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Straight Guys #14
Just a Bit Captivated
A toy for a sheikh.
That’s who Aiden Gates a straight guy sold to one of the richest men in the world.
What he isn’t is besotted with the cold-hearted, cynical bastard who bought him like a thing. Aiden hates that man. Utterly abhors him.
But before long, Aiden’s obsessive hatred starts turning into an obsession, pure and simple–and then into something far worse.
Wanting that bastard is bad enough.
Needing him is sickening.
His feelings aren’t real. He’s a pretty bird in a gilded cage. A dirty little secret.
But when the cage is eventually broken, can he learn to live without it? Without him?
That’s who Aiden Gates a straight guy sold to one of the richest men in the world.
What he isn’t is besotted with the cold-hearted, cynical bastard who bought him like a thing. Aiden hates that man. Utterly abhors him.
But before long, Aiden’s obsessive hatred starts turning into an obsession, pure and simple–and then into something far worse.
Wanting that bastard is bad enough.
Needing him is sickening.
His feelings aren’t real. He’s a pretty bird in a gilded cage. A dirty little secret.
But when the cage is eventually broken, can he learn to live without it? Without him?
243 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 23, 2023
498 people are currently reading
1,146 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 775 reviews
November 24, 2023
4.75 stars
I've been hitting a dry streak with some of my favourite authors and because I was looking forward to this book for SO long (over a year!!!), I was so worried it'd be a letdown. OF COURSE I needn't have worried.
It took me about 20% in to get fully immersed in the storytelling (honestly, Aiden seemed super bratty from the start and it seemed a bit much), but when the sexual tension started to ooze, I was hooked. I LOVE AH's particular brand of how she describes the clear yet unwilling desire from both parties. It's so delicious. Aiden and Zain's dynamic was everything I ever wanted for them and more.
And ok, I know there has been some discourse on this but yes, I know LOGICALLY that this isn't the most realistic portrayal of how things are in human trafficking, UAE royalty etc, but honestly, I don't particularly care. Realism is not why I am an absolute addict for Alessandra Hazard's books. I love them because they're possessive, obsessive and even a little bit toxic, and the storytelling is compelling . I get sucked in and always finish them within two hours of downloading them on the day of release. It's a smutty, escapism romance book 🤷♀�
Wishing AH's daughter all the best and I cannot wait for the next book! I hope Gadiel gets the help he needs.
review before read
As soon as Aiden was mentioned in Just a Bit Heartless my senses started tingling and I am SO glad I was right... I will be devastated if this series ever ends
2023 here I come
I've been hitting a dry streak with some of my favourite authors and because I was looking forward to this book for SO long (over a year!!!), I was so worried it'd be a letdown. OF COURSE I needn't have worried.
It took me about 20% in to get fully immersed in the storytelling (honestly, Aiden seemed super bratty from the start and it seemed a bit much), but when the sexual tension started to ooze, I was hooked. I LOVE AH's particular brand of how she describes the clear yet unwilling desire from both parties. It's so delicious. Aiden and Zain's dynamic was everything I ever wanted for them and more.
And ok, I know there has been some discourse on this but yes, I know LOGICALLY that this isn't the most realistic portrayal of how things are in human trafficking, UAE royalty etc, but honestly, I don't particularly care. Realism is not why I am an absolute addict for Alessandra Hazard's books. I love them because they're possessive, obsessive and even a little bit toxic, and the storytelling is compelling . I get sucked in and always finish them within two hours of downloading them on the day of release. It's a smutty, escapism romance book 🤷♀�
Wishing AH's daughter all the best and I cannot wait for the next book! I hope Gadiel gets the help he needs.
review before read
As soon as Aiden was mentioned in Just a Bit Heartless my senses started tingling and I am SO glad I was right... I will be devastated if this series ever ends
2023 here I come
June 27, 2024
|| 3.0 stars ||
This wasn’t bad, but it wasn’t good either. It had a very cliché premise with an extremely subpar execution. There was absolutely no depth to this whatsoever, and neither did we see any details of the story, characterization or romance.
We skipped in time about a billion times, which meant we didn’t get to see any of the actual development between the couple. We don’t see them falling in love, we don’t get to understand why they develop feelings; honestly, we aren’t even told why either of them become attracted to the other, which is odd considering the less than stellar circumstances these two find themselves in, meaning it wasn’t exactly likely anyone would feel any lust in that situation, so an explanation as to why they did would have been appreciated.
Considering it’s a story about human trafficking and the main character finds himself in a ‘prison�-like situation with his ‘love interest� as captor I would have expected more hate, mistrust and resentment, so it was pretty weird to see that they suddenly had this giant amount of sexual chemistry, let alone an intimate or romantic connection. It just wasn’t explained properly, and therefore, failed to show me a relationship with true feelings and emotions. It was mostly just lust, especially at first, and after that it seemed there was merely an unhealthy obsession between them. Not love.
This book was Stockholm Syndrome at its finest, I suppose. Although I would have loved more proper development for it to be believable. But that’s probably too much to ask of this author.
It’s just mindless fun with a toxic, possessive couple doing obsessive and insane things; a typical AH book. Yet, still, there was something missing here that I did find in a bunch of her other books. Something about the couple just didn’t work that well.
'Straight Guys' series:
0. Straight Boy - 3.0 stars
1. Just a Bit Twisted - 3.5 stars
2. Just a Bit Obsessed - 3.0 stars
3. Just a Bit Unhealthy - 2.5 stars
4. Just a Bit Wrong - 3.5 stars
5. Just a Bit Confusing - 1.5 stars
6. Just a Bit Ruthless - 4.0 stars
7. Just a Bit Wicked - 3.5 stars
8. Just a Bit Shameless - 4.5 stars
9. Just a Bit Gay - 1.0 star
10. Just a Bit Dirty - 3.0 stars
11. Just a Bit Wrecked - 2.5 stars
12. Just a Bit Bossy - 3.0 stars
13. Just a Bit Heartless - 3.5 stars
14. Just a Bit Captivated - 3.0 stars
This wasn’t bad, but it wasn’t good either. It had a very cliché premise with an extremely subpar execution. There was absolutely no depth to this whatsoever, and neither did we see any details of the story, characterization or romance.
We skipped in time about a billion times, which meant we didn’t get to see any of the actual development between the couple. We don’t see them falling in love, we don’t get to understand why they develop feelings; honestly, we aren’t even told why either of them become attracted to the other, which is odd considering the less than stellar circumstances these two find themselves in, meaning it wasn’t exactly likely anyone would feel any lust in that situation, so an explanation as to why they did would have been appreciated.
Considering it’s a story about human trafficking and the main character finds himself in a ‘prison�-like situation with his ‘love interest� as captor I would have expected more hate, mistrust and resentment, so it was pretty weird to see that they suddenly had this giant amount of sexual chemistry, let alone an intimate or romantic connection. It just wasn’t explained properly, and therefore, failed to show me a relationship with true feelings and emotions. It was mostly just lust, especially at first, and after that it seemed there was merely an unhealthy obsession between them. Not love.
Aiden crawled into Zain’s lap and looped his arms around his neck. “Hey,� he said with a small, fond smile. “What’s got you brooding now?�
Fond. He had no business looking at him this way. Sometimes Zain wanted to shake him. He might not have kidnapped Aiden himself, but he had treated him horribly at the beginning. Zain didn’t deserve his fondness. He didn’t deserve the soft smiles.
He still craved them like a thirsty man craved water in the desert. He wanted everything—every smile, every millimeter of skin, every molecule.
This book was Stockholm Syndrome at its finest, I suppose. Although I would have loved more proper development for it to be believable. But that’s probably too much to ask of this author.
It’s just mindless fun with a toxic, possessive couple doing obsessive and insane things; a typical AH book. Yet, still, there was something missing here that I did find in a bunch of her other books. Something about the couple just didn’t work that well.
'Straight Guys' series:
0. Straight Boy - 3.0 stars
1. Just a Bit Twisted - 3.5 stars
2. Just a Bit Obsessed - 3.0 stars
3. Just a Bit Unhealthy - 2.5 stars
4. Just a Bit Wrong - 3.5 stars
5. Just a Bit Confusing - 1.5 stars
6. Just a Bit Ruthless - 4.0 stars
7. Just a Bit Wicked - 3.5 stars
8. Just a Bit Shameless - 4.5 stars
9. Just a Bit Gay - 1.0 star
10. Just a Bit Dirty - 3.0 stars
11. Just a Bit Wrecked - 2.5 stars
12. Just a Bit Bossy - 3.0 stars
13. Just a Bit Heartless - 3.5 stars
14. Just a Bit Captivated - 3.0 stars
November 27, 2023
***4.5 rating***
"He wanted this man, wanted to crawl into his mouth, between his ribs, wanted to wrap around the heart within and know him from inside out. Down to the marrow. Every molecule."
It's no secret that Alessandra's work holds a special place in my heart, falling into the category of guilty pleasures. She has a knack for crafting narratives around possessive protagonists, entangled in codependent, toxic relationships that border on obsession. It's a niche that resonates with me. Discovering a favorite author tends to cultivate a particular fondness, and Alessandra's writing has that effect on me. I find myself devouring her books in single sittings, regardless of the subject matter � a testament to her storytelling prowess. While not every piece resonates equally, the Straight Guy Series, in particular, remains a constant favorite, beckoning re-reads time and again.
The anticipation for AH's latest release, "Just a Bit Captivated," slated for November 2023, was nothing short of thrilling and exciting. Knowing Alessandra's tendency to keep a low profile, the delay in the book's publication due to personal reasons was understandable. Initially expecting the release in early 2024, Alessandra pleasantly surprised us all by setting the publication date for November 23. Needless to say, the prospect of diving into a new AH book was met with sheer excitement.
Ever since Jordan's story unfolded in "Just a Bit Heartless," shedding light on his younger brother Aidan's plight as a victim of human trafficking, my curiosity had been piqued. In my reviews of AH's work, I often emphasize the need to suspend disbelief to fully savor her narratives. Realism takes a back seat in her stories, but for those intrigued by her unique style and willing to embrace this departure from reality, the experience is worth the ride.
"Just a Bit Captivated," the 14th installment in this series, follows Aidan, a 21-year-old whose life took a harrowing turn when he became a victim of human trafficking. Sold into an auction catering to the depraved desires of affluent individuals, Aidan's fear of being bought by someone seeking to exploit his vulnerability is palpable. His apprehension amplifies when he is purchased by Zain Rahim, a mysterious figure and one of the sons of a wealthy sheikh.
Zain, 32, acquires Aidan for his younger brother, known for his indiscrete behavior. While such behavior might be tolerated in the West, in the conservative landscape of the Middle East, specifically the UAE, homosexuality is illegal, carrying severe repercussions. As a Middle Eastern woman, I was intrigued by how AH would navigate this sensitive subject, especially the complexities of remaining closeted in an Islamic country. Once more, suspending disbelief is key to immersing oneself in this series.
