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My Name is Not Isla
A man can’t set you free—only you can.
Backstage and in front of the world, a vicious record executive rules over his kingdom and the perfect little doll he’s created. He pulls the strings and poses her under the lights, and in the cage of the public eye, she’ll remain, until one day . . . she takes flight.
Where she lands, only one man will know—the one who’s being paid to watch her. He’s killer by trade, a lonesome soldier for hire. Clearly not a fan, he begrudgingly follows her.
From the streets of New York to the coast of North Carolina, through the center of the country to a pot shop in Portland. The assignment is elementary and completely beneath him, until he finds himself teetering between love and obsession.
The public devours her.
Friends betray her.
Men try to possess her.
Every single one of them underestimates her.
Backstage and in front of the world, a vicious record executive rules over his kingdom and the perfect little doll he’s created. He pulls the strings and poses her under the lights, and in the cage of the public eye, she’ll remain, until one day . . . she takes flight.
Where she lands, only one man will know—the one who’s being paid to watch her. He’s killer by trade, a lonesome soldier for hire. Clearly not a fan, he begrudgingly follows her.
From the streets of New York to the coast of North Carolina, through the center of the country to a pot shop in Portland. The assignment is elementary and completely beneath him, until he finds himself teetering between love and obsession.
The public devours her.
Friends betray her.
Men try to possess her.
Every single one of them underestimates her.
270 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 4, 2017
4 people are currently reading
87 people want to read
About the author
Eliza Freed
17 books228 followersTo keep in touch, sign up at:
http://www.elizafreed.com/love-letter...
Eliza Freed graduated from Rutgers University and returned to her hometown in rural South Jersey. Her mother encouraged her to take some time and find herself. After three months of searching, she began to bounce checks, her neighbors began to talk, and her mother told her to find a job.
She settled into corporate America, learning systems and practices and the bureaucracy that slows them. Eliza quickly discovered her creativity and gift for story telling as a corporate trainer and spent years perfecting her presentation skills and studying diversity. It was during this time she became an avid observer of the characters she met and the heartaches they endured. Her years of study taught her that laughter, even the completely inappropriate kind, was the key to survival.
She currently lives in New Jersey with her family and a misbehaving beagle named Odin. As an avid swimmer, if Eliza is not with her family and friends, she'd rather be underwater. While she enjoys many genres, she is, and always has been, a sucker for a love story…the more screwed up the better.
To keep up with all of Eliza’s new releases and giveaways, sign up for her newsletter at
http://www.elizafreed.com/love-letter....
http://www.elizafreed.com/love-letter...
Eliza Freed graduated from Rutgers University and returned to her hometown in rural South Jersey. Her mother encouraged her to take some time and find herself. After three months of searching, she began to bounce checks, her neighbors began to talk, and her mother told her to find a job.
She settled into corporate America, learning systems and practices and the bureaucracy that slows them. Eliza quickly discovered her creativity and gift for story telling as a corporate trainer and spent years perfecting her presentation skills and studying diversity. It was during this time she became an avid observer of the characters she met and the heartaches they endured. Her years of study taught her that laughter, even the completely inappropriate kind, was the key to survival.
She currently lives in New Jersey with her family and a misbehaving beagle named Odin. As an avid swimmer, if Eliza is not with her family and friends, she'd rather be underwater. While she enjoys many genres, she is, and always has been, a sucker for a love story…the more screwed up the better.
To keep up with all of Eliza’s new releases and giveaways, sign up for her newsletter at
http://www.elizafreed.com/love-letter....
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
April 11, 2017
4 STARS
April 7, 2017
My Name is Not Isla by Eliza Freed
4.5 stars!!!
Thanks to one of my fellow bloggers I discovered Eliza Freed last year and have been in love with her writing ever since, this is my fifth book by this author and I still have a few back-catalogue books to read too.
My Name is Not Isla is more a romantic suspense, action packed, fast paced and totally unputdownable. Our heroine, Isla is a singer at the top of her game, the worlds darling but all that fame comes with a huge cost. Our hero is ex-military and now in the field of protection and investigation, a trained assassin, his past is painful but this man is the consummate professional and is a man that never gives up.
Isla Monroe was brought into the celebrity world as a child, pushy parents and an even pushier, abusive manager. For years, her life has been front page news and directed by PR consultants who of course always know what is best for her, style, tours, stalkers, press, relationships…nothing is sacred and Isla is losing herself. Isla is drowning in the trappings of fame, a life that is no longer her own, she feels like a puppet and she has no control of the strings. Off the back of a world tour and with her life showing no signs of changing, Isla is determined to take her life back…but at what cost?
Isla leaves it all behind, she is on the run, under cover, but her past is never far from her mind and it seems some people just never give up, especially when their meal ticket disappears and stalkers are not stalkers for nothing. This is a journey in more ways than one for Isla, a journey for independence and for taking control, of her life and her body but for what sacrifice?
Dalton is the man hired to find Isla, to bring her back, but Dalton is a man with a good nose. For Dalton, the situation he finds himself is not wanted, at all, but the more he sees of Isla, the more he knows nothing is at it seems. Dalton listens to his gut, he becomes Isla’s greatest ally but what happens when the lines blur between professionalism and love and could either of these two broken souls be capable of love anyways?
