This book was a quick read for me and had a great backstory to the erotica. It was not something I would usually pick up but drew me in with the cover and the fact that there was more to the story.

Lia is given a special cup with roses on it by her wealthy parents. August wants the cup for himself. The cup is a part of Greek Mythology that allows participants to experience their erotic fantasies. This book will hit all the happy feels with Lia and August together. Whew, what a ride.

I received a copy of this book via Netgalley and am leaving a review.

The Rose by Tiffany Reisz
Book #2: The Red Series
Source: NetGalley and MIRA
Rating: 4/5 stars

One of the things I have long admired about Tiffany Reisz and her writing is her ability to weave an actual story among so many scorching naughty bits scenes. Without doubt, that skill shines through once again in the second installment of The Red series, The Rose.

Lia’s parents are tremendously and ridiculously proud of her! To that end, they have not only thrown her an elaborate graduation party, but also gifted her with a priceless treasure, the Rose kylix. Given her interest in Greek mythology, the kylix is really the perfect gift for Lia. What she didn’t expect, the additional “gift” that seems to have come with the kylix, the most handsome and seriously interested in her kylix, August Bowman. August is charming, desirable, intelligent, stunningly intuitive, and determined to convince Lia of the true nature of the gift she has been given.

Thanks to a terrible encounter as a teenager, Lia is often skeptical of men and their motives, but August Bowman is a hard man to resist. With his incredibly in-depth knowledge of Greek mythology and his insights about the kylix, Lia decides to take a chance on August. The story he tells her about the kylix is unbelievable until, over a series of sex-fueled nights/encounters he proves to Lia just how powerful the treasure truly is. Aside from the amazing sex and waltzes through “history,” Lia finds herself falling for August and wondering if he really can heal her and help her overcome her great misgivings about men and relationships.

Of course, there are many obstacles separating Lia and August from their HEA. The obstacles come from sources known and others which are completely inconceivable to the mortal mind. Once the force of her true feelings for August come crashing down on her, Lia is prepared for battle. She will try and wrap her head around the inconceivable bits, battle the known head on, and do her level best to preserve what she has only just begun to build with August.

The Bottom Line: As always, once I started The Rose, I got sucked into the rabbit hole that is a Tiffany Reisz book and didn’t come out until the end. Hands down, I was totally smitten with August from the very beginning and found him carrying the story for me in so many ways. His guidance through the world of the Greeks, his confidence in his skills and abilities, and his care of and for Lia made him a stand out character for me. As the story and August’s identity unfold, he becomes even more interesting and intriguing. Additionally, the excellent ending with its lovely twists and turns and truly excellent guest appearances were perfectly appropriate for the rest of the story. Last, but certainly not least (and circling back around to the beginning) I completely appreciated the real story that happened in and around all the naughty bits. Gratuitous sex really pisses me off and Tiffany Reisz always makes sure the story is real, the characters are solid, and the sex is a part of the story rather than being the story. In all, yet another fine offering.

Adored it. Tiffany Reisz weaves a lush and entrancing tale mixing mythology, erotica and magical realism. Be prepared to be swept away by Lia and August's relationship. If The Rose doesn't inspire you to revisit Greek mythology, I don't know what will!

Myth and magic mix with eroticism and exploration in The Rose. In Lia’s story, Tiffany Reisz has delivered a fast-paced, uninhibited sensual journey that’s feminist, sex-positive, and oh-so-much-fun to read.

Lady Ophelia Anne Fitzroy Godwick is no ordinary young lady. She’s a lover of Greek mythology, which she incorporates into her tapestries. She’s also inherited her family’s wild streak and their business acumen, for she’s a madam who has been running an escort service for the past few years. Lia’s mix of daring and vulnerability endeared her to me and I was eager to follow along on her journey. At her university graduation party her parents gift her with an ancient artifact known as the Rose Kylix. It’s a gorgeous gift, but according to collector August Bowman, it’s also highly dangerous. The kylix was used in the temple of Eros and it can bring your sexual fantasies to life. Curious but skeptical, Lia allows August to guide her and together they set off on an erotic adventure like no other. They journey through various myths and I loved how Ms. Reisz wove their fantasies, keeping the base myths but turning them into something erotic and enjoyable. Women tend to not fare well in Greek myths and legends, but Lia and August change the narrative and turn their lusty adventures into a positive experience for both.

