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Destiny Romance #1
Spellbound
Belle is a modern-day witch who's had a bad run with men. And she's not that good at the magic stuff, either. When her boyfriend leaves her feeling undesirable, Belle conjures up a night of perfect passion with a phantom version of her super gorgeous neighbour Nicholas Marchetti. But after an amazing night, Belle realises it was the real Nick. And when Nick discovers Belle's powers, he is confused and wary. And to top it all off, it seems someone is using magic to try to keep the would-be lovers apart.
Angst, lust – and Aunty Gertrude – all play a part in this sizzling erotic romance that begins and ends in the bedroom.
For those who like their romance hot, hot, hot!
Delightfully romantic and racy ... You will be charmed. USA Today
Like a spicy read? Then you should really sink into this one! – 1 Girl... 2 Many Books
122 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 15, 2013
1 person is currently reading
51 people want to read
About the author
Emmie Dark
11 books37 followersAfter years of writing press releases, employee newsletters and speeches for CEOs and politicians – none of which included any kind of kissing – Emmie Dark finally took to her laptop to write what she wanted to write. She was both amazed and delighted to discover that what came out was sexy, noble heroes who found themselves crossing paths with strong, determined heroines. And plenty of kissing.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
May 6, 2013
Review: Spellbound by Emmie Dark
Advance copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
“Magics weave to bring dreams to life.”
Belle is a witch, stemmed from generations of witches before her. She has a good life—she’s attractive, successful, well off financially, all without magic. Why? Well, Bell isn’t a very good witch; she’s quite terrible actually…or at least that’s what she thinks.
“He was more than capable of rendering her speechless with his mere presence.”
Nick, Belle’s gorgeous neighbor, has been the object of her lust since he moved into the building. When he looks at her, she almost thinks he’s interested…but no words ever come out of his mouth to solidify her thoughts. There is something much more powerful than he, keeping them apart…and Nick is about to become much more than just a friendly hello in the elevator lift.
“’Belle, it’s important. Are you a witch? Because I think someone has cast a spell on you.’”
When Belle is feeling confident and good about herself (and where things could go with Nick), or holding the mysterious green stone, Nick can speak freely; can explore her body without the feeling of dread or pain. But when Belle gets down on herself, becomes insecure, unsure or frightened, Nick feels everything tenfold. They are connected…and a spell has been cast to keep them apart. Is it Nick or Belle? Someone is Spellbound…
This story was quirky and cute. The characters were likable and the roles played throughout the story were good. The sub-characters were a great addition and kept me smiling. It was a well-written, fast, easy read with what seemed like one really long love scene (not complaining). But that was pretty much it…I can’t explain it. There was not much of a back-story for either main character so it lacked the depth I am used to. The story is complete and I would recommend it for anyone who wants little sprinkle of fantasy in their beach-read.
3.5 Stars
Advance copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
“Magics weave to bring dreams to life.”
Belle is a witch, stemmed from generations of witches before her. She has a good life—she’s attractive, successful, well off financially, all without magic. Why? Well, Bell isn’t a very good witch; she’s quite terrible actually…or at least that’s what she thinks.
“He was more than capable of rendering her speechless with his mere presence.”
Nick, Belle’s gorgeous neighbor, has been the object of her lust since he moved into the building. When he looks at her, she almost thinks he’s interested…but no words ever come out of his mouth to solidify her thoughts. There is something much more powerful than he, keeping them apart…and Nick is about to become much more than just a friendly hello in the elevator lift.
“’Belle, it’s important. Are you a witch? Because I think someone has cast a spell on you.’”
When Belle is feeling confident and good about herself (and where things could go with Nick), or holding the mysterious green stone, Nick can speak freely; can explore her body without the feeling of dread or pain. But when Belle gets down on herself, becomes insecure, unsure or frightened, Nick feels everything tenfold. They are connected…and a spell has been cast to keep them apart. Is it Nick or Belle? Someone is Spellbound…
This story was quirky and cute. The characters were likable and the roles played throughout the story were good. The sub-characters were a great addition and kept me smiling. It was a well-written, fast, easy read with what seemed like one really long love scene (not complaining). But that was pretty much it…I can’t explain it. There was not much of a back-story for either main character so it lacked the depth I am used to. The story is complete and I would recommend it for anyone who wants little sprinkle of fantasy in their beach-read.
