Member Reviews
Man want to see their porn , woman want to read their porn. This book is an artfully written porn you definitely should read, if you up to weird , kinky things :P there's a cat in it , a handsome man , beautiful woman , artsy conversations , lots of theatrical scenes , even if you don't like extreme sex scenes you should read anyway. It's that good. I love tiffany's story telling ways. she's such a good writer, I even want this one to continue so we can read more of this story :=)
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Erica – ☆☆☆☆☆
5 What-the-heck-is-going-on stars
I need to preface this review that it will be short and sweet, because I will not remove the entertainment value for the reader by adding anything that isn't already in the blurb.
I enjoyed the suspense of trying to figure out what was happening. While I enjoyed the content, what speared me on was trying to puzzle out who Malcolm was in relation to Mona, with a bunch of wild guesses being made. This kept me endlessly entertained, because generally I deduce every detail about a story in the beginning, so it's always amazing when I don't know what's going on (not in a confusing, the author doesn't know what's going on either, so the story is being written by the seat of their pants way, but when it's written precisely in a controlled manner from start to finish).
Mona's whole life revolves around The Red, her mother's gallery. After making a deathbed vow to always keep The Red, Mona is struggling under a mountain of debt, and in an economy where art lovers aren't dropping big bucks to buy from her gallery... in walks salvation, with a devilish request.
If you've read Tiffany Reisz in the past, expect a similar feel with the content – erotic, inventive scenes, BDSM elements, and a riding crop. With The Red, expect a more truncated experience, which I was thankful to read. No inane everyday experiences, no making coffee, or every detail of taking a shower, or phone calls made to relatives, the food eaten, or the actions to take the character from point A to C.
These everyday mundane actions are left up to the reader's imagination, with only the important scenes spotlit by the author. This creates a super-fast pacing, focuses on Mona and Malcolm's agreement and the things that matter – setting the scenes between the characters. However, it takes a bit away from the character building – getting to know the narrator on a deeper level and the relationship she has with Malcolm. But, if the reader uses their imagination and empathy, the gaps should be easy to fill.
Erotic scenes, some sensual and slightly silly, some hardcore and intense, are torn from the canvases of masterpieces. There was an ethereal feel to some of these scenes, almost fairy-tale-esque. Well thought out, highly inventive and creative, it wasn't a stick part B into slot A repetitiveness.
The mystery is the story itself. At the ending, I was eager for more yet surprisingly satisfied with what was left up to my imagination.
Kris – ☆☆☆☆☆
I have loved the Original Sinner series since the inception and I make an effort to read anything Reisz puts out there. The Red became available and I jumped at the chance to give it a read. The Red did NOT disappoint! Full out erotica with a strange twist. Who is Malcolm?? No, not who, WHAT? Besides being very dapper, very dom, and very persuading, Malcolm is everything I like in the twisted, male lead Reisz is so darn good at creating. Man, Reisz can make me hate myself for loving the crazy stuff she has her characters do to each other. I shake my head while rabidly turning the pages! Groaning in desperation and dismay at my reactions.
Malcolm comes to Mona in her time of desperate need. Mona's art gallery, The Red, is in the red. Days from closing, Mona finds a strange man in her gallery. The odd man's proposition, to be his plaything and he'll save her gallery, is just too interesting and too good to pass up. But what the heck IS Malcolm, is he real? Is Mona dreaming this? Has he given her drugs? Is he the Devil? Right up to the very end, we are on the edge of our seats trying to figure out where this story is going. I'm still not sure if I loved the ending or hated it, but I'll tell ya what, it left me thinking about it for days. Well worth the read!!
Avid Reader – ☆☆☆☆☆
4.5 stars
M/F Erotica with hints of BDSM
Mona is trying to keep her mother's gallery alive. Despite the death bed promise Mona made to her mother, Mona is finding that the best course of action might be selling. Enter Malcolm.
Malcolm is an enigma – he is intriguing, dominant, sexy, rough around the edges, and a smooth talker. Throughout the story we are trying to figure him out. Why is he so interested in the gallery? How does he know about the gallery's financial situation? Who is Mona to him?
This is a great erotic story that is both frustrating and calming all wrapped in to one. It is well developed, but leaves you questioning everything. I loved that there was a mystery and romance, history and sex all in one story.
