The Brat
Angela Campbell rated it it was amazing 5 stars – Oct 26 2015
This book was amazing. It was the first one I have read of Sherry Gloag. She captures the horrors of childhood trauma terrifically. Watching Gina come to terms with everything, seeing her life in upheaval, and seeing her come out stronger once she faced it, is a testament to her resilience. For some, like me, it will definitely strike home with how true to life this is. Watching as Gina gets strong enough to let someone in, especially someone she thought of as an enemy, is such a transformation, This book was amazing. It was the first one I have read of Sherry Gloag. She captures the horrors of childhood trauma terrifically. Watching Gina come to terms with everything, seeing her life in upheaval, and seeing her come out stronger once she faced it, is a testament to her resilience. For some, like me, it will definitely strike home with how true to life this is. Watching as Gina gets strong enough to let someone in, especially someone she thought of as an enemy, is such a transformation, but I love how you got to see every step of her journey. It wasn't just, one day she is broken, one day she is fixed, and you, the reader, are left shaking your head in confusion. When Gina finally gets to meet her mom, I bawled like a baby, watching the agony both of these women have went through every day. For a mother, the guilt of knowing what she did to her child. For the child, to spend her life thinking her mother didn't love her or want her, which immediately made her undesirable and unlovable to find out that wasn't the case at all. Then watching her spread her wings with Ben is a memorable experience. You will not be able to put it down, I certainly couldn't
* * * * * *
Fire Pages -27th Sept 2010
How does an author make my very exclusive auto-purchase list? By defining a new romance. An author must write a book that moves me to the core. Create a title that takes me on a journey. Changes the habits of my heart. Gives me strength. Renews my hope. Reminds me that there is more than one kind of love.
Here are 3 reasons why Sherry Gloag has made my auto-purchase list.
(1) The Brat is flawless. Sherry Gloag creates three dimensional characters who have more than one hang up, more than one fear, more than one secret, more than one desire, and weaves their complicated relationships together like Parisian
Couture.
(2) Sherry is daring. She doesn’t hesitate to develop a story that touches on the darker side of life. Death. Jealousy. Hate. Fear. Pain. By fearlessly exploring these emotions, it makes the journey real, human, and reading about the rewards after
experiencing a hard fought struggle is that much more pleasurable.
(3) Sherry maintains her own voice. You can tell that The Brat is first and foremost a book that happens to have romantic parts, not a book dedicated to romance. Although this is her debut novel, she has stayed true to herself and her original
thoughts, and that uniqueness definitely shines through in her work.
Here are my auto-purchase list and the books that have changed me.
Emily Giffin – Something Borrowed, Something Blue
Philippa Gregory – The Other Boleyn Girl
Regina Hale Sutherland – The Queens of Woodlawn Avenue
Elizabeth Adler – Invitation to Provence
Sherry Gloag – The Brat
* * * * *
Fire Pages 28th Sept 2010
The shocker starts on page one. You are immediately thrown into a tense funeral. Ben Kouvaris openly admits that his dead mother was a drunk, a druggie, and a whore. He is hurt, angry and relieved at his mother’s death. Then you meet Gina Williams, the only other funeral attendee, and a woman who is equally satisfied to be rid of Ben’s mother. As you can see, this is not your typical romance book. Gloag immediately exposes us to the burdens Ben and Gina carry on their shoulders and in their hearts. Through their pain you will instantly feel the trust these characters are placing in your hands – their darkest thoughts, their deepest fears – and you quickly become lured into Gloag’s world. You will get to know
Ben and Gina, their family, and heir friends quite well. Gloag excels in developing rich characters that continuously pushes the story to new boundaries. If this is just the first few pages, you can imagine how much Gloag has in store for her readers.
The Brat is perfectly paced. The book never drags because there is a unique blend of mystery, intrigue, drama, romance, and passion. There is no way to predict what will happen next, and the surprises are always sweeter than what you have in
mind. I also enjoyed how Gloag weaves multiple facets of the heart – familial love, self love, romantic love – into her novel and I believe that is what makes the characters whole, what makes the story come alive. You are not just reading
about two people’s journey to sex. You are witnessing first hand how two people hearts have been taught to love.
The Brat is beyond amazing. I’ve never read anything like it. Gloag nailed this story to the ground: deeply developed characters, perfect pacing, mind blowing revelations revealed at the perfect time, intrigue and mystery that keeps your mind spinning, and a journey that will not be forgotten! Go get your copy today! The Brat is really this fantastic. Way to go Sherry!
