Blackwood

So I really enjoyed this book... the premise, the intertwined stories, etc... but I felt like it could have been twice as long. Such good ideas but I felt a little cheated... I wanted more. More elaboration on the back stories, on the Blackwoods and on and on... and of course more Garrett and Elise! I enjoyed it but like I said I would have loved if it had been a 400+ page book... or even 2 books <3

Although Blackwood was an entertaining and sexy read, I have only given it 3 stars as it abruptly ended at 50%. No where in any of the reviews I scanned did anyone mention this!!!!
I found it shorter than a usual ' 'novella''. At the most, the author should have prepared the reader for the fill in at the end of this book, which amounted to "nothing"worth while.
First and last time I bother with this author.

“F***!” 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.”
<b>Blackwood</b> (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 a$$ and raised me to his face as if he were feasting on a sumptuous meal.”

GARRETT BLACKWOOD: 32 years/Former professor History/Dark brown hair/Blue eyes/Beard/Recluse.
Seven words to describe Garrett Blackwood: recluse, mysterious, broken, honorable, commanding, devious and moody.

ELISE VALE aka Red: 25 years/Ph.D. student Archaeology/Brown hair/Green eyes.
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 h*rny.”

A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.

The book:
• 259 Pages • Contemporary • Standalone • Happily Ever After • First-Person Narrative • Her POV

The romantic theme:
• Enemies To Lovers

The read:
• Intense Read • Dark Read • Good Pace • Touching • Twists & Turns • Sexy

Heat level:
• 3 / 5 (Includes hot and explicit sex scenes, but not too often throughout the book) • MF scenes • Dirty Talk • Beyond Vanilla Sex

Story ingredients:
• Instant Clash • Heroic Rescue • Big Secret • Mystery & Suspense • Violence • Brutality • Profanities

He is...
• Alpha Male • Bossy • Possessive • Emotionally Unavailable • Fit • Troubled Past

She is...
• Pretty • Brainy • Strong • Unconventional

Blackwood is the newest novel by Author Celia Aaron. It is an erotic romance novel that loves to play in the dark.

“I’m not some virgin in an antebellum flick. You can’t ruin me, Garrett”

Elise Vale is a Ph.D. student working to finish her degree by completing an epic dig. The only problem is Garrett Blackwood. He stands in the way of her future and may hold some keys to her past. But, he has his own secrets that will make her question her desires, her values, and her motives.

"...every depraved fantasy I've had since you came knocking on my door involves a red coat."

I have fallen in love with Author Celia Aaron’s books; Blackwood was no exception. Boasting a dual storyline, each filled with its own mystery and intrigue, interwoven and crashing together with every turn of the page, this novel was one that immediately enticed me into the pages. I gasped, shrieked, and hid, never knowing what to expect, but continually going back for more. Balancing the tension was the allure between Elise and Garrett that heated me up all over, making my body hum as Garrett spoke and made promises that were full of need and future fulfillment. Elisa was fem fatale kind of lady. She was a quick thinker, knew how to survive and play her cards right, and knew how to use her feminine wiles to yield even the best men.

Ghosts, secrets, lies. All here, all just beyond my sight.

The way in which Author Celia Aaron described the scenery in this book was perfection. It transported me to that exact moment, time, and place, giving me the bird's eye view of everything, and I do mean E-VER-Y-THING! This only fueled the story line, forcing it to become intensely real and, on occasion, freaking me the heck out.

I found myself more worried over the fact that every harsh word he uttered seemed to speak to a secret part of myself. One that wanted to revel in his darkness and sample every bitter promise in his words.

Being branded as having a story starter that made me gasp, Blackwood sunk its claws into me, pulling me close, and demanding my attention. It was a phenomenal novel filled with suspense, danger. spanking hot chemistry, and sweet and sultry loving. A haunting and sizzling escape to remember.

Blackwood is a stand-alone dark romance/thriller that will have you panting and racing with chills at the same time. The plot is one that has you on the edge of your seat, while the hero is so hot and yummy that you want to breathe him in because he is that yummy , the heroine is spunky, sassy and very independent and if you love dark romance, this is the book for dark romance lovers.
Elise aka Red is an archaeology student who is on a mission to find her missing father. Her research points her to the last known place he was which was the woods on the Blackwood estate.
Garrett Blackwood is known as a Recluse but he used to be a history professor . He doesn’t want anyone on his property, digging or really anything. He especially doesn’t want Elise there. But that doesn’t stop Elise, she continues to search , albeit in secret and how Elise gets on the property is a bit of genesis on her part to get her what she so desires to find the answers but it’s not really legal-- what she does gains her the funding and full access to the Blackwood Estate. Elise and Garrett are thrown together in the most unlikely way. Their attraction is very hot, literally sparks fly when they are together. Elise comes into this sexual awakening with Garrett but is he really as into her as he seems to be or this there something darker at play here? Something more ? With murder as a precursor, there is twists and turns at play, murder/mystery along with passion to wheat the appetite. I loved how Red and Garrett made this story so hot and electric yet so sinister . I needed to know answers and the author kept me hanging by a thread. The ending was good, and well played.

