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Breathlessly Ever After #1
Bargain with the Beast
Left scarred and bitter, he demands her body and desires her heart. But could she come to love a beast?
Gwendolyn Sinclair needs help. And the one person who can give her the aid she urgently requires is exacting a high price.
Desperate to keep the neighborhood community center open, Gwendolyn seeks out Xavier St. James, her childhood friend and the brother of her dead fiance. Xavier's family foundation possesses the funds necessary to keep the center open, but instead he offers a bargain - a devil's bargain: submit her body for his pleasure for seven days, and the building doesn't close its doors.
Left scarred from an accident, Xavier is bitter, resentful, and alone. When Gwendolyn reappears in his life, need and loneliness override conscience, and he proposes an arrangement she can't afford to refuse. With the woman he has always wanted but could never have finally in his bed, he hungers for more. Her heart. But could she come to love a beast?
Also under the title "Bargain with the Beast ".
149 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2011
110 people are currently reading
806 people want to read
About the author
Naima Simone
164 books2,048 followersPublished since 2009, USA Today Bestselling author Naima Simone loves writing sizzling romances with heart, a touch of humor and snark. Her books have been featured in The Washington Post and Entertainment Weekly, and described as balancing “crackling, electric love scenes with exquisitely rendered characters caught in emotional turmoil.”
She is wife to Superman, or his non-Kryptonian, less bullet proof equivalent, and mother to the most awesome kids ever. They all live in perfect, sometimes domestically-challenged bliss in the southern United States.
She is wife to Superman, or his non-Kryptonian, less bullet proof equivalent, and mother to the most awesome kids ever. They all live in perfect, sometimes domestically-challenged bliss in the southern United States.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
March 27, 2016
This is Naima Simone's other version of "Loving the Beast." Both versions were very "goodreads" that I highly recommend to readers who enjoys the Beauty and the Beast theme!
October 29, 2011
http://www.romancenoveljunkies.com / for book lovers and readers.
BRIEF SUMMARY
Gwendolyn needed funds to help keep the community center in her neighborhood open. The only person she is able to turn to was, Xavier. Asking Xavier proves to be a little difficult, since he is ignoring her. Ever since his accident that has left him disfigured, Xavier, has not been the most pleasant person to be around. Now that Gwen has finally cornered Xavier, she asks for his help, but it comes with a price.
THOUGHTS
This book has the sweetest title, but this book should have been called 'Loving the Beast (Karma Sutra tales). Wow, I was not expecting this book to be so sexually charged. I like what the author is doing with the fairy tales we've come to know, and putting her spin on the series. Beauty and the Beast, is a concept that has been used multiple times throughout the years, but I never get bored or tired of this concept.
Xavier has been the playboy socialite, with the gorgeous girlfriend, fast cars and loving life, until his accident that has left him disfigured. Now bitter and unapproachable, he gave a completely new meaning to the beast character. I loved that even though he was disfigured he still had sex appeal. Gwen, was your typical heroine, but still likable. The characters are the focus throughout the story, so there were really no supporting characters. With the added bonus of beauty and the beast concept, a good old blackmail was thrown into the mix. If you are familiar with the harlequin presents books, this story had the same feel to it, but a little X-rated.
Although, there is a plot to the story, the intimacy level was very high. Therefore, if you are looking for a sweet and detailed romance, this may not be for you. However, if you are looking for sweet, raunchy and to the point, then this is for you. The kindle size is almost 2000 so it’s a decent size book.
Story: FAIR
Intimacy: Double D.R.I.P (Don't Read In Public)
Enjoyment: GOOD
http://www.romancenoveljunkies.com
BRIEF SUMMARY
Gwendolyn needed funds to help keep the community center in her neighborhood open. The only person she is able to turn to was, Xavier. Asking Xavier proves to be a little difficult, since he is ignoring her. Ever since his accident that has left him disfigured, Xavier, has not been the most pleasant person to be around. Now that Gwen has finally cornered Xavier, she asks for his help, but it comes with a price.
THOUGHTS
This book has the sweetest title, but this book should have been called 'Loving the Beast (Karma Sutra tales). Wow, I was not expecting this book to be so sexually charged. I like what the author is doing with the fairy tales we've come to know, and putting her spin on the series. Beauty and the Beast, is a concept that has been used multiple times throughout the years, but I never get bored or tired of this concept.
Xavier has been the playboy socialite, with the gorgeous girlfriend, fast cars and loving life, until his accident that has left him disfigured. Now bitter and unapproachable, he gave a completely new meaning to the beast character. I loved that even though he was disfigured he still had sex appeal. Gwen, was your typical heroine, but still likable. The characters are the focus throughout the story, so there were really no supporting characters. With the added bonus of beauty and the beast concept, a good old blackmail was thrown into the mix. If you are familiar with the harlequin presents books, this story had the same feel to it, but a little X-rated.
