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Altar-ed Destinies #1
The Groom
When Lyle Cummings is left standing at the altar on his wedding day, all of his carefully composed plans for the future come crashing down around him. The pragmatic surgeon is left questioning his well-ordered existence and wondering if there might be more to life than the achievements of wealth and career.
When he meets fiery lounge singer Katrina Giordano, his mundane life is turned upside down. In her, he finds everything his life has been lacking. With her, he will learn that what he thought was love really wasn't at all. But will Katrina's dark past and ties to organized crime threaten the happiness they have found after so much heartache?
With her life, and now his, hanging in the balance, Lyle will find himself tested when it comes to how far he will go for love.
This is the second, full-length, standalone book in the altar-ed destinies series a series of contemporary romances based on a wedding going awry. Republished in 2018 with revisions and new content.
The Altar-ed Destinies Series
Book 1: My Ex-Wife's Wedding (Prequel Short Story)
Book 2: The Groom
Book 3: The Arrangement (coming February 4)
When he meets fiery lounge singer Katrina Giordano, his mundane life is turned upside down. In her, he finds everything his life has been lacking. With her, he will learn that what he thought was love really wasn't at all. But will Katrina's dark past and ties to organized crime threaten the happiness they have found after so much heartache?
With her life, and now his, hanging in the balance, Lyle will find himself tested when it comes to how far he will go for love.
This is the second, full-length, standalone book in the altar-ed destinies series a series of contemporary romances based on a wedding going awry. Republished in 2018 with revisions and new content.
The Altar-ed Destinies Series
Book 1: My Ex-Wife's Wedding (Prequel Short Story)
Book 2: The Groom
Book 3: The Arrangement (coming February 4)
396 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 24, 2013
72 people are currently reading
403 people want to read
About the author
Elise Marion
62 books324 followersElise Marion is a lover books and has a special place in her heart for sweet and sensual romance. Writing about love across all walks of life is her passion, as is reaching people through the written word. The Army wife and stay-at-home mother of two spends most of her time taking care of her children. Her second job includes writing stories about characters that people can fall in love with. When the Texas native isn’t caring for her family or writing, you can usually find her with her nose in a book, singing loudly, or cooking up something new in the kitchen.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
December 24, 2013
This was a sweet and short read! It was very star-crossed-ish, with a bit of mafia flavour. Lyle was a sweet but stunted man. Being a prominent cardiothoracic surgeon, he lived his life according to set rules and plans, but it all came for nothing after being left at the alter by his bride-to-be. He seeks solace in liquid courage at Parson's Bar&Grill, where the nightly entertainment is a fiery, seductive lounge singer.
She soothes his battered soul and makes him forget if only for a few hours. Katrina is a woman refusing to be defined by her backround. Being the daughter of one of the most powerful Italian mafia leaders, she tries to live her life on her own terms, refusing to set rules and instead live spontaneously.
I found Lyle and Kat to be like Yin and Yang. They were different from each other but complemented one another at the same time. He needs to loosen up, she needs to take it down...together they made magic.
But theres a turf war brewing and Kat is a major target. Her father tries to control her but she refuses his help. Lyle learns of her family and decides it doesn't matter: He wants Kat, and will do anything to have her.
I've seen this toted as bi-racial dating( Kat is half Italian, half black--Lyle is white ), but I'm glad it's never mentioned in the book. Kyle and Kat share their history and backround but it's great the racial differences didn't dominate the story. Really, in this day and age that would just feel ignorant right? love is love.
The ending was very sweet and made the story come full circle. I didn't even recognize Lyle because he changed so much for the better. Kat had issues but Kyle's persistence paid off in one of the most sweetest 'gonna-get-my-girl-no-matter-what' gestures I've read in a long time!
Sweet story with a very beautiful ending.
She soothes his battered soul and makes him forget if only for a few hours. Katrina is a woman refusing to be defined by her backround. Being the daughter of one of the most powerful Italian mafia leaders, she tries to live her life on her own terms, refusing to set rules and instead live spontaneously.
I found Lyle and Kat to be like Yin and Yang. They were different from each other but complemented one another at the same time. He needs to loosen up, she needs to take it down...together they made magic.
But theres a turf war brewing and Kat is a major target. Her father tries to control her but she refuses his help. Lyle learns of her family and decides it doesn't matter: He wants Kat, and will do anything to have her.
