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His Muse
You look pretty when you cry, little girl.
MASON
Cara Newton is the kind of girl you become an artist for.
Stunning, rebellious, sweet. So damn sweet.
She's also eighteen, my business partner's daughter, and completely off limits.
Not that I care.
She would look so beautiful on the walls of my gallery, I might have to break her, just so I can paint her in her true colors.
On her knees.
Mouth open.
Begging for more.
That's my little girl.
CARA
I'm used to getting what I want from my father.
Used to pulling on his strings to get exactly what I crave.
Spending a summer with his business partner sounds awful... Until I meet the man in question.
Mason Presley.
He's troubled, messed up, scary.
He's so handsome I'm afraid to even look at him.
So intense it sends shivers down my spine.
I think he wants me.
I know I want him.
But Mason likes me broken... and when I do break, he's either going to send me away...
Or keep me as his own forever.
Full-length novel. Standalone, no cliffhanger, no cheating. HEA guaranteed.
MASON
Cara Newton is the kind of girl you become an artist for.
Stunning, rebellious, sweet. So damn sweet.
She's also eighteen, my business partner's daughter, and completely off limits.
Not that I care.
She would look so beautiful on the walls of my gallery, I might have to break her, just so I can paint her in her true colors.
On her knees.
Mouth open.
Begging for more.
That's my little girl.
CARA
I'm used to getting what I want from my father.
Used to pulling on his strings to get exactly what I crave.
Spending a summer with his business partner sounds awful... Until I meet the man in question.
Mason Presley.
He's troubled, messed up, scary.
He's so handsome I'm afraid to even look at him.
So intense it sends shivers down my spine.
I think he wants me.
I know I want him.
But Mason likes me broken... and when I do break, he's either going to send me away...
Or keep me as his own forever.
Full-length novel. Standalone, no cliffhanger, no cheating. HEA guaranteed.
220 pages, ebook
First published January 25, 2017
About the author
Isabella Starling
96 books2,602 followersUSA Today bestselling author Isabella Starling describes her books with three words: dark, dirty and forbidden.
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CHECK OUT MY INSTAGRAM!
https://www.instagram.com/authorisabe...
VISIT MY AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE!
https://amzn.to/3lhl4R5
VISIT ME ON FACEBOOK!
https://www.facebook.com/authorisabel...
FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER!
https://twitter.com/authorstarling
SUBSCRIBE TO MY NEWSLETTER!
https://subscribepage.com/isabellasta...
And don't forget to join my Facebook group Good Girls Love Bad Boys to be the first to see my new covers, receive ARC opportunities & connect with myself and other readers! We do tons of giveaways and author takeovers too.
Click on the pic below to join!
CHECK OUT MY INSTAGRAM!
https://www.instagram.com/authorisabe...
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 203 reviews
February 7, 2017
Cara Newton is turning eighteen today & her only wish is to go to Italy & spend the summer there before she heads to college the next year. She works her sweet charms on her dad to get the trip to Italy as her birthday gift. But her dad pulls his own agenda out when he tells her she will be staying with one of his old friends & that he will be taking care of her while she is there. Cara has been keeping a secret online & texting relationship with a boy named Luca who lives in Italy from everyone & this is why she had wanted to go. She wanted to meet him & spend the summer falling in love with him. Cara isn't the only one keeping secrets though. Mason Scott is Cara's father's friend from Italy & the man she is to spend the summer with. He has been waiting two long years for Cara to come to him having meet her on her sixteenth birthday & not being able to forget her. He has set the whole plans for this summer to happen in motion a while ago & now she is on her way to him When she arrives at his mansion in Tuscany & she remembers meeting him at her birthday a couple of years back. As Cara settles into her new surrounds she can't stop herself from thinking about how attracted she is to Mason. When they meet to talk about her stay, Mason makes it perfectly clear that he has rules & she is to obey them or she will be punished. Mason want to break Cara down & build her back up to break her down again in a game of submission & dominance. Mason is not what she expects but she cannot deny the pull he has over her. As their game heats up & Cara starts to experience pain & pleasure together someone from Mason's past causes Cara to become uncomfortable. As everything starts to works itself out again an unexpected visitor threatens everything Mason has worked so hard to build. Will Mason be able to hang on to Cara? Will the unexpected visitor take Cara away? Do Cara & Mason stand a chance an a meaningful relationship?
His Muse is about an older man disparately wanting a specific young woman. He doesn't just want to be with her he wants to dominate her & own her. He is so far gone that if she wasn't so innocent she would see that she actually owns him. This is an erotic telling of a story about taking an innocent & fresh mouth teenager & turning her into a stunning submissive woman. I believe Isabella Starling captured the right amount of story telling with yearning & sexual tension to write a great erotic tale..... in my opinion. Mason is bent on changing Cara but isn't prepared for what happens when two people come together, they change each other. I would recommend this book if you enjoy reading about submission & dominance. This book is meant for mature readers only & is a real dirty tease.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book.
His Muse is about an older man disparately wanting a specific young woman. He doesn't just want to be with her he wants to dominate her & own her. He is so far gone that if she wasn't so innocent she would see that she actually owns him. This is an erotic telling of a story about taking an innocent & fresh mouth teenager & turning her into a stunning submissive woman. I believe Isabella Starling captured the right amount of story telling with yearning & sexual tension to write a great erotic tale..... in my opinion. Mason is bent on changing Cara but isn't prepared for what happens when two people come together, they change each other. I would recommend this book if you enjoy reading about submission & dominance. This book is meant for mature readers only & is a real dirty tease.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book.
October 24, 2017
Own in The Best of 2017
This trope is not for me, includes Daddy kink, Lolita h, D/s, Master slave, exhibitionism, degradation/humiliation (lite), etc. This one had me eye-rolling, setting my Kindle down, and struggling to finish. Not that this is poorly written - just not into this type of story. I was intrigued by the insight into H's past - no true depth to it - just as fodder to explain how messed up/damaged H is. I've said before, I like depth and story with the sex. I get bored with sex scene after sex scene. I have a few reading buddies who might like this - just not me. 2 generous stars.
