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Ghosts and Reincarnation #1
Sommersgate House
Douglas Ashton is the cold and unfeeling owner of the gothic Victorian Mansion, Sommersgate House. Julia Fairfax is his stubborn American sister-in-law. After tragedy strikes, Douglas and Julia are forced to live together at Sommersgate and raise their newly orphaned nieces and nephew.
Douglas has no desire to raise his dead sister’s children nor does he want the distraction of the tempting Julia living under his roof. Julia is struggling with grief and trying to make a go in a new country without much help from impossibly handsome but even more impossibly remote Douglas. Not to mention, she has to deal with the active hostility of Douglas’s frosty, Attila-the-Hun-in-a-skirt mother, Monique.
Douglas decides the best way to give the children what they need, get his mother to behave and give himself what he wants is to marry Julia. When he tells her (yes, tells her) she will be his wife, Julia thinks Douglas is (probably) insane. And anyway, she’s decided if she ever has another husband (since the last one wasn’t so great), he was going to be short, balding, have a paunch and worship the ground she walks on (none of these characteristics define Douglas in the slightest).
One more thing, Sommersgate House is haunted by the ghosts of the man who built the house and the woman who was the love of his life. They both died mysteriously at Sommersgate months after it was finished. When they did, a curse settled on the house making it seem strangely alive. And the only way for the beautiful but frightening house to rid itself of this curse is for its owner to find true love.
Douglas has no desire to raise his dead sister’s children nor does he want the distraction of the tempting Julia living under his roof. Julia is struggling with grief and trying to make a go in a new country without much help from impossibly handsome but even more impossibly remote Douglas. Not to mention, she has to deal with the active hostility of Douglas’s frosty, Attila-the-Hun-in-a-skirt mother, Monique.
Douglas decides the best way to give the children what they need, get his mother to behave and give himself what he wants is to marry Julia. When he tells her (yes, tells her) she will be his wife, Julia thinks Douglas is (probably) insane. And anyway, she’s decided if she ever has another husband (since the last one wasn’t so great), he was going to be short, balding, have a paunch and worship the ground she walks on (none of these characteristics define Douglas in the slightest).
One more thing, Sommersgate House is haunted by the ghosts of the man who built the house and the woman who was the love of his life. They both died mysteriously at Sommersgate months after it was finished. When they did, a curse settled on the house making it seem strangely alive. And the only way for the beautiful but frightening house to rid itself of this curse is for its owner to find true love.
438 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 19, 2011
About the author
Kristen Ashley
125 books38.9k followersKristen Ashley was born in Gary, Indiana, USA. She nearly killed her mother and herself making it into the world, seeing as she had the umbilical cord wrapped around her neck (already attempting to accessorise and she hadn't taken her first breath!).
Kristen grew up in Brownsburg, Indiana but has lived in Denver, Colorado and the West Country of England. Thus she has been blessed to have friends and family around the globe. Her posse is loopy (to say the least) but loopy is good when you want to write.
Kristen was raised in a house with a large and multi-generational family. They lived on a very small farm in a small town in the heartland and existed amongst the strains of Glenn Miller, The Everly Brothers, REO Speedwagon and Whitesnake (and the wardrobes that matched).
Needless to say, growing up in a house full of music, clothes and love was a good way to grow up.
And as she keeps growing up, it keeps getting better.
Kristen grew up in Brownsburg, Indiana but has lived in Denver, Colorado and the West Country of England. Thus she has been blessed to have friends and family around the globe. Her posse is loopy (to say the least) but loopy is good when you want to write.
Kristen was raised in a house with a large and multi-generational family. They lived on a very small farm in a small town in the heartland and existed amongst the strains of Glenn Miller, The Everly Brothers, REO Speedwagon and Whitesnake (and the wardrobes that matched).
Needless to say, growing up in a house full of music, clothes and love was a good way to grow up.
And as she keeps growing up, it keeps getting better.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 613 reviews
October 5, 2014
I have had this series on my kindle for over two years. When I first discovered KA, I downloaded everything that she had (well everything expect the Rock Chick series.)
Those few who had actually met her thought she was rather lovely indeed, for an American...
But…. There are the words “ghosts and reincarnations” in the title and it totally put me off. So never read them.
Was given Penmort in a Challenge group that I am in and read it. I loved it.
Douglas ignored her look, determined to move to the next phase in his strategy and went on. “Julia, I intend to be your lover.” With Julia’s soft warmth pressed so close, he could smell her. Both the feel of her and her scent made his body begin to tighten in an intensely pleasant way so that, when he spoke, his voice deepened, became hungry, as he, again, made his intentions clear but this time, he made them clearer. “I intend to sleep in sheets that smell of tangerines and jasmine. I intend to have your naked body squirming under mine. I intend to touch you everywhere with my hands and my mouth. I intend to memorise the taste of you, to make you call my name while I’m moving inside you, to make you so excited you beg me to let you come…”
The British aristocracy are a funny bunch. Here in Belgium I have lived next door to a Baron for over 10 years and he is as down to earth as the next person.
The Dutch Royal family are totally personable. Something about the British where the “class” system still exists.
Loved seeing Douglas unraveling and beginning to understand family and love.
As soon as I finished this one, jumped straight onto the next one and I am really enjoying it.
“There had been very little in Douglas Ashton’s life that he ever wanted. Most of it he could obtain, the rest of it, a loving mother and father, his sister back from the dead, was unobtainable.
At that moment, he found himself wanting something.
And what he wanted was for Julia to lose herself with him.
He wanted this stubborn, tempestuous Julia Fairfax to disappear and an acquiescent, but still tempestuous, Julia Ashton to take her place. He wanted to brand her with his name and shackle her with his ring.
Did she not understand that was a good thing?”...
”Douglas,” she used words that stung, “what do you know of making anyone happy?”
November 23, 2014
5 Cursed Stars
Welcome to Sommersgate House. A house that was made for love, but now only hides dark secrets. A house that was made to have happiness in it… but it only has grief.
A house that one man built to live happily ever after with the woman of his dreams, until a tragedy torn them apart leaving them curse forever, until true love can unite them again.
Douglas, the actual Baron of the house had a hard past in a house without love. The only person he truly loved was his sister, Tamsyn. Until the day she and her husband die in a car accident leaving him and Tamsyn’s sister in law with the custody of the children and a will that says that the kids should grow up in the house.
Julia loved his brother and loved her sister-in-law like a true sister, so when they died, despite being broken she was willing to move to England to fulfill their last wish: raise their children in Sommersgate. And that means, living in the same house as the sexy and mysterious Douglas when everyone knows (except those two) that there were always something between them.
They say love is a hard battle, so when the equation adds three broken children, a grandmother from hell, two souls that are lost for centuries and feelings that both of them are to scare to admit, they are getting ready for the hardest battle of their lives.
Rating: 5 Stars.
Storyline: I really don’t know why I haven’t read this series before. As basically all Kristen Ashley series, these books are effing amazing. This one was (my only complaint) a little too slow burn for me. I wish they had sorted their stuff sooner, but other than that, another epic romance story with KA’s signature.
Writing Style: Third person. Dual POV. Heartwarming, steamy and addictive.
Character Development: Julia was an amazing heroine. I love how strong and loving she was. Douglas was a great and sexy alpha-male. I love how decided he was and how he was with Julia and the kids. And those two as a couple were amazing, two broken souls healing each other.
As always in KA’s books, an awesomely crazy group of supportive characters.
Steam: Hot.
HEA:
Welcome to Sommersgate House. A house that was made for love, but now only hides dark secrets. A house that was made to have happiness in it… but it only has grief.
A house that one man built to live happily ever after with the woman of his dreams, until a tragedy torn them apart leaving them curse forever, until true love can unite them again.
Douglas, the actual Baron of the house had a hard past in a house without love. The only person he truly loved was his sister, Tamsyn. Until the day she and her husband die in a car accident leaving him and Tamsyn’s sister in law with the custody of the children and a will that says that the kids should grow up in the house.
Julia loved his brother and loved her sister-in-law like a true sister, so when they died, despite being broken she was willing to move to England to fulfill their last wish: raise their children in Sommersgate. And that means, living in the same house as the sexy and mysterious Douglas when everyone knows (except those two) that there were always something between them.
They say love is a hard battle, so when the equation adds three broken children, a grandmother from hell, two souls that are lost for centuries and feelings that both of them are to scare to admit, they are getting ready for the hardest battle of their lives.
Rating: 5 Stars.
Storyline: I really don’t know why I haven’t read this series before. As basically all Kristen Ashley series, these books are effing amazing. This one was (my only complaint) a little too slow burn for me. I wish they had sorted their stuff sooner, but other than that, another epic romance story with KA’s signature.
Writing Style: Third person. Dual POV. Heartwarming, steamy and addictive.
Character Development: Julia was an amazing heroine. I love how strong and loving she was. Douglas was a great and sexy alpha-male. I love how decided he was and how he was with Julia and the kids. And those two as a couple were amazing, two broken souls healing each other.
As always in KA’s books, an awesomely crazy group of supportive characters.
Steam: Hot.
HEA:
January 14, 2023
2nd read, Sept. 2021 — 3.75 stars
1st read, Feb. 2021 — 3.5 stars
wish it was more creepy considering it is set in a haunted house. i also wanted more of the kids because theyre wonderful, and i know KA can do better. but overall, its quite ✧ maa-vuh-luhs ✧. oh, and, Douglas, im self appointing myself as your wife. youre welcome.