I've seen this toted as bi-racial dating( Kat is half Italian, half black--Lyle is white ), but I'm glad it's never mentioned in the book. Kyle and Kat share their history and backround but it's great the racial differences didn't dominate the story. Really, in this day and age that would just feel ignorant right? love is love.
The ending was very sweet and made the story come full circle. I didn't even recognize Lyle because he changed so much for the better. Kat had issues but Kyle's persistence paid off in one of the most sweetest 'gonna-get-my-girl-no-matter-what' gestures I've read in a long time!
Sweet story with a very beautiful ending.
Read
December 22, 2013Review to be published in February issue of InD'tale magazine.
December 2, 2013
Poor Lyle: two years of devoting himself to a woman who left him at the altar for her ex-husband. It’s no wonder that this ‘by the book’ Type A cardiothoracic surgeon is in need of a drink, or ten. Fortunately his dazed wandering led him into Parson’s Bar and Grill, where he found ample scotch, a sympathetic bartender with ice for his battered hand, and a singer that lit up his soul.
Katrina has the voice of a seductress, the body of a temptress and the face that captivated Lyle from the moment he saw her. Casual and free-spirited, she is living her life one day at a time after several traumas sent her seeking solace in the needle while a six month stint in rehab helped to redefine her priorities.
Wholly unlike the buttoned up debutantes and type A women that he has dated, Katrina says what she feels, takes no prisoners and is uninterested in making plans or caring what others think. Lyle has spent his whole life in overachiever hell, the good son who only once defied his parents’ wishes and went to medical rather than law school. Katrina is a complete 180 from his ‘usual’ type, and a breath of fresh air that he didn’t know he was suffocating for.
Throughout a tentative start to their relationship, the interactions are electric and dynamic, Katrina’s goading Lyle to loosen up and learn to be spontaneous. His discomfiture is priceless, he finds himself falling in love with her, and wanting more; wanting a future.
But, there is Katrina’s secret to consider, and her family that she has turned her back on. Both collide and lives are threatened. As Lyle fights to protect Katrina, he also needs to fight to keep his own life and save hers.
Cleverly plotted, the solid story that gives background and makes Katrina and Lyle easy to empathize with and understand. With action to put you on the edge of your seat, and a climax that is both perfectly suited and as yet completely undefined, this is a lovely romance that is sure to gain many readers interest.
I received an eArc from the publisher for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Katrina has the voice of a seductress, the body of a temptress and the face that captivated Lyle from the moment he saw her. Casual and free-spirited, she is living her life one day at a time after several traumas sent her seeking solace in the needle while a six month stint in rehab helped to redefine her priorities.
Wholly unlike the buttoned up debutantes and type A women that he has dated, Katrina says what she feels, takes no prisoners and is uninterested in making plans or caring what others think. Lyle has spent his whole life in overachiever hell, the good son who only once defied his parents’ wishes and went to medical rather than law school. Katrina is a complete 180 from his ‘usual’ type, and a breath of fresh air that he didn’t know he was suffocating for.
Throughout a tentative start to their relationship, the interactions are electric and dynamic, Katrina’s goading Lyle to loosen up and learn to be spontaneous. His discomfiture is priceless, he finds himself falling in love with her, and wanting more; wanting a future.
But, there is Katrina’s secret to consider, and her family that she has turned her back on. Both collide and lives are threatened. As Lyle fights to protect Katrina, he also needs to fight to keep his own life and save hers.
Cleverly plotted, the solid story that gives background and makes Katrina and Lyle easy to empathize with and understand. With action to put you on the edge of your seat, and a climax that is both perfectly suited and as yet completely undefined, this is a lovely romance that is sure to gain many readers interest.
I received an eArc from the publisher for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
January 3, 2014
There are so many I/R books written and the dominant part of the story is the sex between the H/H. I loved this story because this is a story about two people falling in love . The sex is not the story but they do make love. Lyle falls in love with Katrina and the author allows us to watch it happen.
February 15, 2014
4.5/5.0
This opposites-attract story packs a powerful and unexpected emotional punch!
Read full review in the 2014 February issue of InD’tale Magazine.
This opposites-attract story packs a powerful and unexpected emotional punch!
Read full review in the 2014 February issue of InD’tale Magazine.
November 23, 2013
As a fan of Elise Marion's I was super excited to read this book! I was not let down, Lyle's story is one full of heartache and excitement.
Left at the alter and not sure what to do, drinking seems to be the best option.
Katrina is a singer with a very tortured past. Is it possible for two people to come from different places and heal each other?