This trope is not for me, includes Daddy kink, Lolita h, D/s, Master slave, exhibitionism, degradation/humiliation (lite), etc. This one had me eye-rolling, setting my Kindle down, and struggling to finish. Not that this is poorly written - just not into this type of story. I was intrigued by the insight into H's past - no true depth to it - just as fodder to explain how messed up/damaged H is. I've said before, I like depth and story with the sex. I get bored with sex scene after sex scene. I have a few reading buddies who might like this - just not me. 2 generous stars.
August 17, 2017
Another amazing story from the author which i really liked but beware this book can wet many panties cause of the many steamy scenes, the sensual, erotic dialogues and the super bold characters.
Mason has the role of the dark hero with unique desires and Cara is the fresh, joyful vixen who brings the "light" in the story! They have the perfect chemistry and you can definitely feel the taboo, forbidden vibe even if it's not true (cause both are adults) but the age difference between them which i always love reading in the books gives that feeling.
If you like all the above then look no further you're gonna enjoy this one, has many great "ingredients" to keep you reading 'till the last page. So I'm looking forward to read what the author is going to create next!
February 7, 2017
Was really disappointed. I found the hero to be a total jerk (and not in that way that you know you're gonna end up loving him), the heroine to be insecure and bratty, and a storyline that wasn't that good. Also grammatical errors.
May 12, 2017
This was very bad. I'm highly against cameras being placed in h's bedroom by the H. Yuck.
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
October 1, 2020
„His Muse” is the best book in this series. Of course this story is also a standalone like „His Doll” and „His Brat”. But among these three „His Muse” is the best. Isabella Starling done a perfect job with this plot.
Cara is a daddy's princess. Her father do everything what she wants. On her birthday, her Father tells Cara that she will go to Tuscany to his artist friend. When young woman meets Mason in Italy, she knows that this vacation won't be normal.
And she has right.
Mason is a perfect bad boy with sensitive soul. He is an artist and he is working so much. From the first sight with Cara he wants her. When Cara arrives to his house, he starts to impose his rules.
Cara wants to be wild and do what she wants, because it's her vacation, but in the end she yields.
I really like this book. As I wrote in the beginning „His Muse” is the best story in this standalone series. And of course I cannot wait for Isabella's next book.
Cara is a daddy's princess. Her father do everything what she wants. On her birthday, her Father tells Cara that she will go to Tuscany to his artist friend. When young woman meets Mason in Italy, she knows that this vacation won't be normal.
And she has right.
Mason is a perfect bad boy with sensitive soul. He is an artist and he is working so much. From the first sight with Cara he wants her. When Cara arrives to his house, he starts to impose his rules.
Cara wants to be wild and do what she wants, because it's her vacation, but in the end she yields.
I really like this book. As I wrote in the beginning „His Muse” is the best story in this standalone series. And of course I cannot wait for Isabella's next book.
Read
February 5, 2022Don't know how to feel about this one because it was genuinely questionable in terms of plot,
but the spice was just 😶🤌🔥.
February 8, 2017
This review contains spoilers.
Mason's muse is 18 year old Cara, who he has been infatuated with since her 16th birthday party. For Cara's 18th birthday present her father gives her a trip to Italy to study art with one stipulation, she needs to live with one of his business associates. She doesn't like this idea because she was planning on meeting up with her online boyfriend that she has been texting. Right away when she arrives at Mason's house she breaks one of his rules which resultes in some spankings. She is very much willing to partake in his punishment. She eventually finds out that Mason has been pretending to be this online boyfriend to lure her over to Italy. Mason had planned everything down to getting Cara's dad to let her stay with him. Mason wants to get Cara to submit completely to him and make her his forever. Cara's dad finds out what is going on and drags her home. Before she leaves she sees all the paintings of the previous women that Mason has been with and is very hurt thinking she was the only one. Mason doesn't stay away for long and goes to her house to explain and try win her back.
Let me start off with the things I liked about this book. The story line had great potential. The sex scenes were hot and you could feel the chemistry between Mason and Cara.
Now for the things that just didn't do it for me. I dont care for prologues that have you jumping into the middle or end of the book because then you already know what's coming.
The book was kind of all over the place. It felt like Isabella had all these events that she wanted to include in the book and just stuck them in just to have them there.
Cara was this spoiled rich girl that got everything she wanted from her father but once she was with Mason I did not get that feeling at all.
Cara is only at Mason's for a day before she let's him do all different sexual things to her which didn't seem realistic since she is suppose to be a virgin. She also didn't talk or act much like a virgin.
I didn't quite understand the purpose of the painting her naked and the oral sex with her infront of his friends/guests then telling them all to leave so he could have sex with her.
The book felt rushed and like there was missing details that could have been useful.
A few things seemed to come out of no where. One of them was the child Mason had that passed away after a car accident and that's why he had this garden that was walled off. This place is suppose to be special for his daughter but when Mason finds Cara in there he punishes her with refusal of her orgasm in the garden.
Mason uses the name Luca as Cara's online boyfriends name which is his stepsons name and Cara ends up meeting him right away thinking he's who she has been texting. Well Luca is a little messed up because his mom didn't want anything to do with him and left him with Mason after their divorce. The whole Luca and ex wife thing didn't really fit to me or could have been played a different way.
In the epilogue Cara's dad finally comes to visit for her 20th birthday and surprises her with brings a girlfriend and her two young kids with. This just seems unrelated to the story to be placed in the epilogue.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this ARC.
Mason's muse is 18 year old Cara, who he has been infatuated with since her 16th birthday party. For Cara's 18th birthday present her father gives her a trip to Italy to study art with one stipulation, she needs to live with one of his business associates. She doesn't like this idea because she was planning on meeting up with her online boyfriend that she has been texting. Right away when she arrives at Mason's house she breaks one of his rules which resultes in some spankings. She is very much willing to partake in his punishment. She eventually finds out that Mason has been pretending to be this online boyfriend to lure her over to Italy. Mason had planned everything down to getting Cara's dad to let her stay with him. Mason wants to get Cara to submit completely to him and make her his forever. Cara's dad finds out what is going on and drags her home. Before she leaves she sees all the paintings of the previous women that Mason has been with and is very hurt thinking she was the only one. Mason doesn't stay away for long and goes to her house to explain and try win her back.
