do they know? It's not my age that matters. It's my experience. I’m everything she never knew she needed. Meeting her was no coincidence. How and why our paths crossed are every shade of twisted and wrong, but she’ll never know. I'm taking those sinister secrets to my grave. I’m keeping her forever, no matter what it takes.
(Old Enough is Book 1 of The Age Between Us duology. Young Enough (Book 2) concludes the story.)
200 pages, ebook
First published July 14, 2018
129 people are currently reading
867 people want to read
About the author
Charmaine Pauls
72 books1,838 followersCharmaine loves to write dark and edgy romance that will melt both your e-reader and your heart.
She's a mom of two teenagers, an adorable dog, and a dominant cat. Her country of birth is South Africa where many of her stories play off. Her French husband kidnapped her to the south of France where she currently lives with her family.
When she's not writing, you'll find her in the kitchen baking cakes or in the gym lifting weights (because ... all those cakes!).
She's a mom of two teenagers, an adorable dog, and a dominant cat. Her country of birth is South Africa where many of her stories play off. Her French husband kidnapped her to the south of France where she currently lives with her family.
When she's not writing, you'll find her in the kitchen baking cakes or in the gym lifting weights (because ... all those cakes!).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 238 reviews
June 27, 2018
This book is an older woman/younger man and that’s not my thing. At all.
The few times I’ve read OW/YM in the past was by accident. Either it wasn’t mentioned in the blurb or the difference was only a couple of years so nothing major. Yet I said yes to the offer of an arc (and I’m very picky about which arcs I accept) because the two books I’ve previously read by this author were fabulous.
And I was curious where she’d go. Could she write a book I’d like about I subject I don’t?
And the answer to that is yes. Definitely yes.
This book is fabulous.
I was hooked after just a couple of pages and what started out as a quick check before bed resulted in a night with very little sleep. Because even when I finally managed to put the book down I couldn’t get the characters to let me sleep.
There’s a beauty and a strength to the writing and the characters are so real. I know it’s going to sound stupid but it feels more like I’ve watched a movie than read a book. It’s so vivid and I really need the next book ASAP.
Jane is a woman who’s been living her life without colour. Her one true love, her fiancé died years ago and while life has continued its continued in grey.
“You haven’t been happy, either. Not for a long time.” “That’s not true. I’ve been content.” “Exactly. There’s a big difference between happy and content.”
She has a (soon to be) teenage daughter and a husband who’s leaving her for his mistress. Jane continues to exist accepting all the bumps in the road.
Colour finally appears in her life in the form of Brian.
Brian is an interesting character, young enough to be her son but old way beyond his years. His introduction into Janes life is not by accident, he’s there for a reason. But once there it’s good for both of them.
If it was just the two of them in a bubble life would be perfect. But it’s not. And it’s not just the age difference between them, so many factors are at play.
I hated that Jane just took all the shit handed to her without barely a word.
I hated that Debbie is such a conniving manipulative bitch.
And I hated that Francois is such a spineless bastard.
And that children are so easy to manipulate.
There’s mystery in Janes past and while we don’t have the details yet I have it all figured out.
Or I think I do.
But then this author threw a curve ball in Consent so maybe I don’t have it all sorted just yet.
This is a moving and addictive read and now I’m just waiting for the next book Young Enough. In the meantime I also need to check out her Seven Forbidden Arts series, I can’t believe I haven’t done it before now.
Anyone familiar with my reviews will know how rare it is for me to give 5* but here I just can’t give less.
I voluntarily read a review copy provided by the author and this is my honest review.
December 7, 2019
Jane, the heroine, is a joke.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
And oh, did I mention she's a joke?
Jane,
July 17, 2018
I gotta say this is the best older woman, younger man tropes I have read to date. The author did a brilliant job of making this 19 year old come off as one of the most confident and dominant heroes and yet stay true to his age.
Brian's story is believable. The way he is an old soul due to how young he was when he had to become the man of the house. I'm very intrigued by him and I'm on pins and needles waiting to see what is going to happen in book 2.
I'm not sure how I feel about Jane yet. I like her. She honorable and honest but maybe too much. I want her to assert herself to a few of the side characters. She is almost too innocent in the midst of many sharks in her life but that is also why I'm loving Brian so much. The way he takes care of her is very appealing.
There are so many outcomes I can see for the next book. I really don't know what to expect and that's a big reason why I am so enthralled with this story. I'm so happy book 2 is being published not long after this book. ARC provided by Author.
Brian's story is believable. The way he is an old soul due to how young he was when he had to become the man of the house. I'm very intrigued by him and I'm on pins and needles waiting to see what is going to happen in book 2.
I'm not sure how I feel about Jane yet. I like her. She honorable and honest but maybe too much. I want her to assert herself to a few of the side characters. She is almost too innocent in the midst of many sharks in her life but that is also why I'm loving Brian so much. The way he takes care of her is very appealing.
There are so many outcomes I can see for the next book. I really don't know what to expect and that's a big reason why I am so enthralled with this story. I'm so happy book 2 is being published not long after this book. ARC provided by Author.
April 18, 2021
Extremely Spoilery review.
Well, I can honestly say that the differences between their ages didn't bother me at all. She's in her earlies 40s and he's 19, almost 20.
Now let's talk about the heroine.
Why the heck do authors think women over 40 are so pathetic? That we are pushover and weaks. Why can't they write a women who is confident in herself? Yes the heroine had a job that she liked and was somewhat financially secure, didn't need a man to take care of her but she was so pathetic that when her husband told her she was leaving her for another woman whom he was cheating on for months or years she just sat there asking him to talk at home, I wanted to tell her 'lady wake the fuck up'
She awakes one night from hearing some noises, calls the police, they never showed up btw, you can get murder in this town and the police doesn't care at all. she decides to check it out and finds 3 hooligans on her pool, she asked them to leave and the hero ordered her to go inside the house so they would leave and she does. She might as well should have invited them for a cup of tea, she was standing there like she knew them.
Next morning she wakes up to lawn mower noises and finds the hero again inside her property. She gets dressed and instead of saying she will call the cops she leaves him there and goes for a run. This woman could easily get murdered and she seems to think she's safe with men that she doesn't even know.
Her husband took advantage of the heroine when she was weak from grieving, what he did was close to sexual assault. When her fiancé died he slipped into her dorm room, got naked and had had sex with her without protection, she kept saying they shouldn't do this. She didn't want him and she was too weak to pushed him away. He trapped her into a marriage that she didn't want because he got her pregnant.
Her daughter seemed to hate her and she's getting along with his father pregnant fiancé pretty well The ow wanted to take over the heroine's life. The husband told her that he was also taking back the house it didn't matter to him that his daughter was living with her mother, nope he wanted the house because the witch of his fiancé wanted to lived in the same place/town the heroine was living so she moved out. Now I don't know anything about laws but I'm pretty sure even if the house it's only on your husband's name your still entitled to have to at least half of the money if they decide to sell it but the heroine just gave up her house, a house she loved, a house she decorated. Her dream house and she just handed over the keys so easily.
This ow also told the heroine not to call her own daughter at their house because her daughter felt bad. What does the heroine do? She said if my daughter is uncomfortable with me calling her then I'll stop. Excuse fucking me!! She's a fucking kid. Not a fucking grown up. I will fucking call me my daughter whether she likes or not.
Another issue I had was, with the daughter's birthday party which the ow wanted to throw it. She told the heroine and I was glad that at least that the heroine told her no. Im presuming that the OW told the daughter about it and the daughter told heroine that she wanted to throw the party herself when the heroine said yes she runs to call the ow and told her yes. And guess what? The ow hands out an invitation to the party. To her own daughter's party. I would have ripped the damn fucking invitation and thrown in at her face.
Every one walk all over the heroine. From her ex husband, her best friend Btw friends like her who needs enemies, her daughter, the Ex husband's fiancé to the hero.
There's was just ONE thing I liked about the hero, his love for his baby sister. But I just didn't like how he called her piglet because she was chubby and he put her on a diet. He put a 9 year old on a diet. The heck!
He also gets hired to take pictures of the heroine in compromising positions with him, the man who paid the hero is someone from the heroine's past. This someone is her dead fiancé's brother who supposedly she was found cheating on him with. (Which is not true) Anyway he wants revenge against her. I guess we'll see how that will panned out in the 2nd book.
I hated the hero.. I didn't like him. he was a borderline stalker. He invaded her privacy, he watched her get undressed on cameras that he installed without her permission. He's a pervert not someone who can be swooned after unless that's your thing. His obsession with the heroine was very unhealthy.
He tried to controlled her, calling her and getting jealous that she was out with her friends, He didn't respect her job, while she kept saying she couldn't and didn't want to have sex in her office, did he listen to her? No he didn't cared. That's not someone who has the best interest for you. In fact he gets off of other people watching him have sex. He enjoys voyeurism. He tied her and when she asked him if he'll untied her he again doesn't care and says no because she needs to explore it how much pleasure she will get from being restrained. Now I don't know how a relationship between Doms and subs and believe me I don't care to find out but I know from the couple of books that I've read that if the Dom fails to comply with the subs request of not wanting to do something that breaks all the trust. Am I right or am I wrong? Like I said I don't care to find out.
Hero is being forced into dating this 1 girl that has a crush on him by her father, he's not interested in this girl and he makes it clear to her father and her that he's taken, at this point he has only talked to her and nothing else. Who knows what it'll happen on the 2nd book.
I honestly don't know how this relationship will work because heroine is ashamed of being seen with the hero because of their age and he's borderline controlling ass.
I would like to see her husband gets what's coming to him right along with his pregnant fiancé's. Nothing was fixed on this book, the author wanted to drag it into the 2nd book.
Well, I can honestly say that the differences between their ages didn't bother me at all. She's in her earlies 40s and he's 19, almost 20.
Now let's talk about the heroine.
Why the heck do authors think women over 40 are so pathetic? That we are pushover and weaks. Why can't they write a women who is confident in herself? Yes the heroine had a job that she liked and was somewhat financially secure, didn't need a man to take care of her but she was so pathetic that when her husband told her she was leaving her for another woman whom he was cheating on for months or years she just sat there asking him to talk at home, I wanted to tell her 'lady wake the fuck up'
She awakes one night from hearing some noises, calls the police, they never showed up btw, you can get murder in this town and the police doesn't care at all. she decides to check it out and finds 3 hooligans on her pool, she asked them to leave and the hero ordered her to go inside the house so they would leave and she does. She might as well should have invited them for a cup of tea, she was standing there like she knew them.
