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Riding Steele #1
Riding Steele: Kidnapped
Being kidnapped by bikers is a harrowing experience, but for some reason, Laurie doesn’t feel as terrified as she should. The leader’s steely eyes soften when he looks at her, and the others in his gang clearly know she’s hands off. But does that include Steele's hands? Her brain resists him, but her body insists she wants those big hands all over her.
Steele doesn’t know how he wound up in this mess–with a kidnapped woman on his hands and the police hot on their trail. Now he and Laurie are in hiding at an isolated cabin, and Steele has to figure out how to extricate himself . . . and steer clear of his accidental captive whose tight, slinky clubbing attire is making him think all kinds of dangerous thoughts…
Steele doesn’t know how he wound up in this mess–with a kidnapped woman on his hands and the police hot on their trail. Now he and Laurie are in hiding at an isolated cabin, and Steele has to figure out how to extricate himself . . . and steer clear of his accidental captive whose tight, slinky clubbing attire is making him think all kinds of dangerous thoughts…
35 pages, ebook
First published November 4, 2014
24 people are currently reading
779 people want to read
About the author
Opal Carew
166 books1,892 followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author, Opal Carew loves cats, Zentangle, and wild nail polish!
http://www.opalcarew.com/
http://us.macmillan.com/author/opalcarew
http://www.opalcarew.com/
http://us.macmillan.com/author/opalcarew
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 106 reviews
October 18, 2014
2.5-3 Biker Stars
Reading mini books can be a good thing and bad thing. I usually don’t read mini books unless the whole series is out, but then again, you don’t really have to and the simple taste of one book can be enough.
Riding Steele didn’t work out for me for the simple fact I wasn’t a fan of the writing style. This may work for other people, but I’ve said this a thousand of times, I hate descriptive writing. This is a fairly short book, so when there are pages and pages of descriptive writing, I started to skim. I know, please do not hate me.
I love the plot and I love biker reads. I love a damsel in distress that gets kidnapped accidently. But it wasn’t enough. I needed more dialogue.
This didn’t work out for me, but that doesn’t mean it wouldn’t work out for you. That’s the great thing of mini books, take a taste and see what you think.
An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review
Reading mini books can be a good thing and bad thing. I usually don’t read mini books unless the whole series is out, but then again, you don’t really have to and the simple taste of one book can be enough.
Riding Steele didn’t work out for me for the simple fact I wasn’t a fan of the writing style. This may work for other people, but I’ve said this a thousand of times, I hate descriptive writing. This is a fairly short book, so when there are pages and pages of descriptive writing, I started to skim. I know, please do not hate me.
I love the plot and I love biker reads. I love a damsel in distress that gets kidnapped accidently. But it wasn’t enough. I needed more dialogue.
This didn’t work out for me, but that doesn’t mean it wouldn’t work out for you. That’s the great thing of mini books, take a taste and see what you think.
An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review
November 7, 2014
**Riding Steele: Kidnapped generously provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.**
This is part one of serial series by Opal Carew. I've not read any other works by this author to date but found her writing style enjoyable and easy. Kidnapped is a very short installment where the reader is introduced to an entire cast of characters that are part of a motorcycle club. Except for the heroine who's saved from danger winding up in throes of the club without understanding why. Some aspects of the story were unclear to me and I think I made a few assumptions based on the text without really having the answers. However, I'm intrigued enough to definitely continue on with the series, eager to find out what happens next. The hero description sounds positively alpha hotness. The heroine comes across as a bit skittish and weak but I'm hoping we see her feistiness shine in future installments.
June 9, 2016
3 - "Sweetheart, I’m never too tired to fuck.” Stars.
So the story of Steele and Laurie begins, as you would expect you can’t really get a full feeling of a story in just 30 odd pages and there are certain to be a few more major developments as the novellas progress.
”I think the lady would like you to leave her alone.”
What you do garner straight away though is that Opal Carew can write a story that pulls the reader right into it. This is a book of firsts for me, my first by this author and my first in the MC genre.
”You slept in my bed last night, me naked, and I didn’t touch you.
Why do you think I would now?”
I am looking forward to continuing the journey.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
So the story of Steele and Laurie begins, as you would expect you can’t really get a full feeling of a story in just 30 odd pages and there are certain to be a few more major developments as the novellas progress.
”I think the lady would like you to leave her alone.”
What you do garner straight away though is that Opal Carew can write a story that pulls the reader right into it. This is a book of firsts for me, my first by this author and my first in the MC genre.
”You slept in my bed last night, me naked, and I didn’t touch you.
Why do you think I would now?”
I am looking forward to continuing the journey.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
August 2, 2015
This copy kindly provided by NetGalley on behalf of the publisher.
*please note all 6 parts read continuously as one piece, so have reviewed as one (all 6 parts have the same review attached)
another fun, engrossing read from Opal.
Would much rather have the single edition than the 6 mini installments, but I read them all back to back anyway so kinda the same thing. after finishing work at midnight determined to get a decent sleep for a relatively early morning, I ended up reading til 3am just to finish them!!
it's hot, sexy, emotional, heroes & villains... everything you love about Opal Carew books!!
*please note all 6 parts read continuously as one piece, so have reviewed as one (all 6 parts have the same review attached)
another fun, engrossing read from Opal.
Would much rather have the single edition than the 6 mini installments, but I read them all back to back anyway so kinda the same thing. after finishing work at midnight determined to get a decent sleep for a relatively early morning, I ended up reading til 3am just to finish them!!
it's hot, sexy, emotional, heroes & villains... everything you love about Opal Carew books!!
December 9, 2018
Review copy provided via NetGalley
Note: Riding Steele is a serialized novel in the Ready to Ride series that is being released in 6 installments, and will also be published in one volume. I am reviewing this serial as one complete piece of work.
Why I Read this Book: First, I have a confession to make: I am not a fan of serials. It feels like a marketing ploy to get more money for what is essentially ONE book and I do not have the patience to wait for the next ‘installment’, especially when being left with cliffhangers. With Riding Steele being the 3rd book in a series, I don’t understand why the decision was made to chop this book up into 6 parts. However, I couldn’t resist reading Riding Steele because it’s an MC Romance and I’m a sucker for those.
What I Liked: I had only requested the first installment, as this is a new-to-me author and I wasn’t sure what to expect being that this is part of a serial, but the writing captured my attention enough for me to quickly request the rest of the installments. Riding Steele has an interesting premise, and I was curious to find out why the bikers would kidnap Laurie, and what would happen with her once they had her in their hold.
There was some interesting backstory with Steele and with Laurie. There’s a sad and unfortunate event that took place in Steele’s life. Laurie is trying to break things off with her overbearing boyfriend. These elements shaped who these characters are.
I really liked and appreciated how each installment started off with the last scene that took place in the preceding installment. While I pretty much read these installments back-to-back, readers who choose to read this serial in installments as they come out will surely appreciate this.
What I Didn’t Like: There was no real hierarchy in the ‘club’ so it didn’t really feel like an actual MC to me. Steele is referred to as the “leader”, not president, and none of the other members had a role in the club. It was just a group of guys, and a woman, who hang out and ride together. Not exactly the type of foundation I look for in a MC romance but I’ll take it. And the way the guys funded their simplistic lifestyle was a bit farfetched. None of the guys had a job, that I recall.
