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Against All Rules
This is an alternate Cover Edition for ASIN: B00MY2QVRS.
The efficient PA out of her depth...
Samara knows getting attracted to Tahir is like asking for trouble. Not only is he her boss but he’s got divorced recently and has sworn off any commitment. Short term is not on her list but temptation has never been stronger.
The man who doesn’t have faith in rainbows anymore...
Tahir doesn’t believe in enforcing a code of conduct he cannot follow. But Samara might just make him make an exception! An affair at the office might seem a solution to his troubles but how can he avoid treading uncharted territory…?
Against All Rules
…when fire is set, it’s hard to avoid the blaze…
The efficient PA out of her depth...
Samara knows getting attracted to Tahir is like asking for trouble. Not only is he her boss but he’s got divorced recently and has sworn off any commitment. Short term is not on her list but temptation has never been stronger.
The man who doesn’t have faith in rainbows anymore...
Tahir doesn’t believe in enforcing a code of conduct he cannot follow. But Samara might just make him make an exception! An affair at the office might seem a solution to his troubles but how can he avoid treading uncharted territory…?
Against All Rules
…when fire is set, it’s hard to avoid the blaze…
- GenresRomance
234 pages, Unknown Binding
First published August 21, 2014
16 people are currently reading
63 people want to read
About the author
Summerita Rhayne
24 books59 followersSummerita Rhayne writes sensual romance which is sheer escapism with lots of emotional conflict. She first got published in 2013 and has won contests with prestigious publishers such as Harlequin and Harper Collins India. Writing, she finds, is the only way to deal with the numerous story ideas bubbling in her brain which pop up more rapidly than her keyboard can do justice to. Her pet belief is that even when writing time is in short supply, if the inspiration is strong enough, the story characters get a life of their own and will find a way to make the writer pen them down. When cerebrally confronted with the sizzling interaction of two Alpha characters, the only way to get peace is write their book!
At heart, she's a family person and even though she loves her medical teaching profession, she happily becomes a homemaker when not at work. She loves winding down with music, movies, cricket (strictly watching only) and social networking.
At heart, she's a family person and even though she loves her medical teaching profession, she happily becomes a homemaker when not at work. She loves winding down with music, movies, cricket (strictly watching only) and social networking.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
October 20, 2014
Against All Rules, a passionate and intense story about a suave, embittered CEO of a biotech company, Tahir, who proposes a dirty weekend with his besotted PA, Samara, is not your typical romance. For the lack of a better description, I would term it a cross-over romance. Up until the first quarter mark of the book, I expected it to be the story of a woman's sensual journey, where she sheds her inhibitions in order to satiate her desire for a man who is beyond her reach. Not just because he is her boss but also because of his recent marital breakup that has left him emotionally scarred and suspicious of all women. Can Samara and Tahir ignore their sizzling hot attraction for the sake of professional ethics?
As the story progressed, the plot kicked in (a tad later than is the norm) and changed course. The more familiar romance trope of pretend fiances and the complications that follow came into play. In the last quarter of the book the story takes yet another turn. Revealing any more would be deemed a spoiler. So, read the book to find out. Just a note of caution: if you are a reader who prefers to follow the straight and narrow in terms of story plotting within the romance genre, this might not be your kind of book.
As the story progressed, the plot kicked in (a tad later than is the norm) and changed course. The more familiar romance trope of pretend fiances and the complications that follow came into play. In the last quarter of the book the story takes yet another turn. Revealing any more would be deemed a spoiler. So, read the book to find out. Just a note of caution: if you are a reader who prefers to follow the straight and narrow in terms of story plotting within the romance genre, this might not be your kind of book.
March 5, 2015
Samara had been working for Tahir for two years and had been crushing on him for the entire length of the said time. In fact from the first moment she set eyes on him. But he was man she could not have. Not because he was out of her league or because he was her boss. Rather, because he was a married man.
*I must admit that I respect Samara for keeping her feelings all under wrap and never even letting them peek out because he was a married man. This is something people (that are characters I have read of in many a books) need to really understand.
But all that is in the past and in the present Tahir is going through a divorce and feels like an utter failure. Samara is there for him to lean on. And lean on he does. He wants her in his life and he does not want her in his life. He quite a jerk to only be thinking about himself while Samara just gets emotionally exhausted supporting him.
An accidental pregnancy (yes, a few scenes are pretty steamy that lead to it) make her leave her position in Tahir's company and head back to her small town to find opportunities to begin again.
Absence makes the heart fonder? That is what happens. Tahir realises how incomplete he is without the one woman who had always been there for him without asking for anything in return, even when he knew she wanted more.
Enjoyed it very much.
*I must admit that I respect Samara for keeping her feelings all under wrap and never even letting them peek out because he was a married man. This is something people (that are characters I have read of in many a books) need to really understand.
But all that is in the past and in the present Tahir is going through a divorce and feels like an utter failure. Samara is there for him to lean on. And lean on he does. He wants her in his life and he does not want her in his life. He quite a jerk to only be thinking about himself while Samara just gets emotionally exhausted supporting him.
An accidental pregnancy (yes, a few scenes are pretty steamy that lead to it) make her leave her position in Tahir's company and head back to her small town to find opportunities to begin again.
Absence makes the heart fonder? That is what happens. Tahir realises how incomplete he is without the one woman who had always been there for him without asking for anything in return, even when he knew she wanted more.
Enjoyed it very much.
August 28, 2014
Hot passionate romance!! The story of totally unmatched people, who come come to realise that they are the only one's made for each other!
Summerita Rhayne has created a superb character in handsome Tahir, who also shows glimpses of both high professional ethics and ingrained traditional values. He is intense, bitter and hot. Practical, down to earth Samara, madly in love with him, is shackled by the office moral code, which are sacrosanct to him. Attraction and emotional needs brings Tahir close to her but the rules of the game are unacceptable to her. Then there was Tahir’s jealous, glamorous ex-wife.
