Reviews
Mirror Of My Soul
Erotic/BDSM Contemporary Romance
© Copyright 2006 - All Rights Reserved
Just Erotic Romance Reviews
Reviewed by Julie Esparza
May 2006
Rating: Gold Star Award
http://www.justeroticromancereviews.com
Mirror of My Soul is a complex emotional tale. Stripping away the emotions and layers of the characters Joey W. Hill demonstrates her fantastic ability to develop characters and bring them to life on the pages of her story. Even though this is a continuation of another story, it could be read alone. I feel, however, to truly understand the growth of the characters reading the previous book, Ice Queen, will help. Other books in this series would be of interest but are not required for a deep understanding of the plot. The plot is intricate, keeping the reader on the edge of the seat. Becoming emotionally attached to the characters I turned each page with baited breath. At certain points I thought the plot would go one way and Ms. Hill, with the flick of her fingers, sent the characters in an unexpected but more interesting direction. That led to unexpected but tantalizing twist and turns. An amazing use of allegories help, bring Marguerite’s character to a brilliant culmination. Tyler’s character, even though he is the more whole of the two characters, grows as well. His patience, undying love, and strength come through the unexpected responses Marguerite provides to him. She keeps his character from becoming a cookie cutter character of the alpha male. The setting of the book from the Zone, to the top of a building, or a patio, provides a rich texture to the story. You feel in the place and you really don’t want to leave.
The raw emotional pain of Marguerite requires a warning to those who may have problems dealing with sexual abuse of children. Yet reading those painful memories and how Marguerite overcomes them and grows with Tyler’s love shows the depth of their connection. Tyler pushes Marguerite to feel in new ways that push her towards becoming a whole character. Marguerite’s strength is the core of her personality even as she is a broken shell. Her intelligence is never questioned. Only her emotional health comes into question. At many points I felt that Marguerite may be too broken for Ms. Hill to fix. I didn’t know if she would be able to make Marguerite whole by the end of the book. As usual the secondary characters provide humor, side commentary and are excellent means of moving the plot along.
The sex is super nova of blazing orgasmic heat. It deals with some very heavy BDSM but loving scenes and that makes it all the more explosive. The furious, intense, sizzling sex is as powerful as it is passionate. I was jelly at some points. The beautiful display of Marguerite as both a submissive and Mistress was burning hot blaze of emotions. Because of the outstanding character development, the harsh but rewarding storyline and the passionate loving, Mirror of My Soul easily receives a Gold Star.
Erotic Escapades
Reviewed by Ophelia
May 2006
Rating: Crystal Tattoo Award
http://erotic-escapades.com
Mirror of My Soul by Joey W. Hill is an outstanding novel that transcends all barriers to touch the heart and soul of the reader. I was spellbound from the very first page, reading until dawn to find out if the lovers would survive the tests of their love. Tyler is an extraordinary man who took my breath way with his unwavering devotion to Marguerite. His strong personality and charisma endear him to the reader. Marguerite reveals hidden layers of herself as the book progress and Tyler earns her trust. She exposes her inner demons, banishing them away, and
brings light to her world with her love for Tyler.
Erotic and intense are just two words to describe the connection between Tyler and Marguerite. Their love grows stronger with every turn of the page. Sensual delights abound when Marguerite begins to trust in her feelings. The bond between these lovers is so beautiful it is almost painful to look at. Marguerite learns that she can be a Mistress and a slave at the same time. BDSM is a cornerstone of this book, allowing the characters to express themselves and achieve sexual fulfillment knowing that their Master or Mistress will keep them safe.
Mirror of My Soul is going on my bookshelf next to Ice Queen the first part of Tyler and Marguerite’s story. Not only does Ms. Hill give the reader rich vivid main characters, she also creates a multitude of secondary characters that add to the foundation of the story. While this is a book that can be read by itself, to experience the full power this book has, read Ice Queen first.
Ms. Hill has outdone herself, creating a masterpiece that will always hold a special place in my heart.
