"Complex, decadent, intricately layered intrigue!"

I received an Advance Reader Copy for The Game written by Vanessa Fewings and voluntarily reviewed this book. This is the second installment of a very intriguing story. Both characters come into being in the real world, having been shaped by a singular event during their childhoods. Both have pasts they need to put to rest. One is Tobias Wilder, head of a billion-dollar-tech empire, owner of the Wilder Museum, and also suspected infamous art thief, known as “Icon.” The other is the one person on a mission to catch said thief, forensic art specialist, Zara Leighton. And she is hot on Icon’s trail, finding herself unable to commit fully to the wholly attractive phenomenon that is Tobias because his actions as well as his mysterious past is turning out to possess a provenance just as shady as some of the alleged Old Masters’ art she has examined.

The author describes a very decadent art-owners’ world, where Tobias is utterly comfortable, but it is also a world where trust, loyalty, and devotion to altruistic pursuits could come with a heavy price tag. This story is very complex, rich with art-history details and anecdotes and just as many real-life gray-area situations, encountered by both Zara and Tobias in this book, The Game.

Tobias and Zara and back and better than ever. The second book in the ICON trilogy has set a new bar for the series, and I can't wait to see how it concludes with THE PRIZE. Vanessa Fewings does an excellent job of incorporating an over-the-top sexy couple with the suspense she weaves in this book. Highly recommend!

I was very excited to start this new series by Fewings but sadly it didn’t work in my favor. I had a hard time connecting with the characters and the story wasn’t able to hold my interest. I’ve read another series by this author which I enjoyed and will continue on with that series.

Things have heated up. Zara and Tobias have had the world to roam and treasure to hunt down. This was steamy hot erotic adventure on a high-stakes hunt for a treasure stolen and hearts laid bare. This world of money, influence, greed, illusions, corruption, lies/deceit, secrets. Zara finds that her world has been turned up side down. Do she follow the rules or her heart? Can she risk it all for the truth? The dance between Zara and Tobias was almost like a smooth, well planned chess game. The second book in this trilogy steps up the intrigue, drama, sensuality.

This book wasn't for me. I really wanted to like it because I liked The Chase and wanted to see what happens next. I think Tobias and Zaras interaction with one another is throwing me off with the storyline. It was a lot of back and forth regards to Zara telling Tobias he should turn himself in and the next she wants his help finding her lost paintings. I think at 42% I really started to struggle with this book. The interest wasn't there for me and I started skim to the end unfortunately. I wasn't believing in Zara and Tobias' relationship anymore. I was also getting annoyed with Zara saying "oh, no" quite a bit. So I'm stopping with this book in the trilogy.

4.5 Stars

I am at a loss as to how to review this book.

Was it great? Yes, it was. There were a couple of small things that I am not sure I was totally on board with, and one little thing that seemed out of character for Zara, but nothing major and I see the reason for the author's choice.

Did you learn more about Tobias and Zara? Yes, you definitely did. And, their relationship certainly grows and evolves.

Did it further their relationship? Yes, it did. They are definitely not in the same place at the end of this book as they were at the end of the 1st one.

Did it take turns you will NOT see coming? Oh, it so did that, this definitely happened.

Was it well written and engaging? Yes, it was. You are so drawn to the characters, and to the story, that you don't want to put it down.

Is being specific about any of this a super huge spoiler? Yup.

So, I have literally nothing to say as I would not want to ruin this for another reader.

Go, read the first one, be enthralled by this one, and wait on the edge of your seat for the 3rd installment. To tell you anything else would spoil it.

I recommend this title.

I'm posting my review to Goodreads and Amazon! I'll have to get the links once I get my reviews up!

4.5 stars! The Game, book 2 (3). A whirlwind secret affair & high-stakes game of stolen treasures, seduction, greed, illusions!


“My life was carved into two parts, before Wilder and after him, with each careful step leading me towards this complex, enigmatic man with lines of right and wrong blurring.”

Books in The ICON trilogy should be read in order:
Book 1: The Chase
Book 2: The Game
Book 3: The Prize

In The Chase, book 1 recent college graduate and art forensic investigator Zara Elizabeth Leighton was pulled into a secret affair with a client, renowned art collector, inventor and heir to a fortune, the aloof and mercurial Tobias William Wilder, Toby aka Wilder. All while a sophisticated art thief wreaked havoc on the art world casting suspicions on everyone.

The Game, book 2 opens up to an explosive reunion and Wilder and Zara’s undefined on-again-off-again affair continuing. Controlled by the whims of a hot-cold Wilder and ignited by an, at times, emotional and impulsive Zara.

Determined on clearing her family name, Zara must learn her enemies while trying to hold her own against the larger-than-life Wilder. With everyone chasing the art thief, Icon they soon find themselves caught in a menacing game of excess, betrayal, greed, vengeance and redemption.