I have not read this author before, but now am going to be on the lookout – this was a great story.
Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆☆
5 stars of absolute enchantment
I love Ms. Reisz’s books, they challenge the reader. They entice, entertain, and (in my opinion) should be read in private, as their eroticism incites lustfulness. This particular story is one which I am sure I will read again – in fact, I have a feeling it may become a comfortable, soothing friend. There is something so wonderfully magical, so wild and fanciful as to be fresh on each reading, yet familiar and worthwhile.
Mona is a wonderfully conflicted character who we see mainly in relation to her need to save The Red (her newly inherited art gallery) and her relationship with Malcolm. The time in between his visits is compressed into want, but really little else. This makes the situation much more intense and erotic. As she waits to find out what he has for her next, revealed by the clue given by a masterpiece in a text book. The scenes are wild and highly erotic, even when totally crazy! I loved the concept and the execution. Luckily, I knew to read this when home alone as it exudes passion and sexiness off the page.
I loved how it ended, and was totally enthralled by the twists, which I had loved unravelling. Thank you, Ms. Reisz, for a wonderful novel to add to my absolute favourites list.
Okay, I didn't really realize that it would be so much erotica. Nevertheless, the idea of this book was very interesting, I liked the flair of paranormal in this book. I am just not quite satisfied with the ending of this book.
This is a hard review to write. I’m still having difficulty putting my thoughts to paper. The Red is a uniquely twisted story. Mona makes a death bed promise to save her mother’s art gallery. Buried beyond belief in debt she finds herself making a deal with a handsome stranger who promises to save The Red. That deal changes her life forever. Right off the bat I knew there was something off about Malcom. He has a very mysterious air around him but I wouldn’t have guessed his story in a million years. There’s no argument that Tiffany Reisz is a brilliant writer. But for me and my tastes this really didn’t do it for me. The premise was interesting, their assignations were dark and twisted and I devoured the last quarter of the book. Overall there were elements that I enjoy about a story and its characters that I didn’t get in this. With that being said, I will still read anything and everything TR writes.
It has been a while since I've read one of Tiffany's books and The Red reminded me of what I was missing. There is something really poetic to her telling of Mona's story, especially as it relates to art. The Red is one of those books you aren't going to want to put down. It grabs you hard and rough and then lulls you into a warmth and security that will baffle and turn you on, only to do it all over again. I enjoy books like this that push your limits. The mystery behind the handsome Englishman will haunt you, hurt your heart and make you smile all at the same time. I loved the way the story was broken up. Chapter VII was probably one of my favorites. Raw, brutish and feral it was hard not to be captivated by the scene that played out. I have to admit I was a little shocked and shaken as things became more clear and it only made me want to re-read The Red to see if there were tells to secrets untold I had missed. I found myself rather emotional towards the end as certain things unfolded. The Red is smart, sexy, and clever with a dash of humor.
I am a faithful Tiffany Reisz reader the moment there is a new book I am trying to get my hands on it. I was lucky enough to do that early with The Red when I received a copy from Netgally for an honest review.
BLOWN AWAY. Ms. Reisz always has me captivated in her stories at the heart she is a talented weaver of tales but none have captivated me aws much as The Red. The magical story of Mona Lisa St. James and Malcolm left me breathless and so immersed in their tale. Of course there is the mind blowing erotic scenes that a Reisz book is know for, but my lord the storytelling and twist is what made this book a FIVE star read for me.
The Red is pure sensory overload when it comes to erotica. It reads like a fairy tale with the female protagonists Mona enacting scenes from famous painting for her mysterious lover, Malcolm, who has promised her financial help in saving her gallery. In return, she is his to do as he pleases. It may sound like a typical BDSM romance but Ms. Reiz is known for her out of the box stories and The Red is no exception. It is definitely erotic, with each encounter between Mona and Malcolm being turned up a notch until the inevitable happens. The Red will keep a reader turning the pages even with the most jaded fan of BDSM stories. The Red is excellently crafted, sinfully sexual and ultimately will keep a reader guessing how it will end.
This book wasn't quite what I was expecting. That being said- The book is well written and held my attention the whole way thru.... that being said, if you love sexy hot moments, menages, lots of sex and art work this is the book for you!!!!!!
3.5 stars from me.
