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These Arms of Mine
When Alesha Robinson ended her torrid affair with Derrick Chandler, she gave up the love of her life. Now fate's giving them a second chance. But when Alesha asks Derrick to save her brother, she never dreams what the scorned multimillionaire will demand in exchange: becoming his wife—in name only.
Even after Alesha shattered his trust, Derrick never stopped loving her. His strings-attached proposition was supposed to be strictly business: revenge for her cruel betrayal as he rebuilds his public image. Until desire reignites—hotter than ever.
As the ex-lovers give in to their passion, a marriage of convenience is about to become inconvenient. And Derrick realizes just how far he'll go to keep Alesha in his bed, in his arms, in his heart—forever.
224 pages, Paperback
First published January 24, 2012
6 people are currently reading
115 people want to read
About the author
Judy Lynn Hubbard
16 books62 followersJudy L. Hubbard is a writer who is also an avid romance reader. In fact, when she's not writing, you can find her with her nose stuck in a book (or e-reader).
Her first Harlequin Romance, THESE ARMS OF MINE, was published January 24, 2012.
Judy is a member of Romance Writers of America (RWA) and Dallas Area Romance Authors (DARA).
Her first Harlequin Romance, THESE ARMS OF MINE, was published January 24, 2012.
Judy is a member of Romance Writers of America (RWA) and Dallas Area Romance Authors (DARA).
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
January 8, 2012
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BRIEF SUMMARY
Alesha's affair with Derrick was over before it began a few years ago and Derrick never really got over his relationship with, Alesha. So, when the opportunity came for him to take what he wants, he did. Alesha’s goal in seeing Derrick again is to help her brother, unfortunately she has to do what she doesn't want to in order to help him.
THOUGHTS
This was a sweet story, though when one thinks of blackmail, sweet, doesn't come to mind. I have been reading blackmail concepts for a long time and I still love them. You have the strong sexy Alpha male who has been scorned and wants retribution, and the female who is willing to do what she has to.
The first couple of chapters started out appealing and reminds me of a Harlequin Presents book, which isn't a bad thing. However, as the story progress that thought went away. The story kept the same pace throughout, until an ex came back to into town to cause trouble for both characters. Both Alesha and Derrick's characters complimented each other as they try to figure out their relationship that is based on blackmail.
Sometimes as a reader, in certain books, as your reading along you play match maker in your head with other characters, which, I did like the secondary characters in this story. Cam, Derrick's best friend, I liked him a lot and of course would hope there is a follow up story which involves, Angela, Alesha's best friend. Also, an odd match would be Robert, Alesha's brother and Diana. Diana has attitude but she needs someone to bring it down a bit and that always makes for a good read, the stormier the better.
This is the author’s first book and I have to say well done and I am definitely interested in reading more, as it only can get better with each story. Also, the title got me in the mood to play that song all day.
Storyline: FAIR to GOOD
Intimacy: GOOD
Enjoyment: GOOD
Book Release: 1/24/2012
Romance Novel Junkies
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BRIEF SUMMARY
Alesha's affair with Derrick was over before it began a few years ago and Derrick never really got over his relationship with, Alesha. So, when the opportunity came for him to take what he wants, he did. Alesha’s goal in seeing Derrick again is to help her brother, unfortunately she has to do what she doesn't want to in order to help him.
THOUGHTS
This was a sweet story, though when one thinks of blackmail, sweet, doesn't come to mind. I have been reading blackmail concepts for a long time and I still love them. You have the strong sexy Alpha male who has been scorned and wants retribution, and the female who is willing to do what she has to.
The first couple of chapters started out appealing and reminds me of a Harlequin Presents book, which isn't a bad thing. However, as the story progress that thought went away. The story kept the same pace throughout, until an ex came back to into town to cause trouble for both characters. Both Alesha and Derrick's characters complimented each other as they try to figure out their relationship that is based on blackmail.
Sometimes as a reader, in certain books, as your reading along you play match maker in your head with other characters, which, I did like the secondary characters in this story. Cam, Derrick's best friend, I liked him a lot and of course would hope there is a follow up story which involves, Angela, Alesha's best friend. Also, an odd match would be Robert, Alesha's brother and Diana. Diana has attitude but she needs someone to bring it down a bit and that always makes for a good read, the stormier the better.
This is the author’s first book and I have to say well done and I am definitely interested in reading more, as it only can get better with each story. Also, the title got me in the mood to play that song all day.
