What do you think?
Rate this book
Sinful #1
Total Surrender
How far would you go to make the man that destroyed your family pay?
Maddux Wilder is a man consumed, a beast in a three-piece suit. Rich and powerful, he built his empire with one thought in mind: revenge.
After years of patience and planning, the wait is finally over. Tonight, Maddux will finally watch Theodore Cole’s kingdom crumble. At a lavish ball in the New York City castle the Wilder siblings call home, the man that killed their parents will atone for his sins.
If only he’d planned for her.
Arabella Cole is Theodore’s only child; his cherished and sheltered daughter. She’s an innocent, captivating beauty that would do anything to save her loving father, including sacrificing herself.
With her freedom gone, she must surrender to a man she hates. A man that makes her want things she shouldn’t. A man that awakens deep, forbidden desires.
But everyone knows that roses don’t bloom in darkness.
Enter Maddux Wilder, a man that doesn’t believe in fairy tales.
Can the beauty tame the beast or will revenge cost them both everything that matters most?
TOTAL SURRENDER is a modern, sinfully seductive take on Beauty and the Beast. It is a STAND-ALONE, enemies-to-lovers fairy-tale romance. No cheating. No cliffhangers.)
Maddux Wilder is a man consumed, a beast in a three-piece suit. Rich and powerful, he built his empire with one thought in mind: revenge.
After years of patience and planning, the wait is finally over. Tonight, Maddux will finally watch Theodore Cole’s kingdom crumble. At a lavish ball in the New York City castle the Wilder siblings call home, the man that killed their parents will atone for his sins.
If only he’d planned for her.
Arabella Cole is Theodore’s only child; his cherished and sheltered daughter. She’s an innocent, captivating beauty that would do anything to save her loving father, including sacrificing herself.
With her freedom gone, she must surrender to a man she hates. A man that makes her want things she shouldn’t. A man that awakens deep, forbidden desires.
But everyone knows that roses don’t bloom in darkness.
Enter Maddux Wilder, a man that doesn’t believe in fairy tales.
Can the beauty tame the beast or will revenge cost them both everything that matters most?
TOTAL SURRENDER is a modern, sinfully seductive take on Beauty and the Beast. It is a STAND-ALONE, enemies-to-lovers fairy-tale romance. No cheating. No cliffhangers.)
177 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 20, 2019
About the author
Erika Wilde
77 books1,744 followersErika Wilde (aka Janelle Denison) is the USA Today bestselling author of over 50 contemporary romances for multiple print publishers.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 196 reviews
September 20, 2019
This is my first read by Erika Wilde. I am torn between 2 stars and 3 stars. But I round it up to 3 stars. With only less than 200 pages, this story is novella. Short. So not so much layer, character development, conflict in the story. There is a lot of insta lust/ inta love. I thought Miss Wilde will spice it up on the BDSM part. But it turns out also mild BDSM.
The story takes inspiration on Beauty and the Beast. There are many romance story that takes idea from Beauty and the Beast. My favorite so far is Beast. Total Surrender is a light, short reading. I do not hate it but I do not love it either. The characters are likeable. But no depth in their development.
3 stars
The story takes inspiration on Beauty and the Beast. There are many romance story that takes idea from Beauty and the Beast. My favorite so far is Beast. Total Surrender is a light, short reading. I do not hate it but I do not love it either. The characters are likeable. But no depth in their development.
3 stars
July 7, 2019
5 Swoony Stars
LOVED this book! It was definitely the perfect fairytale, only done oh so sexy and dirty!!!!!! Can't wait to read about Hunter and Tempest:)...I hope
LOVED this book! It was definitely the perfect fairytale, only done oh so sexy and dirty!!!!!! Can't wait to read about Hunter and Tempest:)...I hope
July 6, 2021
This was a lot sweeter than expected!!!
June 25, 2019
Total Surrender is a stand-alone book by Erika Wilde. Currently is not listed on Goodreads as a part of a series, but Maddux's brother is going to get a book. His story is going to be a retelling of Cinderella. Maddux and Arabella's story is a retelling of Beauty and the beast most of the plot is based on the Disney movie, but it's told in a modern way that makes more sense. It was similar to the story we know, but it had elements of Erika Wilde's writing and I felt like I wasn't just reading a novel of the movie. I have read books that promised something similar as this book did aka a modern version of the fairytales we know but failed to do that and while I was reading the book I kept thinking that this book hit the mark perfectly!
I liked Arabella and Maddux's romance! The hate slowly became love and the sex was always consensual with elements of BDSM. I would have loved to see more of them and I kinda wish the book was longer. I say kinda because the length was good for the story and it ended on a very good note. They are obviously going to appear in the next book and I look forward to seeing them there Overall, the book was great and I would recommend it.
I liked Arabella and Maddux's romance! The hate slowly became love and the sex was always consensual with elements of BDSM. I would have loved to see more of them and I kinda wish the book was longer. I say kinda because the length was good for the story and it ended on a very good note. They are obviously going to appear in the next book and I look forward to seeing them there Overall, the book was great and I would recommend it.
June 25, 2019
TOTAL SURRENDER by Erika Wilde is the First book in Dirty Sexy Fairy Tales series. This is the story of Arabella Cole and Maddux Wilder.
Maddux and his two younger siblings world changed with the death of their parents and they are wanting to get revenge for who they feel are to blame. Maddux has slowly gain enough money and reputation that they feel the time is to act. What Maddux didn't count on was the feelings that Theodore Cole’s daughter brings out in him. Arabella lost her mother early in life and her father sent her away to school but even though he was a absent father she loved him. Arabella didn't know what her father has or had done in the past, since he wanted to keep her from that. Now when she feels her father is being threaten, she sacrificed herself to Maddux.
