Afterburn & Aftershock

i loved this book. :) i got it on a thursday and started reading it friday after work less than 100 pages in and saturday i was done with it. i couldn't put it down. i liked the story but i am a hopeless romantic and love romance novels. :)

2.5 Stars

I read this after seeing the movie that was released, as I was curious to see a little bit more about the characters and know that often the characters in a book are not really allowed to show through in a movie.

Jax and Gia int he movie seemed a little flat and a little predictable, so I wanted more from them in the book. Unfortunately, I ended up feeling the same about them in the book. I thought there was a lot of potential but it wasn't really realized and as a result he was the strong male billionaire and she was the strong career woman...and that is it. I wanted more characterization, more that really made them who they were and I didn't really feel that I got it.

I usually really enjoy the 2nd chance romance, but there was not enough of a build for this to really feel like this was a second chance. I love the intensity of the romance that was lost and the tension and the angst of the new chance, but I never really felt that from Jax and Gia.

Overall, I was not impressed with this title, as I wanted there to be a little more depth.

La verdad es que esto debió quedar en el primer libro, no hacía falta partir la historia y me quise con la deuda si ese es el final, pudo sacar más jugo de todo. No me gusta como manejaron la historia.

This wasn't an especially terrible book, but it wasn't an especially good one either. In fact, at times, it was just rather dull. Gia and Jax were lovers two years ago, but he just quit calling her one day, and she was heartbroken. So, of course, she changed her look and threw herself into her job, becoming a successful businesswoman who is now courting a contract with an up-and-coming chef. Her plans are thrown awry when Jax suddenly shows up as a business rival. What's a girl to do? Well, Gia is supposed to be brilliant and strong and a modern day woman, so she sleeps with him. It didn't work for me. I didn't have problems with the sex, per se. But I had a problem with the fact that Gia is so weak that she just gives herself to him so easily. Likewise, it's implied that her hard work in business is sort of an act of spite/revenge against Jax, which seems contrary to the strong, independent woman she's supposed to be.

There's supposed to be all this hot chemistry between Jax and Gia, but I just wasn't feeling it. Their entire previous relationship took place off the page, so I never really understood how they got together in the first place (the first person narrator explains how they met, but not why she fell in love with the jerk). Their current relationship seems to be based on angry sex. It might make for a hot read, but it got pretty boring after awhile when so little else was going on. The plotline revolving around the two competing to get different chefs under contract just wasn't done especially well. I didn't care what happened in their businesses or bedrooms.

As to the title "Afterburn & Aftershock," that too left me feeling like something was missing. I expected the story from two perspectives or some major event that would split the novel into segments or something--anything. But there really is nothing to explain why the book is titled as it is, and that was just a little annoying to me as a reader. Sylvia Day has been around for a while, but this is far from her best work.

For Gianna Rossi, Jackson Rutledge was the one that got away. Their affair was hot and heavy a few years ago, and way too short. It ended abruptly when Jackson stopped contacting Gia without explanation. After that heartbreak, Gia threw herself into her career, determined to make something of herself. She wins a position as assistant to one of the most successful women in the restaurant management industry, intending to use the skills she acquires from her new mentor to improve her family’s already successful restaurant even more one day. With several siblings ready to run their own restaurant, it is time for expansion for the Rossi’s popular eatery.

Gia is focused, driven, and very successful working for Lei Yeung. She is finally closing her first big project – until it is derailed by Jackson Rutledge himself. His re-entry into her life is like a bucket of ice wataer being thrown on her and soon Gia is struggling to repair the damage he has done to her career and the wounds he has reopened in her heart – all while trying to resist him. Jackson’s renewed interest in Gia makes resisting him prove harder than Gia expected, however, even with the memory of how he ended things before weighing on her so heavily.

‘Afterburn’ and ‘Aftershock’ are two parts of one story by Sylvia Day. The second story won’t make much sense if you haven’t first, so the author and publisher very wisely packaged them in one book. This author is known for writing very strong female characters, and Gia is no exception to this. This woman definitely has moxy along with an abundance of drive. She won’t let anyone or anything stop her, however she does have limits. Gia might be determined to succeed, but her values won’t allow her to destroy someone else to do achieve her goals. Having been raised in a big Italian family has instilled a good moral code in her that has molded her into a hardworking, honest person and a character I can admire. Those same family values do put her at a disadvantage at times when dealing with others who operate less honestly, but she learns quickly how to navigate the shark-infested world of business and politics and deals with these situations without compromising her own ethics. It is easy to see just why Jackson wants Gia back.

The real mystery is why Jackson ever let her get away in the first place, given his immediate attraction for her when they cross paths again. But the answer to this question is part of the story, and I won’t spoil it for other readers – the way the author unravels this part of the plot is too riveting and I love the way she builds to great effect when the answers finally come to both Gia and the reader.

The first time I read one of Sylvia Day’s novels, she became one of my favorite romance authors, and after reading this book, I can say without hesitation, she has yet to disappoint me. This author has proven to me that her imagination is without limit and she has so much skill at creating intriguing characters and plots that I can’t imagine ever tiring of her work. I would highly recommend this book to any reader who enjoys contemporary romance.

