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Blackwood

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I dig. It’s what I do. I’ll literally use a shovel to answer a question. Some answers, though, have been buried too deep for too long. But I’ll find those, too. And I know where to dig—the Blackwood Estate on the edge of the Mississippi Delta. Garrett Blackwood is the only thing standing between me and the truth. A broken man—one with desires that dance in the darkest part of my soul—he’s either my savior or my enemy. I’ll dig until I find all his secrets. Then I’ll run so he never finds mine. The only problem? He likes it when I run.

Author’s Note: This is a standalone mystery/suspense romance with violence and explicit/intense sex. If you need a trigger warning, then this isn't the book for you.

If you purchased the book during the first week, Counsellor is included at the end as a bonus. Blackwood is a 67k-word FULL-LENGTH novel that ends at 54%.

270 pages, ebook

First published January 7, 2017

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About the author

Celia Aaron

58 books4,149 followers
Celia Aaron is a recovering attorney who loves romance and erotic fiction. Dark to light, angsty to funny, real to fantasy—if it’s hot and strikes her fancy, she writes it. Thanks for reading.

Sign up for my newsletter at celiaaaron.com to get information on new releases. (I would never spam you or sell your info, just send you book news and goodies sometimes). ;)

You can find me on:
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 799 reviews
Profile Image for SueBee★bring me an alpha!★.
2,417 reviews14.8k followers
February 14, 2017





⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2! Blackwood (stand-alone). Erotic thriller about shrieks in the forest around recluse Garrett Blackwood’s estate!

“Fuck!” He roared and bit me again, then flipped me onto my back.
His hair hung in disarray, and he was every bit as wild as the forest around us.”

Blackwood (stand-alone) opens up to archaeology student Elise Vale aka Red on a mission to find her missing father. All her research points to that answers might be buried around the woods of the Blackwood estate.

Recluse and former history professor Garrett Blackwood does not want anyone digging on his property. The story follows Elise as she enters into Garrett’s dark world of sex.

But when her digging uncovers the most gruesome of crimes her intense sexual attraction and blossoming feelings for Garrett will put her in a precarious situation, deep in the woods of the Mississippi Delta.

Is it women screaming of fear or pleasure? Or both?

“He grabbed my ass and raised me to his face as if he were feasting on a sumptuous meal.”



Seven words to describe Garrett Blackwood: recluse, mysterious, broken, honorable, commanding, devious and moody.



Seven words to describe Elise Vale aka Red: determined, fearless, naïve, smart, nurturing, reflective and impressionable.

Blackwood, told from Elise’s POV, is a suspenseful erotic thriller offering a blend of danger, violence, murder and deception set against the backdrop of Elise’s sexual awakening and introduction into the darker side of sex, including breath-play and simulated rape. It ends on a high with answers and an epilogue in the future.

Bearded recluse with devious taste in sex!

“A smirk crept into his lips, the fine lines next to his eyes crinkling. “You get so aggressive when you’re horny.”

***
Hero: ★★★★
Heroine: ★★★★
Plot: ★★★★
Storytelling: ★★★★★
Sexual tension: ★★★★★
Sex scenes: ★★★★★
Story ending: ★★★★1/2
*******************************************
OVERALL RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
Angst: | MEDIUM FOCUS |
Darkness: | HIGH FOCUS |
Humor: | LOW FOCUS |
Kink: | HIGH FOCUS |
Romance: | MEDIUM FOCUS |
Sex frequency: | HIGH FOCUS |
Suspense: | HIGH FOCUS |



ARC provided to me by author Celia Aaron in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for ✦❋Arianna✦❋.
790 reviews2,568 followers
January 8, 2017

4-4.5 Stars!!



If you enjoy erotic thriller/mysteries than you don’t want to miss this one. 'Blackwood' was alluring, intriguing, sexy as f@ck and it kept me at the edge of my seat for one reason or another the entire time. While I’ve read and enjoyed many books by this author, I have to say this gripping, dark-ish tale was my favorite to date. It was fantastically written, sucked me in from the very beginning with its premise and held my interest the entire time with an engaging story line and layered, enthralling characters.


“Mysteries were meant to be solved, truths brought to light.”


Elise Vale is working on her Ph.D in archaeology, focusing on Choctaw culture. She has the perfect site in mind for her next dig, Blackwood Estate. She hopes to find not only some Native American artifacts, but also to uncover a mystery. She has a hidden agenda and she’s willing to do anything to solve 'the puzzle'. Now, the only think she has to do is to make sure the owner of the Estate allows her to survey the land.

“Some things are better left in the dark, Red.”


Garrett Blackwood is the thirty-two years old reclusive owner of Blackwood Estate. A former history professor, Garrett has a nasty reputation. He doesn’t want anyone digging on his property and makes sure Elise knows that. But Elise doesn’t let Garrett deter her and she’s ready to do anything to find out THE TRUTH, even forging the documents she needs to get the funding.

As time passes, Elise realizes that digging for answers can be dangerous, but also that Garrett might be the biggest mystery on Blackwood Estate.

