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First and Last #2
Last Kiss
A GAME OF CAT AND MOUSE FILLED WITH DARK DESIRES AND DANGEROUS SECRETS…
Emily Wayborn has made a decision.
She might not fully trust handsome and deadly Reeve Sallis, but he is the one person that gives her what she needs. With Reeve she can finally be herself. Submitting to him is the only thing keeping her grounded as the rest of her life falls apart. But the hotelier is a master at keeping secrets and as she continues her quest for answers someone is making sure she doesn’t find them.
Time is running out and she is questioning everything she thought she knew about friendship and love. She must now make an impossible choice that will determine if she will survive with her heart…or at all.
Emily Wayborn has made a decision.
She might not fully trust handsome and deadly Reeve Sallis, but he is the one person that gives her what she needs. With Reeve she can finally be herself. Submitting to him is the only thing keeping her grounded as the rest of her life falls apart. But the hotelier is a master at keeping secrets and as she continues her quest for answers someone is making sure she doesn’t find them.
Time is running out and she is questioning everything she thought she knew about friendship and love. She must now make an impossible choice that will determine if she will survive with her heart…or at all.
366 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 14, 2016
About the author
Laurelin Paige
113 books15.6k followersLaurelin Paige is the NYT, WSJ, USA Today Bestselling Author of the international sensation, The Fixed Trilogy. She's also written other popular books in the Fixed Universe as well as the Dirty Universe and has cowritten with both Kayti McGee and Sierra Simone.
Are you looking for a romantic comedy or something hot and angsty? Here's Laurelin's list of books broken down by trope and reading order.
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Are you looking for a romantic comedy or something hot and angsty? Here's Laurelin's list of books broken down by trope and reading order.
Sign up for Laurelin's newsletter to make sure you know all the latest info on her projects and to get a free book every month from a bestselling author.
FULL LIST OF BOOKS:
Series:
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 840 reviews
July 20, 2017
★★★★ 3/4! Last Kiss, book 2 of 2. The shocking conclusion & unraveling of Reeves Sallis & Emily’s cat-and-mouse game of seduction!
“I put myself back together as best as I could, but I was sure that parts of me were broken permanently.”
Books in First and Last series should be read in order:
Book 1: First Touch
Book 2: Last Kiss
In First Touch (book 1) actress and TV sitcom star Emily Wayborn aka Emily Barnes sought out heir and hotelier with rumored mafia ties, Reeve Sallis. in hopes of seducing the truth out of him regarding her friends disappearance.
But Emily quickly became entwined, in over her head, with Reeves’ cat and mouse game of seduction falling for him while getting mixed signals and finding little proof of his innocence.
Last Kiss (book 2) opens up to book 1’s jaw-dropping ending. Recent shocking developments has Emily torn between her past and her future; right and wrong; fear and courage; love and hurt; holding on or letting go….
It’s a roller-coaster of mixed messages, danger, conflicted feelings, cover-ups, misunderstandings, addiction, manipulation, confusion, betrayal, deceit and ultimately truths…
Reeve Sallis has come a long way since book one. Emerging is a matured refined alpha ready to face his past and claim his future. Nine words to describe Reeve: Larger-than-life, elusive, suspicious, commanding; intense, ruthless, moody, private and unyielding.
Nine words to describe Emily Wayborn aka Emily Barnes: Smart, determined, self-doubting, trusting, confused, wishy-washy, reflective, meek and resilient.
Last Kiss, from Emily’s POV, is the suspenseful unraveling of a mystery and the final pieces in the puzzle of the enigma that has been Reeve Sallis.
It’s addicting, frustrating, shocking, angsty and… deceiving! But above all it’s living for the moments and basking in the glory of Reeve Sallis. The ending is peace and healing but I’d welcome an epilogue a few years into their future.
Jaded, devious, enigmatic and panty-melting Reeve Sallis! Complex and suspenseful plot! Excellent story-telling! I am sticking Reeve on my top-10 hero shelf!
“A kiss that couldn’t fade.
A kiss that could go on forever.
A kiss that could last.
Instead of what it really was—a last kiss.”
***
Hero rating: 6 stars
Heroine rating: 3.5 stars
Sexual tension rating: 5 stars
Sex scenes rating: 5 stars
Sex scenes frequency: 5 stars
Plot rating: 4.5 stars
Dialogue rating: 4.5 stars
Storytelling rating: 5 stars
Story ending rating: 4
*********************************************
Overall rating: 4.75 stars
Would I recommend this series: Yes.
Would I re-read this series: Yes.
Would I read future books by this author: Yes.
ARC provided to me by author Laurelin Paige in exchange for an honest review.
June 5, 2016
I didn't think it was possible to have so much love for a book. Laurelin Paige has completely left me a jumbled mix of every damn emotion. I'm happy/sad...that Emily and Reeve's journey has come to end. But what an AMAZING ending it was!!!!
If you read First Touch, which I really hope you have, then you all know about that infamous ending!!! I think many readers are still suffering from that hangover!! With that ending, it's really hard to review this book without giving anything away. As I always say, I hate spoilers. One wrong thing can totally mess up everything. I don't want to rob you of that shock n awe feeling while reading it. So I will tell you briefly a few things without giving away any plot.
What I love about Last Kiss, EVERYTHING!!! Whereas FT was hardcore, dark, dirty, twisted, erotic....Last Kiss was a lot more gentler, softer, sexy, emotional, and good god angsty!!! And we all know how I love my angst!!!! Reeve Sallis seems to be a different man. A lot more sensitive and thoughtful. But still so damn sexy, dominant, and 100% alpha. And Emily, well...she's still kicks ass!! But lord, this poor girl. The shit that she has been dealt...she's an incredible woman.
Last Kiss was more of an emotional journey. We learned many new things. And this was also so suspenseful!!! It kept me on the edge the whole way through. Literally, heart racing, afraid to turn the page. I had so many theories. SO MANY! And yep, I was wrong. This book completely blew me away. Between the beautiful craft of Laurelin's writing, to the captivating storyline, to the adventure that you are taken on. And omfg. The eroticism in this book....I simply have no words. Last Kiss will leave you craving and wanting more, right up to the very last page.
Ok, I think I might of succeeded in not giving anything away of the plot! This series is seriously a MUST READ! Last Kiss is jam packed with all the things that make up an amazing story. If you have not met Laurelin's new man, Reeve Sallis...you are REALLY missing out!! GRAB. IT. NOW.
If you read First Touch, which I really hope you have, then you all know about that infamous ending!!! I think many readers are still suffering from that hangover!! With that ending, it's really hard to review this book without giving anything away. As I always say, I hate spoilers. One wrong thing can totally mess up everything. I don't want to rob you of that shock n awe feeling while reading it. So I will tell you briefly a few things without giving away any plot.
What I love about Last Kiss, EVERYTHING!!! Whereas FT was hardcore, dark, dirty, twisted, erotic....Last Kiss was a lot more gentler, softer, sexy, emotional, and good god angsty!!! And we all know how I love my angst!!!! Reeve Sallis seems to be a different man. A lot more sensitive and thoughtful. But still so damn sexy, dominant, and 100% alpha. And Emily, well...she's still kicks ass!! But lord, this poor girl. The shit that she has been dealt...she's an incredible woman.
Last Kiss was more of an emotional journey. We learned many new things. And this was also so suspenseful!!! It kept me on the edge the whole way through. Literally, heart racing, afraid to turn the page. I had so many theories. SO MANY! And yep, I was wrong. This book completely blew me away. Between the beautiful craft of Laurelin's writing, to the captivating storyline, to the adventure that you are taken on. And omfg. The eroticism in this book....I simply have no words. Last Kiss will leave you craving and wanting more, right up to the very last page.
Ok, I think I might of succeeded in not giving anything away of the plot! This series is seriously a MUST READ! Last Kiss is jam packed with all the things that make up an amazing story. If you have not met Laurelin's new man, Reeve Sallis...you are REALLY missing out!! GRAB. IT. NOW.
June 21, 2016
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Laurelin Paige is a master of words. When she writes she does it with such seamless precision, it hits you everywhere, in all the feels. Her storytelling is exceptional, impeccable. It rivals some of the best for me. Once again, I find myself in awe of her creative talent, consumed by the way she writes. I'm almost at a loss for words.
This duology is one of the best I have ever had the pleasure of reading. The execution... It all came together so flawlessly that words like brilliant, phenomenal, spectacular, just don't do it justice. There's nothing I could say that would live up to the magic that's buried deep inside these pages. I'm blown away by the intricate plot line, by the cataclysmic emotion that erupts inside the reader, by the depth of character development. It's a gritty ride like no other; utterly wild, infinitely frustrating, wholly intense. One that's more than memorable. One I'll be holding onto for a very long while.
First Touch was one of my Top Reads of last year. I loved it so much that a part of me dreaded reading Last Kiss. Sequels can be challenging and I've been let down in the past. However, with the cliffhanger ending that left me reeling, I was just as desperate to get my hands on this book. Those two emotions---dread and desperation--warred with in me when I finally sat down to read and I found myself obsessing over everything. I was scared that this might not go the way I wanted it to. The way I needed it to. My attachment to these characters ran deep. I was invested. My heart was on the line.
That said, if there was ever a sequel that trumped a first in a series, it would be this. I was left breathless. From dread, to despair, to anger, to frustration, to feeling hot and bothered all over, Laurelin delivered BIG TIME. She showed me--the reader--that once again she owns every line in her books, she's knows exactly what she's doing, and we can trust her to take us on a ride that’s more than worth it.
Last Kiss picks up exactly where First Touch leaves off. I'm not getting into plot details. I don't want someone who hasn't read the first book to stumble on this review and have it all ruined. Just know you're in for a whirlwind that's simply unforgettable.
Emily has codependency issues. She’s complex and infuriating. It’s not an easy ride. The emotional attachment she has to her ex best friend is weaved into the strands of who she is. Those threads are thick and almost impossible to sever. And at the end of the day Emily doesn't trust herself to make good decisions. She's desperate for approval. And many a time, I broke for her. I love this woman. F**ked up, crazy, impulsive, submissive, reckless, lost, damaged, it didn't matter, I loved her with a passion. I understood the dark in her. I craved the same things she did. I found myself sick with the very same emotions she was experiencing. She's a complicated character. Her issues run deep. Yet her heart is pure goodness.
Reeve continues to be our brazen, dominant man in this series. He's EVERYTHING an alpha male should be. I absolutely ADORE the way he’s as harsh as he is tender. His cruelty is a turn on. He ruins you and puts you back together. I fell head of heels in love with that possessive, controlling man. He's everything I want and once again, my love for him was cemented in ways I couldn’t have ever imagined. No one comes close to his intensity, his protectiveness, his heart... But his moments of vulnerability really DESTROY ME. My God, I love him. His fierce loyalty is so sexy. He would do anything for the woman he loves.
This story is messy. It’s multifaceted, dark, and gritty. There’s nothing that the author shies away from. She writes with a ferocity that is visceral and palpable. Last Kiss is a tsunami of feels. The twists and turns will take you everywhere. I highly recommend this series. I'm completely blown away! And I can't say anything but amazing things. It's unforgettable.
*** ARC Provided in exchange for honest review from Netgalley ***
Laurelin Paige is a master of words. When she writes she does it with such seamless precision, it hits you everywhere, in all the feels. Her storytelling is exceptional, impeccable. It rivals some of the best for me. Once again, I find myself in awe of her creative talent, consumed by the way she writes. I'm almost at a loss for words.