Let me start off with the things I liked about this book. The story line had great potential. The sex scenes were hot and you could feel the chemistry between Mason and Cara.
Now for the things that just didn't do it for me. I dont care for prologues that have you jumping into the middle or end of the book because then you already know what's coming.
The book was kind of all over the place. It felt like Isabella had all these events that she wanted to include in the book and just stuck them in just to have them there.
Cara was this spoiled rich girl that got everything she wanted from her father but once she was with Mason I did not get that feeling at all.
Cara is only at Mason's for a day before she let's him do all different sexual things to her which didn't seem realistic since she is suppose to be a virgin. She also didn't talk or act much like a virgin.
I didn't quite understand the purpose of the painting her naked and the oral sex with her infront of his friends/guests then telling them all to leave so he could have sex with her.
The book felt rushed and like there was missing details that could have been useful.
A few things seemed to come out of no where. One of them was the child Mason had that passed away after a car accident and that's why he had this garden that was walled off. This place is suppose to be special for his daughter but when Mason finds Cara in there he punishes her with refusal of her orgasm in the garden.
Mason uses the name Luca as Cara's online boyfriends name which is his stepsons name and Cara ends up meeting him right away thinking he's who she has been texting. Well Luca is a little messed up because his mom didn't want anything to do with him and left him with Mason after their divorce. The whole Luca and ex wife thing didn't really fit to me or could have been played a different way.
In the epilogue Cara's dad finally comes to visit for her 20th birthday and surprises her with brings a girlfriend and her two young kids with. This just seems unrelated to the story to be placed in the epilogue.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this ARC.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 7, 2017
This book took me by great surprise i was not expecting that !
The Cover : I like the cover something about his eyes coupled with the name of the book made this one a want to read for me.
WARNING if you do not like older men with the younger girl this book is not for you and also if you do not read dark books their may be triggers so read with caution.
I really love this story however one thing did always stay in the back of my mind at early stages in the book it was mentioned that Mason was wealthy and no expense was spared when it came to his lifestyle but yet throughout the book it said things like his expensive shoes , clothes and so one and i felt it was a little over kill there and it was not needed so it was the only downside of the book from me.
now i loved the story of Mason and Cara and the sex was off the charts HOT, the story its self took me by surprise and from the beginning i was totally hooked i started reading this book last night and found myself eyes drooping in the early hours battling to stay awake so i could read just one more chapter.
a bit about the book so i know what it was about when i look back in a few years :)
Cara makes an online relationship with a guy online and believes she is escaping her father to go shack up with said guy in Italy but Daddy has other plans and in walks Mason.
Cara gets her wish to go to Italy under Masons care but the man is not who he seems at all
HOT sex lots of passion and lots of weird fucked up shit in between :) my kind of book !
Would Mason Be My Book Boyfriend? yes yes he would not sure id claim him as a husband though i mean he is pretty fucked up lol
The Cover : I like the cover something about his eyes coupled with the name of the book made this one a want to read for me.
WARNING if you do not like older men with the younger girl this book is not for you and also if you do not read dark books their may be triggers so read with caution.
I really love this story however one thing did always stay in the back of my mind at early stages in the book it was mentioned that Mason was wealthy and no expense was spared when it came to his lifestyle but yet throughout the book it said things like his expensive shoes , clothes and so one and i felt it was a little over kill there and it was not needed so it was the only downside of the book from me.
now i loved the story of Mason and Cara and the sex was off the charts HOT, the story its self took me by surprise and from the beginning i was totally hooked i started reading this book last night and found myself eyes drooping in the early hours battling to stay awake so i could read just one more chapter.
a bit about the book so i know what it was about when i look back in a few years :)
Cara makes an online relationship with a guy online and believes she is escaping her father to go shack up with said guy in Italy but Daddy has other plans and in walks Mason.
Cara gets her wish to go to Italy under Masons care but the man is not who he seems at all
HOT sex lots of passion and lots of weird fucked up shit in between :) my kind of book !
Would Mason Be My Book Boyfriend? yes yes he would not sure id claim him as a husband though i mean he is pretty fucked up lol
February 6, 2017
Another fabulous story by Isabella Starling which I totally enjoyed! It has a lot of steamy, sexy scenes which , word of warning, will cause you to need a fan to cool you down and possible change of undies (wink).
Artist Mason has been lusting after his buddy Mason Scott’s beautiful young daughter since she was 16. Mason moved away to Italy still craving this beautiful woman( which is shown in the book as it flashes back). He started planning how to get her. In the beginning of the book, Cara Newton celebrated her 18th birthday and she wants to go to Italy to study art. She has been secretly communicating with a man named Luca and wants to meet him. She finds out her dad has her staying with Mason instead of on her own in Italy. Immediately you get the feeling there are hidden surprises awaiting Miss Cara when she gets to Italy and I was so right. There are twists and turns that happen throughout this story and oh my god, let me say the sex is off the wall awesome. Mason is a dark hero, one who loves his innocent and beautiful heroine. There are many hot and steamy scenes, ones that involve BDSM—It was great watching how Mason and Cara handled their burgeoning relationship but what happened when Dad found out? How did their relationship go forward? Ms. Starling writes such complex and emotional stories with heat and steam that keeps me hooked from page 1. This is what romance is all about and I cannot wait for her next book!