Afterburn & Aftershock es una bilogía que trata sobre el sexo, sobre la pasión que construye el sexo, sobre la protección de las personas para tal fin… sobre la seguridad que tienen dos seres al saber que se aman uno al otro, en medio de un mundo despiadado. Esta bilogía mezcla la política familiar y los intereses de aquel círculo aparentemente cruel, con el compromiso profesional que se debe tener al ejecutar a cabalidad, los sueños cumplidos bajo una ambición benevolente. Estas dos aristas, o estos dos lados que explican dobles temperamentos y dos señalaciones, representan a los protagonistas; quienes ya enamorados en un pasado que cuenta la historia, se reencuentran y luchan junto a esto último para, en vez de destruirse por los arrebatos de la maldad, lograr romper barreras en pro de seguir, seguir y seguir amándose.
Seee... Enredado. ¡Pero divino, a la vez! Porque con cada demostración de amor, Sylvia Day nos las cuenta con mucha pasión, mucho buen y apasionado sexo, como es normal dentro de sus historias eróticas.
Por lo tanto, invito a que no juzguen demasiado esta bilogía. Está bien narrada, hace sentir, logra que el(la) lector(ra) se enamore de los personajes, presentando a un gentío increíble: La familia de Gia, sobre todo los hermanos. Ellos, el reparto, son: ¡ESPECTACULARES!

I purchased this edition, because it contains both stories - all in one masterpiece!

4/5 stars.
Jax and Gia have a history - before the book even starts. Jax used to court (and have sex with, obviously) Gia back when she was a university student. But a day after he meets her parents, and she finally thinks things are going well, he leaves her - no note, not even a :27 second phone messages Joe Jonas style.

Anyhow, years later, they bump into each other again. But things have changed. Gia is now an accomplished woman, with a great career, and no longer interested in Jax's crap.... or so she thought.

Sylvia Day has this incredible talent to make the characters so lovable, which makes the story a million times better for me. At the beginning, you have every reason - and more - to hate Jax's guts, but I found myself cheering for him, and wishing Gia would give him another chance.
The book has a lot of back and forth, and the struggle of deciding to do what's right or what you actually want.

I can only recommend these books to any-freaking-one, because they are so steamy, yet filled with emotion, and real, incredible stories. Ms. Day is a miracle, and I have never read a single book from here I didn't enjoy immensely.

Bland plot and even blander characters. I didn't feel any chemistry between our two leads, and they continually had the same fights and miscommunications because they had no idea how to talk to each other like adults, which annoyed me a ton. I wanted a cute romance and this was not at all what I was looking for.

4.5 Crazy Ass Stars!!!!!

How is it that I haven't read this book(s) before now. I will just put it down to "too many book, too little time."
Yesterday the movie version of this book released on Passionflix. Yeah, I totally watched the movie before reading the book. The movie was good. Don't get me wrong. I just loved the book better. The movie does follow the book for the most part but there are just some details and things that just don't translate well on screen.
The actors in the movie did a great job portraying the characters but I really enjoyed Amy McFadden's narration. She does a great job with all the characters and the story itself.

My first Sylvia Day book. Given to me. I may try her again, if it's free, but will not buy another of her books. I'm rating 2 1/2 -3 stars. I couldn't find anything to like about the hero Jackson Rutledge. Other than he was hot! Not enough. I liked Gianna Gia Rossi, the heroine. Loved her loving, Italian family. Although, I thought her 3 big brothers should have given Jax more of a hard time. Even give him a butt kick. Although, Gia was likable, she came across as dumb for always giving in to Jax. Truthfully, all I saw between them was sex. There was a!of of it. Where was the romance? What did they love about each other? Other than they were good together in bed. I'm not a prude sex is fine, but this was a bit overkill. Also, there was a !ot of the F word. I don't mind an F word here and there, but again, a bit excessive. I also don't care for a love scene to be referred to as F-ing. I wish I could have enjoyed this book more.

**IF I COULD THIS NOVEL WOULD RECEIVE 20 STARS!!**

It's been two years since Gianna Rossi & Jackson Rutledge were in the same room together. Ever since Jax devastated and crumpled Gia's heart and dream of having a perpetual relationship, he threw her away as though she was nothing more than a paramour, a dirty-little secret.

It's NOT until Gia is about the close a deal-of-a-lifetime, Jax parades back into her life, and infringes on her livelihood. Two can play at this game, for Gia is NOT the same easily manipulated girl Jax once knew. She's a fierce competitor and is unwilling to back down without a fight. Nevertheless if Gia doesn't win, what does she have left to lose--her sanity?

Nothing is as it seems, Jax is literally an enigma. A completely perplexing, inexplicable, mystery. His involvement with Gia's business affairs is not completely revealed until the very end. Therefore having you, the reader, to guess at every possible outcome.

Sylvia Day brings an intensity to her writing, like NO other. She has a way of possessing and capturing you, in a tight vise WITHOUT ever letting you go! Where OTHER authors will ONLY give us, a GLIMPSE of what truly occurs behind closed doors, they just STOP, leaving us dazed & confused. However Ms. Day UNDOUBTEDLY ventures out of the proverbial box, even though she might be ridiculed, she's still WILLING to take that CHANCE, and give us EXACTLY what we CRAVE!

When I initially began this novel, I stayed up until 3am, trying to consume just one more breathtaking moment shared by Gia & Jax. I NEVER wanted this story to end. It possessed similar attributes as Ms. Day's other novels, her "Crossfire Series," being one of them, along with my two other favorites: "All Revved Up (Wicked Reads)," & "Wish List."

I might also be partial to this story, for a few reasons. First Gia & I share the same surname, we both come from a similar STRONG & CLOSE-KNIT Italian Family, and last but not least, this novel takes place in ONE of my MOST favorite cities, NYC!

With Sylvia Day (the author) buying into the trend of selling books in installments, getting this book provides that immediate satisfaction of having both stories / books housed in one book. Originally this book was released as two separate books (afterburn and aftershock) with an additional 5 months tacked on for the release of the sequel, “after shock”. As a reader, purchasing this book is a better option.

