That's What HE Said #65 ~ Thirsty Thursday & Hungry Hearts #46

That's What He Said is a weekly meme hosted by the lovely ladies @Chapter Break. Here's the deal: every Thursday, post a line from your book boyfriend to his heroine. Keep in mind, these are direct quotes from dialog in the books. The quote doesn't have to be romantic - just something our hunky hero said to his lucky lady. Be sure to link up over at Chapter Break as well.

My pick this week for That's What He Said is from:

Rock Chick Reckoning by Kristen Ashley

***

I finished up my re-read of this one while I was in Dallas. AND KA's in town this weekend for Rock Chick Rendezvous so I had to celebrate a little. And Mace...he's something to celebrate. ;)

"Babe, I hope you get that I'm prepared to fight for you, but I gotta know you'll fight for me, too. This shit goes both ways. This doesn't end until I know you won't walk away, but also you won't let me walk away. Never again."

*~*~*~*~*~*

 

"Stella makes fancy-ass salmon and potatoes and everyone's in tears of delight. What? I can't even make pancakes in my own damn house?" Daisy burst out.
Uh-oh.
"What kind of salmon did she make?" Vance asked the wrong question, grabbing a Bavarian cream and sitting on the arm of Jules's chair.
"It was buttered and herbed and in this light as air pastry," Ava rhapsodized, even though Jules was now frantically shaking her head at Ava (who also didn't notice) and Daisy's face was getting pink. Ava went on, "And the potatoes were creamy and cheesy. Sliced so think, it was amazing."
Daisy glared at Ava, plonked down the coffee and stormed out.
"What'd I say?" Ava asked, glancing around in confusion, and Jules smiled at her and mouthed, "Later."
"Let me get this straight. Mace gets the girl who can cook?" Vance put in.

That's What HE Said #56 ~ Thirsty Thursday & Hungry Hearts #37

That's What He Said is a weekly meme hosted by the lovely ladies @Chapter Break. Here's the deal: every Thursday, post a line from your book boyfriend to his heroine. Keep in mind, these are direct quotes from dialog in the books. The quote doesn't have to be romantic - just something our hunky hero said to his lucky lady. Be sure to link up over at Chapter Break as well.

My pick this week for That's What He Said is from:

Rock Chick Renegade by Kristen Ashley

***

"You told me I was home to you and I get it. You're home to me. I've never had a home. I like the one I found and I'm not losin' it. No matter what."

*~*~*~*~*~*

"I'm meeting the girls after work," I told him.
"When are you gonna be done? I'll make dinner."
This was too much. I could barely process Vance sleeping in my bed, and he'd done it before. I'd even slept in his bed. The shower, dinner, I couldn't hack it.
"Jules?"
"What?"
"Are we done talkin'?"
"No."
"Then maybe you should talk."
God, I was such an idiot.
"You cook?" I asked.
"No," Vance answered.
I blinked at my burrito. "Didn't you just say you were making dinner?"
"There's a tray of what looks like incinerated brownies on your stove. I'm guessin' we'd do better to take our chances with me."
He was probably right. Still, it was slightly embarrassing.

That's What HE Said #52 ~ Thirsty Thursday & Hungry Hearts #33

That's What He Said is a weekly meme hosted by the lovely ladies @Chapter Break. Here's the deal: every Thursday, post a line from your book boyfriend to his heroine. Keep in mind, these are direct quotes from dialog in the books. The quote doesn't have to be romantic - just something our hunky hero said to his lucky lady. Be sure to link up over at Chapter Break as well.

My pick this week for That's What He Said is from:

Rock Chick Redemption by Kristen Ashley

I'm currently re-reading Hank and Roxie's story ~ I swear these books are even better the second time around!

***

"Belonging to me doesn't mean I'll make you do anything, it just means I consider you mine for as long as this lasts. It means I protect you. It means I take care of you. For another man, it might mean something different."

His eyes changed. They went funny, the intensity strengthening to something that was mesmerizing.

Then he concluded, "Don't confuse me with another man."

*~*~*~*~*~*

On their first date, Hank takes Roxie to a restaurant called Buckhorn Exchange. I've not been there (yet) but the menu sounds interesting. Plus, Hank says they have good steaks. ;)

"Let me order," he said and this surprised me. I'd never met a man who ordered for me before. I didn't even know men did that anymore.
What the hell, when in Denver...
"No Rocky Mountain oysters," I replied.
He nodded and kept smiling.
"And no alligator tail," I carried on. "Alligators are cute. I'm not a vegetarian, but I don't eat cute animals. Like lamb. Lambs are cute. We can try rattlesnake. I think I could eat a snake because snakes freak me out."
He stared at me. The smile was gone.
"You think alligators are cute?" he asked.