My Rating: 4.9 stars *****
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***
Artist Mason has been lusting after his buddy Mason Scott’s beautiful young daughter since she was 16. Mason moved away to Italy still craving this beautiful woman( which is shown in the book as it flashes back). He started planning how to get her. In the beginning of the book, Cara Newton celebrated her 18th birthday and she wants to go to Italy to study art. She has been secretly communicating with a man named Luca and wants to meet him. She finds out her dad has her staying with Mason instead of on her own in Italy. Immediately you get the feeling there are hidden surprises awaiting Miss Cara when she gets to Italy and I was so right. There are twists and turns that happen throughout this story and oh my god, let me say the sex is off the wall awesome. Mason is a dark hero, one who loves his innocent and beautiful heroine. There are many hot and steamy scenes, ones that involve BDSM—It was great watching how Mason and Cara handled their burgeoning relationship but what happened when Dad found out? How did their relationship go forward? Ms. Starling writes such complex and emotional stories with heat and steam that keeps me hooked from page 1. This is what romance is all about and I cannot wait for her next book!
My Rating: 4.9 stars *****
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***
April 11, 2017
What The Heck Was This?
I truly enjoyed His Brat and was excited to see this new release. one thing that I have realized about Isabella Starling's books are that the blurbs are misleading. This story was about humiliation, domination and submission. I love kink!! What I did not like about this book was that there was no discussion between Cara and Mason about the type of relationship he desired and whether or not she was willing to participate in a kink relationship. Cara was 18, a virgin, sheltered and unaware that Mason had been infatuated with her for 2 years. He manipulates her in so many ways, refers to her by derogatory names, chokes her, dunks her face in the pool to scare her, then says he's not trying to hurt her!!! Mason's behavior is repugnant. Cara never had a choice. He imposed his wants upon her and got off on her fear and submission. I can't believe that so many women love this book. I think my big issue is that Cara is only 18. Had she been 25 or older, it would not have bothered me so much. I had to force myself to finish this one.
I truly enjoyed His Brat and was excited to see this new release. one thing that I have realized about Isabella Starling's books are that the blurbs are misleading. This story was about humiliation, domination and submission. I love kink!! What I did not like about this book was that there was no discussion between Cara and Mason about the type of relationship he desired and whether or not she was willing to participate in a kink relationship. Cara was 18, a virgin, sheltered and unaware that Mason had been infatuated with her for 2 years. He manipulates her in so many ways, refers to her by derogatory names, chokes her, dunks her face in the pool to scare her, then says he's not trying to hurt her!!! Mason's behavior is repugnant. Cara never had a choice. He imposed his wants upon her and got off on her fear and submission. I can't believe that so many women love this book. I think my big issue is that Cara is only 18. Had she been 25 or older, it would not have bothered me so much. I had to force myself to finish this one.
November 1, 2017
Hated it. The hero becomes obsessed with a 16y/o girl and in preparation of her 18th birthday he sets everything into motion by tricking her in order to get her to his home. And then you find out that he slept with 11 other women as practice to be the ‘best master’ Cara could have. She’s a kid with no sexual experience. Why the hell does he have to make preparations for her to be his sub if he’s not already a dom? And just because he waits until she’s 18 doesn’t get him out of the pedophile label. He thought of her sexually night and day. A girl with a girl’s body and a girl’s psyche. Not cool. The story also had at plot inconsistencies, typos and grammatical errors on every page. Get an editor.
March 27, 2018
Read as part of the ‘Best of 2017’ book compilation
I'd give this a 3.5 Holy Smutt-oly stars
Well…that was quite the panty melter of a read…
Excuse me for a second…
Except….well
Ok, here it is.
Yes, this was full of crazy hot kinky fuckery.
I mean, it was hawt crazy hot kinky fuckery…..
But that’s kinda all it had going for it.
Considering there were A LOT of sexcapades happening between the twosort of adults, you can sometimes forget that there’s supposed to be…well.. a plot in there somewhere.
There was some build up at the beginning – where we get an idea of Mason’sunhealthy obsession of Cara since she was sixteen and his plans to break her. And we also get a glimpse of Cara’s wicked sexual preference. But the disappointing factor was that…there was no breaking of anyone.
None, to be exact.
She willingly did everything
There may have been a hesitation here and there. But all he had to do was use his stern voice, and it was like ‘Ok, fair point. I’ll do it.’
I wanted to see more conflict between the two, but she just fell into his lap as the perfectlittle girl, and there were a few little issues here and there which got thrown in as a disguise to something actually happening.
There were dark aspects through Cara and Mason exploring of each other, but nothing that made me nervous to keep reading. Nothing that had me on the edge of the seat (or bed) that gripped me.
It was a sexually explicit Walt Disney film...with a barely-there plot twist or complication.
And one last little sextion which was utterly unbelievable - when Cara’s father finally finds out and what happened directly afterwards... very believable.
How everyone reacted to it… also believable.
But when Mason and Cara’s dad (I apologise…his name has completely escaped my mind…) have their last ‘face off’…NOT believable.
I HIGHLY doubt James.. (JAMES!! I fucking knew I knew it!!) would be that easily swayed…considering there was barely any conversation between the two.
That scene should have been a lot more complex. But seeing as we were winding down to the end, it was probably easy just to finish as soon as possible.
If you’re after a simple read, full of hot sex gymnastics that kinda glide into some dark content (only a little - to me anyway) then I’d recommend it. If you’re after something complex – probably best to give it a pass.
Books in 'Best of 2017' Compilation
Beast - A. Zavarelli
Blackwood - Celia Aaron
His Muse - Isabella Starling
Affliction - Jenika Snow
Buy Me, Sir - Jade West
Delicate Scars - Alta Hensley
Transference - Ava Harrison
Notice - K Webster
I'd give this a 3.5 Holy Smutt-oly stars
Well…that was quite the panty melter of a read…
Excuse me for a second…
Except….well
Ok, here it is.
Yes, this was full of crazy hot kinky fuckery.
I mean, it was hawt crazy hot kinky fuckery…..
But that’s kinda all it had going for it.
Considering there were A LOT of sexcapades happening between the two
There was some build up at the beginning – where we get an idea of Mason’s
None, to be exact.
She willingly did everything
There may have been a hesitation here and there. But all he had to do was use his stern voice, and it was like ‘Ok, fair point. I’ll do it.’
I wanted to see more conflict between the two, but she just fell into his lap as the perfect
There were dark aspects through Cara and Mason exploring of each other, but nothing that made me nervous to keep reading. Nothing that had me on the edge of the seat (or bed) that gripped me.