When I heard Tiffany Reisz was writing an erotica I immediately added it to my TBR. Her Original Sinners series changed my life in so many ways that I'll be here all day if I had to list them. The Red is an erotic fantasy which is something I had never read before. I don't even know if there are any books in this sub-sub genre (heh, sub, get it?) but I digress. This Erotic Fantasy is about a woman whose art gallery is way in the red...that is named The Red. A man comes to her and offers to save the gallery by paying her in expensive paintings and in return she will give him one night a month with her in the biblical sense. She agrees.
The plot was incredible. I read this in almost one sitting because once I started I was immediately enthralled. The story weaves its magic on the reader and I was transported into the world of Mona and Malcolm and all their depravity. And depravities there were. The twist is when Malcolm wants to visit Mona he leaves a picture of a painting. They will then act out said painting and it gets...weird. But so hot. It is SO HOT. Call me a pervert, call me depraved, some of it made me head tilt and say, 'holy shit, is she going there?' and duh, it's Tiffany, she goes there and more.
The book is on the shorter end with each chapter the title of the painting they act out. So it is really read as more of a serial, I think that's the word I'm looking for. There isn't really any other plot outside of Mona's nights with Malcolm. The time in between their meetings is briefed upon but not a focus at all. This didn't bother me, honestly, I really just wanted to get to the next Malcolm encounter thus why it read more like a serial than a novel just to let you know. I could see how some people would want more in between and filler but I honestly didn't. I was here for Malcolm and everything he came with.
This book is not for the faint of heart. It deals with fantasies that to the average person would be really freaking weird. I've come to expect the unexpected from Tiffany and that's what I love about her books. She explores the deepest and darkest of sexual fantasies and I love her for it. The fantasy element also played a big part in this and I LOVED how it all came together at the end. It was a little odd and felt quite rushed but eh, whatever. It wasn't what I expected and wasn't my ideal ending or twist but I did enjoy it and it did fit with the story, in my opinion.
I would definitely recommend this if you loved her Original Sinners series or are looking for something to really make you think about the blurred lines of sexuality. As always, Tiffany's books always make me think and I look forward to the next sexual adventure with her!
Rating: Backstage Pass
If you depravity, art history, and a little bit of magic...this book is for you.
http://www.npr.org/2017/07/15/536915769/for-july-3-romance-heroines-who-want-it-all
This book was a lot different from what I was expecting but still a pretty steamy read. There were some unexpected but original twist that I appreciated. Although, I must admit that Mona's trust of Malcolm was a little to quick and unrealistic for my taste. He also threw the term whore around an awful lot and it was quite jarring. All in all it was a lusty read and I would recommend if you like a little steamy and kinky sex with a bit of bestiality thrown in. The ending was adorable as well.
4.5 "Hot Damn" Stars!!!
My my my, this book had me fanning myself most of the time. I suggest before you start reading this book, you turn up your air conditioner to full blast because this is a scorcher. 🔥🔥🔥 I obviously didn't know what to expect, but man was it a delight. I was so intrigued with the story and especially with the characters. This book was so unique, it had me in a trance. And the writing, the writing was amazing. I kept wondering where the author was going with this story. It made me think and had me guessing half the time. I honestly had no idea what to expect, and then, BOOM, my mind was freaking blown! I did not see that coming. I was like, "where the heck did that come from?" and "oooooh snap that was a big, huge, gigantic surprise." And that's what I love. I love books that make me think and surprise me at the same time. And that's what 'The Red' did, it sucked me in and didn't let me go.
Mona made a promise that she would do anything to save her mother's art gallery. Circumstances come about that make it difficult to fulfill her promise. Just when she thinks she has to sell the gallery, the arrival of a mysterious man comes into her life and changes everything.
Malcolm, who is he? Where did he come from? What's his ulterior motive? He has a proposition for Mona. He wants to help her save her mother's gallery. And, of course with his help, he also wants something in return. Thus, starts the whirlwind of adventure. Malcolm and his mysterious ways come into Mona's life and flips everything upside down. And the question is, will Mona come out unscathed?
Malcolm! OH MY FREAKING WORD, MALCOLM! I have no words, I mean, I do, but they're not G-rated. I loved the mystery behind him and his secretive ways. I wouldn't have minded one night in his presence. Wow, just thinking about him is getting me all flustered. I loved him and everything about this intriguing story!!!!! AH-MAZING, highly highly highly recommend this book!