That's What HE Said #49 ~ Thirsty Thursday & Hungry Hearts #29

That's What He Said is a weekly meme hosted by the lovely ladies @Chapter Break. Here's the deal: every Thursday, post a line from your book boyfriend to his heroine. Keep in mind, these are direct quotes from dialog in the books. The quote doesn't have to be romantic - just something our hunky hero said to his lucky lady. Be sure to link up over at Chapter Break as well.

My pick this week for That's What He Said is from:

Rock Chick by Kristen Ashley

I recently re-read Indy & Lee's story ~ and fell for them all over again!

***

"I'm not gettin' off, not goin' away, not playin' anymore games or wastin' anymore fuckin' time. I don't believe in fate or destiny or any of that bullshit. What I know is that, as far as I can tell, there isn't another woman I've met who fits my life. Who doesn't care if I get home late after she's made a special dinner. Who doesn't have a hemorrhage when I talk about one of my men gettin' shot, goin' off about how she feels about my work. You got up and made everyone coffee, for fuck's sake. You're a woman who tells me to be careful when I tell her I'm out hunting humans instead of bitchin' and wantin' to process how my career choice makes her feel. If an employee walked into their kitchen with a gun and shot at their neighbor, most people would lose their fucking minds. You spent the morning makin' brownies and the afternoon sleepin' in the sun. You live hard, play hard and don't seem to be scared of anything, but manage to keep a softness about you that's almost unreal. You wanted me to tell you why I'm sure about you, that's why I'm sure.

*~*~*~*~*~*

"Everyone makes coffee, twerp. I make coffee. Jeez-us. Why the big deal about coffee?" Tex declared and lumbered to the espresso machine as if the air wasn't think enough with tension. He pushed himself behind the counter. "What'll it be? I'll make everybody coffee."
...
"Indy, are you gonna try my coffee or what?" Tex called.
I disengaged from Lee and walked on shaky legs to the counter. I took the cup from Tex and before I even took a drink, I stopped and lifted my eyes to look at the big, crazy man.
I could smell it and it smelled good.
I tasted it.
Divine.
"Tex," I whispered, "this is the nectar of the gods."
"I told you anyone could make coffee," Tex replied.

Rock Chick Rendezvous 2015

This last weekend, the incomparable Kristen Ashley hosted a Rock Chick fan weekend...Rock Chick Rendezvous ~ in Denver! I, being the Rock Chick that I am, of course attended. My pal, Robyn, with whom I've been buddy reading KA, couldn't attend, living in Washington and all. But I did drag my friend, Denise, along, who is also a Rock Chick. (because she reads everything I suggest ;) 

RCR was 3 days' worth of events - held in locations mentioned in KA's series - but I wasn't able to attend them all. Things began on Thursday evening with dinner and drinks at The Hornet restaurant. This is Indy's bar of choice and I was sad I had to miss out. Friday began with lunch at Beau Jo's, where they serve mountain pies. Delish! Denise and I met all the Rock Chicks there, had lunch, and received our instructions for the scavenger hunt. This was the most fun - finding locations where the Rock Chicks hangout. I found places I'd never been close to and it was great meeting other fans and, well, fangirling. :) Saturday was the last day and it included a signing at The Tattered Cover Bookstore as well as a party at The Hotel Monaco. Denise and I attended the signing but skipped the party. Maybe next time...

KA is the coolest gal! She's very approachable and showed up in different locations along the scavenger hunt route, where we hung out and chatted. She told us things about when she lived in Denver, reminisced over Rock Chick scenes in these locations, and discussed her philosophy on book covers. She's a "fan of loving yourself" and doesn't want to "perpetuate society's image of perfect." She said "perfection is exactly how you come." Needless to say that my girl/author crush on KA is HUGE at this point!!!

Okay, okay...enough talk. Here are the pics:

At Cheesman Park, where Hank and Roxie got hitched!

Liks Ice Cream, a favorite stop of Indy and Ally's.

Mutiny ~ Fortnum's is based on this bookstore/internet cafe.

Stella and The Blue Moon Gypsies played at a location just like Herman's Hideaway.

The Hot Bunch hung out many mornings here at Dozens!

Me and KA at the signing.

If y'all haven't read Kristen Ashley yet, what are you waiting for?? You don't have to lose a Super Bowl bet to get started! ;)

#COYER Mini-Challenge & Giveaway ~ Acrostic Accolades

Welcome to Acrostic Accolades, where I challenge you to write an acrostic poem to shower accolades on YOUR favorite character, book, series, or author!

To participate, you must:

• Be a COYER Winter 2014-2015 participant
• Leave either a link to your acrostic in the Rafflecopter, or leave it in the comments (make a note in the Rafflecopter)

That's it! This is a chance for you to be creative in showing some love to favorite books you've read. I can't wait to see what y'all come up with!