Eliza Freed delivers a heroine that you will be rooting for from the very beginning, her tenacity, inner strength and will to be herself were commendable and this was a heroine that I desperately wanted to see succeed. Eliza Feed delves into her past and it is not pretty, with snippets from the past cleverly woven into the present the picture being painted slowly starts to make sense and suddenly you the reader are drawn into the perilous situation that Isla finds herself in. I adored Isla in every situation, but the carefree Isla was a character that you definitely wanted to see more of. The slow build between Isla and Dalton was intoxicating and these two were a couple that you desperately wanted to make it. Both had been dealt a shit hand, but together they were invincible.
This book had me frantically turning pages a mile a minute, the suspense was prevalent throughout and you always had that deep seated ill feeling within. I loved the way that this story slowly unravels and as an outsider looking in the build-up to the grand finale was heart stopping. Totally loved this one and thoroughly enjoyed it.
www.theromancecover.com
4.5 stars!!!
“A man can’t set you free – only you can.”
Thanks to one of my fellow bloggers I discovered Eliza Freed last year and have been in love with her writing ever since, this is my fifth book by this author and I still have a few back-catalogue books to read too.
My Name is Not Isla is more a romantic suspense, action packed, fast paced and totally unputdownable. Our heroine, Isla is a singer at the top of her game, the worlds darling but all that fame comes with a huge cost. Our hero is ex-military and now in the field of protection and investigation, a trained assassin, his past is painful but this man is the consummate professional and is a man that never gives up.
“I feel like this is all a dream that I’m going to wake up from…and when I do, the reality is going to be a nightmare.”
Isla Monroe was brought into the celebrity world as a child, pushy parents and an even pushier, abusive manager. For years, her life has been front page news and directed by PR consultants who of course always know what is best for her, style, tours, stalkers, press, relationships…nothing is sacred and Isla is losing herself. Isla is drowning in the trappings of fame, a life that is no longer her own, she feels like a puppet and she has no control of the strings. Off the back of a world tour and with her life showing no signs of changing, Isla is determined to take her life back…but at what cost?
“Be careful with that, though. I’m all smoke and mirrors.”
Isla leaves it all behind, she is on the run, under cover, but her past is never far from her mind and it seems some people just never give up, especially when their meal ticket disappears and stalkers are not stalkers for nothing. This is a journey in more ways than one for Isla, a journey for independence and for taking control, of her life and her body but for what sacrifice?
Dalton is the man hired to find Isla, to bring her back, but Dalton is a man with a good nose. For Dalton, the situation he finds himself is not wanted, at all, but the more he sees of Isla, the more he knows nothing is at it seems. Dalton listens to his gut, he becomes Isla’s greatest ally but what happens when the lines blur between professionalism and love and could either of these two broken souls be capable of love anyways?
“I was paid to follow Isla Monroe…I was hired to follow her. I fell in love with Ida Malone.”
Eliza Freed delivers a heroine that you will be rooting for from the very beginning, her tenacity, inner strength and will to be herself were commendable and this was a heroine that I desperately wanted to see succeed. Eliza Feed delves into her past and it is not pretty, with snippets from the past cleverly woven into the present the picture being painted slowly starts to make sense and suddenly you the reader are drawn into the perilous situation that Isla finds herself in. I adored Isla in every situation, but the carefree Isla was a character that you definitely wanted to see more of. The slow build between Isla and Dalton was intoxicating and these two were a couple that you desperately wanted to make it. Both had been dealt a shit hand, but together they were invincible.
“He was beautiful braced above me, and I’d taken him for my own. He was my first mistake.”
This book had me frantically turning pages a mile a minute, the suspense was prevalent throughout and you always had that deep seated ill feeling within. I loved the way that this story slowly unravels and as an outsider looking in the build-up to the grand finale was heart stopping. Totally loved this one and thoroughly enjoyed it.
“I’m not hiding. I’m seeking.”
www.theromancecover.com
April 18, 2017
As always, Mrs. Eliza Freed leaves me breathless and wishing for more. Her heroines always start at some points in their lives where you can judge them for some of their choices (if you like, I never do) but they find their ways to make wright. They are sensual, cynical, smart, I would love them to be my friends. And I always think at the end of the book "yes, good for you, brave girl!". The hero is fine, although I would like him to be more dangerous (see some more of those secret agent skills instead of whining about long car rides...). But sorry, Mrs. Freed, you set your standards with Jason and Noble and your heroes will be forever measured by them. They were not agents but you all know what I mean...
This book is fresh, new and exciting. So Eliza Freed. After you reed it, go and reed all her other books. And as every fan of the world, I can hardly wait for her new story, for which I'm certain will be again excellent.
This book is fresh, new and exciting. So Eliza Freed. After you reed it, go and reed all her other books. And as every fan of the world, I can hardly wait for her new story, for which I'm certain will be again excellent.
Read
March 27, 2017This book is properly Eliza. Slightly dark and twisted.
ARCs available for request at http://xpressobooktours.com/2017/03/2...
ARCs available for request at http://xpressobooktours.com/2017/03/2...
June 26, 2017
3.5*
June 25, 2017
I've never read anything by this author before. I stumbled across a promo for this book,loved the cover, read the blurb and instantly knew I NEEDED to read it.
I must admit, generally my taste lays on the disturbing side of dark but there was just something about this story that sucked me in.
