Claire was held captive for 43 days by a man who did unspeakable things to her.Three years after her escape, she gets her revenge. The only problem is, she’s got the wrong man.God help her if he escapes.
Wow, I loved this book! One of Kitty Thomas’s best! Claire and Ari are a match made in kinky heaven. If you like your romance dark, twisted, and unconventional, you’ll love this steamy, well-written story! Highly recommend!
Author
louiseh
2 years ago
I absolutely loved this book.
From the first line to the last, The Escape Artist held me captive, just as Claire and Ari were held captive by one another. Kitty Thomas has crafted yet another amazing masterpiece of a story, one where she takes all the elements of wrongness and twists them into something that is so very right. This story is by parts emotionally charged, depraved, incredibly hot, fantastically written and populated with great characters.
The relationship between Claire and Ari is consensual at the same time as it isn’t, with the author somehow skating a fine line between the two. Just as I decided it was one thing, the tables turned and it became the other. Even more amazingly, Ms Thomas manages to take a relationship based on everything wrong and turn it into something perfect.
Ari was a good man until life gave him an opportunity to be otherwise, and yet that wrongness was the perfect thing to save Claire. Despite how morally dubious his actions were I adored him, and it was always clear that Claire’s wellbeing was his top priority. Theirs may not have been the most conventional of relationships, erroneous in just about every way possible, but it was exactly the relationship both of them needed.
The author has taken the possibly overused “captive” trope and shaken it up, producing a story that feels fresh and new. This is one red hot NSFW read, pushing buttons and boundaries in the most delightful of manners. I totally loved every single thought, word and action in the book, I simply can’t sing its praises loudly enough. In fact it’s left me with a deep need to read more of her work.
Author
cécilesmits
2 years ago
CAREFUL! SPOILERS AHEAD!
Trust Kitty Thomas to think of an unconventional way to cure a girl that’s been abducted and abused for 43 days.
Yes,she’s done it before,and even with everything that happened to those girls,it always worked…..
Those girls are now slaves,happy with their place at their Masters feet.
Happy to be their treasured pets,and happy with pleasing their Masters,in any way they can.
But is this method something that can help Claire,you ask.
Having escaped at the very last minute,at the very moment she was about to be killed,used up and useless to her captor,it nearly destroyed the last bit of her soul she had left…..
So,even though she escaped,part of her was left behind,and she never felt free in the three years after.
Until….she sees the very man that did all those despicable things to her.
At that moment she finds out that what she feels isn’t fear,but anger.
At that moment she decides to do to him what he’d done to her.
He’d pay for it all,and after 43 days,she’d kill him the same way he’d attempted to kill her.
Only,he doesn’t behave the way she expected when she hurts him.
Only,he says she’s got the wrong man,he didn’t do anything.
And when he gets his chance,the speed with which he reverses the roles,is staggering.
Now,she is,once again,the captive……
And finding out he ís indeed another man than her first captor,knowing what she did to him frightens her now.
Because,what will he do to her in return?
As always,i loved the journey Kitty took me on,and it has a special place in my heart.
Author
bourbonbooksandbrenda
2 years ago
Kitty Thomas has a way of pulling you outside your comfort zone and then making you like it as she pulls you further!
******
Overall Rating; 5 hot Viking stars
Kindle Unlimited: no
Standalone: yes
******
Holy cow this book! Claire was abducted and mentally, physically and sexually abused. She escaped her captor and has been existing, not living, just existing; rarely leaving the safety of her home because of the debilitating pain and fear.
One day, during an errand she stops to get a cup of coffee; and her world crumbles. Her captor is sitting in the coffee house. Claire decides then and there she is going to get her revenge!
Ari, the beautiful Viking, is on the rebound from a breakup with his latest pet. He feels lost and drinks a little to much one night, imagine his surprise when he wakes up chained and in a cell. Things are about to get real! Claire is ready to exact her revenge! She’s planned, she’s prepared, only problem…she has the wrong man.
I did not expect the twists and turns in this book. Ari and Claire’s relationship is untraditional to say the least. But could a terrible tragedy lead to both of them finding exactly what they want and need? I will never tell. You need to read the book to find out! I loved how Kitty took the characters and me love them even when I probably shouldn’t. Her stories are always unique and edgy, to say the least!
Do you like dark, edgy, question your sanity type books? If your answer is yes, then you will love this! All the recommendations to one of my fave dark authors!
Author
lizreads12
2 years ago
Another 5 star *Favorite* by this Author!!
Reading The Escape Artist was a first class, 5 star *experience*!