"I'm the fucking wolf, and I'll eat you alive."



Mysterious, sexy and fascinating, 'Blackwood' was fantastically written in such an intriguing way. I couldn’t put it down for one minute, the mystery/suspense and also the multitude of twists and turns sucking me in from the start. The storytelling was really engaging, the story becoming more and more captivating with every single chapter. Celia did a wonderful job blending the thriller/mystery aspect with the erotic one. The story was hot and passionate with plenty of sexy times that I’m sure will leave you hot and bothered.

The two main characters were well portrayed, fascinating and I enjoyed reading about them. The dynamic between them was entertaining...to say the least from the beginning. I enjoyed how their relationship unfolded – gradually – their entertaining interactions and how sexy they were at times. The sex scenes between them were extremely hot, their connection being so palpable at times as the story unfolded.

“This.” He glanced at my throat. “Is just a sample, Red. My appetites would disgust you. Fuck” He ran a hand through his hair. “Sometimes they disgust me, but I can’t escape them.”




Elise was a great heroine. Smart, loyal and courageous, she was a likeable character and I have to say that I loved her determination. Garrett was a very intriguing hero. While at first, he’s rude and grumpy, as the story unfolded and his relationship with Elise started to change, he became a total different man – kind, sweet, caring, but still gruff and so very manly. I liked these two together and how perfectly they completed each other. The romantic aspect was well done and I also enjoyed their banter.

All in all, 'Blackwood' was a fantastic mystery/thriller I recommend if you are looking for a gripping read filled with steam, action and suspense.



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Profile Image for Candace.
1,179 reviews4,590 followers
September 19, 2017
If you're in the mood for a dark, suspenseful read, then 'Blackwood' is one to consider. A standalone, it was a relatively quick read and it kept me on the edge of my seat right to the end. In fact, it kept me guessing far longer than I had anticipated and didn't leave me with any lingering questions.

The story begins with Elise Vale, a graduate student, visiting a small southern town to begin a dig for her archaeology project. However, her schoolwork is not her sole motivation. Her father disappeared in that very town and she intends to get to the bottom of whatever is going on there.

At the heart of the mystery is the Blackwood estate. The large estate is tied to her father's last known whereabouts. Nobody has ever been able to secure permission to conduct a dig on the property, though many before her have tried.

Elise sets out, determined to obtain the landowner's permission. Doing her best to hide her true intentions she heads to the estate, only to have her proposal shot down by the gruff owner. Without even hearing her out, he slams the door in her face and lets her know that he will not give her permission to conduct a dig on his property.

Desperate to gain access to the property, Elise takes drastic measures. She forges his signature on the required paperwork and sets the wheels in motion to begin the dig. As large as the property is, she is certain that she can do this completely under the radar without the owner ever discovering her deception.

Garrett Blackwood has returned to his family's property after the public downfall of his career. A history professor, his sexual proclivities made him the center of a scandal that ultimately cost him his job. Now, he lives a very private life.

Rumors of Garrett's darker urges abound in the small town, but other than the screams that are heard coming from the property at night, nobody has a clue of what goes on there. That is exactly how he likes it. He's had enough of prying eyes and interference.

When Elise is seriously injured on the very first day of her secret dig, the cat is let out of the bag. Garrett saves her life, but there is no hiding that Elise was on the property conducting the unauthorized dig. She's caught red-handed.

Elise, aka "Red", wakes up in Garrett's home. Her cell phone is missing and she is as much a prisoner as a guest. She is told that she has to remain at the house until she recovers from her injuries. Even more strange, is the fact that the Sheriff seems to be complicit in her captivity, making house calls to monitor her recovery.

Over the course of her recovery, the sexual tension between Elise and Garrett grows. It is clear that they want each other, but whether or not Elise can handle Garrett's sexual appetites remains to be seen. While he tries to hold himself back, she pushes and pushes, tempting his inner demons. All the while, she questions whether or not she is warming up to her father's murderer.

This story kept me on edge from start to finish. There was a pervasive sense of unease and I was wholly creeped out for most of the book. Although I didn't guess the exact twist of the story, I expected something like it to come to light. It was never a matter of "if", but rather "when". However, the waiting game was incredibly unnerving.

If you're looking for a dark, suspenseful read, this is a great choice. It kept the hairs on the back of my neck standing up nearly the entire time. It was attention-grabbing and very, very creepy. The darkness in this book is more of a product of the mystery/suspense elements than the sexual relationships, in my opinion. Although, there is a little taboo kink also.