The palpable attraction between the two and the fight of principles takes us on an intense, hot and passionate journey. If one is looking for a hotter than hot Indian romance on a dreamy night or day ‘Against All Rules’ is the book.
Summerita Rhayne has created a superb character in handsome Tahir, who also shows glimpses of both high professional ethics and ingrained traditional values. He is intense, bitter and hot. Practical, down to earth Samara, madly in love with him, is shackled by the office moral code, which are sacrosanct to him. Attraction and emotional needs brings Tahir close to her but the rules of the game are unacceptable to her. Then there was Tahir’s jealous, glamorous ex-wife.
The palpable attraction between the two and the fight of principles takes us on an intense, hot and passionate journey. If one is looking for a hotter than hot Indian romance on a dreamy night or day ‘Against All Rules’ is the book.
September 22, 2017
The title and the blurb are very apt and intriguing too. I was wondering what about romance could make you want to think about rules.
So , this is the story of Samara who has been working for Tahir for some time now but she has been keeping herself hidden in both the physical and the emotional sense. This is because from the day of her interview with Tahir she has had a massively huge crush on Tahir but as he was married then and yes he was her boss so he was out of bounds. Samara just didn’t want this whole cliché of falling for the boss so she would dress unattractively.On the other hand she was a very efficient secretary. Efficiency is what she lives by. One day she receives a call from her boss who seems very inebriated and troubled and so she goes to his house to make sure he was okay. What transpires there? How do Tahir’s and Samara’s life change after this day? This is what the whole story is about. Both, Tahir and Samara have their own set of rules by which they live by in their professional and personal lives. Do they succeed in living by their rules or do they have to break them to follow their heart.
I thoroughly enjoyed the style of narration of the author. She so very well managed to give a voice to the feelings and dilemma of both Tahir and Samara. The narration was so well balanced that me as a reader could not take sides. I jut rooted for their love to be expressed and triumph. The flow of the story was very seamless. The pasts, the thoughts, the descriptions of situations were very neatly woven together.
So , this is the story of Samara who has been working for Tahir for some time now but she has been keeping herself hidden in both the physical and the emotional sense. This is because from the day of her interview with Tahir she has had a massively huge crush on Tahir but as he was married then and yes he was her boss so he was out of bounds. Samara just didn’t want this whole cliché of falling for the boss so she would dress unattractively.On the other hand she was a very efficient secretary. Efficiency is what she lives by. One day she receives a call from her boss who seems very inebriated and troubled and so she goes to his house to make sure he was okay. What transpires there? How do Tahir’s and Samara’s life change after this day? This is what the whole story is about. Both, Tahir and Samara have their own set of rules by which they live by in their professional and personal lives. Do they succeed in living by their rules or do they have to break them to follow their heart.
I thoroughly enjoyed the style of narration of the author. She so very well managed to give a voice to the feelings and dilemma of both Tahir and Samara. The narration was so well balanced that me as a reader could not take sides. I jut rooted for their love to be expressed and triumph. The flow of the story was very seamless. The pasts, the thoughts, the descriptions of situations were very neatly woven together.
July 9, 2021
There are certain books where the characters strike a chord with your heart and connect with you on a different level. “Against All Rules” is one such book where I fell absolutely in love with Sameera and Tahir!
It so happens that a certain bond, an attraction, a desire gets so overwhelming that all our defense mechanisms go down the drain. That’s exactly what happens with Tahir and Sameera. Both have an undeniable attraction that either of them tries to avoid, only for it to get bigger and unbeatable. However, is the attraction all that they feel for each other?
That’s how the story takes off. Both characters struggle with their own demons and try to figure out what lies beneath all that passion that’s consuming them. The story narrative is at it’s best, well written with rich and understandable vocabulary. The plot can hook you from the start and the characters will make you want to reach out to them!
This one was an absolutely delightful read that I don’t mind picking it up again sometime in the future! The climax was a perfect finish to this story. Sameera and Tahir chemistry is off the charts and their love story will make you curl up and cheer for them!
All in all, Against All Rules one of my favorite books!
It so happens that a certain bond, an attraction, a desire gets so overwhelming that all our defense mechanisms go down the drain. That’s exactly what happens with Tahir and Sameera. Both have an undeniable attraction that either of them tries to avoid, only for it to get bigger and unbeatable. However, is the attraction all that they feel for each other?
That’s how the story takes off. Both characters struggle with their own demons and try to figure out what lies beneath all that passion that’s consuming them. The story narrative is at it’s best, well written with rich and understandable vocabulary. The plot can hook you from the start and the characters will make you want to reach out to them!
This one was an absolutely delightful read that I don’t mind picking it up again sometime in the future! The climax was a perfect finish to this story. Sameera and Tahir chemistry is off the charts and their love story will make you curl up and cheer for them!
All in all, Against All Rules one of my favorite books!
October 1, 2017
Against All Rules is a typical contemporary office romance story between Samara (the small town girl but smart, workaholic and determined PA) and Tahir (the hot, handsome, drool-worthy boss). Both had a difficult childhood and have commitment issues.
Against All Rules has perfectly showcased the side-effects a divorce can have on the children of such parents who have not handled their children post-separation, properly.
Against All Rules is fast-paced, romantic, story with too many sensual hot scenes. So let me warn you; better have cooler or AC on and tons of chilled drinks to cool you down.
But I felt some parts have been dragged and could have been shortened especially in some of the initial chapters. Still, Summerita has effectively brought out the dilemma, the stress, the love, the mental conflict faced by the protagonist.
So if you like to read hot romantic novel Summerita’s Against All Rules is one you must read.
Against All Rules has perfectly showcased the side-effects a divorce can have on the children of such parents who have not handled their children post-separation, properly.
Against All Rules is fast-paced, romantic, story with too many sensual hot scenes. So let me warn you; better have cooler or AC on and tons of chilled drinks to cool you down.
