CRAVE (Bonds #1) by SIERRA CARTWRIGHT

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Reviewed by Gitte

Gitte:  ✯✯✯✯ Stars

“How brave are you now?”

What do you do when you realise you may possibly have made a huge mistake and how do you rectify it? How do you even justify your hurtful actions? What do you do when purposely faced with a face of the past you’ve never been able to forget and realise you never will?

‘No real man could live up to what she remembered. No one was that perfect.’

Crave is the story of Reece and Sarah who went through an extremely emotional separation; each for different reasons. One an instigator one a victim. They had the most perfect relationship on paper. Both so very much in love with each other; though each moving at a different pace in comparison. The pace interrupted by an unspoken misunderstanding and fear of a firm statement of ownership.

“I wasn’t as strong as I am now. You would have consumed me, Reece.”

However, was it a mistake – the actual decision? I’m not sure as I think overall it played a positive for Reece and Sarah’s relationship in the long run. I don’t agree with the way in which it was carried out though. It was definitely an extremely hurtful ‘mistake’ and my heart bled for Reece.

‘Back then she’d been so focused on protecting herself that she hadn’t considered how her reactions would devastate him.’

Reece is extremely measured with a powerful demeanour. He keeps himself in check and exudes control. At times I felt his actions came across as almost too clinical and cold however; on the whole this man’s intensity with which he loves despite having his heart pretty much ripped out of his body was quite beautiful and all-consuming. I fell under this man’s spell and completely understood Sarah’s inability to fully let him go.

‘This man was harsher, feelings and reactions buried beneath the hurt.’

Sarah loves Reece; the way he loves, his intelligence and working friendship, his sexual dominance in their D/s relationship. The sexual chemistry between these two is off the charts hot. Sarah knows she may have made a mistake and she’s intent on facing Reece after two years to somehow expel him from her heart and mind. She’s never forgotten; Sarah needs closure.  Will one weekend with the man she still loves give her this closure? Will she be able to walk away and try once more to get on with her life? In return will Reece? In theory it’s all good but once faced with the reality of their fierce attraction, the love that still resides in their hearts; that’s quite a big ask.

“Pretty sure I’m not going to like this..”

“Pretty sure I didn’t ask.”

“Yes, Sir.”

It was extremely refreshing to read a story of a woman trying to protect her identity and voice in the face of an all-encompassing love. Whilst she tore Reece’s heart and future apart with two years of silence; I believe she made the right choice and I understand the why’s. The underlying themes of trust and communication proving once more the vital role they play in any relationship.

At times I did struggle with connecting emotionally as we were there for the ‘afters’ so to speak. I wonder if I’d have experienced more of Reece’s initial pain and confusion through a flashback rather than being told, would I have related more to his cold and business like attitude and testing ways? Saying that though; his friends did paint quite a picture and I have to say I fell in love with their funny and cheeky ways as well as their obvious protection of Reece.

“What makes you think I’ll help you destroy my friend again?”

I can’t wait to continue with this series to get the stories of Kennedy and Julien. Especially Julien who I grew quite a soft spot for; actually I already LOVE him!!

This was my first time spent with Sierra Cartwright and I have to say I fell in love with her writing. It was flawless, classy and evocative. There was a brilliant blend of drama, humour, sensuality and passion. I can definitely recommend this story of second chances; of revelations and working through misunderstandings. Also; it’s damn hot….who can say no to that, right?

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THE BONDS SERIES by SIERRA CARTWRIGHT

 ♥ CRAVE – BOOK ONE
TB Review
Amazon US || Amazon UK || Amazon AU

♥  CLAIM – BOOK TWO
TB Review
Amazon US || Amazon UK || Amazon AU

 ♥ COMMAND – BOOK THREE
Amazon US || Amazon UK || Amazon AU