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Nailed Down #4
Stripped Down
I'd set flame to that perfect piece of art. Scorched it with a lie because I knew she was too perfect, too pure for me.
Even now, all these years later, I saw the look on her face--the devastated expression that told me I'd crushed her. All that beauty fractured with one lie.
It broke her.
It destroyed me.
The last time I saw her had unhinged me. It had been years, but Sammy had still managed to devastate me with a look. Then, she slapped me right across the face.
But today, in this holy place, at this time, she should know I would find her. I was better prepared this time. I could wait. I could watch and see her pristine self. A perfect vision in her black dress and black hat, clutching her red rosary beads as she closed her eyes and prayed.
Not for me.
No.
Never.
Even now, all these years later, I saw the look on her face--the devastated expression that told me I'd crushed her. All that beauty fractured with one lie.
It broke her.
It destroyed me.
The last time I saw her had unhinged me. It had been years, but Sammy had still managed to devastate me with a look. Then, she slapped me right across the face.
But today, in this holy place, at this time, she should know I would find her. I was better prepared this time. I could wait. I could watch and see her pristine self. A perfect vision in her black dress and black hat, clutching her red rosary beads as she closed her eyes and prayed.
Not for me.
No.
Never.
261 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 22, 2019
145 people are currently reading
555 people want to read
About the author
Chelle Bliss
135 books8,981 followersChelle Bliss is a Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestselling author. She currently lives in a small town near the Gulf of Mexico, but hates sand. She's a full-time writer, time-waster extraordinaire, social media addict, and loves everything romance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 147 reviews
March 23, 2020
Johnny and Sammy
Johnny has loved Sammy for as long as he can remember. But he had to let her go. Sammy is older and much more beautiful than he ever expected. They both are hiding secrets . Secrets even they have no idea about.
Johnny has loved Sammy for as long as he can remember. But he had to let her go. Sammy is older and much more beautiful than he ever expected. They both are hiding secrets . Secrets even they have no idea about.
July 11, 2019
Stripped Down by Chelle Bliss & Eden Butler
Johnny & Sammy
HOLY HOTNESS - THIS BOOK HAS IT ALL!
5 Stars
What an outstanding conclusion to a fantastic series. I’m thinking there could actually be a few more books written in this series or maybe a spin-off but that’s just me and my silly thinking, but holy heck there are some sexy guys out there in the Johnny Carelli posse’ that could most definitely melt my panties!!!
Johnny has been a force to be reckoned with since the beginning and whoa did he come in with a vengeance. I love love love this man and all his crazy quirks. He’s sexy, hilarious, and full of angst. He has some forgiving to do and some things to amend, but I’m confident he’ll get to that point!
Sammy is so perfect for this role. Her character comes across and clean and pristine but, well, she’s more than just that. I wanted to embrace her and smack her all at the same time. She means well, and meant well, but put her faith and trust in the wrong man. Hmmm… don’t we all at one time or another?
The supporting character cast is slight and to me not worth mentioning. Mostly because they pissed me off and I don’t have anything nice to say about them. Well, I guess the fact that the bad peeps or villains were well written and made the story that much more fascinating.
This one had me at hello… actually I couldn’t wait to read this story after getting a whiff of it in Kneel Down. The characters were powerful and provoking. The dialogues flowed nicely and the story line was perfection. What a ride!
Johnny & Sammy
HOLY HOTNESS - THIS BOOK HAS IT ALL!
5 Stars
What an outstanding conclusion to a fantastic series. I’m thinking there could actually be a few more books written in this series or maybe a spin-off but that’s just me and my silly thinking, but holy heck there are some sexy guys out there in the Johnny Carelli posse’ that could most definitely melt my panties!!!
Johnny has been a force to be reckoned with since the beginning and whoa did he come in with a vengeance. I love love love this man and all his crazy quirks. He’s sexy, hilarious, and full of angst. He has some forgiving to do and some things to amend, but I’m confident he’ll get to that point!
Sammy is so perfect for this role. Her character comes across and clean and pristine but, well, she’s more than just that. I wanted to embrace her and smack her all at the same time. She means well, and meant well, but put her faith and trust in the wrong man. Hmmm… don’t we all at one time or another?
The supporting character cast is slight and to me not worth mentioning. Mostly because they pissed me off and I don’t have anything nice to say about them. Well, I guess the fact that the bad peeps or villains were well written and made the story that much more fascinating.
This one had me at hello… actually I couldn’t wait to read this story after getting a whiff of it in Kneel Down. The characters were powerful and provoking. The dialogues flowed nicely and the story line was perfection. What a ride!
July 23, 2019
Chelle Bliss and Eden Butler without a doubt saved the best for last!!! Stripped Down is freaking AMAZING, so damn good and the BEST book in this series. I was highly anticipating reading Johnny Carelli’s book and once I started it, I was consumed with it. The storyline is executed in the best way possible and both authors delivered everything that I crave in a second chance romance.
Johnny and Samantha (aka Sammy) met when they were young and they were each other’s first love (the teenager in me was over the moon). Their relationship ended abruptly, years passed by and as much as they tried, they never forgot about one another. Fate has reunited them and Johnny seized the opportunity to reclaim the love of his life. Trust me when I tell you that Sammy with her strong and fierce personality, gave him a run for his money. I truly loved every moment of it. And once their relationship was reignited, it was like a wildfire!! Johnny and Samantha’s story is so swoon worthy with hot and passionate moments that will have you fanning yourself with stars in your eyes. I also loved the twist of angst which kept me engaged.