But I felt some parts have been dragged and could have been shortened especially in some of the initial chapters. Still, Summerita has effectively brought out the dilemma, the stress, the love, the mental conflict faced by the protagonist.
So if you like to read hot romantic novel Summerita’s Against All Rules is one you must read.
December 30, 2016
I would like to give 3.5/5 (pity Goodreads does not allow that)
Initially it took me sometime to root for the characters, but the pacy and descriptive writing style of the narrative kept me going. The stronger and more respectable (read independent) sides of the characters emerged post chapter 5 and it got better then. Those into romance genre would really enjoy the story. Personally I liked the author's historical romance series better.
Initially it took me sometime to root for the characters, but the pacy and descriptive writing style of the narrative kept me going. The stronger and more respectable (read independent) sides of the characters emerged post chapter 5 and it got better then. Those into romance genre would really enjoy the story. Personally I liked the author's historical romance series better.
August 7, 2021
Initial chapters will let you believe that this is nothing much but a regular story but soon u would get into the emotional side of the story. Beautifully weaved with strong characters. I really liked the strength in Samara’s character. Despite her immense love for Tahir, she was not ready to compromise on her pride & that’s what make her stand out. Very well written. Kudos to the writer.
December 3, 2014
http://njkinny.blogspot.in/2014/12/bo...
Against All Rules narrates the bumpy story of a happily-ever-after for Samara and Tahir who work together as PA and boss. Samara is efficient and ambitious and intensely attracted towards her boss, Tahir. Tahir, on the other hand, is unaware of Samara as a woman and only sees her as an automaton hired to work for him!
What happens when Tahir suddenly becomes aware of Samara as an attractive woman?
Would they go against the rules and indulge in an office affair?
"...when the fire is set, it's hard to avoid the blaze..."
This is Summerita Rhayne's debut novel and although at first glance this story seems like the cliched PA and boss romance, there is so much more going on here.
The cover of the book is attractive but could have been made more appealing. I could not visualize Tahir and Samara based on the actors on the cover. The blurb is appealing and promises a spicy, sensual and intense love story with lots of conflict, scorching romance and a happily-ever-after which this book delivers.
The book made me remember the Mills & Boon romances from authors like Maya Banks, Carole Mortimer etc. The story is crisply executed with well planned twists and turns to throw the reader. Somewhat predictable, the twists and the engaging style of writing of the author kept me interested in the book till the end.
The dialogues are well constructed and sketch the situations, the emotional conflicts and the character glimpses expertly. I could visualize the story in my mind and it kept running fluidly like a movie until the end. Kudos to Summerita for being able to do this in her first attempt. The romance is sensual, intense and the scenes very engagingly constructed. The attraction between Samara and Tahir will surely leave you scorched! :)
The characterization is beautifully done. Tahir and Samara are shown as contrasts to each other and the development in their characters admirably carried out. Tahir is determined never to open his heart to anyone. Disillusioned by the concept of love and marriage, he has pledged never to trust any woman again. Samara, on the other hand, loves her boss and is a firm believer of the power of love. Her dedication and love for Tahir is what kept her supporting him even when he wasn't very appreciative of her support. The other characters play their part well but I would have loved to see more development in Tahir and his father's angle.
Although, I absolutely loved the battle of will, emotion and love between Samara and Tahir, I did somewhat feel irritated with Tahir's stubbornness and Samara's sudden flip from all her ideals of never getting involved in casual flings in the later part of the book. However, when the end came it left me misty eyed and smiling a lopsided smile satisfied at another happily-ever-after reached for people I had come to care about! :)
I specially loved the below quote and feel it is apt to describe love.
"...love is the faith that that one person will stand by you, through your mistakes, through your rotten behaviour, through it all, even if no one else does. That one person can make your world. But without that one person, the whole world falls to pieces."
All in all, I enjoyed reading Against All Rules and recommend it to all spicy romance lovers who enjoy intense romantic scenes set against a backdrop of an engaging story. 4 out of 5 to the book and I look forward to reading more from Summerita in the future. She is a talented writer and not to be missed.
I received a copy of the book from the author and I am very thankful to her. The above review is my honest and unbiased opinion and in no way influenced.
Against All Rules narrates the bumpy story of a happily-ever-after for Samara and Tahir who work together as PA and boss. Samara is efficient and ambitious and intensely attracted towards her boss, Tahir. Tahir, on the other hand, is unaware of Samara as a woman and only sees her as an automaton hired to work for him!
What happens when Tahir suddenly becomes aware of Samara as an attractive woman?
Would they go against the rules and indulge in an office affair?
"...when the fire is set, it's hard to avoid the blaze..."
This is Summerita Rhayne's debut novel and although at first glance this story seems like the cliched PA and boss romance, there is so much more going on here.
The cover of the book is attractive but could have been made more appealing. I could not visualize Tahir and Samara based on the actors on the cover. The blurb is appealing and promises a spicy, sensual and intense love story with lots of conflict, scorching romance and a happily-ever-after which this book delivers.
The book made me remember the Mills & Boon romances from authors like Maya Banks, Carole Mortimer etc. The story is crisply executed with well planned twists and turns to throw the reader. Somewhat predictable, the twists and the engaging style of writing of the author kept me interested in the book till the end.
The dialogues are well constructed and sketch the situations, the emotional conflicts and the character glimpses expertly. I could visualize the story in my mind and it kept running fluidly like a movie until the end. Kudos to Summerita for being able to do this in her first attempt. The romance is sensual, intense and the scenes very engagingly constructed. The attraction between Samara and Tahir will surely leave you scorched! :)
The characterization is beautifully done. Tahir and Samara are shown as contrasts to each other and the development in their characters admirably carried out. Tahir is determined never to open his heart to anyone. Disillusioned by the concept of love and marriage, he has pledged never to trust any woman again. Samara, on the other hand, loves her boss and is a firm believer of the power of love. Her dedication and love for Tahir is what kept her supporting him even when he wasn't very appreciative of her support. The other characters play their part well but I would have loved to see more development in Tahir and his father's angle.
