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The Griffin Brothers #3
Creating a Love
Taking a chance on love…
Photographer Candi Marcus never wanted more than a casual hookup or one night stand. Until she met artist Owen Griffin. For the past two years, she’s only been with him. But it’s still just sex, or at least that’s what she’s told her friends. When he says he wants more, she can finally admit that she loves him.
Facing the past…
Protecting Owen from the illegal street art he did as a teen has already hurt two people he cares about. Now another woman from his past has come to collect her own debt. She needs a fake fiancé in order to get her inheritance and she’s not taking no for an answer. Candi knows the other woman’s in love with her real fiancé, so she convinces Owen to go along with everything, not realizing what it may cost her.
The right choice may cost them everything…
While the fake engagement isn’t easy on either of them, Candi and Owen know that their love is strong enough to handle whatever’s thrown in their path. Or is it? When Owen makes the only choice he can, he risks losing Candi for real. And as friends and family take sides, theirs may not be the only relationship to fall apart. Can an Art Boy prove to the woman he loves that she’s truly the one who owns his heart or will it be too late for her to listen to the reason behind his betrayal?
Creating their love was easy, but fighting for it is the hardest thing they’ve ever done.
Photographer Candi Marcus never wanted more than a casual hookup or one night stand. Until she met artist Owen Griffin. For the past two years, she’s only been with him. But it’s still just sex, or at least that’s what she’s told her friends. When he says he wants more, she can finally admit that she loves him.
Facing the past…
Protecting Owen from the illegal street art he did as a teen has already hurt two people he cares about. Now another woman from his past has come to collect her own debt. She needs a fake fiancé in order to get her inheritance and she’s not taking no for an answer. Candi knows the other woman’s in love with her real fiancé, so she convinces Owen to go along with everything, not realizing what it may cost her.
The right choice may cost them everything…
While the fake engagement isn’t easy on either of them, Candi and Owen know that their love is strong enough to handle whatever’s thrown in their path. Or is it? When Owen makes the only choice he can, he risks losing Candi for real. And as friends and family take sides, theirs may not be the only relationship to fall apart. Can an Art Boy prove to the woman he loves that she’s truly the one who owns his heart or will it be too late for her to listen to the reason behind his betrayal?
Creating their love was easy, but fighting for it is the hardest thing they’ve ever done.
279 pages, Paperback
First published September 2, 2014
About the author
Crystal Perkins
72 books428 followers2018 RWA Steffie Walker Bookseller of the Year
2016 RT Creative Initiatives Award
Crystal Perkins has always been a big reader, but she never thought she would write her own book, until she sat down in 2014 and did it. She's now published over 40 books, and has been featured in several anthologies as well.
She lived in Las Vegas for over a decade, where you could find her running author events and winning bookseller awards. She's was recently living in North Dakota to be closer to her family, but she is back in Vegas. When she's not reading a few hundred books a year or chasing after her grandson, you can find her watching hockey (Go Knights Go!) and trying to find the perfect shade of lipstick.
She loves Star Wars AND Star Trek, but if pushed to choose, it will always be Leia and her crew who come out on top. Her love of all things nerdy comes through in her book characters, no matter the genre. A mac and cheese connoisseur, she travels the world looking for the perfect version, while attending book conventions and signings as a cover for her research. Poutine research is also conducted regularly on her trips.
Her first series, The Griffin Brothers, followed four billionaire brothers, and the third book, Creating a Love, was a finalist for a multicultural award in 2014. Her second series, Corrigan & Co. featured a secret society of female spies in Las Vegas. She followed this with Society Girls, which offered a glimpse into the training of the women who are recruited into the Corrigan & Co. Foundation, and the Society. The Company Men series featured the relatives of her secret society of spies.
Activate is a Young Adult Sci-Fi standalone novel, and A Kiss Is Just a Kiss is a Romantic Comedy standalone book. If you like something darker, you can find her Horror short stories in the Never Fear anthologies!
She’s currently writing about modern day witches in her Burn series, and bridesmaids for hire who solve mysteries in The Maids! In 2020, she will also be starting a hockey novella series.
Crystal loves hearing from her readers, so please feel free to send her an email, Facebook message, or Tweet! She's also on Instagram, where you can see her monthly reads!
Crystal@crystalperkinsauthor.com
facebook.com/crystalperkinsauthor
Twitter: @wondermomlv
Instagram: @crystalperkinsauthor
2016 RT Creative Initiatives Award
Crystal Perkins has always been a big reader, but she never thought she would write her own book, until she sat down in 2014 and did it. She's now published over 40 books, and has been featured in several anthologies as well.