The Red
Tiffany Reisz
3.5 STARS ✨
This was a very interesting read. I usually enjoy my fantasy reads but because I couldn't figure out if this was a fantasy read or not I had a hard time getting into reading this one. I have read other of Tiffany Reisz books and enjoyed them. So I had a high expectation going into this one. I think I would have enjoyed this one a little more if I knew what was going on during it. But you don't find out till the end and even that was a little confusing.
Thanks NetGalley for the arc in exchange for my honest review.
3.5 STARS
The story line was very intriguing and had me hooked instantly. However the steam was a little more steaming than I usually read. If you love it seriously erotic and completly off the charts then you will love it. It's very, very hot and somewhat twisted.
The Red is complex and intriguing. And it's also not what you think. Somehow it had a feel of old erotic novels, particularly Emmanuelle.
As you may guess, I liked it. Not in the way of The Original Sinners novels, but it had its own niche.
The beginning is confusing, but it gets more and more interesting as the book progresses until it finally all makes sense.
Tiffany Reisz definitely let her imagination run wild in The Red. I'm looking at you, Minotaur! However, every erotic encounter is crazily atmospheric and you can understand how the main heroine got obsessed with Malcolm, and how it changed her.
I do love Miss Reisz's heroines. They are magnetic and very strong-willed, and they do not give a fig about societal constraints. You go, girls!
Overall, it might not have been what I've expected from this book but holy sh*t, I was not disappointed.
Recommended.
This is my first book by this author and I was completely blown away. There were a lot of twists and turns plus the passion and the banter. Was very well written and I really enjoyed the concept of it. I would highly recommend this one!
I don't think I have ever read a book quiet like The Red.In this book, we follow Mona who is desperately trying to save her mother's art gallery that is called The Red or Red, out of now where this mysterious man comes to the gallery and who offers her a way to save to the gallery however it has a very erotic cost and this is really where the book takes off. I have to say that The Red has to be one of the most erotic books I have ever read and at the same time it has such a uniqueness about it.I was very serious when I said I have never read another book like this one, up until the very last part of this book I was kept on my toes wondering what would happen next and who exactly was this mystery man. I also loved the way that art was incorporated in this book, it definately added something to this story. Even after finish this book for quite some time I still can't stop thinking about it. This story was sexy ( this is wrong way to say it ,its more like red hot sexy ( see what I did there lol ) , the type of hot that will have you wondering if it may just make your Kindle over heat as well lol ) , it has this mysterious feeling to it constantly , I was always thinking to myself nothing is truly what it seemed and of course the unique paranormal twist that I did not see coming was just WOW ! . The Red is smoking hot erotica , with dark humour and addicting nature that had my eyes unable to leave the page and if you love all these things in your books you should definitely pick up a copy as soon as possible .
Mona promised her mother on her death bed that she would do anything to keep The Red, her mother's art gallery. A mysterious man known to her as only Malcolm gives her a proposition. He'll save The Red if she agrees to be his sexually for the next year. He'll come to her about once a month and be able to do whatever he wants with or to her. Each time he comes, they begin by acting out a scene from a different famous piece of art. Every meeting is a unique and erotic experience. Do not try to read this book in a public setting. There's a good chance you'll need some 'me time' more than once. The scenes may push your boundaries also. I enjoyed each time Malcolm paid a visit. Certain bits almost made me combust. I loved the ending. I guessed something along those lines of what Malcolm was, but I never would have guessed his end game. The story wraps up well, but I wouldn't be opposed to revisiting Mona in another book.
Fantastical story telling
Mona Lisa St. James is offered a lifeline to save The Red art gallery from closure. The catch is she has to submit to the desires of a mysterious, handsome stranger. After promising her dying mother she would do anything to keep it afloat, she has to decide whether she can give him Carte Blanche to her body for a year.
I loved the atmosphere of this novel, you can feel Mona’s desire and anticipation building. The use of famous artworks to set up each chapter and scene really helps to add the richness of detail. It’s beautifully weird and memorable. I have never read any of Tiffany’s work before but will definitely start now. I was lucky enough to be given an advance readers copy for a fair review.
This book is in a genre I don't usually read but I thought I'd give it a go. The enjoyed the story line although it was a little too graphic for me in places.