* * * * * *
Dolce Amore March 19th 2012 - Reviewer:
Gina Williams is a hurt woman. Although she is now a famous writer, she had a traumatic childhood; her mother sold her to Anna Kouvaris, who used her as a prostitute when she was ten years old. Six years later, she finally ran away but when she heard that Anna was ill, she came back and took care of for her five years, until Anna died.
Ben Kouvaris feels attraction for Gina. When he finds out that his father needs a heart surgery and he won’t do it until he's married, Ben decides that his bride will be Gina. When he begins to discover what his mother did to her, he is horrified! She never bothered to know the child’s birth name, she always referred to the girl as The Brat.
Even before he falls in love with her, he decides to take care of her, to protect her; especially from the mother who sold her.
It's a wonderful story, so I highly recommend it. The characters are wonderful and the story well written. It makes you think about all the children adopted through private adoptions and what number had similar childhoods like Gina.
The only thing I felt missing from the story was something about all the time she stayed with Anna and about what happened after she ran away. The story starts from Anna’s funeral with nothing or almost nothing about her past. That’s why I can give it just 4 stars, but I will read other of Ms. Sherry Gloag’s books because I like her style.
* * * * * *
Amanda's ★★★★★ Review
Another great read by Sherry Gloag. The story of Gina and Ben is beyond breathtaking. This story will catch your attention and won't let it go. It will keep you wondering what's going to happen next until you finish the whole book. The details are wrote so well that you won't feel as though you've missed anything. You will definitely not be wondering why Gina or Ben act or feel the way they do. The book played through my head like I was there watching them. I definitely can't wait to read more by this author.
* * * * * *
Single Titles Star Rating: 5 stars 7th Oct 2010
Sensuality : sweet
"A heart wrenching story about a woman who has gained strength by overcoming the horrors of her childhood and vowed never to allow another to control her."
At his estranged mother’s funeral, Ben Kourvaris sees Gina Williams and wants to know what her attachment is to the
woman who sent him away at age ten. Gina tries her best to keep her distance from Ben, but when he buys the publishing company of her books it makes it difficult to steer clear of him. Gina has a past that could destroy her career, the more he learns about the elusive author the more he realizes he wants to have her as his wife, the only problem is Gina does not want to be married, ever.
A heart wrenching story about a woman who has gained strength by overcoming the horrors of her childhood and vowed never to allow another to control her. When Ben explains the arrangements of a one year marriage in order to gain control of his ailing father’s company, something about the loyalty he shows pierces through Gina’s damaged heart. As they
begin to open up to one another, Gina realizes that the next part of her journey is learning to trust again.
The Brat is a written with such delicacy to Gina’s past that it envelops you into this engaging story. I thought it was memorable and a story that makes you think about it again and again once it is finished. A real treasure.
* * * *
Romance in the Backseat 4th Oct 2010
Review by Pepper
4.5/5 Heartbeats
The Brat by Sherry Gloag is an intriguing and very moving story about Gina, a trouble young woman, suffering
from the psychological after-effects of child abuse. She struggles to overcome her fears and live her dream life as a wealthy, successful author. One who has everything she needs or wants. Or so she tells herself. But throw Ben into the mix, and Gina’s dream life implodes into her worst nightmare. Afraid to love or be loved, she hides in her writing and stubborn pride until circumstances force her to face not only her fears, but her own untapped passions.
Ben’s life also is complicated by childhood traumas, and he’s plagued with memories he doesn’t understand. At the age of ten, Ben’s divorced mother sent him away to his father who was a stranger. The move was a traumatic one for Ben and has left him believing love can’t be trusted. So Ben has grown into a cold, practical man, who keeps his emotions tightly locked away. He doesn’t want in marriage and isn’t looking for romance. Until he runs into Gina.
Although, The Brat touches on some of the darker aspects of society, including child abuse and the illegal practice of selling of young children, Gloag handles these issues with amazing sensitivity. I felt immediately sympathetic to Gina and suffered with her as she struggled to overcome the problems caused by her abusive childhood. I understood her need to succeed in her chosen career, as well her tendency to fight her private demons by refusing to acknowledge them. And I could easily
imagine how her world could turn inside out when faced with Ben Kouvaris, a determined Greek whose assets not only include wealth and family reputation, but physical characteristics reminiscent of the gods of his ancestors. In Ben, Gloag
has created the kind of man few women can resist. But then, why would any woman want to?
