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Want You
Bitsy
I might be only nineteen, but I know what I want. It’s Leka Moore. I don’t care that he took me in when he was barely more than a kid himself. I don’t care that he raised me. I don’t care everyone thinks being with him is wrong. I know we belong together, and the only person I need to convince is him.
Leka
I found her in the corner of a dark alley. If I hadn’t taken her with me, she would’ve died that night—or maybe worse. Before I knew it, she became the light in my dark life, the haven from the madness. I watched her grow up. I tried to teach her right from wrong. Now that she’s an adult, I’m feeling things that no good man should ever feel. But then…I’ve never been a good man. I have a chance at redemption by saving her from the greatest danger of all—me.
A stand alone novel.
I might be only nineteen, but I know what I want. It’s Leka Moore. I don’t care that he took me in when he was barely more than a kid himself. I don’t care that he raised me. I don’t care everyone thinks being with him is wrong. I know we belong together, and the only person I need to convince is him.
Leka
I found her in the corner of a dark alley. If I hadn’t taken her with me, she would’ve died that night—or maybe worse. Before I knew it, she became the light in my dark life, the haven from the madness. I watched her grow up. I tried to teach her right from wrong. Now that she’s an adult, I’m feeling things that no good man should ever feel. But then…I’ve never been a good man. I have a chance at redemption by saving her from the greatest danger of all—me.
A stand alone novel.
334 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 29, 2018
672 people are currently reading
2826 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 415 reviews
December 13, 2018
I finished this book mostly because I couldn’t believe in all what happened in it.
I wanted a proof it all was a bad dream and that the world is NOT that disturbing and hateful. Because why else would they degrade, violate and hurt so many women?!?
Apart from the female protagonist, her older babysitter and her BFF from school, (who got 2 pages), every single woman in this book was a whore, a prostitute; every second one was raped, sexually violated, humiliated, bought, pushed on her knees, forced, cheapened; many were also killed.
Apart from the male protagonist, every single male piece of garbage in this book disrespected, violated, raped, sold, forced, humiliated women. Male protagonist’s ‘buddy’ even sacrificed his virgin daughter to his gang leader to rape and to use her in every possible way.
Yes, the male protagonist was a virgin; at least physically. But he participated in many orgies – as a ‘watcher’ – he tastefully told us about how his ‘friends’ used strippers, ejaculated on their faces and got off, when those 2 women hurt each other. He/male protagonist, never touched a woman, but he organized ‘girls’ for his boss(es), watched how this girls were used and even abused, and despite his dislike of it, didn’t do anything to help any of those women. But when his boss wanted to share his girl/female protagonist, he managed to kill all bad guys and stay alive. I guess, all those ‘whores’, strippers and ‘loose’ women were NOT worth any attempt to save them.
Who is a whore? Is any woman, who sells her body (and often not because she enjoys it) isn’t worth a life? Is every stripper automatically a prostitute?
These women are someone’s daughters, sisters, mothers.
What does this story teach us? Where is humanity in all this??!
For me it was degradation of the female gender.
As to the ‘love’ story of the main characters.
I don’t have kids, but I guess the readers, who have daughter(s), could say better, if it’s cool to write about a 10 yo having feelings for an older guy, or 13 yo thinking about sex, or 15 yo thinking about sex with a man in details. Is it ok (even in a gang surrender) to speak about degrading sex in front of a 7 yo child, to have it/sex in a hearing distance from a small girl?
I feel the wave of hate coming in my direction, so, you don’t need to waste your time to persuade me it wasn’t that bad, coz yes, he didn’t touch her before she became 19, he only thought about her female body when she was 15, but didn’t touch/kiss/have sex with her then.
It/the sex happened mostly because of her chasing/throwing herself at him/begging for it.
If it makes it better for you…
I pitied the girl at the beginning, she had a rough life, I don’t wish it to anyone; but I thought it would teach her to be smarter…
Safe. None of main characters had sex with OP.
But many semi-detailed sex-scenes, brutal flashbacks about many women.
Sweet epilogue.
I only asked myself if the male protagonist dreamed about his past often, if he dreamed about all those violated women, whom hedidn’t try to or couldn’t save.
I wanted a proof it all was a bad dream and that the world is NOT that disturbing and hateful. Because why else would they degrade, violate and hurt so many women?!?
Apart from the female protagonist, her older babysitter and her BFF from school, (who got 2 pages), every single woman in this book was a whore, a prostitute; every second one was raped, sexually violated, humiliated, bought, pushed on her knees, forced, cheapened; many were also killed.
Apart from the male protagonist, every single male piece of garbage in this book disrespected, violated, raped, sold, forced, humiliated women. Male protagonist’s ‘buddy’ even sacrificed his virgin daughter to his gang leader to rape and to use her in every possible way.
Yes, the male protagonist was a virgin; at least physically. But he participated in many orgies – as a ‘watcher’ – he tastefully told us about how his ‘friends’ used strippers, ejaculated on their faces and got off, when those 2 women hurt each other. He/male protagonist, never touched a woman, but he organized ‘girls’ for his boss(es), watched how this girls were used and even abused, and despite his dislike of it, didn’t do anything to help any of those women. But when his boss wanted to share his girl/female protagonist, he managed to kill all bad guys and stay alive. I guess, all those ‘whores’, strippers and ‘loose’ women were NOT worth any attempt to save them.
Who is a whore? Is any woman, who sells her body (and often not because she enjoys it) isn’t worth a life? Is every stripper automatically a prostitute?
These women are someone’s daughters, sisters, mothers.
What does this story teach us? Where is humanity in all this??!
For me it was degradation of the female gender.
As to the ‘love’ story of the main characters.
I don’t have kids, but I guess the readers, who have daughter(s), could say better, if it’s cool to write about a 10 yo having feelings for an older guy, or 13 yo thinking about sex, or 15 yo thinking about sex with a man in details. Is it ok (even in a gang surrender) to speak about degrading sex in front of a 7 yo child, to have it/sex in a hearing distance from a small girl?
I feel the wave of hate coming in my direction, so, you don’t need to waste your time to persuade me it wasn’t that bad, coz yes, he didn’t touch her before she became 19, he only thought about her female body when she was 15, but didn’t touch/kiss/have sex with her then.
It/the sex happened mostly because of her chasing/throwing herself at him/begging for it.
If it makes it better for you…
I pitied the girl at the beginning, she had a rough life, I don’t wish it to anyone; but I thought it would teach her to be smarter…
Safe. None of main characters had sex with OP.
But many semi-detailed sex-scenes, brutal flashbacks about many women.
Sweet epilogue.
I only asked myself if the male protagonist dreamed about his past often, if he dreamed about all those violated women, whom he
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 14, 2021
2.5 stars. That's what happens when you ask the wrong questions.
I'm extremely unenthusiastic about reviewing this particular book so I'll keep it short, quotes lacking and humour*not even lurking somewhere in the corner*less.
I didn't like the book and I didn't hate it either. I literally didn't crack a single smile, or raise an eyebrow, or roll my eyes,or felt the desire to dwell on some scene throughout the whole story. Not a single time. I feel robotic, bored to death and not even mad about the waste of time that this book that so many people loved turned out to be.
Before starting the book I wondered whether I will be able to enjoy the story where the hero treats the heroine nicely, but, ironically, Leka raising, taking care and loving his ward was the most precious part of the book.
I've never come across a hero who would be so selflessly devoted to his girl.
At the same time, the book failed to deliver a convincing love story. For me, that is.
🧲The first half of the book features Leka and Bitsy developing a strong guardian/ward dynamics. Sweet, precious, amazing moments of their bond that turned into pretty tiresome reading experience for me.
🧲Bitsy's return from boarding school marked the beginning/rush building of their mutual romantic feelings. I thought it happened already too late into the story and thus it was hard for me to feel any chemistry between them. I perceived the characters more like brother and sister for the large part of the book, since Leka basically raised her, and even the fact that Bitsy lusted after Leka since her teenage years didn't help me see the subsequent events in a romantic light.
🧲 Honestly, I never would have imagined I would say this in my lifetime but... Leka's overwhelming protectiveness, devotion and keen desire to provide all the best things for Bitsy was one of the major reasons why their romance fell flat for me. Love is selfish and the way he could easily subdue any egoistical string in his body (oh wait he didn't have any) left me cold. His love reminded me too much of love for a kin. Strong but lacking in passion, ambiguity, internal fight departments. The whole story revolved around Leka protecting her happiness and wellbeing at all costs, so somehow the whole focus shifted from the actual love story and the birth of their feelings to Leka surviving, killing and performing other questionable missions to ensure that she is safe and sound. If Bitsy wasn't the type of girl who would chase and beg and plead...
🧲 Besides the lack of chemistry and underdeveloped romantic relationship that failed to make me invested in them as a couple, I didn't particularly enjoy the number of whores and degraded women per square inch of this book. While the presence of whores/strippers and other type of so-called "sexual workers" in books doesn't bother me in the least per se, I cannot help mentioning that if a female character in this story isn't called Bitsy, it's highly likely you'll encounter the scene where she is being pushed to her knees, humiliated, passed around, name-called, killed etc.
All in all, I would have rated it 1 star if not for the writing style that I liked and the beginning that kept me hooked for a limited amount of time. Otherwise, I skimmed this book like a manic on mission because I wanted to finish it sooner rather than later.
I'm extremely unenthusiastic about reviewing this particular book so I'll keep it short, quotes lacking and humour*not even lurking somewhere in the corner*less.
I didn't like the book and I didn't hate it either. I literally didn't crack a single smile, or raise an eyebrow, or roll my eyes,or felt the desire to dwell on some scene throughout the whole story. Not a single time. I feel robotic, bored to death and not even mad about the waste of time that this book that so many people loved turned out to be.
