This would be a 4. Overall great concept and really different but then they throw in the stereotype twist of secret billionaire.

I loved the taboo of the story and how it all plays out. It definitely suffers from being a little too long winded, but still super enjoyable taboo romance. ( )

My 1st From the TBR pick of 2016 and I was not disappointed! Kat and Carter were well written, complex characters dealing with a real issue (not some silly, angsty, New Adult problem). I loved their interactions because they felt genuine. The struggle to do something forbidden, the love they feel but don't know how to express, etc. It was all realistic and believable. They don't jump into a relationship right away. It builds in a very normal way even though their situation is anything but normal! Overall great read and I can't wait to get Max's book!
My full review will be on My Blog, The Book Disciple ( )

I just finished this one last night and overall I really liked it. There were some great scenes and of course a few filler parts I could have done without. To describe it with one sentence... I'd say it was a unique romance with bland moments.

The storyline was well developed and the romance between the characters was great. The theme though... being that the lead male was in prison... was lacking for me. The prison parts were intense and captivating in the beginning, but there wasn't enough of them. I definitely think the Author should have played up those scenes and kept Carter there longer. He was in his element. The bad boy persona was shining and I craved his unexpected outbursts. When he got parole his character dimmed a bit. He became softer and it threw me for a loop. I think there definitely could have been more suspense that brought out the prison persona in a non prison atmosphere. I also thought that once the big sex scene took place the story kind of got lost in intimate scenes. It felt like there was too much sex and not enough story in the final chapters. With that all being said I LOVED Carter and I even had mad love for Kat. Them together was a whirlwind of deep rooted emotion and undeniable passion. Their romance made my mind race and my heart swoon for sure.

I highly recommend it to readers that like edgy romances with hints of mystery. The writing was captivating and the romance seeped from the pages. Can't wait for the next read by this Author! ( )

A Pound of Flesh by Sophie Jackson is a 2015 Gallery Books publication. I was provided a copy of this book as an XOXpert, the official street team of XOXO After Dark.

“The pound of flesh which I demand of him is dearly bought; ‘tis mine and I will have it.” - The Merchant of Venice, Act 4, Scene 1

Carter is in prison on a drug charge, trying to get early parole. His lawyer suggested he take some educational courses because it would help make an impression. With a major chip on his shoulder, and a ticked off at the entire world attitude, , Carter arrives for class ready to challenge the instructor. But, he gets a huge surprise when it turns out the teacher is no pushover, and she shares a poignant piece of history with him.

Katherine, aka, Peaches is a teacher trying to follow through on her deceased father’s last wishes, by giving a part of her talent back to those who need it most. So, the prison education system is where she has decided to use that talent. The last thing Peaches ever imagined, was feeling an intense connection to one her students. But, the pull between them is so strong, it’s impossible to deny it, and despite the danger and possible career suicide, Peaches refuses to turn her back on Carter.

But, there are people close to Peaches and Carter who are not so happy about this situation and will do whatever they can to tear them apart.

I admit I missed out on all the online buzz about this book and this is my first encounter with this author. But, when I saw how many rave reviews the book had, I was very curious, but had the feeling this book might be a little on the New Adult side of things, and I’m not so big on NA for the most part, so I approached the book with an air of caution.

I’m very pleased to say that I am impressed with the book and enjoyed it very much. There were some rather implausible scenarios, and the oddity of these ships passing in the night connecting again after all those years was a bit of a stretch, but the story is very romantic, inspiring and has many elements I love in my romance novels.

I love it when we have flawed characters who find love and with it, hope and healing. Carter and Peaches both have demons they are fighting, and with the strong support and understanding they have for one another, each person rises to meet life’s challenges head on and become better people in the process. They stuck to their guns, did what was best and right for each other, and reaped the reward, by allowing love to work it's powerful magic, and will continue to pay it forward.

This is a good book and I am very happy I gave it a try.

4 stars ( )