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mom2three's review
5.0
In the name of full disclosure, I got ARCs for a few of the stories in this set, but after reading only the introduction I knew I had to buy it. It is FANTASTIC!!! I love that the stories all revolve around a set time and place. I love that each story is different than the others; with each author bringing their own twist on things. However, the things I love the most are being back in Black Light, the cameos of characters from previous books, and that most of the stories are only the beginning and I know they will be revisited. There wasn't one story in this set that I felt was lacking in any way. They each have different levels of play, the characters are all different and have different reasons for being where they are, and they each evoke different emotions.
I'm going to start with the Event Planning and Introduction because it sets the stage for what you are going to be getting. I love Madison! She is fun and brings a different flavor to the event. I love her valley-girl talk and spunky attitude. She is also hiding a few secrets. The introduction has enough info to whet your appetite without giving any of the story details away and has many humorous moments.
Guarded by Renee Rose - This one revolves around Lincoln and Scarlett. She is a famous pop star and he used to be her bodyguard. The history in this one adds a lot of emotional elements to the heat level. Lincoln just wanted a chance to act on the emotions he had to keep hidden when she was his boss. Scarlett doesn't think he can give her what she needs and is afraid of opening up and trusting him. The heat level is intense, the emotional connection, and chemistry, is strong between the characters, and it will have your emotions all over the place.
Switched by Livia Grant - OMG! This one ripped my heart out in so many places. Piper Kole and Nolan Boeing are the main characters in this story. She is a famous actress, he's a powerful movie executive, and they enjoyed an incredible night together years ago. Then something happened and Piper Kole made herself into Mistress Ice. OK...no spoilers...This one is intense in a very emotional way. I wanted to reach into the book and wrap my arms around Piper, and at the same time smack Nolan upside the head. The scenes are a blend of heat and heartache that have left me needing more.
Determined by Maren Smith - I knew this one was going to be extra hot, and I was right. Claire thrives on having control in every aspect of her life. She isn't one to back down from something she wants; and right now, she wants Adam Butler. He's a professional body builder, model, and "King of the Spanking Bench". I love that title! Claire is pretty new to the scene and isn't sure she can do this, but she is more than determined to liver her fantasy. I love Claire's innocence and the way she pushes Adam to the limit. This one is burning hot!
Hooked by Jennifer Bene - Wyatt, a fan that could almost be described as stalker-ish, and Vanessa, a prima ballerina who suffers from self-esteem issues. She worries about not being good enough, pretty enough, famous enough, all of those things, and the way Wyatt shows her how wrong she is melted my heart. I loved the honest, real personalities Ms. Bene created. It was easy to become invested in both of the characters, and I hope to see more of them.
Pressure by Measha Stone - This one starts with a twist. Michelle isn't at the club to play. She's very unsure of herself, worries about saying and doing the wrong thing, and trusting doesn't come easily. Egan is the lead guitarist in a rock band. This story has an opposites attract sort of vibe, with some surprises thrown in. It's sexy and sweet at the same time, and the heat level is off the charts. I am hoping to see a future book about Corrine, too. I would love to know what her consequences are for pulling the stunt she did.
Savor by Maggie Ryan - The giggles started on the second page of this story. The descriptions of Emma, the way they convince Ronan to join the auction, and even the first interactions between Ronan and Carnegie put a huge smile on my face. That smile was quickly replaced with a heatwave, but there were still silly little moments that kept the smile creeping onto my face. Ronan doesn't think he belongs in the auction since he is only a chef. Carnegie, an author of erotic novels, thinks he's the reason the sun shines, and can't wait to watch him scene. The sparks are instant and burn fiercely between these two. Their love story wasn't something I was expecting it to be. It was warm and patient. It was also freakin' HOT. Everyone needs a chef, and Dom, like this in their life.
