I knew the rules.Never reveal my true identity.Play the game, give the illusion. Don’t get close to the clients. The dark and glamorous lifestyle of the rich and shameless open my eyes to a lavish world of sin and wealth, and a man I can’t have. A man I desperately want—James Riviera. We’re treading a fine line as we live the ultimate double life until we make a startling discovery that tests … we make a startling discovery that tests both our loyalties.
I only had to follow the rules, but rules are meant to be broken.
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Another great book by Lucia. It isn`t really a surprise `cos this woman is one talented author, you feel every word she writes. She is so dedicated to her books and fans, you gotta love her! So why 4 star and not 5 for this book? It`s simple. I loved this book but my heart still belongs to her Off Balance series. I`m not trying to compare this book to the series `cos this is a totally different story and it wouldn`t be fair or make sense, it`s just my opinion. That´s all.
Now about the book. Honestly I knew it was gonna be one sexy book but wasn`t expecting it to be also so emotional. Couldn`t help but cry few times. The heroine Aubrey was one strong, fun, outspoken and big hearted woman. Unfortunately some of her choices made me want to shake, slap or scream at her. I just didn`t agree with some of her actions. What I liked about her a lot was her relationship with her bestie Nat and her Granny. And my heart broke for her at the almost end of the book.
Another great character was the hero James. Mannnnn this man is so hoooooot, you just want to take him home, lock him there and never let go. Such an amazing person! Yes, there was a situation or maybe two I wanted to slap him as well but actually understood him or his actions better than Aubreys. Their chemistry was off the charts and don`t let me start on their sex scenes. I`m getting hot again just thinking about it. Lucia´s imagination has no bounds.
We also have pretty cool second characters like Nat the bestie, which I hope we´ll get her book one day (she deserves her own story) and Granny. I loved this woman, so brave and loving. There is also a `boyfriend` who did nothing for me, I just wanted him gone. Don´t get me wrong he was actually a nice guy but he´s no James, so…
So do yourself a favor and go read this book!
Where do I begin? This is the first time I read a book blind. I didn’t read the synopsis, I choose to read it because a friend recommended it. Full Disclosure time. I found the beginning to be tedious and slow to take off, I wasn’t feeling much sympathy for Aubrey and her situation. It took awhile for me to get into this book and when I finally did it was WORTH IT. I enjoyed the way Aubrey’s alter ego Valentina developed. I found her to be the perfect counterpart to Aubrey’s true self and her no nonsense approach to her lifestyle choices were oddly liberating. The two halves forming the perfect whole. James, sexy as sin, rich as hell, dirty as f*ck, the perfect Alpha male except we see a soft side to the domineering-commanding older man. I was completely taken by him and his give zero shits attitude. He is the perfect man for Valentina/Aubrey. And then BAM, out of no where the plot twist that had me shaking my head and re-reading the same scene over and over – totally unexpected and it took the storyline to another level. I have to say that I’m glad I read this book and suggest you added to your TBR list.
Hush Hush is a beautiful, heartfelt, hard to comprehend (as it is beyond perfection) story by Lucia Franco. I was not prepared for all that was this story and it’s unforgettable characters. I did not know the powerful impact this book would have on me. I cannot stop thinking about it. I recall so much of what unfolded, which is uncommon for me, as I read so many books, one after the other, so one story can bleed into the next. Not so with Hush Hush. The content is not for the fainthearted. It is confronting and not for the lover of soft and sweet, but I swear that if a reader takes a chance on this, they will never regret it. If this is read with an open mind, you will experience something so special, it will leave such a beautiful and unforgettable memory. I will never forget these characters or the feelings invoked. I cannot fully describe how profoundly affected I was, but I know I will forever remember this out of this world feeling I got from getting to know Lucia’s characters and falling hopelessly for every word written. The very soul deep essence of the story was captured brilliantly. Their every thought, feeling and movement was delivered with precision, substance and flair. The story was brutally emotional at times, but what it gave me was a total sense of satisfaction and completeness. It was electrifying. Saying goodbye to these colourfully complex characters was the hardest thing to do. I think I read the last chapter 5 times before I could close the book. I instantly fell into this story. Completely. Mind, body and soul this story owned me. Their story will be a heart filling, neverending memory. I only bestow the highest of praise for this incredibly special author. This book is literally why I have this insatiable love for reading. I don’t even know what can top this, and I am a little scared to find out, as Hush Hush ruined me beautifully and anything better may just be my demise. 5 stars for perfection, beauty and everything in between.