Stripped Down is so well written and I was incredibly satisfied with not only the book but the entire series. As much as I didn’t want to read “The End”, my heart is complete.
Johnny and Samantha (aka Sammy) met when they were young and they were each other’s first love (the teenager in me was over the moon). Their relationship ended abruptly, years passed by and as much as they tried, they never forgot about one another. Fate has reunited them and Johnny seized the opportunity to reclaim the love of his life. Trust me when I tell you that Sammy with her strong and fierce personality, gave him a run for his money. I truly loved every moment of it. And once their relationship was reignited, it was like a wildfire!! Johnny and Samantha’s story is so swoon worthy with hot and passionate moments that will have you fanning yourself with stars in your eyes. I also loved the twist of angst which kept me engaged.
Stripped Down is so well written and I was incredibly satisfied with not only the book but the entire series. As much as I didn’t want to read “The End”, my heart is complete.
July 21, 2019
I've loved each one of the books in this series but this just might be my favorite!!!
I absolutely loved Johnny and Sammy's story. There were so many unexpected twists and turns in this book. And Sammy, oh my!!! I'm absolutely in love with the woman. She is so strong, I am just in awe! Johnny has made some big mistakes over the years, but for all the right reasons. That he is willing to give up so much for love is beautiful, to forgive the wrongs done is even more so.
Chelle Bliss and Eden Butler can really weave a fantastic story! I always know I'm going to love their books!
I absolutely loved Johnny and Sammy's story. There were so many unexpected twists and turns in this book. And Sammy, oh my!!! I'm absolutely in love with the woman. She is so strong, I am just in awe! Johnny has made some big mistakes over the years, but for all the right reasons. That he is willing to give up so much for love is beautiful, to forgive the wrongs done is even more so.
Chelle Bliss and Eden Butler can really weave a fantastic story! I always know I'm going to love their books!
July 28, 2019
Johnny is definitely my favorite from this series now, its absolutely amazing, him and Sammy are scorching hot!!
Definitely loved this couple, loved all Johnny did to prove she was the one, the past broke them but holy molly the chemistry with them was off the charts, definitely in love with this book, Chelle and Eden are a great team as I’ve said before.
Definitely loved this couple, loved all Johnny did to prove she was the one, the past broke them but holy molly the chemistry with them was off the charts, definitely in love with this book, Chelle and Eden are a great team as I’ve said before.
July 23, 2019
What a FANTASTIC read from beginning to end this second chance romance book captivated me and kept me turning the pages! It was a phenomenal end to this series!
Without a doubt a must read and I’d totally give it 5 stars.
Johnny and Sammy have some off the wall chemistry that just can’t be contained.
Loved every second of this book!
Way to go ladies ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Without a doubt a must read and I’d totally give it 5 stars.
Johnny and Sammy have some off the wall chemistry that just can’t be contained.
Loved every second of this book!
Way to go ladies ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
July 23, 2019
A chemistry that was off the charts but that lead to lies and broken hearts.
This makes for a hot and sexy second chance romance.
The heat from reading this almost melted my kindle.
You will not be disappointed by this book.
This makes for a hot and sexy second chance romance.
The heat from reading this almost melted my kindle.
You will not be disappointed by this book.
July 16, 2019
Once again we have a sexy hot romance!!! Whew! Stripped Down is book #4 in the Nailed Down series and I loved it! Sexy, hot chemistry. A few twists and turns. What’s it to love?
July 22, 2019
5 star Review Stripped Down (Nailed Down #4) by Chelle Bliss & Eden Butler
Stripped Down is the 4th book in the Nailed Down Series. This is Johnny Carelli and Samantha “Sammy” Nicola’s story and what a story it is.
Can one night truly change the course of one’s life? In the case of Sammy it certainly can and does. Sammy is meant for a life of service in the convent but all that changes thanks to a night of passion with Johnny despite her uncle Patrick, a priest who is determined to keep Johnny and Sammy apart.
I have been intrigued by Johnny since he was first mentioned and I couldn’t wait to read his story. It was everything I hoped for and more.
Full of surprising twists and turns and chemistry so intense and scorching.
A second chance at love story that drew me in and kept me captivated from the first to the last chapter. The suspense had me on the edge of my seat but through it all is a story of love, loyalty, family and lies.
Will Johnny and Sammy be able to move on from the past, mend their broken hearts, forgive the lies and in doing so find the happiness that they deserve? Or will the secrets destroy them?
Chelle Bliss and Eden Butler obviously work well together as I was unable to determine where one author ended and the other picked up; a sign of a great collaboration.
Stripped Down was a great conclusion to the Nailed Down series.
Stripped Down is the 4th book in the Nailed Down Series. This is Johnny Carelli and Samantha “Sammy” Nicola’s story and what a story it is.
Can one night truly change the course of one’s life? In the case of Sammy it certainly can and does. Sammy is meant for a life of service in the convent but all that changes thanks to a night of passion with Johnny despite her uncle Patrick, a priest who is determined to keep Johnny and Sammy apart.
I have been intrigued by Johnny since he was first mentioned and I couldn’t wait to read his story. It was everything I hoped for and more.