She lived in Las Vegas for over a decade, where you could find her running author events and winning bookseller awards. She's was recently living in North Dakota to be closer to her family, but she is back in Vegas. When she's not reading a few hundred books a year or chasing after her grandson, you can find her watching hockey (Go Knights Go!) and trying to find the perfect shade of lipstick.
She loves Star Wars AND Star Trek, but if pushed to choose, it will always be Leia and her crew who come out on top. Her love of all things nerdy comes through in her book characters, no matter the genre. A mac and cheese connoisseur, she travels the world looking for the perfect version, while attending book conventions and signings as a cover for her research. Poutine research is also conducted regularly on her trips.
Her first series, The Griffin Brothers, followed four billionaire brothers, and the third book, Creating a Love, was a finalist for a multicultural award in 2014. Her second series, Corrigan & Co. featured a secret society of female spies in Las Vegas. She followed this with Society Girls, which offered a glimpse into the training of the women who are recruited into the Corrigan & Co. Foundation, and the Society. The Company Men series featured the relatives of her secret society of spies.
Activate is a Young Adult Sci-Fi standalone novel, and A Kiss Is Just a Kiss is a Romantic Comedy standalone book. If you like something darker, you can find her Horror short stories in the Never Fear anthologies!
She’s currently writing about modern day witches in her Burn series, and bridesmaids for hire who solve mysteries in The Maids! In 2020, she will also be starting a hockey novella series.
Crystal loves hearing from her readers, so please feel free to send her an email, Facebook message, or Tweet! She's also on Instagram, where you can see her monthly reads!
Crystal@crystalperkinsauthor.com
facebook.com/crystalperkinsauthor
Twitter: @wondermomlv
Instagram: @crystalperkinsauthor
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
May 22, 2016
This series just keeps getting better
I really enjoyed this book I was dyin for Owens books after getting bit of him from the last 2 books an this was just brilliant the chemistry he had with Candi was so hot an after havin a sexually relationship together for so long they finally made it official but then stuff happen was made there situation a hard an they would now have to hide there relationship Ye it was just for a short time but it was goin to be hard
I thought these to were so cute together an seeing a different side to Owen was great he wasn't so bad boy he was romantic an would do some very romantic things for Candi an God was he sexy an super hot but the whole family r every brother in this family are super hot but there r some moments when Owen can b a serious ass an I just wanted to punch him the way he wouldnt let Candi explain stuff an he could b really hurtful at times he is lucky his family r there to give him a kick up the arse haha
Overall I thought this was a great book the story is really good an the characters just keep getting better I m dyin for Luke's story after what happened in this I need to know more an I means I get more of this sexy lot so bring it on ; ) xxx
I really enjoyed this book I was dyin for Owens books after getting bit of him from the last 2 books an this was just brilliant the chemistry he had with Candi was so hot an after havin a sexually relationship together for so long they finally made it official but then stuff happen was made there situation a hard an they would now have to hide there relationship Ye it was just for a short time but it was goin to be hard
I thought these to were so cute together an seeing a different side to Owen was great he wasn't so bad boy he was romantic an would do some very romantic things for Candi an God was he sexy an super hot but the whole family r every brother in this family are super hot but there r some moments when Owen can b a serious ass an I just wanted to punch him the way he wouldnt let Candi explain stuff an he could b really hurtful at times he is lucky his family r there to give him a kick up the arse haha
Overall I thought this was a great book the story is really good an the characters just keep getting better I m dyin for Luke's story after what happened in this I need to know more an I means I get more of this sexy lot so bring it on ; ) xxx
December 9, 2015
This book has been in my TBR for over a year (I’m so ashamed…Not really), and I won’t lie: The cover grabbed me immediately, and it was an instant clicker. I had every intention of reading this a lot sooner, but honestly I think it just got buried in my ever-growing collection of unread titles. And guess what? This is a sweet, romantic, filthy lil story. This is one of those sex solves everything stories, and when you’re in the mood for lighthearted, love conquers all fantasy, then this may be the one for you.
So, don’t let the title fool you. Yes, this is book 3 in author Crystal Perkins’ series The Griffin Brothers, but it can be read as a standalone. Of course, there is crossover. I mean, really, how can you write about a group of brothers and not have them be in each others’ stories? I should also mention that this is the only IR book (BWWM) in the series, so if you’re an IR fan like me, then this is it. And this is not to say, don’t read the other books, but y’all know how I roll, so yeah, this is it for me…Now, on to the review!