This duology is one of the best I have ever had the pleasure of reading. The execution... It all came together so flawlessly that words like brilliant, phenomenal, spectacular, just don't do it justice. There's nothing I could say that would live up to the magic that's buried deep inside these pages. I'm blown away by the intricate plot line, by the cataclysmic emotion that erupts inside the reader, by the depth of character development. It's a gritty ride like no other; utterly wild, infinitely frustrating, wholly intense. One that's more than memorable. One I'll be holding onto for a very long while.
First Touch was one of my Top Reads of last year. I loved it so much that a part of me dreaded reading Last Kiss. Sequels can be challenging and I've been let down in the past. However, with the cliffhanger ending that left me reeling, I was just as desperate to get my hands on this book. Those two emotions---dread and desperation--warred with in me when I finally sat down to read and I found myself obsessing over everything. I was scared that this might not go the way I wanted it to. The way I needed it to. My attachment to these characters ran deep. I was invested. My heart was on the line.
That said, if there was ever a sequel that trumped a first in a series, it would be this. I was left breathless. From dread, to despair, to anger, to frustration, to feeling hot and bothered all over, Laurelin delivered BIG TIME. She showed me--the reader--that once again she owns every line in her books, she's knows exactly what she's doing, and we can trust her to take us on a ride that’s more than worth it.
Last Kiss picks up exactly where First Touch leaves off. I'm not getting into plot details. I don't want someone who hasn't read the first book to stumble on this review and have it all ruined. Just know you're in for a whirlwind that's simply unforgettable.
Emily has codependency issues. She’s complex and infuriating. It’s not an easy ride. The emotional attachment she has to her ex best friend is weaved into the strands of who she is. Those threads are thick and almost impossible to sever. And at the end of the day Emily doesn't trust herself to make good decisions. She's desperate for approval. And many a time, I broke for her. I love this woman. F**ked up, crazy, impulsive, submissive, reckless, lost, damaged, it didn't matter, I loved her with a passion. I understood the dark in her. I craved the same things she did. I found myself sick with the very same emotions she was experiencing. She's a complicated character. Her issues run deep. Yet her heart is pure goodness.
Reeve continues to be our brazen, dominant man in this series. He's EVERYTHING an alpha male should be. I absolutely ADORE the way he’s as harsh as he is tender. His cruelty is a turn on. He ruins you and puts you back together. I fell head of heels in love with that possessive, controlling man. He's everything I want and once again, my love for him was cemented in ways I couldn’t have ever imagined. No one comes close to his intensity, his protectiveness, his heart... But his moments of vulnerability really DESTROY ME. My God, I love him. His fierce loyalty is so sexy. He would do anything for the woman he loves.
This story is messy. It’s multifaceted, dark, and gritty. There’s nothing that the author shies away from. She writes with a ferocity that is visceral and palpable. Last Kiss is a tsunami of feels. The twists and turns will take you everywhere. I highly recommend this series. I'm completely blown away! And I can't say anything but amazing things. It's unforgettable.
*** ARC Provided in exchange for honest review from Netgalley ***
May 15, 2016
Oh Laurelin, what have you done to me? You've completely wrecked me, my heart is crushed, I'm left devastated and a terrible mess! How we are left hanging in First Touch was absolutely horrible, talk about the worst cliffy on earth. I was left screaming "NOOOO" when I reached the end. I was so unbelievably worried of the outcome in Last Kiss, I didn't know what to expect but I just knew I.DID.NOT.LIKE.AMBER! I am here to say she really does try to redeem herself in Last Kiss, but too little too late Bitch! I don't think I've ever hated a book character more than I hate Amber!
"I turned to the man who held her. Who moments ago was my man—now I wasn’t so sure. His expression was hard and unreadable. But when his gaze caught mine, the room tilted. His eyes held a dark brew of emotion, so murky and filled that I couldn’t determine what he was feeling, only that he was feeling."
Get ready for the roller coaster of the century because this book will drive you to drink, pull your hair out, scream at the top of your lungs and smash your kindle into the mother fuckin' wall! I may or may not have sent some threatening messages to Laurelin, I didn't threaten her but I threatened her damn characters with some knife and gun emojis, lmao! Ms. Paige successfully made me hate EVERY SINGLE character at one time or another throughout Last Kiss. Get ready to find yourself screaming with every turn of the page. Warning: Read this when nobody is around or they may just try to commit you to a mental facility! With that being said, I absolutely LOVED how brilliantly written this story was, there are some real surprises you never expected that just made this even more addicting and obsessive. Ms. Paige did an exceptional job creating characters we've connected with, fallen in love with and hated with a passion; she brought us a mind fuck of a story that will stay in our minds and hearts for years! Last Kiss is every bit a 5 star twisted story you won't see coming. Enjoy the ride and get ready to get rocked! Mind Blown! I may love but also hate for the journey Ms. Paige has taken us on. My heart is still hurting and crushed from this wicked but brilliant ride. Bravo Ms. Paige, Bravo for wrecking me to the very core!
"I turned to the man who held her. Who moments ago was my man—now I wasn’t so sure. His expression was hard and unreadable. But when his gaze caught mine, the room tilted. His eyes held a dark brew of emotion, so murky and filled that I couldn’t determine what he was feeling, only that he was feeling."
Get ready for the roller coaster of the century because this book will drive you to drink, pull your hair out, scream at the top of your lungs and smash your kindle into the mother fuckin' wall! I may or may not have sent some threatening messages to Laurelin, I didn't threaten her but I threatened her damn characters with some knife and gun emojis, lmao! Ms. Paige successfully made me hate EVERY SINGLE character at one time or another throughout Last Kiss. Get ready to find yourself screaming with every turn of the page. Warning: Read this when nobody is around or they may just try to commit you to a mental facility! With that being said, I absolutely LOVED how brilliantly written this story was, there are some real surprises you never expected that just made this even more addicting and obsessive. Ms. Paige did an exceptional job creating characters we've connected with, fallen in love with and hated with a passion; she brought us a mind fuck of a story that will stay in our minds and hearts for years! Last Kiss is every bit a 5 star twisted story you won't see coming. Enjoy the ride and get ready to get rocked! Mind Blown! I may love but also hate for the journey Ms. Paige has taken us on. My heart is still hurting and crushed from this wicked but brilliant ride. Bravo Ms. Paige, Bravo for wrecking me to the very core!
June 14, 2016
A nail-biter of a twisty, thrilling, and touching tale, Last Kiss bleeds angst, pouring passion from the pages straight to your heart and soul. Like a kiss, this story is scorching, sensual, and seductive. Last Kiss is not just a book—it’s the ultimate escape from reality where you are utterly immersed and intoxicated. You are folded into this story so deeply that Last Kiss bleeds into your world, haunts your head, and dances in your dreams. This book becomes you. You are Last Kiss.
From the very first page, I’m on edge. Anxious. Afraid. Enchanted. Energized. I dive in. I devour Last Kiss. Last Kiss devours me, eating me alive. I want to slow down and enjoy the ride. I want to race through this incredible and intoxicating read but, like a gravitational force, the pull is too strong to slow down. Last Kiss quickly steals my breath, my thoughts, and my emotions. Pulse pounding. Brain bending. Tears tricking. Body burning. Soul soaring. I am drowning in feels.
Last Kiss is a thriller. A suspense. A romance. So many things rolled into one amazing adventure. This adrenaline rush of a read has hypnotized me. Held me. Haunted me. Hurt me. Healed me. The adventure is so raw and real that I feel that Last Kiss. I'm addicted. I'm awe-struck. I'm alive.
Beautiful, blonde, blue-eyed, and curvy Emily Wayborn is a character I love yet hate. She is fearless but spineless. Endearing yet annoying. Such a contradiction. Co-dependent and clingy, Emily depends on others too much for her own happiness and it drives me crazy! Emily has faced tragedy after tragedy but is still a survivor, and I have to applaud her for being so strong.
Reeve Sallis is a gorgeous, tall, dark-haired and blue-eyed billionaire. Powerful. Passionate. Penetrating. Possessive. Predator. Reeve is a man of many layers. I love him. I loathe him. Reeve owns Emily. Reeve owns me.
Emily is reeling from Amber's return. The best friend who was supposed to be dead. The one who is now in the middle of whatever it is that’s forming between Reeve and Emily. Emily is unsure where she stands and unnerved.
“I turned to the man who held her. Who moments ago was my man—now I wasn’t so sure.”
Turmoil thrusts throughout the story like a dragon breathing fire. My heart breaks for Emily whose relationship with Reeve is now compromised and more complicated than ever. Reeve let her get close and now that slow building trust may be for nothing. Emily is bathing in a bath of betrayal as Reeve realizes he was merely a pawn in her act of revenge.
“I’d let him in, let him consume me and yet I’d still kept him at a distance, even when I knew he’d tried to let me in.”
Truths unfold as Emily and Reeve confess, leaving both disappointed. Deceived. Devastated.
“He’d wanted me to trust him because he wanted me to love him.”
Emily doesn’t fully trust Reeve but she wants to. She wants to love and trust this man and give him everything she has. Everything she is. Everything she wants to be.
“You feel me. Right now you feel me, Emily. That’s where I am—inside you. All the time, I’m there. No matter whose bed you sleep in.”
Gah! These powerful and poignant words pull at my heartstrings. The feels flow HARD. Reeve is intense and incredible. I LOVE this complex but caring man. I can’t stop swooning. I don’t want to.
“I wish you could see this Emily. You’re so beautiful like this. Bent over and open for me.”
The chemistry burns hot like fire. So intense and intoxicating. I'm melting. My body is aflame. Reeve can just take me NOW.
“He loved me. He loved me enough to say it out loud. But he’d loved her too. Yes. I did belong to him. But I belonged to Amber too.”
Danger has pushed Reeve's former and current loves under the same roof. While two is company, three is a crowd. Emily is ready to throw it all away. Concede and let Amber hold the cards....again.
“Amber’s presence changed everything. I made promises to her long before I’d thought about making promised to Reeve.”
I want to hug Emily yet hit her hard to knock some much-needed sense into her. She has let Amber control her too hard and too long. Emily is the puppet and Amber is the puppeteer pulling the strings. Emily puts Amber above Reeve. Above her. Above happiness and love. Above everything.
“Hell was cold and ice and emptiness. Hell was watching the one I’d grasped to so tightly slip through my fingers. Hell was realizing the one I’d come to love would never choose to love me.”
All is fair in love and war. This is war. A bloody battle for love where ashes are left after the heart is burned. One where there is no winner.
“I want to break you.”
“You do. You do break me. Every time.”
Last Kiss broke me. Bewildered me. Branded me. Breathed fire and life into me like a last kiss. I cried hopeless tears. Happy tears. Hopeful tears. Last Kiss captivated and crushed me ceaselessly. I was held prisoner by this heart-hitting story, hoping for a happily ever after to follow the broken trust and beautiful disaster that was Last Kiss.
In Laurelin Paige's most explosive and emotionally-wrenching romance yet, Last Kiss is a powerful and poignant tale that permeates straight to the soul. It's dark, dirty, and decadent like a kiss with heat and heart hidden in the core. It's lust, loathing, and love but so much more. Last Kiss leaves a longing that may never leave as it touches all the right spots. I fell in love with both First Touch and Last Kiss, and I’m not ready to let them go.