This a romance mixed with erotically raw delicious sex. Our main character Gianna Rossi is a luscious woman who is strong, ambitious, and competitive. Coming from a warm family where the restaurant business is in her veins, Gianna wants more than just a part in her family’s restaurant destiny. She becomes a protégé to her mentoring restaurateur, Lei. Lei was betrayed by her ex-husband and ex-business partner leaving her determined to stand tall while proving she is a force to be reckoned within the restaurateur business. A subplot that is not developed enough for my taste. Gianna emerges herself in her work. Her career becomes her life as she chases her desire to make big deals happen. She loves what she does so the demanding hours are a welcomed excuse not to pursue a personal life. After all, she hasn’t gotten over the man who burned her heart and lit her like no other, Jackson Rutledge. Two years later their paths cross. Can she move pass him blindsiding her when he left their relationship without a word or warning?

Jax comes from a wealthy family where big business is a way of life. He was groomed by his father to be a top businessman and future politician. Drenched in sex appeal with a body that doesn’t disappoint, Jax is a man many dream of having or being. He’s a powerful, seemingly confident sweet talker who is hiding his vulnerabilities. Gianna and Jax’s families are a contrast. Gianna’s relationship with Jax is a contrast to Lei’s relationship with Ian. Will Jax and Gianna merge again or is Gianna too submerged in Jax’s actions of yesterday?

The story draws you in; but; Gianna’s rehashing of her hurt and constant reminding Jax of his betrayal makes you feel like the story isn’t moving forward. I don’t like when the premise of the conflict that the main characters must overcome is based on miscommunication especially when those characters are billed as intelligent individuals. It’s quite simple really; you cannot move forward if you live in the past. Either you forgive and move forward with lessons learnt or you decide the act was unforgivable so you move forward separately with lessons learnt. The tedious recapping and agonizing over the same issue drags on and on almost to the point where you stop caring and hope for Jax’s sake and yours that Gianna begins anew with anyone else. Oh Jax’s not off the hook; all he had to do was be more forthcoming with his current intentions and explain the reasons behind his betrayal. Had that been done, the author probably would not have rushed the ending and there would have been more balance to the “aftershock” (two stories in the one book). There is so much more that could have been done with this story that I finished it feeling disappointed. The only redeeming aspect of this read was the passionate sizzling sex. Though it may be enough to motivate the main characters to do it again, this is not a re-read for me.

This isn’t an easy rating for me, so I want to mention up front that I’m giving it based on the combination of both books together. Individually, I ranked them each a two and in truth I was being a bit lenient when I did that. I’ll explain more in a second, but first let’s discuss the basic premise.

So we have Gia who comes from an Italian family with very close ties, and Gideon, I mean Jax, who is a wealthy bachelor. His wealthy family has a background in politics, and they play the game well. Jax gets caught up in the middle of it. They had a relationship for five months two years ago, and Jax left her hanging. Then suddenly, he shows up again.

Don’t worry. I didn’t spoil anything, you can get all of that from the blurb. For me, that was the best part of this book. I’m not going to spend my time bashing the story, because that’s not the type of reviews I offer. As an author, I know how hurtful it is to have someone tear down your work. As a reader, I also know that no book can ever be written to please everyone.

A big problem for me was that this story was written in two parts. It never should have been. I couldn’t get into the first book at all, and only read the second because I bought the book that had them both together. Thus, the reason I’m doing this review as if the story is one book.

So in the first half, Gia and Jax have sex. A lot. That’s pretty much all that happens. No, seriously. That’s all that happens. Well that and the thing that’s supposed to be a big plot line. The second half is a bit more interesting, but it still managed to fall flat for me.

I loved Sylvia Day’s Crossfire series. This book felt like it was all of the parts that she cut from that story thrown together at random. I just couldn’t find anything that gripped me. The characters weren’t developed enough for me. If she would’ve spent a little more time on the characters and a little less time on the sex scenes it would’ve been a much better book in my opinion. The plot also seemed majorly off in this one. It jumped around a lot, and there wasn’t much of a resolution. The climaxes weren’t all that climatic for me either. Again, I’m not going to tear the book apart piece by piece.

It had a lot of potential. It just didn’t quite live up to that for me. Sylvia Day is an extremely talented writer, however, and I will continue to support her work. This one just didn’t cut it for me.

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

The romantic theme:
• Second Chances

The read:
• Light Read • Good Pace • Touching • Sexy • Dramatic

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

Story ingredients:
• Cat And Mouse Games • Instant Clash • Witty Banter • Romantic Pursuit • Big Romantic Gestures • Big Secret

He is...
• Alpha Male • Bossy • Possessive • Hot • Fit • Wealthy

She is...
• Stunning • Sassy • Strong • Successful • Curvy Figure • Had Few Bed Partners

I enjoyed this book but it got a little repetitive and I found myself skipping through some of the sex scenes just to get back to the story. I think I’ve just gotten tired of reading the same romance stories that have flooded the market since 50 Shades and this book wasn’t as good as some of them. I didn’t like Jax and found his character obnoxious. Having said that the story flowed, the writing was good and I’m sure if I read this book when it first came out I would have loved it. I’m looking forward to seeing how it translates on the big screen when it releases on PassionFlix on the 3rd November.

This book will give you a similar erotic vibe as in Sylvia Day's other books. I have read the first 3 of the Crossfire series (I am patiently awaiting the release of the last 2) and have to admit that I did prefer those over this book simply because I seemed to get into the lives of those characters more. This book seemed rushed and did not develop the plot or characters as much as her other series. She gives you plenty of erotica, but I did not become as attached to these characters. A book that I can feel emotionally attached to is the sign of a good book.
It was 2 books in one, but honestly I am not sure why it was split into two or how this title was given to the book. It didn't make much sense to me. The relationship took place over a short few weeks, which didn't allow for much time to love these characters or want them to move as quick as they did. In the Crossfire series, the reader feels like they are the female character and really seeing into her daily life. Less information was given regarding the daily lives of these characters. If this is your first Sylvia Day book, I would recommend the Crossfire series over this one, but if you love her style and have read her other books, you will probably like this one but probably to a lesser degree.

