Bloom by Helen Hardt
Published: August 22, 2023
Entangled: Amara
Genre: Erotica
Pages: 324
KKECReads Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I received a copy of this book for free, and I leave my review voluntarily.
Helen Hardt is a #1 New York Times, #1 USA Today, and #1 Wall Street Journal bestselling author whose passion for the written word began with the books her mother read to her at bedtime. She wrote her first story at age six and hasn’t stopped since. In addition to being an award-winning author of romantic fiction, she’s a mother, an attorney, a black belt in Taekwondo, a grammar geek, an appreciator of fine red wine, and a lover of Ben and Jerry’s ice cream. She writes from her home in Colorado, where she lives with her family.
Phantom has rules, all designed to protect his identity. No names. No personal information. But Frankie is a too-tempting ingenue who threatens all of his cautious, careful control. At the ultra-exclusive Black Rose Underground Club, he can explore each of her deepest, uncharted desires…so long as he keeps his public life―and his secrets―hidden.
Frankie’s ready to explore what lies between them. The intensity, the darkness, and the unyielding pleasure of it all. But while the mystery of Phantom is thrilling, secrets are one game she won’t play. And if she’s going to explore the forbidden, she’ll begin with finding out exactly who’s under the mask…
“It’s like music when we kiss.”
Frankie is still getting over being told her fiancé had been cheating on her when her sister announces she and Jackson are getting married. Wanting to be happy for Mandy, Frankie tries to put on a front. Hiding behind a mask, he can enjoy his desires. He has never had an issue with wanting more from his playmates until he meets her.
I enjoyed the dynamic in this book. There were fewer steamy scenes and more connecting on a deeper level, but the steamy scenes were well done.
I enjoyed getting to know Frankie in this book. She was moving forward and looking for something else. The Phantom was a sensual mystery. A tantalizing newness, and together they succumbed.
The romance throughout this book is passionate and intense. I appreciate the research on D/s relationships and how openly and respectfully the lifestyle is discussed.
I am enjoying this series. I am a little bummed we didn’t find out who “Erik with a K” is, but otherwise, this was a kinky happily ever after.