5 twisty, thrilling, and touching stars
From the very first page, I’m on edge. Anxious. Afraid. Enchanted. Energized. I dive in. I devour Last Kiss. Last Kiss devours me, eating me alive. I want to slow down and enjoy the ride. I want to race through this incredible and intoxicating read but, like a gravitational force, the pull is too strong to slow down. Last Kiss quickly steals my breath, my thoughts, and my emotions. Pulse pounding. Brain bending. Tears tricking. Body burning. Soul soaring. I am drowning in feels.
Last Kiss is a thriller. A suspense. A romance. So many things rolled into one amazing adventure. This adrenaline rush of a read has hypnotized me. Held me. Haunted me. Hurt me. Healed me. The adventure is so raw and real that I feel that Last Kiss. I'm addicted. I'm awe-struck. I'm alive.
Beautiful, blonde, blue-eyed, and curvy Emily Wayborn is a character I love yet hate. She is fearless but spineless. Endearing yet annoying. Such a contradiction. Co-dependent and clingy, Emily depends on others too much for her own happiness and it drives me crazy! Emily has faced tragedy after tragedy but is still a survivor, and I have to applaud her for being so strong.
Reeve Sallis is a gorgeous, tall, dark-haired and blue-eyed billionaire. Powerful. Passionate. Penetrating. Possessive. Predator. Reeve is a man of many layers. I love him. I loathe him. Reeve owns Emily. Reeve owns me.
Emily is reeling from Amber's return. The best friend who was supposed to be dead. The one who is now in the middle of whatever it is that’s forming between Reeve and Emily. Emily is unsure where she stands and unnerved.
“I turned to the man who held her. Who moments ago was my man—now I wasn’t so sure.”
Turmoil thrusts throughout the story like a dragon breathing fire. My heart breaks for Emily whose relationship with Reeve is now compromised and more complicated than ever. Reeve let her get close and now that slow building trust may be for nothing. Emily is bathing in a bath of betrayal as Reeve realizes he was merely a pawn in her act of revenge.
“I’d let him in, let him consume me and yet I’d still kept him at a distance, even when I knew he’d tried to let me in.”
Truths unfold as Emily and Reeve confess, leaving both disappointed. Deceived. Devastated.
“He’d wanted me to trust him because he wanted me to love him.”
Emily doesn’t fully trust Reeve but she wants to. She wants to love and trust this man and give him everything she has. Everything she is. Everything she wants to be.
“You feel me. Right now you feel me, Emily. That’s where I am—inside you. All the time, I’m there. No matter whose bed you sleep in.”
Gah! These powerful and poignant words pull at my heartstrings. The feels flow HARD. Reeve is intense and incredible. I LOVE this complex but caring man. I can’t stop swooning. I don’t want to.
“I wish you could see this Emily. You’re so beautiful like this. Bent over and open for me.”
The chemistry burns hot like fire. So intense and intoxicating. I'm melting. My body is aflame. Reeve can just take me NOW.
“He loved me. He loved me enough to say it out loud. But he’d loved her too. Yes. I did belong to him. But I belonged to Amber too.”
Danger has pushed Reeve's former and current loves under the same roof. While two is company, three is a crowd. Emily is ready to throw it all away. Concede and let Amber hold the cards....again.
“Amber’s presence changed everything. I made promises to her long before I’d thought about making promised to Reeve.”
I want to hug Emily yet hit her hard to knock some much-needed sense into her. She has let Amber control her too hard and too long. Emily is the puppet and Amber is the puppeteer pulling the strings. Emily puts Amber above Reeve. Above her. Above happiness and love. Above everything.
“Hell was cold and ice and emptiness. Hell was watching the one I’d grasped to so tightly slip through my fingers. Hell was realizing the one I’d come to love would never choose to love me.”
All is fair in love and war. This is war. A bloody battle for love where ashes are left after the heart is burned. One where there is no winner.
“I want to break you.”
“You do. You do break me. Every time.”
Last Kiss broke me. Bewildered me. Branded me. Breathed fire and life into me like a last kiss. I cried hopeless tears. Happy tears. Hopeful tears. Last Kiss captivated and crushed me ceaselessly. I was held prisoner by this heart-hitting story, hoping for a happily ever after to follow the broken trust and beautiful disaster that was Last Kiss.
In Laurelin Paige's most explosive and emotionally-wrenching romance yet, Last Kiss is a powerful and poignant tale that permeates straight to the soul. It's dark, dirty, and decadent like a kiss with heat and heart hidden in the core. It's lust, loathing, and love but so much more. Last Kiss leaves a longing that may never leave as it touches all the right spots. I fell in love with both First Touch and Last Kiss, and I’m not ready to let them go.
5 twisty, thrilling, and touching stars
June 14, 2016
Another masterpiece from Laurelin Paige!!! After reading the first book, First touch, I just knew that something big was coming after that huge cliffhanger but the way the story actually unfolded, just blew my mind!
Last Kiss picks up right where the first book ended. SHE is BACK!!! The huge secret is revealed and I was so shocked about what happened next. We know that Emily and Reeve came quite close to each other and both had reasons to make their relationship work. True, at first those reasons were far from love but somehow these two wonderful people finally found each other. And now their love is being tested in a big way!!! Will they fail or win? That's the real question, people!
Those of you who read the first book already know who's back. And for those of you who don't...well...read First Touch and find out! And that person stirs up some mayor drama between Emily and Reese. But to be honest, as much as I hated that person I was also grateful for her to be back, since now both Reese and Emily can come to terms about their true feelings for each other.
But still, all I can say is the b**** sure deserved it!!! What happened to her at the end was tragic but you won't find any sympathy for it from me! Heck no!
You won't get any spoilers from me, so all I can say is that I loved both Reeve and Emily. They were soooo great together and despise what they had to go thru to get to where they are now, it sure was worth it! There is sadness, betrayal, fight and so much love, you simply have to love their story. I'm a bit sad that it's over but all good things must come to an end at some point, right? And for those of you who wonder And to Laurelin, honey, job well done!!!
____________________________________________________________
Can't wait to read this one but, please, for the love of God don't let it turn into a love triangle, PLEASE!!!
August 26, 2016
4 Stars!!
'Last Kiss', the conclusion of Emily and Reeve’s story was intense, thrilling and kept me at the edge of my seat from the beginning until the end. Filled with angst and drama this second installment was (almost) as good as the first. It was intense, sexy, suspenseful and so very addictive and while I didn’t fully love it, I enjoyed it very much.
This installment picks up right where the previous installment ended. Emily and Reeve’s lives are drastically changed when someone from their past, who “was supposed to be dead” makes an “appearance”. Emily had been in a committed relationship with Reeve for more than two months. She is still drawn to him like a moth to a flame, he still consumes her like no other, but she still keeps him at a distance not being able to fully trust him.
When this someone comes into their lives, Emily doesn’t know exactly how to feel. She is confused, she is relived, but she’s also scared.
Like I mentioned above this conclusion kept me at the edge of my seat the entire time for one reason or another. I loved the angst, the turmoil and even the drama. While the story was in some way predictable to me because I guessed how everything will unfold, I enjoyed it.
Once again, Reeve stole the show for me. His portrayal was fantastically done and I simply loved his intensity. He was captivating until the end and I have to say I loved his unpredictability. If in the previous installment we saw his darker side, in this installment we also get to see his softer side, which I loved. He proved that he can be sweet and caring as much as he can be domineering and possessive.
Emily was just an okay character for me…at last in this installment. She was frustrating, even annoying at some point and in my humble opinion a weak heroine who for a long while didn’t know exactly what she wanted. It took a long time for her to figure out that and to understand who she is. I loved the fact that her background story was even more developed than in the previous installment. I found it to be interesting, intriguing and as the rest of the story well done.
As for the other important character in this installment? I didn’t like
The sex scenes were wonderfully written so damn hot. I loved the intensity between the two main characters and even the fact that the heroine was a submissive.
Overall, this was a fantastic, intriguing conclusion to this two books series filled with steam, intrigue, mystery that for sure will keep you at the edge of your seat.
'Last Kiss', the conclusion of Emily and Reeve’s story was intense, thrilling and kept me at the edge of my seat from the beginning until the end. Filled with angst and drama this second installment was (almost) as good as the first. It was intense, sexy, suspenseful and so very addictive and while I didn’t fully love it, I enjoyed it very much.
“And I pretended it was the kind of kiss that could make all that possible. The kind of kiss that could seal and bind and change and forgive. A kiss that couldn’t fade. A kiss that could go on forever. A kiss that could last.
Instead of what it really was – a last kiss.”
This installment picks up right where the previous installment ended. Emily and Reeve’s lives are drastically changed when someone from their past, who “was supposed to be dead” makes an “appearance”. Emily had been in a committed relationship with Reeve for more than two months. She is still drawn to him like a moth to a flame, he still consumes her like no other, but she still keeps him at a distance not being able to fully trust him.
“Pleasing him wasn’t just satisfying – it was necessary for my own happiness, just as his happiness depended on my obedience.”
When this someone comes into their lives, Emily doesn’t know exactly how to feel. She is confused, she is relived, but she’s also scared.
Like I mentioned above this conclusion kept me at the edge of my seat the entire time for one reason or another. I loved the angst, the turmoil and even the drama. While the story was in some way predictable to me because I guessed how everything will unfold, I enjoyed it.
Once again, Reeve stole the show for me. His portrayal was fantastically done and I simply loved his intensity. He was captivating until the end and I have to say I loved his unpredictability. If in the previous installment we saw his darker side, in this installment we also get to see his softer side, which I loved. He proved that he can be sweet and caring as much as he can be domineering and possessive.
“My love for you is so ferocious, so dominating that I'm possessed by it. It changes who I am. It makes me someone different and yet I'm more who I've always believed I am than I ever have been.“
Emily was just an okay character for me…at last in this installment. She was frustrating, even annoying at some point and in my humble opinion a weak heroine who for a long while didn’t know exactly what she wanted. It took a long time for her to figure out that and to understand who she is. I loved the fact that her background story was even more developed than in the previous installment. I found it to be interesting, intriguing and as the rest of the story well done.
As for the other important character in this installment? I didn’t like
The sex scenes were wonderfully written so damn hot. I loved the intensity between the two main characters and even the fact that the heroine was a submissive.
Overall, this was a fantastic, intriguing conclusion to this two books series filled with steam, intrigue, mystery that for sure will keep you at the edge of your seat.
“I was tired of fighting it – no matter what I did or said, I belonged to him. I always would.”
May 29, 2016
Sensual, chilling, suspenseful, and SCORCHING HOT!
I feel like I've just ran a marathon...I'm out of breath with no relief in sight. My heart is pounding, my pulse is erratic, and I'm flush all over. Is it possible for one single book to make you feel this way? Hell yeah it is! JESUS CHRIST! This book absolutely OBLITERATED my emotions, making me feel SO much in so little time. This toe-curling, pulse-pounding, ridiculously sexy and gritty romance blew my mind! A heavy and HOT masterpiece full of twists and turns and INTENSE PASSION! I was in an erotic trance the whole way through, and before you know it, I was 95% done and it didn't seem like there was enough pages left to give me the ending I CRAVED...the ending I NEEDED. But somehow, Laurelin Paige gave us an ending that satisfied every bone in my body, leaving me breathless, speechless, and absolutely overwhelmed. I LOVED every goddamn second of this book! This duet was one of THE BEST I've ever read, and Paige has certainly set the bar so damn HIGH that I'm not sure how anyone could top it in my book. Just when you think Paige's writing couldn't get any better, she tops even herself and gives her readers a gem they will never forget!