Before starting the book I wondered whether I will be able to enjoy the story where the hero treats the heroine nicely, but, ironically, Leka raising, taking care and loving his ward was the most precious part of the book.
I've never come across a hero who would be so selflessly devoted to his girl.
At the same time, the book failed to deliver a convincing love story. For me, that is.
🧲The first half of the book features Leka and Bitsy developing a strong guardian/ward dynamics. Sweet, precious, amazing moments of their bond that turned into pretty tiresome reading experience for me.
🧲Bitsy's return from boarding school marked the beginning/rush building of their mutual romantic feelings. I thought it happened already too late into the story and thus it was hard for me to feel any chemistry between them. I perceived the characters more like brother and sister for the large part of the book, since Leka basically raised her, and even the fact that Bitsy lusted after Leka since her teenage years didn't help me see the subsequent events in a romantic light.
🧲 Honestly, I never would have imagined I would say this in my lifetime but... Leka's overwhelming protectiveness, devotion and keen desire to provide all the best things for Bitsy was one of the major reasons why their romance fell flat for me. Love is selfish and the way he could easily subdue any egoistical string in his body (oh wait he didn't have any) left me cold. His love reminded me too much of love for a kin. Strong but lacking in passion, ambiguity, internal fight departments. The whole story revolved around Leka protecting her happiness and wellbeing at all costs, so somehow the whole focus shifted from the actual love story and the birth of their feelings to Leka surviving, killing and performing other questionable missions to ensure that she is safe and sound. If Bitsy wasn't the type of girl who would chase and beg and plead...
🧲 Besides the lack of chemistry and underdeveloped romantic relationship that failed to make me invested in them as a couple, I didn't particularly enjoy the number of whores and degraded women per square inch of this book. While the presence of whores/strippers and other type of so-called "sexual workers" in books doesn't bother me in the least per se, I cannot help mentioning that if a female character in this story isn't called Bitsy, it's highly likely you'll encounter the scene where she is being pushed to her knees, humiliated, passed around, name-called, killed etc.
All in all, I would have rated it 1 star if not for the writing style that I liked and the beginning that kept me hooked for a limited amount of time. Otherwise, I skimmed this book like a manic on mission because I wanted to finish it sooner rather than later.
July 1, 2018
➳Starting from the very pit bottom, rising to the top can only be done with the power of loyalty and love in which this masterpiece of a novel by Jen Frederick has...
➳Have you ever read a book by an author that has an abundance of potential in the writing department for writing a story plot that you cannot put down? I have not, but I now have thanks to Jen's newest novel. Once you start reading this novel there is no turning back. The powerful and emotional aspect of the whole story has brought me to my knees of loving this story so much. Leka and Bits now have a special place in my heart for loving their story, from the very beginning to the very end of it all. Starting from the very bottom, Leka and Bits find themselves in an unwanted situation that has also brought them to depend on each other for comfort and love. Being the age they were when everything happened really breaks my heart to know that even thought this is a fictional story, there are kids out there that have gone through worse. The fact that Jen provided this in such a raw romance novel soothes my heart and makes me admire her writing more and more.
➳Knowing that there is a forbidden barrier between Leka and Bits, aka Elizabeth, they both soon learn to realize that they cannot be away from each other. This kind of raw, passionate chemistry is rare to find for me to be honest since I am very picky when it comes down to angsty romances. This romance has become the exception since I adored everything about it. Now I am actually looking forward to more of Jen's writing. She already teases us with another upcoming romance novel that relates to this story.
➳Overall, romances that involve doing bad things for the good have always had a special place in my heart. Especially when it also involves the love and care for that one person you cannot be without. Leka and Bits have brought raw intentions towards everything that I love in romance novels. Thank you so much to Nina for sending over this novel, my love for it will forever be engraved in my heart.
➳ARC kindly provided by the publicist, in exchange for an honest review...
➳Follow Me On:
Blog ♕ Instagram ♕ Facebook ♕ Twitter
➳Have you ever read a book by an author that has an abundance of potential in the writing department for writing a story plot that you cannot put down? I have not, but I now have thanks to Jen's newest novel. Once you start reading this novel there is no turning back. The powerful and emotional aspect of the whole story has brought me to my knees of loving this story so much. Leka and Bits now have a special place in my heart for loving their story, from the very beginning to the very end of it all. Starting from the very bottom, Leka and Bits find themselves in an unwanted situation that has also brought them to depend on each other for comfort and love. Being the age they were when everything happened really breaks my heart to know that even thought this is a fictional story, there are kids out there that have gone through worse. The fact that Jen provided this in such a raw romance novel soothes my heart and makes me admire her writing more and more.
➳Knowing that there is a forbidden barrier between Leka and Bits, aka Elizabeth, they both soon learn to realize that they cannot be away from each other. This kind of raw, passionate chemistry is rare to find for me to be honest since I am very picky when it comes down to angsty romances. This romance has become the exception since I adored everything about it. Now I am actually looking forward to more of Jen's writing. She already teases us with another upcoming romance novel that relates to this story.
➳Overall, romances that involve doing bad things for the good have always had a special place in my heart. Especially when it also involves the love and care for that one person you cannot be without. Leka and Bits have brought raw intentions towards everything that I love in romance novels. Thank you so much to Nina for sending over this novel, my love for it will forever be engraved in my heart.
➳ARC kindly provided by the publicist, in exchange for an honest review...
➳Follow Me On:
Blog ♕ Instagram ♕ Facebook ♕ Twitter
July 2, 2018
*****4.5 STARS*****
{ARC Generously Provided by Author}
I crash to my knees beside the mattress. Apprehensive eyes meet mine. I don’t know what she sees, but the brakes are off this train and we are barreling down the track. The future is unknown, but at least we’ll be together.
When I saw the cover and read the blurb, I knew I couldn’t pass this one up. I was not expecting it to be such a dark and gritty story that would have me chomping at the bit to get to the very end! I had no idea that Jen Frederick could write a dark story so well! I’m used to her sports romances and YA collaborations with Elle Kennedy. Well, I officially have another author to add to my automatic read list! WANT YOU is a sexy and addicting dark romance that completely consumed me. I was rooting for Leka and Bitsy to give in to their desires for each other and while the premise of the story may seem a little far-fetched, I couldn’t help but fall in love with Leka and Bitsy’s romance.
Leka and Bitsy were children who were abandoned and left to fend for themselves on the mean streets of the inner city. At twelve-years-old, Leka runs odd jobs for the local pimps and drug dealers who work for the mafia. One night he comes across a tiny five-year-old girl who is huddled and trembling in a dark and dirty alleyway. Something about her tugs at his heart and he ends up taking her in and from that moment on he becomes the girl’s savior and entire world. And the little girl, he names “Bitsy” becomes the only person who matters in his life. Leka will do ANYTHING to provide a safe home and environment for Bitsy. He wants a better life for her that won’t ever be tainted by the job he has or the people he must associate with. He does the unthinkable that takes a little piece of his soul away from him each day, but in his heart, he knows it’s what’s best because it will provide Bitsy with a better life.
This will be hard for some people to accept. He acted like a guardian to her for most of her childhood but things change after Bitsy’s eighteenth birthday. You have to remember he was a child when he decided to care for her. They're only seven years apart in age. Throughout the buildup of the plot you know they are falling for each other and I completely accepted it and even was on pins and needles waiting for it to finally happen!!
But Leka works for some really evil men who would like nothing more than to find out what his weakness is and use it to their advantage. These men don’t think twice about raping and killing innocent young girls. Leka does his very best to keep Bitsy away from these people but he’s no match for a petulant teenaged girl’s stubbornness. There were times I wanted to throw my iPad against the wall when Bitsy would end up doing something completely stupid that put both their lives in danger.
Will these two lovers be able to beat the insurmountable odds that are stacked up against them?
Here are my overall ratings
Hero: 5
Heroine: 4
Plot: 4.5
Angst: 4.5
Steam: 5
Chemistry Between Hero & Heroine: 5
WANT YOU is currently available! I highly recommend this one. I am not exaggerating when I say that I had a hard time putting this down!! I really wouldn’t mind if we got another book about this couple! Leka is one sexy swoon-worthy alpha male!!
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2yZp3xN
{ARC Generously Provided by Author}
I crash to my knees beside the mattress. Apprehensive eyes meet mine. I don’t know what she sees, but the brakes are off this train and we are barreling down the track. The future is unknown, but at least we’ll be together.
When I saw the cover and read the blurb, I knew I couldn’t pass this one up. I was not expecting it to be such a dark and gritty story that would have me chomping at the bit to get to the very end! I had no idea that Jen Frederick could write a dark story so well! I’m used to her sports romances and YA collaborations with Elle Kennedy. Well, I officially have another author to add to my automatic read list! WANT YOU is a sexy and addicting dark romance that completely consumed me. I was rooting for Leka and Bitsy to give in to their desires for each other and while the premise of the story may seem a little far-fetched, I couldn’t help but fall in love with Leka and Bitsy’s romance.
Leka and Bitsy were children who were abandoned and left to fend for themselves on the mean streets of the inner city. At twelve-years-old, Leka runs odd jobs for the local pimps and drug dealers who work for the mafia. One night he comes across a tiny five-year-old girl who is huddled and trembling in a dark and dirty alleyway. Something about her tugs at his heart and he ends up taking her in and from that moment on he becomes the girl’s savior and entire world. And the little girl, he names “Bitsy” becomes the only person who matters in his life. Leka will do ANYTHING to provide a safe home and environment for Bitsy. He wants a better life for her that won’t ever be tainted by the job he has or the people he must associate with. He does the unthinkable that takes a little piece of his soul away from him each day, but in his heart, he knows it’s what’s best because it will provide Bitsy with a better life.
This will be hard for some people to accept. He acted like a guardian to her for most of her childhood but things change after Bitsy’s eighteenth birthday. You have to remember he was a child when he decided to care for her. They're only seven years apart in age. Throughout the buildup of the plot you know they are falling for each other and I completely accepted it and even was on pins and needles waiting for it to finally happen!!
