Rocky Mountain Heat by Vivian Arend
Six Pack Ranch #1
Release Date: August 21, 2009
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: Kindle Freebie
Rating: 4 Bookworms
Challenges: #ShelfLove, #TakeControlTBR
Goodreads
Synopsis
He's the one who taught her to ride. Now all he wants is to ride her.
Black Coleman is old enough to know that acting on impulse causes nothing but trouble. But when trouble's a western-hat-wearing blonde with slim legs that go on forever, what's a man to do? Wanting the sweet girl next door is just wrong. The responsible thing to do is keep his hands off.
Jaxi has other plans for Blake's hands, and his heart. She may have once considered him a big brother, but that was a long time ago. She's all grown up now and ready to convince him that she's perfect for him. Except he can't seem to see past the big "don't touch" sign that's apparently still hanging around her neck.
When Jaxi ends up living right under Blake's nose, the undeniable heat between them slides off simmer and leaps up to barn-burning levels. However, a few of the younger six-pack Colemans have decided Jaxi's brand of trouble is worth risking a few busted bones.
That is, if Blake's finally ready to let go of the reins and fight for what he wants...
Warning: Sexy cowboys seducing and being seduced in trucks, pool halls and barns. Droolworthy country charm, a little double-teaming, a few secrets and a whole lot of brothers to look forward to. Anyone wanna go for a ride?
I'd had Rocky Mountain Heat on my ereader forever but finally decided to add it to my Take Control of Your TBR list (back in March) after seeing JoLee's 5-star review of it @WickedDeliciousBookBlog. It's a friends-to-lovers romance and since that's a favorite trope of mine, I was excited.
Blake and Jaxi have been friends since childhood since they are neighbors and she, an only child, hung out at the Coleman house with the six boys quite often. Problem is, Blake is 10 years older than Jaxi and he feels like, now that their age-difference shouldn't be a big deal, it still is, no matter what she's making him feel. Jaxi though, she's wanted Blake since...well, forever. And she's quite tenacious.
It was fun watching Jaxi "set her trap" so to speak and Blake gets all caught in it. These two are so good together despite the age difference - probably because they're both the oldest child, even if Jaxi doesn't have siblings. She's always wanted to be a rancher's wife - and she and Blake work well side-by-side.
Rocky Mountain Heat also introduced the other 5 Coleman brothers - with little glimpses into the lives/romances of a few. Arend incorporated just enough to get me interested in them without overpowering the main story - Jaxi and Blake. I think each of the boys' stories are going to be fun, learning more about them, with the exception of Travis. I think his story might be a bit dark. The twins though - I'm eager for their story.
Rocky Mountain Heat was a good read. Arend's writing is easy to read with a nice flow. Her characters are well drawn and she has me invested in the Coleman family. The heat level was just right as well. I look forward to diving into more of Arend's work - I have quite a few accumulated. ;)
Your Inescapable Love by Layla Hagen
The Bennett Family #4
Narrated by: Sebastian York and Lidia Dornet
Release Date: February 28, 2017
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: I received a complimentary copy from Tantor Media
Rating: 3 Bookworms
Challenges: #2017NewRelease, #AudioChallenge, #TakeControlTBR
Goodreads
Synopsis
Max Bennett was nine years old the first time he met Emilia. The two formed a tight friendship that lasted for years until she moved away. Now, years later, Max enjoys a successful career and loves his life: carefree and fun. He has everything he wants and does not intend to settle down anytime soon (even though his family might have other ideas). But when a chance encounter brings him face-to-face with Emilia, he starts questioning everything. Emilia Campbell has a lot on her plate, taking care of her sick grandmother. After practically being left at the altar, Emilia has sworn off men...until the childhood friend she hero-worshipped and hasn't quite forgotten steps into her clinic. Max is every bit the troublemaker she remembers, only now he has a body to drool over. They are both determined not to cross the boundaries of friendship. But as their chemistry spirals out of control, can Emilia trust her childhood hero with the key to her heart and accept she might have found her one true love? Contains mature themes.
Your Inescapable Love gives us Max Bennett's story. Now I'm a sucker for the friends-to-lovers trope so when I realized Max and Emilia had been friends when they were kids, I was eager to see how this would come together.