Zain's rationale behind purchasing Aidan is to control his brother's urges, thereby shielding him from their conservative father's scrutiny. This forms a disturbing pact. Aidan, though repulsed by this arrangement, finds himself strangely drawn to the restrained and enigmatic Zain, exploiting every opportunity to provoke a reaction from him.
Aidan's bratty demeanor becomes a catalyst for the burgeoning dynamic between them. Zain's perception of Aidan as inexperienced for his brother prompts an unexpected demand for them to 'practice' together, an ironic twist. The reserved Zain finds himself increasingly captivated by Aidan's presence. Their relationship, though possessive and unhealthy, unfolds with an inexplicable allure. The restrained Zain and the spirited American Aidan form a complex pair, rife with raw emotions and a forbidden chemistry. The development of their relationship is a highlight, making Zain one of AH's standout love interests. Fans of "Just a Bit Bossy" will find similarities in the captivating possessiveness and addictive allure of the couples.
My enjoyment of this book goes beyond my admiration for AH's work. When a story resonates deeply and an author delivers credit is undeniably due. It's important to note that the themes explored in this book � human trafficking, kidnapping, and internalized homophobia � might be triggering for some readers. However, for those intrigued by the elements mentioned, this book promises an engrossing experience. I am excited for the release of book 15, whenever that may be.
I received this ARC from the author, and this is my honest opinion/review .
_____________
excuse me! this is coming out in November??? i love how Alessandra casually said here you go people... lmao
"He wanted this man, wanted to crawl into his mouth, between his ribs, wanted to wrap around the heart within and know him from inside out. Down to the marrow. Every molecule."
It's no secret that Alessandra's work holds a special place in my heart, falling into the category of guilty pleasures. She has a knack for crafting narratives around possessive protagonists, entangled in codependent, toxic relationships that border on obsession. It's a niche that resonates with me. Discovering a favorite author tends to cultivate a particular fondness, and Alessandra's writing has that effect on me. I find myself devouring her books in single sittings, regardless of the subject matter � a testament to her storytelling prowess. While not every piece resonates equally, the Straight Guy Series, in particular, remains a constant favorite, beckoning re-reads time and again.
The anticipation for AH's latest release, "Just a Bit Captivated," slated for November 2023, was nothing short of thrilling and exciting. Knowing Alessandra's tendency to keep a low profile, the delay in the book's publication due to personal reasons was understandable. Initially expecting the release in early 2024, Alessandra pleasantly surprised us all by setting the publication date for November 23. Needless to say, the prospect of diving into a new AH book was met with sheer excitement.
Ever since Jordan's story unfolded in "Just a Bit Heartless," shedding light on his younger brother Aidan's plight as a victim of human trafficking, my curiosity had been piqued. In my reviews of AH's work, I often emphasize the need to suspend disbelief to fully savor her narratives. Realism takes a back seat in her stories, but for those intrigued by her unique style and willing to embrace this departure from reality, the experience is worth the ride.
"Just a Bit Captivated," the 14th installment in this series, follows Aidan, a 21-year-old whose life took a harrowing turn when he became a victim of human trafficking. Sold into an auction catering to the depraved desires of affluent individuals, Aidan's fear of being bought by someone seeking to exploit his vulnerability is palpable. His apprehension amplifies when he is purchased by Zain Rahim, a mysterious figure and one of the sons of a wealthy sheikh.
Zain, 32, acquires Aidan for his younger brother, known for his indiscrete behavior. While such behavior might be tolerated in the West, in the conservative landscape of the Middle East, specifically the UAE, homosexuality is illegal, carrying severe repercussions. As a Middle Eastern woman, I was intrigued by how AH would navigate this sensitive subject, especially the complexities of remaining closeted in an Islamic country. Once more, suspending disbelief is key to immersing oneself in this series.
Zain's rationale behind purchasing Aidan is to control his brother's urges, thereby shielding him from their conservative father's scrutiny. This forms a disturbing pact. Aidan, though repulsed by this arrangement, finds himself strangely drawn to the restrained and enigmatic Zain, exploiting every opportunity to provoke a reaction from him.
Aidan's bratty demeanor becomes a catalyst for the burgeoning dynamic between them. Zain's perception of Aidan as inexperienced for his brother prompts an unexpected demand for them to 'practice' together, an ironic twist. The reserved Zain finds himself increasingly captivated by Aidan's presence. Their relationship, though possessive and unhealthy, unfolds with an inexplicable allure. The restrained Zain and the spirited American Aidan form a complex pair, rife with raw emotions and a forbidden chemistry. The development of their relationship is a highlight, making Zain one of AH's standout love interests. Fans of "Just a Bit Bossy" will find similarities in the captivating possessiveness and addictive allure of the couples.
My enjoyment of this book goes beyond my admiration for AH's work. When a story resonates deeply and an author delivers credit is undeniably due. It's important to note that the themes explored in this book � human trafficking, kidnapping, and internalized homophobia � might be triggering for some readers. However, for those intrigued by the elements mentioned, this book promises an engrossing experience. I am excited for the release of book 15, whenever that may be.
I received this ARC from the author, and this is my honest opinion/review .
_____________
excuse me! this is coming out in November??? i love how Alessandra casually said here you go people... lmao
![Profile Image for Carol [ŷ Addict].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1626057011i%2F10717098._UX200_CR0%2C33%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
March 8, 2025
Just a Bit Captivated is book fourteen in the Straight Guys series by Alessandra Hazard. This came out the end of November and I’ve had it on my Kindle all this time, just now finally getting to it. Holy Hotness! I’m surprised my Kindle didn’t melt! This is a steamy one people! I almost felt like I shouldn’t love it as much as I did because what happened to Aiden was wrong! But every book in this series has made my heart beat a little harder in one way or another and this was no exception. I raced through it in one day because I could NOT put it down!
Aiden Gates is just shy of his twenty first birthday and is a junior in college in Boston. He is the younger brother of Jordan from book thirteen! On a night much like any other, he is taken. He is eventually sold to Sheikh Zain Rahim, one of the richest men in Dubai.
Zain Rahim is thirty two years old. He definitely hadn’t planned to purchase a human being that night. But when he saw him, he saw it as the answer to a very serious problem he needed to solve. But, bringing Aiden to his home only opened the door to a whole new set of problems, and changed his life forever!
Aiden is a naturally cheerful man, always smiling. But the feelings he initially has towards Zain are anything but cheerful or friendly. He is completely overcome with the anger he feels towards Zain. And instead of feeling intimidated by him, he lets his feelings be known as often as possible. He takes great pleasure in irritating Zain in any way he can think of. But the longer he is confined, the more time he spends with Zain, his feelings turn from anger to obsession. A very unhealthy obsession. One he doesn’t want but can’t seem to cure himself of.
Once Aiden is freed, he can’t seem to find any joy in his life any more. He is changed. He can’t let go of the time he had with Zain.
So now you know what I meant. I know what Zain’s motives were. He had good intentions but his solutions were wrong in every way. Did I still love him. Yes, yes, I did! And Aiden, faced with everything, was such a good soul. I loved the way he tried to get on Zain’s nerves and the way he stood up to him. I read so many books and so many leave my brain once I’ve finished them but I can guarantee that this is one of the ones that will stick! It looks like it will be a long time before Alessandra’s next book comes out, Just a Bit Guarded. But I have a suspicion who it might be about!
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
Aiden Gates is just shy of his twenty first birthday and is a junior in college in Boston. He is the younger brother of Jordan from book thirteen! On a night much like any other, he is taken. He is eventually sold to Sheikh Zain Rahim, one of the richest men in Dubai.
Zain Rahim is thirty two years old. He definitely hadn’t planned to purchase a human being that night. But when he saw him, he saw it as the answer to a very serious problem he needed to solve. But, bringing Aiden to his home only opened the door to a whole new set of problems, and changed his life forever!
Aiden is a naturally cheerful man, always smiling. But the feelings he initially has towards Zain are anything but cheerful or friendly. He is completely overcome with the anger he feels towards Zain. And instead of feeling intimidated by him, he lets his feelings be known as often as possible. He takes great pleasure in irritating Zain in any way he can think of. But the longer he is confined, the more time he spends with Zain, his feelings turn from anger to obsession. A very unhealthy obsession. One he doesn’t want but can’t seem to cure himself of.
Once Aiden is freed, he can’t seem to find any joy in his life any more. He is changed. He can’t let go of the time he had with Zain.
So now you know what I meant. I know what Zain’s motives were. He had good intentions but his solutions were wrong in every way. Did I still love him. Yes, yes, I did! And Aiden, faced with everything, was such a good soul. I loved the way he tried to get on Zain’s nerves and the way he stood up to him. I read so many books and so many leave my brain once I’ve finished them but I can guarantee that this is one of the ones that will stick! It looks like it will be a long time before Alessandra’s next book comes out, Just a Bit Guarded. But I have a suspicion who it might be about!
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
November 26, 2023
ETA: I'm solely writing this to explain to certain people who have been defending this book because:
- AH is ALWAYS like this.
and
- We know what to EXPECT when we pick up an AH book and bla bla bla.
So:
Why is THIS book offensive and not the others where AH used Russian and Italian stereotypes in other books?
Simple.
Because Russian and Italian cultures are not part of any BIPOC minority groups. Italians and Russians (in terms of race) occupy a very different place in global/western culture than Arabs and Muslims.
On top of that, Arabs in general, and Muslim Arabs in particular, have been WRONGLY villainized by the West for years and been made into World Enemy #1.
As such, when an author with so many fans writes such an ill researched book, completely reliant on stereotypes, then it hurts an entire culture and religion by spreading misinformation that would absolutely increase hate and intolerance towards this culture.
Add to that the fact that the whitewashing of homophobia in the Middle East doesn't work.
Family ties in the cultures from the Global South are woven differently.
So, it's not as simple as leaving your family behind for a person from the Middle East, or India or Sri Lanka or any other culture. Culture and Religion are intertwined in the Global South. So a gay person doesn't EASILY lose their faith or denounce their family to ^come out^.
It's not that simple. And having a Muslim in your book, just to make him not only nonpracticing but also indulges in all manners of Haram situations, is in itself offensive.
.
.
.
At this point I think authors, MM authors in particular, should stop writing Arab men if the only thing they write are stereotypes.
And I'm angry that it's 2023 and Western White authors still depict Arab men as emotionally stilted and gruff. I refuse to read these clichés anymore. Honestly, it couldn't be farther than the truth.
Not to mention that he's a Muslim Arab and OF COURSE he's nonpracticing.
OF COURSE he drinks and sleeps around.
Stop it.
It's insulting and lazy.
Do better.
Again I direct you to Tal Bauer's Muslim Arab men. He knows how to write them.
- AH is ALWAYS like this.
and
- We know what to EXPECT when we pick up an AH book and bla bla bla.