My Rating: 4.6 stars *****
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***

Elise Vale, the bright young aspiring archeologist, is on a mission to find the truth. She’s drawn up her blue prints, signed the permissions, and prepared herself to dig through the mysteries behind the burial grounds along the Mississippi Delta. What she hasn't accounted for in the planning is her encounter with Garrett Blackwood. He’s the danger she can’t stay away from, but will she survive his wrath once she uncovers the mysteries along the Delta?

Celia Aaron takes suspense and dark romance to a whole new level in Blackwood. Aaron’s parallel episodes between Blackwood’s behaviors and the town's secrets are intricately woven, leaving her audience questioning who is good and who is evil all the way up to the bitter end. The Brothers Grimm motif further surrounds the mystery and build up between Elise and her desire to find the truth, Blackwood, and the small town itself. Aaron’s story contains all the feel goods of a romance, twisted with all the sinister wickedness that is rooted in the heart of those who choose evil. While the trope of girl meets dangerous alpha boy appears in Blackwood, it is only a superficial ideal. Aaron digs deep into the bigger issues of the backwoods Delta secrets and all the little hidden subcultures surrounding urban legends and deciphering truth between what is small town buzz and what is the deep dark reality of the evils which lurk. Aaron is an artist in her diction and stylistic choices making this another amazing read from one talented lady!

First, let's talk about that cover! It's amazing! I'm a smidgen picky when it comes to covers since I do graphic design, I feel a cover is just as important as what's inside! This cover didn't disappoint. Who is that guy anyway? I don't normally go for beards but he looks very good! Plus the use of color and fading… this cover is fab! Without being over the top! Mad applause to Aaron's designer!!

Celia Aaron’s is so descriptive that you can’t help but see and feel everything she describes. The beginning of Blackwood is wonderful! Hell, the whole book was amazing but the beginning really has to lay a lot of ground work for the rest of the book.

There was so much sexual tension in this book. I LOVED low this hard, tough guy finally opened up. He was just adorable once he got past himself.

There was so much back and forth, and just… uncertainty. I didn't know what to believe there for a few chapters Aaron seriously threw me for a loop. I so did not see that ending coming. I love romantic suspense books and this was such a fan-freaking-tastic read.

I received an ARC of this book with the hope that I will leave an Unbiased Opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that... my opinions.

I received an ARC of Blackwood in exchange for an honest review.

First off, let me tell you that this book is so immensely messed up that it sent me spiraling into a huge book slump. I was not able to pick up another book for days, it was that good.

Celia is such a talented writer and has proven this with Blackwood.
In this story we meet Elise, aka Red, and Garrett 'The Elusive' Blackwood.

Elise is not just out to dig on his property to finish her studies, but she's also searching for her long lost father.

Garrett keeps to himself, is gruff and hides something dark beneath his rugged handsomeness.

During the book we see so many brilliantly portrayed characters, and live through the biggest surprises, one being how caring Garrett can actually be, how strong Elise is and how vile villains can be.

I've been kept in the dark about the biggest question until the very, very end, and I wouldn't change it for anything.

If you're looking for a book that will have you asking 'WHAT THE HELL IS GOING ON?' the entire time, but at the same time falling in love with not just the light, but also the darkness, then one-click this bad boy, he's right waiting right here, all ready for you.

Blackwood tells the story of Elise, who is searching for answers that can only be found at Blackwood Estate, and Garrett, the seemingly scary recluse who resides there. Her search for the truth leads to Garrett’s property and the answers she finds are ones neither saw coming.

Celia Aaron delivers another deliciously dark tale, interwoven with suspense, horror, a bit of kink, hot sex, and characters you can’t help but be intrigued by. The book’s pace is excellently plotted and the twists and turns never stop coming. I finished the book in less than a day because it was such an amazing page-turner. I love Ms. Aaron’s writing style and the location for the novel. Set in the South, the book conjures up images of magnolia trees built on family secrets.

I’d definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves dark tales, alpha males, and strong heroines. You won’t be disappointed. You also won’t get much sleep because you’ll have to see where this book goes!