Max is a rather determined bachelor, believing he doesn't have time for romance since he's so focused on work. He's an excellent negotiator and makes Bennett Enterprises lots of money. Lest you think he's all work and no play, know that he and his twin, Christopher, are the pranksters of the Bennett clan, doing things like switching places to get out of dinner duty to kissing girls.
Emilia was raised by her Grams after losing her mother and having her father bail. Now she works hard as a physical therapist as well as caring for her Grams, who has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's. She is driven in her career and with the demands on her time caring for her Grams, romance isn't on her radar.
Then Max walks into her clinic. And lucky Emilia is his PT. They immediately begin cathing up, not having seen each other for years. They also have an immediate attraction, something they both try to ignore until they can't.
I liked how their romance blossomed - Emilia having some baggage but Max being baggage-free and more than willing to take on helping Emilia shed hers. Some of Emilia's baggage felt a little contrived though. And I felt like their story could have had more depth in some ways. They had history and more could have been done with it.
The Bennett clan wasn't around as much in this installment and I found I really missed them. he dynamics between all the siblings adds more dimension to the stories and while they were present, they didn't have prominent roles and... well, I just missed that. I'm guessing Christopher will be the next to fall and I'm eager to witness that.
Lidia Dornet and Sebastian York narrated and were fabulous. They brought Max and Emilia to life and kept the story flowing. Dornet even added a bit of action in some scenes which better conveyed the emotions of those scenes. York is simply ear-candy. ;)
Your Forever Love by Layla Hagen
The Bennett Family #3
Narrated by: Jeremy York and Kendall Taylor
Release Date: August 30, 2016
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: I received a complimentary copy from Tantor Media
Rating: 3.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #AudioChallenge, #ShelfLove, #TakeControlTBR
Goodreads
Synopsis
Eric Callahan is a powerful man, and his sharp business sense has earned him the nickname Shark. Yet under this facade is a man who loves his daughter and would do anything for her. When he and his daughter move to San Francisco for three months, he has one things in mind: expanding his business. As a widower, Eric is not looking for love. He focuses on his company, and his daughter - until he meets Pippa Bennett. She captivates him from the moment he sets eyes on her. Pippa Bennett knows she should stay away from Eric Callahan. After going through a rough divorce, she doesn't trust men anymore. But there's something about him that draws her in. He has a body made for sin, and a sense of humor that matches hers. Not to mention seeing how adorable he is with his daughter melts her walls one by one. The chemistry between them is undeniable, but it's the connection that grows deeper every day that has them wondering if love might be within reach. When it's time for Eric and his daughter to go home, will he give up on the woman who has captured his heart or do everything he can to remain by her side?
Pippa Bennett has been the driving force behind all the matchmaking in the Bennett family - as evidenced by Sebastian's wedding and Logan's engagement - so it was fun to see the tables turned on her.
Pippa hasn't had it easy in love - the only one to have married and then divorced in the Bennett clan. Her ex was a real piece of work - marrying her for her money - and he did a number of her self-confidence.
Eric Callahan is the CEO of his family's company and considered a shark in the business world. But outside of the office, he's a softie. Oh, he's all alphas but when it comes to his daughter, he melts with a look. He's a single dad, having lost his wife. Since then, he's devoted his life to his daughter and his business.
Neither Pippa nor Eric want anything to do with love or romance but when it comes to the other they can't seem to help themselves.
I enjoyed watching Pippa and Eric's second chance at love - the fall was sweet. I loved that the Bennett clan was present and we got to spend time with them. And I adored Eric's daughter Julie. It's always a joy when children are incorporated into a story and although she could have played a more prominent role, I didn't feel she was a gratuitous addition.
For all their reasons for avoiding romance, I felt Pippa maybe gave in a bit too easily while I was agreeing with Eric's mom in that he needed to pull his head out. There was also a little more predictability in this installment but it was still a fun read.
Jeremy York and Kendall Taylor did well with the narration, even with Julie's 12 year old voice. They both handled the multiple voices of the cast well, kept the pacing even, and infused the story with the proper emotions.
Overall, I'm still a Bennett Family fan...I'm eager to watch the rest of them fall. On to Your Inescapable Love.
Shame on You by Tara Sivec
Fool Me Once #1
Release Date: February 25, 2014
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: I received an eARC from the publisher via Netgalley. This did not affect my rating and my review is voluntarily provided.