A world of forbidden fruit that will either make or break you!
Can I just say this book was all kinds of HOT, I mean I have read some very good hot books but damn, this one took it to a whole new level that left me all discombobulated!
I loved every second of every minute of every hour as I kept going and going and going like the little energizer bunny. Once I start a book and am unable to put it down, I know for sure that the book is going to be on the top of my best read pile at the end of the year and Hush Hush has definitely gone on that pile.
Holy smokes, Aubrey and James were definitely one hot forbidden couple that made your insides melt.
I am not getting into details of the book because so many people have already done that in their reviews, all I have to say is this book had everything I was looking for in a read. I mean, when I read the synopsis I was like “sign me up” and couldn’t wait for it to hit my kindle. The minute it did, believe it or not, I started reading this little puppy right away.
This is my first Lucia Franco book and even though I’ve been wanting to read her before, I am so glad I finally did dive into one of her books because she has definitely piqued my interest and now I’m going to squeeze time in to read some of her other books.
If I could give it 10 Stars, you better believe I would!
Moments Are Priceless
Life is hard. Surviving is even harder. Sometimes we make choices that change us. It changes our moral compass. Lying becomes the norm. Your truth no longer exists. You can’t even remember the girl you used to be. You sold your soul but at what cost?
Nothing that I expected. This story took me on an angst-filled journey. The author will have you questioning everything. Morals flying right out the window. How much is your soul worth? Is there a price you aren’t willing to pay? Or is the money worth sacrificing everything?
Aubrey has never had an easy life. However, when her bff presents her with an opportunity that could change everything, she just can’t resist. When you never had money and now you can have more than you need…the temptation is too great.
There is always sacrifice. Nothing comes for free. Aubrey is struggling to balance her private life with her job. When those two worlds begin to collide, her carefully crafted facade begins to crumble.
This story was well-written with unforgettable writing. The characters were witty, sarcastic and flawed yet lovable. The chemistry at times was scorching! Their connection was not of this planet. You will get your HAPPILY EVER AFTER, but it won’t come until your heart has been torn apart and the author’s raked you over hot coals. But love is hard. And forever is beautiful.
Lucia has me seriously questioning my morals with Hush Hush. This novel is poignant, steamy and seriously soul searching. It’s not for the faint of heart. It’s one of those novels you will either love or hate.
I’m not new to forbidden or angst novels, I live for Angst and Forbidden and Lucia is the Queen of Forbidden Angst for me!
‘Confidence and having a brain is a fucking turn on. And as you can tell, I am hung like a fucking animal.’ – James
From the beginning I was sucked into the world of Aubrey and Natalie. The connection between these two best friends is something beautiful.
I was intrigued, captivated and just plain laughted out loud with there chemistry and interactions.
To be honest there were times when I couldn’t understand the choices Aubrey made but that’s because this book really was her story to tell.
“I don’t know what it is about you, but I want the moment.”-James
I connected so much with James. I loved everything about him from the filthy sweet words he would say and how he carried himself.
The side stories and character development for everyone was just perfect. Lucia manages to write about perfectly flawed people and shows us how we might not connect with the characters but that is life. We all not perfect and it’s up to us to understand that.
This book consumed me, messed with my anxiety and took me on a roller coaster ride that I didn’t want to get off.
Thank you for creating thesw worlds we all get lost in. Thank you for taking the risk on these imperfect characters. And thank you for writing this compelling story that will stick with me forever.
“We met by a cruel chance of fate. Becoming your lover was part of the job, but falling for you… I had no control. I didn’t stand a chance.”-Aubrey
This book was INSANE!!! Loved it,like a
gazillion times I sooo loved Aubrey, she
was honest, blunt, and loyal…but James, ohhh
my gaawwdd Now that’s a leading man.
Can’t forget about Natalie (aka bff)either, she’s
her own side story,lol
Jezzz, this book really left me all over the place.
Well, what can I say without saying too much…???
You’ll want more, you won’t get enough, but it’s sooo
worth it
Hush, Hush was an insanely sexy and scandalous forbidden romance that had my heart beating out of my chest in overdrive as I inhaled every breathtakingly beautiful word from this phenomenally captivating story that Lucia Franco has so perfectly structured. When she first announced this book, I was extremely curious to get my hands on the story that had her distracted from releasing the next book in the Off Balance series, and OH MY FREAKING GOODNESS I am so glad she took this new direction, because I think I might have just discovered a new set of favorite characters! This author sure knows how to keep her readers wholeheartedly entertained with a unique storyline full of angsty moments. Oh, and I’m pretty sure I’m not the only one with my fingers crossed hoping we might just get Natalie’s story too?! PRETTY PLEASE???