But Leka works for some really evil men who would like nothing more than to find out what his weakness is and use it to their advantage. These men don’t think twice about raping and killing innocent young girls. Leka does his very best to keep Bitsy away from these people but he’s no match for a petulant teenaged girl’s stubbornness. There were times I wanted to throw my iPad against the wall when Bitsy would end up doing something completely stupid that put both their lives in danger.
Will these two lovers be able to beat the insurmountable odds that are stacked up against them?
Here are my overall ratings
Hero: 5
Heroine: 4
Plot: 4.5
Angst: 4.5
Steam: 5
Chemistry Between Hero & Heroine: 5
WANT YOU is currently available! I highly recommend this one. I am not exaggerating when I say that I had a hard time putting this down!! I really wouldn’t mind if we got another book about this couple! Leka is one sexy swoon-worthy alpha male!!
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2yZp3xN
July 21, 2022
5 You're My Home Now Stars ⭐
Want You is a story of salvation and guardianship that inevitably ends with love. Two children that do the impossible by thriving against all odds. Leka is a 12 year old hoodrat when he takes on an abandoned 5 year old Bitsy (Elizabeth) as his own. Could you imagine 2 children trying to play house against the backdrop of poverty and crime. I can't even fathom this kind of reality.
There are thousands of folks better than me. Guys that don’t kill, maim, threaten, and mete out violence for money. But if she wants to believe I’m good for her, I’m going to do everything I can to keep that fantasy alive.
Told from past to present, you see a mature Leka scrape his way from homelessness to establishing a home for himself and Bitsy. From petty crimes to murder, there are no jobs he won't do in order to get them ahead. And as two children grow into adults while only existing in each other's orbit, pretending to be siblings is no longer enough.
“This girl?
She’s as beautiful and bright as the sun. Anyone who doesn’t see it is blind.”
Maybe I'm the minority, but I really liked the angle this author took. You see where Leka was gorgeous and lethal, Bitsy was an ugly duckling. However, never doubt that beauty is in the eye of the beholder as was in this instance. Leka only ever had eyes for Bitsy. It was always them against the world. To him, she was beautiful beyond anyone's opinion.
I adore romances filled with heart, struggle and shady dealings. It was emotional, heartbreaking, yet with a beautiful ending that made me complete. The inner turmoil for Leka and Bitsy shifting from family to lovers was intense and realistic. I could not put this down.
Want You is a story of salvation and guardianship that inevitably ends with love. Two children that do the impossible by thriving against all odds. Leka is a 12 year old hoodrat when he takes on an abandoned 5 year old Bitsy (Elizabeth) as his own. Could you imagine 2 children trying to play house against the backdrop of poverty and crime. I can't even fathom this kind of reality.
There are thousands of folks better than me. Guys that don’t kill, maim, threaten, and mete out violence for money. But if she wants to believe I’m good for her, I’m going to do everything I can to keep that fantasy alive.
Told from past to present, you see a mature Leka scrape his way from homelessness to establishing a home for himself and Bitsy. From petty crimes to murder, there are no jobs he won't do in order to get them ahead. And as two children grow into adults while only existing in each other's orbit, pretending to be siblings is no longer enough.
“This girl?
She’s as beautiful and bright as the sun. Anyone who doesn’t see it is blind.”
Maybe I'm the minority, but I really liked the angle this author took. You see where Leka was gorgeous and lethal, Bitsy was an ugly duckling. However, never doubt that beauty is in the eye of the beholder as was in this instance. Leka only ever had eyes for Bitsy. It was always them against the world. To him, she was beautiful beyond anyone's opinion.
I adore romances filled with heart, struggle and shady dealings. It was emotional, heartbreaking, yet with a beautiful ending that made me complete. The inner turmoil for Leka and Bitsy shifting from family to lovers was intense and realistic. I could not put this down.
February 17, 2021
5 STARS
My body can walk and talk and function, but the heart of me sits in her little hands.
Excuse me while I go and sob my eyes out for finishing this so fast. I loved this so much. I've been immersed in this book the whole day and finished it in mere hours, which happens so rarely with my dumbass. From the very first page, this one sucked me in, and refused to let me go.
We meet the main characters young, when the hero - Leka - is no older than thirteen, and the heroine - Bitsy - five. In the middle of a dangerous gig, he gets saddled with her after she attaches herself to him. His life is brutal, and taking on the burden of a little girl is not high on his priorities. He ends up taking pity on her, for reasons that even he doesn't know.
Their first scene hurt my heart so bad, mostly in a good way. It was so well written, so sweet but so intensely gritty; it made me want to weep for some inexplicable reason.
I cannot put into words how much I adored all their scenes as kids. I adored the way they adored each other; Bitsy with her heart-warming childlike innocence, Leka with his furious protectiveness. Qualities that pretty much sum up their personalities.
My favorite thing: the hero, Leka Moore
I LOOOOOVE HIM! Let me shout that out loud, people. What an absolutely spectacular hero lead. So incredibly well fleshed out, so incredibly real. His point of view left me reeling for more; he was such an enigma, even when you were inside his head. He melted my heart with his possessive and unhinged tendencies. He killed me with his nonchalant approach to the cards life had chosen to him. He was ruthless in all the ways that counted, in all the ways that make me love an anti-hero. Yet, when it comes to his girl, he was achingly sweet. His protectiveness towards her really did me in. She was, quite literally, his everything.
I loved our heroine. She was so cute and bubbly, the apple of Leka's eye and you just can't help but adore her. She loves him with a ferocity that could rival the best of them and I loved that so much. Their feelings were so vivid at times I felt like I could really reach out and touch them with my fingertips.
Their relationship starts as platonic love, and the transformation to romantic was such a heady thing to witness. I loved it. It definitely isn't an easy journey, though. These two live in a dangerous world, and outside forces constantly threaten to tear them apart. They face trials and make errors, but their connection is something unbreakable.
I loved this book. I loved the characters. The plot. The writing. The relationship building. One of my top reads of 2021!
My body can walk and talk and function, but the heart of me sits in her little hands.
Excuse me while I go and sob my eyes out for finishing this so fast. I loved this so much. I've been immersed in this book the whole day and finished it in mere hours, which happens so rarely with my dumbass. From the very first page, this one sucked me in, and refused to let me go.
We meet the main characters young, when the hero - Leka - is no older than thirteen, and the heroine - Bitsy - five. In the middle of a dangerous gig, he gets saddled with her after she attaches herself to him. His life is brutal, and taking on the burden of a little girl is not high on his priorities. He ends up taking pity on her, for reasons that even he doesn't know.
Their first scene hurt my heart so bad, mostly in a good way. It was so well written, so sweet but so intensely gritty; it made me want to weep for some inexplicable reason.
My heart is beating fast again. I think he means him and me, but I have to ask. “Us?”
The side of his mouth quirks up. Not a full smile like the bunny, but a half one. I’ll take it. “Yeah, both of us. We’re a team now.” He holds out his hand, palm up.
I cannot put into words how much I adored all their scenes as kids. I adored the way they adored each other; Bitsy with her heart-warming childlike innocence, Leka with his furious protectiveness. Qualities that pretty much sum up their personalities.
My favorite thing: the hero, Leka Moore
You know he’s dangerous, but you can’t help wanting to reach out and pet him.
I LOOOOOVE HIM! Let me shout that out loud, people. What an absolutely spectacular hero lead. So incredibly well fleshed out, so incredibly real. His point of view left me reeling for more; he was such an enigma, even when you were inside his head. He melted my heart with his possessive and unhinged tendencies. He killed me with his nonchalant approach to the cards life had chosen to him. He was ruthless in all the ways that counted, in all the ways that make me love an anti-hero. Yet, when it comes to his girl, he was achingly sweet. His protectiveness towards her really did me in. She was, quite literally, his everything.
Leka is a magician. He can lift a cop’s radio, run up walls, and slide down poles. Most of all, he can save little girls. There won’t be anyone I meet in my entire life that is better than him.
I loved our heroine. She was so cute and bubbly, the apple of Leka's eye and you just can't help but adore her. She loves him with a ferocity that could rival the best of them and I loved that so much. Their feelings were so vivid at times I felt like I could really reach out and touch them with my fingertips.
Their relationship starts as platonic love, and the transformation to romantic was such a heady thing to witness. I loved it. It definitely isn't an easy journey, though. These two live in a dangerous world, and outside forces constantly threaten to tear them apart. They face trials and make errors, but their connection is something unbreakable.
I'm never leaving him and I'm not letting him go. We're going to make it out together or not at all.
I loved this book. I loved the characters. The plot. The writing. The relationship building. One of my top reads of 2021!
We kiss with enough passion to illuminate the entire sky, as if this is our first time and our last time. In other words, we kiss as we always do, with our whole hearts full of fire and love that will burn eternally in this life and every other life because no matter what happens, we will always find each other.
June 30, 2018
I'm really quite on-the-fence about this book. I didn't hate it. I enjoyed some parts. But truly enjoying it took some work.
I really didn't feel any chemistry between Bitsy and Leka and their story was of no particular interest. I couldn't help but feel there was an opportunity for more depth that the author just didn't properly capitalize on.
Eh well, at least the plot was fun. And it did make me a bit curious to see what's next, so all in all, it was still a good book. Not a great one, but good nonetheless.
In short:
Hero 4/5 | Heroine 3/5 | Plot (Point, Originality) 3/5 | Writing Style 3/5 | Steam 3/5 | Romance 3/5 | Angst-Suspense 2/5 | Darkness 0/5 | Humor 2/5 | Secondary Characters 3/5 | Drama-Conflict 4/5 | Mystery 0/5 | Twists 3/5 | Pacing Fast | Action 1/5
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
I really didn't feel any chemistry between Bitsy and Leka and their story was of no particular interest. I couldn't help but feel there was an opportunity for more depth that the author just didn't properly capitalize on.
