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The Campbell Siblings #1
A Gentleman in the Street
Shameless. That’s what she was.
Billionaire businesswoman Akira Mori can get anything and anyone her heart desires. Anyone, that is, except for a certain aloof author who has been dominating her dreams for over a decade. Accustomed to Jacob Campbell’s stern disapproval, Akira has turned provocation into an art, using every trick in her arsenal to keep the man from guessing the depth of her filthy fantasies.
Shameless. That’s what she made him.
Since the moment the sexy, sultry socialite sidled up to him years ago, there hasn’t been a time when Jacob didn’t crave Akira. But as guardian to his younger siblings, responsibility has controlled his life. Confining his darkest desires to secret, stolen moments maintains his carefully disciplined world…but a cold bed is the price he pays.
A single touch is all it takes for their simmering need to explode. As secrets and fears are stripped away one by one, shame becomes a thing of the past. They find themselves becoming addicted to each other, in bed and out—a frightening prospect for a man just learning to live…and a woman who thinks she doesn’t know how to love.
Billionaire businesswoman Akira Mori can get anything and anyone her heart desires. Anyone, that is, except for a certain aloof author who has been dominating her dreams for over a decade. Accustomed to Jacob Campbell’s stern disapproval, Akira has turned provocation into an art, using every trick in her arsenal to keep the man from guessing the depth of her filthy fantasies.
Shameless. That’s what she made him.
Since the moment the sexy, sultry socialite sidled up to him years ago, there hasn’t been a time when Jacob didn’t crave Akira. But as guardian to his younger siblings, responsibility has controlled his life. Confining his darkest desires to secret, stolen moments maintains his carefully disciplined world…but a cold bed is the price he pays.
A single touch is all it takes for their simmering need to explode. As secrets and fears are stripped away one by one, shame becomes a thing of the past. They find themselves becoming addicted to each other, in bed and out—a frightening prospect for a man just learning to live…and a woman who thinks she doesn’t know how to love.
262 pages, ebook
First published November 22, 2014
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October 24, 2022
Incoming Erotica! Cover your eyes!
Akira is a successful owner of a multimillion company, shrewd, empowered, insatiable. Jacob is a recluse writer working hard to support himself and his little sister, very controlled, but with hidden desires. The Campbell stepsiblings basically want to give it to each other badly since forever but they hide their feelings because their now divorced parents were married for a short time like a hundred years ago. That’s basically the whole plot, oh yes and opening some weird old puzzle box that contains god knows what. That’s it.
So this is the deal. I got a bit tired of the innocent two lovey-dovey thing and just wished some good old fashioned unbound promiscuity. Was I basically looking for porn? Dunno, maybe, I’m new here. This is one of the first things that came across me and I just went for it. In retrospect, I should’ve searched a bit further and with a little more attention.
Ok, smut time. The storage room scene was deliriously hot and the absolute best of the book by far. Also really enjoyed the night at the library, which ironically didn’t involve any smut. The office and back alley scenes were good. After that it pretty much all went downhill. Many more smutty scenes followed, and the grand majority eye-rolling ones. By the end I just wished everything to finish. This has smut all over the place enough to satisfy anyone’s hunger; yet now I realize this was not exactly what I was looking for. I was not deeply invested with the characters at all, and the plot felt very very bland.
Is it too much to ask for exciting erotica with likable characters and a somewhat engaging plot? Dunno the answer yet, but certainly gonna keep looking. I know there has to be a 5 star erotica out there, and I’m set on finding it. Wish me luck.
-----------------------------------------------
PERSONAL NOTE :
[2014] [262p] [Erotica] [Not Recommendable] [NO. I’m never touching 50 Shades!] [Well, maybe. Who knows? One gets bored.]
-----------------------------------------------
¡Sale una Erótica! ¡Cúbranse los ojos!
Akira es una exitosa dueña de una multimillonaria empresa, calculadora, empoderada, insaciable. Jacob es un escritor recluso trabajando arduamente para mantenerse a sí mismo y a su pequeña hermana, muy controlado, pero con deseos ocultos. Los hermanastros Campbell básicamente quieren darse fuerte desde siempre pero ocultan sus sentimientos porque sus ahora divorciados padres estuvieron casados por un corto tiempo hace como cien años. Esa es básicamente toda la trama, ah sí y abrir una rara vieja caja de rompecabezas que contiene dios sabe qué. Es todo.
Este es el asunto. Me cansé un poco de todo el inocente amorcito de dos palomitos y simplemente deseaba algo de buena y anticuada desenfrenada promiscuidad. ¿Estaba buscando básicamente porno? No sé, tal vez, soy nuevo acá. Esta es una de las primeras cosas que se me cruzaron en el camino y simplemente salté directo. En retrospectiva, debería haber buscado un poco más y prestando algo más de atención.
Ok, hora del smut. La escena de la habitación de almacenamiento fue delirantemente caliente y absolutamente lo mejor del libro por lejos. También disfruté mucho la noche en la biblioteca, que irónicamente no contiene nada de smut. La escena de la oficina y el callejón también estuvieron bien. Después de eso como que todo se vino para abajo. Muchas más escenas cachondas siguieron, y la gran mayoría para rodar los ojos. Para el final sólo deseaba que todo terminara. Esto tiene smut por todas partes suficientemente para satisfacer el hambre de cualquiera; pero ahora me doy cuenta que esto no era exactamente lo que yo estaba buscando. No estaba profundamente interesado en los personajes para nada, y la trama se sintió muy muy sosa.
¿Es mucho pedir erótica excitante con personajes queribles y un poco de trama atrapante? No sé la respuesta aún, pero ciertamente voy a seguir buscando. Se que debe haber alguna erótica de 5 estrellas por ahí afuera, y estoy determinado a encontrarla. ¡Deséenme suerte!
-----------------------------------------------
NOTA PERSONAL :
[2014] [262p] [Erotica] [No Recomendable] [NO. ¡Nunca voy a tocar 50 Sombras!] [Bueno, tal vez. ¿Quien sabe? Uno se aburre.]
-----------------------------------------------
Akira is a successful owner of a multimillion company, shrewd, empowered, insatiable. Jacob is a recluse writer working hard to support himself and his little sister, very controlled, but with hidden desires. The Campbell stepsiblings basically want to give it to each other badly since forever but they hide their feelings because their now divorced parents were married for a short time like a hundred years ago. That’s basically the whole plot, oh yes and opening some weird old puzzle box that contains god knows what. That’s it.
So this is the deal. I got a bit tired of the innocent two lovey-dovey thing and just wished some good old fashioned unbound promiscuity. Was I basically looking for porn? Dunno, maybe, I’m new here. This is one of the first things that came across me and I just went for it. In retrospect, I should’ve searched a bit further and with a little more attention.
Ok, smut time. The storage room scene was deliriously hot and the absolute best of the book by far. Also really enjoyed the night at the library, which ironically didn’t involve any smut. The office and back alley scenes were good. After that it pretty much all went downhill. Many more smutty scenes followed, and the grand majority eye-rolling ones. By the end I just wished everything to finish. This has smut all over the place enough to satisfy anyone’s hunger; yet now I realize this was not exactly what I was looking for. I was not deeply invested with the characters at all, and the plot felt very very bland.
Is it too much to ask for exciting erotica with likable characters and a somewhat engaging plot? Dunno the answer yet, but certainly gonna keep looking. I know there has to be a 5 star erotica out there, and I’m set on finding it. Wish me luck.
-----------------------------------------------
PERSONAL NOTE :
[2014] [262p] [Erotica] [Not Recommendable] [NO. I’m never touching 50 Shades!] [Well, maybe. Who knows? One gets bored.]
-----------------------------------------------
¡Sale una Erótica! ¡Cúbranse los ojos!