It was a sexually explicit Walt Disney film...with a barely-there plot twist or complication.
And one last little sextion which was utterly unbelievable - when Cara’s father finally finds out and what happened directly afterwards... very believable.
How everyone reacted to it… also believable.
But when Mason and Cara’s dad (I apologise…his name has completely escaped my mind…) have their last ‘face off’…NOT believable.
I HIGHLY doubt James.. (JAMES!! I fucking knew I knew it!!) would be that easily swayed…considering there was barely any conversation between the two.
That scene should have been a lot more complex. But seeing as we were winding down to the end, it was probably easy just to finish as soon as possible.
If you’re after a simple read, full of hot sex gymnastics that kinda glide into some dark content (only a little - to me anyway) then I’d recommend it. If you’re after something complex – probably best to give it a pass.
Books in 'Best of 2017' Compilation
Beast - A. Zavarelli
Blackwood - Celia Aaron
His Muse - Isabella Starling
Affliction - Jenika Snow
Buy Me, Sir - Jade West
Delicate Scars - Alta Hensley
Transference - Ava Harrison
Notice - K Webster
February 6, 2017
Having read Isabellas work before and quite honestly not being a fan I stepped in to this book with huge reservations- but as I was sent the ARC I decide to give her one last shot- if I didn't like it there was nothing lost.
And I have to say that the writing style has improved somewhat immensely. Yes it still reads as a 3.5 star read- but compared to the last 2 of hers that I read it's a massive improvement.
I still find Isabellas story telling quite chaotic and overwhelming- it's almost like it's a challenge to throw as many storylines as possible into one book- sometimes ones that don't even flow well with the story or massive life changing facts thrown in at the end and you're just sat there open mouthed wondering where the fuck that fact came from.
But as I say it's getting better and I'm not ready to give up on her quite yet- I think there's huge potential for an amazing book- maybe just don't throw 20 books worth of ideas into one 200 page novel!
And I have to say that the writing style has improved somewhat immensely. Yes it still reads as a 3.5 star read- but compared to the last 2 of hers that I read it's a massive improvement.
I still find Isabellas story telling quite chaotic and overwhelming- it's almost like it's a challenge to throw as many storylines as possible into one book- sometimes ones that don't even flow well with the story or massive life changing facts thrown in at the end and you're just sat there open mouthed wondering where the fuck that fact came from.
But as I say it's getting better and I'm not ready to give up on her quite yet- I think there's huge potential for an amazing book- maybe just don't throw 20 books worth of ideas into one 200 page novel!
January 31, 2017
When I started reading this book, I thought to myself, hmmm, just seemed kinda like all the others and nothing separating it. However, that changed quickly and i found myself enthralled by everything. The relationships between everyone, where the key characters came in and are connected. I don't want to spoil any of this book so i will just say, that the relationship between Cara and Mason is soooo sooo much more than you ever expect.
January 29, 2017
I got this book by the author for an honest review and like always it was AMAZING! I don't know how she does it, but her books keep getting better and better and this one is no exception! Another perfect story Isabella! Congratulations!
http://thesecretworldofbooklovers.blo...
About this book, I can start with Mason's intensity OMG, he has built up his persona so good, it's scary good but still for a newbie like Cara, it might seem like too much at first.
She was a bit annoying at first, a little brat, but she really surprised me when she learned and became the woman we all wanted her to be, the kind that can give Mason a run for his money.
The way in which he is obsessed with her and has everything planned might seem bit too much for some people, so if you don't like taboo subjects then I recommend you not to read this book. Now in the other hand if you do enjoy that then why are you still here? this is the book for you.
The sexual chemistry between the characters is perfect, and I couldn't get enough of Mason's punishments, who wouldn't want to misbehave if that was the reward/punishment you got.
Fun fact...I was reading it on a plane and I have to warn you that I got super uncomfortable a couple of times when I had to stop and take a breather after some of this scenes, and remembered where I was. I kept blushing super hard! Just SO good and intense!
One of my favorite things about Isabella's books is the alpha male characters we get to meet, I am obsessed with them, I want to live in your books forever.
I know it's already implied but this is a MUST read!
http://thesecretworldofbooklovers.blo...
About this book, I can start with Mason's intensity OMG, he has built up his persona so good, it's scary good but still for a newbie like Cara, it might seem like too much at first.
She was a bit annoying at first, a little brat, but she really surprised me when she learned and became the woman we all wanted her to be, the kind that can give Mason a run for his money.
The way in which he is obsessed with her and has everything planned might seem bit too much for some people, so if you don't like taboo subjects then I recommend you not to read this book. Now in the other hand if you do enjoy that then why are you still here? this is the book for you.
The sexual chemistry between the characters is perfect, and I couldn't get enough of Mason's punishments, who wouldn't want to misbehave if that was the reward/punishment you got.
Fun fact...I was reading it on a plane and I have to warn you that I got super uncomfortable a couple of times when I had to stop and take a breather after some of this scenes, and remembered where I was. I kept blushing super hard! Just SO good and intense!
One of my favorite things about Isabella's books is the alpha male characters we get to meet, I am obsessed with them, I want to live in your books forever.
I know it's already implied but this is a MUST read!
February 6, 2017
His Muse is about Cara and Mason. Cara has just turned eighteen and talked her doting father to let her go to Italy for the summer, supposedly to study about art history, when really she wants to visit her online boyfriend, Luca. She's been exchanging texts with him for quite a while and she can't wait to finally meet him in person. Her father tells her she is going to Italy, but explains that she will be staying with one of his good friends at his estate in Tuscany. What Cara doesn't know is that the good friend is Mason - and Mason is actually Luca.
Mason has been obsessed with Cara since he saw her at her sixteenth birthday party. He has been planning these past two years and it is finally coming to fruition. Mason is an artist and he sees Cara as "His Muse" - he wants to paint her...but this is where the "dark" part comes in. He wants to break her, he wants her virginity, he wants her submission.