While both want to hate each other, the attraction along with their feelings are making that impossible.
Enjoyed this book!
Maddux and his two younger siblings world changed with the death of their parents and they are wanting to get revenge for who they feel are to blame. Maddux has slowly gain enough money and reputation that they feel the time is to act. What Maddux didn't count on was the feelings that Theodore Cole’s daughter brings out in him. Arabella lost her mother early in life and her father sent her away to school but even though he was a absent father she loved him. Arabella didn't know what her father has or had done in the past, since he wanted to keep her from that. Now when she feels her father is being threaten, she sacrificed herself to Maddux.
While both want to hate each other, the attraction along with their feelings are making that impossible.
Enjoyed this book!
July 15, 2019
Ah the lure of an attractive cover and an irresistible preorder price! Although I had read Ms. Wilde before, I should not have bought this book. The title: TOTAL SURRENDER; I dislike domineering alpha males in a story where BDSM is inescapable; fairy tale retellings leave me cold; I don't particularly care for revenge tropes. Pretty reckless of me, right? I expected a DNF early on due to my own stupidity. Yet, I kept on reading.
While the writing did not induce a case of the vapours, it is very, very well written, and the editing is excellent. The story moved along well, and while the plot is far from original, the characters who, at first glance appear stereotypical are not; the execution is brilliant. Both Maddux Wilder and Arabella Cole surprised and delighted me all the way. He's definitely an alpha, forceful yet not abusive; he understands boundaries and respects them. He exudes charisma and, even if he's not my favourite type of hero, I really liked him and I would have succumbed to his charms as well. That is a tribute to Erika Wilde's superb characterisations. Arabella is a victim of circumstances but she is not a wimp; her motivations are logical, her decision is her own, and for once I could go along with her reasoning because if one is to be stuck in such an unsavoury situation, she could do much, much worse than Maddux. She's very philosophical about the whole thing.
I was surprised that the romance was a slow burn and had none of the cringe-worthy moments I anticipated. The dialogues are excellent, and so are the inner monologues; they can be so tedious, which was not the case here; they're fun and provide insight into the characters' minds. Maddux is so not a dick even if he is a real dominant. E. L. James ought to read this book and see how it's done. There was some light BDSM, which I expected, so it did not bother me. Maddux and Arabella's chemistry is off the charts, and the sex scenes so well written, I did not even skim.
I also liked the interactions between Maddux and his brother and sister, Hunter and Tempest. The characters are multidimensional and fun to watch, even the villains. TOTAL SURRENDER might be the best take on the Beauty and the Beast I have read in a contemporary romance. If you are a fan of everything the book description promises - unlike me, and I gave five stars - you will be ecstatic!
While the writing did not induce a case of the vapours, it is very, very well written, and the editing is excellent. The story moved along well, and while the plot is far from original, the characters who, at first glance appear stereotypical are not; the execution is brilliant. Both Maddux Wilder and Arabella Cole surprised and delighted me all the way. He's definitely an alpha, forceful yet not abusive; he understands boundaries and respects them. He exudes charisma and, even if he's not my favourite type of hero, I really liked him and I would have succumbed to his charms as well. That is a tribute to Erika Wilde's superb characterisations. Arabella is a victim of circumstances but she is not a wimp; her motivations are logical, her decision is her own, and for once I could go along with her reasoning because if one is to be stuck in such an unsavoury situation, she could do much, much worse than Maddux. She's very philosophical about the whole thing.
I was surprised that the romance was a slow burn and had none of the cringe-worthy moments I anticipated. The dialogues are excellent, and so are the inner monologues; they can be so tedious, which was not the case here; they're fun and provide insight into the characters' minds. Maddux is so not a dick even if he is a real dominant. E. L. James ought to read this book and see how it's done. There was some light BDSM, which I expected, so it did not bother me. Maddux and Arabella's chemistry is off the charts, and the sex scenes so well written, I did not even skim.
I also liked the interactions between Maddux and his brother and sister, Hunter and Tempest. The characters are multidimensional and fun to watch, even the villains. TOTAL SURRENDER might be the best take on the Beauty and the Beast I have read in a contemporary romance. If you are a fan of everything the book description promises - unlike me, and I gave five stars - you will be ecstatic!
June 25, 2019
4 stars--
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 25, 2019
Contemporary fairy tales with a dirty, sexy twist!
How far would you go to make the man that destroyed your family pay?
Maddux Wilder is a man consumed, a beast in a three-piece suit. Rich and powerful, he built his empire with one thought in mind: revenge.
After years of patience and planning, the wait is finally over. Tonight, Maddux will finally watch Theodore Cole’s kingdom crumble. At a lavish ball in the New York City castle the Wilder siblings call home, the man that killed their parents will atone for his sins.
If only he’d planned for her.
Arabella Cole is Theodore’s only child; his cherished and sheltered daughter. She’s an innocent, captivating beauty that would do anything to save her loving father, including sacrificing herself.
With her freedom gone, she must surrender to a man she hates. A man that makes her want things she shouldn’t. A man that awakens deep, forbidden desires.
But everyone knows that roses don’t bloom in darkness.
Enter Maddux Wilder, a man that doesn’t believe in fairy tales.
Can the beauty tame the beast or will revenge cost them both everything that matters most?
