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West Coast Doms #2
Commanding Casey
Alaska is a dangerous place for a woman like Casey Keagan.
It isn’t the wilderness, or even the other men on the construction site who should concern her. With those big, soulful eyes and her snarky sense of humor, she’s like catnip for a man like me.
A man who will demand her complete and total submission, who will snuff out every bit of joy and happiness in her soul until she loses all sense of who she was before she met me.
Feisty little Casey deserves better. She deserves the kind of fairy tale hero who will fight for her, who will help her feel safe and whole again.
And yet, even knowing I will certainly destroy her, I can’t leave her alone.
I’m nobody’s hero… But I could be the monster who finally sends her demons back to hell where they belong.
It isn’t the wilderness, or even the other men on the construction site who should concern her. With those big, soulful eyes and her snarky sense of humor, she’s like catnip for a man like me.
A man who will demand her complete and total submission, who will snuff out every bit of joy and happiness in her soul until she loses all sense of who she was before she met me.
Feisty little Casey deserves better. She deserves the kind of fairy tale hero who will fight for her, who will help her feel safe and whole again.
And yet, even knowing I will certainly destroy her, I can’t leave her alone.
I’m nobody’s hero… But I could be the monster who finally sends her demons back to hell where they belong.
Kindle Edition
Published September 1, 2024
184 people are currently reading
215 people want to read
About the author
Nicolina Martin
30 books912 followersUSA TODAY BESTSELLING AUTHOR Nicolina Martin is a Swedish born lady who escapes the long, dark winter nights by writing hot contemporary romance/suspense.
Nicolina is a mother of three, a medical doctor, a quirky loner, and a social human being. She has traveled the globe, has had more lovers than she can count, has loved and hated, succeeded and failed, has gone through marriage and divorce. She has seen darkness and despair, as well as light and happiness.
All these experiences, she pours into her tales, taking her readers for a wild ride while twisting their minds. She loves showing that stories can be different even if the trope is the same.
Nicolina is a mother of three, a medical doctor, a quirky loner, and a social human being. She has traveled the globe, has had more lovers than she can count, has loved and hated, succeeded and failed, has gone through marriage and divorce. She has seen darkness and despair, as well as light and happiness.
All these experiences, she pours into her tales, taking her readers for a wild ride while twisting their minds. She loves showing that stories can be different even if the trope is the same.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews
May 15, 2020
This story has more depth and complexity than most Domination/submission/spanking stories.
Having read, and loved, most of this author's Russo Saga series (and if you haven't read it yet you need to rectify that!) I of course couldn't resist reading this story. Whilst it doesn't have the darkness, the grittiness, of that series it DOES have the same great writing and a hero who needs the love of a good woman to save his sorry ass.
Nicolina Martin sure can write a damaged, cranky, dangerous but utterly sexy and totally desirable alpha-hole hero. Cole was both loveable and smack-around-the-head-able at the same time. No wonder Casey couldn't resist him! His constant blowing hot and cold could have become irritating BUT I felt that we got enough of his mental battles, his emotional struggles to understand his inability to not be a complete dick most of the time.
Casey living, working and surviving in what was very much a man's world meant that she never felt weak. Even when she maybe made silly choices (especially regarding Alex) they came from a desire to protect, or to not be dictated to. I really liked her, and her bravery in going after what she wanted, what she needed, from Cole.
I've read a fair few Stormy Nights books and you sort of get to know the 'formula' of them. However, whilst this stayed within their remit, it also felt like it offered so much more. More complexity in its characters, more depth from them, more conflict both between them and within them, more story, just... more.
I started reading this last night and gritty, tired 1 a.m. eyes were the only thing that stopped me completing this in one sitting. If you're looking for a great story, with themes of power exchange, a redeemable bad boy and a tough take-no-prisoners heroine then you need to be reading this book right now.
Having read, and loved, most of this author's Russo Saga series (and if you haven't read it yet you need to rectify that!) I of course couldn't resist reading this story. Whilst it doesn't have the darkness, the grittiness, of that series it DOES have the same great writing and a hero who needs the love of a good woman to save his sorry ass.
Nicolina Martin sure can write a damaged, cranky, dangerous but utterly sexy and totally desirable alpha-hole hero. Cole was both loveable and smack-around-the-head-able at the same time. No wonder Casey couldn't resist him! His constant blowing hot and cold could have become irritating BUT I felt that we got enough of his mental battles, his emotional struggles to understand his inability to not be a complete dick most of the time.
Casey living, working and surviving in what was very much a man's world meant that she never felt weak. Even when she maybe made silly choices (especially regarding Alex) they came from a desire to protect, or to not be dictated to. I really liked her, and her bravery in going after what she wanted, what she needed, from Cole.