What follows is another great romance from Isabella. I could not put it down - I had to know what would happen! My only complaint was I did not like the use of "slut" and "whore", though I understand others like this term, and it worked for the couple in this book. The story was full of super hot sex scenes, sweet romance, betrayal, anger, sadness, happiness, and so much more. Get your copy and find out what happens with Cara and Mason!
Mason has been obsessed with Cara since he saw her at her sixteenth birthday party. He has been planning these past two years and it is finally coming to fruition. Mason is an artist and he sees Cara as "His Muse" - he wants to paint her...but this is where the "dark" part comes in. He wants to break her, he wants her virginity, he wants her submission.
What follows is another great romance from Isabella. I could not put it down - I had to know what would happen! My only complaint was I did not like the use of "slut" and "whore", though I understand others like this term, and it worked for the couple in this book. The story was full of super hot sex scenes, sweet romance, betrayal, anger, sadness, happiness, and so much more. Get your copy and find out what happens with Cara and Mason!
January 29, 2017
I'm a huge fan of Isabella Starlings and His Muse is my favorite book of hers so far.
This book is slightly edgier then her other books have been for me, maybe cause of Masons absolute obsession over Cara.
Mason met Cara at her 16th bday party being invited by her father who is a good friend of his. It was the first time he ever saw Cara and that's when his obsession with her starts. Mason starts tangling a web for Cara to walk right into over the span of 2 years. On Caras 18 bday she gets the only present she wants, the summer in Italy to study art and the man she's talking to Luca only she's furious when she finds out her father is sending her but she has to stay with his friend Mason.
The second Cara sees Mason she recognizes him instantly and is very attracted to him but, is confused by some thins he says and his extremely dominating behavior. Mason literally wanted to rip the hands of anybody who so much as later a finger on Cara and almost blew off Lucas head when he saw him in Caras room.
This book was very very hot as are most books by Isabella but, the grittier vibe of this book is what made me crazy about it.
Now I did love Mason but, he was a fucking stalker!!! But he was the type of stalker I wouldn't mind, lol!
I voluntarily reviewed a arc of this book
This book is slightly edgier then her other books have been for me, maybe cause of Masons absolute obsession over Cara.
Mason met Cara at her 16th bday party being invited by her father who is a good friend of his. It was the first time he ever saw Cara and that's when his obsession with her starts. Mason starts tangling a web for Cara to walk right into over the span of 2 years. On Caras 18 bday she gets the only present she wants, the summer in Italy to study art and the man she's talking to Luca only she's furious when she finds out her father is sending her but she has to stay with his friend Mason.
The second Cara sees Mason she recognizes him instantly and is very attracted to him but, is confused by some thins he says and his extremely dominating behavior. Mason literally wanted to rip the hands of anybody who so much as later a finger on Cara and almost blew off Lucas head when he saw him in Caras room.
This book was very very hot as are most books by Isabella but, the grittier vibe of this book is what made me crazy about it.
Now I did love Mason but, he was a fucking stalker!!! But he was the type of stalker I wouldn't mind, lol!
I voluntarily reviewed a arc of this book
February 1, 2017
I gave this Book a rating of 5 ✩’s
Title: His Muse: A Dark Alpha Bad Boy Romance
Series: Stand Alone
Genre: May-December Romance, Dark taboo Romance
Author: Isabella Starling
Format: Kindle eBook
Published on: Jan 24, 2017
I voluntarily reviewed a Courtesy Advanced Reader Copy of this book
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Character’s Descriptions:
Cara newton has just turned 18 and for her birthday she gets a trip to Italy
Mason Has been in love with Cara since her 16th birthday party
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Summary Paragraph:
Cara has been communicating with A guy named “Luca” on social media. She wants to go to Italy to meet him and for her birthday her father sends her to one of his best friends who Lives in Italy.
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What I liked/Didn’t Like: Loved the way the book pulls you in right from the start and talk about HOT HOT sexy scenes!!!! Isabella is one of my top ten Favorite authors out there. I always look forward to reading her books. Her storylines and characters are always great and never disappoint
Title: His Muse: A Dark Alpha Bad Boy Romance
Series: Stand Alone
Genre: May-December Romance, Dark taboo Romance
Author: Isabella Starling
Format: Kindle eBook
Published on: Jan 24, 2017
I voluntarily reviewed a Courtesy Advanced Reader Copy of this book
>-< >-< >-< >-< >-<>-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-<
Character’s Descriptions:
Cara newton has just turned 18 and for her birthday she gets a trip to Italy
Mason Has been in love with Cara since her 16th birthday party
>-< >-< >-< >-< >-<>-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-<
Summary Paragraph:
Cara has been communicating with A guy named “Luca” on social media. She wants to go to Italy to meet him and for her birthday her father sends her to one of his best friends who Lives in Italy.
>-< >-< >-< >-< >-<>-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-< >-<
What I liked/Didn’t Like: Loved the way the book pulls you in right from the start and talk about HOT HOT sexy scenes!!!! Isabella is one of my top ten Favorite authors out there. I always look forward to reading her books. Her storylines and characters are always great and never disappoint
February 7, 2017
Another fantastic book by Isabella Starling!!! I absolutely feel in love with Mason and Cara.
Mason has been patiently waiting for Cara to turn 18, so can finally have her as his.
For her birthday she wants to go to Italy, to meet a boy named Luca who she has been talking to online. Cara's father agrees to send her to Italy, but she is to stay with a family friend while there. She doesn't like it, but what choice does she have? When she actually meets Mason the attraction is instantaneous.
When she meets Luca its lone he is a completely different person. He kind of scares her.
While with Mason the chemistry between these two is explosive. She finally makes her move. The sex was HOT between Cara and Mason. She is his Muse!! The journey these two take is a dark one that explores Cara sexuality and Mason's past!!
I loved His Muse!!! Would highly recommend!!! A fantastic story!!!
Mason has been patiently waiting for Cara to turn 18, so can finally have her as his.
For her birthday she wants to go to Italy, to meet a boy named Luca who she has been talking to online. Cara's father agrees to send her to Italy, but she is to stay with a family friend while there. She doesn't like it, but what choice does she have? When she actually meets Mason the attraction is instantaneous.