Full of surprising twists and turns and chemistry so intense and scorching.
A second chance at love story that drew me in and kept me captivated from the first to the last chapter. The suspense had me on the edge of my seat but through it all is a story of love, loyalty, family and lies.
Will Johnny and Sammy be able to move on from the past, mend their broken hearts, forgive the lies and in doing so find the happiness that they deserve? Or will the secrets destroy them?
Chelle Bliss and Eden Butler obviously work well together as I was unable to determine where one author ended and the other picked up; a sign of a great collaboration.
Stripped Down was a great conclusion to the Nailed Down series.
July 17, 2019
Stripped Down is the 4th book in the Nailed Down Series. And we are finally to Johnny’s story!
Johnny is a Carelli and the son of a mafia king. Samantha “Sammy” Nicola was destined for the convent. Until one night of passion between Johnny and Sammy. That night changed her life forever.
Sammy’s uncle Patrick Nicola, is a priest whom has secrets of his own. He kept Sammy and Johnny apart except for that fateful night. She was told that Johnny was not a good guy and was dangerous. And in truth he could not offer her safety so it was better to stay away. But like a moth to flame he kept turning up.
There are some twists to this story that I really did not see coming. This is the end to this series. But Eden Butler and Chelle Bliss are not done writing together. More to come in 2020!
This was a very enjoyable story and it was great to read Johnny’s story since he has been in the previous books. These 2 authors write very well together and I can't wait to read more from them coming next year.
Read the entire Nailed Down Series:
Book 1 - Nailed Down – Kane and Kit’s story
Book 2 - Tied Down – Kiel Kaino and Cara Carelli’s story
Book 3 - Kneel Down – Dale Hunter and Gin Sullivan’s story
Book 4 - Stripped Down – Johnny Carelli and Sammy’s story
Johnny is a Carelli and the son of a mafia king. Samantha “Sammy” Nicola was destined for the convent. Until one night of passion between Johnny and Sammy. That night changed her life forever.
Sammy’s uncle Patrick Nicola, is a priest whom has secrets of his own. He kept Sammy and Johnny apart except for that fateful night. She was told that Johnny was not a good guy and was dangerous. And in truth he could not offer her safety so it was better to stay away. But like a moth to flame he kept turning up.
There are some twists to this story that I really did not see coming. This is the end to this series. But Eden Butler and Chelle Bliss are not done writing together. More to come in 2020!
This was a very enjoyable story and it was great to read Johnny’s story since he has been in the previous books. These 2 authors write very well together and I can't wait to read more from them coming next year.
Read the entire Nailed Down Series:
Book 1 - Nailed Down – Kane and Kit’s story
Book 2 - Tied Down – Kiel Kaino and Cara Carelli’s story
Book 3 - Kneel Down – Dale Hunter and Gin Sullivan’s story
Book 4 - Stripped Down – Johnny Carelli and Sammy’s story
July 15, 2019
Woah... Alright, so where to begin? This book was intense, with twists and turns, and heat that was damn near melting my kindle. I love Chelle... She knows how to write a hot, all-consuming romance that sucks you in from the start, so you add in Eden who just adds to all this awesomeness, and you have the perfect duo.
This romance is kind of an opposites attract star crossed lovers romance a man named Johnny... God, I loved Johnny. He was ruthless and came into to this swinging. He has a past and it's far from perfect, he's trying to make amends, while he has his own forgiving to do. I was intrigued with him from the started and I couldn't help but fall smitten to this man. All his imperfection and his crazy self.
Sammy was his opposite, she tried to come across was perfect and clean and naive in a sense... I liked this character, I think she was perfect in every sense of the world, but I did want to give her a kick or 6 throughout the book and once you read it, I am sure you will understand. But in saying that, as the book progress so did she, and so did Johnny and reading these two was highly addictive, I honestly couldn't put the book down and when I had to, I whined and craved to pick it back up.
These two were hot, they had an insane connection and I just soaked it up from the start... And when it came to the end of the book? I was devastated, I wanted more of these two. I need more!
It's a MUST READ... Like I mean go and grab your copy now and read NOW. You'll be hooked from the first chapter just like I was.
5 stars
This romance is kind of an opposites attract star crossed lovers romance a man named Johnny... God, I loved Johnny. He was ruthless and came into to this swinging. He has a past and it's far from perfect, he's trying to make amends, while he has his own forgiving to do. I was intrigued with him from the started and I couldn't help but fall smitten to this man. All his imperfection and his crazy self.
Sammy was his opposite, she tried to come across was perfect and clean and naive in a sense... I liked this character, I think she was perfect in every sense of the world, but I did want to give her a kick or 6 throughout the book and once you read it, I am sure you will understand. But in saying that, as the book progress so did she, and so did Johnny and reading these two was highly addictive, I honestly couldn't put the book down and when I had to, I whined and craved to pick it back up.
These two were hot, they had an insane connection and I just soaked it up from the start... And when it came to the end of the book? I was devastated, I wanted more of these two. I need more!
It's a MUST READ... Like I mean go and grab your copy now and read NOW. You'll be hooked from the first chapter just like I was.
5 stars
July 24, 2019
Second Chance Romance at it's finest!
In this story we have Johnny & Samantha. They have known each other most of their lives. Johnny is a few years older, and knew Samantha as a friend of his sisters when they were in school with each other.