Although, there is a plot to the story, the intimacy level was very high. Therefore, if you are looking for a sweet and detailed romance, this may not be for you. However, if you are looking for sweet, raunchy and to the point, then this is for you. The kindle size is almost 2000 so it’s a decent size book.
Story: FAIR
Intimacy: Double D.R.I.P (Don't Read In Public)
Enjoyment: GOOD
http://www.romancenoveljunkies.com
July 16, 2011
Another smoking hot read from Naima Simone! I really enjoyed Sweet Ultimatum (http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/79...) and looked forward to reading this one. Not only did she write an interesting plot, I enjoyed just reading the words and how she puts them together.
Xavier is a tortured alpha male who coerces Gwendolyn into spending seven days with him in exchange for funding the community center she manages. They've known each other for years, and even though they've always been friends, they've both been secretly in love with each other for a long time.
Gwen ends up engaged to Xavier's brother, and Xavier ends up engaged to another woman, Evelyn. Joshua dies and Evelyn cheats on Xavier, leaving the hero and heroine free. Unlike his so-called "friends" of the social elite, Gwen sees past the scars that mar Xavier's body, and her love remains as strong as ever. He, however, has to learn to appreciate her and what she has to offer, because his pride has been so bruised by the rejections he's experienced since he became the "beast." She, in turn, has to get past her guilt over the death of Xavier's brother and the role she played in his unexpected demise.
This is an emotionally charged book with lots of flaming hot sex (Xavier clearly has an oral fixation) and wonderful plot. Looking forward to reading the next one from Ms. Simone.
Xavier is a tortured alpha male who coerces Gwendolyn into spending seven days with him in exchange for funding the community center she manages. They've known each other for years, and even though they've always been friends, they've both been secretly in love with each other for a long time.
Gwen ends up engaged to Xavier's brother, and Xavier ends up engaged to another woman, Evelyn. Joshua dies and Evelyn cheats on Xavier, leaving the hero and heroine free. Unlike his so-called "friends" of the social elite, Gwen sees past the scars that mar Xavier's body, and her love remains as strong as ever. He, however, has to learn to appreciate her and what she has to offer, because his pride has been so bruised by the rejections he's experienced since he became the "beast." She, in turn, has to get past her guilt over the death of Xavier's brother and the role she played in his unexpected demise.
This is an emotionally charged book with lots of flaming hot sex (Xavier clearly has an oral fixation) and wonderful plot. Looking forward to reading the next one from Ms. Simone.
January 13, 2014
I think if I'd read this 3 years ago when I first got my Kindle I would have liked the story better. Since becoming a Kindle owner I've read a ton of books and they are pretty varied. My friends were recently talking about this book so I wanted to see what all the fuss was about.
Now I've read other "beauty and the beast" themed books but Xavier having a scar from hairline to chin didn't seem that monstrous to me. It was a bit unbelievable how disgusted the party goers were of his scar and the horrid things they said about him. I mean, he has gorgeous hair, muscular thighs, a broad chest and a scar. Oh the horrors!
When I read I want the plot to be meatier than it was here. I need a story and not just pages and pages of sex. It got old hearing how wet her p*ssy was. I think I skimmed majority of chapter 5. Now why oh why does the ex-fiancée just conveniently show up trying to get the man she cheated on back and then give him vital information so that he could win his current love interest?
So Gwendolyn decides to whore herself out for the community center but in the end, we didn't even get an epilogue to see that the money she whored herself out for did some tangible good. I'm glad my reading palate has vastly improved.
Now I've read other "beauty and the beast" themed books but Xavier having a scar from hairline to chin didn't seem that monstrous to me. It was a bit unbelievable how disgusted the party goers were of his scar and the horrid things they said about him. I mean, he has gorgeous hair, muscular thighs, a broad chest and a scar. Oh the horrors!
When I read I want the plot to be meatier than it was here. I need a story and not just pages and pages of sex. It got old hearing how wet her p*ssy was. I think I skimmed majority of chapter 5. Now why oh why does the ex-fiancée just conveniently show up trying to get the man she cheated on back and then give him vital information so that he could win his current love interest?
So Gwendolyn decides to whore herself out for the community center but in the end, we didn't even get an epilogue to see that the money she whored herself out for did some tangible good. I'm glad my reading palate has vastly improved.
July 3, 2015
Loving the Beast was actually my first e-book that I bought using my Kindle and to be honest? This book was definitely worth the buy! I guess it's fairly new but the scenes between the hero and heroine was deliciously sweet and hot! Plus, if you're into stories or quick reads with a fairy tale twist, then this is the book for you. The story starts out with our heroine, Gwen who is at a party solely for the purpose of finding Xavier. As for the reason why, you can pretty much guess from the summary: She needs him to donate money to the community center that they had both met in. In my opinion, it was a pretty low move from him since he ended up blackmailing (?!) Gwen into having sex with him. Of course, Gwen is shocked to hear this because of their long-lasting friendship after all these years! Yes, she has been secretly in love with him for years and we find out that he was in love with her as well... But.