When she meets Luca its lone he is a completely different person. He kind of scares her.
While with Mason the chemistry between these two is explosive. She finally makes her move. The sex was HOT between Cara and Mason. She is his Muse!! The journey these two take is a dark one that explores Cara sexuality and Mason's past!!
I loved His Muse!!! Would highly recommend!!! A fantastic story!!!
February 8, 2017
I read this book in one sitting but found parts of it distasteful.
There is nothing wrong with the premise of an older man/younger woman but some of Mason's behaviour bordered on the perverted.
It was never fully explained why he felt the need to dominate and break Cara, nor was an explanation given for her submission. As her character was described I would have expected more resistance and argument from her, she was, after all, used to getting her own way.
The worst scene for me was Mason's "exhibition"...that came completely out of left field, was way OTT, and did not fit with his feelings for her as he'd earlier expressed them.
It was an interesting, and dark, read.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
There is nothing wrong with the premise of an older man/younger woman but some of Mason's behaviour bordered on the perverted.
It was never fully explained why he felt the need to dominate and break Cara, nor was an explanation given for her submission. As her character was described I would have expected more resistance and argument from her, she was, after all, used to getting her own way.
The worst scene for me was Mason's "exhibition"...that came completely out of left field, was way OTT, and did not fit with his feelings for her as he'd earlier expressed them.
It was an interesting, and dark, read.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
February 4, 2017
Very intense, dark romance between an older man and a younger woman.
An obsessed, broken man and an innocent and infatuated woman.
He wants to break her. He wants to use her. He wants to own her.
She’s so young. She’s the daughter of a friend, but none of that matters.
She’s his muse. She’s his obsession.
He’s desperate to claim her in every way.
He needs her, but what will happen once she submits?
Will he send her home in shattered pieces or carefully put her back together and keep her forever?
Very steamy, sexy and dark romance.
Standalone. HEA. No cliffhanger.
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this book.
An obsessed, broken man and an innocent and infatuated woman.
He wants to break her. He wants to use her. He wants to own her.
She’s so young. She’s the daughter of a friend, but none of that matters.
She’s his muse. She’s his obsession.
He’s desperate to claim her in every way.
He needs her, but what will happen once she submits?
Will he send her home in shattered pieces or carefully put her back together and keep her forever?
Very steamy, sexy and dark romance.
Standalone. HEA. No cliffhanger.
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this book.
February 6, 2017
I was utterly confused and thinking WTH am I reading. While the story line was good, older man/younger girl, this story just left me thinking, WTF did I just read. The writing was good but I just wasn't sure on Mason or Cara. Mason just had the creep factor to him. Cara is young and inexperienced, which is to be expected. Cara just goes along with everything that is thrown her way. The way she just accepted Mason's demands and reasoning just threw me. I finished this last night and still in my mind with WTH did I read. Yes, the sex scenes were off the charts HOT but I disliked Mason. There was no explanation on why he was the way he was.
I voluntarily received a copy for my honest review.
I voluntarily received a copy for my honest review.
February 2, 2017
This....was....hawt.
A little kinky, kinda twisted. But with real feelings underneath it all and secondary characters you want to have their own stories. The feelings Mason and Cara have for eachother and their attraction is raw and honest, and very enjoyable to read about. Their relationship is a little master and his pet, sexy and loving. It got pretty serious near the end and I had tears in my eyes at one point.
I received an arc, btw.
A little kinky, kinda twisted. But with real feelings underneath it all and secondary characters you want to have their own stories. The feelings Mason and Cara have for eachother and their attraction is raw and honest, and very enjoyable to read about. Their relationship is a little master and his pet, sexy and loving. It got pretty serious near the end and I had tears in my eyes at one point.
I received an arc, btw.
January 27, 2017
I couldn't put this book down. From the moment I started reading I was hooked. Mason & Cara was so hot and sexy together that I couldn't get enough. Once Mason saw Cara he had to have her but waiting patiently until she was 18. Once Mason had Cara he didn't want to let her go and would do anything to have her forever. Amazing story with amazing characters, if you want a hot sexy read don't hesitate to 1 click this book
January 28, 2017
4.5 stars
February 6, 2017
I like dark romances a lot, normally, but His Muse just did not sit well with me. It wasn't truly dark, for one, but it wasn't really fluff either. There are BDSM elements, but not really hard core BDSM. It's more just the D and s of BDSM, and not that much of either the D or the s. I think the main reason I didn't really get into His Muse is because neither Mason nor Cara is a well developed character. They have strong chemistry, and their scenes are dirty and steamy, but I didn't really feel their connection to be anything other than physical.
Mason is Cara's father's friend who has lusted after her since she was 16. She's now 18 and is planning on going to Venice for the summer when she finds out her father will only let her go if she stays with Mason while she's there. It upsets her because she was planning on staying with Luca, her penpal whom she has never actually met. Imagine her surprise when she finds out exactly who Mason is.
For some reason, Mason feels the need to break Cara. It's never explained why he wants to break her, yet another way His Muse isn't well developed. Cara is submissive to an extent, but I didn't feel as if she were truly submissive, only that she enjoyed what Mason did to her body while he was "breaking" her.
If you truly want dark romance, then don't pick up His Muse, thinking this is really graphically dark. But, if you are just looking for something steamy, or maybe older man/younger woman, then you might enjoy this one.
I received an ARC for an honest review.
Mason is Cara's father's friend who has lusted after her since she was 16. She's now 18 and is planning on going to Venice for the summer when she finds out her father will only let her go if she stays with Mason while she's there. It upsets her because she was planning on staying with Luca, her penpal whom she has never actually met. Imagine her surprise when she finds out exactly who Mason is.
For some reason, Mason feels the need to break Cara. It's never explained why he wants to break her, yet another way His Muse isn't well developed. Cara is submissive to an extent, but I didn't feel as if she were truly submissive, only that she enjoyed what Mason did to her body while he was "breaking" her.