Afterburn & Aftershock were one of the first releases from the Cosmo Red-Hot Reads line, in conjunction with Cosmopolitan magazine, Harlequin has joined forces to release a steamy new romance every month.

I have to admit, I've never read a Sylvia Day novel before, that's not to say that I've never wanted to, I actually own some of her books, I've just never gotten around to it.

I got to read an excerpt of Afterburn last year and was impressed and anxious to read the full length story and it's sequel, and I actually planned on buying a copy on it's release in digital form but ultimately forgot all about it, so when I was contacted to receive a copy of both books together in paperback to review I jumped at the chance.

This book put a smile on my face every time I picked it up, I loved the plotline, it was easy flowing and quick to read, add into that our sexy alpha male Jackson Rutledge who has some seriously hot chemistry with our heroine Gianna Rossi and you end up with this steamy read that will leave you hot and bothered.

Two years ago Gia and Jackson had a very brief but memorable affair, after which one day he left and never came back or contacted Gia again, until one day whilst trying to close a contract with potential clients in walks Jackson, acting as if he doesn't know her, stung by this Gia acts the same way, but it isn't long before Jackson reveals he does remember her and wants to give their relationship another go.

But with Jackson hiding secrets and his refusal to talk about his past, how far can this relationship go especially when Gia is pretty much an open book about her own life, will this tear them apart or can Gia find a way to break down his barriers and get him to finally open up to her, will they ever get their happily ever after?

I thoroughly enjoyed this story and will definitely get to Sylvia's books sooner rather than later, I've found myself a new author who's writing I enjoy and I will enjoy devouring her other works.

This was fun and interesting. My main quibble is that the ending seemed rushed. Sylvia Day lays the groundwork for a densely layered story of two former lovers who meet again two years later and realize that fate is both their friend and their enemy. Jackson Rutledge is the heir apparent in his Kennedyesque family of politicians and wealthy elite. Gia is a sharp, New York career woman just beginning to set the world on fire. She is the princess in a big, loving Italian family who own several popular restaurants --the only daughter, surrounded and protected by her handsome brothers.
The main plot deals with Gia trying to solve the puzzle of Jacks and Jacks trying to bring Gia into his life without turning her into a shadow of the feisty girl he adores. The dialogue is snappy and wonderfully delivered by the talented narrator Amy McFadden. I can't imagine anyone doing a better job. Ms. Day was lucky to get this narrator. She makes this a juicy, accented, superbly voiced romp.
With all the storylines and plot points carefully and skillfully laid out, I was settling into this story, all in for the unfolding of a drama-ridden love story. Then, before I knew it, and certainly before I was ready for it, the book ended in a flash. Plotlines and other possible scenarios were left hanging. For instance, much was hinted at about Jackson's father being a shark, but we never see him be ruthless. Yeah, he's cold and calculating, but no real harm done by him. That's just one of many set-ups that fizzle. It makes me wonder if Day was bumping against a deadline, battling a bad editor, or involved in a personal problem that forced her to pull the cord on this story too soon.
The sex is hot, the characters are complex and likeable, and the plot moves briskly and convincingly. There is a lot here to enjoy. But there could have been so much more!

I would technically give it a solid 3 1/2 stars. Not going to round up to a four star, because it didn't quite reach that point for me. This is a second novel I've attempted to read from Sylvia Day. The first novel I tried to read was her Gideon Cross series. I couldn't finish it because it was so closely related to the 50 Shades series, and I couldn't help but eye roll in some parts, and it felt more forced.
This series had a more easy flow to it. The main male interest Jax, is a bit of a douche though. I found him to be controlling, overbearing at times, and a bit annoying. But I couldn't deny the chemistry Jax had with Gianna. I loved how Gianna wasn't the typical stick figure model type that most guys would probably go for. She had curves and wasn't afraid to eat, and I felt like I related with Gianna more because of this. It was also interesting to read the cutthroat business world that Gianna was involved in, and how being in a relationship with Jax could jeopardize her career. All in all, there's a lot of drama in this novel, and the fact that it wasn't related to the 50 Shades series was a major plus. In the end, Jax definitely made up for is douche baggery, but it was a bit predictable in some parts of the novel. It was still rather enjoyable, and there were definitely scenes from the novel that had its grin worthy moments too.

This is an interesting new collaboration between Cosmopolitan, Harlequin UK and Mills & Boon. The Cosmo Red Hot Reads, romance with super hot saucy scenes to top it all off.
Gianna is a smart determined woman with clear goals for the future, when it comes to her career and life in general. Those plans start to shake and crumble when an old lover turns up for a second round of hot fast loving. He doesn't seem to think he needs her approval to take up where they left off or needs to say sorry for just disappearing after their last attempt at a relationship.
Somewhere in the midst of the extremely candid banter about their lust for each other there is also an important factor about family and choices to be heard. Gia and her family are down to earth and straight shooters, whereas Jax comes from a family of career politicians. He lives in a world where truth is only catered to when it suits the political agenda.
The two of them need to find a way to combine the passion with the reality of everyday life. That just happens to be far more complicated than it sounds.
If you are looking for spice with your romance and shivers of pleasure down your back combined with the infuriating need to shake some sense into the characters you read, then Sylvia Day most certainly delivers all of those things and more.
I received a copy of this book courtesy of Harlequin UK and Mills & Boon.