Check out more of my reviews at www.bookaddicthaven.com
Profile Image for ✰ Liz ✰ .
1,368 reviews1,323 followers
December 22, 2016
"Blackwood's secrets were mine to discover, and I would find them all."
description

Blackwood is a stand-alone thriller/dark romance that will take you on one unforgettable ride. Full of complex characters, an intriguing plot, and one seriously alluring hero, it is an absolute must read for dark romance fans.

description
"I'm the fucking wolf, and I'll eat you alive."
Elise Vale is studying archeology and has the perfect site in mind for her next dig. Blackwood Estate is nestled deep in the forest, and an ominous aura surrounds it. Elise is determined to gain access to dig and hopefully discover the truth about something from her past. Garrett Blackwood, the owner of the estate, wants nothing to do with her or anyone for that matter. Elise doesn't let him deter her. Forging the documents she needs, she gains the funding and full access to the Blackwood Estate. But when the mysteries of the estate are revealed, will she be strong enough to survive?

description
"If you said 'please', I'd fuck you so hard that you wouldn't be able to sit down, walk, or breathe for days without thinking of my cock inside you."
Elise aka Red and Garrett are thrown together in the most unlikely way. Elise refuses to give up on her search for the truth and yet, Garrett offers a very happy smoking hot distraction. As the two grow closer together, Elise experiences a sexual awakening and Garrett transcends to a new level of intimacy in which he has never experienced before. With mystery, murder, and passion on the line, Garrett and Elise must cling to each other to survive.

description
"You asked for this. For my cock. I'm going to give it to you. Your dripping cunt is mine."
Told in Elise's POV, Blackwood is an absolutely superb work of art. The pacing is swift, the action is non-stop, and the physical connection between Garrett and Elise is smoking hot! Garrett has a strong presence with a unique sexual appetite. Elise, with her inquisitive spirit and spunky attitude, is the perfect student for Garrett. Together they are a perfect match. The stakes are high for these characters, and the mysteries are layered throughout the plot. The natural writing style is full of witty banter and colorful characters. I was intrigued and entertained the entire read.

description

Overall, Blackwood is an absolute must read for anyone who enjoys mystery, rough sex, and strong characters. Although this is not my first read by the talented Celia Aaron, I can say with complete certainty it is my favorite work to date. From the first word to the last word read, I was completely captivated. A trip in the dark woods with the big bad wolf makes for one unforgettable way to escape!

*ARC graciously provided via author in exchange for an honest review!*

*This was a BR with my Shhlutty sisters WAR and CC!

description

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description
description
Profile Image for Jen.
1,655 reviews1,107 followers
December 18, 2019
First of all, I have to say that I enjoyed this dark mystery, thriller type of story very much. I am disappointed though that it ended at 54% on my Kindle though. I wasn't expecting that at all. Not a pleasant surprise for me, especially because I was really into this story in a BIG way...so when the "Epilogue" came up at that percentage I was like....WHAT???!! I did investigate after, and I see that the author brought up that at the end of this book there is a full length novel called "The Counsellor" which is Celia Aaron's work as well. So, I guess if I had read that first, then maybe I would have caught on...Anyway, it still wasn't enough to have me three star this story. It was that good!! Yes, it is a romance...but one that is on the darker side of things. There is rougher sex in here, but truly I have read a lot worse, so it isn't horrid or anything like that.

I don't want to go into much as I don't want to accidently post any spoilers...There is our heroine; Elise who is looking for information regarding her missing father. She has suspicions, and that brings her to a place called "Blackwood". She asks for permission to look on the property of Garrett Blackwood; but he denies her, and lets her know he wants nothing to do with her. Elise is very stubborn when she wants something though, and she ends up forging Garrett's signature, to grant permission for her to search on his property. There is obviously a lot going on in these creepy woods, and nothing is as it seems!

This mystery will keep you guessing, and the tone of the book is dark for sure. When I'm in the right mood, I love books like this...I am definitely intrigued by Celia Aaron's work now that I have read a book by her! I will for sure be looking into her backlist!! I highly recommend this to anyone who doesn't mind stories on the darker side. Just please be warned that it does end halfway through, but then there is a bonus of a full length novel at the end.
Profile Image for Sophia Triad.
2,240 reviews3,607 followers
February 7, 2017
I absolutely loved it, but I am not sure what I have just read.

Is it a mystery/thriller about someone who may or may not be dead, but he is definitely missing?
Is it erotica, dark and full of “rape fantasies” and how they influence the lives of both the enthusiastic, agreeable “rapist” and the willing, begging for her treatment “victim” of the CONSENSUAL “rape”?
Is it romance where the big bad beast transforms into a big sweet teddy-bear?
Is it new adult about the strangling of a twenty something girl to finish her PhD without becoming prey to her disgusting professor?

The story definitely had suspense, angst and a ton of questions from the start.

I have been dragged -enthusiastically I admit- into the dark world of Garrett Blackwood who fights with his kinks, with his guilt and with his embarrassment about the things that he enjoys. A man who destroyed his career because of his desires.

The PhD archaeology student Elise Vale will be stunned with Garret. When she starts looking for her missing father and pretends that she is digging to find archaeology artifacts, she never expects to fall into the charm of Garrett. She will not trust him completely, but she will still let him show her things. Truths and facts that she didn’t know about herself.

I honestly don't know if you will like the sex scenes because there is nothing tender about them. They are strong, violent, and brutally animalistic.

