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Surviving Raine #2
Bastian's Storm
Sebastian Stark just isn’t cut out for normal life with a girlfriend in the hot and humid city of Miami. All in all, he’d rather be back on the island where it was just the two of them, and he could keep everything in balance. The bar down the street tempts him daily, but he’s determined to remain strong. Adjusting to normal life is difficult, but Bastian is doing his best to keep himself together and the nightmares away. Raine’s happy, and that’s what matters to him the most.
But not all nightmares can be driven away.
When Bastian’s former mentor comes into the picture and presents him with an ultimatum, Bastian slips into old habits. Though he wants to shield Raine from the truth, the shady circumstances of his past form into a hurricane he can’t control. In an effort to protect her, Bastian has no choice but to throw himself back into his old job – death match tournaments – just one last time.
Dropped into the arctic wilderness with weapons loaded, Bastian has to compete against representatives from major crime lords all over the states. He’s studied his competition, he knows their weaknesses, and he’s ready to battle for the woman he loves. There’s only one opponent in the mix that causes him any concern. In order to guarantee Raine’s safety, Bastian will be pitted against the key hit man for Chicago’s largest mob family – a guy who’s known as one hell of a shot.
A guy named Evan Arden.
But not all nightmares can be driven away.
When Bastian’s former mentor comes into the picture and presents him with an ultimatum, Bastian slips into old habits. Though he wants to shield Raine from the truth, the shady circumstances of his past form into a hurricane he can’t control. In an effort to protect her, Bastian has no choice but to throw himself back into his old job – death match tournaments – just one last time.
Dropped into the arctic wilderness with weapons loaded, Bastian has to compete against representatives from major crime lords all over the states. He’s studied his competition, he knows their weaknesses, and he’s ready to battle for the woman he loves. There’s only one opponent in the mix that causes him any concern. In order to guarantee Raine’s safety, Bastian will be pitted against the key hit man for Chicago’s largest mob family – a guy who’s known as one hell of a shot.
A guy named Evan Arden.
259 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 3, 2014
About the author
Shay Savage
45 books3,746 followersShay Savage is an independent author from Cincinnati, Ohio, where she lives with her family and a variety of household pets. She is an accomplished public speaker and holds the rank of Distinguished Toastmaster from Toastmasters International. Her hobbies include off-roading in her big, yellow Jeep, science fiction in all forms, and soccer. Savage holds a degree in psychology, and she brings a lot of that knowledge into the characters within her stories.
From the author: “It’s my job to make you FEEL. That doesn’t always mean you’ll feel good, but I want my readers to be connected enough to my characters to care.”
Savage’s books many books span a wide variety of topics and sub-genres with deeply flawed characters. From cavemen to addicts to hitmen, you’ll find yourself falling for these seemingly irredeemable characters!
From the author: “It’s my job to make you FEEL. That doesn’t always mean you’ll feel good, but I want my readers to be connected enough to my characters to care.”
Savage’s books many books span a wide variety of topics and sub-genres with deeply flawed characters. From cavemen to addicts to hitmen, you’ll find yourself falling for these seemingly irredeemable characters!
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August 15, 2017
★★★★! Bastian’s Storm, book 2. Bastian Stark’s past, present & future collide forcing him to fight in one last tournament of life & death!
“She needed me there, and she doesn’t need me here. I just… exist beside her without anything to do.”
This is the second book in the Surviving Raine series. It also features Evan Arden from the Evan Arden trilogy . It is not necessary to have read any prior books, but I highly recommend it:
Book 1: Surviving Raine
Book 2: Bastian’s Storm
In Surviving Raine (book 1) captain Bastian Stark and student Raine Gayle ended up shipwrecked on an emergency raft. Dire weather conditions, lack of food, water, alcohol and cigarettes put them on a collision course with disaster. But a friendship was forged and soon a romance blossomed. Both Bastian and Raine had trouble pasts that unfolded with story and linked them on more levels than either was prepared for.
Bastian’s Storm (book 2) opens up to Bastian and Raine back in civilization, living in Miami. They have settled into Raine attending College and Bastian spending his days missing her and the island, pretty much wallowing in self-pity. He feels lost and lacking of a purpose causing strain on their relationship. Yet it’s obvious the Bastain and Raine are soul mates.
Soon Bastian’s past comes back to haunt them. Caught up in a game with some powerful people he is forced to participate in one more tournament for his life and his future. The cameras roll as Bastian and 5 other players, including Evan Arden, are dropped off in an arctic location to compete in a deadly game that can only have one winner – the last man standing!
This is very much Bastian Stark aka Daniel Greene’s journey of self-discovery and purpose and… growing up! Seven words to describe Bastian: Sarcastic, lost, immature, brooding, imposing, determined and protective.
Seven words to describe Raine Gayle: Sweet, unassuming, loyal, patient, focused and private.
Bastain’s Storm is a whirlwind of events and emotions as Bastian’s past, present and future collide. Fans of Evan Arden will enjoy these two imposing heroes going head to head for an outcome that I did not expect, but sort of hoped for... Story ends in a good place for Bastian and Raine, with the door left open for more of their story.
Suspenseful and dangerous plot! Excellent story-telling! Brooding and moody, yet lovable hero! LOL! Patient and loving heroine! What a journey!
“If I had known then, I would have held her longer.
No, if I had known, I never would have let go.”
***
Hero rating: 4 stars
Heroine rating: 4 stars
Sexual tension rating: 4.5 stars
Sex scenes rating: 4.5 stars
Sex scenes frequency: 3.5 stars
Plot rating: 4 stars
Dialogue rating: 4.5 stars
Storytelling rating: 5 stars
Story ending rating: N/A
Book editing rating (5 = no edits spotted): N/A
************************************************
Overall rating: 4+ stars
Would I recommend this series: Yes.
Would I re-read this series: Maybe later.
Would I read future books by this author: Yes.
Be sure to check out this ReCap, DICKtation of the May 30th SPOTlight on Shay Savage LIVE chat on Shh… [Smut, Heroes & HEAs…] with Alessandra!
ARC provided to me by author, Shay Savage, in exchange for an honest review.
July 26, 2016
5+++ Achingly Suspenseful Stars!!
I'm going to try really hard to give Shay Savage the review this book deserves but I'm afraid to fall short of its awesomeness. The following review will contain spoilers to Surviving Raine so be advised.
Bastian's Storm picks up immediately after the conclusion of Surviving Raine. I was happy I re-read Surviving Raine prior to this book for that reason. Bastian and Raine are re-acclimating to civilian life since being rescued from their secluded island. They're in a high rise in Miami Beach. He needs that closeness to the beach to feel some kind of connection to their past...their lost paradise..but her Hell.
Raine wants nothing to do with the ocean so this is their medium ground. Raine and Bastian are living together, him struggling daily to find his nitch in this chaotic world filled with annoying people, noises, and a paranoid fear of the unknown enemies. He knows it's a matter of time before Joseph Franks will come calling. He and Raine were all over the news...and Franks has an axe to grind after Bastian testified against him. This retirement from tournaments likely will be short lived. It's a contant stress and he struggles daily not to take a drink... but for Raine he will do anything.
Then the call comes...one more tournament. Six "players," each representing a group of drug lords, mafia cartel, or crime families. And the key player for the Chicago mafia is none other than Evan Arden. Bastian has no choice. His ransom is Raine and . They'll be dumped in sub-zero mountainous hell. Only one will survive. Let the training begin...
I loved loved loved Sebastian in this book. He was still his brooding, cussing brute but melted like butter for his Raine. Their love and commitment to each other was forefront to Bastian's determination to win this tournament. For Raine...for his future. He's never had a family and winning this tournament is his retirement. He's never lost before...and he won't this time. Arden has met his match.
"Just you and me, Arden."
Hold on for this ride. Once you step on, you won't step off until the book is complete. I was so apprehensive going into it, praying that Ms. Savage wasn't going to make me choose between two of my favorite anti-heroes. Both being unbeatable... one has to lose. But who do I choose? They're both wounded men, scarred both emotionally and physically from crappy hands life has dealt them. Both men striving for love with the one woman that understands them and supports them even though they're professional killers. Who will be left alone to cope with their demise....Lia or Raine?
Shay Savage...I love her story telling. It may sound corny as hell, but I've said this before...her books are like a movie within my head. I feel the action, tug of war for that one drink Bastian craved, the deep-seated pain of constantly not being good enough...being abandoned, his horrible nightmares waking him from sleep drenched in sweat. Her writing puts the reader front row center for a rollercoaster ride like no other.
So be prepared for this ride. You will swoon for Bastian, be pissed off at Bastian, cry for Bastian; your heart will race and your feelings will be torn. But in the end, you will be glad you hopped on the ride!
Looking forward to more awesomeness coming from her. A side note...I'd LOVE a John Paul book. Just saying....another anti-hero I found endearingly flawed.
And I thank you!
Advanced reader's copy received by LJ Anderson in exchange for an HONEST review.