(read as an audiobook)
1st read, Feb. 2021 — 3.5 stars
wish it was more creepy considering it is set in a haunted house. i also wanted more of the kids because theyre wonderful, and i know KA can do better. but overall, its quite ✧ maa-vuh-luhs ✧. oh, and, Douglas, im self appointing myself as your wife. youre welcome.
(read as an audiobook)
June 13, 2016
WONDERFUL! I saved this story 'cuz I knew it'd be awesome and I knew there'd come a time I'd need a guaranteed awesome read...and I got one! So much poignancy, so much romance, and sooooo much passion! LOVED IT!!!!!
Description
Douglas Ashton is the cold and unfeeling owner of the gothic Victorian Mansion, Sommersgate House. Julia Fairfax is his stubborn American sister-in-law. After tragedy strikes, Douglas and Julia are forced to live together at Sommersgate and raise their newly orphaned nieces and nephew.
Douglas has no desire to raise his dead sister’s children nor does he want the distraction of the tempting Julia living under his roof. Julia is struggling with grief and trying to make a go in a new country without much help from impossibly handsome but even more impossibly remote Douglas. Not to mention, she has to deal with the active hostility of Douglas’s frosty, Attila-the-Hun-in-a-skirt mother, Monique.
Douglas decides the best way to give the children what they need, get his mother to behave and give himself what he wants is to marry Julia. When he tells her (yes, tells her) she will be his wife, Julia thinks Douglas is (probably) insane. And anyway, she’s decided if she ever has another husband (since the last one wasn’t so great), he was going to be short, balding, have a paunch and worship the ground she walks on (none of these characteristics define Douglas in the slightest).
One more thing, Sommersgate House is haunted by the ghosts of the man who built the house and the woman who was the love of his life. They both died mysteriously at Sommersgate months after it was finished. When they did, a curse settled on the house making it seem strangely alive. And the only way for the beautiful but frightening house to rid itself of this curse is for its owner to find true love.
Description
Douglas Ashton is the cold and unfeeling owner of the gothic Victorian Mansion, Sommersgate House. Julia Fairfax is his stubborn American sister-in-law. After tragedy strikes, Douglas and Julia are forced to live together at Sommersgate and raise their newly orphaned nieces and nephew.
Douglas has no desire to raise his dead sister’s children nor does he want the distraction of the tempting Julia living under his roof. Julia is struggling with grief and trying to make a go in a new country without much help from impossibly handsome but even more impossibly remote Douglas. Not to mention, she has to deal with the active hostility of Douglas’s frosty, Attila-the-Hun-in-a-skirt mother, Monique.
Douglas decides the best way to give the children what they need, get his mother to behave and give himself what he wants is to marry Julia. When he tells her (yes, tells her) she will be his wife, Julia thinks Douglas is (probably) insane. And anyway, she’s decided if she ever has another husband (since the last one wasn’t so great), he was going to be short, balding, have a paunch and worship the ground she walks on (none of these characteristics define Douglas in the slightest).
One more thing, Sommersgate House is haunted by the ghosts of the man who built the house and the woman who was the love of his life. They both died mysteriously at Sommersgate months after it was finished. When they did, a curse settled on the house making it seem strangely alive. And the only way for the beautiful but frightening house to rid itself of this curse is for its owner to find true love.
September 1, 2020
This has been my favourite of this series so far. The paranormal plot was secondary to the romance in this one, it was much more of a classic KA with the guy determined to get the gal, but the gal too damaged by a toxic ex to want to try again. The addition of the orphaned children and the way they become a new family was sensitively handled, it could easily have turned to sentimental mush, but no, it felt genuine.
Douglas, the alpha male m/c is a Baron and at the beginning of the story is remote and inscrutable, but we get the odd flash of protective, tender behaviour from him, just to reassure us he's a good guy under that austere, aristocratic exterior. I loved the way he gradually becomes more and more demonstrative, although without ever becoming a sap. We even got some dirty talk from him during the smut scenes so that was me happy.
I loved this, recommended.
Douglas, the alpha male m/c is a Baron and at the beginning of the story is remote and inscrutable, but we get the odd flash of protective, tender behaviour from him, just to reassure us he's a good guy under that austere, aristocratic exterior. I loved the way he gradually becomes more and more demonstrative, although without ever becoming a sap. We even got some dirty talk from him during the smut scenes so that was me happy.
I loved this, recommended.
July 3, 2012
This was definitely better than Penmort Castle but I still don’t like the hocus pocus stuff interrupting the beautiful romances that KA has been giving us. While we don’t have the turbo-charged banshee totally jumping the shark the way we did in the first book, we still have a bit of a screamer for a spook and there’s really no need for it. I know that’s the whole point of this series but KA really does give us good enough stories and issues that all the ghost mumbo jumbo really does seem a bit superfluous.
Anyway, this time we have three young children orphaned when their parents were killed in a car crash and are left in the care of Julia & Douglas, their paternal aunt and maternal uncle, in their parents’ will. Julia is an American divorcee and has given up everything to come to live in Sommersgate House in England and raise her brother’s children along with Douglas, heir to the stately pile, and the children’s mother’s brother. Still with me??
This had all the hallmarks of a classic gothic Victorian melodrama – it even felt a little like Jane Eyre with Julia taking on Jane’s role, Douglas as Rochester, Mrs Kilpatrick as Mrs Fairfax and even little Ruby as Adele. Of course, Jane is not a governess and Douglas goes to great lengths to make sure that no one sees her as a hired help but very much as part of the family.
So Douglas – he’s a bit of a cold fish to begin with and his story is actually quite heartbreaking and slowly revealed to us during the novel. We begin to understand his cold demeanour and I loved how he very slowly warmed up towards the children. He decides very early on that he and Julia should get married but Julia fights it all the way. She’s been married before and is in no rush to have another go and feels she can marry for nothing less than love. Douglas does love her but it will take him just about the whole novel to realise it.
Julia herself is a wonderfully warm character. She’s been raised with love and wants nothing less for her nieces and nephew despite their terrible loss. Some of the scenes with Julia and the children were beautiful – there was one particular scene, on Christmas Day, which I felt so deeply, my vision blurred from tears. Beautifully written.
While I enjoyed it, there were a few things I felt were totally unnecessary. Monique, Douglas��� mother really had a starring role as a Monster-in-Law and she drags up Julia’s ex husband who appeared for a fairly extraneous scene that really didn’t contribute to the overall plot. Douglas has some kind of sneaky beaky MI6 role and had disappeared for 2 years in the past and returned scarred and this is never explained. But, these were minor gripes, and I mostly enjoyed the romance and tension between Julia and Douglas.
I did wonder why the heroines are always American and not English when this series is set exclusively in England but have decided that this could be something to do with the fact that KA herself is an American living in England and she’s sharing those experiences through her heroines.
So, a good 4 star contemporary romance, with a brief ghostly interlude.
Anyway, this time we have three young children orphaned when their parents were killed in a car crash and are left in the care of Julia & Douglas, their paternal aunt and maternal uncle, in their parents’ will. Julia is an American divorcee and has given up everything to come to live in Sommersgate House in England and raise her brother’s children along with Douglas, heir to the stately pile, and the children’s mother’s brother. Still with me??
This had all the hallmarks of a classic gothic Victorian melodrama – it even felt a little like Jane Eyre with Julia taking on Jane’s role, Douglas as Rochester, Mrs Kilpatrick as Mrs Fairfax and even little Ruby as Adele. Of course, Jane is not a governess and Douglas goes to great lengths to make sure that no one sees her as a hired help but very much as part of the family.
So Douglas – he’s a bit of a cold fish to begin with and his story is actually quite heartbreaking and slowly revealed to us during the novel. We begin to understand his cold demeanour and I loved how he very slowly warmed up towards the children. He decides very early on that he and Julia should get married but Julia fights it all the way. She’s been married before and is in no rush to have another go and feels she can marry for nothing less than love. Douglas does love her but it will take him just about the whole novel to realise it.
Julia herself is a wonderfully warm character. She’s been raised with love and wants nothing less for her nieces and nephew despite their terrible loss. Some of the scenes with Julia and the children were beautiful – there was one particular scene, on Christmas Day, which I felt so deeply, my vision blurred from tears. Beautifully written.
While I enjoyed it, there were a few things I felt were totally unnecessary. Monique, Douglas��� mother really had a starring role as a Monster-in-Law and she drags up Julia’s ex husband who appeared for a fairly extraneous scene that really didn’t contribute to the overall plot. Douglas has some kind of sneaky beaky MI6 role and had disappeared for 2 years in the past and returned scarred and this is never explained. But, these were minor gripes, and I mostly enjoyed the romance and tension between Julia and Douglas.
I did wonder why the heroines are always American and not English when this series is set exclusively in England but have decided that this could be something to do with the fact that KA herself is an American living in England and she’s sharing those experiences through her heroines.
So, a good 4 star contemporary romance, with a brief ghostly interlude.
October 28, 2015
Why? Cuz it is October and something haunty is required and we can.
Also....cuz My Enabler Jessica and fellow KA lover Joanita said they would buddy read the entire series with me.