You'll have to read The Groom to find that answer. I laughed, I yelled and I cried while reading this. It is one of the very best romance books I have read.
Left at the alter and not sure what to do, drinking seems to be the best option.
Katrina is a singer with a very tortured past. Is it possible for two people to come from different places and heal each other?
You'll have to read The Groom to find that answer. I laughed, I yelled and I cried while reading this. It is one of the very best romance books I have read.
November 29, 2013
4 stars. Lyle story was so sad, felt bad for him. I can't believe that is another cliffhanger. First time, I read something from this author and honestly I truly enjoy this book. Can't wait for the next. kudos to the author. Please, I need to know what happens next.
December 1, 2013
Captivating read. There is draw to Lyle and Katrina that make this an intriguing ready found myself rooting for Lyle to get the woman he loved by any means necessary. Awesome tribute to a character rebounding with the intent to build on his person characteristics as he loves again.
March 12, 2014
A little while ago, I had the opportunity to read a free short story about a man who desperately wanted to win his ex-wife back and it came down to the wire at the wedding itself. The story finished with him of course getting his Happily Ever After. I couldn't quite get totally excited for him because in the process of getting his Ex back right at the alter no less, a very worthy man who had done nothing wrong had been left at the altar. So with that in mind, it pleased me to no end to discover that the author decided to give this jilted groom his own chance at happiness in this story.
It begins of course when Lyle Cummings, son of wealthy society types and successful heart surgeon who has just been jilted at the altar- literally, wanders into a bar to get a drunk on and forget the pain even temporarily in a place where no one knew him or what happened. The bartender gives him his drink with a sympathetic expression for his obvious pain and encourages him to stick around for the live entertainment. Kyle wasn't planning to, but the moment he hears her voice, he plunks back down and lets the musician carry him along with her. He may return to his condo to be confronted by a banner, gifts and a train of rose petals to his room- evidence of what he has just lost- and he plans to bury himself back in his work, but he now returns to that bar night after night to listen to the woman sing.
Katrina knows a thing or two about sorrow so she finds herself captivated by the handsome man who doesn't belong in a blue collar bar. Normally, these businessman or lawyer types aren't her thing, but there is something compelling about him that makes him different. Angie has dubbed him Sad Eyes and it fits. She changes her line-up of songs to sing to him and soon an attempted mob hit brings them into closer acquaintance.
Katrina is the daughter of a mafia don and there is a turf war going on between two of the strongest mob families. Her father wants to send her away for protection, but she has no intention of uprooting her life or going near her father and his associations again. Her twin brother died trying to please her dad and her mother left him years ago when he put The Family first. He never once tried to be a father and now he wants to act like he cares. The danger is real as evidenced by a knife in a dark alley that Sad Eyes rescues her from.
Lyle brings the beautiful injured woman back to his penthouse condo to stitch her up only to find his jilting ex-fiancee on the doorstep to deliver an apology. It is painful and awful, but not heartbreaking because he concentrates on Katrina. They slowly begin something tentative between them. Katrina starts teaching him to be spontaneous and try new things. He gives her a calm in the midst of her stormy life.
With Lyle, she felt a sense of inherent rightness. He balanced her in a very unexpected way. So much of her life had been pure chaos that she never would have imagined Lyle's steady presence would call to her so strongly. It was the quiet strength she'd seen in him, that she felt as he cradled her in strong arms, that drew her to him. p. 119 Katrina from The Groom
Mutual companionship and need grows into something more even as the danger escalates. Both of them are holding tightly on the brink of something bigger, stronger and lasting. Lyle knows that he wants Katrina and not as a rebound thing in spite of everyone in his life telling him they are all wrong for each other, but he sees very clearly that she is holding back. Her 'one day at a time' no plans philosophy is her wall to the world to hold onto her grief, guilt and fears. He thinks he stands a chance of breaking down the wall until her past catches up with them and time is up.
First of all, I know the first book was just a short read that didn't have much time to develop, but I've got to say that the writing, character development and plotting on this one showed me what this writer was truly capable of producing. I was engaged from page one and rooting for Lyle and Kat all the way. Katrina's issues made her stubborn and stupid at times causing a ton of unnecessary danger that annoyed me and I wish she would have started to heal the rift with her father in the end though maybe she would get there eventually with Lyle's help, but for the most part it was good stuff.