Ben’s character is as complex as Gina’s. A very rich and successful man, Ben rarely gets no for an answer. And when he does, he doesn’t listen. He’s charming, demanding, relentless, and determined to get what he wants. The fact that Gina isn’t what he planned on wanting doesn’t keep him from pursuing her for his own ends. But Ben’s deeply buried feelings can’t resist his father’s devotion or Gina’s honest vulnerability, coupled with her surprising strength. I especially liked the fact that Ben isn’t a hero. He starts out as selfish, cold, and practical. I really enjoyed watching him change and grow into
someone Gina can’t resist.
The Brat is filled with fresh and enchanting characters, delightful touches of humor to offset the darker glimpses of child
abuse and abandonment, and plots twists that keep the reader on his or her toes from beginning to end. Not the typical, run-of-the-mill romance, The Brat is a honest and very moving story of how the human spirit can overcome any obstacle
to achieve the deepest longings of the heart. Once read, The Brat will not be easily forgotten. I strongly recommend this book.
- Pepper
*****
tony-paul book reviews 8th Oct 2010
Star Rating: 4 Stars
(The full review is available at tony paul book reviews [link above])
MY OPINION: This isn’t my usual type of book to review and it’s a such an involved story, I doubt I’ve given it justice with my synopsis.
The relationships in the story are so woven together, it’s difficult to separate them for a simple description. The Brat
starts out like a mystery but it’s not long before it becomes much more than that--a testament against child abuse of the worst kind: child prostitution. Anna Kouvaris’ one act of love for her son—sending him to his father after he is nearly molested—is also the worst cruelty imaginable, as she buys a child to take his place and forces that child into the same
position. The story is also about sins of omission and the fact that not acting when one is aware of a crime is as immoral as the crime itself. Ben is depicted as a strong-willed, tenacious businessman, with that one flaw in his psyche, his belief his mother didn’t love him. Gina is also just as strong in her own way, but her independence comes from a vow never to be under anyone’s domination again. Marrying into an Old World Greek family—even for the wrong reasons—severely tries her promise to herself since those men, with the best intentions, tend to dominate and smother their women to protect them.
Whenever she feels herself experiencing love for Ben and his family, she considers she is weakening. The discovery of the identity of the mysterious stalker doesn’t solve their problems but instead makes new ones as two people, unknowingly scarred by the same event struggle to come to terms with their past lives and any future they may have with each other.
The Brat is a story about trust betrayed, love found, lives nearly ruined and redeemed. It shows how a heinous crime can affect even those who have no knowledge of it. It’s a mystery, a love story, and a testament as well as a plea for abused children everywhere.
* * * * * * *
Tony-Paul Vissage rated it 4 of 5 stars Oct 10th 2011
This books starts out like a mystery but it’s not long before it becomes more than that. It’s a testament against child abuse of the worst kind: child prostitution. Anna Kouvaris’ one act of love for her son—sending him to his father after he is nearly molested—is also the worst cruelty imaginable, as she buys a child to take his place and forces that child into the same position. The story is also about sins of omission and the fact that not acting when one is aware of a crime is as evil as the This books starts out like a mystery but it’s not long before it becomes more than that. It’s a testament against child abuse of the worst kind: child prostitution. Anna Kouvaris’ one act of love for her son—sending him to his father after he is nearly molested—is also the worst cruelty imaginable, as she buys a child to take his place and forces that child into the same position. The story is also about sins of omission and the fact that not acting when one is aware of a crime is as evil as the crime itself. Ben is depicted as a strong-willed, tenacious businessman, with that one flaw in his psyche, his belief his mother didn’t love him. Gina is also just as strong in her own way, but her independence comes from a vow never to be under anyone’s domination again. Marrying into an Old World Greek family—even for the wrong reasons—severely tried her promise to herself since those men tend to dominate and smother their women to protect them. Whenever she feels herself experiencing love for Ben and his family, she considers she is weakening. Both she and Ben have to learn to compromise and realize that letting someone in and having them care enough to offer support doesn’t indicate weakness but strength because it shows trust. The discovery of the identity of the mysterious stalker doesn’t solve their problems but instead makes new ones as two people, unknowingly scarred by the same event struggle to come to terms with their lives and each other.
This is a story about trust betrayed, love found, lives nearly ruined and resurrected. It’s a mystery, a love story, and a testament as well as a plea for abused children everywhere.