They are from feuding families. Samantha only has her uncle in her life, who is also a priest. Her uncle never approved of Johnny & always accused him of soiling Samantha's purity.
Johnny knew his family would never approve of him being with Samantha, he broke things off with her when they were younger, breaking her heart.
Samantha never got over Johnny, and no one else ever replaced him in her heart either. Samantha has a huge secret that she has kept from him and most of her friends.
Will Samantha and Johnny be able to mend their hearts? Will Samantha want to be with him after being away from him for the last 9 years?
I did receive a free ARC copy of this book. I am freely leaving an honest review.
In this story we have Johnny & Samantha. They have known each other most of their lives. Johnny is a few years older, and knew Samantha as a friend of his sisters when they were in school with each other.
They are from feuding families. Samantha only has her uncle in her life, who is also a priest. Her uncle never approved of Johnny & always accused him of soiling Samantha's purity.
Johnny knew his family would never approve of him being with Samantha, he broke things off with her when they were younger, breaking her heart.
Samantha never got over Johnny, and no one else ever replaced him in her heart either. Samantha has a huge secret that she has kept from him and most of her friends.
Will Samantha and Johnny be able to mend their hearts? Will Samantha want to be with him after being away from him for the last 9 years?
I did receive a free ARC copy of this book. I am freely leaving an honest review.
July 8, 2019
I received an ARC in return for an honest review. I love the second-chance romance concept. I was expecting Sammy to play a little more hard to get with Johnny but it was still good. Those two definitely had a connection and time didn’t lessen that. If I had to complain I would say two things. One, there was a lack of buildup with the Shane situation. I feel like we should have been involved by seeing Sammy’s POV when he came to her or had a little more buildup then just a paragraph long chapter. I was honestly thought I skipped a chapter and went back because I thought I missed something. Two, when Johnny found out what Sammy kept from him, although I’m glad he was quickly forgiving, my dramatic side needed something. There wasn’t even an argument! Other then that, I really enjoyed it. I am excited to read about some more of the Carelli Family.
July 19, 2019
"We fell in love.... and then...I broke her heart."
Finally, we got Johnny and Sammy's story! The Mobster and the woman who was going to be a NUN.
Stripped down was really great read. Sinful and Sexy!
I love the way Sammy hates Johnny. I love the build-up at the second chance. I love the secrets that everyone is hiding. I love getting lost in the drama and suspense. I really love the new mafia family members that intrigue me.
There were certain parts in the book that I wish were given more details to help me understand the situation but nothing that stopped me from being consumed with this story.
I definitely enjoy these two authors collaboration they know how to deliver a page-turner.
Finally, we got Johnny and Sammy's story! The Mobster and the woman who was going to be a NUN.
Stripped down was really great read. Sinful and Sexy!
I love the way Sammy hates Johnny. I love the build-up at the second chance. I love the secrets that everyone is hiding. I love getting lost in the drama and suspense. I really love the new mafia family members that intrigue me.
There were certain parts in the book that I wish were given more details to help me understand the situation but nothing that stopped me from being consumed with this story.
I definitely enjoy these two authors collaboration they know how to deliver a page-turner.
July 8, 2019
Johnny's story is one of lies, loyalty and family. Sammy's story is one of faith, loyalty and family, oh and Lies. The both have things in common including love. Loyalty comes at a high price. This book is filled with happy highs and suspenseful lows. The highs had me smiling with a warm heart for the characters. The suspenseful lows had my heart breaking for them. Protecting the ones we love will always make you make the wrong choices with the best of intentions. I felt the pressure of loyatly through the whole story, how far it drives them to do the things they do to one another in the name of protection. A must read, 5 STARS all the way!
July 11, 2019
Here we have the syndicate and trying to escape same. The star crossed lovers, who after many years find each other, again. An interesting scenario, corruption and deceit abounds, within and between the family, friends and church. There is angst, lies, romance and steam, all rolled together in this entertaining read. Another TBR entry.
July 18, 2019
I liked that Johnny recognized his feelings for his woman, "You can’t own a woman. She isn’t your property. She isn’t your possession. But she can completely control you. It was the only answer for how consumed Sammy made me feel— half crazed, half possessed by the worry..." I liked this book, I loved Johnny.
July 24, 2019
Stripped Down is a second chance romance between Johnny and Sammy. It was a suck you in and bring you through an emotional rollercoaster type of read. Absolutely 5 stars and I wish there was more!!
These two had a brief but intense love when they were younger, but after Johnny breaks Sammy's heart, they wind up crossing path again later in life. There is so much more at stake this time around. Johnny seemed like trouble in the beginning of this story and if there's one thing I love it's to read about a sexy alpha bad boy. We had a glimpse of him in the book Tied Down, but definitely not enough for me so I was so happy when I saw this book was coming! As bad as Johnny could be during this story, it always seemed like Sammy was his kryptonite.
This read had quite the plot twist and I refuse to spoil it for those who haven't read it yet. Grab this book now. Eden Butler and Chelle Bliss co-write amazingly together and these characters are absolute fire!