Cherished by Sue Lyndon - Sunshine, who is fairly new to the scene, and Trenton, an action movie star and Daddy Dom. HOT HOT HOT! Those are the only words I can use to describe this one. It is another story where the couple have had some interaction in the past, but it was only a moment; there and gone in less than 10 minutes. The scenes between these two were both sweet and dirty. Ms. Lyndon really knows how to write sexy Daddy Doms.
Jazzed by Lesley Clark - This is a new author to me, but she has made quite the impression. Jazz, the lead singer in a band, and Michael, a psychiatrists who specialize in the alternative lifestyle. Michael is a man who cares about the mental well being of people, hence the job, and the way he worries about Jazz's inner self is beautiful. His character is constantly in that "Dr. mode" where he is looking out for Jazz's well being, as well as giving her the scenes she needs. Even the reason he chooses to bid on her is based more on a need to help and cherish her. I can't wait to look for more books by Ms. Clark.
Control by Dani Rene - What can I even say about Kaelin and Jed... He is the famous rock star. She's the daughter of his agent. She has had a crush on him for years, and he can't stand the sight of her. At least that's what she thinks. This story is going to warm you up quickly. It is intense in both their emotional connection and the play they enter into. All I can say is OMG!!! I found myself holding my breath right along with Kaelin and I never wanted this one to end.
That leads us to the Conclusion by Livia Grant and Jennifer Bene - UGH!!! That ending KILLED ME! OK, not really. I loved the glimpse into the clean up of the night, but that tease about Madison and Trevor is just plain mean.
Each of the stories in this one bring something unique to the set, so there is really something for everyone, and even the stories that I didn't think I would enjoy too much made me fall in love, and lust, to the point where I want more. I'm already anxiously waiting for my next visit to Black Light.
I'm going to start with the Event Planning and Introduction because it sets the stage for what you are going to be getting. I love Madison! She is fun and brings a different flavor to the event. I love her valley-girl talk and spunky attitude. She is also hiding a few secrets. The introduction has enough info to whet your appetite without giving any of the story details away and has many humorous moments.
Guarded by Renee Rose - This one revolves around Lincoln and Scarlett. She is a famous pop star and he used to be her bodyguard. The history in this one adds a lot of emotional elements to the heat level. Lincoln just wanted a chance to act on the emotions he had to keep hidden when she was his boss. Scarlett doesn't think he can give her what she needs and is afraid of opening up and trusting him. The heat level is intense, the emotional connection, and chemistry, is strong between the characters, and it will have your emotions all over the place.
Switched by Livia Grant - OMG! This one ripped my heart out in so many places. Piper Kole and Nolan Boeing are the main characters in this story. She is a famous actress, he's a powerful movie executive, and they enjoyed an incredible night together years ago. Then something happened and Piper Kole made herself into Mistress Ice. OK...no spoilers...This one is intense in a very emotional way. I wanted to reach into the book and wrap my arms around Piper, and at the same time smack Nolan upside the head. The scenes are a blend of heat and heartache that have left me needing more.
Determined by Maren Smith - I knew this one was going to be extra hot, and I was right. Claire thrives on having control in every aspect of her life. She isn't one to back down from something she wants; and right now, she wants Adam Butler. He's a professional body builder, model, and "King of the Spanking Bench". I love that title! Claire is pretty new to the scene and isn't sure she can do this, but she is more than determined to liver her fantasy. I love Claire's innocence and the way she pushes Adam to the limit. This one is burning hot!
Hooked by Jennifer Bene - Wyatt, a fan that could almost be described as stalker-ish, and Vanessa, a prima ballerina who suffers from self-esteem issues. She worries about not being good enough, pretty enough, famous enough, all of those things, and the way Wyatt shows her how wrong she is melted my heart. I loved the honest, real personalities Ms. Bene created. It was easy to become invested in both of the characters, and I hope to see more of them.
Pressure by Measha Stone - This one starts with a twist. Michelle isn't at the club to play. She's very unsure of herself, worries about saying and doing the wrong thing, and trusting doesn't come easily. Egan is the lead guitarist in a rock band. This story has an opposites attract sort of vibe, with some surprises thrown in. It's sexy and sweet at the same time, and the heat level is off the charts. I am hoping to see a future book about Corrine, too. I would love to know what her consequences are for pulling the stunt she did.