Next morning she wakes up to lawn mower noises and finds the hero again inside her property. She gets dressed and instead of saying she will call the cops she leaves him there and goes for a run. This woman could easily get murdered and she seems to think she's safe with men that she doesn't even know.
Her husband took advantage of the heroine when she was weak from grieving, what he did was close to sexual assault. When her fiancé died he slipped into her dorm room, got naked and had had sex with her without protection, she kept saying they shouldn't do this. She didn't want him and she was too weak to pushed him away. He trapped her into a marriage that she didn't want because he got her pregnant.
Her daughter seemed to hate her and she's getting along with his father pregnant fiancé pretty well The ow wanted to take over the heroine's life. The husband told her that he was also taking back the house it didn't matter to him that his daughter was living with her mother, nope he wanted the house because the witch of his fiancé wanted to lived in the same place/town the heroine was living so she moved out. Now I don't know anything about laws but I'm pretty sure even if the house it's only on your husband's name your still entitled to have to at least half of the money if they decide to sell it but the heroine just gave up her house, a house she loved, a house she decorated. Her dream house and she just handed over the keys so easily.
This ow also told the heroine not to call her own daughter at their house because her daughter felt bad. What does the heroine do? She said if my daughter is uncomfortable with me calling her then I'll stop. Excuse fucking me!! She's a fucking kid. Not a fucking grown up. I will fucking call me my daughter whether she likes or not.
Another issue I had was, with the daughter's birthday party which the ow wanted to throw it. She told the heroine and I was glad that at least that the heroine told her no. Im presuming that the OW told the daughter about it and the daughter told heroine that she wanted to throw the party herself when the heroine said yes she runs to call the ow and told her yes. And guess what? The ow hands out an invitation to the party. To her own daughter's party. I would have ripped the damn fucking invitation and thrown in at her face.
Every one walk all over the heroine. From her ex husband, her best friend Btw friends like her who needs enemies, her daughter, the Ex husband's fiancé to the hero.
There's was just ONE thing I liked about the hero, his love for his baby sister. But I just didn't like how he called her piglet because she was chubby and he put her on a diet. He put a 9 year old on a diet. The heck!
He also gets hired to take pictures of the heroine in compromising positions with him, the man who paid the hero is someone from the heroine's past. This someone is her dead fiancé's brother who supposedly she was found cheating on him with. (Which is not true) Anyway he wants revenge against her. I guess we'll see how that will panned out in the 2nd book.
I hated the hero.. I didn't like him. he was a borderline stalker. He invaded her privacy, he watched her get undressed on cameras that he installed without her permission. He's a pervert not someone who can be swooned after unless that's your thing. His obsession with the heroine was very unhealthy.
He tried to controlled her, calling her and getting jealous that she was out with her friends, He didn't respect her job, while she kept saying she couldn't and didn't want to have sex in her office, did he listen to her? No he didn't cared. That's not someone who has the best interest for you. In fact he gets off of other people watching him have sex. He enjoys voyeurism. He tied her and when she asked him if he'll untied her he again doesn't care and says no because she needs to explore it how much pleasure she will get from being restrained. Now I don't know how a relationship between Doms and subs and believe me I don't care to find out but I know from the couple of books that I've read that if the Dom fails to comply with the subs request of not wanting to do something that breaks all the trust. Am I right or am I wrong? Like I said I don't care to find out.
Hero is being forced into dating this 1 girl that has a crush on him by her father, he's not interested in this girl and he makes it clear to her father and her that he's taken, at this point he has only talked to her and nothing else. Who knows what it'll happen on the 2nd book.
I honestly don't know how this relationship will work because heroine is ashamed of being seen with the hero because of their age and he's borderline controlling ass.
I would like to see her husband gets what's coming to him right along with his pregnant fiancé's. Nothing was fixed on this book, the author wanted to drag it into the 2nd book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 17, 2018
4-4,4 stars
Old Enough took me by surprise, I didn't expect to love it so much!I find myself hooked and I couldn't put it down.It was hot,fast paced and intense.
The story line was refreshing and different from what I have read and this make me enjoy it even more.Brian is sweet,protective and sexy.Jane is an interesting heroine.I loved her most of the time but there were some moments she frustrate me.
I can't wait to read the next book!!
Old Enough took me by surprise, I didn't expect to love it so much!I find myself hooked and I couldn't put it down.It was hot,fast paced and intense.
The story line was refreshing and different from what I have read and this make me enjoy it even more.Brian is sweet,protective and sexy.Jane is an interesting heroine.I loved her most of the time but there were some moments she frustrate me.
I can't wait to read the next book!!
July 15, 2018
Wow! This was so much more than I anticipated!
I’ve never been a huge fan of the older woman/younger man trope but I’ve loved everything I’ve read by this author so I trusted her and took a step right off into the deep end of the crazy world she always seems to create. I couldn’t be happier about it.
Jane’s husband leaves her for another woman and her life is suddenly in turmoil. Her greatest love was lost years ago and so her marriage has been one of safety, security and friendship. Now she’s faced with trespassers in the middle of the night, a stranger who cares for her yard and garden, and the desire for a man much too young for her. When her body overrides her good sense, she gives in to the yearning he arouses in her and finds herself releasing the dragon within that has been asleep for well over a decade.
Brian is taken from the moment he first lays eyes upon Jane. She’s everything he shouldn’t want and all that he longs for. When he finagles himself into her life he’s in it for keeps. Age doesn’t matter. His is an old soul and his life has been one to add to his soul’s experiences. Now that he has Jane almost where he wants her, he’s walking a tightrope to keep not only her safe, but his family and himself as well.
I am definitely in love with Brian! Oh my gawd! He’s everything you could want in a book boyfriend and more. His desire for Jane is off the charts and he doesn’t hold back for a moment. He then follows up with the upmost care and concern for her. Her happiness is all that matters to him and he will do anything to see she has what she needs even as he ensures she remains his forever.
Jane is damaged and broken and a bit uncertain about everything that involves her relationship with Brian. Except for the unwavering desire they have for one another. It doesn’t take her long to give in to the desire but she’s still battling outside forces that threaten to steal her happiness in regards to her daughter. I absolutely hurt for the things she has to endure in order to seal Abby’s desires, even at the cost of Jane’s own peace of mind.
This is a fast paced read with secondary characters that I’m not sure I trust and some I’m supposed to trust but can’t allow myself to freely do so. The steam is off the charts hot and holy cheese and crackers, I’m sure my kindle was singed a time or two. I’m not a BDSM fan but the little bit that is shared between the hero and heroine was just too perfect to be anything but delicious.
There are so many things taking place inside this story all at one time and those things kept me on the edge of my seat, waiting for just one tiny break to learn where everything is headed. However, this author refused to feed the beast within me and continued to tease and taunt me until the very end of this installment of the duet. I need book 2 like right now!
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
I’ve never been a huge fan of the older woman/younger man trope but I’ve loved everything I’ve read by this author so I trusted her and took a step right off into the deep end of the crazy world she always seems to create. I couldn’t be happier about it.
Jane’s husband leaves her for another woman and her life is suddenly in turmoil. Her greatest love was lost years ago and so her marriage has been one of safety, security and friendship. Now she’s faced with trespassers in the middle of the night, a stranger who cares for her yard and garden, and the desire for a man much too young for her. When her body overrides her good sense, she gives in to the yearning he arouses in her and finds herself releasing the dragon within that has been asleep for well over a decade.
Brian is taken from the moment he first lays eyes upon Jane. She’s everything he shouldn’t want and all that he longs for. When he finagles himself into her life he’s in it for keeps. Age doesn’t matter. His is an old soul and his life has been one to add to his soul’s experiences. Now that he has Jane almost where he wants her, he’s walking a tightrope to keep not only her safe, but his family and himself as well.
I am definitely in love with Brian! Oh my gawd! He’s everything you could want in a book boyfriend and more. His desire for Jane is off the charts and he doesn’t hold back for a moment. He then follows up with the upmost care and concern for her. Her happiness is all that matters to him and he will do anything to see she has what she needs even as he ensures she remains his forever.
Jane is damaged and broken and a bit uncertain about everything that involves her relationship with Brian. Except for the unwavering desire they have for one another. It doesn’t take her long to give in to the desire but she’s still battling outside forces that threaten to steal her happiness in regards to her daughter. I absolutely hurt for the things she has to endure in order to seal Abby’s desires, even at the cost of Jane’s own peace of mind.
This is a fast paced read with secondary characters that I’m not sure I trust and some I’m supposed to trust but can’t allow myself to freely do so. The steam is off the charts hot and holy cheese and crackers, I’m sure my kindle was singed a time or two. I’m not a BDSM fan but the little bit that is shared between the hero and heroine was just too perfect to be anything but delicious.
There are so many things taking place inside this story all at one time and those things kept me on the edge of my seat, waiting for just one tiny break to learn where everything is headed. However, this author refused to feed the beast within me and continued to tease and taunt me until the very end of this installment of the duet. I need book 2 like right now!
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
July 31, 2018
Jane:
When I meet his eyes again, there’s amusement in his. He knows he’s pretty, and he’s used to being looked at. He flashes me a smile, exposing a dimple in his left cheek.
Brian: She’s a woman, not a girl. Too much woman, maybe. For me, I mean. But Jane’s also a lady. She’s in a class that exists on the other side of the tracks, the kind who is well-bred and polite.
Jane and Brian: The battle I’ve been fighting for the past two weeks is lost. I become wholly and irrevocably aware of him as a man. The awareness hits me like a meteorite–his strong grip, his hard body, his unusual height, his sexual vitality, and his masculine dominance. The impulses catch me off-guard, not giving me time to hide my reaction to his touch.
Sooooo.....this book has basically made me very angry. Fuming angry in several occasions.
The story is simply enough. Woman in her early forties, Jane. Her husband cheats with his secretary. She is lonely and sad. And a young man more than 20 years younger than her, Brian, will make her feel desirable and happy again.
I love stories with younger men - older women. Thus this story was right up my alley. Very passionate. Very real. Very intense.
But as mentioned I was basically angry when I was reading it. Most of the characters were getting in my nerves:
☆Francois ☆, the husband, who decides to discard his wife for a younger, more desirable woman and breaks up cold-heartedly with her in a busy restaurant to avoid a bad scene.