Rating: 3.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #BloggerShame, #ShelfLove, #TakeControlTBR
Goodreads
Synopsis
War veteran Kennedy O'Brien is in the business of sticking it to the man - or at least any man who tries to cross a woman. After she returned home from Afghanistan and caught her husband in bed with the nanny, Kennedy lost her faith in men and started Fool Me Once Investigations with her two best friends. After all, there's no better bounty hunter than a woman scorned.
When Kennedy takes a case to slap cuffs on a bail jumper turned dog-napper, she figures it'll be an easy paycheck. But trouble has a way of finding Kennedy. Enter the last man on the planet she'd willingly choose as a partner: her cheating ex-husband's best friend, Griffin Crawford.
As gorgeous as he is unwelcome, Griffin has always had a thing for Kennedy, and after keeping quiet about her ex's cheating, he'll do anything to earn back her trust. Whether or not she wants to admit it, Kennedy will need help as the case of the Chihuahua thief sprials out of control. Griffin may be just her man - in more ways than one.
Shame on You was a quick, fun read! It provided a nice introduction to the three heroines of this little series, there was action, some steam, and a lot of Sivec's trademark humor! The perfect way to entertain myself while logging my time on the elliptical.
While the series centers around three women who started a PI business after being burned by men, this installment focuses on Kennedy. She's funny, tough - as far from girly-girl as you can get - and unapologetic about it. She's just taken on a case for her dad - who's a bail bondsman - and discovers he set her up with a new partner. One she would never have asked for.
Griffin has his reasons for keeping that secret from Kennedy as well as for going to work for her dad. He just needs Kennedy to listen to him. That's easier said than done. He has to advantage of having known her for a long while, so he knows hot to push her buttons. He'll get through - he's nothing if not determined.
There's not a ton of character development and the plot is a bunch of silliness but it's all completely entertaining. I'm hooked and looking forward to watching as Paige and Lorelei discover not all men are jerks. :)
Your Captivating Love by Layla Hagen
The Bennett Family #2
Narrated by: Carly Robins and Nelson Hobbs
Release Date: August 30, 2016
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: I received a complimentary copy from Tantor Media
Rating: 4 Bookworms
Challenges: #AudioChallenge, #ShelfLove, #TakeControlTBR
Goodreads
Synopsis
Logan Bennett knows his priorities. He's loyal to his family and his company. He has no time for love, and no desire for it - not after a disastrous engagement left him brokenhearted. But when Nadine enters his life, she turns everything upside down. She's sexy, funny, and utterly captivating. She's also more stubborn than anyone he's met...including himself. Nadine Hawthorne is finally pursuing her dream: opening her own clothing shop. After working so hard to get here, she needs to concentrate on her new business, and can't afford distractions - not even if they come in the form of Logan Bennett. He's handsome, charming, and doesn't take no for an answer. Their attraction is sizzling, their connection undeniable. Slowly, Logan wins her over. What starts out as a fling soon spirals into much more than they are prepared for. When a mistake threatens to tear them apart, will they have the strength to hold on to each other?
Your Captivating Love was, well, captivating. Already being familiar with the characters and their world enabled me to fall right into Logan and Nadine's story. Witnessing their fall was delightful.
Logan's an intelligent man - he's CFO of Bennett Enterprises after all. He's also determined, loyal, and a bit of a workaholic. He's been unlucky in love - his fiance breaking things off because he focused more on business than her. So he steers clear of romantic entanglements, not wanting to be hurt again.
Nadine, Ava's best friend, has recently relocated to San Francisco hoping to make her dream of owning a high-end dress shop - featuring original designs by her - a reality. She's creative, smart, and tenacious. She's also vivacious. But she's been hurt as well - and her confidence was shattered causing her to put her dreams on hold...until now. She also had a difficult childhood which left its mark. But when Logan and Nadine meet, their chemistry immediately sparked and all their determination to not get involved kinda went out the window.
I so much enjoyed watching as Logan and Nadine built a strong foundation for their relationship - seeing Logan support Nadine in achieving her dream and seeing Nadine learn to trust that Logan wasn't going to run. It was sweet how they each got under the other's skin, chipping away at those walls they'd built - and even sweeter when they fell.
Spending time with the Bennett clan was also fun. Getting to know them even better - how their dynamics work...well, it's easy to see why they're all so close and I'm eager to spend even more time with them.