I've read a fair few Stormy Nights books and you sort of get to know the 'formula' of them. However, whilst this stayed within their remit, it also felt like it offered so much more. More complexity in its characters, more depth from them, more conflict both between them and within them, more story, just... more.
I started reading this last night and gritty, tired 1 a.m. eyes were the only thing that stopped me completing this in one sitting. If you're looking for a great story, with themes of power exchange, a redeemable bad boy and a tough take-no-prisoners heroine then you need to be reading this book right now.
December 21, 2021
Why didn’t i read this earlier? I know i planned to….so what happened?
After finishing Commanding Casey i know i want more of this series,thát’s for sure!
Because it’s a story about people that feel real,with their flaws,desillutions and hopes.
Real people that have to work hard to make a living,that have their dreams crushed,and struggle with everyday life.
That make mistakes and feel guilty without any idea how to make amends…..
Casey flees from Daytona after hearing the man that assaulted her is being released from prison.
Knowing he’ll come after her to make her pay for putting him there.
The place to go is in Alaska,where she got a job as technician.
How hard can it be,those machines all have the same kind of parts as the cars she’s used to working with,right? Just a little bigger.
And she’s used to working with men,so that shouldn’t be a problem either….right?
But right from the start,she realizes she’s in trouble.
Because even though she may feel attracted to the man that picks her up from the airport,he’s rude and acts like an asshole.
And what’s worse,she can’t avoid him…..especially when they’re forced to bunk up.
Cole likes it in Alaska….no women,no time to think about his past mistakes.
Until he’s forced to pick up the new tech from the airport.
No way that woman is going to think she can work at the site!
She may think she’s fooled his boss,but once he finds out,he’ll send her back,asap.
Only,she’s allowed to prove she can do the job….
Worse,he’s forced to bunk up with her because the boss thinks he can trust him to keep his hands off her.
The mutual attraction means it doesn’t take long for them to start something dangerous.
Because even though they both know this is something temporary,feelings get in the way and someone is going to get hurt….
And when circumstances force them to go home,to different places,it’s difficult to find a way forward.
Even though Cole acted like an asshole,hearing about his past,hearing about the way he felt,his doubts and self-loathing made him likeable,loveable even.
Made me hope he could forgive himself for his past,and find a beautiful future.
And Casey,she was tough,but vulnerable at the same time.
Feeling guilty for something she shouldn’t,trying to stick by the choices she made to be safe.
And still brave enough to reach out and take a chance on a man she knew was good,but didn’t realize it.
This was a wonderful story,and i can’t wait to find out what Cole’s ex-wife Sandra’s story is!
After finishing Commanding Casey i know i want more of this series,thát’s for sure!
Because it’s a story about people that feel real,with their flaws,desillutions and hopes.
Real people that have to work hard to make a living,that have their dreams crushed,and struggle with everyday life.
That make mistakes and feel guilty without any idea how to make amends…..
Casey flees from Daytona after hearing the man that assaulted her is being released from prison.
Knowing he’ll come after her to make her pay for putting him there.
The place to go is in Alaska,where she got a job as technician.
How hard can it be,those machines all have the same kind of parts as the cars she’s used to working with,right? Just a little bigger.
And she’s used to working with men,so that shouldn’t be a problem either….right?
But right from the start,she realizes she’s in trouble.
Because even though she may feel attracted to the man that picks her up from the airport,he’s rude and acts like an asshole.
And what’s worse,she can’t avoid him…..especially when they’re forced to bunk up.
Cole likes it in Alaska….no women,no time to think about his past mistakes.
Until he’s forced to pick up the new tech from the airport.
No way that woman is going to think she can work at the site!
She may think she’s fooled his boss,but once he finds out,he’ll send her back,asap.
Only,she’s allowed to prove she can do the job….
Worse,he’s forced to bunk up with her because the boss thinks he can trust him to keep his hands off her.
The mutual attraction means it doesn’t take long for them to start something dangerous.
Because even though they both know this is something temporary,feelings get in the way and someone is going to get hurt….
And when circumstances force them to go home,to different places,it’s difficult to find a way forward.
Even though Cole acted like an asshole,hearing about his past,hearing about the way he felt,his doubts and self-loathing made him likeable,loveable even.
Made me hope he could forgive himself for his past,and find a beautiful future.
And Casey,she was tough,but vulnerable at the same time.
Feeling guilty for something she shouldn’t,trying to stick by the choices she made to be safe.
And still brave enough to reach out and take a chance on a man she knew was good,but didn’t realize it.
This was a wonderful story,and i can’t wait to find out what Cole’s ex-wife Sandra’s story is!