Let’s talk about the sex. I like smut but this was a bit too much for me. Not necessary a bad thing, just not my thing as I prefer one-on-one relationships while Steele doesn’t mind sharing his woman. I hadn’t read either of the other two books in this series, and the blurb didn’t give any hint of how erotic this story is, so I had no idea until about 1/3 of the way into the 2nd installment.
Also, giving someone not one, but two safe words doesn’t sound like a good idea to me. Laurie is not experienced in BDSM, so for Steele to give her two safe words with two different meanings to remember didn’t make sense to me.
And for all the boinking going on, nobody used a condom nor did anyone talk about birth control of any sort. After seeing an orgy take place before her very eyes, I’d have thought Laurie would have insisted on protection. She doesn’t know any of these people, and they’re casually swapping and sharing sexual partners.
Lastly, Laurie and Steele’s relationship was an insta-love, which is not my favorite.
Overall Impression: Riding Steele was a good read though it was a little too bow-chicka-wow-wow for my liking, which I was totally unprepared for as there was NO indication to the level of erotica mentioned in the blurb. But for those who enjoy extremely erotic romance (we’re talking orgies, sharing partners, BDSM elements, and M/M action) and enjoy MC romance, I’d say this is the book for you.
Let’s talk price: If you’re a fan of serials and love the anticipation that comes with them, and don’t mind paying more to be able to read each installment as soon as it comes out ($1.99 for about 35-40 pages, which comes to about $12 for all 6 installments), then I would say to get them as they come out. There were minor cliffhangers at the end of each installment but nothing too extreme that I couldn’t wait a week for the next installment. But if you’re like me and would rather read Riding Steele in its entirety all at once, then wait until the complete novel releases in March 2015 and get it at the discount price of $3.99. [Note: Prices noted were taken from Amazon when this review originally posted on 11/4/2014.]
Review originally posted on The Book Vixen.
Note: Riding Steele is a serialized novel in the Ready to Ride series that is being released in 6 installments, and will also be published in one volume. I am reviewing this serial as one complete piece of work.
Why I Read this Book: First, I have a confession to make: I am not a fan of serials. It feels like a marketing ploy to get more money for what is essentially ONE book and I do not have the patience to wait for the next ‘installment’, especially when being left with cliffhangers. With Riding Steele being the 3rd book in a series, I don’t understand why the decision was made to chop this book up into 6 parts. However, I couldn’t resist reading Riding Steele because it’s an MC Romance and I’m a sucker for those.
What I Liked: I had only requested the first installment, as this is a new-to-me author and I wasn’t sure what to expect being that this is part of a serial, but the writing captured my attention enough for me to quickly request the rest of the installments. Riding Steele has an interesting premise, and I was curious to find out why the bikers would kidnap Laurie, and what would happen with her once they had her in their hold.
There was some interesting backstory with Steele and with Laurie. There’s a sad and unfortunate event that took place in Steele’s life. Laurie is trying to break things off with her overbearing boyfriend. These elements shaped who these characters are.
I really liked and appreciated how each installment started off with the last scene that took place in the preceding installment. While I pretty much read these installments back-to-back, readers who choose to read this serial in installments as they come out will surely appreciate this.
What I Didn’t Like: There was no real hierarchy in the ‘club’ so it didn’t really feel like an actual MC to me. Steele is referred to as the “leader”, not president, and none of the other members had a role in the club. It was just a group of guys, and a woman, who hang out and ride together. Not exactly the type of foundation I look for in a MC romance but I’ll take it. And the way the guys funded their simplistic lifestyle was a bit farfetched. None of the guys had a job, that I recall.
Let’s talk about the sex. I like smut but this was a bit too much for me. Not necessary a bad thing, just not my thing as I prefer one-on-one relationships while Steele doesn’t mind sharing his woman. I hadn’t read either of the other two books in this series, and the blurb didn’t give any hint of how erotic this story is, so I had no idea until about 1/3 of the way into the 2nd installment.
Also, giving someone not one, but two safe words doesn’t sound like a good idea to me. Laurie is not experienced in BDSM, so for Steele to give her two safe words with two different meanings to remember didn’t make sense to me.
And for all the boinking going on, nobody used a condom nor did anyone talk about birth control of any sort. After seeing an orgy take place before her very eyes, I’d have thought Laurie would have insisted on protection. She doesn’t know any of these people, and they’re casually swapping and sharing sexual partners.
Lastly, Laurie and Steele’s relationship was an insta-love, which is not my favorite.
Overall Impression: Riding Steele was a good read though it was a little too bow-chicka-wow-wow for my liking, which I was totally unprepared for as there was NO indication to the level of erotica mentioned in the blurb. But for those who enjoy extremely erotic romance (we’re talking orgies, sharing partners, BDSM elements, and M/M action) and enjoy MC romance, I’d say this is the book for you.
Let’s talk price: If you’re a fan of serials and love the anticipation that comes with them, and don’t mind paying more to be able to read each installment as soon as it comes out ($1.99 for about 35-40 pages, which comes to about $12 for all 6 installments), then I would say to get them as they come out. There were minor cliffhangers at the end of each installment but nothing too extreme that I couldn’t wait a week for the next installment. But if you’re like me and would rather read Riding Steele in its entirety all at once, then wait until the complete novel releases in March 2015 and get it at the discount price of $3.99. [Note: Prices noted were taken from Amazon when this review originally posted on 11/4/2014.]
Review originally posted on The Book Vixen.
November 12, 2014
RIDING STEELE BY OPAL CAREW
6 INSTALMENTS OR 1 BOOK?
HOW CAN PUBLISHERS CHARGE $1.99 FOR 30 PAGES?
HOW CAN THOSE 6 INSTALMENTS, IF PURCHASED SEPARATELY, BE $12 YET IF YOU PURCHASE THE BOOK IN ITS ENTIRETY, THE PRICE IS LESS THAN $9?
I HAVE NO PROBLEM PAYING A HIGHER PRICE FOR A QUALITY BOOK, J R WARD AND SHELLY LAURENSTON FOR EXAMPLE ARE AUTOMATIC ONE CLICKS FOR ME BUT THE LENGTH AND QUALITY I WILL BE GETTING FOR MY DOLLARS MEANS I AM HAPPY TO DO SO. I’VE SAID BEFORE THAT I DISLIKE THIS GROWING TREND FOR SPLITTING BOOKS INTO INSTALMENTS, PERSONALLY I FEEL IT’S JUST A CON TO GET READERS TO PAY EXTRA TO GET THE BOOK EARLIER RATHER THAN WAIT FOR THE PRODUCT IN FULL, CHEAPER BUT LATER AND 30 PAGES IS, IN MY OPINION, NEITHER HERE NOR THERE - A SLIGHT TASTE BUT NOT ENOUGH TO BECOME INVESTED IN THE STORY OR THE CHARACTERS.
AT THE END OF THE FIRST INSTALMENT I WAS JUST FRUSTRATED AS IT FELT LIKE A COUPLE OF CHAPTERS ONLY AND THEN BOOM, THE END. I NEVER PURCHASE BOOKS SOLD LIKE THIS AND HAD THESE NOT BEEN ARCS I WOULD NOT HAVE READ, AS A FULL EBOOK $9 FOR UNDER 200 PAGES IS RIDICULOUS BUT THAT’S JUST ME……
THE REASON I CHOSE TO REVIEW THE ARCS WAS BECAUSE I HAVE READ OPAL CAREW BEFORE AND ENJOYED HER BOOKS, SWING IS AN OLD FAVOURITE. AS A REVIEW IT’S DIFFICULT BECAUSE OF THE SIZE OF THE INSTALMENTS - AS AN OPAL CAREW IT’S NOT A BAD ONE, AS AN MC BOOK IT’S NOT A BAD ONE, AS AN EROTICA IT’S NOT A BAD ONE, BUT IT LACKS THAT SPECIAL SOMETHING, THE X-FACTOR IF YOU LIKE, THAT WOULD MAKE IT A FAVOURITE OR A REREAD.