I found it so easy to immerse myself into this story, wishing I could have been a very willing participant; which is so much fun! I love when a book gives me the tingles & a “reading high” when the story is just right.
Ari and Claire’s story is a bizarre meeting of two souls that needed each other, however insane the circumstances…
Thomas has, is, and always will be a go-to Author for me. She helped shape my reading trajectory early on, and has never left me disappointed after reading one of her novels.The Escape Artist was certainly no exception. In fact, I believe it may even be on par with some of my all time favorites.
If you are already a fan, just buy & read this book. Simple as that.
There is something uniquely special about a Kitty Thomas book. The plot, the character development, the flow, writing, the wit, and last but most definitely not least, the kink…it’s all there, and so much more.
There is also a certain balance of the above to her work. It’s not too deep, but enough so. There is darkness to it, but it’s a refreshing “palette cleanser” at the same time. Although it’s written for the masses, I always learn or ponder something, (which I love!) and you can count on her tales to be OH, SO HOT and steamy, but not **anywhere** close to PWP. (“Porn without Plot”) Her characters are so believable, authentic, and ‘scarred’ ; yet also relatable and loveable. Also, Thomas always gives a complete story whilst also interconnecting secondary characters from other books without giving too much away if you’ve not read them.
The ingredients are in many Authors’ pies, but not all seem to come out of the oven with such perfection. Bravo Ms. Thomas! The Escape Artist is a true gem.
Author
fallingwiththeleaves
2 years ago
This is my first read by this author and it satisfied on every level. It’s dark, tragic, gritty, and sultry. I did not predict that it would take that turn with Claire even with all that she went through. But don’t underestimate a woman who’s been through trauma, shes stronger than you could ever know. Ari is protective, understanding, dominant, and mouthwateringly, seductive. This book was a captivating experience and I could not put it down!
Author
ajadams
2 years ago
Kitty Thomas is a fantastic author and I love the way she weaves a plot around a broken heroine who finds her dark love and HEA. I was hooked by the setup In The Escape Artist and it didn’t disappoint.
For readers: a good plot, relatable characters, and a journey of healing for Claire. Highly recommended. If you haven’t read a KT book before, know this is dark erotica. Some of it is too dark for me, so I skipped some of the sex scenes. It didn’t prevent me from thoroughly enjoying it, and I’ve been in and out of a book funk for ages.
For authors: What interested me was how can you write a story about an unwilling slave and yet not have an unrelatable hero? Kitty takes that and runs with it as brilliantly as always. I liked Ari from the start and the scene where they are in Claire’s family home is perfect. Also, their progression into love that is illustrated through the erotica is beautifully done. If there’s ever a course in writing dark erotica, The Escape Artist should be part of required reading.
Author
jackiemoore
2 years ago
This is my first book by this author, but it sure won’t be my last! I definitely have to pick up The Con Artist. I wish I already had read it but I got this one first! Not that it is needed to get the other one first, but I love when you see characters in later books again!
All that being said this was a REALLY great book! It was dark and steamy and had me as a reader feeling so many different things! Which I love! I totally loved Ari and how he was everything Claire needed. Claire was also a bit of a different character for me. She was strong but also easily submissive. So she gave in a lot. But she still ended up being a great character that I totally enjoyed reading because she had a reason for giving in that was still strong. Totally recommend this one!
Author
lucysaturn
2 years ago
I didn’t think I would like this as much as I did. I ended up reading right through to the end in one sitting. The Con Artist is where we first get introduced to Ari, so at the beginning of The Escape Artist we already know what kind of guy he is, which puts you on his side right away.(Although, you dont need to read The Con Artist first to understand what’s going on. The Escape Artist reads as a standalone.
Author
tyneshiabrewer
2 years ago
Different, emotional, twisted and beautifully written Kitty has raised the bar with this book.
From the first page to the last I was hooked Claire is not your average character and although I have met Ari before in the Con Artist it was only a glimpse. I was completely absorbed into thier story.
This book takes place in the same world as the Con Artist but you can dive in without having to read the Con Artist first. Although if you have read the Con Artist you are in for a treat because we get to see some more of Saskia and Quill.
This book is so different I should expect this by now as I am a huge fan of this author but she always manages to surprise me and bring something fresh and different. I absolutely loved this book it is a must read.
Author
tish
2 years ago
Wow! I’m not even sure where to begin with this review. Still trying to wrap my head around what I read…..I guess I will start by saying, I absolutely LOVED IT!! Though I haven’t read all of Kitty Thomas’ books I’m pretty sure that The Escape Artist is my favorite one thus far. I really loved Ari & Claire. This was highly entertaining and original. I was addicted from the very first chapter.