February 8, 2017
MY SPOILER-FREE REVIEW:
My Raine and Bastian:
It's official. Shay Savage is my queen of male POV stories and romantic suspense genre. In Bastian's Storm she delivered testosterone-fueled story full of steamy and adrenalin-rising events, story that you don't want to miss!
Moody recovering alcoholic who is failing at living in normal society with constant contact with other people. That is our Bastian, narrator and star of this book. Can his beloved Raine help him to overcome it all? Or will Bastian's unresolved past and his insecurities destroy their relationship?
All lovers of action-packed stories, beware. This is the book you have been waiting for. Right after reading synopsis for the first time, I knew I was in for a thrilling ride. And I was not mistaken. To put Sebastian Stark against Evan Arden in death match tournament was a genius idea that worked perfectly for me! I dare to say that this sequel surpassed its predecessor.
As title indicates, story focuses mainly on Bastian and the direction his life took after he and Rained were "rescued" from deserted island. Bastian Stark invites danger and enjoys fights, he even thrives on it all. He may be trying to overcome his issues to be better man for Raine, but otherwise he is still the same douchebag-like character we met in Surviving Raine, the character who doesn't care about other poeple. That's him. Take it or leave it. He is a real bad boy, not just playing to be one. He would put all other bookish "bad boys" to shame with the things he does, says or thinks. All except Evan Arden...
Bastian's Storm is well-paced, exciting and thrilling story with no single boring moment. It has everything I could wish for in a great suspense novel. And even though I'm sad to say goodbye to Bastian and Raine, I can't wait to see with what will Mrs. Savage come up with next!
*ARC provided by author as an exchange for honest review*
MORE REVIEWS ON MY BLOG Reading Is My Breathing
My Raine and Bastian:
It's official. Shay Savage is my queen of male POV stories and romantic suspense genre. In Bastian's Storm she delivered testosterone-fueled story full of steamy and adrenalin-rising events, story that you don't want to miss!
Moody recovering alcoholic who is failing at living in normal society with constant contact with other people. That is our Bastian, narrator and star of this book. Can his beloved Raine help him to overcome it all? Or will Bastian's unresolved past and his insecurities destroy their relationship?
"Everything she loved, I hated. Everything that frightened her, I loved. How's that for a f#cked up?"
All lovers of action-packed stories, beware. This is the book you have been waiting for. Right after reading synopsis for the first time, I knew I was in for a thrilling ride. And I was not mistaken. To put Sebastian Stark against Evan Arden in death match tournament was a genius idea that worked perfectly for me! I dare to say that this sequel surpassed its predecessor.
As title indicates, story focuses mainly on Bastian and the direction his life took after he and Rained were "rescued" from deserted island. Bastian Stark invites danger and enjoys fights, he even thrives on it all. He may be trying to overcome his issues to be better man for Raine, but otherwise he is still the same douchebag-like character we met in Surviving Raine, the character who doesn't care about other poeple. That's him. Take it or leave it. He is a real bad boy, not just playing to be one. He would put all other bookish "bad boys" to shame with the things he does, says or thinks. All except Evan Arden...
Bastian's Storm is well-paced, exciting and thrilling story with no single boring moment. It has everything I could wish for in a great suspense novel. And even though I'm sad to say goodbye to Bastian and Raine, I can't wait to see with what will Mrs. Savage come up with next!
*ARC provided by author as an exchange for honest review*
MORE REVIEWS ON MY BLOG Reading Is My Breathing
Want to read
May 9, 2014O!M!G! That blurb ... Bastian vs Evan???? Yes, please!!!
Need this sequel ... NOW!!!
Sebasitan, come to mama ...
Shay Savage, please say it's [very] early 2014???????
July 11, 2014
Bastian & Raine are back on land, but their troubles are far from over...
Meanwhile, the ghosts of Bastain's past are coming back, and not just in his nightmares...
Sebastian Stark
Raine Gayle
As Bastian struggles to keep both his sanity and his sobriety, the infamous Landon arrives in Miami with an ultimatum.
One more competition,
One more Death Match,
...but this time he's not in it for the money.
Killing the competition has never been a problem for Bastian...
But this time he's out of practice...
He has a woman waiting for him...
and a competitor he may not be able to beat: Evan Arden...
Evan Arden
There are several twists and turns in this installment of the Surviving Raine Series, and I'm not going to tell you how it turns out.
I'm just going to encourage you to read it.
Like right now.
Go!
Some of My Favorite Moments
This was so screwed up, I realized all the shit I had already seen in my life was a goddamn birthday cake with fucking whippy icing compared to this clusterfuck.Their time as castaways brought them together and solidified their bond, but now they have to adjust to being together in the real world...
Meanwhile, the ghosts of Bastain's past are coming back, and not just in his nightmares...
Sebastian Stark
Everything she loved, I hated. Everything that frightened her, I loved.Bastian is having a hard time adjusting to life in the city. He's pining away for the simpler time spent on the island where he was able to keep Raine safe and provide for her. In the midst of Miami civilization, Bastian is feeling adrift and useless. Life on the island was so much simpler, it was easy to prove his worth when all he had to do was ensure the survival of the woman he loves...
How’s that for fucked up?
Raine Gayle
"You are my hero,” Raine said. “You’ve always been that to me. My savoir, and despite your flaws, I still love you. I just wish you’d tell me what was going on in your head in a way I could understand.”Raine carries the memories of being stranded on the island in a completely different light than Bastian. She's going to school in Miami but won't go near the ocean. While Raine keeps herself occupied with her studies, Bastian's sole responsibility is to keep out of trouble... and old habits die hard.
As Bastian struggles to keep both his sanity and his sobriety, the infamous Landon arrives in Miami with an ultimatum.
One more competition,
One more Death Match,
...but this time he's not in it for the money.
Killing the competition has never been a problem for Bastian...
But this time he's out of practice...
He has a woman waiting for him...
and a competitor he may not be able to beat: Evan Arden...
Evan Arden
“It never ends,” Arden said. “Franks won’t let you go any more than Rinaldo will let me go. Once they got you, they got you. You never get away from them completely, even when they tell you that you can.”I LOVED the Evan Arden series, and I was on the edge of my seat knowing that these two men were about to fight to the death.
There are several twists and turns in this installment of the Surviving Raine Series, and I'm not going to tell you how it turns out.
I'm just going to encourage you to read it.
Like right now.
Go!
Some of My Favorite Moments
July 29, 2016
4 *I promise the book is better than the cover stars!*
I don't usually find a cast for book characters because I'm just too lazy, but for obvious reasons this seemed like an emergency. I thought this was a solid follow up to Surviving Raine, although for me the original was hard to top. I think I just personally loved the whole survival on the Island story line. It was kind of a gritty, dirty On the Island:) This book was definitely not the page turner Surviving Raine was, it took me 5 days to read it which is long for me.
I completely fell for Bastian by the end of Surviving Raine, so I had to read this one just to spend more time with him. Ms. Savage does a fantastic job of writing these books in Bastian's POV, it's very believable. I always fall for these types. Bastian is a possessive caveman who really would die to protect Raine. I even love his bad ass, antisocial behavior. (If you ask me, Lindsay is kind of a bitch anyway!) I think it's kind of endearing that Raine is the only person he likes. Inside, Bastian is just a vulnerable boy who needs love and reassurance. Raine is his perfect match and gives him the support and understanding he needs.
"Most of all, I love the way you love me," she said. "I love the passion inside of you and how you make me feel like the most desired woman in the world when I'm with you."
Aww, I can't help it, I always fall for the sappy stuff. Overall, even though this one wasn't as awesome as the first book, I would still recommend it to fans of Surviving Raine. It was worth the read to me just to spend some more time with one of my favorite cavemen.
I don't usually find a cast for book characters because I'm just too lazy, but for obvious reasons this seemed like an emergency. I thought this was a solid follow up to Surviving Raine, although for me the original was hard to top. I think I just personally loved the whole survival on the Island story line. It was kind of a gritty, dirty On the Island:) This book was definitely not the page turner Surviving Raine was, it took me 5 days to read it which is long for me.
I completely fell for Bastian by the end of Surviving Raine, so I had to read this one just to spend more time with him. Ms. Savage does a fantastic job of writing these books in Bastian's POV, it's very believable. I always fall for these types. Bastian is a possessive caveman who really would die to protect Raine. I even love his bad ass, antisocial behavior. (If you ask me, Lindsay is kind of a bitch anyway!) I think it's kind of endearing that Raine is the only person he likes. Inside, Bastian is just a vulnerable boy who needs love and reassurance. Raine is his perfect match and gives him the support and understanding he needs.
"Most of all, I love the way you love me," she said. "I love the passion inside of you and how you make me feel like the most desired woman in the world when I'm with you."
Aww, I can't help it, I always fall for the sappy stuff. Overall, even though this one wasn't as awesome as the first book, I would still recommend it to fans of Surviving Raine. It was worth the read to me just to spend some more time with one of my favorite cavemen.
July 19, 2017
Sebastian Stark is one of my favorite characters of all time, total bad ass!!