I have devoured it only a few hours. I almost burnt my roast potatoes because I was that caught up in the world that Eliza has created.
She is a mistress at making you feel her words. Every emotion portrayed came flying through the kindle and slammed straight into my heart. I was smiling so hard by the end I thought my face would crack.
There's just enough of the twisted to keep you guessing along with the mundane chatter of normal life to make the story flow at the most perfect pace.
I really enjoyed getting to know the characters. They all feel so believable. It's almost like this kind of story could really happen in Hollywood...probably even has if we dig deep enough.
One last thing ... I feel sorry for Rita and Bob!
I will definitely be reading more from this author in the future and keeping my eye out for new releases. She really knows how to write a good book!
I must admit, generally my taste lays on the disturbing side of dark but there was just something about this story that sucked me in.
I have devoured it only a few hours. I almost burnt my roast potatoes because I was that caught up in the world that Eliza has created.
She is a mistress at making you feel her words. Every emotion portrayed came flying through the kindle and slammed straight into my heart. I was smiling so hard by the end I thought my face would crack.
There's just enough of the twisted to keep you guessing along with the mundane chatter of normal life to make the story flow at the most perfect pace.
I really enjoyed getting to know the characters. They all feel so believable. It's almost like this kind of story could really happen in Hollywood...probably even has if we dig deep enough.
One last thing ... I feel sorry for Rita and Bob!
I will definitely be reading more from this author in the future and keeping my eye out for new releases. She really knows how to write a good book!
June 22, 2017
Gripping story!
Not only will the title catch your attention, but the synopsis will definitely intrigue you! A story of control, betrayal, freedom, drama and obsession, this story will definitely keep you glued to your book!
When I started reading this story, I thought this was just an ordinary story about a pop star who got tired of the publicity, but as you read on, you'll realize that there's so much more to this book! And Isla? She's more than just a pop star!
I was provided a copy for review purposes.
Not only will the title catch your attention, but the synopsis will definitely intrigue you! A story of control, betrayal, freedom, drama and obsession, this story will definitely keep you glued to your book!
When I started reading this story, I thought this was just an ordinary story about a pop star who got tired of the publicity, but as you read on, you'll realize that there's so much more to this book! And Isla? She's more than just a pop star!
I was provided a copy for review purposes.
July 31, 2017
Sometimes you get a book you’re mildly interested in but do not pick it up straight away. Then, when you return to the book, you’ve completely forgotten the details. Such is what happened with My Name Is Not Isla. I was interested by the synopsis, but not crazy so. I opted to read other books first, and then when I came back to it I could not remember what kind of story I was to be given. Thus, I went in blind.
Having now read the book and gone back to look at the synopsis, I can honestly say the book is so much more than the synopsis had me believing. I can understand why I was interested but not crazy so. The synopsis left me intrigued, yet it failed to highlight the amazing story contained within the pages of this book. In other words, this story was so much more than it appears to be.
A lot of stories dealing with fame are rather light and fluffy reads. There’s always plenty of drama, but unless it’s a hardboiled thriller we miss out of the gritty details. This story gives those details. It was much darker than I anticipated the story to be. It is not the level of dark you see in the aforementioned hardboiled thrillers, but it was much darker than most romances that deal with fame. In all honesty, this story was much closer to being a romantic suspense novel than it seems. The first couple of chapters I expected a drama filled fame read, but then the details started coming in – details that were much darker than anticipated – and I was truly gripped.
I loved the surprise of this read being darker than anticipated. It was exactly what I wanted to break up the large number of lighter reads I have been working through recently. Usually I need a lighter read to break through all my darker reads, yet my advance read books as of late have been on the fluffier side of things. This book worked to remind me why I favour the darker reads. Light and fluffy is good for a while, but these deeper reads certainly pull me in much deeper.
This story is very much one that pulls you in deep, once it has a hold on you it is impossible to put down. The storyline grips you, leaving you curious as to how everything will come together. The characters are wonderful, as you quickly come to love them. The romance is great, playing out in a fashion that will leave you experiencing all kinds of emotions. Everything comes together so well with this one, the story being truly addictive.
Honestly, I had so much fun with this one. I’m annoyed I waited a while before diving in, as it was such a fun read. I’ll certainly be looking to read more of the author’s work in the future, as this one has certainly left a mark.
Having now read the book and gone back to look at the synopsis, I can honestly say the book is so much more than the synopsis had me believing. I can understand why I was interested but not crazy so. The synopsis left me intrigued, yet it failed to highlight the amazing story contained within the pages of this book. In other words, this story was so much more than it appears to be.
A lot of stories dealing with fame are rather light and fluffy reads. There’s always plenty of drama, but unless it’s a hardboiled thriller we miss out of the gritty details. This story gives those details. It was much darker than I anticipated the story to be. It is not the level of dark you see in the aforementioned hardboiled thrillers, but it was much darker than most romances that deal with fame. In all honesty, this story was much closer to being a romantic suspense novel than it seems. The first couple of chapters I expected a drama filled fame read, but then the details started coming in – details that were much darker than anticipated – and I was truly gripped.
I loved the surprise of this read being darker than anticipated. It was exactly what I wanted to break up the large number of lighter reads I have been working through recently. Usually I need a lighter read to break through all my darker reads, yet my advance read books as of late have been on the fluffier side of things. This book worked to remind me why I favour the darker reads. Light and fluffy is good for a while, but these deeper reads certainly pull me in much deeper.