ANYWAY…Let’s get back to our main lady, Aubrey…holy freaking sh*t I absolutely loved this girl right from the very beginning. She was the kind of leading lady that readers (at least in my opinion) will instantly connect with. She is a strong and independent lady who is just doing what she needs to do to provide for her and her sweet grandmother (who I freaking loved by the way). Living a double life can be hard…college student by day and a gal that caters to Manhattan’s elite at night! She is just going through the motions until she meets the sexy and confident silver fox, James Riviera. He totally turns her world completely upside down and when something unexpected happens, she has to choose a side.
Since I don’t want to ruin the shock-factor of this story, I won’t give away anymore except this…GO AND BUY THIS STORY RIGHT NOW!!! Aubrey and James will totally melt your heart and have your panties flying off with all the hot and heavy moments!
Lucia Franco’s standalone novel is about Aubrey, a 21-year college student who struggles day to day with her finances by juggling sides jobs in addition to getting an education. Despite receiving a full scholarship to Manhattan University and living with her wealthy best friend Natalie, she still needs money to help support herself and grandmother. We learn that Aubrey’s grandmother became her sole caregiver when both of her parents died in a tragic accident when she was 7 years old.
Her roommate/best friend Natalie tries to help Aubrey get a job at an upscale, secret club where she works called Sanctuary Cove. It is an exclusive place where you can earn a TON of money by satisfying ‘clients’ who have fetishes/sexual leanings. She is hesitant but Natalie convinces her to try it since Aubrey does random hook ups with guys because of attachment issues and she is able to turn off her emotions. While working there she goes by the name Valentina and is set up with several clients before she meets James, a sexy silver haired fox who becomes smitten with her.
James is in a loveless marriage that is kept intact due to having a child. The reason he turned to Sanctuary Cove is because his wife thinks that his needs are ‘freaky’ and she gives him permission to indulge in that behaviour with other women as long as he keeps it private. What is depressing is that he is unable to have a healthy emotional relationship with his wife, and looks for it elsewhere. He finds it with Aubrey/Valentina but she refuses to become ‘exclusive’ with him, not wanting to loose her freedom by being submissive to James. He wants to provide for her needs but she is stubborn.
“Weakness and submission are not the same thing,” he says, his voice low. “Submissive women are strong women, they just want someone who’s stronger then them.”
There is a definite forbidden attraction between the two as Aubrey fights her feeling for James and the potential of losing her job for crossing over the line with him. Hush Hush takes you places that are extremely erotic, emotionally heart tugging, and temper rising with some of the decisions that Aubrey makes in her life. Her control starts slipping as she spirals into a dark place. I would highly recommend taking this forbidden taboo ride with Aubrey and James! Without a doubt James is my favorite type of pushy Alpha Male who is confident, sexy, and oh so knows how to satisfy!
Holy…wow!
I have to be honest. I was really worried this was going to be part of duet or series. Sometimes being greedy and needy like the bookwhore I am gets complicated. Not today!LOL.
Hush, Hush is indeed a standalone. Its sexy and not for the faint of heart. Back to that honesty, I wasnt sure I was going to be able to really get into the story. I find her professional choices morally repugnant. There’s no avoiding it. I had a difficult time because of it. I think her difficulties with it somehow managed to lull me into security. Though I don’t agree with her choice, I understand her reasoning- on serval levels and subjects.
Aubrey’s choices may have had me tugging on my hair but James had me wanting to scream. His life choices were just as misguided. He made me twitch with anger all while scissoring my legs.
I guess I’m just as misguided as these two. Hush, Hush was not only sexy but it told a not-so-sweet story. A pain filled, longing will fill the reader. An ache will press on your chest as you fight the right and wrong of the situation.
I fell in love with a silver fox. You will too. One sexy encounter at a time. By the time he actually takes you, you will be so drunk on lust you won’t even fight the feelings. Hut for now, it’s all Hush, Hush.
Reviewed for Sweet Spot Sisterhood
This isn’t what I would call a surprise book by this author however the blurb is very vague and sparse on detail. Natalie and Aubrey are great female characters with nothing weak about them. I loved the unfiltered way they speak to each other and how they are each others support system. The taboo unforbidden nature of the story was right up my street. The story was forbidden and decadent and so sexy. And holy hotness silver fox James
A totally addictive read that will leave you wanting more.