Savor by Maggie Ryan - The giggles started on the second page of this story. The descriptions of Emma, the way they convince Ronan to join the auction, and even the first interactions between Ronan and Carnegie put a huge smile on my face. That smile was quickly replaced with a heatwave, but there were still silly little moments that kept the smile creeping onto my face. Ronan doesn't think he belongs in the auction since he is only a chef. Carnegie, an author of erotic novels, thinks he's the reason the sun shines, and can't wait to watch him scene. The sparks are instant and burn fiercely between these two. Their love story wasn't something I was expecting it to be. It was warm and patient. It was also freakin' HOT. Everyone needs a chef, and Dom, like this in their life.
Cherished by Sue Lyndon - Sunshine, who is fairly new to the scene, and Trenton, an action movie star and Daddy Dom. HOT HOT HOT! Those are the only words I can use to describe this one. It is another story where the couple have had some interaction in the past, but it was only a moment; there and gone in less than 10 minutes. The scenes between these two were both sweet and dirty. Ms. Lyndon really knows how to write sexy Daddy Doms.
Jazzed by Lesley Clark - This is a new author to me, but she has made quite the impression. Jazz, the lead singer in a band, and Michael, a psychiatrists who specialize in the alternative lifestyle. Michael is a man who cares about the mental well being of people, hence the job, and the way he worries about Jazz's inner self is beautiful. His character is constantly in that "Dr. mode" where he is looking out for Jazz's well being, as well as giving her the scenes she needs. Even the reason he chooses to bid on her is based more on a need to help and cherish her. I can't wait to look for more books by Ms. Clark.
Control by Dani Rene - What can I even say about Kaelin and Jed... He is the famous rock star. She's the daughter of his agent. She has had a crush on him for years, and he can't stand the sight of her. At least that's what she thinks. This story is going to warm you up quickly. It is intense in both their emotional connection and the play they enter into. All I can say is OMG!!! I found myself holding my breath right along with Kaelin and I never wanted this one to end.
That leads us to the Conclusion by Livia Grant and Jennifer Bene - UGH!!! That ending KILLED ME! OK, not really. I loved the glimpse into the clean up of the night, but that tease about Madison and Trevor is just plain mean.
Each of the stories in this one bring something unique to the set, so there is really something for everyone, and even the stories that I didn't think I would enjoy too much made me fall in love, and lust, to the point where I want more. I'm already anxiously waiting for my next visit to Black Light.
lifeinthebooklane's review
5.0
Introduction Scene - 4.5 stars
Wow this was almost an entire story in and off itself! We get the very heated, in more ways than one, meeting at Black Light West to arrange the event, then we get a very different view of the Valley Girl that is Madison.
This totally drew me into the story, it sets up some stories for more than just what you will enjoy in Celebrity Roulette. I loved the dynamic between Jaxon and Chase, and it was good to catch up with characters we have met in more recent books.
Guarded, by Renee Rose - 5 stars
Oh my god Lincoln made me melt. This story even made me sniffle and have to dry my eyes! I absolutely adored Scarlett and Lincoln, in fact I fell in love with them. Their scenes were fairly straight forward but this didn't need extreme kink or challenge.
The depth of emotion, the connection between the characters, the strength of them just combined to make this an absolutely wonderful tale to read. It simply touched something in my heart, not an easy feat for a short story to achieve. Bravo Ms Rose!
Switched, by Livia Grant - 5 stars
I've never read a book where the heroine is a Domme, mainly because the idea doesn't appeal. I guess it's because I like my men rough, tough and alpha to the core. However this story has gone a long way to changing my mind. It was hot, sexy and emotional too.
Piper, the heroine, is known as Mistress Ice and that describes her usual emotions too. Nolan is the Dom who can't forget the night he spent with her a few years ago. He wants a chance to explore the connection he feels they have, or at least an opportunity for closure. So he submits, or at least tries his best to, for a night with the woman of his dreams.