In the arms of an outlaw, she found the freedom to live out her wildest fantasies. Don’t miss this scorching new six-part mini-series from New York Times bestselling author Opal Carew!
When Laurie is kidnapped by bikers, she has no idea her life is about to change forever. From the moment she meets Steele—their sinfully sexy leader—she can’t deny their fierce attraction. Even though she’s completely at his mercy, his eyes soften when he looks at her, and the others in his gang know she’s strictly hands off. But the more time she spends with Steele, the more her body insists she wants his powerful hands all over her.
Now she’s about to discover a new life on the open road…and what it means to be part of a gang that shares everything. At first their wonton lifestyle shocks her senses—but once she’s had a taste of life on the edge, will she ever want to leave?
Riding Steele #1: Kidnapped
Being kidnapped by bikers is a harrowing experience, but for some reason, Laurie doesn’t feel as terrified as she should. The leader’s steely eyes soften when he looks at her, and the others in his gang clearly know she’s hands off. But does that include Steele's hands? Her brain resists him, but her body insists she wants those big hands all over her.
Steele doesn’t know how he wound up in this mess–with a kidnapped woman on his hands and the police hot on their trail. Now he and Laurie are in hiding at an isolated cabin, and Steele has to figure out how to extricate himself . . . and steer clear of his accidental captive whose tight, slinky clubbing attire is making him think all kinds of dangerous thoughts…
IN THIS FIRST INSTALMENT WE MEET STEELE AND THE REST OF HIS CREW HAVING DRINKS AT A BAR ON HIS BIRTHDAY WHILE KEEPING AN EYE ON LAURIE AS A FAVOUR FOR AN OLD FRIEND. LAURIE IS OUT WITH HER BOYFRIEND DONOVAN WHO SHE IS INTENDING TO BREAK UP WITH. HIS DOMINEERING, CONTROLLING WAYS AREN’T SITTING WELL WITH HER AND THE RECENT ESCALATION IN ROUGH PLAY MEANS ENOUGH IS ENOUGH.
STEELE VETOES KIDNAPPING HER TO KEEP HER SAFE AND LEAVES THE BAR WITH JUST ONE MEMBER LEFT BEHIND TO WATCH HER. UNFORTUNATELY CIRCUMSTANCES DICTATE THAT LAURIE DOES IN FACT END UP KIDNAPPED AND IN A HOUSE FULL OF BIKERS.
AS A START THIS IS REALLY JUST A SETTING THE SCENE. WE SEE INTERACTION BETWEEN STEELE AND THE MEMBERS, LAURIE COMES ACROSS AS QUITE WEAK IN THIS ONE AND LITTLE TO NO SEXUAL CONTENT.
A DISAPPOINTING OFFERING IN MY OPINION THAT DOESN’T QUITE DELIVER ON ANY LEVEL.
A 3 STAR MAYBE BUT, IN VIEW OF THE PRICING, A 2.5 STAR AT BEST.
** arc provided by Netgalley **
6 INSTALMENTS OR 1 BOOK?
HOW CAN PUBLISHERS CHARGE $1.99 FOR 30 PAGES?
HOW CAN THOSE 6 INSTALMENTS, IF PURCHASED SEPARATELY, BE $12 YET IF YOU PURCHASE THE BOOK IN ITS ENTIRETY, THE PRICE IS LESS THAN $9?
I HAVE NO PROBLEM PAYING A HIGHER PRICE FOR A QUALITY BOOK, J R WARD AND SHELLY LAURENSTON FOR EXAMPLE ARE AUTOMATIC ONE CLICKS FOR ME BUT THE LENGTH AND QUALITY I WILL BE GETTING FOR MY DOLLARS MEANS I AM HAPPY TO DO SO. I’VE SAID BEFORE THAT I DISLIKE THIS GROWING TREND FOR SPLITTING BOOKS INTO INSTALMENTS, PERSONALLY I FEEL IT’S JUST A CON TO GET READERS TO PAY EXTRA TO GET THE BOOK EARLIER RATHER THAN WAIT FOR THE PRODUCT IN FULL, CHEAPER BUT LATER AND 30 PAGES IS, IN MY OPINION, NEITHER HERE NOR THERE - A SLIGHT TASTE BUT NOT ENOUGH TO BECOME INVESTED IN THE STORY OR THE CHARACTERS.
AT THE END OF THE FIRST INSTALMENT I WAS JUST FRUSTRATED AS IT FELT LIKE A COUPLE OF CHAPTERS ONLY AND THEN BOOM, THE END. I NEVER PURCHASE BOOKS SOLD LIKE THIS AND HAD THESE NOT BEEN ARCS I WOULD NOT HAVE READ, AS A FULL EBOOK $9 FOR UNDER 200 PAGES IS RIDICULOUS BUT THAT’S JUST ME……
THE REASON I CHOSE TO REVIEW THE ARCS WAS BECAUSE I HAVE READ OPAL CAREW BEFORE AND ENJOYED HER BOOKS, SWING IS AN OLD FAVOURITE. AS A REVIEW IT’S DIFFICULT BECAUSE OF THE SIZE OF THE INSTALMENTS - AS AN OPAL CAREW IT’S NOT A BAD ONE, AS AN MC BOOK IT’S NOT A BAD ONE, AS AN EROTICA IT’S NOT A BAD ONE, BUT IT LACKS THAT SPECIAL SOMETHING, THE X-FACTOR IF YOU LIKE, THAT WOULD MAKE IT A FAVOURITE OR A REREAD.
In the arms of an outlaw, she found the freedom to live out her wildest fantasies. Don’t miss this scorching new six-part mini-series from New York Times bestselling author Opal Carew!
When Laurie is kidnapped by bikers, she has no idea her life is about to change forever. From the moment she meets Steele—their sinfully sexy leader—she can’t deny their fierce attraction. Even though she’s completely at his mercy, his eyes soften when he looks at her, and the others in his gang know she’s strictly hands off. But the more time she spends with Steele, the more her body insists she wants his powerful hands all over her.
Now she’s about to discover a new life on the open road…and what it means to be part of a gang that shares everything. At first their wonton lifestyle shocks her senses—but once she’s had a taste of life on the edge, will she ever want to leave?
Riding Steele #1: Kidnapped
Being kidnapped by bikers is a harrowing experience, but for some reason, Laurie doesn’t feel as terrified as she should. The leader’s steely eyes soften when he looks at her, and the others in his gang clearly know she’s hands off. But does that include Steele's hands? Her brain resists him, but her body insists she wants those big hands all over her.