Owen and Candi are friends with benfefits, and when those feelings develop into something deeper, they’re both low key afraid to tell one another. After one of their salacious romps, they drop the BS pretenses and confess their true feelings, however, no sooner than they do this, and I mean literally after they decide to become exclusive, Owen’s friend Mara announces that she’s engaged to be married-to Owen! Not only does this shatter Candi, but Owen stands there looking like a chump because he doesn’t have a clue WTF is going on no more than Candi or anyone else at the function they’re all attending does. Well, it turns out that Mara needs a beard so she can collect her inheritance when she becomes of age in a few months, and Owen happens to owe her a huge favor so she redeems it in a major way. Candi and Mara’s gf go along with the ruse cause it’s only a for a few months right? Hmmm…Well, that’s what they all say, but you know some shit is bound to go down along the way to blow the whole thing up.
This was such a filthy, sexy, engaging read for me. I love that Owen and Candi’s relationship developed organically even though their beginning was rough. Owen did some foul shit to Candi because he reacted instead of listened and almost fucked up the best thing that ever happened to him. We witness Owen and Candy go from fuck buddies to I want this forever, and this chick was swooning. Owen was so protective of Candi’s heart throughout the entire ordeal while reigning in his alpha asshole tendencies (which did slip out a couple of times), and I really dug that because a man can be the “man” without beating his chest like a crazed ape ya know? Their banter was so witty and genuine, and I was like yeah, couples really do act like this-especially young ones. Oh, and did I mention the romance was off the chain? I like when couples can verbalize and demonstrate their desires so freely, even if it does take a little persuasion sometimes. These two humped like rabbits, and I’m not exaggerating either.
What made me rate this story only four stars was I didn’t like the way Candi felt victimized to me practically throughout this entire narrative. One, she had literally no family to speak of, so her only emotional support (She was a very successful, financially independent photographer, so yay for that) was Owen and his family who seemed to have almost adopted her in a sense. Two, she was constantly made to feel less than inferior because she was black (or biracial being “light mocha with blue eyes”) by Owen’s fake fiance’s parents as well as the press and hating socialites who literally told her that she didn’t belong and that Owen deserved better (I forgot to mention that the Griffins are billionaire real estate moguls or something)…And lastly, just the entire plot of her having to be this “secret” and not being able to publicly declare her love for Owen and vice versa. Yeah, that shit bothered me, but the author does offer some commentary at the end of the book that speaks to why she wrote the book the way that she did. Oh, don’t get me wrong, Candi was no punk. She gave as good as she got and took no shit from no one.
What saved the story for me was Owen’s undying love and affection for Candi and his constant need to please her even when he fucked up. And oh yeah, did I mention the sex was off the chain? That was worth a couple of stars on its own. This is a full-length story with no cliffhanger, and it’s only $.99, so it’s definitely worth giving a shot.
So, don’t let the title fool you. Yes, this is book 3 in author Crystal Perkins’ series The Griffin Brothers, but it can be read as a standalone. Of course, there is crossover. I mean, really, how can you write about a group of brothers and not have them be in each others’ stories? I should also mention that this is the only IR book (BWWM) in the series, so if you’re an IR fan like me, then this is it. And this is not to say, don’t read the other books, but y’all know how I roll, so yeah, this is it for me…Now, on to the review!
Owen and Candi are friends with benfefits, and when those feelings develop into something deeper, they’re both low key afraid to tell one another. After one of their salacious romps, they drop the BS pretenses and confess their true feelings, however, no sooner than they do this, and I mean literally after they decide to become exclusive, Owen’s friend Mara announces that she’s engaged to be married-to Owen! Not only does this shatter Candi, but Owen stands there looking like a chump because he doesn’t have a clue WTF is going on no more than Candi or anyone else at the function they’re all attending does. Well, it turns out that Mara needs a beard so she can collect her inheritance when she becomes of age in a few months, and Owen happens to owe her a huge favor so she redeems it in a major way. Candi and Mara’s gf go along with the ruse cause it’s only a for a few months right? Hmmm…Well, that’s what they all say, but you know some shit is bound to go down along the way to blow the whole thing up.
This was such a filthy, sexy, engaging read for me. I love that Owen and Candi’s relationship developed organically even though their beginning was rough. Owen did some foul shit to Candi because he reacted instead of listened and almost fucked up the best thing that ever happened to him. We witness Owen and Candy go from fuck buddies to I want this forever, and this chick was swooning. Owen was so protective of Candi’s heart throughout the entire ordeal while reigning in his alpha asshole tendencies (which did slip out a couple of times), and I really dug that because a man can be the “man” without beating his chest like a crazed ape ya know? Their banter was so witty and genuine, and I was like yeah, couples really do act like this-especially young ones. Oh, and did I mention the romance was off the chain? I like when couples can verbalize and demonstrate their desires so freely, even if it does take a little persuasion sometimes. These two humped like rabbits, and I’m not exaggerating either.