To reward your efforts, I'm offering a giveaway for a $5 GC to Amazon or B&N.

***

So, to get y'all excited and your creative juices flowing, I've written an acrostic. It's for one of my favorite series - which I read in it's entirety in 2014...Rock Chick by Kristen Ashley. Enjoy!

What IS a Rock Chick

R owdy, rambunctious, riotous, real, but a Rock Chick is always RIGHTEOUS

O bliging, a Rock Chick is always at the ready to help a friend in need, whether it be to lend a pair of shoes, talk through relationship issues, plan a wedding, deal with druglords, or provide rescue from a psychotic ex-boyfriend

C lassy; whether rockin' a pair of jeans with flip-flops or Juicy couture, a Rock Chick always looks her best

K een, a Rock Chick needs to always be 'in the know', which often causes problems that need attention from her fellow Rock Chicks and/or the Hot Bunch Brigade

C onvivial; a Rock Chick knows how to celebrate with her friends, and knows that any party worth its salt serves cashews.

H ardheaded, a Rock Chick has been known to take a stand and dig in her heels...often negated by her Hot Bunch Guy 

I ntelligent and able to get herself out of a pickle with a baddie or her Hot Bunch Guy

C ourageous in the face of danger, a Rock Chick knows how to throw a punch and/or operate a stun gun

K ickass, a Rock Chick can take care of herself (usually) but always has the other Rock Chicks at her back - nobody bar brawls like the Rock Chicks

a Rafflecopter giveaway

**Rock Chick Chat ~ Rock Chick Revolution ~ Kristen Ashley**

So we've come to the end, y'all. The final Rock Chick installment... I can't believe it's over. I've made some really good friends...found some H.O.T. book boyfriends...laughed and cried. Robyn and I are officially Rock Chicks now. And so our book chats will be called, from this point forward, Rock Chick Chats. Oh yes, we have many more Kristen Ashley reads to hit. And I think we're both ecstatic over that! I'll have to see what football bets I can come up with. ;)

Grab a cup of coffee, sit back and relax, and enjoy our chat!

***

Rock Chick Revolution
Rock Chick #8
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance
Release Date: August 13, 2013
Source: Purchased from Amazon
Rating: 5 Bookworms!
Goodreads

Synopsis
Ally Nightingale has secrets. Secrets she doesn't even share with the Rock Chicks. But two men know what she's up to. One has her back. The other has her heart, but he doesn't know it.

As Ally rewinds the last year of her life, she knows two things. One, she's never going to get what every Rock Chick should have - her own Hot Bunch guy. And two, she's a Nightingale through and through. She just isn't sure what to do about that.

But as her secrets are revealed, the men in her life react. Darius Tucker, a lifelong friend, as usual takes her back. Ren Zano, the man she loves, isn't quite so sure. The Rock Chicks, Hot Bunch and the entire gang at Fortnum's weigh in, and a Rock Chick Revolution starts brewing.

It's up to Ally to control it and prove what she knows down to her bones. 

She's a Rock Chick, she deserves her hot guy and she's going to keep the one she wants...

Because she's a Nightingale. 


My final thoughts...
This final book in the Rock Chick series was, to quote Ally, righteous! It was the perfect ending to a series that is one of my all-time favorites. It's been quite a ride and I've loved every second of it.

Thank you, Kristen Ashley, for introducing me to "a motley crew of cops and crooks, bounty hunters and baristas, PI's and rock stars, hot guys and Rock Chicks." You've made them my people. My family. :)

*****

Robyn: Rock Chick mania! How is it that Ren is so different from the other Hot Bunch guys and still right in line with them? Ally is plain crazy, but not like Indy. Indy is just wild. Ally always seems to be in search of something. Her own HEA, her purpose in life, scumbags worthy of a knee to the nuts? All of those I think. I like how street Ally and Ren are when they bicker with each other. Not an ounce of composure when they tussle. I remember when she got pissed that Indy was in so much danger and instead of letting the police handle chasing the bad guys when they sped away she put the car in gear and went after them with angry gusto. Everyone was pissed at her, but she was going to get justice for her BFF. 

What do you think of the beginning, all that back story? I almost never like that, but Kristen Ashely gives us the goods so good. I want more of their history. 

Brandee: It was a bad day...because I had to work and all I wanted to do was read Ren & Ally!! Robyn, I may be a little bit in love with Ren. Yes, he is different than the other Hot Bunch guys and  yet still sooo much the same. Ally is crazy but I have to say I love her brand of crazy. She is definitely looking for something...but that she'd do anything to help someone she loves and never goes back on a promise...that's the good stuff. I am really enjoying getting to really know Ally...and Ren. Their bickering is righteous, as Ally would say. Her explanations of fights and talks with Ren crack me up.