Author
booksmakemegiddy
2 years ago
Kitty Thomas has done it once again! A brilliant take on captive and captor, yet so much more.
Ms. Thomas weaves tales of splendid dark romance and takes chances that push limits but yet warm and soothes at the same time.
The Escape Artist follows Claire and Ari’s journey of self-preservation, love, and fixing of all things broken through an unconventional romance. A must-read for all lovers of the dark romance.
If you were a fan of Comfort Food, The Escape Artist is for you. Don’t try to escape, just enjoy the ride as Ms. Thomas’ superb writing washes all the seedy away and just leaves the dirt.
Texas Hugs and Happy Reading!
Author
kittyluvr
2 years ago
SUPERB
OUTSTANDING
EMOTIONALLY GUTTING
HEARTBREAKINGLY BEAUTIFUL
These were the immediate thoughts that crossed my mind as I finished Ms. Thomas’ ‘The Escape Artist’.
A writer with the author’s skills is a treasure beyond compare to this lifelong reader. And Ms. Thomas just does NOT disappoint. Her wordcrafting skill is almost magical, her deft light style is so deceptive: she’s a powerful magnet & her readers are helpless steel (as least THIS one IS) completely pulled into & trapped in the world she creates.
To me, her writing is like a soft delicate mist that swirls around you, creating intense mental images & deep emotions that not only can you not escape, you don’t want to.
I feel helpless writing this review because I don’t want to give away/spoil ANYTHING about this one: not the plot, not the characters (Ari & Claire) or their relationship/development. But she’s crafted two characters I love: Ari & Claire. Both of them flawlessly written & detailed, fleshed out. The reader is privy to their thoughts, feelings, impressions of each other & their situation & in Claire’s case her horrifyingly traumatic past that has been slowly & irrevocably destroying her life. And Ari, there were so many paths open to him in how to deal with Claire. And IMO he chooses the one that seems to be a dark decision for Claire & self serving for him, yet may be Claire’s only hope to prevent her delicate & damaged sanity from shattering.
But Ms. Thomas is a rare author who has the wonderous talent to be able to write dark plots with characters who ought to be viewed as dark & yet help the reader to see the dark through a different lens, to see that all dark isn’t evil or mean or cruel. Some dark can be safe, sheltering, protective, gentle & beautiful.
What I WILL say about this book: if you as a reader love excellent writing, writing that deftly draws you in, writing that truly does challenge your prespective, makes your heart ache with empathy, makes your heart warm, that brings you a full spectrum of emotions: READ THIS BOOK. Seriously, read this book.
Is there dark in it? Yes.
Are there triggers in it? Yes.
Are there erotic scenes that sizzle & scorch off the page? Oh, man, YES.
Are there characters the reader CARES about, is INVESTED in, ROOTING for? Yes, yes, yes!
Do I think the reader will love this book: the writing, the plot, the characters? YES, YES, YES.
Having read MANY of this author’s books, I know she doesn’t use the phrase ‘I love you’.
In this book (IMO) her characters SHOW it & LIVE it in subtle but deeply intense & meaningful ways.
This one truly made me feel good, happy, beyond pleased. It made me smile & actually tear up. ME!
It is a wonderous, dark but beautiful book.
Do yourself a favor, don’t be afraid of some dark, some heartache, some trauma.
Because there is light too: healing, protection & IMO, while unspoken, there is deep & devoted LOVE.
Author
peachs44
2 years ago
I have always said that Comfort Food is my absolute favorite Kitty book with Tender Mercies running a close second. Not anymore. TM is now a very distant 3rd and The Escape Artist is now tied for first place. Holy shhh-nikes! This was an absolute amazing book. The characters, the plot, I just could not put it down! Literally, could not put this book down.
Quick recap. Claire was held captive by a man who did horrible things to her. Before he can kill her, she escapes. Three years later, she’s still living in fear until one day, she spots her the captor. And then she begins to plan her revenge. She captures him, tortures him, she wants her revenge! She wants him dead so she can finally put her past behind her. Only…it’s not him! *GASP*
Clare – you just have to love her and want to hold her for all the horror she has had to endure. This whole thing could have turned out real bad for her. I guess if you are going to capture and torture someone, Ari should be the man to do it to. Ari. Mmmmmm…yummies! He had me at “Kneel” Let me wipe the drool from my chin. A Master with a heart of gold. He is just so perfect. The interactions between them had me melting.