#impromptubuddyreadsforlife #imighthaveaproblem #KAjustgetsme
3.5 The House Doesn't Like Strangers Stars
Have you ever walked into a house or room and it has a ‘feel’ about it? Whether it is good or bad there is just something that surrounds you and makes your emotions shift a certain way. Well Sommersgate house has that definite feel to it to all those who live there and it is unmistakable what the house is feeling.
The house it seems is haunted by two lovers who were killed shortly after they were married and a horrific way and over the years they are made to relive their deaths time and time again. The curse will only be broken when the master of the house finds true love. But that it seems is hard to come by and so hundreds of years have passed.
While I was immediately drawn into the first book of this series, this one takes some time. The beginning is a little slow at it is being set up and I will say that this is one of the few times I’ve felt like KA is guilty of info dumping. But, once we get the first few chapters in everything starts to pick-up.
Douglas it seems is a broken man and a man of mystery. No one seems to know what he does, he is gone most of the time and once disappeared for two years. Julia had a bad marriage that totally broke her confidence and she hasn’t trusted a man since. When both her husband and father basically abandoned her she decided that she would never let someone that close again…then her brother died.
Julia and Douglas are thrown together to raise the two children left behind when their parents died. It was Douglas’s sister Tamsin’s last wish that he and Julia raise the children together at Sommersgate. It is quickly clear that they are clashing over what each expects from the other and Douglas isn’t used to anyone standing up against him let alone a beautiful woman…..so let the sparks fly.
The story might start out a little slow but that is the feel of coming into a house of morning and trying to bring back 3 children from the depths of despair that is left when both of your parents die. I loved the tender moments that we get as this family starts to put themselves back together. Sometimes it was so incredibly heartbreaking as each child comes to terms with it in different ways.
Douglas is bound and determined that Julia will be his wife and they will raise the children together. But Julia after her horrendous last marriage keeps putting him off and saying no. Seriously even I was starting to get more and more disgruntled with her reluctance because it was taking sooo long. Douglas was definitely playing the long game on this one.
Overall though this is one of the more drawn out of KA’s love stories and loved all the small gestures that Douglas makes not only with Julia but also with the children as he learns how to love a family and receive their love in return.
There are always some hiccups along the way and the culmination of the story that will release the ghosts was interesting and really good. But for me one of the best parts of the story was the epilogue that gave little snippets of what all the characters did in the future. It was so interesting to see what sort of future they all had.
Also....cuz My Enabler Jessica and fellow KA lover Joanita said they would buddy read the entire series with me.
#impromptubuddyreadsforlife #imighthaveaproblem #KAjustgetsme
3.5 The House Doesn't Like Strangers Stars
Have you ever walked into a house or room and it has a ‘feel’ about it? Whether it is good or bad there is just something that surrounds you and makes your emotions shift a certain way. Well Sommersgate house has that definite feel to it to all those who live there and it is unmistakable what the house is feeling.
Worst of all, the house was tense and make no mistake about it, even though it was simply mortar and stone (albeit grand mortar and stone), Sommersgate could most definitely be tense.
The house it seems is haunted by two lovers who were killed shortly after they were married and a horrific way and over the years they are made to relive their deaths time and time again. The curse will only be broken when the master of the house finds true love. But that it seems is hard to come by and so hundreds of years have passed.
While I was immediately drawn into the first book of this series, this one takes some time. The beginning is a little slow at it is being set up and I will say that this is one of the few times I’ve felt like KA is guilty of info dumping. But, once we get the first few chapters in everything starts to pick-up.
Douglas it seems is a broken man and a man of mystery. No one seems to know what he does, he is gone most of the time and once disappeared for two years. Julia had a bad marriage that totally broke her confidence and she hasn’t trusted a man since. When both her husband and father basically abandoned her she decided that she would never let someone that close again…then her brother died.
Julia and Douglas are thrown together to raise the two children left behind when their parents died. It was Douglas’s sister Tamsin’s last wish that he and Julia raise the children together at Sommersgate. It is quickly clear that they are clashing over what each expects from the other and Douglas isn’t used to anyone standing up against him let alone a beautiful woman…..so let the sparks fly.
“As for Tamsin’s wishes, I intend to carry them out to the letter. There was a reason she wanted you here, you and your delectable body and your enticing perfume and your legs that go on forever.”
She was stunned by his words and could barely process them before he went on.
“My sister was a romantic and she cared for us both. She had very specific intentions for this little arrangement she created and I’ve no doubt she talked Gavin around to her way of thinking.”
The story might start out a little slow but that is the feel of coming into a house of morning and trying to bring back 3 children from the depths of despair that is left when both of your parents die. I loved the tender moments that we get as this family starts to put themselves back together. Sometimes it was so incredibly heartbreaking as each child comes to terms with it in different ways.
Douglas is bound and determined that Julia will be his wife and they will raise the children together. But Julia after her horrendous last marriage keeps putting him off and saying no. Seriously even I was starting to get more and more disgruntled with her reluctance because it was taking sooo long. Douglas was definitely playing the long game on this one.
Clearly, Douglas realised what Julia had officially termed (in her own mind) “The Tender Onslaught Strategy (with Vague Tendencies Toward Arrogance)” was working beautifully so he kept right on using it.
Overall though this is one of the more drawn out of KA’s love stories and loved all the small gestures that Douglas makes not only with Julia but also with the children as he learns how to love a family and receive their love in return.
There are always some hiccups along the way and the culmination of the story that will release the ghosts was interesting and really good. But for me one of the best parts of the story was the epilogue that gave little snippets of what all the characters did in the future. It was so interesting to see what sort of future they all had.
February 26, 2017
To be honest, I didn't feel all that much from this book. Sure it had its moments, but I couldn't really get into it. It is, perhaps, because I was doing other stuff while reading, like... re-watching Once Upon A Time with Mom. Oh well. The characters were nice. Julia Fairfax (36) had some spark, backbone, heartbroken, and broken, yet so kind and loving.
Just as Julia, Douglas Ashton (38) had his demons (I wish we had gotten to know more about him; his job), was commanding, sexy, knew what he wanted; took it, and dangerous. He was hot, but far from my favorite KA alpha male. The rest of the family; Ruby (4), William (10) and Elizabeth (12), even Veronika (17) was adorable, though I wished we had gotten a chance to know them more. I almost felt like a person looking from the outside... Overall, it's a alright story, but not for me. I was a bit disappointed in this book, to be frankly honest.
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (Adult) Paranormal Romance
Series: - Series, Book Two
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Favorite character? - Douglas Ashton
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Yes.
Would I recommend this book/series? - Sure.
Will I read this again in the future? - No.
Rating - 2.5 stars.
“No one knows the real story,” Mrs. K began. “Some say he killed her, some say someone else killed them both. The truth is, they found his body outside, dead from exposure and looking like he’d been trying to get in. They found The Mistress in the house and she’d been strangled.”
Just as Julia, Douglas Ashton (38) had his demons (I wish we had gotten to know more about him; his job), was commanding, sexy, knew what he wanted; took it, and dangerous. He was hot, but far from my favorite KA alpha male. The rest of the family; Ruby (4), William (10) and Elizabeth (12), even Veronika (17) was adorable, though I wished we had gotten a chance to know them more. I almost felt like a person looking from the outside... Overall, it's a alright story, but not for me. I was a bit disappointed in this book, to be frankly honest.
“If you ever leave,” his voice had changed from soft to harsh, “I’ll find you and bring you back.”
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (Adult) Paranormal Romance
Series: - Series, Book Two
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Favorite character? - Douglas Ashton
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Yes.
Would I recommend this book/series? - Sure.
Will I read this again in the future? - No.
Rating - 2.5 stars.
March 25, 2023
4.5 stars
Loved it! Ending and epilogue was a little weak for KA. But otherwise I loved this story! The ghost story was poignant and 1000 times better than the first book in the series.
There are so many great reviews I do not think I can add anything of value. But to add my thumbs up for this one!
Loved it! Ending and epilogue was a little weak for KA. But otherwise I loved this story! The ghost story was poignant and 1000 times better than the first book in the series.
There are so many great reviews I do not think I can add anything of value. But to add my thumbs up for this one!
February 26, 2014
4 KA Dreams, Ghosts and Fairytales Stars
“If I could ... I’d have the world watch me make you mine.”
Once again Kristen Ashley proves that fairytales and happily ever afters aren't just Disney movies and they aren't over because we just stopped being kids. With great emotion, her usual flair for the dramatic, attention to the detail and a huge imagination she narrates a ghost story about eternal love, family bonds and hope. That the power of love will thaw a cold-hearted man and set free two souls eternally in love and break the curse that haunts the castle.
It was sweet, magical and sassy just like I LOVE KA books!
“If I could ... I’d have the world watch me make you mine.”
Once again Kristen Ashley proves that fairytales and happily ever afters aren't just Disney movies and they aren't over because we just stopped being kids. With great emotion, her usual flair for the dramatic, attention to the detail and a huge imagination she narrates a ghost story about eternal love, family bonds and hope. That the power of love will thaw a cold-hearted man and set free two souls eternally in love and break the curse that haunts the castle.
It was sweet, magical and sassy just like I LOVE KA books!
May 27, 2022
4.5 stars for this amazing book!
This book had my favorite type of hero—ever!! Growly, possessive, damaged and tender at times. This story snuck up on me. It took me a few chapters to fully grasp what was going on, but once I caught on, it was game on!