*Gifted copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
I feel like I've just ran a marathon...I'm out of breath with no relief in sight. My heart is pounding, my pulse is erratic, and I'm flush all over. Is it possible for one single book to make you feel this way? Hell yeah it is! JESUS CHRIST! This book absolutely OBLITERATED my emotions, making me feel SO much in so little time. This toe-curling, pulse-pounding, ridiculously sexy and gritty romance blew my mind! A heavy and HOT masterpiece full of twists and turns and INTENSE PASSION! I was in an erotic trance the whole way through, and before you know it, I was 95% done and it didn't seem like there was enough pages left to give me the ending I CRAVED...the ending I NEEDED. But somehow, Laurelin Paige gave us an ending that satisfied every bone in my body, leaving me breathless, speechless, and absolutely overwhelmed. I LOVED every goddamn second of this book! This duet was one of THE BEST I've ever read, and Paige has certainly set the bar so damn HIGH that I'm not sure how anyone could top it in my book. Just when you think Paige's writing couldn't get any better, she tops even herself and gives her readers a gem they will never forget!
*Gifted copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
June 23, 2016
When I read 'First Touch', it blew me away. Thankfully, I waited to read it until the release of 'Last Kiss' was only weeks away. Otherwise, I'm not sure I could've survived the wait. Needless to say, when this book was released, I was all over it!
After the way the first book ended, I had to know how things would work out for Emily, Reeve and Amber. I can't say that I was surprised by the overall direction that the story went in. However, I was shocked by some of the details that came to light in the end.
As expected, Amber's reappearance has drastically changed the dynamics of Emily and Reeve's relationship. There is plenty of guilt and regret to go around. Emotions run high and choices must be made.
I don't want to give too much away, but I will say that I spent a lot of time feeling conflicted while reading this book. There was plenty of angst and turmoil to keep my on the edge of my seat. Even when I knew where things were headed, I couldn't look away.
Many of Emily's choices were frustrating to me. I wanted to shake her/slap her/tell her to grow a spine. Similarly, Reeve's stupidity/blindness/insensitivity infuriated me. These two really needed to get a clue and pull it together this time around. I spent a lot of time shaking my head at them.
However, Amber was the character that really took the cake. I HATED her! Ms. Paige created quite the villain in Amber's character. Honestly, I couldn't see what Emily or Reeve ever saw in her. She was selfish, manipulative and a bitch to boot! While I felt sympathy for her rough start in life, and I understand how her past influenced her, I just couldn't bring myself to forgive her.
All in all, it was a fantastic book. I hated Amber, but I loved the complexity and conflict that her character added to the story. I did feel like the ending was a little rushed as well. After all the suspense and build-up surrounding Michelas, I had a hard time just accepting that a nice conversation fixed everything.
That being said, this series was still one of the best I've read this year. It continues to be a favorite of mine, even if I would have changed a few minor details. Ultimately, I was happy with the outcome.
After the way the first book ended, I had to know how things would work out for Emily, Reeve and Amber. I can't say that I was surprised by the overall direction that the story went in. However, I was shocked by some of the details that came to light in the end.
As expected, Amber's reappearance has drastically changed the dynamics of Emily and Reeve's relationship. There is plenty of guilt and regret to go around. Emotions run high and choices must be made.
I don't want to give too much away, but I will say that I spent a lot of time feeling conflicted while reading this book. There was plenty of angst and turmoil to keep my on the edge of my seat. Even when I knew where things were headed, I couldn't look away.
Many of Emily's choices were frustrating to me. I wanted to shake her/slap her/tell her to grow a spine. Similarly, Reeve's stupidity/blindness/insensitivity infuriated me. These two really needed to get a clue and pull it together this time around. I spent a lot of time shaking my head at them.
However, Amber was the character that really took the cake. I HATED her! Ms. Paige created quite the villain in Amber's character. Honestly, I couldn't see what Emily or Reeve ever saw in her. She was selfish, manipulative and a bitch to boot! While I felt sympathy for her rough start in life, and I understand how her past influenced her, I just couldn't bring myself to forgive her.
All in all, it was a fantastic book. I hated Amber, but I loved the complexity and conflict that her character added to the story. I did feel like the ending was a little rushed as well. After all the suspense and build-up surrounding Michelas, I had a hard time just accepting that a nice conversation fixed everything.
That being said, this series was still one of the best I've read this year. It continues to be a favorite of mine, even if I would have changed a few minor details. Ultimately, I was happy with the outcome.
June 1, 2016
4 Stars SPOILER FREE
The heart stopping conclusion to the erotically charged story that began with First Touch is here and it's filled with enough twists and turns to leave your head reeling. There's one thing I can tell you after finishing this book and that's that Laurelin Paige can write. I mean the woman can write. Holy hell but the woman can write.
I read First Touch when it first released and have been stewing in my misery since. Of all the cliffhangers I've read, that one had to be one of the most painful ones. I'm talking I wanting to throw a tantrum and cry sort of painful. Suffice it to say, I've been immensely looking forward to the conclusion.
All of Emily's secrets seems to be unveiling. Just as she finally got to a relationship place with Reeve, the appearance of someone from her past shakes the foundation of it to the very core, leaving her questioning everything, including herself.
She may not have intended to fall for Reeve, but she barely had a choice in the matter. The man is everything she craves. His intensity calls for her submission and her submission is what he gets...
Reeve is just as intense as ever. There's something about the man that's just so enigmatic, he practically crackles with the electric current of it. Reeve is easily one of the most memorable heroes I have read to date. This is not a man you would soon forget. He skates just on the edge of depravity but has no qualms diving right into the dark pits of it if that's what Emily needs. It's what he himself craves as well. If you thought First Touch was erotically charged, guard your ovaries with Last Kiss because DAMN. The fine line between dub con and D/s is certainly present but the book is entirely in the gray. I don't know how I would categorize it but I can tell you that it's hot as hell.
For those that read the first book and are afraid there may be a love triangle, don't be. At least not quite. But that's the most you'll get out of me because I don't want to ruin it for you.
What I can tell you, is that I read this book in practically one sitting. The anticipation of turning each page became an obsession. I was riveted. The story was intoxicating. I couldn't bring myself to put it down until the end.
My one source of frustration through parts of the book was Emily. As much as I loved her in the first book, it didn't quite carry through to this one. Don't get me wrong, the author gave every character in the story quite a bit of depth. The character development was beyond amazing. I supposed I just hoped that while Emily craves to submit to Reeve, she'd take charge in other aspects of her life...primarily her friendship. While I can understand her thought process after so many years, there were times where she was just a little too forgiving. It wasn't until the very end when things truly come apart that she finally understood things that should have been somewhat obvious earlier. But at the same time, taking her past and what she needs/craves into consideration, you can also understand it as well.
If you love a romance with a touch of taboo, your heroes intense enough to give you shivers, and a story captivating enough to leave you thinking about it weeks after finishing, this is definitely a must read. It's certainly not a book I'll be forgetting any time soon.
ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review
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Whoever had decided that damnation was fire and brimstone was wrong. Hell was cold and ice and emptiness. Hell was watching the one I'd grasped to so tightly slip through my fingers.
The heart stopping conclusion to the erotically charged story that began with First Touch is here and it's filled with enough twists and turns to leave your head reeling. There's one thing I can tell you after finishing this book and that's that Laurelin Paige can write. I mean the woman can write. Holy hell but the woman can write.
I read First Touch when it first released and have been stewing in my misery since. Of all the cliffhangers I've read, that one had to be one of the most painful ones. I'm talking I wanting to throw a tantrum and cry sort of painful. Suffice it to say, I've been immensely looking forward to the conclusion.
Right now you feel me, Emily. That's where I am- inside you. All the time, I'm there. No matter whose bed you sleep in."
All of Emily's secrets seems to be unveiling. Just as she finally got to a relationship place with Reeve, the appearance of someone from her past shakes the foundation of it to the very core, leaving her questioning everything, including herself.
She may not have intended to fall for Reeve, but she barely had a choice in the matter. The man is everything she craves. His intensity calls for her submission and her submission is what he gets...
Reeve is just as intense as ever. There's something about the man that's just so enigmatic, he practically crackles with the electric current of it. Reeve is easily one of the most memorable heroes I have read to date. This is not a man you would soon forget. He skates just on the edge of depravity but has no qualms diving right into the dark pits of it if that's what Emily needs. It's what he himself craves as well. If you thought First Touch was erotically charged, guard your ovaries with Last Kiss because DAMN. The fine line between dub con and D/s is certainly present but the book is entirely in the gray. I don't know how I would categorize it but I can tell you that it's hot as hell.
For those that read the first book and are afraid there may be a love triangle, don't be. At least not quite. But that's the most you'll get out of me because I don't want to ruin it for you.
What I can tell you, is that I read this book in practically one sitting. The anticipation of turning each page became an obsession. I was riveted. The story was intoxicating. I couldn't bring myself to put it down until the end.
My one source of frustration through parts of the book was Emily. As much as I loved her in the first book, it didn't quite carry through to this one. Don't get me wrong, the author gave every character in the story quite a bit of depth. The character development was beyond amazing. I supposed I just hoped that while Emily craves to submit to Reeve, she'd take charge in other aspects of her life...primarily her friendship. While I can understand her thought process after so many years, there were times where she was just a little too forgiving. It wasn't until the very end when things truly come apart that she finally understood things that should have been somewhat obvious earlier. But at the same time, taking her past and what she needs/craves into consideration, you can also understand it as well.
The taste of you should be forbidden. It's the fruit that causes gods to war."
If you love a romance with a touch of taboo, your heroes intense enough to give you shivers, and a story captivating enough to leave you thinking about it weeks after finishing, this is definitely a must read. It's certainly not a book I'll be forgetting any time soon.
ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review
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October 20, 2016
“A kiss that couldn’t fade.
A kiss that could go on forever.
A kiss that could last.
Instead of what it really was—a last kiss.”
❤This is a conclusion to the two book installment of the First and Last series. My review to the first book is HERE. If there is one thing I know for certain is that Laurelin Paige is an exceptionally talented writer. This novel kept me glued to the pages even more so than the first one of the series.
❤I loved the characters and the relationship dynamics between those characters. Jealousy, love, desperation, lust, annoyance - all of those emotions were jumping at me off the pages while I was reading this.
❤I think Reeve was, once again, the best thing going for this book. His character was so awesome. He never quite turned into a love sick puppy but you could feel the depth of his emotions through his actions.
✘The book, however, did leave me mildly exhausted and unsatisfied. I know a lot of people didn't like Emily because she is a very naive heroine, who is a true submissive. Well, there are a lot of different people on this earth and it was interesting to read about someone like her. She kind of fascinated me. The thing that I was annoyed at was her endless monologue, which did get a bit repetitive.
✘The plot twist at the very end I saw coming, by the time it happened it wasn't very satisfying... I really wanted some feelings of triumph or something. This is hard to review without giving spoilers, dammit! lol
➦I recommend this series to anyone who likes alpha heroes, submissive heroines, some mystery and angst, lots of angst.
Books in this series:
June 14, 2016
5 BRILLIANT STARS
Absolutely fantastic, thrilling, dark and breathtaking!!Last Kiss is a mix of mystery, plot twists, suspense, angst and a super hot, intense and heavy romance!! I’m speechless, seriously I didn't expect this book to be as good as the first!
"Yes I did belong to him.
But I belonged to Amber too."