I’ve never ended a Kitty book feeling all gooey and mushy but with The Escape Artist, I did. Clare and Ari’s story, despite their ugly, harsh and shockingly twisted beginning, had all the hotness and feels I needed. The extra characters are incredible (How on god’s green earth did you make me fall in Quill the world will never know!). The highs, the lows, the harsh, the gentle. All of it. This book has all of it. It is a must read.
Author
nikkihughes
2 years ago
Kitty Thomas has proven yet again why she’s the Queen of Dark
Wow this book! Kitty Thomas has outdone herself yet again! I think it may be my favorite so far! If you’ve read The Con Artist, then you’ve met Ari already. If not, that’s ok too because Kitty Thomas writes her books in a way that you don’t need to read others in the series. But it’s always fun to meet characters again from previous stories. I love how she mentions the Pleasure House, which is another series but set in the same world. I loved getting to see Saskia, Quill/Kane, and Marcus again! But this story is about Ari and Claire. I felt for Claire sooo much. More so than other characters I’ve met. I’m sure you can see why just by reading the blurb. But Ari, oh Ari *swoon* I loved the Viking in The Con Artist, so when I heard he was getting his own story, I was giddy! This man is everything I want in a hero. He’s kind yet dominating. He’s gentle yet firm. I’ve loved most of Kitty’s heroes but I think Ari is my favorite yet!! I hope to see more of him in the future! I highly recommend this book whether you’ve read the previous one or not!
Author
nhaughtyv
2 years ago
“I don’t care if I’m not the noble hero anymore, and I have to play the villain. I need you here with me.”
I’ll not spoil you with a retelling of the story in a review. Just know The Escape Artist is deliciously and perfectly fucked up with a Master I have not loved so much since Comfort Food. Prepare to meet Ari and fall down the rabbit hole into a dark and beautiful world only Kitty Thomas can imagine. Loved and highly recommend!
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book that I received via the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own. **
Author
kellyreads
2 years ago
Ari and Claire have the most unusual meeting. And the tables kept turning on this couple as they find each other.
I loved the story. It was so different from any other storyline and it kept me wanting to read more.
I also loved how the characters Quill and Saskia from The Con Artist were shown in this book as a continuation of their story.
I highly recommend this book!
Author
chrisgutowski
2 years ago
The Escape Artist is another captivating and enjoyable book from this very talented author. I’ve read a number of her books now and I’ve totally enjoyed them all. This one is definitely one of my favorites. When I started reading The Escape Artist, I was immediately caught up in the story and couldn’t turn the pages fast enough. Ari and Claire’s story is dark, daring, deep and downright steamy at times. I really enjoyed the dual POV of the characters. The reasoning behind their actions and feelings helped drive the story and kept me riveted throughout the book. The story flowed flawlessly from start to finish with an ending that both surprised and satisfied me. Ari was the perfect Alpha male, so powerful, sexy and strong with a hint of vulnerability and sweetness–I was hooked from the start. There are appearances of characters from other books which I found really enjoyable, but this book is a standalone and I think you’ll love it whether or not you’ve read any of the other books. If you like dark, sexy reads, don’t miss this awesome new book from Kitty Thomas!
Author
rinsky13
2 years ago
This book was many things; gripping, emotional, dark, kinky, sexy, and definitely not your norm, but that’s part of what made it such an engrossing, can’t-put-it-down book. Claire is a broken woman who had been put through hell 3 years ago. She may be physically free, but she’s not mentally or emotionally free. Which leads to bad choices and mistaken identity. And that leads her to Ari. Let’s just say their beginning was not what anyone would want it to be. But a change in circumstances leads to many changes, for both Ari & Claire (and some old friends ). I completely love Ari (loved him in The Con Artist too, which, if you haven’t read, get on that). He was everything at all times. And I loved him & Claire together. And there’s sooo much more I loved, but I’m not going to spoil it for you. Grab this now and find out!!
Author
alinakirshner
2 years ago
I know I’m in for a treat every time I open a new Kitty Thomas book, but the Escape Artist exceeded my admittedly high expectations! The Escape Artist is the story of Ari who we met in The Con Artist (if you haven’t read this book then what are you waiting for?). A woman broken buy her traumatic past, a man both desperate and conflicted about taking what he needs, and an extreme case of mistaken identity combine to create the kind of story I’ll keep going back to time and time again. I adore both main characters in this book. I fell for Ari while reading The Con Artist and Kitty Thomas definitely delivered when it comes to his character. What a complex, noble, caring, compassionate, dominant, not to mention unbelievably hot hero! Clair is no less intriguing – both broken and fierce, torn apart by inability to reconcile her desires with her past trauma. Aside from the psychological intensity of this story, it is also extremely steamy and hot! Ari and Claire’s chemistry is undeniable, not to mention the addition of some beloved characters in the mix. I won;t give spoilers, but will say that those who read The Con Artist, will be very satisfied by certain parts of this story. Last but not least, I love Ari’s interactions with his other pet (you’ll have to read the book to find out who it is!). An absolute must read for all fans of Kitty Thomas or anyone who is thinking of dipping their toes into the magical world she creates!