Storyline: FAIR to GOOD
Intimacy: GOOD
Enjoyment: GOOD
Book Release: 1/24/2012
Romance Novel Junkies
Romance readers chat: http://rnjforumchat.romancenoveljunki...
August 28, 2016
This is the 1st book I read by Judy Lynn Hubbard. This book's story line & characters was boring. I'm sorry nothing about this held my interest.
November 2, 2020
I thought this book started out pretty good but I felt it dragged on too much without getting to the point...I will definitely read other books by this author. Thank you!
May 24, 2025
My absolute favorite book! I’ve read it numerous times and still get captured by their beautiful love story every single time.
January 19, 2012
Quando Alesha Robinson mise fine alla sua relazione appassionata con Derrick Chandler, rinunciò all'amore della sua vita. Ora il fato sta per dargli una seconda possibilità. Quando Alesha chiede a Derrick di salvarle il fratello, non si sarebbe mai sognata quello che il disdegnato multimilionario le avrebbe chiesto in cambio: diventare sua moglie ma soltanto di nome.
Anche dopo che Alesha aveva distrutto la sua fiducia Derrick non aveva mai smesso di amarla. La sua proposta era stata mossa solamente dall'interesse: vendetta per il suo crudele tradimento mentre lui ricostruiva la sua immagine pubblica. Fino a che il desiderio non diventa incendiario, più caldo che mai.
Mentre gli ex-amanti cededono alla passione, un matrimonio di convenienza sta per diventare inconveniente. E Derrick realizza cos'è disposto a fare pur di tenere Alesha nel suo letto, nelle sue braccia, nel suo cuore. Per sempre.
Un classico romanzo d'amore contemporaneo con entrambi gli eroi di colore come, del resto, l'autrice. Ben scritto, scorrevole, certo, non esattamente originale, ma davvero promettente! Una giovane scrittrice in erba che di sicuro ha davanti a sè un brillante futuro nel mondo degli Harmony e dei romance. Il classico romanzo che fa sospirare e sognare noi donne e che, a volte, serve per staccare dal tran tran della vita di tutti i giorni; non so voi ma, per me, i romance sono come una medicina: presi saltuariamente per aiutare la salute e ridurre lo stress.
Certo, ripeto, il tema del matrimonio forzato che trova il lieto fine è trito e ritrito; non conto nemmeno più le volte in cui l'ho trovato in un libro rosa. I più vividi nella mia mente, forse, sono ben due Siluette Desire di Nalini Singh. Insomma, un classico, come i vampiri nel paranormal, ma che venderà sempre. E come se ci fosse qualcosa in noi romantiche che, semplicemente, sospira di piacere in una trama del genere. Assurdo, ma vero, siamo delle masochiste.
Si ringraziano NetGalley e Harlequin Kimani Romance per la gentile Preview.
Anche dopo che Alesha aveva distrutto la sua fiducia Derrick non aveva mai smesso di amarla. La sua proposta era stata mossa solamente dall'interesse: vendetta per il suo crudele tradimento mentre lui ricostruiva la sua immagine pubblica. Fino a che il desiderio non diventa incendiario, più caldo che mai.
Mentre gli ex-amanti cededono alla passione, un matrimonio di convenienza sta per diventare inconveniente. E Derrick realizza cos'è disposto a fare pur di tenere Alesha nel suo letto, nelle sue braccia, nel suo cuore. Per sempre.
Un classico romanzo d'amore contemporaneo con entrambi gli eroi di colore come, del resto, l'autrice. Ben scritto, scorrevole, certo, non esattamente originale, ma davvero promettente! Una giovane scrittrice in erba che di sicuro ha davanti a sè un brillante futuro nel mondo degli Harmony e dei romance. Il classico romanzo che fa sospirare e sognare noi donne e che, a volte, serve per staccare dal tran tran della vita di tutti i giorni; non so voi ma, per me, i romance sono come una medicina: presi saltuariamente per aiutare la salute e ridurre lo stress.
Certo, ripeto, il tema del matrimonio forzato che trova il lieto fine è trito e ritrito; non conto nemmeno più le volte in cui l'ho trovato in un libro rosa. I più vividi nella mia mente, forse, sono ben due Siluette Desire di Nalini Singh. Insomma, un classico, come i vampiri nel paranormal, ma che venderà sempre. E come se ci fosse qualcosa in noi romantiche che, semplicemente, sospira di piacere in una trama del genere. Assurdo, ma vero, siamo delle masochiste.