December 28, 2015
LOVED!!!
August 18, 2015
Bastian is having a hard time adjusting to life since he and Raine were rescued. The story is still through his POV but Bastian is not the same as he was on the island.
I still really like Bastian...it's hard not to feel for him but at times, he came across really whiny and wallowing in his self-pity way too much. Luckily? some circumstances change that force him to grow and put others before himself.
For most of the book Raine really bothered me. I still feel that she is too tough on Bastian but maybe that's what he needed. I sure would have loved a few chapters from her POV.
I do have to say that Bastian hasn't lost his touch in one department. In fact, it's become his drug of choice...and you sure don't hear Raine complaining!
A lot of drama starts happening when Landon shows up but it forces Bastian to clean up his act. I really felt bad for Raine though and what she went through.
I was dreading the tournament but it wasn't too bad. The outcome was interesting but I liked how things worked out for the most part.
The ending/epilogue was wonderful and I can see it going either way if there is another book or not. Meaning...this could be the end and most things were wrapped up nicely or there could easily be another book. Only time will tell.
Favorite quotes
♥ “You are my world,” I whispered against her skin. “I can survive anything as long as I have you with me.”
♥ “You’re fucking phenomenal,” I informed her.
Raine giggled.
“You’re not so bad yourself,” she said, “except for the whole smooshing me afterward thing.”
“You love that, too,” I said. “You know you’d miss it if I didn’t do it.”
♥ "I've got you."
♥ “Might I not then say, 'Now I love you best.'"
♥ "She was my drink—the only one I would ever want again."
*BR w/Melissa, Patty, Denisse and Tiffany!*
I still really like Bastian...it's hard not to feel for him but at times, he came across really whiny and wallowing in his self-pity way too much. Luckily? some circumstances change that force him to grow and put others before himself.
For most of the book Raine really bothered me. I still feel that she is too tough on Bastian but maybe that's what he needed. I sure would have loved a few chapters from her POV.
I do have to say that Bastian hasn't lost his touch in one department. In fact, it's become his drug of choice...and you sure don't hear Raine complaining!
A lot of drama starts happening when Landon shows up but it forces Bastian to clean up his act. I really felt bad for Raine though and what she went through.
I was dreading the tournament but it wasn't too bad. The outcome was interesting but I liked how things worked out for the most part.
The ending/epilogue was wonderful and I can see it going either way if there is another book or not. Meaning...this could be the end and most things were wrapped up nicely or there could easily be another book. Only time will tell.
Favorite quotes
♥ “You are my world,” I whispered against her skin. “I can survive anything as long as I have you with me.”
♥ “You’re fucking phenomenal,” I informed her.
Raine giggled.
“You’re not so bad yourself,” she said, “except for the whole smooshing me afterward thing.”
“You love that, too,” I said. “You know you’d miss it if I didn’t do it.”
♥ "I've got you."
♥ “Might I not then say, 'Now I love you best.'"
♥ "She was my drink—the only one I would ever want again."
*BR w/Melissa, Patty, Denisse and Tiffany!*
Want to read
July 21, 2014I've been waiting for this book for over a year... SO excited to start it!!
**ARC kindly provided by L.J. Anderson on behalf of the author in exchange for an honest review**
*
BLURB:
Sebastian Stark just isn’t cut out for normal life with a girlfriend in the hot and humid city of Miami. All in all, he’d rather be back on the island where it was just the two of them, and he could keep everything in balance. The bar down the street tempts him daily, but he’s determined to remain strong. Adjusting to normal life is difficult, but Bastian is doing his best to keep himself together and the nightmares away. Raine’s happy, and that’s what matters to him the most.
But not all nightmares can be driven away.
When Bastian’s former mentor comes into the picture and presents him with an ultimatum, Bastian slips into old habits. Though he wants to shield Raine from the truth, the shady circumstances of his past form into a hurricane he can’t control. In an effort to protect her, Bastian has no choice but to throw himself back into his old job – death match tournaments – just one last time.
Dropped into the arctic wilderness with weapons loaded, Bastian has to compete against representatives from major crime lords all over the states. He’s studied his competition, he knows their weaknesses, and he’s ready to battle for the woman he loves. There’s only one opponent in the mix that causes him any concern. In order to guarantee Raine’s safety, Bastian will be pitted against the key hit man for Chicago’s largest mob family – a guy who’s known as one hell of a shot.
A guy named Evan Arden.
...Bastian & Evan together in one book???
This is going to be EPIC.
March 4, 2017
Sebastian and Raine made it off that island, they survived... but adjusting to the outside world is proving to be harder than Sebastian realized. Wanting nothing more than to have lived the rest of his days, alone with Raine on that beach, Sebastian struggles to find a future while trying to outrun his past.
Raine loves him, despite his demons. Just when everything appears to be perfect a visit from someone in Sebastian's past threatens to destroy it all. Now Sebastian has to fight one last time for the one thing he's discovered he can't live without. But he doesn't have to face just any opponent. He has to battle the one man that has just as much to lose.
I am in complete love with the way Shay Savage writes the male point of view. She kept you completely on the edge of your seat from start to finish, from Sebastian's struggle with sobriety, coping with being around people and then down to the face off with Evan. He was everything about the hero I love to hate. I wanted to slap him a few times, but I adored that she didn't just magically change him into the perfect man. He had to fight each day to be the man that he knew Raine deserved and that fight at times was not an easy one.
There were so many moments when you felt completely consumed by the way he needed her. When it came to the sex in this, it wasn't just hot (and yes, it was fucking hot), there was this primal need that just seeped through the pages. You could feel how deep his need was to be close to her like it was the only way he would survive. The ability to convey that much emotion is just raw talent.
Shay Savage is easily turning into one of my favorite authors. This book had all the love & romance I needed but gave me suspense that just turned what was already a great story into something utterly fantastic. Tossing Evan Arden into the mix felt like an early Christmas present. That first encounter gave me goosebumps and then towards the end, I felt completely torn as to how I wanted this to end... worried about how it all would end. This follow up to Surviving Raine was so much more than I ever could have hoped for.
May 17, 2014
Release date - June 19, 2014
June 26, 2014
♥♥♥ 4 STARS ♥♥♥
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'Everything she loved, I hated. Everything that frightened her, I loved. How's that for f*cked up?'
● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
I was so excited to start this one, since I loved Surviving Raine so much. And this one was very good as well. I love that this was still entirely in Bastian's POV. That is what I loved the most about the first book and we get it here too. As soon as I started reading, I starting falling for Bastian all over again and forgot how much I really loved him.
This book is about seeing Sebastian back in the real world of Miami, with Raine. He doesn't seem to be adjusting very well, in fact, he desires to be back on the island where he can have Raine all to himself. Living in civilization is hard for Bastian, he struggles to socialize and live a 'normal' life with all of it's conveniences. He's also suffering from nightmares that won't let him sleep. All of this causes him to want to reach for a drink...or two.
I felt bad for the way Bastian felt in this one. He seemed to not be able to fit anywhere. But, I did get mad at him a few times with how much of a jackass he acted. He was at times selfish and mean. Then I couldn't help but love him again for being the sexy, dirty mouthed alpha that I know and love. However, I also loved seeing him grow into a better man.
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'She was my drink--the only one I would ever want again'
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After being in the island, Raine seems to have developed a fear of beaches. She tries to stay away from them at all costs. She doesn't want to be reminded about the island. She just wants to go to school, hang out with friends and live a normal life. She is also trying to be supportive of Bastian, so that he doesn't go back to booze.
I still have a few times where I don't completely understand Raine. But I do feel like she tried to do her best in helping Bastian come out of his shell a bit in front of others than just herself. I think they were both selfish in their own ways, but it somehow ended up helping each other.
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"You are incredible," Raine responded. "You are everything I have ever wanted."
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While the first half was a bit on the slow side for me, I absolutely loved the second part. Landon comes back and needs Bastian to fight again. It a competition of six people that are left on a mountain to kill each other off until on person is standing. It was intense and crazy and so freaking entertaining. I'm not going to give any more on the story but that. It was really good.
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"Might I not then say, 'Now I love you best,'
When I was certain o'er incertainty,
Crowning present doubting of the rest?
Love is a babe, then might I not say so,
To give full growth to that which still doth grow?"
● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
The ending was the best!! My heart was so freaking happy at that conclusion. I really enjoyed this book a lot, maybe not as much as I did the first, but it was still so great. There were such sweet moments, hot steam, and funny moments as well. There was action with the tournament that was very enjoyable. Overall, it was a really great read. Now, I'm going to have to read Evan Arden's books because I am so curious about him after having him appear in this book.
June 24, 2014
*****3.75 I've Got You Stars*****
(BR with Melissa, Dee, Sharon, and Tiffany)
I was hoping to be knocked off my feet with this one but, sadly, even Bastian couldn't make this one a Five Star read for me.
The first 26% of the book, I was getting tired of Bastian's adolescent behavior. He's still very insecure and needing constant reassurance of Raine's love for him.