By kittythomas
Wow, I loved this book! One of Kitty Thomas’s best! Claire and Ari are a match made in kinky heaven. If you like your romance dark, twisted, and unconventional, you’ll love this steamy, well-written story! Highly recommend!
I absolutely loved this book.
From the first line to the last, The Escape Artist held me captive, just as Claire and Ari were held captive by one another. Kitty Thomas has crafted yet another amazing masterpiece of a story, one where she takes all the elements of wrongness and twists them into something that is so very right. This story is by parts emotionally charged, depraved, incredibly hot, fantastically written and populated with great characters.
The relationship between Claire and Ari is consensual at the same time as it isn’t, with the author somehow skating a fine line between the two. Just as I decided it was one thing, the tables turned and it became the other. Even more amazingly, Ms Thomas manages to take a relationship based on everything wrong and turn it into something perfect.
Ari was a good man until life gave him an opportunity to be otherwise, and yet that wrongness was the perfect thing to save Claire. Despite how morally dubious his actions were I adored him, and it was always clear that Claire’s wellbeing was his top priority. Theirs may not have been the most conventional of relationships, erroneous in just about every way possible, but it was exactly the relationship both of them needed.
The author has taken the possibly overused “captive” trope and shaken it up, producing a story that feels fresh and new. This is one red hot NSFW read, pushing buttons and boundaries in the most delightful of manners. I totally loved every single thought, word and action in the book, I simply can’t sing its praises loudly enough. In fact it’s left me with a deep need to read more of her work.
CAREFUL! SPOILERS AHEAD!
Trust Kitty Thomas to think of an unconventional way to cure a girl that’s been abducted and abused for 43 days.
Yes,she’s done it before,and even with everything that happened to those girls,it always worked…..
Those girls are now slaves,happy with their place at their Masters feet.
Happy to be their treasured pets,and happy with pleasing their Masters,in any way they can.
But is this method something that can help Claire,you ask.
Having escaped at the very last minute,at the very moment she was about to be killed,used up and useless to her captor,it nearly destroyed the last bit of her soul she had left…..
So,even though she escaped,part of her was left behind,and she never felt free in the three years after.
Until….she sees the very man that did all those despicable things to her.
At that moment she finds out that what she feels isn’t fear,but anger.
At that moment she decides to do to him what he’d done to her.
He’d pay for it all,and after 43 days,she’d kill him the same way he’d attempted to kill her.
Only,he doesn’t behave the way she expected when she hurts him.
Only,he says she’s got the wrong man,he didn’t do anything.
And when he gets his chance,the speed with which he reverses the roles,is staggering.
Now,she is,once again,the captive……
And finding out he ís indeed another man than her first captor,knowing what she did to him frightens her now.
Because,what will he do to her in return?
As always,i loved the journey Kitty took me on,and it has a special place in my heart.
Kitty Thomas has a way of pulling you outside your comfort zone and then making you like it as she pulls you further!
******
Overall Rating; 5 hot Viking stars
Kindle Unlimited: no
Standalone: yes
******
Holy cow this book! Claire was abducted and mentally, physically and sexually abused. She escaped her captor and has been existing, not living, just existing; rarely leaving the safety of her home because of the debilitating pain and fear.
One day, during an errand she stops to get a cup of coffee; and her world crumbles. Her captor is sitting in the coffee house. Claire decides then and there she is going to get her revenge!
Ari, the beautiful Viking, is on the rebound from a breakup with his latest pet. He feels lost and drinks a little to much one night, imagine his surprise when he wakes up chained and in a cell. Things are about to get real! Claire is ready to exact her revenge! She’s planned, she’s prepared, only problem…she has the wrong man.
I did not expect the twists and turns in this book. Ari and Claire’s relationship is untraditional to say the least. But could a terrible tragedy lead to both of them finding exactly what they want and need? I will never tell. You need to read the book to find out! I loved how Kitty took the characters and me love them even when I probably shouldn’t. Her stories are always unique and edgy, to say the least!
Do you like dark, edgy, question your sanity type books? If your answer is yes, then you will love this! All the recommendations to one of my fave dark authors!