☆ Debbie ☆, the secretary, who obviously wants to steal Jane's life: her house, her friends, her husband and daughter.
☆ Abby ☆, the daughter, who has no problem accepting ungratefully and unregretfully a new mother-figure in only a few months' time.
☆Dorothy ☆, her ex-fiancé’s mother, who keeps hiding important things from her.
☆Loretta☆, the best friend, who is ready to betray her and she cannot accept or support her and who is obviously jealous of her best friend.
☆Lindy ☆, the spoiled princess, who wants the bad boy and demands from her daddy to give him to her.
☆Jasmine ☆, Brian's mother, who lost in drinking has left her teenager son alone to provide for the family.
☆The mysterious man ☆, who seeks revenge, without understanding and forgiving.
☆Evan☆ , dead Evan, who left Jane alone to pick up her pieces.
☆The whole society☆ , judgmental and cruel. Almost everyone accepts a man having an affair with a much younger girl and even betray his wife. But they don't easily accept an older woman having a relationship with a much younger man – no matter how mature he is and no matter how old his soul is.
☆Brian☆ , who will betray Jane.
☆Jane☆ , who has always been the victim.
Lastly, I have to emphasise two things:
1. How hot is Brian. I am sure he would have been a perfect star in “female friendly porn” movies.
2. How happy that I am that I have discovered a really good author with stories that take place in South Africa: Pretoria and Johannesburg. I know almost nothing about this part of the world.
I am looking forward to reading the second and last book of the series.
Brian: She’s a woman, not a girl. Too much woman, maybe. For me, I mean. But Jane’s also a lady. She’s in a class that exists on the other side of the tracks, the kind who is well-bred and polite.
Jane and Brian: The battle I’ve been fighting for the past two weeks is lost. I become wholly and irrevocably aware of him as a man. The awareness hits me like a meteorite–his strong grip, his hard body, his unusual height, his sexual vitality, and his masculine dominance. The impulses catch me off-guard, not giving me time to hide my reaction to his touch.
Sooooo.....this book has basically made me very angry. Fuming angry in several occasions.
The story is simply enough. Woman in her early forties, Jane. Her husband cheats with his secretary. She is lonely and sad. And a young man more than 20 years younger than her, Brian, will make her feel desirable and happy again.
I love stories with younger men - older women. Thus this story was right up my alley. Very passionate. Very real. Very intense.
But as mentioned I was basically angry when I was reading it. Most of the characters were getting in my nerves:
☆Francois ☆, the husband, who decides to discard his wife for a younger, more desirable woman and breaks up cold-heartedly with her in a busy restaurant to avoid a bad scene.
☆ Debbie ☆, the secretary, who obviously wants to steal Jane's life: her house, her friends, her husband and daughter.
☆ Abby ☆, the daughter, who has no problem accepting ungratefully and unregretfully a new mother-figure in only a few months' time.
☆Dorothy ☆, her ex-fiancé’s mother, who keeps hiding important things from her.
☆Loretta☆, the best friend, who is ready to betray her and she cannot accept or support her and who is obviously jealous of her best friend.
☆Lindy ☆, the spoiled princess, who wants the bad boy and demands from her daddy to give him to her.
☆Jasmine ☆, Brian's mother, who lost in drinking has left her teenager son alone to provide for the family.
☆The mysterious man ☆, who seeks revenge, without understanding and forgiving.
☆Evan☆ , dead Evan, who left Jane alone to pick up her pieces.
☆The whole society☆ , judgmental and cruel. Almost everyone accepts a man having an affair with a much younger girl and even betray his wife. But they don't easily accept an older woman having a relationship with a much younger man – no matter how mature he is and no matter how old his soul is.
☆Brian☆ , who will betray Jane.
☆Jane☆ , who has always been the victim.
Lastly, I have to emphasise two things:
1. How hot is Brian. I am sure he would have been a perfect star in “female friendly porn” movies.
2. How happy that I am that I have discovered a really good author with stories that take place in South Africa: Pretoria and Johannesburg. I know almost nothing about this part of the world.
I am looking forward to reading the second and last book of the series.
July 23, 2018
4 STARS!
The story opens with 42 year-old ad exec Jane getting blindsided by her husband.
One month later she meets Brian.
Brian is not your average 19 year old. He may be young . . . and poor, but he's no stranger to responsibility or working hard for what he wants. And he wants Jane. Full stop.
Brian was . . . not very realistic. There wasn't a single moment where I believed he was only 19. He was just too confident, too in-charge, too cool, calm and collected. But, hey, I'm not going to lie and say it was a deal breaker for me, lol. He was everything I LOVE in a male character.
And Jane? She may have been strong and sure when she dealt with Brian, but in every other aspect of her life, she was a doormat - her ex, her ex's girlfriend, and her best friend all left boot prints on her back.
BUT I'm sure this is part of the overall plot that will be addressed in the second installment, because, let me tell you, those three (ex, ex's gf, bf) have it coming - big time. In fact, there's A LOT that needs to come out/go down still. Can't wait!
This was a solid read from a great author.
It's both beautiful and scary. Like him.Creating a believable premise for a dark read is no easy feat, but once again Charmaine Pauls delivers!
The story opens with 42 year-old ad exec Jane getting blindsided by her husband.
"I'm leaving you."Despite the shock, she's not really dismayed. They may have shared 12 years and a child, but their marriage was never a heated one.
One month later she meets Brian.
Brian is not your average 19 year old. He may be young . . . and poor, but he's no stranger to responsibility or working hard for what he wants. And he wants Jane. Full stop.
I want to give her ample warning of what's to come, that I intend to seduce, fight, and manipulate until I have my way with her.So, I really appreciated how the circumstance surrounding Jane and Brian's meeting was very well-thought out. Their EXPLOSIVE relationship also progressed in a way that felt organic, going from just sex...
It's a good and bad kind of heat, making me want to cuddle and fuck her simultaneously....to kinky sex laced with intimacy and the beginnings of trust...
Every time he fucks me rough, he liberates a chained-up part of me. Every time he loves me tenderly, he repairs a broken piece of my soul.I liked that the author took the time to bring them closer together . . . but if there's a weakness in this story, it's in the characters.
Brian was . . . not very realistic. There wasn't a single moment where I believed he was only 19. He was just too confident, too in-charge, too cool, calm and collected. But, hey, I'm not going to lie and say it was a deal breaker for me, lol. He was everything I LOVE in a male character.
And Jane? She may have been strong and sure when she dealt with Brian, but in every other aspect of her life, she was a doormat - her ex, her ex's girlfriend, and her best friend all left boot prints on her back.
BUT I'm sure this is part of the overall plot that will be addressed in the second installment, because, let me tell you, those three (ex, ex's gf, bf) have it coming - big time. In fact, there's A LOT that needs to come out/go down still. Can't wait!
This was a solid read from a great author.
July 22, 2018
So. Here's the nutshell: Like Brian, the hero a LOT. His name, not so much. I dunno. Brian is just so proverbial. Too common for his compelling character. Jane? Don't care. She's not bad, but she's not memorable either. It's Brian I'm reading the book for.
Plot - predictable as you can imagine. The fact the novel ended without really "ending" is deeply unsatisfying. Why drag this out??? Just give them their happily ever after already. I hate "series" that drag out for no good reason.
Sex - pretty hot. Not quite sure I like the description of the man parts tho. Keep having the image of elephant phallus in my head - long but not thick. Been watching a documentary on mating in the animal kingdom lately. It stuck.
(OK, not elephant phallus. I seem to recall they have thick ones too. Something maybe in the bird kingdom? Dog phallus? Long and thin in other words...)
Look, I wouldn't be obsessing over this if the author didn't describe repeatedly in vivid detail.
Would I read more of the series? Prob not. It was one of those quick burger inhales and quickly purged from the system. Nor would I reread
I was hoping for more of a romance, less of a drag out.
Still. I do love the completely unrealistic made-up Brian!
After thought - the book had lots of grammar and spelling mistakes. Hit on my nerves at times. Good thing I skipped over the boring bits...
Plot - predictable as you can imagine. The fact the novel ended without really "ending" is deeply unsatisfying. Why drag this out??? Just give them their happily ever after already. I hate "series" that drag out for no good reason.
Sex - pretty hot. Not quite sure I like the description of the man parts tho. Keep having the image of elephant phallus in my head - long but not thick. Been watching a documentary on mating in the animal kingdom lately. It stuck.
(OK, not elephant phallus. I seem to recall they have thick ones too. Something maybe in the bird kingdom? Dog phallus? Long and thin in other words...)
Look, I wouldn't be obsessing over this if the author didn't describe repeatedly in vivid detail.
Would I read more of the series? Prob not. It was one of those quick burger inhales and quickly purged from the system. Nor would I reread
I was hoping for more of a romance, less of a drag out.
Still. I do love the completely unrealistic made-up Brian!
After thought - the book had lots of grammar and spelling mistakes. Hit on my nerves at times. Good thing I skipped over the boring bits...
May 11, 2020
Well, well well, what a surprise this was.
So after previously deciding against ARC reading this; as well if I'm honest as much as I love age gap romances they don't really work for me when its a younger man older women.
I know double standard and all, buts that's just the way I roll.
I can only think of one instance when the above trope has worked for me; a story by Carian cole so I usually avoid younger man romances like the plague.
But after reading a small taster of the first couple chapters the author sent my way I was actually extremely intrigued here and after much internal deliberation decided to give "The Age Between Us" Duo a whirl.
I already knew I liked this author as have read previous works of hers and really enjoyed them but was still a bit apprehensive as this is not usually my thing.
Well bloody hell!! really taken aback here; this was absolutely brilliant in every way that counts.
That's not to say I am going to go out and read all the YM/OW books out there I'm not a convert or anything, far from it but this is definitely my exception to the rule.
This book ticked all my boxes on every level.
It raised the bar and then some.
It wove such an intricate web easily pulling me into the addictive storyline.
I don't think I have any criticisms here with "Old Enough" except it ended too soon.
I liked Jane very much but it was Brian who stole the show for me I adored him.
His maturity was way over the usual nineteen-year-olds.
His upbringing and background bringing such a maturity of character to the table; he seemed so very self-aware and also responsible with the added obligation of his mother and sister.
He's all about his family and making things easier for them.
And his confidence in his own sexuality well it was bloody red-hot its no wonder Jane couldn't hold out shes only human and Brian may be the younger of the two but he's a man in all the ways that count and that included taking charge; He likes to be the one in control.