I do want to say that the narration made my pleasure at listening more intense. Robins and Hobbs more deftly conveyed the emotions wrought in this story as well as kept the pacing smooth. They easily managed voicing the large cast, too. Even though I didn't dislike the narration in book 1, I was amazed at the difference in the level of my enjoyment with the narration here.
Your Irresistible Love by Layla Hagen
The Bennett Family #1
Narrated by: Aiden Snow and Kasha Kensington
Release Date: August 2, 2016
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: I received a complimentary copy from Tantor Media
Rating: 3.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #AudioChallenge, #ShelfLove, #TakeControlTBR
Goodreads
Synopsis
Sebastian Bennett is a determined man. It's the secret behind the business empire he built from scratch. Under his rule, Bennett Enterprises dominates the jewelry industry. Despite being ruthless in his work, family comes first for Sebastian, and he'd do anything for his parents and eight siblings-even if they drive him crazy sometimes...like when they keep nagging him to get married already. Sebastian doesn't believe in love, until he brings in external marketing consultant Ava to oversee the next collection launch. She's beautiful, funny, and just as stubborn as he is. Not only is he obsessed with her delicious curves, but he also finds himself willing to do anything to make her smile. Ava Lindt has one job to do at Bennett Enterprises: make the next collection launch unforgettable. Daydreaming about the hot CEO is definitely not on her to-do list. Besides, the consultancy she works for has a strict policy-no fraternizing with clients. She won't risk her job. But soon their sizzling chemistry spirals into a deep connection that takes both of them by surprise...
I'm a sucker for a story or series revolving around family so the nine Bennett siblings and their parents had a leg up from the get-go. Getting to meet Sebastian, the oldest Bennett and caretaker/protector of all, and seeing him fall for Ava, the smart, sexy woman who arrives to help with his business marketing was a pleasure.
Both Ava and Sebastian have reasons for not wanting to get involved besides the clause in Ava's consultancy contract forbidding fraternization. Ah, you know what they say about forbidden fruit... The two eventually give in and agree to spend time together while Ava is in town - four months. Being along for the ride as they get to know one another and get closer was nice. Ava is independent and used to taking care of things on her own, never having relied on a man...so Sebastian works his magic trying to convince her she doesn't have to do everything alone. Sebastian is used to women wanting the tangible things his wealth can offer them rather than wanting simply him. Ava sets about proving not all women are like that. With a little meddling and help from the Bennett family, the blossoming romance was fun.
Kasha Kensington and Andrew T. Chandler narrated and while I liked them both just fine, I did think that they weren't always able to convey all the emotion certain scenes required. Kensington's delivery at times made the pacing a bit choppy as well.
Besides the narration, my only complaint is that I would have liked more character growth over the course of the story. But overall, I enjoyed my introduction to the Bennett family and I'm already listening to book 2, Your Captivating Love.
The Female of the Species by Mindy McGinnis
Release Date: September 20, 2016
Genre: Young Adult, Realistic Fiction
Source: Purchased hardcover
Rating: 5 Bookworms
Challenges: #2017HW, #ShelfLove, #TakeControlTBR
Goodreads
Synopsis
Alex Craft knows how to kill someone. And she doesn't feel bad about it. When her older sister, Anna, was murdered three years ago and the killer walked free, Alex uncaged the language she knows best. The language of violence.
While her crime goes unpunished, Alex knows she can't be trusted among other people, even in her small hometown. She relegates herself to the shadows, a girl who goes unseen in plain sight, unremarkable in the high school hallways.
But Jack Fisher sees her. He's the guy all other guys want to be: the star athlete gunning for valedictorian with the prom queen on his arm. Guilt over the role he played the night Anna's body was discovered hasn't let him forget Alex over the years, and now her green eyes amid a constellation of freckles have his attention. He doesn't want to only see Alex Craft; he wants to know her.
So does Peekay, the preacher's kid, a girl whose identity is entangled with her dad's job, though that does not stop her from knowing the taste of beer or missing the touch of her ex-boyfriend. When Peekay and Alex start working together at the animal shelter, a friendship forms and Alex's protective nature extends to more than just the dogs and cats they care for.
Circumstances bring Alex, Jack, and Peekay together as their senior year unfolds. While partying one night, Alex's darker nature breaks out, setting the teens on a collision course that will change their lives forever.