Akira es una exitosa dueña de una multimillonaria empresa, calculadora, empoderada, insaciable. Jacob es un escritor recluso trabajando arduamente para mantenerse a sí mismo y a su pequeña hermana, muy controlado, pero con deseos ocultos. Los hermanastros Campbell básicamente quieren darse fuerte desde siempre pero ocultan sus sentimientos porque sus ahora divorciados padres estuvieron casados por un corto tiempo hace como cien años. Esa es básicamente toda la trama, ah sí y abrir una rara vieja caja de rompecabezas que contiene dios sabe qué. Es todo.
Este es el asunto. Me cansé un poco de todo el inocente amorcito de dos palomitos y simplemente deseaba algo de buena y anticuada desenfrenada promiscuidad. ¿Estaba buscando básicamente porno? No sé, tal vez, soy nuevo acá. Esta es una de las primeras cosas que se me cruzaron en el camino y simplemente salté directo. En retrospectiva, debería haber buscado un poco más y prestando algo más de atención.
Ok, hora del smut. La escena de la habitación de almacenamiento fue delirantemente caliente y absolutamente lo mejor del libro por lejos. También disfruté mucho la noche en la biblioteca, que irónicamente no contiene nada de smut. La escena de la oficina y el callejón también estuvieron bien. Después de eso como que todo se vino para abajo. Muchas más escenas cachondas siguieron, y la gran mayoría para rodar los ojos. Para el final sólo deseaba que todo terminara. Esto tiene smut por todas partes suficientemente para satisfacer el hambre de cualquiera; pero ahora me doy cuenta que esto no era exactamente lo que yo estaba buscando. No estaba profundamente interesado en los personajes para nada, y la trama se sintió muy muy sosa.
¿Es mucho pedir erótica excitante con personajes queribles y un poco de trama atrapante? No sé la respuesta aún, pero ciertamente voy a seguir buscando. Se que debe haber alguna erótica de 5 estrellas por ahí afuera, y estoy determinado a encontrarla. ¡Deséenme suerte!
-----------------------------------------------
NOTA PERSONAL :
[2014] [262p] [Erotica] [No Recomendable] [NO. ¡Nunca voy a tocar 50 Sombras!] [Bueno, tal vez. ¿Quien sabe? Uno se aburre.]
-----------------------------------------------
April 15, 2018
Feminist, sex-positive erotica that says fuck you to rape culture, slut-shaming, and totally flips the traditional gender roles of the billionaire shiterature that has flooded the market since The Book That Shall Not Be Named was first published.
Need I say more?
Okay, I’ll say more. This book is one of the sexiest things I’ve ever read. Which is saying something, since I’ve read my fair share of both romance and erotica.
The female lead, Akira Mori, is unapologetically sexual. Men, women, multiple partner sex, she’s down for it all. The male lead, Jacob Campbell, is…not. At least not at first. Because since the death of his parents, he’s raised his siblings himself. He’s responsible, dependable, and self-sacrificing.
This book is so much more than just erotica. There are some very strong messages here. Jacob has to get over his shyness, he has to get over his self-doubt and self-disgust if he wants to be with Akira. And Akira has to move past the ghost of her mother, who saw her daughter’s sex-positivity and proceeded to viciously slut-shame her.
When these two finally resolve their issues and get together…whoo boy.
So if you find yourself in the mood for a super-hot erotic novel with an awesome feminist message, give this one a try.
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February 15, 2021
3.5 stars. Unconventional. Sex-positive. Anti slut-shaming. Drop-dead funny. Thoroughly enjoyable. Adorable hero. AWESOME heroine. Surprisingly well-written.
Why 3.5 stars, then?
1) Ultimately, no matter how important the messages are - and be sure that the reversal of the traditional gender roles appealed to me a lot - erotica isn't for me. I always feel as if it lacks something, you know? Call it depth, call it plot, call it tension, I don't know - not my thing is all. Keep in mind that 99% of them earn a big flashing 1, though.
2) No judgment here, but I really, really don't like sharing. As talented Alisha Rai is when dealing with it (she really is), it remains that it does nothing for me and turns me off a little.
► Recommended for readers looking for erotica that destroys the sexist stereotypes we find everywhere (note that the flip of traditional gender roles is not why I didn't find it sexist, because I realize that people could think that it doesn't change anything, sexism-wise. It goes way beyond that - especially in the way it shows how stupid labels are, both for women and men). I say yes to that.
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March 14, 2016
"When do you sleep?"
She glanced deliberately at her watch. "Sometime between fucking and ruling the world."
A racially-inclusive, body positive, sex positive, erotica devoid of kink-shaming, body-shaming, and slut-shaming which featured a change from the 'typical', heteronormative sexual roles, with intelligent characters, and a powerful, successful female lead (say that in one breath). And while, to a few, this may sound similar to an organic, gluten-free, dairy-free, GMO-free, vegan guaranteed Whole Foods label, which may be healthy for you, but taste like shit-on-a-stick, the former is a recipe for greatness.
Because feminist erotica is possible. You don't have to have stupid, airhead characters, and a rich, male billionaire with a storyline that
And part of me is a little depressed that I even have to list these things, because it should be something featured in every book. But that's an argument for another time.
Just picture this:
Akira- incredibly successful, hardworking, entrepreneur who embraces her sexuality and has no problem setting people straight when they think they can express their ignorant opinions about her
Jacob- responsible, rugged author with a steadfast moral compass with an insatiable appetite that he keeps a short leash on but is simmering there, nonetheless
Sexual tension- that's been stewing for years and is just about ready to explode (pun partially intended)
You can't go wrong with this book. Empowering and entertaining, this is a road I wish to see more erotica following.
March 7, 2016
Gahhhhhhhhh okayyyyy *dying slightly*
This was excellent. A smart and sexy erotic romance that was racially inclusive, sex positive, body positive, devoid of kink shaming, socially progressive, and all around fantastic. On top of all this, the woman in this is the dominant one (although the power became fluid as the relationship progressed) and is a total badass billionaire. She's fiery, powerful, aggressive, and outspoken.
If you're a human who enjoys sex in any capacity and also doesn't like being offended by douchey characters, this book should be read by you.
Are you feeling sad? This book will get you pumped.
Are you happy? This book will keep you pumped.
Do you not often read erotica? Well you should read this one. Your brain and vagina will thank you.
I've read a ton of erotica, and as the genre goes, this is A++++++ material here. Just be prepared to get really aroused by this. You might want to have your hand/vibrator/trusted acquaintance nearby after you're done.
Feminist erotica for the win.
This was excellent. A smart and sexy erotic romance that was racially inclusive, sex positive, body positive, devoid of kink shaming, socially progressive, and all around fantastic. On top of all this, the woman in this is the dominant one (although the power became fluid as the relationship progressed) and is a total badass billionaire. She's fiery, powerful, aggressive, and outspoken.
If you're a human who enjoys sex in any capacity and also doesn't like being offended by douchey characters, this book should be read by you.
Are you feeling sad? This book will get you pumped.
Are you happy? This book will keep you pumped.
Do you not often read erotica? Well you should read this one. Your brain and vagina will thank you.
I've read a ton of erotica, and as the genre goes, this is A++++++ material here. Just be prepared to get really aroused by this. You might want to have your hand/vibrator/trusted acquaintance nearby after you're done.
Feminist erotica for the win.
December 3, 2014
Favorite Quote: “When do you sleep?”
She glanced deliberately at her watch. “Sometime between fucking and ruling the world.”
This is one dirty book, with a very strong heroine and a grumpy, more serious hero. Thumbs up to this combination!
Akira Mori is very, very rich. She owns nightclubs and bars and is a brilliant business woman. She is known for her orgy filled house parties and wild lifestyle. Jacob Campbell is an author. He doesn’t have many friends and spends his time hiding in a cabin writing, and taking care of his seventeen year old sister. So how do these two meet? Well…. fourteen years ago, Jacob’s father married Akira’s mother. The marriage only lasted a year, but Jacob and his siblings became pretty close with Akira’s mother. Unfortunately, Akira and her mother have never gotten along, so this bond that Jacob has with her now deceased mother, has always eluded Akira. Her relationship with Jacob and his siblings has always been rocky too. However, Akira was close with her grandmother, and when she learns her grandmother’s heirloom has been passed down to Jacob, Akira tracks him down to ask for it back.