May 18, 2020
I have read books by this author some I really liked even with my pet peeves and some just not at all. This one was just too bland for me I’m afraid. I’m not into the D/s themes so I ignored those bits by skipping it. I think it’s a testament that I do like this author even if she does write books with themes I don’t like because I still like to get her books because I know her plots are good. Unfortunately Cole and Casey just were not charismatic enough to keep me invested and frankly I just found the book not to be engrossing enough to enjoy.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 4, 2020
This book was unexpected. I loved the story, the setting, the situation and circumstances in which they meet, how it drives them together and the apart. Also love their connection with each other and how perfectly they fit. I have to say Nicolina is one of my favorite authors and this book is definitely one of my favorites!
May 23, 2020
I think this is my new favorite book by this author. I love her darker work, don't get me wrong, but there's such a connection in this book between Cole and Casey, and there's humour and lightness along with the angst and pain, that it's really a new high.
I love so much about this book. The setting - in the Alaskan wild - makes everything slightly more acute. It's too white, too bright, too cold, too dark. The setting is as much of a challenge for the characters as their pasts. The place where the characters start - miscommunicating, at instant odds, but also dependent on each other as everyone is in that tremendously harsh environment - you think they can only go up from there, but, oh, no, they have a rollercoaster to ride first. There's painful angst and heartache, but there's also a slow and realistic erosion of the barriers that these two damaged people have put up against the world. As much as Cole is a jerk at the start, boy, was I rooting for him and he did not disappoint!
And I will never forget Cole's use for binder clips!
Great read, great fun, highly recommended!
I love so much about this book. The setting - in the Alaskan wild - makes everything slightly more acute. It's too white, too bright, too cold, too dark. The setting is as much of a challenge for the characters as their pasts. The place where the characters start - miscommunicating, at instant odds, but also dependent on each other as everyone is in that tremendously harsh environment - you think they can only go up from there, but, oh, no, they have a rollercoaster to ride first. There's painful angst and heartache, but there's also a slow and realistic erosion of the barriers that these two damaged people have put up against the world. As much as Cole is a jerk at the start, boy, was I rooting for him and he did not disappoint!
And I will never forget Cole's use for binder clips!
Great read, great fun, highly recommended!
June 23, 2020
Commanding Casey is a fun, suspenseful, hot as hell romp set mostly in the Alaska wilderness. Cole is just...ultimate alpha male. I grew up in Alaska and knew the "slope" guys and Nicolina nailed their sheer masculinity and grit perfectly. And I have worked in "male" occupations over the years and she nailed what working primarily with men is like, too. Clear your calendar because you won't stop once you pick it up.
May 26, 2021
I love a good, hot (slightly dubcon) spanking romance and Commanding Casey hit all the marks for me.
Smart and determined heroine? Check.
Sexy alpha male with a chip on his shoulder and a protective teddy bear at his center? Check.
Forced together by circumstances? CHECK.
Hot spankings and sexy times? CHECK CHECK CHECK!
Five stars all around.
Smart and determined heroine? Check.
Sexy alpha male with a chip on his shoulder and a protective teddy bear at his center? Check.
Forced together by circumstances? CHECK.
Hot spankings and sexy times? CHECK CHECK CHECK!
Five stars all around.
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December 26, 2021
This book got me out of a book funk. I read the whole thing in a night. The sex scenes were fire. 4½ stars
There were some phrases that didn't come off correctly and I wonder if the author isn't American.
There were some phrases that didn't come off correctly and I wonder if the author isn't American.
May 19, 2020
Short Version: If you're looking for an enemies-to-lovers consensual BDSM romance that features well-described kink scenes between two damaged but interesting individuals, I recommend this highly. This is very much story with erotica rather than, well, erotica with little story since both Cole and Casey carry entire steamer trunks full of baggage. The book details in very evocative prose the ways in which they use BDSM to work through their demons, with little else to distract them on a pipeline in rural Alaska. After a rocky start, both exhibit character growth and by the end you do root for their HEA. Note: I do want to warn potential readers that this contains scenes of attempted rape (not perpetrated by the H).
Long Version: Below and in more detail is what worked for me and what didn't work for me. YMMV.
What Worked:
1) The Prose: I appreciated Ms. Martin's descriptions of an unfamiliar (to me) world in terms of location and profession that never turned into info-dump. I'm certainly not an expert, but she appears to have done her research on both. Her dialogue is natural and she captures the raw emotions of her characters ("I never knew that was a thing, that mental agony can manifest itself in your body, in your joints. It’s not the same pain as after a hard day’s work or working out. It’s a bone-deep, flu-like gnawing ache that nothing can cure"). The sentences were complex; the spelling and grammar correct; and I caught few editing or continuity errors (though some word choice is odd: "work morals" rather than "work ethics," for example).
