Review: Fun, Fast, and Sexy
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 12 11, 2013
First Impression .... Sexy cover. I always enjoy Monica Murphy's books.The Story... The second in the Billionaire Bachelors Club, Torn is the story of Gage, one of the three bachelor's betting against love. Once the mighty Archer (swoooon!) fell for the winsome Ivy, the bet -the last man to fall in love wins a million dollars- has not been forgotten, but it's not so much the focus of the series. What the story does focus on is the disciplined and focused Gage, swiftly becoming intrigued by and falling in love with Marina. Problem is, Marina's family owns the property Gage intends to own. The two share a fiery intense attraction. Can they get past what's between them and find love?The Characters ... Gage was broody and hot in Crave, so obviously I wanted more of him. He's not as broody in Torn, but he was still hot and surprisingly sweet. At least when it comes to Marina and his sister Ivy. Marina was a very likable character, as well. Though she had plenty of reason to push Gage away, she just can't resist. I appreciated that she was strong, but not brittle. Neither character was particularly complex, but both were engaging. Their relationship did seem a bit rushed, or that maybe some of the development happened off page, but I did like them so much as a couple.Archer and Ivy were both heavily featured in Torn, a very welcome surprise. It is always nice to revisit beloved characters, even more so when they play such a fun part of the story. Plus, I love how much Gage loves Ivy and the dude-banter between him and Archer. I love that the characters are both serious and fun.The Writing... I have enjoyed every single book of Murphy's I've read, and Torn was no exception. I like that we get the dual point-of-view, giving insight to both main characters thoughts and actions. Her men are always hot yet likable. Her heroines are always strong and loving. I found the writing to be charming, nicely-paced, and infused with humor in the right spots.The Heat ... A nice steamy level. The perfect fit this story, the physical passion never took overtook the emotional aspects or the story in general.Could I Put Torn Down? The story got off to a brisk start, and held that pace throughout. I was emotionally invested in Gage and Marina, but did feel like it was a little rushed. I enjoyed it, wanted that happy ending, but never completely consumed.In the End ... Torn was a fun, fast, and sexy story. A very nice addition to the Billionaire Bachelors Club series.Favorite Quotes:Whether it's good or bad. Whether I want to know her response or not, I need to hear it. For once in my life, I want to leave myself vulnerable when it comes to a woman. But only for this woman. She has me so twisted up in knots I don't know if I'll ever be able to unravel them.I don't know if I want to either. ~eARC, 26%"You know you're in love with her."I scoff. "I am not in love with her," I say emphatically. "I've known her for a week.""You have feelings for her, then." Archer grimaces. "Christ, listen to me. I've turned into Oprah.""I blame Ivy." ~eARC, 60%