Yes, it's similar to 50 shades. Let's get that out of the way right now. In the way that 99% of romance novels are similar to other romance novels. There are clear patterns and formulas in almost all genres of romance books. They give us what we want.

Do I love reading about a hot, rich, alpha male that is absolutely infatuated with a woman? Absolutely. It's an escape, it's hot, and I love it.

Now, to this book. It's hot. Period. Damien is sexy as hell. He's smart, rich, hot, kind and accepting.

Nikki is SMART, love that! She is freaking smart as hell! She is no pushover...but she is damaged. And so is he. Together, they absolutely ignite fire.

It's a sexy read that left me wanting more, fore sure. I can't wait for the next book!

This was an unimpressive read. If you've read the Crossfire series... then save your time and money. The difference was more sex, if you can believe it and lack of character development.

I plan to read at least another book from this author to determine if I like her writing style or not. Regardless, I'm not a fan of this book.

So, if you know me and have followed my blog, you know I wasn't a fan of Fifty Shades of Grey, and I'm not the hugest fan of any kind of BDSM. So I never quite felt like this was my type of read. However, when I met the author at Book Bonanza, after reading her Man of the Month series, she suggested that I needed to try the book that really started her going. So I took the book, and finally got around to it in November. And needless to say, her writing grabbed me right away. Honestly it wasn't quite the BDSM I was expecting, and I really liked the way it all happened, and the relationship was very steamy. I am definitely left needing to read on in the series.

This review was originally posted on Lisa Loves Literature.

first read : 5 stars
re-read : 4 stars

BDSM Romance

What's not to like.. It's just like FSOG and bared to you.. In fact it's really like them!!!!

Review posted at SoManyBooksSoLittleTime

I loved the chemistry between Damien and Nikki! An excellent story that pulled me in!

I thought the first chapter was very telling about Nikki Fairchild and what kind of issues she has and it had me immediately interested. Damien Stark is a sexy, intriguing, confident, and in control man. They have a fantastic connection. How much he wants her is undeniable and they have excellent chemistry with one another. They both seem to be wearing a mask which makes for a great story because those layers are going to unfold (and oh man do they!). I enjoyed their interactions, there's a bit of playfulness and some serious hotness. And oh my - one heck of a car ride!

Even though Nikki has her secrets I think she’s a strong woman. When she reveals those secrets to Damien it was so emotionally charged and intense. Damian was so incredibly sweet and loving. It was an extremely tense and beautiful scene.

I think the story moves along nicely and things unfold at a steady pace. I feel this book is more about Nikki than Damien. I found myself wanting to know more about his story, past, and what his secrets are. Some of his past is talked about and his secrets are hinted at in this book but not fully revealed but I think a lot can be deduced. Release Me is book 1 in The Stark Trilogy so I know there is more Damien to come and I can’t wait!

This was my second time reading this book and I was just as hooked as I was the first time around. Damien and Nikki’s interactions are great and they have such a pull on one another and I was completely drawn in. There are some gripping sex scenes as well as some really loving ones. It’s so heartfelt how Damien wants to take care of her and cherish her. I love them together!

There’s a bit of mystery and intrigue throughout and it keeps you wanting more. I think Release Me was a great start to The Stark Trilogy and I will definitely keep reading. I must have more Damien!

(Originally read May 16-13, 2013. Reread July 14-17, 2013)