First of all, the narrator was extremely good in this book. It really enhanced the story imo. I love stories with kids and these kids stole my heart! I love that this story involved past, present and future. I also love the ghostly element and this twisty love story. Ghosts need their hea also.
This was unlike any story I’ve ever read. This couple was perfect and their scenes together when they finally hit the sheets—totally hawt 🥵 This story was totally perfect and made my heart feel full and whole. I can’t wait to continue on with this series.
This book had my favorite type of hero—ever!! Growly, possessive, damaged and tender at times. This story snuck up on me. It took me a few chapters to fully grasp what was going on, but once I caught on, it was game on!
First of all, the narrator was extremely good in this book. It really enhanced the story imo. I love stories with kids and these kids stole my heart! I love that this story involved past, present and future. I also love the ghostly element and this twisty love story. Ghosts need their hea also.
This was unlike any story I’ve ever read. This couple was perfect and their scenes together when they finally hit the sheets—totally hawt 🥵 This story was totally perfect and made my heart feel full and whole. I can’t wait to continue on with this series.
May 8, 2012
After having read 'Penmort Castle', I was all ready to sit down and read a pleasantly entertaining 'Sommersgate House'... but instead of treating myself to a good book, I got a great book! (WOOT - I love when that happens!!) Seriously, 'Sommersgate House' (IMO) can hold its own against the many phenomenal KA books I've had the fortune to read.
Julia and Douglas have been thrust into the role of guardians to their two young nieces and nephew after their parents (Julia's brother and Douglas' sister) tragically die in a car accident. In addition to naming them as guardians, the will also stipulates that the children are to be brought up in Douglas' gothicly morose ancestral home, Sommersgate House... which just happens to be haunted by relatively benign but cursed ghosts.
After Julia, an American, leaves everything behind and moves to the UK to help raise the children she and Douglas have to deal their attraction to one another - she's determined to keep things platonic, but he's decided Julia will make the perfect wife and, in typical KA alpha-male action, Douglas pulls out all the stops to make her his. The result is an amazing and emotionally-charged story - and the emotionally-handicapped but determined Douglas has been added to my "notable KA heroes" list!
On a side note I do wish we could have gotten a bit more insight into Douglas' dangerous "job" (I assume he was an agent of sorts), and the elusive "Nick" but this bit of omission didn't detract too much from the overall story...
Julia and Douglas have been thrust into the role of guardians to their two young nieces and nephew after their parents (Julia's brother and Douglas' sister) tragically die in a car accident. In addition to naming them as guardians, the will also stipulates that the children are to be brought up in Douglas' gothicly morose ancestral home, Sommersgate House... which just happens to be haunted by relatively benign but cursed ghosts.
After Julia, an American, leaves everything behind and moves to the UK to help raise the children she and Douglas have to deal their attraction to one another - she's determined to keep things platonic, but he's decided Julia will make the perfect wife and, in typical KA alpha-male action, Douglas pulls out all the stops to make her his. The result is an amazing and emotionally-charged story - and the emotionally-handicapped but determined Douglas has been added to my "notable KA heroes" list!
On a side note I do wish we could have gotten a bit more insight into Douglas' dangerous "job" (I assume he was an agent of sorts), and the elusive "Nick" but this bit of omission didn't detract too much from the overall story...
July 10, 2023
July 10, 2023- I absolutely love this story!
March 24, 2018
Third reread. I loved it even more. Bumping on up to 5 stars!
Reread/Audio Review February 11, 2017
4 1/2 "Douglas and Julia" Stars!!
Love, love, love! I mostly just listened to it this time around. The narrator was very good.
Douglas was absolutely swoony. Julia was a quirky KA heroin, but not stupid or annoying. She was quite likeable actually. The children were simply precious. I do love a story with children and the children are actually a real part of the story. This was well done here. Also the secondary adult characters were all very likeable too. Overall very, very good. I think the only reason this was not 5 Stars for me is because the ghost were not very present in the story. They seemed a bit of an afterthought. Happy reading!!
Original Review April 7, 2014
Another fantastic read from KA. I love the way she clearly loves clothes! Julia and Douglas are great and all the children are wonderful. This book has a really wonderful cast of characters. Douglas making the toast... I got vey teary eyed. William... oh, my, what an absolutely charming, thoughtful and mature young man. His future wife is a very lucky girl. I'm not all surprised at how the girls turned out. Especially Ruby. She is adorable. The ending was so touching. It was perfect. I only wish the ghost had more of an appearance in the story. I highly recommend this book, as I do all KA books I have read so far.
March 24, 2018
Third reread. I loved it even more. Bumping on up to 5 stars!
Reread/Audio Review February 11, 2017
4 1/2 "Douglas and Julia" Stars!!
Love, love, love! I mostly just listened to it this time around. The narrator was very good.
Douglas was absolutely swoony. Julia was a quirky KA heroin, but not stupid or annoying. She was quite likeable actually. The children were simply precious. I do love a story with children and the children are actually a real part of the story. This was well done here. Also the secondary adult characters were all very likeable too. Overall very, very good. I think the only reason this was not 5 Stars for me is because the ghost were not very present in the story. They seemed a bit of an afterthought. Happy reading!!
Original Review April 7, 2014
Another fantastic read from KA. I love the way she clearly loves clothes! Julia and Douglas are great and all the children are wonderful. This book has a really wonderful cast of characters. Douglas making the toast... I got vey teary eyed. William... oh, my, what an absolutely charming, thoughtful and mature young man. His future wife is a very lucky girl. I'm not all surprised at how the girls turned out. Especially Ruby. She is adorable. The ending was so touching. It was perfect. I only wish the ghost had more of an appearance in the story. I highly recommend this book, as I do all KA books I have read so far.
September 24, 2017
I really liked this story!
The writing, characters and story were typical 'Kristen Ashley'.
Douglas and Julia are amazing together, as well as Will, Lizzie, and Ruby.... absolutely ADORED Ruby!
The writing, characters and story were typical 'Kristen Ashley'.
Douglas and Julia are amazing together, as well as Will, Lizzie, and Ruby.... absolutely ADORED Ruby!
January 14, 2021
3.5ish I guess.
If you didn't know who wrote it, you'd never connect it to KA.
But knowing it, the clues tumble out here and there.
The absence of chin nods and (mostly) of F bombs is a relief. Till the author could not resist it!
And the over-use and many a times unnecessary use of parentheses in sentences is another nod to same. The shambolic use of grammar rules and first/second person is another familiar one.
I like the British setting and the British baron H is divine. As unapologetically alpha as they come.
The American h is a soft-hearted but confident woman. And call me shallow but it's good to read a youngish (35) and very beautiful KA h. Usually they are older, fighting weight, self-image and low confidence issues. Nothing wrong in that but too much of the same thing etc.
The h/H come together to take care of their shared nephew and nieces - traumatized after the death of their parents. The h/H always had a subliminal chemistry but ignored it for 15 years! The h has had a bad marriage to another successful alpha guy (picked for his general similarities to the H) and thus wants nothing more of the same.
And so the story rolls. And rolls and rolls...
(Repetitive happenings and excessive push-pull do not make a plot.)
As for the pnr/ghost(s) angle, it's close to ridiculous.
I, for one, would run screaming from a house where I see a dead guy almost nightly and who keeps scratching at my window. Or after feeling the presence of another ghost as a cold mist wrapping around my ankles. NOT go on about life normally, barely discussing it and carry on with a romance on the side.
And so was the nudge wink reference to the H as a kinda secret black op guy.
If you didn't know who wrote it, you'd never connect it to KA.
But knowing it, the clues tumble out here and there.
The absence of chin nods and (mostly) of F bombs is a relief. Till the author could not resist it!
And the over-use and many a times unnecessary use of parentheses in sentences is another nod to same. The shambolic use of grammar rules and first/second person is another familiar one.
I like the British setting and the British baron H is divine. As unapologetically alpha as they come.
The American h is a soft-hearted but confident woman. And call me shallow but it's good to read a youngish (35) and very beautiful KA h. Usually they are older, fighting weight, self-image and low confidence issues. Nothing wrong in that but too much of the same thing etc.
The h/H come together to take care of their shared nephew and nieces - traumatized after the death of their parents. The h/H always had a subliminal chemistry but ignored it for 15 years! The h has had a bad marriage to another successful alpha guy (picked for his general similarities to the H) and thus wants nothing more of the same.
And so the story rolls. And rolls and rolls...
(Repetitive happenings and excessive push-pull do not make a plot.)
As for the pnr/ghost(s) angle, it's close to ridiculous.
I, for one, would run screaming from a house where I see a dead guy almost nightly and who keeps scratching at my window. Or after feeling the presence of another ghost as a cold mist wrapping around my ankles. NOT go on about life normally, barely discussing it and carry on with a romance on the side.
And so was the nudge wink reference to the H as a kinda secret black op guy.
January 8, 2024
i should have known better, i am a huge KA fan but i don't really like ghosts or paranormal story so i was really hesitant to get this book, BUT of course it was awesome, it was heartwarming, fun, and sexy. the characters were all so well developed and very engaging. Douglas and Julia are a great couple, they have great chemistry and i loved the perfect tension and push and pull these two display. the supporting characters were just as good as the main characters and really helped the story move along. i immediately one-clicked the rest of the books in the series and can't wait to read them!