Another 5 star *Favorite* by this Author!!
Reading The Escape Artist was a first class, 5 star *experience*!
I found it so easy to immerse myself into this story, wishing I could have been a very willing participant; which is so much fun! I love when a book gives me the tingles & a “reading high” when the story is just right.
Ari and Claire’s story is a bizarre meeting of two souls that needed each other, however insane the circumstances…
Thomas has, is, and always will be a go-to Author for me. She helped shape my reading trajectory early on, and has never left me disappointed after reading one of her novels.The Escape Artist was certainly no exception. In fact, I believe it may even be on par with some of my all time favorites.
If you are already a fan, just buy & read this book. Simple as that.
There is something uniquely special about a Kitty Thomas book. The plot, the character development, the flow, writing, the wit, and last but most definitely not least, the kink…it’s all there, and so much more.
There is also a certain balance of the above to her work. It’s not too deep, but enough so. There is darkness to it, but it’s a refreshing “palette cleanser” at the same time. Although it’s written for the masses, I always learn or ponder something, (which I love!) and you can count on her tales to be OH, SO HOT and steamy, but not **anywhere** close to PWP. (“Porn without Plot”) Her characters are so believable, authentic, and ‘scarred’ ; yet also relatable and loveable. Also, Thomas always gives a complete story whilst also interconnecting secondary characters from other books without giving too much away if you’ve not read them.
The ingredients are in many Authors’ pies, but not all seem to come out of the oven with such perfection. Bravo Ms. Thomas! The Escape Artist is a true gem.
This is my first read by this author and it satisfied on every level. It’s dark, tragic, gritty, and sultry. I did not predict that it would take that turn with Claire even with all that she went through. But don’t underestimate a woman who’s been through trauma, shes stronger than you could ever know. Ari is protective, understanding, dominant, and mouthwateringly, seductive. This book was a captivating experience and I could not put it down!
Kitty Thomas is a fantastic author and I love the way she weaves a plot around a broken heroine who finds her dark love and HEA. I was hooked by the setup In The Escape Artist and it didn’t disappoint.
For readers: a good plot, relatable characters, and a journey of healing for Claire. Highly recommended. If you haven’t read a KT book before, know this is dark erotica. Some of it is too dark for me, so I skipped some of the sex scenes. It didn’t prevent me from thoroughly enjoying it, and I’ve been in and out of a book funk for ages.
For authors: What interested me was how can you write a story about an unwilling slave and yet not have an unrelatable hero? Kitty takes that and runs with it as brilliantly as always. I liked Ari from the start and the scene where they are in Claire’s family home is perfect. Also, their progression into love that is illustrated through the erotica is beautifully done. If there’s ever a course in writing dark erotica, The Escape Artist should be part of required reading.
This is my first book by this author, but it sure won’t be my last! I definitely have to pick up The Con Artist. I wish I already had read it but I got this one first! Not that it is needed to get the other one first, but I love when you see characters in later books again!
All that being said this was a REALLY great book! It was dark and steamy and had me as a reader feeling so many different things! Which I love! I totally loved Ari and how he was everything Claire needed. Claire was also a bit of a different character for me. She was strong but also easily submissive. So she gave in a lot. But she still ended up being a great character that I totally enjoyed reading because she had a reason for giving in that was still strong. Totally recommend this one!
I didn’t think I would like this as much as I did. I ended up reading right through to the end in one sitting. The Con Artist is where we first get introduced to Ari, so at the beginning of The Escape Artist we already know what kind of guy he is, which puts you on his side right away.(Although, you dont need to read The Con Artist first to understand what’s going on. The Escape Artist reads as a standalone.
Different, emotional, twisted and beautifully written Kitty has raised the bar with this book.
From the first page to the last I was hooked Claire is not your average character and although I have met Ari before in the Con Artist it was only a glimpse. I was completely absorbed into thier story.
This book takes place in the same world as the Con Artist but you can dive in without having to read the Con Artist first. Although if you have read the Con Artist you are in for a treat because we get to see some more of Saskia and Quill.
This book is so different I should expect this by now as I am a huge fan of this author but she always manages to surprise me and bring something fresh and different. I absolutely loved this book it is a must read.
Wow! I’m not even sure where to begin with this review. Still trying to wrap my head around what I read…..I guess I will start by saying, I absolutely LOVED IT!! Though I haven’t read all of Kitty Thomas’ books I’m pretty sure that The Escape Artist is my favorite one thus far. I really loved Ari & Claire. This was highly entertaining and original. I was addicted from the very first chapter.