TOBIAS WILLIAM WILDER, Toby: American/30 years/Inventor/Art collector/Heir/$$$$/Dk blond hair/Gold-green eyes/Tattos/Orphan/6’2”.
Seven words to describe Tobias William Wilder, Toby: Enigmatic, possessive, aloof, mysterious, commanding, charismatic and unpredictable.

ZARA ELIZABETH LEIGHTON: British/23 years/Art Forensic Investigator/Auburn hair/Brown eyes/5’6”.
Seven words to describe Zara Elizabeth Leighton: Smart, reflective, curious, stubborn, impulsive, perceptive and strong.

The Game, told from Zara’s POV, allowing Toby to remain an enigma, is an intriguing whirlwind affair high on mystery, suspense and danger. It ends with truth framed by a narrow escape leading right to book 3, The Prize for the conclusion of their saga.

A high-stakes game of stolen treasures, treacherous illusions, leveraged secrets and buried truths!

“Our s*x melded together in this sensual dance, my toes curling with this unrelenting erotic tension, like a bird in a cage waiting to fly free.”

A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.

Zara, art forensic investigator, has traveled from London to Los Angles in pursue of Icon, an art thief. While in LA, she encounters with Tobias wilder, the man that turned her world upside down. Zara is struggling with accepting who he is. Tobias is intense and seems to know her more than she knows herself. Unable to resist him, she's pulled back into his world. Zara finds herself having to choose between her heart and capturing Icon. As she sorts out her feelings, she uncovers secrets, some that can clear her family's name, and others that could be dangerous.

The Game started slowly, but once it picked up, I couldn't put it down. There are some nail biting moments. I was worried for Zara and Tobias. These parts had me turning page after page, wanting to know what was going to happen next. There were also moments when I was swooning over Tobias. This guy is close to perfect; he's amazing. He's good looking, intelligent, and perceptive, knows how to make a woman feel sexy and special. I love how he treats Zara with love and respect, and how he makes her feel. Oh, and that scene with the VR glasses had me fanning myself. Tobias sure made tech hot as hell. We see a new side of Zara. Some of it may seem out of character, but it could also be because of her new found confidence and determination. I liked this new Zara, though, she did infuriate me a few times. I literally wanted to shake some sense into her, for not listening. The ending left me wanting more, and I have to wait a whole year for the conclusion... longest wait ever.

The Game is a great romance with suspense set in the the art world. I'm still amazed with all the art knowledge that Vanessa Fewings put in this book. She brings art to life, much like her characters, making it an important ingredient to the story. Even though, it's the second book in the series, it still can be read without having to read the first one. A new reader wouldn't get lost. Though, I don't know why anyone wouldn't want to read The Chase.

4.5 stars

Are you kidding me?  I knew there would be a cliffhanger, but this one was not what I was expecting.  Once again, there was passion, suspense, and intrigue.  The chemistry between Tobia and Zara was combustible.  Once again, I was confused on the ICON's and Tobias's motivates.  I do not want to say too much.  If you are looking for a series that will keep you on the edge of your seat, you need to read the ICON trilogy.  


☆☆☆☆☆
I give this book 5 out of 5 stars.
Recommend this book? Yes! Author? Yes!
Read more from this author? Yes!

Happy Reading!
Melissa

The Game took me on an unexpected wild ride! The chase for Icon was so exciting and mysterious that it truly took my breath away. I literally found myself holding my breath a few times, anxious at how the next scene would unfold. And the way Zara and Tobias's relationship developed further was so sexy and alluring, but heartfelt.

If I talk too much more about the story, I'll give spoilers, and that's not my style. But I genuinely can not wait for book 3, The Icon, because that ending was crazy good and not something I saw coming! I'm not sure what else to say to do it justice, but I do suggest you take a chance on this series. You will not regret it.

This review is much shorter than I normally write, but I feel like it tells you enough, without telling you too much. 5 stars just isn't enough.

Good Lord! I need to catch my breath!! I was INSANELY hooked on the first book in this series, The Chase (Get on this NOW if you haven't read it!), and could not start the second book fast enough!! Following the cliffhanger ending in the first book, I absolutely could not get enough of Tobias and Zara and the combustible chemistry between them. This novel was filled with intrigue, suspense, adventure and passion and was such a brilliant addition to the trilogy. I am now DYING in anticipation for the third book!

Following the cliffhanger ending in book one, The Game starts off a week later as London art investigator Zara Leighton is left reeling from the shocking revelations in book one. She must now chase after her lover, Tobias Wilder, as clues led her to believe that the charismatic and reclusive Billionaire and Icon, the word's most elusive and slickest art thief are one and the same. But can she reconcile her duty to capture him to do what is right with her forbidden need to be with the man who consumes her - body, mind and soul?