Due to some difficult circumstances, since Gwen is engaged to his younger brother, Josh, they were not able to be together. She reluctantly accepts... and I actually thought that Xavier would have been a pretty interesting character if only the author had fleshed out his character more but I'm happy with what I got. Like the Beast, he is physically and emotionally scarred as a result of his father's (whom he admires) death in a car crash and in addition to catching his fiancee in the act of cheating on him. But like Belle, Gwen does of course heal Xavier's heart through her love for him. It was actually kind of sweet!
Now let's talk about the scorching hot scenes between the two because wow. Naima Simone does a pretty great job capturing the sensuality and intensity of their love scenes. I really liked the build-up from having them gradually start out as being friends and into lovers. I truly enjoyed this little hot read and I am definitely looking forward to reading more from this author!
Due to some difficult circumstances, since Gwen is engaged to his younger brother, Josh, they were not able to be together. She reluctantly accepts... and I actually thought that Xavier would have been a pretty interesting character if only the author had fleshed out his character more but I'm happy with what I got. Like the Beast, he is physically and emotionally scarred as a result of his father's (whom he admires) death in a car crash and in addition to catching his fiancee in the act of cheating on him. But like Belle, Gwen does of course heal Xavier's heart through her love for him. It was actually kind of sweet!
Now let's talk about the scorching hot scenes between the two because wow. Naima Simone does a pretty great job capturing the sensuality and intensity of their love scenes. I really liked the build-up from having them gradually start out as being friends and into lovers. I truly enjoyed this little hot read and I am definitely looking forward to reading more from this author!
July 8, 2011
Loving the Beast is a modern day, erotic version of the childhood fairytale, Beauty and the Beast. A gentle reminder to everyone that looks don't make or break a person. The way Simone intertwined the fairytale with the steamy scenes between Gwendolyn and Xavier keeps a reader interested in the story.
Gwendolyn approaches her childhood friend, Xavier at a party, seeking a grant to keep the community center they met at open. Xavier, who has always harbored feelings for Gwen, takes advantage of her demise and tells her that he will give her the money, in exchange for her spending 7 days with him, as his lover. Gwen, who has harbored the same feelings for Xavier despite being engaged to his brother, takes the opportunity.
What comes of Gwen and Xavier makes you love them and hate them at the same time, it makes you wonder what is going to come of them, as well. The story is engaging and endearing, everything a reader could want in a story with the addition of the intensely hot scenes between Xavier and Gwen. Loving the Beast is a well written novella, a great bedtime story for adults to enjoy.
Reviewed for Deviant Diva's Erotic Book Review
Gwendolyn approaches her childhood friend, Xavier at a party, seeking a grant to keep the community center they met at open. Xavier, who has always harbored feelings for Gwen, takes advantage of her demise and tells her that he will give her the money, in exchange for her spending 7 days with him, as his lover. Gwen, who has harbored the same feelings for Xavier despite being engaged to his brother, takes the opportunity.
What comes of Gwen and Xavier makes you love them and hate them at the same time, it makes you wonder what is going to come of them, as well. The story is engaging and endearing, everything a reader could want in a story with the addition of the intensely hot scenes between Xavier and Gwen. Loving the Beast is a well written novella, a great bedtime story for adults to enjoy.
Reviewed for Deviant Diva's Erotic Book Review
June 10, 2012
This was my first read from Naima Simone and I'm sure that it will not be my last. Oh...My...The sex scenes were some of the hottest I've read. An alpha male doesn't even describe the H at all. He was all consuming. He was...buy this book. It's a solid story with smut but an actual plot thrown in as well. Fluff this is NOT!
May 30, 2015
Xavier won my heart. Underneath that sarcastic exterior lays the real man. This was such a sweet read. And the love scenes are scorching HOT!
February 14, 2022
3.5*
Gwen works at the local community center. They will be closing their doors due to lack of funding in a few weeks unless Gwen can make something happen. It turns out she applied for a grant from a local company, but she later found out her application was "lost." It turns out she knows the head of the company and was friends with him once. She was also engaged to his brother.
It turns out Xavier was in an accident (I'm assuming car- it was never said) that left him with disfiguring injuries. He realized how superficial his life was (he lost his "friends" and fiance) and as a result he both becomes a bit of an asshole and isolates himself. When Gwen approaches him, he makes a demand of her; spend the next week with him (in his bed) and he will give her the grant money.
I was a bit leery of this, but enjoy Beauty and the Beast retellings. I was pleasantly surprised. I think this works because of Gwen and Xavier's previous history. Yes, Xavier is an asshole through most of this. Yes, life sucks and you find out people you thought were with you aren't really. He does find out who his friends are and it did wake him up to how shallow his life was. I would have liked more at the end (an epilogue would have been nice).
Gwen works at the local community center. They will be closing their doors due to lack of funding in a few weeks unless Gwen can make something happen. It turns out she applied for a grant from a local company, but she later found out her application was "lost." It turns out she knows the head of the company and was friends with him once. She was also engaged to his brother.