* * * * * * *
5 Stars - Interesting Read
ByPatricia Blevinson June 19, 2015
Format: Paperback
ARC FOR AN HONEST REVIEW
The story of Gina and Ben is interesting. Ben is the son of an evil woman and Gina was the care giver of that same evil woman. When Ben sees Gina at the funeral he is attracted to Gina. Ben is a millionaire and Gina is a well known children's author. Gina is hoping her past was buried along with Em. Ben is the new owner of the publishing company that publishes Gina's books. When Ben's father tells him he must find a woman to marry he says his sights on Gina and uses what he knows to persuade her to go along with his plan. Will these two finally find what they are looking for in each other? This book was written very good.
**********
5 Stars ByDee Archeron August 25, 2015
This story runs the gamut of the emotion scale from intense fear and terror to the heavenly joys of happiness and love.
Format: Kindle Edition
The telling of this story runs the gamut of the emotion scale from intense fear and terror to the heavenly joys of happiness and love. With each turn of the page, Ms. Gloag keeps the reader enthralled, eager to embrace the next clue, the next revelation. Both Ben and Gina had suffered deep traumatic events in their childhood that led them to build a steel wall around their hearts, swearing to NEVER let anyone to touch their heart, get close or to buy into the fable called love. Working through all this crippling pain, discovering their true selves and accepting the truth of their emotions provides a fantastic reading adventure. I was given a free copy in exchange for an honest review. Five Stars.
* * * * * *
Reviewed by LASR
The Brat by Sherry Gloag
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Genre: Contemporary, Suspense/Mystery
Length: Full Length (268 pgs)
Heat Level: sensual
Rating: 4.5 books
A book that starts with a funeral is usually a story of murder or serious crime. But not in the case of “The Brat”. An evil old woman is being buried. She was a drunken, drugged ex-whore-house owner who wrecked one main character’s life with physical and mental cruelty, and the other’s with abandonment. But beautiful, traumatized Gina Williams hopes that with the old lady’s death, Gina’s secret is buried forever. At the funeral we also meet the other main character, Ben Kouvaris, and, although neither he nor Gina have ever met, there is a common denominator – the old prostitute they’re burying. Ben Kouvaris is the son the old woman gave away when he was just ten years old, and Gina is the child the old woman abused and bought from the child’s mother to train as a prostitute. Ben, who she knows exists, is number one on the list of people Gina never wants to meet; her real mother who sold her is the second. Little does she know that Ben has his eye on her.
This is a story that weaves an intricate plot of two strong-willed personalities who wend their bumpy way between the UK and Greece. They both share childhood trauma yet both have been strengthened by the experience – Gina vows that no-one will ever again control her and Ben is used to having his own way. The pair meets up when Gina discovers Ben is the new owner of her publishing house. She immediately tries to move publisher because, once he discovers who she really is, she knows Ben can destroy her career. And the web becomes more entangled when Ben is determined to marry Gina, even though he believes love cannot be trusted, whilst Gina is bent on never marrying anyone. Her plans are for a solitary life with a baby conceived by IVF.
Shocking in the way it portrays abuse during childhood, this is a story of learning not only to trust and share again, but also at coming to terms with yourself. And more, it is about forgiving. When Gina realizes that Ben has pierced her battered heart and that she is a passionate woman, or when demanding, ruthless Ben discovers he possesses qualities he never knew he had, such as caring, loyalty and even loving, the plot is pure heart-wrenching. Yet watch the sparks fly when Ben suggests that their marriage will be one of convenience only. The pace thunders along and at times the book is difficult to put down because the unexpected is always around the corner.
With such rounded characters that immediately earn the reader’s sympathy, there is very little to criticize in this almost flawless book but I did have a problem initially with the bewildering array of characters: PA’s galore, helpers, assistants, lawyers, family members, a stalker, and I had to return to the beginning more than once to check names. It also didn’t help that Gina writes under the pseudonym of George Williamson, but perhaps I should just pay more attention. Gina’s weeping and fainting is, at times, somewhat wearing but, given the circumstances, it’s understandable she needs to fight her demons.
Ms. Gloag’s writing is stylish, gentle (given the subject-matter), almost poetic at times and she manages to engage the reader’s emotions with apparently little effort. On the whole this is an enjoyable non-traditional romance that needs more than a little concentration, and the unexpected ending is pure delight – it makes you want to go back to the beginning and start again. It’s highly recommendable.