So:
Why is THIS book offensive and not the others where AH used Russian and Italian stereotypes in other books?
Simple.
Because Russian and Italian cultures are not part of any BIPOC minority groups. Italians and Russians (in terms of race) occupy a very different place in global/western culture than Arabs and Muslims.
On top of that, Arabs in general, and Muslim Arabs in particular, have been WRONGLY villainized by the West for years and been made into World Enemy #1.
As such, when an author with so many fans writes such an ill researched book, completely reliant on stereotypes, then it hurts an entire culture and religion by spreading misinformation that would absolutely increase hate and intolerance towards this culture.
Add to that the fact that the whitewashing of homophobia in the Middle East doesn't work.
Family ties in the cultures from the Global South are woven differently.
So, it's not as simple as leaving your family behind for a person from the Middle East, or India or Sri Lanka or any other culture. Culture and Religion are intertwined in the Global South. So a gay person doesn't EASILY lose their faith or denounce their family to ^come out^.
It's not that simple. And having a Muslim in your book, just to make him not only nonpracticing but also indulges in all manners of Haram situations, is in itself offensive.
.
.
.
At this point I think authors, MM authors in particular, should stop writing Arab men if the only thing they write are stereotypes.
And I'm angry that it's 2023 and Western White authors still depict Arab men as emotionally stilted and gruff. I refuse to read these clichés anymore. Honestly, it couldn't be farther than the truth.
Not to mention that he's a Muslim Arab and OF COURSE he's nonpracticing.
OF COURSE he drinks and sleeps around.
Stop it.
It's insulting and lazy.
Do better.
Again I direct you to Tal Bauer's Muslim Arab men. He knows how to write them.
November 22, 2023
Another winner in the series
Just a Bit Captivated is exactly the addition to series I’d been hoping for & surpassed ALL my expectations. ( please read the trigger warnings!)
� Unique setting in the series
� Possessiveness/ neediness
� Jealousy
� Forced proximinity
� Sunshine/Grumpy pair
� Hate to love
� Fighting for it
� Heat level is 5+ star :)
It was perfect! Perfectly fit in the series, amazing story and fabulous writing. Couldn’t put it down/ why is it over already category.
Considering the circumstances this book wasn’t dark or sad. Aiden is a pure sunshine, super laid back and friendly. He took every turn like a champ and made himself the absolute centre of Zain’s universe, as Zain is the centre of Aiden’s.
“Because the horrifying truth was, part of him didn’t care that this sort of possessiveness was more than a little disturbing.�
The patterns are the same and very welcomed, but my favorite part about it was how Zain was willing to fight, and moved everything to make it a happiest happy end.
“You won’t lose me,� he said, returning his gaze to Aiden. “Nothing will stop me from coming back to you.�
Zain pov basically is: until Aiden and MINE MINE MINE
Sorry it took me long to write the review but I had to reread Heartless.
I have received an ARC from the Author and I’m leaving an honest and unbiased review.
Just a Bit Captivated is exactly the addition to series I’d been hoping for & surpassed ALL my expectations. ( please read the trigger warnings!)
� Unique setting in the series
� Possessiveness/ neediness
� Jealousy
� Forced proximinity
� Sunshine/Grumpy pair
� Hate to love
� Fighting for it
� Heat level is 5+ star :)
It was perfect! Perfectly fit in the series, amazing story and fabulous writing. Couldn’t put it down/ why is it over already category.
Considering the circumstances this book wasn’t dark or sad. Aiden is a pure sunshine, super laid back and friendly. He took every turn like a champ and made himself the absolute centre of Zain’s universe, as Zain is the centre of Aiden’s.
“Because the horrifying truth was, part of him didn’t care that this sort of possessiveness was more than a little disturbing.�
The patterns are the same and very welcomed, but my favorite part about it was how Zain was willing to fight, and moved everything to make it a happiest happy end.
“You won’t lose me,� he said, returning his gaze to Aiden. “Nothing will stop me from coming back to you.�
Zain pov basically is: until Aiden and MINE MINE MINE
Sorry it took me long to write the review but I had to reread Heartless.
I have received an ARC from the Author and I’m leaving an honest and unbiased review.
![Profile Image for Lilly [Hiatus due to School] .](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1663899589i%2F10381707._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
November 26, 2023
“You can use me anyway. No one will know. I’m yours, aren’t I?.... Yours.�
I’ve been waiting for Just a Bit Captivated forever, and it was worth the wait! I absolutely enjoyed it and got to buddy read with Haletostilinski ❤️
We have Aiden (21), who gets kidnapped by human traffickers whose goals are to sell young women and men to rich and powerful men in the United Arab Emirates. Aiden gets the attention of Zain (32), the son of a powerful Emir and is bought by him. However, he’s brought Aiden as a discreet sexual option for his younger brother. This is the Middle East, and being openly gay in nations - especially being caught - can lead to harsh, in rare cases, life-threatening punishments. Zain is scared for his brother, who does not seem to care if he gets caught or not.
However, while Zain initially brought Aiden for his younger brother, he can not pretend that he doesn't want the young, beautiful boy who has captured his heart for himself.
The Straight Guys series is my personal crack. Her writing is just so addictive. I absolutely love Alessandra's OTT possessive, obsessive men, unhealthy dynamics, their super needy partners, and Just a Bit Captivated delivered on that front. But a warning: you do need to suspend your belief (if you've read her other books, you know what to expect)
Despite some of the darker themes, such as human trafficking, kidnapping, and homophobia, this story was not dark at all. Aiden is a ball of sunshine, he's optimistic, sweet, hopeful and kind. Zain did not want to buy Aiden but felt forced in order to protect his brother from potentially being killed by their father.
Zain has abandonment issues from losing his mother so young and feels an intense need to keep Aiden with him even if he wants to set him free. I loved how crazy and intense Zain was towards Aiden. He really did come to care and love him, but due to his upbringing and internal issues, it takes a while for him to finally admit to himself how much Aiden means to him.
I also loved how Aiden did not allow Zain to push him away or let his harsh words get to him when he was with him - because his actions always said the opposite. He was 100% in, and totally fell for him hard. Did Stockholm syndrome play a significant part? Totally. Is suspension of belief required? Absolutely.
Also, Aiden was a super needy bottom and loved that! The sex in these books is always 5/5 for me. I loved the power imbalance, and we got a bit of humiliation kink, somnophilia + cock warming.
My thoughts regarding the Islamic and Arab representation:
I also liked how Zain, a Muslim Middle Eastern man, was portrayed in the story. He's not perfect. He still believes in Allah but has his struggles and is self-aware. He's a ma, an AH man, and like any other, just different due to his religious beliefs. He's non-practising, and that is okay because some of us are. Muslims are not a monolith, and not everyone is devout. Zain fit the typical AH man we all know and come to expect.
Is it perfect? No. However, he's depicted just like her Russian, Italian, and American men. It could have been taken in a very fetishizing direction, but in my opinion that did not happen. Zaine being a devout Muslim in this type of story would have been more offensive. I'm just glad to see Muslim people written with their flaws as any other group of people. That's my personal thoughts as a Muslim.
However, reading the word thobe during a sex scenes took me out. I couldn’t help imagining Zain just sitting there in his thobe and ghutra with Aiden crawling all over him.
We get a hard earned super syrupy sweet happy ending that is just perfect for the two! Overall I really enjoyed it, love this series so much and already excited for the next book - Gadiel and his bodyguard??
If you like over the top possessive/obsessive men, stockholm syndrome, and unhealthy relationship dynamics, I recommend it.
I’ve been waiting for Just a Bit Captivated forever, and it was worth the wait! I absolutely enjoyed it and got to buddy read with Haletostilinski ❤️
We have Aiden (21), who gets kidnapped by human traffickers whose goals are to sell young women and men to rich and powerful men in the United Arab Emirates. Aiden gets the attention of Zain (32), the son of a powerful Emir and is bought by him. However, he’s brought Aiden as a discreet sexual option for his younger brother. This is the Middle East, and being openly gay in nations - especially being caught - can lead to harsh, in rare cases, life-threatening punishments. Zain is scared for his brother, who does not seem to care if he gets caught or not.
However, while Zain initially brought Aiden for his younger brother, he can not pretend that he doesn't want the young, beautiful boy who has captured his heart for himself.
The Straight Guys series is my personal crack. Her writing is just so addictive. I absolutely love Alessandra's OTT possessive, obsessive men, unhealthy dynamics, their super needy partners, and Just a Bit Captivated delivered on that front. But a warning: you do need to suspend your belief (if you've read her other books, you know what to expect)
Despite some of the darker themes, such as human trafficking, kidnapping, and homophobia, this story was not dark at all. Aiden is a ball of sunshine, he's optimistic, sweet, hopeful and kind. Zain did not want to buy Aiden but felt forced in order to protect his brother from potentially being killed by their father.
Zain has abandonment issues from losing his mother so young and feels an intense need to keep Aiden with him even if he wants to set him free. I loved how crazy and intense Zain was towards Aiden. He really did come to care and love him, but due to his upbringing and internal issues, it takes a while for him to finally admit to himself how much Aiden means to him.
“It’s not a question of letting,� Zain said, his gaze cold. “Aiden is an adult. All that matters is what he wants. And he wants to be with me.�
I also loved how Aiden did not allow Zain to push him away or let his harsh words get to him when he was with him - because his actions always said the opposite. He was 100% in, and totally fell for him hard. Did Stockholm syndrome play a significant part? Totally. Is suspension of belief required? Absolutely.
He should run. Run very far away. He shouldn’t wait for Zain to get him out of the country. After what he had seen on Zain’s face, he wasn’t at all sure Zain would ever let him go. Because the horrifying truth was, part of him didn’t care that this sort of possessiveness was more than a little disturbing. Part of him felt thrilled.
Also, Aiden was a super needy bottom and loved that! The sex in these books is always 5/5 for me. I loved the power imbalance, and we got a bit of humiliation kink, somnophilia + cock warming.
“The fullness. It’s delicious. Your cock is thick enough to make me feel good even when it’s not moving. I could sit on your cock all day. Can I sit on your cock all day? You can use me as a cocksleeve. Your personal cockwarmer.�
“I want you,� he admitted, blushing as he met Zain’s gaze. “I hate it, I hate that you’ve become the focal point of my life, and it keeps getting worse every day—the fixation, the obsession, the hatred. I’m not a hateful person. This is not me. I feel like I’m losing myself the longer I’m stuck here, turning into someone I don’t recognize.�
My thoughts regarding the Islamic and Arab representation:
I also liked how Zain, a Muslim Middle Eastern man, was portrayed in the story. He's not perfect. He still believes in Allah but has his struggles and is self-aware. He's a ma, an AH man, and like any other, just different due to his religious beliefs. He's non-practising, and that is okay because some of us are. Muslims are not a monolith, and not everyone is devout. Zain fit the typical AH man we all know and come to expect.