It turns out Xavier was in an accident (I'm assuming car- it was never said) that left him with disfiguring injuries. He realized how superficial his life was (he lost his "friends" and fiance) and as a result he both becomes a bit of an asshole and isolates himself. When Gwen approaches him, he makes a demand of her; spend the next week with him (in his bed) and he will give her the grant money.
I was a bit leery of this, but enjoy Beauty and the Beast retellings. I was pleasantly surprised. I think this works because of Gwen and Xavier's previous history. Yes, Xavier is an asshole through most of this. Yes, life sucks and you find out people you thought were with you aren't really. He does find out who his friends are and it did wake him up to how shallow his life was. I would have liked more at the end (an epilogue would have been nice).
July 17, 2022
short and simple
These two danced around their love for each other until things set in motion cause them to face truths. Gwen loved her best friend/fiancés brother most of her life. Now he is the beast of the town after an accident lèves him scarred and no longer heading down the ailes. Her need to keep the center open sends back to the beast for a request. One request comes to a sacrifice she is more than willing to make.
Naïma gives Beaty and the beast o quick modern take with good results.
These two danced around their love for each other until things set in motion cause them to face truths. Gwen loved her best friend/fiancés brother most of her life. Now he is the beast of the town after an accident lèves him scarred and no longer heading down the ailes. Her need to keep the center open sends back to the beast for a request. One request comes to a sacrifice she is more than willing to make.
Naïma gives Beaty and the beast o quick modern take with good results.
June 25, 2025
GOOD STORY
I enjoyed reading Xavier and Gwendolyn's story,it was it was quite the read. I would have liked to read just a bit more in the end.
I enjoyed reading Xavier and Gwendolyn's story,it was it was quite the read. I would have liked to read just a bit more in the end.
June 12, 2022
2.75 ⭐⭐. The story could have been fleshed it at little better.
July 29, 2011
Gwen needs Xavier’s help. She’s trying to save the community center that was so important to her when she was growing up and Xavier company makes those decisions. Unfortunately she’s been getting the run-around from not only the company but from Xavier as well. He claims that there is nothing he can do about the company but he’d be willing to fund the community center for a year with his own money if Gwen would spend 7 days in his bed.
Gwen’s desperate for the money but really she agrees because she’s been in love with Xavier for years. He’s a different person since the accident that caused his facial scarring a year ago but Gwen doesn’t really see the scars – she only sees the emotional ones that the accident has wrought.
The story is about love and finding the person who sees you for what you are inside and out. I liked seeing Xavier coming out of his self-induced prison and the couple finding the love that they shared for one another. There had been a lot of tragedy in Xavier and Gwen’s lives and I liked seeing them work through that. With that the story did a good job but there was so little of the story itself it didn’t hold my attention for long. There was more sex than story here and personally I didn’t find the sex scenes all that imaginative. Xavier’s sex talk came across as a bit cheesy to me as well. In the end I found this one to be just ok.
Rating: 2 out of 5
This review was originally posted on Book Binge by Tracy.
Gwen’s desperate for the money but really she agrees because she’s been in love with Xavier for years. He’s a different person since the accident that caused his facial scarring a year ago but Gwen doesn’t really see the scars – she only sees the emotional ones that the accident has wrought.
The story is about love and finding the person who sees you for what you are inside and out. I liked seeing Xavier coming out of his self-induced prison and the couple finding the love that they shared for one another. There had been a lot of tragedy in Xavier and Gwen’s lives and I liked seeing them work through that. With that the story did a good job but there was so little of the story itself it didn’t hold my attention for long. There was more sex than story here and personally I didn’t find the sex scenes all that imaginative. Xavier’s sex talk came across as a bit cheesy to me as well. In the end I found this one to be just ok.
Rating: 2 out of 5
This review was originally posted on Book Binge by Tracy.
August 31, 2019
Reviewed by Amy W
Book provided by the publisher
Originally posted at Romancing the Book
In order to receive the grant funding she needs to save the community center, Gwendolyn Sinclair agrees to spend a week with Xavier St. James. Author Naima Simone introduces an adult version of a beloved fairy tale in Bargain With the Beast. Above all, it is a love story featuring a proud, wounded hero whose emotional scars are directly tied to his physical scars.
Paired with Xavier is Gwendolyn, a strong female character who fights to reach the man deep inside the outer layer of protection. Xavier hides behind power and money, which makes him incredibly appealing as a fix-up project for Gwen.
The story line integrates plenty of humor as the author explores the limits of a relationship between the two characters. What starts as a business deal gets rather complicated when feelings become involved.
Because the two characters have such a strong connection, their encounters are spicy hot. Although some of the descriptions caused me to have some doubts (comparing apportion of the male anatomy to a plum), I found the writing style to be engaging.
A familiar story line coupled with adult themes makes this appealing for any reader needing a short escape from reality.