According to the Kipling Society, The Female of the Species describes the "moral strength and single-mindedness of women throughout history, in familial and political contexts, in contrast to the weakness and vacillation of men."
"I am a wolf that my sister kept in a cage, until her hand was removed. I have been out, curious as I wake up from a lethargic solitude, self-enforced because I know I don't belong here. It's not safe for me to be out but they rattled my cage. First Claire, and then Jack. And now I'm awake, deviating from the paths I created in order to remain stable. I'm out, and awake, and afraid I won't be easily put back in."
This book has quite a lot to say. And it did so very well. The parallels between that first quote and the three MC's...Alex, Peekay, and Jack embody those words.
We have Alex, who has defined herself as "vengeance" and despite believing she feels no guilt, has a very strong moral compass. She sees herself as defending the weak - those who can't protect themselves - whether they be human or cats and dogs. This side of her, while scary, was absolutely fascinating. And although she feels she doesn't belong, a part of her longs for that feeling - something I think she had when her sister was alive. She also got people to look at themselves differently...
Peekay, for example. She's always been called Peekay - preacher's kid - and didn't think anything of it. But Alex asks for and calls her by her given name, Claire. It never occurred to Peekay the statements she made without words by accepting that nickname, much less the reasons behind doing so. She allowed it to influence her identity. She's strong though and finds the depth of her inner strength after befriending Alex. I found it of particular interest that she had thoughts similar to those of Alex, the difference being that Peekay would never act on them.
Then there's Jack - who was inspired to be a better person because of Alex. He'd been curious about her and her thoughts about his character since the night her sister's body was found. And Jack, he's a good guy even if he is a cad. But he waffled in his loyalties and decisions - found it apparently difficult to stay on the right path.
And through all this, the interactions between Alex, Peekay, and Jack - the bonds of friendship forming and love blossoming -McGinnis incorporated social commentary on teen culture: rape culture, sexual objectification, the double standards regarding boy vs girl behavior. And it was brilliant! There were some difficult moments to read - this story is raw and gritty - but I also felt things were realistically portrayed. The Female of the Species is certainly thought-provoking.
This is my favorite #2017HW read so far!
My To-Be Read List is a meme hosted by Michelle @Because Reading. I think it's a fabulous idea because it gets y'all in the game and it helps me knock off some of the many, many books on my TBR list. You're more than welcome to join in the fun! I've included the basic rules below but you can click on the graphic above to hop over to Michelle's site where you can find all the details.
Crash into You by Katie McGarry
Pushing the Limits #3
Release Date: November 26, 2013
Genre: Young Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: Borrowed from Library
Rating: 5 Bookworms
Challenges: #TakeControlTBR
Goodreads
Synopsis
The girl with straight A's and the perfect life--that's who people expect Rachel Young to be. So the private school junior keeps secrets from her wealthy family...and she's just added two more to the list. One involves racing strangers down dark country roads in her Mustang GT. The other? Seventeen-year-old Isaiah Walker - a guy she has no business even talking to. But after the foster kid with the tattoos and intense gray eyes comes to her rescue, she can't get him out of her mind.
The last thing Isaiah needs is to get tangled up with a rich girl who wants to slum it on the south side for kicks. But when their shared love of street racing puts their lives in jeopardy, Isaiah and Rachel will have six weeks to come up with a way out. Six weeks to discover just how far they'll go to save each other.
This book.... THIS. BOOK. I. LOVED. IT! The end. :D
Caution: Gushing ahead...
Really I could just say that I love everything about it and be done. But I didn't love everything because I hate thinking about a system that creates situations like those Isaiah and Noah lived in. I hate thinking about there being families like Rachel's - seemingly having it all and yet being so inherently broken. However, McGarry's writing, her storytelling skill, wrapped both these things into a story around Isaiah and Rachel that was riveting. I didn't want to put it down!
Isaiah...to say this guy just can't catch a break would be an understatement. He's been in the foster system since he was 6, bouncing from home to home, suffering both physically and emotionally. He's learned in 11 years that nothing stays constant and he's beginning to believe his own hype - that hs'e someone to steer clear of, never risking his heart. Then he meets Rachel. This girl after his own heart - one who's into cars and sees past his facade to the real guy he is.