March 6, 2023
I had purchased this book ages ago and never read it until now. I really liked it and am wondering why I never read this book since I love Kristen Ashley. Maybe it is because I know that the story starts off with a tragedy and Douglas's sister and Julia's brother left three orphaned children to be raised by Douglas and Julia in a haunted castle.
September 18, 2014
4 STARS
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Another sweet romance from our girl! I really liked it, although it started out a bit slower than some of her other books, and was just a wee bit more predictable. This is the second book of Kristen Ashley’s Ghosts and Reincarnation series. And while I’m a huge fan of paranormal romance, I don’t normally go for ghost stories. This one however was what I would consider very MILD in spook factor, leaning more to the sweet than to the creepy. At least that is how is felt to me.
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What I liked most in this one was the hero of the story… Lord Douglas Ashton, Baron Blackbourne. Your typical tortured soul, devastatingly handsome, immeasurably wealthy, infuriatingly rakish and completely irresistible. On the outside, he seems cold and indifferent, but there are things going on in his head that are completely unpredictable. He is a complete alpha who is used to getting his way, and luck for Julia, he has patience, and lots of it…
“If I could ... I’d have the world watch me make you mine.”
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Because Julia Fairfax, is going to test him down to his last shred of it. She has been hurt before, not only by her mentally abusive ex-husband, but also by a father that abandoned her and her family at a young age, and continued to ignore them as he started a new family.
Not to mention, it had been a long time for her, a dry spell, an enormous dry spell and it was like not eating for months and then being shown to a five-star gourmet banquet.
Then when Julia and Douglas both lose their most beloved siblings and are entrusted in the rearing of their mutual nieces and nephew, they must come together in Douglas’ family home to fulfill the dying wishes of the children’s parents. A home that is not only daunting, and cold, but is apparently haunted by a family curse.
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For some reason, I didn't get into this story as much as the first book in the series, Penmort Castle. What I did love though, was the family dynamics present in the story. I loved Douglas.. Julia, not so much. She was just a bit too timid at times, and had a tendency to make stupid decisions. She did improve in the end, when she finally stopped being a idiot, but it was a painful process.
The kids were fantastic as usual. Little Ruby… just a gem, and I loved how the kids were always pulling for their Uncle Douglas, and scheming to help him get his girl.
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There were some really sweet romantic scenes between Douglas and Julia, how she could ever say no to that man was beyond me. I loved all of the friends and family that all seemed to be pulling for them.
“Well, well, well,” she said, “the beast awakens. About bloody time.”
I found the ghost story a bit un-needed, and glossed over. It was just accepted by the family, and dismissed as either Ruby’s imaginary friend or just family folklore. It was as if they all knew about the hauntings, but either didn’t care, or just accepted them as routine. No one made a big deal about the ghosts or the curse. It was just kind of ignored. Even when Julia started seeing and feeling things, they all just dismissed her claims, while all knowing that she was truly seeing them. They just went on letting her think she was just crazy.
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“I saw her… she formed from a mist, right in my room!”
He looked over his shoulder then back at her. “No ghost and no mist,” he declared.
“I swear I saw her…”
“You’re drunk.”
“I’m not drunk!” (even though she kind of was)
“The Mistress doesn’t show herself anyway. She’s always just there.”
Her eyes rounded at his words. “You know about this… the draughts, the whispers, the screams?” she asked him, her tone accusatory, as it bloody well should be.
“Of course, I’ve lived here all my life,” Douglas answered. “I’ve never seen it, felt it, or heard it, but I know about it.”
“That first night I was here, you made me think I was a crazy person.”
“If you believe in ghosts you are a crazy person,” he replied.
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Anyway, lots of great quotes, superb romantic intrigue, and a fabulous male lead. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series… Lacybourne Manor.
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“I’ll make you happy.”
Another sweet romance from our girl! I really liked it, although it started out a bit slower than some of her other books, and was just a wee bit more predictable. This is the second book of Kristen Ashley’s Ghosts and Reincarnation series. And while I’m a huge fan of paranormal romance, I don’t normally go for ghost stories. This one however was what I would consider very MILD in spook factor, leaning more to the sweet than to the creepy. At least that is how is felt to me.
What I liked most in this one was the hero of the story… Lord Douglas Ashton, Baron Blackbourne. Your typical tortured soul, devastatingly handsome, immeasurably wealthy, infuriatingly rakish and completely irresistible. On the outside, he seems cold and indifferent, but there are things going on in his head that are completely unpredictable. He is a complete alpha who is used to getting his way, and luck for Julia, he has patience, and lots of it…
“If I could ... I’d have the world watch me make you mine.”
Because Julia Fairfax, is going to test him down to his last shred of it. She has been hurt before, not only by her mentally abusive ex-husband, but also by a father that abandoned her and her family at a young age, and continued to ignore them as he started a new family.
Not to mention, it had been a long time for her, a dry spell, an enormous dry spell and it was like not eating for months and then being shown to a five-star gourmet banquet.
Then when Julia and Douglas both lose their most beloved siblings and are entrusted in the rearing of their mutual nieces and nephew, they must come together in Douglas’ family home to fulfill the dying wishes of the children’s parents. A home that is not only daunting, and cold, but is apparently haunted by a family curse.
For some reason, I didn't get into this story as much as the first book in the series, Penmort Castle. What I did love though, was the family dynamics present in the story. I loved Douglas.. Julia, not so much. She was just a bit too timid at times, and had a tendency to make stupid decisions. She did improve in the end, when she finally stopped being a idiot, but it was a painful process.
The kids were fantastic as usual. Little Ruby… just a gem, and I loved how the kids were always pulling for their Uncle Douglas, and scheming to help him get his girl.
There were some really sweet romantic scenes between Douglas and Julia, how she could ever say no to that man was beyond me. I loved all of the friends and family that all seemed to be pulling for them.
“Well, well, well,” she said, “the beast awakens. About bloody time.”
I found the ghost story a bit un-needed, and glossed over. It was just accepted by the family, and dismissed as either Ruby’s imaginary friend or just family folklore. It was as if they all knew about the hauntings, but either didn’t care, or just accepted them as routine. No one made a big deal about the ghosts or the curse. It was just kind of ignored. Even when Julia started seeing and feeling things, they all just dismissed her claims, while all knowing that she was truly seeing them. They just went on letting her think she was just crazy.
“I saw her… she formed from a mist, right in my room!”
He looked over his shoulder then back at her. “No ghost and no mist,” he declared.
“I swear I saw her…”
“You’re drunk.”
“I’m not drunk!” (even though she kind of was)
“The Mistress doesn’t show herself anyway. She’s always just there.”
Her eyes rounded at his words. “You know about this… the draughts, the whispers, the screams?” she asked him, her tone accusatory, as it bloody well should be.
“Of course, I’ve lived here all my life,” Douglas answered. “I’ve never seen it, felt it, or heard it, but I know about it.”
“That first night I was here, you made me think I was a crazy person.”
“If you believe in ghosts you are a crazy person,” he replied.
Anyway, lots of great quotes, superb romantic intrigue, and a fabulous male lead. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series… Lacybourne Manor.
“I’ll make you happy.”
June 16, 2018
4.5 Sommersgate House Stars
Ok so I liked book one but I enjoyed book two just a little bit more.
The dynamic in which these characters come together is sad and heartbreaking. But also so very needed for all of them to heal.
The children needed a home, and the house needed a family. Douglas needed love and family who cared. And Julia needed to heal.
I didn't not like Douglas, in the beginning, I would call it cautious. I wondered why he was so standoffish and you learn why that is and your heart goes out to him.
I think I felt most for Julia just because she cared her grief on the outside and it was hard for her to be brave. Plus her past is kind of sad but for the most part she doesn't or I should say tries really hard to put it in the past but sometimes the past is just so painful it stays with you for a lot longer then you wish it would.
I love the interaction between the staff and the children, just all of it is refreshing, I have read a lot of books with kids but I like when they are so intertwined in the story that you couldn't image it without them.
Last but not least having a glimpse into Douglas and Julia falling in love was precious and I am so glad I listened to this audio, Abby does a great job with this narration. I enjoyed all her character voice. Worth the credit for sure.
*You don't have to like my review but its 100% my opinion, and I am allowed to have it.*
Ok so I liked book one but I enjoyed book two just a little bit more.
The dynamic in which these characters come together is sad and heartbreaking. But also so very needed for all of them to heal.
The children needed a home, and the house needed a family. Douglas needed love and family who cared. And Julia needed to heal.
I didn't not like Douglas, in the beginning, I would call it cautious. I wondered why he was so standoffish and you learn why that is and your heart goes out to him.
I think I felt most for Julia just because she cared her grief on the outside and it was hard for her to be brave. Plus her past is kind of sad but for the most part she doesn't or I should say tries really hard to put it in the past but sometimes the past is just so painful it stays with you for a lot longer then you wish it would.
I love the interaction between the staff and the children, just all of it is refreshing, I have read a lot of books with kids but I like when they are so intertwined in the story that you couldn't image it without them.
Last but not least having a glimpse into Douglas and Julia falling in love was precious and I am so glad I listened to this audio, Abby does a great job with this narration. I enjoyed all her character voice. Worth the credit for sure.