Book provided by the publisher
Originally posted at Romancing the Book
In order to receive the grant funding she needs to save the community center, Gwendolyn Sinclair agrees to spend a week with Xavier St. James. Author Naima Simone introduces an adult version of a beloved fairy tale in Bargain With the Beast. Above all, it is a love story featuring a proud, wounded hero whose emotional scars are directly tied to his physical scars.
Paired with Xavier is Gwendolyn, a strong female character who fights to reach the man deep inside the outer layer of protection. Xavier hides behind power and money, which makes him incredibly appealing as a fix-up project for Gwen.
The story line integrates plenty of humor as the author explores the limits of a relationship between the two characters. What starts as a business deal gets rather complicated when feelings become involved.
Because the two characters have such a strong connection, their encounters are spicy hot. Although some of the descriptions caused me to have some doubts (comparing apportion of the male anatomy to a plum), I found the writing style to be engaging.
A familiar story line coupled with adult themes makes this appealing for any reader needing a short escape from reality.
November 28, 2021
Ima let you finish.....
I'm going to finish this book however the slave joke really pissed me tf off. I guess the white side of her compelled her to say that bs and the fact that he responded with his ignorant ass comment made it worse. At the end of the day we all know she would have been in the house like all the mulatto child of masta who never known the crack of the overseers whip. And let's not act like being the masta bed warmer is not what you want to do since we playing slave. This is the second ignorant comment she said the first being something about taking off earrings and getting black girl ready to fight. Just because you are half doesn't give you the right. And what is up with the exotic comments did a Karen write this story or what?
I'm going to finish this book however the slave joke really pissed me tf off. I guess the white side of her compelled her to say that bs and the fact that he responded with his ignorant ass comment made it worse. At the end of the day we all know she would have been in the house like all the mulatto child of masta who never known the crack of the overseers whip. And let's not act like being the masta bed warmer is not what you want to do since we playing slave. This is the second ignorant comment she said the first being something about taking off earrings and getting black girl ready to fight. Just because you are half doesn't give you the right. And what is up with the exotic comments did a Karen write this story or what?
October 10, 2011
I enjoyed this book for a number of reasons but the main one is Ms. Simone’s use of language. She has the power of description that brings her characters and plotline right out of the pages and into the reader’s imagination. She can make the most mundane view picturesque, the most average experience one of magnetic beauty, but where she really shines when writing erotica is in the sex scenes. I honestly have never read a more poetic description of female masturbation than when Xavier demands that Gwen bring herself to orgasm while he watches. Whew! That is one steamy passage, but actually all of the sensual encounters in the book are enthralling.
July 11, 2011
An erotic contemporary re-telling of the traditional "Beauty & the Beast." And Xavier was really a beast in his spirit far more than in his external appearance. His injury and resulting deformity had warped not only his opinion of himself but his manner of relating to others. Gwen somehow manages to get past all the ugliness and embraces Xavier's best self. It is a very nice re-telling and one I enjoyed very much.
June 11, 2011
I always like the adults vision of beauty and the beast this book had twist to it which make this book awesome. the hero passion for the heroine was intent. and i like how they both make there fantasy reality.
March 12, 2013
i am sure this world have being a great read if it had a story.....
September 4, 2022
“𝒀𝒐𝒖’𝒗𝒆 𝒑𝒖𝒍𝒍𝒆𝒅 𝒎𝒆 𝒃𝒂𝒄𝒌 𝒇𝒓𝒐𝒎 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒂𝒃𝒚𝒔𝒔, 𝑮𝒘𝒆𝒏. 𝑰 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒉𝒐𝒑𝒆 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒂 𝒘𝒆𝒆𝒌 𝒂𝒈𝒐 𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒉𝒐𝒑𝒆𝒍𝒆𝒔𝒔. 𝑰 𝒍𝒐𝒐𝒌 𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒐 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒆𝒚𝒆𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒃𝒆𝒍𝒊𝒆𝒗𝒆 𝑰 𝒄𝒂𝒏 𝒃𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒎𝒂𝒏 𝑰 𝒐𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒔. 𝑨𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒐𝒏 𝑰 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒃𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒚𝒐𝒖. 𝑾𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒚𝒐𝒖.”
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🔥🔥.5
Tropes: MW, childhood friends to enemies to lovers, money in exchange for "favors", grumpy hero, Beauty and the Beast retelling, brother's ex-fiancé/ex-fiancé's older brother
Series: Fairy Tales Unleashed #1
⚠️Check triggers⚠️
Gwendolyn needs to save the community center in her neighborhood and decides to reach out to her childhood friend, Xavier, for help. Xavier was in an accident that left him scared and angry. He doesn't believe anyone could love him now that he's not "perfect". He's always wanted Gwendolyn and is convinced there's only one way he'll get her. He agrees to help her, but there's a price. She has to agree to be his in bed for seven days.