2) Casey: Is a very likeable h and an unusual one for this genre. She's neither stereotypically feminine nor submissive; rather, she's brave, resourceful, resilient, and strong. She submits to one person; she does not submit to anyone else (though there were times when her obeisance was too much; see below). And I really appreciated that she is multi-ethnic in a genre that is predominantly white.
3) Cole: I appreciated that Cole appreciated Casey's strength, never tried to change her, and never made up a bunch of silly rules designed to keep her "safe" as so many generic H's do. In addition, unlike many H's in this genre, he does apologize when he's wrong.
4) The MC: Within the confines of the short length of these generic books, Ms. Martin developed a connection between the two that went beyond kink (the scene in which they share their traumatic pasts was particularly touching); thus, the relationship had more depth than is usual in erotica.
What Didn't Work:
1) Certain Plot Elements: Were artificially injected to create tension; I'll briefly mention three. First, I'm not a fan of the over-used . Second, Cole's . And, finally, Casey's behavior with . Ultimately, all of these were OTT and unneeded since Cole and Casey already had enough, more organic conflicts to work through.
2) The initial BDSM relationship: While it is always consensual, I had three main problems with it. First, given her history with toxic masculinity, it wasn't believable that Casey didn't fear Cole since initially he's angry, rude, and full of barely contained violence around her. I had to suspend a lot of disbelief at her reactions, particularly since she had zero BDSM experience. Second, for an experienced dominant, Cole made a lot of bone-headed moves, and the lack of discussion about safewords and limits comes back to bite him when he unknowingly triggers Casey's past trauma. Finally, I struggled to see what Casey got out of it since everything he did was for himself (and I'm not talking about sexual practices; I mean things like using up all the hot water, ignoring her in public, and saying cruel things to her about her work, etc.). Since I really didn't understand how this treatment could turn her on (particularly since they don't have sex) and since I don't fantasize about such things, I wasn't turned on, either.
3) Cole's hot & cold treatment of Casey became monotonous after a point; I feel that one or two scenes of this could have been cut.
4) Finally, I'm simply not a fan of the very gendered "woman as savior of benighted masculinity" trope, even though I know that it's de rigueur in the romance genre. While Casey's occupation, wants, goals, and subjectivity mitigate this somewhat, she does fulfill this role too much for my taste ("She’s kind, and good, and pure").
4 stars. I confess that this is the first book of Ms. Martin's that I've finished. I tried the Russo Saga Collection, but, since reading about the the violation of feminine minds and bodies is not my kink, I couldn't finish them. This one, however, I found very compelling; I cared about the characters; and I didn't find it too harsh. I know many enjoy "dark;" I'm not one of them.
Note: I adhere to the ratings system as laid out by Goodreads: 1 star = did not like it; 2 stars = it was okay; 3 stars = liked it; 4 stars = really liked it; 5 stars = it was amazing. I do not think that every book I read is "amazing;" further, I think that it cheapens the rating system to always assign 4 or 5 stars. If a book really earns the 4 or 5 stars (and I realize that this is, to some degree, subjective), I'll give them -- but it certainly shouldn't apply to every book. YMMV, and everyone should enjoy/rate these books as they wish. In addition, I did not receive this book as an ARC; I'm not another author who hosts or is hosted by other authors in this genre on our websites; and I'm not friends with the author IRL, "friends" on this site, or friends on any social media site.
I'm going to leave my original comment here, in the hopes that it will deter people from spoiling books:
Long Version: Below and in more detail is what worked for me and what didn't work for me. YMMV.
What Worked:
1) The Prose: I appreciated Ms. Martin's descriptions of an unfamiliar (to me) world in terms of location and profession that never turned into info-dump. I'm certainly not an expert, but she appears to have done her research on both. Her dialogue is natural and she captures the raw emotions of her characters ("I never knew that was a thing, that mental agony can manifest itself in your body, in your joints. It’s not the same pain as after a hard day’s work or working out. It’s a bone-deep, flu-like gnawing ache that nothing can cure"). The sentences were complex; the spelling and grammar correct; and I caught few editing or continuity errors (though some word choice is odd: "work morals" rather than "work ethics," for example).
2) Casey: Is a very likeable h and an unusual one for this genre. She's neither stereotypically feminine nor submissive; rather, she's brave, resourceful, resilient, and strong. She submits to one person; she does not submit to anyone else (though there were times when her obeisance was too much; see below). And I really appreciated that she is multi-ethnic in a genre that is predominantly white.
3) Cole: I appreciated that Cole appreciated Casey's strength, never tried to change her, and never made up a bunch of silly rules designed to keep her "safe" as so many generic H's do. In addition, unlike many H's in this genre, he does apologize when he's wrong.