I did enjoy some of the tender moments between the two of them.
"Most of all, I love the way you love me," she said. "I love the passion inside of you and how you make me feel like the most desired woman in the world when I'm with you."
Bastian and Raine haven been living in a condo in Miami since having been rescued off their island. Raine is content with their new life, but Bastian is having trouble acclimating, and he struggles every day with his desire to drink again. He feels lost and doesn't seem to think he fits in Raines' life.
His constant mood swings and carelessness causes some angst in the story.
The action picks up, when Landon approaches Bastian.
He tells him that Franks knows about him and Raine and that if he wants to keep her safe, he must fight one last time in a tournament.
What can Bastian do? There's no way he can fight off the mob alone, and he'd do ANYTHING to keep Raine safe.
He's promised that if he does this one last tournament, that he will not be bothered by them again and can go off and live happily ever after with Raine.
Oh and there's another kicker, but I'll not mention it here!!
It's a big one!!
This sends Bastian over the edge and he does something stupid.
My heart was pounding. I was hoping and at the same time screaming at my iPAD, telling him not to do it!! Oh but he did!!
But Raine, she's so in love with him, she finds it in her heart to forgive him.
Like everything else in my life, it all changed when Raine became a part of it. She made me a person who could be loved and forgiven. She made me the kind of man I might have been if I hadn't been so fucked up early on in life. She took me for who I was--flaws and all--and made me better with nothing more than her acceptance of me.
She was life.
There is a bunch of action that ensues when the tournament commences, and we get Evan Arden in the mix. He's Bastian's number one opponent.
I wish that I could say that I loved this one, but it just didn't hit the mark for me.
I needed more romance.
Bastian and Raine were separated a lot during this one and there wasn't as much sexy time as in the first book.
I needed some HOT & SWEATY sex with Bastian, but only got lukewarm infrequent sex instead.
I did love the ending and I very much appreciated that Bastian recognized that he had been a selfish bastard to Raine in the beginning and he made a conscious effort to change his ways.
(BR with Melissa, Dee, Sharon, and Tiffany)
I was hoping to be knocked off my feet with this one but, sadly, even Bastian couldn't make this one a Five Star read for me.
The first 26% of the book, I was getting tired of Bastian's adolescent behavior. He's still very insecure and needing constant reassurance of Raine's love for him.
I did enjoy some of the tender moments between the two of them.
"Most of all, I love the way you love me," she said. "I love the passion inside of you and how you make me feel like the most desired woman in the world when I'm with you."
Bastian and Raine haven been living in a condo in Miami since having been rescued off their island. Raine is content with their new life, but Bastian is having trouble acclimating, and he struggles every day with his desire to drink again. He feels lost and doesn't seem to think he fits in Raines' life.
His constant mood swings and carelessness causes some angst in the story.
The action picks up, when Landon approaches Bastian.
He tells him that Franks knows about him and Raine and that if he wants to keep her safe, he must fight one last time in a tournament.
What can Bastian do? There's no way he can fight off the mob alone, and he'd do ANYTHING to keep Raine safe.
He's promised that if he does this one last tournament, that he will not be bothered by them again and can go off and live happily ever after with Raine.
Oh and there's another kicker, but I'll not mention it here!!
It's a big one!!
This sends Bastian over the edge and he does something stupid.
My heart was pounding. I was hoping and at the same time screaming at my iPAD, telling him not to do it!! Oh but he did!!
But Raine, she's so in love with him, she finds it in her heart to forgive him.
Like everything else in my life, it all changed when Raine became a part of it. She made me a person who could be loved and forgiven. She made me the kind of man I might have been if I hadn't been so fucked up early on in life. She took me for who I was--flaws and all--and made me better with nothing more than her acceptance of me.
She was life.
There is a bunch of action that ensues when the tournament commences, and we get Evan Arden in the mix. He's Bastian's number one opponent.
I wish that I could say that I loved this one, but it just didn't hit the mark for me.
I needed more romance.
Bastian and Raine were separated a lot during this one and there wasn't as much sexy time as in the first book.
I needed some HOT & SWEATY sex with Bastian, but only got lukewarm infrequent sex instead.
I did love the ending and I very much appreciated that Bastian recognized that he had been a selfish bastard to Raine in the beginning and he made a conscious effort to change his ways.
Want to read
May 9, 2014 Ooohhh the sequel to SURVIVING RAINE!!
I can't wait! :-) --- COMING JUNE 2014
I can't wait! :-) --- COMING JUNE 2014
June 25, 2014
3.5 STARS
The sequel to Surviving Raine was an interesting one. It was definitely slower and didn't seem to pack quite the punch as it's predecessor. It took me almost three days to finish it, and it wasn't long at all. I tried to pinpoint why it didn't hold my attention like the first book, but it was an amalgamation of things, not just one.
Bastian and Raine are now living in Miami, in a high rise apartment that overlooks the ocean. This was a point of contention for them because Raine hated being around the water while Bastian would give anything to return to the deserted island they made their home for a while. For him, Miami was too busy, too crowded, too many people asking questions, including Raine's friends. She attended university and he stayed at home, wallowing in self pity and hatred for civilization.
Bastian spent the majority of the book angry, self-absorbed and resentful, not necessarily against Raine, but their situation in general. This was where the book dragged a little. I understood why Bastian was this way, but his woe is me attitude quickly got on my nerves. Raine was supportive and always so patient with him. His. She often exhibited strength for the both of them and I liked her even more for that.
But things were a little slow reading until Bastian's past caught up with him once again. Being asked to participate in an upcoming tournament was not optional. Things were revealed that turned the book around and made it more interesting. And as the book blurb mentioned, Bastian was competing against none other than Evan Arden. These two were so similar it wasn't funny. Even Raine and Lia shared similarities that made me smile.
But this competition put too much at stake for Bastian and failing was not an option.
The tournament itself was good. It was violent and had me cringing at times. But this is where the book shined. I had a suspicion things would go down a certain way, and they did. The ending was great, and left almost open to more books. If this series stayed this way it would be perfectly fine, but I find myself wondering about their future down the road.
So in general, I liked this book, I loved how it ended, but it was definitely slower than Surviving Raine. That one was hard to top, to be fair. Lindsay irritated me a lotand Bastian was too weak and self absorbed for a while there. But he did pull through and become the man he always wanted to be. Him and Raine were sweet together and he said the most beautiful things to her. The only other complaint I have is the cover. Please, please change that! In no known universe did I picture Bastian looking like that or Evan for that matter. So if you can get past that, then you'll enjoy this book ;)
**Copy provided by the publisher for review **
The sequel to Surviving Raine was an interesting one. It was definitely slower and didn't seem to pack quite the punch as it's predecessor. It took me almost three days to finish it, and it wasn't long at all. I tried to pinpoint why it didn't hold my attention like the first book, but it was an amalgamation of things, not just one.
Bastian and Raine are now living in Miami, in a high rise apartment that overlooks the ocean. This was a point of contention for them because Raine hated being around the water while Bastian would give anything to return to the deserted island they made their home for a while. For him, Miami was too busy, too crowded, too many people asking questions, including Raine's friends. She attended university and he stayed at home, wallowing in self pity and hatred for civilization.
Bastian spent the majority of the book angry, self-absorbed and resentful, not necessarily against Raine, but their situation in general. This was where the book dragged a little. I understood why Bastian was this way, but his woe is me attitude quickly got on my nerves. Raine was supportive and always so patient with him. His. She often exhibited strength for the both of them and I liked her even more for that.
But things were a little slow reading until Bastian's past caught up with him once again. Being asked to participate in an upcoming tournament was not optional. Things were revealed that turned the book around and made it more interesting. And as the book blurb mentioned, Bastian was competing against none other than Evan Arden. These two were so similar it wasn't funny. Even Raine and Lia shared similarities that made me smile.
But this competition put too much at stake for Bastian and failing was not an option.
The tournament itself was good. It was violent and had me cringing at times. But this is where the book shined. I had a suspicion things would go down a certain way, and they did. The ending was great, and left almost open to more books. If this series stayed this way it would be perfectly fine, but I find myself wondering about their future down the road.
So in general, I liked this book, I loved how it ended, but it was definitely slower than Surviving Raine. That one was hard to top, to be fair. Lindsay irritated me a lotand Bastian was too weak and self absorbed for a while there. But he did pull through and become the man he always wanted to be. Him and Raine were sweet together and he said the most beautiful things to her. The only other complaint I have is the cover. Please, please change that! In no known universe did I picture Bastian looking like that or Evan for that matter. So if you can get past that, then you'll enjoy this book ;)
**Copy provided by the publisher for review **
March 17, 2015
5+ INFINITY STARS
OMG, I can barely contain myself as I write this. Shay Savage is one of my ultimate favourite authors. I have loved all of her books and all I can say about this book is...
What better than to pit her two uber alpha, sexy, broken and troubled males – Sebastian Stark and Evan Arden - against each other…literally?!!! Both of these men got to me in ways that so many other great male MCs didn’t. So, having them cross paths was a wet dream and also a nightmare given the circumstance but also an absolute brilliant brain child on Shay Savage’s part.