I thought the concept of this novella was good and the promise of smuttiness intrigued me. There was a good amount of angst between Gwendolyn and Xavier. The spicy scenes are good and I loved the way Xavier dirty talked. I didn't love this book because the writing was weird at times. There were a lot of random internal thoughts in between dialogue pieces, as well as just an overall lack of dialogue. I feel a little cheated that we don't get an epilogue because I would've loved to see them after their happily ever after.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🔥🔥.5
Tropes: MW, childhood friends to enemies to lovers, money in exchange for "favors", grumpy hero, Beauty and the Beast retelling, brother's ex-fiancé/ex-fiancé's older brother
Series: Fairy Tales Unleashed #1
⚠️Check triggers⚠️
Gwendolyn needs to save the community center in her neighborhood and decides to reach out to her childhood friend, Xavier, for help. Xavier was in an accident that left him scared and angry. He doesn't believe anyone could love him now that he's not "perfect". He's always wanted Gwendolyn and is convinced there's only one way he'll get her. He agrees to help her, but there's a price. She has to agree to be his in bed for seven days.
I thought the concept of this novella was good and the promise of smuttiness intrigued me. There was a good amount of angst between Gwendolyn and Xavier. The spicy scenes are good and I loved the way Xavier dirty talked. I didn't love this book because the writing was weird at times. There were a lot of random internal thoughts in between dialogue pieces, as well as just an overall lack of dialogue. I feel a little cheated that we don't get an epilogue because I would've loved to see them after their happily ever after.
November 5, 2023
3.5 stars rounded up
Once again, Naima Simone knocks it out of the park with the emotional angst, sexual tension and intense steamy scenes in this book. We have two strong-willed and passionate MCs which results in an explosion of chemistry when they finally come together in this erotic Beauty and the Beast retelling. I like Gwen and Xavier and I thought they matched well together despite their heated moments of anger and fear—although that added great tension to their sexual chemistry! Since becoming scarred following the accident that killed his father followed by his fiancee leaving him and his friends alienating him, he has understandably become bitter and filled with a simmering rage. I appreciated the vulnerability in Xavier's character and his willingness to open himself up to Gwen despite his deep-seated fear of rejection. Gwen provides him with a safe space full of so much love and acceptance and the sense of peace he feels with her was very sweet and comforting. This was an erotic romance and their sexual journey was so satisfying to see, especially with the vulnerability, openness and all the emotion in these pages! I didn't appreciate or see the need for the return of a certain character in the "third act" but thankfully, there was no third-act breakup. I wished the reason for their "bargain" was addressed at the end of the book, mainly because it meant so much to the FMC, it was overall, a satisfying and quick read.
Once again, Naima Simone knocks it out of the park with the emotional angst, sexual tension and intense steamy scenes in this book. We have two strong-willed and passionate MCs which results in an explosion of chemistry when they finally come together in this erotic Beauty and the Beast retelling. I like Gwen and Xavier and I thought they matched well together despite their heated moments of anger and fear—although that added great tension to their sexual chemistry! Since becoming scarred following the accident that killed his father followed by his fiancee leaving him and his friends alienating him, he has understandably become bitter and filled with a simmering rage. I appreciated the vulnerability in Xavier's character and his willingness to open himself up to Gwen despite his deep-seated fear of rejection. Gwen provides him with a safe space full of so much love and acceptance and the sense of peace he feels with her was very sweet and comforting. This was an erotic romance and their sexual journey was so satisfying to see, especially with the vulnerability, openness and all the emotion in these pages! I didn't appreciate or see the need for the return of a certain character in the "third act" but thankfully, there was no third-act breakup. I wished the reason for their "bargain" was addressed at the end of the book, mainly because it meant so much to the FMC, it was overall, a satisfying and quick read.
August 5, 2022
Honestly, I'm conflicted. 3 stars
So there are elements of this book I liked. The love scenes were wild and the theme of forgiveness and addressing each others hurts was well done for such a short read. I also liked the jokes and banter. That fact that after all this time they still had that spark was great to read. But there were elements that also me go, "huh"? I knew the bargain going in was wild but the way he said it? Crazy lol. I also wish there had been more romantic build up. We got the conversing and the openness right before the " surprise " (I don't mean that sarcastically, I was surprised). I also didn't like the abrupt ending. Yes, they came clean but that's it? What about the bargain? What does going forward for them look like? I think this book would've benefited from an epilogue. It would've tied up somethings that aren't necessarily lose ends, but are things you'd like to know. Its a good story and I liked the authors writing style enough that I'm willing to check out book 2 in the series. If you're looking for a spicy read that handles a tough subject relatively well, I recommend this one.
So there are elements of this book I liked. The love scenes were wild and the theme of forgiveness and addressing each others hurts was well done for such a short read. I also liked the jokes and banter. That fact that after all this time they still had that spark was great to read. But there were elements that also me go, "huh"? I knew the bargain going in was wild but the way he said it? Crazy lol. I also wish there had been more romantic build up. We got the conversing and the openness right before the " surprise " (I don't mean that sarcastically, I was surprised). I also didn't like the abrupt ending. Yes, they came clean but that's it? What about the bargain? What does going forward for them look like? I think this book would've benefited from an epilogue. It would've tied up somethings that aren't necessarily lose ends, but are things you'd like to know. Its a good story and I liked the authors writing style enough that I'm willing to check out book 2 in the series. If you're looking for a spicy read that handles a tough subject relatively well, I recommend this one.