The truth is it's even better than the first! Emily and Reeve rocked my world!! First of all, Reeve has reached the top of my book boyfriends list! I loved him hard in the previous book and in this one, he completely stole my heart! This man...this mysterious, possessive, protective, dangerous and hot man has everything I want in an alpha male! Emily is strong and stubborn. I liked her a lot but she could be frustrating at times. But this didn’t take away from the experience at all. Their romance is unique! When Emily and Reeve are together it's like an explosion!!They are so intense, passionate and erotic! And Amber..ugh, I hated her from the first moment..this girl isn't a friend at all..and my opinion never changed.
"He devoured me, and I consumed him. I inhaled him. I took him into my very self in deep gulps of tongue and lips, my hands wrapped so tightly around him, they were a vice-grip at his neck."
I could say so much more about the characters and the storyline but I don't want to give anything away. I will only say that you will not be disappointed..This book is perfection. Be ready to devour it, because once you start, you will not want to put it down. I can't wait for you to read!
ARC provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Absolutely fantastic, thrilling, dark and breathtaking!!Last Kiss is a mix of mystery, plot twists, suspense, angst and a super hot, intense and heavy romance!! I’m speechless, seriously I didn't expect this book to be as good as the first!
"Yes I did belong to him.
But I belonged to Amber too."
The truth is it's even better than the first! Emily and Reeve rocked my world!! First of all, Reeve has reached the top of my book boyfriends list! I loved him hard in the previous book and in this one, he completely stole my heart! This man...this mysterious, possessive, protective, dangerous and hot man has everything I want in an alpha male! Emily is strong and stubborn. I liked her a lot but she could be frustrating at times. But this didn’t take away from the experience at all. Their romance is unique! When Emily and Reeve are together it's like an explosion!!They are so intense, passionate and erotic! And Amber..ugh, I hated her from the first moment..this girl isn't a friend at all..and my opinion never changed.
"He devoured me, and I consumed him. I inhaled him. I took him into my very self in deep gulps of tongue and lips, my hands wrapped so tightly around him, they were a vice-grip at his neck."
I could say so much more about the characters and the storyline but I don't want to give anything away. I will only say that you will not be disappointed..This book is perfection. Be ready to devour it, because once you start, you will not want to put it down. I can't wait for you to read!
ARC provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 14, 2016
NOW LIVE!!!
*Amazon US*Amazon UK*Barnes & Noble*
This is going to be a super hard review to write since there are so many things I want to say but can't without giving away some major spoilers. One of the things I can say, though, is how amazing the ride these characters took me on was. I was enthralled from the very beginning and even over weeks of waiting to get the conclusion I never once lost interest.
First Touch left off with me screaming "no way" and then hitting my Kindle, trying to get more of the story to magically appear. Last Kiss starts off right where that ended but still doesn't give us our answers. To get those you have to delve into the book and the even crazier world that Laurelin Paige creates. She made this story impossible to forget and I know it's one of the ones that will forever stay with me.
We got to find out more about Emily and Amber's past and how they became such close friends and also how they drifted apart. Honestly that part of the story had me just as intrigued as Reeve and Emily did. There were just so many questions that I had throughout the whole story and not all of the answers were predictable.
Reeve was somehow even sexier in the conclusion than when I first met him. He had this quietness to him, which made him mysterious and also drove me a little insane trying to figure out what was going on with him. I really enjoyed that I got so involved into his character. Even while I was questioning if he could be a killer, there was still a part of me that was in love with how hot and swoon worthy he was.
I knew one of the secrets about the ending and it actually made me a little sad that I could figure it out. But then the ending came and I was completely shocked to the point I even stopped reading, went back and re-read a few pages to make sure I had read that part correctly. I mean I was so sure I knew how the book would end, and then bam, that twist happened. I still knew the secret but I had no clue that it would turn out that way. That part right there is where I fell in love with, not only this book, but the author.
Bottom line, this series is definitely worth the read if you like mysteries that will drive you crazy at the same time making you fall in love. Last Kiss will hold you in suspense with the amount of confusion the story leads to. But by the end you'll realize you enjoyed every moment of this insane roller-coaster ride.
ARC kindly provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
*Edited 4/27/16
*Amazon US*Amazon UK*Barnes & Noble*
This is going to be a super hard review to write since there are so many things I want to say but can't without giving away some major spoilers. One of the things I can say, though, is how amazing the ride these characters took me on was. I was enthralled from the very beginning and even over weeks of waiting to get the conclusion I never once lost interest.
First Touch left off with me screaming "no way" and then hitting my Kindle, trying to get more of the story to magically appear. Last Kiss starts off right where that ended but still doesn't give us our answers. To get those you have to delve into the book and the even crazier world that Laurelin Paige creates. She made this story impossible to forget and I know it's one of the ones that will forever stay with me.
We got to find out more about Emily and Amber's past and how they became such close friends and also how they drifted apart. Honestly that part of the story had me just as intrigued as Reeve and Emily did. There were just so many questions that I had throughout the whole story and not all of the answers were predictable.
Reeve was somehow even sexier in the conclusion than when I first met him. He had this quietness to him, which made him mysterious and also drove me a little insane trying to figure out what was going on with him. I really enjoyed that I got so involved into his character. Even while I was questioning if he could be a killer, there was still a part of me that was in love with how hot and swoon worthy he was.
I knew one of the secrets about the ending and it actually made me a little sad that I could figure it out. But then the ending came and I was completely shocked to the point I even stopped reading, went back and re-read a few pages to make sure I had read that part correctly. I mean I was so sure I knew how the book would end, and then bam, that twist happened. I still knew the secret but I had no clue that it would turn out that way. That part right there is where I fell in love with, not only this book, but the author.
Bottom line, this series is definitely worth the read if you like mysteries that will drive you crazy at the same time making you fall in love. Last Kiss will hold you in suspense with the amount of confusion the story leads to. But by the end you'll realize you enjoyed every moment of this insane roller-coaster ride.
ARC kindly provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
*Edited 4/27/16
July 12, 2016
I'll try and make this short.
I LOVED 'First Touch' (first book in this duet) so much that it was a tie for book of the year for me in 2015. So 'Last Kiss' quickly became my most anticipated read of 2016. To say I was left feeling underwhelmed would be an understatement.
When I got my hands on an advanced copy of 'Last Kiss' I literally dropped everything because I wanted to find out what happens. So many seeds were planted in book one re: plot. So many players were introduced that had so much promise. Well, if you throw all that out the window, you'll get 'Last Kiss' - a very well written yet very predictable story that revolves around a heroine who did a complete 180 from the awesome female lead that she was in book one. The sad thing is, till about 52% in the book, I was actually enjoying it enough to rate it 4 stars but then the story took a nosedive and never recovered. It really is a shame. THIS BOOK HAD SO MUCH POTENTIAL! If I had to shell out $9.99 to read this, I would have been PISSED.
In a nutshell ...
What I liked about this book:
The writing.
What I didn't like about this book:
Everything else.
Cheers!
*** ARC received from the author as well as via NetGalley/publisher in exchange for an honest review.
May 25, 2016
4.5 Blue Eyes Stars~~~FULL REVIEW TO POST SOON~~~
THANK THE LAWD, I LOVED THIS ENDING. I was a bit frustrated (ok a lot) but glad it ended good. I really ENJOYED this conclusion.
~~~~~~BLURB~~~~~
When Emily Wayborn goes home to visit her mom while on hiatus from her hit TV show, she receives a voicemail from her former best friend, Amber. Though the two were once notorious party girls, they haven't spoken in years. Although the message might sound benign to anyone else, Amber uses a safe word that Emily recognizes, a word they always used to get out of sticky situations during their wild days. And what's more chilling than the voicemail: it turns out that Amber has gone missing.
Now Emily is on the hunt to find out what happened to Amber, a hunt that leads her to sexy enigmatic billionaire Reeve Sallis, a hotelier known for his shady dealings and play boy reputation. Reeve might have had something to do with Amber's disappearance, but Emily can't help the way she reacts to him.
Time is running out and Emily must figure out who she can trust and if she can trust her feelings.
Laurelin Paige will be chatting LIVE with us on Shh… June 5-11: https://goo.gl/2FtWZI
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THANK THE LAWD, I LOVED THIS ENDING. I was a bit frustrated (ok a lot) but glad it ended good. I really ENJOYED this conclusion.
~~~~~~BLURB~~~~~
When Emily Wayborn goes home to visit her mom while on hiatus from her hit TV show, she receives a voicemail from her former best friend, Amber. Though the two were once notorious party girls, they haven't spoken in years. Although the message might sound benign to anyone else, Amber uses a safe word that Emily recognizes, a word they always used to get out of sticky situations during their wild days. And what's more chilling than the voicemail: it turns out that Amber has gone missing.
Now Emily is on the hunt to find out what happened to Amber, a hunt that leads her to sexy enigmatic billionaire Reeve Sallis, a hotelier known for his shady dealings and play boy reputation. Reeve might have had something to do with Amber's disappearance, but Emily can't help the way she reacts to him.
Time is running out and Emily must figure out who she can trust and if she can trust her feelings.
Laurelin Paige will be chatting LIVE with us on Shh… June 5-11: https://goo.gl/2FtWZI
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June 6, 2016
Laurelin Paige has an exceptional knack for creating characters that are flawed, broken and that can make you want to do bodily harm to them, but you still can’t help but love them. In the final part of the First & Last Duet: Last Kiss; I think I experienced every emotion one could feel. Sometimes all at once.
There is so much about this book that I want to talk about, but I can’t.
Last Kiss was a suspenseful thrill ride from start to finish. This is my favorite Paige series to date and I don’t know if she’ll be able to create another character that was as charismatic as Reeve. I loved him from the first encounter. I loved how he was dark and dangerous, but he was so much more than just a mysterious sexy guy. I loved that we got to see the real him throughout Last Kiss. That his walls came down and we got these glimpses of a vulnerable man. Emily, I admit had me wanting to throttle her. She was so unsure of herself, lacked confidence and was such a pushover, but in the end watching her grow was amazing. I had to keep reminding myself that she needed time to grow and that throwing her off a cliff wouldn’t do me any good. She did grow on me and I found myself cheering her on.
I can’t even talk about Amber. I’ll break something if I do.
I did find myself craving more sexual moments between Reeve and Emily. The sex scenes were so well written, vivid and erotic and were paced perfectly throughout the story – but they were just that good, that I wanted more of them together. I swear, Laurelin could publish a hundred pages of just them having sex and I still wouldn’t be satisfied.
Last Kiss easily will land on my top reads of 2016 and this duet series will rank high among my favorite series. There was just something about these characters, the storyline and the writing that struck a chord with me. I didn’t want their story to end.
There is so much about this book that I want to talk about, but I can’t.
Last Kiss was a suspenseful thrill ride from start to finish. This is my favorite Paige series to date and I don’t know if she’ll be able to create another character that was as charismatic as Reeve. I loved him from the first encounter. I loved how he was dark and dangerous, but he was so much more than just a mysterious sexy guy. I loved that we got to see the real him throughout Last Kiss. That his walls came down and we got these glimpses of a vulnerable man. Emily, I admit had me wanting to throttle her. She was so unsure of herself, lacked confidence and was such a pushover, but in the end watching her grow was amazing. I had to keep reminding myself that she needed time to grow and that throwing her off a cliff wouldn’t do me any good. She did grow on me and I found myself cheering her on.
I can’t even talk about Amber. I’ll break something if I do.