Going into this, I could not fathom how Shay would make me choose between two utterly supreme males but, truth be told if I had to, I know who I would pick. That aside, Ms. Savage is a masterful storyteller. She is one of those authors that nails the male POV like no other. And of course, she did it again with this one.
This story is told in Bastian’s POV and lets us see more of Raine and Bastian navigating their lives after their return to civilization.
I absolutely loved Bastian’s love and need for Raine. I practically highlighted all of their love making scenes. Despite all of his faults, and this man has many!, it is blatantly obvious that Raine is his world!! His love for her makes him human, lovable and ultimately, an amazing "fallen hero."
Of course, things take a turn for the worst when, no surprise, Franks comes calling for Bastian and he’s forced into the ultimate death match against five others including Evan Arden.
Despite all of Bastian’s vices, his moodiness, and innate knack for being an asshole, he is one of my top five book boyfriends (Evan's in there too) and this book only cemented his spot further in my heart and mind. I freakin’ loved Bastian and all of his f-bombs, his slip ups and plain dick-head moves. What can I say? I love an uber, Alpha jerk! And let’s not forget, the steamy sex!!
I won’t go further because I don’t want to give the story away but I do want to say that Shay is AMAZING. Her stories are SO MUCH MORE than words written on a page. You so easily get lost into the drama, the angst, the suspense, the thrill, the ache and the pain of it all that it seems so real. I was on the edge of my seat for this and LOVED every minute of it!!
I also loved JP in both books and would love to see a book on him. Something tells me, Jean Paul finding “THE ONE” would be a ride worth taking!
THANK YOU SHAY SAVAGE! XOXO
OMG, I can barely contain myself as I write this. Shay Savage is one of my ultimate favourite authors. I have loved all of her books and all I can say about this book is...
What better than to pit her two uber alpha, sexy, broken and troubled males – Sebastian Stark and Evan Arden - against each other…literally?!!! Both of these men got to me in ways that so many other great male MCs didn’t. So, having them cross paths was a wet dream and also a nightmare given the circumstance but also an absolute brilliant brain child on Shay Savage’s part.
Going into this, I could not fathom how Shay would make me choose between two utterly supreme males but, truth be told if I had to, I know who I would pick. That aside, Ms. Savage is a masterful storyteller. She is one of those authors that nails the male POV like no other. And of course, she did it again with this one.
This story is told in Bastian’s POV and lets us see more of Raine and Bastian navigating their lives after their return to civilization.
I absolutely loved Bastian’s love and need for Raine. I practically highlighted all of their love making scenes. Despite all of his faults, and this man has many!, it is blatantly obvious that Raine is his world!! His love for her makes him human, lovable and ultimately, an amazing "fallen hero."
Of course, things take a turn for the worst when, no surprise, Franks comes calling for Bastian and he’s forced into the ultimate death match against five others including Evan Arden.
Despite all of Bastian’s vices, his moodiness, and innate knack for being an asshole, he is one of my top five book boyfriends (Evan's in there too) and this book only cemented his spot further in my heart and mind. I freakin’ loved Bastian and all of his f-bombs, his slip ups and plain dick-head moves. What can I say? I love an uber, Alpha jerk! And let’s not forget, the steamy sex!!
I won’t go further because I don’t want to give the story away but I do want to say that Shay is AMAZING. Her stories are SO MUCH MORE than words written on a page. You so easily get lost into the drama, the angst, the suspense, the thrill, the ache and the pain of it all that it seems so real. I was on the edge of my seat for this and LOVED every minute of it!!
I also loved JP in both books and would love to see a book on him. Something tells me, Jean Paul finding “THE ONE” would be a ride worth taking!
THANK YOU SHAY SAVAGE! XOXO
Want to read
May 31, 2013W.T.H.?! 2014?????
WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARGGHHHHHHHHH........
WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARGGHHHHHHHHH........
October 18, 2014
Well shit…
First things first. I normally finish a book in hours. I spent TWO days with this book.
I was scared, okay?! I love Evan and I love Bastian. I didn't want them to die or get hurt. I just wanted to scream “Why did you bring Evan to Bastian's book?!” It's Bastian's book! I wanted the story to focus on Bastian and Raine. On Bastian's struggle to live with regular society. Or something.
I wasn’t expecting the story to take that direction.
Nuh-uh.
It wasn’t a bad direction or anything. It was just unexpected. And quite frankly, unnecessary. I mean why would you intertwine the Evan Arden trilogy with Surviving Raine. Bastian and Evan are like night and day. Okay…maybe not night and day. They have a lot of similarities but I dunno…I wanted them separate!
The whole tournament thing?
It was like The Hunger Games 2.0
And in this case, hunger for blood. I was happy when Evan And Bastian were at each other’s throats, because I really hate when authors make the main characters from different books BFFs.
Despite all…that. I liked this book. I adore this author's writing style. It flows very nicely. I love being in Bastian’s head. I just love being in the hero’s head in general. I said it before and I’ll say it again. Shay Savage writes the best books in the hero’s POV. They are just so strange, so…manly. When you read a book by Shay Savage, you genuinely think that the author is a male. Or you feel like a male. Because you’re so consumed and absorbed by the book. And this one is no different.
I was awed by Raine. Shit just kept coming at her from all kinds of directions and she took it all with calmness. I loved how she never stopped scolding Bastian when he cussed. LOL, it was so funny. I wish the book focused a little bit more on their relationship, rather than the tournament and that kind of stuff.
I also think it wasn’t as dark as the first book. I thought it was pretty funny.
Overall, I would definitely recommend this. It was great, but not as great as Surviving Raine.
Happy reading!
*ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review*
First things first. I normally finish a book in hours. I spent TWO days with this book.
I was scared, okay?! I love Evan and I love Bastian. I didn't want them to die or get hurt. I just wanted to scream “Why did you bring Evan to Bastian's book?!” It's Bastian's book! I wanted the story to focus on Bastian and Raine. On Bastian's struggle to live with regular society. Or something.
I wasn’t expecting the story to take that direction.
Nuh-uh.
It wasn’t a bad direction or anything. It was just unexpected. And quite frankly, unnecessary. I mean why would you intertwine the Evan Arden trilogy with Surviving Raine. Bastian and Evan are like night and day. Okay…maybe not night and day. They have a lot of similarities but I dunno…I wanted them separate!
The whole tournament thing?
It was like The Hunger Games 2.0
And in this case, hunger for blood. I was happy when Evan And Bastian were at each other’s throats, because I really hate when authors make the main characters from different books BFFs.
Despite all…that. I liked this book. I adore this author's writing style. It flows very nicely. I love being in Bastian’s head. I just love being in the hero’s head in general. I said it before and I’ll say it again. Shay Savage writes the best books in the hero’s POV. They are just so strange, so…manly. When you read a book by Shay Savage, you genuinely think that the author is a male. Or you feel like a male. Because you’re so consumed and absorbed by the book. And this one is no different.
I was awed by Raine. Shit just kept coming at her from all kinds of directions and she took it all with calmness. I loved how she never stopped scolding Bastian when he cussed. LOL, it was so funny. I wish the book focused a little bit more on their relationship, rather than the tournament and that kind of stuff.
I also think it wasn’t as dark as the first book. I thought it was pretty funny.
Overall, I would definitely recommend this. It was great, but not as great as Surviving Raine.
Happy reading!
*ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review*
August 28, 2014
Sebastian Stark.
Scary. Crass. Volatile. Unpredictable.
Scared. Broken. Haunted.
'Raine.
My Lifeline.
The sails of my ship.
The only calm for my storm.'
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Needless to say, I LOVED 'Surviving Raine'. Did I love 'Bastian's Storm' as much? Nope, not really. I did enjoy it though.
Of course, being in Bastian's head is the best place I could be. I love Ms Savage's heroes; Bastian my fave. He can be so violent and scary; keeping me on edge with whatever he was going to do or say next... then he's making my heart go out to him, being so passionate and vulnerable.
Seeing him battle with domestic life was probably my favourite part of the book. For me, the book waned in the middle. I felt as if Bastian's inner-monologue was repetitive.
I thought more of the book would be dedicated to the Bastian/Evan storyline, but it wasn't. But I do feel there may be a third book conspiring somewhere.
A must read for 'Surviving Raine' lovers, but don't assume it's as good as the first. I think it was a lot to live up to anyway. Enjoy more Bastian! Nom nom.
July 11, 2014
I finally finished this one, although it took me almost 5 days. I can't even pinpoint the reason on why I kept putting it off. The cover that looks like a M/M story is not my excuse.
The first 40% was a little slow, but I actually enjoyed Bastian's tantrum. As usual, he was an asshole extraordinaire, all messed up and can't cope with living in the civilization. He had Raine with him, but all he want is for them to go back to the inhabitable island. How dare they come to save me from the paradise!