Rachel...oh man. This poor girl. I can't imagine living a life knowing you're a replacement for a child who didn't live, feeling like you'll never measure up, having to who you really are so everyone else will be happy. Gah! I wanted to shake every single family member. On the surface, her life looks perfect, but all she wants is to be able to be validated for who she is, what she likes...and to work on her car. Then she meets Isaiah, a guy who's a little rough around the edges, but one who, upon closer inspection, is so much more. He takes the time to look, really look, at Rachel.
These two together make little sense and at the same time, they're perfect together. They both have lessons to learn - Isaiah to figure out that not everything is in his control and Rachel to stop hiding who she is - and they stand by one another on this journey. There were hiccups, of course. An edge of danger. Together though, they could weather anything.
Besides Isaiah and Rachel, what I enjoyed most was the huge cast of characters in Crash Into You. Not only do we spend time with Noah and Echo, Beth and Ryan, but Logan is features, as well as Abby and Rachel's brothers, West and Ethan. I felt the cast added that much more depth to the story. And I hope to get more from more than a few of them.
So yeah, the story was excellent...realistic, gritty, exciting, and heartbreaking at times. I can't wait to see what McGarry has on tap next!
Rises the Night by Colleen Gleason
Gardella Vampire Hunters #2
Release Date: June 5, 2007
Genre: Adult, Paranormal Romance
Source: Purchased on Kindle
Rating: 4.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #ShelfLove, #TakeControl, #TravelingtotheTerminus
Goodreads
Synopsis
The saga of Victoria Gardella continues as the glorious nineteenth-century city of Rome gives rise to a new threat from the immortal undead...
Lady Victoria Gardella Grantworth de Lacy has been a vampire slayer for just over a year, balancing her life as a peer of Soceity with the dangerous role that takes her out on moonlit streets, stake in hand. She has learned brutal and heartbreaking lessons about the sacrifices that must be made in order to save humanity from the evil that secretly preys upon it, but she has not wavered in her vow to fight on.
Now, in Italy, a powerful vampire is amassing the power to control the souls of the dead. As Victoria races across Europe to stop what could be the most deadly army the Gardellas have ever faced, her unlikely companion is Sebastian Vioget--a man as tempting as he is untrustworthy.
But when Victoria discovers she has been betrayed by one of her most trusted allies, the truth will challenge all her powers as a Venator...and as a woman.
I was an instant fan of this series following the stellar first installment. Vampire hunters in Regency-era England? Yes, please. Rises the Night picks up almost a year after the end of book 1 - that heartbreaking ending. Rises the Night is every bit as exciting and fascinating, with intrigue, a new evil on the rise, and questionable loyalties.
This installment finds Victoria investigating and attempting to locate a new threat to humanity. No one has heard from Max in almost a year so Victoria relies on aid from Sebastian despite not knowing for certain if he's trustworthy.
There is danger almost at every turn - the introduction of new characters for whom it was thrilling to try to determine their allegiance, and the simmering sexual tension between Victoria and Sebastian hit the boiling point. There were also more than a few surprises, some of which left me bereft. Actually, I'm still feeling that way and am quite certain that I'll continue this series soon as I'm more that eager to know what is lying in wait for our heroine next.
As long as I'm rambling, I appreciated the change in locale for this installment. Rome and Venice allowed Victoria even more freedom as a woman and I also liked the description of the cities. Victoria also learns more about the Venators, which provided a little more history about the venerable group of hunters she's a part of. I also liked the lore used regarding this newest evil.
Overall, I'm simply enthralled. I'm anxious to learn, experience, immerse myself even more in this series!
Ten Reasons to Stay by Sabrina Jeffries
Release Date: May 6, 2013
Genre: Adult, Historical Romance
Source: I received an eARC from the publisher via Netgalley. This in no way affected my rating and I voluntarily provided a review.
Rating: 3.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #BloggerShame, #COYER, #ReadAlltheBooks, #ShelfLove, #TakeControlTBR
Goodreads
Synopsis
In "Ten Reasons to Stay," previously published in the anthology The School for Heiresses, lessons go far beyond etiquette and needlepoint. Eliza Crenshawe's lesson is to look before she leaps. But when she discovers that her new guardian plans to marry her off without so much as a Season, she forgets all that. She flees--on a horse she unwittingly steals (oops!)--from Colin Hunt, a newly minted earl who wants nothing more than for her to go home...or stay forever.