Romantic Times Magazine
Reviewed by Leigh Rowling
January 2007
Rating: Top Pick! 4 1/2 Stars
www.romantictimes.com
A sequel to Hill's Ice Queen [4 star review, December 2006 issue], this page-turner continues the characters' stories while addressing how people heal after going through traumas. This deep, probing story should not be missed.
RJoyfully Reviewed
Reviewed by Talia Ricci
April 2006
Rating: Recommended Read
www.joyfullyreviewed.com
Mirror of My Soul by Joey W. Hill took every boundary I had concerning BDSM and shattered it. This book is the much anticipated continuation of Ice Queen, the story of Tyler and Marguerite. Tyler is one of the most loving Dominants I have ever come across. The way he pushed Marguerite without breaking her was a sight to behold. As much as Tyler was light, Marguerite was dark. Dreadfully abused and a pro at engaging defense mechanisms, Marguerite was simply afraid; afraid of loving Tyler, afraid of being hurt, and afraid of hurting another. I wanted to reach out and grab her, put my arms around her, and comfort her myself.
Utterly enthralled and stunned at Ms. Hill’s portrayal of abuse and the darkness surrounding such vile acts, I was simultaneously speechless at her portrayal of love in all its redeeming glory and absolution. Mirror of My Soul is the story of forgiveness and the roads that must be traveled for it to be achieved. As I read the final word, I felt a calmness within me knowing that, at last, Tyler and Marguerite were at peace with themselves, each other, and their pasts. That is the reason I read, and will continue to read, books written by Joey W. Hill.
Author Feedback - Lynne Connolly
www.lynneconnolly.com
“Marvelous depth of character, brilliant depiction of atmosphere and place. I absolutely loved it.” Author Lynne Connolly
Author Feedback - Judith Rochelle
www.judithrochelle.com
Joey, I have to tell you I was a reader many, many years before I became writer, and Marguerite and Tyler’s story is the most hauntingly beautiful, well written love story I have ever read. I find myself reading parts of them over and over again. And the moment at their wedding when she gives him the collar to place around her neck had me in tears. You have a real gift. My Joey Hill collection is growing daily.
Fallen Angels Reviews
Reviewed by Jacque
July 2006
Rating: 5 Angels and Recommended Read
www.fallenangelsreviews.com
Joey Hill has written another powerful love story with Mirror of My Soul. I could not put this book down. I was immediately absorbed into Marguerite and Tyler’s world and I could not rest until I found out their fate. These are two persons who challenge each other and keep the reader on her toes with their every move. I could not figure out which turn the story would take and I found myself amazed at how beautifully Ms. Hill wrote the main characters’ pain and happiness. I highly recommend this story for those who love a powerful romance.
NovelSpot
Reviewed by Maitresse
June 2006
Rating: 5 Stars
http://novelspot.net
Personally, I feel that the essential conflict in this story was driven by character and plot and not sexual tension. In fact--and I do not mean this as an insult--if the sex were edited out of the book, if it were edited to about 2/3 of its current length, it would qualify as literature. Like many e-books, Mirror of My Soul is cross genre erotica, but not a standard read designed for someone looking for a quick light yarn; it is a highly explicit read that is not erotica alone, but also suspense with even a bit of thriller thrown in. Furthermore, there is not only the BDSM, but also a dark center of child abuse that is confronted here, a coming to terms with self-destructive issues that I am happier to read about in fiction than in a case history or on a newspaper's front page. Again, Mirror of My Soul is not a light read, but it is a passionate one that once you read it will haunt you in days to come.
Coffee Time Romance
Reviewed by Susan White
June 2006
Rating: 5 Stars
www.coffeetimeromance.com
I cannot rave enough about this book! My emotions were totally engaged and I could not put the book down. The sex scenes are so hot they made me utterly breathless. Yet, the emotions that the story evokes have an intensity that transcends the sexual focus of the BDSM lifestyle. I adored the characters and wanted to read more, even after two full stories about them. While it is necessary to read Ice Queen before this book in order to take in the full impact of the plotline, the experience is completely worth it. I had to give this amazing book the highest rating I could for my own peace of mind. If you enjoy tales of BDSM that include great emotional moments, then run out and buy this book as soon as possible!