Is it perfect? No. However, he's depicted just like her Russian, Italian, and American men. It could have been taken in a very fetishizing direction, but in my opinion that did not happen. Zaine being a devout Muslim in this type of story would have been more offensive. I'm just glad to see Muslim people written with their flaws as any other group of people. That's my personal thoughts as a Muslim.
However, reading the word thobe during a sex scenes took me out. I couldn’t help imagining Zain just sitting there in his thobe and ghutra with Aiden crawling all over him.
I want to have a family with you. I want forever.
We get a hard earned super syrupy sweet happy ending that is just perfect for the two! Overall I really enjoyed it, love this series so much and already excited for the next book - Gadiel and his bodyguard??
If you like over the top possessive/obsessive men, stockholm syndrome, and unhealthy relationship dynamics, I recommend it.
October 23, 2024
2** stars
Okay, wow. This was even worse than I anticipated. YIKES!
But like Zain I totally lacked self control and my addiction with this series demanded to be fed so I picked it up despite being forewarned so I would at least get the intro for the next book.
Honestly, if no one had told me Zain was Arab and about his station I wouldn’t have guessed. Admitted, I know very little about Muslim/Arab customs but Zain could’ve been ANYONE the way he was acting and thinking. And it probably would’ve been better for everyone if he was. So I see where people are coming from pointing out that this Arab man was poorly and offensively written.
But even putting that aside, this book was still so bad. The plot was ridiculous and the romance/connection between Aiden and Zain felt weak and totally unbelievable. Reading this made me cringe so hard.
The only thing I did love though was, seeing Jordan and Domiano again. �
Let’s hope AH is doing a better job with Zain’s little brother Gadiel and his bodyguard. Looking forward to it.
Straight Guys Series
Prequel - Straight Boy - 3.0 stars
Book 1 - Just a Bit Twisted - 3.5 stars
Book 2 - Just a Bit Obsessed - 3.25 stars
Book 6 - Just a Bit Ruthless - 4.25 stars
Book 7 - Just a Bit Wicked - 3.5 stars
Book 8 - Just a Bit Shameless - 4.0 stars
Book 10 - Just a Bit Dirty - 3.5 stars
Book 11 - Just a Bit Wrecked - 3.5 stars
Book 12 - Just a Bit Bossy - 4.25 stars
Book 13 - Just a Bit Heartless - 4.5 stars
Book 14 - Just a Bit Captivated - 2.0 stars
Book 15 - Just a Bit Guarded - release 12/24
Okay, wow. This was even worse than I anticipated. YIKES!
But like Zain I totally lacked self control and my addiction with this series demanded to be fed so I picked it up despite being forewarned so I would at least get the intro for the next book.
Honestly, if no one had told me Zain was Arab and about his station I wouldn’t have guessed. Admitted, I know very little about Muslim/Arab customs but Zain could’ve been ANYONE the way he was acting and thinking. And it probably would’ve been better for everyone if he was. So I see where people are coming from pointing out that this Arab man was poorly and offensively written.
But even putting that aside, this book was still so bad. The plot was ridiculous and the romance/connection between Aiden and Zain felt weak and totally unbelievable. Reading this made me cringe so hard.
The only thing I did love though was, seeing Jordan and Domiano again. �
Let’s hope AH is doing a better job with Zain’s little brother Gadiel and his bodyguard. Looking forward to it.
Straight Guys Series
Prequel - Straight Boy - 3.0 stars
Book 1 - Just a Bit Twisted - 3.5 stars
Book 2 - Just a Bit Obsessed - 3.25 stars
Book 6 - Just a Bit Ruthless - 4.25 stars
Book 7 - Just a Bit Wicked - 3.5 stars
Book 8 - Just a Bit Shameless - 4.0 stars
Book 10 - Just a Bit Dirty - 3.5 stars
Book 11 - Just a Bit Wrecked - 3.5 stars
Book 12 - Just a Bit Bossy - 4.25 stars
Book 13 - Just a Bit Heartless - 4.5 stars
Book 14 - Just a Bit Captivated - 2.0 stars
Book 15 - Just a Bit Guarded - release 12/24
November 25, 2023
Whoa?!? This book was super racist and homophobic.
Tbh I’m surprised I finished it. The Muslim stereotypes were AWFUL and the homophobia sickening. This will be my last book by this author.
She has zero cultural sensitivity and the story was SO shallow and bad on top of all the racism and homophobia.
If you liked Auction from Cara Dee, this is the exact opposite of that. No character depth and the “love� was really a mentally ill obsession. It’s basically porn with very little plot with a mix of stereotypical characters and racist tropes. Everyone who was involved in creating this book should be ashamed of themselves. YIKES 😳
Tbh I’m surprised I finished it. The Muslim stereotypes were AWFUL and the homophobia sickening. This will be my last book by this author.
She has zero cultural sensitivity and the story was SO shallow and bad on top of all the racism and homophobia.
If you liked Auction from Cara Dee, this is the exact opposite of that. No character depth and the “love� was really a mentally ill obsession. It’s basically porn with very little plot with a mix of stereotypical characters and racist tropes. Everyone who was involved in creating this book should be ashamed of themselves. YIKES 😳
Read
October 9, 2024DNF @60%
The whole submissive thing made me so uncomfortable. I am sorry but I just couldn't take Zain saying he was straight after he just finished pounding Aiden for the 100th time.
#0 Straight Boy = 3.0 Stars
#1 Just a Bit Twisted = 4.0 Stars
#4 Just a Bit Wrong = 4.0 Stars
#6 Just a Bit Ruthless = 3.5 Stars
#8 Just a Bit Shameless = 4.0 Stars
#10 Just a Bit Dirty = 3.5 Stars
#12 Just a Bit Bossy = 3.5 Stars
#13 Just a Bit Heartless3.5 Stars
#14 Just a Bit Captivated = 2.0 Stars
The whole submissive thing made me so uncomfortable. I am sorry but I just couldn't take Zain saying he was straight after he just finished pounding Aiden for the 100th time.
#0 Straight Boy = 3.0 Stars
#1 Just a Bit Twisted = 4.0 Stars
#4 Just a Bit Wrong = 4.0 Stars
#6 Just a Bit Ruthless = 3.5 Stars
#8 Just a Bit Shameless = 4.0 Stars
#10 Just a Bit Dirty = 3.5 Stars
#12 Just a Bit Bossy = 3.5 Stars
#13 Just a Bit Heartless3.5 Stars
#14 Just a Bit Captivated = 2.0 Stars
December 5, 2023
"His little brother had gone missing last year."
I got so excited that we were getting another book in this series that I stopped short to do a little happy dance! I just know that 2023 is going to be my year.
November 29, 2023
a typical hot AH book if you are able to ignore all the lazy stereotypes.
November 20, 2023
I LOVE THIS BOOK SO MUCH!!!
This is what I needed to finish my 2023 well.
First of all, Just a Bit Captivated was such an easy read! I devoured the book in just hours!! I just enjoy Alessandra’s fluid storytelling soo much!!
I totally love Zain he’s can be an a-hole and ruthless man when he wants something but at the same time he uses all that energy to get his happiness and the happiness of the people he loves. Believe me, I didn’t know if I’ll love him since he made some questionable decisions at the beginning of the book( I wanted to slap him a couple times specially when he brought Aiden for his brother!! I guess he had his reasons�) but I ended up loving him and is now one of my favorite characters. His upbringing was difficult and his family situation was not the best but he loved his brother and he did the bes he could. By the way I Loved reading his POV he had more than I expected!!
Aiden is a sweetheart with a positive outlook on life that I wish I had hehehe! He gets kidnapped, sold to a total stranger but still tries to see the positive side of his situation and goes and falls in love with his captor!! He found his happy ever after in a very unique way. Also the neediness and obsessiveness between Zain and Aiden was sooo good! None writes obsessiveness like Alessandra!
The book touches some delicates topics such as religion and human trafficking. I’m happy in the way these topics were written in the book!
In conclusion I freaking loved it. I loved how perfect for each Aiden and Zain are. I loved how protective Jordan is with Aiden(I loved to see Damiano and Jordan on this book!!) I loved the happy ending now I just want to know what happened with Gadiel??? I want to know more about him and his love interest!!!
Thank you for another amazing story Alessandra!
This is what I needed to finish my 2023 well.
First of all, Just a Bit Captivated was such an easy read! I devoured the book in just hours!! I just enjoy Alessandra’s fluid storytelling soo much!!
I totally love Zain he’s can be an a-hole and ruthless man when he wants something but at the same time he uses all that energy to get his happiness and the happiness of the people he loves. Believe me, I didn’t know if I’ll love him since he made some questionable decisions at the beginning of the book( I wanted to slap him a couple times specially when he brought Aiden for his brother!! I guess he had his reasons�) but I ended up loving him and is now one of my favorite characters. His upbringing was difficult and his family situation was not the best but he loved his brother and he did the bes he could. By the way I Loved reading his POV he had more than I expected!!
Aiden is a sweetheart with a positive outlook on life that I wish I had hehehe! He gets kidnapped, sold to a total stranger but still tries to see the positive side of his situation and goes and falls in love with his captor!! He found his happy ever after in a very unique way. Also the neediness and obsessiveness between Zain and Aiden was sooo good! None writes obsessiveness like Alessandra!
The book touches some delicates topics such as religion and human trafficking. I’m happy in the way these topics were written in the book!
In conclusion I freaking loved it. I loved how perfect for each Aiden and Zain are. I loved how protective Jordan is with Aiden(I loved to see Damiano and Jordan on this book!!) I loved the happy ending now I just want to know what happened with Gadiel??? I want to know more about him and his love interest!!!
Thank you for another amazing story Alessandra!
November 27, 2023
*** 3.5 stars ***
Another short, hot and entertaining story added to this series.
I'll address the negative aspect first:
� The ease with which Aiden slid into the toy/captive position without struggling or much friction was ridiculously unconvincing.
🔝🔝 The positive:
Zain made up for it. He was very convincing as a character. It touched me the way he lost his mother so young without understanding what was happening with her. The constant rejection of his affections, added to the fact that he was raised by a tyrant made him build walls to guard his heart.
🔝🔝 I also found well portrayed how difficult it was for Zain to accept his attraction and feelings for another person of the same sex when he was raised in a country that not only sees that act as a sin but also as an act of offence, where the punishment oscillates between imprisonment and sentence of death.
🔝🔝 Last but not least, I really liked all the effort Zain made to make things work so he could get Aiden back.
So, I'll go with 3 stars.
Another short, hot and entertaining story added to this series.
I'll address the negative aspect first:
� The ease with which Aiden slid into the toy/captive position without struggling or much friction was ridiculously unconvincing.
🔝🔝 The positive:
Zain made up for it. He was very convincing as a character. It touched me the way he lost his mother so young without understanding what was happening with her. The constant rejection of his affections, added to the fact that he was raised by a tyrant made him build walls to guard his heart.