I appreciate the love between them, it was intense and passionate and Raine really did put up a lot to be with him. But I felt the repetitiveness of the same issue going through Bastian's head for the entire first 40% of the book.
"I don't know how to do this. I don't know how to be us here."
The monotonous domestic life was then brought to an abrupt halt when Landon, his mentor came bearing a news for him. If Bastian want to live a life ala picket fence and all, he will have to take part in a final tournament.
Things got interesting when Evan Arden (the hero from the Evan Arden's trilogy!) make his appearance. Bastian together with Evan and three other fighters were dropped at an isolated island near the Arctic for a fight to the death. There is going to be only one winner and I'm nervous and excited to see how Bastian and Evan going to pull this off.
I love the last 30% of the book and the ending was perfect. I'm so happy for Bastian that he got his own fairy tale ending despite all the odds against him.
The first 40% was a little slow, but I actually enjoyed Bastian's tantrum. As usual, he was an asshole extraordinaire, all messed up and can't cope with living in the civilization. He had Raine with him, but all he want is for them to go back to the inhabitable island. How dare they come to save me from the paradise!
I appreciate the love between them, it was intense and passionate and Raine really did put up a lot to be with him. But I felt the repetitiveness of the same issue going through Bastian's head for the entire first 40% of the book.
"I don't know how to do this. I don't know how to be us here."
The monotonous domestic life was then brought to an abrupt halt when Landon, his mentor came bearing a news for him. If Bastian want to live a life ala picket fence and all, he will have to take part in a final tournament.
Things got interesting when Evan Arden (the hero from the Evan Arden's trilogy!) make his appearance. Bastian together with Evan and three other fighters were dropped at an isolated island near the Arctic for a fight to the death. There is going to be only one winner and I'm nervous and excited to see how Bastian and Evan going to pull this off.
I love the last 30% of the book and the ending was perfect. I'm so happy for Bastian that he got his own fairy tale ending despite all the odds against him.
February 11, 2023
3.5 stars
Bastian's Storm is the conclusion to Bastian and Raine's story, but to be honest I enjoyed book 1 a lot more. I found the first half of this book boring and slow. Bastian was selfish and acted like a needy child which for me was a total turn off. I thought he got better in the second half and towards the end I liked how Raine and Alex were his main concern. The chemistry between Bastian and Raine was still smoking hot and their HEA made me smile. Overall I'm glad I read both books and look forward to more from this author.
Bastian's Storm is the conclusion to Bastian and Raine's story, but to be honest I enjoyed book 1 a lot more. I found the first half of this book boring and slow. Bastian was selfish and acted like a needy child which for me was a total turn off. I thought he got better in the second half and towards the end I liked how Raine and Alex were his main concern. The chemistry between Bastian and Raine was still smoking hot and their HEA made me smile. Overall I'm glad I read both books and look forward to more from this author.
June 23, 2014
****4 Thunderous Stars****
(BR with Tiffany, Sharon, Melissa and Patty)
If you read Surviving Raine, you probably fell in love with the gorgeous and very possessive Bastian, like I did. The story continues in this book after they've been rescued and thrown back into civilization; which is my hometown of Miami, Yay!! Viva the 305!!!
Bastian is not dealing well with his new life setting; he struggles every day with mundane things like making small talk, sharing the elevator with someone, and he absolutely hates sharing Raine with her friends and anything else that takes her away from him. He wishes everyday he could go back to the island where it was just the two of them and Raine depended on him for everything, he's a caveman like that... Bastian knows that his dangerous past will catch up with them eventually, and when it does ,it shows up up in the form of Mr. Evan Arden (WHAT????) So, let the games begin again, but will he be forced back into that life forever or for one last time?
Bastian and Evan will battle against each other as they follow orders from their respective mob bosses, both are willing to fight till the end in order to keep their women alive. Other than Raine, Bastian is fighting for his son, who after his mother got murdered is being hold as insurance after he wins. His five year old son, Alex and Raine are his entire world and the family he never thought he deserved.
I loved that this book was full of angst; I was at the edge of my seat and totally confused because I could not decided who I wanted to win the games, if Sebastian or Evan; I really loved them both equally. I enjoyed this book a lot, but I'm with Sebastian in the sense that I kept longing for those months they spent in the island. I also must admit that I wasn't a big fan of the cover of this book; that is not how I imagined Sebastian Stark looked like; but please don't judge the book by it's cover as this novel was full of action, passion and wonderfully written. I was extremely happy with the great epilogue we got, but I hope that Mrs. Savage will write another story, even if is a little novella with a more detailed HEA, a girl can dream, right?
(BR with Tiffany, Sharon, Melissa and Patty)
If you read Surviving Raine, you probably fell in love with the gorgeous and very possessive Bastian, like I did. The story continues in this book after they've been rescued and thrown back into civilization; which is my hometown of Miami, Yay!! Viva the 305!!!
Bastian is not dealing well with his new life setting; he struggles every day with mundane things like making small talk, sharing the elevator with someone, and he absolutely hates sharing Raine with her friends and anything else that takes her away from him. He wishes everyday he could go back to the island where it was just the two of them and Raine depended on him for everything, he's a caveman like that... Bastian knows that his dangerous past will catch up with them eventually, and when it does ,it shows up up in the form of Mr. Evan Arden (WHAT????) So, let the games begin again, but will he be forced back into that life forever or for one last time?
Bastian and Evan will battle against each other as they follow orders from their respective mob bosses, both are willing to fight till the end in order to keep their women alive. Other than Raine, Bastian is fighting for his son, who after his mother got murdered is being hold as insurance after he wins. His five year old son, Alex and Raine are his entire world and the family he never thought he deserved.
I loved that this book was full of angst; I was at the edge of my seat and totally confused because I could not decided who I wanted to win the games, if Sebastian or Evan; I really loved them both equally. I enjoyed this book a lot, but I'm with Sebastian in the sense that I kept longing for those months they spent in the island. I also must admit that I wasn't a big fan of the cover of this book; that is not how I imagined Sebastian Stark looked like; but please don't judge the book by it's cover as this novel was full of action, passion and wonderfully written. I was extremely happy with the great epilogue we got, but I hope that Mrs. Savage will write another story, even if is a little novella with a more detailed HEA, a girl can dream, right?
June 30, 2014
4 "I've Got You" Stars!
(BR with Patty, Sharon, Tiffany, & Denisse)
After being rescued from the island, Bastian and Raine are still together, and have decided to live in Miami. They have a condo in Miami Beach that is right near the water. Raine enrolled at the University of Miami, and they are both trying to adjust to their new surroundings & life among others.
Bastian is missing the island, and having Raine all to himself. He hates sharing her with her friends, and the rest of the world. He is also struggling with not drinking, but now that he has Raine, he will do whatever it takes to have her in his life, and he knows she won't put up with his drinking.
Bastian is having a hard time being happy, and feels kind of lost. Like he just exists, without any purpose. Without his boat, he doesn't know what to do with himself. He starts running, working out, and getting out on his new motorcycle.
They are trying to make their relationship work, even though Bastian isn't adjusting as well. He just feels like Raine doesn't need him anymore. He is insecure, but Raine continues to reassure him of her love. The one thing that remains the same is how they feel about each other. They are each others heart & each would be lost without the other.
Bastian's old mentor Landon shows up and shakes up Bastian's world. Everything he has feared happens. He has worried and looked over his shoulder ever since he was rescued and his name was splashed all over the news. He was afraid the mob would come after him.
After years of staying somewhat hidden, Franks wants Bastian to fight in another tournament. They have something they are holding over him, so Bastian doesn't have a choice. He has to fight one last time if he wants to protect Raine, be free to have the life he wants with the woman he loves.
Bastian and Raine are separated, and things are tense. Bastian has to fight to the death. There is plenty of action & suspense, and Bastian faces off against Evan Arden, who is a skilled opponent.
I really enjoyed getting more Bastian & Raine. Bastian loves so deeply & as usual expresses himself physically! ;)) LOVED all the sexy time! Bastian is absolutely delicious, and I just adore how he is with Raine! My only complaint is that I would have liked more Bastian/Raine time, & less time devoted to the tournament. Overall I really enjoyed, but wouldn't mind a novella or something into the future. Maybe even a book for John Paul. :D
-"When all odds are against you, and there's no way out, you can't lose your focus. That's the time you have to find that point inside of yourself- the one that knows there is no such word as defeat- and fucking tie yourself to it, you hear me? If you don't, you're lost."
-There was want and need; there was love, but there was also so much more.
-"You're my life.
-"You are my world."
-"You are everything I have ever wanted."
(BR with Patty, Sharon, Tiffany, & Denisse)
After being rescued from the island, Bastian and Raine are still together, and have decided to live in Miami. They have a condo in Miami Beach that is right near the water. Raine enrolled at the University of Miami, and they are both trying to adjust to their new surroundings & life among others.
Bastian is missing the island, and having Raine all to himself. He hates sharing her with her friends, and the rest of the world. He is also struggling with not drinking, but now that he has Raine, he will do whatever it takes to have her in his life, and he knows she won't put up with his drinking.