Ever since Akira and Jacob met, all those years ago, there has been something between them. Both would never admit it, but they are both addicted to the other. Jacob watched as his father became addicted to women and other things, and refuses to travel that path with Akira. Instead, he becomes distant with her, rude, and not treating her well when she is around, knowing if he ever let his guard down for one second, he would be lost in her. Akira isn’t rude to him, but a tease and a flirt. Calling him “Brother Jacob” in reference to their parent’s brief marriage together.
“My father was married to your mother for three minutes over fourteen years ago. Doesn’t make me your brother.”
What a logical man. She delighted in twisted logic. “A year, brother. They were married a year. But can you put a time limit on the bonds of family?”
Anything to get under his skin, or put on an act that all she care about is getting men (or women) in her bed. But Jacob has thoughts of his own when she tries to annoy him…
Teasing and flirting with him was a game to her, a way to prick his temper. He’d watched her employ the same strategies on other people for years.
Let her think he was an uptight prig. She didn’t know that every time she called him “brother” he wanted to put her over his knee and paddle that delicious bottom before he demonstrated all unbrotherly thoughts in his head.
These two have that “I hate you, but oh my god I love you so much” deep vibe going on. It’s so hot. And the tension that Alisha Rai writes into this story is done so well. Both Jacob and Akira didn’t have the best childhood or parents. Jacob has raised his two brothers (who are now adults and are very close and own their own landscaping business – I really hope they each get a book! They amuse me) and his younger sister, who is currently seventeen. He is a popular author, and weaving his way through raising a teenage girl and all the issues that come with that. When Akira pops back into his life, looking for her grandmother’s heirloom, the tension inside of him is almost too much to take. It felt like if he reached out and just touched her with his finger tip, he would explode. Just wait for when they actually do act on their attraction.
His lips slammed down on hers and cut off her words.
For a split second, she could only sit, stunned, as his mouth moved on hers. What. The. Fuck.
Had she ever been kissed like this? Had he ever kissed like this? Because he kissed like he hadn’t tasted a woman in forty years, like she was the last woman on earth. He kissed like there would be no beginning or end without her.
Fucking. Hot.
Alisha Rai writes some very, very hot scenes. There is a scene where Jacob watches while someone else has sex with Akira. Let’s have a peek:
A drop of sweat rolled down Jacob’s temple. He ought to be outraged. Or disgusted. Maybe writhing with jealousy. His cock shouldn’t be so hard it ached as he watched another man suck on the woman he lusted after. It shouldn’t grow harder at the thought of watching the other man fuck the woman he wanted to fuck.
There is also a big house party orgy scene (maybe a little over the top…but still sexy) and other times where they come so passionately together.
Akira is such a strong woman. While she feels vulnerable at times because of her poor relationship with her mother, and a horrible ongoing relationship with her douchebag father, she isn’t naive. She isn’t such a successful business woman without being very smart. She can be called names, or people can assume untrue things about her, and she can handle herself. She isn’t all smooth going with Jacob – her intense attraction to him is almost too much for her to take, but it’s fun to watch her try to keep her cool around him ad then eventually feel strong enough to totally be herself. Her shields are always up to high and tight to protect herself from those darn emotional feelings, when she drops them it’s rewarding.
While there is great sex in this book, what I really loved is the courtship. Jacob courts and woos Akira with flowers and thoughtful gifts. He takes his time with his romantic gestures. It’ sweet and softened his serious edges.
Definitely recommend this one.
Rating: B+
She glanced deliberately at her watch. “Sometime between fucking and ruling the world.”
This is one dirty book, with a very strong heroine and a grumpy, more serious hero. Thumbs up to this combination!
Akira Mori is very, very rich. She owns nightclubs and bars and is a brilliant business woman. She is known for her orgy filled house parties and wild lifestyle. Jacob Campbell is an author. He doesn’t have many friends and spends his time hiding in a cabin writing, and taking care of his seventeen year old sister. So how do these two meet? Well…. fourteen years ago, Jacob’s father married Akira’s mother. The marriage only lasted a year, but Jacob and his siblings became pretty close with Akira’s mother. Unfortunately, Akira and her mother have never gotten along, so this bond that Jacob has with her now deceased mother, has always eluded Akira. Her relationship with Jacob and his siblings has always been rocky too. However, Akira was close with her grandmother, and when she learns her grandmother’s heirloom has been passed down to Jacob, Akira tracks him down to ask for it back.
Ever since Akira and Jacob met, all those years ago, there has been something between them. Both would never admit it, but they are both addicted to the other. Jacob watched as his father became addicted to women and other things, and refuses to travel that path with Akira. Instead, he becomes distant with her, rude, and not treating her well when she is around, knowing if he ever let his guard down for one second, he would be lost in her. Akira isn’t rude to him, but a tease and a flirt. Calling him “Brother Jacob” in reference to their parent’s brief marriage together.
“My father was married to your mother for three minutes over fourteen years ago. Doesn’t make me your brother.”
What a logical man. She delighted in twisted logic. “A year, brother. They were married a year. But can you put a time limit on the bonds of family?”
Anything to get under his skin, or put on an act that all she care about is getting men (or women) in her bed. But Jacob has thoughts of his own when she tries to annoy him…
Teasing and flirting with him was a game to her, a way to prick his temper. He’d watched her employ the same strategies on other people for years.
Let her think he was an uptight prig. She didn’t know that every time she called him “brother” he wanted to put her over his knee and paddle that delicious bottom before he demonstrated all unbrotherly thoughts in his head.
These two have that “I hate you, but oh my god I love you so much” deep vibe going on. It’s so hot. And the tension that Alisha Rai writes into this story is done so well. Both Jacob and Akira didn’t have the best childhood or parents. Jacob has raised his two brothers (who are now adults and are very close and own their own landscaping business – I really hope they each get a book! They amuse me) and his younger sister, who is currently seventeen. He is a popular author, and weaving his way through raising a teenage girl and all the issues that come with that. When Akira pops back into his life, looking for her grandmother’s heirloom, the tension inside of him is almost too much to take. It felt like if he reached out and just touched her with his finger tip, he would explode. Just wait for when they actually do act on their attraction.
His lips slammed down on hers and cut off her words.
For a split second, she could only sit, stunned, as his mouth moved on hers. What. The. Fuck.
Had she ever been kissed like this? Had he ever kissed like this? Because he kissed like he hadn’t tasted a woman in forty years, like she was the last woman on earth. He kissed like there would be no beginning or end without her.
Fucking. Hot.
Alisha Rai writes some very, very hot scenes. There is a scene where Jacob watches while someone else has sex with Akira. Let’s have a peek:
A drop of sweat rolled down Jacob’s temple. He ought to be outraged. Or disgusted. Maybe writhing with jealousy. His cock shouldn’t be so hard it ached as he watched another man suck on the woman he lusted after. It shouldn’t grow harder at the thought of watching the other man fuck the woman he wanted to fuck.
There is also a big house party orgy scene (maybe a little over the top…but still sexy) and other times where they come so passionately together.
Akira is such a strong woman. While she feels vulnerable at times because of her poor relationship with her mother, and a horrible ongoing relationship with her douchebag father, she isn’t naive. She isn’t such a successful business woman without being very smart. She can be called names, or people can assume untrue things about her, and she can handle herself. She isn’t all smooth going with Jacob – her intense attraction to him is almost too much for her to take, but it’s fun to watch her try to keep her cool around him ad then eventually feel strong enough to totally be herself. Her shields are always up to high and tight to protect herself from those darn emotional feelings, when she drops them it’s rewarding.
While there is great sex in this book, what I really loved is the courtship. Jacob courts and woos Akira with flowers and thoughtful gifts. He takes his time with his romantic gestures. It’ sweet and softened his serious edges.