He knew how hard it was for Zain to be open about his feelings_ not only his feelings for another man but his feelings at all.
🔝🔝 I also found well portrayed how difficult it was for Zain to accept his attraction and feelings for another person of the same sex when he was raised in a country that not only sees that act as a sin but also as an act of offence, where the punishment oscillates between imprisonment and sentence of death.
🔝🔝 Last but not least, I really liked all the effort Zain made to make things work so he could get Aiden back.
So, I'll go with 3 stars.
November 27, 2023
2.5�
I've been waiting for this book for 1 damn year. This was awful. Awful.
I'm speechless. In this book the author lost her touch. I re-read many of her books from all of her series continuously, so I know this is an exception here and she does state she had a tough year behind her, so I'm thinking that must be it then, because this was terrible.
🟣 Dubai
🟢 Arab sheikh, an American
🔵 Age gap - 11 years
🟡 Double bi-awakening
🟠 Dual POV much needed (no, that wasn't it)
� Kidnapping, human trafficking
🌶� Spice was the only good thing
For a main character who's kidnapped and then trafficked to a silent auction in UAE, Aiden, Jordan's 21 - year old younger brother, doesn't really get what's happening. He's going into this with no fear or worries and it's almost ridiculous how he's acting like he's in some kind of movie and when it's over, he gets to go home. No trace of the awful business he's been drawn into, he's talking to everyone like he's having a minor inconvenience in his life.
Aiden was bought by a sheikh Zain, who's a 32 - year old son of an emir, but he's independent of his family and rich. Zain bought Aiden for his younger brother Gadiel, who's a somewhat openly gay man in a muslim country and Zain is trying to limit his sex scandals by buying him a sex pet. Gadiel had such a small role in this whole story, it was crazy he was even mentioned. I thought Aiden and Gadiel would become friends and figure out a way to work together for a year, but Aiden just kind of stayed with Zain - not as an imprisoned sex slave, but like a hired help who offers sex favours - and that was that.
The interaction between Zain and Aiden was one big cringe fest. The way Aiden was speaking to Zain is a complete fantasy, that would never fly for a bought slave. Aiden was too cocky and kept mentioning over and over again throughout the book he's a bought sex slave, not to mention asking Zain of his brother's sex preferences. It caught me by surprise, since I thought this was clearly Zain and Aiden's time now, because Gadiel was nowhere to be seen.
“You’re getting repetitive, you know,� Aiden said, turning on the lamp on the nightstand. “So, does your brother prefer to top or bottom?� Zain sighed. It was the most long-suffering sigh Aiden had ever heard in his life. It made him grin. He knew he’d won. “Probably the latter,� Zain said, his eyes still closed. “I once walked in on him having his asshole licked.�
Now, bear in mind these are two straight men talking. Both straight, Aiden accepting he wants Zain, but Zain constantly saying how he's not gay, it's not natural, being disgusted with himself and Aiden, I mean fine, I get some people think like that, but for a sheikh in a modern Arab country where a lot of men actually are gay - they're just gay behind closed doors, they have discreet communities and events, men do hook up over there - Zain's bi-awakening was a disaster, he was negating everything that was happening between him and Aiden.
"Zain was going to make him do something. Something disgusting and humiliating. Like... Like make him suck his cock."
"Aiden grinned. "Are you saying you've watched gay porn? Yeah, you're totally straight!"
Aiden was constantly on his ass about Zain being possibly attracted to men. It was getting tiresome. An annoying little shit, that's what he was.
Zain grew up without a mother in a somewhat disfunctional home - I liked him, yet he was presented as a muslim who strayed, who wasn't raised right, who's got problems with himself and doesn't know how to just be.
"This man had effectively raised himself, without any real moral compass or religious guidance. Whatever code he possessed, he'd fashioned it on his own, for better or worse."
MONEY. It's the money. It's the education, the travelling, living a good life in a developed modern country, in a safe environment and having many privileges - that's extremely important and that's what made him who he is. A solid, confident, successful man. How is faith or lack-of factored into this is beyond me. There are plenty of moderate muslims around and the richer you are, the more liberties you have, and that's not unique to Dubai, that's everywhere.
Zain as a kid had noone close to him around when growing up, he wasn't raised or molded into a person who'd be open and emotional, while i think that absolutely wasn't the case. Zain's character wasn't portrayed favourably and there was so much the author could do with his character, yet even at the end of the book he was a man almost too held back. I liked Zain very much, but he was misunderstood in this story and Aiden with his terrible and inappropriate comments didn't make the situation any better.
Another thing I really disliked was Aiden's family. This is a 22 - year old guy and I get the fact he was kidnapped and they're worried, but giving the guy safety, peace and therapy and still treating him like a child was just too much for me. They were terrible towards Zain and I didn't really think it was because he had Aiden living with him, no, I'm pretty sure it was because he was an Arab.
This was an adult man telling his parents what he wants, yet they were physically forcing him away from Zain and didn't listen to a thing he said. What an awful family.
The epilogue didn't impress me either. I felt like there was no satisfying resolve. Zain married someone and got divorced off-page and then in the epilogue came to live in the USA. I somehow didn't find that ending satisfying, too much was left unsaid and I still feel both MMCs didn't reach that emotional maturity and closeness they were capable of. For this particular situation we needed to see them in a neutral environment and have a taste of their life together, especially Zain and how he's handling being out, living with a man.
It just feels like this couple is hated. I don't know why but I don't have a nice, sweet feeling about their story. The book maybe needed a few more pages and a better developed relationship, because this wasn't it.
I honestly hope Gadiel's book is going to be better. He's only 18-19 in this book, so hopefully his story will be more in line with the books we've read so far in this series.
I've been waiting for this book for 1 damn year. This was awful. Awful.
I'm speechless. In this book the author lost her touch. I re-read many of her books from all of her series continuously, so I know this is an exception here and she does state she had a tough year behind her, so I'm thinking that must be it then, because this was terrible.
🟣 Dubai
🟢 Arab sheikh, an American
🔵 Age gap - 11 years
🟡 Double bi-awakening
🟠 Dual POV much needed (no, that wasn't it)
� Kidnapping, human trafficking
🌶� Spice was the only good thing
For a main character who's kidnapped and then trafficked to a silent auction in UAE, Aiden, Jordan's 21 - year old younger brother, doesn't really get what's happening. He's going into this with no fear or worries and it's almost ridiculous how he's acting like he's in some kind of movie and when it's over, he gets to go home. No trace of the awful business he's been drawn into, he's talking to everyone like he's having a minor inconvenience in his life.
Aiden was bought by a sheikh Zain, who's a 32 - year old son of an emir, but he's independent of his family and rich. Zain bought Aiden for his younger brother Gadiel, who's a somewhat openly gay man in a muslim country and Zain is trying to limit his sex scandals by buying him a sex pet. Gadiel had such a small role in this whole story, it was crazy he was even mentioned. I thought Aiden and Gadiel would become friends and figure out a way to work together for a year, but Aiden just kind of stayed with Zain - not as an imprisoned sex slave, but like a hired help who offers sex favours - and that was that.
The interaction between Zain and Aiden was one big cringe fest. The way Aiden was speaking to Zain is a complete fantasy, that would never fly for a bought slave. Aiden was too cocky and kept mentioning over and over again throughout the book he's a bought sex slave, not to mention asking Zain of his brother's sex preferences. It caught me by surprise, since I thought this was clearly Zain and Aiden's time now, because Gadiel was nowhere to be seen.
“You’re getting repetitive, you know,� Aiden said, turning on the lamp on the nightstand. “So, does your brother prefer to top or bottom?� Zain sighed. It was the most long-suffering sigh Aiden had ever heard in his life. It made him grin. He knew he’d won. “Probably the latter,� Zain said, his eyes still closed. “I once walked in on him having his asshole licked.�
Now, bear in mind these are two straight men talking. Both straight, Aiden accepting he wants Zain, but Zain constantly saying how he's not gay, it's not natural, being disgusted with himself and Aiden, I mean fine, I get some people think like that, but for a sheikh in a modern Arab country where a lot of men actually are gay - they're just gay behind closed doors, they have discreet communities and events, men do hook up over there - Zain's bi-awakening was a disaster, he was negating everything that was happening between him and Aiden.
"Zain was going to make him do something. Something disgusting and humiliating. Like... Like make him suck his cock."
"Aiden grinned. "Are you saying you've watched gay porn? Yeah, you're totally straight!"
Aiden was constantly on his ass about Zain being possibly attracted to men. It was getting tiresome. An annoying little shit, that's what he was.
Zain grew up without a mother in a somewhat disfunctional home - I liked him, yet he was presented as a muslim who strayed, who wasn't raised right, who's got problems with himself and doesn't know how to just be.
"This man had effectively raised himself, without any real moral compass or religious guidance. Whatever code he possessed, he'd fashioned it on his own, for better or worse."
MONEY. It's the money. It's the education, the travelling, living a good life in a developed modern country, in a safe environment and having many privileges - that's extremely important and that's what made him who he is. A solid, confident, successful man. How is faith or lack-of factored into this is beyond me. There are plenty of moderate muslims around and the richer you are, the more liberties you have, and that's not unique to Dubai, that's everywhere.
Zain as a kid had noone close to him around when growing up, he wasn't raised or molded into a person who'd be open and emotional, while i think that absolutely wasn't the case. Zain's character wasn't portrayed favourably and there was so much the author could do with his character, yet even at the end of the book he was a man almost too held back. I liked Zain very much, but he was misunderstood in this story and Aiden with his terrible and inappropriate comments didn't make the situation any better.
Another thing I really disliked was Aiden's family. This is a 22 - year old guy and I get the fact he was kidnapped and they're worried, but giving the guy safety, peace and therapy and still treating him like a child was just too much for me. They were terrible towards Zain and I didn't really think it was because he had Aiden living with him, no, I'm pretty sure it was because he was an Arab.
This was an adult man telling his parents what he wants, yet they were physically forcing him away from Zain and didn't listen to a thing he said. What an awful family.
The epilogue didn't impress me either. I felt like there was no satisfying resolve. Zain married someone and got divorced off-page and then in the epilogue came to live in the USA. I somehow didn't find that ending satisfying, too much was left unsaid and I still feel both MMCs didn't reach that emotional maturity and closeness they were capable of. For this particular situation we needed to see them in a neutral environment and have a taste of their life together, especially Zain and how he's handling being out, living with a man.
It just feels like this couple is hated. I don't know why but I don't have a nice, sweet feeling about their story. The book maybe needed a few more pages and a better developed relationship, because this wasn't it.
I honestly hope Gadiel's book is going to be better. He's only 18-19 in this book, so hopefully his story will be more in line with the books we've read so far in this series.