Elise?? is a college student working on her thesis in archeology. She is also secretly working on solving her father's disappearance in the area years ago., and has pinpointed a site on the Blackwood Estate as promising, both for a grave site and a Choctaw village site. Now all she has to do is get permission from the landowner to survey the sites.
The estate itself is in disrepair and looks almost abandoned, but Elise?? presses on and knocks on the door. The man that finally answers is a scary sight, long haired, straggley beard, dirty hands, and very unfriendly.??
He sends her away empty handed. She must get written permission to do the surveys and he refuses.
Here we learn that Elise?? is more than a little dishonest, she forges his signatures on the permission forms so she can get the funding from her college to proceed.
She spends some time in the nearby town and finds out they are desperate for tourism money, so the town leaders are very accommodating to her. They seem to be happy to overlook some improprieties that have been going on in the county lately.
When her car is stolen off a back logging road while she is sneaking around the estate property, she knows all is not as it seems. The old Blackwood mansion is the closest place to get out of the cold, and she heads there. Just as she sees the lights of the place, she is attacked and mauled by a wild boar.
Garrett Blackwood, the man she saw before, shoots the boar, and saves her, but she has a lot of damage to her legs. Garrett becomes her reluctant nurse, her everything.
So begins her relationship with the older, hermit like man, and her beginning to understanding life.
Garrett???✋? is a wild, black hearted hunter, the wolf?, and she is the sweet juicy prey, little red riding hood.???
YEHAW! Ride em Bareback?, Cowgirl!?????

This is an interesting, well written book and I couldn't put it down. There are a lot of twists and turns and characters who aren't what or who they seem to be. Intrigue. This isn't a typical erotic romance.

Elise is working towards her Ph.D. in archaeology and she really wants to dig on Garrett Blackwood's property. When she tried to get permission from Garrett to dig on his property he is less than hospitable. He tells her to get off his property and slams the door in her face. On her way back to the university she decides to forge Garrett's signature on the permission form. She goes out there to start surveying the land and runs in to Daniel, the town crazy. He tells her she is not safe out in the woods all by herself. After he leaves her she heads back to her car, only it's not where she left it. She tries to head back to the Blackwood estate but gets attacked by wild boars and Garrett saves her. Now she is stuck in his house while she heals. Elise is also secretly searching for answers about what happened to her father two years ago. He was last seen in the area of Blackwood manor. She's not sure who she can trust and everybody seems to be acting suspiciously. This book is an edge of your seat thrill ride of epic proportions. It has it all, lust, intrigue, twisted and turns and it will keep you guessing to the very end. Excellent story, great characters and a mind blowing conclusion. Definite must read for all dark romance lovers out there.

Hot damn!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Celia Aaron's Blackwood just altered my world!

This incredible novel is the story of Elise Vale, a beautiful young woman who comes to the Blackwood estate to investigate her father's disappearance. There she encounters Garrett Blackwood, the sexy has hell, gruff and straight up rude resident who is determined to thwart every effort that she makes to ferret out the truth.

She plays Inspector Gadget, snooping around the Blackwood estate over and over gain until Mother Nature teaches her a horrible lesson and deals her a horrific injury. Garrett may be her #1 suspect, but he also comes to her rescue, leaving her at his mercy.

My, my, my....What a mess. *snickers*

This book is scrumptious, haunting and delicious! You will have no choice but to eat it up because this author is brilliant! Ms. Aaron submerges the reader into an ocean of mystery and shocking passion that will leave your heart pounding and make you crave more and more and MORE!!!!!!

Know this: Blackwood is daring.

Innovative.

Surprising and downright shocking at some points!!!

Celia Aaron showed OUT with this novel!!!!! I mean that in a VERY good way!

Blackwood's greatest attraction is its mysterious allure. The reader is left wondering what the hell is going on at the same time that they are dying to figure out if the hero is someone that they should love or a villain that they should fear at the same time that they love to hate.

"I heard screaming..." ~Elise

There is confusion but you can't help but fall deep and fall HARD as the heroine fantasizes about Garrett. Elise needs him, craves him and is conflicted about her desires towards him.

"I wanted him, 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

Make not mistake about it: Blackwood is a show-stopper for any romance lover, especially fans who are already helplessly addicted to Celia Aaron's work and crave an additional element of suspense!!!

You think that you know from the blurb...but honestly you have no idea where this novel goes!!!!!!!!!!

I keep thinking about one scene in particular.....it was so scorching that I am cussing to myself just reminiscing about it!

Seriously...so F'ing HAWT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

What happened to Elise's father? Was Garrett involved in his disappearance? Who are friends and who are enemies?

Does the shroud that covers the Blackwood Estate conceal more than secrets and lies?

Allow me to be frank: Can this novel get any hotter?!!!

READ IT!!!!!

That is this this Celia Aaron's Fan final word.

Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Heat: ?????

“Quasi-rapist yet also perfect gentleman.”

Sorry, I thought that was the best quote to sum Blackwood up.