This story is very much one that pulls you in deep, once it has a hold on you it is impossible to put down. The storyline grips you, leaving you curious as to how everything will come together. The characters are wonderful, as you quickly come to love them. The romance is great, playing out in a fashion that will leave you experiencing all kinds of emotions. Everything comes together so well with this one, the story being truly addictive.
Honestly, I had so much fun with this one. I’m annoyed I waited a while before diving in, as it was such a fun read. I’ll certainly be looking to read more of the author’s work in the future, as this one has certainly left a mark.
April 12, 2017
OK, so the blurb isn't that helpful, so here's the short version: Isla Monroe is a world famous pop singer who wants to escape her fake life and abusive manager, so she runs away to Portland, OR.
This was going to be one or two stars, but the book ending (at least for the thriller subplot, not the romance plot) was so wild I'm gonna give it an extra star.
Things I didn't like:
Clunky, amateur-ish writing. Ack. It's moderately bad during Isla's perspective, it's unbearable during Dalton's parts. Unfortunately, a lot of the book is from Dalton's perspective. I'm not a dude so I can't say for certain but I'm pretty sure guys don't think like this. He swings back and forth from "I served in West Point and I'm a war vet and I'm so macho and kick butt and kill people with no remorse!" to "OMG, Isla's ankles look so pretty in those strappy sandals!!!" and it was just really hard to take. The writing was just really stiff and vapid in places.
Just take a moment to appreciate this line from Isla: "I wasn't typically attracted to a man's shoulders, but his were particularly noteworthy, like his brown eyes, which were so dark that they reminded me of the night sky minus the stars."
Soooooooo....they were dark? I guess they weren't compared to sapphires or emeralds so this isn't the worst description of a love interest's eyes.
The instalove. Seriously. A hardened bodyguard/hitman for hire takes a couple looks at Isla and throws pretty much his entire life out the window for a pretty blonde. Um...ok. There's not even chemistry. I skimmed through anything even remotely romantic. How can a girl who's been abused and harassed by pretty much all men in her life be so trusting so quickly of a guy she doesn't know??? I couldn't believe the romance and that was what killed it for me.
Speaking of Dalton issues. Supposedly Isla's mom advised her to find a man who loved her so much that he'd kill for her. ????!?!?!??!!??!?!?! You know what I want? A guy who cares for me, respects me, and will defend me to a moderate degree but not do anything insane like
The pacing and plot. This book would have been much, much better if the romance had been scrapped and the focus had stayed on Isla's manager and stalker trying to hunt her down. The final showdown at the end was what made this entire book worth reading; I would've enjoyed this book so much more if that had been the plot. As it is, the first 1/4 of the book starts out intense and quickly drops off to boring while Dalton and Isla fall in love - maybe 1/2 the book - and then the last 1/4 gets good again.
There was a lot of pot in this book???? Even though neither of our two characters smoke at all. I feel like it's supposed to be a background setting for Portland, but as a Portlandian I can promise there's a lot more to Portland than just the Rose Garden and stoners. Please. Do a little more research. I definitely didn't feel like I was in Portland.
Flat characters. Blegh. Did I watch them develop or learn to care about them? Nope. The only one I connected with was the stalker, which is a super weird one to get attached to.
Things that I liked:
The "slutty best friend used as contrast to make their more-important friend look good and wholesome" trope is used not for Isla's friend, but Dalton's. Heh. I'm all about gender equality, guys, and it's nice to see that this stupid trope at least wasn't used with the women. Paul was kinda gross at the beginning but he kinda grew on me at the end.
Again, the thriller part. Freed should've focused on that wayyyy more.
Isla's sneakiness. Her booby-trapped room was weirdly adorable and I was almost cheering her on at the end.
So. If you're into extremely alpha love interests, lots of drama, and hormone-heavy romance, you'll like this book. If you're not sure, mosey along.
This was going to be one or two stars, but the book ending (at least for the thriller subplot, not the romance plot) was so wild I'm gonna give it an extra star.
Things I didn't like:
Clunky, amateur-ish writing. Ack. It's moderately bad during Isla's perspective, it's unbearable during Dalton's parts. Unfortunately, a lot of the book is from Dalton's perspective. I'm not a dude so I can't say for certain but I'm pretty sure guys don't think like this. He swings back and forth from "I served in West Point and I'm a war vet and I'm so macho and kick butt and kill people with no remorse!" to "OMG, Isla's ankles look so pretty in those strappy sandals!!!" and it was just really hard to take. The writing was just really stiff and vapid in places.
Just take a moment to appreciate this line from Isla: "I wasn't typically attracted to a man's shoulders, but his were particularly noteworthy, like his brown eyes, which were so dark that they reminded me of the night sky minus the stars."
Soooooooo....they were dark? I guess they weren't compared to sapphires or emeralds so this isn't the worst description of a love interest's eyes.
The instalove. Seriously. A hardened bodyguard/hitman for hire takes a couple looks at Isla and throws pretty much his entire life out the window for a pretty blonde. Um...ok. There's not even chemistry. I skimmed through anything even remotely romantic. How can a girl who's been abused and harassed by pretty much all men in her life be so trusting so quickly of a guy she doesn't know??? I couldn't believe the romance and that was what killed it for me.