What made me rate this story only four stars was I didn’t like the way Candi felt victimized to me practically throughout this entire narrative. One, she had literally no family to speak of, so her only emotional support (She was a very successful, financially independent photographer, so yay for that) was Owen and his family who seemed to have almost adopted her in a sense. Two, she was constantly made to feel less than inferior because she was black (or biracial being “light mocha with blue eyes”) by Owen’s fake fiance’s parents as well as the press and hating socialites who literally told her that she didn’t belong and that Owen deserved better (I forgot to mention that the Griffins are billionaire real estate moguls or something)…And lastly, just the entire plot of her having to be this “secret” and not being able to publicly declare her love for Owen and vice versa. Yeah, that shit bothered me, but the author does offer some commentary at the end of the book that speaks to why she wrote the book the way that she did. Oh, don’t get me wrong, Candi was no punk. She gave as good as she got and took no shit from no one.
What saved the story for me was Owen’s undying love and affection for Candi and his constant need to please her even when he fucked up. And oh yeah, did I mention the sex was off the chain? That was worth a couple of stars on its own. This is a full-length story with no cliffhanger, and it’s only $.99, so it’s definitely worth giving a shot.
September 12, 2014
SPOILERS:
A story about FORGIVENESS.
Lots and lots and LOTS of forgiveness.
He apologises / asks for forgiveness more than TEN times within these 200 odd pages.
Within a period of about a couple of months.
She forgives him:
• When he agrees to fake an engagement with a woman who blackmails him
Forgives him:
• When they’re now forced to hide their already weak relationship
Forgives him:
• When he has to kiss and touch ow in public
Forgives him:
• When he breaks dates with her ‘cos he has to celebrate his “engagement” with OW
Forgives him:
• When he VERY publicly betrays her by denying his love for her
Forgives him:
• When he VERY publicly declares his love for his fake fiancée (and seals it with a kiss)
Forgives him:
• When he CONSISTENTLY lies about always choosing to protect her over ow
Forgives him:
• When ow’s parents force him and ow to share a hotel room for a night
Forgives him:
• For not calling h with an explanation during that whole night
Forgives him:
• When he calls her a liar
Forgives him:
• When he tells her that he can’t believe that he thought he was in love with her
Forgives him:
• When he throws her key at her and watches it hit her shoulder
Forgives him:
• He deliberately shoulder checks her & doesn’t “really give a fuck” when she falls over
Forgives him:
• When he rejects her in front of his family, in 1 of the most hurtful ways I’ve read to date
Forgives him:
• When he so easily gives up on them
Forgives him:
• When he throws an unnecessary obnoxiously ugly jealous fit
Forgives him:
• When he violently throws furniture around in yet another fit of jealousy
Forgives him:
• When he assumes the worst of her yet AGAIN and accuses her of infidelity
Forgives hm:
• When he turns down her sexual advances (SIXTEEN TIMES) in 1 month (she counted)
And all of the above is just fine because:
• The ow is gay & should therefore be no threat to their love
• The ow has a really valid reason for blackmailing him
• The ow needs to be protected at ALL costs because she’s had a really bad lot in life
• The ow is allowed to be conniving, selfish and crude cos of that bad lot in her life
• He can’t call her ‘cos ow’s parents insists he leave his fone with them during the night the H & ow spend in the hotel - to bond without outside influences
• He can’t call her ‘cos ow won’t let him use her fone ‘cos she needs to have fone sex with h real fiancée. This posh hotel suit cannot have it’s own fone, after all.
• He didn’t call her when ow’s fone WAS available for him to use cos he was confiding in ow about h and how much he loves her – so that’s okay, right? That he fell asleep without calling her. At least he was talking ABOUT her, if not TO her
• He can always make it all up to her by SHOWING her how sorry he is
�� He’s only dissing the h’s advances because he’s so engrossed in his work
• He was only protecting his family when he called her a liar – so that’s okay, right?
• He confesses that although he didn’t want to hurt her when he pushed her, he WAS NOT SORRY WHEN HE KNEW SHE MIGHT HAVE FALLEN. But he won’t ever touch her in anger again – so that’s okay, right?
• The jealous rages are ‘cos he saw her laughing with another guy (and some other misunderstanding) and he has jealously issues – so that’s okay, right?
The Hero:
I looked for, but didn’t find much worthiness in this hero.
His thoughts contradict his actions.
He waxes lyrical within his mind but then acts in a completely different manner.
He hurts her constantly although he “doesn’t want to.”