And while this does mainly concentrate on the connection being forged between Jane and Brian.
There was also a lot of underlying storylines being intertwined such as how these two originally were brought together and issues Brian has going on with the local gang boss.
This seemed to be mostly about building the trust but I'm expecting everything to implode dramatically in book two with all the story threads connecting, can't wait.
So "Old Enough" has some really diverse characters all so different.
And while I adored some others were complete jerks.
I hated Janes Ex-Husband and his new flavour; but also felt that Jane needed to go nuclear on their butts.
She's been a bit of a doormat in her past and now her present and there not surprisingly taking the piss.
I'm hoping they get there comeuppance very soon.
I also didn't like Janes friend she was a grade A Biotch; there's telling it as it is and then there's backstabbing besties, shes reeks of the latter in my opinion and is no friend to Jane.
I hope Karma comes and stabs her in the eye.
Also Janes daughter; well shes a bit of a selfish brat but she has been taught it's all about her so you can hardly blame the girl; I really felt for Jane when she seemed to be losing out with Abby but I would have gone postal at the blatant disregard my Ex had for my role as mother here; just saying.
So I'm really looking forward to the next book here like jumping up and down with such anticipation.
I have a feeling things are really going to come to a head, it's going to be epic I hope.
I really can't recommend this enough so please don't be put off by the age gap here; I'm so glad I put aside my preconceptions and gave this a chance or I would have missed this bloody fantastic read.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC of "Old Enough (The Age Between Us, #1)" of which I have reviewed voluntary.
All opinions are entirely my own.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm.
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
October 12, 2018
Oh. Wow.
Where to begin?
A 'taboo' romance between a 'wrong-side-of-the-tracks' 19 year old man (yes, a 'man' in every sense of the word) and a beautiful, sophisticated, up-town 42-year old woman?
Can I enjoy this and believe in them as a couple?
Oh you betcha!
First of all, the writing is first rate. It's such an interesting premise, and I was curious to see if the author could pull it off. Going in I was a bit skeptical, prepared to give up on it if it wasn't to my liking. But I not only liked it, I loved it. I couldn't swipe the pages fast enough. I really cared about this couple and wanted to see where it would go. And the only reason it took me two days to finish it was because work got in the way. (I hate when real life interferes with a good book!)
Anyhow, the story takes place in South Africa. It's not a big deal, just something different. The story could've taken place in any metro North American city. But I found the location interesting. The characters: Jane, a recently divorced advertising executive; and Brian, a student/bricklayer/Adonis.
Jane has just been dumped by her husband (Francois) of 12 years for another woman. They share a 12 year old daughter (Abby--who I found a little bratty) and have had a less than passionate marriage. Jane's true love was a man named Evan, who died in a motorcycle accident. Jane shoulders the blame for that, and has lived with that guilt for 12 years. Something died in her when Evan died, but she had to go on living for the sake of her daughter.
How do Jane and Brian cross paths? A stranger makes a proposition to Brian in a bar. He sees how the ladies react to the studly Brian and he thinks he can use Brian's charm and good looks to accomplish something he wants. He offers the cash poor, struggling Brian $50,000 if he will seduce Jane and take a picture of them 'in the act'. Seems this guy has a score to settle with Jane...
Brian is tempted (for about a minute) since he is the sole caregiver/provider for his agoraphobic mother and his pre-teen little sister. The money would solve all of his financial problems. And seducing this Jane would not be a hardship at all. But looking at her picture he feels a connection. He vows to meet her...
I don't want to reveal much more.
They meet, the lust explodes off the pages, they can't help themselves and have a secret affair. Brian may be nineteen but he has the maturity and sexual skills of a much older man. What he's been through in his life and how he takes care of his family and how protective he is of Jane makes you forget about his age. And Jane comes across as much younger than her age. Yes she has concerns about being old enough to be his mother, but he unleashes her long dormant passion and she just can't help herself around him. (Really, their sex scenes together are almost animalistic. Brian is a dominant, dirty-talker in the bedroom and Jane is only too happy to obey his every command.)
Obviously this relationship is not going to be smooth sailing. There are objections from both family and friends, there's an ex-husband who's determined to take everything away from Jane, there's a local mafiosa who is blackmailing Brian into marriage with his spoiled daughter, and there's a secret from Brian's past that is bound to reveal itself that may come between Brian and Jane. The odds are stacked against them.
The book ends on a cliffhanger (!) hinting at a betrayal from someone Jane loves...guess who...
Luckily I had the next book (Young Enough: The Age Between Us) on hand because I had to know how this relationship played out!
To sum up--this book had everything to keep me turning the pages. Riveting writing, a grand soap-operish plot, plenty of twists and turns and reveals, scorching and I mean scorching hot sex, and characters to root for. I may have had a few problems with Jane (I thought she was too passive sometimes when it came to fighting for what she wanted/deserved and maybe gave in too easily), but Brian---god, for the most part I just marveled at what a man he was and all that he took on at a young age. And if he wanted Jane, then I wanted him to have Jane!
I just loved this story--and I would love to see it made into a movie.
5 big stars!
This book contains some graphic sex scenes (both oral and anal), a dirty talking hero, some spanking and almost public sex, and some voyeurism. Not for the faint of heart.
My thanks to the publisher for providing an arc via Netgalley.
Where to begin?
A 'taboo' romance between a 'wrong-side-of-the-tracks' 19 year old man (yes, a 'man' in every sense of the word) and a beautiful, sophisticated, up-town 42-year old woman?
Can I enjoy this and believe in them as a couple?
Oh you betcha!
First of all, the writing is first rate. It's such an interesting premise, and I was curious to see if the author could pull it off. Going in I was a bit skeptical, prepared to give up on it if it wasn't to my liking. But I not only liked it, I loved it. I couldn't swipe the pages fast enough. I really cared about this couple and wanted to see where it would go. And the only reason it took me two days to finish it was because work got in the way. (I hate when real life interferes with a good book!)
Anyhow, the story takes place in South Africa. It's not a big deal, just something different. The story could've taken place in any metro North American city. But I found the location interesting. The characters: Jane, a recently divorced advertising executive; and Brian, a student/bricklayer/Adonis.
Jane has just been dumped by her husband (Francois) of 12 years for another woman. They share a 12 year old daughter (Abby--who I found a little bratty) and have had a less than passionate marriage. Jane's true love was a man named Evan, who died in a motorcycle accident. Jane shoulders the blame for that, and has lived with that guilt for 12 years. Something died in her when Evan died, but she had to go on living for the sake of her daughter.
How do Jane and Brian cross paths? A stranger makes a proposition to Brian in a bar. He sees how the ladies react to the studly Brian and he thinks he can use Brian's charm and good looks to accomplish something he wants. He offers the cash poor, struggling Brian $50,000 if he will seduce Jane and take a picture of them 'in the act'. Seems this guy has a score to settle with Jane...
Brian is tempted (for about a minute) since he is the sole caregiver/provider for his agoraphobic mother and his pre-teen little sister. The money would solve all of his financial problems. And seducing this Jane would not be a hardship at all. But looking at her picture he feels a connection. He vows to meet her...
I don't want to reveal much more.
They meet, the lust explodes off the pages, they can't help themselves and have a secret affair. Brian may be nineteen but he has the maturity and sexual skills of a much older man. What he's been through in his life and how he takes care of his family and how protective he is of Jane makes you forget about his age. And Jane comes across as much younger than her age. Yes she has concerns about being old enough to be his mother, but he unleashes her long dormant passion and she just can't help herself around him. (Really, their sex scenes together are almost animalistic. Brian is a dominant, dirty-talker in the bedroom and Jane is only too happy to obey his every command.)
Obviously this relationship is not going to be smooth sailing. There are objections from both family and friends, there's an ex-husband who's determined to take everything away from Jane, there's a local mafiosa who is blackmailing Brian into marriage with his spoiled daughter, and there's a secret from Brian's past that is bound to reveal itself that may come between Brian and Jane. The odds are stacked against them.
The book ends on a cliffhanger (!) hinting at a betrayal from someone Jane loves...guess who...
Luckily I had the next book (Young Enough: The Age Between Us) on hand because I had to know how this relationship played out!
To sum up--this book had everything to keep me turning the pages. Riveting writing, a grand soap-operish plot, plenty of twists and turns and reveals, scorching and I mean scorching hot sex, and characters to root for. I may have had a few problems with Jane (I thought she was too passive sometimes when it came to fighting for what she wanted/deserved and maybe gave in too easily), but Brian---god, for the most part I just marveled at what a man he was and all that he took on at a young age. And if he wanted Jane, then I wanted him to have Jane!
I just loved this story--and I would love to see it made into a movie.
5 big stars!
This book contains some graphic sex scenes (both oral and anal), a dirty talking hero, some spanking and almost public sex, and some voyeurism. Not for the faint of heart.
My thanks to the publisher for providing an arc via Netgalley.
August 30, 2018
2 Stars**
This book is hot, no doubt there. Unfortunately I need more than just hot sex in a book.
I was never able to connect with the characters and the plot was all over the place, it was overwhelming and confusing.
If you are looking for a really hot book, you know the panty-melting kind ? this is your book. For me I have to be in the mood for it, and I guess now is not that time.
This book is hot, no doubt there. Unfortunately I need more than just hot sex in a book.
I was never able to connect with the characters and the plot was all over the place, it was overwhelming and confusing.
If you are looking for a really hot book, you know the panty-melting kind ? this is your book. For me I have to be in the mood for it, and I guess now is not that time.
July 6, 2018
So good and the best is yet to come. Ugh cliffhangers!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I was curious about this story and what she would do to make this reverse May to September romance an okay situation. It is funny how people view others when the man is older – that is acceptable. However, when the woman is older, then that is seen differently. Shame and disgust can be evident even from your good friends.
This story is one of those stories. A hidden secret romance that has a huge secret attached to it. However, this young man has an old soul and is dedicated to this woman, regardless of what others say and do. That can be very dangerous.
The author has brought us a solid glimpse at this budding and somewhat dark romance, with a hint of danger and a taste of suspense attached. Loaded with super hot connections and plenty of erotic steam, you will need to make sure the fans are running to keep yourself cool. I am definitely rooting for Team Brian! I need to find me one!
However, this book is just the wind up to the whole romance. Ending on a hot cliffhanger, we have to wait a bit to get the rest of the story. I, for one, cannot wait to see how this one will play out!