We get some intense scenes, a lot of chemistry and a very open end that promises we will see more of Piper and Nolan. I can't wait to learn even more about this pair, both characters had good depth and I really felt their emotions. They are something very special together and this was a wonderful introduction to them both.
Determined, by Maren Smith - 5 stars
Phew! What a scorcher of a read. This story totally focuses on the BDSM play, rather than the couple or a possible romance, and I was totally fine with that. In fact it was quite a refreshing change and i liked the extra dimension it added to this anthology.
Claire and Adam were both likeable characters and I loved their scenes. Whilst the play involved was, at heart, mainstream, the intensity of it pushed this into quite a challenging read. Challenging in a very good, very hot, very naughty way! This is a really well written addition to the book.
Hooked, by Jennifer Bene - 5 stars
This was one red hot read, with a hero very unlike the usual hard-ass and even anti-hero men we are used to from this author. That isn't to say that Wyatt isn't all Dom, but it was good to read about one with deep empathy skills and his own worries. It made him so very real and easy to connect with.
Whilst Vanessa had some self-worth issues, which Wyatt definitely started to 'beat' out of her, she was still a very strong character. Both mentally and physically. The chemistry and connection between them was intense and totally believable. They drew me in to this story and I read it late into the night, just to finish it in one sitting.
We are treated to some VERY hot and sexy BDSM scenes. There is nothing too boundary pushing but they are still very powerful and potent.
Pressure, by Measha Stone - 5 stars
Michele and Egan totally stole my heart with their story. Measha smashed the ball right out of the park with this one. I loved the characters, their interactions and their play, this hit all the right notes with me. There was a really good balance of story, playtime and feels in this short tale, it had everything I never knew I wanted in the story!
I loved how most of the play wasn't extreme, but Egan still managed to push Michele's boundaries. He managed to get into her head whilst getting her out of it. Loved it!
Savor, by Maggie Ryan - 5 stars
Wow this story certainly sizzled. The chemistry between Carnegie and Ronan was red hot, yet we still had some very gentle and tender moments amidst the play. I adored how caring Ronan was, how he made sure Carnegie was never overwhelmed even when he was pushing her limits. Yet he remained hot, commanding and in charge all of the time. The power exchange in this felt very different. He was still dominant and Carnegie was very much submissive, but because they were neither an established couple or playing under a contract, it felt much more informal and I really enjoyed that aspect of it.
This was another story that left us on a HFN, rather than declarations of undying love by Ronan and Carnegie. Again this added variety and spice to the mix.
If the rest of the book is of a similar quality then this is going to be one amazing read!
Wow this was almost an entire story in and off itself! We get the very heated, in more ways than one, meeting at Black Light West to arrange the event, then we get a very different view of the Valley Girl that is Madison.
This totally drew me into the story, it sets up some stories for more than just what you will enjoy in Celebrity Roulette. I loved the dynamic between Jaxon and Chase, and it was good to catch up with characters we have met in more recent books.
Guarded, by Renee Rose - 5 stars
Oh my god Lincoln made me melt. This story even made me sniffle and have to dry my eyes! I absolutely adored Scarlett and Lincoln, in fact I fell in love with them. Their scenes were fairly straight forward but this didn't need extreme kink or challenge.
The depth of emotion, the connection between the characters, the strength of them just combined to make this an absolutely wonderful tale to read. It simply touched something in my heart, not an easy feat for a short story to achieve. Bravo Ms Rose!
Switched, by Livia Grant - 5 stars
I've never read a book where the heroine is a Domme, mainly because the idea doesn't appeal. I guess it's because I like my men rough, tough and alpha to the core. However this story has gone a long way to changing my mind. It was hot, sexy and emotional too.
Piper, the heroine, is known as Mistress Ice and that describes her usual emotions too. Nolan is the Dom who can't forget the night he spent with her a few years ago. He wants a chance to explore the connection he feels they have, or at least an opportunity for closure. So he submits, or at least tries his best to, for a night with the woman of his dreams.