Gianna Rossi comes from a family of Restaurateurs; Jackson (Jax) Rutledge comes from a political dynasty. He loves her but finds it impossible to be upfront and honest with her. She loves him but can’t come to grips with his evasive answers. Together they have a sexual chemistry that is off the charts but is it enough for a lasting relationship?

Sylvia Day can write rings around most authors in this genre. She has a superb way of bringing her characters to life. The family dynamics of the Rossi’s is fun and believable. It makes us hope that we will see more of those hunky Rossi brothers. Gianna and Jax are so caught up in their lusting for each other that they can’t seem to find time to really get to know one another. Even by the end of the book we are still hoping for some meaningful dialog between the two, but they have decided to forge ahead anyway.

I recommend this page-turner. You may not especially like Jax but he is one hot, sexy rich guy. You may want to sit Gianna down for a heart-to-heart but she is going to do what she wants anyway. This is a good book to take you out of the everyday into the life of those in the fast lane.

Jax and Gia had some pretty off the charts passion. I felt like they needed it to balance their beyond ordinary drama. But what was bigger than all that was their love. This was a highly entertaining story that I had the pleasure of picking up on audio and loved the accent the narrator gave to Gia. It really gave life to the character. This was certainly a story to get me interested in more stories by this author.

AFTERBURN & AFTER SHOCK by Sunday Times Bestselling author Sylvia Day is a Mills & Boon Cosmo Red-Hot release.

Gianna Rossi had an explosive fling with Jackson Rutledge two years back. Then he had walked away without any explanation. Now he was back in her life, trying to sabotage her career and wanting to continue where they’d left off. Could Gia take Jax back without any explanation of what had happened the last time?

Jax gets what he wants. But could he get Gia back this time?

AFTERBURN & AFTERSHOCK is a highly sensual second chance story between a powerful businessman and a fiery Italian beauty. It is fast-paced and feel-good romance that sparkles with red-hot sensuality, mesmerizing emotion and intense passion. Author Sylvia Day brought this scorching hot and steamy story of a strong heroine in Gia and a gorgeous hero readers would swoon over in Jax.

Highly recommended for all readers of romance.

If you are a fan of Sylvia Day this a typical quick read with lots of erotic steam along the way. Gia and Jax are written as a pretty evenly matched couple. I did like that Gia was not written as a totally naïve ingénue waiting to be sexually awakened by the mysterious billionaire. She actually seemed capable of making her own decisions. There was not much depth to the two stories; there was a beginning, middle with build up of slight dramatic tension and a HEA. The actual conflict and source of it was anticlimactic for me. My attention was held by the interactions between Gia and Jax; Day excels at creating chemistry on the page. If you are a fan this is an easy yes to purchase. If you have not read Day before I would not recommend this as a first read simply because I don't think it is her best work. It's not bad, but not the best it's somewhere in the middle but I would recommend it.

This was actually 2 books in one, or part one and part two. It's a delicious concoction fo love, politics, and the restaurant business. the characters were good, as was the story. There were twists and turn I didn't expect. I really enjoyed it, even though there were times it felt a little staccato or jittery in the progression. I'd recommend this book.

The complete story in this two-parter: afterburn | aftershock with the couple focus on Gia Rossi and Jax Rutledge.

My Take
I had read afterburn when it first came out and have re-read it here to remind myself. I still like that Gia is working so hard to keep Jax in the only-sleep-with column. And, lol, I like that Jax is so desperate for her that he's honest.

He's so honest that you begin to see through his self-hatred. But he's also good at the non-answers. Gia is determined on what she wants too. She wants someone who will love her, support her. She won't accept his behavior.
"Well, now you can have your life and me---when I'm in the mood."

I can't help it. I love Gia. She won't accept bulls*** nor will she suffer fools or bitches.

It's an interesting and exciting read, and while I love the HEA ending, it also pushes it back into that particular trope. I know, I'm being a weaselly hypocrite, except that Day was doing so very well in creating a strong yet honest woman. I guess I shouldn't complain since the ending does have its own slight twist.

The Story
The love of Gia's life comes back into her life like a storm, blowing Gia off course, even as he screws her over in every way you can imagine.

The Characters
Gianna "Gia" Rossi is doing what she loves best: helping people achieve greater than they desired in the cooking world. Denise — she's pregnant and has her own beauty parlor — is married to Gia's brother, Angelo. Vincent and Nico are her other brothers; they and their parents, Giovanni and Mona Rossi, are very involved in the restaurants.

The wealthy Jackson "Jax" Rutledge is his family's troubleshooter, fixing their problems. Parker is his demanding father, although surprisingly, he appears to be a faithful husband. Regina is his second wife. Allison Rutledge is Jax's bitch of a cousin-in-law, a real deal-breaker who's married to Ted, and he's making a mayoral bid.

Lei Yeung is Gianna's boss at Savor, Inc. where chefs are turned into name brands. Chad Williams, Inez, and David Lee are the chefs with whom Lei and Gia made the deal with Mondego.

Ian Pembry is Lei's ex-boyfriend, the guy who screwed her over — and we do learn what happened.

Deanna Johnson is a news reporter with whom Vincent had once slept. Lynn is Gia's friend from her Vegas days, the one who consoled her throughout their first break-up. Gretchen is the Rutledge family stylist.

The Cover
The cover is a spattered black and white background with glittering golden platform heels with a peep-toe and orange soles.

The title is both the afterburn they both feel as well as the aftershock they reel through in the second half.