•••••••••
REVIEW: TOTAL SURRENDER is the first instalment in Erika Wilde’s contemporary, adult DIRTY SEXY FAIRY TALE erotic, romance series, a series re-telling the fairy tales of our childhood. This is thirty-two year old, billionaire tech giant Maddux Wilder, and twenty-five year old, digital data analyst Arabella Cole.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Arabella and Maddux) TOTAL SURRENDER follows the implementation of a revenge plot against Theodore Cole, and his right hand man Gavin Scott. Fourteen years earlier the Wilder siblings lost their parents to a deliberately set fire, a fire that continues to destroy their sense of well-being and peace. In an effort to take down the people responsible, Maddux Wilder, along with his brother Hunter, and sister Tempest, exact a plan of revenge against Theodore Cole beginning with an invitation to their charity ball. What Maddox never expected was to come face to face with Theodore’s daughter, Arabella Cole, an innocent in every sense of the word. Unaware of her father’s propensity for trouble, Arabella offers up herself for payment of debt, a debt she could very well pay with her life. What ensues is the building relationship and love between Arabella and Maddux, and the potential fall-out as Arabella becomes collateral damage in the war between the Wilders and the Coles.
Arabella Cole has no idea just who or what kind of man is the father she loves. Meeting Maddux Wilder, a man who draws our heroine like a moth to a flame sets up our heroine to take the fall for sins of the past. Maddux Wilder had no intention of involving Theodore’s daughter but when opportunity strikes Maddux is willing to accept Arabella’s offer as payment for debt.
The relationship between Arabella and Maddux is one of immediate attraction but Arabella is oblivious to her father’s past, and the heinous crimes committed with his partner Gavin Scott. Falling for her ‘captor’ Arabella starts a slow seduction of our story line hero, a man who is tempted beyond the payment of debt. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and intense.
We are introduced to Maddux’ siblings Hunter and Tempest, as well as Arabella’s father Theo, and his partner Gavin Scott. Hunter’s story line is next in Absolute Pleasure.
TOTAL SURRENDER is an adult retelling of Beauty and the Beast wherein Arabella exchanges her freedom for her father’s, and in the end Beauty does tames the Beast. The premise is entertaining and engaging; the romance is unconventional, dramatic and intense; the characters are colorful, energetic, innocent and broken. TOTAL SURRENDER is a captivating tale of innocence, seduction and happily ever after.
Copy supplied for review
wwww.thereadingcafe.com
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 25, 2019
Contemporary fairy tales with a dirty, sexy twist!
How far would you go to make the man that destroyed your family pay?
Maddux Wilder is a man consumed, a beast in a three-piece suit. Rich and powerful, he built his empire with one thought in mind: revenge.
After years of patience and planning, the wait is finally over. Tonight, Maddux will finally watch Theodore Cole’s kingdom crumble. At a lavish ball in the New York City castle the Wilder siblings call home, the man that killed their parents will atone for his sins.
If only he’d planned for her.
Arabella Cole is Theodore’s only child; his cherished and sheltered daughter. She’s an innocent, captivating beauty that would do anything to save her loving father, including sacrificing herself.
With her freedom gone, she must surrender to a man she hates. A man that makes her want things she shouldn’t. A man that awakens deep, forbidden desires.
But everyone knows that roses don’t bloom in darkness.
Enter Maddux Wilder, a man that doesn’t believe in fairy tales.
Can the beauty tame the beast or will revenge cost them both everything that matters most?
•••••••••
REVIEW: TOTAL SURRENDER is the first instalment in Erika Wilde’s contemporary, adult DIRTY SEXY FAIRY TALE erotic, romance series, a series re-telling the fairy tales of our childhood. This is thirty-two year old, billionaire tech giant Maddux Wilder, and twenty-five year old, digital data analyst Arabella Cole.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Arabella and Maddux) TOTAL SURRENDER follows the implementation of a revenge plot against Theodore Cole, and his right hand man Gavin Scott. Fourteen years earlier the Wilder siblings lost their parents to a deliberately set fire, a fire that continues to destroy their sense of well-being and peace. In an effort to take down the people responsible, Maddux Wilder, along with his brother Hunter, and sister Tempest, exact a plan of revenge against Theodore Cole beginning with an invitation to their charity ball. What Maddox never expected was to come face to face with Theodore’s daughter, Arabella Cole, an innocent in every sense of the word. Unaware of her father’s propensity for trouble, Arabella offers up herself for payment of debt, a debt she could very well pay with her life. What ensues is the building relationship and love between Arabella and Maddux, and the potential fall-out as Arabella becomes collateral damage in the war between the Wilders and the Coles.
Arabella Cole has no idea just who or what kind of man is the father she loves. Meeting Maddux Wilder, a man who draws our heroine like a moth to a flame sets up our heroine to take the fall for sins of the past. Maddux Wilder had no intention of involving Theodore’s daughter but when opportunity strikes Maddux is willing to accept Arabella’s offer as payment for debt.
The relationship between Arabella and Maddux is one of immediate attraction but Arabella is oblivious to her father’s past, and the heinous crimes committed with his partner Gavin Scott. Falling for her ‘captor’ Arabella starts a slow seduction of our story line hero, a man who is tempted beyond the payment of debt. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and intense.
We are introduced to Maddux’ siblings Hunter and Tempest, as well as Arabella’s father Theo, and his partner Gavin Scott. Hunter’s story line is next in Absolute Pleasure.
TOTAL SURRENDER is an adult retelling of Beauty and the Beast wherein Arabella exchanges her freedom for her father’s, and in the end Beauty does tames the Beast. The premise is entertaining and engaging; the romance is unconventional, dramatic and intense; the characters are colorful, energetic, innocent and broken. TOTAL SURRENDER is a captivating tale of innocence, seduction and happily ever after.