* * * * * * * *
This book was amazing. It was the first one I have read of Sherry Gloag. She captures the horrors of childhood trauma terrifically. Watching Gina come to terms with everything, seeing her life in upheaval, and seeing her come out stronger once she faced it, is a testament to her resilience. For some, like me, it will definitely strike home with how true to life this is. Watching as Gina gets strong enough to let someone in, especially someone she thought of as an enemy, is such a transformation, This book was amazing. It was the first one I have read of Sherry Gloag. She captures the horrors of childhood trauma terrifically. Watching Gina come to terms with everything, seeing her life in upheaval, and seeing her come out stronger once she faced it, is a testament to her resilience. For some, like me, it will definitely strike home with how true to life this is. Watching as Gina gets strong enough to let someone in, especially someone she thought of as an enemy, is such a transformation, but I love how you got to see every step of her journey. It wasn't just, one day she is broken, one day she is fixed, and you, the reader, are left shaking your head in confusion. When Gina finally gets to meet her mom, I bawled like a baby, watching the agony both of these women have went through every day. For a mother, the guilt of knowing what she did to her child. For the child, to spend her life thinking her mother didn't love her or want her, which immediately made her undesirable and unlovable to find out that wasn't the case at all. Then watching her spread her wings with Ben is a memorable experience. You will not be able to put it down, I certainly couldn't
* * * * * *
Fire Pages -27th Sept 2010
How does an author make my very exclusive auto-purchase list? By defining a new romance. An author must write a book that moves me to the core. Create a title that takes me on a journey. Changes the habits of my heart. Gives me strength. Renews my hope. Reminds me that there is more than one kind of love.
Here are 3 reasons why Sherry Gloag has made my auto-purchase list.
(1) The Brat is flawless. Sherry Gloag creates three dimensional characters who have more than one hang up, more than one fear, more than one secret, more than one desire, and weaves their complicated relationships together like Parisian
Couture.
(2) Sherry is daring. She doesn’t hesitate to develop a story that touches on the darker side of life. Death. Jealousy. Hate. Fear. Pain. By fearlessly exploring these emotions, it makes the journey real, human, and reading about the rewards after
experiencing a hard fought struggle is that much more pleasurable.
(3) Sherry maintains her own voice. You can tell that The Brat is first and foremost a book that happens to have romantic parts, not a book dedicated to romance. Although this is her debut novel, she has stayed true to herself and her original
thoughts, and that uniqueness definitely shines through in her work.
Here are my auto-purchase list and the books that have changed me.
Emily Giffin – Something Borrowed, Something Blue
Philippa Gregory – The Other Boleyn Girl
Regina Hale Sutherland – The Queens of Woodlawn Avenue
Elizabeth Adler – Invitation to Provence
Sherry Gloag – The Brat
* * * * *
Fire Pages 28th Sept 2010
The shocker starts on page one. You are immediately thrown into a tense funeral. Ben Kouvaris openly admits that his dead mother was a drunk, a druggie, and a whore. He is hurt, angry and relieved at his mother’s death. Then you meet Gina Williams, the only other funeral attendee, and a woman who is equally satisfied to be rid of Ben’s mother. As you can see, this is not your typical romance book. Gloag immediately exposes us to the burdens Ben and Gina carry on their shoulders and in their hearts. Through their pain you will instantly feel the trust these characters are placing in your hands – their darkest thoughts, their deepest fears – and you quickly become lured into Gloag’s world. You will get to know
Ben and Gina, their family, and heir friends quite well. Gloag excels in developing rich characters that continuously pushes the story to new boundaries. If this is just the first few pages, you can imagine how much Gloag has in store for her readers.
The Brat is perfectly paced. The book never drags because there is a unique blend of mystery, intrigue, drama, romance, and passion. There is no way to predict what will happen next, and the surprises are always sweeter than what you have in
mind. I also enjoyed how Gloag weaves multiple facets of the heart – familial love, self love, romantic love – into her novel and I believe that is what makes the characters whole, what makes the story come alive. You are not just reading
about two people’s journey to sex. You are witnessing first hand how two people hearts have been taught to love.
The Brat is beyond amazing. I’ve never read anything like it. Gloag nailed this story to the ground: deeply developed characters, perfect pacing, mind blowing revelations revealed at the perfect time, intrigue and mystery that keeps your mind spinning, and a journey that will not be forgotten! Go get your copy today! The Brat is really this fantastic. Way to go Sherry!