Steele doesn’t know how he wound up in this mess–with a kidnapped woman on his hands and the police hot on their trail. Now he and Laurie are in hiding at an isolated cabin, and Steele has to figure out how to extricate himself . . . and steer clear of his accidental captive whose tight, slinky clubbing attire is making him think all kinds of dangerous thoughts…
IN THIS FIRST INSTALMENT WE MEET STEELE AND THE REST OF HIS CREW HAVING DRINKS AT A BAR ON HIS BIRTHDAY WHILE KEEPING AN EYE ON LAURIE AS A FAVOUR FOR AN OLD FRIEND. LAURIE IS OUT WITH HER BOYFRIEND DONOVAN WHO SHE IS INTENDING TO BREAK UP WITH. HIS DOMINEERING, CONTROLLING WAYS AREN’T SITTING WELL WITH HER AND THE RECENT ESCALATION IN ROUGH PLAY MEANS ENOUGH IS ENOUGH.
STEELE VETOES KIDNAPPING HER TO KEEP HER SAFE AND LEAVES THE BAR WITH JUST ONE MEMBER LEFT BEHIND TO WATCH HER. UNFORTUNATELY CIRCUMSTANCES DICTATE THAT LAURIE DOES IN FACT END UP KIDNAPPED AND IN A HOUSE FULL OF BIKERS.
AS A START THIS IS REALLY JUST A SETTING THE SCENE. WE SEE INTERACTION BETWEEN STEELE AND THE MEMBERS, LAURIE COMES ACROSS AS QUITE WEAK IN THIS ONE AND LITTLE TO NO SEXUAL CONTENT.
A DISAPPOINTING OFFERING IN MY OPINION THAT DOESN’T QUITE DELIVER ON ANY LEVEL.
A 3 STAR MAYBE BUT, IN VIEW OF THE PRICING, A 2.5 STAR AT BEST.
** arc provided by Netgalley **
January 4, 2015
NOTE: I read all 6 parts of the serial, but am only posting the review on the first one... just so I don't sound repetitive.
This week I read Opal Carew's latest serial, Riding Steele. An erotic serial about bikers? Sounds like my cup of tea. Some of this serial has already been released, but the majority of it releases over November and into December, if you are interested.
The blurb had me highly interested. It sounded like it could have a dark twist, which I just love. Kidnapping with an HEA? Sounds great. While I did enjoy the overall book, there were some things I did have issue with. In the end I'd give this a solid middle grade. I didn't love it, but I didn't hate it either.
Steele is the unofficial leader of a motorcycle club, except they are really just a group of friends who travel on their bikes together. It's not like an organized club. As for Steele himself, he seems like a genuine guy. He's big - and in some ways he is absolutely huge (hint hint). Unfortunately, Steele is also where my problems come in. The character was not very consistent at all. One minute he was on board for kidnapping Laurie, the next he wasn't. Then he wanted her, then he very vehemently didn't, and then he did. He wanted to share her with his friends (I'll get to that in a moment) and then he punches his best friend out for sharing a touching moment with her. The Steele rollercoaster was not a ride I would take again.
As for Laurie, she was just alright. Her character was more consistent for the most part, although when she did flip her opinion, she did it fast and without very much thought at all. But she's a clever woman, and makes several escape attempts, and that right there was interesting to watch go down.
The secondary characters are what caught my eye, specifically Rip, Raven, and Wild Card. Those three showed heart, loyalty, and care several times. I really liked them, and would probably pick up a book that featured them more prominently.
Now, the storyline... Laurie ends up being kidnapped, but it's for her own good. And that part is totally spot on. She needs to escape a major creep, and Wild Card does that for her, even if she isn't in agreement. Hey, it wouldn't be a kidnapping if she was, ya know? The group slowly falls in line, and you see everyone's position. That's all pretty interesting how it goes down.
The sex... there wasn't huge amounts of it. There was a lot of sexual tension, and a few menages... even a menage a seven (if I counted right!). However, the menages (there were a couple) didn't feel natural to me. They felt like they were there, and the story was written so we could see these group sex scenes. They didn't feel right to me. The thing I like about biker books is that sure, the men are whores, but when they find that one woman, then everything changes and they are all about her. But in this group, the two women are passed around freely. I don't know, it just didn't feel right to me.
But hey, if you are looking for something quick to read (I read this whole thing in one night), then check it out. There are some exciting bits, and a bit of on the run action. There is the whole creep of a boyfriend to deal with - and trust me - you won't like him at all. Donovan is definitely the bad guy. The end felt a bit off, but it all ends up where it is supposed to, I suppose. Like I said, I didn't love it, but I didn't hate it.
This week I read Opal Carew's latest serial, Riding Steele. An erotic serial about bikers? Sounds like my cup of tea. Some of this serial has already been released, but the majority of it releases over November and into December, if you are interested.
The blurb had me highly interested. It sounded like it could have a dark twist, which I just love. Kidnapping with an HEA? Sounds great. While I did enjoy the overall book, there were some things I did have issue with. In the end I'd give this a solid middle grade. I didn't love it, but I didn't hate it either.
Steele is the unofficial leader of a motorcycle club, except they are really just a group of friends who travel on their bikes together. It's not like an organized club. As for Steele himself, he seems like a genuine guy. He's big - and in some ways he is absolutely huge (hint hint). Unfortunately, Steele is also where my problems come in. The character was not very consistent at all. One minute he was on board for kidnapping Laurie, the next he wasn't. Then he wanted her, then he very vehemently didn't, and then he did. He wanted to share her with his friends (I'll get to that in a moment) and then he punches his best friend out for sharing a touching moment with her. The Steele rollercoaster was not a ride I would take again.
As for Laurie, she was just alright. Her character was more consistent for the most part, although when she did flip her opinion, she did it fast and without very much thought at all. But she's a clever woman, and makes several escape attempts, and that right there was interesting to watch go down.
The secondary characters are what caught my eye, specifically Rip, Raven, and Wild Card. Those three showed heart, loyalty, and care several times. I really liked them, and would probably pick up a book that featured them more prominently.
Now, the storyline... Laurie ends up being kidnapped, but it's for her own good. And that part is totally spot on. She needs to escape a major creep, and Wild Card does that for her, even if she isn't in agreement. Hey, it wouldn't be a kidnapping if she was, ya know? The group slowly falls in line, and you see everyone's position. That's all pretty interesting how it goes down.
The sex... there wasn't huge amounts of it. There was a lot of sexual tension, and a few menages... even a menage a seven (if I counted right!). However, the menages (there were a couple) didn't feel natural to me. They felt like they were there, and the story was written so we could see these group sex scenes. They didn't feel right to me. The thing I like about biker books is that sure, the men are whores, but when they find that one woman, then everything changes and they are all about her. But in this group, the two women are passed around freely. I don't know, it just didn't feel right to me.
But hey, if you are looking for something quick to read (I read this whole thing in one night), then check it out. There are some exciting bits, and a bit of on the run action. There is the whole creep of a boyfriend to deal with - and trust me - you won't like him at all. Donovan is definitely the bad guy. The end felt a bit off, but it all ends up where it is supposed to, I suppose. Like I said, I didn't love it, but I didn't hate it.
November 5, 2014
In Riding Steele #1, we are introduced to a cast of characters that, although it’s not directly mentioned, belong to a motorcycle club. They are observing Laurie, who is the sister of a friend of a member of the club (did you catch that?), whom is believed to be in danger. Instantly, Steele, the fearless “leader” of the group is attracted to her and claims her for his own before any official introductions can be made. Somehow communication is lost and one of the members of the club “accidentally” kidnaps her and decides to deposit her “accidentally” into Steele’s bedroom back at the clubhouse/log cabin. It also just so happens to be Steele’s birthday, so when he comes into his bedroom ready to call it a night, he believes the girl to be a present left for him. Laurie doesn’t know why, but she’s instantly attracted to Steele (I get the whole biker bad boy thing for sure) and she can’t explain why?