I'm glad this combo was put into one volume, because I might not have bothered to search out the second book and would have been upset to be left hanging at the end of the first one. Erotica is well served by this author, who tells a good story on top of the hot sex. However, the great sex seems to rule the narrating characters' life over her other reasons for being attracted to the obligatorily outstandingly handsome and obscenely wealthy guy. I would have appreciated more of a look at the inner workings of Gianna's business world to show her skill and worthiness to work at that level.

If this lady aspires to Maya Banks territory, she's definitely got to heat up her characters' relationship! I mean really -- the same plain vanilla sex scene at least 10 times in the course of the story.

Not impressed with character development, either. Gianna's boss Lei, for example, is a veritable stick figure, despite all the praise/admiration by her subordinate. Neither the motivation that brings the main characters together nor the romance-requisite problem that temporarily parts the lovers is terribly credible, nor is the half-hearted demonizing of the male lead's family.

Not impressed.

Since Afterburn came out, I have been dying to read this two-book series. Now with it being a nice two-in-one, I jumped at the chance to review it. I wasn't sorry.

While kind of short for a two-book set, it does read very fast and I found myself very invested in the relationship between Jax and Gia. This isn't completely like all the 50-Shades of Gray like books that came after that phenomenon. Gia is a successful woman in her own right and I liked that about her. Yes when they originally met she was a little more green, but having this book take place when she is more sure of her place in the world is a nice touch.

The romance is fast and interesting. The business background to the plot adds some depth and overall reading these two stories was a great way to spend a warm afternoon in the sunshine.

The storyline of Gia and Jax was steamy and hot. Gia’s character was somewhat out of place for me, she was strong, smart and sexy, yet when it came to Jax and the relationship, her mentality was that of a naive girl. I didn’t feel her back story fit the person she was portrayed as. Jax was stoic most of the time, I didn’t see any notable growth in his character he was good looking but a complete jerk! These two characters didn’t have anything in common but sex. This is a good read around the pool, short and fast past with a lot of hot sex scenes. This is the first time I’ve read one of Sylvia Day’s book not sure I would read her again.

Normally I love Sylvia Day but this series kind of fell flat in my opinion. I think I would have liked the story a little bit more if they had different jobs. Their jobs were either too much or too little in the story I can't decide which. For both Gia and Jax to be supposedly smart people they make some really stupid decisions and have major communication problems. It seemed a bit too childish.

I did however like hearing about Gias' family. The interactions between her and her brothers was great.

This was my first Sylvia Day read & what lead me to Crossfire years ago. I've re read it with the intention of refreshing my memory so when I watch the movie coming out November 4th I'll be up to speed. The ending to this didn't disappoint (unlike Crossfire). Gianna & Jax are just as intoxicating as Gideon & Eva!! Recommend 100%

I read these two after finishing the Crossfire series, longing for more Sylvia Day. They weren't great, but I did read both of them, so they were just enjoyable enough for a light read. I then moved on to the Georgian series which had more substance.

I really liked this book. I read it in about 2 evenings as it really sucked me in! I think the first part of the book was much stronger in terms of literary value than the second part, which is what kept me from loving it and keeping it to read again (I handed if off to my bestie who is a big fan). I will say I loved the strong female lead character and the description of the Jax, the lead male character, definitely hit the spot. After two kids and a huge romance rut (one date in 2 years) this book made gave me back some of the desire and lust that being a full time working mom had squashed.

I found the book well written just not my kinda story. I didn't care about Jax/Gia. The storyline is interesting but I just couldn't care about it. Gia was likeable but Jax was a jerk throughout IMHO so they didn't do a thing for me lol

I'm not sure if I would have liked if the stories had been longer maybe Jax wouldn't have been such a jerk of course he had an excuse--he was a wounded soul.

I do plan to read a few more or maybe her whole back list of Ms Day's books. It's not fair to judge an author by only one of her books. It's not many authors that I like all of their books. Are you that way too?

I usually don't read erotic romance, thinking it will be mostly sex, but Sylvia Day wrote a really good romance with lots of twists and turns as well as great sex. Heroine Gianna Rossi helps run a great NY restaurant and her family runs another. When Jax, who broke her heart two years ago returns and says he wants her, she can't resist him, but worries they cannot be a long term couple, especially after their families get involved.

This is the first of a commissioned line of romance novels for the Cosmopolitan magazine readership. I assume they will all be modern romances, with a very modern heroine like Gianna. A modern entrepreneur/businesswoman, she has the world at her feet. But she can't forget the man that left her - Jax, the ruthless alpha businessman that she is destined to fall for, in life and in bed.

Neither character is particularly likable in this book, and I particularly hate Jax's dialogue in and out of the bedroom. It is simply too crude and unbelievable for me. The character of Gianna is interesting, it is nice to have a heroine that is not a virgin in a romance, and that is a businesswoman in her own right. In my opinion that is unusual for a romance novel. The sex scenes are good, but are just a bit rough for me and not romantic at all. The plot is predictable, but hard to put down and I did read this book in under three hours.

In all honesty Sylvia Day is not my favorite romance author. Day's writing style is overly simplistic for me, and there is not enough character development for me to find this book very interesting. I also tend to prefer the romances with women that are slightly more innocent than Day's heroine's, they are just more my type. Not that there is anything wrong with Day as an author. Her books, while not Shakespeare's romances are quick, exciting and extremely sexy reads. I think this book would be perfect for a young adult female who is used to getting what she wants in the bedroom and out of it, as Gianna obviously is by the choices she makes in this book. Definitely for the eighteen to twenty five year old age range, only.

