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Surrendering

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Liam Wright is the playboy at college. He’s part of the screw-crew.

It’s better to stay away from him, but you can’t tell your heart what to want.

He’ll judge me.

He won’t understand.

It’s easy to judge someone because of their past. I’m scared Liam will be just like all the other people.
But he doesn’t judge me. He comes into my life and refuses to leave. He doesn’t give up on me.
He helps me accept the guilt that lives inside of me, because it also lives inside of him.

We’re both damaged by the past.

We’re both looking for someone who will understand.

We’re both looking for someone we can surrender to.

But it’s hard surrendering all your broken pieces.

“Some feathers will fall along the way, but new ones will always grow back. It doesn’t make the old feathers less important because they kept you flying for so long – they kept you alive.”

IMPORTANT NOTE:
This book was previously titled A Touch of Lust
Amazon and FB banned the word "lust" and therefor I had to change the cover, title and blurb.

This is NOT a cult book. This is a book about surviving after escaping from a cult.

ONLY 10% of the book gives some background to the cults Liam and Mila was subjected to.

This is not a religious book but a sizzling hot romance.

Thank you for understanding.

Published February 2, 2017

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About the author

Michelle Horst

44 books1,599 followers
Please find me under my new profile Michelle Heard >>> https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 132 reviews
Profile Image for The Sassy Bookworm.
3,892 reviews2,845 followers
February 7, 2017
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Where do I begin with this review? Part of me wants to just say "READ THIS BOOK YOU WON'T REGRET IT" and leave it at that. Because even though I feel like I have said these exact words on more than a few occasions lately, whatever I write in this review will not come close to doing justice to how much I LOVED this book.

It was simply BEAUTIFUL. It was emotional. It was sweet. It was sexy. The writing was fantastic. The plot was original and well paced. It had angst and drama. It had an amazing group of secondary characters (I really hope they get books as well). Two well developed and likable main characters. Both with a common background that shaped them and their decisions. Decisions that broke my heart and made me frustrated at times. All wrapped up in a very bittersweet ending.

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It was ALMOST a perfect book for me. Two things stopped it from being 5 Stars. One, I thought Liam's reaction to Mila pushing him away before their separation was a little over the top. I understood his past was fueling that reaction, so his immediate response I understood. But to not contact her and stay mad for 3 YEARS seemed a bit much. If you love someone as much as Liam said he loved Mila, you don't let them go without a fight. I found this bit of the book disappointing.

The second thing was that when they get back together the reconciliation happens WAY too easy. Three years of hurt and anger and it's ALL forgotten and forgiven in the span of a couple hours? This made the ending feel a little bit rushed for me. The author spent a great deal of time building up this story, just to wrap everything up at warp speed. In a way, I wish this would have been a duet with the first ending with the separation and the second book picking up three years later. Then the author could have spent more time building up the whole cult and rescuing Mila's sister angle. As well as exploring a more adult relationship between Liam and Mila.

That said, those two things were MINOR glitches for me, so don't let them turn you away from this one. Two HUGE thumbs up from yours truly.

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Profile Image for Nazanin.
1,211 reviews811 followers
June 23, 2017
3 Stars

This story is about two persons who some crazy cult ruined their lives. Liam’s mother belongs to a cult. She gave Liam and Rosie (his sister) up because of that cult.

"This cult believes that all women are sinners. They have to repent daily for their sins if they want to go to heaven."

At that time Liam was sixteen and Rosie was thirteen. Liam lost her baby sister because of that cult. Mila has lived fourteen years of her life in a cult and when they wanted to force her to marry and old man she escaped and left her seven-year-old sister there alone.

My most issue was about Mila. I really disliked her. She was sooo stubborn. She was on my nerves. She just said for nine years I want to find my sister but she really didn’t do anything in these years. Even I couldn’t feel her desperation or sadness for her sister. And that three years she and Liam didn’t speak with each other wasn’t necessary from my opinion. I mean Mila didn’t do anything in those three years for her sister and I think her excuse for protecting Liam was ridiculous. It was enough to just open her mouth and said everything to Liam.

The story is told in dual POV, 1st person. It’s a standalone. I can’t say I enjoy it but I can say if the secondary characters have their own story, I’ll read them. I hope you enjoy this one!
Profile Image for ❥ KAT ❥ Kitty Kats Crazy About Books.
2,505 reviews10.4k followers
February 6, 2017
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A TOUCH OF LUST: kicks starts us off in 'Prologue' and sets us up for a nail biting sit on the edge of your seat kind of read, two separate cults, two pre-teens wanting to get out, spoken in 'Dual Perspectives' Mila & Liam.

Though their experiences of living within separate cults, the rules they have to follow may be entirely different but they both strive to get out from under the thumbs of their ruler.

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We’re first introduced to Liam Wright at the age of sixteen, and wow what a story he has to tell, due to his parents divorce by the rights of the law they were to stay one week with their father then the next week with their mother who happened to live within a Cult commune, this arrangement didn’t sit well with Liam being of age he didn’t have to stay with his mother but he only went for the sake of his little sister and to keep an eye on her. But through tragic events he lost her in the most cruelest of ways, no matter how much he strived to keep her safe and out of harms way within the cult he was unable to and that is a constant which weighs heavily on his mind.

The cult he lives within believes that All woman are sinners. They have to repent daily for their sins if they want to go to heaven.

Then we’re introduced to fourteen year old Mila Jameson who was born into the Cult but it’s not until she’s fourteen and promised to marry one of the brothers fuels her to seek help from journalists that are there for the day documenting life within the Cult. Her escape leaves a bitter sweet taste in her mouth, the upside is she’s free the downside is she had to leave her younger sister Claire behind.

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Now it’s a waiting game until her sister becomes of age

Image and video hosting by TinyPic I feel trapped. I want to escape so badly, but the fear of being found and punished is almost crippling.