Definitely recommend this one.
Rating: B+
June 14, 2022
It rarely happens when I find that I’ve fallen in love with the fmc (this is a lie, I’m a whore for everyone) but Akira is MY badass woman. I lay claim to her, period. 🫠🦋❤️
the storage room scene is imprinted on my brain till eternity
the storage room scene is imprinted on my brain till eternity
October 8, 2018
Okay! I was hopeful. We have an erotica where the heroine is the dark billionaire, while the hero is the one discovering his wild side with her. We have enough depth and great characters, specifically the heroine. So why not a higher rating, there's two aspects in this book stopped me from enjoying it. First, the MCs are in love, but by the end there's an understanding, they would invite others to their bed and participate in orgies. Sex with other people isn't my thing. I don't mind it in the beginning of the relationship (it's erotica after all), but after they are committed to each other, no, it's unacceptable; other thing was so distasteful, the strong independent heroine enjoy spanking and to be called slut and whore. And there's an orgy the MCs participate in (which i read with a grimace on my face), where a married couple dehumanized a girl during sex. I don't know what's the point of a feminist erotica if there will be a lot of disrespect and degrading toward women. What a waste of a great female lead!
Men, so dumb. So consumed with classifying women into types to satisfy their own sense of comfort.
“I like hiring good, competent women. It’s not our fault parasites can grow inside our wombs and wreck our bodies and imbalance our hormones.”
“Um…”
“I mean, it’s not our fault delightful gifts from God bless our lives. And everything else.”
Men, so dumb. So consumed with classifying women into types to satisfy their own sense of comfort.
“I like hiring good, competent women. It’s not our fault parasites can grow inside our wombs and wreck our bodies and imbalance our hormones.”
“Um…”
“I mean, it’s not our fault delightful gifts from God bless our lives. And everything else.”
August 3, 2016
One word: FEMINIST EROTICA.
So, basically, a beautiful gem among some very misogynistic books (not all obviously.)
Enter Akira: bad-ass business women who doesn’t take shit from anyone and only relies on herself (because she’s always had to). The best part about her though is that she does have a kind heart, she hasn’t let assholes in her life make her too cold or hard- she treats others fairly.
Enter Jacob: lovable, a bit tortured, and just a fucking great human being. He doesn’t change or want to change Akira, and Akira doesn’t want to do the same. Oh, and did I mention he’s a writer who is basically the sweetest father-figure for his younger sister. *swoons*
My main complaint and reason for the 3.5 stars, is IT'S TOO SHORT. Generally shorter books can fail at providing enough background info or enough to love the characters. I did feel like we could’ve gotten to know so much more about these characters, and I was really sad at how quickly their story ended.
So, basically, a beautiful gem among some very misogynistic books (not all obviously.)
“You think I’m dirty?”
“I know you’re dirty. I want you in the shower so I can make you filthy.”
Enter Akira: bad-ass business women who doesn’t take shit from anyone and only relies on herself (because she’s always had to). The best part about her though is that she does have a kind heart, she hasn’t let assholes in her life make her too cold or hard- she treats others fairly.
“Why do you care?” she asked, confused. “We could easily never see each other again.”
He opened another container. “Because I don’t like that option,” he said gruffly.
Enter Jacob: lovable, a bit tortured, and just a fucking great human being. He doesn’t change or want to change Akira, and Akira doesn’t want to do the same. Oh, and did I mention he’s a writer who is basically the sweetest father-figure for his younger sister. *swoons*
My main complaint and reason for the 3.5 stars, is IT'S TOO SHORT. Generally shorter books can fail at providing enough background info or enough to love the characters. I did feel like we could’ve gotten to know so much more about these characters, and I was really sad at how quickly their story ended.
"I like you. If you let me, I could love you. All of you."
March 14, 2016
Spoiler tagging the review because this might contain traces of NSFW and I would hate to accidentally soil the sanctity of your Puritanical eyes and whatnot. Oops.
February 9, 2016
Great interracial romance with an Japanese heroine who is an active bisexual. Super sexy hero who is also a non-traditional family man. This book ticked off about 5 different things on my "want list" for romances in 2015. The writing is smooth, and at times hilarious. The sex scenes are plentiful, but each one is different so you don't find your eyes rolling back in your head waiting for the plot to pick up again. Also the plot is thick as shit, weaving both characters' histories to the present and what they want for the future. Just read it. READ IT!
December 16, 2014
4 stars
Why you must read A Gentleman in the Street by Alisha Rai:
a. Heroine is a billionaire, a rare occupation for any women in Romancelandia (queens, princesses and goddesses don't count)
b. Hero is an author and mix of alpha and beta hero. Also have lumberjack physique appearance
c. Interracial love. Diverse characters for the win!
d. Step sibling love if you like that kind of story. But not ordinary step sibling love of course
e. Mandy and Tori, ladies from Smexy Books, my favorite romance blog read and love this. And I always believe their review and ratings
f. Seriously guys, just read this!!
Like I had stated earlier in my status, Romancelandia need more billionaire women that can balance their strength and their hearts. I'm a little bit surprised why so many authors choose to write CEO and billionaire men, while in reality there are so many succesful businesswomen out there?
I praise Ms Rai because she can write about a hero and heroine that balanced each other. Jacob might be just an author, even he's a best seller author, his money and status of course lower than his step sister. But, he didn't cower in front of Akira's rich and debauchery life. A nice change for the overused theme of billionaire, and I hope that A Gentleman in Street will be a start for romance that feature strong, succesfull and confident with her sexuality heroines, never ashamed with what she is.
This book also give an example, that a beta hero can act as alpha too when its necessary. Jacob might be desirable if you love lumberjack kind of hero, but it's not his physique appearance that make me love him. Often I read heroes that act as alpha to the heroines that end up I laughing a lot because it's ridiculous or want to kick them in their ass for their "I'm Tarzan, hear me roar!!". Not with Jacob. He act as asshole at first, but he changes and even until the end, he act as an adult he was. He balance his softer and rough side, and that what make him perfect for Akira. Since Akira is so full of doubt and think that she didn't deserve love. He embrace Akira's antique, accept her for what she is and teach her that she capable of love
I like Akira, and her devensiveness toward Jacob, with constantly taunt him sexually are understable. Sure she somehow seems like a child and the drama plus angst can be over the top. But, if we see her fucked up past, readers will sympathize with her.
It had been in self-defense, she assured herself. Driving people crazy was her time-honored way of dealing with those who disapproved of her. Give them exactly what they were looking for and they would never look any deeper
Lucky for Akira, she didn't going crazy have a spoiled rich father and scorned mother, both are sociopath. Her coldness and snark retort are her fortress, but I'm glad that in the end she, like Jacob, can balance both her sides and make amends with her past.
A Gentleman in the Street also one of dirty book (Akira is shameless afterall. And Jacob's fantasies about her is so raunchy!) I'd read this year. A warning first, this have voyeurism, menage, a little f/f and mild BDSM. But, despite the hot level, I can feel the tenderness between Akira and Jacob. When they don't busy bantering with each other, therefore make their sexual tension rocketed up, their cozy moments also make my heart melts.
Oh, also I really love the family theme that Ms Rai feature in a Gentleman in the Street. I love the dynamic between Campbell's family,especially from Jacob's younger siblings. I also praise that Ms Rai don't sugarcoated Akira's relationship with her scorned mother. Make it more real and also show that not all parents love their children dearly, but on the bright side, she also input her insight that people choose their own family. And Akira choose Jacob.
I think everyone who love a good and hot romance should read this book. And yeah, the reverse thing between the hero and heroine is very fresh. Because I'm so tired to read an alpha CEO hero "deflower" a naive or virgin librarian or secretary or something like that heroine :p.