4) The MC: Within the confines of the short length of these generic books, Ms. Martin developed a connection between the two that went beyond kink (the scene in which they share their traumatic pasts was particularly touching); thus, the relationship had more depth than is usual in erotica.
What Didn't Work:
1) Certain Plot Elements: Were artificially injected to create tension; I'll briefly mention three. First, I'm not a fan of the over-used . Second, Cole's . And, finally, Casey's behavior with . Ultimately, all of these were OTT and unneeded since Cole and Casey already had enough, more organic conflicts to work through.
2) The initial BDSM relationship: While it is always consensual, I had three main problems with it. First, given her history with toxic masculinity, it wasn't believable that Casey didn't fear Cole since initially he's angry, rude, and full of barely contained violence around her. I had to suspend a lot of disbelief at her reactions, particularly since she had zero BDSM experience. Second, for an experienced dominant, Cole made a lot of bone-headed moves, and the lack of discussion about safewords and limits comes back to bite him when he unknowingly triggers Casey's past trauma. Finally, I struggled to see what Casey got out of it since everything he did was for himself (and I'm not talking about sexual practices; I mean things like using up all the hot water, ignoring her in public, and saying cruel things to her about her work, etc.). Since I really didn't understand how this treatment could turn her on (particularly since they don't have sex) and since I don't fantasize about such things, I wasn't turned on, either.
3) Cole's hot & cold treatment of Casey became monotonous after a point; I feel that one or two scenes of this could have been cut.
4) Finally, I'm simply not a fan of the very gendered "woman as savior of benighted masculinity" trope, even though I know that it's de rigueur in the romance genre. While Casey's occupation, wants, goals, and subjectivity mitigate this somewhat, she does fulfill this role too much for my taste ("She’s kind, and good, and pure").
4 stars. I confess that this is the first book of Ms. Martin's that I've finished. I tried the Russo Saga Collection, but, since reading about the the violation of feminine minds and bodies is not my kink, I couldn't finish them. This one, however, I found very compelling; I cared about the characters; and I didn't find it too harsh. I know many enjoy "dark;" I'm not one of them.
Note: I adhere to the ratings system as laid out by Goodreads: 1 star = did not like it; 2 stars = it was okay; 3 stars = liked it; 4 stars = really liked it; 5 stars = it was amazing. I do not think that every book I read is "amazing;" further, I think that it cheapens the rating system to always assign 4 or 5 stars. If a book really earns the 4 or 5 stars (and I realize that this is, to some degree, subjective), I'll give them -- but it certainly shouldn't apply to every book. YMMV, and everyone should enjoy/rate these books as they wish. In addition, I did not receive this book as an ARC; I'm not another author who hosts or is hosted by other authors in this genre on our websites; and I'm not friends with the author IRL, "friends" on this site, or friends on any social media site.
I'm going to leave my original comment here, in the hopes that it will deter people from spoiling books:
I look forward to reading this book. I would look forward to it more if one ARC reviewer on here had not revealed the entire plot.
Personally, I think authors and publishers should crunch the numbers regarding whether or not ARCs make any difference to sales (my guess would be: not much). Absent that, however, at least please tell reviewers not to give away the entire story.
I realize I sound cranky, but this is the third time in as many weeks I've seen this happen. As I tell my students, a review is not a plot summary.
June 26, 2020
Was not for me
So I really wanted to like Commanding Casey by Nicolina Martin. But I just could not get into the story even though it was super hot and sexy. But it was also too eye-rolling at times and the H was a complete azz to the h. The "commanding" is dubious and way over the top as it is more like she becomes his pet or child to boss around and tell what to do and when.
I really really loved a lot of this author's books but this one was a pass for me. It is well written and the basis of a great story is there but it took a turn that it could not come back from for me. So for that reason I am giving it 3 Stars.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review. My opinions are all my own.
So I really wanted to like Commanding Casey by Nicolina Martin. But I just could not get into the story even though it was super hot and sexy. But it was also too eye-rolling at times and the H was a complete azz to the h. The "commanding" is dubious and way over the top as it is more like she becomes his pet or child to boss around and tell what to do and when.
I really really loved a lot of this author's books but this one was a pass for me. It is well written and the basis of a great story is there but it took a turn that it could not come back from for me. So for that reason I am giving it 3 Stars.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review. My opinions are all my own.
February 8, 2021
This was just ok. I found it to be needlessly angsty. Cole was a huge dick and spent the majority of the book either pushing Casey away or not letting her speak. I thought their “big fight” was idiotic! He jumps to a really bizarre conclusion about her involvement in an explosion based on a book she was reading...?! It made no sense!