He does it anyway, KNOWING he is hurting her.
He screams and rants and raves and rejects and betrays her. Again and again.
He is unfailingly loyal to his family.
But even that doesn’t make him anything other than a weak bully who INTENTIONALLY uses his body to hurt her.
No man who hurts a woman should be called "hero".
The heroine:
I don't have much to say about the h because she allows all of the above and MORE.
On top of everything else she has to deal with racial slurs and contempt.
She IS feisty and comes across as strong and independent but when it comes to the crunch she enables his appalling disrespect.
A story about FORGIVENESS.
Lots and lots and LOTS of forgiveness.
He apologises / asks for forgiveness more than TEN times within these 200 odd pages.
Within a period of about a couple of months.
She forgives him:
• When he agrees to fake an engagement with a woman who blackmails him
Forgives him:
• When they’re now forced to hide their already weak relationship
Forgives him:
• When he has to kiss and touch ow in public
Forgives him:
• When he breaks dates with her ‘cos he has to celebrate his “engagement” with OW
Forgives him:
• When he VERY publicly betrays her by denying his love for her
Forgives him:
• When he VERY publicly declares his love for his fake fiancée (and seals it with a kiss)
Forgives him:
• When he CONSISTENTLY lies about always choosing to protect her over ow
Forgives him:
• When ow’s parents force him and ow to share a hotel room for a night
Forgives him:
• For not calling h with an explanation during that whole night
Forgives him:
• When he calls her a liar
Forgives him:
• When he tells her that he can’t believe that he thought he was in love with her
Forgives him:
• When he throws her key at her and watches it hit her shoulder
Forgives him:
• He deliberately shoulder checks her & doesn’t “really give a fuck” when she falls over
Forgives him:
• When he rejects her in front of his family, in 1 of the most hurtful ways I’ve read to date
Forgives him:
• When he so easily gives up on them
Forgives him:
• When he throws an unnecessary obnoxiously ugly jealous fit
Forgives him:
• When he violently throws furniture around in yet another fit of jealousy
Forgives him:
• When he assumes the worst of her yet AGAIN and accuses her of infidelity
Forgives hm:
• When he turns down her sexual advances (SIXTEEN TIMES) in 1 month (she counted)
And all of the above is just fine because:
• The ow is gay & should therefore be no threat to their love
• The ow has a really valid reason for blackmailing him
• The ow needs to be protected at ALL costs because she’s had a really bad lot in life
• The ow is allowed to be conniving, selfish and crude cos of that bad lot in her life
• He can’t call her ‘cos ow’s parents insists he leave his fone with them during the night the H & ow spend in the hotel - to bond without outside influences
• He can’t call her ‘cos ow won’t let him use her fone ‘cos she needs to have fone sex with h real fiancée. This posh hotel suit cannot have it’s own fone, after all.
• He didn’t call her when ow’s fone WAS available for him to use cos he was confiding in ow about h and how much he loves her – so that’s okay, right? That he fell asleep without calling her. At least he was talking ABOUT her, if not TO her
• He can always make it all up to her by SHOWING her how sorry he is
�� He’s only dissing the h’s advances because he’s so engrossed in his work
• He was only protecting his family when he called her a liar – so that’s okay, right?
• He confesses that although he didn’t want to hurt her when he pushed her, he WAS NOT SORRY WHEN HE KNEW SHE MIGHT HAVE FALLEN. But he won’t ever touch her in anger again – so that’s okay, right?
• The jealous rages are ‘cos he saw her laughing with another guy (and some other misunderstanding) and he has jealously issues – so that’s okay, right?
The Hero:
I looked for, but didn’t find much worthiness in this hero.
His thoughts contradict his actions.
He waxes lyrical within his mind but then acts in a completely different manner.
He hurts her constantly although he “doesn’t want to.”
He does it anyway, KNOWING he is hurting her.
He screams and rants and raves and rejects and betrays her. Again and again.
He is unfailingly loyal to his family.
But even that doesn’t make him anything other than a weak bully who INTENTIONALLY uses his body to hurt her.
No man who hurts a woman should be called "hero".
The heroine:
I don't have much to say about the h because she allows all of the above and MORE.
On top of everything else she has to deal with racial slurs and contempt.
She IS feisty and comes across as strong and independent but when it comes to the crunch she enables his appalling disrespect.
Want to read
March 19, 2020🎁 The Complete Griffin Brothers Series (7 book series) is FREE on Amazon US and on iBooks today (3/19/2020)! 🎁
January 9, 2018
Owen and Candi are FWB and have been for two years. They don't date other people and haven't labeled their relationship but they both want more but are too afraid to say anything. After Owen Candi against the back wall of his parent's guest house during a weekly family BBQ; he garners the courage to ask her for exclusivity and she agrees.
