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Almost a Bride
Award-winning author, Kimberly Llewellyn, introduces a sexy fun story about two people who discover they have a lot more to share between the sheets than they ever bargained for.
Ivy Hammond got dumped at the altar, all because she was too much of a good girl in the bedroom. So when a research study on sex appeal needs participants, she jumps at the chance to learn what it takes to be sexy.
Kip Lockehart owes his foster brother his life. He repays the debt by agreeing to participate in a new sex appeal study. From the first sizzling assignment, Kip is immediately intrigued by the lovely Ivy, who’s innocently curious about what makes a woman sensual. Kip is more than happy to show her. But as each passionate assignment brings them closer, he fears they may break the study’s number one rule―don’t fall in love. But when he can’t stop picturing Ivy as his bride, he sets out to convince her some rules were made to be broken.
Ivy Hammond got dumped at the altar, all because she was too much of a good girl in the bedroom. So when a research study on sex appeal needs participants, she jumps at the chance to learn what it takes to be sexy.
Kip Lockehart owes his foster brother his life. He repays the debt by agreeing to participate in a new sex appeal study. From the first sizzling assignment, Kip is immediately intrigued by the lovely Ivy, who’s innocently curious about what makes a woman sensual. Kip is more than happy to show her. But as each passionate assignment brings them closer, he fears they may break the study’s number one rule―don’t fall in love. But when he can’t stop picturing Ivy as his bride, he sets out to convince her some rules were made to be broken.
202 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 18, 2011
41 people are currently reading
305 people want to read
About the author
Kimberly Llewellyn
13 books30 followersKnown as The Wedding Writer, Kimberly Llewellyn is the author of eight novels, including the IndieBound Bestseller, Tulle Little, Tulle Late and The Quest for the Holy Veil published by Penguin/Berkley, New York, NY. Other bestsellers include Siren Call and Almost a Bride. She can be found on Facebook, Twitter, and Goodreads! Friend the author at facebook.com/kimberlyllewellynbooks.
Her Heartthrob Heroes Series is available now:
Cowboy's Kiss
Playboy Doctor
Christmas Knight
Kimberly Llewellyn is a bestselling author and the co-owner of Bella Caroll Wines, notable for its complete collection, Bella Caroll Wedding Wine.
Her Heartthrob Heroes Series is available now:
Cowboy's Kiss
Playboy Doctor
Christmas Knight
Kimberly Llewellyn is a bestselling author and the co-owner of Bella Caroll Wines, notable for its complete collection, Bella Caroll Wedding Wine.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
December 11, 2013
This book, a freebie I downloaded when I got my Kindle a couple of years ago, was OK. A bit too turgid, the main characters were far too quick to jump in the sack, if the author's intent was to build tension or anticipation. A strong editor would have been helpful, as the author tended to overuse certain words (e.g., ravage) within a single scene and the whole novel. (And in that particular example, I'm fairly certain the author meant "ravish," given the contexts it kept appearing in.) YMMV, but I'm giving it a "Meh." Sometimes you do get what you pay for.
January 19, 2012
I found myself skipping large portions of the story. I can suspend disbelief with the best of them but this book really stretched the boundaries!
April 23, 2012
Before you sit down to read this book there are a few items you are going to need – 1) a fan, 2) something VERY cold to drink, 3) and a comfy spot to curl up. Why, you ask… this is one steamy steamy sexy read that you will want to devour in one sitting.
Ivy has been dumped by her fiancee only weeks before their wedding. He informed her that she’s a prude and he needs more “excitement” in the bedroom to keep him happy. While she tries to come to terms with his comment and help her father with his campaign; she has to put her life back together, un-plan a wedding and decide what to do next.
When she stumbles on an ad for a new “Sex Appeal Study” she thinks she might have found the way step away from her ‘good girl’ ways and spice things up. She fudges her application, finds some new sexy clothes and is ready to make a change. And then she meets Kip – a sexy, confident, no strings attached kind of guy, who is doing the study as a favor for a friend. With so much sexual chemistry between these two I’m surprised my e-reader didn’t start to smoke!
These two manage to get into all sorts of trouble – in and out of the bedroom! Can they finish the study without breaking ALL the rules? Will they be able to overcome all those obstacles that are thrown in their path along the way?
Will I recommend this to anyone? Why yes! Will I read anything by this author again? Most definitely! This was a quick, fun, sexy read that kept me glued from start to finish. I’m looking forward to picking up more by Kimberly in the future!
Ivy has been dumped by her fiancee only weeks before their wedding. He informed her that she’s a prude and he needs more “excitement” in the bedroom to keep him happy. While she tries to come to terms with his comment and help her father with his campaign; she has to put her life back together, un-plan a wedding and decide what to do next.