Lyle did much of the growing in this book as he stepped out of his comfort zone and embraced all that Katrina coaxed him to try. It was neat to see happen. Katrina's development was of a different sort. She had so many issues that were slowly exposed even to her own eyes as her relationship with Lyle deepened. He saw clearly what kept her back and what she tried to hide. Her personal journey was one of letting go and moving on. I wanted to be angry with her particularly because it was Lyle who was suffering right along with her, but she had big stuff to deal with and it wasn't petty.
This relationship is one of my favorite kinds. I loved watching these two seeming opposites find each other and start bringing out the best in each other. They were passionate- oh yes, those folk who dubbed Lyle as a stick need to learn the difference between dull and someone just waiting to be awakened. He just needed an African American Italian spitfire to bring out what was already there waiting. But sexy times wasn't the only good thing for them. They shared time with the young heart patient at the hospital and mourned her relapse together. They went on fun and spontaneous lunch dates and just enjoyed spending time together. They appreciated the gifts and skills that each possessed and encouraged these to blossom.
All in all, this was a fabulous follow-up to the first book with a nice balance of action, character development, and sizzling romantic development in this opposites attract contemporary romance.
It begins of course when Lyle Cummings, son of wealthy society types and successful heart surgeon who has just been jilted at the altar- literally, wanders into a bar to get a drunk on and forget the pain even temporarily in a place where no one knew him or what happened. The bartender gives him his drink with a sympathetic expression for his obvious pain and encourages him to stick around for the live entertainment. Kyle wasn't planning to, but the moment he hears her voice, he plunks back down and lets the musician carry him along with her. He may return to his condo to be confronted by a banner, gifts and a train of rose petals to his room- evidence of what he has just lost- and he plans to bury himself back in his work, but he now returns to that bar night after night to listen to the woman sing.
Katrina knows a thing or two about sorrow so she finds herself captivated by the handsome man who doesn't belong in a blue collar bar. Normally, these businessman or lawyer types aren't her thing, but there is something compelling about him that makes him different. Angie has dubbed him Sad Eyes and it fits. She changes her line-up of songs to sing to him and soon an attempted mob hit brings them into closer acquaintance.
Katrina is the daughter of a mafia don and there is a turf war going on between two of the strongest mob families. Her father wants to send her away for protection, but she has no intention of uprooting her life or going near her father and his associations again. Her twin brother died trying to please her dad and her mother left him years ago when he put The Family first. He never once tried to be a father and now he wants to act like he cares. The danger is real as evidenced by a knife in a dark alley that Sad Eyes rescues her from.
Lyle brings the beautiful injured woman back to his penthouse condo to stitch her up only to find his jilting ex-fiancee on the doorstep to deliver an apology. It is painful and awful, but not heartbreaking because he concentrates on Katrina. They slowly begin something tentative between them. Katrina starts teaching him to be spontaneous and try new things. He gives her a calm in the midst of her stormy life.
With Lyle, she felt a sense of inherent rightness. He balanced her in a very unexpected way. So much of her life had been pure chaos that she never would have imagined Lyle's steady presence would call to her so strongly. It was the quiet strength she'd seen in him, that she felt as he cradled her in strong arms, that drew her to him. p. 119 Katrina from The Groom
Mutual companionship and need grows into something more even as the danger escalates. Both of them are holding tightly on the brink of something bigger, stronger and lasting. Lyle knows that he wants Katrina and not as a rebound thing in spite of everyone in his life telling him they are all wrong for each other, but he sees very clearly that she is holding back. Her 'one day at a time' no plans philosophy is her wall to the world to hold onto her grief, guilt and fears. He thinks he stands a chance of breaking down the wall until her past catches up with them and time is up.
First of all, I know the first book was just a short read that didn't have much time to develop, but I've got to say that the writing, character development and plotting on this one showed me what this writer was truly capable of producing. I was engaged from page one and rooting for Lyle and Kat all the way. Katrina's issues made her stubborn and stupid at times causing a ton of unnecessary danger that annoyed me and I wish she would have started to heal the rift with her father in the end though maybe she would get there eventually with Lyle's help, but for the most part it was good stuff.
Lyle did much of the growing in this book as he stepped out of his comfort zone and embraced all that Katrina coaxed him to try. It was neat to see happen. Katrina's development was of a different sort. She had so many issues that were slowly exposed even to her own eyes as her relationship with Lyle deepened. He saw clearly what kept her back and what she tried to hide. Her personal journey was one of letting go and moving on. I wanted to be angry with her particularly because it was Lyle who was suffering right along with her, but she had big stuff to deal with and it wasn't petty.