Although, I absolutely loved the battle of will, emotion and love between Samara and Tahir, I did somewhat feel irritated with Tahir's stubbornness and Samara's sudden flip from all her ideals of never getting involved in casual flings in the later part of the book. However, when the end came it left me misty eyed and smiling a lopsided smile satisfied at another happily-ever-after reached for people I had come to care about! :)
I specially loved the below quote and feel it is apt to describe love.
"...love is the faith that that one person will stand by you, through your mistakes, through your rotten behaviour, through it all, even if no one else does. That one person can make your world. But without that one person, the whole world falls to pieces."
All in all, I enjoyed reading Against All Rules and recommend it to all spicy romance lovers who enjoy intense romantic scenes set against a backdrop of an engaging story. 4 out of 5 to the book and I look forward to reading more from Summerita in the future. She is a talented writer and not to be missed.
I received a copy of the book from the author and I am very thankful to her. The above review is my honest and unbiased opinion and in no way influenced.
April 13, 2016
Tahir: - Suave, professional, dashing and super-confident yet vulnerable at some point. You want to hate him, love him, and sympathize with him…all at the same time.
Samara:- Decent, smart and modest small town girl who wants to focus on career. You fall in love with her right in the beginning.Against All Rules
Against All Rules is a sensuous roller-coaster ride of emotional tug of war between Tahir and Samara. In couple of chapters initially, the story constantly reminded me of Fifty Shades of Grey. But I was about to shrug it off as yet another soppy erotic tale built only upon lust, I was taken in by the deep emotional hurricane brewing in the minds of these characters. The author has done a good job of balancing passion and judgment.
The story revolves around Tahir and Samara, two completely opposite characters. Tahir is a self-made business tycoon who likes professionalism and excellence in whatever he does. Though he does not let emotions overcome his sensibilities, he is acutely aware of his responsibilities and fulfills them albeit mechanically and methodically sometimes. Samara is a typical small town girl who wants to make it big in the corporate world. Her absolute dedication and ability towards her work as Tahir’s PA makes her almost indispensible. While Samara successfully pulls a façade of being extremely professional, she is completely smitten by her boss. Everything looks totally under control until Tahir kisses Samara under the influence of alcohol while brooding over his failed marriage. A whirlwind of emotions, attraction and desires is let loose as Tahir and Samara try to remain professional but are drawn towards each other dramatically.
Tahir who does not want to get into any relationship after his disastrous divorce is intensely attracted to Samara, who wants to stay focused on her career and does not want to get into a physical-only relationship. The story gradually takes its course as Tahir and Samara struggle to deny their evident desire for each other. As I said earlier, you want to both hate and love Tahir and the feminist streak in you wants to tell Samara to not fall for the uptight boss. But both of them have their side of the story.
The typical boss-secretary falling for each other office- plot is somewhat predictable. You know that it’s only a matter of time before both of them give in to the forces of attraction but the intense writing style of the author keeps you hooked. The writing oozes sensuality and passion without sounding vulgar. If you like Danielle Steel type of love and romance genre, you must read Against All Rules.
Samara:- Decent, smart and modest small town girl who wants to focus on career. You fall in love with her right in the beginning.Against All Rules
Against All Rules is a sensuous roller-coaster ride of emotional tug of war between Tahir and Samara. In couple of chapters initially, the story constantly reminded me of Fifty Shades of Grey. But I was about to shrug it off as yet another soppy erotic tale built only upon lust, I was taken in by the deep emotional hurricane brewing in the minds of these characters. The author has done a good job of balancing passion and judgment.
The story revolves around Tahir and Samara, two completely opposite characters. Tahir is a self-made business tycoon who likes professionalism and excellence in whatever he does. Though he does not let emotions overcome his sensibilities, he is acutely aware of his responsibilities and fulfills them albeit mechanically and methodically sometimes. Samara is a typical small town girl who wants to make it big in the corporate world. Her absolute dedication and ability towards her work as Tahir’s PA makes her almost indispensible. While Samara successfully pulls a façade of being extremely professional, she is completely smitten by her boss. Everything looks totally under control until Tahir kisses Samara under the influence of alcohol while brooding over his failed marriage. A whirlwind of emotions, attraction and desires is let loose as Tahir and Samara try to remain professional but are drawn towards each other dramatically.
Tahir who does not want to get into any relationship after his disastrous divorce is intensely attracted to Samara, who wants to stay focused on her career and does not want to get into a physical-only relationship. The story gradually takes its course as Tahir and Samara struggle to deny their evident desire for each other. As I said earlier, you want to both hate and love Tahir and the feminist streak in you wants to tell Samara to not fall for the uptight boss. But both of them have their side of the story.
The typical boss-secretary falling for each other office- plot is somewhat predictable. You know that it’s only a matter of time before both of them give in to the forces of attraction but the intense writing style of the author keeps you hooked. The writing oozes sensuality and passion without sounding vulgar. If you like Danielle Steel type of love and romance genre, you must read Against All Rules.
February 3, 2016
Rating Edit: 3.5 Stars
What is it about?
Against All Rules by Summerita Rhayne is a passionate, intense love story of Tahir & Samara - 2 individuals who come from very diverse social and cultural backgrounds, and who want very different things from a relationship. While Tahir is looking for a no-strings-attached affair, Samara has her heart set on the happily-ever-after. But the one thing that they both cannot deny/resist, is the palpable attraction between them. What follows next, is a tug of war between their desire for each other, and the need for control.
Initial Impressions + What I liked
Now, as I starting reading this, I got the feeling that this was following the tried and tested troupe of romance novels - an office romance, where the secretary is secretly in love with the boss.
While that is the basic premise of this book, it is a lot more than just that. The plot has realistic conflicts, and relatable resolutions, and a strong backstory.