Garrett claims that he is the big bad wolf who wants to ravish little Red.
After all little Red has showed up uninvited to his unfriendly isolated cabin and has started digging his forest, his territory:

“So the word stop won’t work?”
“No.”
“What about the word no?”
“Definitely won’t work. The only thing a no will get you is choked.”
“What if I said stop?”
“I wouldn’t, but the fact that you said it would guarantee a brutal fuck.”
“But what if I said please?”
“If you said ‘please’, I’d fuck you so hard that you wouldn’t be able to sit down, walk, or breathe for days without thinking of my cock inside you.”


In case you wonder…
Yes, they will establish a safeword between them and
Yes, Elise will say NO, STOP and PLEASE eagerly and often.

Before the book ends, both Elise and Garrett will change. Elise will learn to embrace her darker, more wanton self. Garrett will learn to coexist with a woman without necessarily causing pain.

Action accelerates towards the end. I was suspecting almost everybody to be the bad guy and I was finally satisfied with the explanation of the mystery.

I hope you will give this book a chance, although I believe that it may take many readers outside their comfort zone.
Profile Image for  Sonya ♕Chatterbooks book blog♕.
991 reviews1,146 followers
January 9, 2017
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.5 Stars⭐⭐⭐⭐

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Wow Wow Wow!!!

I haven’t been on the edge of my seat while reading a book in a long time. I was like an addict trying to savor my hit and draw out the euphoria while thinking about the next time I can experience it all over again! This story was EVERYTHING. These characters were raw, passionate, and honest to a fault and I freakin LOVED every single thing about them.

“ I wanted his wildness, and his veiled passion. If only for this single moment, maybe I could feel something other than loneliness and the burning need to know the truth.

Elise Vale is this close to getting her Ph.D in archeology. Seeing that her main focus is in Choctaw culture, she’s looking to start her dig at the Blackwood Estate. If she can accomplish that, she would be on the fast track to not only getting her degree but finding out what secrets the lies beneath the Estate.

Will Elise discover more secrets than she’s prepared for? And what does the Estate has to do with a family a disappearance?

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Garrett Blackwood is a man of very few words. No longer a history professor, he’s now a mysterious recluse that hates talking to new people. Namely the woman whose taking an interest in his property. But secrets and mystery has always been a part of his life and little does he know, he’s about to dig up some more.

“I’ll enjoy your pain. I’ll use you, beat you and love every tear you she’d. I’ll get off on your fear. When you scream in terror, I’ll get harder.

This story had so much plot twists that had my head was spinning and I LOOOOOVED it!! I cringed, I gasped, and I was invested in this story until the very end. This story was not only sexy, it had just the right amount of twists and darkness for all my mystery lovers. Garrett and Elise’s relationship was hot!! I’m not kidding you guys. The things that man said would get you pregnant ASAP! But what I really liked about them was that they moved at a slow pace and they took their time with each other which was refreshing.

If you love this sexiness with a dash of mystery of and suspense, this one is for you guys.

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October 28, 2021
It’s all about the chase!



Garrett Blackwood is a an enigma wrapped in a mystery shrouded by suspicion so when Elise goes to him and requests permission to survey his land as part of her archeology PhD thesis and he says no, she forges his signature. Not only does he have the last piece of untouched land for a dig, but what she really wants is to find out what happened to her father who was last seen on Blackwood property prior to his disappearance two years ago.

However Garrett catches her soon after she begins and she sees some of the crazy things that happen on the property. The more she learns, the more questions she has. Also she finds herself attracted to Garrett and that he has some kinky sexual proclivities. The chemistry between them heats up and it is a crazy passionate ride.



Overall the book is pretty awesome, not only is it a good romance with some kink, but it is a mystery with suspense and intrigue and a pretty great whodunnit. I was guessing till the very end. Even when I thought I figured it out, I didn’t know the reasons behind it until they were stated in the book. That rarely happens to me.

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Profile Image for warhawke.
1,400 reviews2,125 followers
December 19, 2016

Genre: Dark Erotic Thriller
Type: Standalone
POV: First Person - Female
Rating:




Elise (Red) Vale was a doctorate student in archaeology. She had her eyes on the Blackwood Estate for possible discovery of Native American artifacts. But she also had a personal agenda to uncover a mystery she intend to solve.

Garrett Blackwood was the reclusive owner of the estate. Preferring to shut himself out of the world, he tried to warn her away but there was something about her that provoked his hunger. Her glutton for punishment could unearth something that better left buried.



Erotic thriller/suspense is one of my favorite genre and I'm happy this one met my expectations.

“You don’t have to protect me from anything.”
“I do. I have to protect you from me.”


I love broody mysterious hero and Garrett certainly fit the bill. And he had a certain proclivity that made him even more irresistible.

I wanted him angry, hungry, and past all reason. And I wanted to be caught.


First of all, I love how he called her Red. I like how she was fearless in her pursuit of the truth even though some of her actions were unnecessarily risky.

Hunkering down, I picked my way through the undergrowth, aiming for patches of sun and avoiding marshy areas. The smell of damp earth clung to my nose as I rushed through the crystalline air and bitter cold.