You're absolutely right about KA giving the goods so good. I want more of their history too. I have to admit to crying when a certain scene is repeated...both because of the original scene and Ally's perspective of it. It has been rather interesting to learn what all Ally's been up to while all the other Rock Chicks were getting their HEA, huh? I thought it was telling when Ally said she and Indy knew each other's secrets...well, Indy knew *most* of hers. Why do you think she kept everything with Ren on the down-low? 

So much has happened and I'm only at 22%! I'm off to read...

There always seemed to be another world Ally lived in while the other Rock Chick's got their HEA, I just wasn't sure what. I thought it was pretty amazing in the first Rock Chick when she was the one to find Rosie. She beat all the boys. I think she has good reasons for keeping her secrets, but I sort of think she also didn't want to ever be jealous of her girls and the only way to do that was to safeguard a few things. Or I could be over thinking it. 

So you're in love with Ren, huh? That fight with Luke over Ava in the parking lot was so dang awesome (a few books ago) and I remember Ava jumping to his aid, but doing it in a bossy hot chick way. I've been waiting for their story and I am just loving how different this one is mapped out. She isn't fighting her feelings. He isn't pulling out the handcuffs, yet. He's bossy in bed, but way into talking things through. It's just so dang good! 

I'm at the 28 percent mark and I really have to get some sleep, so that means, I'll be up late again! Happy reading tomorrow!

I did find a nice stopping place - one where I was in love with Ren again. :) I'm sooo tired and I just can't put it down. It's one of my favorites in the series too.

I like how you said Ally always seemed to live in her own world - she's different than all the other Rock Chicks. I really like that KA gave her a book that is different than all the others. She is different. She doesn't fight her feelings - not exactly anyway. And Ren is one hot-headed Italian American hottie ;) but he's not your typical Hot Bunch guy. He's Ren. And she's Ally. *sigh* What did you think of his comment about her being the backbone?

Their first date? Classic! Especially the end of it - both at the restaurant and at home. ;) 

What are your feelings about Hank and Lee being so against Ally's chosen profession? Gotta say I wasn't real thrilled with Ren's initial feelings and then...he made me all melty right along with Ally.

What did you think about the family dinner that was ambushed? And how Ren handled things? And how Mal handled things with Ren?

We haven't seen a lot of Amalea yet, but I adore Ren's mom already!

Okay, I'm off to read until I can no longer hold my eyes open...

***

I'm tired and I haven't had nearly enough time with Ren & Ally today! *pouts* 

Tomorrow won't be much better as I'm attending a birthday celebration 'down the hill'. Hopefully I can squeeze in some time with this Rock Chick, Rock Chick, Rock Chick! *squee*

We gotta talk Duke...how does  he always know what to say and when to say it??

I have a Rock Chick hangover. This installment is my top favorite along with the first one. Not as funny as Indy's book, but so much more emotional and something else, not sure what. 

Duke, man, Duke is the most huggable character in the entire series. Just thinking of him I get emotional. During one of his heavy scenes I was at the library waiting in a room with 3 best selling authors who were about to do a mystery writers panel. They were chatting about movie rights, not kidding, and I was trying not to bawl my eyes out! I realize maybe this was an opportunity to chat up authors, but the whole morning into afternoon I had been running around and it was my first opportunity to sit and relax. And it wasn't a Kristen Ashley talk. Nope. 

Ally is so laid back, she's my idol. She's the pretty girl version of Duke. She's also the perfect mix of Lee, Hank, and Indy. And Ren? He's top dog right now. I will have to re-read all the books and see if he's still the champ of all the Alphas in this series. I freaking love him! 

Oh my goodness, Dawn! How awesome was every single scene with Dawn and Ally. Okay, gotta go. Football Sunday! More RC chatting later. 

I had an epiphany about one thing that made Ally different from the other Rock Chicks...she's not as soft. She talks like Hot Bunch guy, right? She can be soft and mushy but her strength, inner and outer comes from a different place than the other girls'. She is BADASS! In a Hot Bunch guy badass kinda way. I guess she is the perfect mix of Lee, Hank, & Indy. And yeah, kinda the female version of Duke.

God, I loved this book. It was amazing in how perfectly it wrapped up everything. I'm so completely satisfied with how things are for all my Rock Chick friends. Ally and Ren's book left me with *that feeling* Ally kept talking about.

The Darius thing - I just didn't know how Ally was gonna straighten out his shit. But she did. Of course, it took a Rock Chick ride to do it, but she did it. And it made me warm with that feeling. :)

I was kinda pissed at Lee for all his big brother protectiveness. Although I wasn't surprised. I was kinda surprised Hank caved. Those two boys and their love for their sister also made me warm with that feeling. 