This author’s books are notoriously heavy on the erotica, and although no real sex scenes were in the first part of this novel, the innuendo and language are there, setting up the scene for what’s to come. I like the premise of the story line, and I am a fan of biker books (Sons of Anarchy Fan here), but I felt like there were some loose ends in the beginning of this. Even though this is a serial and I am sure more information is soon to follow, I was left with many questions regarding the more simple things like Who? What? and Why?
The writing, in my opinion, is nothing spectacular, and I believe these books will be popular for premise and genre alone. I will continue to read this series to hopefully find out what the story is actually about. Overall, 3 stars.
This author’s books are notoriously heavy on the erotica, and although no real sex scenes were in the first part of this novel, the innuendo and language are there, setting up the scene for what’s to come. I like the premise of the story line, and I am a fan of biker books (Sons of Anarchy Fan here), but I felt like there were some loose ends in the beginning of this. Even though this is a serial and I am sure more information is soon to follow, I was left with many questions regarding the more simple things like Who? What? and Why?
The writing, in my opinion, is nothing spectacular, and I believe these books will be popular for premise and genre alone. I will continue to read this series to hopefully find out what the story is actually about. Overall, 3 stars.
December 5, 2014
I have no patience for someone who writes a 35 page "novella" that ends right in the middle of a story, then the next book picks up exactly where the first leaves off. There is no reason to have 5 35 page books that just equals 1 full book. Then you sell them on Amazon for $1.99 each so by the end you're paying $10 for a book. That's ignorant.
May 30, 2015
Hotness Rating 3 out of 5
Riding Steele is the 3rd book of the Ready to Ride series by Opal Carew. It is also split up in six parts installments. I will review each installment individually, but give an overall view of the book, as well. First off, warning this first installment Kidnapped is very mild overall. It quickly turns into a hotness rating of 5 and boy is it spicy. Expect your Kindle or e-reader to smoke. I also must advise that each of these installments are very short stories, but you will be hooked from the very first chapter. I couldn't read it fast enough.
Riding Steele: Kidnapped the first part of the Riding Steele book is a great introduction to our super hot, alpha leader of the local MC. Steele is everything you could want in a bad*ss biker and he delivers in a big way.
We also get to meet Laurie and the douchebag that she's currently dating. Her brother jokingly mentions to Steele and his guys that he's leaving on a trip and maybe they should kidnap Laurie while he's gone for her protection. He doesn't trust Donovan the douchebag and is worried what may happen while he's gone.
Steele and his bad*ss bikers just happen to be at the bar where Laurie and Donovan have stopped at to celebrate their anniversary. Although, he can tell that Donovan is indeed an *sshat he makes it very plain to his men that Laurie is not to be kidnapped as he walks out of the bar.
However, things didn't go as planned. He comes back later to find the sexy and scared Laurie handcuffed to his bed.
"How the hell did you miss that the plan was NOT to kidnap the woman?"
You can find this review and others at www.riverinaromantics.com
Riding Steele is the 3rd book of the Ready to Ride series by Opal Carew. It is also split up in six parts installments. I will review each installment individually, but give an overall view of the book, as well. First off, warning this first installment Kidnapped is very mild overall. It quickly turns into a hotness rating of 5 and boy is it spicy. Expect your Kindle or e-reader to smoke. I also must advise that each of these installments are very short stories, but you will be hooked from the very first chapter. I couldn't read it fast enough.
Riding Steele: Kidnapped the first part of the Riding Steele book is a great introduction to our super hot, alpha leader of the local MC. Steele is everything you could want in a bad*ss biker and he delivers in a big way.
We also get to meet Laurie and the douchebag that she's currently dating. Her brother jokingly mentions to Steele and his guys that he's leaving on a trip and maybe they should kidnap Laurie while he's gone for her protection. He doesn't trust Donovan the douchebag and is worried what may happen while he's gone.
Steele and his bad*ss bikers just happen to be at the bar where Laurie and Donovan have stopped at to celebrate their anniversary. Although, he can tell that Donovan is indeed an *sshat he makes it very plain to his men that Laurie is not to be kidnapped as he walks out of the bar.
However, things didn't go as planned. He comes back later to find the sexy and scared Laurie handcuffed to his bed.
"How the hell did you miss that the plan was NOT to kidnap the woman?"
You can find this review and others at www.riverinaromantics.com
August 16, 2016
I don't know why I do this to myself. Thank goodness this book seemed like a dud right from the start. I didn't waste more time than I already did.
That being said, motorcycle gang books can go two ways. Fantastic or fucking terrible. Guess which one this fell under?
It starts off with some potential. A protagonist that is in the beginning-ish stages of an abusive relationship that realizes she needs to get out and that she deserves better. Boom. Solid.
And then it gets stupid. She gets kidnapped, look out unspoilery spoiler. And stupid shit happens from there. She gets handcuffed to just about everything for her safety. Which should have told me this book is ridiculous because it was a whole lot of stupid ass shit.
But then the voyeur part comes into play. Spoiler part but also a warning to those of you who are like me and don't wanna waste your god damn time. They share one woman and the main lead fucks her in front of the protagonist. Nope!
NOPE!
A WHOLE LOT OF NOPE!
See ya. I respect my female characters.
That being said, motorcycle gang books can go two ways. Fantastic or fucking terrible. Guess which one this fell under?
It starts off with some potential. A protagonist that is in the beginning-ish stages of an abusive relationship that realizes she needs to get out and that she deserves better. Boom. Solid.
And then it gets stupid. She gets kidnapped, look out unspoilery spoiler. And stupid shit happens from there. She gets handcuffed to just about everything for her safety. Which should have told me this book is ridiculous because it was a whole lot of stupid ass shit.
But then the voyeur part comes into play. Spoiler part but also a warning to those of you who are like me and don't wanna waste your god damn time. They share one woman and the main lead fucks her in front of the protagonist. Nope!
NOPE!
A WHOLE LOT OF NOPE!
See ya. I respect my female characters.
December 1, 2014
Riding Steele: Kidnapped
The Characters
This story seems to have a lot of them, which is only right considering this series revolves around a motorcycle gang. For now we are going to concentrate on Steele, Laurie, Craig andDouchebag Donovan.
The Story
Steele has been “contracted” by Laurie’s brother, Craig, to keep her safe. Craig has basically given the green light for the gang to take Laurie wherever they need to to do so. Steele declines kidnapping her but unfortunately after Laurie pisses off the douchey-est of douchebags, her boyfriend Donovan, the gang is forced to step in and kidnap Laurie anyway.
I’m enjoying how this is set up. There seems to be chemistry between Laurie and Steele and I look forward to seeing how this plays out.
The Random Thoughts
3 Stars
The Characters
This story seems to have a lot of them, which is only right considering this series revolves around a motorcycle gang. For now we are going to concentrate on Steele, Laurie, Craig and
The Story
Steele has been “contracted” by Laurie’s brother, Craig, to keep her safe. Craig has basically given the green light for the gang to take Laurie wherever they need to to do so. Steele declines kidnapping her but unfortunately after Laurie pisses off the douchey-est of douchebags, her boyfriend Donovan, the gang is forced to step in and kidnap Laurie anyway.
I’m enjoying how this is set up. There seems to be chemistry between Laurie and Steele and I look forward to seeing how this plays out.