*You don't have to like my review but its 100% my opinion, and I am allowed to have it.*
September 1, 2012
Wonderful book by Kristen Ashley! Although, I must warn you, it was 1,085 pages, (according to my Nook), and patience is a MUST while reading this story.
Lord Douglas Ashton is a wealthy, tall, dark and handsome Englishman who, years ago, inherited the mansion that is Sommersgate House. He and his sister, Tamsin, were raised in the house, by parents who probably should never have had children, and who also mentally or verbally abused them. Douglas's only glint of happiness was that brought on by his sister, who adored and admired him relentlessly. Because their parents were detached and very cold towards Douglas, especially, his demeanor understandably changes throughout the years, leaving a 38 year old, very handsome man who demonstrates authority with very little emotion, and very few words. Unfortunately for him, tragedy strikes as Tamsin and her husband, Gavin, are killed in a horrific car accident, leaving three children behind; all under the age of 12.
Julia Fairfax is Gavin's sister and equally devastated by the death of her beloved brother and his wife. When news of Gavin and Tamsin's will is revealed, Julia immediately quits her job, sells her house and leaves her family in Indiana to co-parent the children with the elusive Lord Douglas Ashton at Sommersgate mansion. Fortunately for Julia, she has visited the mansion as a guest many times for holidays and family gatherings, and always felt an attraction towards Lord Douglas. Although, never really knowing how he feels about her, she carries on and attempts to make a home in a far away place that is nothing like "home."
This is the first book by Kristen Ashley that I have read and the writing alone was lovely. She is VERY descriptive and (at least in this book), drags events, situations and feelings out over time. Nothing is quick, nothing is fast and quite frankly, when I saw that the book was so long, I thought to myself, "this better be a great freaking book!" And what a great book it was! I can honestly say that I never became bored or wished we could "move it along," however, I was irritated by Julia's indecisiveness and non-combative characteristics. Thankfully, she would surprise me, though, and I found myself almost clapping my hands for her! This is a very romantic story about two extremely damaged indiviuals who find love, but have no idea what to do next. It was genuine, it was unpredictable and it is one of my favorite books to date. Simply wonderful.
Lord Douglas Ashton is a wealthy, tall, dark and handsome Englishman who, years ago, inherited the mansion that is Sommersgate House. He and his sister, Tamsin, were raised in the house, by parents who probably should never have had children, and who also mentally or verbally abused them. Douglas's only glint of happiness was that brought on by his sister, who adored and admired him relentlessly. Because their parents were detached and very cold towards Douglas, especially, his demeanor understandably changes throughout the years, leaving a 38 year old, very handsome man who demonstrates authority with very little emotion, and very few words. Unfortunately for him, tragedy strikes as Tamsin and her husband, Gavin, are killed in a horrific car accident, leaving three children behind; all under the age of 12.
Julia Fairfax is Gavin's sister and equally devastated by the death of her beloved brother and his wife. When news of Gavin and Tamsin's will is revealed, Julia immediately quits her job, sells her house and leaves her family in Indiana to co-parent the children with the elusive Lord Douglas Ashton at Sommersgate mansion. Fortunately for Julia, she has visited the mansion as a guest many times for holidays and family gatherings, and always felt an attraction towards Lord Douglas. Although, never really knowing how he feels about her, she carries on and attempts to make a home in a far away place that is nothing like "home."
This is the first book by Kristen Ashley that I have read and the writing alone was lovely. She is VERY descriptive and (at least in this book), drags events, situations and feelings out over time. Nothing is quick, nothing is fast and quite frankly, when I saw that the book was so long, I thought to myself, "this better be a great freaking book!" And what a great book it was! I can honestly say that I never became bored or wished we could "move it along," however, I was irritated by Julia's indecisiveness and non-combative characteristics. Thankfully, she would surprise me, though, and I found myself almost clapping my hands for her! This is a very romantic story about two extremely damaged indiviuals who find love, but have no idea what to do next. It was genuine, it was unpredictable and it is one of my favorite books to date. Simply wonderful.
June 11, 2019
Another Ghost in the Machine from the Ghosts & Reincarnation series. An improvement with a sensible but incredibly dressed Midwestern H that has to move to the Ice Lord's castle so she can take care of her orphaned nieces and nephew.
Chica has to give up her life in Indiana or some other midwest state in order to help raise or actually simply raise her brother's children. She moves into the manor with the shutdown and cold atmosphere that the H's evil, shallow, insert another BAD adjective Mother has helped create. Grandma being a Bitch on Four Wheels won't let her grandchildren have sweets, butter (the elixir of life, and is definitely not into bedtime cuddles. If cold neglect was good enough for her children, then gosh darn it, it's good enough for her grandchildren.
The H, another Man of Intonational Mystery, is closed down. Closed down when it comes to the children despite the fact he loved his sister, their mother, but lust for the heroine opens a tiny door to humanity.
The Ghost story is pretty pathetic, but the push/pull between the H and h is done well. I get the feeling that when KA leaves the US behind, she leaves some of the incomprehensible lexicon behind.
This h is more intelligent and balanced than most KA heroines. Nature and KA abhorring a void, make up for it with another incredibly bossy hero. He also has no problems in laying down the law with his awful mother and serves her swift retribution.
I bought the HEA, and the H's love not just because I had to, but he is one KA H determined to make it so.
Chica has to give up her life in Indiana or some other midwest state in order to help raise or actually simply raise her brother's children. She moves into the manor with the shutdown and cold atmosphere that the H's evil, shallow, insert another BAD adjective Mother has helped create. Grandma being a Bitch on Four Wheels won't let her grandchildren have sweets, butter (the elixir of life, and is definitely not into bedtime cuddles. If cold neglect was good enough for her children, then gosh darn it, it's good enough for her grandchildren.
The H, another Man of Intonational Mystery, is closed down. Closed down when it comes to the children despite the fact he loved his sister, their mother, but lust for the heroine opens a tiny door to humanity.
The Ghost story is pretty pathetic, but the push/pull between the H and h is done well. I get the feeling that when KA leaves the US behind, she leaves some of the incomprehensible lexicon behind.
This h is more intelligent and balanced than most KA heroines. Nature and KA abhorring a void, make up for it with another incredibly bossy hero. He also has no problems in laying down the law with his awful mother and serves her swift retribution.
I bought the HEA, and the H's love not just because I had to, but he is one KA H determined to make it so.
January 1, 2019
3 Stars
Overall Opinion: I did something I told myself I shouldn't do, and I'm kinda kicking myself for it. I read two Kristen Ashley books back to back. I was able to borrow the whole e-series from my library when I got it for Penmort Castle and I still had time left in the loan, so I thought "what the heck? Why not just read the next one?". I think it was just too much. I think I might've liked the better if I didn't read them back to back. I didn't like how the h pushed away so much. I also was really disappointed in the epilogue. The kids? They were great. I think KA is one of the best authors that I have read when it comes to incorporating children into romances. I just wanted more tbh. Don't get me wrong -- I didn't hate it, and I did enjoy it at times, I just didn't love it.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Julia and Douglas' story. Julia's brother and Douglas' sister died together and left their children in the care of Julia and Douglas. They also requested that their children would be raised in the haunted Sommersgate House. They had always admired one another from afar, but never acted on their attraction before. But when they are stuck in close quarters and made to live together for the foreseeable future, they have a hard time fighting their attraction. There is a good bit of baggage that both of them have to work through, some family drama, some sexy times, and some ghosts held in the house by a curse...and they get a HEA ending.
POV: This alternated between Julia's POV and focusing on Douglas in 3rd person narrative (and a few other side characters).
Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.
Instalove: No, but there were hints that there were feelings already there from knowing each other over the years.
H rating: 3.5 stars. Douglas. I liked how he cared for others deeply even under his prickly shell, but I also didn't feel like we got as into his character as much as I would've liked.
h rating: 3.5 stars. Julia. I also liked how she cared for others and how she was smart and sweet. I did get a little frustrated with her at times pushing the H away though.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull:Yes
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story. It would probably be considered a "slow-burn" because they take a while before they're fully intimate.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW/OM drama: Mild
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: No
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had a good amount of closure in the epilogue and what I would call a HEA ending. I, however, felt like it lacked the emotions and was even feeling clinical in how it wrapped everyone's stories up. Sadly, I just didn't feel like I expect to at the end of a KA book.
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
Overall Opinion: I did something I told myself I shouldn't do, and I'm kinda kicking myself for it. I read two Kristen Ashley books back to back. I was able to borrow the whole e-series from my library when I got it for Penmort Castle and I still had time left in the loan, so I thought "what the heck? Why not just read the next one?". I think it was just too much. I think I might've liked the better if I didn't read them back to back. I didn't like how the h pushed away so much. I also was really disappointed in the epilogue. The kids? They were great. I think KA is one of the best authors that I have read when it comes to incorporating children into romances. I just wanted more tbh. Don't get me wrong -- I didn't hate it, and I did enjoy it at times, I just didn't love it.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Julia and Douglas' story. Julia's brother and Douglas' sister died together and left their children in the care of Julia and Douglas. They also requested that their children would be raised in the haunted Sommersgate House. They had always admired one another from afar, but never acted on their attraction before. But when they are stuck in close quarters and made to live together for the foreseeable future, they have a hard time fighting their attraction. There is a good bit of baggage that both of them have to work through, some family drama, some sexy times, and some ghosts held in the house by a curse...and they get a HEA ending.