What a delightful read this was! I'm a sucker for both a feisty historical heroine and a broody hero - Ten Reasons to Stay delivered both! Even though things moved at lightning speed, I still fell for both Eliza and Colin.
These two meet under conspicuous circumstances. Eliza was intending to borrow a horse when Colin catches her. He was confounded by her appearance - she was dressed as a man - and even more so when she refused to tell him anything regarding who she was or her reasons for needing his horse. Oh but he has his ways of getting information.
Both Eliza and Colin have suffered losses. Colin has come to England from India, where he grew up. He's looking for peace. Eliza's looking for escape. But they might need one another to find what they're looking for.
I would have liked more time with these two. Time for me to get better acquainted with them and for them to become better acquainted with each other. But I did like them both. They're very spirited and fell hard and fast. The reason behind Eliza's escape attempt was solved a bit too easily for my tastes but this is a novella. And despite wanting more, I still had a good time with the story. Jeffries deftly creates engaging characters I adore spending time with as well as watching them get themselves out of situations...and always to find their HEA.
In an effort to get ahead, and thus reduce my blogging stress AS WELL AS continue my efforts towards reading *all* those books I own, I'm participating in the Mini Blog-Ahead Challenge AND the Take Control of Your TBR Challenge during the month of March.
***
I've decided to participate in the Mini Blog-Ahead Challenge hosted by Herding Cats & Burning Soup. It's only 15 days in length (March 1-15) but I really need to get as many posts completed and scheduled as I can simply for the stress relief! It is a joy to have posts scheduled, to know my blog is all set for those times I'm traveling (which will be quite a bit this summer) and when life throws things at me I'm not always prepared for.
Here are the basic rules:
- Challenge begins March 1 and ends March 15
- Schedule an additional 15 posts during the challenge period
- Any type of post counts.
- The posts must be scheduled to go *live* after the end of the challenge period.
If y'all are interested in joining this challenge to get yourself ahead around your own blog, click the button for all the details!
I'm also joining in the fun that is the Take Control of your TBR Challenge hosted by Caffeinated Book Reviewer. Since the basic rule is to read books put on your TBR shelf prior to March 1, 2017, it's a great way to get several books *off* my TBR shelf!
Here are the basic rules:
- Link up! You don't have to have a blog to participate. Use your Goodreads account.
- Create Goals/Updates/Results post (can be combined).
- Challenge begins at midnight March 1 and ends at 11:59 p.m. March 31.
- Read/listen to books from your TBR.
- All books must have been released prior to March 1, 2017.
- Post reviews to Goodreads or your blog, then link up.
- You can combine events/challenges.
- No novellas - page count must be over 100.
- Use hashtag #TakeControlTBR.
If you'd like to join me in this challenge, click on the button for complete details.
Pent Up by Damon Suede
Release Date: November 20, 2015
Genre: Adult, M/M Contemporary Romance
Source: Purchased on nook
Challenges: #2016HW, #ShelfLove, #TakeControlTBR
Rating: 3.5 Bookworms
Goodreads
Synopsis
PENT UP: Mix business with pleasure and take cover.
Ruben Oso moves to Manhattan to start his life over as a low-rent bodyguard and stumbles into a gig in a swanky Park Avenue penthouse. What begins as executive turns into personal wrking for a debonair zillionaire who makes Ruben question everything about himself.
Watching over financial hotshot Andy Bauer puts Ruben in an impossible position. He knows zero about shady trading and his cocky boss lives barricaded in a glass tower with wall-to-wall secrets and hot-and-cold-running paranoia. Can the danger be real? Is Andy for real?
What's a bullet catcher to do? Ruben knows his emotions are out of control even as he races to untangle a high-priced conspiracy and his crazy feelings before somebody gets dead. If his suspicions are right, Andy will pay a price neither can afford, and Ruben may discover there's no way to guard a heart.
***
Me: I finished Pent Up, so we can discuss. I'll let you start this time.
Lexxie: I haven't completely finished Pent Up yet...I find it very slow, and I'm not sure I like all the jabs at 'white rich people'...Like there's a score to be settled
OK, I've finished...
3.5 stars
I think this was less good than Hot Head...
And mainly, I think that's because Ruben and Andy were just the two of them for most of the story - it felt like that made the characters underdeveloped somehow. The twist at the end wasn't really a twist, either - even if I hadn't thought of it, I wasn't overly surprised, you know?