January 8, 2022
Quick read. 2.5 stars.
Very light on the Beauty and Beast theme. The two MC's had a history together. Gwen was engaged to Xavier's younger brother Joshua who was her best friend, but she was actually in love with Xavier.
She feels guilty because when she broke off their engagement Joshua stormed off and then died in a tragic car crash.
Xavier has always had feelings for Gwen, but she was his brother's girlfriend so he didn't act on them. His own fiancee cheated and left him after he became disfigured in an accident. Since then, he's become cold and disdainful, not trusting that anyone could care for him because of his appearance.
Gwen and Xavier reconnect when Gwen asks him for money to fund the local community centre where she works. He propositions her, saying he will fund the centre for a year if she spends 7 nights in his bed.
The rest of the book is basically the two of them getting together with some very spicy descriptive love scenes.
Not much plot, as expected in a short read.
Very light on the Beauty and Beast theme. The two MC's had a history together. Gwen was engaged to Xavier's younger brother Joshua who was her best friend, but she was actually in love with Xavier.
She feels guilty because when she broke off their engagement Joshua stormed off and then died in a tragic car crash.
Xavier has always had feelings for Gwen, but she was his brother's girlfriend so he didn't act on them. His own fiancee cheated and left him after he became disfigured in an accident. Since then, he's become cold and disdainful, not trusting that anyone could care for him because of his appearance.
Gwen and Xavier reconnect when Gwen asks him for money to fund the local community centre where she works. He propositions her, saying he will fund the centre for a year if she spends 7 nights in his bed.
The rest of the book is basically the two of them getting together with some very spicy descriptive love scenes.
Not much plot, as expected in a short read.
January 6, 2022
Enjoyed this story very much !!!
I love those Beauty and the Beast type of stories , and this one is spectacular !!
Gwen and Xavier were childhood friends, along with his brother Joshua.
Years later circumstances and life led them to the moment that Xavier and Gwen met up again. She is astounded at the change in him since his accident, but he is the only one that could possibly help her. But in order to get his help, she must accept his terms......
Xavier has had a horrible year, and when he sees Gwen again, he lashes out. She wants something from him, and he made it almost impossible for her to get it .....
Didn't he ???
I thought that this story was sexy, and sweet in the use of the past relationships that the trio had and the future that is now. This couple 's story I will remember for a long time... And did I mention that it was sexy ???!!!!!!???
Yes , Very sexy !!! Loved it !!
I love those Beauty and the Beast type of stories , and this one is spectacular !!
Gwen and Xavier were childhood friends, along with his brother Joshua.
Years later circumstances and life led them to the moment that Xavier and Gwen met up again. She is astounded at the change in him since his accident, but he is the only one that could possibly help her. But in order to get his help, she must accept his terms......
Xavier has had a horrible year, and when he sees Gwen again, he lashes out. She wants something from him, and he made it almost impossible for her to get it .....
Didn't he ???
I thought that this story was sexy, and sweet in the use of the past relationships that the trio had and the future that is now. This couple 's story I will remember for a long time... And did I mention that it was sexy ???!!!!!!???
Yes , Very sexy !!! Loved it !!
January 7, 2022
Gwendolyn Sinclair seeks out Xavier St. James to help save the very same community center where they met as young adolescents and teens. While Gwen was dating and engaged to Xavier's brother, they remained all he best of friends. When Gwen's fiance dies in a car crash, Gwen and Xavier lost contact.
Although Gwen is aware of Xavier and the tragic accident which disfigured him, she is hoping to play on his soft side from their years of friendship.
The hardened, disillusioned, and downright cruel Xavier takes Gwen by surprise, but it doesn't stop the attraction and chemistry they have always had between them.
I loved the chemistry between Xavier and Gwen, and am happy they got a happy ending. My only negative is that I would have liked the end to play out a little longer, maybe another chapter or two with one more misunderstanding. But overall, this is a great, short romance.
Although Gwen is aware of Xavier and the tragic accident which disfigured him, she is hoping to play on his soft side from their years of friendship.
The hardened, disillusioned, and downright cruel Xavier takes Gwen by surprise, but it doesn't stop the attraction and chemistry they have always had between them.
I loved the chemistry between Xavier and Gwen, and am happy they got a happy ending. My only negative is that I would have liked the end to play out a little longer, maybe another chapter or two with one more misunderstanding. But overall, this is a great, short romance.
November 13, 2021
Where to start.... I know that writing a book is a hard process and I do not give mean reviews often if ever. I have read another book by that author and found it entertaining enough.
This book however was bad (in my opinion). The plot was a stretch. I understand that hero went through trauma but based on other characteristics his behaviour was an overreaction.