Omigosh, Dawn. Hell yeah, I loved all her scenes...particularly when she got put in her place. *haha*

Ren...*sigh* yeah, he's definitely top alpha for me as well. Funny enough, I can't tell you why. Maybe it's just the way that he and Ally fit? He can be bossy - but usually just in bed, where it doesn't bother Ally. (and wouldn't bother me either...just sayin') But maybe it's really because with the other Hot Bunch guys, they give their women what they need but they do so by beating them over the head with it until the Rock Chick capitulates. Ren...he just gave Ally what she needed in his own quiet way...no beating over the head required. (although I wanted to beat her over the head in the beginning) What do you think it is that makes Ren top alpha?

Oh, and by the way, getting Duke's background...yeah, that explained so much. This whole group is who they are because of all the strong male and female role models they grew up with. It didn't matter if their dad wasn't in the picture or their mom died when they were young, there were all these other strong adults to step in, fill that role, and love 'em strong.That is family. They were all a family. (I'm getting the feeling again...plus the heat behind my eyes *sniff*)

I have a book hangover for sure. But the bright side is we can follow Mace & Stella to LA. :)

Also, I had to go look up Stana Katic from Castle so I could see what Ren thought Ally looked like....gotta say, that was pretty close to how I pictured her. :) 

I got a little book depressed after I finished this one. The last Rock Chick. It was so good and fresh, nothing felt like a rewind of the other stories and there isn't another one to plan for next month! I know we get to follow Mace and Stella, but I want more Ally and Ren dammit! Okay, so that's my four day long rant that's been going on in my head. I can get back to our chat. 

Ally was so much like the boys, she talked and thought like them. She wore the pretty underthings, but the girl was a kid sister raised by a tough  mom with a crazy best friend and two Alpha brothers. She's an alpha chick, that's what she is. Which is why I loved so much how she was with Ren. She never took on a fight with him just to win. If it meant something to him, she was good with it, but if it meant the world to her, she stayed true to herself. She didn't sell Ren or herself short. I know I was frustrated with both of them at different times, but I'm still wearing my rose colored glasses when I think back on it all. I can't remember what pissed me off! 

Ren's alpha-ness is a puzzle. He has some old fashioned ideas buried deep down in his upbringing that rears its head every now and then, but usually he's this equal opportunity male, give and take, share and communicate. Ally loves all his taking (goodness!), but not so much his communicating. 

The series did wrap up nicely, so I can feel free to re-read it whenever I want. We have to hit the Colorado Man series soon so I don't fall into another book depression. That's a real thing, you know. It's been so neat doing these buddy reads with you Brandee! Great books and awesome chats! Best football bet ever!

I'm with you on the book depression...definitely a hangover after finishing Ren & Ally. It's sad to think there isn't more Rock Chick for us. I know I'll re-read this series because it was *that* awesome. And yeah, we can follow Mace & Stella...but I'm still replaying scenes from Ren & Ally. And it's a week later?!? I was thinking about that scene where Tush is played...you know the one. Damn, Ren is so freaking hot!

Ally - yeah, I think I most admire her and aspire to be like her. I love that she's just as much one of the guys as she is a Rock Chick. And I thought of you every time she was gonna cry - since neither of you like doing that shit. :) I really think they are my favorite couple because I adore how they are with one another. You're right about Ally never selling herself short with Ren. But he didn't either. They both took into account whether or not something was important to the other and never dug in their heels just because. I think, maybe in a way, they were the most mature. Does that make sense? 

And I've said it for every one of these books but I'm amazed at how fresh KA keeps things in every single installment. This one though, it takes the cake. *sigh*

YES! We will start the Colorado Man series next month so we can avoid book depression. There are so many KA books to choose from. AND we have books to buddy read from our two other football bets. :) I do agree though...this was the best football bet EVER. I'm thrilled to have lost because in the end, we both won! :)

**That's What HE Said ~ #19**

That's What He Said is a weekly meme hosted by the lovely ladies @Chapter Break. Here's the deal: every Thursday, post a line from your book boyfriend to his heroine. Keep in mind, these are direct quotes from dialog in the books. The quote doesn't have to be romantic - just something our hunky hero said to his lucky lady. Be sure to link up over at Chapter Break as well.

My pick this week for That's What He Said is from:

Rock Chick Revolution by Kristen Ashley

Y'all are gonna have to forgive me for the length of this one but once you're at the end,  I think you'll understand why I chose it.  