Copy supplied for review
wwww.thereadingcafe.com
July 10, 2019
Dirty sexy version of Beauty and the Beast🔥
Arabella is excited as she is attending the one event she has read about in the society pages for years, the annual Wilder charity event. But she’s accompanied by her father and the one man she wants nothing to do with, his colleague Gavin! Hoping to experience everything the event has to offer, Arabella sneaks away and is found by one Maddux Wilder, the event’s host. She never imagined in her wildest dreams that the evening would end the way it does😢
Maddux has worked hard to be in a position to take revenge on the people who left him and his siblings essentially orphans. He’s now ready to do exactly that but Arabella throws a spanner into the works when she eavesdrops on their private conversation with Maddux. Offering herself to Maddux in exchange for letting her father go with the full realisation that Maddux requires her TOTAL SURRENDER😍
A really great story along the lines of Beauty and the Beast with filthy undertones😂 Looking forward to Hunter’s story next❣️
Arabella is excited as she is attending the one event she has read about in the society pages for years, the annual Wilder charity event. But she’s accompanied by her father and the one man she wants nothing to do with, his colleague Gavin! Hoping to experience everything the event has to offer, Arabella sneaks away and is found by one Maddux Wilder, the event’s host. She never imagined in her wildest dreams that the evening would end the way it does😢
Maddux has worked hard to be in a position to take revenge on the people who left him and his siblings essentially orphans. He’s now ready to do exactly that but Arabella throws a spanner into the works when she eavesdrops on their private conversation with Maddux. Offering herself to Maddux in exchange for letting her father go with the full realisation that Maddux requires her TOTAL SURRENDER😍
A really great story along the lines of Beauty and the Beast with filthy undertones😂 Looking forward to Hunter’s story next❣️
June 26, 2019
This book was so good! I kept thinking that this could totally be made into a movie! It has revenge, kidnapping kinda of, tension and action all packed into this book. Maddux and his family have every reason to want revenge on Arabella's family. They have a plan but things seem to change. Arabella is innocent in all this. She does the ultimate sacrifice for her dad. Maddux still maintains the beast
personality but Arabella has some sass and breaks down his walls. She is fun and flirty. She makes him see things differently and that's a good thing. This book definitely kept my attention and I seriously couldn't put it down. I can't wait to read Hunter's story next.
personality but Arabella has some sass and breaks down his walls. She is fun and flirty. She makes him see things differently and that's a good thing. This book definitely kept my attention and I seriously couldn't put it down. I can't wait to read Hunter's story next.
October 31, 2019
Absolutely loved this modern day retelling of Beauty and the Beast. This story was hot, sexy, explosive and downright swoon-worthy. Maddux and Arabella were brought together by a tragedy but thrived because of passion they had for each other. This story is definitely one that will have you devouring page after page of this beautiful fairytale.
June 26, 2019
For the last 14 years Maddux has been on a quest to ensure the people that destroyed his family are punished. Everything he has done since that traumatic day has been to ensure that he reaches that goal and reckoning day is finally here, but he hadn’t expected all his plans to go sideways when he meets Arabella.
Bella is excited to be attending the Wilder Charity Ball with her father as she seldom goes out especially to a prestigious event like this. It was like a fairy tale come true when she meets Maddux but when she finds out what he plans for her father she wants to be his instrument of revenge rather than her father.
Living with Bella he is drawn to the caring yet feisty beauty while Bella doesn’t understand how she can be attracted to the man who wants to ruin her father. Once all the truths are revealed will this Beast still have his Beauty?
I really enjoyed this modern re-telling of this fairy tale and look forward to more stories about this family.
Bella is excited to be attending the Wilder Charity Ball with her father as she seldom goes out especially to a prestigious event like this. It was like a fairy tale come true when she meets Maddux but when she finds out what he plans for her father she wants to be his instrument of revenge rather than her father.
Living with Bella he is drawn to the caring yet feisty beauty while Bella doesn’t understand how she can be attracted to the man who wants to ruin her father. Once all the truths are revealed will this Beast still have his Beauty?
I really enjoyed this modern re-telling of this fairy tale and look forward to more stories about this family.
June 26, 2019
ARC for honest review with no compensation 4.5 stars
Total Surrender is book 1 in a new series by Erika Wilde, A Dirty Sexy Fairy Tale.
Maddux Wilder, a “Beast” of a man and self made billionaire has planned and waited for 14 years to destroy Theodore Cole for the pain he caused the Wilder siblings, but what he didn’t plan for was the “Beauty” Arabella Cole, Theodore’s sheltered, innocent beautiful daughter. When Arabella finds out what her father has done to the Wilder family, other people and his gambling debts she offers herself to Maddux in the hopes of keeping her father out of harms way.
What happens next will keeps you reading...lots of innuendos, laughter, sexy times, innocence, bliss and TOTAL Surrender!
Can’t wait for the other Wilder books!!!
Total Surrender is book 1 in a new series by Erika Wilde, A Dirty Sexy Fairy Tale.
Maddux Wilder, a “Beast” of a man and self made billionaire has planned and waited for 14 years to destroy Theodore Cole for the pain he caused the Wilder siblings, but what he didn’t plan for was the “Beauty” Arabella Cole, Theodore’s sheltered, innocent beautiful daughter. When Arabella finds out what her father has done to the Wilder family, other people and his gambling debts she offers herself to Maddux in the hopes of keeping her father out of harms way.
What happens next will keeps you reading...lots of innuendos, laughter, sexy times, innocence, bliss and TOTAL Surrender!
Can’t wait for the other Wilder books!!!
June 26, 2019
From the first page, I was hooked on this story. Maddux is bent on revenge for the death of his parents but he never counted on Arabella. When she offers herself as payment for her father's debts, Maddux is not prepared for how she will make him feel. Arabella has been sheltered all her life and never knew of her father's "other" life. As the two of them become more emotionally involved, danger rears its head and Maddux realizes what he has to do. This story was emotional, funny, maddening and scary!! I loved this story and now am eagerly waiting for Hunter's story!!!
October 20, 2019
This is a perfect retelling fairytale for me after the disastrous reads with desperate measure of jasmine and jafar.