The Random Thoughts
3 Stars
April 9, 2015
I was asked to review this from netgalley and I would like to thank the publishers for a copy as well.
WOW, OMG, what can I say to the start of this new series to me. It has everything that Hard to Ride had and more. This is before Hard to Ride was written (sorry it took me so long to read it lol). But meeting Laurie, Steele, creep Donovan and the rest of the Biker gang is a great way. Can't wait to read the next installment.
WOW, OMG, what can I say to the start of this new series to me. It has everything that Hard to Ride had and more. This is before Hard to Ride was written (sorry it took me so long to read it lol). But meeting Laurie, Steele, creep Donovan and the rest of the Biker gang is a great way. Can't wait to read the next installment.
November 5, 2014
Really good short read, that left me wanting to find out what else is going to happen. Only problem i could possibly have is that its too short. Definitely need to have the next one handy when finishing the current one. Great start to the story, looks to be a great story by the time its finished.
arc from NetGalley
arc from NetGalley
February 12, 2015
A good start to what looks to be a great series.
October 22, 2014
Full review to come at the end of the series.
November 12, 2014
Received an ARC for review
Kidnapped...rescued...is gray area. And boy what a way to end it. Glad I've got the next part. Can't wait to see more of Steele and his crew
Kidnapped...rescued...is gray area. And boy what a way to end it. Glad I've got the next part. Can't wait to see more of Steele and his crew
May 21, 2017
Laurie thought she has the perfect boyfriend Donovan who loved and spoiled her, that is until she learned that he has a dark side that includes BDSM. It was BDSM that hurt her, it did not follow the rules.
Donovan decides to take Laurie away for a weekend to one of his cottages and show her what the BDSM world is like according to him. Donovan has no idea about BDSM and is more into control and scaring his partner. Laurie gets the scare of her life when they are making love and he starts to choke her until she almost blacks out. Right then there she decides that this not going to happen anymore and sets the course of leaving Donovan once and for all.
Donovan thinks that he can shower Laurie with diamonds on their anniversary and think that he can own her like a possession, but Laurie has another idea, and that is to leave him that night. It’s not going to do as planned though, she’s attacked in the parkade and had it not been for the biker walking by, Laurie might have came out in much worse shape than she does.
Steele and his biker buddies have been assigned to look out for one of their buddies sisters, but they do not want any part in kidnapping her and keeping her safe from her crazy rich boyfriend. Steele decides that he is going to forgo the kidnapping part and head home, and let Wildcard, his buddy, make sure that she is ok and then meet him back at the safe house. Wildcard is about to jump of his bike when he spots his buddies sister with her boyfriend and notices that she is in danger. Immediately he grabs her and takes her on his bike away from the boyfriend and back to the safe house. Will Laurie now be in more danger from the bikers or from her boyfriend? Will Steele be able to protect her from the repercussions of what her boyfriend has planned for her when he gets her back?
Laurie is in real trouble now. She wants to part ways with Donovan but she knows he is going to make her pay for it. Laurie also feels safe in Steele’s arms, a biker of all things, and she feels free with no one to restrain her and hurt her. Will that last though, or will Donovan get his hands back on Laurie? Just what are his plans, and how will they play out?
Opal Carew combines romance, excitement, and eroticism into a great book that will keep you on the edge of your bed and wanting to keep reading into the wee hours of the morning. This read was fantastic!
Donovan decides to take Laurie away for a weekend to one of his cottages and show her what the BDSM world is like according to him. Donovan has no idea about BDSM and is more into control and scaring his partner. Laurie gets the scare of her life when they are making love and he starts to choke her until she almost blacks out. Right then there she decides that this not going to happen anymore and sets the course of leaving Donovan once and for all.
Donovan thinks that he can shower Laurie with diamonds on their anniversary and think that he can own her like a possession, but Laurie has another idea, and that is to leave him that night. It’s not going to do as planned though, she’s attacked in the parkade and had it not been for the biker walking by, Laurie might have came out in much worse shape than she does.
Steele and his biker buddies have been assigned to look out for one of their buddies sisters, but they do not want any part in kidnapping her and keeping her safe from her crazy rich boyfriend. Steele decides that he is going to forgo the kidnapping part and head home, and let Wildcard, his buddy, make sure that she is ok and then meet him back at the safe house. Wildcard is about to jump of his bike when he spots his buddies sister with her boyfriend and notices that she is in danger. Immediately he grabs her and takes her on his bike away from the boyfriend and back to the safe house. Will Laurie now be in more danger from the bikers or from her boyfriend? Will Steele be able to protect her from the repercussions of what her boyfriend has planned for her when he gets her back?
Laurie is in real trouble now. She wants to part ways with Donovan but she knows he is going to make her pay for it. Laurie also feels safe in Steele’s arms, a biker of all things, and she feels free with no one to restrain her and hurt her. Will that last though, or will Donovan get his hands back on Laurie? Just what are his plans, and how will they play out?
Opal Carew combines romance, excitement, and eroticism into a great book that will keep you on the edge of your bed and wanting to keep reading into the wee hours of the morning. This read was fantastic!
August 3, 2020
I was so pleasantly surprised by this book. This was a new author for me and I was hooked from the beginning. I’m a sucker for a hot MC story anyways but these guys were fantastic!! It wasn’t an RH technically but I LOVE sharing. And they did it so well. I am excited to see each one of these characters in their own books in the series. This was hot and steamy and if you love tattoo bikers who share their women this is the book for you!!
March 19, 2017
Did not care for this book. If you're a fan of dominant bikers then this is the book for you!
The women in this book were basic trash.
The women in this book were basic trash.
July 2, 2017
This is a novella.
Let's get straight to the point. This story is like chapter 1 in a novel. It's more of getting to know the characters, the heroine and the people she'd later bang. hahahah
Let's get straight to the point. This story is like chapter 1 in a novel. It's more of getting to know the characters, the heroine and the people she'd later bang. hahahah
July 16, 2017
Very poorly written! It was like watching a low budget film!
March 20, 2020
Skimmed most of this got better towards the end.
May 16, 2023
Spicy 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️ /5
Story ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ /5
Story ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ /5
November 12, 2014
JUMP ON FOR THE RIDE...IT'S GOING TO BE A THRILL!
(SERIES MUST BE READ IN ORDER; SEE LIST AT END OF REVIEW)
RIDING STEELE is a 6-part serial erotic romance with strong suspense elements. Steele is the compelling alpha-male who leads a motorcycle club (they are too upstanding to be characterized as a gang), which also includes his best friends Shock (a talented cook), Killer, Rip (a former cop) and his girlfriend Raven (whom the guys "share" from time to time, with Rip's blessing), and Wild Card. The guys visit a bar one evening as a favor to a Craig, a friend whose sister is in a relationship with a man whom Craig believes may be trouble. This particular evening is Steele's birthday, and after observing Craig's sister Laurie and her boyfriend Donovan for a time at the bar, Steele decides to leave with his clubmates and meet up with friends Dom and Magic, to continue his birthday celebration. On the way out, Rip appeals to Wild Card, who stays behind to finish his meal, to keep watch over Laurie; Rip's police instincts have kicked in, and he is certain that Laurie's body language indicates that she is uncomfortable, and that something is not right. Wild Card follows Laurie out of the bar when it appears that she is being manhandled by Donovan, and he interrupts a clear assault in action. Suffice it to say that from here on, the real action begins, as Wild Card takes Laurie hostage in order to protect her from Donovan. Craig had originally asked Steele to consider kidnapping Laurie for her protection, and though Steele had rejected the idea, it is now exactly what has happened. Wild Card handcuffs Laurie to Steele's bed in order to await the return of his friends at their remote cabin hideaway. Needless to say, the sparks fly when Steele returns on his birthday night, to find a shocked and vulnerable Laurie tethered to his headboard!