If you truly want dark romance, then don't pick up His Muse, thinking this is really graphically dark. But, if you are just looking for something steamy, or maybe older man/younger woman, then you might enjoy this one.
I received an ARC for an honest review.
February 6, 2017
Art and seduction in a naughty package.
This dark romance has an alpha male with a twisted mind. He concocts an evil plan to lure the woman he covets into his domain in Italy. There, he launches himself upon her with devious, dirty games and rough dominance.
I loved the atmosphere of uncertainty, veiled menace and furious sensuality. The man plays with her bratty innocence like a connoisseur cat with his trapped little mouse. Most of the novel is an exchange of angry, fearful erotic punishments that lead to dirty, full-on intercourse. Up until half of the novel, I enjoyed all of it. Then, Mason just doles out some orders that felt too much for me. The car scene, public exposure, the water scene... That's where the dark part of the romance kicks in ;-)
It's not that terrible as it is all with her consent and beautifully written and infused with artful inspiration. It was riveting when their dark relationship reaches a point of no return and all the ugly truths are revealed in a burst of pain and tears.
After all the upheavals, I can honestly say that I understand what they do, their dark spots, their vulnerable need for love. I understand both characters, and I'm happy I read their story.
This dark romance has an alpha male with a twisted mind. He concocts an evil plan to lure the woman he covets into his domain in Italy. There, he launches himself upon her with devious, dirty games and rough dominance.
I loved the atmosphere of uncertainty, veiled menace and furious sensuality. The man plays with her bratty innocence like a connoisseur cat with his trapped little mouse. Most of the novel is an exchange of angry, fearful erotic punishments that lead to dirty, full-on intercourse. Up until half of the novel, I enjoyed all of it. Then, Mason just doles out some orders that felt too much for me. The car scene, public exposure, the water scene... That's where the dark part of the romance kicks in ;-)
It's not that terrible as it is all with her consent and beautifully written and infused with artful inspiration. It was riveting when their dark relationship reaches a point of no return and all the ugly truths are revealed in a burst of pain and tears.
After all the upheavals, I can honestly say that I understand what they do, their dark spots, their vulnerable need for love. I understand both characters, and I'm happy I read their story.
February 4, 2017
This is my first Isabella Starling book and I'm so disappointed I waited this long to read her work! The story was great, the sex was hot, and her writing and descriptions were amazing.
Young spoiled rotten Cara is turning 18. She's asked for only one thing for her birthday - a summer spent in Italy to learn more about art. Little does her father know, there's a bigger reason she wants to go. Her father sets up a summer in Italy for his little girl to stay with an old friend of his.
Cara is so excited to go to Italy but she isn't happy about staying with her dad's friend. He's going to keep a close eye on her and that is going to make it hard for her to be with Luca, the other reason she wanted to go to Italy. But when she arrives at Mason Scott's house, she has no idea what he has planned for her.
Mason has waited so long to get her here and now he finally has her. The things he wants to do to her are becoming harder and harder to resist by the minute. He wants to break her. Own her. And he's just getting started.
This book has some darker themes but it's done so well! I love this book and Isabella has a new fan forever! If dark themes don't bother you, I totally recommend this book. I look forward to my next read from her!
Young spoiled rotten Cara is turning 18. She's asked for only one thing for her birthday - a summer spent in Italy to learn more about art. Little does her father know, there's a bigger reason she wants to go. Her father sets up a summer in Italy for his little girl to stay with an old friend of his.
Cara is so excited to go to Italy but she isn't happy about staying with her dad's friend. He's going to keep a close eye on her and that is going to make it hard for her to be with Luca, the other reason she wanted to go to Italy. But when she arrives at Mason Scott's house, she has no idea what he has planned for her.
Mason has waited so long to get her here and now he finally has her. The things he wants to do to her are becoming harder and harder to resist by the minute. He wants to break her. Own her. And he's just getting started.
This book has some darker themes but it's done so well! I love this book and Isabella has a new fan forever! If dark themes don't bother you, I totally recommend this book. I look forward to my next read from her!
March 12, 2018
Lots of feelings about this one
This book starts out sexy and naughty, riding that edge of darkness, and then it turns ugly. Very ugly. Parts of the book made me queasy, and not in that good twisty way, either. I love reading dark romances, so my criticism isn’t because this type of story bothers me. What Mason does goes way beyond the usual dark romance. He crosses from the dark romance bad boy who pushes boundaries to abuse—maybe even assault. He wasn’t in love. He did all of this for his ego and pleasure.
The relationship between Mason and Cara is pretty twisted and messed up. Mason becomes obsessed with Cara at her Sweet 16 party (or maybe when she was born), and since then, he’s been plotting and planning to use trick her into a sexual relationship that she is not ready for. Mason knows she’s not ready for it—that’s part the appeal for him.
A lot of it makes me uncomfortable. Mason goes too far and some of his sexual demands will have unpleasant or even devastating lasting consequences. He has her doing things that she can’t come back from, and even worse, people will know exactly what she’s doing.
At several points, I was rooting for her father to beat Mason to a pulp and for Mason to go to jail for stalking and battery.
This book starts out sexy and naughty, riding that edge of darkness, and then it turns ugly. Very ugly. Parts of the book made me queasy, and not in that good twisty way, either. I love reading dark romances, so my criticism isn’t because this type of story bothers me. What Mason does goes way beyond the usual dark romance. He crosses from the dark romance bad boy who pushes boundaries to abuse—maybe even assault. He wasn’t in love. He did all of this for his ego and pleasure.
The relationship between Mason and Cara is pretty twisted and messed up. Mason becomes obsessed with Cara at her Sweet 16 party (or maybe when she was born), and since then, he’s been plotting and planning to use trick her into a sexual relationship that she is not ready for. Mason knows she’s not ready for it—that’s part the appeal for him.
A lot of it makes me uncomfortable. Mason goes too far and some of his sexual demands will have unpleasant or even devastating lasting consequences. He has her doing things that she can’t come back from, and even worse, people will know exactly what she’s doing.
At several points, I was rooting for her father to beat Mason to a pulp and for Mason to go to jail for stalking and battery.
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