The super hot, brooding, ultra-rich/ultra-alpha male who is excellent in bed has become the Ultimate Woman's Fantasy in the romance genre. We've seen it before in various sub-genres, from vampire hunters to dominants, across historicals, contemporaries, paranormals. Here is another serving of this male trope; presented together are Sylvia Day's novellas AFTERBURN and AFTERSHOCK. I wasn't a fan of Ms. Day's "Bared To You" and "Reflected To You" because of the toxic relationship between narrator Eva and Gideon. But I like her short pieces, especially her entry in the "Steamlust" collection. So I thought I would give her novellas a chance.

The storyline is not new: guy and girl had a romance, get left girl, girl becomes rich, guy comes back to show her what she's been missing but "didn't know she was." Misunderstandings are segued with sex, banter, sex, banter during sex. The End. It's escapist fantasy reading at its finest.

But not for me. I have read this story before in so many different forms that it's not exciting or refreshing. We marvel constantly at Jax's hotness, maleness, talents. Ms. Day can write; I was compelled to finish the book once I started because of her ease with words. The love scenes were steamy, but I had a hard time wrapping my mind around the "sex equals" love part. At least that's what I got out of it.

This is not a good starting point for readers who want to discover Ms. Day's writing. I would recommend her short stories first, then work up from there.

Gia and Jax are involved in a scolrching relationship then one day, he just up and disappears. She throws herself into her work and becomes very successful. Then Jax suddenly returns. Is he a friend or a foe? OLne thning is for sure, these two manage to burn up the next several chapters.

Low on character development, but amped up on sex, I found it to be just an okay novel. For a successful businesswoman, Gia lacks self esteem, so she tends to be conflicting from page to page. Bujt real nice that Day did not sdubjerct readers to the deflowering of yet another virgin with a crusty alpha male.

I read this book on the plane ride home and was so glad no one could read over my shoulder -- very steamy. Anyone who knows Sylvia Day knows she writes amazing steamy novels. This is the story of Gianna and Jax who had a love affair and then moved on -- only to meet a few years later. They love each other but Jax is concerned about bringing Gianna into the cut throat world of politics. Gianna characters is a strong business women with supportive family. I loved it forgot how much I enjoyed Sylvia Day books.
AFTERBURN was a release in 2013, with AFTERSHOCK coming in 2014 - This edition had both.

This book starts out with Gia taking on a new job and moving on with her life after her "breakup" from Jackson Rutledge. Then Jackson suddenly appears out of nowhere, at her new job, because of a business acquisition, joining forces with a rival of her new boss. She asks herself why he is suddenly back in her orbit.

After sorting out where they left off and who left who, the hot romance develops between the characters. Constant trust issues prevent Gia from accepting Jax for who he is, a man who comes from a powerful political family. Gia fears Jax's connection to his powerful family, especially his father Parker Rutledge, will drive a wedge between them.

Gia's family is a close knit group, especially her and her brothers.

The question keeps coming up .."Can we mix business with pleasure?"

The end was very predictable and I am not sure why the book needed to be separated as Afterburn/Aftershock since they are all part of the same time frame, not years apart. The only "apart" part of the story was the time between when they first met in Vegas and when they hooked back up again.

I gave it four stars for the hotness factor but three for the plot. 3.5 would be my overall rating for this book, so I rounded up.

Gianna's finally settling into her life and getting everything she wants. She's working under Lei Young, one of the sharpest business women in New York. Ever since her epic relationship disaster with Jax Rutledge, she learned to never mix business with pleasure, and to never bring politics into the bedroom. But two years later Jax returns and sabotages the deal she's been working on. Worse, it appears he's in cahoots with Lei's enemy. Yet the heat is still sizzling between them, and Gianna can't stay impassive. This time she's wiser and knows the rules of the game, but will the knowledge protect her heart?

AFTERBURN was a release in 2013, with AFTERSHOCK coming in 2014. This edition had both. I suggest this version. It's been awhile since I picked up a Day novel, and I don't know why it took me so long. She never disappoints. Sexy, snarky and edge of your seat wit, this book/s kept me reading half the night and rooting for both characters to resolve their differences. Not without a lack of conflict, this concluded perfectly and realistically. The setting and secondary characters added nicely to the story, especially Gianna's family and Lei. Highly recommended!

Gia, our heroine, is supposed to be a highly intelligent and capable woman, so why the heck would she resume a relationship with Jax? This alone makes this a novel I had difficulty swallowing. Jax is an A hole beyond compare and there's no way I could sympathize with Gia for returning to him.

Style and characterization are good here, and I don't want to scare readers away from this. Just prepare yourself for difficulty in suspending disbelief here.

I really enjoyed this series. It’s perfect for a fast paced, sexy read. Gianna has landed her dream job and is slowly trying to put her broken heart back together. That’s going well until the heartbreaker Jackson walks back into her life. Gianna and Jax cannot deny the sparks that still fly between them. Gianna wants what Jax refuses to give and things get complicated when he interferes with her job. At the end of AB I was very glad I had AS available to read. When Gianna vows to unearth the secrets she knows Jax is hiding I immediately had to dive right back in. Sylvia Day’s writing is top notch and I like how she uses a wide range of descriptions so the story stays fresh and never gets redundant. At the beginning of AS, Gianna and Jax’s relationship is progressing rather quickly and both are adjusting. Gianna is very likeable as a female lead. She’s dedicated to her career, has a great relationship with her family and most importantly she has no problem standing up for herself. She’s a girl who isn’t afraid to speak her mind and tell Jax exactly what she needs from him. She also has no problem giving the cold shoulder when needed. When a certain secret from Jax’s past is revealed, the two must decide if they’re strong enough to stick it out. The epilogue is short and sweet and will leave you satisfied. But I wouldn’t mind more of their story.