One of my favorite thing about this book is the feel. I love the eerie ambiance and the descriptive writing helped transport readers to the location.

“I’m the fucking wolf, and I’ll eat you alive.”


I like how the mystery element was played out. The slow drips of answers made me keep flipping the page. However, I do wish the main revelation was twistier. Certain things were a little too straightforward to me.



The sex scenes were exciting and intense. Let's just say I'd be thrilled and aroused to be lost in the deep dark woods lol!

Blackwood is a story of a woman uncovering the truth and a man who helped her discovering her hidden desires. It would appeal to readers looking for a mysteriously sexy dark read.


♦ ⚜ ♦ . . . (F)BR With Twinsie CC & Lonestar Liz . . . ♦ ⚜ ♦




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Profile Image for Sabrina.
3,638 reviews2,297 followers
February 7, 2017
I honestly didn't know what to expect from Blackwood and I went into it blind, without reading any reviews on it. I think that was the best way to experience this book because it let me get all the surprises without anything being ruined or just hinted at enough where things didn't shock me as much.



This story isn't one that I can even describe that well because it had a bit of everything. Garrett was sexy and brought that raw passion to the book, while Elise was inquisitive and on the hunt for answers, and had me in suspense the whole book. I liked that Celia Aaron was able to take a thriller type of story and add so much steam that it could also be read as an erotica. I wouldn't call it a romantic suspense, per se, but maybe a dirtier and darker version of that genre.

Overall, I loved this book and I can't wait to read more from this author. I've heard great things about her Acquisition series so I will definitely be going back to read those books!
Profile Image for Alexa Riley.
Author 252 books15.4k followers
January 8, 2017
Celia Aaron took me to a dark place and left me craving more. Blackwood is a daring, edgy, erotic thriller that still managed to be tender in all the right places.
Profile Image for Natalie  ~ The Biblioholic.
2,627 reviews1,359 followers
January 5, 2017
For me, the only thing missing from this book, the only thing I desperately wanted but couldn't find, was Garrett's POV. However, I understand why it wasn't possible. The whole mystery surrounding him wouldn't be much of a mystery, now would it? Thankfully, Elise was a strong heroine and the story was told beautifully through her eyes.

Elise is an archaeology student, trying to finish her doctorate with a final dig: the woods at the Blackwood Estate. She digs. It's what she does. And she intends to dig up every secret buried in that land. However, the greatest mystery may be the man who owns it all, Garrett Blackwood. He's harsh, rude, mean, abrasive, but all of that is hiding the shattered pieces of a broken man. His life hasn't been easy lately, but Elise soon discovers that underneath it all, he's brilliant, kind, generous, and incredibly sexy. At least I thought his sexiness was obvious. BTW, great choice on the cover model Celia Aaron. He's who I thought of throughout the story, so it worked ;)

This romance was intense with suspense. Seriously. I can't tell you how many times Elise kept finding herself in trouble and in need of immediate medical attention. Garrett too. These people had to be sick of their injuries!! It was also shrouded in enough mystery to have you guessing right to the end.

Release Date: January 8, 2017
Genre: Romantic Suspense/Mystery
POV: Heroine - 1st person
Steam: 4 out of 5
Series or Standalone: Standalone
Profile Image for Snow.
2,241 reviews694 followers
December 17, 2016

4.5 "thriller intense gripping"stars

The Blackwood estate entirely covered with alluring surroundings, haunting and daunting...



And it's a place that Elise Vale, a PhD student must get entrance to for several reasons....
One that is equaly legit and equaly misplaced as a cover up
I'm working on my Ph. D. in archaeology, and my focus is on Choctaw culture.

Cause of another reason looming and pushing Elise forward and that one is of deeper personal nature...
Blackwood's secrets were mine to discover and I would find them all...

She'd e inventive to find a way that would provide her clearence to the estate, even the forging of the owner's signature to get it, and she'd indeed meet the dangeous and mystified persona that is Garrett Blackwood, she'd discover his secrets, she'd get to know him under the layers of broody and elusive almost unkept exterior of his recluse self, only to find the erotical pull into the world where pain and pleasure share a thin line that could easily snap, leaving her lost in the unknown area of undulated carnal fantasy...







even if she's ready to give into him completely...
I felt ready. I could give myself over to thefantasy and love and lust all wrapped in a fucked up and beautiful package.

But her primarly hunt for a revelation of her personally driven quest will lead her into an uncharted teritory of much bigger ploy, where doubts and fear would solely intensify the primal struggle of survival while the truth is being revealed.

Intense, grippingly suspenful and alluring storytelling filled with layers of rough and primal, animalistic sexual exploration from a writing pen of Celia Aaron is truly a thrilling work that I 'd gladly recommend.

Thank you, Celia Aaron! Muah! ;)



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Profile Image for CC.
1,138 reviews685 followers
December 21, 2016
4.25 Stars

description

Elise “Red” Vale is a graduate student studying archeology. Using her student credentials and under the guise of her thesis, she intends to enter the private property of Blackwood Estate to search for Native American artifacts, however she is intent on finding answers related to the suspicious circumstances surrounding her father’s death.