"... you can be with the person, but still be yourself. You can be happy to be yourself. It's very nice...When you're with a person who is content to let you be. It's the most peaceful thing in the world"
Why you must read A Gentleman in the Street by Alisha Rai:
a. Heroine is a billionaire, a rare occupation for any women in Romancelandia (queens, princesses and goddesses don't count)
b. Hero is an author and mix of alpha and beta hero. Also have lumberjack physique appearance
c. Interracial love. Diverse characters for the win!
d. Step sibling love if you like that kind of story. But not ordinary step sibling love of course
e. Mandy and Tori, ladies from Smexy Books, my favorite romance blog read and love this. And I always believe their review and ratings
f. Seriously guys, just read this!!
Like I had stated earlier in my status, Romancelandia need more billionaire women that can balance their strength and their hearts. I'm a little bit surprised why so many authors choose to write CEO and billionaire men, while in reality there are so many succesful businesswomen out there?
I praise Ms Rai because she can write about a hero and heroine that balanced each other. Jacob might be just an author, even he's a best seller author, his money and status of course lower than his step sister. But, he didn't cower in front of Akira's rich and debauchery life. A nice change for the overused theme of billionaire, and I hope that A Gentleman in Street will be a start for romance that feature strong, succesfull and confident with her sexuality heroines, never ashamed with what she is.
This book also give an example, that a beta hero can act as alpha too when its necessary. Jacob might be desirable if you love lumberjack kind of hero, but it's not his physique appearance that make me love him. Often I read heroes that act as alpha to the heroines that end up I laughing a lot because it's ridiculous or want to kick them in their ass for their "I'm Tarzan, hear me roar!!". Not with Jacob. He act as asshole at first, but he changes and even until the end, he act as an adult he was. He balance his softer and rough side, and that what make him perfect for Akira. Since Akira is so full of doubt and think that she didn't deserve love. He embrace Akira's antique, accept her for what she is and teach her that she capable of love
I like Akira, and her devensiveness toward Jacob, with constantly taunt him sexually are understable. Sure she somehow seems like a child and the drama plus angst can be over the top. But, if we see her fucked up past, readers will sympathize with her.
It had been in self-defense, she assured herself. Driving people crazy was her time-honored way of dealing with those who disapproved of her. Give them exactly what they were looking for and they would never look any deeper
Lucky for Akira, she didn't going crazy have a spoiled rich father and scorned mother, both are sociopath. Her coldness and snark retort are her fortress, but I'm glad that in the end she, like Jacob, can balance both her sides and make amends with her past.
A Gentleman in the Street also one of dirty book (Akira is shameless afterall. And Jacob's fantasies about her is so raunchy!) I'd read this year. A warning first, this have voyeurism, menage, a little f/f and mild BDSM. But, despite the hot level, I can feel the tenderness between Akira and Jacob. When they don't busy bantering with each other, therefore make their sexual tension rocketed up, their cozy moments also make my heart melts.
Oh, also I really love the family theme that Ms Rai feature in a Gentleman in the Street. I love the dynamic between Campbell's family,especially from Jacob's younger siblings. I also praise that Ms Rai don't sugarcoated Akira's relationship with her scorned mother. Make it more real and also show that not all parents love their children dearly, but on the bright side, she also input her insight that people choose their own family. And Akira choose Jacob.
I think everyone who love a good and hot romance should read this book. And yeah, the reverse thing between the hero and heroine is very fresh. Because I'm so tired to read an alpha CEO hero "deflower" a naive or virgin librarian or secretary or something like that heroine :p.
"... you can be with the person, but still be yourself. You can be happy to be yourself. It's very nice...When you're with a person who is content to let you be. It's the most peaceful thing in the world"
June 29, 2016
If Laura Florand were ever to ditch France as a setting and resort to erotica in America, this is probably what she would write. And we all know how I love Laura Florand. A Gentleman in the Street is a romance, through-and-through, but its protagonists will draw you in and keep you turning the pages. Akira, our brilliant heroine, is a businesswoman who has surprised both of her parents with her success. Her mother, recently deceased, has always despised her and her father is largely out of the picture--and hopefully will stay there, as far as she's concerned--but Akira's ice-cold exterior hides a vulnerability that she keeps close to her heart.
Jacob, our hero, is a true gentleman. Fourteen years ago, his father and Akira's mother were married for a year before they divorced and his father later died, leaving Jacob as the guardian of his two younger brothers and younger sister. Ever since, Jacob has been responsible--and upstanding citizen who makes a living writing thrillers and rarely thinks about himself. But when Akira comes knocking on his cabin door, inquiring about a wooden box that belonged to her grandmother, the hidden passion they have for one another begins to burn once again.
Both Akira and Jacob are deeply flawed, hurting characters; their interactions are reserved and while the two of them certainly act as if they dislike one another, the truth is far from obvious. I really loved the development of this romance--how we're drawn into who Akira and Jacob actually are and then get to watch as they discover that for themselves in one another. It isn't an easy path but I couldn't resist their barbs, their taunts, their scintillating conversations. A Gentleman in the Street is also wonderfully feminist, offering Akira as a protagonist who is determined to never be contained in a box and to break all barriers in her path concerning her career. Jacob, too, is a guardian who raises his siblings to respect women and I really appreciated the equal footing these two found themselves on from the start. Jacob never feels emasculated by Akira's wealth or position or power and theirs is a relationship I know will flourish and succeed. Very highly recommended.
Jacob, our hero, is a true gentleman. Fourteen years ago, his father and Akira's mother were married for a year before they divorced and his father later died, leaving Jacob as the guardian of his two younger brothers and younger sister. Ever since, Jacob has been responsible--and upstanding citizen who makes a living writing thrillers and rarely thinks about himself. But when Akira comes knocking on his cabin door, inquiring about a wooden box that belonged to her grandmother, the hidden passion they have for one another begins to burn once again.
Both Akira and Jacob are deeply flawed, hurting characters; their interactions are reserved and while the two of them certainly act as if they dislike one another, the truth is far from obvious. I really loved the development of this romance--how we're drawn into who Akira and Jacob actually are and then get to watch as they discover that for themselves in one another. It isn't an easy path but I couldn't resist their barbs, their taunts, their scintillating conversations. A Gentleman in the Street is also wonderfully feminist, offering Akira as a protagonist who is determined to never be contained in a box and to break all barriers in her path concerning her career. Jacob, too, is a guardian who raises his siblings to respect women and I really appreciated the equal footing these two found themselves on from the start. Jacob never feels emasculated by Akira's wealth or position or power and theirs is a relationship I know will flourish and succeed. Very highly recommended.
June 17, 2018
Is this erotica? Family? Romance? Does it freaking matter? It's wonderful.
Those of us that have read Alisha Rai's most recent CR offerings won't be surprised to hear the complexity offered up in her earlier books.
we don't Haze Kati's dates because we're chauvinist pigs and she's the baby girl," Ben explained. "We're all protective of each other."
No Rai fan will be surprised by her feminism or her multicultural POVs, nor her characters enjoying men and women. No surprise that the physical relationship is incredibly hot, in this book that includes voyeurs, exhibitionism and group sex.
Also, be aware there's a pretty hefty role reversal. Akira is the billionaire icy business woman, Jacob the romantic author struggling to do right by his family.
I'm tired of being a father and a brother, Akira. Help me be man.
What may shock is how a relationship and love are nurtured in this context. A growth of mutual respect, friendship, vulnerability, and challenge from a white hot connection.
"you made me admit I deserve a life of my own. You need to admit you deserve love."
This book felt so loaded it was hard for me to eat up, much like her others have been. I need to soak in her characters, come to awareness of their future with them. I've had this book on my Kobo since I got the app I think. It's one of my oldest books on there. I love the cover. I always wanted to try Alisha Rai (then got caught up with her new releases) What took me so long? Whatever I was expecting, even after her most recent series, wasn't this.
Those of us that have read Alisha Rai's most recent CR offerings won't be surprised to hear the complexity offered up in her earlier books.
we don't Haze Kati's dates because we're chauvinist pigs and she's the baby girl," Ben explained. "We're all protective of each other."