3.5 Stars
April 15, 2013
Modern day witch Belle has been feeling down since her break up. Tony her ex, leaves her with a lot of self doubt. Thinking she is not good enough, she decides to come up with a spell to create "her perfect lover".
Enter Nick Marchetti who Belle has lusted on since he moved in her building. The man she secretly hoped her phantom lover to be. For Nick, the attraction was mutual. Except that every time he tried to approach Belle, there seems to be something stopping him.
For Belle and Nick trying to fugure out who it is or what it is that is keeping them apart comes down to a green crystal, a kooky godmother and a spell gone wild!
Thank you Penguin Books Australia/Destiny Romance and NetGalley for this fun, quirky short read!
™From My Playlist: Andrew Belle feat Katie Herzig - Static Waves
Enter Nick Marchetti who Belle has lusted on since he moved in her building. The man she secretly hoped her phantom lover to be. For Nick, the attraction was mutual. Except that every time he tried to approach Belle, there seems to be something stopping him.
For Belle and Nick trying to fugure out who it is or what it is that is keeping them apart comes down to a green crystal, a kooky godmother and a spell gone wild!
Thank you Penguin Books Australia/Destiny Romance and NetGalley for this fun, quirky short read!
™From My Playlist: Andrew Belle feat Katie Herzig - Static Waves
June 4, 2013
Sexy and alluring with a paranormal twist that keeps it so fresh. Couldn't put it down!
February 1, 2017
Firstly, I need to apologise for not reading this sooner, for some reason it didn't show up on my kindle and I completely forgot I had it until the title appeared on my Netgalley list.
Spellbound is a novella size story, cute and smexy in its delivery. The real magic in the plot stems from the deep emotional connection between two people destined to be together - think soul-mates. However, there is evil a foot in the form of negative thought patterns manifesting themselves as real barriers between Belle and Nick. the characters are cute and quirky resulting in a few humourous as well as cringe worthy moments.
Spellbound ingeniously shows how negativity can have a ripple effect on those around you as well as fuelling the self-fulfilling prophecy concept.
Remember positivity breeds positivity just as much as negativity breeds negativity.
Spellbound is a novella size story, cute and smexy in its delivery. The real magic in the plot stems from the deep emotional connection between two people destined to be together - think soul-mates. However, there is evil a foot in the form of negative thought patterns manifesting themselves as real barriers between Belle and Nick. the characters are cute and quirky resulting in a few humourous as well as cringe worthy moments.
Spellbound ingeniously shows how negativity can have a ripple effect on those around you as well as fuelling the self-fulfilling prophecy concept.
Remember positivity breeds positivity just as much as negativity breeds negativity.
March 14, 2013
Belle is a modern day witch – except she’s not a very good one at all. She can’t read anyone’s mind, she can’t use telekinesis, she can’t even perform simple spells without messing things up and having something go wrong. Despite the fact that she comes from a very strong line of witches it seems that Belle just does not possess the talent required. Instead she gets by in a human way, holding down a good job and working hard to buy her trendy Melbourne apartment.
Belle is currently single, having been dumped by boyfriend Tony some months before. Tony was extremely detrimental to Belle’s self-esteem and she suffers a crippling lack of self-worth. Despite the fact that Belle has a crush on the handsome Nick, a neighbour in her building, she blushes and stammers whenever he attempts to talk to her or becomes tongue tied.
Tired of being lonely, Belle attempts a spell to conjure one night with a phantom lover that will look just like Nick. Too shy and self-conscious to go after him in real life, she’ll use a popular spell to have a substitute for a few hours. But…like with most of Belle’s spells, something goes wrong. Instead it is the real Nick that turns up to her apartment and Belle, thinking he’s a phantom, is at ease with him for the first time. They manage to actually connect.