“Nothing here is untouched. Everything is spoiled, ruined.”

Garrett Blackwood is a former professor and is known to be a mysterious and potentially dangerous recluse. Keeping to himself has never been a problem but when Elise shows up on his doorstep requesting permission onto his property, he begins to wonder if she is a hassle or something potentially much more interesting.

“Some things are better left in the dark, Red.”

With dimensional secondary characters and plot twists, Elise uncovers clues learning more about her father than she ever knew while he was alive. While Garrett believes she is searching for Choctaw artifacts, he soon discovers that his Red is looking for more than just arrowheads and pottery. Despite her shrouded deception, Garrett agrees to help Red when the dangers become too risky to search on her own.

“If you said ‘please’, I’d fuck you so hard that you wouldn’t be able to sit down, walk, or breathe for days without thinking of my cock inside you.”

In addition to the thriller aspects, the relationship that develops between Red and Garrett is endearing and extremely hot! Not afraid to push the limits, Garrett shows Red just what it’s like to be ravished by the big bad wolf.

“This.” He glanced at my throat. “Is just a sample, Red. My appetites would disgust you. Fuck” He ran a hand through his hair. “Sometimes they disgust me, but I can’t escape them.”

Throughout the book, I liked Red’s tenacity even when she was in way over her head at times. While she was skeptical of Garrett in the beginning, she was also freely willing to accept his circumstances and experience what he can offer.

As for Garrett, he is very manly yet he isn’t afraid to share his sensitivities despite being ostracized for his private predilections. It’s so often that rumor can become truth and with Garrett, the rumors couldn’t be further wrong about his character.

The mystery surrounding the disappearance of Elise’s father led to some tense and action packed moments with the plot developing at a steady pace. The shadows about his death persisted and certainly added to the thriller elements of Blackwood. Even though, I knew who was guilty early on, it didn’t lessen my experience nor my search for more clues. Plus, the dynamic between Red and Garrett is a strong one for the plot footprint.

If you haven’t experienced a Celia Aaron book yet, Blackwood is a perfect entry into the thrilling, twisty and sexy world of this author. With prose that effortlessly narrate a story chock full of tonality and emotion, it’s clear Ms. Aaron is a natural born storyteller. I highly recommend Blackwood!



*An ARC was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review! Thank you!*



*This was a (F)BR with Twinsie Hawkey and Lonestar Liz!!*
Profile Image for ❥ KAT ❥ Kitty Kats Crazy About Books.
2,342 reviews9,382 followers
February 7, 2017
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Author’s Note: This is a standalone mystery/suspense romance with violence and explicit/intense sex. If you need a trigger warning, then this isn't the book for you.

This is told in Elise Vale’s own words, and is the first book I’ve read by this author, but to say I was intrigued with the reviews had me one clicking this. Blackwood is a stand-alone dark romance/suspense/thriller that will take you on one hell of an unforgettable ride.

Elsie’s is working on her Ph.D in archaeology with one final dig up her sleeve which is located on ‘Blackwood Estate.’ not getting permission of the landowner Garrett Blackwood’s consent to dig doesn’t stop her from doing what she does. I dig. It’s what I do. I’ll literally use a shovel to answer a question. Some answers to questions long buried beneath the dirt, it’s up to her to uncover the truth.

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Elsie just recently lost her mother to cancer, digging on Blackwood Estate and focusing on Choctaw culture isn't her sole reason for wanting to dig on that specific location, she's also hoping to uncover the mystery of her father's disappearance and she thinks Blackwood estate is where all her answers lay.

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Many warnings come her way about not to venture out into the woods, many say it is haunted, many state that they hear screams coming from deep within. All warnings go unheeded. She has one thing on her mind, and one thing only, and that is to uncover the truth about her father.

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Her first solo dig doesn't go as planned, getting chased and attacked in the forest by boars Hooves pounded the ground behind me, at least two of the monsters giving chase as I tried to manage the dark forest. Falling prey to the boars with a gash on her leg and unable to walk has her at the mercy of Garrett, the very man who refused her permission on his land. Now she has to trust him enough to get her back up on her feet again.

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Garrett is a thirty-two broody recluse and as the two grow closer together, he awakens an erotic sexual level of awareness Elise has never been subjected to before.

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I'm glad I one clicked this to just see what all the fuss was about, the beginning took me a while to get into, was very slow going, but the writing was spectacular, once I got about half way the storyline started picking up for me and it all came at me full throttle and I ended up enjoying the ride the author set me on. It wasn't what I would term as dark, but there was just enough grit to keep me invested in finishing this. A few twist and turns that I never saw coming which I loved, love it when an author can completely blindside you.