This relationship is one of my favorite kinds. I loved watching these two seeming opposites find each other and start bringing out the best in each other. They were passionate- oh yes, those folk who dubbed Lyle as a stick need to learn the difference between dull and someone just waiting to be awakened. He just needed an African American Italian spitfire to bring out what was already there waiting. But sexy times wasn't the only good thing for them. They shared time with the young heart patient at the hospital and mourned her relapse together. They went on fun and spontaneous lunch dates and just enjoyed spending time together. They appreciated the gifts and skills that each possessed and encouraged these to blossom.
All in all, this was a fabulous follow-up to the first book with a nice balance of action, character development, and sizzling romantic development in this opposites attract contemporary romance.
May 1, 2019
Cute love story
The Groom reminds me so much of the movie Along Came Polly with a bit of a mob twist! The effect the two main characters have on each other is funny, sweet, cute, and amazing. The story had an interesting twist with the addition of the mob and everything that goes with that. Overall, the story was very enjoyable and I am excited to see the next one come to audio!
The narration was good. Logan did a great job bringing different, unique voices to each of the characters. His tone and pace where perfect.
🎧AudiobookObsession🎧
The Groom reminds me so much of the movie Along Came Polly with a bit of a mob twist! The effect the two main characters have on each other is funny, sweet, cute, and amazing. The story had an interesting twist with the addition of the mob and everything that goes with that. Overall, the story was very enjoyable and I am excited to see the next one come to audio!
The narration was good. Logan did a great job bringing different, unique voices to each of the characters. His tone and pace where perfect.
🎧AudiobookObsession🎧
February 14, 2014
The Groom is the story of a singer, Katrina Giordano, who meets cardio-thoracic surgeon Lyle Cummings, when he walks into a bar/club one night while she’s performing after being left at the altar earlier in the day. Lyle is out of sorts and feeling sorry for himself about the demise of his relationship with his fiancée Holly, when Katrina engages him in a karaoke style performance.
As she exits the club after her performance, she’s attacked in an alley by an unknown assailant and Lyle comes to her rescue. Unbeknownst to Lyle, Katrina’s attack isn’t a random incident. During the assault, she hits her head and Lyle being a doctor, can’t agree to let her go off into the night with a possible concussion. Katrina refuses to go to a hospital for treatment, but she reluctantly agrees to let Lyle tend to her injuries and monitor her for the evening.
From that moment on, their relationship progresses into something more. I don’t want to give away too much regarding the complications within their relationship that stem from Katrina’s background, but I will say that Ms. Marion has crafted a lovely tale. Her attention to detail, when describing medical procedures, is great. I find medical terminology and procedures intriguing, so my inner nerd squealed with glee. For me, the Groom reads as a romantic comedy that I could envision being translated on silver screen. The Groom, is a contemporary romance that reminds you that sometimes love is one of those things that happens when you’re making other plans.
My biggest complaint with the Groom is the mild grammatical errors that could have been corrected with a bit more time spent on editing. The errors aren’t egregious enough to detract from the storyline, but they are somewhat distracting. Ms. Marion is a wonderful storyteller and does a great job with the Groom. It’s a worthwhile read.
-Reviewed by Natalie
As she exits the club after her performance, she’s attacked in an alley by an unknown assailant and Lyle comes to her rescue. Unbeknownst to Lyle, Katrina’s attack isn’t a random incident. During the assault, she hits her head and Lyle being a doctor, can’t agree to let her go off into the night with a possible concussion. Katrina refuses to go to a hospital for treatment, but she reluctantly agrees to let Lyle tend to her injuries and monitor her for the evening.
From that moment on, their relationship progresses into something more. I don’t want to give away too much regarding the complications within their relationship that stem from Katrina’s background, but I will say that Ms. Marion has crafted a lovely tale. Her attention to detail, when describing medical procedures, is great. I find medical terminology and procedures intriguing, so my inner nerd squealed with glee. For me, the Groom reads as a romantic comedy that I could envision being translated on silver screen. The Groom, is a contemporary romance that reminds you that sometimes love is one of those things that happens when you’re making other plans.
My biggest complaint with the Groom is the mild grammatical errors that could have been corrected with a bit more time spent on editing. The errors aren’t egregious enough to detract from the storyline, but they are somewhat distracting. Ms. Marion is a wonderful storyteller and does a great job with the Groom. It’s a worthwhile read.
-Reviewed by Natalie
October 27, 2013
I seriously loved this story!
May 15, 2015
This was a really good book.
I loved the characters, the ending left me wanting a sequel.
