Customer Reviews

Exclusive

5 star:		(6)
4 star:		(4)
3 star:		(2)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Two out of 3 stories anyways.

Sanctuary was a good story. Not the best but not the worst either. I guess it's because I'm not overly fond of complete submission type of drama. The scenes were hot but the storyline was a little "not my cup of tea". However I must admit that it was pretty well written in my standard. I did enjoy it just not into it. 3 stars for me

Wild Nights is more to my taste. I was very thrilled to know that Mike got his own story after me being extremely disappointed in Laci Burton last installment "Wild, Wicked, and Wonton". As much as I like Seth, I felt that it was a sad ending because Mike was left out of the equation. I wasn't disappointed for long was I? Thank goodness for that. Anyways, Wild Nights was a fairly awesome and well written story. The scene was sizzling hot and the ending was tearful. In a happy way of course. Wild Nights is actually the reason why I gave this rating a 4 star. If it was a stand alone, I would probably give it a 5 being that we would get more story out of it of course.

Purple Magic is the only story that I didn't bother finishing. I'm not saying that it started out horrible. I read the first 3 pages but then I found that it's not my type of read. If I were to continue just to finish it, I might give it a truely unbiased opinion. So I opt not to. I do enjoy reading paranormals because I am a fan of Christina Feehan,Nalini Singh and Karen Marie Moning and WAS a huge fan of Sherrilyn Kenyon but I don't think i can be a fan of paranormals eroticas. At least not yet. Maybe one day when I'm back into those vampire fetish zone, I'll come back and read this story. So I won't give this story a rating.

**This is my Recommended Read for the month of September 2007!**

When I was offered the anthology Exclusive for review, I jumped at the chance to read it! There is not a single author in this book whose previous work I do not love, and I expected at the very least an entertaining trio of stories, and at the best a book guaranteed to keep me up way past my bed time in order to finish it. I had a strong feeling it would be the latter, and I was not wrong.

Each of these authors is already on my must-buy list, and this anthology proves to be an excellent representation of each of their writing talent. I think the only negative thing I have to say about any of the stories in Exclusive is that they ended! LOL

If you have never read any of these authors, then this book is a perfect way to get a taste of their work. If you have read these authors before, then you are most certainly already a fan yourself and will not want to miss this one! If you enjoy erotic novellas with unconventional romances and plenty of steamy scenes, then run to your nearest bookstore and pick up your own copy of this gripping book!

~Sanctuary by Eden Bradley~

Until the night her best friend drug her to the fetish club, Devin never thought she would find herself in such a place. And she most certainly never expected to find herself enjoying it, even drawn to it.

But since that night at he Ring inside Club X, Devin has been unable to get the sights out of her head. Nor can she forget Master Shaye, who flirted with her so shamelessly, and delivered `punishment' to his willing submissives so deliciously as she watched...

Eden Bradley has a knack for creating BDSM stories that make even us vanilla lovers a bit curious... I first enjoyed her work with her full length novel, The Dark Garden, but she really moved up a notch in my list of favorite authors with her entry in this anthology, Sanctuary.

Shaye's job at 'Club X' playing Master to various subs fulfills his urges quite well without risking emotional entanglements. Charismatic, playful, and a touch dangerous, Shaye is the kind of man who could charm a woman into most anything he wanted.

Devin is a bit gun shy, and understandably nervous of the BDSM lifestyle, which she never in a million years expected to be drawn too. We feel her nervousness and excitement as if they were our own, and lose our hearts to Shaye right along with her.

~Wild Nights by Jaci Burton~

Mike Nottingham has seen it all, done it all. Having become a bit jaded, he is looking for something, anything different during his stay in Las Vegas. When a friend secures an invitation for him at an exclusive club catering to the sexually adventurous, he is intrigued by the idea. Upon his arrival at the club, he is even more intrigued by the reality of Grace Wylde, the sexy and untouchable proprietor.

However, Grace is not something different. In fact, she is all too familiar to Mike - almost a mirror image of himself. Finding himself on the receiving end of the treatment he typically doles out to the women in his life, he finds it doesn't set well with him. But is his interest piqued solely because of her seeming lack of interest, or do his feelings run much deeper? And how does a player who has met his match convince her he wants forever with her?

While Jaci Burton's story, Wild Nights, works perfectly as a standalone novella - even to readers as anal as I am about reading series books or connected books in order - it will be greatly enhanced for those readers who have already read her novel Wild, Wicked, & Wanton (Berkley Heat). Continuing the story of Mike Nottingham, a supporting character from that previous book, Burton explores what happens when a player falls head over heels for a woman who is more than his match and even more reluctant than he is to commit. Watching him fall is fun, but decidedly most fun for readers who met him in Wild, Wicked, and Wanton!