Openly claiming her will have to wait because he has to pay an old debt that is being called in. This debt will test his newly committed relationship within seconds. He's been called on to be a fake fiance for Mara, a female friend from the past. Why? Her family suspects she likes girls, and she does but she likes her trust fund money even more. Owen makes it clear nothing will move forward without the consent of his girlfriend Candi and Candi agrees to the 60-day tomfoolery. The next day, Day One Candi has a meltdown, complete with ignoring Owen, though he's done nothing wrong. Now that he's her man, she's feeling territorial and she will feel many more emotions in the days to come.
Owen tries very hard to make Candi feel comfortable and loved while fulfilling his obligation to Mara. He's damn near the perfect book boyfriend until Pivotal Moment No. 1! He completely showed his ass and how Candi reacted was a revelation because there is just no damn way!!! Stiletto meet the upside of Owen's BIG head!
In the interim weeks Owen and Candi manage to meet to have sex and they date on the downlow strictly around family and close friends. In fact, there was entirely too much sex in this book. You know how I know?! I started skipping the sex scenes. PLUS, the characters kept saying ... our relationship is about more than sex! I'm here to say, no it wasn't though I wanted it to be.
I have a real problem with stories where the woman never ever says no and they never get a damn period. This couple had mind-blowing, loose limbs sex -- multiple times, with multiple orgasms each and every time. Well? Guess what? Someone got tired and it was Owen! Candi whined one morning about him turning her down sixteen times for sex. All these no's took place off the page and Owen couldn't remember ever telling her no. When find out these no's took place during a time when Owen was extremely busy fulfilling multiple work orders within a tight deadline. Not because he was bored (insert eye roll here) with her.
Candi recovered from PM1 quite nicely so Owen must have thought she would entirely prepared for Pivotal Moment No. 2! His insensitive words and actions in public no less, shamed and embarrassed Candi. Forcing family and friends to take sides. Eventually, because this heroine doesn't stay pissed off for any length of time, Owen is allowed back in her good graces immediately after they talk. When we get to the climax !
I liked this author's writing style so I'll be reading more from her in the future.
Openly claiming her will have to wait because he has to pay an old debt that is being called in. This debt will test his newly committed relationship within seconds. He's been called on to be a fake fiance for Mara, a female friend from the past. Why? Her family suspects she likes girls, and she does but she likes her trust fund money even more. Owen makes it clear nothing will move forward without the consent of his girlfriend Candi and Candi agrees to the 60-day tomfoolery. The next day, Day One Candi has a meltdown, complete with ignoring Owen, though he's done nothing wrong. Now that he's her man, she's feeling territorial and she will feel many more emotions in the days to come.
Owen tries very hard to make Candi feel comfortable and loved while fulfilling his obligation to Mara. He's damn near the perfect book boyfriend until Pivotal Moment No. 1! He completely showed his ass and how Candi reacted was a revelation because there is just no damn way!!! Stiletto meet the upside of Owen's BIG head!
In the interim weeks Owen and Candi manage to meet to have sex and they date on the downlow strictly around family and close friends. In fact, there was entirely too much sex in this book. You know how I know?! I started skipping the sex scenes. PLUS, the characters kept saying ... our relationship is about more than sex! I'm here to say, no it wasn't though I wanted it to be.
I have a real problem with stories where the woman never ever says no and they never get a damn period. This couple had mind-blowing, loose limbs sex -- multiple times, with multiple orgasms each and every time. Well? Guess what? Someone got tired and it was Owen! Candi whined one morning about him turning her down sixteen times for sex. All these no's took place off the page and Owen couldn't remember ever telling her no. When find out these no's took place during a time when Owen was extremely busy fulfilling multiple work orders within a tight deadline. Not because he was bored (insert eye roll here) with her.
Candi recovered from PM1 quite nicely so Owen must have thought she would entirely prepared for Pivotal Moment No. 2! His insensitive words and actions in public no less, shamed and embarrassed Candi. Forcing family and friends to take sides. Eventually, because this heroine doesn't stay pissed off for any length of time, Owen is allowed back in her good graces immediately after they talk. When we get to the climax !
I liked this author's writing style so I'll be reading more from her in the future.
November 13, 2014
I say it after each book I read, but I love and respect the Griffin family more with each story! There are still families out there that are loyal to each other and it is amazing to see. Even more amazing if you are lucky enough to experience it.
Owen and Candi and Mara and Leila are amazing well written characters. So many things in their story happens every day in the real world. Race, religion, and sexual orientation shouldn't have to be a problem. It is so special when you watch someone come out on the other side of a trial with someone they love by their side.