Kitty Thomas has done it once again! A brilliant take on captive and captor, yet so much more.
Ms. Thomas weaves tales of splendid dark romance and takes chances that push limits but yet warm and soothes at the same time.
The Escape Artist follows Claire and Ari’s journey of self-preservation, love, and fixing of all things broken through an unconventional romance. A must-read for all lovers of the dark romance.
If you were a fan of Comfort Food, The Escape Artist is for you. Don’t try to escape, just enjoy the ride as Ms. Thomas’ superb writing washes all the seedy away and just leaves the dirt.
Texas Hugs and Happy Reading!
SUPERB
OUTSTANDING
EMOTIONALLY GUTTING
HEARTBREAKINGLY BEAUTIFUL
These were the immediate thoughts that crossed my mind as I finished Ms. Thomas’ ‘The Escape Artist’.
A writer with the author’s skills is a treasure beyond compare to this lifelong reader. And Ms. Thomas just does NOT disappoint. Her wordcrafting skill is almost magical, her deft light style is so deceptive: she’s a powerful magnet & her readers are helpless steel (as least THIS one IS) completely pulled into & trapped in the world she creates.
To me, her writing is like a soft delicate mist that swirls around you, creating intense mental images & deep emotions that not only can you not escape, you don’t want to.
I feel helpless writing this review because I don’t want to give away/spoil ANYTHING about this one: not the plot, not the characters (Ari & Claire) or their relationship/development. But she’s crafted two characters I love: Ari & Claire. Both of them flawlessly written & detailed, fleshed out. The reader is privy to their thoughts, feelings, impressions of each other & their situation & in Claire’s case her horrifyingly traumatic past that has been slowly & irrevocably destroying her life. And Ari, there were so many paths open to him in how to deal with Claire. And IMO he chooses the one that seems to be a dark decision for Claire & self serving for him, yet may be Claire’s only hope to prevent her delicate & damaged sanity from shattering.
But Ms. Thomas is a rare author who has the wonderous talent to be able to write dark plots with characters who ought to be viewed as dark & yet help the reader to see the dark through a different lens, to see that all dark isn’t evil or mean or cruel. Some dark can be safe, sheltering, protective, gentle & beautiful.
What I WILL say about this book: if you as a reader love excellent writing, writing that deftly draws you in, writing that truly does challenge your prespective, makes your heart ache with empathy, makes your heart warm, that brings you a full spectrum of emotions: READ THIS BOOK. Seriously, read this book.
Is there dark in it? Yes.
Are there triggers in it? Yes.
Are there erotic scenes that sizzle & scorch off the page? Oh, man, YES.
Are there characters the reader CARES about, is INVESTED in, ROOTING for? Yes, yes, yes!
Do I think the reader will love this book: the writing, the plot, the characters? YES, YES, YES.
Having read MANY of this author’s books, I know she doesn’t use the phrase ‘I love you’.
In this book (IMO) her characters SHOW it & LIVE it in subtle but deeply intense & meaningful ways.
This one truly made me feel good, happy, beyond pleased. It made me smile & actually tear up. ME!
It is a wonderous, dark but beautiful book.
Do yourself a favor, don’t be afraid of some dark, some heartache, some trauma.
Because there is light too: healing, protection & IMO, while unspoken, there is deep & devoted LOVE.
I have always said that Comfort Food is my absolute favorite Kitty book with Tender Mercies running a close second. Not anymore. TM is now a very distant 3rd and The Escape Artist is now tied for first place. Holy shhh-nikes! This was an absolute amazing book. The characters, the plot, I just could not put it down! Literally, could not put this book down.
Quick recap. Claire was held captive by a man who did horrible things to her. Before he can kill her, she escapes. Three years later, she’s still living in fear until one day, she spots her the captor. And then she begins to plan her revenge. She captures him, tortures him, she wants her revenge! She wants him dead so she can finally put her past behind her. Only…it’s not him! *GASP*
Clare – you just have to love her and want to hold her for all the horror she has had to endure. This whole thing could have turned out real bad for her. I guess if you are going to capture and torture someone, Ari should be the man to do it to. Ari. Mmmmmm…yummies! He had me at “Kneel” Let me wipe the drool from my chin. A Master with a heart of gold. He is just so perfect. The interactions between them had me melting.
I’ve never ended a Kitty book feeling all gooey and mushy but with The Escape Artist, I did. Clare and Ari’s story, despite their ugly, harsh and shockingly twisted beginning, had all the hotness and feels I needed. The extra characters are incredible (How on god’s green earth did you make me fall in Quill the world will never know!). The highs, the lows, the harsh, the gentle. All of it. This book has all of it. It is a must read.