However Nick soon finds out that Belle is a witch and he immediately becomes suspicious and angry. He feels betrayed and controlled and suggests that it would be best they keep their distance for a while, but a strange encounter with an old lady makes Nick realise that someone has cast a spell on one or possibly both of them, to keep them apart.
Spellbound is one of the Destiny Romance March releases and at first glance, it isn’t something I’d normally read. I’m a natural skeptic so modern day witches aren’t exactly my sort of thing but I was in the mood for a quick read before dinner and I have to admit, this one sucked me right in.
The opening is racy and very fun – Belle, Nick and some others are in the elevator going down to the ground floor and Belle finds herself fantasising about Nick. What she doesn’t know is how her thoughts affect everyone else in the elevator around her. I was giggling to myself reading this and I knew from that moment that I was going to enjoy this.
Belle is suffering from a real lack of self-esteem due to the painful end of a relationship and a lot of the time she’s been too nervous around Nick to really open up. However when she thinks she’s the phantom, that changes and she begins to have a little confidence and amp up her sex appeal. She needs some help to be able to let go and enjoy herself, feel secure in herself and the attraction between her and Nick. In time she comes to realise that she’s been her own worst enemy, always berating herself for being useless (her inabilities as a witch have played into this) and wishing she was better. Once she realises that she is a perfectly good person with a fabulous job who works hard, who has a nice place to live, good friends and a loving family, she begins to see her possibilities.
Like a spicy read? Then you should really sink into this one! The scenes between Nick and Belle are pretty hot and very fun to read. Nick is a nice hero, handsome and down to earth. I really liked the two of them together, especially towards the end when he helped her come to terms with the curse/spell and how exactly it could be broken. There’s good chemistry there – I also have to say that I like the cover for this one a lot. It definitely suits the story.
Belle is currently single, having been dumped by boyfriend Tony some months before. Tony was extremely detrimental to Belle’s self-esteem and she suffers a crippling lack of self-worth. Despite the fact that Belle has a crush on the handsome Nick, a neighbour in her building, she blushes and stammers whenever he attempts to talk to her or becomes tongue tied.
Tired of being lonely, Belle attempts a spell to conjure one night with a phantom lover that will look just like Nick. Too shy and self-conscious to go after him in real life, she’ll use a popular spell to have a substitute for a few hours. But…like with most of Belle’s spells, something goes wrong. Instead it is the real Nick that turns up to her apartment and Belle, thinking he’s a phantom, is at ease with him for the first time. They manage to actually connect.
However Nick soon finds out that Belle is a witch and he immediately becomes suspicious and angry. He feels betrayed and controlled and suggests that it would be best they keep their distance for a while, but a strange encounter with an old lady makes Nick realise that someone has cast a spell on one or possibly both of them, to keep them apart.
Spellbound is one of the Destiny Romance March releases and at first glance, it isn’t something I’d normally read. I’m a natural skeptic so modern day witches aren’t exactly my sort of thing but I was in the mood for a quick read before dinner and I have to admit, this one sucked me right in.
The opening is racy and very fun – Belle, Nick and some others are in the elevator going down to the ground floor and Belle finds herself fantasising about Nick. What she doesn’t know is how her thoughts affect everyone else in the elevator around her. I was giggling to myself reading this and I knew from that moment that I was going to enjoy this.
Belle is suffering from a real lack of self-esteem due to the painful end of a relationship and a lot of the time she’s been too nervous around Nick to really open up. However when she thinks she’s the phantom, that changes and she begins to have a little confidence and amp up her sex appeal. She needs some help to be able to let go and enjoy herself, feel secure in herself and the attraction between her and Nick. In time she comes to realise that she’s been her own worst enemy, always berating herself for being useless (her inabilities as a witch have played into this) and wishing she was better. Once she realises that she is a perfectly good person with a fabulous job who works hard, who has a nice place to live, good friends and a loving family, she begins to see her possibilities.
Like a spicy read? Then you should really sink into this one! The scenes between Nick and Belle are pretty hot and very fun to read. Nick is a nice hero, handsome and down to earth. I really liked the two of them together, especially towards the end when he helped her come to terms with the curse/spell and how exactly it could be broken. There’s good chemistry there – I also have to say that I like the cover for this one a lot. It definitely suits the story.