Actually, the more I think about it, the more I feel like this read almost like a YA, but with characters who were in their late thirties/early forties...
I'm waffling between 3-3.5 stars...
I'm going to have to read Hot Head.
It did kinda seem like the characters were underdeveloped a bit. I mean, we meet Charles and Andy's assistant (who I really liked but can't remember her name) but it was pretty much just the two of them.
I think I had a hard time getting into the story because I didn't understand what was going on...which is part of the story - and I found the terminology *ahem* very male. I'm guessing that's Damon's style and I liked it once I got used to it.
Once I hit a certain point in the book though, I really liked Ruben and Andy. They seemed to fulfill something that was missing in each other's lives.
What did you think of the plot? It certainly had my head spinning...I was like Ruben in believing Andy was making it all up.
I did enjoy the plot a lot, and you're right about Rube and Andy helping each other find more meaning in their lives. And I have to say they were pretty courageous to live out that attraction, as they both thought they were straight.
And I had to smile at your 'male terminology'...that is definitely true.
I can't put my finger on why exactly, but I enjoyed this less than Hot Head.
I think my favorite character was Cilla! She took their relationship in stride, and she also didn't really take any shit from Tibbett.
It certainly did take a lot of courage to act on their attraction. And I loved Ruben's inner thoughts when they first kissed...about how it just felt so right.
The plot was great in that Suede kept me just as confused as Ruben was. When all was revealed, I was all "OH!" And I also think that what was going on and how they both handled it did much for developing their characters.
LOL That male terminology...seriously. But even "bulls-eye face" was something I hadn't heard before. But it worked. And looking at other reviews, this is signature Suede?
Cilla was awesome! "Honestly, Herb," she scoffed at him. "I'm not a child." She might be my favorite character too. But I really liked Hope as well. (THAT is Andy's assistant's name)
What did you think about the 12 steps being used? I liked how he [Ruben] got stuck on moral inventory and meeting Andy and going through all they went through helped him, I think.
One other thing...I liked that Ruben's last name is Oso. He is kinda a big bear...he can be fierce but also soft.
Hey, did you see Pierce Brown is going to be at BEA?
Omg!!!
Fangirling
I know where to use my front of the line pass!
LOL Lucky you!! That's what I get for procrastinating!
I thought it was kind of sad that Ruben never learned Spanish...And at the same time, I can totally relate, as only my two oldest kids speak Norwegian.
Oh, I thought it was sad too but I also understood his parents' desire to be "American"...
And I totally want to look up some of the things Andy said to Ruben in Spanish ;)
ME TOO! Plus, Andy was going to teach him!
Yup, that was awesome
And Hope was great, the way she and Ruben bonded over AA was really well done!
I really liked that as well. Again, showed the type people they were since they were loyal and faithful to those tenants.
I wish there would have been more of a backlash for Ruben after Peach died, though...
Yeah, I though about that too. He didn't even tell Andy!
And of course you're right, the way the steps were used, and how Ruben was stuck on the fourth said a lot!
And I also liked that Ruben didn't try to make Andy stop drinking to help himself
Me too. What Ruben said was true...he had to live in the world and the world is a place where people drink and there are other temptations...I figure that's part of the process for an addict. But I also thought it was interesting that Ruben could see through to the reasons Andy drank since he's an alcoholic.
Yeah, there were many aspects to the story that come back to me now, because I'm chatting with you about it.
I love how it works that way!
Do we have a lot more to say about Ruben and Andy?
I can't really think of much...apart from that I did enjoy the story, even if it wasn't among my favorites
I guess I don't have anything else to say except that in talking about it with you, I did decide on a 3.5 star rating.
It anchored my 3.5 rating, too.
I really love doing buddy reads!
Hey, I'd somehow missed your comment on the 'jabs at rich white people'...I agree that it was a little irritating but then, Ruben later kinda explains that...how he'd always felt like he didn't fit in, even with his family and that he always thought money would make things better...so I lumped it into character building.
My final thoughts...
Pent Up was my introduction to Suede's writing and rather than the humr I was expecting, Suede served up a nice mystery alongside a nice romance. Suede's style took a little getting used to for me. I didn't know/understand all the phrases or references he used, especially those there were definitely male. But I got looked them up. :) Suede also wove in a lot of cloak and dagger/red herrings. It all mixed together for an engaging story that kept me guessing until the end.
