Very watered down fifty

 The Ivy Lessons by J. Lerman

When Sophia wins a post-graduate place at Ivy Drama College, she can't believe her luck. The college is owned by one of the most well-respected young actors in London, Marc Blackwell – who not only founded the college, but teaches the students.

Known for his strict classes and belief in discipline, Marc has a reputation for being arrogant and aloof, yet Sophia soon finds herself drawn to this cold, fascinating young man.

Soon, Sophia is embarking on a journey of sexual discovery that promises to explore all that is forbidden between teacher and student.



                                                   AND


Where the Ivy Grows by J. Lerman

It's time to disobey...

When Sophia first meets Hollywood actor and Ivy College teacher, Marc Blackwell, she never dreams they’ll share a forbidden, obsessive relationship.
Now, dawn is breaking and they’ve decided to tell the world of their affair.

But as paparazzi hound Sophia’s every move, Marc steps up his control – dominating Sophia in every way possible, and drawing her into his dark world of intensity and passion.

Soon, Sophia is led into Marc’s troubled past, and shown the shadowy secrets that torment him.

However, Marc’s desire to discipline Sophia awakens her deepest fears, and she realises it’s time to disobey.




My overall rate & take



                 and    1/2      



Heat Index:  3  ☼☼☼




This is book one and two of the Devoted series, book three will be out this summer.

In the promotional photo of these books it says it's for the fan Of Fifty Shades of Grey. My belief is publishers should be wary of the comparison if the actual title or in this case titles have only the smallest likeness to the hugely best selling Fifty Shades....and now I know buyer beware as well, as I jumped right in and purchased book one and two without a blink.

Overall I did like the books, I enjoyed the setting of London and the school grounds and buildings sounded lovely. I also didn't find the dialogue overly cheesy...another plus. What I found most difficult was the lack of character development. They main male and female character never owned up to who they were, the author never made them fully committed to their personalities. For the female it was 'oh I don't like how you make me feel'  but she never let that stop her. For him it was 'I'm such a bad dark person' but we're never shown or learn anything truly shocking, in fact most new characters we meet sing his praises. Book two was left in a will she/won't she moment, and darn it I will be buying book three when it comes out to see what her decision is and find out what obstacles will be thrown in the way, and also because I am hopeful that the author will grow and improve as the writing progresses. I've seen it happen many times and have always been glad to witness it.