May 20, 2013
Emmie Dark's Spellbound offers the hottest of hocus-pocus, along with a just-right measure of mystery and pathos, and a whole lot of fun. The usually suave Nick doesn't know why he finds himself tongue-tied whenever he's around Belle, but he does know he wants his odd but lovely neighbor like he's never wanted a woman before. And Belle has lusted after Nick forever, so how could you not want these two crazy kids to get together?! Just wait — after you read the steamy elevator scene, you'll not only want them to get together, you'll need them to get together!
Dark's novella is delightfully romantic and racy, and also carries a subtle, resonant message about self-image. You will be charmed. Check out this tongue-in-cheeky snippet, which takes place the morning after Belle's ardent encounter with the phantom she doesn't realize was actually Nick. Her aunt barrels into her apartment and Belle knows she's so busted:
It was like having your mother discover your vibrator in your bedside drawer. Only worse.
"Aunt Gertrude, I will never, ever, ever—" Belle began.
"Oh, hush." Gertrude silenced her. "We've all done it. I remember back in the sixties I made myself a Sean Connery, just like out of that James Bond movie. Goodness, that was a night." The older woman fanned herself and her face flushed slightly as she relived some steamy memories.
…
"What…what did he do?"Belle asked, completely sure she didn't want to know the answer.
"Well, he wasn't a great kisser, as I recall, but those fingers!"
…
"Aunt Gertrude!" Belle's face flamed with embarrassment. "I meant, what did my phantom do? He must have caused trouble, right? That's why you're here?"
"Your phantom? Did he not perform as you wanted? Well, that's no surprise. What else did you mix up? If you used lavender instead of clary sage, he wouldn't be as…well…firm as you might like..."
Just wait until Belle finds out that was actually Nick in her apartment! For a quick, sexy read, check out Spellbound's 100 pages of earthy enchantment.
Dark's novella is delightfully romantic and racy, and also carries a subtle, resonant message about self-image. You will be charmed. Check out this tongue-in-cheeky snippet, which takes place the morning after Belle's ardent encounter with the phantom she doesn't realize was actually Nick. Her aunt barrels into her apartment and Belle knows she's so busted:
It was like having your mother discover your vibrator in your bedside drawer. Only worse.
"Aunt Gertrude, I will never, ever, ever—" Belle began.
"Oh, hush." Gertrude silenced her. "We've all done it. I remember back in the sixties I made myself a Sean Connery, just like out of that James Bond movie. Goodness, that was a night." The older woman fanned herself and her face flushed slightly as she relived some steamy memories.
…
"What…what did he do?"Belle asked, completely sure she didn't want to know the answer.
"Well, he wasn't a great kisser, as I recall, but those fingers!"
…
"Aunt Gertrude!" Belle's face flamed with embarrassment. "I meant, what did my phantom do? He must have caused trouble, right? That's why you're here?"
"Your phantom? Did he not perform as you wanted? Well, that's no surprise. What else did you mix up? If you used lavender instead of clary sage, he wouldn't be as…well…firm as you might like..."
Just wait until Belle finds out that was actually Nick in her apartment! For a quick, sexy read, check out Spellbound's 100 pages of earthy enchantment.
March 23, 2013
Cute, With Twists
Original Post http://fangswandsandfairydust.blogspo...
Emmie Dark
Penguin Australia|Destiny Romance
March 15, 2013
e-book only
Very short book, no number of pages available.
Provided by publisher for review via NetGalley.
No remuneration exchanged and all opinions hereinare my own unless otherwise noted.
This starts out with a recipe for humorous disaster of the kind only misdirected magic can offer. The first few pages are really delightful. The ingredients for spells are amusing. Belle is a bit of a sad sack. Nick is a little underdeveloped. The writer tries detailing him physically, and he monologues on his qualities, but he's still a bit of a Ken doll for me. I have no idea of whether Belle is skinny or heavy; her opinion of her looks varies and Nick's opinion seems to end at creamy skin and lush breasts. Her aunt is skilled but overly mysterious.