Eh well, at least the plot was fun. And it did make me a bit curious to see what's next, so all in all, it was still a good book. Not a great one, but good nonetheless.
In short:
Hero 4/5 | Heroine 3/5 | Plot (Point, Originality) 3/5 | Writing Style 3/5 | Steam 3/5 | Romance 3/5 | Angst-Suspense 2/5 | Darkness 0/5 | Humor 2/5 | Secondary Characters 3/5 | Drama-Conflict 4/5 | Mystery 0/5 | Twists 3/5 | Pacing Fast | Action 1/5
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
July 12, 2018
ATTENTION! THIS IS A CASE OF DON'T JUDGE A BOOK BY IT'S COVER & BLURB. IN MY OPINION THE BLURB DOES NOT FIT AT ALL. THE BOOK HAS TWO PARTS: THE FIRST 50% IS A HEARTBREAKING CHILDREN SURVIVAL STORY AND THE SECOND PART IS THIS THRILLERISH DARK ROMANCE PART. DON'T BE MAD AT THE BOOK WITH A BAD RATING ONLY BECAUE OF THE WEIRD BLURB OR COVER - THE STORY WITH ITS HERO & HEROINE IS AMAZING!!!!
Leka is twelve years old. He's living on the streets - or in abandoned buildings - trying to make a living by doing odd (and very illegal) jobs for the city's big criminals. And he does okay for a kid. But then suddenly he's not only responsible for himself anymore. He kind of finds a little five year old girl. She doesn't know her name. She thinks it's Noosence. Her mom was a drug-addict prostitute and things happened back home, but we don't know what or how the girl ended up on the streets. But as soon as she meets Leka she feels safe again. She just knows that he will always protect her. And Leka now has something to live for. To survive for. To take care of.
He never had anyone depend on him or love him.
But his life is very dangerous ...
Fast forward 14 years and the little girl Bitsy is now all grown up and in love with the boy/man who once saved her.... But that's weird right? He raised her. But he's only 7 years older than her. But still ...
WHAT WILL HAPPEN TO BITSY & LEKA???
READ THE BOOK TO FIND OUT! ☺
═════════════════════
OY!
That was such a heartbreaking story. I loved the beginning so much. I cried almost all through the first half of the book. Those poor kids trying to survive! Ugh!
The first 50% of the story is about the past. About finding each other and surviving. About how Leka needs to come up with ideas how to enroll Bitsy in school and how they can rent an apartment.
And then we make a few time jumps. Three years later - a year later - another year later.
And then the second half of the book. Present time. Bitsy is done with highschool and she wants nothing more than to move back in with Leka and live happily ever after with the love of her life. But Leka is not happy about it. He's over the moon happy that she's back, but his life is more dangerous than ever. He can't have Bitsy home - he wouldn't survive if anything happened to her. And yes, he too has feelings. But he's trying verrrry hard to not act on them. But Bitsy is NOT making it easy on the poor guy! ☺
Leka is such an amazing hero. *MegaSwoon* Yes, he does bad things, but he only does it to survive and to protect his girl.
I just loved this book. The first half is this mega moving story about two kids forming a new family and trying to survive and then we get this new adult dark romance thriller thingy. It was so exciting and sad and frustrating. I just wanted them to pack up their stuff and leave for Alaska or something. But it's not going to be easy for Leka to get out of his job. And now he has Bitsy back home to worry about.
The reader definitely has an amazing time reading about how those two fight for their happy end. Let's hope they'll make it! I need them to be alive and happy when Netflix comes calling! Which I really hope it does!!!!☺
Some readers might find the step-brother-guardian-thing a bit taboo, but it wasn't taboo for me at all. He's only 7 or 8 years older than her.
And P.S. We might get another story about connected to this one!! Very interesting epilogue! Can't wait! ☺
A spoiling epilogue spoiler ahead →
The only tiny little things I didn't love about the book. The cover, blurb and title ... In my opinion those do not fit at all. The blurb only talks about the second half of the book. And the cover? First of all it's very unrecognizable and then when you see what it's supposed to be, that's not really the story either. BUT - I still LOVED the book so much!!!!
♡
♡
♡
♡
Leka is twelve years old. He's living on the streets - or in abandoned buildings - trying to make a living by doing odd (and very illegal) jobs for the city's big criminals. And he does okay for a kid. But then suddenly he's not only responsible for himself anymore. He kind of finds a little five year old girl. She doesn't know her name. She thinks it's Noosence. Her mom was a drug-addict prostitute and things happened back home, but we don't know what or how the girl ended up on the streets. But as soon as she meets Leka she feels safe again. She just knows that he will always protect her. And Leka now has something to live for. To survive for. To take care of.
Before her, I didn't have a purpose beyond surviving. I do now.
He never had anyone depend on him or love him.
But his life is very dangerous ...
Fast forward 14 years and the little girl Bitsy is now all grown up and in love with the boy/man who once saved her.... But that's weird right? He raised her. But he's only 7 years older than her. But still ...
WHAT WILL HAPPEN TO BITSY & LEKA???
READ THE BOOK TO FIND OUT! ☺
═════════════════════
OY!
That was such a heartbreaking story. I loved the beginning so much. I cried almost all through the first half of the book. Those poor kids trying to survive! Ugh!
The first 50% of the story is about the past. About finding each other and surviving. About how Leka needs to come up with ideas how to enroll Bitsy in school and how they can rent an apartment.
And then we make a few time jumps. Three years later - a year later - another year later.
And then the second half of the book. Present time. Bitsy is done with highschool and she wants nothing more than to move back in with Leka and live happily ever after with the love of her life. But Leka is not happy about it. He's over the moon happy that she's back, but his life is more dangerous than ever. He can't have Bitsy home - he wouldn't survive if anything happened to her. And yes, he too has feelings. But he's trying verrrry hard to not act on them. But Bitsy is NOT making it easy on the poor guy! ☺
Leka is such an amazing hero. *MegaSwoon* Yes, he does bad things, but he only does it to survive and to protect his girl.
I just loved this book. The first half is this mega moving story about two kids forming a new family and trying to survive and then we get this new adult dark romance thriller thingy. It was so exciting and sad and frustrating. I just wanted them to pack up their stuff and leave for Alaska or something. But it's not going to be easy for Leka to get out of his job. And now he has Bitsy back home to worry about.
The reader definitely has an amazing time reading about how those two fight for their happy end. Let's hope they'll make it! I need them to be alive and happy when Netflix comes calling! Which I really hope it does!!!!☺
Some readers might find the step-brother-guardian-thing a bit taboo, but it wasn't taboo for me at all. He's only 7 or 8 years older than her.
WANT YOU was such a beautiful and heartbreakingly moving story - or rather two stories - about two kids who finally found their forever home with each other. Now they just have to fight for that happy end. Run to your nearest amazon asap for your own Leka - he'll be sold out in NO TIME!
And P.S. We might get another story about connected to this one!! Very interesting epilogue! Can't wait! ☺
A spoiling epilogue spoiler ahead →
The only tiny little things I didn't love about the book. The cover, blurb and title ... In my opinion those do not fit at all. The blurb only talks about the second half of the book. And the cover? First of all it's very unrecognizable and then when you see what it's supposed to be, that's not really the story either. BUT - I still LOVED the book so much!!!!
♡
♡
♡
♡
July 1, 2018
Want You is a unique love story, that had me unsure of how things would work out until the very end. Leka is a protective hero, who does nearly anything to protect Bitsy. Bitsy and Leka may not have the most conventional start to a relationship, some may even consider it slightly taboo, but Bitsy loves Leka and knows exactly in what ways. It’s interesting to read the relationship between these two morphing, and their conflicted feelings at points. I think the author does a great job navigating through this one, so that it felt natural.
All in all a great read.
https://instagram.com/p/BksNyrthzV0/
https://instagram.com/p/BkgKkgihGfT/
^fan edit on IG!
All in all a great read.
https://instagram.com/p/BksNyrthzV0/
https://instagram.com/p/BkgKkgihGfT/
^fan edit on IG!
July 2, 2018
NOW LIVE!
Amazon US * Amazon UK
Want You is a book that has me very conflicted on how I feel. There were parts to this story that I enjoyed and captivated me, but then there were things that I didn't enjoy that much. Honestly there were a lot of parts that just fell a little short for me.
So this book starts off with a Part 1, which was the first 50% and focused on Leka and Bitsy when they were younger and growing up together. Leka being a 12 year old having to act more as an adult, and Bitsy being the 5 year old he's taking care of. It then takes us up to when Bitsy was a teenager and shows us everything they've had to go through. When it first started, I was intrigued and I liked that we were getting to see how exactly these characters came to be in each others lives. But then it just continued and I became very bored with it all. I frankly didn't care about any of that and the awkward years of Bitsy's school days, or how she and Leka fared during them. It didn't seem all that relevant to the actual characters in my opinion.
Then we finally get to the second part and my hopes got high again since this is where the actual romance, forbidden love thing was supposed to come in. Except that's not exactly what happened. Instead Part 2 opened up to Bitsy now 19 and in this lust-driven state for Leka. The whole transition from her as a kid to years later and now wanting to climb Leka like a tree was a little odd for me and it made it hard to connect with the story at that point. Especially since going forward from there it was just a bunch of Bitsy acting like an airhead and Leka pushing her away until he finally gave in to her attempts.
Character wise I thought Leka was great. He had some amazing development throughout the book and I thought it was a strong part of the story how we saw him from just a kid trying to be older to a toughened up adult taking care of everything. On the other hand there was Bitsy who I never even felt like I knew. In the first half of the book she was nothing more than a kid being taken care of and then in the second half with her just throwing herself at Leka it didn't feel like we were actually getting the true parts of her character. She was one of the reasons I had such a hard time connecting with the story.