Riding Steele is a sexy, romantic story with a dazzling cast of really good bad boys. The multiple points of view are a fabulous feature of this series; they allow each member of the club to define himself as a distinct individual. Although Laurie is a bit cliched in her early behaviors, it is reasonable to accept that she fits the profile of an abused partner, though her brother's strength, their obvious closeness, and his early detection of the threat posed by Devon may tarnish her credibility as a helpless victim the the eyes of some readers.
The first part of this serial is a short read. All six installments will total 288 pages when they are offered in Spring as a bundle. It is the men of Riding Steele that make this series...big personalities, big characters (in value and in heart), big bodies with big muscles...in short, they are irresistible! We are led to believe that the romance and the sex will be intense with these alpha biker boys...and this installment ends on an exciting note, which makes the reader feel the need to pick up immediately with the second story; that's precisely what I intend to do!
Take the ride with Steele...it promises to be a thrill!
RIDING STEELE SERIES (MUST BE READ IN ORDER):
1. Kidnapped
2. Untamed
3. Collide
4. Wanted -- available 11/18/14
5. Crossroads -- available 11/25/14
6. Aftershock -- available 12/2/14
**I received a free copy of this serial from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
(SERIES MUST BE READ IN ORDER; SEE LIST AT END OF REVIEW)
RIDING STEELE is a 6-part serial erotic romance with strong suspense elements. Steele is the compelling alpha-male who leads a motorcycle club (they are too upstanding to be characterized as a gang), which also includes his best friends Shock (a talented cook), Killer, Rip (a former cop) and his girlfriend Raven (whom the guys "share" from time to time, with Rip's blessing), and Wild Card. The guys visit a bar one evening as a favor to a Craig, a friend whose sister is in a relationship with a man whom Craig believes may be trouble. This particular evening is Steele's birthday, and after observing Craig's sister Laurie and her boyfriend Donovan for a time at the bar, Steele decides to leave with his clubmates and meet up with friends Dom and Magic, to continue his birthday celebration. On the way out, Rip appeals to Wild Card, who stays behind to finish his meal, to keep watch over Laurie; Rip's police instincts have kicked in, and he is certain that Laurie's body language indicates that she is uncomfortable, and that something is not right. Wild Card follows Laurie out of the bar when it appears that she is being manhandled by Donovan, and he interrupts a clear assault in action. Suffice it to say that from here on, the real action begins, as Wild Card takes Laurie hostage in order to protect her from Donovan. Craig had originally asked Steele to consider kidnapping Laurie for her protection, and though Steele had rejected the idea, it is now exactly what has happened. Wild Card handcuffs Laurie to Steele's bed in order to await the return of his friends at their remote cabin hideaway. Needless to say, the sparks fly when Steele returns on his birthday night, to find a shocked and vulnerable Laurie tethered to his headboard!
Riding Steele is a sexy, romantic story with a dazzling cast of really good bad boys. The multiple points of view are a fabulous feature of this series; they allow each member of the club to define himself as a distinct individual. Although Laurie is a bit cliched in her early behaviors, it is reasonable to accept that she fits the profile of an abused partner, though her brother's strength, their obvious closeness, and his early detection of the threat posed by Devon may tarnish her credibility as a helpless victim the the eyes of some readers.
The first part of this serial is a short read. All six installments will total 288 pages when they are offered in Spring as a bundle. It is the men of Riding Steele that make this series...big personalities, big characters (in value and in heart), big bodies with big muscles...in short, they are irresistible! We are led to believe that the romance and the sex will be intense with these alpha biker boys...and this installment ends on an exciting note, which makes the reader feel the need to pick up immediately with the second story; that's precisely what I intend to do!
Take the ride with Steele...it promises to be a thrill!
RIDING STEELE SERIES (MUST BE READ IN ORDER):
1. Kidnapped
2. Untamed
3. Collide
4. Wanted -- available 11/18/14
5. Crossroads -- available 11/25/14
6. Aftershock -- available 12/2/14
**I received a free copy of this serial from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
November 4, 2014
Riding Steele: Kidnapped & Riding Steele: Untamed
Being kidnapped by bikers is a harrowing experience, but for some reason, Laurie doesn’t feel as terrified as she should. The leader’s steely eyes soften when he looks at her, and the others in his gang clearly know she’s hands off. But does that include Steele's hands? Her brain resists him, but her body insists she wants those big hands all over her.
Steele doesn’t know how he wound up in this mess–with a kidnapped woman on his hands and the police hot on their trail. Now he and Laurie are in hiding at an isolated cabin, and Steele has to figure out how to extricate himself . . . and steer clear of his accidental captive whose tight, slinky clubbing attire is making him think all kinds of dangerous thoughts…
Review:
Normally I don't write installments in a series as a combined review, but these are really hard to write a decent review when each is only 35 pages. These two parts of the story are being released at the same time and takes us through Laurie being watched by the bikers as a favor to Laurie's brother. Once they see that Laurie is about to be abused and kidnapped by her supposed boyfriend, they step in a kidnap her to protect her, though she does not know that her brother asked them to watch out for her. Since she does not know who these guys are or trust what they say, she tries to escape at every turn.
I really think that these two parts could have been combined into one part, instead of being separate since they are both being released on the same day, seems like a ploy to make more money by the publisher to me though. I found this way of doing it is too choppy and I am having a hard time connecting to the characters. I enjoy the Authors writing style and have read other stories by her and will continue to read her some more. Those who enjoy very basic M/F, this is not for you there is some hot combinations going on in these two installments.
Will be interested to see how this works out not just for the story but for the publisher too.
3Stars for both installments
Being kidnapped by bikers is a harrowing experience, but for some reason, Laurie doesn’t feel as terrified as she should. The leader’s steely eyes soften when he looks at her, and the others in his gang clearly know she’s hands off. But does that include Steele's hands? Her brain resists him, but her body insists she wants those big hands all over her.
Steele doesn’t know how he wound up in this mess–with a kidnapped woman on his hands and the police hot on their trail. Now he and Laurie are in hiding at an isolated cabin, and Steele has to figure out how to extricate himself . . . and steer clear of his accidental captive whose tight, slinky clubbing attire is making him think all kinds of dangerous thoughts…
Review:
Normally I don't write installments in a series as a combined review, but these are really hard to write a decent review when each is only 35 pages. These two parts of the story are being released at the same time and takes us through Laurie being watched by the bikers as a favor to Laurie's brother. Once they see that Laurie is about to be abused and kidnapped by her supposed boyfriend, they step in a kidnap her to protect her, though she does not know that her brother asked them to watch out for her. Since she does not know who these guys are or trust what they say, she tries to escape at every turn.
I really think that these two parts could have been combined into one part, instead of being separate since they are both being released on the same day, seems like a ploy to make more money by the publisher to me though. I found this way of doing it is too choppy and I am having a hard time connecting to the characters. I enjoy the Authors writing style and have read other stories by her and will continue to read her some more. Those who enjoy very basic M/F, this is not for you there is some hot combinations going on in these two installments.
Will be interested to see how this works out not just for the story but for the publisher too.