It was nothing like I expected. I went into it, hoping for a really gritty, erotic, and suspenseful story. But it wasn’t really gritty at all. No, the mood was pretty…tame for shacking up with a quasi-rapist and being on the hunt for information on your missing father.

“He’s a teddy bear, I promise.”
Unless you run from him.

Ha. I really did love Garrett. He really made this story for me. Yes, quasi-rapist and all. Sue me.

Elise wants permission to dig for her archeological degree or something of such—sorry, details and me don’t always work out—on Garrett’s land. Well, he answers the door like a creep, only peeking through the crack like he’s the beast and she’s the beauty. But he’s not, he’s pretty hot. With a beard, which isn’t my style, but hey, I only picture Jason Momoa anyway.

He flatly turns her down, but Elise doesn’t take no for an answer and surveys his land anyway.

Then…she gets bit by a boar! I really had to look up if boars actually bite people. I thought they just charged you and stuck you with their tusks. But no, apparently they do bite. Read books and you learn, folks. Quasi-rape scenes included

Anyway, she’s hurt and Garrett swoops in and saves her. She ends up staying at his house while she heals. And Garrett really does turn out to be a gentleman, well, besides that one choking incident.

So yeah, the dude might have some issues. But who doesn’t, ya know? I always put the toilet paper on the roll the wrong way.

Elise snoops around his house like women do, and finds some shocking information on her dad. Garrett is a mystery who might be involved, but Elise can’t help but be drawn to him. And whose screams did she hear in the woods? Oh, crap. You’ll have to read it to find out.

*
Celia Aaron has written a thrilling, dark mysterious romance with Blackwood that will keep you glued to the pages to find out what’s next and then having you questioning yourself “I think I might like that kink”. Elise aka Red is an archeology student working on her Ph.D. who has her eye’s set on the Blackwood Estate for 2 reasons; find out what happened to her father disappearance and start her dig for Choctaw culture but she needs Garrett Blackwood to sign off on the dig. Former history professor Garrett Blackwood is a rude, dirty, dark eerier mysterious man and doesn’t want anyone digging on his property. When Garrett refuses to sign Elise release for her to dig Elise takes it upon herself to start the dig in remote corner of the property where no one would notice but things go all wrong really fast and she forced under Garrett care. Elise soon learns that underneath all of Garrett’s impoliteness, callousness and temper is hiding shattered pieces of a broken man that life hasn’t been so fair to him, but he also brilliant, generous and kind and incredibly sexy with a dark unique sexual kink. When Elise and Garrett start digging around on the Estate she soon finds a gruesome crime or crimes has happened on the Blackwood Estate. Will Elise ever trust Garrett enough to keep her safe? Is Garrett behind all of this? Will Elise find out the truth about her father disappearance? Is Garrett Elise sexual awakening to the dark side? JUST READ!!
*****ARC from Ardent Prose for review

It was so good.

Not conventional by any means, but so good. The Blackwood estate is rich with history and mysterious, ohhhh. Elise decides she wants to dig up historical artifacts there, but is that all she's looking to dig up? No way, she's looking for some answers. To what? You'll have to read and see.

Of course her dig can't be easy. No she has to deal with a town full of locals, and the owner of the Blackwood Estate, Garrett Blackwood. He's big, scary, hairy, and dirty... there's just something about him though! Mmhmm something.

Crazyyyyy things happen. For awhile there I had no idea what was going on. What the main conflict would be, and whether or not Elise was just freaking crazy. It was a good type of confusing though. This story really kept me guessing until the very end, and I love that. When I solve everything right away I get irritated. This was good at placing clues, without them feeling obvious.

The naughty bits. Oh my goodness. So naughty and hot, and could be triggers for some, but for me it's fiction, so I'm good. I think it's pretty rough. It's more discussed than acted upon, but still may bother some people. Geez, it's hot though. Get you a man who can do both. Sweet and naughty.

Highly recommend this book for anyone who loves suspense, romance, and a big dose of naughty!

Celia Aaron’s storytelling abilities are spectacular. She keeps the language simple, her descriptions lush and vibrant, and her characters distinct and interesting. In Blackwood, Aaron weaves together a story involving a group of characters who each have a solid role to play in the story. Nothing superfluous here. She then adds a dollop of mystery, a dash of suspense and intrigue, and a splash of unlikely romance before bringing the story home wrapped up in a satisfying HEA. Celia, you never fail to entertain. I enjoyed every word of this well-written, well-edited, lovely book. Five shiny stars to you for entertaining me so throughly.

Blackwood by Celia Aaron is a stand-alone .
Blackwood is a dark romance.
It's a thriller with some serious BDSM kink involved.