Bastian is having a hard time being happy, and feels kind of lost. Like he just exists, without any purpose. Without his boat, he doesn't know what to do with himself. He starts running, working out, and getting out on his new motorcycle.
They are trying to make their relationship work, even though Bastian isn't adjusting as well. He just feels like Raine doesn't need him anymore. He is insecure, but Raine continues to reassure him of her love. The one thing that remains the same is how they feel about each other. They are each others heart & each would be lost without the other.
Bastian's old mentor Landon shows up and shakes up Bastian's world. Everything he has feared happens. He has worried and looked over his shoulder ever since he was rescued and his name was splashed all over the news. He was afraid the mob would come after him.
After years of staying somewhat hidden, Franks wants Bastian to fight in another tournament. They have something they are holding over him, so Bastian doesn't have a choice. He has to fight one last time if he wants to protect Raine, be free to have the life he wants with the woman he loves.
Bastian and Raine are separated, and things are tense. Bastian has to fight to the death. There is plenty of action & suspense, and Bastian faces off against Evan Arden, who is a skilled opponent.
I really enjoyed getting more Bastian & Raine. Bastian loves so deeply & as usual expresses himself physically! ;)) LOVED all the sexy time! Bastian is absolutely delicious, and I just adore how he is with Raine! My only complaint is that I would have liked more Bastian/Raine time, & less time devoted to the tournament. Overall I really enjoyed, but wouldn't mind a novella or something into the future. Maybe even a book for John Paul. :D
-"When all odds are against you, and there's no way out, you can't lose your focus. That's the time you have to find that point inside of yourself- the one that knows there is no such word as defeat- and fucking tie yourself to it, you hear me? If you don't, you're lost."
-There was want and need; there was love, but there was also so much more.
-"You're my life.
-"You are my world."
-"You are everything I have ever wanted."
October 26, 2014
"I loved her, and loving her was the only thing that kept me sane."-Bastian
Bastian's Storm is the follow up to the first book Surviving Raine. I absolutely adored Surviving Raine and was ecstatic to see there was a follow up. Bastian and Raine are far away from the island refuge they called home. Raine is in college and living with Bastian in Miami. Bastian finds himself struggling again. He doesn't know what he is supposed to do. He is like a ticking time bomb ready to explode!
"Everything she loved, I hated. Everything that frightened her, I loved. For the most part, we were making it work."-Bastian
There is quite a shift in these characters from the first book to this book. Somehow Raine isn't quite as sweet and supportive. Instead, I found her demeanor in this book to be a bit more preachy and frankly her inability to understand Bastian's struggles were a bit annoying. Bastian is still head over heels in love with Raine and yet he finds himself . What is most upsetting about this is that I didn't feel like it was ever addressed or settled.
Bastian struggles to get along with Raine's friends. She is trying to be supportive but I felt like the age difference between Raine and Bastian is more prominent in this book. She came across incredibly immature and although her love for Bastian is clear it seemed a bit conditional. In a way I agreed with Batstian: things were easier on the island!
Bastian is approached by some menacing men from his past. He is forced to fight in another tournament
The tournament was action packed and very enjoyable. Raine has the opportunity to redeem herself by supporting Bastian in the tournament and . Of course, we meet Evan Arden.
“You are my world,” I whispered against her skin. “I can survive anything as long as I have you with me.” My storm was calmed."-Bastian
Overall, I can honestly say that I have enjoyed these characters and I wanted to follow through and finish the story. The reason this book wasn't as strong as the first is because it felt like there were two stories going on at the same time. Bastian and Raine's struggle to make a way together after the island and Bastian back in the tournament trying to survive. Because of the split, in my opinion, neither plot had the chance to develop fully and find complete resolution. Still the ending was sweet. I was content with how these two made a way, Only one thing bothered me ALOT Don't let the cover deter you, this was a good read....just nowhere near as good as the first book!
“Sebastian when you look at me, I can feel how much you love me. Sometimes it’s a little overwhelming—like a tidal wave—and it can make me feel like I’ve been turned inside out. I can feel it in my skin and in the pit of my stomach. When you look at me like that, I can feel your love for me in my soul. When you wrap your arms around me at night, I can feel your desire for me, and I don’t think there is any woman alive who has ever felt more wanted than I do when you’re close to me.”-Raine
Bastian's Storm is the follow up to the first book Surviving Raine. I absolutely adored Surviving Raine and was ecstatic to see there was a follow up. Bastian and Raine are far away from the island refuge they called home. Raine is in college and living with Bastian in Miami. Bastian finds himself struggling again. He doesn't know what he is supposed to do. He is like a ticking time bomb ready to explode!
"Everything she loved, I hated. Everything that frightened her, I loved. For the most part, we were making it work."-Bastian
There is quite a shift in these characters from the first book to this book. Somehow Raine isn't quite as sweet and supportive. Instead, I found her demeanor in this book to be a bit more preachy and frankly her inability to understand Bastian's struggles were a bit annoying. Bastian is still head over heels in love with Raine and yet he finds himself . What is most upsetting about this is that I didn't feel like it was ever addressed or settled.
Bastian struggles to get along with Raine's friends. She is trying to be supportive but I felt like the age difference between Raine and Bastian is more prominent in this book. She came across incredibly immature and although her love for Bastian is clear it seemed a bit conditional. In a way I agreed with Batstian: things were easier on the island!
Bastian is approached by some menacing men from his past. He is forced to fight in another tournament
The tournament was action packed and very enjoyable. Raine has the opportunity to redeem herself by supporting Bastian in the tournament and . Of course, we meet Evan Arden.
“You are my world,” I whispered against her skin. “I can survive anything as long as I have you with me.” My storm was calmed."-Bastian
Overall, I can honestly say that I have enjoyed these characters and I wanted to follow through and finish the story. The reason this book wasn't as strong as the first is because it felt like there were two stories going on at the same time. Bastian and Raine's struggle to make a way together after the island and Bastian back in the tournament trying to survive. Because of the split, in my opinion, neither plot had the chance to develop fully and find complete resolution. Still the ending was sweet. I was content with how these two made a way, Only one thing bothered me ALOT Don't let the cover deter you, this was a good read....just nowhere near as good as the first book!
“Sebastian when you look at me, I can feel how much you love me. Sometimes it’s a little overwhelming—like a tidal wave—and it can make me feel like I’ve been turned inside out. I can feel it in my skin and in the pit of my stomach. When you look at me like that, I can feel your love for me in my soul. When you wrap your arms around me at night, I can feel your desire for me, and I don’t think there is any woman alive who has ever felt more wanted than I do when you’re close to me.”-Raine
May 22, 2014
After surviving the desert island with Raine, Bastian is now back in Miami.. Its not where he wants to be. He wants nothing more than to be back on the island just him and Raine, the two of them, no one else.
But Raine doesn't feel the same way. She now hates the sea, the coast.
He knows that something will need to change if their relationship is to survive.
Bastian has a past and Landon is part of that past. He's also a sort of father figure to him. So has he got Bastians best interest at heart or are there other motives for him turning up and what does he want to involve Bastian in?
There are things that Bastian no longer wants to be part of, but maybe he will have no choice.
As the games to live or die are set up. Bastian fears no one.....except one person...Evan Arden
My thoughts
I'm a huge fan of Shay Savage's writing. I love the way she can write an Anti Hero that's broken but totally into their women.
And Bastian is one of those men.
You feel he's out of place in Miami, he can't settle, a lost soul.
He's a jerk, he knows it and he knows that he is doing it to Raine, her friends and he wants to go back to what they had before.
With the temptation of drink around the corner and one last job lined up for him, will this finally tip him over the edge or will him and Raine find their paradise again?
I had mixed feelings about Bastian, I found him needy and of course it's easy to understood the reason why, but at the same time I felt consumed by his love for Raine and his attempts to protect her and please her and of course the sex is super hot as always...
The introduction of Evan was a great twist.
On a final note I didn't find this one had the same darkish undertone as Shay's Otherwise series but liked it just the same.
ARC provided by LJ Anderson on behalf of Shay Savage in return for an honest review
But Raine doesn't feel the same way. She now hates the sea, the coast.
He knows that something will need to change if their relationship is to survive.
Bastian has a past and Landon is part of that past. He's also a sort of father figure to him. So has he got Bastians best interest at heart or are there other motives for him turning up and what does he want to involve Bastian in?
There are things that Bastian no longer wants to be part of, but maybe he will have no choice.
As the games to live or die are set up. Bastian fears no one.....except one person...Evan Arden
My thoughts
I'm a huge fan of Shay Savage's writing. I love the way she can write an Anti Hero that's broken but totally into their women.
And Bastian is one of those men.
You feel he's out of place in Miami, he can't settle, a lost soul.
He's a jerk, he knows it and he knows that he is doing it to Raine, her friends and he wants to go back to what they had before.
With the temptation of drink around the corner and one last job lined up for him, will this finally tip him over the edge or will him and Raine find their paradise again?