No Rai fan will be surprised by her feminism or her multicultural POVs, nor her characters enjoying men and women. No surprise that the physical relationship is incredibly hot, in this book that includes voyeurs, exhibitionism and group sex.
Also, be aware there's a pretty hefty role reversal. Akira is the billionaire icy business woman, Jacob the romantic author struggling to do right by his family.
I'm tired of being a father and a brother, Akira. Help me be man.
What may shock is how a relationship and love are nurtured in this context. A growth of mutual respect, friendship, vulnerability, and challenge from a white hot connection.
"you made me admit I deserve a life of my own. You need to admit you deserve love."
This book felt so loaded it was hard for me to eat up, much like her others have been. I need to soak in her characters, come to awareness of their future with them. I've had this book on my Kobo since I got the app I think. It's one of my oldest books on there. I love the cover. I always wanted to try Alisha Rai (then got caught up with her new releases) What took me so long? Whatever I was expecting, even after her most recent series, wasn't this.
April 29, 2022
How is this not more popular!?
I didn't expect it to be so... perfect.
That was one hell of a ride.
RTC
✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:* *:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧✧･ﾟ: *✧
My mind grows weary of the billionaire boys. Bring me dark, powerful, billionaire business woman. Smash the patriarchy, sweetheart. Iykyk
I didn't expect it to be so... perfect.
That was one hell of a ride.
RTC
✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:* *:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧✧･ﾟ: *✧
My mind grows weary of the billionaire boys. Bring me dark, powerful, billionaire business woman. Smash the patriarchy, sweetheart. Iykyk
February 17, 2015
This is my first time reading Alisha Rai but certainly not my last.
Full review to come in March issue of RT Book Reviews Magazine
Full review to come in March issue of RT Book Reviews Magazine
April 27, 2019
Apparently the idea behind this book is to present a "strong heroine" who also is "self-assured", "sex-positive", "independantly rich", not catering to rape culture and essentially feminist in nature.
And this is the result of these plans:
Only apparently few see it for what this really is...
... simply genderswapped shice.
Let's have a closer look and I'll explain what I mean.
Akira is the typical billionaire - only she's female. She still behaves towards the people around her with the exact same overbearing arrogance that's usually reserved for male billionaires. She exploits the position of (financial) power and agenda she has over others simply due the fact she is rich and can do as she wishes. She is just as much a consumerist arsehole as most male billionaires are in other billionaire novels. Whether male or female - that's not an acceptable person to me, and it doesn't get even the sliver of an inch more acceptable, just because the perp is a woman. I wanted to kick her rich butt hard down the Dover cliff. Preferably over a gravel path.
All the alleged strength she had is based on the amount of money she has wrung from people. A strong person is to me someone, who has inner strength, who has a goodness about themselves, who is benevolent, humane and puts herself or himself last.
With that to the alleged sex-positivity...
Being sex-positive, especially in a feminist context, is NOT being accepting of sex-work. That is the opposite of sex-positive and the opposite of being humane. No, not even if the prostitute is male! The end result of prostitution is always, without fail, a negative one, for the prostitutes and for the society allowing for the objectification of people. That this piece of shit wants to sell me prostitution as sex-positive is something I truly resent. That's downright puke-worthy. And it is something I will keep in mind about an author.
Sex-positive also is not simply applying all negative male sex behaviour to a woman. So sorry. A woman who fucks around in mindless and clueless manner, who changes partners without consideration and plan, who apes male vulgarities and who engages in orgies in typical male manner of never getting enough, is not sex-positive. She is as much an arsehole as the men who do this are. It doesn't change acceptability with gender. It also shows a considerable lack of intelligence and instinct. There's a reason why the vast majority of all people have less than 6 lifetime sexual partners, and that reason has nothing to do with outdated morals or religion, and everything with Darwin.
With which we come to the alleged feminism and absence of rape culture in this book...
Once more, things are gender swapped. Jacob quite clearly wants nothing to do with Akira, he considers her a sibling, and he has strong fatherly/brotherly feelings about siblings. Does she respect this? No, of course not. She behaves just as rapey towards Jacob, as the typical male billionaire behaves towards the women they meet. It's in her mind, it's in her actions, it's in what she says. She practically bullies and harasses him right out of his socks, and - once more - this is FUCKING WELL JUST AS SKEEVY WHEN DONE TO A GUY. That so many readers and reviewers seem to find it perfectly acceptable when a woman does this to a man, even delect in it, is beyond any form of comprehension to me!
Lastly, the book contains liberal and ample amounts and types of degradation, of women by women and by men. Not in any cleanly consensual manner, it's there for titillation and in lieu of what is usually done to the heroine. Here it is done to guests of the heroine instead, sometimes by her and sometimes by friends of hers. And there are vilifications of valid female choices as well, galore. But for a real feminist it is just as acceptable and worthy of support, if a woman wants children and adhere to classic feminine roles. These get vilified here.
That is not feminism. That is just the same thing as male supremacy notions, just uttered by a (very vile) female character.
Thank God Amazon allows me to give back books.
January 15, 2016
This book is great; it's well-written, the characters are not idiots, and it's definitely not tropey.
I really liked that, for once, the female character was the billionaire businesswoman.
Another great thing about this book is the fact that it is so sex-positive. The female main character sleeps with whoever she wants, however she wants, whenever she wants, and she doesn't apologize for it. She hosts orgies. One of her friends is a male prostitute.
With all that said, I didn't finish the book. It's a clear case of "it's not you, it's me," so don't let that stop you.
I really liked that, for once, the female character was the billionaire businesswoman.
Another great thing about this book is the fact that it is so sex-positive. The female main character sleeps with whoever she wants, however she wants, whenever she wants, and she doesn't apologize for it. She hosts orgies. One of her friends is a male prostitute.
With all that said, I didn't finish the book. It's a clear case of "it's not you, it's me," so don't let that stop you.
June 22, 2018
This erotic romance is a great gender flipped version of the usual badass sexy billionaire narrative. Rai strikes a great balance of plenty of sexy times 🔥🔥🔥 but also ample doses of 💓. Tbh, it was actually a little TOO wild for me at times (group sex and BDSM just aren't my things) but I am sure others would love it. I really liked how feminist and sex-positive this book was, and how it dealt with the male character's journey of realizing having feminist principles didn't necessarily always mean he was acting in accordance with them.
March 1, 2017
3.5 stars
December 19, 2014
I'm so in the mood for Good Guy and Wild Girl romance right now, and this is a really good one! It is refreshing to read about mega successful heroine instead of the hero, since I don't find this often in the romance genre.
I've searching for a romance with proactive heroine for quite long and Akira, god I love this girl! She is lively, sassy, bitchy and strong. She is a woman I wanna be, a very rich successful bussinesswoman, skillful in her career and intelligent!
Jacob, this good guy? I love him. He is responsible for his brothers and sister after their father died since teenage. Who know how self-sacrificing this big brother is. He has to be a decent role-model and father for his sis and bro, sacrificing his happiness of a normal man for long times.
Poor boy, keeping his feeling for Akira and act such a dick to her since his father and her mother get married together, yeah they are step-sibling. He is not that decent guy, actually. He act such an ass sometimes and have dark past.
Both characters are flawed, they have tortured backstory which I found really interesting. That flaws made they become person they are now, and I think their personalities balance each other out perfectly.
The plot is okay, but I really like the characters and the family theme in this novel. Very good read, btw.
I've searching for a romance with proactive heroine for quite long and Akira, god I love this girl! She is lively, sassy, bitchy and strong. She is a woman I wanna be, a very rich successful bussinesswoman, skillful in her career and intelligent!
Jacob, this good guy? I love him. He is responsible for his brothers and sister after their father died since teenage. Who know how self-sacrificing this big brother is. He has to be a decent role-model and father for his sis and bro, sacrificing his happiness of a normal man for long times.