I understand Belle's loneliness and the feeling no one wants her. I remember it was very painful to be alone and feel rejected.So I feel sympathy for her.
The physical relationship between Belle and Nick is quite steamy but a bit awkward in its writing. The voice is Young Adult but it is definitely not a Young Adult book. There are quite a few sex scenes; I thought they lacked spark but were probably more realistic than most.
The magical conundrum is complicated to figure out. Why the aunt character doesn't just tell them the issue, since she is apparently aware of it is beyond me. Especially since it has the potential for dire consequences. There are a couple of twists that are fun and unusual, but the general plot is pretty predictable.
This was an okay, diverting read that took a couple of hours but felt a little flat. It's a cute book.
Original Post http://fangswandsandfairydust.blogspo...
Emmie Dark
Penguin Australia|Destiny Romance
March 15, 2013
e-book only
Very short book, no number of pages available.
Provided by publisher for review via NetGalley.
No remuneration exchanged and all opinions hereinare my own unless otherwise noted.
This starts out with a recipe for humorous disaster of the kind only misdirected magic can offer. The first few pages are really delightful. The ingredients for spells are amusing. Belle is a bit of a sad sack. Nick is a little underdeveloped. The writer tries detailing him physically, and he monologues on his qualities, but he's still a bit of a Ken doll for me. I have no idea of whether Belle is skinny or heavy; her opinion of her looks varies and Nick's opinion seems to end at creamy skin and lush breasts. Her aunt is skilled but overly mysterious.
I understand Belle's loneliness and the feeling no one wants her. I remember it was very painful to be alone and feel rejected.So I feel sympathy for her.
The physical relationship between Belle and Nick is quite steamy but a bit awkward in its writing. The voice is Young Adult but it is definitely not a Young Adult book. There are quite a few sex scenes; I thought they lacked spark but were probably more realistic than most.
The magical conundrum is complicated to figure out. Why the aunt character doesn't just tell them the issue, since she is apparently aware of it is beyond me. Especially since it has the potential for dire consequences. There are a couple of twists that are fun and unusual, but the general plot is pretty predictable.
This was an okay, diverting read that took a couple of hours but felt a little flat. It's a cute book.
April 9, 2013
Spellbound was a fun, light read that was quite a lot hotter than I was expecting. Yes, I know it is an erotic romance. However, when I started reading it, I read it more as a happy, cute romance. So when the sexytimes arrived, I was surprised at how hot they were.
Belle, a fairly ordinary witch by her own admission, just wants a man – not just any man though, she wants her neighbour Nick. But she can’t summon up the courage to talk to him, so she decides to conjure up what she thinks is a phantom Nick for a hot night. She doesn’t realise that a) Nick is in the same boat as her regarding feelings and b) phantom Nick is actually real Nick. I enjoyed watching their relationship change and develop, with all the hijinks and misunderstandings that ensue. They made a cute and believable couple, not to mention the possessors of some excellent chemistry.
I’ve got to say I loved the setting of this story. I’ve either lived or worked (or both) in the South Melbourne/St Kilda area of Melbourne for seven years or so, and it’s always cool to read about places that you know.
My main grizzle with this book is that it probably could have been longer, however as a novella, it was OK. As most know, I am not really one to read about witches and other paranormal beings (I’m a little sparkly-vampired out), but Emmie Dark has made me want to read some more. I was pleased to read this morning on Twitter that she has been signed for another book in this series by Destiny – I look forward to revisiting the Spellbound universe.
My rating: 3.5 out of 5
Note: I was provided with an advanced reader copy of this book by Destiny Romance, an imprint of Penguin Australia via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Belle, a fairly ordinary witch by her own admission, just wants a man – not just any man though, she wants her neighbour Nick. But she can’t summon up the courage to talk to him, so she decides to conjure up what she thinks is a phantom Nick for a hot night. She doesn’t realise that a) Nick is in the same boat as her regarding feelings and b) phantom Nick is actually real Nick. I enjoyed watching their relationship change and develop, with all the hijinks and misunderstandings that ensue. They made a cute and believable couple, not to mention the possessors of some excellent chemistry.