The sexy times were also just ok... Cole and Casey actually only have sex once, and aside from some spanking and general bossiness, I thought it was pretty light on the BDSM aspect.
The sexy times were also just ok... Cole and Casey actually only have sex once, and aside from some spanking and general bossiness, I thought it was pretty light on the BDSM aspect.
September 19, 2021
Loved this book!
Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Trope: enemies to lovers
Angst: 😱😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Triggers: D/S relationship, assault
This book was freaking fantastic! The hero really took a while to grow on you and grow as a person. He was growly, plain ole mean, and had a huge chip on his shoulder. Casey is a survivor, a hard worker, and the sunshine to his darkness - whether he wants her to be or not. Their smexy times were smokin' hot and it was awesome to see them get their HEA ❤.
Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Trope: enemies to lovers
Angst: 😱😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Triggers: D/S relationship, assault
This book was freaking fantastic! The hero really took a while to grow on you and grow as a person. He was growly, plain ole mean, and had a huge chip on his shoulder. Casey is a survivor, a hard worker, and the sunshine to his darkness - whether he wants her to be or not. Their smexy times were smokin' hot and it was awesome to see them get their HEA ❤.
May 15, 2020
Casey and Cole are the ultimate enemies-to-lovers couple.
Nicolina brings these two unlikely characters together into a sexy narrative that draws you in and doesn't let go until the end. Loved every minute.
Nicolina brings these two unlikely characters together into a sexy narrative that draws you in and doesn't let go until the end. Loved every minute.
May 12, 2020
Being a huge fan of Nicolina I was really looking forward to reading her latest book, which has been a while coming but was certainly worth the wait. Casey is a grease monkey, in her mid 20s, she lives and works in Daytona Florida. Her apartment is above her mechanic and race team boss father’s garage. Casey has been working engines from when she was old enough to hold a wrench and is a respected and valued member of the automotive team. Following a traumatic vicious attack, Alex, her assailant was jailed for 3 years but now Casey’s lawyer has tipped her off that he is to be set free early because of good behaviour. Casey has not known a day of safety since the attack and feels that she has no choice but to leave the State. We first meet Casey when she is travelling to Alaska which is about as far from Florida as she can go. She is to become the resident mechanic at a pipeline construction site a job which she definitely qualified to do, but there are no women working at this site. Cole Hooper is a qualified EMT but following a toxic breakup from his wife, he has become a drunk sex addict. Wallowing in self pity he has burnt all his bridges and now works as the senior welder at the pipeline construction in Alaska, where he has been dry and stayed away from the opposite sex for 18 months, he has sworn to himself that he will never have any relationship with the opposite sex again. Cole is instructed to collect the new mechanic (everyone assumes it is a guy). When Casey (who is tiny and looks very young) introduces herself to Cole, he is actively hostile and accuses her of taking the job under false pretences, at first refusing to take her back to the construction site and then stating that she won’t last the full length of her contract. Furthermore there is a great deal of hostility towards Casey at the site from the workers but when she proves that she is perfectly capable of doing the job some of the men seem to warm up toward her, although there is an element of sex/sexual discrimination toward her which never eases. Casey is managing well enough but then Cole is told by the site Manager that he must share a trailer with Casey and although Cole has seen that Casey is able to carry out her job, he is still openly hostile. What will happen between these two flawed and damaged people? This was a terrific change of direction from Nicolina. A gritty second chance love story with plenty of bite I really enjoyed this story. As an erotic romance it ticks all of the boxes with plenty of eye watering discipline, some very hot and graphic love scene, although not gratuitous. The two main characters were troubled with plenty of baggage and although there is a HEA, the route there is twisted and fraught with plot twists which are by no means predictable. Excellent read, I look forward to see what Nicolina will come up with next.
May 20, 2020
I'm going to come right out and say that I had a super hard time actually liking Cole. In fact, for most of the first half of the book, I would've gladly castrated the man. He has a really tough wall to break through. I mean, he hates himself sooooooo much that it's hard to even get to him and like him, and I can really like some hateful male characters. But, I was able to eventually warm up to him.
I loved Casey from the very beginning. I thought that she was a hugely fierce character in a situation where it wasn't easy to be a woman. I mean, just the racing world thing would be hard enough, but then to end up in Alaska working in a very tough job, in an incredibly male dominated world, just so tough. I really want to be her friend, because I think that she would be a really good one.
I loved Casey from the very beginning. I thought that she was a hugely fierce character in a situation where it wasn't easy to be a woman. I mean, just the racing world thing would be hard enough, but then to end up in Alaska working in a very tough job, in an incredibly male dominated world, just so tough. I really want to be her friend, because I think that she would be a really good one.