Poor boy, keeping his feeling for Akira and act such a dick to her since his father and her mother get married together, yeah they are step-sibling. He is not that decent guy, actually. He act such an ass sometimes and have dark past.
Both characters are flawed, they have tortured backstory which I found really interesting. That flaws made they become person they are now, and I think their personalities balance each other out perfectly.
The plot is okay, but I really like the characters and the family theme in this novel. Very good read, btw.
July 30, 2016
OKAY, this was an unexpected little surprise because I'm one of those people who nitpicks and simply cannot stand adult eroticas - not because I'm a prude, but because all of the fan fiction I've read has ruined every sex scene that a published author writes. Seriously. I find all of the sex scenes in published novels so cringey and unrealistic, which is SO WEIRD, BUT THAT'S BESIDES THE POINT OF THIS REVIEW.
This book was everything that I hate about adult eroticas done right. It's body positive, sex positive, racially diverse, devoid of kink shaming and slut shaming, and is just all around a very feel-good book in the whole sex aspect of the story. I really liked that it had a strong, classy yet sassy, successful, takes-no-shit woman of color as the protagonist. I loved Akira and although she was often a bit over the top and felt unrealistic to me, I really loved seeing the representation of an Asian woman in such a respected position of power.
I enjoyed this book but I didn't enjoy it as much as everyone else seemed to - although I love, love, loved the sex positive message, there was just too much sex and too much drama for my liking. I kind of wish the rest of the Campbell siblings had been more involved, because I loved all of their interactions when they were together, and I think that would've been a really great aspect of the story to explore a bit more. But this was still a FANTASTIC read and I thoroughly enjoyed it!
This book was everything that I hate about adult eroticas done right. It's body positive, sex positive, racially diverse, devoid of kink shaming and slut shaming, and is just all around a very feel-good book in the whole sex aspect of the story. I really liked that it had a strong, classy yet sassy, successful, takes-no-shit woman of color as the protagonist. I loved Akira and although she was often a bit over the top and felt unrealistic to me, I really loved seeing the representation of an Asian woman in such a respected position of power.
I enjoyed this book but I didn't enjoy it as much as everyone else seemed to - although I love, love, loved the sex positive message, there was just too much sex and too much drama for my liking. I kind of wish the rest of the Campbell siblings had been more involved, because I loved all of their interactions when they were together, and I think that would've been a really great aspect of the story to explore a bit more. But this was still a FANTASTIC read and I thoroughly enjoyed it!
February 21, 2015
I can't believe I forgot to post a review when I finished this book, because it rocked my world in the biggest way. And now I'm obsessed with all things lumbersexual, which I'm not complaining about, of course.
This was a 6 star read, and I don't think I've ever said that about a book before. I liked everything about it, from the way Akira teases Jacob to the steely way he turns the table on her when he finally figures out it's okay to want her.
And then HOW he wants her. And she wants him. There are so many gorgeous scenes in this book. But they're both broken, and figuring out how to not be broken together takes some time. *happy, happy sigh*
I loved this book by the end of the first act. I was telling everyone about it by the end of the second act. And the ending? Was even better. It was perfect.
The rumpled, sexy, bearded, wood-chopping writer Jacob is a hero I'll read again and again. Akira is a modern, smart heroine who surprised and pleased me at every turn.
I hope Ms. Rai brings this book out in paperback, I'd buy it in a heartbeat.
This was a 6 star read, and I don't think I've ever said that about a book before. I liked everything about it, from the way Akira teases Jacob to the steely way he turns the table on her when he finally figures out it's okay to want her.
And then HOW he wants her. And she wants him. There are so many gorgeous scenes in this book. But they're both broken, and figuring out how to not be broken together takes some time. *happy, happy sigh*
I loved this book by the end of the first act. I was telling everyone about it by the end of the second act. And the ending? Was even better. It was perfect.
The rumpled, sexy, bearded, wood-chopping writer Jacob is a hero I'll read again and again. Akira is a modern, smart heroine who surprised and pleased me at every turn.
I hope Ms. Rai brings this book out in paperback, I'd buy it in a heartbeat.
March 25, 2015
This wasn't a bad book, it just wasn't the book for me. I liked Akira: supremely in charge of her life and sexuality. The sex scenes were pretty over the top and well done (definitely adventurous, so kudos for that!). But I thought the conflict was thin and didn't drive the story quite enough. I mean, I understand that family can scar you but to make that the whole problem? I guess I just didn't 'buy' it. I took another chance hoping to find something enjoyable outside my usual genre choices and bombed out again..ah well.
March 25, 2015
I don't read in the romance genre that often, but sometimes the mood strikes and I just want a light, breezy read that I know will end happily. I've read sweet romances and enjoyed them (Bet Me by Jennifer Crusie is the most recent, and it's a total delight), but I hadn't read anything with much of an edge to it.
I can't say that anymore.
I heard about A Gentleman in the Street on NPR, of all places. I'm probably exposing my latent snobbery by admitting this, but I doubt I would have given the book a chance otherwise. Somehow the NPR stamp of approval can legitimize even romance novels in my mind. The commentators gave the book the highest “all the peppers” rating for steaminess, and let me tell you, they were not playing around. It's one of the kinkiest books I've ever read.
But it was so much fun! Alisha Rai breaks the tired and trite romance novel mold in several key ways that I absolutely loved. First, the protagonist, Akira, is a Japanese-American woman. What—a romance novel featuring an interracial couple? It's almost like such couples exist in the real world or something! Secondly, Akira is an international badass businesswoman with a healthy net worth. She doesn't need to chase a man for his money because she has her own, thankyouverymuch. And finally, Rai turns slut-shaming on its head by allowing Akira a substantial sexual appetite and a man who matches her instead of judging her.
All those busted stereotypes make for an empowering and titillating read. I want to be clear, however: this is not the romance novel for your shy, retiring great-aunt Mildred. If there were a romance novel spectrum, this one wouldn't be anywhere near Nora Roberts territory. Like, stand at Nora Roberts and throw this book as far as you can towards E.L. James. But if you don't mind some bad language and even badder behavior, A Gentleman in the Street is a fast, fun fling.
More book recommendations by me at www.readingwithhippos.com
I can't say that anymore.
I heard about A Gentleman in the Street on NPR, of all places. I'm probably exposing my latent snobbery by admitting this, but I doubt I would have given the book a chance otherwise. Somehow the NPR stamp of approval can legitimize even romance novels in my mind. The commentators gave the book the highest “all the peppers” rating for steaminess, and let me tell you, they were not playing around. It's one of the kinkiest books I've ever read.
But it was so much fun! Alisha Rai breaks the tired and trite romance novel mold in several key ways that I absolutely loved. First, the protagonist, Akira, is a Japanese-American woman. What—a romance novel featuring an interracial couple? It's almost like such couples exist in the real world or something! Secondly, Akira is an international badass businesswoman with a healthy net worth. She doesn't need to chase a man for his money because she has her own, thankyouverymuch. And finally, Rai turns slut-shaming on its head by allowing Akira a substantial sexual appetite and a man who matches her instead of judging her.
All those busted stereotypes make for an empowering and titillating read. I want to be clear, however: this is not the romance novel for your shy, retiring great-aunt Mildred. If there were a romance novel spectrum, this one wouldn't be anywhere near Nora Roberts territory. Like, stand at Nora Roberts and throw this book as far as you can towards E.L. James. But if you don't mind some bad language and even badder behavior, A Gentleman in the Street is a fast, fun fling.
More book recommendations by me at www.readingwithhippos.com
May 15, 2015
The blurb of this book really gives you a great insight as to what to expect with this story. Akira is a bit icy, but with good reason as you learn about the way she was raised and our silent and responsible Jacob has lost his edge playing Mr. Mom for over a decade, but I did not expect the explosive sexual tension nor the sexual debauchery that was unleashed!
I found that I did really enjoy this story although I did not find myself loving the characters. Typically I need to really latch onto the characters to enjoy the story but in this case, they were just sort of lukewarm while the story itself was scorching hot. I think if I could have had more of a connection both either of these two, a three star could have easily landed close to a five star read in the end.