***

"I knew it could happen when you were cool when I told you about my dad and you wrapped your hand around my thigh. I definitely knew it could happen when you went wild for me on my stairs. Shit went down and it took a while but I knew it DID happen when you cried in my arms after Sadie had her thing. Anyone who would feel that badly about being mean and care so deeply about another human being's fucked up life I knew was the woman for me. You gave me a run for my money, and once I stopped finding it a pain in my ass and started enjoying it, I did nothing but. I enjoyed every fuckin' second, Ally. And every fuckin' second I've never doubted how I was feeling. And just to be clear, how I was feeling, every day through this game we've been playing, was that I was falling deeper in love with you."

**Blogger 'Duel' Review ~ Rock Chick Chat on Rock Chick Regret ~ Kristen Ashley**

FYI - still the best bet I ever lost. :) Also FYI, Robyn and I are continuing the *tradition* of betting on football and we'll be reading another book of my choice, since the Broncos LOST once again to the Seahawks. Oh, and we will absolutely be reading and chatting about other KA series.

***

Rock Chick Regret
Rock Chick #7
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance
Release Date:
Source: I purchased an ecopy from Amazon
Rating: 5 Bookworms

Synopsis
Sadie Townsend is known by all as The Ice Princess and she's worked hard to earn her reputation. Her father, a now-incarcerated Drug Lord, has kept her under his thumb her whole life and she's learned enough from living in his world to give everyone the cold shoulder. But one inebriated night, she shows the Real Sadie to the undercover agent she knows is investigating her father, the handsome Hector Chavez, and he knows he'll stop at nothing to have her.

Hector makes one (huge) mistake; he waits for Sadie to come to him. Tragedy strikes and Sadie's got a choice, she can retreat behind her Ice Fortress or she can embrace the Rock Chick/Hot Bunch World. Guided by Hector, the Rock Chicks, the Hot Bunch and her new gay roommates, Buddy and Ralphie, Sadie negotiates a life out from under her father's thumb, a life that includes poison, arson and learning how to make s'mores.

***

Man, I thought Mace & Stella's story had a different feel. I've spent so much time crying over Hector & Sadie's and I'm only on chapter 4.

Okay, one thing that's standing out the most to me is Sadie. She's not the typical Rock Chick. It's very interesting that KA created a Rock Chick that's...well, she's not weak. She's actually a smart and touch chick but she seems so much more fragile. Is that a good word for her? It fits with her looking like a fairy princess, I suppose. Does she seem fragile to you? Fragile and yet she'll jump in with both feet to send her drug dealing daddy to prison. Hmm...

Hector...ay, Dios mio! Yes, I speak some Spanish and Hector Chavez is mm-mmm. (by the way, that sentiment is the same in both Spanish and English) I can't imagine the regret he feels over the actions he took. But he's so tender with Sadie. He knows he has to handle her with kid gloves and he's managing. He's a hot-headed hottie. But he's completely different from his brother. And although I like Eddie, I like Hector's brand of machismo better. I love that he's determined to bring out the 'real' Sadie - the one he seems to see even if Sadie isn't that acquainted with her.

Okay, back to Hector....

***

My goodness do I like Sadie. And for completely different reasons than I've liked any of the other Rock Chicks. I'm loving the comparison to a fairy princess, because that whole dream she had which she remembered when she walked into Hector's house? Awesome!

I was really, really happy that KA dealt with the after-affects of rape. I was kinda worrying that things would just move forward so I was relieved when bumps on the road were hit. (bad analogy?)

Hector...seriously in the running for #1 Hot Bunch. That he's so compassionate, gentle, patient with Sadie is winning me over. I know he's a hot-headed guy but he's not being pushy with Sadie at all. Oh and that tattoo??? **SWOON** 

Ralphie and Buddy make me smile. And Shirleen planning the menu for an art opening was classic! Pigs in a blanket...made with croissants because that's classier. OMG! I haven't seen the other cast members all that much and Tex *still* steals his scenes! And that they're ALL so accepting of Sadie - even though she thinks she is undeserving and doesn't belong - is heartening.

*cocks head* Oh, Hector's calling... ;)

This one does have a totally different vibe. Sadie isn't immediately endearing like the rest of the girls. She's so good being cold when threatened, she goes cold at the slightest hiccup. I think Sadie is more vulnerable, at least the sweet side of her is because her sweet side is like a fledgling with no armor. 

Oh Hector. Man, that guy. I love how different he is from Eddie. They're both Alpha bossy males, but Eddie would have pushed Sadie back to her icy mountaintop forever. I think of all the males we've read about so far, Hector carries and uses his guilt differently. He didn't wallow once or push Sadie away. He's a thinker first. All the other guys were charge in and throw shit kind of men. Perfect for Sadie who is also a thinker. She's so much of a dang thinker she divided up her personalities. She's nutty!