December 6, 2024
⭐︎
4.5 Stars Rounded Up!
⭐︎
Read this in my second ever buddy read with Lilly ❤️. We both read this in one sitting because AH books are just so easy to binge read!
Aiden Gates, brother to Jordan Gates, gets kidnapped into sex trafficking. For two months he and 8 others are held on a ship as it sails to wherever it is their kidnappers plan to sell them.
When one of the 5 women dies before they get to a silent "auction" for the those sex trafficked, Aiden is put in her place. While not a woman, he is beautiful enough that a lot "straight men" would possibly look past him being a man, according to his kidnappers.
Zain Rahim isn't there to buy anyone, he's there for business. As the son of a sheikh, as well a very rich business man of his own making, Zain is very powerful.
When he sees Aiden at this "auction", he tells himself he then "buys" him for his younger brother, who is gay and running around promiscuously with men when it literally could get him killed where they live, and to try to protect him from himself, he gets Aiden as a "sex toy" for his brother to use whenever before he's to be married off to a woman, for the next year. So he keeps his 'proclivities' on the down low.
Of course, Aiden isn't having that. He's a little spitfire when they first meet, understandably. And Zain, while very closed off and closed up, never actually does anything to Aiden when he stands up to him.
And yes, in real life it doesn't matter how "well" he treats Aiden, buying him in the first place is reprehensible enough and not okay.
But this is fiction, and the 14th AH Straight Guys book, so if you're expecting any different at this point, idk what to tell you.
But AH writes Zain in that way of hers where he's a big asshole, but you can't help but like him anyway and feel for him. And of course he gains such a soft spot for Aiden and only Aiden and I LOVE that trope. The big, powerful guy who doesn't take shit from anyone....except the one who has him wrapped around their finger.
And Aiden is that person pretty soon into it all. Aiden stands up to Zain constantly and doesn't take his shit, and I think that intrigues Zain. And then as Aiden's natural kindness and sweetness comes out, Zain is even more intrigued.
As for Aiden, in real life, yes, we'd all be like his parents later on once he's rescued. He shouldn't be feeling anything for this man. But Aiden does, and does deeply.
As with all AH couples, they become utterly, deliciously obsessed with each other. By the time Aiden is 'rescued', he's already head over heels for Zain. Time apart doesn't really help, of course. Neither for Zain, who can't get the younger man out of his head.
My only real complaint is that I wanted it to be longer, as usual! I mean, it was longer than other AH stories, so I'll give it that, but I wanted even more. I wanted a more detailed ending with these two. I feel like I'm always greedy for more with AH couples and this one was no exception.
The sex was also, of course 🔥, and their insatiable need for each other was just so deliciously good. I also, of course, wanted all the more sex scenes between these two.
Again, would never condone this in real life. But it's fiction and in fiction you can make someone like Zain more sympathetic than he would ever be in real life.
But if the subject matter in this is a hard line drawn for you in fiction, then this one isn't for you.
But otherwise, enjoy another sexy, steamy AH book filled with, of course, a couple utterly obsessed with each other in such a delicious way.
Can't wait for the next one, about Galiel, Zain's brother, and his bodyguard. The bodyguard trope is always fun, so I look forward to it! Can't wait for the next AH book! 😍
My Ratings for the Straight Guys Series:
🔆 : 3.5 stars (my review)
🔆 : 4 stars (my review)
🔆 : 4.25 stars (my review)
🔆 : 3.5 stars (my review)
🔆 : 4 stars
🔆 : 3.5 stars (my review)
🔆 : 4.5 stars (my review)
🔆 : 4 stars (my review)
🔆 : 4 stars (my review)
🔆 : 4 stars (my review)
🔆 : 4 stars (my review)
🔆 : 4 stars (my review)
🔆 : 5 stars (my review)
🔆 : 4 stars (my review)
🔆 Just a Bit Captivated: 4.5 stars
Read this in my second ever buddy read with Lilly ❤️. We both read this in one sitting because AH books are just so easy to binge read!
Aiden Gates, brother to Jordan Gates, gets kidnapped into sex trafficking. For two months he and 8 others are held on a ship as it sails to wherever it is their kidnappers plan to sell them.
When one of the 5 women dies before they get to a silent "auction" for the those sex trafficked, Aiden is put in her place. While not a woman, he is beautiful enough that a lot "straight men" would possibly look past him being a man, according to his kidnappers.
Zain Rahim isn't there to buy anyone, he's there for business. As the son of a sheikh, as well a very rich business man of his own making, Zain is very powerful.
When he sees Aiden at this "auction", he tells himself he then "buys" him for his younger brother, who is gay and running around promiscuously with men when it literally could get him killed where they live, and to try to protect him from himself, he gets Aiden as a "sex toy" for his brother to use whenever before he's to be married off to a woman, for the next year. So he keeps his 'proclivities' on the down low.
Of course, Aiden isn't having that. He's a little spitfire when they first meet, understandably. And Zain, while very closed off and closed up, never actually does anything to Aiden when he stands up to him.
And yes, in real life it doesn't matter how "well" he treats Aiden, buying him in the first place is reprehensible enough and not okay.
But this is fiction, and the 14th AH Straight Guys book, so if you're expecting any different at this point, idk what to tell you.
But AH writes Zain in that way of hers where he's a big asshole, but you can't help but like him anyway and feel for him. And of course he gains such a soft spot for Aiden and only Aiden and I LOVE that trope. The big, powerful guy who doesn't take shit from anyone....except the one who has him wrapped around their finger.
And Aiden is that person pretty soon into it all. Aiden stands up to Zain constantly and doesn't take his shit, and I think that intrigues Zain. And then as Aiden's natural kindness and sweetness comes out, Zain is even more intrigued.
As for Aiden, in real life, yes, we'd all be like his parents later on once he's rescued. He shouldn't be feeling anything for this man. But Aiden does, and does deeply.
As with all AH couples, they become utterly, deliciously obsessed with each other. By the time Aiden is 'rescued', he's already head over heels for Zain. Time apart doesn't really help, of course. Neither for Zain, who can't get the younger man out of his head.
My only real complaint is that I wanted it to be longer, as usual! I mean, it was longer than other AH stories, so I'll give it that, but I wanted even more. I wanted a more detailed ending with these two. I feel like I'm always greedy for more with AH couples and this one was no exception.
The sex was also, of course 🔥, and their insatiable need for each other was just so deliciously good. I also, of course, wanted all the more sex scenes between these two.
Again, would never condone this in real life. But it's fiction and in fiction you can make someone like Zain more sympathetic than he would ever be in real life.
But if the subject matter in this is a hard line drawn for you in fiction, then this one isn't for you.
But otherwise, enjoy another sexy, steamy AH book filled with, of course, a couple utterly obsessed with each other in such a delicious way.
Can't wait for the next one, about Galiel, Zain's brother, and his bodyguard. The bodyguard trope is always fun, so I look forward to it! Can't wait for the next AH book! 😍
My Ratings for the Straight Guys Series:
🔆 : 3.5 stars (my review)
🔆 : 4 stars (my review)
🔆 : 4.25 stars (my review)
🔆 : 3.5 stars (my review)
🔆 : 4 stars
🔆 : 3.5 stars (my review)
🔆 : 4.5 stars (my review)
🔆 : 4 stars (my review)
🔆 : 4 stars (my review)
🔆 : 4 stars (my review)
🔆 : 4 stars (my review)
🔆 : 4 stars (my review)
🔆 : 5 stars (my review)
🔆 : 4 stars (my review)
🔆 Just a Bit Captivated: 4.5 stars
November 25, 2023
What a disappointment. I was really looking forward to Aiden’s story what with the juicy premise of Jordan’s (previous book) beautiful younger brother being trafficked to the Middle East as a sex slave to a sheikh. But unfortunately I just couldn’t buy into Aiden’s and Zain’s relationship. I wasn’t feeling their chemistry even though it was supposed be the classic obsessive, all-consuming and toxic AH inferno. I mean AH’s stories are always OTT and formulaic, but this book was an even more eye-rolling experience than usual.
And a big big red flag, the stereotypes about Arabs and the Middle East were lazy and offensive.
And a big big red flag, the stereotypes about Arabs and the Middle East were lazy and offensive.
November 26, 2023
It is absolutely incredible that the Straight Guys series by Alessandra Hazard still remains interesting & addictive 8 years and 14 books in. Absolutely incredible. Alessandra's direct writing style of obsessive, needy, and possessive characters never ceases to amaze me. Just a Bit Captivated is no different.
Aiden Gates, the little brother of Jordan from Just a Bit Heartless, is unfortunately sold through human trafficking to Zain Rahim. In a little twist, Zain does not want Aiden for himself. Instead, he buys Aiden for his sex addicted brother. Thus begins the journey of two people who inevitably become addicted to each other, despite how forbidden, over a period of time in UAE.
One of my favorite things about Alessandra's books is how she writes the chemistry and the sex scenes for her main characters. The intense want, possessiveness & neediness between Aiden and Zain was perfection. You could feel it. I think Zain is probably the most possessive character that Alessandra has ever written and oh how I loved it! I also felt the characters were quite fleshed out. It made reading so much more enjoyable.
I don't think I'll ever get tired of reading this series and I can't wait to read the next book!
Aiden Gates, the little brother of Jordan from Just a Bit Heartless, is unfortunately sold through human trafficking to Zain Rahim. In a little twist, Zain does not want Aiden for himself. Instead, he buys Aiden for his sex addicted brother. Thus begins the journey of two people who inevitably become addicted to each other, despite how forbidden, over a period of time in UAE.
One of my favorite things about Alessandra's books is how she writes the chemistry and the sex scenes for her main characters. The intense want, possessiveness & neediness between Aiden and Zain was perfection. You could feel it. I think Zain is probably the most possessive character that Alessandra has ever written and oh how I loved it! I also felt the characters were quite fleshed out. It made reading so much more enjoyable.
I don't think I'll ever get tired of reading this series and I can't wait to read the next book!
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December 8, 2023
MM Romance
Obsessive Possessiveness
2 Stars ⭐️
I usually love books by this author and even the books I’ve disliked in this series I’ve had a good time reading, until now. I found this incredibly boring and the characters especially Aiden annoyed the hell out of me. It was super disappointing for me to feel like this because I’ve been longing for this to release after Jordan’s book but it fell short.
Let’s touch on the controversial stuff first. I am in no way trying to make excuses for this author but I had a different take on it, initially. When Aladdin and some of the more awful stereotypes were mentioned, it was at the beginning and from Aiden’s POV. Aiden is a 21 year old American guy kidnapped, sex-trafficked, and then sold at an auction in the Middle East. I’m not going to say all Americans are dumb (I’m American, so I can say this 😂) BUT Aiden having those misconceptions about the Middle East makes sense to me. The things I have heard Americans say about Muslims, Middle Eastern people and their culture ever since 9/11/01, when the terrorist attacks happened, have been incredibly ignorant. So, I chalked Aiden’s ignorance up to his age and lack of life experience. However, when we finally get Zain’s POV, it had all the same stereotypes and that’s when I started to understand why people were upset. It makes sense if it’s Aiden but not Zain and as much as I want to read the next book in the series, I’m worried it’s going to have the same issues this one does.