Lia and August’s forays into famous myths are a lot of fun, but I was also drawn to the romance between the two. August is not simply a collector with a passion for the past, though I’ll leave it to readers to unwrap August alongside Lia. I adored the banter between the two of them and their shared love of Greek mythology made for fascinating conversations. Most of all, it was the quiet, emotional moments really grabbed me. The two of them make a fantastic pair and it was fun to watch them fall in love.

The Rose is the sequel to The Red, which starred Lia’s mother, Mona. If you don’t mind minor spoilers you don’t have to have read Mona’s book in order to enjoy Lia’s (though you would be missing out on a devilishly good time). Whether or not you’ve read The Red, you are sure to love any scenes that feature Lia’s parents. Mona and Spencer are hilarious, bawdy, and loving parents and they light up the page whenever they appear. I desperately hope Lia’s brothers get books if only to see these two again.

The Rose is a breath of fresh air with its characters who joyfully embrace their sexuality and the story’s open, positive view of sex workers. Ms. Reisz never fails to deliver a unique, interesting read and The Rose is no exception. I really hope this isn’t the last we’ve seen of the Godwicks, for their love of art and literature and the way it’s incorporated into their stories just takes their books to the next level.

4.5 Mythical Stars

“I’m going to make you fall in love with me. I don’t know how, but I am.”

When we pick up a Tiffany Reisz book, we know we’re in for intelligent addictive prose, a unique story, a bit of kink, passion, emotion and some tongue in cheek humour. We also know it’s going to be a story that will leave us fulfilled and in awe of her brilliant storytelling, and with The Rose we were once again proven right. What a story! The exhaustive research that must have gone into this book is mind-boggling! Captivating and vividly beautiful, we were beguiled by every word.

“The gods aren’t magicians. They’re gods. But even gods have toys. Word of advice. Don’t play with a god’s toy without permission.”

Twenty-one-year-old Lady Ophelia (Lia) Godwick is attracted to the mysteriously handsome and commanding Augustine (August) Bowman, when he attends a small party at her house. It turns out both share a passion for Greek Mythology, and August is very interested in a gift Lia’s father has given her for her graduation. The Rose kylix, a wine cup dated 500BC, that in Greek mythology is said to give you the opportunity to live out your most erotic fantasies if you drink from the cup.

“Kiss me. I dare you.”
“What’ll happen when I kiss you?”
“Good things will happen.”
“Like What?”

Lia was horribly spurned by a previous lover and bears the emotional scars which have left her believing she is a less than an adequate lover. August is the consummate lover and promises to bring pleasure beyond anything Lia could imagine if she will just take the leap. How can she resist?

After sipping wine from the kylix, August and Lia embark on an erotic passionate and sensual journey where Tiffany Riesz manages to seamlessly blend present day Lia and August, with a passionate erotic and kinky journey into Greek Mythology where they experience desire and sex on a whole new level, living out heightened sexual experiences that were sizzling and adventurous.

“Are you afraid?” August asked.
“No,” Lia said.

Oh, the twists!! We loved how this enticing tale kept us guessing. The Rose was mesmerizing, intelligent and mesmerising storytelling. The Greek mythology aspect of the story was fascinating and so brilliantly delivered. There were surprises we didn’t see coming and we loved how the story culminated in an ending that challenged us and wowed us. Boy, can this lady write a bloody fabulous erotic story! The Rose is an enticing and passionate story switching from the present to a time when Gods ruled in their own cruel and seductive way. A perfect way to escape for a few hours!

It seems in my opinion that Tiffany Reisz never disappoints. The author has a wonderful way of grabbing my attention very early on in a book and holding it all the way throughout. I have to admit that I haven't read The Red but that didn't spoil my enjoyment of The Rose at all. I also must admit that I usually steer well clear of Mythology and history as it usually doesn't appeal to me, but since this is a book written by Ms Reisz I wanted to give it a try and I absolutely loved it!

The Rose is well written. I loved the characters and the storyline and there were plenty of twists that I didn't see coming. It truly is a wonderful story that will have you reading for hours and enjoying every minute! I would totally recommend for you to read this incredible book.

“I’m going to make you fall in love with me. I don’t know how, but I am.”