* * * * * *
Dolce Amore March 19th 2012 - Reviewer:
Gina Williams is a hurt woman. Although she is now a famous writer, she had a traumatic childhood; her mother sold her to Anna Kouvaris, who used her as a prostitute when she was ten years old. Six years later, she finally ran away but when she heard that Anna was ill, she came back and took care of for her five years, until Anna died.
Ben Kouvaris feels attraction for Gina. When he finds out that his father needs a heart surgery and he won’t do it until he's married, Ben decides that his bride will be Gina. When he begins to discover what his mother did to her, he is horrified! She never bothered to know the child’s birth name, she always referred to the girl as The Brat.
Even before he falls in love with her, he decides to take care of her, to protect her; especially from the mother who sold her.
It's a wonderful story, so I highly recommend it. The characters are wonderful and the story well written. It makes you think about all the children adopted through private adoptions and what number had similar childhoods like Gina.
The only thing I felt missing from the story was something about all the time she stayed with Anna and about what happened after she ran away. The story starts from Anna’s funeral with nothing or almost nothing about her past. That’s why I can give it just 4 stars, but I will read other of Ms. Sherry Gloag’s books because I like her style.
* * * * * *
Amanda's ★★★★★ Review
Another great read by Sherry Gloag. The story of Gina and Ben is beyond breathtaking. This story will catch your attention and won't let it go. It will keep you wondering what's going to happen next until you finish the whole book. The details are wrote so well that you won't feel as though you've missed anything. You will definitely not be wondering why Gina or Ben act or feel the way they do. The book played through my head like I was there watching them. I definitely can't wait to read more by this author.
* * * * * *
Single Titles Star Rating: 5 stars 7th Oct 2010
Sensuality : sweet
"A heart wrenching story about a woman who has gained strength by overcoming the horrors of her childhood and vowed never to allow another to control her."
At his estranged mother’s funeral, Ben Kourvaris sees Gina Williams and wants to know what her attachment is to the
woman who sent him away at age ten. Gina tries her best to keep her distance from Ben, but when he buys the publishing company of her books it makes it difficult to steer clear of him. Gina has a past that could destroy her career, the more he learns about the elusive author the more he realizes he wants to have her as his wife, the only problem is Gina does not want to be married, ever.
A heart wrenching story about a woman who has gained strength by overcoming the horrors of her childhood and vowed never to allow another to control her. When Ben explains the arrangements of a one year marriage in order to gain control of his ailing father’s company, something about the loyalty he shows pierces through Gina’s damaged heart. As they
begin to open up to one another, Gina realizes that the next part of her journey is learning to trust again.
The Brat is a written with such delicacy to Gina’s past that it envelops you into this engaging story. I thought it was memorable and a story that makes you think about it again and again once it is finished. A real treasure.
* * * *
Romance in the Backseat 4th Oct 2010
Review by Pepper
4.5/5 Heartbeats
The Brat by Sherry Gloag is an intriguing and very moving story about Gina, a trouble young woman, suffering
from the psychological after-effects of child abuse. She struggles to overcome her fears and live her dream life as a wealthy, successful author. One who has everything she needs or wants. Or so she tells herself. But throw Ben into the mix, and Gina’s dream life implodes into her worst nightmare. Afraid to love or be loved, she hides in her writing and stubborn pride until circumstances force her to face not only her fears, but her own untapped passions.
Ben’s life also is complicated by childhood traumas, and he’s plagued with memories he doesn’t understand. At the age of ten, Ben’s divorced mother sent him away to his father who was a stranger. The move was a traumatic one for Ben and has left him believing love can’t be trusted. So Ben has grown into a cold, practical man, who keeps his emotions tightly locked away. He doesn’t want in marriage and isn’t looking for romance. Until he runs into Gina.
Although, The Brat touches on some of the darker aspects of society, including child abuse and the illegal practice of selling of young children, Gloag handles these issues with amazing sensitivity. I felt immediately sympathetic to Gina and suffered with her as she struggled to overcome the problems caused by her abusive childhood. I understood her need to succeed in her chosen career, as well her tendency to fight her private demons by refusing to acknowledge them. And I could easily
imagine how her world could turn inside out when faced with Ben Kouvaris, a determined Greek whose assets not only include wealth and family reputation, but physical characteristics reminiscent of the gods of his ancestors. In Ben, Gloag
has created the kind of man few women can resist. But then, why would any woman want to?