We get some intense scenes, a lot of chemistry and a very open end that promises we will see more of Piper and Nolan. I can't wait to learn even more about this pair, both characters had good depth and I really felt their emotions. They are something very special together and this was a wonderful introduction to them both.
Determined, by Maren Smith - 5 stars
Phew! What a scorcher of a read. This story totally focuses on the BDSM play, rather than the couple or a possible romance, and I was totally fine with that. In fact it was quite a refreshing change and i liked the extra dimension it added to this anthology.
Claire and Adam were both likeable characters and I loved their scenes. Whilst the play involved was, at heart, mainstream, the intensity of it pushed this into quite a challenging read. Challenging in a very good, very hot, very naughty way! This is a really well written addition to the book.
Hooked, by Jennifer Bene - 5 stars
This was one red hot read, with a hero very unlike the usual hard-ass and even anti-hero men we are used to from this author. That isn't to say that Wyatt isn't all Dom, but it was good to read about one with deep empathy skills and his own worries. It made him so very real and easy to connect with.
Whilst Vanessa had some self-worth issues, which Wyatt definitely started to 'beat' out of her, she was still a very strong character. Both mentally and physically. The chemistry and connection between them was intense and totally believable. They drew me in to this story and I read it late into the night, just to finish it in one sitting.
We are treated to some VERY hot and sexy BDSM scenes. There is nothing too boundary pushing but they are still very powerful and potent.
Pressure, by Measha Stone - 5 stars
Michele and Egan totally stole my heart with their story. Measha smashed the ball right out of the park with this one. I loved the characters, their interactions and their play, this hit all the right notes with me. There was a really good balance of story, playtime and feels in this short tale, it had everything I never knew I wanted in the story!
I loved how most of the play wasn't extreme, but Egan still managed to push Michele's boundaries. He managed to get into her head whilst getting her out of it. Loved it!
Savor, by Maggie Ryan - 5 stars
Wow this story certainly sizzled. The chemistry between Carnegie and Ronan was red hot, yet we still had some very gentle and tender moments amidst the play. I adored how caring Ronan was, how he made sure Carnegie was never overwhelmed even when he was pushing her limits. Yet he remained hot, commanding and in charge all of the time. The power exchange in this felt very different. He was still dominant and Carnegie was very much submissive, but because they were neither an established couple or playing under a contract, it felt much more informal and I really enjoyed that aspect of it.
This was another story that left us on a HFN, rather than declarations of undying love by Ronan and Carnegie. Again this added variety and spice to the mix.
If the rest of the book is of a similar quality then this is going to be one amazing read!
tj_darkreads's review
5.0
Hooked by Jennifer Bene
Wow this is the 3rd year for the Blacklight series and I had the chance to read this lovely and sweet story dare I say that about a Blacklight book or even a Jennifer Bene book there's always a twist😉, but no this story was a total surprise and absolutely amazing to read. I absolutely loved this story.
This is just my opinion and my review
Wow this is the 3rd year for the Blacklight series and I had the chance to read this lovely and sweet story dare I say that about a Blacklight book or even a Jennifer Bene book there's always a twist😉, but no this story was a total surprise and absolutely amazing to read. I absolutely loved this story.
This is just my opinion and my review
kelly_reads_books's review
5.0
I love the Black Light Series and Celebrity Roulette is awesome!
I have only read 2 of these so far
Jennifer Bene - Hooked
I love the roulette stories and Hooked by Jennifer Bene was so good.
These characters kept me riveted and engaged in this story. I loved the ballet elements in it and how the stage incorporates the barre into the story!Wyatt and Vanessa make such a sweet couple!
Livia Grant - Switched
Nolan and Piper's story is filled with animosity and resent because of a previous time they got together. Since then, Piper has turned into the Ice Queen and Nolan is wondering what happened to her. Can they work in a relationship as both of them as Dom/domme?