I thought there were a lot of things that had amazing potential to be something greater but unfortunately for me they just never reached that level of excellence. Overall, it was an interesting story when I look back on it as a whole and even with some boredom on my part while I was reading I think it's a read that will captivate a lot of people.
Amazon US * Amazon UK
Want You is a book that has me very conflicted on how I feel. There were parts to this story that I enjoyed and captivated me, but then there were things that I didn't enjoy that much. Honestly there were a lot of parts that just fell a little short for me.
So this book starts off with a Part 1, which was the first 50% and focused on Leka and Bitsy when they were younger and growing up together. Leka being a 12 year old having to act more as an adult, and Bitsy being the 5 year old he's taking care of. It then takes us up to when Bitsy was a teenager and shows us everything they've had to go through. When it first started, I was intrigued and I liked that we were getting to see how exactly these characters came to be in each others lives. But then it just continued and I became very bored with it all. I frankly didn't care about any of that and the awkward years of Bitsy's school days, or how she and Leka fared during them. It didn't seem all that relevant to the actual characters in my opinion.
Then we finally get to the second part and my hopes got high again since this is where the actual romance, forbidden love thing was supposed to come in. Except that's not exactly what happened. Instead Part 2 opened up to Bitsy now 19 and in this lust-driven state for Leka. The whole transition from her as a kid to years later and now wanting to climb Leka like a tree was a little odd for me and it made it hard to connect with the story at that point. Especially since going forward from there it was just a bunch of Bitsy acting like an airhead and Leka pushing her away until he finally gave in to her attempts.
Character wise I thought Leka was great. He had some amazing development throughout the book and I thought it was a strong part of the story how we saw him from just a kid trying to be older to a toughened up adult taking care of everything. On the other hand there was Bitsy who I never even felt like I knew. In the first half of the book she was nothing more than a kid being taken care of and then in the second half with her just throwing herself at Leka it didn't feel like we were actually getting the true parts of her character. She was one of the reasons I had such a hard time connecting with the story.
I thought there were a lot of things that had amazing potential to be something greater but unfortunately for me they just never reached that level of excellence. Overall, it was an interesting story when I look back on it as a whole and even with some boredom on my part while I was reading I think it's a read that will captivate a lot of people.
February 10, 2021
A coming of age story placed in a criminal milieu, where two youngsters, ages 12 and 5, are brought up together, raising and growing, surviving in this dangerous crime surroundings, with the only existing need and purpose this boy/now grown man had - to make a better future for her...
it becomes a story of two souls placed in unjust, dreadful environment where all they could do is survive - by saving each other, one finding the salvation in the other...until they are free...
*sigh*
This is a bit different kind of tone, Jen Frederick usually has in her books, it's also darker then her usual romances, and I have read quite a few of hers.
Even though, I have loved the general outfit of this book, the main premise, unfortunately reminded me so much of the book (of a very similar subject, however with the different tone and writing style), so I couldn't help myself but compare two books, finding similarities and differencies...
gah, it's all on me, I can't objectively judge this book for the obvious unlucky position I put myself and the mentioned book in question...cause, if I have read Jen's book before I have read the previously similar material, I would probably "sang" a different tune...
So, since I can't be objective, I also won't allow for the petty peeves to come and ruin the experience for me, so I'm just gonna be blunt...inspite of my own predicament LOL, damn, I think this story is worth mentioning, it's worth looking into it, and of course, it's a love story with a HEA set in a darkish background, filled with action, danger and thrill...
So, if you can stay with clear mind, you should allow yourself to experience this journey and let Leka and Bitsy 's story blow you away!
it becomes a story of two souls placed in unjust, dreadful environment where all they could do is survive - by saving each other, one finding the salvation in the other...until they are free...
*sigh*
This is a bit different kind of tone, Jen Frederick usually has in her books, it's also darker then her usual romances, and I have read quite a few of hers.
Even though, I have loved the general outfit of this book, the main premise, unfortunately reminded me so much of the book (of a very similar subject, however with the different tone and writing style), so I couldn't help myself but compare two books, finding similarities and differencies...
gah, it's all on me, I can't objectively judge this book for the obvious unlucky position I put myself and the mentioned book in question...cause, if I have read Jen's book before I have read the previously similar material, I would probably "sang" a different tune...
So, since I can't be objective, I also won't allow for the petty peeves to come and ruin the experience for me, so I'm just gonna be blunt...inspite of my own predicament LOL, damn, I think this story is worth mentioning, it's worth looking into it, and of course, it's a love story with a HEA set in a darkish background, filled with action, danger and thrill...
So, if you can stay with clear mind, you should allow yourself to experience this journey and let Leka and Bitsy 's story blow you away!
July 20, 2021
How I loved this! Also I’d choose Rihanna from ocean 8 too!!
July 23, 2018
I've got to say, when I first read the synopsis of this book, I was pretty wary. I am super picky when it comes to age gap books, but I love Jen Frederick's books that she writes with Elle Kennedy as Erin Watt, so I was willing to give this one a chance!
Leka Moore has been on his own for as long as he can remember. In order to take care of himself, though, he's had to do some pretty bad things for some pretty bad people. The only light in his life is Bitsy, the little girl he saved and took under his wing. The little girl who isn't so little anymore. Bitsy is now 19 and she knows what she wants. The only man she's ever loved her whole life. Leka.
This book was interesting because it starts out with Leka finding Bitsy and taking care of her, so both of them are super young and are only concerned with surviving. I really liked this because it didn't feel creepy, then, when Leka saw Bitsy in a more romantic way later on. Yeah, he's older, but he's well aware of his attraction for her and she really isn't all that much younger than him when she's 19. They haven't seen each other in years, which I also felt made their relationship a bit more okay and believable in my eyes.
I was surprised how dark this book ended up being, especially pertaining to Leka's job. This book is really more of a mafia/mob romance and a lot of decisions Leka makes are to make sure that Bitsy is safe, even if it means sacrificing his own happiness. I will warn you, this book is super dark and these characters see some pretty gruesome things.
While the beginning is sort of slow because the world and relationship dynamic between Leka and Bitsy is being set up, I really enjoyed this story. Jen Frederick isn't afraid to go to the dark places and I think that if you like mafia romances with a forbidden twist, you'll enjoy Want You.
Leka Moore has been on his own for as long as he can remember. In order to take care of himself, though, he's had to do some pretty bad things for some pretty bad people. The only light in his life is Bitsy, the little girl he saved and took under his wing. The little girl who isn't so little anymore. Bitsy is now 19 and she knows what she wants. The only man she's ever loved her whole life. Leka.
This book was interesting because it starts out with Leka finding Bitsy and taking care of her, so both of them are super young and are only concerned with surviving. I really liked this because it didn't feel creepy, then, when Leka saw Bitsy in a more romantic way later on. Yeah, he's older, but he's well aware of his attraction for her and she really isn't all that much younger than him when she's 19. They haven't seen each other in years, which I also felt made their relationship a bit more okay and believable in my eyes.
I was surprised how dark this book ended up being, especially pertaining to Leka's job. This book is really more of a mafia/mob romance and a lot of decisions Leka makes are to make sure that Bitsy is safe, even if it means sacrificing his own happiness. I will warn you, this book is super dark and these characters see some pretty gruesome things.
While the beginning is sort of slow because the world and relationship dynamic between Leka and Bitsy is being set up, I really enjoyed this story. Jen Frederick isn't afraid to go to the dark places and I think that if you like mafia romances with a forbidden twist, you'll enjoy Want You.
July 1, 2018
Want You spans decades. It's a story that begins with a street kid taking in a small, abandoned child and caring for her, raising her, protecting her until the only way to protect her means sending her away. It follows the characters into adulthood as the nature of their relationship evolves and changes and grows into a romance that places both their lives in peril. This is a story that sounds taboo, a story about a caregiver and his dependent growing up together, relying on each other, caring for each other and ultimately wanting much more from each other than they ever anticipated. It was an unexpected page turner that I thoroughly enjoyed, a story that came out of nowhere and completely consumed me with its romance, with its suspense, and with its entertainment value.
I hate to compare books but it's really hard not to in this case. I have to be totally honest and admit that when I first read the blurb of Jen Frederick's book, it immediately reminded me of another duet I recently read and absolutely loved that also followed a teenage boy as he cared for a young girl from infancy to adolescence and that eventually grew romantically complicated in their adulthood. I was nervous going into this book because that duet was still so fresh in my mind and I was worried that Want You might feel TOO similar to that storyline or that it might read like a knockoff. To my delight, this book ended up being NOTHING AT ALL like anything I'd ever read before. This story is fresh and exciting, romantic and sexy and it had me turning the pages anxiously until the very end.
Leka Moore exists in a world of depravity and sin, one of crime and murder and danger. His world is terrifying and bloody but it's also what allows him to care for Bitsy, the scared orphan he finds on the street. It's also what leaves him no choice but to send her away and to deny the feelings he has for her when the darkness and danger of his lifestyle threaten to consume them both. This dynamic allows for so much sexual tension, so much push and pull between these characters, but also for a white knuckle reading experience where you don't know what dangers lurk on the next page.
Want You is so many things. It's a bit of a forbidden romance. It's a suspenseful thrill ride of a read, a story ridden with bullet holes and crime lords and questionable loyalties. And it becomes a slow burning love story rife with reluctant attraction and steamy scenes. While this book is certainly not without flaw, it was so deliciously entertaining that I couldn't help but overlook my issues with the plot itself. I was completely absorbed in this story. I was wholly invested in Leka and Bit's romance, evan if it felt somewhat disjointed at times. Sometimes you just need a crazy, intense, twisty romance to deliver an escape from the day to day and Jen Frederick delivers that with Want You. I really enjoyed every moment of this storyline and the epilogue has me hopeful that we might get more from this family down the road!