When she stumbles on an ad for a new “Sex Appeal Study” she thinks she might have found the way step away from her ‘good girl’ ways and spice things up. She fudges her application, finds some new sexy clothes and is ready to make a change. And then she meets Kip – a sexy, confident, no strings attached kind of guy, who is doing the study as a favor for a friend. With so much sexual chemistry between these two I’m surprised my e-reader didn’t start to smoke!
These two manage to get into all sorts of trouble – in and out of the bedroom! Can they finish the study without breaking ALL the rules? Will they be able to overcome all those obstacles that are thrown in their path along the way?
Will I recommend this to anyone? Why yes! Will I read anything by this author again? Most definitely! This was a quick, fun, sexy read that kept me glued from start to finish. I’m looking forward to picking up more by Kimberly in the future!
April 8, 2012
After Ivy's wedding is called off by her fiancee she decides to be more of a risk taker and joins a study about sex appeal to prove that she can be less Madonna and more whore. So she lies about her experience on the test and gets partnered up with Kip this sexy PR guy. But the rules are more than they can handle, the most important ones are don't get involved and don't fall in love. Each task from the study is about learning what pushes they're buttons sexually, and when things start getting hot and heavy and feelings start getting in the mix how can they not end up falling for each other?
The characters in this book really put themselves out there too much and they liked the challenge that came with the study, They were really strong characters also which i thought was really great. The book comes with with so many emotions that you feel with every turn of the page. I thought it was a great read Ivy was one of those confident women that I like reading about the kind that says "I am strong, i will get through this and i am going to prove everyone wrong about what they think of me. Its a risk I'm willing to take even if I get caught" I enjoyed this book so much it was funny, steamy, romantic and really sweet. When the author described Kip even i was like oh how can she not fall in love with that wow! Kip sounded so sexy, dreamy and perfect, although the ending is predictable it was definitely worth reading.
The characters in this book really put themselves out there too much and they liked the challenge that came with the study, They were really strong characters also which i thought was really great. The book comes with with so many emotions that you feel with every turn of the page. I thought it was a great read Ivy was one of those confident women that I like reading about the kind that says "I am strong, i will get through this and i am going to prove everyone wrong about what they think of me. Its a risk I'm willing to take even if I get caught" I enjoyed this book so much it was funny, steamy, romantic and really sweet. When the author described Kip even i was like oh how can she not fall in love with that wow! Kip sounded so sexy, dreamy and perfect, although the ending is predictable it was definitely worth reading.
August 1, 2015
This book was GREAT! I'll be the first to acknowledge that I am a fan of steamy stuff, and at first I wasn't sure about the book because it seemed to be using a lot of borderline-cheesy clean euphemisms during the steamier parts. I soon realized that writing can be way steamy without using the f-word and the c-words. This story had some great sexual tension and situations in it
January 20, 2012
Interesting twist on the traditional romance. I didn't realize that it was a "true" romance novel when I downloaded it, but fortunately it wasn't over the top with either explicitness or corniness. Overall, not a bad choice if you're in the mood for an nontraditional love story.
February 3, 2012
I have been bored with some of the chick-lit books I've picked up recently and thought this book was going to have the same tired plot. I was pleasantly surprised by the story-line and enjoyed the story from beginning to end.
March 30, 2012
What an enjoyable, spicy read. I loved the development of characters and the unusual situation they found themselves in. To top it off the love scenes were spicy hot. I highly recommend this novel.
August 9, 2012
Another freebie and well worth the "purchase". At first I didn't think I'd be all that into it but once I started reading I started liking it more and more. There is only one thing I would change to make it a better book...having an epilogue
January 29, 2012
Really good. Quirky, sexy, fun and really hot. I liked that there was no drawn out misunderstandings, the characters actually talked and didn't let lies drag out. Very fun read!
May 7, 2012
I loved this book! Totally awesome plot and the characters were amazing! Where can i find me a man like this one?! I loved that is was sexy and not just sex. Will definetly recommend!
October 19, 2012
loved it! funny, not bad story line.
February 9, 2018
Didn't care for it.
December 31, 2020
Sexy and fun
This book was enjoyable. Sexy, funny and just fun to read. Loved the love story and the twist in the story.
This book was enjoyable. Sexy, funny and just fun to read. Loved the love story and the twist in the story.
May 26, 2012
This was a really cute funny story. Ivy's fiancee broke it off a month before their wedding. He told her in no uncertain terms that she wasn't adventurous enough in bed. Ivy has kept tight control of herself ever since her mother died and her brother has run away. She channeled all of her frustration into doing good deeds and helping her father prepare for running for mayor. But Ivy has loads of repressed sexuality and she always imagined that after she was in a secure relationship (i.e. married) she could finally let go. Travis breaking it off with her was the last straw. She needed to do something for herself in a safe controlled environment as to not hurt her father's career. When she comes across an article for a sex appeal study, she feels like she has found her chance.