Overall I did enjoy this book. This was my first book by Ms. Day and will probably won't be the last. I was shocked that Gia put herself into the situation between her love life and a guy who she didn't know if he would stick around or run. I thought overall she was a sting female. Some hot rich guy comes back into you life...could you shut your phone off? I know I couldn't! The story was very predictable and left no room for any guessing on how the relationship would go...would have liked to see a little more drama.

I loved reading this duo from Sylvia Day. I am a huge fan of her and when I heard she merged with Cosmo I was more than thrilled. I am used to her erotica and for me, this was a bit toned down from her usual stories.

Gia has worked hard to leave her past with Jax behind but two years later he comes stumbling back into her life. I loved how she was made to be stronger but you still felt a connection to her feminine side. She was hurt and you watch her struggle to heal.

Jax is used to be a play boy and doesn't know how to commit. In order to be with Gia, he must buckle down and settle with her. His bachelor ways kick in and you watch him struggle to keep Gia.

Aftershock/Afterburn is a wonderfully written duo by Sylvia Day. If you are used to her erotica, I am afraid this is turned down from the flavor we all know and love. It is still a beautifully written story and I look forward to more from Cosmo Red-Hot Reads!

I loved the Crossfire series so maybe that's why this one didn't live up to her other series, but I just didn't feel it with this one. No real connection with the main characters and a very short read. With this story line I felt like it could have been written as a much longer novel that what it was. And you didn't get much of a background of the characters previous relationship as I would have liked.

The fact that I adore Mills and Boon probably makes me bias but this is a seriously hot read.

It has everything a sizzling romance read should have:

Alpha male – check
Strong female lead – check
Hurt and confused characters – check
Out of this world chemistry – check
Explicit bedroom scenes – check
Written by Sylvia Day – check

The plot was great; it had enough drama to keep the main characters apart without overshadowing the point of the story. I didn’t quite get why it was split into two (part 1 Afterburn and part 2 Aftershock) but I didn’t dwell on this fact, as the book was two damn good to worry about inconsequential things.

It’s saucy, it’s fun and will keep you up way past your bedtime.

Reviewed by Charlotte Foreman on behalf of BestChickLit.com

As I said in my heading, Ms day has done much better with her books t Han she has in this one. I found that the sex scenes in this book were pretty much repetetive. She is capable of writing a really hot sex scene in her books and doesn't have to roll out the same one over and over again.
Character development was not happening in this book either.
This book is just not recommended by this reader. There are too many good ones out there.

I listened to the audiobook. I persisted to the end to see if it improved because of the good reviews. Seven hours of my life I will never get back! Perhaps it was the narrator, I think she did her best but I don't think narrating is her calling. Storyline is forgettable. Did Sylvia write this because she was obliged to produce something? I think the Crossfire series was Sylvia's swansong.

Sylvia Day is one of the best erotic writers of our time. Every book i have read is at the top of my list for telling others to read. Her stories are believable and hot, hot, hot! It's very hard to put the books down. If i was younger I'd probably read all night long until the end.

I've read a majority of Ms. Day's books and this is by far my favorite. Jax is who I imagine an Alpha Male should be, strong, confident, sexy as hell. But we don't get much of what he thinks about or his motives because this is story was told from how Gia saw their relationship. There were parts of the story that had me scratching my head, oh like the last three chapters of so. Nonetheless, I like how Ms. Day tells a story. And this is what this is a story. Sure we all think, IRL, s*** like this doesn't happen, how can a character do a complete 180 ...SPOILER ALERT... Jax's dynamic with his family, he leaves his work for her because she's become like him???!
I'm on my second read of this book. Thanks for another great story Ms. Day. I like this independent heroine.

Her first few books, Crossfire, were better, characters were more interesting in past novels.

There is nothing wrong here, I did read it in one straight sitting, but I wasn't wowed.

Please do look at all my reviews for great and not so great, and surprisingly I do have both from the same authors.

I'm a huge Sylvia Day fan and found this novel enjoyable. Gia is relatable and I liked her a lot despite her imperfections. Her relationship with Jax was something else, but it reminded me of my former associations with a guy I had liked. I'm glad I read it and would recommend it.

Sylvia Day has a quality of writing that captures me with her imagination and voice. She writes characters that engage me and take me right into their world. A great contemporary romance (two stories packaged together).

i love Sylvia and all her work is great, but im just not in to the characters in this book. theyre nothing compared to Gideon and Eva or Alastaire, i think it was well written, just not as exciting as her other books.

I've been a Sylvia day fan since the beginning and am actually one of her "Sinners". This new novels however readable seem catered to the Mommy "erotica" crowd. It's not as sizzling as her older novels even though it is more graphic. It was an okay read; very Vanilla; it was not bad since she is a great writer, but was just lacking something.

Jax and Gia what a great story. It proves that sometimes you want something so bad and even though you know you will probably crash and burn in the end, your heart makes you go for it anyway hoping against all odds that things will turn out alright. Their witty banter and oh so hot sex made this story a great read. I wish it had been a little longer. I also hope to here about the brothers and their love lives as well.

I have always loved Sylvia Day's writing and have enjoyed several romance stories by her especially her Crossfire trilogy. This novel has two books combined and is a Harlequin release. Her story and writing is just as impressive. Her characters and story keep you engaged till the end. Jax and Gianna's romance is beautifully written and is a page turner. I just wish the ending wasn't so rushed but enjoyed the story nevertheless!

OMG I loved these books. It was 2 parts of a story and they were both awesome. I couldn't put the books down once I had started them. I carried it with me everywhere and every time I had even 2 minutes I had to read. I loved the characters. I loved the story. I love Sylvia Day. Her books are thrilling, very sexy and romantic.