I hate to compare books but it's really hard not to in this case. I have to be totally honest and admit that when I first read the blurb of Jen Frederick's book, it immediately reminded me of another duet I recently read and absolutely loved that also followed a teenage boy as he cared for a young girl from infancy to adolescence and that eventually grew romantically complicated in their adulthood. I was nervous going into this book because that duet was still so fresh in my mind and I was worried that Want You might feel TOO similar to that storyline or that it might read like a knockoff. To my delight, this book ended up being NOTHING AT ALL like anything I'd ever read before. This story is fresh and exciting, romantic and sexy and it had me turning the pages anxiously until the very end.
Leka Moore exists in a world of depravity and sin, one of crime and murder and danger. His world is terrifying and bloody but it's also what allows him to care for Bitsy, the scared orphan he finds on the street. It's also what leaves him no choice but to send her away and to deny the feelings he has for her when the darkness and danger of his lifestyle threaten to consume them both. This dynamic allows for so much sexual tension, so much push and pull between these characters, but also for a white knuckle reading experience where you don't know what dangers lurk on the next page.
Want You is so many things. It's a bit of a forbidden romance. It's a suspenseful thrill ride of a read, a story ridden with bullet holes and crime lords and questionable loyalties. And it becomes a slow burning love story rife with reluctant attraction and steamy scenes. While this book is certainly not without flaw, it was so deliciously entertaining that I couldn't help but overlook my issues with the plot itself. I was completely absorbed in this story. I was wholly invested in Leka and Bit's romance, evan if it felt somewhat disjointed at times. Sometimes you just need a crazy, intense, twisty romance to deliver an escape from the day to day and Jen Frederick delivers that with Want You. I really enjoyed every moment of this storyline and the epilogue has me hopeful that we might get more from this family down the road!
July 4, 2018
*ARC received for an honest review*
From page one the reader was forced to suspend reality. And rather than ease up there rose a cacophony of violence, misogyny and patently ridiculous drama that shoved one farther out of the book and away from the characters.
Plot - a little boy finds a little girl. Commits unbelievable crimes to support them both. Raises her. Pushes her away as too good for him. Continues in a spiral of repugnant actions and decisions. The “romance” is made further uncomfortable by the surreal and strange actions and reactions of each of the characters. Nothing anybody did made sense - and they constantly made you aware of how awkward and weird they were.
I like Jen Frederick’s writing. I loved her Gridiron series. This was awful.
From page one the reader was forced to suspend reality. And rather than ease up there rose a cacophony of violence, misogyny and patently ridiculous drama that shoved one farther out of the book and away from the characters.
Plot - a little boy finds a little girl. Commits unbelievable crimes to support them both. Raises her. Pushes her away as too good for him. Continues in a spiral of repugnant actions and decisions. The “romance” is made further uncomfortable by the surreal and strange actions and reactions of each of the characters. Nothing anybody did made sense - and they constantly made you aware of how awkward and weird they were.
I like Jen Frederick’s writing. I loved her Gridiron series. This was awful.
May 4, 2021
3.5 This was a dark book. It didn’t read like a dark book, but it was dark. This is a story of two lost children, raising each other. Leka finds Bitsy hiding in a alley when she’s 6 and he’s 12. He starts working for some really awful people to support them. He does awful things, but he’s a sweet, loving soul. Bitsy is his WORLD.
One time you told me to find an anchor. I did.Everything Leka does is to help Bitsy have a good life. I loved the first half of this story, but struggled with the second because of the change in their relationship. It was a hard to wrap my head around. I get it, I understand why, but I’m not sure if I was all together comfortable with it. The epilogue was perfection and mended my feelings.
July 6, 2018
4,5. Esse livro apresenta tema semelhante a um outro que simplesmente amei. Claro, outra situação, outros dramas, mas a essência é a mesma.
Gostei da narração, dos diálogos, do romance, de tudo.
Vale muito a leitura.
Gostei da narração, dos diálogos, do romance, de tudo.
Vale muito a leitura.
May 22, 2023
The cover, the blurb, this review…doesn’t do the book justice.
MAIN CHARACTER NAMES AND AGES
Elizabeth “Bitsy” Moore (~5–19) | Leka Moore (~12–26)
FEATURES
∘ dark romance
∘ slow burn
∘ only have each other
∘ would do anything for her
∘ guardian-ward(ish)
∘ dual virgins
REVIEW
This story is dark. We watch Leka be forced to grow up too young, and we learn about what Elizabeth’s life was like before Leka. Finding each other was the best thing that could have happened to them. Leka was only twelve when he took in five-year-old Elizabeth. Immediately, they became each other’s home.
The entirety of part one (basically 50%) is dedicated to their lives growing up with each other and the brutal world around them. Then, just before part two, Leka sends Elizabeth to boarding school for her safety. After she graduates, she comes home with a plan to seduce the love of her life.
The tonal shift when Elizabeth becomes an adult is jarring. Before she was forced away, there was tension and inklings of the romance to come, but at its core, their relationship consisted of unconditional and selfless love. After she comes back, there are still sweet moments, but I felt her time away disjointed the pace of the novel. Although I wished to see a more natural progression, their romantic relationship was still very sweet and full of tenderness.
I knew before I was even done reading it that Want You was going to be a five star read. I also have a sneaking suspicion I’m about to be put in a horrible reading slump because of just how good this book is.
OW/OM DRAMA none
CHEATING none
THIRD ACT BREAKUP no
ENDING HEA
POV dual / first person
SPICE LEVEL 4 / 5
RATING 5 / 5
MAIN CHARACTER NAMES AND AGES
Elizabeth “Bitsy” Moore (~5–19) | Leka Moore (~12–26)
FEATURES
∘ dark romance
∘ slow burn
∘ only have each other
∘ would do anything for her
∘ guardian-ward(ish)
∘ dual virgins
REVIEW
This story is dark. We watch Leka be forced to grow up too young, and we learn about what Elizabeth’s life was like before Leka. Finding each other was the best thing that could have happened to them. Leka was only twelve when he took in five-year-old Elizabeth. Immediately, they became each other’s home.
The entirety of part one (basically 50%) is dedicated to their lives growing up with each other and the brutal world around them. Then, just before part two, Leka sends Elizabeth to boarding school for her safety. After she graduates, she comes home with a plan to seduce the love of her life.
The tonal shift when Elizabeth becomes an adult is jarring. Before she was forced away, there was tension and inklings of the romance to come, but at its core, their relationship consisted of unconditional and selfless love. After she comes back, there are still sweet moments, but I felt her time away disjointed the pace of the novel. Although I wished to see a more natural progression, their romantic relationship was still very sweet and full of tenderness.
I knew before I was even done reading it that Want You was going to be a five star read. I also have a sneaking suspicion I’m about to be put in a horrible reading slump because of just how good this book is.
OW/OM DRAMA none
CHEATING none
THIRD ACT BREAKUP no
ENDING HEA
POV dual / first person
SPICE LEVEL 4 / 5
RATING 5 / 5
Want to read
June 26, 2018🙌🙌
February 20, 2023
1 star. DNF 70%
NOT SAFE FOR ME
FML. I need a book with a faithful hero. Jesus Martha.
Is there any such thing anymore? Or a good heroine??
So I’m sorry guys. All my GR friends LOVE this book. I’m the odd one out again. Starting to not trust some of y’all anymore lol.
Anyway heroine isn’t even an adult until halfway through the book. At 70% he’s still pushing her away and she’s throwing herself at him. It’s “to keep her safe”. “He’s not good enough for her”. So man the fuck up and BE GOOD ENOUGH!
70% in and the fool going to strip clubs watching orgies. It’s ok though y’all he doesn’t touch 🙄🙄. He WANTS to screw someone else to forget her but can’t. That’s cheating to me.
I went back and kept trying to read on a few times. Several actually. Still couldn’t do it.
NOT SAFE FOR ME
FML. I need a book with a faithful hero. Jesus Martha.
Is there any such thing anymore? Or a good heroine??
So I’m sorry guys. All my GR friends LOVE this book. I’m the odd one out again. Starting to not trust some of y’all anymore lol.
Anyway heroine isn’t even an adult until halfway through the book. At 70% he’s still pushing her away and she’s throwing herself at him. It’s “to keep her safe”. “He’s not good enough for her”. So man the fuck up and BE GOOD ENOUGH!
70% in and the fool going to strip clubs watching orgies. It’s ok though y’all he doesn’t touch 🙄🙄. He WANTS to screw someone else to forget her but can’t. That’s cheating to me.
I went back and kept trying to read on a few times. Several actually. Still couldn’t do it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 24, 2021
This was good. I liked the premise, it kept me interested the whole time, and Leka and Bitsy's bond was rly rly cute, but there was something missing here and I can't put my finger on what. I think... I wish Bitsy never went away to boarding school. I felt like this was steadily building and then she left for four years and when she came back their dynamic had changed so abruptly it severed a lot of the tension that had been brewing.
Sometimes I would forget how young Leka was himself when he found her and how he truly never had a chance. They were both dealt a bad hand in life; he stopped going to school before he turned 12, took in a 5 year old girl when he could barely look after himself. He'd kill people and then come home and watch the Powerpuff Girls w her like he'd never need anything else. He remained a virgin until he was 27, saved up her college tuition since he was thirteen years old. She tells him she wants to be an artist and immediately he starts thinking,
Mentally, I run down a list of nearby art galleries. I'll have to see who runs those and what their vices are so I can be sure that Bitsy lands her dream job.
Like see how unreal he is? A large part of me doesn't understand Leka. Love him, think he's absolutely precious and needs to be protected, but don't get him.