POV: This alternated between Julia's POV and focusing on Douglas in 3rd person narrative (and a few other side characters).
Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.
Instalove: No, but there were hints that there were feelings already there from knowing each other over the years.
H rating: 3.5 stars. Douglas. I liked how he cared for others deeply even under his prickly shell, but I also didn't feel like we got as into his character as much as I would've liked.
h rating: 3.5 stars. Julia. I also liked how she cared for others and how she was smart and sweet. I did get a little frustrated with her at times pushing the H away though.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull:Yes
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story. It would probably be considered a "slow-burn" because they take a while before they're fully intimate.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW/OM drama: Mild
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: No
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had a good amount of closure in the epilogue and what I would call a HEA ending. I, however, felt like it lacked the emotions and was even feeling clinical in how it wrapped everyone's stories up. Sadly, I just didn't feel like I expect to at the end of a KA book.
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
November 17, 2023
Re-Read 2023
I really had every intention of re-reading the series and writing amazing reviews. Instead, I re-read the series one right after another and am now here to write my thoughts. Yeah, like I can even remember my thoughts, hahahahahah!
Ok. This was still such a sad but beautiful story. Past and present and I really enjoyed my third go. As I mentioned in my 2020 review, I probably wouldn't give this all the stars but it held up (aside from the phones, haha!) and I loved the ghost story.
*******
Re-Read 2020 - 4★'s
Maybe the remainder of 2020 I’ll just do re-reads of favorites and Christmas stories in December.
I’ve been struggling a bit with books. I’m enjoying what I read (kind of), don’t get me wrong, I’m just having a hard time picking something I want to read. I’m busy, times are super strange, it gets dark the minute I get off work and it is starting to get cold (this is not necessarily a complaint just a fact). I could probably go on, but to sum it all up, I’ve been struggling.
So, I figured, Kristen Ashley. She’s a favorite and her books are most always a favorite too.
So, this book, I originally read in 2012. Man, that’s a long time ago in years but in book years? That almost qualifies the book as un-read, haha! Add to that, I never reviewed books back then and I almost always rated high. I was seriously intimidated about writing anything in the review space and I was always concerned I’d hurt someone’s feelings with a low rating. I’ve changed a bit since then…bwwwaaaahaaaaaa!
But really. This felt fresh and new. I would not put it on my Favorites shelf this go round and probably would remove one star if this was the first read but overall, I got sucked right in (like I do with KA’s books) and didn’t want to put it down.
The “game” drove me absolutely CRAZY! More and more that type of romance setup, well, I just don’t have the patience for it and I know that’s due to my age. I’m more about the words then the assuming, ya know? But everything else? Yeah. Man, I don’t recall this being as emotional as it was and really, it was very emotional. Death of parents and small kids will do it I guess but there were many, many instances I was tearing up and not always from the sad.
So, not as good as 2012 Jen felt about it, but 2020 Jen still adored it.
I really had every intention of re-reading the series and writing amazing reviews. Instead, I re-read the series one right after another and am now here to write my thoughts. Yeah, like I can even remember my thoughts, hahahahahah!
Ok. This was still such a sad but beautiful story. Past and present and I really enjoyed my third go. As I mentioned in my 2020 review, I probably wouldn't give this all the stars but it held up (aside from the phones, haha!) and I loved the ghost story.
*******
Re-Read 2020 - 4★'s
Maybe the remainder of 2020 I’ll just do re-reads of favorites and Christmas stories in December.
I’ve been struggling a bit with books. I’m enjoying what I read (kind of), don’t get me wrong, I’m just having a hard time picking something I want to read. I’m busy, times are super strange, it gets dark the minute I get off work and it is starting to get cold (this is not necessarily a complaint just a fact). I could probably go on, but to sum it all up, I’ve been struggling.
So, I figured, Kristen Ashley. She’s a favorite and her books are most always a favorite too.
So, this book, I originally read in 2012. Man, that’s a long time ago in years but in book years? That almost qualifies the book as un-read, haha! Add to that, I never reviewed books back then and I almost always rated high. I was seriously intimidated about writing anything in the review space and I was always concerned I’d hurt someone’s feelings with a low rating. I’ve changed a bit since then…bwwwaaaahaaaaaa!
But really. This felt fresh and new. I would not put it on my Favorites shelf this go round and probably would remove one star if this was the first read but overall, I got sucked right in (like I do with KA’s books) and didn’t want to put it down.
The “game” drove me absolutely CRAZY! More and more that type of romance setup, well, I just don’t have the patience for it and I know that’s due to my age. I’m more about the words then the assuming, ya know? But everything else? Yeah. Man, I don’t recall this being as emotional as it was and really, it was very emotional. Death of parents and small kids will do it I guess but there were many, many instances I was tearing up and not always from the sad.
So, not as good as 2012 Jen felt about it, but 2020 Jen still adored it.
March 11, 2015
3 sad Disappointing stars .. :/
only because i wish the story had a bit more of both Lord Archie and Lady Ruby involved you know ? ( that was seriously the real reason i picked up the book it the first place.) i DONT think my expectations were initially high for this book , but guess the ghostly reference in the summery and the absence of the good spirits ( until the climax) made it a bit hard to swallow....
otherwise it was a pretty sweet read.i think my favorites were the Christmas scenes and Tamsin’s (charity ) ball.....if the ghostly climax is excluded.. :)
Though of course..this book did have its moments !
RECOMMENDATION:if you guys LOVED this..im pretty sure THIS one would BLOW YOUR MIND ! =====>http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/...
check it out ! u might find it interesting !
only because i wish the story had a bit more of both Lord Archie and Lady Ruby involved you know ? ( that was seriously the real reason i picked up the book it the first place.) i DONT think my expectations were initially high for this book , but guess the ghostly reference in the summery and the absence of the good spirits ( until the climax) made it a bit hard to swallow....
otherwise it was a pretty sweet read.i think my favorites were the Christmas scenes and Tamsin’s (charity ) ball.....if the ghostly climax is excluded.. :)
Though of course..this book did have its moments !
RECOMMENDATION:if you guys LOVED this..im pretty sure THIS one would BLOW YOUR MIND ! =====>http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/...
check it out ! u might find it interesting !
October 13, 2013
I LOVE KRISTEN ASHLEY! I’ve said it before, but with each book of hers I read, I adore her more and more.
I went into this book suffering from a massive book funk, and I knew pretty much instantly that this would be the book to drag me back into the land of happy readers. When in doubt – leave it to KA to pull you through. She never lets me down, and she did it again with this beautiful story of love, family, and healing from tragedy.
Upon the tragic and untimely death of Gavin and Tamsin Fairfax, their three children are left orphaned and in the care of Gavin’s sister, Julia, and Tamsin’s brother, Douglas, with the stipulation that the children must be raised in Tamsin’s family home – Sommersgate House. Wanting nothing more than to be there for the nephew and two nieces that she adores, Julia packs up her life in the US, giving up everything to move to England to honour the wishes of her beloved brother and his wife. On arrival, she finds three grieving children living in a miserable, spooky old house with downtrodden house staff, all under the control of Douglas and Tamsin’s evil witch of a mother. Still struggling with her own grief, Julia is also dealing with being in a new country, leaving her mother and friends behind, and being without a job or any real support from the barely present Douglas. But, being the strong, stubborn and feisty girl that she is, Julia gets straight on with unreservedly giving the children the love and attention they have been missing, and bringing life back into the house.
And then there are the ghosts. Sommersgate House is haunted by the spirit of two tormented lovers from centuries ago who are cursed to remain separated for all eternity and trapped at Sommersgate unless the master of the house finds true love, and somebody to love him back. The two ghosts make their presence felt throughout the story, and while they initially freak Julia right out, she comes to accept them, and her story becomes unknowingly interwoven with theirs as things start to get interesting between her and Douglas.
Douglas is a fantastic character! Arrogant, standoffish, work obsessed and also a bit of a womaniser, he has never had a real relationship. He is very mysterious, closed off and while unenthusiastic about his new responsibilities, he is determined to provide for his beloved sister’s children.
Julia has crushed on him from the moment she met him 15 years ago, but in the intervening years, she married a man who treated her awfully, verbally abusing her and leaving her crushed and very wary of men. But she and Douglas are obviously attracted to each other, and the angry/flirty behaviour between them is awesome. But the fireworks really start when Douglas decides (yes, decides) that the best way to manage their raging attraction, and their situation with the children, is for he and Julia to marry. But as much as Julia may still feel for him, she refuses to marry without love, and that is the one thing that Douglas has never offered her.
But he offers her a whole lot more, and when his seductive, sexy side comes out… holy hell!
“Julia, I intend to be your lover.” With Julia’s soft warmth pressed so close, he could smell her. Both the feel of her and her scent made his body begin to tighten in an intensely pleasant way so that, when he spoke, his voice deepened, became hungry, as he, again, made his intentions clear but this time, he made them clearer. “I intend to sleep in sheets that smell of tangerines and jasmine. I intend to have your naked body squirming under mine. I intend to touch you everywhere with my hands and my mouth. I intend to memorise the taste of you, to make you call my name while I’m moving inside you, to make you so excited you beg me to let you come…”
*fans self*
The ‘thing’ between them becomes a game, and the back and forth is fantastic as Douglas does his best to convince Julia around to his way of thinking, while Julia tries to keep him at arm’s length (sort of). And while they are busy acclimatising to their new roles in life, living as a family with the children, and being around each other constantly, the emotion between them unintentionally starts to run deeper. And it’s pure awesome! In typical KA fashion, we get lots of beautiful little moments between them - the teasing, the playing, the arguments, the sweet and tender moments, and the hotness. Oh yes, there is hotness! The best part of it though, for me, were the times with the children. Watching Julia bring the kids back to life, and, in turn, watching them all bring Douglas back to life, was absolutely sensational!