Up until two years ago she was home schooled by Cathy her saviour, since then she’s been attending the same school as Liam but she’s always hidden in the shadows, and Liam’s not had the courage to approach her, until school lets out for the summer.

Image and video hosting by TinyPic Mila’s guarded. She doesn't let people in. Fuck knows, I’ve been trying for two years. That’s about the best I can do in the way of explaining Mila. She has walls up that will put the wall of China to shame.

Plagued with panic attacks that pop out from nowhere has her dropping to her knees in the pray mantis position repenting her sins.

I loved the secondary characters that made an appearance in this book, the four hot boys that ran the school: Liam, Mickey, Blake and Hunter and Mila’s best friend Harper and I hope down the track they get their own book.

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This author fast became one of my favourites last year, there's nothing she couldn't write in my opinion, she could rewrite the telephone book and I'd end up reading it, she just has such a knack of engaging her readers, and this book was no exception, the 'Prologue' set the pace for an emotional turbocharged read, this was something definitely unique by this author compared to her other books I've read and boy oh boy did I love it!!

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Profile Image for Snow.
2,313 reviews723 followers
February 7, 2017


3.5 "you were meant for me" stars

Touch of Lust is a only seemingly simple story of two young people, who experienced the life in a Cult - deprived and twisted words, deeds, belief and conduct, filled with constant punishment and degradation, from where they both ran in one crucial moment of ticking time.

Liam Wright, lost his baby sister to the ways of a Cult and he never forgave himself for not being able to save her. His hatered for cult in general never falters, it hybernates within him under the impression of "moving on" with his life...

Mila Jameson, was born into the Cult BUT when she became aware that her mind can not accept the preachings of the Cult and their ways of treatment, torture and unreasonable punishment, menal and emotional abuse as being her fate...with a help of one woman's kindness, she manages to escape from the clutches of being married to one of the "brothers" at the age 14, unfortunately leaving her younger sister behind....

their path will unite in the outside world, their connection is visible yet Mila is holding back, having subcouncious flashbacks from her upbringing and her panic attacks are the only manifestations noticable to others but not as easy explainable...she has a close friend Harper but she's reluctant to spread the circle of friendship, until Liam steps up and ends his own two yeard long abstinance from contacting Mila. There's smth different about her, she's more than she lets on and Liam is pulled towards her in the most primal way. For some unexplainable reason, and beyond the words that could describe it - he feels the need to protect her besides being physically attracted to her.

As they develop friendship, Mila can't hide much nor she can leave it alone with out further explanation as Liam's proximity and his touch stir not only the fluttering emotions but they also trigger the buried memories...
For the longest time I've wanted to hold you, to touch you.
I want to make her fall in love with me as much as I am in love with her.

and then Liam presses the issue that will reveal the utter truth and Mila's plans to go back there BUT she won't tell him the reason why...
and that will tear them apart...
only to bring them back together, as Liam proves to Mila that this is it, she can't deny it any longer to him nor to herself...
"Just a touch of lust, that's all it takes to prove to you that you belong to me."

more stronger, more resilient to fight against not only the flashbacks and the memories but for the light in their future together inspite of it all.
This time I'll fight harder. I'll be there for Mila. I'll be whatever she needs me to be. I won't fail again.

cause after all, it was inevitable...
We've always belonged together. I knew it the first time i laid eyes on her. She was mine that day. She'll be mine for all eternity


I have to admit that I had a hard time rating this book. I am familiar with Michelle Horst's work and I loved her previous books. What I love about it, is that she always brings in a deeper message to her readers, a thought, a feeling, an emotion that lifts us up, revive us and make us remember of what's important.

And this book is no different. It brings a message of strength to move on, to let go of the bad by accepting the aftermath and own it, making yourself stronger from the negative experience and making that fact a constant pillar of growth and power. Moving on means to learn to trust yourself in instinct and the lived experience that would guide you through the turmoils of unknown in life.
I loved that, i loved the way Liam and Mila were together, their expressiveness in motion and words filled with wide emotions were the spotlight of the story.

and then you probably ask yourself what went wrong? *sigh*

In general the initial concept of storytelling was detached, there was not enough supplement to make the transition from one action/moment/sequence to another without some kind of gap, i could not explain it but I noticed it and it made me not fully invested in the follow up of the further action. And the pacing was on the slower side, which works excellent when Liam and Mila are together but is doesn't work at all, when they are not together in a scene.

And then the unraveling of the culmination that was supposed to be the peek of Mila's liberation from her guilt and a way to retaliate for all the wrongful deed done to her, left me expecting for more. By that I don't mean that i needed a full bloody physical retribution BUT i did expect smth that will leave me at least satisfied. And by that I m reffering to the actions that led to the awkward and rushed therefore abrupt resolve of the matter. But evil sometimes wins inspite the efforts, so i guess that one strike just didn't pass in my book.


Nevertheless, i think Michelle's stories are deeply intertwined with meaningful substance we all need in one way or the other and I'm sure this book will find its faithful followers as I will quite sure eagerly expect next material from Ms. Horst's magical writing shop!!!


***ARC graciously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review***
Profile Image for NMmomof4.
1,717 reviews4,786 followers
Shelved as 'dnf'
February 16, 2017
DNF @66ish%

This just wasn't my jam.

I am actually pretty intrigued by the whole cult thing, so I went into this one with the longer than usual prologue that had the flashbacks about when they were actually in the cult kind of excited. I did have a few moments of thinking that it wasn't realistic and my eyes rolled a few times, but I barreled on and kept on reading....

Then we get to the present.

I really have issues when we get the whole "I've known you for years, I've loved you too, but I've never done anything about it" situation -- and that is what we get here. It was instalove in the sense that they fall in love off the page! They already had those strong feelings when we get to the present tense! We don't get them meeting for the first time, and we don't get the whys as to why they fell in love. I hate that!! It just makes ME not connect with their relationship.

Then things got awkward.

The h seems emotionally unstable IMO. I get that she has to have some trauma from her past, and that is perfectly understandable -- but she would do stuff that would make me think "whoa there crazy chick" . That's where I called it quits. It was just too melodramatic for my tastes.

Here I was hoping for another Tillie Cole Hades Hangmen series (minus the bikers and all the violence), but it sadly just didn't get anywhere close to Ms. Cole's storytelling skills. I felt like it wasn't researched enough, and that there was a lot of statements made that were from assumptions or things that just heard through the media. . It might also be the authors use of exclamation points. I felt like they were used too much, and made the writing seem a little juvenile. The author made a note in both the blurb and the book itself explaining that this wasn't a cult book, but the word "cult" was used 94 times! I'm sorry, but I think that might have it be considered a book about being from a cult!

And I'm done.

I saw some reviewers state that they loved it, so it very well could just be me being picky here...
Profile Image for Bev .
2,149 reviews469 followers
Shelved as 'dnf'
September 12, 2017
DNF @ 44% so no rating. Can't be doing with the ridiculous and childish insecurities of both characters, they're worse than teenagers and are driving me crazy.

Less of the teenage antics and more of the cult which, after the great blurb, I thought was going to feature heavily and would've probably kept my interest but nothing at all has happened bar the insta love which was beyond belief.

I'm tapping out.
Profile Image for Betül.
1,054 reviews285 followers
May 15, 2017
**ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review**

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"I'll always be a sinner, begging for the forgiveness that will never come."

I was really excited that get my hands on this book because I love stories with cults as the setting. Unfortunately this book did not meet my expectations at all. First of all only the Prologue was set in a cult atmosphere. After that we get a New Adult book with characters that are college graduates. Liam and Mila know of each other for two years but never had the guts to approach one another. That was a bit unrealistic in my opinion. The first Chapter confused me because it felt like we jumped right into the middle of the story, and I felt like I was missing a lot of information.

Even though the characters are around 20 years old, they act like they are still in high school. There was a lot of childish behavior that made it really difficult for me to connect with the characters. Also I did not feel any connection between the two main characters, it felt forced. Also the characters acted hot and cold. One moment they are all over each other and the other, one of them is pushing the other away. Also I hate the whole "I can't tell you because I want to protect you" excuse. I really gave this book a try, I even finished it which is a big deal for me (I am more likely to DNF books I dislike).
Profile Image for Philomena Callan Cheekypee.
3,954 reviews418 followers
February 5, 2017
Can I just go into hiding and read the rest of this authors books? I really haven't read enough and reading this book just confirms that.

I was reading this on my kindle and my phone as I didn't wanna put it down. Mila and Liam got under my skin. I wanted to sit them down and get them to talk.. to let loose what happened in their past and to move on. However this is fiction so the author drags it out (not in a bad way) and I'm left speaking to the screen and telling them to talk.

Mila and Liam. So young yet so much heartache. They needed each other in their lives yet Mila was still fearing her past was gonna catch up with her. Can Liam be strong enough for both of them?

I thought this was a really well written story that gives us a peep into cults. It didn't all end up the way I was hoping but that's life ain't it. Loved the epilogue.

Profile Image for ~Stéphanie~.
623 reviews360 followers
February 14, 2017
I hate writing reviews when I didn't like the book. And I especially hate it when the book didn't make any sense to me. It's one thing to enjoy a book and review it because it was given for an honest review but when you feel the book was ridiculous in every way, it's no fun.

I wanted to read Surrendering after the incredible cover reveal we had last month. It was super hot, super sexy and after reading the blurb, I was excited to read it. Last year I read Tillie's Hades Hangmen series and if you read it too you know the cult is a big part of the story. I have to admit I'm curious about this subject and finding another book who takes it as a start was tempting for me.
My first problem with the book came during the prologue where Liam lives his lives between the cult with his mother and outside with his father. I wasn't entirely convinced that such thing could happen and it seems to me that it wasn't realistic enough but what do I know? Maybe it's possible, so what if there's one thing that doesn't seem right? It happens in book.

I was surprised to see that both MC are young and in college. I was expecting older characters with the cover. The blurb doesn't give me away but I thought I would get adults. Here Mila was 20 and I think Liam too but they acted/spoke like teenagers.

Unfortunately it's not the only negative feeling I had with this book. The whole connection between Liam & Mila seemed odd. They know each other for two years but not really because they never really talked. In fact we really don't know what their relation was for two years. They are sharing a class together and they see each other but we have no real background.

The fact Liam was already in love with Mila (yes even if they never really spoke together) was a no for me. I like the chase in my book, I like to witness the moment when both characters fall in love with each other. And I felt nothing here. It was nearly imposed. Liam begins referring Mila as "his girl" from the first moment he appears in the book.

I was already at 40% and nothing substantial happened IMO. They were at least talking and started their relation but it was like take a step but take two steps back. Again odd.
At 50% I wanted to DNF. There was no story for me, nothing I could relate. We don't know much about any characters, nor the MC, nor their friends. All the interactions are weird. I could put some quotes in here but I don't think it's worth it.

At 70%, it became ridiculous and I didn't know what to do. I had no romance, odd behaviors, secrets that weren't really secrets more like refusal of sharing information which was ridiculous at this point.

Do I really need to talk about the ending? Hum... I don't think so.

Thank you for your time ;)

~Arc provided in exchange of an honest review ~

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Profile Image for Morgan Terry.
103 reviews7 followers
February 7, 2017
I am 100%, without a doubt, a certifiable Michelle Horst uber fan. A Touch of Lust proves that she's got the writing chops to tackle a rather unknown subject (to this reader at least) and transform it into such a beautiful story. Passion, humility, and grace fill the pages of a book that circles around betrayal, fear, and hopeless cynicism.

Mila Jameson is such a brave and kind soul. It takes a strong woman to leave the life you've always known at such a young age, starting over with nothing except the drive to move on and hide from the horrendous cult life she lived. With the help of Cathy, Mila finally gets to move on with her life, finally able to be a kid and grow in one amazing young lady. But living free doesn't come without its consequences and it's one of those harder times that she's pulled into the arms of the one and only, Liam Wright.

Liam has loved Mila since the first time he saw her at school. It's not until he has just one last summer left that he finally makes his move. But there's something about him that haunts him deep. He's had to live with despair and grief over the loss of his sister, driving him to despise anything that reminds him of the diseased cult life he was dragged into at a young age. The second Mila comes to him, it's almost as if he has a new lease on life. They make each other smile, laugh, and live again.

But is it enough? Is it enough for Mila to not live with the daily fear that eats her up? Is it enough for Liam to live with the hatred and loathing that consumes him over his sisters death?

Mila and Liam have a lot to learn from one another but with the help of some of the most amazing best friends and family, they find that not everyone gets their happy ending and that's okay. They learn that sometimes, you can't be the hero and rescue everyone, and that's just fine. And, they learn that people make certain choices simply because they are human. To err is human, and it's a hard lesson to learn our two protagonists.

I strongly recommend that you pick this story up. It'll have you running the gamut of emotions, from fear and trepidation in that first chapter to acceptance and utter satisfaction in those last words, an amazing story from start to finish.
Profile Image for Sophie.
590 reviews478 followers
February 5, 2017
4.5 stars.
Michelle Horst is one of those authors that can take a subject that isn't that well known, or not as talked about and make it into something interesting, and relevant. In a Touch of Lust Michelle tackles Cults. And she covers it all brilliantly. I swear with every book Michelle writes she gains more confidence in her words and her writing just keeps getting better and better.

I loved the dynamic of this book, how Michelle set it out in the earlier chapters and then the progressive skips in time that follow. Despite missing out on periods of time we don't actually miss it. Michelle covers enough of those ‘missing’ moments with dialogue and memories. Liam & Mila both have so many similarities, yet have become such different people. And still, they are drawn to one another. The development of their relationship grows beautifully and some parts of the book are breathtaking. Other parts are just plain sizzling.

Liam is HOT! And totally swoony.
Mila is my favourite of Michelle's heroines. Despite her past she had an inner strength that was uplifting, her independence was fierce, even though it contributed to her heartache.

A Touch of Lust definitely delivers lust, it also delivers love, loss, heartache and pain but most of all, the beauty of a second chance.
Profile Image for Cranky - The Book Curmudgeon.
2,091 reviews152 followers
February 7, 2017
5 Cranky Stars



Once again Michelle Horst has flipped the script. She gave us a story about redemption and salvation. That you can be a victim of circumstance or take back your life. Live it to it's full potential even if it doesn't go as planned.



Mila was given to The Order at the age of 13 along with her sister who's years younger than her. She fights daily beatings to repent for sins she doesn't even understand she committed. This grueling brainwashed life goes on for years until one day Mila snaps and flees the compound with the promise she'll come back for Claire.



Flash forward Mila is now a college student yet she hides from life and has numerous fears. The one thing getting her through the day was thoughts of Claire and the life they'll have one day. Then one day Liam makes himself known in her life. He promises beautiful things that Mila doesn't think she deserves.



Liam is familiar with the cults as well. Seeing his mother gave up her life and her kids to live with one. Doing the joint custody with his dad Liam wishes for life outside the walls. He keeps going for his baby sister then tragedy strikes and he's left floating from one day to the next.



He is taken in by his uncle and cousins and shown a new way of life. Liam is now a soon to be college graduate headed to graduate school. He has loved Mila for so long he feels this is his final chance. He comes to learn her secrets and tensions mount.



This book grabbed me. I've always been intrigued by the whole cult and the craziness that comes with it. What happens to the girls or boys who flee? This book teaches us that we are the captains of our life and sometimes we can't save everyone. Ultimately in the end we have to save ourselves. You mourn then you move on and make something new with the pieces. I adore Michelle Horst and her writing this was an excellent story.
Profile Image for Jan .
2,156 reviews45 followers
February 7, 2017
NOW LIVE!
Release sale of $1.99 or FREE on KU
"You make me want to be a bad girl."
Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MUGIN0G
Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01MUGIN0G
Amazon CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B01MUGIN0G
Amazon AUS: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B01MUGIN0G

REVIEW

You deserve to trust someone unconditionally and that someone is you.

Not only does Michelle Horst write beautiful story's with heartwarming and heartbreaking moments she never fails to impart touching messages to her readers.

her words are chosen with finesse and care even after the Epilogue.



I loved A Touch of Lust from the cover to the Title it wasn't what I expected at all.

I was quickly pulled into the story and Liam's agonising memories from the loss of his sister.

When Liam and Mila meet its in a college setting and from the moment his eyes see her there's a magnetic pull but he watches her from afar for two years and the last day of college he finally makes his move before his chance is lost.

Mila is from a similar background to Liam and slowly everything unfolds and you follow the journey of two people destiny brought together.

"Just a touch of Lust, that's all it takes to prove to you that you belong to me"

Liam's sweet words and phrases is enough to make any girl swoon but Mila has a hidden dark past and is too afraid to expose it to Liam's light. A damaged girl unable to move forward because of what she left behind, and a fear that consumes her into pushing even those she loves away.

I was gripped and taken on Liam and Mila's emotional journey told in dual pov's.

I felt there was a jump in the plot from Liam and Mila's time apart and a sudden twist that occurs without build up but other than that there is a brilliant balance of emotional pull throughout the plot and the intensity within the intimate moments are well written.

Michelle Horst never fails to introduce me to a Heroine and hero who not only tug on my heart but give me joy when they save each other.

Liam was right - People are like feathers some keep you flying for a short while before they leave, and then a new person takes their place.

A recomended emotional heartwarming read that touches on sensitive issues containing cult involvement but does not go into to much into depth on such but focuses on the future and the journey forward of the characters.

Authors words:If you're going to give it all, then give it your all for you.

Arc gratefully received from Author for review
http://www.Bbbf-sizzlereads-bestbookb...
Profile Image for Elizarey.
345 reviews61 followers
February 12, 2017
3.5 stars

I really liked this story!! Mila and Liam have a devastating past that is both so similar. They both still have scars from growing up in a cult. Their bond with each other only grows deeper when they find out what it is they have in common.

Mila is very shy and petite and all the boys want her but she is having none of it! Until Liam catches her eye. But he never asks her out. Finally when he gets the courage to talk to her they are instantly consumed by each other. Mila starts to pull away because she fears her past will come back to haunt her and it will destroy Liam. She tried to protect him but in doing so she hurts him more than anything.

When Mila tells Liam she wants to go back to the cult he is devastated and very angry at how she can go back to such a place.
Mila doesn't tell him she is going back for her sister.

All Liam wants to do is protect Mila but she always seems to push her away! He was so sweet and caring towards her! I felt really bad for him when she put him through hell.

Mila got on my nerves a lot during the book. She never accepted help for anything, this really annoys me when authors write their characters this way. Okay, I get it if the character is meant to be stubborn but there is a difference between stubborn and being an idiot and getting yourself hurt.

The story was good and the writing was good too. I enjoyed reading it.
Profile Image for Bookgasms Book Blog.
2,862 reviews1,529 followers
February 7, 2017
Whenever I start a Michelle Horst book I know that I will be swept away by the story. I have been a fan of hers since Predator and have not turned back since. Her stories are engrossing, sexy, thrilling and altogether a huge plus in my book. This book is a little different from the previous books I've read by this author but it's no less amazing.

In this story we meet Mila and Liam who, unbeknownst to them, have a shared history. Mila was born and raised in a cult and has been conditioned since birth to their way of thinking, until she escaped. Similarly, Liam's mother was a cult follower and his sister killed herself as a result of the cult's mental anguish and torture. So as a result, there is a lot of angst and drama in this book. Mila and Liam go through a lot as they are coming to terms with their pasts.

Horst aptly captures the emotional repercussions faced by Liam and Mila due to their life in the cult. While I did not agree fully with Liam's reasons for completely cutting out Mila for the amount of time that he did especially since he claimed to love her as much as he did, I do understand his pain. In the same turn, I did feel that their reconciliation was heartfelt, if not a little rushed. All in all I enjoyed this story and will continue to read and consume everything by this author in the future! Bravo! ~Ratula. 4 stars!
Profile Image for Jacqueline's Reads.
2,983 reviews1,520 followers
Shelved as 'did-not-finish'
March 6, 2017
DNF 17%

It wasn't what I expected.

I just couldn't get into the characters.
Profile Image for Brandi.
535 reviews36 followers
February 10, 2017
This book isn't what you think. It's more so much more. It's about acceptance and being your own savior.

Mila was given to The Order which we later learn is a front for something much more sinister. Along with her baby sister she deals with brutal lashings and brainwashing. Yet despite all her fears she yearns for more and when the opportunity comes she grabs it with sweeping promises made to her baby sister. Years later Mila is making the most of her life shoring up to make that promise a reality. She has a million fears and isn't truly living yet she's not some shrinking violet. She wants to save everyone even Liam. Who unbeknownst to her has loved her for years.

Liam has had a rough life. One day his mom decides to leave her family for a cult. Alternating between his dads house and the compound he keeps going for his baby sister. Tragedy strikes and Liam is left bereft. We meet him years later making the most of his life freshly graduated from college and moving onto his masters degree. He has loved Mila from afar and decides it's now or never. Little does he know of her devastating secret.

This book was truly wonderful. I loved all the characters and how they weren't shrinking violets. They owned up to their problems and faced them head on. I believe in Michelle Horst and her writing one hundred percent.
Profile Image for Peggy Lee (Reading Keeps Me Sane).
1,039 reviews42 followers
February 7, 2017
A Touch Of Lust starts off intriguing. Two individuals, two different cult experiences with the same outcome, they both escaped. Albeit in different fashions but never the less they are no longer part of the cult. Now that they are living freely their past continues to haunt them. A Touch Of Lust is two stories in one but I didn't feel either story was fully delivered. It fringed between a second chance love story and a personal mission.

Liam Wright's mother had joined a cult. His parents had shared custody and he and his sister had to stay with his mother every other week. When Liam turned sixteen he no longer had to visit his mother but he continued because his sister was still under age. His world shattered when his baby sister took her own life. He blamed himself for not keeping her safe.

Mila Jameson grew up in a cult. When it was proclaimed it was her time to marry, Mila ran. She was well aware of how the married women of the cult were treated and wanted out. She was helped by an outsider escape and start a new secretive life.

Liam is in love with Mila at first sight. Two years after they first met Liam finally takes a chance and goes after her. Mila doesn't want Liam to get hurt and pushes him away. She reveals that she must return to the cult but with no further explanation. Liam explodes at the thought and leaves. Three years later, after Liam returns from college, they are brought together as Mila's past rears it's ugly head. Mila can no longer hide the truth about her mission to save her younger sister.

Over all I enjoyed the story but I wanted more. There are relationship gaps and I think the bonds could have been better developed. It's a second chance love story with plenty of heart and soul. 4 Stars.
Profile Image for K.A. Graham.
Author 21 books118 followers
January 25, 2017
A Touch of Lust by Michelle Horst

☆☆☆5 stars☆☆☆

Michelle has a way of tackling sometimes ugly subjects and turning them into inspiring, beautiful stories of redemption and inner peace.

Mila grew up in a cult, where we later find out is also a cover for truly horrid actions against women, if it wasn't bad enough to begin with. She makes the courageous decision to leave, but is then thrown into a world she knows nothing about, one most of us take for granted.

Having so many secrets locked away, she fears getting close to people, knowing they may think differently of her if they knew the truth. Liam has been in her heart and mind for years, and the closer they get, the closer he is to discovering her past.

It’s a bitter pill to swallow when the one your heart desires, suddenly turns their back on you. Through her fight for redemption, friends become enemies, and vice versa. She may falter at times, but never loses her will to survive.

Things always seem to have a way of working themselves out, if you never give up and fight for the happiness you righteously deserve. Mila and Liam have pasts that contain heartache and loss, but together they can reach the light if they choose to.

Definite sexy time with these two, along with some added angst to stir the pot. Loved this unique story, and the way it all comes together, truly gives hope to the struggle for personal freedom from the demons of the past.
Profile Image for Kristina at For The Love Of Books.
251 reviews18 followers
February 7, 2017
First let me start off by saying I'm a huge fan of Michelle Horst. That being said I was extremely excited to get my hands on Touch of Lust. It did NOT disappoint! It was a little lighter than most of her previous books but I loved it nonetheless. It was an interesting twist of romance, angst, drama, and at times heartbreakingly sweet. You can't help but get drawn into these characters. Liam and Mila (I love that there names were an anagram) both grew up in the cult life. Liam was lucky enough to get away but not before he was given a blow that he never truly recovers from. Mila was able to get away by luck alone. When these two come together it's not an easy road. Neither can trust fully and many obstacles and time keep them apart. This book has just about everything one could want in a romance book. I'm addicted to these characters and it left me wanting more. The writing and the flow of the plot was spot on. It's an emotional roller coaster that I never wanted off of. I highly recommend this book. I was given an ARC for my honest opinion. 1-click this must read book you won't be disappointed.
Profile Image for Karen Ferry.
Author 15 books371 followers
February 5, 2017
Absolutely amazing story!

This is one of those books that will take you completely by surprise as you read it.

I have only great things to say about it, and I will not rehash the plot as I feel that is unnecessary in reviews, but I will say this:

The author really made me feel for both Mila and Liam, but not only that - she showed how diverse her penmanship is, and that is the true power of a storyteller, in my opinion.

I cried, I laughed, and I swooned while reading, and although there are some sensitive issues portrayed in this story, I would definitely recommend that you pick it up today and go in with an open mind and heart.
Profile Image for French Press Bookworm Blog.
943 reviews7 followers
February 7, 2017
I loved liam and Mila. I only wish Liam had been a little more sure of himself. I felt he was so strong in all of his relationships by seemed so insecure with her that it threw me off. I expected alpha and take charge and while in some ways he was just lacking for me. Other than that the story was fantastic!
Profile Image for EpicRomanceReviews.
758 reviews140 followers
February 9, 2017
"I'm her damnation. She's my salvation."

SURRENDERING held my heart in a vice grip from page one and still has not released me from its clutches!!!!

The astonishing romantic odyssey that Michelle Horst takes readers on is so spectacular in scope you are a willing captive to her beautiful words, the raw, shattering emotions…and the pendulum that constantly swings back and forth between light and darkness, hope and despair, love, lust and soul burning rage is truly BREATH-STEALING.

This is the unforgettable tale of two young lovers, Mila Jameson and Liam Wright whose fates and destinies are inexorably intertwined. Unbeknownst to one another, they each had spent a big chunk of their childhoods confined inside two separate religious communes. Although both shunned the hypocritical ways, dastardly practices and depraved doctrines of the Order and were able to escape their respective communes, their hearts and souls did not emerge unscathed.

When they meet and eventually fall in love on the college campus, they are powerfully drawn together, oblivious to the fact that they both suffered mightily during their time in oppression. Although they have spent the past six years forging a new normal for themselves, the ghosts from the past continue to haunt them daily.

Mila, who was born to The Order Of The Promised Land cult, still suffers from debilitating panic attacks, is terrified of the dark, and cannot banish the painful memories of her time inside the commune. Her faith had been dwindling prior to her escape and the thought of being trapped forever in that life, forced to take on the role of the sweet, subservient, dutiful wife, and all the horrors that entailed was too much to bear.

"Every day of my life, I’m reminded that I’m nothing more than a Daughter of Sin. I’m bad, shameful –nothing but a whore, and I’ll only get to The Promised Land by the mercy and forgiveness of Prophet David."

With the help of a caring journalist, she managed to pave a new life for herself after fleeing the compound at the age of 14, mere days before she was to be married to the cruel, heartless Brother William. Now Mila has spent the last six years doing her best to fly under the radar, praying the cult can’t find her and drag her back to that nightmarish world. She still bears the horrific physical and emotional scars from the past and is riddled with guilt over the sister she was forced to leave behind. But vows to go back and liberate her someday. In the meantime, she tries to snatch every bit of happiness she can but she knows she is living on borrowed time and her facade of normalcy is starting to crumble.

“It feels as if the gates of hell are right inside of me. No matter how far I run, it’s never far enough.”

Meanwhile, Hot-As-Sin Liam Wright, a golden boy on campus who has his pick of female admirers, only has eyes for Mila Jameson, the girl he has worshipped from afar for ages. Together with his buddies Mickey, Blake and Hunter they rule the college campus, but behind his handsome, carefree persona and megawatt smile he too is a tormented soul. He wasn’t able to save his little sister, Rosie, who fell prey to the atrocities of the cult and has to live with that festering regret and anger.

Although he hates the Miller Clan cult and everything it stands for with a raging passion, he made a conscious decision to move on with his life and his new normal includes finally getting his shot at dating Mila, the beautiful, quirky, adorably shy girl he has been hopelessly in love with for the past two years. A girl he wants more than his next breath.

“It was fate that Mila came to the same college as me. I believe you can’t choose who you fall in love with, that fate does that for you. Since I saw her that first day, I was lost. She has always been the girl for me."

Mila has been secretly pining for him all this time too. And when sparks fly at a party he’s throwing at his abode, they finally stop fighting the inevitable and give into their fiery lust. They only have a few weeks to spend together before Liam leaves for the University of Chicago to continue his studies and they plan to savor every precious moment together. But there's just something about this girl that unsettles him and he sees a flash of hopelessness and fear in her soft grey eyes that gnaws away at his own damaged soul. When the shattering truth about the ties that bind them comes to light, can their fragile love survive the darkness that threatens to envelop them whole?

HOLY WOW!!! Michelle Horst truly OUTDID herself with this phenomenal, heart-gripping story about hope and survival, and finding love amid unspeakable adversity. The author captured all the intense, sweet, swoony emotions of first love, and the heartbreaking struggles and hardships that this couple were forced to endure, due to their tragic backgrounds, was profoundly moving. It stuck a powerful chord in me how this angst-ridden duo, who crave ordinary lives, find an extraordinary love in each other. And together they give one another the courage to face their worst fears.

There was the perfect balance of gritty realism, emotional turmoil, passion, and romantic escapism in this book. One of my favorite aspects of this brilliantly penned novel was how Mila and Liam still retained a joie de vivre despite their lost innocence. I also think the author did a fantastic job of folding in the ancillary characters, which made up the tapestry of their day to day worlds. And swoooon! This was this one ravishingly sexy book! The chemistry between Mika and Liam was electric and soul deep, and their interludes were SIZZLING HOT and OH-SO-SCINTILLATING!

Liam was tantalizingly ALPHA, endearingly sweet and tender, and had a broody, fiercely possessive side which I found to be a huge turn on!

“Just a touch of lust, that’s all it takes to prove to you that you belong to me.”

And I adored how even though Mila was suffering inwardly she never lost her sparkle. These two were a perfect match and loved each other with a ferocity that gave me goosebumps and warm tingles!

Their romance was certainly not a bed of roses. Mila and Liam had some MAJOR obstacles to overcome, causing one another--and ME!--plenty of heartache and frustration along the way, but at its core this is an uplifting love story, with the powerful, life-affirming message that yes, you CAN rise above and that ultimately it’s all about "how brave you choose to be!"

Although this is an unconventional love story that isn't exactly tied up with a nice shiny red bow, I found the resolution immensely satisfying. I truly appreciate how Ms. Horst always takes emotional risks with her characters and storylines and lures the reader on an emotionally taxing, thrilling journey with exhilarating highs, and heart dropping lows. There was palpable tension throughout, all leading up to the climactic showdown, which was so riveting and heartbreaking and PERFECTLY IMPERFECT, literal chills racked my body and I found myself choking back cathartic tears. Tears of joy. Of heartache. Of acceptance. Of healing. Of love.

I simply cannot recommend this book strongly enough! SURRENDERING is an unforgettable tale, chock full of jawdropping feels, that will always hold a special place in my heart!

5 Hauntingly beautiful Stars!
Profile Image for Hanan .
1,881 reviews19 followers
February 7, 2017
I loved A Touch of Lust! From the cover,the prologue was absolutely gripping all the way through till the final message from Michelle to her readers.
In A Touch of Lust we are introduced to Liam who's sixteen. His family consists of his mother,father and younger sister Rosie. When his parents divorce the children go back and forth between mom and dad. Liam's mom is part of a "religious" cult. Liam hates going to visit her and Rosie is just downright petrified. On one of there visits things go terribly wrong and tragedy strikes that will change Liam forever.
Mila is thirteen when we meet her. She was born and raised in a cult that demeans,demoralizes and treats females as things and vessels for breeding babies. Even at this young age and never having left the confines of the commune Mila knows that something is not right. That the things they are taught seem wrong. Then one day the cult leader announces that she is to be wed to someone who seems like he can be as old as her grandfather and who also enjoys inflicting pain on the young girls,she is determined to escape. Her chance comes when a group of journalists arrive to spend the day. With the help of one of them she escapes.
Liam and Mila met when they are in junior college together neither knowing the others past. Both of them are attracted to the other but both are apprehensive to make a move each for their own reasons. This lasts until the very last day of college when Liam asks Mila to attend a party he's hosting. From this point Liam and Mila are in a struggle and fight for their future. Both want to be together but Mila has unfinished business with her former cult and she's afraid to tell Laim thinking he won't understand.
A Touch of Lust is not only a beautiful love story of young love but it's also so much more. It shows how a parents bad decision effects the rest of the lives of their children. Especially coming from this kind of environment that deals with physical and emotional abuse.
I loved Liam and Mila! Both are survivors and strong willed. Especially Mila being raised the way she was she was determined not to let her abusers win.
I also adored all the secondary characters as well. I hope their stories are told in the future especially Hailey.
Those of you that are fans of Michelle's your going to love Liam and Mila's story. For those readers that maybe new to Ms. Horst take a chance on A Touch of Lust you won't be sorry.

*There are a few reviews here stating that they wanted more cult involvement. To me this story is not about the cult itself but about the effects its imprints on the lives of the children that were directly or indirectly involved with these cults. The book has enough details and descriptions about what happens in these types of communes. If the story had more than what's written then the book now becomes about the cult and it's really no longer Liam and Mila's life story anymore.
Profile Image for Lizzie_Loves_Books .
199 reviews
February 7, 2017
I received a copy of A Touch of Lust from Michelle Horst and I’m voluntarily leaving an honest and unbiased review.

This is my first read from this author and I thoroughly enjoyed it. This book made feel a lot of emotions and had me on a personal journey with these amazing characters. It made me realise that life is far too short, that we should live life to the full and learn the act of forgiveness.

Liam and Mila met under terrible circumstances and Liam was back in an environment that he generally hates which leads to him and Mila no longer being together. The journey to get them back together made me really dislike Liam. He really annoyed me at times but still absolutely loved this book.

I’m now obsessed with Michelle Horst and when I get time I’ll be reading all her other books.

ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Elizabeth from Kinky Kittens Book Blog

Review by Elizabeth
Profile Image for Amy.
693 reviews
February 7, 2017
A Touch Of Lust
Michelle Horst
3.5 stars

How does it feel to take back your life? How does it feel to break the mold you were supposed to step in to? A victim or a broken circle ...

Mila has to repent for something she has no remembrance of doing. She is beaten ... She is told that she is dirty .. She is told her life is not hers. Her sister who is younger than her suffers from the same fate. Surely she would remember something of why she is a prisoner ... Surely this isn't her life forever. Fleeing she promises to return for her sister.
Years later ...

Liam sees the woman ... He knows tragedy. He knows pain. He will give this woman all she deserves and more. But being torn apart could change everything.

This one is a strange but good read. Both characters have similar past but in different ways of course. I did feel like the incident that occurs and the separation period was too easy maybe. With Mila and her past I felt she would be more standoffish. But having said that this is a decent read. This was different for me but not in a bad way. I did feel like there were some things that could have been met more in depth. But again not bad. There isn't a deep depiction of the "members" who had Mila and her sister so you shouldn't have triggers there if that is one for you ... That lack of depth may have been what was missing for me though.

Thank you for the ARC! Review to post to Ramblings From Beneath The Sheets.
Profile Image for Kathleen R..
1,407 reviews43 followers
February 7, 2017
Title: A Touch Of Lust
Author: Michelle Horst

4 unexpected stars



I'm not quite sure what I expected when I started reading A Touch Of Lust - maybe a bit of suspense, angst, drama for certain, action and romance, tons of it, because let's face it, when I read a novel by Michelle Horst, that's what i associate with her - the capacity to make me feel love through her words. Now, A Touch Of Lust was completely different. It was painful, unexpected, and every sort of wrong but in the good way. It made me stand up and listen, it made me want to keep reading when i know that i should be heading off to bed. But most of all, it made me think that not everything that we hear is what it truly is. There's always an underlying story behind every action, and it's important to listen with both your ears and eyes.

3 cuddle worthy dreams stars



Mia and Liam met when they were quite young - heck, Mia wasn't even legal when they did, and all because she rebelled against the fact that she was supposed to be married off to another member of her cult and when she met Liam, she needed an out. Only too late to realize that Liam was unable to handle it and ran, unable to take more pain after the death of his sister. It was crushing, i won't deny that because it's such an important part of the book (for me at least), and i wondered just how these two could learn to trust and forgive so many, even one another (and maybe themselves). Michelle Horst did a great job in bringing forth all the emotions that she did while writing, and i was truly amazed at the storyline. It's the kind of read that you need to experience at least once, or more, from this author.


*ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Kathleen, The Small Girl from A small girl, her man and her books







50 Book Reviews
 Professional Reader

Profile Image for Kelly  - Kelly's Book Blog.
373 reviews12 followers
February 7, 2017
A Touch Of Lust by Michelle Horst (Book Review) - kellybookblog.com

4.5 of 5

Adult Romance/"Cult" Romance

ARC provided for an honest review.

Mila had to leave. The opportunity of freedom was burning bright and then quickly fading away. She couldn't say no. She was going to risk everything to leave behind a cult that used and abused women. The worst and most difficult part? She left behind her family...her sister. Vowing to save Claire someday, she first must learn to live. Life isn't easy, especially when it's filled with the constant reminder of the past but he fixes everything. He understands. Liam.

Liam lost everything too. He lost his sister because of the cult their mother forced them into. He will never forgive or forget. When Mila walks into Liam's life, he doesn't know about her past, all he knows is that she makes him feel.

Two young and broken individuals must learn to live and love.

I absolutely LOVE Michelle Horst and all her books! She always writes interesting and captivating stories in which her complex characters have to grow and overcome many emotional and physical challenges. Each character is uniquely different and has their own detailed backstory. By doing this, Michelle creates REAL and relatable characters. I LOVE LOVE LOVE Michelle's books, they are always amazing, this one is too.

This is a beautiful and thrilling story of young love and growth. Mila and Liam have a great connection and hot chemistry from the very beginning that will make you grin and laugh out loud. Mila is young, beautiful, inexperienced and insecure. She is attracted to Liam but hides her feelings. Liam is handsome, driven and more experienced in relationships than Mila but he too hides his feelings. As they grow, they realize who they are, start to accept where they are from and learn what they want and need...each other. Beautiful.

Besides the great chemistry this book has some major twists that will take you for a ride. Check it out! Releases Feb 2nd.

Profile Image for Brandy Roberts.
2,082 reviews61 followers
February 7, 2017
I was drawn to this book from the blurb and then the cover added to its greatness . The storyline was very original it wasn't like something I'v read before . The main characters were extremely likable they grew up similar to one another even though they didn't know it they felt a connection towards each other , Mila is really brave for what she did even though she knew the consequences she had to try she's also kind hearted she would put other peoples happiness over hers . Liam was just my ideal hero I felt bad for him at the begging of the story had to rub my chest were my heart was breaking for him he's been in love with the h since the first time he laid eyes on her he is sweet , protective , alpha, and super sexy . Once the characters get together it was super hot they craved each other they were magnetic . I also loved the secondary characters I hope that they get their own book .
copy provided for honest review
****************************************
hero = 10
heroine = 10
secondary characters = 10
chemistry = 10
steam = 10
character development = 10
pacing = 10
enjoyment =10
writing style =10
storyline =10
romance =9
darkness level =8
humor =8
pov= dual
ending = HEA
cover =HOT
stars = 5
author = 10
would I recommand this book =yes
would I re read this book = yes
would I read future books by this author = yes
Profile Image for Heather R Callahan.
242 reviews25 followers
February 7, 2017
This is one of those stories that makes you question, feel, and above all try to forgive. Mila and Liam meet under very hard circumstances. Mila is young and forced to marry someone in her cult. Liam has his own heartaches. These two come together, only to leave each other. I have to say I wasn't a big fan of Liam. He pissed me off more than once. Overall I enjoyed this book. I wasn't expecting everything the author made me feel, but I am glad I read it. I have enjoyed Michelle's books in the past, and will continue to be a fan.
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Heather from Kinky Kittens Book Blog

Review by Heather
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