Kitty Thomas has proven yet again why she’s the Queen of Dark
Wow this book! Kitty Thomas has outdone herself yet again! I think it may be my favorite so far! If you’ve read The Con Artist, then you’ve met Ari already. If not, that’s ok too because Kitty Thomas writes her books in a way that you don’t need to read others in the series. But it’s always fun to meet characters again from previous stories. I love how she mentions the Pleasure House, which is another series but set in the same world. I loved getting to see Saskia, Quill/Kane, and Marcus again! But this story is about Ari and Claire. I felt for Claire sooo much. More so than other characters I’ve met. I’m sure you can see why just by reading the blurb. But Ari, oh Ari *swoon* I loved the Viking in The Con Artist, so when I heard he was getting his own story, I was giddy! This man is everything I want in a hero. He’s kind yet dominating. He’s gentle yet firm. I’ve loved most of Kitty’s heroes but I think Ari is my favorite yet!! I hope to see more of him in the future! I highly recommend this book whether you’ve read the previous one or not!
“I don’t care if I’m not the noble hero anymore, and I have to play the villain. I need you here with me.”
I’ll not spoil you with a retelling of the story in a review. Just know The Escape Artist is deliciously and perfectly fucked up with a Master I have not loved so much since Comfort Food. Prepare to meet Ari and fall down the rabbit hole into a dark and beautiful world only Kitty Thomas can imagine. Loved and highly recommend!
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book that I received via the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own. **
Ari and Claire have the most unusual meeting. And the tables kept turning on this couple as they find each other.
I loved the story. It was so different from any other storyline and it kept me wanting to read more.
I also loved how the characters Quill and Saskia from The Con Artist were shown in this book as a continuation of their story.
I highly recommend this book!
The Escape Artist is another captivating and enjoyable book from this very talented author. I’ve read a number of her books now and I’ve totally enjoyed them all. This one is definitely one of my favorites. When I started reading The Escape Artist, I was immediately caught up in the story and couldn’t turn the pages fast enough. Ari and Claire’s story is dark, daring, deep and downright steamy at times. I really enjoyed the dual POV of the characters. The reasoning behind their actions and feelings helped drive the story and kept me riveted throughout the book. The story flowed flawlessly from start to finish with an ending that both surprised and satisfied me. Ari was the perfect Alpha male, so powerful, sexy and strong with a hint of vulnerability and sweetness–I was hooked from the start. There are appearances of characters from other books which I found really enjoyable, but this book is a standalone and I think you’ll love it whether or not you’ve read any of the other books. If you like dark, sexy reads, don’t miss this awesome new book from Kitty Thomas!
This book was many things; gripping, emotional, dark, kinky, sexy, and definitely not your norm, but that’s part of what made it such an engrossing, can’t-put-it-down book. Claire is a broken woman who had been put through hell 3 years ago. She may be physically free, but she’s not mentally or emotionally free. Which leads to bad choices and mistaken identity. And that leads her to Ari. Let’s just say their beginning was not what anyone would want it to be. But a change in circumstances leads to many changes, for both Ari & Claire (and some old friends ). I completely love Ari (loved him in The Con Artist too, which, if you haven’t read, get on that). He was everything at all times. And I loved him & Claire together. And there’s sooo much more I loved, but I’m not going to spoil it for you. Grab this now and find out!!
I know I’m in for a treat every time I open a new Kitty Thomas book, but the Escape Artist exceeded my admittedly high expectations! The Escape Artist is the story of Ari who we met in The Con Artist (if you haven’t read this book then what are you waiting for?). A woman broken buy her traumatic past, a man both desperate and conflicted about taking what he needs, and an extreme case of mistaken identity combine to create the kind of story I’ll keep going back to time and time again. I adore both main characters in this book. I fell for Ari while reading The Con Artist and Kitty Thomas definitely delivered when it comes to his character. What a complex, noble, caring, compassionate, dominant, not to mention unbelievably hot hero! Clair is no less intriguing – both broken and fierce, torn apart by inability to reconcile her desires with her past trauma. Aside from the psychological intensity of this story, it is also extremely steamy and hot! Ari and Claire’s chemistry is undeniable, not to mention the addition of some beloved characters in the mix. I won;t give spoilers, but will say that those who read The Con Artist, will be very satisfied by certain parts of this story. Last but not least, I love Ari’s interactions with his other pet (you’ll have to read the book to find out who it is!). An absolute must read for all fans of Kitty Thomas or anyone who is thinking of dipping their toes into the magical world she creates!