I did find myself craving more sexual moments between Reeve and Emily. The sex scenes were so well written, vivid and erotic and were paced perfectly throughout the story – but they were just that good, that I wanted more of them together. I swear, Laurelin could publish a hundred pages of just them having sex and I still wouldn’t be satisfied.
Last Kiss easily will land on my top reads of 2016 and this duet series will rank high among my favorite series. There was just something about these characters, the storyline and the writing that struck a chord with me. I didn’t want their story to end.
March 18, 2017
This book had me all kinds of messed up. I was literally sitting on the edge of my chair the whole damn book. God did I fall for Reeve & Emily in the first book, First Touch. So when it ended the way it did, I was like "wtf is happening" so I dove head first into this book.
And let me say first, i didn't capture my sanity in this one either...... first Amber literally had me like this
Like seriously, communication is key here people. Just open your mouth and say something. I know i was yelling it but I don't think they heard me. This book captured me before I even started it. I was so intrigued into finding out how this story ended. The ride this author takes you on, gets completely hilly, bumpy, and oh my gosh it gets so emotional.
Reeve, he is amazing. He captivated me from start to finish, I completely loved his unpredictability. I never knew what we were going to get. His softer side or his dark demanding side. He was possessive and dominating, I just wish he took what was his first and foremost, however obviously that was the point of the story so I get it. I'm just impatient but I still loved it =))
Emily. Now Emily I could go on about all things I hated yet I would add all the things I loved about her. In the end she was all that I knew she could be.
Finally Amber, sadly she gets my prize. I HATED HER. I don't think I ever felt sympathy for her at all. I think I saw through her from the beginning of the book.
All in all, I am so glad I read this series. I started out on major book hangover with this one and I think I ended in a bigger one. I loved Reeve, and dammit I want more to this. Is there an epilogue somewhere I missed????????
And let me say first, i didn't capture my sanity in this one either...... first Amber literally had me like this
Like seriously, communication is key here people. Just open your mouth and say something. I know i was yelling it but I don't think they heard me. This book captured me before I even started it. I was so intrigued into finding out how this story ended. The ride this author takes you on, gets completely hilly, bumpy, and oh my gosh it gets so emotional.
Reeve, he is amazing. He captivated me from start to finish, I completely loved his unpredictability. I never knew what we were going to get. His softer side or his dark demanding side. He was possessive and dominating, I just wish he took what was his first and foremost, however obviously that was the point of the story so I get it. I'm just impatient but I still loved it =))
Emily. Now Emily I could go on about all things I hated yet I would add all the things I loved about her. In the end she was all that I knew she could be.
Finally Amber, sadly she gets my prize. I HATED HER. I don't think I ever felt sympathy for her at all. I think I saw through her from the beginning of the book.
All in all, I am so glad I read this series. I started out on major book hangover with this one and I think I ended in a bigger one. I loved Reeve, and dammit I want more to this. Is there an epilogue somewhere I missed????????
June 5, 2016
I'm always super anxious going into the second book of a series after falling in love with the first book that ended with a serious cliffhanger. You just never know if the rest of the story will live up to the expectations that you've created in your head while you've been not so patiently waiting to find out what happens next.
I should not have been worried about Last Kiss. This book didn't just live up to my expectations, it surpassed them.
I was extremely nervous about the whole Amber situation and where it would leave Emily and Reeve. So many possibilities crossed my mind and a majority of them didn't leave a good taste in my mouth. What actually happened was better than I could have ever imagined.
However, if you're looking for a recap of the story from me, you've come to the wrong review. This is one of those series where the reader has to go in pretty blind to really enjoy the story in all of its glory. I can tell you this, expect the expected and then wait for things to unfold in a manner you (probably) never saw coming. This story was epic and beautiful and everything I needed it to be. Laurelin had me on the edge of my seat begging to devour this story as quickly as possible while trying to savor every minute. This will go down as one of my all-time favorite series and Reeve one of my top BBF's.
*I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
June 21, 2016
Okay I’m gonna admit this book was very slower than the 1st book but still I really enjoyed every minute with Reeve Sallis! He was so freaking HOT! :D
Reeve, baby you were sexy as fuck and thank you so much for the hot minutes! You never disappoint me! :)
Pls do not waste time and go read this series asap! Trust me, you’ll never regret for meeting him cause he’ll blow your mind and your body too. ;)
Ps: I wish there was an epilogue. Ending of the book was super fast... I just want to read more about their future, that's all... :(
Reeve, baby you were sexy as fuck and thank you so much for the hot minutes! You never disappoint me! :)
Pls do not waste time and go read this series asap! Trust me, you’ll never regret for meeting him cause he’ll blow your mind and your body too. ;)
Ps: I wish there was an epilogue. Ending of the book was super fast... I just want to read more about their future, that's all... :(
May 5, 2016
★★★★ 4 Stars ★★★★
Without a doubt, Laurelin Paige has delivered an absolutely first class suspenseful story which hooks you in from the very first page and makes you want to keep reading until the very last.
Carrying on from the moment First Touch ended, Emily Wayborn is left feeling confused as to where she fits into Reeve's life now that Amber is back.
With the three of them living in the same house, and the two women in danger from Reeve's connections to the Greek Mafia, she is learning a lot about herself and her relationships with both Reeve and Amber.
I loved the growth between Emily and Reeve in this book, and especially Reeve. I warmed to him immensely and although I would have loved him to be more insistent with Emily, I loved the way he allowed her to find her way by herself, and that proved to me how much he loved her.
We also discover more about the relationship and dynamics of her friendship with Amber, and about the type of person she has become because of this.
For those who are worried if this becomes a love triangle, I can safely say that although Emily appears to think that it has, it most definitely isn't, and this book is more about the growth of Emily, and how she feels in her own skin, and as part of a couple.
As with the first installment, certain parts did drag slightly, but the story hooks you in enough to keep reading.
Overall, I thought is was an excellent suspenseful and sexy read that fans of romantic suspense would devour with gusto.
Last Kiss is a romantic suspense, and the second part of the First & Last duet. Told in the heroine's POV.
ARC gratefully received from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Images featured in this review were created by me using stock images either purchased from deposit photo or from free stock sites.
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Without a doubt, Laurelin Paige has delivered an absolutely first class suspenseful story which hooks you in from the very first page and makes you want to keep reading until the very last.
Carrying on from the moment First Touch ended, Emily Wayborn is left feeling confused as to where she fits into Reeve's life now that Amber is back.
With the three of them living in the same house, and the two women in danger from Reeve's connections to the Greek Mafia, she is learning a lot about herself and her relationships with both Reeve and Amber.
I loved the growth between Emily and Reeve in this book, and especially Reeve. I warmed to him immensely and although I would have loved him to be more insistent with Emily, I loved the way he allowed her to find her way by herself, and that proved to me how much he loved her.
"I hated him. Hated every terrible wonderful emotion he inspired within me. Hated how completely and perfectly he mastered me."
We also discover more about the relationship and dynamics of her friendship with Amber, and about the type of person she has become because of this.
For those who are worried if this becomes a love triangle, I can safely say that although Emily appears to think that it has, it most definitely isn't, and this book is more about the growth of Emily, and how she feels in her own skin, and as part of a couple.
As with the first installment, certain parts did drag slightly, but the story hooks you in enough to keep reading.
Overall, I thought is was an excellent suspenseful and sexy read that fans of romantic suspense would devour with gusto.
Last Kiss is a romantic suspense, and the second part of the First & Last duet. Told in the heroine's POV.
ARC gratefully received from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Images featured in this review were created by me using stock images either purchased from deposit photo or from free stock sites.
July 10, 2016
With the way that First Touch ends, I was anticipating Last Kiss because everything would be different now, a true test. Just when Reeve and Emily were turning a corner, where the walls were beginning to come down and to develop trust, the circumstances change in the most challenging of ways. And I loved this new element because it was guaranteed to fuel so many emotions while reading - angst, love, hate, heartbreak, doubt, and devotion. I was battling trying to read this quickly and slowly because I wanted to see what would happen next while enjoying the journey.
All the things I wanted to see and know about Reeve come to light. He does not disappoint at all, because the Reeve Sallis in Last Kiss is the real deal compared to the one in First Touch. I absolutely loved Reeve. I always knew Reeve was extremely perceptive, but have discovered that he's also rather intuitive, too. And when Reeve sets his mind to something, he doesn't give up, ever. He can read Emily better than she realizes as she tries to sort out where her loyalties lie and what she's willing to sacrifice in the name of love. Emily is a really fascinating character to me because she is constantly questioning herself and what she deserves, but at the same time, she really will put herself last. She's not a born fighter, but she's always been a resilient survivor.
The additional past flashbacks between Emily and her best friend Amber were enlightening. They were so different from one another and I could see how they were drawn to each other and what made their friendship so strong and solid as well as the opposite. When remaining the details are revealed, I was impressed by how the clues were there all along even though I didn't put it together myself. The suspense element is still present, but maybe at a little bit less momentum than in the previous book because Emily's quest has shifted gears. The complexity of the relationships explored in this book had me hooked. As much as I thoroughly enjoyed First Touch, I loved Last Kiss even more.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review*
All the things I wanted to see and know about Reeve come to light. He does not disappoint at all, because the Reeve Sallis in Last Kiss is the real deal compared to the one in First Touch. I absolutely loved Reeve. I always knew Reeve was extremely perceptive, but have discovered that he's also rather intuitive, too. And when Reeve sets his mind to something, he doesn't give up, ever. He can read Emily better than she realizes as she tries to sort out where her loyalties lie and what she's willing to sacrifice in the name of love. Emily is a really fascinating character to me because she is constantly questioning herself and what she deserves, but at the same time, she really will put herself last. She's not a born fighter, but she's always been a resilient survivor.
The additional past flashbacks between Emily and her best friend Amber were enlightening. They were so different from one another and I could see how they were drawn to each other and what made their friendship so strong and solid as well as the opposite. When remaining the details are revealed, I was impressed by how the clues were there all along even though I didn't put it together myself. The suspense element is still present, but maybe at a little bit less momentum than in the previous book because Emily's quest has shifted gears. The complexity of the relationships explored in this book had me hooked. As much as I thoroughly enjoyed First Touch, I loved Last Kiss even more.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review*
June 20, 2016
Last Kiss is the second and last installment in the contemporary, erotic First and Last duology. It focuses on the breathtaking relationship between Emily and Reeve which is equaled by the heartbreaking reality of the past for both of our leading characters.
I find it really difficult to talk about the certain book because there are lots of potentially spoilery bits. I’ll try very hard to not give away so much of the book that it would make reading it pointless.
The heat Emily and Reeve generate is too much to ignore.
Each one has his/her own issues and comes from a background less than ideal. Emily’s hurt and needs to find closure with Reeve and a third person in their relationship. Emily is able to connect with him on a deeper level and her growth of character is well paced and done excellently.
I really liked Reeve. I liked his cockiness, self-assurance, confidence and loyalty. He is so hot and awesome and he shows vulnerability in the best ways possible. And Emily, although I didn't quite get her at times, really showed a lot of growth throughout the book.
This book is high on angst, high on drama. Reeve and Emily both have extremely depressing and sad backgrounds that make them the perfect pair. I loved them -flaws and all- even if after a while I was ready for them to just toss out those big truth bombs and see what happened leaving no secrets between them. The tenderness and selflessness showed so brightly against the backdrop of evil that was going on around and sometimes between them.