Ben’s character is as complex as Gina’s. A very rich and successful man, Ben rarely gets no for an answer. And when he does, he doesn’t listen. He’s charming, demanding, relentless, and determined to get what he wants. The fact that Gina isn’t what he planned on wanting doesn’t keep him from pursuing her for his own ends. But Ben’s deeply buried feelings can’t resist his father’s devotion or Gina’s honest vulnerability, coupled with her surprising strength. I especially liked the fact that Ben isn’t a hero. He starts out as selfish, cold, and practical. I really enjoyed watching him change and grow into
someone Gina can’t resist.
The Brat is filled with fresh and enchanting characters, delightful touches of humor to offset the darker glimpses of child
abuse and abandonment, and plots twists that keep the reader on his or her toes from beginning to end. Not the typical, run-of-the-mill romance, The Brat is a honest and very moving story of how the human spirit can overcome any obstacle
to achieve the deepest longings of the heart. Once read, The Brat will not be easily forgotten. I strongly recommend this book.
- Pepper
*****
tony-paul book reviews 8th Oct 2010
Star Rating: 4 Stars
(The full review is available at tony paul book reviews [link above])
MY OPINION: This isn’t my usual type of book to review and it’s a such an involved story, I doubt I’ve given it justice with my synopsis.
The relationships in the story are so woven together, it’s difficult to separate them for a simple description. The Brat
starts out like a mystery but it’s not long before it becomes much more than that--a testament against child abuse of the worst kind: child prostitution. Anna Kouvaris’ one act of love for her son—sending him to his father after he is nearly molested—is also the worst cruelty imaginable, as she buys a child to take his place and forces that child into the same
position. The story is also about sins of omission and the fact that not acting when one is aware of a crime is as immoral as the crime itself. Ben is depicted as a strong-willed, tenacious businessman, with that one flaw in his psyche, his belief his mother didn’t love him. Gina is also just as strong in her own way, but her independence comes from a vow never to be under anyone’s domination again. Marrying into an Old World Greek family—even for the wrong reasons—severely tries her promise to herself since those men, with the best intentions, tend to dominate and smother their women to protect them.
Whenever she feels herself experiencing love for Ben and his family, she considers she is weakening. The discovery of the identity of the mysterious stalker doesn’t solve their problems but instead makes new ones as two people, unknowingly scarred by the same event struggle to come to terms with their past lives and any future they may have with each other.
The Brat is a story about trust betrayed, love found, lives nearly ruined and redeemed. It shows how a heinous crime can affect even those who have no knowledge of it. It’s a mystery, a love story, and a testament as well as a plea for abused children everywhere.
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Tony-Paul Vissage rated it 4 of 5 stars Oct 10th 2011
This books starts out like a mystery but it’s not long before it becomes more than that. It’s a testament against child abuse of the worst kind: child prostitution. Anna Kouvaris’ one act of love for her son—sending him to his father after he is nearly molested—is also the worst cruelty imaginable, as she buys a child to take his place and forces that child into the same position. The story is also about sins of omission and the fact that not acting when one is aware of a crime is as evil as the This books starts out like a mystery but it’s not long before it becomes more than that. It’s a testament against child abuse of the worst kind: child prostitution. Anna Kouvaris’ one act of love for her son—sending him to his father after he is nearly molested—is also the worst cruelty imaginable, as she buys a child to take his place and forces that child into the same position. The story is also about sins of omission and the fact that not acting when one is aware of a crime is as evil as the crime itself. Ben is depicted as a strong-willed, tenacious businessman, with that one flaw in his psyche, his belief his mother didn’t love him. Gina is also just as strong in her own way, but her independence comes from a vow never to be under anyone’s domination again. Marrying into an Old World Greek family—even for the wrong reasons—severely tried her promise to herself since those men tend to dominate and smother their women to protect them. Whenever she feels herself experiencing love for Ben and his family, she considers she is weakening. Both she and Ben have to learn to compromise and realize that letting someone in and having them care enough to offer support doesn’t indicate weakness but strength because it shows trust. The discovery of the identity of the mysterious stalker doesn’t solve their problems but instead makes new ones as two people, unknowingly scarred by the same event struggle to come to terms with their lives and each other.
This is a story about trust betrayed, love found, lives nearly ruined and resurrected. It’s a mystery, a love story, and a testament as well as a plea for abused children everywhere.