I loved the characters, the ending left me wanting a sequel.
April 15, 2019
The Doctor💘Wild Kat! Great Audible Listen🎧
The Groom
Altar-ed Destinies, Book 2
By: Elise Marion
Narrated by: Logan McAllister
This is my first book by Elise Marion and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It is well written and well told, with original storylines that are interesting and engrossing. Characters are complex and well developed. After being dumped at the altar Dr. Lyle Cummings is left with a broken heart and goes to drink his sorrows away at Parson's Bar. Ready to leave he hears a voice that draws him in. He is captivated by the woman who is performing on stage, Katrina Giordano. She sees him, really sees him and labels him “sad guy”. Lyle, intrigued by Katrina returns to Parson’s to watch her perform, the two of them meet and they just click. I love how two people who come from such different worlds are so perfect for each other right from the start. With Katrina’s dark past and family ties comes a lot of drama, twists, action and suspense. Lyle is dragged in to the drama but their relationship continues to grow and sizzle. When things turn bad Katrina she thinks it is best that she gives Lyle up for his one good. Elise Marion takes you on an emotional rollercoaster ride here, not only with Katrina and Lyle, but with his young patient too. Thanks for this great story I am looking forward to more of your work.
I listened to the Audible edition, Logan McAllister is a talented narrator and voice performer. He brings the characters to life, gives each their own voice as well as heart and personality. He is an entertaining storyteller and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for the great listen🎧
The Groom
Altar-ed Destinies, Book 2
By: Elise Marion
Narrated by: Logan McAllister
This is my first book by Elise Marion and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It is well written and well told, with original storylines that are interesting and engrossing. Characters are complex and well developed. After being dumped at the altar Dr. Lyle Cummings is left with a broken heart and goes to drink his sorrows away at Parson's Bar. Ready to leave he hears a voice that draws him in. He is captivated by the woman who is performing on stage, Katrina Giordano. She sees him, really sees him and labels him “sad guy”. Lyle, intrigued by Katrina returns to Parson’s to watch her perform, the two of them meet and they just click. I love how two people who come from such different worlds are so perfect for each other right from the start. With Katrina’s dark past and family ties comes a lot of drama, twists, action and suspense. Lyle is dragged in to the drama but their relationship continues to grow and sizzle. When things turn bad Katrina she thinks it is best that she gives Lyle up for his one good. Elise Marion takes you on an emotional rollercoaster ride here, not only with Katrina and Lyle, but with his young patient too. Thanks for this great story I am looking forward to more of your work.
I listened to the Audible edition, Logan McAllister is a talented narrator and voice performer. He brings the characters to life, gives each their own voice as well as heart and personality. He is an entertaining storyteller and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for the great listen🎧
December 4, 2018
The Groom
Alter-ed Destinies #2
Elise Marion
Lyle Cummings – Heart Surgeon and Jilted Groom
Katrina Giordano – Lounge Singer/ Bartender
Lyle was having the worst day of his life, his brides ex husband crashed his wedding and took his bride to be.
While drowning his sorrows at a local bar, his mind and soul were both soothed and awakened by the most beautiful voice he has ever heard.
The voice belonged to the cute bubbly bartender, he was mesmerized. Unknown to Lyle,
Katrina comes with baggage that no one wants to be a part of , the Mafia.
One night while leaving the bar, Katrina was brutally attacked in an alley.
Along comes her knight in shining armor, Lyle to the rescue of the enchanting princess Katrina.
What happens when a man who makes a living saving lives falls head over heals for a woman who comes from a Mafia family?
Just when he realizes how much she means to him all Hell breaks loose.
Can these two opposites make it together against all obstacles on both sides of their families?
This is the first book I have read by this Author, I admit I wasn't quite sure if I would like it. Needless to say I will be reading more by her.
I was offered a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
https://www.amazon.com/Groom-Contempo...
September 21, 2024
When Lyle Cummings is left standing at the altar on his wedding day, all of his carefully composed plans for the future come crashing down around him. The pragmatic surgeon is left questioning his well-ordered existence and wondering if there might be more to life than the achievements of wealth and career.
When he meets fiery lounge singer Katrina Giordano, his mundane life is turned upside down. In her, he finds everything his life has been lacking. With her, he will learn that what he thought was love really wasn't at all. But will Katrina's dark past and ties to organized crime threaten the happiness they have found after so much heartache?
With her life, and now his, hanging in the balance, Lyle will find himself tested when it comes to how far he will go for love.