Speaking of Dalton issues. Supposedly Isla's mom advised her to find a man who loved her so much that he'd kill for her. ????!?!?!??!!??!?!?! You know what I want? A guy who cares for me, respects me, and will defend me to a moderate degree but not do anything insane like
The pacing and plot. This book would have been much, much better if the romance had been scrapped and the focus had stayed on Isla's manager and stalker trying to hunt her down. The final showdown at the end was what made this entire book worth reading; I would've enjoyed this book so much more if that had been the plot. As it is, the first 1/4 of the book starts out intense and quickly drops off to boring while Dalton and Isla fall in love - maybe 1/2 the book - and then the last 1/4 gets good again.
There was a lot of pot in this book???? Even though neither of our two characters smoke at all. I feel like it's supposed to be a background setting for Portland, but as a Portlandian I can promise there's a lot more to Portland than just the Rose Garden and stoners. Please. Do a little more research. I definitely didn't feel like I was in Portland.
Flat characters. Blegh. Did I watch them develop or learn to care about them? Nope. The only one I connected with was the stalker, which is a super weird one to get attached to.
Things that I liked:
The "slutty best friend used as contrast to make their more-important friend look good and wholesome" trope is used not for Isla's friend, but Dalton's. Heh. I'm all about gender equality, guys, and it's nice to see that this stupid trope at least wasn't used with the women. Paul was kinda gross at the beginning but he kinda grew on me at the end.
Again, the thriller part. Freed should've focused on that wayyyy more.
Isla's sneakiness. Her booby-trapped room was weirdly adorable and I was almost cheering her on at the end.
So. If you're into extremely alpha love interests, lots of drama, and hormone-heavy romance, you'll like this book. If you're not sure, mosey along.
May 7, 2017
My Name Is Not Isla
by Eliza Freed
Publication date: April 4th 2017
Genres: Adult, Romance, Suspense
I've loved all of Eliza Freed's books in the past, and I truly enjoyed this one as well. It is a departure from her normal adult romance books, but its written in a way that kept me captive. I felt that the story progressed naturally and I enjoyed the storyline of the budding romance and friendship between the main characters. I did feel that the story ended before I was ready, and could've explored more of the relationship after the climax. As always, I would recommend this book to anyone wanting a good, quick read. I enjoy Eliza's writing, and she always tells a good story. I recommend checking out all of her books.
Blurb:
A man can’t set you free—only you can.
Backstage and in front of the world, a vicious record executive rules over his kingdom and the perfect little doll he’s created. He pulls the strings and poses her under the lights, and in the cage of the public eye, she’ll remain, until one day . . . she takes flight.
Where she lands, only one man will know—the one who’s being paid to watch her. He’s a killer by trade, a lonesome soldier for hire. Clearly not a fan, he begrudgingly follows her.
From the streets of New York to the coast of North Carolina, through the center of the country to a pot shop in Portland. The assignment is elementary and completely beneath him, until he finds himself teetering between love and obsession.
The public devours her.
Friends betray her.
Men try to possess her.
Every single one of them underestimates her.
by Eliza Freed
Publication date: April 4th 2017
Genres: Adult, Romance, Suspense
I've loved all of Eliza Freed's books in the past, and I truly enjoyed this one as well. It is a departure from her normal adult romance books, but its written in a way that kept me captive. I felt that the story progressed naturally and I enjoyed the storyline of the budding romance and friendship between the main characters. I did feel that the story ended before I was ready, and could've explored more of the relationship after the climax. As always, I would recommend this book to anyone wanting a good, quick read. I enjoy Eliza's writing, and she always tells a good story. I recommend checking out all of her books.
Blurb:
A man can’t set you free—only you can.
Backstage and in front of the world, a vicious record executive rules over his kingdom and the perfect little doll he’s created. He pulls the strings and poses her under the lights, and in the cage of the public eye, she’ll remain, until one day . . . she takes flight.
Where she lands, only one man will know—the one who’s being paid to watch her. He’s a killer by trade, a lonesome soldier for hire. Clearly not a fan, he begrudgingly follows her.
From the streets of New York to the coast of North Carolina, through the center of the country to a pot shop in Portland. The assignment is elementary and completely beneath him, until he finds himself teetering between love and obsession.
The public devours her.
Friends betray her.
Men try to possess her.
Every single one of them underestimates her.
April 22, 2017
All that glitters isn’t gold, just ask Pop Superstar Isla Monroe. Caught in the celebrity world where lies are the truth and those that you are suppose to be able to trust claim to own you, Ilsa longs for simple, for normal, and for the first time in her life the chance to be finally free from all her pain.
Secret Operative Dalton travelled the world on tactical missions for the world’s elite. So when he receives orders to follow a Pop Princess who has run away, he is not happy to say the least. He soon learns this is no ordinary celebrity as she has survival instincts that intrigue him. Now, if only he can figure out what is she trying to outrun.
My name is not Isla is a dark glimpse into the life of the world of celebrity. Its fast paced, detailed action and relatable characters grab you right from the beginning and don’t let go till the very end. I could not put this book down until I was finished. Very good read and I hope the author revisits the characters in more books.