I enjoyed the tortured nature of the heroes but there were a couple things though that kept this from being a perfect book. The many awkward moments between Emily and a secondary character were tiring and Emily’s inferiority complex made me feel frustrated. However, it was such a thrilling read and extremely sensuous. It was definitely a delicious treat for my senses.
Last Kiss delivers steamy, sexy romance with just the right touch of gripping suspense to keep readers coming back for more. If you haven’t started this series yet, you are missing out, go get it today!
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
I find it really difficult to talk about the certain book because there are lots of potentially spoilery bits. I’ll try very hard to not give away so much of the book that it would make reading it pointless.
The heat Emily and Reeve generate is too much to ignore.
Each one has his/her own issues and comes from a background less than ideal. Emily’s hurt and needs to find closure with Reeve and a third person in their relationship. Emily is able to connect with him on a deeper level and her growth of character is well paced and done excellently.
I really liked Reeve. I liked his cockiness, self-assurance, confidence and loyalty. He is so hot and awesome and he shows vulnerability in the best ways possible. And Emily, although I didn't quite get her at times, really showed a lot of growth throughout the book.
This book is high on angst, high on drama. Reeve and Emily both have extremely depressing and sad backgrounds that make them the perfect pair. I loved them -flaws and all- even if after a while I was ready for them to just toss out those big truth bombs and see what happened leaving no secrets between them. The tenderness and selflessness showed so brightly against the backdrop of evil that was going on around and sometimes between them.
I enjoyed the tortured nature of the heroes but there were a couple things though that kept this from being a perfect book. The many awkward moments between Emily and a secondary character were tiring and Emily’s inferiority complex made me feel frustrated. However, it was such a thrilling read and extremely sensuous. It was definitely a delicious treat for my senses.
Last Kiss delivers steamy, sexy romance with just the right touch of gripping suspense to keep readers coming back for more. If you haven’t started this series yet, you are missing out, go get it today!
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
April 27, 2016
Reading Last Kiss was like holding your breath underwater. You wanted to know how long you could last without coming up for air - and let me tell you, I tested my capacity. If you thought First Touch had you holding on to your seat, Last Kiss has you gasping at every corner while the words sunk into your soul.
By far one of the most mind thrilling books I've read, this series is a dark erotic thriller that keeps you guessing until the very end. I have to admit though, while Amber drove me absolutely bat shit crazy, so did Emily. GAH EMILY. You will want to shake her harder than you've ever wanted to shake a fictional character in your life. She's sort of like that friend who continues to make bad decisions but who you love and support anyway, because you get her.
Reeve doesn't leave any doubt to who is the most bad ass, fucking awesome, anti hero in Romancelandia. Although, he turns more into a hero Hero in this book - BUT NO SPOILERS. He's everything you want him to be. I know I was nervous as hell when I finished First Touch - there are so many questions...so many nuances...so much that can happen with how Laurelin set up this story. And she gives you all the answers. They may not be the answers you want. You may feel the storms of jealousy brew in your stomach and begin to ferment. You may want to obtain a degree in Speed Readers University so that you can just finish the damn thing and get every answer you want.
Regardless of how you feel as to how everything shakes out, Laurelin creates a world of dark desire that I didn't want to step away from. This book is that word that I hate, but must use here: Unputdownable. Make some time and grab a drink - Last Kiss won't be the last thing I read from Laurelin Paige. 5 stars.
[I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review]
By far one of the most mind thrilling books I've read, this series is a dark erotic thriller that keeps you guessing until the very end. I have to admit though, while Amber drove me absolutely bat shit crazy, so did Emily. GAH EMILY. You will want to shake her harder than you've ever wanted to shake a fictional character in your life. She's sort of like that friend who continues to make bad decisions but who you love and support anyway, because you get her.
Reeve doesn't leave any doubt to who is the most bad ass, fucking awesome, anti hero in Romancelandia. Although, he turns more into a hero Hero in this book - BUT NO SPOILERS. He's everything you want him to be. I know I was nervous as hell when I finished First Touch - there are so many questions...so many nuances...so much that can happen with how Laurelin set up this story. And she gives you all the answers. They may not be the answers you want. You may feel the storms of jealousy brew in your stomach and begin to ferment. You may want to obtain a degree in Speed Readers University so that you can just finish the damn thing and get every answer you want.
Regardless of how you feel as to how everything shakes out, Laurelin creates a world of dark desire that I didn't want to step away from. This book is that word that I hate, but must use here: Unputdownable. Make some time and grab a drink - Last Kiss won't be the last thing I read from Laurelin Paige. 5 stars.
[I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review]
June 13, 2016
Holy shit! Last Kiss is the second and final part of the First and Last series, and it blew me away! It was full of so many twists and turns, secrets and manipulations, I was glued to my kindle until the very end!
“Always for Amber’s sake. When would I start doing things for my sake?”
After the ending of First Touch, I had to read the rest of Emily and Reeve’s story, especially now that Amber was back. Emily and Reeve continued to be hot as hell.
“I can’t control myself when I’m inside you.”
And the fact that they kept denying each other had the sexual tension through the roof.
“I was tired of fighting it – no matter what I did or said, I belonged to him. I always would.”
I honestly don’t want to spoil the story, so I don’t want to say much more. But if you loved First Touch, then get ready for a wild ride through Last Kiss. I enjoyed it so much more than the first part, and didn’t find it to be repetitive like I did book one. I seriously read it in a day, unable to put it down until I knew the conclusion. And every time I thought I knew what happened, I was completely wrong, and another loop was thrown in.
Do yourself a favor and get lost in this twisted, sexy, devious tale of submission, friendship, and love. ~ Tiffany, 5 stars
“Always for Amber’s sake. When would I start doing things for my sake?”
After the ending of First Touch, I had to read the rest of Emily and Reeve’s story, especially now that Amber was back. Emily and Reeve continued to be hot as hell.
“I can’t control myself when I’m inside you.”
And the fact that they kept denying each other had the sexual tension through the roof.
“I was tired of fighting it – no matter what I did or said, I belonged to him. I always would.”
I honestly don’t want to spoil the story, so I don’t want to say much more. But if you loved First Touch, then get ready for a wild ride through Last Kiss. I enjoyed it so much more than the first part, and didn’t find it to be repetitive like I did book one. I seriously read it in a day, unable to put it down until I knew the conclusion. And every time I thought I knew what happened, I was completely wrong, and another loop was thrown in.
Do yourself a favor and get lost in this twisted, sexy, devious tale of submission, friendship, and love. ~ Tiffany, 5 stars
June 13, 2016
Where to begin to explain how this book was one of my most anticipated read of the year and now one big disappointment? I'm sad because I was waiting for the end of Reeve & Emily's story so much. When you have a duet and when you read the beginning months ago, you usually expect to need a quick reminder to catch up on the story,... But it wasn't the case here for me. I remember vividly every aspect of First Kiss. I was so hooked on their story I would have given anything to get this book sooner. It was one of those story you wait and would drop everything you were doing to just read what will happen.
When I begun reading I was very anxious to see the story take a path I didn't want and after reading the prologue it was worse. I knew the book wasn't going to be what I wanted. My main problem could be summarise to one character: Amber.
First I hated her on sight, I knew she wasn't good, I knew her coming back would NOT be ok and I knew she would take too much space in the story.
For those who are scared of a love triangle, don't be. Even if it's very much implied, Reeve's feelings are honest and real all along. I think that's why I keep reading, because of him, because I wanted more from his character than any other. I would give everything to have his pov. Reading only from Emily's side was sometimes too much.
With Amber back, Emily took a 180° turn from who she was. I remember a strong heroine but I got everything expect that. Up until 50% I was a little frustrated with her but then it became annoying and I roll my eyes more than once until I couldn't take it anymore. I would have given the book a 3 star rating if it wasn't for the ending. I had a real problem with how Emily acted until the end. I'm not at all convinced by the way she acted. I'm not convinced she's truly in love with Reeve.
Despite all that I can say that Laurelin Paige knows how to keep your on edge. The book was quite long but with the anticipation of knowing what she has in store for both Reeve and Emily you won't want to put the book down. She put a lot of angst in there and you won't have much rest until the last page. That was probably the best part.
Reeve Sallis was also a big part of why - no matter how I rated this book – I will remember it. I love my book boyfriend to be mysterious, dangerous, CEO with a presence that commands a room and he was just that and more.
On a final note, I wanted to say that my rating can't keep you away from reading this book. This may be a case of " It's me, not you" and it happens ;)
~Arc provided by the publicist in exchange of an honest review ~
January 31, 2018
Liked it BUT didn't love it, not like I loved the first book
to be frank, after the cliffy ending in book 1, I just FUCKIN knew, there would be this quasi, smth like a TRIANGLE (SHE loves them both, the other -SHE loves them both too, HE loves them both too (in a different way, but still), BUT he only wants ONE, but not the one that the other-SHE was hoping for...or whatever the fuck ever, you know what I mean...)
PHEW...
Now, after reading the prologue, my "knowing" of the mentioned above was cemented, so after I went in anyway, I was starting to get quite annoyed by the events concerning the three...
and I ended up disliking the stalemate situation...
it was like, everyone was talking to each other but they weren't listening to the said words cause even after I passed through the links of Emily's and Amber's dependant relationship (I realized that this symbiosis they drive from one another was NOT at all productive or constructive, it was misleading and toxic for years (they both fed from each other insecurities and they both rose the issues to the heights so the symbiosis would provide enough meat) and of course, it would all culminate when a man would enter the equation, so the fact that there was NO OTHER way to resolve the stalmate triangle issue, rather then deleting ONE out of the triangle, cause well, somebody's got to let go, right?! was NOT at all, obvious.... :/ right?!
so, yeah, that was pretty annoying...BUT thank fuck for the dark, tall & dangerous, I didn't even expect to like Reeve Sallis THAT much, but I did.
He wasn't perfect at all BUT he was consistent and it's one of my pet peeves, i guess (I love consistensy with my characters - if you're bad, be the baddest mother fucker there is, if you're shit, be THE shit, even if you are meek, be meek BUT don't mess me up with the "jo-jo" effect in your behavior, I fuckin hate that...LOL)
Anyway, all in all, LIKED it, 3.75 "Blue Eyes" stars
to be frank, after the cliffy ending in book 1, I just FUCKIN knew, there would be this quasi, smth like a TRIANGLE (SHE loves them both, the other -SHE loves them both too, HE loves them both too (in a different way, but still), BUT he only wants ONE, but not the one that the other-SHE was hoping for...or whatever the fuck ever, you know what I mean...)
PHEW...
Now, after reading the prologue, my "knowing" of the mentioned above was cemented, so after I went in anyway, I was starting to get quite annoyed by the events concerning the three...
and I ended up disliking the stalemate situation...
it was like, everyone was talking to each other but they weren't listening to the said words cause even after I passed through the links of Emily's and Amber's dependant relationship (I realized that this symbiosis they drive from one another was NOT at all productive or constructive, it was misleading and toxic for years (they both fed from each other insecurities and they both rose the issues to the heights so the symbiosis would provide enough meat) and of course, it would all culminate when a man would enter the equation, so the fact that there was NO OTHER way to resolve the stalmate triangle issue, rather then deleting ONE out of the triangle, cause well, somebody's got to let go, right?! was NOT at all, obvious.... :/ right?!
so, yeah, that was pretty annoying...BUT thank fuck for the dark, tall & dangerous, I didn't even expect to like Reeve Sallis THAT much, but I did.