Maybe it's bc the jaded, skeptical part of me can't understand such a heroically unselfish person. It was almost like Leka didn't have like normal human motivations. I mean don't get me wrong, I'm thrilled, bc that means he lives his life almost completely in devotion for Bitsy, but I find him so hard to understand. He's truly dead inside in regards to everything but her it's kind of fascinating. Since the day he took her off the street she was his whole world, perfect in every way, and no one can tell him differently.
Bit's homely? What does that even mean? Bit's the prettiest thing God ever made in this stupid world.
I'm grateful he thinks this way bc it made for the cutest, most devoted hero ever but is he okay?? I want him to like... enjoy life. I swear when Bitsy isn't around he turns into a robot. His life has been so shit and he's so used to doing whatever it takes to get by it makes me sad he doesn't think he deserves good things :(
Two things before I go is I appreciate that the writing changed with Bitsy's age. Her thoughts were on par with a five year olds and every couple years she'd sound a bit more mature. Secondly, I feel like every person Bitsy met would tell her she was ugly, comment on her looks, or tell her she wasn't in Leka's league. Can these ppl just let this girl live? It was so irritating. Overall tho I def enjoyed this, these two had a v precious bond and I'll prob reread in the future
Sometimes I would forget how young Leka was himself when he found her and how he truly never had a chance. They were both dealt a bad hand in life; he stopped going to school before he turned 12, took in a 5 year old girl when he could barely look after himself. He'd kill people and then come home and watch the Powerpuff Girls w her like he'd never need anything else. He remained a virgin until he was 27, saved up her college tuition since he was thirteen years old. She tells him she wants to be an artist and immediately he starts thinking,
Mentally, I run down a list of nearby art galleries. I'll have to see who runs those and what their vices are so I can be sure that Bitsy lands her dream job.
Like see how unreal he is? A large part of me doesn't understand Leka. Love him, think he's absolutely precious and needs to be protected, but don't get him.
Maybe it's bc the jaded, skeptical part of me can't understand such a heroically unselfish person. It was almost like Leka didn't have like normal human motivations. I mean don't get me wrong, I'm thrilled, bc that means he lives his life almost completely in devotion for Bitsy, but I find him so hard to understand. He's truly dead inside in regards to everything but her it's kind of fascinating. Since the day he took her off the street she was his whole world, perfect in every way, and no one can tell him differently.
Bit's homely? What does that even mean? Bit's the prettiest thing God ever made in this stupid world.
I'm grateful he thinks this way bc it made for the cutest, most devoted hero ever but is he okay?? I want him to like... enjoy life. I swear when Bitsy isn't around he turns into a robot. His life has been so shit and he's so used to doing whatever it takes to get by it makes me sad he doesn't think he deserves good things :(
Two things before I go is I appreciate that the writing changed with Bitsy's age. Her thoughts were on par with a five year olds and every couple years she'd sound a bit more mature. Secondly, I feel like every person Bitsy met would tell her she was ugly, comment on her looks, or tell her she wasn't in Leka's league. Can these ppl just let this girl live? It was so irritating. Overall tho I def enjoyed this, these two had a v precious bond and I'll prob reread in the future
December 9, 2023
3.5 stars. This is about Leka, a street kid who dropped out of school and was working for a mob boss by the time he was 12. While he was on one of his jobs, he found a 5-year-old homeless girl and named her Bitsy, or Elizabeth. From then on, he took her in, and it was them against the world. This book follows then through the years, with several time jumps like “three years later,” until they get together when she’s 19 and he’s 26.
This has always been one of my problematic faves – this trope of, “the hero raised the heroine” or “the hero was some kind of important protective figure in her life as she was growing up.” And also, the trope of, “they’ve always been each other’s person.” So, this book does that well. Even if you’re yucked out by the guardian/ ward thing, because he’s only 7 years older, he never really feels like a parent figure. And, their personalities go well together. Their connection transcends their ages.
But this story is a mixed bag for me. It's very slow burn - I don’t think it needed to spend quite as much time on them being children as it did. And I could have used fewer details about Leka’s job working with mob bosses. That part got boring. I don’t mind mob politics when books do them well, but none of the side characters he worked with were interesting. There were too many random scenes of him being bored in strip clubs where I was just like, “Why are we here? This scene could be cut from the book.”
Leka is the kind of good-looking guy who gets noticed everywhere, and Bitsy kept getting called “homely,” so it’s a bit of an “ugly duckling with the hot guy” vibe. But I liked that she wasn’t overly insecure about it. Leka was possessive of her, and this story did a good job of creating the vibe that they’re the only two people out there in the world for each other.
I’m not sure that I buy that Leka would be a virgin at 27. That felt unrealistic. (But I know some people like "male virgin" books, so if you're into that, it's here!) And I liked how devoted he was to her, but he also spent slightly too long pushing her away out of guilt, so that part also went from “angsty” to “boring” after it got dragged out for too long. (If you want a read similar to this where there’s much less hero guilt and pushing her away, read Unconditional - I wouldn't say that book is better, it's kind of unhinged, but if you want a steamier version of the trope). This isn't nearly as good as the god-tier book in the, "he raised her" trope, Fearless. But it's about the same level as Don't Kiss the Bride - even though that book isn't really "he raised her," I consider it in a similar category.
Overall, this is a little slow, a bit low on steam, and too heavy on the boring details of Leka’s job. So, that’s why I rated it below 4 stars. But it’s well written, and a mostly enjoyable version of the “he raised her” trope, and their connection is very tender.
This has always been one of my problematic faves – this trope of, “the hero raised the heroine” or “the hero was some kind of important protective figure in her life as she was growing up.” And also, the trope of, “they’ve always been each other’s person.” So, this book does that well. Even if you’re yucked out by the guardian/ ward thing, because he’s only 7 years older, he never really feels like a parent figure. And, their personalities go well together. Their connection transcends their ages.
But this story is a mixed bag for me. It's very slow burn - I don’t think it needed to spend quite as much time on them being children as it did. And I could have used fewer details about Leka’s job working with mob bosses. That part got boring. I don’t mind mob politics when books do them well, but none of the side characters he worked with were interesting. There were too many random scenes of him being bored in strip clubs where I was just like, “Why are we here? This scene could be cut from the book.”
Leka is the kind of good-looking guy who gets noticed everywhere, and Bitsy kept getting called “homely,” so it’s a bit of an “ugly duckling with the hot guy” vibe. But I liked that she wasn’t overly insecure about it. Leka was possessive of her, and this story did a good job of creating the vibe that they’re the only two people out there in the world for each other.
I’m not sure that I buy that Leka would be a virgin at 27. That felt unrealistic. (But I know some people like "male virgin" books, so if you're into that, it's here!) And I liked how devoted he was to her, but he also spent slightly too long pushing her away out of guilt, so that part also went from “angsty” to “boring” after it got dragged out for too long. (If you want a read similar to this where there’s much less hero guilt and pushing her away, read Unconditional - I wouldn't say that book is better, it's kind of unhinged, but if you want a steamier version of the trope). This isn't nearly as good as the god-tier book in the, "he raised her" trope, Fearless. But it's about the same level as Don't Kiss the Bride - even though that book isn't really "he raised her," I consider it in a similar category.
Overall, this is a little slow, a bit low on steam, and too heavy on the boring details of Leka’s job. So, that’s why I rated it below 4 stars. But it’s well written, and a mostly enjoyable version of the “he raised her” trope, and their connection is very tender.
July 28, 2018
3,5 stars
June 29, 2018
Gahh!! Want You by Jen Frederick was another hit by this author proving that she can write the dictionary. Leka and Bitsy had an intricate and complicated story but their adoration and dedication for one another could not be denied. I thought this story was unique and sexy and highlighted a slightly grittier and darker path by this author.
Without giving away any spoilers, I would definitely not call this a taboo story. But I will say that I did find that both Leka and Bitsy had a deep connection that evolved over time and might be interpreted as inappropriate. I thought it was delicious, personally! LOL. I loved how devoted Leka was to her and despite his need to deny and avoid his feelings, their true passions rose to the surface. This story was more of a slow burn and had more of a underworld/wrong side of the tracks feel which I loveed!
All in all, this was fantastic and I hope we see more of these characters in the future. 4 stars! ~Ratula
Without giving away any spoilers, I would definitely not call this a taboo story. But I will say that I did find that both Leka and Bitsy had a deep connection that evolved over time and might be interpreted as inappropriate. I thought it was delicious, personally! LOL. I loved how devoted Leka was to her and despite his need to deny and avoid his feelings, their true passions rose to the surface. This story was more of a slow burn and had more of a underworld/wrong side of the tracks feel which I loveed!
All in all, this was fantastic and I hope we see more of these characters in the future. 4 stars! ~Ratula
January 4, 2025
Read #1: 8 Nov 2021
Read #2: 18 March 2023
Read #3: 4 January 2025
Edit: I had to read one of my FAV books again, of course. Not sure that anyone has my heart as much as Leka and Bitsy!
1st review:
One of the best romance books I have read! It was adorable to see how Leka was absolutely obsessed and completely whipped by Bitsey!🥰 He met her, saved her and took her in when she was 5, and he was 12.
Not only were they both virgins when they got together, but we're each others first KISS as well!! Their romance was so beautiful and heartwarming, and we get to see their relationship develop as they mature. An A+ book!!❤️
Read #2: 18 March 2023
Read #3: 4 January 2025
Edit: I had to read one of my FAV books again, of course. Not sure that anyone has my heart as much as Leka and Bitsy!
1st review:
One of the best romance books I have read! It was adorable to see how Leka was absolutely obsessed and completely whipped by Bitsey!🥰 He met her, saved her and took her in when she was 5, and he was 12.
Not only were they both virgins when they got together, but we're each others first KISS as well!! Their romance was so beautiful and heartwarming, and we get to see their relationship develop as they mature. An A+ book!!❤️
December 1, 2023
I really liked the beginning of the book, and the buildup of the plot- but wasn't really sold on the climax and ending 🤷♀️.