* copy received for review consideration
full review - http://amidlifewife.com/old-enough-th...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I was curious about this story and what she would do to make this reverse May to September romance an okay situation. It is funny how people view others when the man is older – that is acceptable. However, when the woman is older, then that is seen differently. Shame and disgust can be evident even from your good friends.
This story is one of those stories. A hidden secret romance that has a huge secret attached to it. However, this young man has an old soul and is dedicated to this woman, regardless of what others say and do. That can be very dangerous.
The author has brought us a solid glimpse at this budding and somewhat dark romance, with a hint of danger and a taste of suspense attached. Loaded with super hot connections and plenty of erotic steam, you will need to make sure the fans are running to keep yourself cool. I am definitely rooting for Team Brian! I need to find me one!
However, this book is just the wind up to the whole romance. Ending on a hot cliffhanger, we have to wait a bit to get the rest of the story. I, for one, cannot wait to see how this one will play out!
* copy received for review consideration
full review - http://amidlifewife.com/old-enough-th...
July 25, 2018
✪✪ 1/2
Disclaimer: Thank you to the author and NetGalley whom provided a copy in exchange for an honest review.
I knew this was gonna be sexy, I just never thought there was gonna be HOT HOT HOLY FUCK HOT HOT “Am I burning yet?” type of sex scenes in it.
⚠ Rape, stalkerish behaviours, alpha-male, explicit sex.
💭Pre-reading thoughts:
I was hooked when I read this is a romance between an older woman and a young guy, is something I don't usually come across with and I really want to read more of. 🙌🏼
“The more I get to know her, the more I feel like I’m getting to know myself, because she’s a reflection of what I am. She’s an answer to my call. Two damaged souls. The only difference is with her there’s beauty in the broken.”
Disclaimer: Thank you to the author and NetGalley whom provided a copy in exchange for an honest review.
All images were found in pinterest, I do not own any of them.
I knew this was gonna be sexy, I just never thought there was gonna be HOT HOT HOLY FUCK HOT HOT “Am I burning yet?” type of sex scenes in it.
⚠ Rape, stalkerish behaviours, alpha-male, explicit sex.
💭Pre-reading thoughts:
I was hooked when I read this is a romance between an older woman and a young guy, is something I don't usually come across with and I really want to read more of. 🙌🏼
January 12, 2022
The book is typical Charmaine Pauls, excellent writing that instantly sucks you into the story. But this was also off the charts ridiculous. Overly drama filled, unrealistic, but also really smutty fun. There is a twenty-three year age gap in this one.
Everything but the kitchen sink was thrown at this poor woman. BUT, she does get an excellent nineteen-year-old who is somehow excellent in the sack. So much steam, I can’t even give it a proper description. I just really wish something would go her way, but I have a feeling, it’s only going to get worse in book two.
Everything but the kitchen sink was thrown at this poor woman. BUT, she does get an excellent nineteen-year-old who is somehow excellent in the sack. So much steam, I can’t even give it a proper description. I just really wish something would go her way, but I have a feeling, it’s only going to get worse in book two.
August 4, 2019
3.5-4 ⭐'s
I started writing this review after I’ve already finished the second book and I have to say that this is the build up to the worst case of Murphy’s Law that I’ve ever read. Everything and I mean everything that could go wrong goes wrong for Jane and Brian.
But I digress - this book is about getting to know Jane and Brian and what started out as a possible job ends up being the love of Brian's life. He's only nineteen but he's wise beyond his years...in more ways than one!
Their relationship is one of an older woman and a younger man and all the baggage that comes with it. Jane is tying up the ends of a divorce and dealing with a stressful job. Brian is always trying to make ends meet and take care of his mom and sister.
So let's talk about one of the main components of this story and that's the crazy sex. Brian is very intense and it's hard to fathom based on his age. Yes, we get a little explanation but holy cow!!
One thing that was different about this story was that it's based in South Africa. There's a big concern for safety and it's a main thread for the story including some "gang-type" members.
As I said with the Murphy's Law situations, you can't help but feel for Jane. I HATED how she was treated and what she was put through...it was just too much. Ya gotta love that drama though.
I started writing this review after I’ve already finished the second book and I have to say that this is the build up to the worst case of Murphy’s Law that I’ve ever read. Everything and I mean everything that could go wrong goes wrong for Jane and Brian.
But I digress - this book is about getting to know Jane and Brian and what started out as a possible job ends up being the love of Brian's life. He's only nineteen but he's wise beyond his years...in more ways than one!
Their relationship is one of an older woman and a younger man and all the baggage that comes with it. Jane is tying up the ends of a divorce and dealing with a stressful job. Brian is always trying to make ends meet and take care of his mom and sister.
So let's talk about one of the main components of this story and that's the crazy sex. Brian is very intense and it's hard to fathom based on his age. Yes, we get a little explanation but holy cow!!
One thing that was different about this story was that it's based in South Africa. There's a big concern for safety and it's a main thread for the story including some "gang-type" members.
As I said with the Murphy's Law situations, you can't help but feel for Jane. I HATED how she was treated and what she was put through...it was just too much. Ya gotta love that drama though.
May 6, 2021
Damn, I can't believe I decided to reread this EXACTLY A YEAR after I first read this. So apparently last year I had a chem final after May 5, but this year I have a day off to study and then 2 finals the next day, interesting.
Francois, Jane's ex-husband, still pisses me off---what he did to her was so terrible, he ruined her life and squashed her dreams all so she would be with him and have his child. Also, I hate Debbie-how she tries to take Jane's daughter away from her. Even Francois taking her house away, then insisting she leaving all the furniture behind, is pretty cruel. If I saw those two in person, I would definitely punch them in the face. Moreover, I hate how Lindy feels entitled to have a person (just like Francois) and can actually get what she wants because of her dad's position of power. I wonder if she realizes that though.
I was craving some Charmaine Pauls that's why I picked this one up again. I don't really remember what happened in the sequel, except that , so I may reread that one too, but I gotta prioritize the studying over the reading...Can't wait to read her newest release "Stolen Lust".
As with all rereads, I enjoyed the book more the first time, but this one still holds up & is very entertaining.
*********Original Review*******
Woah it was really good. it took me some time but I finally realized the setting was in South Africa. That was interesting. At first, it seems like everything's normal but there seems to be an undercurrent of poverty and issues with law enforcement (the police) going on. I found this in the list where the heroine is older.
Brian is SO HOT. He really gives me Venus in Scorpio vibes, how he's so possessive over Jane and fixates on her immediately. I think it was in the prologue he doesn't seem so sexually confident when Benjamin approaches him with his offer, but then with Jane, it's like boom and he's all over a sudden a sex machine. That turn around in personality did throw me a bit.
Jane--I feel bad for her. We still don't know what's the story with her cheating on Evan, but I don't believe that. Evan was her first love and she still feels for his loss 12 years later. Francois basically got her pregnant on purpose (lowkey raped her?) and she dropped out of college to marry and raise his child, gave up on her dreams, and then he fucking ditches her for his secretary!!!! Such an assholeeeeee
And now she's stuck basically doing a job that (I think) she likes but isn't her dream.
I don't really like Abby that much either. She betrays her mom for Debbie.
I was a bit disappointed when we learned that Brian isn't 20 but 19 (but then again, what did I expect? in the first scene it was revealed when Benjamin was like but are you really? Guess I just forgot about that part LOL), because 19 is my age and for some reason in my mind, 20 sounds so much more manly, and adult than 19. It's easier to imagine him and Jane together when he's 20 and not 19.
Oooh I was not expecting the book to end there. Lmao that was something. I can't wait for book 2. Unfortunately, I have chem final I have to finish studying for tomorrow ughhh. Reading book 2 is so tempting.
Francois, Jane's ex-husband, still pisses me off---what he did to her was so terrible, he ruined her life and squashed her dreams all so she would be with him and have his child. Also, I hate Debbie-how she tries to take Jane's daughter away from her. Even Francois taking her house away, then insisting she leaving all the furniture behind, is pretty cruel. If I saw those two in person, I would definitely punch them in the face. Moreover, I hate how Lindy feels entitled to have a person (just like Francois) and can actually get what she wants because of her dad's position of power. I wonder if she realizes that though.
I was craving some Charmaine Pauls that's why I picked this one up again. I don't really remember what happened in the sequel, except that , so I may reread that one too, but I gotta prioritize the studying over the reading...Can't wait to read her newest release "Stolen Lust".
As with all rereads, I enjoyed the book more the first time, but this one still holds up & is very entertaining.
*********Original Review*******
Woah it was really good. it took me some time but I finally realized the setting was in South Africa. That was interesting. At first, it seems like everything's normal but there seems to be an undercurrent of poverty and issues with law enforcement (the police) going on. I found this in the list where the heroine is older.
Brian is SO HOT. He really gives me Venus in Scorpio vibes, how he's so possessive over Jane and fixates on her immediately. I think it was in the prologue he doesn't seem so sexually confident when Benjamin approaches him with his offer, but then with Jane, it's like boom and he's all over a sudden a sex machine. That turn around in personality did throw me a bit.
Jane--I feel bad for her. We still don't know what's the story with her cheating on Evan, but I don't believe that. Evan was her first love and she still feels for his loss 12 years later. Francois basically got her pregnant on purpose (lowkey raped her?) and she dropped out of college to marry and raise his child, gave up on her dreams, and then he fucking ditches her for his secretary!!!! Such an assholeeeeee
And now she's stuck basically doing a job that (I think) she likes but isn't her dream.
I don't really like Abby that much either. She betrays her mom for Debbie.
I was a bit disappointed when we learned that Brian isn't 20 but 19 (but then again, what did I expect? in the first scene it was revealed when Benjamin was like but are you really? Guess I just forgot about that part LOL), because 19 is my age and for some reason in my mind, 20 sounds so much more manly, and adult than 19. It's easier to imagine him and Jane together when he's 20 and not 19.
Oooh I was not expecting the book to end there. Lmao that was something. I can't wait for book 2. Unfortunately, I have chem final I have to finish studying for tomorrow ughhh. Reading book 2 is so tempting.
August 21, 2018
Spoilers Ahead!!!
Damn this book was a total disaster!
I sure finished the whole story because plot had points to keep you interested and some suspense to want you to reach the end but as i read the book all i was feeling was anger, frustration and so much pity ( for me).