When we pick up a Tiffany Reisz book, we know we’re in for intelligent addictive prose, a unique story, a bit of kink, passion, emotion and some tongue in cheek humour. We also know it’s going to be a story that will leave us fulfilled and in awe of her brilliant storytelling, and with The Rose we were once again proven right. What a story! The exhaustive research that must have gone into this book is mind-boggling! Captivating and vividly beautiful, we were beguiled by every word.

“The gods aren’t magicians. They’re gods. But even gods have toys. Word of advice. Don’t play with a god’s toy without permission.”

Twenty-one-year-old Lady Ophelia (Lia) Godwick is attracted to the mysteriously handsome and commanding Augustine (August) Bowman, when he attends a small party at her house. It turns out both share a passion for Greek Mythology, and August is very interested in a gift Lia’s father has given her for her graduation. The Rose kylix, a wine cup dated 500BC, that in Greek mythology is said to give you the opportunity to live out your most erotic fantasies if you drink from the cup.

“Kiss me. I dare you.”
“What’ll happen when I kiss you?”
“Good things will happen.”
“Like What?”

Lia was horribly spurned by a previous lover and bears the emotional scars which have left her believing she is a less than an adequate lover. August is the consummate lover and promises to bring pleasure beyond anything Lia could imagine if she will just take the leap. How can she resist?

After sipping wine from the kylix, August and Lia embark on an erotic passionate and sensual journey where Tiffany Riesz manages to seamlessly blend present day Lia and August, with a passionate erotic and kinky journey into Greek Mythology where they experience desire and sex on a whole new level, living out heightened sexual experiences that were sizzling and adventurous.

“Are you afraid?” August asked.
“No,” Lia said.

Oh, the twists!! We loved how this enticing tale kept us guessing. The Rose was mesmerizing, intelligent and mesmerising storytelling. The Greek mythology aspect of the story was fascinating and so brilliantly delivered. There were surprises we didn’t see coming and we loved how the story culminated in an ending that challenged us and wowed us. Boy, can this lady write a bloody fabulous erotic story! The Rose is an enticing and passionate story switching from the present to a time when Gods ruled in their own cruel and seductive way. A perfect way to escape for a few hours!

Being a lover of stories that are to do with the myths and legends of Ancient Greece and it's Gods and Goddesses, I jumped at the chance to read this book. This is a very modern love story that is also kind of a fairytale. It's full of fantasy, fun and sex! Lia meets August at a party that her parents are throwing for her. August was outbid for a cup called the Rose Kylix at an auction that lia's father buys for her as a present, as a consolation prize August gets invited to the party, here he warns Lia of the danger of using the cup on her own as it was used for temple ceremonies to worship Eros. From the start Lia and August have a very sexual attraction to each other and can't help themselves from falling for each other.
This book isn't just a romance with lots of sex and fantasy scenes, it's got lots of secrets and drama going on in the background that gives a few exciting twists to the story. This was a really great story that had so many wonderful characters and was such a pleasure to read. Tiffany Reisz is a wonderfully talented author that can captivate your imagination while writing erotica with a mind blowing story that will take your breath away.

Thanks to the publisher for an ARC to read and give my honest opinion.

Holy moses.... throw out anything you have ever read about Greek mythology and snap up this book. This is going on my best book list for 2019, it was utterly enthralling. Every time I picked this book up I was swept into an erotic situation that was spell binding. This author has such talent to just pick you up and sweep you away....its ungodly. A cup that takes you on your most erotic fantasy once you drink from it? Where can I get one?

What did I like? Everything! Such an erotic retelling of Greek myth that I cant explain the reaction to it. August and Lia have such a chemical compatibility that I devoured this book. I loved the scenes and the characters, it was a sexually free for all. I love how the author takes taboo things and just makes them lovely.

Would I buy this book? Even though I was gifted a copy...I would absolutely buy one. I have a ton of friends that all read the sinner series and I would definitely loan or recommend this one. Loved it!

Thoughts for the author? I just loved this book, I have a few others by this author on my shelf tbr, but this one is out in a few days and I just wanted to congratulate the author on a stunning novel. Definitely in my top ten for 2019.

Tiffany Reitsz blew me away with this book. The rich text draws you into a world of Greek mythology where the beautiful descriptions allow the reader to picture the scene in their mind. It’s the sort of book you want to keep reading even though you know it will be so disappointing to finish. Will definitely be revisiting this one.