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5 Stars - Interesting Read
ByPatricia Blevinson June 19, 2015
Format: Paperback
ARC FOR AN HONEST REVIEW
The story of Gina and Ben is interesting. Ben is the son of an evil woman and Gina was the care giver of that same evil woman. When Ben sees Gina at the funeral he is attracted to Gina. Ben is a millionaire and Gina is a well known children's author. Gina is hoping her past was buried along with Em. Ben is the new owner of the publishing company that publishes Gina's books. When Ben's father tells him he must find a woman to marry he says his sights on Gina and uses what he knows to persuade her to go along with his plan. Will these two finally find what they are looking for in each other? This book was written very good.
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5 Stars ByDee Archeron August 25, 2015
This story runs the gamut of the emotion scale from intense fear and terror to the heavenly joys of happiness and love.
Format: Kindle Edition
The telling of this story runs the gamut of the emotion scale from intense fear and terror to the heavenly joys of happiness and love. With each turn of the page, Ms. Gloag keeps the reader enthralled, eager to embrace the next clue, the next revelation. Both Ben and Gina had suffered deep traumatic events in their childhood that led them to build a steel wall around their hearts, swearing to NEVER let anyone to touch their heart, get close or to buy into the fable called love. Working through all this crippling pain, discovering their true selves and accepting the truth of their emotions provides a fantastic reading adventure. I was given a free copy in exchange for an honest review. Five Stars.
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Reviewed by LASR
The Brat by Sherry Gloag
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Genre: Contemporary, Suspense/Mystery
Length: Full Length (268 pgs)
Heat Level: sensual
Rating: 4.5 books
A book that starts with a funeral is usually a story of murder or serious crime. But not in the case of “The Brat”. An evil old woman is being buried. She was a drunken, drugged ex-whore-house owner who wrecked one main character’s life with physical and mental cruelty, and the other’s with abandonment. But beautiful, traumatized Gina Williams hopes that with the old lady’s death, Gina’s secret is buried forever. At the funeral we also meet the other main character, Ben Kouvaris, and, although neither he nor Gina have ever met, there is a common denominator – the old prostitute they’re burying. Ben Kouvaris is the son the old woman gave away when he was just ten years old, and Gina is the child the old woman abused and bought from the child’s mother to train as a prostitute. Ben, who she knows exists, is number one on the list of people Gina never wants to meet; her real mother who sold her is the second. Little does she know that Ben has his eye on her.
This is a story that weaves an intricate plot of two strong-willed personalities who wend their bumpy way between the UK and Greece. They both share childhood trauma yet both have been strengthened by the experience – Gina vows that no-one will ever again control her and Ben is used to having his own way. The pair meets up when Gina discovers Ben is the new owner of her publishing house. She immediately tries to move publisher because, once he discovers who she really is, she knows Ben can destroy her career. And the web becomes more entangled when Ben is determined to marry Gina, even though he believes love cannot be trusted, whilst Gina is bent on never marrying anyone. Her plans are for a solitary life with a baby conceived by IVF.
Shocking in the way it portrays abuse during childhood, this is a story of learning not only to trust and share again, but also at coming to terms with yourself. And more, it is about forgiving. When Gina realizes that Ben has pierced her battered heart and that she is a passionate woman, or when demanding, ruthless Ben discovers he possesses qualities he never knew he had, such as caring, loyalty and even loving, the plot is pure heart-wrenching. Yet watch the sparks fly when Ben suggests that their marriage will be one of convenience only. The pace thunders along and at times the book is difficult to put down because the unexpected is always around the corner.
With such rounded characters that immediately earn the reader’s sympathy, there is very little to criticize in this almost flawless book but I did have a problem initially with the bewildering array of characters: PA’s galore, helpers, assistants, lawyers, family members, a stalker, and I had to return to the beginning more than once to check names. It also didn’t help that Gina writes under the pseudonym of George Williamson, but perhaps I should just pay more attention. Gina’s weeping and fainting is, at times, somewhat wearing but, given the circumstances, it’s understandable she needs to fight her demons.
Ms. Gloag’s writing is stylish, gentle (given the subject-matter), almost poetic at times and she manages to engage the reader’s emotions with apparently little effort. On the whole this is an enjoyable non-traditional romance that needs more than a little concentration, and the unexpected ending is pure delight – it makes you want to go back to the beginning and start again. It’s highly recommendable.
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