Grace is the kind of heroine that can keep both her lover and the audience guessing. Determined to prove to herself and to Mike that their brief tryst meant nothing and that she doesn't need a relationship, she does everything she can to drive him away. When Mike's tenacity and devotion prove unshakeable, she finally gives in, much to our delight and her own, not to mention Mike's.

Be aware, this story does not follow the typical romance `rules'. Remember I described these novellas as unconventional romances, and none fit that description better than Burton's Wild Nights. What the author does deliver in this tale is a story that totally fits the two main characters involved, and leaves the reader with a more than satisfying ending.

~Purple Magic by Lisa Renee Jones~

Half-human, half-vampire Jolene will do anything to save her mortal friend Carrie from the clutches of the dastardly vampire Alex - even if it means asking the help of the fearsome Drago, one of the vampire council's deadly Slayers. But it is either that or walk into the lion's den all by herself and, even as intimidating as the Drago is, the first scenario is definitely the preferable one.

Posing as a traitor to the vampire council while working undercover to bring Alex down, Drago is nearer his goal than ever. He definitely does not need another Slayer's daughter compromising his investigation, no matter how his instincts scream that Jolene is his mate and must be protected at all costs. But he knows Alex is drawing Jolene into a trap, and to save her, he must force her submission to him...

I've been a fan of author Lisa Renee Jones for some time now, and whether she is writing a contemporary romance or a paranormal romance, it is always fantastic! In Purple Magic, Jones introduces us to a whole new world, one I am very hopeful we will see more of in her future releases. With vampires and humans knowingly co-existing peacefully as races, and the oh-so-hunky and powerful team of Slayers who I am sure can slay a woman's heart as easily as they defeat their enemies, this story is surely only an introduction into a fascinating new series. This is purely wishing on my part, but a fan can hope, right? J

Drago is the typical reluctant hero who will do anything it takes to save the day, but shrugs off the acclaim that comes with his own successes. His sense of duty to both his friends, his team, and to those under his protection is commendable. But it is his ability to combine fierce passion with tender caring that was my undoing- er, I mean Jolene's undoing! LOL

Jolene's loyalty and determination are noble, if ill-advised in the matter of rescuing her friend. Unwaware that Drago is working undercover to rescue all the women imprisoned by Alex, not just her roommate, she rushes headlong into danger only Drago can save her from. Once apprised of his mission, however, she easily follows his lead, trusting the sexy warrior with not only her own life, but her father's and her friend's. And there is the little matter of trusting him with her heart...

It's not every day that you'll find an anthology with all stories being equally engaging. Exclusive by talented authors Eden Bradley, Jaci Burton and Lisa Renee Jones is a rare treat. Be prepared to explore the darker side of desire.


Sanctuary by Eden Bradley

Devin gets talked into going to a fetish club, and discovers she likes it. One of the guys putting on the show, Shaye, notices her and she's instantly hot for him and for what she sees him doing in the club's Ring. He asks her to come and play and she resists, but she finds she can't get him or his commanding sexuality out of her head. She knows it would be dangerous to get involved with him and she thinks she doesn't want to relinquish control to him, but he's irresistible and they connect. Shaye is shocked by how much he feels for Devin. He doesn't want her to have the power to hurt him. But neither of them can stop what they're feeling.

This story is HOT! I really liked that Shaye's self control extends to not taking the domination thing too far. His obvious care for her pleasure is really nice. I'd like to see that happening more often in D/s stories. My one issue is that love seems to come a bit too quickly for these two, but they're so fabulous together that you can easily overlook it.


Wild Nights by Jaci Burton

Mike Nottingham is a veterinarian from Oklahoma, attending a convention in Las Vegas. His friend gives him an invitation to an exclusive sex club called Wild Nights. Mike has been looking for that elusive something that will satisfy him, to no avail. He has had great sex, but always feels like there's something missing.

Grace Wylde is the owner of the club, and Mike's friend says she's unattainable. Just the kind of challenge Mike has been looking for. They meet and they feel a connection and a feeling of being comfortable with one another that they haven't felt with anyone else. Mike knows he won't get anywhere with Grace unless he's different than all the other men who usually try to put the moves on her. He also knows how to make this a unique encounter for Grace, and in doing so he finds his own elusive pleasure. But Grace doesn't want to get entangled with a man who's leaving in a couple of days, and the connection she feels with Mike scares her. Will two strong-willed individuals be able to make it work? Will they even care enough to try?