First of all this was my saturday night read which i always look forward to but this book ruined it!!
Second of all whatever happened in heroine's life felt like a mix of bunch of bad soap operas where she is raped, stabbed, cheated, taken advantaged of and yet all she does is forgive, ignore or compromise i mean for fuck sake! i am okay with those plot turners but atleast give me some satisfactory justice and end but no all i got was pure frustating bullshit!!
Heroine's daughter was another thing like i can not even believe how she treated her own mother tbh i still can somehow understand all that but leaving your mother alone and staying with your stepmother with whom your father cheated on your mother like really? Ok somehow i understand that too but putting your stepmother's photo in the necklace your mother gifted you was too cruel and she only met her step mother for like 1 month before i mean c'mon! No 13 yr old girl is that insensitive and specially when she is smart enough to know how her mother never lover her father!!
Urghhhh!!
Why me god? Why? I hate this kinda reads where i can'nt dnf and end up feeling so frustating that i want to stap the characters of the book 😢😭😭
Damn this book was a total disaster!
I sure finished the whole story because plot had points to keep you interested and some suspense to want you to reach the end but as i read the book all i was feeling was anger, frustration and so much pity ( for me).
First of all this was my saturday night read which i always look forward to but this book ruined it!!
Second of all whatever happened in heroine's life felt like a mix of bunch of bad soap operas where she is raped, stabbed, cheated, taken advantaged of and yet all she does is forgive, ignore or compromise i mean for fuck sake! i am okay with those plot turners but atleast give me some satisfactory justice and end but no all i got was pure frustating bullshit!!
Heroine's daughter was another thing like i can not even believe how she treated her own mother tbh i still can somehow understand all that but leaving your mother alone and staying with your stepmother with whom your father cheated on your mother like really? Ok somehow i understand that too but putting your stepmother's photo in the necklace your mother gifted you was too cruel and she only met her step mother for like 1 month before i mean c'mon! No 13 yr old girl is that insensitive and specially when she is smart enough to know how her mother never lover her father!!
Urghhhh!!
Why me god? Why? I hate this kinda reads where i can'nt dnf and end up feeling so frustating that i want to stap the characters of the book 😢😭😭
May 19, 2023
Recensione sulla mia pagina Bookstagram
https://www.instagram.com/p/CsbTsx-M2...
Leggere un libro di Charmaine Pauls è sempre una bella esperienza. I suoi romanzi coinvolgono e trasportano o in affascinanti paesi lontani, o in situazioni intriganti, lasciando sempre sensazioni positive.
Questo romanzo in particolare mette in discussione alcuni stereotipi, convinzioni o preconcetti, che spesso si sposano e portano avanti senza aver fatto attente riflessioni, solo perché “così è sempre stato” “così è più giusto”.
La normalità è un concetto effimero che lascia il tempo che trova.
A mio parere.
In Abbastanza Grande la differenza di età tra i protagonisti è l’elemento scabroso che fa notizia.
Lui in realtà dimostra di essere molto più maturo, per come si relaziona con gli altri e per le interazioni con Jane, frutto sicuramente di esperienze già vissute. C’è da dire che anche sul piano erotico risulta essere un passo avanti.
Jane è una donna bellissima, raffinata e dal fascino austero, ma è una protagonista fragile, resa insicura da una storia travagliata che l’ha fatta tanto soffrire, finendo per influenzare inevitabilmente le sue aspettative sull’amore.
Per tutta la narrazione si avverte un alone di mistero, piccoli indizi disseminati nei vari capitoli che alimentano la curiosità ma che in questo primo libro della serie non vedranno la luce.
Una lettura appassionante e, soprattutto, passionale, che consiglio.
*Ringrazio la CE per la copia digitale e la collaborazione
https://www.instagram.com/p/CsbTsx-M2...
Leggere un libro di Charmaine Pauls è sempre una bella esperienza. I suoi romanzi coinvolgono e trasportano o in affascinanti paesi lontani, o in situazioni intriganti, lasciando sempre sensazioni positive.
Questo romanzo in particolare mette in discussione alcuni stereotipi, convinzioni o preconcetti, che spesso si sposano e portano avanti senza aver fatto attente riflessioni, solo perché “così è sempre stato” “così è più giusto”.
La normalità è un concetto effimero che lascia il tempo che trova.
A mio parere.
In Abbastanza Grande la differenza di età tra i protagonisti è l’elemento scabroso che fa notizia.
Lui in realtà dimostra di essere molto più maturo, per come si relaziona con gli altri e per le interazioni con Jane, frutto sicuramente di esperienze già vissute. C’è da dire che anche sul piano erotico risulta essere un passo avanti.
Jane è una donna bellissima, raffinata e dal fascino austero, ma è una protagonista fragile, resa insicura da una storia travagliata che l’ha fatta tanto soffrire, finendo per influenzare inevitabilmente le sue aspettative sull’amore.
Per tutta la narrazione si avverte un alone di mistero, piccoli indizi disseminati nei vari capitoli che alimentano la curiosità ma che in questo primo libro della serie non vedranno la luce.
Una lettura appassionante e, soprattutto, passionale, che consiglio.
*Ringrazio la CE per la copia digitale e la collaborazione
July 5, 2018
5 STARS JUST ISN’T ENOUGH FOR Old Enough
“The devil wears many disguises. His favorite is the one of lover, because it’s so effective.”
I LOVE EVERYTHING ABOUT THIS BOOK! THE MOOD, SETTING, PLOT, CHARACTERS…
THIS BOOK HAS IT ALL!!!!! I’m so much in AWE I really don’t know where to begin with this review so bear with me as I could very well go off on a number of tangents!
Oh the FEELS this book brought out of me! Charmaine Pauls is a brilliant writer who creates these layered characters you become completely head over heels in love with, and emotionally attached to. I feel for Jane! I love Brian! I hate anyone who stands in their way of achieving happiness, and it seems like the stakes are set against this taboo love affair. What makes it so taboo? Well, Jane is old enough to be Brian’s mother, and the layers keep getting added as their relationship becomes more complex and intertwined!
I really want to lament about how this book took me on this emotional roller coaster! I am still reeling from Jane’s tumultuous life as she is forced to take the back seat in each of her relationships. She is constantly put second by those who are supposed to love and value her! I was so sad for Jane as each person in her life made her their “last pick”! You could feel Jane’s despair as one person after another disappoints her, and the resolve she has to hold her head up and keep on moving, is unbelievable. This is what I absolutely love about the author’s writing, Ms. Pauls draws you into her world and you’re not just invested with her characters (to clarify, Brian and Jane) and empathize with them, you actually carry their emotional burdens with each page turned. I was devastated when I finished book one because I want Jane to have some semblance of happiness and joy and not just be “content” with what life has thrown at her.
The one part of Jane’s life that is actually fulfilling is that with her hawt-young-thang, Brian, who adores, ravishes and worships the ground Jane walks on.
Perfect right?
Not exactly...
The stars that aligned these two together weren’t exactly designed by some benevolent force. Brian is in Jane’s life for a reason and the motives are far from sweet, romantic destiny. You’ll get all this when you read the opening pages of Old Enough. I love the way this story unfolds, the plot so tactfully put together, that you immediately pay attention to all the details to pick apart whatever clues are dropped along the way.
While Jane’s life falls apart, Brian is exactly the distraction she needs to help her confront her suppressed sexual desire. The taboo push-pull nature of Jane’s relationship to Brian stokes the flames and Jane is caught between wanting to remain demure and fulfilling her supressed erotic fantasies.
How could I let him go so far? I’m an idiot. I’m a slut. Oh, dear God, I’m a cougar.
[…]
We’re a mess. An awful, beautiful, arousing mess.
Brian may be 20+ years her junior but he is a man who knows what he wants and has the ambition to go after it, and HE WANTS Jane. Brian helps Jane let go of the last bit of emotional attachment she has for Francois and anything material that came with it. Brian is the right kind of therapy Jane needs to unleash her suppressed desires after losing her first love. The process is so gut wrenching and hawt all at the same time!
Old Enough is the kind of book that stays with you even after days and weeks have gone by. I have a whole lot to say about Jane’s ex-husband Francois and his new Gf Debs, daughter Abby, BFF Loretta, and would-have-been mother-in-law Dorothy, unfortunately they would all be spoilers so I’ll keep my lips sealed. Though, I will say that these people around Jane don’t seem to be genuine or truly care for her well-being. It’s like an ambush! One thing after another happens to Jane that unravels her stability but their actions are always excused by them claiming it’s in her best interest!
WHATEVER!!!!
Brian’s network is no better, everyone who surrounds him seems to want to dig their claws in and keep him from doing better for himself. Meanwhile, the reader just takes it all in thinking Brian and Jane just can’t catch a break! But I love the way these two have the most SMOKEN-HAWT CHEMISTRY EVER!!!!
What will happen to these two in book two? Will there OW/YM relationship work or are the odds too stacked against them?
MAKE THIS YOUT NEXT HOT-n-SEXY SUMMER READ! YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED!
The book doesn’t end on a huge cliff-hanger but it is pretty DRAMA, and I can’t say enough that I can’t wait for book two!!!!
I was kindly provided an ARC for an honest review. All opinions shared here are my own.
AUSGUST CAN’T COME SOON ENOUGH FOR BOOK TWO YOUNG ENOUGH!
“The devil wears many disguises. His favorite is the one of lover, because it’s so effective.”
I LOVE EVERYTHING ABOUT THIS BOOK! THE MOOD, SETTING, PLOT, CHARACTERS…
THIS BOOK HAS IT ALL!!!!! I’m so much in AWE I really don’t know where to begin with this review so bear with me as I could very well go off on a number of tangents!
Oh the FEELS this book brought out of me! Charmaine Pauls is a brilliant writer who creates these layered characters you become completely head over heels in love with, and emotionally attached to. I feel for Jane! I love Brian! I hate anyone who stands in their way of achieving happiness, and it seems like the stakes are set against this taboo love affair. What makes it so taboo? Well, Jane is old enough to be Brian’s mother, and the layers keep getting added as their relationship becomes more complex and intertwined!