5 Stars
Secret Operative Dalton travelled the world on tactical missions for the world’s elite. So when he receives orders to follow a Pop Princess who has run away, he is not happy to say the least. He soon learns this is no ordinary celebrity as she has survival instincts that intrigue him. Now, if only he can figure out what is she trying to outrun.
My name is not Isla is a dark glimpse into the life of the world of celebrity. Its fast paced, detailed action and relatable characters grab you right from the beginning and don’t let go till the very end. I could not put this book down until I was finished. Very good read and I hope the author revisits the characters in more books.
5 Stars
August 2, 2017
I feel a book hangover coming on!
If you love romantic suspense, pick up this book now. From the very first page I was hooked, needing to know the backstory of these characters and the fate of their futures.
Isla/Mae was such a strong and independent heroine. I loved that despite her situation, she didn't play the damsel in distress role.
Dalton...wow! I could just feel the heat coming from the pages with this hero. He was sexy, caring, and fiercely protective over Mae. I enjoyed how she changed his whole outlook on his mission right before the reader's eyes.
I can honestly say this book had everything you could look for in a great story: awesome characters, mystery, suspense, romance, some pretty hot moments and a lot of little witty ones too.
A total page turner for sure! I loved it!
If you love romantic suspense, pick up this book now. From the very first page I was hooked, needing to know the backstory of these characters and the fate of their futures.
Isla/Mae was such a strong and independent heroine. I loved that despite her situation, she didn't play the damsel in distress role.
Dalton...wow! I could just feel the heat coming from the pages with this hero. He was sexy, caring, and fiercely protective over Mae. I enjoyed how she changed his whole outlook on his mission right before the reader's eyes.
I can honestly say this book had everything you could look for in a great story: awesome characters, mystery, suspense, romance, some pretty hot moments and a lot of little witty ones too.
A total page turner for sure! I loved it!
June 9, 2017
A man can’t set you free—only you can.
Backstage and in front of the world, a vicious record executive rules over his kingdom and the perfect little doll he’s created. He pulls the strings and poses her under the lights, and in the cage of the public eye, she’ll remain, until one day . . . she takes flight.
Where she lands, only one man will know—the one who’s being paid to watch her. He’s a killer by trade, a lonesome soldier for hire. Clearly not a fan, he begrudgingly follows her.
From the streets of New York to the coast of North Carolina, through the center of the country to a pot shop in Portland. The assignment is elementary and completely beneath him, until he finds himself teetering between love and obsession.
The public devours her.
Friends betray her.
Men try to possess her.
Every single one of them underestimates her.
-----
Man. Where to start? I had the opportunity to receive an arc of the book, and I was so pumped! I started right away, and I am telling you, I FLEW through this. I stayed up till the wee hours of the night, burning the midnight oil to finish this book. One sitting. If you are looking for an easy read that is fast paced and entertaining, pick this up, but I recommend starting before 11 pm.
My Name is Not Isla was such an exciting read, that for me, was more plot based than character based. Not to say I didn't like our protagonist, I found her to be a bit much a times, granted, her life is crazy. That said, I found that plot to be what was keeping my attention. And dude, THAT ENDING. Yes. Yes. yes, it was bad ass, loved it, probably-not-the-most-realistic-but-I-don't-care-it-entertained-me. Throw in some plot twists, some sweet booby traps, and you've got me.
This is not a realistic book, it's kind of insta-lovey, and I wouldn't say it's the most original story I've ever read, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. This is guilty pleasure book for me, and I have no shame. Definitely recommend.
Backstage and in front of the world, a vicious record executive rules over his kingdom and the perfect little doll he’s created. He pulls the strings and poses her under the lights, and in the cage of the public eye, she’ll remain, until one day . . . she takes flight.
Where she lands, only one man will know—the one who’s being paid to watch her. He’s a killer by trade, a lonesome soldier for hire. Clearly not a fan, he begrudgingly follows her.
From the streets of New York to the coast of North Carolina, through the center of the country to a pot shop in Portland. The assignment is elementary and completely beneath him, until he finds himself teetering between love and obsession.
The public devours her.
Friends betray her.
Men try to possess her.
Every single one of them underestimates her.
-----
Man. Where to start? I had the opportunity to receive an arc of the book, and I was so pumped! I started right away, and I am telling you, I FLEW through this. I stayed up till the wee hours of the night, burning the midnight oil to finish this book. One sitting. If you are looking for an easy read that is fast paced and entertaining, pick this up, but I recommend starting before 11 pm.
My Name is Not Isla was such an exciting read, that for me, was more plot based than character based. Not to say I didn't like our protagonist, I found her to be a bit much a times, granted, her life is crazy. That said, I found that plot to be what was keeping my attention. And dude, THAT ENDING. Yes. Yes. yes, it was bad ass, loved it, probably-not-the-most-realistic-but-I-don't-care-it-entertained-me. Throw in some plot twists, some sweet booby traps, and you've got me.
This is not a realistic book, it's kind of insta-lovey, and I wouldn't say it's the most original story I've ever read, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. This is guilty pleasure book for me, and I have no shame. Definitely recommend.
May 27, 2017
Eliza Freed has written a slow romance that builds up to an intense, albeit brief climax reminiscent of one you would expect from a sub-par thriller. The climax is what made me not entirely dislike this book. The characters, setting, and storyline for this book were superficial and frivolous without enough realism to make this book relatable enough to make me care about these characters or what happened to them on any personal level.
