WHORE (Lilith) by WILLOW ASTER

 ‘I’ve messed everything up, but it was just too scary to keep going the way it was. It felt too sweet. Too close to something I could covet if I let myself. I got a glimpse of what being normal feels like, and had to force it back to what I’m comfortable with. Back to pretending. I’ll make sure it stays that way.’

This was our first book by Willow Aster and what a fabulous introduction to this Author’s words. We were swept away into a dark world of betrayal, heartbreak, violence and tragedy. However, in the midst of the despair a beacon of light and humanity exists. It was a truly compelling story that kept us captivated by its suspenseful twists and the wonderful show case of second chances and a healing love.

“I know we don’t know each other well, but…we’ve covered a lot of ground in a short amount of time. It feels like our souls are old friends. My heart recognizes yours.”

Lili’s destiny was determined from birth by her ruthless and power hungry Mother. The beautiful daughter destined to be a whore, albeit classy with a high sense of decorum. Her life is not her own neither is her future, rather it’s veiled in a menacing darkness by powers outside of her control. Whilst in many ways Lili is a victim she’s also a tower of strength and will. A woman, who when she receives her first honest and true human contact, kindness and love, realises and understands that her life can be different and she too is worthy of all the beauty in the world. It does not come easy though. Her life takes a turn she never could’ve envisaged and we were with her every step of the way.

‘It isn’t something I’ve ever considered. Girls like me know better than to dream about guys like him. Even with his imperfections, he’s perfect to me.’

Oh dear, if ever there was a question of the definition of a truly amazing man with a heart of pure gold, a kindness like no other and a strength of heart, love and conviction then Soti Christos is a main contender. The light in the cold of darkness that saves, heals and highlights the good, the soft and the warm. What a wonderful man he is. He comes into Lili’s life when she needs it most. However, their journey is not an easy one as first she must go it alone. However, knowledge is power and love is safety. A broken heart can mend and demons can be battled and overcome. Never underestimate the resilience and perseverance of a heart that truly loves, no matter its imperfections which in someone else’s eyes will be their ultimate perfections.

‘She engraves her name on my heart; I know exactly when it happens. She leans back just long enough to look in my eyes, as if checking to see if this is real. What she sees there reassures her, and we both shake with the knowledge of it. Two lost souls, found.’