This is my first book by Elise Marion and what an introduction it was. Elise did an excellent job of drawing me in. This book was well written and the characters are well developed and very relatable, This book is engaging and sweet, I really loved this book and can't wait to read something else by this author! Logan McAllister did an excellent job of bringing this story to life for me! I recommend you give it a try!
When he meets fiery lounge singer Katrina Giordano, his mundane life is turned upside down. In her, he finds everything his life has been lacking. With her, he will learn that what he thought was love really wasn't at all. But will Katrina's dark past and ties to organized crime threaten the happiness they have found after so much heartache?
With her life, and now his, hanging in the balance, Lyle will find himself tested when it comes to how far he will go for love.
This is my first book by Elise Marion and what an introduction it was. Elise did an excellent job of drawing me in. This book was well written and the characters are well developed and very relatable, This book is engaging and sweet, I really loved this book and can't wait to read something else by this author! Logan McAllister did an excellent job of bringing this story to life for me! I recommend you give it a try!
September 4, 2019
I listened to this as an audiobook, and you don't need to listen to any other books in this series to enjoy this book. I haven't read the first book, though I am interested in other stories by this author.
The story does stand alone and wrap up at the end, but I liked the supporting characters so much that I'm interested in hearing their stories. I have mixed feelings about the ex-fiance's story, but I think it's a creative twist so I will probably check it out.
I would recommend The Groom to contemporary romance fans. There's a little bit of danger thrown it, but the majority of the focus is on the relationship between Lyle and Katrina and how their opposite personalities complement each other and bring each of them outside their comfort zones. I like that the relationship develops over time and that the author incorporates a lot of different supporting characters and environments (hospital patients, bar patrons, fancy parties, a housekeeper, etc.).
#AudiobookObsession
The story does stand alone and wrap up at the end, but I liked the supporting characters so much that I'm interested in hearing their stories. I have mixed feelings about the ex-fiance's story, but I think it's a creative twist so I will probably check it out.
I would recommend The Groom to contemporary romance fans. There's a little bit of danger thrown it, but the majority of the focus is on the relationship between Lyle and Katrina and how their opposite personalities complement each other and bring each of them outside their comfort zones. I like that the relationship develops over time and that the author incorporates a lot of different supporting characters and environments (hospital patients, bar patrons, fancy parties, a housekeeper, etc.).
#AudiobookObsession
December 9, 2018
4.5 stars
I really enjoyed this story of two people who really have nothing in common, but deep down want the same things, to love and be loved. I really liked the characters and was happy to see Lyle especially get his HEA after being dumped at the alter previously by his fiance. Katrina was a feisty character with a lot of past demons including some heartbreaking things that happened to her in the past, but her outlook on life was sunny despite all that she's been through. I LOVED the epilogue. This was my first book by Elise Marion, but not my last. I can't wait to read the next story. I was hoping Dan, Lyle's playboy best friend, would be featured so I'm excited to see his story play out.
I really enjoyed this story of two people who really have nothing in common, but deep down want the same things, to love and be loved. I really liked the characters and was happy to see Lyle especially get his HEA after being dumped at the alter previously by his fiance. Katrina was a feisty character with a lot of past demons including some heartbreaking things that happened to her in the past, but her outlook on life was sunny despite all that she's been through. I LOVED the epilogue. This was my first book by Elise Marion, but not my last. I can't wait to read the next story. I was hoping Dan, Lyle's playboy best friend, would be featured so I'm excited to see his story play out.
May 3, 2019
I listened to the audiobook version of this book.
I liked how each character had something they needed to overcome. They were definitely opposites in all aspects which is often neat to see. The love story itself feels more realistic than many, there was plenty of room for Lyle and Katrina's love to flourish and it wasn't just all about sex. I liked that the author really took the time to build the chemistry and the characters. There are some sad moments and a couple of mafia style twists that made this a captivating listen.
I thought the narrator was perfect as Lyle. He gave a great performance that complemented this story well.
I received a review copy at my request and have voluntarily left this unbiased review.
I liked how each character had something they needed to overcome. They were definitely opposites in all aspects which is often neat to see. The love story itself feels more realistic than many, there was plenty of room for Lyle and Katrina's love to flourish and it wasn't just all about sex. I liked that the author really took the time to build the chemistry and the characters. There are some sad moments and a couple of mafia style twists that made this a captivating listen.
I thought the narrator was perfect as Lyle. He gave a great performance that complemented this story well.