As for the storyline, as much as I like bratty characters, Aiden was ridiculously immature and the way he back-talked Zain, a guy who bought him at a sex auction, didn’t make sense. The fact he had no fear when he was bought for sex and had no idea the danger he was in didn’t sit right. Also, it seemed like there was very little tension or buildup between Zain and Aiden and it bored me. This reminded me too much of Just A Bit Ruthless, Roman’s book, and since I wasn’t a big fan of that one it makes sense I’d feel the same about this one. I think it would have been more interesting and new to this series if Zain turned into the cockslut instead of Aiden but whatever. I expect these books to be ridiculous and I never take them too seriously but this one was just bland for AH and it felt recycled.
Obsessive Possessiveness
2 Stars ⭐️
I usually love books by this author and even the books I’ve disliked in this series I’ve had a good time reading, until now. I found this incredibly boring and the characters especially Aiden annoyed the hell out of me. It was super disappointing for me to feel like this because I’ve been longing for this to release after Jordan’s book but it fell short.
Let’s touch on the controversial stuff first. I am in no way trying to make excuses for this author but I had a different take on it, initially. When Aladdin and some of the more awful stereotypes were mentioned, it was at the beginning and from Aiden’s POV. Aiden is a 21 year old American guy kidnapped, sex-trafficked, and then sold at an auction in the Middle East. I’m not going to say all Americans are dumb (I’m American, so I can say this 😂) BUT Aiden having those misconceptions about the Middle East makes sense to me. The things I have heard Americans say about Muslims, Middle Eastern people and their culture ever since 9/11/01, when the terrorist attacks happened, have been incredibly ignorant. So, I chalked Aiden’s ignorance up to his age and lack of life experience. However, when we finally get Zain’s POV, it had all the same stereotypes and that’s when I started to understand why people were upset. It makes sense if it’s Aiden but not Zain and as much as I want to read the next book in the series, I’m worried it’s going to have the same issues this one does.
As for the storyline, as much as I like bratty characters, Aiden was ridiculously immature and the way he back-talked Zain, a guy who bought him at a sex auction, didn’t make sense. The fact he had no fear when he was bought for sex and had no idea the danger he was in didn’t sit right. Also, it seemed like there was very little tension or buildup between Zain and Aiden and it bored me. This reminded me too much of Just A Bit Ruthless, Roman’s book, and since I wasn’t a big fan of that one it makes sense I’d feel the same about this one. I think it would have been more interesting and new to this series if Zain turned into the cockslut instead of Aiden but whatever. I expect these books to be ridiculous and I never take them too seriously but this one was just bland for AH and it felt recycled.
November 28, 2023
As much as it pains me because I’ve been looking forward to this book - this is a DNF.
And because I’ve dragged myself to 50% in hopes that it will get better, I’ll rate it with 2*.
That one extra star is because of the smutty scenes- and as we all know, AH can write those well.
Why didn’t I like it better then? I think there are 2 main reasons. Firstly, the way Aiden (the guy who got kidnapped and sold at an auction) went from straight to permanently horny cockslut wasn’t believable. It’s like a switch was turned - one moment he’s straight and bemoaning his situation, the next he’s provoking his captor in any way possible and taking his pleasure where he can. I usually love the codependency in this series, but here it just doesn’t feel right.
And secondly - while I don’t expect political correctness and a lot of cultural background from these books, the way Arabic culture and Islam was portrayed felt wrong. Or maybe it’s accurate and I’m the one who didn’t know enough about it, but reading about it made me feel bad and uncomfortable in a way a book like this shouldn’t.
So yeah. DNF at around 50%. This one definitely wasn’t for me.
And because I’ve dragged myself to 50% in hopes that it will get better, I’ll rate it with 2*.
That one extra star is because of the smutty scenes- and as we all know, AH can write those well.
Why didn’t I like it better then? I think there are 2 main reasons. Firstly, the way Aiden (the guy who got kidnapped and sold at an auction) went from straight to permanently horny cockslut wasn’t believable. It’s like a switch was turned - one moment he’s straight and bemoaning his situation, the next he’s provoking his captor in any way possible and taking his pleasure where he can. I usually love the codependency in this series, but here it just doesn’t feel right.
And secondly - while I don’t expect political correctness and a lot of cultural background from these books, the way Arabic culture and Islam was portrayed felt wrong. Or maybe it’s accurate and I’m the one who didn’t know enough about it, but reading about it made me feel bad and uncomfortable in a way a book like this shouldn’t.
So yeah. DNF at around 50%. This one definitely wasn’t for me.
November 18, 2024
reread 1: November 18, 2024
my thoughts u may ask?
->> Zain “forcing� Aiden to suck his cock will never not be hot 🤷🤷🏼♀�
_____
yes I'm still alive 😃 had a four month slump, love to see it.
This book was such a delight, and to be honest, I didn't expect it to be this good. I love AH's books so much, but one thing that breaks my heart every time is her pacing. Woman's pacing in books sucks ass, ngl.
But the pacing in this book was done so well that I sat in a moment of shock after finishing this.
I love Heartless, it's my favorite book of all time, and from the last story, you can get a clue when the rescue happens and I thought it would happen early on, but the pacing worked out so well for Aiden and Zain that even I wished the rescue didn't happen lol.
Anyways, the star of the show was Damiano showing his nosy side and having a sense of humor at the Christmas dinner 😭 my Habibi is all grown up.
What a delightful book. My only true 5 star of 2023 lol, and my most anticipated book of the year.
my thoughts u may ask?
->> Zain “forcing� Aiden to suck his cock will never not be hot 🤷🤷🏼♀�
_____
yes I'm still alive 😃 had a four month slump, love to see it.
This book was such a delight, and to be honest, I didn't expect it to be this good. I love AH's books so much, but one thing that breaks my heart every time is her pacing. Woman's pacing in books sucks ass, ngl.
But the pacing in this book was done so well that I sat in a moment of shock after finishing this.
I love Heartless, it's my favorite book of all time, and from the last story, you can get a clue when the rescue happens and I thought it would happen early on, but the pacing worked out so well for Aiden and Zain that even I wished the rescue didn't happen lol.
Anyways, the star of the show was Damiano showing his nosy side and having a sense of humor at the Christmas dinner 😭 my Habibi is all grown up.
What a delightful book. My only true 5 star of 2023 lol, and my most anticipated book of the year.
January 3, 2024
3 stars.. I think the only reason why I did not DNF this one is because I love AH; and can’t ever DNF her book.. But OMG.. 😳 this was a weird book even by AH’s standards.
Let’s be honest, we love her books; but the “Straight Guys� series has been kinda OTT; getting more and more OTT as we have moved from continent to continent going from 1 MC being maybe-straight to both being straight. However the passion, intimacy, possessiveness, obsession was so addictive that we have loved it all, whatever package it came in.❤️❤️ Russian-goon? Sure, he’ll fall in love😍; homophobic villain from previous books? Why can’t he change when stranded on an island with the right guy? 💞Psycho boss? Sure; Italian mafia leader? Crazy, but sure.. 😳🤨😍 I can go on and on about improbable couples and how they fell in obsessive love..🥰 But this left a horrible sour taste in how it began; (kidnapping and human trafficking) to being kept as a “sex slave�. It all turned out the same way it does in all of AH’s books; but I was uncomfortable throughout. 😱 It was similar to “Just a bit Ruthless � in some aspects; but I loved that one and this one just felt icky to me.. I can’t explain. 🤷♀�
Overall, I’d say it’s recommended only for hard core fans of AH.. 😍 Not for rookies..
Let’s be honest, we love her books; but the “Straight Guys� series has been kinda OTT; getting more and more OTT as we have moved from continent to continent going from 1 MC being maybe-straight to both being straight. However the passion, intimacy, possessiveness, obsession was so addictive that we have loved it all, whatever package it came in.❤️❤️ Russian-goon? Sure, he’ll fall in love😍; homophobic villain from previous books? Why can’t he change when stranded on an island with the right guy? 💞Psycho boss? Sure; Italian mafia leader? Crazy, but sure.. 😳🤨😍 I can go on and on about improbable couples and how they fell in obsessive love..🥰 But this left a horrible sour taste in how it began; (kidnapping and human trafficking) to being kept as a “sex slave�. It all turned out the same way it does in all of AH’s books; but I was uncomfortable throughout. 😱 It was similar to “Just a bit Ruthless � in some aspects; but I loved that one and this one just felt icky to me.. I can’t explain. 🤷♀�
Overall, I’d say it’s recommended only for hard core fans of AH.. 😍 Not for rookies..
Read
November 25, 2023 I’m going to start by saying that I will not be giving this a rating.
My reasoning for this is that if I rated it based on my thoughts about some cultural inaccuracy and stereotypes which portrays little deeper research then I would rate it extremely low.
If I rated it without taking any of that into mind and pretend that we aren’t on the cusp of falling into exotification and orientalism(not the ‘weak� ‘feminine� version but the exotic, dark, elusive, unpredictable, etc.) with Zain and his background, then I could say that the smut was good and while the captive/captor trope has been done and isn’t original, it still worked and it would get a semi-higher rating from me. Without the problems I’m about to go into more depth about, I would have really liked this taboo/stockholmy trope.
However, I just can’t give an objective star rating and be completely fair because I felt off with the the way in which Zain and his culture were described at times and used in a way that felt like an almost erotic/fetishy note. Kind of as if what makes him erotic is that he is not white.
In the words of the author, NOT me—even his home is described as exotic.
I mean, at one point Zains home was even described as being Aladdin-esque. Um, come on?
I think another sad part of this is that to an extent we as fiction readers expect the author to give us authentic and factual information when regarding a real culture and religion. Upon fact checking some aspects, they weren’t entirely accurate or were very diluted and stereotyped. Readers just take it as truth and as something they just learned about a culture, but it’s not accurate info.
And I’m not saying we can’t change sociopolitical issues in fiction, that’s done all the time and doesn’t misconstrue a culture but makes an alternate reality instead. It’s totally different than the stereotype of regions, religions, and cultures that exist is some western books. Yes, this is fiction not a documentary, but we probably shouldn’t use real people’s culture in an inaccurate way that’s depicted as if it’s accurate within the work of fiction.
I’ve read so many books by this author and their risky taboo topics have never bothered me, but the western-view-washed portrayal of an eastern culture/religion here does.
Readers will take inaccurate and stereotyped information of a real religion and culture as truth in real life, even when it comes from fiction because it exists entirely in reality.