I’ve got to say I loved the setting of this story. I’ve either lived or worked (or both) in the South Melbourne/St Kilda area of Melbourne for seven years or so, and it’s always cool to read about places that you know.
My main grizzle with this book is that it probably could have been longer, however as a novella, it was OK. As most know, I am not really one to read about witches and other paranormal beings (I’m a little sparkly-vampired out), but Emmie Dark has made me want to read some more. I was pleased to read this morning on Twitter that she has been signed for another book in this series by Destiny – I look forward to revisiting the Spellbound universe.
My rating: 3.5 out of 5
Note: I was provided with an advanced reader copy of this book by Destiny Romance, an imprint of Penguin Australia via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
May 25, 2014
2.5-3 stars, though I'm heavily leaning towards 3, so maybe 2.75? :D Either way, it's 3 for Goodreads since no half or quarter stars. I should point you that I do love stories with witches and wizards so this was going to be my catnip, anyway. Or at least I hoped it would be.
I really enjoyed this book and the main character, Belle. I could really identify with her and what she was feeling. Feeling lonely, rejected and just being down on yourself can be a real drag and have a lot of consequences on a person's self confidence and self esteem. As for Nick, well I really, really liked Nick. He was hot, sweet and I really loved how he was with Belle and of course, how he treated her.
I did feel the writing was a bit choppy and underdeveloped in parts but I hope this is something that improves as the author continues to write more books in the future. Or perhaps it was because it was a novella? (Because I really wished it was longer, to be honest. But then, I'm a bit greedy when it comes to things like that! LOL)
All in all it was a short, sweet, sexy, and witchy read and was a nice change of pace for me. And I will be picking up the second in this series (about another couple) in the very near future.
*I received this book as ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.*
I really enjoyed this book and the main character, Belle. I could really identify with her and what she was feeling. Feeling lonely, rejected and just being down on yourself can be a real drag and have a lot of consequences on a person's self confidence and self esteem. As for Nick, well I really, really liked Nick. He was hot, sweet and I really loved how he was with Belle and of course, how he treated her.
I did feel the writing was a bit choppy and underdeveloped in parts but I hope this is something that improves as the author continues to write more books in the future. Or perhaps it was because it was a novella? (Because I really wished it was longer, to be honest. But then, I'm a bit greedy when it comes to things like that! LOL)
All in all it was a short, sweet, sexy, and witchy read and was a nice change of pace for me. And I will be picking up the second in this series (about another couple) in the very near future.
*I received this book as ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.*
March 23, 2013
My Rating: ❤❤❤
Rating's Breakdown:
This book provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
Spellbound was a fairly enjoyable story. The characters weren't cardboard-ish but they lacked captivating dimension that could have drawn the reader into the story and made them feel the characters "plight". There wasn't any major excitement or conflict which, if present, could have made the story more interesting. But, the story was a light and enjoyable.
GOOD: The characteristics of a 3 star book include: interesting characters, a decent storyline, and unique story elements; there was something about the story that I didn’t completely connect with; the book is a solid read. I would recommend it to a friend.Initial Reaction: A light and sweet story.
Rating's Breakdown:
Quality of writing: GoodMy Thoughts:
Pace: Even and easy
Characters: A bit average but likeable overall
Plot development: Fair
Story line: Good. A fairly standard romance interspersed with paranormal elements.
Enjoyability: Pleasant reading
Heat Level: Medium
This book provided by NetGalley for an honest review.
Spellbound was a fairly enjoyable story. The characters weren't cardboard-ish but they lacked captivating dimension that could have drawn the reader into the story and made them feel the characters "plight". There wasn't any major excitement or conflict which, if present, could have made the story more interesting. But, the story was a light and enjoyable.
May 1, 2013
Thanks to NetGalley for providing this book for an honest review.
This book was a light and quick little read. The story revolves around Belle, a down on her luck sort of girl who is depressed with her lack of love life since the breakup with her last boyfriend. She's entranced by a new neighbor, Nick, but for some reason she can't seem to talk to him. One drunken night, she tries to conjure up a love spell and uses Nick's likeness as her model.
And of course, high-jinx ensue.