I am at a total loss for words right now. I am trying so freaking hard to process what I just read it is insane.
If you have read my reviews before you know that I like to go in blind. And that is what I did here. All I knew was that it was an age gap book. I am drowning in feelings! This was one of those stories that when the “big drama” happened…. you couldn’t be mad at anyone for their reactions because you can see it from all sides and how it would affect each of the characters. And boy did I cry! Lucia pulled all the tears from me today…. my tear quota for the week has been decimated by her writing. I don’t know why this would surprise me! She is so good with angst, and feelings….. she knows how to work them all into a story that completely pulls you in and won’t let you out until you get to the very end! My heart is still beating rather quickly and I just KNOW that James and Aubrey won’t be leaving my head, or my heart for quite some time! Their story really got to me for so many reasons. There were so many things that happened in such a quick succession that it had my head totally spinning! Another book I will put in my TOP 10 of 2019…. absolutely deserving of more than 5 stars! I want to read it again…. like right now! I will most definitely be doing a reread on this one!
Hush, Hush by Lucia Franco is pure genius! It has everything you could possibly want in a romance! Taboo? Check! Angst? Check! Sexy times? Heck to the check!!
This book is sexy to the max! Its naughtiness draws you in, and the forbidden is just tasty! I loved Aubrey’s and James’ chemistry. It was hot and angsty and intense! It is hundreds and hundreds of pages of naughty, heavenly delight.
This book also twists your heart. No spoilers, but when you read it, it will tear your heart out.
To say that this book was intense is a huge understatement. The more forbidden it gets, the more intense the book. I literally devoured it.
This may be my first book by this author, but it most certainly will not be the last. This book was right up my alley, and I devoured every single bit of it. James Riviera is my new book husband, because, you know, I like a man who knows what he wants *insert devil emoji*.
Hush, Hush is an angsty, sexy, intense and emotional read. It will make you fan yourself from the heat of the book, and break your heart so, so much in others. It’s a big book, but once you start reading it, you’ll forget the real world and become entranced in the world of Aubrey and the mighty fine Mr Riviera.
Highly recommended!
Okay here we go. So I have sat and thought about this review a lot and what I wanted to say.
First let me start by saying I love Lucia Franco, I think she is an amazing author. I really enjoy her other books.
Now…I am going to be 100% honest I didn’t love this one. Eek! I really REALLY hate saying that but this one just wasn’t my cup of tea. The writing was top notch like always! But as a reader I went into this story completely blind not know what to expect at all. Without spoiling Hush, Hush I wish for myself I would have had a little bit more knowledge of what I was about to be reading. The time of story this one is one of my least favorite things to read. I typically stay far away from them because these types of books don’t interest me.
Don’t get me wrong the book was good! It was really good and a LOT of people are going to love this one. Hush, Hush is hands down one of the sexiest books I have ever read. I mean HOT!! You are going to need SEVERAL glasses of water when you read this one. I am also a huge fan of Age Gap stories, so that was great. I really loved that aspect of the story.
For me I just wish we got a little more depth to James and Aubrey, and I really wished to have gotten more of them in the end.
Like I said before this isn’t my favorite “type” of story, and I am a fan of a more innocent type of h so this one was hard for me.
Do I recommend this book? Absolutely!
Do I think people will love it? Absolutely!
It just wasn’t for me.
I was kindly given an ARC for an honest review.
This books was awesome! It was soo hot that it nearly melted my kindle! So full of heartfelt emotions and feelings. I giggled. My heart ached and I cried. Then the end made my heart flutter. I don’t want to give anything away of what happens. You’ll just have to trust me and read it. (**I was given an ARC to read for an honest review/opinion.)
“Welcome to the lifestyles of the rich and shameless”
Like wow! This book! I was entrapped in the life of Aubrey and Natalie so quickly. Their banter and humor has me rolling. All along the way Lucia has me rolling with their sassy mouths and bizarre stories from all their encounters at their job. I’ve never seen a book so well written about this type of work making it funny and not so skeezy. I loved every page from start to finish. James was sure a hot af silver fox. I’m not one usually attracted to older men but the way his character was developed, I’m sure everyone ones going to want a piece of that!! The angst, the tears and the laughs made it for one of the best reads of the year so far for me!!!!