3Stars for both installments
July 13, 2015
Riding Steele: Kidnapped by Opal Carew is the first part of her new six-part serial Riding Steele. Riding Steele will be released as a full length novel in early 2015 as book 3 in her Ready To Ride series.
This first part is aptly named as, essentially, Laurie is kidnapped. Her brother has asked his friend Killer, a member of the MC to help as he he is going out of town and doesn't trust his sisters safety with her boyfriend. The MC is there with Steele leading the group just hanging out for Steele's birthday, scoping out the situation. Steele decides to not go through with her brothers extreme request of "kidnapping" her and they leave to go to another bar leaving behind Wild Card who's finishing his food.
Wild Card notices certain ticks in both Laurie's behavior and that of her boyfriend Donovan and when Donovan drags her out of the club he follows behind and witnesses Donovan abusing her. He takes charge and takes Laurie back to the cabin where the MC is staying. Things get a little heated when the rest of the MC get back and Steele realizes that despite his decision to leave her, she's there. When the details of why Wild Card took her some out though he understands.
Laurie, however, feels like she's out of the frying pan and into the fire. She is afraid of her new captors, doesn't believe they truly know her brother and despite feeling safer with them than she would with Donovan, she is still very scared. A great beginning to the story.
As soon as his gaze settles on her face, and her red puffy eyes, he realized she'd been crying. Protective urges raced through him. He wanted to fold her in his arms and hold her. To assure her everything would be all right.
~ Steele
This first part is aptly named as, essentially, Laurie is kidnapped. Her brother has asked his friend Killer, a member of the MC to help as he he is going out of town and doesn't trust his sisters safety with her boyfriend. The MC is there with Steele leading the group just hanging out for Steele's birthday, scoping out the situation. Steele decides to not go through with her brothers extreme request of "kidnapping" her and they leave to go to another bar leaving behind Wild Card who's finishing his food.
Wild Card notices certain ticks in both Laurie's behavior and that of her boyfriend Donovan and when Donovan drags her out of the club he follows behind and witnesses Donovan abusing her. He takes charge and takes Laurie back to the cabin where the MC is staying. Things get a little heated when the rest of the MC get back and Steele realizes that despite his decision to leave her, she's there. When the details of why Wild Card took her some out though he understands.
Laurie, however, feels like she's out of the frying pan and into the fire. She is afraid of her new captors, doesn't believe they truly know her brother and despite feeling safer with them than she would with Donovan, she is still very scared. A great beginning to the story.
As soon as his gaze settles on her face, and her red puffy eyes, he realized she'd been crying. Protective urges raced through him. He wanted to fold her in his arms and hold her. To assure her everything would be all right.~ Steele
October 16, 2014
Ok this is one of those books that's released as a serialisation and then later as a full length book and there seems to quite a trend for this sort of read now. Opal Carew is a new author to me and it would seem that she writes very sexy stories so maybe not for every reader. This story set in an MC world is just beginning and I'm curious as to just what this established author can bring that's fresh to this popular genre.
Laurie is in a relationship that's getting increasingly more bizarre. Her boyfriend started out as a sweet guy but the longer she spends time with him the more she sees that he has an extremely dominant side and is far more sadistic than she realised. Luckily her brother has noticed that something seems a bit off and has called in an old friend Steele to watch over Laurie .
Steele rides with his friends and although he wants to help he is really not sure that their help is needed. Leaving one of the guys to keep watch over Laurie the last thing he expects is to return home to find that she really does need protection but stranger things have happened and life is about to get a lot more complicated!
So this is very short but there's a surprising wealth of information in this book. Yes it's the beginning and I suspect it's about to get a lot more raunchy but what really struck me was the strong personalities that leap off the page. Already I'm curious about these characters and the author has shown us just how truly nasty Laurie's boyfriend is. I will certainly read more as it's very well written and the hero Steele came across as having quite a dark sense of humour that's very appealing.
Not the most economical way to read a book I suspect but every reader is different so if you enjoy quick reads with strong characters then maybe this series will suit you.
Laurie is in a relationship that's getting increasingly more bizarre. Her boyfriend started out as a sweet guy but the longer she spends time with him the more she sees that he has an extremely dominant side and is far more sadistic than she realised. Luckily her brother has noticed that something seems a bit off and has called in an old friend Steele to watch over Laurie .
Steele rides with his friends and although he wants to help he is really not sure that their help is needed. Leaving one of the guys to keep watch over Laurie the last thing he expects is to return home to find that she really does need protection but stranger things have happened and life is about to get a lot more complicated!
So this is very short but there's a surprising wealth of information in this book. Yes it's the beginning and I suspect it's about to get a lot more raunchy but what really struck me was the strong personalities that leap off the page. Already I'm curious about these characters and the author has shown us just how truly nasty Laurie's boyfriend is. I will certainly read more as it's very well written and the hero Steele came across as having quite a dark sense of humour that's very appealing.
Not the most economical way to read a book I suspect but every reader is different so if you enjoy quick reads with strong characters then maybe this series will suit you.
November 12, 2014
I have seen Opal Carew around a lot on NetGalley and have a grabbed some to review, this is my first experience reading her books though and I have to say, HOT HOT HOT. I really have enjoyed this series and cannot wait to read the 4th book, Hard Ride due out in June 2015. Like this series, Hard Ride will also be released in a serial format in March 2015. I do enjoy the serial style, each novella does have a cliff-hanger, but they were quick fun reads that kept my attention throughout and left me wanting the next straight after.
The Riding Steele collection is part three in the Ready to Ride series, following a group of bikers with very fascinating back stories and how they all became brothers, loyal through and through. You don’t need to read the books in order, I actually read Riding Steele before Hot Ride and Wild Ride and it wasn’t confusing at all.
In Kidnapped, we are introduced to Steele’s crew. Steele has been asked to keep an eye on a friend of a friend’s sister, Laurie. It seems that Laurie has gotten herself involved with a man that’s known as trouble. They were asked to kidnap her, but Steele won’t resort to that.
That was the plan anyway, until circumstances arise and that choice is taken away from him. Will Steele really kidnap Laurie? What has her boyfriend done to her that makes Laurie fear men? Will she be safer with a gang of bikers than her boyfriend?
This was a great introduction to Steele’s crew. The characters are all very intriguing and the added mystery regarding Laurie will make you keep picking up the next book until the end. I recommend this series to all those adult readers wanting hot bikers, stimulating intrigue and heart pumping scorching hot scenes.
The Riding Steele collection is part three in the Ready to Ride series, following a group of bikers with very fascinating back stories and how they all became brothers, loyal through and through. You don’t need to read the books in order, I actually read Riding Steele before Hot Ride and Wild Ride and it wasn’t confusing at all.
In Kidnapped, we are introduced to Steele’s crew. Steele has been asked to keep an eye on a friend of a friend’s sister, Laurie. It seems that Laurie has gotten herself involved with a man that’s known as trouble. They were asked to kidnap her, but Steele won’t resort to that.
That was the plan anyway, until circumstances arise and that choice is taken away from him. Will Steele really kidnap Laurie? What has her boyfriend done to her that makes Laurie fear men? Will she be safer with a gang of bikers than her boyfriend?
This was a great introduction to Steele’s crew. The characters are all very intriguing and the added mystery regarding Laurie will make you keep picking up the next book until the end. I recommend this series to all those adult readers wanting hot bikers, stimulating intrigue and heart pumping scorching hot scenes.
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