May 21, 2020
Casey runs to Alaska to work on in oil as a mechanic . It’s cold and harsh . There are also no other women . She is running from a guy who attacked and tried to rape her . He was getting released early from prison and Casey knew he was going to come after her . While in Alaska she had to prove herself to the men . Cole was one of the men she worked with and he did not like a woman being there . He started making her his submissive and their relationship grew from there . It was something they both needed . I loved that Casey and the ex wife got along . It was such a good ending to the story .
May 19, 2020
I've read several books written by Nicolina Martin; she has done a great job at writing a good book; she is becoming one of my favorite authors. I can’t wait to read more of books her books.
The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I loved the chemistry between the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.
I loved the chemistry between the characters.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
May 19, 2020
This is a hot sexy intense story. Casey is such a strong character, I just loved her. The setting is beautiful yet dangerous, kind of like Cole. I found the premise to be very interesting and unique. The level of passion between Casey and Cole jumps off the pages. The twists in the story are really well done. Looking for a strong creative story, you have found it.
May 19, 2020
This was such a wonderful read, I could not stop reading. I’m definitely reading the others by this author that I have not gotten to read yet!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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May 27, 2021🎁 FREE on Amazon & on Apple iBooks today (5/27/2021)!🎁
May 18, 2020
Wow what an exciting strong story I loved the situation it was very different with very strong willed characters written to perfection.
Casey just wow she had the strengh and courage you'll be proud of especially so far from home in a man's world and believe me it was not easy both her and Cole running from past events and Cole has a huge chip on his shoulder that you don't want to get near.
These two are smoking hot with a whole lot of angst and it's something you don't want to miss I loved every part.
Casey just wow she had the strengh and courage you'll be proud of especially so far from home in a man's world and believe me it was not easy both her and Cole running from past events and Cole has a huge chip on his shoulder that you don't want to get near.
These two are smoking hot with a whole lot of angst and it's something you don't want to miss I loved every part.
May 10, 2020
This was a very intriguing story. A girl on the run, hiding out in the wilderness using her skills to live a new life away for all she knows. To save herself from the past returning to her present. Casey was a fighter, no doubt about it. She showed strength and courage to a point she was eager to allow Cole to command her in anyway possible, just to release the pressure of her fears and life to present. Cole was a gruff man, with demons beyond anything Casey could weave her way into, but yet she showed him the path b ack to the life he had so terribly screwed up. A really gritty read. In harsh elements, with harsher people. Great read.
June 27, 2020
Casey and Cole do not get off to a good start. Running from a bad situation, Casey starts working in a predominantly male work environment. Cole doesn’t want her there and Casey is determined to prove why she deserves to stay. They are thrown together by outside forces and the tension between them takes a new direction. This page-turning weekend read has themes of emotional damage, abuse, addiction and Dom/sub relationships. Cole stays true to character but Casey makes some questionable decisions considering what she’s been through. “Commanding Casey” is a dark romantic story of losing it all, finding yourself and trusting someone enough to try again.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 10, 2020
COMMANDING CASEY by Nicolina Martin
Ms. Martin might not like my review, but I must say, Commanding Casey is a sweet, wonderful book unlike her usual writings. I loved the setting, the surroundings, the descriptions, along with Casey and Cole. I sat down, started reading, and read it through that day...the book certainly kept my attention; loved the storyline! Nothing fancy or hard to follow - just a lovely story with a perfect HEA ending. Thanks Nicolina!
Ms. Martin might not like my review, but I must say, Commanding Casey is a sweet, wonderful book unlike her usual writings. I loved the setting, the surroundings, the descriptions, along with Casey and Cole. I sat down, started reading, and read it through that day...the book certainly kept my attention; loved the storyline! Nothing fancy or hard to follow - just a lovely story with a perfect HEA ending. Thanks Nicolina!
May 6, 2020
Stayed up past 1 AM to Finish!!
Definitely a book hangover on this one. Just superb!!
Casey is a mechanic working in her Dad’s garage in Daytona. When a man who brutally attacked her gets out of prison early, she runs to the Alaskan wilderness to work the pipeline, and get away from danger. In a man’s world she must fight to prove herself.
Completely engrossing story. I was drawn into the characters and their relationships, and kept on the edge of my seat until the final page.
**I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book**
Definitely a book hangover on this one. Just superb!!
Casey is a mechanic working in her Dad’s garage in Daytona. When a man who brutally attacked her gets out of prison early, she runs to the Alaskan wilderness to work the pipeline, and get away from danger. In a man’s world she must fight to prove herself.
Completely engrossing story. I was drawn into the characters and their relationships, and kept on the edge of my seat until the final page.