This is a beautiful story full of passion, pain, forgiveness, and hope. Most of all, Love!
Of course, some hot and steamy sex doesn't hurt the story line either!
Owen and Candi and Mara and Leila are amazing well written characters. So many things in their story happens every day in the real world. Race, religion, and sexual orientation shouldn't have to be a problem. It is so special when you watch someone come out on the other side of a trial with someone they love by their side.
This is a beautiful story full of passion, pain, forgiveness, and hope. Most of all, Love!
Of course, some hot and steamy sex doesn't hurt the story line either!
November 26, 2014
I was gifted this book (thank you) in exchange for an honest review.
Creating a Love by Crystal Perkins is different from the other two books in her Griffin Brothers Series. Different is not a bad thing, she deals with touchy-feely subjects that are real triggers for some people. To say the very least, she pushed what is considered socially acceptable limits. She does this with no regrets and she does it head on! I applaud her once again for writing a book that is a little outside the box, putting some of the real issues that people really face today and her dealing with them with grace and dignity.
Candi and Owen have been having a sexual relationship for two years, but that is all it has been...sex! They finally decide to make it more than that and tell all of their friends and family they are officially a couple. That very moment fate takes over!!! A friend from Owen's past, and that Owen owes a favor to walks in and blackmails Owen. She needs a pretend fiancé until her inheritance comes through from her Grandmother. She will then marry the real love of her life. She just needs a few months of Owens time.
The Griffin Family is one of strong morals and they believe in doing the right thing. Owen goes along with this fake engagement. Things aren't easy for Candi and Owen, but they know how strong their love is and they think that they can get through anything that they face.
Owen makes a choice to protect his friend but hurts Candi and ends up risking loosing her, the Griffin family for the first time divides loyalties. This could end up of more than just Candi and Owen.
I give Creating a Love 5 Platypires
Or stars depending on how you count things!
Bama Love!! Roll Tide!! and Keep Reading Y'all!!
~Renee
Creating a Love by Crystal Perkins is different from the other two books in her Griffin Brothers Series. Different is not a bad thing, she deals with touchy-feely subjects that are real triggers for some people. To say the very least, she pushed what is considered socially acceptable limits. She does this with no regrets and she does it head on! I applaud her once again for writing a book that is a little outside the box, putting some of the real issues that people really face today and her dealing with them with grace and dignity.
Candi and Owen have been having a sexual relationship for two years, but that is all it has been...sex! They finally decide to make it more than that and tell all of their friends and family they are officially a couple. That very moment fate takes over!!! A friend from Owen's past, and that Owen owes a favor to walks in and blackmails Owen. She needs a pretend fiancé until her inheritance comes through from her Grandmother. She will then marry the real love of her life. She just needs a few months of Owens time.
The Griffin Family is one of strong morals and they believe in doing the right thing. Owen goes along with this fake engagement. Things aren't easy for Candi and Owen, but they know how strong their love is and they think that they can get through anything that they face.
Owen makes a choice to protect his friend but hurts Candi and ends up risking loosing her, the Griffin family for the first time divides loyalties. This could end up of more than just Candi and Owen.
I give Creating a Love 5 Platypires
Or stars depending on how you count things!
Bama Love!! Roll Tide!! and Keep Reading Y'all!!
~Renee
September 29, 2014
A book filled with lots of love! How could I not like it? I really love how Crystal Perkins incorporates social issues into a story that speaks volumes of love. Candi and Owen had a lot to conquer throughout the book; their love prevailing through it all. I loved the steady flow of their relationship - through their ups and downs - and finally to the point of resolution. The epilogue was perfection! I can't wait to see more of Candi and Owen in the next installment along with other beloved characters!
August 3, 2016
I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review. OMG!! I love Owen and Candi's story. Owen is so awesome!!! Who wouldn't love an Art Boy. Candi is pretty phenomenal as well. She doesn't take any crap from people and will stick up for herself and the people she cares for. I was initially irked about what Mara was asking from Owen however, when all the details came out I totally understood. The Evan's need to get slapped big time. I love the Griffin family!!
September 16, 2014
Owen is my favorite! Oh wait...... I saw that after I read each book. First Scott, then Ryan and now Owen!
The book is written really well and I was drawn into the story! Owen is the fun loving brother in books 1 &2, but in his book you see all sides of Owen.
There is drama in the book but not so much that it drives you crazy. It is a must read!
The book is written really well and I was drawn into the story! Owen is the fun loving brother in books 1 &2, but in his book you see all sides of Owen.