A contemporary modern retelling of beauty and the beast that was well delivered and most importantly WITH A STORY PLOT. Im swoon by the beast, the dirty words, caring side of him and loving the beauty for her strong and compassionate character.
I cant wait for the next book. A retelling of cinderella story.
A contemporary modern retelling of beauty and the beast that was well delivered and most importantly WITH A STORY PLOT. Im swoon by the beast, the dirty words, caring side of him and loving the beauty for her strong and compassionate character.
I cant wait for the next book. A retelling of cinderella story.
February 21, 2020
3,5 καλούτσικο, γρήγορο, hot!
July 2, 2019
When Arabella offers herself up to Maddux in exchange for paying off her father's debt, it's intended only to be a transaction, not for either of them to catch feelings. So what will the "beast" of a man do when his quest for revenge is put on the backburner because he develops feelings for the instrument of his vengeance?
Whew, this one is HOT! I loved the contrast between the sweet, compassionate Arabella (Bella) and cold, controlling Maddux, who loses that coldness around Bella. It's definitely a modern day fairy tale with a naughty twist, and I cannot wait for more of this series! Hunter (Maddux's brother) has his story next, and I know it will be as good as Maddux and Arabella's.
ARC via author for an honest review.
Full review ---> Live Through Books Blog.
Blog | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter
June 16, 2020
5* Plus!
I've read 2 of Erika Wilde's other books before this one - from another series - and I'm not sure why I didn't get round to the 3rd one yet. Guess life and so many Advance Copies got in the way because I really had intended to carry on with her.
And then something about this book, Sinful Surrender, called to me. Was it the cover, or the title or the splurb? I really can't say. Perhaps a combination.
All I do know is that I have thoroughly enjoyed this story with its well contrasted set of characters and interesting story that has its ups and downs, of course! And a beautiful and very unexpected ending!
Kudu's to he author for a most entertaining book. I would really like to read more from her.
I've read 2 of Erika Wilde's other books before this one - from another series - and I'm not sure why I didn't get round to the 3rd one yet. Guess life and so many Advance Copies got in the way because I really had intended to carry on with her.
And then something about this book, Sinful Surrender, called to me. Was it the cover, or the title or the splurb? I really can't say. Perhaps a combination.
All I do know is that I have thoroughly enjoyed this story with its well contrasted set of characters and interesting story that has its ups and downs, of course! And a beautiful and very unexpected ending!
Kudu's to he author for a most entertaining book. I would really like to read more from her.
July 24, 2020
Book #5 of the reading rush!
Read a book that takes place on a different continent than where you live.
Rating: 3.25 ☆
I find it hard to follow stories when it is written in third person and I don't know why. But even though it's written in the third person, it was easy to read and not confusing but it did not pull me in and connect with the characters. (︶︹︺)
Things to Remember if I feel like rereading
➸ Mafia-esk storyline
➸ Little steam
➸ Little to no action (more on domestic)
Read a book that takes place on a different continent than where you live.
Rating: 3.25 ☆
I find it hard to follow stories when it is written in third person and I don't know why. But even though it's written in the third person, it was easy to read and not confusing but it did not pull me in and connect with the characters. (︶︹︺)
Things to Remember if I feel like rereading
➸ Mafia-esk storyline
➸ Little steam
➸ Little to no action (more on domestic)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 30, 2019
Very entertaining
I was really taken with this story. I loved the fact that Arabella was a strong, yet gentle and fun woman. She was a great fit for alpha Maddox.
I was really taken with this story. I loved the fact that Arabella was a strong, yet gentle and fun woman. She was a great fit for alpha Maddox.
July 17, 2020
Oh my! Adrabella and Maddux were absolutely perfect! I loved everything about them! Can’t wait to read more of this series! 💙
May 15, 2023
Ohhh contemporary fairytale tropes, sign me up. I really loved the audiobook and plan on finishing the series.
July 1, 2019
I love this contemporary fairy tales band wagon some authors are jumping on, a retelling of the classics with a modern twist to them.
Total Surrender
is a perfect example; it’s based on Beauty and the Beast, but for grown-ups. Trust me, this isn’t a story you want to read out loud to your kids at night, but you could to your partner if you want to liven things up! This standalone was a hot, smexy, quick read that had me fanning myself a few times, and this Beast had a Dom vibe to him that I found irresistible. It’s told in dual POV and filled with dirty action and a little suspense, and with more stories to come you’re going to fall for the Wilder siblings!
Arabella Cole lost her mother when she was a child and was raised by nannies until she was old enough to be sent off to an all-girl boarding school. Her father, Theodore, was busy making millions as a partner at Addingwell Financial and she lacked for nothing, except his attention. Now older Theodore was having health issues and she was happy doting on him and taking care of him. Now twenty-five, she works at a private university library as digital data analyst and enjoys the little independence she has. The only fly in the ointment is her father’s right-hand man, Gavin, who seems to think he and Arabella will one day be a couple. Not if she has anything to say about it!
“There is no changing the past, Bella. All I knew in that moment was that I was going to change the future.”
Maddux Wilder is the thirty-two year old billionaire owner of MadX-Tech, a business that specialized in modern, hi-tech security. He raised his siblings, Hunter and Tempest, when their parents died tragically fourteen years ago, a death they blame Theodore Cole for. They've waited too many years to get revenge for the destruction he had caused the Wilder siblings. They knew Theodore wasn’t the fine, upstanding pillar of society he liked to present himself as. The Wilders had come up with a plan to ruin Theodore and nothing was going to get in their way. Until Maddux sees Arabella, and realized she knew nothing about her father’s dirty business, and he has to resort to an off-the-cuff Plan B. Maddux will take Arabella, in lieu of a three million dollar outstanding debt Theodore owes. Arabella goes willingly, still not understanding Maddux’s hatred towards her father, but knowing his health is in jeopardy. But so is her innocence, Maddux is happy to tell her. He plans to ruin her before destroying Theodore.