Also, AAR is not the usual sappy love story; it is more of a sensual romance. Now, I don’t read that many sensual romances, and therefore cannot generalize, but since I slotted it as that, I was not expecting to find the kind of emotional depth that this story has. It is equal parts sensual, and emotional, which is a wonderful combination.
What could have been better
Some parts (especially in the first half) were very repetitive. They could have been trimmed.
Also, there is another area that required attention - logical breaks/pauses in story. Typically these breaks and pauses are indicated by starting new chapters, or more commonly, by bigger paragraph spaces or markers like these-> ‘----’.
In many places there were no breaks indicated. The time and place changed, but the author just continued without any indicating any breaks . This might not bother some people, but it hampers the reading experience for me.
Lastly, the cover - I couldn’t reconcile my mental image of Tahir & Samara to the people on the cover. This is really a personal choice, but I prefer sketches than photographs on the cover - which lets the reader imagine the faces.
Overall: Lovely story; executed well. Tighter editing would have made this a far more satisfying read.
Disclaimer: I downloaded a free copy on my Kindle during an Amazon promotion for the book
Find more book reviews @ www.shanayatales.com
What is it about?
Against All Rules by Summerita Rhayne is a passionate, intense love story of Tahir & Samara - 2 individuals who come from very diverse social and cultural backgrounds, and who want very different things from a relationship. While Tahir is looking for a no-strings-attached affair, Samara has her heart set on the happily-ever-after. But the one thing that they both cannot deny/resist, is the palpable attraction between them. What follows next, is a tug of war between their desire for each other, and the need for control.
Initial Impressions + What I liked
Now, as I starting reading this, I got the feeling that this was following the tried and tested troupe of romance novels - an office romance, where the secretary is secretly in love with the boss.
While that is the basic premise of this book, it is a lot more than just that. The plot has realistic conflicts, and relatable resolutions, and a strong backstory.
Also, AAR is not the usual sappy love story; it is more of a sensual romance. Now, I don’t read that many sensual romances, and therefore cannot generalize, but since I slotted it as that, I was not expecting to find the kind of emotional depth that this story has. It is equal parts sensual, and emotional, which is a wonderful combination.
What could have been better
Some parts (especially in the first half) were very repetitive. They could have been trimmed.
Also, there is another area that required attention - logical breaks/pauses in story. Typically these breaks and pauses are indicated by starting new chapters, or more commonly, by bigger paragraph spaces or markers like these-> ‘----’.
In many places there were no breaks indicated. The time and place changed, but the author just continued without any indicating any breaks . This might not bother some people, but it hampers the reading experience for me.
Lastly, the cover - I couldn’t reconcile my mental image of Tahir & Samara to the people on the cover. This is really a personal choice, but I prefer sketches than photographs on the cover - which lets the reader imagine the faces.
Overall: Lovely story; executed well. Tighter editing would have made this a far more satisfying read.
Disclaimer: I downloaded a free copy on my Kindle during an Amazon promotion for the book
Find more book reviews @ www.shanayatales.com
March 29, 2015
Summerita Rhayne makes her debut with a hot, sizzling take on love, passion and desire.
This scorching (you-can-see-the-fumes kind) is a story of a small-town-working-in-the-big-city kind of girl Samara.(Pretty name!). She has some hidden desire for her boss- Tahir.
Tahir has just come out of a divorce and is not interested in a commitment. He is overridden with guilt issues (misplaced) wrt to his first marriage. He is in no way interested in having an affair -especially with his efficient secretary, Samara -
-- Till a kiss changes it all. Tahir feels a strong attraction towards her. She too is not immune to his desires. What starts after that is a cat and a mouse game between desire and control. Both are haunted by their past and both love their independence (thank god she is not the weeping willow kind). But passion is a decisive factor which burns them, till they are forced to give in to their basic instincts. :P Where will their passion lead them to? One is commitment phobia and the other wants to marry for love. Is there any solution for this?
Summerita Rhayne has done just what she had set to do- create a passionate atmosphere. Everytime you think - 'they will do it' or 'now now now' - comes in Mr. Conflict. There are times I wanted to push them in a room and tell them to finish it off. :D
Grammatically there are no faults with this one.But some phrases are oft repeated and a few words used are redundant. But not to a large scale and can be overlooked. The cover of the book could have been a bit more attractive since beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder (How shallow I sound. :( ) but, don't we all grab a book by its cover first and then read the blurb? (Need to have a discussion on this one, dear peeps)
If we look beyond these physical details of the book, the romance readers will enjoy this book with a glass of wine in a candle lit room. Keep the AC on......
Read the full review at
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This scorching (you-can-see-the-fumes kind) is a story of a small-town-working-in-the-big-city kind of girl Samara.(Pretty name!). She has some hidden desire for her boss- Tahir.
Tahir has just come out of a divorce and is not interested in a commitment. He is overridden with guilt issues (misplaced) wrt to his first marriage. He is in no way interested in having an affair -especially with his efficient secretary, Samara -
-- Till a kiss changes it all. Tahir feels a strong attraction towards her. She too is not immune to his desires. What starts after that is a cat and a mouse game between desire and control. Both are haunted by their past and both love their independence (thank god she is not the weeping willow kind). But passion is a decisive factor which burns them, till they are forced to give in to their basic instincts. :P Where will their passion lead them to? One is commitment phobia and the other wants to marry for love. Is there any solution for this?
Summerita Rhayne has done just what she had set to do- create a passionate atmosphere. Everytime you think - 'they will do it' or 'now now now' - comes in Mr. Conflict. There are times I wanted to push them in a room and tell them to finish it off. :D
Grammatically there are no faults with this one.But some phrases are oft repeated and a few words used are redundant. But not to a large scale and can be overlooked. The cover of the book could have been a bit more attractive since beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder (How shallow I sound. :( ) but, don't we all grab a book by its cover first and then read the blurb? (Need to have a discussion on this one, dear peeps)
If we look beyond these physical details of the book, the romance readers will enjoy this book with a glass of wine in a candle lit room. Keep the AC on......