Meet Elise Vale a doctorand to get her PhD in archaeology. She investigates lost cultures and her missing father.
Meet Garrett Blackwood, the owner of the area Elise wants to explore.
There are many rumors about him and most are true.
There are enemies- new and old and some not discovered yet.
Unspeakable things are happen at .... no spoilers, sorry.

I literally couldn't put this book down . I read it in one sitting.
It's gritty, heartwrenchenly and with many unexpected twists.

I Highly recommend Blackwood. You must read this book !!

5 Stars and Thank you Celia Aaron !!!

One of my favourite genre's is suspense and mystery romance, I absolutely love being kept guessing and hot under the collar at the same time. Celia Aaron, as always, throws in all the ingredients, mixes them perfectly together and brings book perfection hot out of the oven!

I love the darkness in this romance and the way it keeps you guessing. I love the mystery that you try your hardest to solve along with the strong heroine. You'll love Elise's determination and fearlessness as she battles to uncover the truth. Garrett Blackwood, a sexy, brooding, puzzle begging to be put back together, is THE book boyfriend to have in 2017! That man....UGH so yum.

This book is worth buying in paperback for the cover alone, Adam Joseph Chase will really sex up your bookshelf. They say you can't judge a book by its cover, but clearly you can, because this book is just as hot and brooding as the cover suggests. One that you'll want to show off on the train, shout about to your friends and rave about in your head for days on end.

Filled with heart racing moments, twists and turns, suspense, sex, mystery, shocks and surprises, Blackwood promises to set your book standards extra high for 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!

Ohhhhh that beard though...Garrett Blackwood is ALL man...if ever there was an alpha male who commanded your attention it would him. He is sort of like a recluse, living alone in a big old house on a big old plot of land...full beard, rough around the edges type of man.
Elise is a aggressive archeology student, with a passion for digging...she also has a passion for finding out what happened to her Father. Blackwood holds all the answers...so naturally Elise does what she has to do in order to gain entry to the Blackwood estate.
Even when the beautiful Elise showed up on his door step Garrett did not break. It took a recuse mission for Elise to hedge her way into his life.
Garrett affectionally (I like to think) calls her Red ( if you want to know why you are gonna have to read) and slowly warms up to her.
I love a dark read with a hint of mystery and suspense. This book is action packed with sex, role play, drama, and ropes ;)
#IDig #Red #Black #Run

Elise is an archeologist, or she will be once she finishes school. She has a drive and determination that could get her in a lot if trouble.

Garrett is dark, mysterious and secretive. He is a long way from the blue eyed man in the yearbook.

I felt the tention from this book from the very beginning.

I would normally do a summary of the book, but I just can't give anything away . If you like suspense and solving mysteries you must read this book. It will keep you on the edge of your seat hoping your kindle last long enough to figure it out. So hot and keeps you guessing!

Just say Black!
Never!!

I really enjoyed this book!
"Water is wet!"

I have read several of Celia's books. One of the things I enjoy so much is her camilion style of writing. She morphs into whatever writing style is needed for the story. The only thing you know you are going to get is a great story.

Fantastic plot . Red Riding Hood is looking for her Father and in fact , encounters the Big BAD wolf in the forest.....Black wood Forest. It's deep , dark, dense and hides many secrets . Of disappeared souls, screams and ringing shots. Something lives there and it's slowly devouring all the hapless lost people who are unfortunate enough to go hunting.
Elise is an archaeological student trying to look for clues to her Missing Dad and find some ancient artifacts in the jungles surrounding Blackwood Estate. It's dangerous to venture but she's a girl on a mission. Here she meets the crusty owner of the Estate - Garrett Blackwood.
Big, beaded, grouchy , he's everything young girls should be scared of !

“Don’t you get it? I’m the wolf. That day you showed up on my front porch in your red coat, if you’d known the thoughts I’d had, the things I’d wanted to do to you—you would never have come back here.”
“I will hurt you , Red. Worse than you’ve ever been hurt in your life. I will duck you like an animal.”
“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.”
“I’m the ducking wolf, and I’ll eat you alive.”

The story unfolds with lots of twists and turns that boggle your mind and the conclusion leads to a staggering gruesome end .
I loved the writing , very gripping, kept my pulse racing throughout. Characters were good, I won't say unique because I've read many scenarios and characters like these.
I take away a star because some things were left unanswered
I'm presuming the screams were of the victims or the quarry the "Hunters "hunted. But how come Garrett, who has lived there for so many years, never bothered to investigate ?
He never traversed his land to see the Graves?
He never reported or Investigated the shots ?
What was the role of Hart ?
Who's Ty?
I wish she'd delved deeper into the story, because I'd love to read more !

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. 

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.

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.

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.

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! 

*A copy was gifted to me.