“I guarantee if you romanticize this arrangement, you’ll be disillusioned and sorely disappointed when it ends."
This is where everything takes off, in a blink of an eye! I loved every minute of it, and so will you!
Arabella Cole lost her mother when she was a child and was raised by nannies until she was old enough to be sent off to an all-girl boarding school. Her father, Theodore, was busy making millions as a partner at Addingwell Financial and she lacked for nothing, except his attention. Now older Theodore was having health issues and she was happy doting on him and taking care of him. Now twenty-five, she works at a private university library as digital data analyst and enjoys the little independence she has. The only fly in the ointment is her father’s right-hand man, Gavin, who seems to think he and Arabella will one day be a couple. Not if she has anything to say about it!
“There is no changing the past, Bella. All I knew in that moment was that I was going to change the future.”
Maddux Wilder is the thirty-two year old billionaire owner of MadX-Tech, a business that specialized in modern, hi-tech security. He raised his siblings, Hunter and Tempest, when their parents died tragically fourteen years ago, a death they blame Theodore Cole for. They've waited too many years to get revenge for the destruction he had caused the Wilder siblings. They knew Theodore wasn’t the fine, upstanding pillar of society he liked to present himself as. The Wilders had come up with a plan to ruin Theodore and nothing was going to get in their way. Until Maddux sees Arabella, and realized she knew nothing about her father’s dirty business, and he has to resort to an off-the-cuff Plan B. Maddux will take Arabella, in lieu of a three million dollar outstanding debt Theodore owes. Arabella goes willingly, still not understanding Maddux’s hatred towards her father, but knowing his health is in jeopardy. But so is her innocence, Maddux is happy to tell her. He plans to ruin her before destroying Theodore.
“I guarantee if you romanticize this arrangement, you’ll be disillusioned and sorely disappointed when it ends."
This is where everything takes off, in a blink of an eye! I loved every minute of it, and so will you!
May 17, 2020
I really wanted to like this more than I did, but things moved too quickly for me to believe Maddux and Bella's love. There was attraction and sexy banter-which was amazing-but I just didn't see the love.
I think the story needed to be longer to have the Beauty and the Beast effect I was looking and hoping for-hate blossoming into this fairytale romance.
I may give the rest of the series a try.
I think the story needed to be longer to have the Beauty and the Beast effect I was looking and hoping for-hate blossoming into this fairytale romance.
I may give the rest of the series a try.
January 8, 2023
It was an… interesting modern fairytale. And the fact it had that darker edge was a nice touch, but there were some bits and pieces that ruined the story for me.
1. Arabella was too naïve; She was a Cipher in every meaning of the word (in a literary sense). She was so devoid of meaningful character traits I got frustrated and annoyed that someone who seemed to be portrayed as smart and capable could be so utterly dumb and overly trusting. She was also basically a Mary-Sue.
2. How old exactly was Gavin? Because it made it sound like he was an adult 14 years ago which makes the pursuit of Arabella in the Now Creepy AF (CONTEXT: She’s 25 in the present so 14 years ago she was 11). And if Gavin was even just early 20s he would be late 30s early 40s. Which yeah isn’t THAT creepy, but the fact he would have been around Arabella since she was a kid just makes me feel ICK!
3. I hate Maddux’s name. So MUCH!
It’s clunky and awkward to read every other sentence. Plus the combination of Hunter, Tempest & Maddux makes little sense to me and makes me think the writer just wanted classic early 2000s protagonist names with little care for the background she established.
4. The grammar and sentence structures need A LOT of work. Some passages were just plain painful to read.
5. The story/plot itself was too much like what people THINK ‘Beauty & the Beast’ is about.
B&B is about someone falling in love DESPITE outward appearances. Its a friendship that evolves into love AFTER he lets her go (the writer kind of did this but it was poorly executed). There really wasn’t enough of a timeline established in the book to build a friendship. Their entire thing is sexual chemistry built on a power imbalance.
6. This book portrayed BDSM-like sexual fantasies as taboo and ‘depraved’. Repeatedly the words used to describe his and her desires, proclivities, are intended to invoke a sense of secret shame. I think the author was trying for sexy but it just made it sound like she had no idea what she was writing about.
7. The timeline was all over the place. Basically it had all the action happening in a 2-3 day span which made the story feel rushed and very insta-love. There was no time To develop character and the whole this was pretty much an info-dump from minute 1.
1. Arabella was too naïve; She was a Cipher in every meaning of the word (in a literary sense). She was so devoid of meaningful character traits I got frustrated and annoyed that someone who seemed to be portrayed as smart and capable could be so utterly dumb and overly trusting. She was also basically a Mary-Sue.
2. How old exactly was Gavin? Because it made it sound like he was an adult 14 years ago which makes the pursuit of Arabella in the Now Creepy AF (CONTEXT: She’s 25 in the present so 14 years ago she was 11). And if Gavin was even just early 20s he would be late 30s early 40s. Which yeah isn’t THAT creepy, but the fact he would have been around Arabella since she was a kid just makes me feel ICK!
3. I hate Maddux’s name. So MUCH!
It’s clunky and awkward to read every other sentence. Plus the combination of Hunter, Tempest & Maddux makes little sense to me and makes me think the writer just wanted classic early 2000s protagonist names with little care for the background she established.