Si ringraziano NetGalley e Harlequin Kimani Romance per la gentile Preview.
February 23, 2012
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Book Review: THESE ARMS OF MINE
By Judy Lynn Hubbard
Category: Adult Fiction
A Marriage of Convenience?
Derrick Chandler needs a wife. Or at least that’s what his best friend and campaign manager tells him is imperative if he plans to run for the US Senate. He doesn’t believe it, but readily changes his mind when beautiful Alesha Robinson enters his office.
Alesha is no stranger to Derrick. In fact she is the very reason for his heartbreak two years prior. She dreads facing him again but has to because her brother Robert embezzled a lot of money from his campaign fund and Derrick intends to sue. She needs to talk him out of his plan. So Derrick sees the perfect compromise: She marries him, He doesn’t sue.
Derrick makes his intentions clear. Their marriage will be real in every sense of the word. Alesha bites the bullet, not just to save her brother but also because deep inside she has never let him go.
They get married and play their parts perfectly in public. Privately, though both in denial, they quickly gravitate towards each other physically and emotionally. But just when everything is going well, Diana shows up. Derrick’s ex-wife wants him back badly, not for love but for the political advantage she could have with him. So Alesha fights for her marriage. But will what started as a marriage of convenience lead to true and lasting love?
This is a short book and an easy read. But though the characters are likable I did not feel attached to any of them. The descriptions were repetitive and some lines were melodramatic. The ending was a sweet feel-good wrap-up. If all you want is a book with a happy ending, maybe this is for you. otherwise, skip this one.
THANKS!
Book Review: THESE ARMS OF MINE
By Judy Lynn Hubbard
Category: Adult Fiction
A Marriage of Convenience?
Derrick Chandler needs a wife. Or at least that’s what his best friend and campaign manager tells him is imperative if he plans to run for the US Senate. He doesn’t believe it, but readily changes his mind when beautiful Alesha Robinson enters his office.
Alesha is no stranger to Derrick. In fact she is the very reason for his heartbreak two years prior. She dreads facing him again but has to because her brother Robert embezzled a lot of money from his campaign fund and Derrick intends to sue. She needs to talk him out of his plan. So Derrick sees the perfect compromise: She marries him, He doesn’t sue.
Derrick makes his intentions clear. Their marriage will be real in every sense of the word. Alesha bites the bullet, not just to save her brother but also because deep inside she has never let him go.
They get married and play their parts perfectly in public. Privately, though both in denial, they quickly gravitate towards each other physically and emotionally. But just when everything is going well, Diana shows up. Derrick’s ex-wife wants him back badly, not for love but for the political advantage she could have with him. So Alesha fights for her marriage. But will what started as a marriage of convenience lead to true and lasting love?
This is a short book and an easy read. But though the characters are likable I did not feel attached to any of them. The descriptions were repetitive and some lines were melodramatic. The ending was a sweet feel-good wrap-up. If all you want is a book with a happy ending, maybe this is for you. otherwise, skip this one.
March 5, 2012
Debut Harlequin Kimani author Judy Lynn Hubbard scores a win with These Arms of Mine. This is Harlequin romance at its best!
The story follows nurse Alesha Robinson and politician Derrick Chandler as they revisit a relationship that ended on rocky terms two years before the story begins. Derrick has become embittered and disillusioned about love, and Alesha quickly sees the impact that her choice from two years ago had on him. Still, with Derrick all that stands between Alesha's brother, Robert, and a prison term for embezzlement, she approaches Derrick with hat in hand.
Derrick isn't about to let Alesha off easily, however. He's in need of a wife to improve his image, and thus his chances of securing a senatorial seat. So he essentially blackmails Alesha into marrying him--in name only--if she wants to keep him from pressing charges against Robert.
What begins as an act of revenge quickly turns against Derrick. He'll soon realize that the feelings he had for Alesha never truly died. But does she feel the same?
The story of how they come together as a couple is unique and sensual, and everything a Harlequin romance should be. I enjoyed Ms. Hubbard's writing style and connected with the characters, rooting for them to overcome pride and confess their feelings to each other. If you're seeking straight-up romance, check this one out!