4.25 Stars

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

Told from Elise's point of view, readers follow the hard-headed, determine young woman as she begins the process of locating archaeological dig sites on the Blackwood land. The dig stands for far more though, it's a chance to uncover her future. Right away, it is apparent that Blackwood is going to hold within its pages a dark mystery, but Celia Aaron is known for giving a story so much than just one thing to build upon. Soon, readers are captured by the erotic, dark romance brewing between the brooding, bearded Garrett and young Elise. In a moment of weakness, the two are thrown together, despite both wanting nothing to do with one another. They each carry secrets, the kind that weigh them down, but for some reason neither finds fear in having the other close to them.

"Blackwood's secrets were mine to discover and I would find them all.."

I found myself forgetting the mystery at hand and falling head over heels in love with these two. Their chemistry is alive, it's apparent that neither has felt the same way before. Garrett and Elise are both headstrong characters and I was beyond pleased by how their pasts tied to one another. As Garrett comes to care for Elise he assists her on her search, but that trust puts them both in danger from the mysteries that lay inside, and outside, the Blackwood estate. The mysteries in this book are layered, you won't expect them. They weave together as tangled, bloody lines that readers won't be able to figure out. There's no guessing the ending in this novel and I have to give Celia a round of applause for that one, I was shocked as each mystery was revealed. It's unexpected, it's horrifying, but it brings Garrett and Elise closer, providing closure on the pasts that have forced their hand in life.

"...I'm the wolf. That day you showed up on my front porch in your red coat, if you'd known the thoughts I'd had, the things I'd wanted to do to you- you would never have come back here."

Yes, I ended up rating Blackwood 4.25 stars even though I was totally in love with it and wanted to squeeze myself in between Elise and Garrett. It took me until 30% to even get into the story line, that's a long time for me. I think the combination of several sub-genres and the necessity of world building made for a slow start, but I also think it was worth pushing through. Celia Aaron's prowess as a writer is very apparent from start to finish, my problems with reading were more due to my style and preference. I think readers, whether they jump right in and love it or take some time to warm up to it, will still find that Blackwood is the kind of book you can't walk away from once you're immersed in the world of erotic chemistry, deceit, and mystery.

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

Blackwood is a must read, there's a bit of something for everyone. Filled with dark romance, mystery, and suspense, Celia Aaron has written a standalone that will keep you on your toes, have you falling in love, and definitely leave you all heated up.

Great story, dark & delicious. Elise rocked her independent woman self without a doubt. A PHD candidate in Archeology, looking for clues to her father's disappearance, she finds so much more than that. The reclusive Garrett comes to her aide one night when Elise thought her end had come. He keeps her at his estate & cares for her as she recovers from a traumatic injury. The sparks start flying & just keep going til there's a full on inferno! So hot, but a bit dangerous so, beware if you can't handle some really explicitly sexy scenes. There is the mystery of what happened to Elise's father, how Garrett's sister fits in & a much bigger question of WTH is going on in this sleepy little town? I can't wait to read the special additional ending to this amazing story that you can click on st the end of Blackwood. Going to read MORE from Celia Aaron, she has quite a way with words!!!!

I don’t usually read dark romance, but sometimes you need something spicy and this book grabbed me from the start. If you are one of those readers that need a trigger warning, then this book is not for you. If you like though a story gripping, exciting with dark sexy scenes, then grab this!

Elise Vale is an archaeology student searching for artifacts to complete her Ph.D. Using her thesis as a cover, she enters the Blackwood Estate to reveal the biggest hidden secret; the truth about her missing father.

She cannot trust anyone but when she is forced to spend time with the hermit that owns the estate, Garrett, not only does she find the missing pieces about her father but also her sexual identity and love.

Garrett appears as a man isolated, grumpy but as the story progresses he shows his kindness and his caring personality. He might be a man with a kinky sexual appetite but that stops only there. He is protective, gentle, an intellect. He is commanding but respectful. He slows down his want trying not to hurt Elise, but when she shows him that she accepts him as he is, then he is a hunter, a predator ready to gift her with pleasure.

Elise on the other hand is a girl determined to unravel the truth. She is a survivor and nothing will stand in her way. She is fearless and strong and her need for finding her father makes her a true fighter. She is courageous and smart but sometimes reckless.

This is a suspenseful erotic thriller filled with mystery and fast paced action. The dark aura that surrounds the estate will leave you with a heart beating fast and turning the pages quickly. The twists and turns will captivate you and the sex scenes will make you edgy. Celia Aaron did an amazing job blending an engaging suspenseful storyline with the erotic awakening of the couple.

If you love intriguing, alluring,erotic, adventurous thrillers that will leave you hot and at the edge of your seat, then try this story!

This is definitely not your grandmother's gothic romance! Oh, it has all the trappings...a creepy old house, eerie woods filled with frightening noises, a heroine asking too many questions...but that's where the similarities end! What Celia Aaron gives us is so much more enticing!