I received a review copy at my request and have voluntarily left this unbiased review.
January 23, 2020
"A BEAUTIFUL Love Story"❤
The author Elise Marion captured my heart with this beautiful love story that brought two damaged souls together thru the music of one. They both were dealing with situations that had a devastating effect on their lives.
Her sultry voice started to heal things inside and touched his heart in ways that it hadn't been touched before. And, his belief in her helped her to understand everyone isn't bad, she doesn't have to run anymore, that it was okay to stay and take a chance with him.
The narrator Logan McAllister was new to me but his talents were well tuned, he knew what he was doing. I would recommend; "The Groom," to others who enjoys a good romantic love story!
#AudiobookObsessionReviewer🎧RoniF
The author Elise Marion captured my heart with this beautiful love story that brought two damaged souls together thru the music of one. They both were dealing with situations that had a devastating effect on their lives.
Her sultry voice started to heal things inside and touched his heart in ways that it hadn't been touched before. And, his belief in her helped her to understand everyone isn't bad, she doesn't have to run anymore, that it was okay to stay and take a chance with him.
The narrator Logan McAllister was new to me but his talents were well tuned, he knew what he was doing. I would recommend; "The Groom," to others who enjoys a good romantic love story!
#AudiobookObsessionReviewer🎧RoniF
December 15, 2018
This was one even better than the first in the series (The ex-wife's wedding). It starts out the day Lyle gets jilted at the alter - he's in a bar drowning his sorrows when the singer (Katrina) catches his attention. He is just enraptured by her. He keeps coming back and finally meets her when she gets mugged by a rival mob family and he stops it. They slowly get to know each other. In the beginning of the book, you really feel for Lyle. Near the end, I was in tears at all what was happening in his life. It was a very good read.
May 6, 2019
This was a great book. It was very wholesome and encouraging. I also loved the dark and dangerous undertones. The thrill of the chase and fear so to speak. I just wanted to keep reading. I didn't want to stop. I didn't read the first book, but now I want to just to have some answers about the beginning of the book.
There are parts that I feel were too rushed over. I kind of wanted a little more build up in certain parts, but it was very good either way. The narrator did a great job with the book as well. I'm intrigued to read book three now!
There are parts that I feel were too rushed over. I kind of wanted a little more build up in certain parts, but it was very good either way. The narrator did a great job with the book as well. I'm intrigued to read book three now!
April 25, 2019
The characters in this felt so real that I really cared about what was going to happen to them. I shouted at them and their decisions a couple of times, and I laughed with them. It mattered to me. I loved following their relationship and how it built and changed.
I love Logan McAllister's voice, it's very easy to tell which character is which with him once they have been established. I settled so quickly listening to him. He really brought the book to life.
I love Logan McAllister's voice, it's very easy to tell which character is which with him once they have been established. I settled so quickly listening to him. He really brought the book to life.
December 20, 2018
Poor Lyle he really went through the ringer. I truly felt for the guy. I liked how the author realistically portrayed his pain and anguish without glossing over what happened to him. He and Katrina had a nice slow burn that was moving in parts.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 22, 2018
I enjoyed this story about Lyle and Katrina. They each has baggage that they need to overcome to be together. He was jilted at the alter and she is singer at a bar and her father is head of the mafia. Their story is well written and believable. Recieved a ARC copy and am voluntarily leaving this review. Recommend this book and looking forward to the next one.
December 23, 2018
He has everything and is standing at the altar waiting for his bride but she does not turn up. Now he is left wondering what is going on. He then meets a singer who shows him a different way to live but she has a dark past. Will it ruin their future? See if it will
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 29, 2018
This had it all, the emotions, hot steamy, sexy, suspense, trouble and a dark past. The storyline and the characters pull you in and keep your interest through the whole book. I enjoyed the characters as the came to life and made you feel for them like you knew them. I recommend it to all. I received it from booksprout and voluntarily left my review.
January 8, 2019
This is the 1st book I’ve read written by Elise Marion; she has done a good job at writing a good book. I can’t wait to read more of her books.
The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I loved the chemistry between the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I loved the chemistry between the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
November 29, 2018
What a wonderful contemporary romance with some suspense thrown in to spice it up. A joy to read and you fall in love with the characters almost immediately. If I say anymore I will give it all away and I don't want to do that. Great book to lose yourself in.
December 26, 2018
The second book in the Altar-ed Destinies series is a well-written story that held my attention through out. Lyle and Katrina have things in their pasts that they must overcome to be able to move forward. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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