He wasn't perfect at all BUT he was consistent and it's one of my pet peeves, i guess (I love consistensy with my characters - if you're bad, be the baddest mother fucker there is, if you're shit, be THE shit, even if you are meek, be meek BUT don't mess me up with the "jo-jo" effect in your behavior, I fuckin hate that...LOL)
Anyway, all in all, LIKED it, 3.75 "Blue Eyes" stars
June 20, 2016
4 Ferocious Stars
Review @ Vanilla & Spice Books
If you haven't read First Touch I urge you to stop here because, even though I will try to keep this review spoiler-free I will refer to events that happened in the first book.
Where to begin...
After finishing First Touch I was left with anxiety for Reeve and Emily, knowing that the return of Amber would be a major disruption of the budding and fragile relationship these two had started to build. And God, she was. This book had my stomach in a knot and carried me through the highest highs and the lowerst lows.
“I can’t control myself when I’m inside you.” His voice was ragged and threadbare. “I want to tear you apart. I want to rip you to shreds.” He moved both of his hands to grasp my thighs, tilting my pelvis so that his thrusts hit even deeper. “I want to destroy you. Want to fuck you to pieces. Want to shatter you. Want to break you.”
Emily's feelings for her best friend were a source of frustration and anger for me. I tried to understand why she felt that way about her but all I could come up with was a false and undeserved sense of loyalty for Amber. She didn't have any qualms laying blame on Reeve for whatever she thought he was capable of doing but never thought that her friend wouldn't be as well-meaning as Emily thought she was. What I did love though was the stark contradiction of her need to submit and her independent spirit as well as her strength.
Reeve on the other hand was the person who kept me reading. He fought for his love, he was probably even more frustrated than I was with Emily and at some point I really thought she didn't deserve it, didn't deserve this intense, strong, dominant man. When he opened up completely to her it was the most beautiful thing in the world.
"My love for you is so ferocious, so dominating that I'm possessed by it. It changes who I am. It makes me someone different and yet I'm more who I've always believed I am than I ever have been."
And then there was Amber. I KNEW what was coming. I knew it in my bones but it was still so well executed that it was a punch to my gut. I hated her throughout the whole book.
This was a captivating read and a worthy conclusion of the First and Last series. It would have been a 5 star read for me if I hadn't been so frustrated with Emily not owning up to her feelings for Reeve. He did everything he could to make it right for her, to be the man she needed him to be, yet, she betrayed his trust and love everytime she raised her suspicion towards him. The way she held on to her misguided sense of loyalty and friendship for Amber was frustrating, it just went on for too long.
Frustration notwithstanding, Laurelin Paige's ability to write a raw, intense story left me in awe. Some of her dialogues were almost poetic in their essence and have made Reeve's and Emily journey unforgettable.
July 2, 2016
*** ARC kindly provided by the publisher St. Martin's Press, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review. ***
After reading First Touch I couldn’t wait for the second one and was very glad I got approved for the ARC ...
How do you choose between the two people you belong to? How do you choose between love and a promise made in the past?
I loved this book but I had a little bit a problem that Emily didn’t really choose for her man and wanted to give everything up for her ‘friend’ Amber. I wanted her to fight more ... Also there was less suspense than the first book but I still loved it.
I’m looking forward to read more from this author!
After reading First Touch I couldn’t wait for the second one and was very glad I got approved for the ARC ...
How do you choose between the two people you belong to? How do you choose between love and a promise made in the past?
I loved this book but I had a little bit a problem that Emily didn’t really choose for her man and wanted to give everything up for her ‘friend’ Amber. I wanted her to fight more ... Also there was less suspense than the first book but I still loved it.
I’m looking forward to read more from this author!
June 13, 2016
After this HUGE Cliffy in book #1 we're finally back with Emily and Reeve - and Amber too. Yup, Amber has finally been found and she's really badly hurt. This greek human traffic mafia guy (aka Reeve's uncle) beat her up and left her for dead. But Emily's PI Joe found her and brought her to the Ranch.
And poor Emily is so happy to have her back, but she's also horribly afraid of what Reeve might think. He knows who she is to Amber, has probably known all along, and Emily has no idea how he will react ... for now he's just hovering over Amber. Which makes Emily jealous as hell.
And poor Reeve - he's fallen in love with Emily, but he still cares about Amber too. And also, Emily doesn't yet trust him, she doesn't trust anyone, but he needs her trust more than anything.
Lots of feelings, a bad greek mafioso and we have a long way to go before we might see a happily ever after on the horizon...☺
What will happen to Emily & Reeve & Amber???
Will there be a Happy Ever After for all of them??
WILL THERE BE A HORRIBLE CLIFFHANGER?
I'm not telling you that ☺
No cliffy this time - it's only a 2-book series ☺
═════════════════════════════════
FINALLY BOOK #2 ☺☺☺
I hate Cliffhangers!!!! I was so looking forward to finally reading this 2nd book....
And I loved this final book in Reeve & Emily's tale.
This story had everything I love in my books:
VERY EROTIC MOMENTS!
Suspensy & mysterious & exciting & sad & frustrating moments!!!
HOT GUYS!!!! AKA REEVE!!!!!
You want Emily and Reeve to get their Happy Ending asap but of course with his uncle making problems and Amber wanting to get back with Reeve and ugh - so many problems to overcome.
The reader can just hope they'll get there by the end of the book. ☺☺
LAST KISS was an amazingly beautiful & erotic & exciting romance!!! The perfect ending to Emily & Reeve's story!
If I had to say something negative... it's probably that the book was a tiny bit too long for my tastes. Some moments were just unnecessary / redundant.
I sometimes caught myself in the middle of skipping whole paragraphs where nothing really happened. I wanted to skip forward to when Reeve would talk... ☺
I think a dual POV book wouldn't have been a bad idea here. I would've loved it more.
But I still loved the story...mayyyybe we could've edited a lot out of both books and put them in one long book - I think Laurelin should do that.
July 1, 2016
3.5* late happy ending STARS!
I had love/hate relationship with this book. I was like... WTF just happened. After the 'surprising' ending from First Touch, I'd definitely look forward to know Emily and Reeve' reaction. Also the mafia thing indeed has quite big portion. So, here's my breakdown:
What I liked?
+ Reeve is a perfect book boyfriend. After everything happened, he still loves Emily. She's his first priority above all and that's a plus. Reeve has consistency with his attitude from the first book. His jealousy made me shiver in good way. You know, I'm sucker for dominant and dirty minds. Reeve really win my heart.
+ The suspense still in there and turns into crime with a bit thrill.
+ Reeve and Emily are still HOT for each other. I liked their intimate moment. But I'm more into Reeve's kinky sex, though.
+ Also I appreciate Reeve's honest all this time. He opened up his past for Emily. His trust her more than everything.
What I didn't like?
- Emily turns into annoying. She always bitching around her feelings towards Reeve. Take it or leave it, woman. I'm so amazed Reeve has incredible amount of patient for her. He was so right about her. Emily couldn't make decision for herself and Amber was like her God. She always prioritize Amber above herself. It was like she's in debt with her. IMO, their friendship is like a poison.
- Amber. Why this woman has to life? Ruined everything. I wish the story is more focus into the mafia family. Not this bitch's insane and obsession. Amber was like a sister for Emily, but I don't think she feels like it. Emily was like her pet.
- The triangle love droves me insane. I already had feelings this will frustrated the hell out of me. It was so clear that Amber's plotting her way back for Reeve. Emily was so 'fake' to put up in Amber's attitude. They're sooo high-school. Childish even for late 30s. Back and forth.
- I thought the main problem is about the Greek's mafia. It was so disappointing when I read the truth. It was unveiled in the end and... Poof! Gone like it was nothing.
- Very very late HEA and cut out so quickly. (+ 0.5 stars)
My conclusion? It was still well-written but less impressive. The plot was such a let down. I don't think mafia/crime + jealousy bitch could end well. In the end, you must choose what's to sacrifice because you couldn't win both. So, the mafia is out of the menu. Sigh. I was so glad this only has two books, otherwise it will be nonsense.
The summary is about a jealous woman to plotting her best friend's death (pun intended) involving dangerous people. Such an attention whore. Last Kiss was a decent read and hardly enjoyable. I mostly survive because of Reeve. His love towards Emily really swoon me. Another hype book, huh.
And then he could be sweet, which was the most terrifying part about him of all. Because it made me think there could be more to what we had than just satisfying sex. It made me start to dream about the possible, it made me even more comfortable in my submission, it made me trust fully, and I’d learned long ago that was the surest way to a broken heart.
I had love/hate relationship with this book. I was like... WTF just happened. After the 'surprising' ending from First Touch, I'd definitely look forward to know Emily and Reeve' reaction. Also the mafia thing indeed has quite big portion. So, here's my breakdown:
What I liked?
+ Reeve is a perfect book boyfriend. After everything happened, he still loves Emily. She's his first priority above all and that's a plus. Reeve has consistency with his attitude from the first book. His jealousy made me shiver in good way. You know, I'm sucker for dominant and dirty minds. Reeve really win my heart.
+ The suspense still in there and turns into crime with a bit thrill.
+ Reeve and Emily are still HOT for each other. I liked their intimate moment. But I'm more into Reeve's kinky sex, though.
+ Also I appreciate Reeve's honest all this time. He opened up his past for Emily. His trust her more than everything.
“I can’t control myself when I’m inside you.” His voice was ragged and threadbare. “I want to tear you apart. I want to rip you to shreds.” He moved both of his hands to grasp my thighs, tilting my pelvis so that his thrusts hit even deeper. “I want to destroy you. Want to fuck you to pieces. Want to shatter you. Want to break you.”
What I didn't like?
- Emily turns into annoying. She always bitching around her feelings towards Reeve. Take it or leave it, woman. I'm so amazed Reeve has incredible amount of patient for her. He was so right about her. Emily couldn't make decision for herself and Amber was like her God. She always prioritize Amber above herself. It was like she's in debt with her. IMO, their friendship is like a poison.
- Amber. Why this woman has to life? Ruined everything. I wish the story is more focus into the mafia family. Not this bitch's insane and obsession. Amber was like a sister for Emily, but I don't think she feels like it. Emily was like her pet.
- The triangle love droves me insane. I already had feelings this will frustrated the hell out of me. It was so clear that Amber's plotting her way back for Reeve. Emily was so 'fake' to put up in Amber's attitude. They're sooo high-school. Childish even for late 30s. Back and forth.
- I thought the main problem is about the Greek's mafia. It was so disappointing when I read the truth. It was unveiled in the end and... Poof! Gone like it was nothing.
- Very very late HEA and cut out so quickly. (+ 0.5 stars)
I had no choice but to surrender. No choice but to give in. No choice but to let go. I was a kite and Reeve held the string, tugging me this way and that until I was soaring on a gentle breeze.
My conclusion? It was still well-written but less impressive. The plot was such a let down. I don't think mafia/crime + jealousy bitch could end well. In the end, you must choose what's to sacrifice because you couldn't win both. So, the mafia is out of the menu. Sigh. I was so glad this only has two books, otherwise it will be nonsense.
The summary is about a jealous woman to plotting her best friend's death (pun intended) involving dangerous people. Such an attention whore. Last Kiss was a decent read and hardly enjoyable. I mostly survive because of Reeve. His love towards Emily really swoon me. Another hype book, huh.
“Who does all this belong to, sweet little Molly?”
“It’s yours.” I push myself into his hand between my legs. His making me tell him I belong to him is doing things to me. I can feel the moisture flood between my thighs.
“Show me where you want my mouth. Open it for me.”
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