Euro-Reviews
Reviewed by Annie
June 2006
Rating: 5 Stars
http://euroreviews.eu.funpic.de
As excellent a book as is Ice Queen, possibly Mirror of My Self might even be better. Certainly, read as a twin-pack, these books pack an incredibly powerful punch. Granted, the BDSM lifestyle contained herein may be too graphic for some readers, as will certain revelations contained about the protagonists’ past histories, and references to an earlier volume in the series which hinged on serial killings. However, for readers who are strong of heart and stomach and want a set of very moving books that will keep them reading far into the night, and afterward thinking deeply on the topics revealed here, I can’t recommend these two books highly enough.
Euro-Reviews
Reviewed by Tracy
June 2006
Rating: 5 Stars
http://euroreviews.eu.funpic.de
...an amazing, moving, intense story and I did not want it to finish!
I was so pleased this story continued from where the previous book The Ice Queen left off as Marguerite and Tyler are fantastic characters, and they will draw you into their world, and connect with you from page one. Although both this book and the prequel can be read as single stories, I recommend you do read both purely because the characters are profound, and it is truly worth finding out how both Marguerite and Tyler started out. In doing so, the reader will benefit from the author's keen eye, and seemingly natural ability to create deep, complex characters you care for; something Joey W. Hill is very good at, and because of this it's a treat to read.
Not only is it emotional, and passionate, the pace is timely and suspenseful. I would also like to point out that some very brave issues were raised by the author through her characters, and I must commend Ms. Hill for carrying this out with such a professional approach. Not everyone has the guts to write about such 'delicate' BDSM matters, and I am pleased to say that although this is a fictional story, some parts of the research are very factual and have been researched thoroughly. Mirror of My Soul is an amazing, moving, intense story and I did not want it to finish! How it ends, however, is definitely worth finding out…
Sensual Reads
Reviewed by Tee
May 2006
http://sensualreads.net
Mirror of My Soul is the continuation of Ice Queen and can stand alone on its own. Although this book is BDSM, I sense a quality of greatness. Joey Hill has given us hope and love as well as complete forgiveness. I absolutely loved this book and I can’t wait to get my hands on others by this talented author.
Romance Junkies
Reviewed by Chrissy Dionne
April 2006
Rating: 5 Stars
www.romancejunkies.com
MIRROR OF MY SOUL has touched me in such a way that I know I’ll never forget the characters. The events of Marguerite’s life and the way they have molded her into this powerful presence in the universe are both horrifying and fascinating. Despite everything, Marguerite made herself a better person, a protector of others, and genuinely cares about the well being of those around her. Tyler’s been through his own share of horrifying events and that alone helps him to understand some of what Marguerite’s going through, but it’s not enough and he does seek help when needed. It takes a strong man to admit when he needs help with the woman he loves, and he does it so openly and honestly that he’s perfect for Marguerite. On a more personal note, I’m thrilled that Ms. Hill spent some time mentioning the dangers of autoerotic asphyxiation. It’s not commonly talked about, or spoken of only in whispers, but it’s a practice that does kill and definitely needed to be addressed! Kudos Ms. Hill, you did a beautiful job fulfilling my every expectation with MIRROR OF MY SOUL, sequel to ICE QUEEN, and I hope to see even more books in this series.
Ecataromance Reviews
Reviewed by LindseyAnn Denson
May 2006
Rating: 5 Stars
www.ecataromance.com
Mirror of My Soul is an exquisite ruby: full of warmth, emotional depth, sharp pain and wondrous pleasure. An intensely moving story!