I was trying to think of standout characters for this one, but everyone showed up and bedazzled me. Duke. Tex. Marcus! I was so happy to have some scenes with Daisy's husband. Buddy and Ralphie, they are so freaking awesome. I love them.

***

Yep, Hector is edging out Hank. No worries. I have enough book girlfriend love for all of them. It's so neat that she looks like a fairy princess and has premeditated personality shifts, not always, but she goes into things with a plan who she's going to be. The need to discover who she is has to be one of my favorite things about her. How can you not root for her? Of course I love the Veronica Mars tie-in. I love how Buddy and Ralphie gave her so much love and helped her climb out of that terrible dark place she had to have been in. KA did a great job handling the rape storyline, I just wasn't so sure about how often Sadie said the word rape out loud. That seemed...not realistic. Then again, Sadie doesn't mince words. She's a straight shooter.

Tex always steals the show. I love his whole "VIP!" mixed in with yelling and swearing to clear the line at Fortnums. He does it with every Rock Chick. Duke, I'm telling you, he knows how to pick his freaking moments. I want him to have a chat with me and straighten me out. I felt terrible for Lee for a while, even more than Hector. What a beginning, huh? Heavy. 

I just realized one thing for sure that's different about this one, there was not competing Hot Bunch guy. Right? KA ran out I think. Say it ain't so! I love how welcoming Blanca is to Sadie. I just love it. And I love when Sadie has moments when she's not thinking how she'll react. She just does and that's Hector's Sadie that he usually messes up telling her. Have you noticed he's not a "sorry" man? He's a "this is me" guy. Sadie's the best one for him. 

Aww, she didn't endear herself to you immediately? Getting the inner monologue made me understand her actions right off so I liked her from the start. She is definitely good at being the Ice Princess...until she isn't. But you're right about the sweet side of her being like a fledgling without armor. That's a really good comparison. 

I'm in love with Hector. True. I can't think of the exact moment it happened right now - it might have been the "I'm not fucking around anymore" speech. But LOVE.HIM. He is a gentle alpha, much like Hank. The difference is that Hector says so much with his actions where Hank's good with his words. Of course, Hector has good words too...like the point where he tells Sadie all her Sadies make up her. He just melts me into a puddle of goo.

Yes, there aren't any standout characters this time...they ALL are! I loved getting some good Marcus, too. Ralphie and Buddy made me love them. And Jack made a big impact even if he's only present a very little while. I want Duke to set you and me both straight! He does know just what to say and when to say it, doesn't he? He's awesome. I can hear his voice so clearly and even feel his hugs. They ALL make me comfy, warm, safe. I sooo get it now. I get the message that we can do anything with our friends by our sides.

***

*haha* Yeah, I have enough love for them all too but Hector is definitely edging out all the other Hot Bunch hotties. 

I like that you mentioned Sadie's need to discover who she is because I was thinking that this book, more than any of the others, has been a journey of personal discovery for our Rock Chick. And watching that journey is one of my most favorite things. It broke my heart to think that Sadie hadn't ever experienced some things we take for granted....like smores. Or having girlfriends to have coffee with.  

I really am pleased with how KA handled Sadie's recovery from the rape. And I didn't think anything about her use of the word. I guess because, like you said, she's a straight-shooter and doesn't mince words. Especially once she's thought about things, gotten mad, or clicked a certain Sadie into place. So while it might not be realistic for some, it seemed to fit with Sadie.

Hector is a "this is me" kinda guy and you can take him or leave him, he doesn't care. It's ironic that he doesn't say he's sorry and Sadie is constantly apologizing for things she has no control over. Yep, they're perfect for one another.

Hmm, it didn't occur to me that we hadn't had a rivalry for Sadie in this one. But you're right. And she's been with other Hot Bunch hotties... Ren sure didn't make Hector happy when he touched Sadie but he didn't make any moves. And, well, we know how that one works out. Maybe there wasn't a rivalry because of all the Rock Chicks, Sadie's the one least likely to accept any advances?? 

It made me exceptionally warm and gooey feeling that everyone so quickly accepted Sadie...but especially Hector's family. Blanca accepted her more readily that Jet, don't you think? And that one was fast too. I also love Sadie's reactions to all the hugs, kisses, and acceptance she's been given. I've giggled over her painting, sanding, etc. at Hector's house. And I cried...boo-hooed! - over what she said to her dad about what living a good life was, in her opinion. True, that.

I finished reading Rock Chick Regret. Holy cow I loved this one so much!!! Hector is plain awesome. His brand of alpha is the most appealing to me. He's not physically controlling. He has fits and mood swings which just make him more real. He handles Sadie with such care and patience. Sadie won me over instantly because we had the inside track, but that first scene with Indy and Shirleen and the complete freeze out, it's the first time one of the Rock Chicks didn't think the upcoming Rock Chick was badass. 