I really want to lament about how this book took me on this emotional roller coaster! I am still reeling from Jane’s tumultuous life as she is forced to take the back seat in each of her relationships. She is constantly put second by those who are supposed to love and value her! I was so sad for Jane as each person in her life made her their “last pick”! You could feel Jane’s despair as one person after another disappoints her, and the resolve she has to hold her head up and keep on moving, is unbelievable. This is what I absolutely love about the author’s writing, Ms. Pauls draws you into her world and you’re not just invested with her characters (to clarify, Brian and Jane) and empathize with them, you actually carry their emotional burdens with each page turned. I was devastated when I finished book one because I want Jane to have some semblance of happiness and joy and not just be “content” with what life has thrown at her.
The one part of Jane’s life that is actually fulfilling is that with her hawt-young-thang, Brian, who adores, ravishes and worships the ground Jane walks on.
Perfect right?
Not exactly...
The stars that aligned these two together weren’t exactly designed by some benevolent force. Brian is in Jane’s life for a reason and the motives are far from sweet, romantic destiny. You’ll get all this when you read the opening pages of Old Enough. I love the way this story unfolds, the plot so tactfully put together, that you immediately pay attention to all the details to pick apart whatever clues are dropped along the way.
While Jane’s life falls apart, Brian is exactly the distraction she needs to help her confront her suppressed sexual desire. The taboo push-pull nature of Jane’s relationship to Brian stokes the flames and Jane is caught between wanting to remain demure and fulfilling her supressed erotic fantasies.
How could I let him go so far? I’m an idiot. I’m a slut. Oh, dear God, I’m a cougar.
[…]
We’re a mess. An awful, beautiful, arousing mess.
Brian may be 20+ years her junior but he is a man who knows what he wants and has the ambition to go after it, and HE WANTS Jane. Brian helps Jane let go of the last bit of emotional attachment she has for Francois and anything material that came with it. Brian is the right kind of therapy Jane needs to unleash her suppressed desires after losing her first love. The process is so gut wrenching and hawt all at the same time!
Old Enough is the kind of book that stays with you even after days and weeks have gone by. I have a whole lot to say about Jane’s ex-husband Francois and his new Gf Debs, daughter Abby, BFF Loretta, and would-have-been mother-in-law Dorothy, unfortunately they would all be spoilers so I’ll keep my lips sealed. Though, I will say that these people around Jane don’t seem to be genuine or truly care for her well-being. It’s like an ambush! One thing after another happens to Jane that unravels her stability but their actions are always excused by them claiming it’s in her best interest!
WHATEVER!!!!
Brian’s network is no better, everyone who surrounds him seems to want to dig their claws in and keep him from doing better for himself. Meanwhile, the reader just takes it all in thinking Brian and Jane just can’t catch a break! But I love the way these two have the most SMOKEN-HAWT CHEMISTRY EVER!!!!
What will happen to these two in book two? Will there OW/YM relationship work or are the odds too stacked against them?
MAKE THIS YOUT NEXT HOT-n-SEXY SUMMER READ! YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED!
The book doesn’t end on a huge cliff-hanger but it is pretty DRAMA, and I can’t say enough that I can’t wait for book two!!!!
I was kindly provided an ARC for an honest review. All opinions shared here are my own.
AUSGUST CAN’T COME SOON ENOUGH FOR BOOK TWO YOUNG ENOUGH!
July 18, 2018
I’m left gasping at the end of this book. I need the next book NOW!
The story of Jane and Brian has you literally galloping through this page turner.
The characters are so well written and yet again you are place somewhere that you know will end in tears but you don’t know which way the gut wrenching tragedy will come from.
There are a number of characters in this book that bring out that passionate side of you. I’m not a violent person but Debs need a bitch slap.
I can’t say enough good things about Brian and Jane. Brian is walking a tightrope trying to avoid the nasty Monkey and Jane is totally oblivious to this,and this is not the only issue.
I can’t say too much I don’t want to spoil things
Brian and Jane relationship is just ..................HOT😍😍
well worth 5 stars
The story of Jane and Brian has you literally galloping through this page turner.
The characters are so well written and yet again you are place somewhere that you know will end in tears but you don’t know which way the gut wrenching tragedy will come from.
There are a number of characters in this book that bring out that passionate side of you. I’m not a violent person but Debs need a bitch slap.
I can’t say enough good things about Brian and Jane. Brian is walking a tightrope trying to avoid the nasty Monkey and Jane is totally oblivious to this,and this is not the only issue.
I can’t say too much I don’t want to spoil things
Brian and Jane relationship is just ..................HOT😍😍
well worth 5 stars
July 17, 2018
Yikes. Old Enough is another fabulous read by this author but I really do need more:)
This is Jane and Brian’s story. I loved the different spin on how these two meet. Jane is older than Brian by quite a few years. She’s hesitant about being with a much younger man but every time they meet she falls for him more.
How long can Brian keep his secret for??
That ending was perfect. I can’t wait to read the second part of this story. I’ve got a feeling it’s gonna a faster paced read.
This is Jane and Brian’s story. I loved the different spin on how these two meet. Jane is older than Brian by quite a few years. She’s hesitant about being with a much younger man but every time they meet she falls for him more.
How long can Brian keep his secret for??
That ending was perfect. I can’t wait to read the second part of this story. I’ve got a feeling it’s gonna a faster paced read.
September 6, 2020
First book with an older woman.
I’d like to know why Jane was such a pushover. She also surrounds herself with selfish horrible people. After her fiancé died it seems that her ex husband raped her? What the fuck? There’s so much eye brow raising things about this.
I’d like to know why Jane was such a pushover. She also surrounds herself with selfish horrible people. After her fiancé died it seems that her ex husband raped her? What the fuck? There’s so much eye brow raising things about this.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 9, 2018
4 stars. Charmaine Pauls is slowly but surely on her way to becoming one of my new favorites. Her stories are so addictive and unique. I had no doubt in my mind that I was going to enjoy this and she definitely didn’t let me down.
Okay, picture my excitement when I got the e-mail about this book and seeing that it’s not only an Older/Younger relationship but an Older Woman/Younger Man relationship! Hell, yes. I’m all for that. The norm seems to be for the guy to be older so to see this was great. And it’s a significant age gap between them. She’s in her early 40’s and he’s on the cusp of turning 20.
The characters were great and felt so human and I think that’s one of the author’s strong points. She really does make her characters feel so authentic and I had no trouble rooting for the both of them.
The story has a lot more to it than what it seems. It’s not just a romance, Brian and Jane have so much going on in their own individual lives. Brian has a difficult home life, Jane is going through a divorce and kind of a mid-life crisis. The two of them together though are absolutely electrifying. Their chemistry is through the roof and the smut is superb. Brian is such a swoon worthy, dirty talking alpha male and I really love his character. Like a lot.
Jane was a great character as well. Everything in her life is just falling apart around her but she never let that get the best of her which I appreciated.
I’m only giving it 4 stars because this is definitely the set up novel. Book 2 is where all of the shit is going to go down and I can’t wait. Plus, the way this one ended left me yearning for the next one immediately.
*E-book provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
{Challenges completed:
✔For Love of a Book: Shopping Cart Challenge
✔For Love of a Book: The Walking Dead Word Search Challenge
✔Romance Readers Reading Challenges: The Wonderful World of Romance Quarterly Challenge}
Okay, picture my excitement when I got the e-mail about this book and seeing that it’s not only an Older/Younger relationship but an Older Woman/Younger Man relationship! Hell, yes. I’m all for that. The norm seems to be for the guy to be older so to see this was great. And it’s a significant age gap between them. She’s in her early 40’s and he’s on the cusp of turning 20.
The characters were great and felt so human and I think that’s one of the author’s strong points. She really does make her characters feel so authentic and I had no trouble rooting for the both of them.
The story has a lot more to it than what it seems. It’s not just a romance, Brian and Jane have so much going on in their own individual lives. Brian has a difficult home life, Jane is going through a divorce and kind of a mid-life crisis. The two of them together though are absolutely electrifying. Their chemistry is through the roof and the smut is superb. Brian is such a swoon worthy, dirty talking alpha male and I really love his character. Like a lot.
Jane was a great character as well. Everything in her life is just falling apart around her but she never let that get the best of her which I appreciated.
I’m only giving it 4 stars because this is definitely the set up novel. Book 2 is where all of the shit is going to go down and I can’t wait. Plus, the way this one ended left me yearning for the next one immediately.
*E-book provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
{Challenges completed:
✔For Love of a Book: Shopping Cart Challenge
✔For Love of a Book: The Walking Dead Word Search Challenge
✔Romance Readers Reading Challenges: The Wonderful World of Romance Quarterly Challenge}
July 4, 2018
Old Enough (The Age Between Us #1)
By Charmaine Pauls
4 Stars
Well what a tangled web this book has become! After the devastating opening scene, bits and pieces are all coming together.
Jane, has felt nothing but loss as far as her love life has gone. 2 relationships down the toilet. Her daughter now wants to spend time with her father and his new fiancé. Having a successful career is about the only thing that is in her favor.
Brian, barely surviving on his paycheck and full-time student status. Raising his younger sister and taking care of his mother are added to the pile. When he un-expectantly meets a gentleman, who is offering him a road to travel on that is paved instead of dirt, he has no other option but to hear him out.
All it took was one look at the photo and 20-year-old Brian was ready to sign up. His sister could be enrolled in the private school that she needs to be at. Instead of the public school that she is bullied at daily.
When 40-year-old Jane arrives home to find intruders in her swimming pool, who can she turn to for help? Pulling up her big girl panties, she confronts them. There is one who catches her attention and not in a bad way.
As Jane and Brian develop a ‘relationship’, there are hidden secrets. There are people who are making demands, marriages being planned, families being threatened. But these two are in their own ‘love bubble’. There isn’t a place that hasn’t been christened by these two!
It took me a while to understand this book and location. Its location is South Africa and not knowing how things are done there, it was confusing for me to read about. But looking past that, the story was there. Now If I can get book two as soon as possible, that would be great!!! What a cliffy this one left me on. I’m using my fingertips to hold on…just about ready to fall… Will be interesting to see how the story ends or will the fortune teller be right????
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By Charmaine Pauls
4 Stars
Well what a tangled web this book has become! After the devastating opening scene, bits and pieces are all coming together.
Jane, has felt nothing but loss as far as her love life has gone. 2 relationships down the toilet. Her daughter now wants to spend time with her father and his new fiancé. Having a successful career is about the only thing that is in her favor.
Brian, barely surviving on his paycheck and full-time student status. Raising his younger sister and taking care of his mother are added to the pile. When he un-expectantly meets a gentleman, who is offering him a road to travel on that is paved instead of dirt, he has no other option but to hear him out.