The main character of this book Isla was neither a person in this book that I hated nor did I care for her enough for this storyline to grab me. She was portrayed as a strong but caring female lead as more so seen through the eyes of Dalton. However, when experiencing this story from Isla's point of view she's a worrisome skittish girl who's mindset is constantly paranoid with minimal other emotions or traits to flesh her out as a person. What I find inconsistent about Isla's character is the sudden lapse in her paranoia when only concerning Dalton, a lapse which is purely based off of a gut instinct despite this girl being drawn by all other aspects of this book as being calculative and methodical. The relationship that sporadically seemed to ignite between Isla and Dalton once they had met is too much of a "love-at-first-sight" for me which is a simple-minded almost boorish method that authors seem to use when there is not enough of a personality between characters to build a proper relationship upon.
Once this relationship had suddenly emerged it became a road trip romance dragged out in what felt like more of a filler to take up space in this book. There was little suspense for what was about to happen, little foreshadowing except for occasional letter snippets that allude to a mundane static character "Ian". This "alluded-to" character "Ian" played a role in this novel that I saw coming by the fist page of this novel so that it was no surprise when the climax of this story revealed his part in this novel to be what it was. The confrontations that finally bring excitement to this story are no real shocker and inspired little emotion from me.
The characters, plotline, setting and even the story's twist came off as bland to me; inspiring no real thought or emotion inside of me, making it hard to relate to or care about this novel. I just simply couldn't hate it because nothing about this book offended me neither as that would have at least required this book to inflict some emotion for me.
The main character of this book Isla was neither a person in this book that I hated nor did I care for her enough for this storyline to grab me. She was portrayed as a strong but caring female lead as more so seen through the eyes of Dalton. However, when experiencing this story from Isla's point of view she's a worrisome skittish girl who's mindset is constantly paranoid with minimal other emotions or traits to flesh her out as a person. What I find inconsistent about Isla's character is the sudden lapse in her paranoia when only concerning Dalton, a lapse which is purely based off of a gut instinct despite this girl being drawn by all other aspects of this book as being calculative and methodical. The relationship that sporadically seemed to ignite between Isla and Dalton once they had met is too much of a "love-at-first-sight" for me which is a simple-minded almost boorish method that authors seem to use when there is not enough of a personality between characters to build a proper relationship upon.
Once this relationship had suddenly emerged it became a road trip romance dragged out in what felt like more of a filler to take up space in this book. There was little suspense for what was about to happen, little foreshadowing except for occasional letter snippets that allude to a mundane static character "Ian". This "alluded-to" character "Ian" played a role in this novel that I saw coming by the fist page of this novel so that it was no surprise when the climax of this story revealed his part in this novel to be what it was. The confrontations that finally bring excitement to this story are no real shocker and inspired little emotion from me.
The characters, plotline, setting and even the story's twist came off as bland to me; inspiring no real thought or emotion inside of me, making it hard to relate to or care about this novel. I just simply couldn't hate it because nothing about this book offended me neither as that would have at least required this book to inflict some emotion for me.
June 23, 2017
My Name Is Not Isla is the story of one young woman’s journey to regain control of her life. What began as a God-given talent and a dream, turned in the hectic, taxing life of a pop star that didn’t glitter quite as brightly as she her wide eyes had imagined. Along with fame and fortune came a world filled with dominance, abuse, prying eyes, obsessive fans, and lies masquerading as the truth. When the price of fame becomes too high, and her freedom becomes a greater desire than her celebrity life, she escapes the bright lights, the flashbulbs, the pretend relationships, and the hulking security in search of the simple life and freedom that she craves.
Eliza Freed consistently creates characters that I am immediately drawn to. Isla Monroe may have reached stardom, but she is far from the perfect, idyllic woman that her fans fawn over. Isla is troubled, flawed, quirky, obsessive (and rightly so), and lost. I wanted nothing more than for her to succeed and escape her new life and find her true self again. But what makes her so intriguing is that she is so much stronger than even she believes. Despite the fact that she has been under the thumbs of controlling people for her entire adult life, she is still so determined, resourceful, and brave.
When all eyes are always on Isla Monroe, it’s difficult to truly escape. Dalton is the over-qualified, former military specialist who is hired to track the famous singer – much to his chagrin. Following a spoiled diva on a cross-country trip is the last thing that he wants to do to occupy his time. The more time that he spends in her presence, the more he learns about her, and he quickly realizes that she might not be the self-important celebrity that he originally thought she was. With every interaction, his protectiveness grows. He wants to help Isla, be there for her, get to know the real her. Of course, Dalton is keeping his own secrets as well. As they become closer, the lines begin to blur, and what once was merely a job is turning into stronger romantic feelings that he can’t deny.
My Name Is Not Isla is a fast-paced romantic suspense that I could clearly visualize while I was reading. I had a deep sense of foreboding throughout a large part of the book. I knew that the author wasn’t going to make Isla’s story easy – I didn’t want her to. Isla had been through hell and back, it was only fitting that her story played out the same way. This was her story. Her life. I was rooting for her from the very beginning. It was up to Isla to take her life back.