I wasn't completely happy with Grace throughout this story, but I think I understand why she does the things she does. This is a fantastic tale of two jaded people who finally find that special someone. Jaci Burton really makes these characters sizzle.


Purple Magic by Lisa Renee Jones

Jolene Morrison is searching underground sex clubs for her missing best friend, Carrie Wright. She seeks out an ancient warrior vampire named Drago in the hopes that he'll be willing and able to help her find her friend. When they meet, they both feel a profound chemistry. Their mutual attraction is so intense that Drago wonders if Jolene might be his mate. He never thought he'd find his mate, and he's not even sure he wants it to happen because it will make him soft and vulnerable. Jolene will have to trust Drago if she wants to save Carrie. But at what cost to her own safety?

I enjoyed seeing the strong slayer agree to share control with his mate. It goes against everything that he is, and it illustrates the depth of their bond. Lisa Renee Jones has done a great job of world building in a relatively short story.

Three tales, all exceptionally well written and power packed with emotion and steamy sensuality. You'll love Exclusive.

5 Kisses, 2 Peppers (anal sex)

~Lindy
Reviewer, TwoLips Reviews, LLC
www.TwoLipsReviews.com

Sanctuary by Eden Bradley

An innocent young woman ventures into the dungeons of a private club to broaden her erotic horizons. Devin finds herself thinking thoughts she has never had before. Mostly, her thoughts center around Shaye. Wondering what would happen if she goes through with them - where will they lead her. And how can she say no?

Sanctuary is a well-written story that draws you into the mind of a woman who has control of her life and who realizes maybe control is not what she wants or needs.

Wild Night by Jaci Burton

The owner of a swinger's club ignores her hands-off-the-customers policy when a certain sexy newcomer joins. Grace Wylde has her life the way she likes it. However, it does not hold any surprises. One night, Mike Nottingham walks into that life and shows her that maybe she has not seen or felt as much as she thought she had.

Wild Night is a well-crafted tale of two people learning that the games they have always enjoyed may not be all there is to life.

Purple Magic by Lisa Renee Jones

A daring woman searches for her lost friend in the hedonistic world of Manhattan's underground nightspots. Jolene Morrison's best friend has disappeared. In her search to find her Jolene ends up requesting help from Drago, a Slayer. But can she pay the price?

Purple Magicdraws you in and makes you wonder, what would you do for your family? For your friends? As well, it makes you realize you can meet your soul mate when you least expect it. It is well-written.

Exclusive is three well-written stories of women and men learning more about themselves and their boundaries. Each author took their story in a different direction than the others while still maintaining the same level of excellent writing. After I finished reading I sat back and realized that I could not choose a favorite. Each story was unique and steamy. I was left satisfied and yet wishing all three stories were their own book rather than part of a collection. I will be looking to find other stores by all three authors in the future. I highly recommend this book.

Barb
reviewed for Joyfully Reviewed

I must admit I picked up this anthology as a bargain book - it made it much more palatable.

One of my pet peeves regarding erotica is that the characters feel amazing chemistry, then immediately decide they're in love. Or if it's a paranormal erotica, they're mates, which means tru luv.

I understand that these are short stories, thus have to skip the slow progression that full-length novels enjoy, but it is stretching the believability that in Sanctuary by Eden Bradley, the heroine is treated to a full-on encounter as her introduction to BDSM. And that such an innocent would need nothing but the words of the hero, an experienced Dom, to fall into the lifestyle completely. Too much, too suddenly.

I enjoyed Wild Nights by Jaci Burton the most of the three, it actually showed the usual, more realistic progression in a relationship, albeit speeded up due to length constraints. Also, the main characters started out at closer points in their experiences that the first novella, making their merger much more compatible in the short frame.

Purple Magic by Lisa Renee Jones just didn't catch my attention. The paranormal world was sketchily set up, and the 'mates' cop-out struck again. There were no doubts, no struggles, both h/h were "ooh mate, i luv u foreva and eva".

All in all, a decent read, but not a keeper for sure. It's one thing to admit to reading good erotica, but this is not worth the admission.

Sanctuary

Devin has been talked into going to Club X with her friend. Secretly craving to experience all the popular dance club has to offer, she finds herself going up to the Loft where the `ring' is housed. Pushing to the front, Devin is amazed and aroused at the sight before her eyes; two women and two men are in the ring and the women are receiving discipline. When one of the men turns around, Devin is entranced by his beauty and desire rages through her body. When their eyes meet and he smiles at her, she is lost. With a nod of his head and a flick of his fingers, the man silently motions for Devin to join him in his playground. Reluctant to move, Devin watches in abandon as he walks to her, introduces himself as Shaye, and asks her to enter the ring and play with him. Devin is self conscious and unable to do what he asks and while Shaye is noticeably disappointed, he gives Devin his card with orders to call him when she is ready to play.