The story was short, fluffy and pretty steamy. I enjoyed the witchy plot device, and found the story to be unique in that regard, if a bit Bewitched for my liking. One major bummer for me was to read Nick use one of my least favorite erotic phrases ever, "come for me."
Sorry, but as a 40-something married woman who actually has been around the block a bit, this is completely laughable to me. Sorry for all you young ladies who like to keep your heads in the clouds, but yeah... not realistic. Perhaps I need to lower my bar, since this is fiction, but I don't know of too many women who can cum on command, just rubs me the wrong way. (Ha!)
Anyhow, a fluffy little hot novella
This book was a light and quick little read. The story revolves around Belle, a down on her luck sort of girl who is depressed with her lack of love life since the breakup with her last boyfriend. She's entranced by a new neighbor, Nick, but for some reason she can't seem to talk to him. One drunken night, she tries to conjure up a love spell and uses Nick's likeness as her model.
And of course, high-jinx ensue.
The story was short, fluffy and pretty steamy. I enjoyed the witchy plot device, and found the story to be unique in that regard, if a bit Bewitched for my liking. One major bummer for me was to read Nick use one of my least favorite erotic phrases ever, "come for me."
Sorry, but as a 40-something married woman who actually has been around the block a bit, this is completely laughable to me. Sorry for all you young ladies who like to keep your heads in the clouds, but yeah... not realistic. Perhaps I need to lower my bar, since this is fiction, but I don't know of too many women who can cum on command, just rubs me the wrong way. (Ha!)
Anyhow, a fluffy little hot novella
April 13, 2013
I did not like this book and in fact could not finish. The premise of the book itself was ok and could have worked if done correctly. A young woman, who happens to be a witch, is lonely after being dumped by her verbally abusive boyfriend. He has ruined her confidence. She decides to conjure up the perfect lover for 1 night. On the way to replenish her supplies for said spell, she shares the elevator with her downstairs neighbor with whom she has a huge crush. She decides to make her spell lover in the image of said neighbor. Little does she know that the neighbor also has a huge crush on her. He has gone out for the evening but returns early after deciding to ask her out. In the meantime she has done her spell. When he knocks on the door, she thinks this is the man from her spell instead of actually the neighbor. I like that idea and it could have worked and been a cute story. However I felt there was no character development whatsoever. The writing was just not up to par and I could not finish. Unfortunately am giving 2 stars and doubt I will read any more of this author's books.
October 21, 2013
**ARC Provided by Netgalley and Penguin Books Australia I Destiny Romance for an honest review**
A paranormal romance with a twist of mystery and intrigue.
Belle is a witch, but she has never been any good at spells. In fact she has to do most things the human way she's that bad.
After a time where she has been boyfriend less for a while she decides that she needs to conjure a boyfriend for the night and decides she wants him to look like her very sexy neighbour.
Unfortunately things do not go well with the spell, however Nick does turn up at her door so she thinks that the spell worked.
Things don't go quite well for the pair and they end up avoiding each other for a week before they meet again and lust and attraction pull them together along with the helping of Aunt Gertrude.
Misunderstandings, theft and emotions get in the way of their romance and Aunt Gertrude has to intervene and give Nick a push in the right direction to break a curse.
A little magic can go a long way and cause all sorts of problems. A good light read.
A paranormal romance with a twist of mystery and intrigue.
Belle is a witch, but she has never been any good at spells. In fact she has to do most things the human way she's that bad.
After a time where she has been boyfriend less for a while she decides that she needs to conjure a boyfriend for the night and decides she wants him to look like her very sexy neighbour.
Unfortunately things do not go well with the spell, however Nick does turn up at her door so she thinks that the spell worked.
Things don't go quite well for the pair and they end up avoiding each other for a week before they meet again and lust and attraction pull them together along with the helping of Aunt Gertrude.
Misunderstandings, theft and emotions get in the way of their romance and Aunt Gertrude has to intervene and give Nick a push in the right direction to break a curse.
A little magic can go a long way and cause all sorts of problems. A good light read.
March 18, 2013
I received a copy of Spellbound courtesy of Netgalley and the publisher.