Akira was just a tad too cold for my liking. I needed her warm, vulnerable and an utter mess inside for me to fully accept her hard-shell exterior. As for Jacob, his sexuality went from zero to sixty without much explanation – since we only really see him in the responsible parent role, it was difficult to connect the dots to his ability to be so sexually accepting without a little more background on him.
In the end, I still enjoyed this story – just did not fall in love with it.
I found that I did really enjoy this story although I did not find myself loving the characters. Typically I need to really latch onto the characters to enjoy the story but in this case, they were just sort of lukewarm while the story itself was scorching hot. I think if I could have had more of a connection both either of these two, a three star could have easily landed close to a five star read in the end.
Akira was just a tad too cold for my liking. I needed her warm, vulnerable and an utter mess inside for me to fully accept her hard-shell exterior. As for Jacob, his sexuality went from zero to sixty without much explanation – since we only really see him in the responsible parent role, it was difficult to connect the dots to his ability to be so sexually accepting without a little more background on him.
In the end, I still enjoyed this story – just did not fall in love with it.
October 12, 2023
"She was already thoroughly addicted to his gentleman-in-the-streets-freak-in-the-sheets vibe."Akira and Jacob were incredibly hot and so sweet and I love them both so much. Their mutual pining and yearning for years made them an explosive couple in their steamy scenes (which I need to highlight were SO GOOD) but they also made me so soft in their sweet moments.
I might be a little bit in love with Akira, she's an icon. My unapologetically herself queen.
"When do you sleep?" She glanced deliberately at her watch. "Sometime between fucking and ruling the world."Jacob was WHIPPED for Akira and I love to see it.
"I thought you didn't want to be obsessed with me." "Yeah, that was a dumb thing to say, huh? Turns out, I don't know how to be anything but obsessed with you. So, please... let me be."A Gentleman in the Street is totally a new fave. I read one of Alisha Rai's books last year and it didn't work for me but after reading this one I'll definitely go through her backlist.
July 15, 2016
"Some people will just let you be, even when you're with them. I mean you can be with the person, but still be yourself. It's very...nice. When you're with a person who is content to let you be. It's the most peaceful thing in the world."
A Gentleman in the Street by Alisha Rai was chock full of stuff I love. Characters with depth? Check. A successful woman of color heroine? Check. A non-douche hero? Check. Saucy dialogue and thought provoking inner monologues? Check. Hotter than hot sex scenes? Check, check and CHECK.
After fourteen years of being little more than (not so) indifferent acquaintances, Akira Mori and Jacob Campbell find themselves drawn back together and no longer able to deny their heated connection. But the years have not been kind as both tried to bury thoughts about the other for their own differing reasons. As a result, each developed self preservation methods in respect to the other. In Akira's case, that meant snappy comments and doing everything she could to break Jacob's carefully veiled control. For Jacob, it meant pushing Akira as far away as possible, not realizing that his cold shoulder read as disapproval of Akira herself. But when Jacob's brothers finally talk some much needed sense into him, we are soon taken on the most amazing journey of mutual self discovery, having the courage to fall in love and being okay with the person you truly are.
I loved Akira immediately. To others, she'd probably be classified as a 'love her or hate her' type. But neither I, or Alisha Rai thankfully, deal in 'types' and 'categories' when it comes to women, fictional or otherwise. Akira, a self proclaimed bitch, is way too complex for those kinds of ignorant molds. She's abrasive, sassy, intelligent, confident, kind, vulnerable. A lifetime of neglect has left her hardened and lonely, with the belief that she is unlovable. She keeps her heart heavily guarded, fearful of anyone who gets too close. But Jacob is the one person who doesn't judge her, who sees her. He gets under her skin and refuses to see her as a lost cause.
Now let me talk a little bit about Jacob. Having been his younger siblings' guardian since their father died, Jacob has carried the weight of the world on his shoulders for years. But through his relationship with Akira, he realizes that he doesn't have to be in control of everything all the time. That he can afford and has the right to get a little selfish every once in awhile. And that he shouldn't be afraid of his true feelings or desires. Akira shows him that. They learn from each other and grow as people.
Another aspect I loved about this story was that Jacob actually courted Akira. How many men, especially after they've realized they've fucked up BIG TIME, would go out of their way to make it up to the girl they've hurt by giving her handpicked flowers in her favorite color? But Jacob did just that, and more, and soon Akira's lifelong defenses started to crumble.
Though they each had a lot of personal shit and baggage to work through, that did not drag down the story as much as I thought it would. Mainly due to the fact that they got through their issues together by actually communicating and building trust over time.
This having been my first time reading Alisha Rai, she definitely made one hell of an impression. I look forward to reading more from her in the future.
March 11, 2016
Sex positive, feminist, anti slut-shaming.
The fact the woman is the billionaire is another thing to love, the fact she's more experienced than the guy and is confident of her sexuality is another bonus. The fact the guy isn't intimidated by all that is a great thing.
I could love this book.
but I didn't. I appreciate this book, I like it. but I do not love it. why?
this is erotica but I didn't find it hot, the plot was too slow and a little meaningless, and I did have a problem with characterization.
For some reason while there are many good messages here, when I look seriously at what I read I found it kind of meaningless? It failed to inspire me or evoke any reaction or feeling in me. Now I mostly forgot about it.
Make no mistake I love reading romances. and I know more often than not they are just brain candy. Nothing wrong with that. But as it didn't give me even a little escape, and I found it an empty read, well, I have to face the truth that this book just didn't work for me as much as I wanted it to, expected it to and it should have.
trust me, I know how family can fuck you up. still, while understandable with Akira, I can't say the same for Jacob.
still, a recommended read. Because objectively it is a good read with somewhat hot scenes and good messages.
The fact the woman is the billionaire is another thing to love, the fact she's more experienced than the guy and is confident of her sexuality is another bonus. The fact the guy isn't intimidated by all that is a great thing.
I could love this book.
but I didn't. I appreciate this book, I like it. but I do not love it. why?
this is erotica but I didn't find it hot, the plot was too slow and a little meaningless, and I did have a problem with characterization.
For some reason while there are many good messages here, when I look seriously at what I read I found it kind of meaningless? It failed to inspire me or evoke any reaction or feeling in me. Now I mostly forgot about it.
Make no mistake I love reading romances. and I know more often than not they are just brain candy. Nothing wrong with that. But as it didn't give me even a little escape, and I found it an empty read, well, I have to face the truth that this book just didn't work for me as much as I wanted it to, expected it to and it should have.
trust me, I know how family can fuck you up. still, while understandable with Akira, I can't say the same for Jacob.
still, a recommended read. Because objectively it is a good read with somewhat hot scenes and good messages.
August 4, 2017
I really liked this one.
Usually I skim the sex scenes in erotic romances, but I didn't in this one - the scenes felt important to the plot and characterization.
And usually when I read a romance, I hit a point where I have to roll my eyes and turn my brain off in order to continue. I can gauge how much I enjoyed the book prior to that point by whether I bother to keep going after the stupid. (Often abusive behaviour from a so-called alpha male, but also frequently out-of-character behaviour or a refusal to communicate so the author can preserve the 'big misunderstanding' for longer than makes sense.)
The cool thing was, with this book, I never hit that point. It never got stupid!
So, yeah, I really liked it.
Usually I skim the sex scenes in erotic romances, but I didn't in this one - the scenes felt important to the plot and characterization.
And usually when I read a romance, I hit a point where I have to roll my eyes and turn my brain off in order to continue. I can gauge how much I enjoyed the book prior to that point by whether I bother to keep going after the stupid. (Often abusive behaviour from a so-called alpha male, but also frequently out-of-character behaviour or a refusal to communicate so the author can preserve the 'big misunderstanding' for longer than makes sense.)
The cool thing was, with this book, I never hit that point. It never got stupid!
So, yeah, I really liked it.
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