There is drama in the book but not so much that it drives you crazy. It is a must read!
October 30, 2014
This was the 3rd book of The Griffin Brother Series. I had the hardest time getting into this story. I did not connect with the characters right from the get go. But when I did, I started to fly through the story. I liked that this story touched on some more serious issues mixed into the plot line.
November 10, 2014
Achei boa a história. Aborda preconceito racial e sexual de uma maneira que se encaixa na história sem ficar pesado o assunto. A família é toda muito interessante.
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I found the story very good. The plot deals with racial and sexual issues in a way that fits the story without getting heavy subject. The family is all very interesting.
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I found the story very good. The plot deals with racial and sexual issues in a way that fits the story without getting heavy subject. The family is all very interesting.
October 31, 2014
This is the story of what happens when a man agrees to be a fake fiancee for a woman. The problem is that he is in love with someone else. The fake engagement takes a toll on everyone and he comes close to losing his true love. Nice romance.
August 13, 2016
Owen may be my favorite after writing this book-I always thought it would be Scott!
May 23, 2020
Hard sell
For the most part I was bored out of my mind. I’ve read this trope where a guy has to marry a girl to pacify rich parents, although he’s in love with somebody else. This has been done countless of times only this one involve a gray friend, however it was not an interesting plot, just because it’s a different concept.
I feel like this book was… trying to hard to be dissimilar, but Owen and Candy relationship was filled with too much apologizes and it was overbearing.
Owen was quick to judge Candy for something his younger brother did. He broke up with her even called her a lying b@tch and two pages down, after it was revealed that she was telling the truth, he suddenly feels remorseful and dun.... dun..dun.. APOLOGIZED.
Candy in this situation should’ve developed a backbone and let him grovel, but oh no! she forgave him.
This book simply didn’t quite hit it for me. It’s definitely an interesting angle in that general trope department, but it just wasn’t a hit for me.
For the most part I was bored out of my mind. I’ve read this trope where a guy has to marry a girl to pacify rich parents, although he’s in love with somebody else. This has been done countless of times only this one involve a gray friend, however it was not an interesting plot, just because it’s a different concept.
I feel like this book was… trying to hard to be dissimilar, but Owen and Candy relationship was filled with too much apologizes and it was overbearing.
Owen was quick to judge Candy for something his younger brother did. He broke up with her even called her a lying b@tch and two pages down, after it was revealed that she was telling the truth, he suddenly feels remorseful and dun.... dun..dun.. APOLOGIZED.
Candy in this situation should’ve developed a backbone and let him grovel, but oh no! she forgave him.
This book simply didn’t quite hit it for me. It’s definitely an interesting angle in that general trope department, but it just wasn’t a hit for me.
August 8, 2023
⛔️(in notes)
October 12, 2014
This one didn't do it for me as well as the previous 2 books in the series. Owen and Candi did have a lot of ups and downs in this book. I found myself getting sick of all of the sex they constantly kept having, even through some tumultuous times. Candi and Owen faced some pretty dramatic issues and Candi was subjected to some harsh criticism and racism throughout this book. Owen had reasons for supporting Mara the way he did, however, some of it was too dramatic for me. Mara was put through some unbelievable things by her parents and it was distressing to read what she went through. Her grandmother was sweet and understanding and I had a hard time understanding why her grandmother didn't reach out to Mara prior to their engagement party. Overall an okay read.
December 6, 2014
It felt like it started in the middle of the story. There was never any explanation given for why neither were willing to commit or label their relationship and I got so annoyed that they made a drama out of nothing. They all insisted Owen explain the reason for the misunderstanding even though they knew Candi wouldn't listen and it caused so much trouble when all it would have taken was for someone to say one word to get her attention and it would have been problem solved. Especially when you consider Yasmin's determination to stand by her friend but she still wouldn't end her misery. It all just became a bit ridiculous.
July 11, 2015
There were to many secretes in this story. They all knew and no one did anything. I get people are upset but pull your head out of your ass. There was not enough details given on the important things. We didn't even really know they were seeing each other. Would have liked flashbacks more. There were not enough description given to visualize the places with the characters. We got plenty of discription on their clothing and it went over board there but everything else was lacking. Like I have said with all these females they give in way to easily to these men. They bully them and as soon as they say sorry the women go ok whatever. This is not one of my favorite series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 23, 2015
I finally finished the book and it took me longer than expected. I just could not connect with the characters at all. In order for a book to be an enjoyable read for me, I must connect with the characters in some way, shape or form and I really tried with this book but I can't force something that's not there. All I can say was that this book just wasn't for me and with that being said, just because it wasn't a book for me doesn't mean you shouldn't give it a try.
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