Garrett is the quintessential big, bad wolf...a private, brooding "hero", and dear God, I loved learning his secrets! Absolutely not grandma's romance, and I'll just leave that thought right here... Elise is fearless and determined, and maybe, just maybe, she's ready to learn about everything that goes bang in the night. It was so easy to picture the characters and the scenery in my mind, so well done!

Plot twists, scorching sex, and some unexpected revelations make this a truly enjoyable book! Definitely a reread in my future!!

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 intended 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.

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

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.

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 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.

*** ARC kindly provided by Ardent Prose in exchange for an honest review. ***

Elise needs answers! She lost her mother to cancer and now she needs to know what happened to her father. She’s sure he’s dead too and the answer can be found on the Blackwood grounds. The hot, brooding owner didn’t give her permission but that doesn’t stop her. Until she gets attacked by boars and has to depend on that same man to heal her. But there is more that gets healed. Garrett is broken and became a recluse. But when ‘Red’ knocks on his door he wants to be the big bad wolf to ‘hurt’ her but he wants to save her from his proclivities. Will Elise find the answers she needs? Will Garrett be able to keep his hands of her? Will Elise stop him? Will she get devoured by him?

Read this wonderful, dark, erotic romance to get the answers. I loved every second of this suspenseful, well written story. The chemistry between them ... H.O.T.!! Both characters are strong and amazing.

What I did miss was an epilogue. I would have loved to have had a look in their future. I also wouldn’t mind a book on Garrett’s brother Hart.

A short warning. There might be some triggers in this story ... breath play, consensual non-consent.

Before I forget to mention this... I loved the cover! The perfect Garrett ... another reason to read the book ;-)

This reminds me I still have to finish the Acquisition series... another great dark book by Celia Aaron.

I really liked this book! It was well thought out and suspenseful. It kept you guessing until the final chapter.

The sex was kink, but mutual, and it was fun reading it. (And no virgins, finally!) The characters were great together.

One negative, yet small, was that they never end up in his bedroom, though they talk about what she saw in there.

FYI, the story is 240 pages and stops at 55%. My copy came with "Counsellor”, which I couldn't read because the pages were messed up. Since I have KL, I downloaded for free and intend to read it next.

Spoiler

Also, another small negative...

In the epilogue, they say their first "I love you"s. I don't like it rushed, but felt this was a bit late. It could have been entered somewhere just before, like when they were fighting for each other "in real time".

Spoiler

I don't understand why the "bad guy" didn't just kill her before she got as close as she did. It seems like that would have been more practical on his part. Maybe an explanation of why he didn't would have strengthened the story a bit, made him a more believable evil overlord type.

Blackwood is an intriguing mystery crafted to perfection through amazing storytelling, description, and well-written characters. Celia Aaron's words will devour you whole and demand your attention until the very end. I'm a sucker for a good mystery, so this brilliant read spoke to the deepest parts of my soul.

The big, bad wolf wants to play...

Garrett Blackwood is a book boyfriend unlike any other. His desires are as sexy as they are twisted, and you won't be able to resist the pull into his dark world. Like an animal, his character will consume your every waking thought. Ravish you until there's nothing left, at the same time, leave you hungry for more.

He growled. “You’re playing with fire, Red.”

“Burn me, then.”

This story is a clever twist on Little Red Riding Hood. A definite must read for any dark romance or mystery fan.

Rating: 4 stars!

Elise Vale is an archeology student, researching the Choctaw culture. The Blackwood Estate is the perfect site for her next dig. This is not only because she hopes to discover some Native American artifacts but also because she has a personal motive. Garrett Blackwood is the thirty-two years old reclusive owner of the Blackwood Estate. He does not have the best reputation and prefers to be left on his own. He is against Elise digging around on his property but the girl has set her mind on it. What will follow when Garrett becomes aware of Elise's actions? Will she be able to uncover this mystery that is so important to her?

Celia Aaron is fast becoming one of my go-to authors. Blackwood is an alluring erotic tale full of suspense and drama- it was so much more from what I expected it to be. Darkish romance is favorite genre to read and this book was a treat for me. I just devoured the pages, needing to know what will happen next. I cannot wait to read what this author writes next because her writing simply got me hooked! Pick this book right now if you're looking for your next read- it's steamy and will keep on your toes throughout the story!

~ Divya

Holy mother of everything! This book was one hell of rollercoaster ride. It was a real page turner and I wasn't able to put it down. The darkness, the woods, those screams, tension as well as excitement just swallow you up. This book was like watching a movie behind your eyelids but you beiing caught in there without a chance to escape.
But there were also gentleness, desire and cravings you've never felt before. And I am not even speaking about the hot as hell parts which turn you on.
I won’t give anything away because that would be really mean ;)
I can only say I would recommend this book to everyone who loves to read dark reads, thriller and erotica. The combination is just incredible.
I bloody loved every second:)

100 % none spoiler review

What happens in the woods stays in the woods, or so you think

Blackwood a Celia Aaron, dark mysterious romance thriller that will leave your mind racing and your panties wet.