4. The grammar and sentence structures need A LOT of work. Some passages were just plain painful to read.
5. The story/plot itself was too much like what people THINK ‘Beauty & the Beast’ is about.
B&B is about someone falling in love DESPITE outward appearances. Its a friendship that evolves into love AFTER he lets her go (the writer kind of did this but it was poorly executed). There really wasn’t enough of a timeline established in the book to build a friendship. Their entire thing is sexual chemistry built on a power imbalance.
6. This book portrayed BDSM-like sexual fantasies as taboo and ‘depraved’. Repeatedly the words used to describe his and her desires, proclivities, are intended to invoke a sense of secret shame. I think the author was trying for sexy but it just made it sound like she had no idea what she was writing about.
7. The timeline was all over the place. Basically it had all the action happening in a 2-3 day span which made the story feel rushed and very insta-love. There was no time To develop character and the whole this was pretty much an info-dump from minute 1.
June 30, 2019
Total Surrender is a lovely twist on the Beauty and the Beast fairy-tale; with the emphasis on actions towards others being ‘ugly’ or ‘beastly’ as opposed to physical appearance.
Maddux has been consumed by revenge for he past fourteen years, having sworn to avenge the death of his parents. All of his efforts are about to come to fruition where he can destroy the man responsible for the loss of his parents and the destruction of his home.
However, the man guilty of the crime against the Wilder family also happens to have a beautiful and kind daughter, Arabella, whom Maddux finds himself inexplicably drawn to on the eve of his retribution.
Arabella is truly selfless and innocent of any knowledge as to her father’s criminal activity. Unfortunately, her eyes are opened when she stumbles upon her fathers meeting with Maddux. Although she only exposes the tip of the iceberg. Despite the circumstances, the passion between Maddux and Arabella burns brightly although the extent of her father’s crimes creates a considerable barrier to a deeper relationship.
I adored Arabella, she is giving and loving without being submissive unless it is in the bedroom. Arabella does the right thing even when it is difficult. Even though her whole world is blowing up around her, Arabella maintains her dignity and remains true to herself. I especially liked her humor and sass which added to her appeal.
The resolution of the story occurs rapidly although it did not feel forced in any way. The foundation has been laid for other fairytale twists to take place with the Wilder siblings as the stars of the story. I cannot wait to see if Maddux’s brother, Hunter, finds his Cinderella 😍💖
Maddux has been consumed by revenge for he past fourteen years, having sworn to avenge the death of his parents. All of his efforts are about to come to fruition where he can destroy the man responsible for the loss of his parents and the destruction of his home.
However, the man guilty of the crime against the Wilder family also happens to have a beautiful and kind daughter, Arabella, whom Maddux finds himself inexplicably drawn to on the eve of his retribution.
Arabella is truly selfless and innocent of any knowledge as to her father’s criminal activity. Unfortunately, her eyes are opened when she stumbles upon her fathers meeting with Maddux. Although she only exposes the tip of the iceberg. Despite the circumstances, the passion between Maddux and Arabella burns brightly although the extent of her father’s crimes creates a considerable barrier to a deeper relationship.
I adored Arabella, she is giving and loving without being submissive unless it is in the bedroom. Arabella does the right thing even when it is difficult. Even though her whole world is blowing up around her, Arabella maintains her dignity and remains true to herself. I especially liked her humor and sass which added to her appeal.
The resolution of the story occurs rapidly although it did not feel forced in any way. The foundation has been laid for other fairytale twists to take place with the Wilder siblings as the stars of the story. I cannot wait to see if Maddux’s brother, Hunter, finds his Cinderella 😍💖
October 21, 2019
Modern fairytale series - sexy and dirty - but with a lot of romance.
We started with The Beauty and The Beast.
Maddux, Hunter and Tempest Wilder are siblings whose parents were killed by an unscrupulous man, Theodore Cole, and fourteen years later it was time for reckoning.
In the Wilde Way charity ball, Maddux, the oldest, would finally confront his enemy.
Theodore was in debt because of his gambling addiction, and Maddux had already planned to buy off his enemy's debts, and to own all his assets.
But Maddux did not imagine that he would feel such a strong attraction to Theodore's daughter, Arabella.
Over the years of accumulating evidence against Theodore, Maddux knew of the girl's existence, but until then had only seen her in photos. Upon meeting Arabella - Bella - for the first time, he knew he would have one more asset to beat Theodore.
And when Bella offers to repay her father's debt - which almost has a heart attack - Maddux sees his big chance.
But Theodore had a partner, Gavin Scott, who had an interest in Arabella, and had been driving away all men who were interested in her for some time. Gavin would not let Maddux take the grand prize out of his hands.
Using Bella as his lover was not part of the Wilder siblings' plans - and Hunter didn't like it at all. But Tempest, a romantic by nature (it was her idea of the charity theme being Fairy Tale Happily Ever After), she soon realized that Arabella could be one that would bring peace to her brother's heart.
However, Arabella had a father she did not know; How to solve the deaths and extortion caused by Theodore for so many years?
5 stars
We started with The Beauty and The Beast.
Maddux, Hunter and Tempest Wilder are siblings whose parents were killed by an unscrupulous man, Theodore Cole, and fourteen years later it was time for reckoning.
In the Wilde Way charity ball, Maddux, the oldest, would finally confront his enemy.
Theodore was in debt because of his gambling addiction, and Maddux had already planned to buy off his enemy's debts, and to own all his assets.
But Maddux did not imagine that he would feel such a strong attraction to Theodore's daughter, Arabella.
Over the years of accumulating evidence against Theodore, Maddux knew of the girl's existence, but until then had only seen her in photos. Upon meeting Arabella - Bella - for the first time, he knew he would have one more asset to beat Theodore.
And when Bella offers to repay her father's debt - which almost has a heart attack - Maddux sees his big chance.
But Theodore had a partner, Gavin Scott, who had an interest in Arabella, and had been driving away all men who were interested in her for some time. Gavin would not let Maddux take the grand prize out of his hands.