These two had a brief but intense love when they were younger, but after Johnny breaks Sammy's heart, they wind up crossing path again later in life. There is so much more at stake this time around. Johnny seemed like trouble in the beginning of this story and if there's one thing I love it's to read about a sexy alpha bad boy. We had a glimpse of him in the book Tied Down, but definitely not enough for me so I was so happy when I saw this book was coming! As bad as Johnny could be during this story, it always seemed like Sammy was his kryptonite.
This read had quite the plot twist and I refuse to spoil it for those who haven't read it yet. Grab this book now. Eden Butler and Chelle Bliss co-write amazingly together and these characters are absolute fire!
July 26, 2019
Stripped Down was AMAZING. It has everything thing you were hoping for and more.
Johnny and Sammy are filled with desire, hope and chemistry that is off the charts. Their rough past creates and intensity and longing that you will fall in love with. You cannot turn the pages fast enough. Can Johnny prove to Sammy that she is the one? She is the one he loves and he will do anything to prove this to her no matter what. Can they get past all of the lies and deceit that their families harbor?
Be ready to fall fast and hard for both Sammy and Johnny. This is a MUST READ!!!
Johnny and Sammy are filled with desire, hope and chemistry that is off the charts. Their rough past creates and intensity and longing that you will fall in love with. You cannot turn the pages fast enough. Can Johnny prove to Sammy that she is the one? She is the one he loves and he will do anything to prove this to her no matter what. Can they get past all of the lies and deceit that their families harbor?
Be ready to fall fast and hard for both Sammy and Johnny. This is a MUST READ!!!
November 19, 2019
So good
Johnny broke Sammy heart along time ago but that doesn't mean he doesn't love her.
His goal is to get her to forgive him but she has secrets of her own.
Read about there journey, really good read with a few twists and turns
Johnny broke Sammy heart along time ago but that doesn't mean he doesn't love her.
His goal is to get her to forgive him but she has secrets of her own.
Read about there journey, really good read with a few twists and turns
October 26, 2019
DNF at 35%
There isn't anything wrong with the actual writing of this book for the most part. The author has improved quite a bit over the years as some of her early work is just painful to read. I'm not a big fan of 2nd chances. I'm a firm believer that something ends for a reason and life is about moving forwards not backwards. All the same, there was something about the blurb of this that made me curious so I picked it up. I wish I hadn't. I got annoyed pretty quickly.
Our H has corrupted the h at a young age, she who was going to be a nun, but he ends up taking her innocence and then he leaves her, telling her he doesn't love her (because he's doing it for her own good - yeah right, if he was concerned about her good he either would have stayed with her or wouldn't have corrupted her in the first place). They're separated by over 10 years when he sees her again. The h is carrying quite the 'hate on' for the H for how he broke her. At least, that's what she seems to imply. I was looking forward to a strong and determined woman that would not bend so easily, especially after how bad he hurt her.
Turns out, she bends so easily she might as well have been a wet noodle.
All it takes is the H to 'convince' her to go out with him, to pretend they're in a relationship (eye-roll and so overdone) so that he can impress a potential business partner. If she does, he won't tell her Uncle (that hates him, he's a priest) that he's helping to fix up the building the h works in with the kids she takes care of. She agrees (eye roll) because apparently, it's okay for her to let him blackmail her into helping him instead of telling him to shove it, he owes her, and be done with it.
The VERY FIRST DATE we have the h having too much to drink, and apparently that's all it takes for her walls to come down, to stop being snarky, to let the guy kiss her on the lips, to walk her to her door, convince her to go on dates, he sends her flowers, blah, blah, fuckidy blah. You see where I'm going here?
Where the hell is the decade long hate, hurt, and betrayal? How the hell does it go flying out the window in a single night? in a single conversation? This is where the author lost me. I'm so sick and tired of these weak-ass heroines that roll over because of a pretty smile and a couple of sweet words. (Gun -> mouth). And of authors that make us believe that that's what they're going to give us and then don't.
I'm sure the story is a good read for others that don't care what a doormat and pushover the h is after having her heart ripped apart, but I unfortunately DO care. I guess this is the last 2nd chance story I'll ever read and I'm officially done with this author.
There isn't anything wrong with the actual writing of this book for the most part. The author has improved quite a bit over the years as some of her early work is just painful to read. I'm not a big fan of 2nd chances. I'm a firm believer that something ends for a reason and life is about moving forwards not backwards. All the same, there was something about the blurb of this that made me curious so I picked it up. I wish I hadn't. I got annoyed pretty quickly.
Our H has corrupted the h at a young age, she who was going to be a nun, but he ends up taking her innocence and then he leaves her, telling her he doesn't love her (because he's doing it for her own good - yeah right, if he was concerned about her good he either would have stayed with her or wouldn't have corrupted her in the first place). They're separated by over 10 years when he sees her again. The h is carrying quite the 'hate on' for the H for how he broke her. At least, that's what she seems to imply. I was looking forward to a strong and determined woman that would not bend so easily, especially after how bad he hurt her.
Turns out, she bends so easily she might as well have been a wet noodle.
All it takes is the H to 'convince' her to go out with him, to pretend they're in a relationship (eye-roll and so overdone) so that he can impress a potential business partner. If she does, he won't tell her Uncle (that hates him, he's a priest) that he's helping to fix up the building the h works in with the kids she takes care of. She agrees (eye roll) because apparently, it's okay for her to let him blackmail her into helping him instead of telling him to shove it, he owes her, and be done with it.