I cracked up at how much Sadie loved fixing up Hector's house. When she had paint all over her, I could see this woman who showed the world a perfect Sadie and then she got to be a kid. Her dad is sure a complex character, that's for sure. You know what would be kind of fun, the old guys getting stuck on some winter retreat, cops and sort of and not sort of bad guys and they all have to solve some mystery together. Cliche maybe, but how fun would it be to see Duke and Tex there too? That's another fanfic I vote for us writing. 

I couldn't get over Jerry...that he felt so entitled to Sadie that he'd do whatever he felt like in order to get what he felt was his due. Ugh! What a creep! And Marcus got to be a good guy again! Yay!!

That scene between Sadie and her dad was fan-freaking-tastic! I was so proud of Sadie...the real Sadie for standing up to him and asking for what she deserved...her dad.

That last 'talk' Hector and Sadie had - I was so thrilled that she held her ground and told him, just as he'd told her, how it was going to be. I love the real Sadie.

The epilogue...loved that. Hector's explanation of Ally and Ren was great. And that Christmas morning scene...god I love Hector. And Sadie sure does too! 

Can I say that I think it's kinda amusing (like I'm fighting a grin) that we just might end up being in love with the same Hot Bunch hottie?!? Hector is firmly in first place in my heart.

***

Oh yeah, you're right. The Rock Chicks were definitely NOT on the Sadie bandwagon. And that's the first time we've seen them be really kinda catty, huh? I mean, they were nicer to those gals that were 'friends' of Indy's...well, until that bar brawl anyway. :)

I love that fanfic idea! It would be so much fun to see all those males together. :)

Sorry I've slacked on our RC chat! Jerry was something that's for sure. Of course I hated him from the start, but still, he racked up more hate points as the story went on. There was still kidnapping in this one, but totally different than the other ones. Sadie was so badass and not because she kicked ass, but because like Hector always says, she has an iron will. Oh, Hector. Of course we'd fall for the same Hot Bunch Hottie. Luke has the weird mustache thing. Seriously, that drives me crazy and not in a good way. Eddie does all that physical pushing around. Lee was made for one girl. But Hector, oh man. He pushes the right buttons. Christmas day rocked. 

I can't wait to read Ren and Ally's story, but then again, procrastinating sounds like a great plan. I'm not ready to close out the series. We do have a good consolation plan...writing a bit of fanfic, but still! It's been such a fun ride, Brandee!!

Yeah I loved how Hector kept repeating 'will of iron'. He totally makes me swoon. And of course we'd both fall for the same Hot Bunch hottie. 

I am not minding the idea of procrastinating on Ally and Ren's story. I hate for this ride to be over. But you're right, we do have some fun on tap. And lots more KA to read. ;) Ooh, and the fanfic...that's intimidating. *haha*

My final thoughts...

I'm so impressed at KA's ability to keep this series fresh and entertaining. This latest installment, there's plenty of drama, action, and intrigue to go along with the romance. But I felt this story was, more than any of it's predecessors, a story of self-discovery for Sadie. And although it was more than a little difficult at times, that journey was a pleasure to witness. It really drove home KA's message that if you have friends, you're never alone.

All with the added bonus of one Hector Chavez, who is now the reigning Hot Bunch Hottie in my heart. He is the perfect blend of alpha and gentleman. There isn't a more perfect man for Sadie, that's for sure.

Add in the entire RC cast, along with a few newbies, and the story has heart, depth, and it's a lot of fun. This just might be my favorite RC yet!

**That's What HE Said ~ #14**

That's What He Said is a weekly meme hosted by the lovely ladies @Chapter Break. Here's the deal: every Thursday, post a line from your book boyfriend to his heroine. Keep in mind, these are direct quotes from dialog in the books. The quote doesn't have to be romantic - just something our hunky hero said to his lucky lady. Be sure to link up over at Chapter Break as well.

This week I'm picking my That's What He Said from:

Rock Chick Regret by Kristen Ashley

My review of Rock Chick Regret will post sometime in the next week or so. But y'all...I've changed my mind about which Hot Bunch Hottie is mine. Hector Chavez...he pushes all my buttons - in a good way. ;) I'm so sad there's only one book left in the series.

***

"In time, this arm..." He squeezed me with his right arm but lifted his left. "Right here..." His right arm left me and he pointed to the inside of his forearm. My eyes moved there then back to his as his arm came around me again. "Is gonna have the same rose. Because you belong on my arm. Do you understand what I'm sayin' to you?"

Hector is explaining a tattoo on his back that includes a rose that was inspired by Sadie. But he's saying something a little deeper, too.