I was absolutely consumed by this book. I loved Zara and Tobias passion and deep feelings for one another and the fact that despite their apparent mistrust of one another, their obvious feelings of adoration and obsession could not be denied. I love that Fewings was able to aptly depict Zara's misgivings about Icon. On one hand she had a strict code of right and wrong as an Art Investigator, but on a personal level was torn up about losing the man she loved. Likewise Tobias and his innate sense of justice needed to balance his love and loyalty to Zara and his need to right the wrongs of the past at the hands of a criminal mastermind.

In addition, similarly to the first book, the real standout in The Game was the art itself. It took center stage as you can't help but get lost in the story and the history of each painting and gallery. Ms. Fewings has a remarkable gift in that she can paint a picture for her readers with a myriad of colors not only highlighting her exceptional ability as a writer but also highlighting her seamless ability to weave history and drama to transport you right alongside her characters. All in this was a fantastic addition to the series and I can not wait for the conclusion later this year! Bravo!

Good Lord! I need to catch my breath!! I was INSANELY hooked on the first book in this series, The Chase (Get on this NOW if you haven't read it!), and could not start the second book fast enough!! Following the cliffhanger ending in the first book, I absolutely could not get enough of Tobias and Zara and the combustible chemistry between them. This novel was filled with intrigue, suspense, adventure and passion and was such a brilliant addition to the trilogy. I am now DYING in anticipation for the third book!

Following the cliffhanger ending in book one, The Game starts off a week later as London art investigator Zara Leighton is left reeling from the shocking revelations in book one. She must now chase after her lover, Tobias Wilder, as clues led her to believe that the charismatic and reclusive Billionaire and Icon, the word's most elusive and slickest art thief are one and the same. But can she reconcile her duty to capture him to do what is right with her forbidden need to be with the man who consumes her - body, mind and soul?

I was absolutely consumed by this book. I loved Zara and Tobias passion and deep feelings for one another and the fact that despite their apparent mistrust of one another, their obvious feelings of adoration and obsession could not be denied. I love that Fewings was able to aptly depict Zara's misgivings about Icon. On one hand she had a strict code of right and wrong as an Art Investigator, but on a personal level was torn up about losing the man she loved. Likewise Tobias and his innate sense of justice needed to balance his love and loyalty to Zara and his need to right the wrongs of the past at the hands of a criminal mastermind.

In addition, similarly to the first book, the real standout in The Game was the art itself. It took center stage as you can't help but get lost in the story and the history of each painting and gallery. Ms. Fewings has a remarkable gift in that she can paint a picture for her readers with a myriad of colors not only highlighting her exceptional ability as a writer but also highlighting her seamless ability to weave history and drama to transport you right alongside her characters. All in this was a fantastic addition to the series and I can not wait for the conclusion later this year! Bravo! 5 stars! ~Ratula

I would like to thank Netgalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of this book for an honest review.

The Game by Vanessa Fewings is the second installment to the Icon Trilogy. I was utterly captivated to Tobias and Zara's passionate, love affair. I was consumed from the very first page, and the sizzling chemistry between Zara and Tobias, was the icing on the cake.

The Game picks up a week after where The Chase ended. Zara's heart was shattered with the big revelations that were revealed in book one. And now she will stop at nothing to save the love of her life. Even if it means losing Tobias in the process.

Will she be able to save him?
Or will their relationship come burning down?
Read to find out!

Zara and Tobias make the ultimate couple. This one takes place in LA and has layer by layer revealed in the Icon story. A few times I wanted to grab Zara or Tobias and say what are you doing! Ahh the breakfast scene, a dream of ever girl. I can't wait for the last one in the triology. I need it now!

Just okay. I enjoyed the first book in the series a lot more. Tobias was way more interesting than her and he at least remained consistent.

This second book in the series is just captivating. You want to find out what will happen to the characters. Well written with suspence and romance. You hope that everything will be going perfectly for both of them.

Great book.

This is such an addictive trilogy!!! I was completely hooked from the beginning of the first book (The Chase), and I was dying to get my hands on the second book and I'm happy to say it was well worth the wait!! The Game picks up exactly where The Chase ended-- seamlessly. Zara is still is determined to figure out and help to apprehend the infamous art thief known as Icon. By the end of the first book, Zara had a strong reason to believe that Icon is Tobias Wilder. The same Tobias Wilder that Zara has recently fallen head over heels for!! Being a successful art investigator has meant everything to Zara, but what does she do with the knowledge that Tobias is indeed the thief??? Does Zara turn him in??? Is she in danger by association??? Is she mistaken and Tobias has nothing to do with the missing art pieces?? Yikes!!!

I love how well romance and suspense are melded together in this series! The Game is a 4.5 star read that had me on the edge of my seat! I was chomping at the bit to get answers, I literally gnawed my finger nails down! I am already counting down the days until the final book (The Prize) in this trilogy releases in November! If you haven't started this great series yet, definitely make sure you read them in order, but more importantly START ASAP!! This is a trilogy you won't want to miss!!