The VERY FIRST DATE we have the h having too much to drink, and apparently that's all it takes for her walls to come down, to stop being snarky, to let the guy kiss her on the lips, to walk her to her door, convince her to go on dates, he sends her flowers, blah, blah, fuckidy blah. You see where I'm going here?
Where the hell is the decade long hate, hurt, and betrayal? How the hell does it go flying out the window in a single night? in a single conversation? This is where the author lost me. I'm so sick and tired of these weak-ass heroines that roll over because of a pretty smile and a couple of sweet words. (Gun -> mouth). And of authors that make us believe that that's what they're going to give us and then don't.
I'm sure the story is a good read for others that don't care what a doormat and pushover the h is after having her heart ripped apart, but I unfortunately DO care. I guess this is the last 2nd chance story I'll ever read and I'm officially done with this author.
July 18, 2019
Stripped Down is a gritty second chance romance between Johnny and his Sammy. These two seemed to have had a very brief but very intense love affair when both were young. And now, many years later, their paths cross once more but they are neither the person they were back then and more than ever, much more is at stake that just their virtues!
I could tell from the start that Johnny Carelli would be trouble, having gotten a glimpse of him in his sister's book, Tied Down. But despite working for the 'family business' he has a tender heart and when he's around Sammy, you can tell he'd do anything just to be able to touch her again. As their worlds collide, the passion is there for the taking and I really loved how electric their attraction was and still is.
Sammy's Uncle is a big part of this story, the beloved Father Patrick not the man everyone thinks he is. I didn't like him and hated that Sammy felt obligated to obey him even as a mature woman. But his protection of her and her secret blows wide open and both her world and Johnny's is never the same.
I would have wished for this one to be a bit longer since I felt the jaw-dropping reveal came later in the book and although Johnny's reaction is pure gold, I wanted more of he and Sammy and them coming to grips with what she has kept from him for so long. But overall it's a great read and a wonderful addition to this well-written series.
Butler and Bliss write beautifully together and I look forward to more of this collaboration in the future. 4 solid stars!
I could tell from the start that Johnny Carelli would be trouble, having gotten a glimpse of him in his sister's book, Tied Down. But despite working for the 'family business' he has a tender heart and when he's around Sammy, you can tell he'd do anything just to be able to touch her again. As their worlds collide, the passion is there for the taking and I really loved how electric their attraction was and still is.
Sammy's Uncle is a big part of this story, the beloved Father Patrick not the man everyone thinks he is. I didn't like him and hated that Sammy felt obligated to obey him even as a mature woman. But his protection of her and her secret blows wide open and both her world and Johnny's is never the same.
I would have wished for this one to be a bit longer since I felt the jaw-dropping reveal came later in the book and although Johnny's reaction is pure gold, I wanted more of he and Sammy and them coming to grips with what she has kept from him for so long. But overall it's a great read and a wonderful addition to this well-written series.
Butler and Bliss write beautifully together and I look forward to more of this collaboration in the future. 4 solid stars!
July 18, 2019
I love a second chance romance and this one is great. Johnny and Sammy both fell hard for each other years ago but then they broke each other's hearts. While did it to protect her, Sammy did it to protect herself but it took over 10 years for him to learn her secret that the lie would wreck him.
Johnny did and still does love Sammy but with the things his father was in to, he could not risk her safety. So he had to push her away. Rather he shoved her away and broke her in the process. Although he kept an eye on her all these years, he never learned her secret.
Sammy fell hard for Johnny and his deek, soulful eyes but when he told her he didn't love her and never would, it left her broken and alone. And with a secret she couldn't tell him about.
Will Sammy give Johnny another chance or save her heart a second time around? Can Johnny show her that he never stopped loving her? What will he do when he learns about her secret? Will the lies of the past continue to keep them apart?
I have loved this series from the beginning and didn't think it could get any better but I think Johnny and Sammy are now my favorite couple of this series. If you are looking for a great series that is filled with alpha males, women who love them, fun, loving and steamy, then this series is for you. And you can't go wrong with the author duo of Chelle Bliss & Eden Butler.
**I voluntarily reviewed an advance complimentary copy of this book.**
Johnny did and still does love Sammy but with the things his father was in to, he could not risk her safety. So he had to push her away. Rather he shoved her away and broke her in the process. Although he kept an eye on her all these years, he never learned her secret.
Sammy fell hard for Johnny and his deek, soulful eyes but when he told her he didn't love her and never would, it left her broken and alone. And with a secret she couldn't tell him about.
Will Sammy give Johnny another chance or save her heart a second time around? Can Johnny show her that he never stopped loving her? What will he do when he learns about her secret? Will the lies of the past continue to keep them apart?
I have loved this series from the beginning and didn't think it could get any better but I think Johnny and Sammy are now my favorite couple of this series. If you are looking for a great series that is filled with alpha males, women who love them, fun, loving and steamy, then this series is for you. And you can't go wrong with the author duo of Chelle Bliss & Eden Butler.