**I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book**
November 2, 2021
Oh man..., I was so in LOVE with the Salvatore/Russo family 🥰 (read all books of the Russo Saga Collection in a row)! 😍
That's why I had a really hard time to believe and 'understand' why this particular book was such a huge disappointment for me?? 😕 I really tried, but this story didn't work for me... at all! 🥴 I couldn't even find the courage to finish it, so I quit... DNF @50%.
Won't say I'll never try again though...
NM's website: Commanding Casey was initially written as a standalone. Casey and Cole had their riveting ride to their HEA and all is well that ends well, yes? Wrong.
Sandra, Cole's ex wife, is not a lady who sits where you put her. She demanded a book of her own.
Saving Sandra was born.
As I wrote Sandra, I knew there were more to these people. They had history. Sandra and Cole were a couple in their teens, they got married, had friends, got their kids, and then something terrible happened - something that tore all of them apart.
As Reeba Mitchell introduced herself in Sandra's book, along with Ryder, and they got their book, Restraining Reeba, the rest of the cast came knocking.
Peter and Penelope demanded their book, and lo and behold, they'd known both Sandra and Cole back in the days. Yeah, I HAD to tell the story of how it all fell apart.
So book 1 (Casey) is now book 2, and I'm writing as fast as I can to give you book 1 - Punishing Penelope. It's up for preorder and so far it's looking awesome! Yet another couple to love, coming to you soon.
May 18, 2020
We have Cole, the grumpy welder at the Alaskan pipeline who gets to hook up with Casey, an ace mechanic who's only fault is that she's a woman working among men. Life hasn't been good for either of them but they find a match with each other where no one can see. Cole is very dominant and feeds Casey's need to be taken care of when she isn't working her butt off to prove she's worthy of her position on the work site. Casey is running from an ex that abused her badly enough to put him in jail, but now he's out. Cole had a bad life that included him abusing his ex and is trying to keep his head down, do his job and hopes to become a better person. The relationship between Cole and Casey is weird. In privacy Cole dominates Casey and makes it clear that once the job is done, her time is up, they are finished. The only thing I missed in this whole story was some lightness, some humor and connection between this couple, but Cole is a hard *ss and doesn't give in much. Don't worry though, the story does come around after much worry, danger, pain and angst to give us a well deserved HEA
June 16, 2021
Cole and Casey
I liked the chemistry between Casey and Cole. I found the book interesting. I didn’t like Cole’s hot and cold treatment of Casey. I wanted a bigger redemption arc besides being at the right place at the right time. Casey deserved more. I wanted more details of the Native American references. The meaning or explanation of Casey’s dreams about eagles and chiefs and her Native American grandmother’s story are missing or barely given. When Alex was released from prison, he should have been placed on parole instead of probation. I will consider reading the next book in the series about Cole’s ex-wife. I liked that there was no conflict with Cole’s ex-wife and Casey.
I liked the chemistry between Casey and Cole. I found the book interesting. I didn’t like Cole’s hot and cold treatment of Casey. I wanted a bigger redemption arc besides being at the right place at the right time. Casey deserved more. I wanted more details of the Native American references. The meaning or explanation of Casey’s dreams about eagles and chiefs and her Native American grandmother’s story are missing or barely given. When Alex was released from prison, he should have been placed on parole instead of probation. I will consider reading the next book in the series about Cole’s ex-wife. I liked that there was no conflict with Cole’s ex-wife and Casey.
May 15, 2020
On the run from danger in her past, Casey ends up as a pipe line mechanic in the wilds of Alaska; and the reception she gets is frosty inside and out. But the cold shoulder of one man soon turns into a searing hot place to lean on!
But of course when two battered souls collide, nothing is as straight forward as you might wish it to be.
This story has just the right amount of grit and heat to take you in one sweeping move from the cold of Alaska to a white hot (pst.. happy!) end.
But of course when two battered souls collide, nothing is as straight forward as you might wish it to be.
This story has just the right amount of grit and heat to take you in one sweeping move from the cold of Alaska to a white hot (pst.. happy!) end.
June 16, 2021
Surprising
I'll have to say that I didn't quite understand what I was getting into when I started reading this book .... That lifestyle definitely isn't for me, but that being said, the story got more acceptable after the 50 - 60% mark. Up until that point though I was plotting how I'd murder the bastard in his sleep! I won't give details because I hate spoilers. If you can make it past that point you end up liking the story ...if not the subject matter.
I'll have to say that I didn't quite understand what I was getting into when I started reading this book .... That lifestyle definitely isn't for me, but that being said, the story got more acceptable after the 50 - 60% mark. Up until that point though I was plotting how I'd murder the bastard in his sleep! I won't give details because I hate spoilers. If you can make it past that point you end up liking the story ...if not the subject matter.
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