I had mixed feelings about Bastian, I found him needy and of course it's easy to understood the reason why, but at the same time I felt consumed by his love for Raine and his attempts to protect her and please her and of course the sex is super hot as always...
The introduction of Evan was a great twist.
On a final note I didn't find this one had the same darkish undertone as Shay's Otherwise series but liked it just the same.
ARC provided by LJ Anderson on behalf of Shay Savage in return for an honest review
November 26, 2015
Bastian's Storm for me was a much better read, as we got to see Sebastian Stark's metamorphose from Surviving Raine. He's still insufferable, deprecating asshole but his pity parties were fewer and farther in between. I do have to give the man props for stepping up when the time called for it and his resourcefulness in deadly situations. Now please don't let my reviews sway your decisions on reading this series as Shay Savage does an amazing job creating the scenes for these stories. I'm just not a fan of Sebastian, but rather team Evan Arden. Goes to show how talented Shay Savage really is to invokes these kind of emotions. I think my favorite part in the entire story was when Evan made his appearance. "Arden stood, took two steps to get around the table, and leaned over slightly to look me in the face.“I hear you’re fighting for a kid,” he said softly. “Maybe when I’m done with you, I’ll put a bullet in his skull, just like his mother’s. Yeah shit from that point got real! I was shocked Evan said that and appeared as cold and indifferent as he was.
June 23, 2014
“You are my world,” I whispered against her skin. “I can survive anything as long as I have you with me.”
June 24, 2014
4 - "I'm ferfectly pine." Stars!
I dived into Bastian’s Storm straight after I finished devouring Surviving Raine. And after getting over my initial feelings on the cover choice –
I loved every second of it. It was great to read the whole story of this couple, from the development of their initial relationship on the life raft, and the extreme circumstances which in the end strengthened their bond whilst on the Island in the first book. To then seeing how they both work together as a couple back in the civilised world.
Raine.
My lifeline.
The sails of my ship.
The only calm for my storm.
My only reason to exist in this fucked up world.
I have to say my first thoughts at the start of Bastian’s Storm, were of how such a strong, insular, overprotective man was going to stay on the straight and narrow, back in the real world, where temptation is easily and readily available. It is no real surprise that he associates his time on the island with Raine as something to cherish, it is where he broke out of the destructive cycle his life was in, and gradually realised that as a man he is not just the sum total of his past actions. He is more, he can feel love and emotions, protect and be worthy of experiencing the joy of being loved and wanted in return.
She made me a person who could be loved and forgiven. She made me the kind of man I might have been if I hadn’t been so fucked up early on in life. She took me for who I was – flaws and all – and made me better with nothing more than her acceptance of me. She was life.
I loved that Raine ‘got’ Bastian, for all of his faults and moods, from being super over-protective about her, to his ornery nature around her friends, and just being a general grump with everyone else. As the story progresses and Landon Stark’s re-emergence into Bastian’s life brings about some huge changes and challenges. Raine still fights for him, with him and against those that threaten Bastian and their life together. I think her belief in Bastian and the love that they shared made the second half of the book even more enjoyable as it wasn't about if their relationship could survive, and more about whether Bastian would survive.
I don’t want to say too much about the ‘Contest’, as it would offer up major spoilers, and I think this is a story best enjoyed first hand, by the reader and not through a reviewer’s thoughts or impressions of it. You have 6 contestants –
Sebastian Stark
Hunter
Erik Dytalov
Reaper
Tyrone Chimes
And a certain Lt. Evan Arden...
Shay wrapped this part of the book, and the end of Bastian and Raine’s story as a whole really well, loose ends were tied off, nothing was missed and I liked that those who were deserving of it found the peace to live their lives without fear or the shadow of threat hanging over them.
Shay Savage can do no wrong in my eyes; it shames me to say I still have a long overdue date with a certain ex-sniper/hit-man, and although we had a quickie in ‘Otherwise Alone’ I definitely want to be ‘Otherwise Engaged’ with him and the rest of his series at some point very soon in the future.
That-said a certain Sebastian Stark will hold a place in my heart as well, and as such I think it only right that I end this review with some poignant, heartfelt and deeply emotional words from him –
”Set the mood for my purple helmeted warrior. He’s just dying to fight his way through your underbush.”
ARC generously provided by the author in exchange for the above honest review.
I dived into Bastian’s Storm straight after I finished devouring Surviving Raine. And after getting over my initial feelings on the cover choice –
I loved every second of it. It was great to read the whole story of this couple, from the development of their initial relationship on the life raft, and the extreme circumstances which in the end strengthened their bond whilst on the Island in the first book. To then seeing how they both work together as a couple back in the civilised world.
Raine.
My lifeline.
The sails of my ship.
The only calm for my storm.
My only reason to exist in this fucked up world.
I have to say my first thoughts at the start of Bastian’s Storm, were of how such a strong, insular, overprotective man was going to stay on the straight and narrow, back in the real world, where temptation is easily and readily available. It is no real surprise that he associates his time on the island with Raine as something to cherish, it is where he broke out of the destructive cycle his life was in, and gradually realised that as a man he is not just the sum total of his past actions. He is more, he can feel love and emotions, protect and be worthy of experiencing the joy of being loved and wanted in return.
She made me a person who could be loved and forgiven. She made me the kind of man I might have been if I hadn’t been so fucked up early on in life. She took me for who I was – flaws and all – and made me better with nothing more than her acceptance of me. She was life.
I loved that Raine ‘got’ Bastian, for all of his faults and moods, from being super over-protective about her, to his ornery nature around her friends, and just being a general grump with everyone else. As the story progresses and Landon Stark’s re-emergence into Bastian’s life brings about some huge changes and challenges. Raine still fights for him, with him and against those that threaten Bastian and their life together. I think her belief in Bastian and the love that they shared made the second half of the book even more enjoyable as it wasn't about if their relationship could survive, and more about whether Bastian would survive.
I don’t want to say too much about the ‘Contest’, as it would offer up major spoilers, and I think this is a story best enjoyed first hand, by the reader and not through a reviewer’s thoughts or impressions of it. You have 6 contestants –
Sebastian Stark
Hunter
Erik Dytalov
Reaper
Tyrone Chimes
And a certain Lt. Evan Arden...
Shay wrapped this part of the book, and the end of Bastian and Raine’s story as a whole really well, loose ends were tied off, nothing was missed and I liked that those who were deserving of it found the peace to live their lives without fear or the shadow of threat hanging over them.
Shay Savage can do no wrong in my eyes; it shames me to say I still have a long overdue date with a certain ex-sniper/hit-man, and although we had a quickie in ‘Otherwise Alone’ I definitely want to be ‘Otherwise Engaged’ with him and the rest of his series at some point very soon in the future.
That-said a certain Sebastian Stark will hold a place in my heart as well, and as such I think it only right that I end this review with some poignant, heartfelt and deeply emotional words from him –
”Set the mood for my purple helmeted warrior. He’s just dying to fight his way through your underbush.”
ARC generously provided by the author in exchange for the above honest review.
June 20, 2014
2 ~ 2.5 stars
Before I explain why I give this one a 2-star rating, I want to add I wasn't a fan of Surviving Raine. So why the hell did I read this? After reading Transcendence (and loving it so much) I wanted to give this one a try. Unfortunately I liked this one less than Surviving Raine.
Raine still has to deal with Bastian drinking. Even after she told him she'd leave. Did he care? Nope. Did she leave? No. I wished she would've, though.
Then, there's Alex. Bastian's lost son. I had no problem with the kid himself, it just reminded me that Raine will never have a kid of her own. How sad especially after Bastian mentioning she loves children. Why does Bastian get the best of both world? He gets to keep Raine and Alex. While Raine is stuck with a alcoholic and never to have a baby. Slightly unfair if you ask me.
Finally I still wasn't a fan of Bastian. He rubbed me off the wrong way since the very first book and, I guess, the second book didn't help at all. The fact he still got drunk only proved he was a weak character.
In all, I should've skipped on this or wait for more reviews. To each it's own and I didn't care for Bastian.
Before I explain why I give this one a 2-star rating, I want to add I wasn't a fan of Surviving Raine. So why the hell did I read this? After reading Transcendence (and loving it so much) I wanted to give this one a try. Unfortunately I liked this one less than Surviving Raine.
Raine still has to deal with Bastian drinking. Even after she told him she'd leave. Did he care? Nope. Did she leave? No. I wished she would've, though.
Then, there's Alex. Bastian's lost son. I had no problem with the kid himself, it just reminded me that Raine will never have a kid of her own. How sad especially after Bastian mentioning she loves children. Why does Bastian get the best of both world? He gets to keep Raine and Alex. While Raine is stuck with a alcoholic and never to have a baby. Slightly unfair if you ask me.
Finally I still wasn't a fan of Bastian. He rubbed me off the wrong way since the very first book and, I guess, the second book didn't help at all. The fact he still got drunk only proved he was a weak character.
In all, I should've skipped on this or wait for more reviews. To each it's own and I didn't care for Bastian.
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