~ Two teasers used are off the authors Facebook page ~

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Profile Image for Pam Godwin.
Author 40 books10.1k followers
January 9, 2017
Ahhh! I loved this book. Loved the refreshingly unique plot and setting, the mysterious hero, and the fiercely determined heroine. The romance never feels routine, knowing exactly when to heat up, when to come, and when to sigh with satisfaction. This is an edge-of-your-seat erotic thriller, rife with vivid imagery and buoyed by top-notch writing. I highly recommend.
February 7, 2017
4* big bad wolf STARS!!

Review @ Midnight Romance

description

I'm not really a fan of bearded man. The cover didn't do anything for me except the intriguing blurb and everyone seems to like it. Color me curious, this isn't something I've expected. Celia Aaron managed to surprise me :)

To achieve her PhD in archaeology, Elise Vale will do anything to dig in Blackwood Estate. With or without permission from the owner, Garrett Blackwood. Elise also has hidden agenda to uncover the disappearance of her father. Everybody warns her, but she didn't listen.

description

The story told from Elise's POV. She is stubborn yet very determined girl. Rejected by the owner, she still came back to Blackwood Estate. It isn't an easy place because of the forest also eerie ambiance. But she isn't afraid. However, an accident happened to Elise and Garrett saved her.

Garrett didn't sure how to handle Elise. He saved her, but somehow it was beyond that. I feel Garrett overprotective towards. It seems he develop feelings for Elise from the first time. Finally, Garrett give her permission to explore later. Blackwood Estate is very private also 'haunted'. He is the biggest mystery and center piece in this story.

I think the story divided into third parts. First part is about introduction. About Elise, Blackwood Estate, the town people also the mysterious Garrett. Second part is the main course. How Elise and Garrett finally into each other. My favorite part! Garrett really treat her well and admit his feeling for her.
“I will hurt you, Red. Worse than you’ve ever been hurt in your life. I will fuck you like an animal.”

The lust between them really off-chart. Garrett has unconventional appetite when it came into sex. It scared her at first, but he explained it really well. I almost think he's a werewolf, but again this isn't paranormal romance. LOL! Their sex was really UBER HOT. He's really like a big wolf in hunt mode. I'm glad Elise isn't passive and fully participate. Their chasing games in the forest is totally unforgettable (+1 star for the sex scenes *cough*).
“I’ll enjoy your pain. I’ll use you, beat you, and love every tear you shed. I’ll get off on your fear. When you scream in terror, I’ll get harder.”

description
“If you said ‘please’, I’d fuck you so hard that you wouldn’t be able to sit down, walk, or breathe for days without thinking of my cock inside you.”

Final part is the answer. As nosy as Elise, she finally found some clues, not only for her father but also the truth of Blackwood. With Garrett's help, she managed to unveiled the mystery. But it isn't only about her father, there are something else that didn't expected.

Overall, it was amazing read. I couldn't put this down because the intriguing premise also well-written. Inspired from Red Riding Hood, the story was full of thrill and suspense also filled with unexpected romance. I hope their relationship would be developed longer because Garret and Elise have interesting chemistry. And of course, more raw and intense kinky sex.
“You make me do things that don’t make sense.”
“Like what?”
“Like cooking, like playing doctor without any of the pervy benefits, like cuddling, like not using a condom, or like taking baths with an angel in my arms.”
“Smooth talker.”

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✦ Please visit @Midnight Romance for more reviews! ✦
Profile Image for Sybil aka Lala.
478 reviews214 followers
January 20, 2017
I’m giving Blackwood ONE STAR because its author is the single most versatile writer I have ever come across. From straight-up dirty fuck-fests to books so dark they make you wonder about her psyche to books that make you sob like a toddler who got socks for Christmas, Celia Aaron can do it all. She proves this again in Blackwood – a story filled with thrilling suspense and intriguing mystery.

I’m giving Blackwood TWO STARS because of its main character. I still haven’t decided who I like best. The mysterious bearded owner with dark desires or the sassy student who refuses to take no for an answer. It’s a battle of wills which turns into tentative friendship laced with secrets, doubts and an undeniable attraction.



I’m giving Blackwood THREE STARS because of the sexy times. Often in books it’s a case of boy-meets-girl, heavily described oral, a quick romp with some emotional thoughts, orgasm and then rinse and repeat. Not so in Blackwood. Dark desires turn into delicious deviancy and you’ve never quite read sex like this before.

I’m giving Blackwood FOUR STARS because that’s the number of times I gasped. The plot has many twists, moments of danger and as the secrets unfold and characters are revealed the plot stops taking a linear path and becomes more of a spider’s web. Only thing is: you’re the fly.



I’m giving Blackwood FIVE STARS because that’s the amount of crazy theories I came up with trying to solve the mystery before the author revealed it herself. I failed. Blackwood is a who-dunnit which is also a what-dunnit that turns into a how’s-they-do-it. I was totally enthralled by the eerie feel that permeated this story, trying to guess what tiny bits of information would prove to be significant and trying to form all the scattered clues into a theory. But, Blackwood kept me guessing until the very last pages.

Blackwood was an absolute treat. Entertaining, engaging and at times shocking. I absolutely recommend it.

(ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review)
Profile Image for edge of bubble.
248 reviews177 followers
June 25, 2017
I've been curious about this cover ahem I mean book, for a while. it is supposed to be dark, fingers crossed.



This must be the guide book for aspiring smut authors. Showing them how to not fuck up heroes with good potentials or write an annoying twat of heroines or nullify all the sexy or flip the bird to making sense in their books. By writing an example that covers all of the above.

Another dream bites the dust. And crossing fingers doesn't work for shite!

Profile Image for Jilly.
1,838 reviews6,387 followers
March 7, 2017

Won't anybody think of the children?

Yeah, it was dark but delicious. There was a mystery that was better than Scooby Doo. (In case you didn't know, Scooby Doo is my go-to standard by which I judge all mysteries. I'm mature that way.) There was plenty of action, death, betrayal. These people had their own personalized coffee mugs at the local hospital. And, then there was the romance. Yikes! It was smutalicious.

But, watch out. Triggers!

I'm just wondering what he's trying to qualify for..

Yeah, the guy is rapey. But, is it really rape if she begs him to "rape" her and he gives her a safe word to stop at any time? It's more like a game. She runs, he gives her a head start then chases her down, and then they go to town. (you know. figuratively. They don't actually go to a town. They would probably just drive if they are going in to town, not run. (just wanted to clear that up.))

To each his own, right?
I'm just saying that if running is involved for my hubs to get lucky, he's not getting lucky. Cuz I ain't running. I'll consider walking. Maybe a nice saunter. But, running ain't happening unless there's a zombie apocalypse. Or, a sale on cheesecake. That might do it.


Hey, me too! We should totally do lunch sometime!
Profile Image for Elfina Renee.
612 reviews223 followers
January 31, 2017
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This woman can write her ass off! The tale of mystery she weaves only further entrance you with who done it and why. Wasn't sure who Elise should trust, who'd thought digging up bones to an old mystery could be the one that winds up killing her. The Blackwoods holds a killer secret are you ready to find out what it is?
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Profile Image for Bindi Boo .
578 reviews127 followers
January 13, 2017
4.5 stars

First book into my 2017 must read list... Yay!

If you enjoy mystery and suspense with a side of hot sizzling sex scenes this will be a perfect read. The hero here has (what i thought) a rather disturbing kink, however, i liked how it played out with the heroine and seemed a lot more 'acceptable' especially with such steam. Kudos to the author as i kept second guessing everything and everyone right till the very end.

Highly recommended!
Profile Image for Olga therebelreader.
888 reviews751 followers
February 6, 2017
***4.5 stars***
Right from the beginning the author sets an intense, dark, gripping mood, which carries through all the way to the last page. And I was on the edge at every twist and turn.

Hero 5/5 | Heroine 5/5 | Plot (Point, Originality) 5/5 | Writing Style 5/5 | Steam 5/5 | Romance 4/5 | Angst-Suspense 5/5 | Darkness 4/5 | Humor 0/5 | Secondary Characters 4/5 | Drama-Conflict 4/5 | Mystery 4/5 | Twists 5/5 | Pacing Steady | Action 5/5
Profile Image for Syndi.
3,162 reviews922 followers
February 14, 2022
Blackwood is a sarisfying read. It really is. The kink is unusual. I have my fair share of dark, kinky romance and Miss Aaron hit the spot.

The suspense plot blends very well with the story. It makes the story more alive plus the dirty talk. Miss Aaron putting her best effort in showing instead of telling.

The banter and mind game between Eliza and Garret is fun, competitive and hot. Love it.

4 stars
Profile Image for Kate.
159 reviews285 followers
Shelved as 'gonna-pass'
January 16, 2017
Note for me:
Profile Image for Michelle.
2,102 reviews1,337 followers
January 11, 2017
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review

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“I will hurt you, Red. Worse than you’ve ever been hurt in your life. I will fuck you like an animal.”

A sexy, dangerous romantic thriller that was edgy, erotic, and suspenseful. Celia Aaron took her readers down a journey where we were we bombarded with so much mystery and intrigue that you can’t help but be drawn into the woods and what lies in it. As Celia Aaron lures her readers with her enigmatic and mysterious hero, she allows readers to dissect and unmasked his sexual proclivities in such an intense manner that readers could feel the tension and chemistry brewing between the hero and heroine. So are you ready to discover what secrets lies buried in the woods? And what desires will be ignited?

#Blackwood


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Profile Image for Anne S..
228 reviews10 followers
January 11, 2017
3.5 stars
Amazon KU
Ends at 54% before another story begins.

I was glad this was on KU because I didn't realize the story was going to be only half of the page count but it became pretty obvious when things were wrapping up quickly.


I liked the idea of the story, I even liked Garret a lot with his twisted sexual kinks. But there were a lot of stupid girl in a horror movie moves for me to give it more stars.

A lot of the problem was probably how excited I was for the release date. I don't read suspense anymore but this sounded awesome.

I'd recommend it but just a heads up on the length (can't stand it when authors do this).
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