I have only read 2 of these so far
Jennifer Bene - Hooked
I love the roulette stories and Hooked by Jennifer Bene was so good.
These characters kept me riveted and engaged in this story. I loved the ballet elements in it and how the stage incorporates the barre into the story!Wyatt and Vanessa make such a sweet couple!
Livia Grant - Switched
Nolan and Piper's story is filled with animosity and resent because of a previous time they got together. Since then, Piper has turned into the Ice Queen and Nolan is wondering what happened to her. Can they work in a relationship as both of them as Dom/domme?
jigsawgirl's review
5.0
Switched by Livia Grant 4 stars 2/6/19
I always like reading the first part of the Roulette anthology. With this one, we get to revisit Jax, Emma, and Chase. Madison makes a reappearance in a way that was somewhat of a surprise to me.
This is a review of Livia Grant's "Switched".
Totally unexpected with both Nolan and Piper being dominate. It was definitely steamy and intense. I thought Piper went a little over the edge.
Nolan and Piper have a history. Piper has a mystery in her past that will hopefully come out in another book, along with more details about the night she shared with Nolan.
All that being said, things were left hanging in more ways than one.
I voluntarily read and reviewed the Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
Guarded by Renee Rose 2/8/19 4.5 stars
A short, fast paced, sexy encounter between Scarlett A and her former bodyguard, Lincoln. Lincoln was literally the strong, silent, dominant type. He made Scarlett A feel whole, and she made him "feel".
I thought it was sweet that after everything that happened with them, Kim went to great lengths to prove how important Scarlett A was to him.
Indulge in the delights of Black Light while Lincoln and Scarlett A reach their HEA.
I voluntarily read and reviewed the Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
I always like reading the first part of the Roulette anthology. With this one, we get to revisit Jax, Emma, and Chase. Madison makes a reappearance in a way that was somewhat of a surprise to me.
This is a review of Livia Grant's "Switched".
Totally unexpected with both Nolan and Piper being dominate. It was definitely steamy and intense. I thought Piper went a little over the edge.
Nolan and Piper have a history. Piper has a mystery in her past that will hopefully come out in another book, along with more details about the night she shared with Nolan.
All that being said, things were left hanging in more ways than one.
I voluntarily read and reviewed the Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
Guarded by Renee Rose 2/8/19 4.5 stars
A short, fast paced, sexy encounter between Scarlett A and her former bodyguard, Lincoln. Lincoln was literally the strong, silent, dominant type. He made Scarlett A feel whole, and she made him "feel".
I thought it was sweet that after everything that happened with them, Kim went to great lengths to prove how important Scarlett A was to him.
Indulge in the delights of Black Light while Lincoln and Scarlett A reach their HEA.
I voluntarily read and reviewed the Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
tlea's review
4.0
My review will only focus on Switched by Livia Grant & Guarded by Renee Rose.
I loved the Intro. It was catching up with friends that you haven't talked to in a while & I love the ongoing thread with Madison. Can't wait to read more of that.
SWITCHED was a really hard story for me to rate. I found a lot of the story quite uncomfortable to read but at the same time it was very engaging and engrossing and I desperately want to know what happens next. I want my happy ending! It was great to see more of the BL West characters, hopefully some of them will get their own stories.
GUARDED was in some ways similar. These are 2 characters with background that they have to overcome in order to move forward. Very different to Switched but I think I preferred this entry by Renee Rose. Especially love Lincoln & his determination to do what he needs to.
I loved the Intro. It was catching up with friends that you haven't talked to in a while & I love the ongoing thread with Madison. Can't wait to read more of that.
SWITCHED was a really hard story for me to rate. I found a lot of the story quite uncomfortable to read but at the same time it was very engaging and engrossing and I desperately want to know what happens next. I want my happy ending! It was great to see more of the BL West characters, hopefully some of them will get their own stories.
GUARDED was in some ways similar. These are 2 characters with background that they have to overcome in order to move forward. Very different to Switched but I think I preferred this entry by Renee Rose. Especially love Lincoln & his determination to do what he needs to.
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