All it took was one look at the photo and 20-year-old Brian was ready to sign up. His sister could be enrolled in the private school that she needs to be at. Instead of the public school that she is bullied at daily.
When 40-year-old Jane arrives home to find intruders in her swimming pool, who can she turn to for help? Pulling up her big girl panties, she confronts them. There is one who catches her attention and not in a bad way.
As Jane and Brian develop a ‘relationship’, there are hidden secrets. There are people who are making demands, marriages being planned, families being threatened. But these two are in their own ‘love bubble’. There isn’t a place that hasn’t been christened by these two!
It took me a while to understand this book and location. Its location is South Africa and not knowing how things are done there, it was confusing for me to read about. But looking past that, the story was there. Now If I can get book two as soon as possible, that would be great!!! What a cliffy this one left me on. I’m using my fingertips to hold on…just about ready to fall… Will be interesting to see how the story ends or will the fortune teller be right????
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September 23, 2018
Charming couple but I didn't feel sparks. I dont know maybe I just like it rougher? But there was no shock value for me. So you know what this was like? Watching Magic Mike and realizing the screenwriter tried to give it a plot. That's what I compare it to
July 26, 2018
4.5 stars!!
God, this book!! So many feels along with a twist I wasn’t expecting!! The heat between Brian and Jane was off the charts 😍😍!! The writing was top notch too. I can’t wait for book 2.
God, this book!! So many feels along with a twist I wasn’t expecting!! The heat between Brian and Jane was off the charts 😍😍!! The writing was top notch too. I can’t wait for book 2.
July 1, 2018
I am a very big fan of the forbidden romance trope, so when I saw this I was intrigued. Often though these books can lead to a letdown because they are just cookie cutter copies of the same basic idea and are all about the intimate scenes and lack anything else of substance. Well, that was definitely not the case for this book. Was it hot and steamy? Yes It was, but it was so very , very much more. This is a complex, well written, deeply moving and powerfully engaging read.
Brian and Jane. These are complex and complicated characters. Each burdened by the baggage of their pasts and bearing deep emotional scars. Both broken, both imperfect and yet, so perfect for each other. You will very quickly fall for both these characters and find your whole heart invested in their romance. This is book 1 of 2 and does end on a cliffhanger, but not a brutal one, and the conclusion releases in about five weeks. If the next book is as good as this one it will be well worth the wait.
Jane. My heart breaks in so many ways for her. She has suffered more than her fair share of loss, pain, tragedy, unfairness and injustices in her life. She is smart, kind, talented, a great mom and a way better friend then some of her friends deserve and almost always comes across as a lady unless Brian is around to unfetter her inner carnal dragon that has been chained and asleep for years. She has been encouraged and forced to o and act and live a certain way by various people for years and it was so thrilling to see her begin to break free of other peoples ideals and expectations and start to evolve into who she was always meant to be. I can not wait until she goes into full "No More" mode and everyone that walks all over her gets what's coming to them.
Brian. He may be younger in years but in life experience he's much, much older. Brian has grown up tough and in a tough neighborhood. He is not always a good guy, by his own admission and you may start out not liking him. However, he will quickly grow on you as you learn more about him and his family history. This guy is dominate, responsible, capable, smart, talented, motivated, hot, caring, kind, charming and often heartbreakingly sweet. Blindsided by and fully invested in the powerful and unexpected feelings he has for Jane, he is working hard to make her happy, keep them together, protect and provide for his family, find a way to avoid the threats and danger from his neighborhood and the exposure of a big secret.
At it's core is of course the romance between Jane and Brian. And it is a doozy. In addition to the age difference (she's old enough to be his mom), it is an opposites attract story. Jane and Brian may only live miles apart but their lives and childhoods are worlds apart. This fact does nothing to dampen the fierce attraction that they feel towards each other. The chemistry they share just sizzles and sparks from the pages. The intimate scenes they share are scorching and fervent. They often include some elements of BDSM. Specifically bondage, spankings, voyeurism and some power exchange. Their romance is also very sweet and filled with tender emotions.
In total this book was just amazing! It has a brilliant blend of romance, passion, emotional turmoil, lies, secrets, danger and a bit of suspense that will grab your interest and not let it go. I fell in love with Jane and Brian and I am fully vested in seeing them get the HEA they both deserve. For now I eagerly await book 2. This is my completely honest, voluntary review.
Brian and Jane. These are complex and complicated characters. Each burdened by the baggage of their pasts and bearing deep emotional scars. Both broken, both imperfect and yet, so perfect for each other. You will very quickly fall for both these characters and find your whole heart invested in their romance. This is book 1 of 2 and does end on a cliffhanger, but not a brutal one, and the conclusion releases in about five weeks. If the next book is as good as this one it will be well worth the wait.
Jane. My heart breaks in so many ways for her. She has suffered more than her fair share of loss, pain, tragedy, unfairness and injustices in her life. She is smart, kind, talented, a great mom and a way better friend then some of her friends deserve and almost always comes across as a lady unless Brian is around to unfetter her inner carnal dragon that has been chained and asleep for years. She has been encouraged and forced to o and act and live a certain way by various people for years and it was so thrilling to see her begin to break free of other peoples ideals and expectations and start to evolve into who she was always meant to be. I can not wait until she goes into full "No More" mode and everyone that walks all over her gets what's coming to them.
Brian. He may be younger in years but in life experience he's much, much older. Brian has grown up tough and in a tough neighborhood. He is not always a good guy, by his own admission and you may start out not liking him. However, he will quickly grow on you as you learn more about him and his family history. This guy is dominate, responsible, capable, smart, talented, motivated, hot, caring, kind, charming and often heartbreakingly sweet. Blindsided by and fully invested in the powerful and unexpected feelings he has for Jane, he is working hard to make her happy, keep them together, protect and provide for his family, find a way to avoid the threats and danger from his neighborhood and the exposure of a big secret.
At it's core is of course the romance between Jane and Brian. And it is a doozy. In addition to the age difference (she's old enough to be his mom), it is an opposites attract story. Jane and Brian may only live miles apart but their lives and childhoods are worlds apart. This fact does nothing to dampen the fierce attraction that they feel towards each other. The chemistry they share just sizzles and sparks from the pages. The intimate scenes they share are scorching and fervent. They often include some elements of BDSM. Specifically bondage, spankings, voyeurism and some power exchange. Their romance is also very sweet and filled with tender emotions.
In total this book was just amazing! It has a brilliant blend of romance, passion, emotional turmoil, lies, secrets, danger and a bit of suspense that will grab your interest and not let it go. I fell in love with Jane and Brian and I am fully vested in seeing them get the HEA they both deserve. For now I eagerly await book 2. This is my completely honest, voluntary review.
July 17, 2018
Old Enough by Charmaine Pauls is book one in The Age Between Us series. This is the story of Brian and Jane. Jane just got confronted by her husband saying that he is leaving her and pursuing a relationship with a women he worked with and now loves. Jane of course is shocked and surprised that he would leave her after 12 years of marriage.
Brian who will be 20 in 8 months has struggled to care for his family and really is older that his physical age through experience. Brian needing money for his little sister takes a 'job' that sets in motion a secret that may end up ruining something he didn't know he wanted.
I am usually not the old woman / younger man romance reader but this book makes me want to read more of them. Really enjoyed it and can't wait for the next installment in their story!
Brian who will be 20 in 8 months has struggled to care for his family and really is older that his physical age through experience. Brian needing money for his little sister takes a 'job' that sets in motion a secret that may end up ruining something he didn't know he wanted.
I am usually not the old woman / younger man romance reader but this book makes me want to read more of them. Really enjoyed it and can't wait for the next installment in their story!
June 30, 2018
DISCLAIMER I got a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
For starters, this was a first book for me where a much younger man is "romancing" an older woman (most of the times, it's the other way around). So, I was very intrigued to see how it all played out. to be honest, it was disappointing. The characters written in such a way that you would never believe that Brian is barely 20 and Jane is in her 40s. Brian acts, talks, things, and behaves himself like a 40 plus year old man and Jane is like a virgin teenager who is making out with her first boyfriend. Jane has absolutely NO personality, she doesn't have any will-power, she is such a push-over, it's simply laughable, she has NO emotions whatsoever. You would think when your husband tells you that he is leaving you for another woman, who he has been sleeping with, and who you know, you would throw a fit, right? Even if that conversation takes place in public, right? You would probably throw something at him. Not Jane...She is like....OK, I guess our forever didn't last long...WTF?!?!?! Oh, and don't get me even started on Brian...I think he was supposed to be that dominant alpha male that just oozes sex appeal...Instead, he is controlling simply for the sake of showing control. It just doesn't make sense. His so-called dominance is very close to be called abuse...The ending of the book was very abrupt. It literally ended in the middle of the chapter. At first I thought that my e-book was corrupt, but not, that's the author's "brilliant" plan to leave room for a second book. Huh?? Oh, and the copy I got contained a sample (one chapter) of the next book and let me tell you, it gets worse.... Thank you, but no, thank you. I will not be continuing with this disaster.
For starters, this was a first book for me where a much younger man is "romancing" an older woman (most of the times, it's the other way around). So, I was very intrigued to see how it all played out. to be honest, it was disappointing. The characters written in such a way that you would never believe that Brian is barely 20 and Jane is in her 40s. Brian acts, talks, things, and behaves himself like a 40 plus year old man and Jane is like a virgin teenager who is making out with her first boyfriend. Jane has absolutely NO personality, she doesn't have any will-power, she is such a push-over, it's simply laughable, she has NO emotions whatsoever. You would think when your husband tells you that he is leaving you for another woman, who he has been sleeping with, and who you know, you would throw a fit, right? Even if that conversation takes place in public, right? You would probably throw something at him. Not Jane...She is like....OK, I guess our forever didn't last long...WTF?!?!?! Oh, and don't get me even started on Brian...I think he was supposed to be that dominant alpha male that just oozes sex appeal...Instead, he is controlling simply for the sake of showing control. It just doesn't make sense. His so-called dominance is very close to be called abuse...The ending of the book was very abrupt. It literally ended in the middle of the chapter. At first I thought that my e-book was corrupt, but not, that's the author's "brilliant" plan to leave room for a second book. Huh?? Oh, and the copy I got contained a sample (one chapter) of the next book and let me tell you, it gets worse.... Thank you, but no, thank you. I will not be continuing with this disaster.
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