The story follows nurse Alesha Robinson and politician Derrick Chandler as they revisit a relationship that ended on rocky terms two years before the story begins. Derrick has become embittered and disillusioned about love, and Alesha quickly sees the impact that her choice from two years ago had on him. Still, with Derrick all that stands between Alesha's brother, Robert, and a prison term for embezzlement, she approaches Derrick with hat in hand.
Derrick isn't about to let Alesha off easily, however. He's in need of a wife to improve his image, and thus his chances of securing a senatorial seat. So he essentially blackmails Alesha into marrying him--in name only--if she wants to keep him from pressing charges against Robert.
What begins as an act of revenge quickly turns against Derrick. He'll soon realize that the feelings he had for Alesha never truly died. But does she feel the same?
The story of how they come together as a couple is unique and sensual, and everything a Harlequin romance should be. I enjoyed Ms. Hubbard's writing style and connected with the characters, rooting for them to overcome pride and confess their feelings to each other. If you're seeking straight-up romance, check this one out!
February 28, 2012
These Arms of Mine is a delightful debut story of second chance at love. Years ago, Alesha Robinson abruptly ended her promising relationship with Derrick Coleman, but either has forgotten their feelings for the other. Now, Alesha needs a big favor from Derrick to save her family, and he see this as an opportunity to get the vindication for Alesha messing over him, and will grant the favor if she will become his wife, and perform all of the wifely duties. This alluring storyline had an uncomfortable start for me, as Derrick was very aggressive about having sexual relations with his wife, and Alesha was hesitant and turned-off by any sexual reference which was not realistic for her age and her profession as a nurse, but the author does redeem both Derrick and Alesha as the book evolves. A tender storyline on how important communications are in a relationship and charming secondary characters will jerk at readers’ heartstrings. Looking forward to see Ms. Hubbard’s growth as a romance writer, and her next book.
January 9, 2012
These Arms of Mine is the first Kimani romance by Judy Lynn Hubbard and she's done a great job in her debut. Alesha Robinson's brother is in danger of going to jail for embezzling campaign funds from his employer, Derrick Ashton, and she has decided to beg for leniency and ask that charges not be filed against him. It sounds simple, but Derrick is also the person who's heart she broke two years ago when she ended their relationship and he has never forgiven her. Seeing an opportunity to get revenge and to advance his political career, Derrick forces Alesha to marry him to pay off her brother's debt and to present himself to voters as a family man.
Of course there is more backstory behind Alesha dumping Derrick the first time and her brother's reasons for stealing the money in the first place. Watching them make this arrangement work while surrounded by secrets soon to be revealed was well worth the read.
Of course there is more backstory behind Alesha dumping Derrick the first time and her brother's reasons for stealing the money in the first place. Watching them make this arrangement work while surrounded by secrets soon to be revealed was well worth the read.
June 3, 2012
While I am not that eager to be the first one to offer an opinion, I
have been up all night reading Maureen Smith's No One But You so I am a
little wired, and to think I have to work a full day today with no
sleep. Anyway...
I enjoyed
this story, it was well written and riveting, though it was a little
confusing in the beginning with the jumping back and forth between the
hero and heroine's point of view, but once I caught on, I really enjoyed
the book. It was one of those pick me up and don't put me down kind of
books. Alesha's shyness was a little tedious, but not enough to take
away from my enjoyment of the book.
Welcome to
Kimani Linda and I look forward to reading many more of your books in
the future. Now off to fall asleep on the train to work...
February 1, 2012
Alesha dated Derrick two years ago and she gave up the love of her life. Now they are getting a second chance. Alesha will do anything to save her brother even becoming Derrick's wife in name only. Derrick couldn't believe when Alesha came into his office to ask for his help and he wants to get revenge on her for what happened between them two years ago. I thought this one was a very good read and I really enjoyed it. You could see the chemistry between the both of them even though they wanted to deny it. The more time that they actually spend together the more the got to know each other. You could see how much they really loved each other and had to let go of the past if they wanted a shot a loving relationship. This will not be my last book by this author.
January 20, 2012
Alesha left Derrick 2 years ago, she comes back to try to talk him out of pressing charges against her brother who stole $100,000 from him. Derrick's deal is for her to marry him. Hmmm. She agrees & it's great! I would marry him!
There is more to the story behind why Alesha left & why her brother embezzled the $$. Since the arrangement was only temporary, can it last?
Hot & cute! Awwwe!
This was a cute story. A quick 1 day read. It was fun & had a lot of good romance! It's a great sit home & read during the rain curled up on the couch or in bed if you don't feel like getting out book!