Using Bella as his lover was not part of the Wilder siblings' plans - and Hunter didn't like it at all. But Tempest, a romantic by nature (it was her idea of the charity theme being Fairy Tale Happily Ever After), she soon realized that Arabella could be one that would bring peace to her brother's heart.
However, Arabella had a father she did not know; How to solve the deaths and extortion caused by Theodore for so many years?
5 stars
June 24, 2019
This is an AMAZING representation of a modern day Beauty and the Beast! The story line included a great plot, a nice build up, a complex climax and a pretty darn good ending!
Maddux is a beast in a designer suit and it is past time that he takes it upon himself to right a wrong that happened 14 years ago. What he did not expect was the man that he despises most in the world to have a daughter that would trade herself for him because he is in poor health. Let's just say that all of Maddux's planning could not take into account this beauty.
Arabella might be a bit naive, but this beauty has a backbone like a freaking steel beam. She might not know what her father did to make this wild man hate him so much, but she knows loyalty and will place herself in the belly of the beast. What she did not plan on happening was finding the adventure of a lifetime.
All in all this was a freaking great read. It moves a bit slow in the beginning but takes off about 1/3 of the way through and is so freaking good. There are some majorly steamy scenes between the two of the characters and I freaking adored all of it! If you are wondering if you should read this, you definitely should!!
PS: I received this book as an arc, but am honestly reviewing it!
Maddux is a beast in a designer suit and it is past time that he takes it upon himself to right a wrong that happened 14 years ago. What he did not expect was the man that he despises most in the world to have a daughter that would trade herself for him because he is in poor health. Let's just say that all of Maddux's planning could not take into account this beauty.
Arabella might be a bit naive, but this beauty has a backbone like a freaking steel beam. She might not know what her father did to make this wild man hate him so much, but she knows loyalty and will place herself in the belly of the beast. What she did not plan on happening was finding the adventure of a lifetime.
All in all this was a freaking great read. It moves a bit slow in the beginning but takes off about 1/3 of the way through and is so freaking good. There are some majorly steamy scenes between the two of the characters and I freaking adored all of it! If you are wondering if you should read this, you definitely should!!
PS: I received this book as an arc, but am honestly reviewing it!
June 29, 2019
This is a grown up retelling of Beauty and the Beast and very, very sexy. The only question is will the beauty tame the beast or will the beast end up seducing the beauty? Maddux Wilder, along with his younger siblings, Hunter and Temptest, lost their parents 14 years ago in a fire which was intentionally set and the time has come they are set to take down the men who brought about the deaths of their parents. The annual Wilder Charity Ball is the setting and they have invited Theodore Cole and Gavin Scott and plan to exact revenge, though they didn't know Theodore would bring his beautiful daughter, Arabella, along. No one expected her to be outside the office door but her eavesdropping brought her inside and she offered up herself as payment for her father's debt. Oh my goodness. This is not what Maddux wanted but this is now what he has and he will take nothing less than her total surrender. This was such a great story and perfect telling. I cannot wait to find out what is in store for Hunter in the next book!
**Received this ARC for review**
**Received this ARC for review**
June 25, 2019
Maddux and his siblings are on a mission to destroy the man who changed their lives forever. They've waited a long time to exact their revenge. They have a plan and nothing can stop them. Enter Arabella, daughter of the man they seek to destroy, and sometimes the best laid plans can go awry.
Total Surrender is the first book in Erika Wilde's new series and it's so, so good!!!! Arabella is a wonderful character. She is smart, witty, and charming. Maddux is a man on a mission, someone who doesn't let anything get in the way of what he wants. Is Maddux immune to Arabella, or is she the lifeline he didn't know he needed.
I Loved, Loved, Loved this story and cannot wait for the next book in this Series. Total Surrender is a stand alone story and one every romantic should read.
Total Surrender is the first book in Erika Wilde's new series and it's so, so good!!!! Arabella is a wonderful character. She is smart, witty, and charming. Maddux is a man on a mission, someone who doesn't let anything get in the way of what he wants. Is Maddux immune to Arabella, or is she the lifeline he didn't know he needed.
I Loved, Loved, Loved this story and cannot wait for the next book in this Series. Total Surrender is a stand alone story and one every romantic should read.
June 24, 2019
5 star review Total Surrender by Erika Wilde
Where do I start? Total Surrender is the first book in Erika Wilde's latest series and if this book is anything to go by, she has another winning series on her hands.
Vengeance, that is what Maddux Wilder and his siblings are out for, determined to destroy the man they hold responsible for their parents death, Theodore Cole.
His daughter, Arabella is going to be the one to pay though. I loved Arabella, she is feisty, sassy and smart.
Maddux is totally focused on the end goal and yet it appears that despite himself, Arabella is going to get to him.
What happens when Arabella succumbs to the dark and deep desires that Maddux evokes in her? Will he destroy her or will love triumph?
I was absolutely captivated by the story Erika Wilde wove and there was nothing that I didn’t like about this story.
Where do I start? Total Surrender is the first book in Erika Wilde's latest series and if this book is anything to go by, she has another winning series on her hands.
Vengeance, that is what Maddux Wilder and his siblings are out for, determined to destroy the man they hold responsible for their parents death, Theodore Cole.
His daughter, Arabella is going to be the one to pay though. I loved Arabella, she is feisty, sassy and smart.
Maddux is totally focused on the end goal and yet it appears that despite himself, Arabella is going to get to him.
What happens when Arabella succumbs to the dark and deep desires that Maddux evokes in her? Will he destroy her or will love triumph?
I was absolutely captivated by the story Erika Wilde wove and there was nothing that I didn’t like about this story.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 196 reviews