Wild Nights

Mike Nottingham, a dedicated veterinarian, is in Las Vegas attending a convention. At the close of the business conference, Mike plans to balance his hard work with some play by staying in Vegas a few extra days. He is presented with a coveted invitation to Wild Nights, an exclusive sex club. Mike looks forward to his evening, most especially an introduction to Grace Wylde, the unattainable owner of the club, just to see if the rumors are true. If truth be told, she doesn't form attachments to club patrons. But Mike is nothing if not stubborn. Sparks fly with one look between the two. Let the WILD NIGHTS begin.

Purple Magic

Jolene Morrison knows what she is risking by going to secret Manhattan sex clubs. Half vampire/half human, Jolene fully understands that she is placing herself in harm's way. She has no choice - Carrie, her best friend and the closest person around even remotely resembling a family member, has gone missing. The police are indifferent and not particularly concerned, but Jolene knows that Carrie would not have simply run off. She finally is able to bribe a cabbie who gives Jolene the name of a man who can help her; Drago. Drago is a Slayer. He is also heavily undercover trying to get evidence on Alex, a rogue vampire. When Jolene Morrison shows up at his door, he has no choice but to help her. Her scent calls to him in the most primitive way weaving magic around him so that he can think of nothing but keeping her safe.

I loved this entire anthology! The quality of each story was outstanding and when combined, EXCLUSIVE is a must read.

In Eden Bradley's SANCTUARY, I found myself swept away by the imagery and sounds. Shaye, the ultimate dominant, is forceful yet tender. He captured my attention and held me as spellbound as he held Devin. Their explosive loves scenes are breathtaking and oh so naughty. SANCTUARY is exactly what a story of this genre should be - perfectly delicious.

In WILD NIGHTS I was treated to another look at Mike Nottingham who was first introduced in Wild, Wicked, and Wanton, also by Jaci Burton. Mike is thrown for a loop when he meets Grace. Grace is as shy of exclusive commitment as Mike has always been. Their complete infatuation with each other scares them to death. I sat back and smiled as I watched their love blossom and take over their lives so as nothing else mattered.

PURPLE MAGIC by Lisa Renee Jones is the only paranormal in the EXCLUSIVE anthology. I immediately fell for Drago, especially after seeing the way he felt for Jolene. Muscled and tough vampires in love just make my heart melt and Drago was no exception. Jolene's plight to save her friend was the ultimate in unconditional friendship and very noteworthy. If I had to choose a favorite, PURPLE MAGIC would be my choice. The characters shine, the plot is original, and the love story steamy. Lisa Renee Jones is now an author I will automatically read every single time.

I put off doing a review for this book for awhile. I mainly bought this book for the story Wild Night by Jaci Burton. It was the story for Mike Nottingham from (Wild, Wicked, & Wanton (Berkley Heat)). I was so excited to know that she was doing his story. His story was a bit of a let down for me in Exclusive. It seems like he was a different person than the dominant alpha male in the other book where I fell in love with his character. The writing was still what you expect from Jaci Burton but to me the character went in a different direction than I wanted.

The story that hooked me in this book was Sanctuary by Eden Bradley. OMG I wanted this story to be longer. This was the first time I read anything by her and now I am adding her to my must read list. The story was about Devin and Master Shaye. She goes to a BDSM club with her friend and catches Shaye's eye but does not get in on the play/action. Then not able to forget him she goes back. They are a hot couple and I loved the emotion and the way they get together. I would love for Eden to visit this couple again.

I am still up in the air about the last story Purple Magic by Lisa Renee Jones. It was well written but I just couldn't get into it or the characters. I have heard alot about her writing and may try to read this story again for a second chance.

Exclusive

I bought this book solely to see Jaci Burton's Mike Nottingham find his own version of "happily ever after"...Mike made his first sexy appearance in Burton's "Wild, Wicked, & Wanton".

The other two stories weren't really me....but I read them anyway. I probably wouldn't buy anything from Eden Bradley or Lisa Renee Jones again, but Jaci Burton always has room on my "keeper shelf".

So... without Jaci's story, I wouldn't have liked the book.

Eden Bradley's story was ok- 3 stars
Jaci Burtons's story- 5 stars... she brought back a character from Wild, Wicked & Wanton, and it was hot.
Lisa Renee Jones- 2 stars. I am really trying to like her books, but not having luck. This story was disappointing.

Loved this book and all the stories. Wish I was there in each story.
will keep and reread again. wish purple magic was longer I loved it. And the other two stories too.