There is more to the story behind why Alesha left & why her brother embezzled the $$. Since the arrangement was only temporary, can it last?
Hot & cute! Awwwe!
This was a cute story. A quick 1 day read. It was fun & had a lot of good romance! It's a great sit home & read during the rain curled up on the couch or in bed if you don't feel like getting out book!
January 23, 2012
Ms. Hubbard Kimani debut is first rate classic romance of a seasoned author, you will fall in love with the featured characters and want to read more about the supporting cast. You can't help but embrace and cheer for the heroine. I love reading stories when a heroine comes into her own as an empowered woman.
You will root for Derrick Chandler because he is as passionate as he is charming.
Alesha Robinson and Derrick Chandler story will warm your heart and have you believe in love second chances. This is a very well written and engaging story and a great start for Ms. Hubbard I look forward to reading more of her work.
You will root for Derrick Chandler because he is as passionate as he is charming.
Alesha Robinson and Derrick Chandler story will warm your heart and have you believe in love second chances. This is a very well written and engaging story and a great start for Ms. Hubbard I look forward to reading more of her work.
July 15, 2012
It was ok, they met, she's stupid and afraid, they part and then they come back together but he's upset till he understands. Read many romances with this plot, but this was good enough.
Librino carino, s'incontrano, lei è stupida e spaventata e si lasciano, poi tornano assieme anche se lui non gliel'ha ancora perdonata fino a che non "comprende". Ne ho letti parecchi di questi libri, ma non era male lo stesso.
THANKS TO HARLEQUIN AND NETGALLEY FOR THE PREVIEW
Librino carino, s'incontrano, lei è stupida e spaventata e si lasciano, poi tornano assieme anche se lui non gliel'ha ancora perdonata fino a che non "comprende". Ne ho letti parecchi di questi libri, ma non era male lo stesso.
THANKS TO HARLEQUIN AND NETGALLEY FOR THE PREVIEW
September 14, 2014
Alesha and Derrick's story was great! The wants and loves who the heart wants and loves. Their chemistry was felt through the pages and I could not put this book down. Although it was my second (or third) time reading, it felt like a brand new read ... and did I say, I LOVED THIS BOOK?!! If you haven't read any of Judy Lynne Hubbard's books, PLEASE go out and get them, you definitely will not be disappointed!
August 11, 2013
Aleesha Robinson ended her relationship with Derrick Chandler without an explanation and now two years later seeks him out to ask that he not press charges against her brother. Derrick concedes but with a request, Aleesha must marry him.
These Arms of Mine was a great read and my first book by this author. I loved how Derrick and Aleesha went on a journey to rediscover love, learn forgiveness and trust builds a long-standing relationship.
These Arms of Mine was a great read and my first book by this author. I loved how Derrick and Aleesha went on a journey to rediscover love, learn forgiveness and trust builds a long-standing relationship.
June 24, 2014
it took me forever to get into this book. When I did, the plot was silly. Nothing really gets solved, issues just disappear.
She was forced to leave a job she loved. Poof! Derrick comes to her party, issue gone. Her brother hates her "arrangement." Poof! Issue disappears with a quick declaration of love.
Two stars.
She was forced to leave a job she loved. Poof! Derrick comes to her party, issue gone. Her brother hates her "arrangement." Poof! Issue disappears with a quick declaration of love.
Two stars.
February 6, 2012
A SWEET romantic debut...I love the INTENSE passion and fire between Alesha and Derrick...and I'm TOTALLY looking forward to reading more from Ms. Hubbard...I hope she give us some follow-up on Cam and Angela...and perhaps Robert, too. Kudos!
January 21, 2012
I loved this book. I love to see lovers reunited and work out their problems. Judy Lynn Hubbard did a fantastic job on her first novel and I look foward to reading more of her work in the future!
July 29, 2012
I started and finished Judy L. Hubbard's first book today. It is titled "These Arms of My". I loved it !!!! Couldn't put it down.
February 27, 2014
Marriage of convenience turns into real love. Enjoyable read.
August 31, 2015
This book is a nice romance, to kick back and read, for the day. A good weekend day/ morning getaway, with a cup of coffee and hopefully, some natural sunlight to go with it.
March 16, 2012
I really enjoyed this story of Derrick and Alesha.
Read
March 5, 2012Lovely story.
May 2, 2014
It was nice
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews