I thought that I knew what this book was going to be once I read the prologue. Turns out I was wrong. Very wrong.

You know the saying "it's not the destination but the journey that counts"? This book completely embodies that. The path that the reader wanders down is unflinching, with clear and necessary foreshadowing, yet with no frivolous drama which didn't completely add to the depth of the story.

Aria and Ben are a delightfully imagined couple - not perfect by any means - both subtly flawed yet with an inexorable attraction to each other, and this really drew me in to the narrative of their story. However, it was the concluding chapters which really made this novel stand out, and created a much more emotional read for me.

A truly lovely book.

I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.

Judge not by the cover, readers. I don't read erotica-- and luckily for me, this book isn't erotica. Does it have sex? Yes. Is it about sex? Yes, but not in the way you think. This book is about power balance and media and double standards-- but it's also a love story. Interesting read!

This review is based on an ARC given to me by the publisher in exchange for my honest opinions.

Hollywood and the shenanigans that may or may not go on between male and female actresses, directors, studio personnel etc. is not an area that I am intimately familiar with. That gave me a good appreciation for some of the details that author Sarah Robinson provides. I am usually quite critical of too much flaunting of wealth and power from male characters. I am usually the first to cry foul on overlapping characters who have had sexual/love connections. I am harshest when it comes to thinking about how wasteful great wealth is when it is used on expensive cars, clothing, houses... all materialistic things in a world where money could make a huge difference in the lives of people trapped by circumstances beyond their control. It makes for great fiction because it gives ordinary people the ability to live vicariously through the characters. But I often crave more depth and if anyone has read my reviews they know that I will pop in a comment like a book has a "Fifty Shades" vibe to it if there is excessive reference to penthouse apartments with huge glass windows, perfect furnishings and extravagant gifts. As a fan of the Fifty Shades books, I am not a fan of copycat writings. Original ideas that keep fiction fresh are not only my personal preference but a necessity. Giving the large umbrella of Women's Fiction room to branch out is the way we have seen growth of these titles throughout the years.

Nudes has succeeded where others have failed. Sarah Robinson tells a story that is not too complex to follow but is filled with moments that feel real and less like Hollywood fantasy. Ben and Aria are flawed human beings, even if there are those moments where they are described by their sculpted curves, muscle, hair, beauty and physical attributes. If that keeps a reader engaged, I have no issue with it when a novel also addresses flaws and emotion and the people that surround them as being like someone a reader might know. Hollywood elite are ordinary people living in extraordinary circumstances. If their talent and luck hold out they stay in that elite status. So often, especially in the age of 24 hour news cycles, we learn that one of them has a crack in their perfect facade; alcoholism, drug addiction, infidelity, tax evasion... Suddenly their expensive habits become even more closely scrutinized. Sometimes, there is an innocent person who becomes the victim in Hollywood. That is where Sarah Robinson takes us. Aria makes a mistake and that mistake is taken advantage of. Suddenly her talent is no longer what people talk about and she becomes the meaty gossip that is nearly always prevalent in Hollywood.

I will not go further into the details of the book. You can read spoilers in other reviews. I do encourage readers to take advantage of the summary blurbs that the publisher provides. They rarely contain spoilers. What you should find is just enough information to determine if the investment of time in reading a title is worth it for you. If that blurb pulls you in, then reading the book can be exciting and fresh and a treat that you savor.

The best parts of Nudes, go far beyond the seductive cover or the fantasy of being wealthy, beautiful and famous. The story reaches into Aria's life, shows how a bad choice or personal judgment can become a nightmarish scandal, which in her case overwhelms her. The reader is presented with her realization that talent is not always what Hollywood or the public crave. It shows that one can feel betrayed on both a personal and a professional level.

Love, betrayal, loyalty, trust, sexuality and sexism are all topics touched upon. No single actress or one studio can change the world. In an industry where impressions are everything it takes a community to stand together against those things that are most hurtful. The author gives both Aria and Ben roles in taking on personal causes in Hollywood. It is disheartening to know that innocent people can be hurt in any industry. Public figures have the platform to bring attention to causes. The novel begins with Ben trying to come out from under a personal attack that was intentionally fed to the public. That is our first hint that Hollywood is not all glamour. When Aria becomes the target of a scandal, when she feels that Ben has betrayed her for his own benefit, is it possible that love can win over evil intent? Can this outwardly beautiful couple also have inner beauty?

Sarah Robinson tackles the difficulties of being famous in Hollywood. She takes the reader behind the beauty and glam. Where she goes is sometimes dark and sometimes sad but, without any question, this is a love story. Following Aria and Ben and the characters around them opens up Hollywood for a behind the scenes glimpse. It shows reality behind the costumes and sets. There are many directions that this novel could have gone. I applaud the path the author chose and have some hope that there are always going to be real actors and actresses that tackle the seedy side, the gossipy news and that they will take on the challenge to change things one personal step at a time. For every individual who is intolerant of gossip and half truths and bad apples, there will be progress made.

I encourage you to read Nudes for content not cover.

***ARC provided by the author via NetGalley/The Rock Stars of Romance***

I admit it, there are a lot of books that I finish and then I get to the review a few days later. I know I should write them immediately, but I don't.

This one, however, is getting the review about 45 seconds after I finished, because it is that good and I don't want to lose my thoughts on it, even though I always have notes, for this one, I want it fresh.

This book is good. Really good.

There's so much that I could talk about. Their relationship, how they are both in a place where they don't think they can be more than a weekend fling, but how fate throws them together again and again until the realize they don't want to fight their attraction any longer. So, things are good, and then as the blurb says, things go really wrong for Aria, and Ben looks to be the one responsible. The reader knows both sides of the situation, which is an excellent choice on the part of the author, as it makes what happens, and the resolution of it, work well.

The blurb gives the impression that the sex scandal, the exploitation that happens, in the book is perpetrated by Ben. Well, it is, and it isn't. I am not able to get into the actual events without spoiling it, but I can say that this is a romance, and there is a happily ever after and there is no way you could find a happily ever after with a man who exploited you sexually, I am pretty sure this is one of the "rules" of romance novels in general. I will leave the details of what happens for you to discover on your own.

Ms. Robinson, in the notes at the back of this book mentions some things that may or may not surprise you, but gives a depth to the story that will leave you thinking about the book in a different way. And, the internet. Again, not telling you, read the book.

She also mentions that she wrote the initial draft of this rather quickly. And you can tell. Not that it is bad, the exact opposite. There is a flow to the story, to the words, to the dialog and the entire construction of the book that you can tell there is a connection to the story for the author, that this was a book she just had to tell.

I am very glad she did.

I recommend this book.

This was such a great story! It grabs you from the first page! I was drawn to both the lead characters. Ben was such a hottie! He was drawn to Aria Rose even knowing he should stay away. They have great chemistry! There is also a lot of drama, which should be expected of Hollywood. I loved everything about this and I would love to read more of these stories! Definitely worth getting!

Don't Judge This Book By It's Cover

Sarah Robinson delivers a honest yet cleverly written story about how easily we judge people in our lives. She brings forth the issues of name shaming and what it's like to live in a world full of cynicism and degradation especially towards women.

The way the characters portrayed these issues was beautifully articulated and the chemistry was easily desired and felt throughout the storyline. Yes people you do get some sexy scenes even under these real life messages.

I really loved the tenacity of Aria Rose who played the victim in this story. She encumbered a great spirit for women who have fallen victims to name shaming tactics in the movie world industry. However it clearly sends a great message to its audience that we all need to treat each other with more respect and not to be quick on judging one another with degrading and vindictive words.

If you love stories of women on top then you will definitely enjoy this book.

I have tons of warm fuzzies but you probably don't know why...

Nudes is a pretty awesome story... I enjoyed the writing. I enjoyed the storyline. But the absolute clincher was the message, this book has heart. It wasn't written just to tell a Hollywood romance. No, it has a point.

I think that point makes this book worth a lot more than others in the genre. I'm not book shaming because I am a certified book whore. I love them all, morals or not. But when a book is used for good (cue super hero music), it seems to stick with us even more.

This book will stick with you. Whether for the heinous acts and words or because it touched you in a way that lifted you up, Nudes will be on your mind long after you finish.

Sarah Robinson set a new standard with this book. The story will twist, turn and at times gut you. It's honest, raw and will challenge you in a way you have never thought before.
She pulls every emotion out of the hat and pours it into this story between Aria and Ben. The chemistry between these two is incredible and steaming hot. The storyline is flawlessly perfect.

Reading this book could very well change your life or at the least the way you look at your world and the what surrounds you. There are powerful messages couched into this book. It reminded me to refocus on those things.

Full review coming prior to release

This is another book I wish I could more than 5 stars to. Nudes was an amazing story, I loved every page of it. I really LOVED the message it has wrapped up in the story. This was a spectacular read. Aria was put through the ringer for nothing that was her fault, she came out stronger than she was before and had a powerful impact on everyone. Ben was an amazing man, he was just as amazing as Aria. The two together generated plenty of heat and I loved all the times they were around each other. I loved this book and I highly recommend it.

Sarah Robinson is an amazing writer, I've read everything she's ever published. Nudes is a great story that's sarah knocked out of the park. Loved this book.

What a great book! Sarah did an amazing job and I cannot wait to read more from her!

The cover and blurb peeked my interest towards Sarah Robinson's Nudes and I found the Hollywood romance within it's pages satisfying. This story is fast-paced. There's insta-lust that attracts a mutually beneficial relationship for Hollywood actress Aria Rose and studio executive Ben Lawson. Both coming off from previous relationships where they were exploited the two decide on a couple of days of passion with nothing further. As the story evolves so do their feelings.

The chemistry and romance between the two was great. Aria and Ben had fun together both between the sheets and not. I enjoyed their friendship as much as their love. There were a few times throughout the story where I thought the plot had holes or fell a bit flat. The potential for the scandal and conflict seemed greater than it actually had been executed. However, this book conveys an important message to women, to humans actually whether they be female or male and I commend Sarah Robinson for that. I wish that message were threaded throughout the text more rather than as means of conflict and resolution but the importance of that message remains very strong.

If you like Hollywood-esque, fast paced, and insta type romance books Nudes will check off all kinds of boxes for you. Robinson's writing easily allows you to feel for her characters and the chemistry they exude. It's enjoyable and easily read in just a couple of days.

Bravo to Sarah Robinson. Nudes was a fantastic book.I loved it so much i read it twice. There was so much female empowerment and strength along with passion, sexiness and emotion. Aria Rose was in her 20's and a up and coming Hollywood actress. She just finished filming what could be the biggest movie of her career. Scarlet Letters Aria could have opted for the easy way and used her connection in the business to achieve her goals faster but she knew she was capable of doing it herself. It took her longer but it was through her own hard work and no one else's. I loved that she was confident., sexy, seductive, smart, passionate and fought for what she believed in. Ben Lawson was the CEO of Shepherd Film Studio at 30 years old. He was in charge of trying to restore the studio to its former glory. He divorced from his wife. when she committed the ultimate treason to achieve her fame and she sold his secrets to the highest bidder. Ben and Aria meet in the studio while she wrapped up the last scene of her movie. It was instant attraction and fireworks between them. These two burn up the pages with there passion and chemistry. Until a scandal arises due to an evil person. Misunderstandings occur and things fall apart.. I don't want to give any spoilers because i believe everyone should read this book it is that good, I just couldn't get enough. .

First of all, I have to mention the dedication, it's the best one I have ever seen.

I loved reading about Aria and Ben, their chemistry and attraction bounced off the pages so undeniable even they couldn't keep away from each other.

I can see where the author wanted to go with this story and deliver a message about shaming women but it fell flat towards the end.

It is a lovely romantic story though.
First of all, I have to mention the dedication, it's the best one I have ever seen.

I loved reading about Aria and Ben, their chemistry and attraction bounced off the pages so undeniable even they couldn't keep away from each other.

I can see where the author wanted to go with this story and deliver a message about shaming women but it fell flat towards the end.

It is a lovely romantic story though.

😳 wow. Amazing. Loved it. This was such a great read. The cover is beautifully done.

The location of this book is LA and this is where most of the action takes place. We are introduced to our mains, Ben Lawson and Aria Rose. They are both in the movie business; he as the new head of an older movie studio and she is an up and coming actress in her first starring role.
The underlying theme throughout the book is the real meat on the bone. It's message is of gender inequality and how it permeates not only the social construct of Hollywood and far beyond. It also address the way that women view each other once sex is introduced.
The romance was second for me and thank goodness because there was very little of it. The H/h fall into bed over and over without any real connection. They talk little, discover even less about each other, and get or stay naked. I never knew enough about either one of them to know if I even liked either one of them. I felt like this book needed to be fleshed out with more character development giving them more layers and so that when they both find that inner strength that we all possess we cheer them on as they get stronger and find their way back to each other.
Overall, what would have been a solid three star book gets a boost into four star territory because it championed women's rights in the workplace and in society and showcased grace under fire.

loved it

I haven't read anything by this author before but the synopsis intrigued me as I like stories set in Hollywood.

The story does have a message. I'm not a fan of stories with a message as they take away from the romance and this is billed as 'a Hollywood romance'. I did like the romance. I liked Ben and Aria although Ben is not alpha male like I usually read but I believed in their love although it is very insta love which I'm also not a fan of.

I would have liked to read more of Ben and Aria's romance. They meet, spend a weekend together then see each other occasionally over a few months. Then something happens and Ben hurts Aria but I found this part of the storyline a bit poor as Ben didn't exactly fight much to make sure Aria knew the truth, they had a quick exchange and then he decided that must be the end. It seemed a bit ridiculous to me that he didn't try harder to reason with Aria but then there was a message that needed putting across by the author, so I suppose she concentrated more on that.

I enjoyed the romance aspect but felt it lost it's way three quarters of the way through and I wanted Ben to be more manly! I would also have preferred a longer epilogue. I thought we would get to read of Aria's Oscar acceptance speech?!

ARC received for review

5++ stars

Loved it. Ms. Robinson just keeps getting better and better.

Great chemistry between Aria and Ben. They smoked up the sheets, walls, desks, couches, whatever surface happened to be near by. They were just made for each other..soul mates. Her parents, sisters and friends were amazing. There's a bunch of crazy ex drama to keep it very interesting. Plus there's a great message...WE CAN DO BETTER!

Nudes by Sarah Robinson.. can I just start with, that cover! Daymm! What an impact! Most books I read have a pretty guy on the front - which is totally fine & actually makes me sound quite shallow.. regardless, never has a cover related to a story so well for me! Now to the story.. & I literally have no freaking words! I devoured this in a day! My boyfriend was like 'babe, let's go to sleep.' I was like 'shut the hell up, loser. You have no idea what I'm going through right now!' Anyway, I'm giving nothing away with this review. I think the blurb & cover should be enough for everyone to pick this up!! Seriously, you will regret it & hate yourself if you don't read this epic story!! 5/5*!!