Review In the continuation of her fantastic novel Ice Queen, Joey W. Hill opens Mirror of My Soul right where the previous book left off. With the realization that, even tied and restrained Tyler has Mastered her, Marguerite feels shocked, her whole world off balance. Her usual method of gaining that precarious stability back is running away, but Tyler is there at every turn, never allowing the reconstruction of her walls. As the interesting and heartrending facts of His Marguerite's life come into the light, Tyler finds himself even more willing to do what it takes to save her, even if it takes more than what he has to give. Tyler just didn't expect that she would go to such drastic measures to save herself.
When Marguerite's abuser gets out of jail, defiling her sanctuary, nearly beating her friend to death, and kidnapping the daughter of a client and friend, Marguerite has to decide which means more: her harrowing fear and strong walls... or saving the life of a child. The choice for her is not as simple as it once was. Now, Marguerite has something to live for. The journey to that choice is what makes Mirror of My Soul such an astonishingly brilliant tale. Marguerite and Tyler are so multi-dimensional, and drew me deeply into their thoughts and emotions. It was difficult to read the hardships, as it was meant to be, but the feeling that I was let in on something secret and horrible left my eyes glued to the screen. But what left me breathless was Marguerite's willingness to explore herself, dark and bright, as well as Tyler's depth of connection to her. Their relationship is the most unique I've read, and the jagged beauty brought tears to my eyes.
Joey W. Hill creates worlds and people and situations so well that I get lost in them until the last period! Mirror of My Soul is a shining example of that, and a magnificent achievement, worthy of adulation and respect!
LoveRomances and More
Reviewed by Danny
April 2006
Rating: 5 Stars
www.loveromancesandmore.com
The Story of Tyler and Marguerite that started with Ice Queen continues…
This reviewer anxiously awaited the sequel to Ice Queen and she wasn’t disappointed. With Mirror of My Soul, Ms. Hill wrote a real masterpiece and it was worth the wait. Tyler and Marguerite’s story is a very intense and complex one, which will stay with you for quite awhile.
The readers also meet several characters from Ms. Hill’s earlier books again like Mac, Violet and Leila. It’s always fun to meet good old friends again.
Mirror of My Soul is a very emotional rollercoaster ride and this is a story that you won’t forget so fast. It’s wonderful to see that real love can overcome all obstacles and heal the wounds. This reviewer really enjoyed Mirror of My Soul as well as Ice Queen and can highly recommend both books!
Colorful Reviews
Reviewed by Solaine
April 2006
http://www.colorfulreviews.com
Mirror of My Soul took me on a powerful emotional journey. I’d read Ice Queen and anxiously awaited the sequel. I was not disappointed.
I do not expect many erotic romance novels, especially ebooks, to be full of literary depth or to leave a lasting impression. Many are fluffy tales, a quick candy fix that I enjoy to leisurely pass the time or take a break from life responsibilities. Mirror of My Soul goes beyond a superficial “Romantica” read and is a rare gem among erotic romances both in print and ebook. It engages all senses, providing more than a quick stroke story. It is sexy and passionate written with the seductive quality of a poet’s voice. Ms. Hill's beautiful way with words, impressive plot and evocative characters managed to reach inside my heart and draw out tears of redemption and healing. In this story she managed to take us full circle, showing us the most evil and beautiful of humankind. I thank her for sharing her vision and talent in Mirror of My Soul.
Road to Romance
Reviewed by Julie Bryan
www.roadtoromance.ca
I really liked the very beginning where Joey Hill explains what is going on so that if you haven’t read the first story, you will still understand what the issues are so far with Marguerite and Tyler. I found myself fascinated with what was going on, and couldn’t force myself to put it down, even at 1:00 in the morning! I kept telling myself… just one more page, and before I knew it I was finished and wishing for more. “Mirror of My Soul” is not a light hearted romance that you can read and forget. It can make you uncomfortable at times because of what is happening between Marguerite and Tyler. I think that’s a sign of a good author when they are able to create that feeling and still get you to read the book and enjoy it. The characters are fascinating, completely different from what I thought they were going to be in the beginning of the story. “Mirror of My Soul” is a dark, captivating story that I couldn’t put down and that shouldn’t be missed.