Eliza Freed consistently creates characters that I am immediately drawn to. Isla Monroe may have reached stardom, but she is far from the perfect, idyllic woman that her fans fawn over. Isla is troubled, flawed, quirky, obsessive (and rightly so), and lost. I wanted nothing more than for her to succeed and escape her new life and find her true self again. But what makes her so intriguing is that she is so much stronger than even she believes. Despite the fact that she has been under the thumbs of controlling people for her entire adult life, she is still so determined, resourceful, and brave.
When all eyes are always on Isla Monroe, it’s difficult to truly escape. Dalton is the over-qualified, former military specialist who is hired to track the famous singer – much to his chagrin. Following a spoiled diva on a cross-country trip is the last thing that he wants to do to occupy his time. The more time that he spends in her presence, the more he learns about her, and he quickly realizes that she might not be the self-important celebrity that he originally thought she was. With every interaction, his protectiveness grows. He wants to help Isla, be there for her, get to know the real her. Of course, Dalton is keeping his own secrets as well. As they become closer, the lines begin to blur, and what once was merely a job is turning into stronger romantic feelings that he can’t deny.
My Name Is Not Isla is a fast-paced romantic suspense that I could clearly visualize while I was reading. I had a deep sense of foreboding throughout a large part of the book. I knew that the author wasn’t going to make Isla’s story easy – I didn’t want her to. Isla had been through hell and back, it was only fitting that her story played out the same way. This was her story. Her life. I was rooting for her from the very beginning. It was up to Isla to take her life back.
September 7, 2017
3.5 Stars!
I quite like Eliza Freed so I jumped at the opportunity to review this book. I have to admit this took me quite awhile to get into it. I was supposed to have it finished months ago but I just couldn't get into it then I made myself plow forward. But then I was totally happy I did because this book grew into something so much more.
"Because sometimes you have to let the evil in to fully escape it."
Isla didn't win me over but Mae did once Mae was able to truly be Mae. However, I did adore Dalton from the beginning. And I loved the two of them together. Too often books are very formulatic but I like how Eliza writes where there is a lot more involved into her stories besides the genre norm. There is intrigue, suspense, drama and love.
July 6, 2017
I love Eliza Freed and each book seems better than the last! My Name Is Not Isla did not disappoint and once I started I didn't put it down. Freed always makes me feel like I'm right there in the story and her characters haunt me long after I've finished the book. You have amazed me yet again Eliza Freed. Thank you for sharing your talent with us!
July 6, 2017
**Copy provided by Tour Host, in exchange for an honest review**
My Name is Not Isla is an action suspense, romance and I loved every part of it. Once I started reading Dalton and “Isla” story I couldn’t stop. The story was very engaging and full of surprises. It’s been a while since I read one from Eliza Freed, which the Lost Soul Series and I’m glad I started with this one. It was a quite a read with a strong heroine and strong alpha male.
This story is all about Isla, a celebrity that was on top of her game. She should have been happy, but she wanted nothing more than to get away from it all. This story really lets us get to know Isla and her life and what she wanted. She was such a strong character and I just loved her. Then there’s Dalton, he was easy to love from the time he was introduced. His attraction and connection with Isla was undeniable. He was a very likable, strong and one hot man. Since spending more time with Isla, he wanted nothing more than get to know her and protect her. As they go about getting to know each other and into their adventure, I was right there with them following them through every page turned. I love these two characters, they were so interesting and so hot together. I definitely enjoyed this story from the first page, until the end. The ending was little short and quick for me, but loved the HEA nonetheless.
My Name is Not Isla is an action suspense, romance and I loved every part of it. Once I started reading Dalton and “Isla” story I couldn’t stop. The story was very engaging and full of surprises. It’s been a while since I read one from Eliza Freed, which the Lost Soul Series and I’m glad I started with this one. It was a quite a read with a strong heroine and strong alpha male.
This story is all about Isla, a celebrity that was on top of her game. She should have been happy, but she wanted nothing more than to get away from it all. This story really lets us get to know Isla and her life and what she wanted. She was such a strong character and I just loved her. Then there’s Dalton, he was easy to love from the time he was introduced. His attraction and connection with Isla was undeniable. He was a very likable, strong and one hot man. Since spending more time with Isla, he wanted nothing more than get to know her and protect her. As they go about getting to know each other and into their adventure, I was right there with them following them through every page turned. I love these two characters, they were so interesting and so hot together. I definitely enjoyed this story from the first page, until the end. The ending was little short and quick for me, but loved the HEA nonetheless.
February 9, 2018
For a fluff read I really liked it.
August 4, 2017
What a wild ride we take! Highly recommended.
I loved this book! Like truly fell in love with both characters. A little dark, a whole lot of suspense, questions that needed answers and a heart warming story all wrapped up in one AMAZING BOOK!!!
Isla Monroe is getting her life back anyway she can! Come along and watch as she fights for her freedom and she fights for a love that she's finally found.
Ahhhhh I just can't say how much I loved this book. Go and one click! Highly recommended.
I loved this book! Like truly fell in love with both characters. A little dark, a whole lot of suspense, questions that needed answers and a heart warming story all wrapped up in one AMAZING BOOK!!!
Isla Monroe is getting her life back anyway she can! Come along and watch as she fights for her freedom and she fights for a love that she's finally found.
Ahhhhh I just can't say how much I loved this book. Go and one click! Highly recommended.
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June 23, 202041% I feel zero connection to these characters and I'm bored af. DNF'd. 1st of 2020
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