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May 1, 2019
Against All Rules is of the typical office scenario where the secretary and the boss fall for each other in spite of it being against the rules and is the premise of this novel. What is different is the handling and the back story of Against All Odds.
Tahir, the suave boss with his no nonsense manner, curt and of course bossy; he is also just as handsome and he knows it but he sets equally high standards for himself. Feeling inadequate for himself and his self doubt almost costs his true love for him. Yes, I could see Ranbir playing Tahir to perfection.
Samara is super efficient, sensuous secretary who makes his life easy and difficult at the same time. She comes from a small town and in spite of her unsupportive and shaky back ground manages to make a good life for herself. She is in love with her boss but dare not show her feelings and when Tahir proposes a weekend getaway to solve their desires for each other she is aghast.
It is not a typical tale of office love but has a healthy doze of jealousy, indecision, confusion, fights, family drama and of course loads of passion. There is the vindictive ex-wife and silly co-workers who try to undermine Samara but she is one resilient girl. Her hardships have made her stronger and she faces life head long on her terms.
The story progresses along but does seem a bit slow at times and it could do with a tiny bit of tighter editing. I think that Summerita has written a lovely story and we all know that the path of true love is never easy.
The novel goes perfectly with the free and independent lifestyles of today where we live lives on our own terms. It has all the elements to keep your interest and wishing the two tormented lovers unite as soon as possible.
This book is full of nice surprises along the way and they last right till the end making it a pleasant read.
Lots of work and lots of play with fun along the way.
Tahir, the suave boss with his no nonsense manner, curt and of course bossy; he is also just as handsome and he knows it but he sets equally high standards for himself. Feeling inadequate for himself and his self doubt almost costs his true love for him. Yes, I could see Ranbir playing Tahir to perfection.
Samara is super efficient, sensuous secretary who makes his life easy and difficult at the same time. She comes from a small town and in spite of her unsupportive and shaky back ground manages to make a good life for herself. She is in love with her boss but dare not show her feelings and when Tahir proposes a weekend getaway to solve their desires for each other she is aghast.
It is not a typical tale of office love but has a healthy doze of jealousy, indecision, confusion, fights, family drama and of course loads of passion. There is the vindictive ex-wife and silly co-workers who try to undermine Samara but she is one resilient girl. Her hardships have made her stronger and she faces life head long on her terms.
The story progresses along but does seem a bit slow at times and it could do with a tiny bit of tighter editing. I think that Summerita has written a lovely story and we all know that the path of true love is never easy.
The novel goes perfectly with the free and independent lifestyles of today where we live lives on our own terms. It has all the elements to keep your interest and wishing the two tormented lovers unite as soon as possible.
This book is full of nice surprises along the way and they last right till the end making it a pleasant read.
Lots of work and lots of play with fun along the way.
October 24, 2014
There are love stories that are subtle and there are love stories that are passionate. Against All Rules is subtly passionate and passionate subtle! The story has a steaming start that promises to make the entire reading journey worthwhile.
Against All Rules is the story of the handsome and suave Tahir and the graceful Samara. While already dealing with an unpleasant past, Tahir finds himself trapped into marriage with the conniving Elaine. Freshly divorced, Tahir decides that love and his life cannot go together. Enter Samara and all of Tahir’s rules threaten to go out of the window!
At a very young age, when her parents decide of shrug-off all worldly responsibilities, Samara is forced to live on the mercy of her aunt who leaves no stone unturned to make her feel a burden. When she finally manages to move out from the shadows of her aunt, Samara decides that no matter what she will never be a burden, an adjustment for anyone, come what may. A passionate encounter with Tahir and Samara is forced to rethink.
AAR is as passionate and as beautiful as an Indian Romance can get. Tahir and Samara, each having faced their share of struggles early in life, have a set of rules that they live by. And breaking those rules is easier said than done!
The book is about the different situations life puts them in and how they are forced to think and rethink about their rules. Though the book feels a little slow after the first few pages, in no time does it pick up a pace that makes it difficult for you to put it down.
If you like your romances passionate, this is one book that you must not miss!
Against All Rules is the story of the handsome and suave Tahir and the graceful Samara. While already dealing with an unpleasant past, Tahir finds himself trapped into marriage with the conniving Elaine. Freshly divorced, Tahir decides that love and his life cannot go together. Enter Samara and all of Tahir’s rules threaten to go out of the window!
At a very young age, when her parents decide of shrug-off all worldly responsibilities, Samara is forced to live on the mercy of her aunt who leaves no stone unturned to make her feel a burden. When she finally manages to move out from the shadows of her aunt, Samara decides that no matter what she will never be a burden, an adjustment for anyone, come what may. A passionate encounter with Tahir and Samara is forced to rethink.
AAR is as passionate and as beautiful as an Indian Romance can get. Tahir and Samara, each having faced their share of struggles early in life, have a set of rules that they live by. And breaking those rules is easier said than done!
The book is about the different situations life puts them in and how they are forced to think and rethink about their rules. Though the book feels a little slow after the first few pages, in no time does it pick up a pace that makes it difficult for you to put it down.
If you like your romances passionate, this is one book that you must not miss!
January 13, 2016
Summerita Rhyane’s 'Against All Rules', is one huge ball of passion, coated with a generous dose of erotica and romance! The story set in the backdrop of an office brings together a PA, Samara, who harbours a secret crush towards her boss, Tahir, who by the way, is in no mood for another relationship, except the one that begins and ends in bed, while she dreams of a life together. Our heroine will accept no less and the hero will give no more. What follows is a virtual tug of war- of raw emotions, unmanifested desires, and the struggle to stay and keep the self and the other in control. How the protagonists manage to come to terms with their inner demons and let love into their lives forms the base of the story.
