Rough Petals

Rough Petals by Penelope P

So was it a really big deal that I was getting paid for sex? It was a huge misunderstanding. And so what if that letter finally arrived which made my stomach roll. I would have handled it. It's his fault he made my life even more complicated.
Banner Credit: Casey

Rosie Thinks: This story is, without a doubt, one of my absolute favourites on FictionPress. This is exactly the way a sequel should be written. I like how there are some issues carried over from the first one (Sleeping With The Enemy) but the story has evolved from them to become unique. I think the first time I read this, I hadn't even read SWTE and still loved/understood it!

As we all know, Penelope P. is an extremely talented writer and this story does not let you down. The story draws you in from the start with its complete and utter originality. It is not cliche or boring in the slightest, and just makes you keep clicking 'next'. It's based around Charlie, a self-assured woman with a fairly messed up past and present - as in, being mistaken for a prostitute and being paid for sex, the arrival of a long-lost brother, and Cole pushing his way into her life. Cole, from SWTE, is a main character in this and the love interest of Charlie. His character is explored more fully in this story, and you can't help but fall in love with his sensitive side (buried fairly deep inside). All the minor characters have individual personalities that were apparent when the author first described them. Penelope P. manages to create interesting characters that you can't help but become attached to. Even the slightly evil guy, Vincent, had his moments (ie, earring scene).

Their relationship progresses at a good rate and none of their first encounters seemed too contrived and impossible. She also managed to create the perfect balance of fluff and reality, and the bits of drama in it had my heart clenching. I think that one of the best things about this story is Penelope P.'s ability to write ridiculously emotive fight scenes. They are just so real and pretty darn powerful. There are some minor mistakes throughout but they can easily be ignored, especially when, as a whole, it is so well-written. So if you haven't read this story yet, I highly recommend that you do!