The book is written in multiple POV, and I loved getting inside of Douglas’ head. Particularly as their love story is not a conventional one, and Douglas really had no idea what he was feeling. I loved watching his thought processes as he sorted through what was happening between him and Julia.
“Bloody hell, he loved her.”
KA always writes brilliantly for families, and I love the family that she created for Julia and Douglas. The way she showed Lizzie, Will and Ruby dealing with their parent’s death, accepting their new reality and starting to move on was absolutely beautiful. And again, the little family moments - from Christmas morning, to an afternoon of horseback riding, or a game of monopoly – all add so much depth to the story, and it’s genius.
I loved this story! KA does a fantastic job at building the anticipation, and the UST is sizzling as Julia and Douglas dance around each other for a lot of the book. The state of things between them is up and down for a lot of the story, and I loved watching them fight their way to their HEA. The story ends beautifully, with each individual plotline finished off with great detail, and I finished this book with a massive smile on my face.
“If I could ... I’d have the world watch me make you mine.”
KA weaves her magic yet again, and I loved it.
4.5 stars.
I went into this book suffering from a massive book funk, and I knew pretty much instantly that this would be the book to drag me back into the land of happy readers. When in doubt – leave it to KA to pull you through. She never lets me down, and she did it again with this beautiful story of love, family, and healing from tragedy.
Upon the tragic and untimely death of Gavin and Tamsin Fairfax, their three children are left orphaned and in the care of Gavin’s sister, Julia, and Tamsin’s brother, Douglas, with the stipulation that the children must be raised in Tamsin’s family home – Sommersgate House. Wanting nothing more than to be there for the nephew and two nieces that she adores, Julia packs up her life in the US, giving up everything to move to England to honour the wishes of her beloved brother and his wife. On arrival, she finds three grieving children living in a miserable, spooky old house with downtrodden house staff, all under the control of Douglas and Tamsin’s evil witch of a mother. Still struggling with her own grief, Julia is also dealing with being in a new country, leaving her mother and friends behind, and being without a job or any real support from the barely present Douglas. But, being the strong, stubborn and feisty girl that she is, Julia gets straight on with unreservedly giving the children the love and attention they have been missing, and bringing life back into the house.
And then there are the ghosts. Sommersgate House is haunted by the spirit of two tormented lovers from centuries ago who are cursed to remain separated for all eternity and trapped at Sommersgate unless the master of the house finds true love, and somebody to love him back. The two ghosts make their presence felt throughout the story, and while they initially freak Julia right out, she comes to accept them, and her story becomes unknowingly interwoven with theirs as things start to get interesting between her and Douglas.
Douglas is a fantastic character! Arrogant, standoffish, work obsessed and also a bit of a womaniser, he has never had a real relationship. He is very mysterious, closed off and while unenthusiastic about his new responsibilities, he is determined to provide for his beloved sister’s children.
Julia has crushed on him from the moment she met him 15 years ago, but in the intervening years, she married a man who treated her awfully, verbally abusing her and leaving her crushed and very wary of men. But she and Douglas are obviously attracted to each other, and the angry/flirty behaviour between them is awesome. But the fireworks really start when Douglas decides (yes, decides) that the best way to manage their raging attraction, and their situation with the children, is for he and Julia to marry. But as much as Julia may still feel for him, she refuses to marry without love, and that is the one thing that Douglas has never offered her.
But he offers her a whole lot more, and when his seductive, sexy side comes out… holy hell!
“Julia, I intend to be your lover.” With Julia’s soft warmth pressed so close, he could smell her. Both the feel of her and her scent made his body begin to tighten in an intensely pleasant way so that, when he spoke, his voice deepened, became hungry, as he, again, made his intentions clear but this time, he made them clearer. “I intend to sleep in sheets that smell of tangerines and jasmine. I intend to have your naked body squirming under mine. I intend to touch you everywhere with my hands and my mouth. I intend to memorise the taste of you, to make you call my name while I’m moving inside you, to make you so excited you beg me to let you come…”
*fans self*
The ‘thing’ between them becomes a game, and the back and forth is fantastic as Douglas does his best to convince Julia around to his way of thinking, while Julia tries to keep him at arm’s length (sort of). And while they are busy acclimatising to their new roles in life, living as a family with the children, and being around each other constantly, the emotion between them unintentionally starts to run deeper. And it’s pure awesome! In typical KA fashion, we get lots of beautiful little moments between them - the teasing, the playing, the arguments, the sweet and tender moments, and the hotness. Oh yes, there is hotness! The best part of it though, for me, were the times with the children. Watching Julia bring the kids back to life, and, in turn, watching them all bring Douglas back to life, was absolutely sensational!
The book is written in multiple POV, and I loved getting inside of Douglas’ head. Particularly as their love story is not a conventional one, and Douglas really had no idea what he was feeling. I loved watching his thought processes as he sorted through what was happening between him and Julia.
“Bloody hell, he loved her.”
KA always writes brilliantly for families, and I love the family that she created for Julia and Douglas. The way she showed Lizzie, Will and Ruby dealing with their parent’s death, accepting their new reality and starting to move on was absolutely beautiful. And again, the little family moments - from Christmas morning, to an afternoon of horseback riding, or a game of monopoly – all add so much depth to the story, and it’s genius.
I loved this story! KA does a fantastic job at building the anticipation, and the UST is sizzling as Julia and Douglas dance around each other for a lot of the book. The state of things between them is up and down for a lot of the story, and I loved watching them fight their way to their HEA. The story ends beautifully, with each individual plotline finished off with great detail, and I finished this book with a massive smile on my face.
“If I could ... I’d have the world watch me make you mine.”
KA weaves her magic yet again, and I loved it.
4.5 stars.
January 17, 2024
It wasn't bad but it did find it a bit boring at times. Also didn't like the heroine's wishy washy behavior.
But still, it is a KA which is almost always better than any other book.
3,5 stars
But still, it is a KA which is almost always better than any other book.
3,5 stars
June 17, 2016
*Another re-read* The epilogue on this book gets me every time.
Julia's brother and wife died leaving Julia and Douglas(who's sister died) to take care of their 3 children in Douglas and his late sisters castle. Sommergate castle is haunted by the original owners and they won't be set free till true love is once again in Sommergate. As Julia and Douglas raise there nieces and nephew together they can't help but grow closer together and realize that there's more to there relationship than just friendship. But past hurts from those who were supposed to love them has made them both scared to love, even though they've been in love for 15 years when they first met. This was another great Kristen Ashley story not only are Douglas and Julia great but the entire cast is wonderful I loved every single one of them(with the exception of 3). The relationships in this book were so touching and just as riveting as the main characters. Douglas was another great hero from KA and I loved his persistence in this story. The epilogue had me in tears and I loved that we got glimpses into everyones lives in the future. This book was beautiful, engrossing, heartfelt and hot!
Julia's brother and wife died leaving Julia and Douglas(who's sister died) to take care of their 3 children in Douglas and his late sisters castle. Sommergate castle is haunted by the original owners and they won't be set free till true love is once again in Sommergate. As Julia and Douglas raise there nieces and nephew together they can't help but grow closer together and realize that there's more to there relationship than just friendship. But past hurts from those who were supposed to love them has made them both scared to love, even though they've been in love for 15 years when they first met. This was another great Kristen Ashley story not only are Douglas and Julia great but the entire cast is wonderful I loved every single one of them(with the exception of 3). The relationships in this book were so touching and just as riveting as the main characters. Douglas was another great hero from KA and I loved his persistence in this story. The epilogue had me in tears and I loved that we got glimpses into everyones lives in the future. This book was beautiful, engrossing, heartfelt and hot!
September 1, 2018
Stupid iPad deleted my review!!!
Ok, I'm not home so I'll make this short, for now. I absolutely loved this book. It was beautiful and is definitely one of my top favorite Kristen Ashley books!!! The ending was spectacular, as her epilogues usually are. Tears of happiness, which was kind of embarrassing since I'm at work. But whatever. They were deserved! A proper review will be done when I get home!
Ok, I'm not home so I'll make this short, for now. I absolutely loved this book. It was beautiful and is definitely one of my top favorite Kristen Ashley books!!! The ending was spectacular, as her epilogues usually are. Tears of happiness, which was kind of embarrassing since I'm at work. But whatever. They were deserved! A proper review will be done when I get home!
July 20, 2017
Narrator review: LOVE this narrator. I have no complaints.
Story review: I'm really enjoying this series. So far, the alpha's in this series are my favorite from Kristen Ashley. My only complaint on this one is the couple is hardly together and there is a little too much protesting from Julia. I need more couple time in my books...still a very good read.
Story review: I'm really enjoying this series. So far, the alpha's in this series are my favorite from Kristen Ashley. My only complaint on this one is the couple is hardly together and there is a little too much protesting from Julia. I need more couple time in my books...still a very good read.
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