Every time the couple come together, sparks fly and hearts melt, your own heart beats wildly and as you want the fire in their kiss to lead to something more, but there’s always a conflict that douses the fire and you are left wanting more! (Can you imagine a panting dog, tongue hanging out, dripping with saliva? Yeah, that’s what I meant!) The writing is very good and you can almost feel that sensual tension between the couple and when they finally get together, it is difficult to not let out a sigh of relief! Phew!
The intimate scenes between the couple are hot (really hot!), very sensually written, but definitely not vulgar. The language is faultless though the beginning chapters have some repetitive phrases. The scenes are very vivid and one can easily imagine them as they read on. The writing flows beautifully though the end might be a little predictable. But then again, isn’t ‘happily ever after’, the only way we want our love stories to end?
Every time the couple come together, sparks fly and hearts melt, your own heart beats wildly and as you want the fire in their kiss to lead to something more, but there’s always a conflict that douses the fire and you are left wanting more! (Can you imagine a panting dog, tongue hanging out, dripping with saliva? Yeah, that’s what I meant!) The writing is very good and you can almost feel that sensual tension between the couple and when they finally get together, it is difficult to not let out a sigh of relief! Phew!
The intimate scenes between the couple are hot (really hot!), very sensually written, but definitely not vulgar. The language is faultless though the beginning chapters have some repetitive phrases. The scenes are very vivid and one can easily imagine them as they read on. The writing flows beautifully though the end might be a little predictable. But then again, isn’t ‘happily ever after’, the only way we want our love stories to end?
October 1, 2014
Against All Odds by Summerita Rhayne is a passionate story of love and desire. A constant tug of war prevails between the two love birds nesting in a corporate arena. Will they be able to identify their love and conquer their desires - the book beckons.
This story is about transition from the phase of desire to making love by breaking off the customary rules. The characters bloom and grow mature with the story as they find answers to their questions about themselves and their lives. If Tahir is bossy then Samara is saucy. Nowhere, any of them feels himself / herself lesser than the other and this produces a lot of steamy hot discussions.
Desire and Love rest on a common borderline. The author completely understands the rules of both the sides and thus, drifts apart from one emotion to other, respectfully. As far as 'desire' aspect is concerned, she has very neatly expressed the emotions and bodily changes in her characters. The descriptions are loaded with vivid scenes that leave you desiring for more... to get satisfied. The 'love' part is equally effective and brings forth the vulnerability of the characters. The softness and the tenderness of both the characters is so very much infectious that it will leave you with no choice but to fall in love.
Source: http://booksnewsindia.wordpress.com/2...
This story is about transition from the phase of desire to making love by breaking off the customary rules. The characters bloom and grow mature with the story as they find answers to their questions about themselves and their lives. If Tahir is bossy then Samara is saucy. Nowhere, any of them feels himself / herself lesser than the other and this produces a lot of steamy hot discussions.
Desire and Love rest on a common borderline. The author completely understands the rules of both the sides and thus, drifts apart from one emotion to other, respectfully. As far as 'desire' aspect is concerned, she has very neatly expressed the emotions and bodily changes in her characters. The descriptions are loaded with vivid scenes that leave you desiring for more... to get satisfied. The 'love' part is equally effective and brings forth the vulnerability of the characters. The softness and the tenderness of both the characters is so very much infectious that it will leave you with no choice but to fall in love.
Source: http://booksnewsindia.wordpress.com/2...
October 14, 2014
Against all Rules is a passionate romance between the handsome boss- Tahir and his hazel-eyed PA- Samara. I should admit that I thought it was another office affair, but the author has given much more.
Tahir is an alluring and charming CEO of a Biotechnology firm, but with a haunting and menacing past. Samara is a village girl who came to the big city aspiring to have a job and grow in her career. She is madly in love with him from day one but dare not let him see it. She doesn’t want to be one among the many women who drools all over him. Evident attraction draws them together and the result is nothing but sizzling chemistry and hot, steamy romance. While Tahir shares high professional ethics, Samara has deep-rooted traditional values and morals. He is fierce, harsh, yet hot and she is down-to-earth, the girl next door. Tension grips in as they are not ready to admit to their feelings.
The story is delicately well-knitted and you read it in one go. It is fast-paced and doesn’t drag at any point. The language is simple and easy to comprehend. There is humour, sarcasm, tenderness and softness to their relationship. And a jealous ex-wife makes it all the more an exciting read.
The first in Romance genre, Summerita has definitely lived up to expectations. In comparison to the content and story, the cover page could have been a wee bit better. Looking for a fresh and exotic read with deep emotions? This is way more than that!
Tahir is an alluring and charming CEO of a Biotechnology firm, but with a haunting and menacing past. Samara is a village girl who came to the big city aspiring to have a job and grow in her career. She is madly in love with him from day one but dare not let him see it. She doesn’t want to be one among the many women who drools all over him. Evident attraction draws them together and the result is nothing but sizzling chemistry and hot, steamy romance. While Tahir shares high professional ethics, Samara has deep-rooted traditional values and morals. He is fierce, harsh, yet hot and she is down-to-earth, the girl next door. Tension grips in as they are not ready to admit to their feelings.
The story is delicately well-knitted and you read it in one go. It is fast-paced and doesn’t drag at any point. The language is simple and easy to comprehend. There is humour, sarcasm, tenderness and softness to their relationship. And a jealous ex-wife makes it all the more an exciting read.
The first in Romance genre, Summerita has definitely lived up to expectations. In comparison to the content and story, the cover page could have been a wee bit better. Looking for a fresh and exotic read with deep emotions? This is way more than that!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 9, 2015
This is a classic Boss and PA romance with Samara working for the very hot and yummy Tahir for over a year when the story opens. Tahir is just coming out of a bad marriage, the divorce impacting on him emotionally. He is a man who doesn't like to fail.
Samara has been trying to keep her feelings for Tahir under control because he is a married man quite apart from the fact he seems to only see her as an automaton in the office. Her concern for him when he goes off the rails at the finalizing of the divorce changes something as does the drunken kiss that follows.
