Friday, June 3, 2011

Review: Rising: Freestyle by Vivian Arend

Rising: Freestyle by Vivian Arend

* I received this ebook from the author free of charge in exchange for an honest review.

Amazon Product Description:

Stuck between a rock-solid man and a hard place…
Xtreme Adventures, Book 2
Melanie Dixon’s body may have recovered from a horrific climbing accident, but her nerve is long gone. So is the natural enthusiasm for life she took for granted. Tired of being scared, beyond ready to conquer her fears, she pulls up stakes and moves to her brother’s new hometown to start over. Her first step is the most terrifying—to tackle the wall at the local climbing center.
Derrick James is mesmerized by Melanie’s dark beauty, and equally impressed with her climbing abilities and determination. Watching her retune rusty skills spurs a desire to partner with her—on and off the ropes. Melanie’s a compelling mix of wit, sensuality and vulnerability, and it’s his delicious task to convince her the scars on her body are no match for the heat rising between them.
Then a man from Melanie’s past shows up, pushing their relationship to the edge. Nathan King wants photographs for a “where are they now” series, but his side agenda is more personal in nature. A proposal that brings her out of her sensual shell and onto a precarious sexual ledge. Where trust is crucial…and too easily shattered.

My Thoughts:
This is not just a sexy romance story, it is so much more.  It is the story of a young woman - emotionally and psychologically destroyed by a climbing accident that left her terribly scarred. It is a tale of physical and emotional strength, determination, courage, love, trust, friendship, and giving.   A look into a woman recovering, accepting her scars, and learning to believe in and value herself.


The characters are incredible.   The story is steamy.  If you read this and don't fall for Derrick I will be amazed!  We should all be so lucky as to find the love of our life as well as good friends!
(This is an over 18 read!)