**I voluntarily reviewed an advance complimentary copy of this book.**
July 27, 2019
Chelle Bliss & Eden Butler have joined forces again to write another fantastic story, and I do believe this one tops my list from the dynamic duo's series together. It's the story of Johnny, a man from a crime family, and Sammy, a very sheltered Catholic girl. The story starts out with Johnny coming to his sister's school, where he comes in contact with Sammy again, and this time, he can't help himself, he's going to touch her this time, and scene. Next up is many years later, Johnny has never stopped loving her, while she pretty much hates him while deep down still loving him. See, he decided to take matters into his own hands & make the decision to protect her by breaking her heart. Yeah yeah, his was broken as well, but as far as I'm concerned, he deserved it since he decided to be a douche no matter how he thought his actions were justified. Now, he's decided after all of this time to try & get her to forgive him, so he can make her his. At this point, I was really pissed, and while their chemistry was insanely HOT, I still feel like she should have tried to hold out longer. There's some big twists coming down the pike which a couple of them had me dropping f-bombs, while others shocked me, but didn't anger me. So did Johnny ever get Sammy to forgive him?! One click this fantastic story to find out! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
July 23, 2019
The Mafia boy + the wannabe nun = EXPLOSIVE
Now this is a story I have really been waiting for!! Johnny Carelli and Samantha "Sammy" Nicola, two people who should never have been together, but who will be joined forever because of one fateful night. STRIPPED DOWN, book 4 in the Nailed Down Series, is a story of family loyalty, faith, secrets and lies ... so many lies.
Johnny and Sammy fell for each other in their teenage years, however extentuating circumstances found them forced apart, breaking both their hearts in the process. It's now ten years later and Johnny has returned to claim the only woman he has ever loved ... Sammy. No longer can he live without her, even though it was his decision that caused their hearts to break.
Can Johnny and Sammy put aside their past, their broken hearts and their secrets and lies, to start anew? Will the secret that Sammy holds be the final nail in the coffin to their tumultuous relationship? How will Johnny react when he learns what she has done? Why is Sammy's uncle, Father Nicola, a Catholic priest, so determined to keep them apart? What secret and lie is he hiding?
Chelle Bliss is one of my favourite authors, and when you add Eden Butler's brilliance into the mix, you have a collaboration that will leave you HOT, PANTING and REQUIRING A COLD SHOWER. They both have the ability to write strong characters, who will entrench themselves into your heart. Another brilliant collaboration from two amazingly talented authors.
Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction
FIVE STARS
Now this is a story I have really been waiting for!! Johnny Carelli and Samantha "Sammy" Nicola, two people who should never have been together, but who will be joined forever because of one fateful night. STRIPPED DOWN, book 4 in the Nailed Down Series, is a story of family loyalty, faith, secrets and lies ... so many lies.
Johnny and Sammy fell for each other in their teenage years, however extentuating circumstances found them forced apart, breaking both their hearts in the process. It's now ten years later and Johnny has returned to claim the only woman he has ever loved ... Sammy. No longer can he live without her, even though it was his decision that caused their hearts to break.
Can Johnny and Sammy put aside their past, their broken hearts and their secrets and lies, to start anew? Will the secret that Sammy holds be the final nail in the coffin to their tumultuous relationship? How will Johnny react when he learns what she has done? Why is Sammy's uncle, Father Nicola, a Catholic priest, so determined to keep them apart? What secret and lie is he hiding?
Chelle Bliss is one of my favourite authors, and when you add Eden Butler's brilliance into the mix, you have a collaboration that will leave you HOT, PANTING and REQUIRING A COLD SHOWER. They both have the ability to write strong characters, who will entrench themselves into your heart. Another brilliant collaboration from two amazingly talented authors.
Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction
FIVE STARS
July 24, 2019
Johnny Carelli has decided that he wants to change the past. Samantha “Sammy” Nicola is not going to change her mind about a past transgression. I have to say that I got a little confused at the beginning of this one. Sammy was set on a certain path. I thought she’d achieved her goal but as I see her interactions with Johnny it had me wondering if I missed something – maybe I misunderstood. I had to let that go because otherwise I would have become fixated on that one thing. That would have skewed my thinking for the rest of the story.
For Johnny being a “mafia” guy he was awfully sweet – at least when it came to Sammy. He was sex and sin personified. He was also temptation when it came to Sammy. Once I got into the story, I liked where the authors were taking me. I have to say that of the three in the series I’ve read this one is at the bottom. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoyed the story but my confusion at the beginning slowed it down for me until my mind caught up to where our couple was going. Even the ending was sweet – even tough men can turn a corner when they have the right woman in their life.
I was not compensated nor was I required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
For Johnny being a “mafia” guy he was awfully sweet – at least when it came to Sammy. He was sex and sin personified. He was also temptation when it came to Sammy. Once I got into the story, I liked where the authors were taking me. I have to say that of the three in the series I’ve read this one is at the bottom. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoyed the story but my confusion at the beginning slowed it down for me until my mind caught up to where our couple was going. Even the ending was sweet – even tough men can turn a corner when they have the right woman in their life.
I was not compensated nor was I required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
July 20, 2019
I cannot get enough of present day crime family drama. This book daringly draws you into the past, present, and fear of the future with the Carelli family. Johnny knew he’d never love another as much as he loved Samantha. From the first taste of her sweet lips he was hooked. Sammy was off limits and now that he had sampled her and fallen in love he knew he had no other choice, but to walk away to keep her safe. His world would only put her at risk...
All men are liars and weak, except for her uncle, Father Patrick, he kept her safe and helped her heal from a broken heart all those years ago. Now, Johnny is back in her life as he owns the building where she runs the program for inner city children.