I sort of wanted more from this overall? But I'm not going to get into it because I need to sleep lmao 😭. The epilogue was super cute though.
I sort of wanted more from this overall? But I'm not going to get into it because I need to sleep lmao 😭. The epilogue was super cute though.
December 27, 2022
3.75✨
His whole body must ache. Even in the dim light, I can see the bruises on his face. The top of his left cheek has swelled so much that it's starting to impact his vision. The bandages on his left hand are soaked with blood. I can tell by the way he’s holding his arm close to his ribcage that it hurts for him to even breathe.biiitch🫠🫠 this boy>>
He grabs the bottle of antiseptic from one of the duffles on the floor and pours it over one hand, hissing loudly as the alcohol eats away at the germs. Tears wet my eyes. I wish I could take his pain away.
"It looks worse than it is," he says, reading my mind.
"I didn't think it looked bad at all," I lie. "I've had paper cuts at school that went deeper than some of your wounds."
He huffs out a small laugh. "Tell me what forest the tree came from so I can punish it for hurting you.”
October 29, 2018
Originally posted at:
This was a nice story, but the cover and synopsis made me so apprehensive to pick this up. The cover, in particular, doesn't represent this novel in the slightest and the synopsis made me feel icky about what the relationship was going to be like.
To be honest, there were still some parts of this novel that made my skin crawl if I were to REALLY think about it. The relationship from the outside looking in almost had a stockholm syndrome feel. The age difference isn't really that many years (and isn't what bothered me), but the fact that Leka raised her since she was about five years old just rubs me the wrong way even though they aren't related in any way.
My heart broke for the circumstances Leka and Bitsy were in. Leka took the brunt of it all by doing bad things to make a living. He was never at peace with what he did or helped do. It was always a means to an end. It also made me feel a tad bit less icky with how much he initially fought the relationship between him and Bitsy.
Bitsy as a kid was a bit too well spoken in her chapters (in the first half of the novel) and later on would become a very stubborn and goal oriented woman. There were times when she was childish because things with Leka weren't going her way. The decisions she took to try and get a major reaction out of him only put her in more danger and made her look dumb and desperate. Most of the second half of this story wouldn't have happened had she and Leka sat down and communicated like adults. I also didn't understand why everyone loved to point out how "not pretty" Bitsy was. What was up with that?
This novel didn't have the emotional impact I was expecting it to have. There were a few magical moments here and there but, for most of the novel, everything felt stuck on the surface. There were also a few parts where I would have liked a better transition instead of the character making me guess the new setting they were in and how they got there for a chapter or two.
- Spoiler
Overall this was an interesting story after I put aside my biases and just accepted it for what it was. The way the author went about extracting Leka out of the gang life though was way too easily done for me. Everything went too right for them and nothing ever came knocking with consequences ( - Spoiler).
My Favorite Quotes:
"I might not be a queen of a country, but I'm ready to rule my own domain."
"We were both dealt terrible hands in life, but fate made up for it by bringing us together."
"We're going to make it out together or not at all."
This was a nice story, but the cover and synopsis made me so apprehensive to pick this up. The cover, in particular, doesn't represent this novel in the slightest and the synopsis made me feel icky about what the relationship was going to be like.
To be honest, there were still some parts of this novel that made my skin crawl if I were to REALLY think about it. The relationship from the outside looking in almost had a stockholm syndrome feel. The age difference isn't really that many years (and isn't what bothered me), but the fact that Leka raised her since she was about five years old just rubs me the wrong way even though they aren't related in any way.
My heart broke for the circumstances Leka and Bitsy were in. Leka took the brunt of it all by doing bad things to make a living. He was never at peace with what he did or helped do. It was always a means to an end. It also made me feel a tad bit less icky with how much he initially fought the relationship between him and Bitsy.
Bitsy as a kid was a bit too well spoken in her chapters (in the first half of the novel) and later on would become a very stubborn and goal oriented woman. There were times when she was childish because things with Leka weren't going her way. The decisions she took to try and get a major reaction out of him only put her in more danger and made her look dumb and desperate. Most of the second half of this story wouldn't have happened had she and Leka sat down and communicated like adults. I also didn't understand why everyone loved to point out how "not pretty" Bitsy was. What was up with that?
This novel didn't have the emotional impact I was expecting it to have. There were a few magical moments here and there but, for most of the novel, everything felt stuck on the surface. There were also a few parts where I would have liked a better transition instead of the character making me guess the new setting they were in and how they got there for a chapter or two.
- Spoiler
Overall this was an interesting story after I put aside my biases and just accepted it for what it was. The way the author went about extracting Leka out of the gang life though was way too easily done for me. Everything went too right for them and nothing ever came knocking with consequences ( - Spoiler).
My Favorite Quotes:
"I might not be a queen of a country, but I'm ready to rule my own domain."
"We were both dealt terrible hands in life, but fate made up for it by bringing us together."
"We're going to make it out together or not at all."
June 8, 2019
Spoilers ahead,4.5*
Leka met Bitsy on the street when he was 12 and she was 5, he's joined a street gang and performs jobs for them to warn his money. He takes the little strat with him and starts doing bigger jobs, including murder, to provide for him and his charge.
Bitsy's earliest memories is of her lying under her mom's bed while she sells herself. It's alluded that Bitsy was forced to perform bj by a man as she tried to so it on Leka as. She ran away before further abuse could take place and was found by Leka.
The story is told in 2 parts with time jobs that span 14 years as they grow older. It's tough rating this book because I've tried books like these where the h was basically raised by the H and then they fall in love and it didn't work for me. I don't know f it's the writing, the small difference in ages, Leka's absolute devotion to Bitsy or what, but I loved this book so very much. Leka was encouraged repeatedly to take women throughout the years and he never ever gave in. Even when the men in the organization started calling him Priest he stayed true to Bitsy. When they were younger he didn't want to mess up a good thing, there were times he thought maybe he needed a wife but he never got even close. As they got older he realized that he didn't want anyone else. He sent Bitsy away for four years and still he stayed celibate.
Bitsy I liked through her growing up years, she too knew Leka was the only one for her. Even when he sent her away to boarding school and she had access to boys she wasn't even tempted. It's when she returned that she pissed me off. Knowing the kinds of things that went on at Leka's job she still went there and drew the attention of a seriously sick and vile man thus placing her and Leka in danger. I was angry at her because that action led to Leka being tortured by the men of the organization.
In the end Leka is able to get rid of the bad guys and they get their hea with a glorious epilogue.
This book will not be for everyone, from the very beginning their are stomach churning incidents that occur, from Bitsy seeing a cop with a prostitute at 5,to the vague hints of what she herself went through to the rape of a teenage girl it's tough and emotional reading but I loved every word and am ever hopeful that Leka's children get their own books
Leka met Bitsy on the street when he was 12 and she was 5, he's joined a street gang and performs jobs for them to warn his money. He takes the little strat with him and starts doing bigger jobs, including murder, to provide for him and his charge.
Bitsy's earliest memories is of her lying under her mom's bed while she sells herself. It's alluded that Bitsy was forced to perform bj by a man as she tried to so it on Leka as. She ran away before further abuse could take place and was found by Leka.
The story is told in 2 parts with time jobs that span 14 years as they grow older. It's tough rating this book because I've tried books like these where the h was basically raised by the H and then they fall in love and it didn't work for me. I don't know f it's the writing, the small difference in ages, Leka's absolute devotion to Bitsy or what, but I loved this book so very much. Leka was encouraged repeatedly to take women throughout the years and he never ever gave in. Even when the men in the organization started calling him Priest he stayed true to Bitsy. When they were younger he didn't want to mess up a good thing, there were times he thought maybe he needed a wife but he never got even close. As they got older he realized that he didn't want anyone else. He sent Bitsy away for four years and still he stayed celibate.
Bitsy I liked through her growing up years, she too knew Leka was the only one for her. Even when he sent her away to boarding school and she had access to boys she wasn't even tempted. It's when she returned that she pissed me off. Knowing the kinds of things that went on at Leka's job she still went there and drew the attention of a seriously sick and vile man thus placing her and Leka in danger. I was angry at her because that action led to Leka being tortured by the men of the organization.
In the end Leka is able to get rid of the bad guys and they get their hea with a glorious epilogue.
This book will not be for everyone, from the very beginning their are stomach churning incidents that occur, from Bitsy seeing a cop with a prostitute at 5,to the vague hints of what she herself went through to the rape of a teenage girl it's tough and emotional reading but I loved every word and am ever hopeful that Leka's children get their own books
July 8, 2018
It pains me to say this but I hated everything about this book. If you look at my other reviews, you’ll see that I loved almost all of her books with the exception of the Kerr chronicles. I’m still skeptical about her writing those by the way. But back to this book—I’ve been sitting here and wondering if I’m overreacting and it isn’t as bad as my mind is screaming at me that it is. I agree with the whole rape and virginal crap is so over done. And how is it ok if you’re a stripper or whore but not if you’re the protagonist love interest. However, I absolutely hate Bitsy. Is she really that stupid? She saw someone killed in front of her. How does she not understand that bad things can happen to her? Especially since she grew up with a mother that not only had sex for drugs in front of her or near her but also allowed her to be sexually assaulted as a child?!?! So explain to me how she sits there and does all this stupid shit because she’s so fucking horny and wants to make Leka to devirginize her?! I’m at 75% and I’m done. I honestly want to put her in a box and blow her up. And I want to take Leka out and beat the shit out of him for not doing anything and being an idle bystander to all of the raping but only to step in when it’s actually affecting him. Being an idle bystander means you’re still a participant regardless if you’re an active one. And I’m sorry but you can pull yourself out of those circumstances. The beauty of humans is that we are free thinking individuals who have a choice in what we do. I’m not saying it’s easy but I’m saying there’s a possibility.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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