I love Tiffany I say it every time I do a review on one of her books. She just has a way to pull people in. I wasn't sure where this was going exactly but figured it out for the most part not too far after starting it but I did love the main character's parents. The mom and dad killed me. I was laughing every time she would talk to her parents. I kind of wish I got more of them. I want their story now.

There is greek mythology and although I don't know a lot about it I always enjoy reading it from time to time. It is a good read, there is romance, sex, hot sex, banter, and education on greek mythology while you are at it too.

I would recommend it for anyone who loves greek mythology and good sex. :)

The Rose is another one of Reisz's "fan my vagina" creation.


<img src="https://scontent-ams3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/53196699_2107584195993526_7001197803770740736_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&_nc_ht=scontent-ams3-1.xx&oh=38507e1d4fe902395cef10ed03fa0df1&oe=5D0EA738"width=700>


Fascinated by Greek mythology Lia is stunned speechless when her parents gave her an exquisite 2,500-year-old artifact, an ancient Greek kylix for her graduation. <i>A wine cup, dated to
500 BC. Supposedly used in temple ceremonies to the goddess Aphrodite. A little piece of real Greek mythology.</i>
During the party she is approached by August Bowman, who wants to purchase wine cup from her with outlandish claims about its magical properties. According to August it is <i>“Something very, very dangerous.”</i>


<img src="https://scontent-ams3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/52917934_2103146493103963_7787182819008053248_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&_nc_ht=scontent-ams3-1.xx&oh=7c679f3878f510f984f2a44d2c56bf92&oe=5D46DB8C"width=700>


Exploring the magical powers of the kylix, August & Lia together vividly enjoy the erotic stories of the Greek gods.

<i><b>If mischief were a kingdom, this man would be the prince of it.</b></i>

Their erotic adventures takes us to into the world of the Greek gods and I loved every minute of it.
While I was familiar with most of these stories, this is a whole other approach, and o, boy!

I also was pleasantly surprise to catch up with <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1997215754"target="_blank">Mona & Spencer</a>, Lia’s unconventional parents.


Part of <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/series/248219"target="_blank">The Red Series</a> that it best enjoyed when read in order:
[bookcover:The Red|30755704] [bookcover:The Rose|38827724]

Oh, how I enjoy a good Reisz book. She's such a great storyteller. I love how she incorporated the Greek myths into the story and how they were relevant to Lia's life. And of course it was hot af!

It's been a while since I've read a book by Tiffany Reisz and I liked that book. When I read the blurb of this one I really wanted to read it. I love Greek mythology and this one sounded really good. Well I loved it! Lia en August are amazing characters and they were so good together.

***5 ‘Kitten With A Switchblade’ Stars***

This one hit ALL of my happy buttons.

ALL OF THEM.

It has the smexy, it has fascinating characters, it has heart, it has Greek Mythology woven into every fiber of the story (Note: I’m a closet Greek Mythology junkie) and then when you add in those sneaky twists...and I was just done. Absolutely done and hated it when there were no more words to read

I adored Lia aka Ophelia and August. Lia is witty, sassy and all kinds of perfect society lady (at least on the outside) that it was hard not to like her from the start, but it’s when you find out who she truly is, is when you start to love and adore here. August is all kinds of charismatic. Like panty melting charismatic. He is sweet, smexy, sneaky and determined and though he doesn’t scream Alpha AF male, he still has that alpha vibe that makes you want more.

Lia and August’s journey to their HEA was all kinds of smexy and fun. The way they got to know each other was most definitely unique, but it made perfect sense as it brought out their true selves in more ways than one and showed how well suited they were for one another.

There is soooo much more of love to say about this book, but I won’t/can’t, because experiencing it all blind is half the fun. Though, if you’ve read The Red you’ll have an idea of what could possibly happen...maybe. But I loved how the Greek legends and mythology were woven into the story and how we got to see some of them from a different perspective than what is considered the norm.

Note: it took me a minute - ok, more than a minute - to figure out the connection between The Rose and The Red, but when I did it was a total “Ooohh” moment for me, but it also showed that The Rose can be read as a stand-alone without any issue.

The Rose, oh what a fantasy read. Chock full of all good things Tiffany Reisz. Encasing all of the little gems I relish in a fine book. The author really knows her subject matter. I have always had a deep fascination with ancient Greece and the mythologies behind their Gods.

The Rose is the second in a series aptly named The Red; either can be read separately. Lia is her own person with her own personality and quirks; her tale has no bearing on what came before. Her parents are art lovers and for her graduation from university, her father purchases her a gift appropriate for someone who loves Greek Mythology.

Upon entering, August Bowman is a man with incredible mysteries and desires. He badly wants something and Lia is not willing to part with it. What transpires next is sure to be some of the finest lust and heat I have had the privilege of reading.

“Lia, I could make you come so hard that your body floats three feet off the sheets and lightning will explode from your belly. You will see smells and hear colors. The heavens will break open and you will touch the face of God when I make you come. And I could do it with my hands tied behind my back.”

There is a certain expectation when it comes to this author and the books she creates. She has a penchant for erotic. The more sex the better if you ask me. She never holds back and always and in this reviewer's opinion, follows the tale where it tells her to go, never where she thinks it should. With intensity, there is always levity. Humility and stupidity are also scattered throughout where appropriate.

‘“I am going to proceed,” she said, “on the assumption that you are a sane person who occasionally says insane things like ‘the Greek gods exist’ and ‘I’ve had sex with a cloud.’”

Throughout there are questions; who is August Bowman and why can Lia not deny him? Can Lia uncover the truth before she gets her heart smashed into a million pieces? I would like to say thank you to Ms. Reisz for once again piquing my curiosity and bringing me another truly wonderful escape from reality.

4.5 Hearts

The Rose is the second book in The Red series by Tiffany Reisz. It can be read as a standalone. I actually didn’t read the first book, The Red. It slid right past me. The point is that they are each standalone novels. The synopsis is kickass so I will make this quick.

Lia’s life is forever changed the night of her graduation party. She meets August Bowman, a hottie with a Greek accent and a swoon-worthy wink. She is gifted the most extraordinary cup used twenty-five hundred years ago. And her past shows up looking smug as ever. All she wanted was a small party. What she got was everything she never imagined. A night she will always remember that is the beginning of a week she will never forget...

The cup is not just an old as dirt cup. It’s dangerous. It’s magnificent. It can bring you pleasure and it can bring you pain. August warns Lia of his powers but she isn’t believing him. Can he convince her that it’s real? That fate has stepped in and brought the cup to her? And figure out why it did? He intends to find out himself and to show her the power it holds.

This is very unique tale. I love history. I really do but I never got into mythology. Mixing it in with modern times was fantastic. It gave the story that unique twist and I loved that. I also loved the characters. Their banter was fun. Their connection was beautiful, and their story is full of fantasy, love, and twists. And her parents...omg. They were so much fun.

Overall...I loved it! The characters. The mythology. The writing.

Quotes:

“You’re trouble.”
“You don’t know the half of it,” he said.

“Lia,” her father said. “Where have you been all evening?”
“I was kidnapped and forced to have a threesome with Greek soldiers.”
“Hope you had a nice time,” her mother said.

“It’s morning,” she said.
“Again? Why does this keep happening to me?” He rubbed his eyes.

It's been a while since I've read a Tiffany Reisz book, and I'm so glad I picked this one up! Reisz has been one of my favorite authors since I devoured her Original Sinners series years ago. She is truly one of the most gifted authors out there, her writing is superb and out of this world sexy. 'The Rose' showcased that very well.

The Rose is set in the same world as The Red, but can definitely be read as a stand-alone. This story starts with Lia receiving a gift.. this gift is something special. This gift makes all her erotic fantasies come true. What a gift, am I right? She and August go on many adventures through this story. Some are insanely hot, but even the non-erotic ones kept my interest.

This was a super steamy read that had a twist, and was actually a lot of fun to go through. I was completely captivated by this story and hope to read more from this world.

[Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review]
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Oh, boy, nobody writes Erotica as good as Tiffany Reisz. I'm a big fan of her, I love her Original Sinners series and I wait with enthusiam everyone of her books. And I love Greek mithology! This book is almost a dream come true.
I enjoyed immensely the whole fantasy part, where Lia and August live (and enjoy!) some Greek myths. It's beautifully written, accurate and very very VERY hot, pure Tiffany Reisz. However, the "real world" part seemed a little weak in comparison, too long for me and not as thrilling as the fantasy part. But the characters are lovely and full of mischieve (especially August, so lovely!) and overall the reading is funny and extremely hot.