He was in love with a friend and then he treated her with utmost disrespect. He is carrying then cruel then gentle, then cold. Following the story provoked eye roll more than once.
And there is so much sex (not that I have anything against the sex scenes) that after a while I was getting bored and fast forward until they will finish. "Bulbous head" and "engorged bud" got a few more eye rolls.
All and all the only saving grace was that this book was short.
Once again sorry for a negative review.
This book however was bad (in my opinion). The plot was a stretch. I understand that hero went through trauma but based on other characteristics his behaviour was an overreaction.
He was in love with a friend and then he treated her with utmost disrespect. He is carrying then cruel then gentle, then cold. Following the story provoked eye roll more than once.
And there is so much sex (not that I have anything against the sex scenes) that after a while I was getting bored and fast forward until they will finish. "Bulbous head" and "engorged bud" got a few more eye rolls.
All and all the only saving grace was that this book was short.
Once again sorry for a negative review.
January 13, 2022
Awesome Read!!
I really enjoyed reading Bargain with the Beast(Fairy Tales Unleashed Book 1)!!! All about Gwendolyn Sinclair a thirty-four year old Director of Community Center in Boston’s inner city & Xavier St. James a thirty-six year old multi-billionaire. They have been friends since they were seven years old. It used to be Josh his little brother, who died eight years ago, and Gwen & himself that were inseparable. They met at the community center when their dad had a construction job, down the street the summer Josh was seven & Xavier was nine. Read about Gwen & Xavier and the bargain she agreed to, to save the Community Center from closing!! The author wrote about two people who’s lives have been intertwined thru love & loss and how both are coping in life! The emotions are all over the place!! I enjoyed reading it, maybe you will also!!!
I really enjoyed reading Bargain with the Beast(Fairy Tales Unleashed Book 1)!!! All about Gwendolyn Sinclair a thirty-four year old Director of Community Center in Boston’s inner city & Xavier St. James a thirty-six year old multi-billionaire. They have been friends since they were seven years old. It used to be Josh his little brother, who died eight years ago, and Gwen & himself that were inseparable. They met at the community center when their dad had a construction job, down the street the summer Josh was seven & Xavier was nine. Read about Gwen & Xavier and the bargain she agreed to, to save the Community Center from closing!! The author wrote about two people who’s lives have been intertwined thru love & loss and how both are coping in life! The emotions are all over the place!! I enjoyed reading it, maybe you will also!!!
January 23, 2022
This is a modern-day version of Beauty and the Beast. It was an interesting twist. It was missing the drama. Both Gwen and Xavier felt guilty for their reasons. Their guilt hid them from each other and the rest of the world.
Xavier was cold and hurtful with his words and actions towards others. Gwen gave him what he needed and stood toe to toe with him. At the same time, Gwen had her demons to fight.
Gwen and Xavier needed to talk to each other and some of their guilt would have been resolved.
I needed an epilogue. I wanted to know how their lives ended. What did their HEA include? Did Evalyn cause more grief?
Xavier was cold and hurtful with his words and actions towards others. Gwen gave him what he needed and stood toe to toe with him. At the same time, Gwen had her demons to fight.
Gwen and Xavier needed to talk to each other and some of their guilt would have been resolved.
I needed an epilogue. I wanted to know how their lives ended. What did their HEA include? Did Evalyn cause more grief?
July 27, 2017
I love!!!! Books with a Disney theme. Beauty and the Beast is one of my favorite stories. This is a great representation of that tale!
Xavier makes a great beast. Half disfigured after an accident and grumpy as all get out because of it, he needs light in his life to remind him who he is.
Gwen is a very caring soul with a guilt ridden past. When she can confront that, she lights the light for Xavier.
The story is full of Oh My moments, tender moments and down and dirty naughty moments. Well worth the read!
Xavier makes a great beast. Half disfigured after an accident and grumpy as all get out because of it, he needs light in his life to remind him who he is.
Gwen is a very caring soul with a guilt ridden past. When she can confront that, she lights the light for Xavier.
The story is full of Oh My moments, tender moments and down and dirty naughty moments. Well worth the read!
January 10, 2022
Beautiful Beast
They have known each other since they were kids and became best friends, and secretly in love with each other, but she end up with his younger brother who was also her best friend. Fast forward, lots happened and she needed his help and guess what nothing in life is “free”.
Who are better to tell you the story than Gwendolyn and Xavier themselves . I was hoping for and extended epilogue where Gwyn and Xavier can show people what life is truly about…
People can can so shallow, shame on you Evelyn!!!
They have known each other since they were kids and became best friends, and secretly in love with each other, but she end up with his younger brother who was also her best friend. Fast forward, lots happened and she needed his help and guess what nothing in life is “free”.
Who are better to tell you the story than Gwendolyn and Xavier themselves . I was hoping for and extended epilogue where Gwyn and Xavier can show people what life is truly about…
People can can so shallow, shame on you Evelyn!!!
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