From then on the two are circling warily around each other. Both have baggage from the past that impacts how they view relationships.
This would be a fairly classic Harlequin Mills & Boon style romance if it wasn't for the setting in Delhi so we get some fascinating cultural snippets. This author did publish with HM&B under another name with a Bollywood influenced story before branching into self-publishing.
I enjoyed the story and the ending was very sweet but the smexy was rather warm but rare.
Samara has been trying to keep her feelings for Tahir under control because he is a married man quite apart from the fact he seems to only see her as an automaton in the office. Her concern for him when he goes off the rails at the finalizing of the divorce changes something as does the drunken kiss that follows.
From then on the two are circling warily around each other. Both have baggage from the past that impacts how they view relationships.
This would be a fairly classic Harlequin Mills & Boon style romance if it wasn't for the setting in Delhi so we get some fascinating cultural snippets. This author did publish with HM&B under another name with a Bollywood influenced story before branching into self-publishing.
I enjoyed the story and the ending was very sweet but the smexy was rather warm but rare.
April 29, 2016
The hot and mushy scenes keep flowing like molten chocolate in a choco-lava cake. What I liked best though was the psychology of the characters that was believable and yet not heavy enough to come into the way of passion. Some romance readers are known to skip the serious parts to get to the hot stuff, but in this book the complexity of the personalities kept the feel of romance more lingering. Near the end my interest waned as the story got inevitably predictable, but it engaged me immensely the rest of the time. I ought to give a lot of credit for this to Summerita for her descriptive body actions and feelings. Sample this - His heart felt like a lead balloon squeezing breath from his chest. Entertaining novel, even thought-provoking to those interested in complex personalities. I thought I had long out-grown romance novels, but looks like I was just missing good quality romance like that in "Against All Rules" :)
November 8, 2014
I give this a 3.5 because its good. If you like a passionate romance then this is the book for you. If you like a passionate romance that seems unlikely, then this is the book for you.
It has its up and downs [in more ways than one *wink*] but you carried along on the waves of love and lust.
Its an unlikely romance, and office romance, they very rarely work, don't they?
I haven't read an erotic/sexy romance for quite some months so this made a little bit of light reading for me.
I usually steer clear of romance as one runs into another, but this made a nice change.
I would like to thank Summerita Rhayne the author for allowing me to read and review it directly from her.
She is a very good story teller.
It has its up and downs [in more ways than one *wink*] but you carried along on the waves of love and lust.
Its an unlikely romance, and office romance, they very rarely work, don't they?
I haven't read an erotic/sexy romance for quite some months so this made a little bit of light reading for me.
I usually steer clear of romance as one runs into another, but this made a nice change.
I would like to thank Summerita Rhayne the author for allowing me to read and review it directly from her.
She is a very good story teller.
October 6, 2014
Summerita has created an intense story that carried me along on a journey of highs and lows along with the protagonists. Tahir is dark - bitter and under a lot of tension owing to a failed marriage. Samara is madly in love with him but dare not let him see it. Moreover, she needs stability in her life, something that an affair with Tahir cannot offer. She desperately wants him to stop destroying himself, and their conflicting goals make for a lot of tension. Add to it an undeniable attraction between them, and you have a hot, hot read! Throw a jealous and vengeful ex-wife into the mix, and the action really takes off!
If you are looking for an Indian romance that is hotter than average, this is the book for you. Read it!
If you are looking for an Indian romance that is hotter than average, this is the book for you. Read it!
March 15, 2015
Summerita Rhayne is a great story teller. She has written the novel in a very sweet and sensuous way .The characters like Tahir and Samara are careful designed in way that it will make you one with those characters. Emotions are described in such a way that makes you feel the pain ,anguish, frustration and excitement which the characters go through .The dialogues are crisp.
What I like about book is that Summerita has used a new kind of setting in this novel. A very well written office romance .A loveable read .
Highly recommended to all the romance lovers.
November 5, 2014
What a story! The author has described the feelings of both the characters very nicely and the book moves from the feelings of one character and gets entangled in the feelings of the other. Sometimes, I would feel bad for Samara and sometimes I would feel for Tahir. She has really created story where the characters are completely opposite of each other but still are attracted to one another.
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September 15, 2014
This is not your average office romance! The troubled path to love makes this relationship so much more than a casual fling.
Tahir is the perfect brooding hero, reluctant to trust anyone with his heart to anyone again. And Samara is a woman strong enough to hang in there until he does.
With her passionate storytelling, and stunning descriptions, Summerita transports us to a beautifully exotic setting inside and outside of the workplace. A read guaranteed to keep you warm at night :)
Tahir is the perfect brooding hero, reluctant to trust anyone with his heart to anyone again. And Samara is a woman strong enough to hang in there until he does.
With her passionate storytelling, and stunning descriptions, Summerita transports us to a beautifully exotic setting inside and outside of the workplace. A read guaranteed to keep you warm at night :)
February 22, 2015
Hot! Hot! Hot! Summerita Rhayne tells a convincing story with Against All Rules. The age old story of a boss and his PA is told yet again. Or so you'd think. The chemistry between Tahir and Samara is red hot, their interactions sizzle with undercurrents, her transformation to a city girl is convincing and his gradual interest in her leading to the oh-so-natural denouement is what romance novels are all about. For me. Check it out and see what I mean.
May 31, 2015
4.5 stars for Summerita Rhayne’s debut story is a sweet and hot of romance and conflict between PA Samara and her boss, the cynical, bitter Tahir. Against All Rules is a delicious office romance with crisp dialogue, deeply felt emotions and a unique setting. Do yourself a favor and read this wonderfully intense story.
October 2, 2014
"Against All Rules was my kind of read all the way through. Samara and Tahir's story, loaded with sizzling chemistry, intense emotions and provocative thoughts captivated me from beginning to end. Summerita is a wonderful voice in the romance genre and her writing is fresh and wonderful."
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