He’s here, now casting his beautiful aura everywhere!
Why does he smell so damn good?
Those lips, those cheekbones, the same smile that melted my heart all those years ago still affecting me. How will I survive being near him again?
Read it to find out and I promise you’ll crave more of the Carelli family! I know I cannot wait for more from these two authors!
All men are liars and weak, except for her uncle, Father Patrick, he kept her safe and helped her heal from a broken heart all those years ago. Now, Johnny is back in her life as he owns the building where she runs the program for inner city children.
He’s here, now casting his beautiful aura everywhere!
Why does he smell so damn good?
Those lips, those cheekbones, the same smile that melted my heart all those years ago still affecting me. How will I survive being near him again?
Read it to find out and I promise you’ll crave more of the Carelli family! I know I cannot wait for more from these two authors!
July 21, 2019
I have really enjoyed this series co-written by these two wonderful authors, Chelle Bliss and Eden Butler. I’m sad it’s ending, but happy to know there will be more to come from this dynamic duo in the future!
Now on to Johnny, who I may be just a tad smitten with. I knew I was going to love his story because I knew there was so much more to him than what we had been shown in previous books; I just didn’t know how much!! So many emotions ran through me as I read this incredible second chance love story. Johnny and Sammy were meant for each other but life circumstances and family made that impossible. Now 10 years later they could have another chance. Will Sammy’s uncle let that happen? Will Sammy’s secret break any chance they may have had? Can Johnny keep Sammy safe? Can they sift through all the secrets and come out stronger for it? Can they get past what anyone else thinks and just let themselves feel and have the great love they know they could? I loved this book so much!!!
You don’t want to miss this one! What a ride!!
Now on to Johnny, who I may be just a tad smitten with. I knew I was going to love his story because I knew there was so much more to him than what we had been shown in previous books; I just didn’t know how much!! So many emotions ran through me as I read this incredible second chance love story. Johnny and Sammy were meant for each other but life circumstances and family made that impossible. Now 10 years later they could have another chance. Will Sammy’s uncle let that happen? Will Sammy’s secret break any chance they may have had? Can Johnny keep Sammy safe? Can they sift through all the secrets and come out stronger for it? Can they get past what anyone else thinks and just let themselves feel and have the great love they know they could? I loved this book so much!!!
You don’t want to miss this one! What a ride!!
July 28, 2019
4.5 stars
Like a fine wine that needs some time to sit and breathe, this book is a slow build, second chance at love. Johnny is a sexy businessman with some unfortunate ties due to the family he was born into which did not make for the safest environment to have attachments. Sammy is his polar opposite and the one who captured his heart but alas their love was not to be and Sammy was left devastated. Fast forward ten years and things have changed. However, the love that is between these two people has not faded and there are many obstacles that have to be faced. Can Sammy let down her walls and forgive how Johnny treated her when they were young? Will Johnny be able to win back the trust he lost? Can Sammy keep her secret from Johnny? Filled with passion, lies, betrayal, and drama this is one well written storyline that will have any reader turning the pages until the last word is finished. I look forward to more collaborations from these authors.
I volunteered to read an advance copy of this book.
Like a fine wine that needs some time to sit and breathe, this book is a slow build, second chance at love. Johnny is a sexy businessman with some unfortunate ties due to the family he was born into which did not make for the safest environment to have attachments. Sammy is his polar opposite and the one who captured his heart but alas their love was not to be and Sammy was left devastated. Fast forward ten years and things have changed. However, the love that is between these two people has not faded and there are many obstacles that have to be faced. Can Sammy let down her walls and forgive how Johnny treated her when they were young? Will Johnny be able to win back the trust he lost? Can Sammy keep her secret from Johnny? Filled with passion, lies, betrayal, and drama this is one well written storyline that will have any reader turning the pages until the last word is finished. I look forward to more collaborations from these authors.
I volunteered to read an advance copy of this book.
July 17, 2019
This book has it all!! A hot, Italian guy who is close to his loving and crazy family, along with a Catholic priest who is determined to keep Johnny and Sammy apart. But why is he against their relationship? What tightly held secrets are on the verge of being exposed, and who will they hurt the most?
Johnny Carelli is a sinfully sexy businessman who always gets what he wants, regardless of the consequences. He had one true love in his life, who he never stopped loving. Sammy Nicola was the one that got away, but it was for her own good. Her safety was of utmost importance to him because his life came with danger and secrets, so Johnny saved her from the uncertainty that came with being a Carelli. His life was never the same while they were apart, but in his heart, she would always be his. Ten years ago when they broke up, his father’s business dealings were on the shady side and he couldn’t subject her to that kind of life. Now that Sammy needed him, he knew this was his chance to show her that he was a different man and that his love for her had never died.
Johnny Carelli is a sinfully sexy businessman who always gets what he wants, regardless of the consequences. He had one true love in his life, who he never stopped loving. Sammy Nicola was the one that got away, but it was for her own good. Her safety was of utmost importance to him because his life came with danger and secrets, so Johnny saved her from the uncertainty that came with being a Carelli. His life was never the same while they were apart, but in his heart, she would always be his. Ten years ago when they broke up, his father’s business dealings were on the shady side and he couldn’t subject her to that kind of life. Now that Sammy needed him, he knew this was his chance to show her that he was a different man and that his love for her had never died.
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