What a cute book! Belle is a witch, but not much of one. When she attempts a spell to conjure a phantom man that looks like her hot neighbor Nick, it doesn't turn out like she expected. Although it brings her and Nick together for real, there still seems to be some force keeping them apart. You'd never guess from from the sparks those two were creating! Holy moly, the bedroom scenes were HOT! Belle and Nick were so sweet and cute together, and when they finally figured out what Aunt Gertrude was telling them, things started to fall into place. I just wish the story hadn't been so short.
What a cute book! Belle is a witch, but not much of one. When she attempts a spell to conjure a phantom man that looks like her hot neighbor Nick, it doesn't turn out like she expected. Although it brings her and Nick together for real, there still seems to be some force keeping them apart. You'd never guess from from the sparks those two were creating! Holy moly, the bedroom scenes were HOT! Belle and Nick were so sweet and cute together, and when they finally figured out what Aunt Gertrude was telling them, things started to fall into place. I just wish the story hadn't been so short.
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March 8, 2013Fun..romantic...leaves you eager to see what else this author has up her sleeves. Belle is smart...and has done well for herself but lacks self esteem. Nick wants Belle but for some reason can't voice this to her. Paths finally cross and each has to open their minds and hearts to each other to over come the obstacles in place. Now throw in a spunky old Aunt and it adds for some humorous. Recommend as an easy elm..relaxing ..enjoyable read.
March 22, 2013
"3.5 out of 5 stars--two neighbors fight unusual circumstances to be together as a couple. The chemistry between Nick and Belle is undeniable and it flies off the page!"
Read more of this review and a teaser here: http://frommetoyouvideophoto.blogspot.com/2013/03/made-grade-spellbound-by-emmie-dark.html
Read more of this review and a teaser here: http://frommetoyouvideophoto.blogspot.com/2013/03/made-grade-spellbound-by-emmie-dark.html
March 29, 2013
I've read and enjoyed Emmie Dark's previous books, and was eagerly awaiting this novella. It didn't disappoint. Spellbound is a gorgeously luscious little read with a heroine you'll love, a hero you'll lust after... and a pesky, but good intentioned Godmother who will make you laugh. It also has plenty of heat and a large helping of magic. I look forward to reading more from this author.
May 1, 2013
Loved it. The characters played off against each other delightfully. Each is wise in their own way so they need each other to navigate the magical obstacle of being together and come up with an original and oh-so-satisfying solution. I had a really nice time reading Emmie's Spellbound. Can't wait for book 2
March 16, 2013
This is a novella. A cute, quick read. With a very likable heroine and a lovable hero. For such a short read I was pleasantly surprised to find it packed with steamy love scene’s. This world would definitely make for a fun full length novel series. I look forward to reading more from the author.
December 29, 2013
Read this as my holiday read over the Christmas break. If I hadn't started it so Kate in the afternoon, I would have finished it in one sitting. Great pace. Entertaining. And just a little bit racy :) Perfect holiday read!!
March 26, 2013
A fantastic read. If you like a smoking hot story served up with humour, a sympathetic heroine and a super hot hero, Spellbound is for you. I loved the magic twist and the fact that Belle really wasn't very good at being a witch. But in the end all the magic is in this story. A terrific read.
March 29, 2013
Spellbound is a sweet story about a young girl who has lost her self-confidence thanks to her last boyfriend. Who of us hasn’t been in this situation? But do we all have the same wonderful way to find our self-confidence again? Well I hope we all could. Good easy novella to read.
February 8, 2014
This book left me a little hot and bothered and I liked it. What a brilliant story. I have to confess, I read it the first week it came out and loved it. Since then I've picked it up at least three or four times for a quick, fun and steamy read. In short, give it a go. You won't be dissapointed:)
June 17, 2013
A fun romp with a witch looking for love. Emmie has become a master at writing romance stories. This one is a little different.
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May 10, 2013I drank this book in one sitting. Very funny, very hot, very unique. Tightly written and evocative, I laughed a lot and enjoyed the characters. Feel good and sexy. Highly recommend.
August 27, 2013
review coming soon.
January 4, 2014
Quick fun read.
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