Elise Vale aka Red a PhD student on the search for artifacts and answers deep in the woods of Blackwood property, her research and finds will keep you guessing and her encounter with the dark dangerous and mysterious property owner will keep you holding your breath.

Celia’s story is constructed with well woven and interlacing story her best one yet in my opinion. Her story kept me turning pages without taking a break or allowing for distraction from start to finish. Hope you enjoy the book as much as I did.

Thrilling, intense, and gripping, I loved this read!! The characters were beautifully developed, dark, complex and intriguing, they came to life before me. I never knew what to expect and there were moments I was literally holding my breath!
When archaeology student Elise goes looking for her missing father, all her research points to the woods surrounding the Blackwood Estate. But, the owner, Garret Blackwood has other ideas.
As Elise conducts more research to find her father she uncovers secrets about the woods in the Mississipi Delta and Garret's own secret appetites, she never imagined!
What ARE those screams she hears in those woods?
Are they wild boars or women?

Wow, what a surprise Blackwood was for me. What a amazing surprise Celia Aaron was. OMG I loved this book. Lots of drama, lots of hot sex and one wild roller coaster of awesomeness. I read this book so fast that when I got to the 51% mark and I was already at the epilogue I was like wait, it's over.... NO! I didn't want the story to end. I loved Garret and I loved his dark side. What a great book. I will definitely be reading some more from this author. Five stars a must read!!!!!!!

Elise wants to dig on the Blackwood estate. When Mr Blackwood tells her no she sneaks and does it anyway. She is attached by a wild pig. He saves her. She is struck in his house. As time goes these two people get to know each other. As they start to fall in love things happen that are just not right and are more than meets the eye. A very good fast pace story. But the end I was OMG! I did not out down until I was done with this book.

***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 4/5 | 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

Finally a book with great characters that I could, and did like .......a lot. The banter was never boring and was always witty. I hate beards, but I turned a corner with Garrett. Then we had the mystery component. Very well done. Who doesn't like a mystery with fantastic characters, and some very rough (respectful) sex that will give any smut novel a RUN for its money???This is not stupid boring smut, it's a work of art..

danger and angst was heavy in this dark erotic thriller Garrett practically isolated himself from everyone and when aspiring archeologist/ daughter on a mission to find out what happened to her dad, showed up he suddenly didn't want her around but was at the same time enthralled by her. there were many twists and turns in this book, a lot of hot sex and dangerous situations. Celia Aaron provides us with a thrilling story from beginning to end!

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?

Have you ever read a great mystery novel and though, "this would be great with a super hot love scene."? We, this is that book. Erotica isn't known for great plots. It's just mommy porn after all. Not this. This is down and dirty mommy porn with a legitimately fantastic story. So well written that, until I got to the steamy bit - and boy were they! - I forgot it was a romance/erotica.

Well done Celia, very well done.

I love romance and suspense in one book. A little dirty never hurt anyone either. This book has all three...emphasis on the suspense. Love the strength of Elise and the pure alpha that is Garrett. I read this because of the recommendation of Pam Godwin. She's an amazing author so she knows what's good. If you don't believe me, at least believe her. Don't think just one click! You won't regret meeting Blackwood.

How?! How does this author continuously put out something so unique yet so mind blowing and amazing?! Every time I pick up one of her books I’m blown away-and this book was no different. I’ve not quite read anything like it, and absolutely fell in love with both Elise and Garret. I especially liked how it was solely in Elise’s point of view-the book was done just absolutely perfectly.

Blackwood....it was an interesting story line. The insta love connection was the only thing that bothered me, it didn't fit the character traits. It was ok, and a decent read but I was hoping for a little more.

The Acquisition...
Loved it, really good premise and character description. Again with the insta love connection that doesn't quite fit the character traits but as a new reader to Celia Aaron I'm guessing insta love may be the writer's choice. Still a great story....can't wait to read the second installment.

Five stars are not enough for this book, it needs 100 stars. I floved this book! Celia Aaron knows how to write and it definitely shows with Blackwood. That man is literally walking sex on a stick! Brace yourselves ladies once you go Blackwood, your Kindle will melt!!!

Ok I read this book before the Acquisition Series. The reason why I borrowed the Aquisition Series was because of this book. It was amazing! I love Celia writing style and the way she comes up with completely original material. These books are the reason she is now one of my all time favorite authors! I am already searching for another book of Celia's to read.