Specific characters and events occurring in the plot are automatically perceived as fake because they are commonly changed plot devices, but when we move past into real races, cultures, regions and religions they are automatically perceived as true to an outside reader because they are not malleable characteristics or events but rather solid and nonfiction in nature.
I understand an author may not being able to travel to the places they want to write about, but if you’re not of a certain race and feel like you want to write a character outside of your religion and culture, do the research and consider speaking to people within that culture and religion in order to not make your character a stereotyped amalgamation from your own person observations of media and mediocre google searches.
I’m not going to mince my words here, I understand this review is harsh. But despite being fiction, we’ve got to stop letting authors use real cultures for diversity while not expecting them to be authentic and not toe the line or fall into exotification.
I’m all for diverse characters, of all races, cultures, and religions. But the big disclaimer is we need to hold authors to a standard of being authentic and respectful about it.
This review makes it seem like it’s the absolute worst I’ve ever seen, and it’s not certainly. It’s just not great or fair and it’s an opportunity to address the issue as it stands in this book and as a whole. I don’t think I’m overreacting too much but hey, I can get pretty soapboxy and heated sometimes.
It’s difficult because I think I could have really liked Zain and Aidens “taboo� romance otherwise�
My reasoning for this is that if I rated it based on my thoughts about some cultural inaccuracy and stereotypes which portrays little deeper research then I would rate it extremely low.
If I rated it without taking any of that into mind and pretend that we aren’t on the cusp of falling into exotification and orientalism(not the ‘weak� ‘feminine� version but the exotic, dark, elusive, unpredictable, etc.) with Zain and his background, then I could say that the smut was good and while the captive/captor trope has been done and isn’t original, it still worked and it would get a semi-higher rating from me. Without the problems I’m about to go into more depth about, I would have really liked this taboo/stockholmy trope.
However, I just can’t give an objective star rating and be completely fair because I felt off with the the way in which Zain and his culture were described at times and used in a way that felt like an almost erotic/fetishy note. Kind of as if what makes him erotic is that he is not white.
In the words of the author, NOT me—even his home is described as exotic.
I mean, at one point Zains home was even described as being Aladdin-esque. Um, come on?
I think another sad part of this is that to an extent we as fiction readers expect the author to give us authentic and factual information when regarding a real culture and religion. Upon fact checking some aspects, they weren’t entirely accurate or were very diluted and stereotyped. Readers just take it as truth and as something they just learned about a culture, but it’s not accurate info.
And I’m not saying we can’t change sociopolitical issues in fiction, that’s done all the time and doesn’t misconstrue a culture but makes an alternate reality instead. It’s totally different than the stereotype of regions, religions, and cultures that exist is some western books. Yes, this is fiction not a documentary, but we probably shouldn’t use real people’s culture in an inaccurate way that’s depicted as if it’s accurate within the work of fiction.
I’ve read so many books by this author and their risky taboo topics have never bothered me, but the western-view-washed portrayal of an eastern culture/religion here does.
Readers will take inaccurate and stereotyped information of a real religion and culture as truth in real life, even when it comes from fiction because it exists entirely in reality.
Specific characters and events occurring in the plot are automatically perceived as fake because they are commonly changed plot devices, but when we move past into real races, cultures, regions and religions they are automatically perceived as true to an outside reader because they are not malleable characteristics or events but rather solid and nonfiction in nature.
I understand an author may not being able to travel to the places they want to write about, but if you’re not of a certain race and feel like you want to write a character outside of your religion and culture, do the research and consider speaking to people within that culture and religion in order to not make your character a stereotyped amalgamation from your own person observations of media and mediocre google searches.
I’m not going to mince my words here, I understand this review is harsh. But despite being fiction, we’ve got to stop letting authors use real cultures for diversity while not expecting them to be authentic and not toe the line or fall into exotification.
I’m all for diverse characters, of all races, cultures, and religions. But the big disclaimer is we need to hold authors to a standard of being authentic and respectful about it.
This review makes it seem like it’s the absolute worst I’ve ever seen, and it’s not certainly. It’s just not great or fair and it’s an opportunity to address the issue as it stands in this book and as a whole. I don’t think I’m overreacting too much but hey, I can get pretty soapboxy and heated sometimes.
It’s difficult because I think I could have really liked Zain and Aidens “taboo� romance otherwise�
December 5, 2023
Funny how at the start of the year - when I read the first book in this series, I asked myself what kind of deranged person enjoys this-the toxic unhealthy possessiveness. The answer is me. I'm that kind of deranged person.
Oh well. It is what it is.
“You didn’t even grovel,�
SIR. 😂😂😂This man has nothing to grovel for. Minus buying you at an auction, gifting you to his brother as a sex pet and getting married.
But let's not get bogged down by the pesky details.
"Tell me what you need me to do."
Damiano coming through with the fix-it energy😫😫😫 I really need to reread that book.
Zain’s jaw worked.“I got—too used to you.� His voice was stilted.“I tried, but I couldn’t train myself out of it. You made me miserable. I—� His expression became pained.“I’m not good at this.�
😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂Zain, man. Come on! The words can't be that difficult.
Got too used to him, my ass.
“Ican’t live without you. Let’s have babies together.� My heart❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Well.......Mostly because the idea of mini-Aidens annoying the ever loving shit out of Zain is too funny.
Oh well. It is what it is.
“You didn’t even grovel,�
SIR. 😂😂😂This man has nothing to grovel for. Minus buying you at an auction, gifting you to his brother as a sex pet and getting married.
But let's not get bogged down by the pesky details.
"Tell me what you need me to do."
Damiano coming through with the fix-it energy😫😫😫 I really need to reread that book.
Zain’s jaw worked.“I got—too used to you.� His voice was stilted.“I tried, but I couldn’t train myself out of it. You made me miserable. I—� His expression became pained.“I’m not good at this.�
😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂Zain, man. Come on! The words can't be that difficult.
Got too used to him, my ass.
“Ican’t live without you. Let’s have babies together.� My heart❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Well.......Mostly because the idea of mini-Aidens annoying the ever loving shit out of Zain is too funny.
November 21, 2023
Every time I say I have a new favorite couple but I think they are my absolute final favorite couple!! So happy to have got this early!
May 29, 2024
OK, I read the reviews of this book, how much everyone liked it, and it made me think of the gossip girl quote "Haven't you heard? I'm the crazy bitch around here."
I didn't feel any chemistry between the couple, it went too quickly from "I can't stand you" to "I want to have sex with you"
After the 50% mark I liked the book a little more but... It's definitely not Alessandra's best work, nor the best couple.
Something that bothered me a little was how Aiden had just been bought and yet he wasn't even a bit afraid of his "buyer", he immediately started to be a pain in the ass and being sassy as soon as he got in the car and saw who it was. It makes no sense, he was in a very delicate situation but he acted as if he and his buyer were in equal footing.
Sadly I couldn't feel sympathy for this couple, maybe in a few months if I reread the book that sympathy will exist and I'll change my stars!!!
After a few months: no, still no sympathy. This is bad...
I didn't feel any chemistry between the couple, it went too quickly from "I can't stand you" to "I want to have sex with you"
After the 50% mark I liked the book a little more but... It's definitely not Alessandra's best work, nor the best couple.
Something that bothered me a little was how Aiden had just been bought and yet he wasn't even a bit afraid of his "buyer", he immediately started to be a pain in the ass and being sassy as soon as he got in the car and saw who it was. It makes no sense, he was in a very delicate situation but he acted as if he and his buyer were in equal footing.
Sadly I couldn't feel sympathy for this couple, maybe in a few months if I reread the book that sympathy will exist and I'll change my stars!!!
After a few months: no, still no sympathy. This is bad...
December 6, 2023
I finally got to read my most anticipated release of 2023 and it delivered more than I anticipated!
Thank you, author, for the book despite having one of the most challenging times you faced this year. Please take care. You are loved and cherished. Always your fan.
It’s here!!!!!
December 2023???!!! What happened???!!!!!!
Am going crazy here!!!!
I seriously don’t want to miss this! Just the release year?! I need a date! I need youuuuuuuuuuuu.
July 2023 it is 😭😭😭
Thank you, author, for the book despite having one of the most challenging times you faced this year. Please take care. You are loved and cherished. Always your fan.
It’s here!!!!!
December 2023???!!! What happened???!!!!!!
Am going crazy here!!!!
I seriously don’t want to miss this! Just the release year?! I need a date! I need youuuuuuuuuuuu.
July 2023 it is 😭😭😭
August 2, 2024
What is it with me and AH books and loving them more on a re-read 😂 bumping this up from 3.5 to 4 stars cuz the sexual chemistry between these two was crazy! I need to read more books with a similar “ownership� aspect to them because it was really giving in here.
The major flaw about this one, as many other reviewers have pointed out, is the truly LAZY ass stereotypes that are scattered about this book. More research and sensitivity was needed and hopefully her future books reflect that.
Gadiel’s book already sounds so good. This quote has me seated for it: “‘Gadiel’s never had to lift a finger to get anything in his life. I can bet you anything that he’s the type to lie there and order someone to pleasure him. Topping would be too much effort for such a spoiled brat.’� Looove me a spoiled brat mc!!
____________
1st read: It was good, but I’m not gushing over it.
It fits in nicely with the universe and I can see other people loving it. Especially if you are a fan of books 8, 10, or 12, since this book felt like a combination of all of those.
If I were to rank this series, then Zain and Aiden would go somewhere in the upper middle for me. A fun read, but not a favorite.
The major flaw about this one, as many other reviewers have pointed out, is the truly LAZY ass stereotypes that are scattered about this book. More research and sensitivity was needed and hopefully her future books reflect that.
Gadiel’s book already sounds so good. This quote has me seated for it: “‘Gadiel’s never had to lift a finger to get anything in his life. I can bet you anything that he’s the type to lie there and order someone to pleasure him. Topping would be too much effort for such a spoiled brat.’� Looove me a spoiled brat mc!!
____________
1st read: It was good, but I’m not gushing over it.
It fits in nicely with the universe and I can see other people loving it. Especially if you are a fan of books 8, 10, or 12, since this book felt like a combination of all of those.
If I were to rank this series, then Zain and Aiden would go somewhere in the upper middle for me. A fun read, but not a favorite.
December 4, 2023
still a passing grade. i wasn't bored really but as a alessandra hazard fan, i think she should retire this series. i just miss that time when her earlier books in this series are hard-hitting to the emotions. these recent releases from her are barely reaching the minimum. almost no soul and no heart to them. feels like a copy-pasted story. wish i could say i was disappointed though but in a way i saw it coming. there was a decline in writing prowess after book 11 which i could say most of us loved. please write something different for 2024!!
November 24, 2023
I loved this one! I’m so glad this met expectations because I’ve been in a real slump lately. This reminded me of Just A Bit Bossy and Prince’s Master because of the needy bottom MC and the emotionally detached possessive MC. I loved the master/pet and humiliation kink and of course the AH brand of toxic love 🖤
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