Kip was done with relationship. His first relationship with which his "common-law" wife had taken half of everything and his freakin dog. Anyone that says they don't consider common-law an actual marriage anymore should tell that to her lawyer and the judge. His second relationship was equally disastrous. His VP and himself had started working late nights together and one thing had led to another. Then he found out that she had been embezzling from his company. He just has no luck with the women in his life, so he has sworn them off. When his brother calls him to ask him for favor about a sex appeal study he is running, Kip inwardly groans. He has to help him out because he is calling in a favor. But Kip doesn't count on his reaction to Ivy's picture or the amazing reaction to her physical presence.
Ivy does everything wrong in her innocence to basically corrupt and destroy the study. She makes several humorous mistakes that lead to some hot and steamy role-playing. The sex is off the charts and Ivy finally had an orgasm with a man. But Kip has a hardened heart and the study has some shady dealings that finally come to light. Can the two of them save what is budding between them or will their pasts and careers destroy them? Especially when the findings in the study are released? This was a really cute read with some humor sprinkled in.
Kip was done with relationship. His first relationship with which his "common-law" wife had taken half of everything and his freakin dog. Anyone that says they don't consider common-law an actual marriage anymore should tell that to her lawyer and the judge. His second relationship was equally disastrous. His VP and himself had started working late nights together and one thing had led to another. Then he found out that she had been embezzling from his company. He just has no luck with the women in his life, so he has sworn them off. When his brother calls him to ask him for favor about a sex appeal study he is running, Kip inwardly groans. He has to help him out because he is calling in a favor. But Kip doesn't count on his reaction to Ivy's picture or the amazing reaction to her physical presence.
Ivy does everything wrong in her innocence to basically corrupt and destroy the study. She makes several humorous mistakes that lead to some hot and steamy role-playing. The sex is off the charts and Ivy finally had an orgasm with a man. But Kip has a hardened heart and the study has some shady dealings that finally come to light. Can the two of them save what is budding between them or will their pasts and careers destroy them? Especially when the findings in the study are released? This was a really cute read with some humor sprinkled in.
August 27, 2016
Ivy gets dumped by her fiance just before the wedding because he said she was too much of a "good girl" in bed. She is horified and decides to join a sex appeal research study to learn how to act "bad". She hasn't had all that much experience and so she lies on the application to guarantee her acceptance.
Kip's foster brother is the researcher for this study and begs him to participate. From the beginning he is interested in Ivy, not only her body but also her personality. She is nosy and upfront and a bit over her head.
This study has a set of situations that the two must do together and the number one rule is to not fall inlove and don't have sex. Both Ivy and Kip are extremely attracted to each other and that rule is hard to keep.
I liked Ivy. She isn't as much of a "good girl" as expected originally. She has had a party past and has straightened up to help her father with his law practice and campaign office. She has always been more of a follower as far as in the bedroom and had never experienced real pleasure until she starts these assignments with Kip.
Kip was a really decent guy. He cared about those around him but there is a fear from his childhood (growing up in foster care) and some REALLY bad relationships that made him stay away from love. Everytime he is with Ivy there is an instant attraction and a deeper emotion that stirs.
I enjoyed watching this story unfold. I had an interest in both characters and I wanted everything to turn out good for both of them. There was a bit of a conflix built throughout the story that concluded a little to easily for me.
Kip's foster brother is the researcher for this study and begs him to participate. From the beginning he is interested in Ivy, not only her body but also her personality. She is nosy and upfront and a bit over her head.
This study has a set of situations that the two must do together and the number one rule is to not fall inlove and don't have sex. Both Ivy and Kip are extremely attracted to each other and that rule is hard to keep.
I liked Ivy. She isn't as much of a "good girl" as expected originally. She has had a party past and has straightened up to help her father with his law practice and campaign office. She has always been more of a follower as far as in the bedroom and had never experienced real pleasure until she starts these assignments with Kip.
Kip was a really decent guy. He cared about those around him but there is a fear from his childhood (growing up in foster care) and some REALLY bad relationships that made him stay away from love. Everytime he is with Ivy there is an instant attraction and a deeper emotion that stirs.
I enjoyed watching this story unfold. I had an interest in both characters and I wanted everything to turn out good for both of them. There was a bit of a conflix built throughout the story that concluded a little to easily for me.
July 4, 2012
Almost a Bride had a rather interesting premise that got lost in the middle of way.
The book cover might seem like a romance comedy or a light, funny romance - at least that's what I thought! I was surprised to read an erotic contemporary romance instead. I admit that nor the title or the cover don't relate very well to the story that was told.
I had some trouble to connect with the main characters, and at first I was very curious about them particularly how their relationship would be like. The secondary cast were very superficial in my opinion, I didn't believe in their motivations and how they behaved towards some tough situations, easily manipulated. I also didn't enjoy the direction the story took by the end, I felt like this book could be better told as a fast paced novela. A more condensed plot might make it more exciting without losing it's track.
However, something captivated me so I would read it till the very last page. The plot was fun and I wanted to see where it would lead. The sex scenes were also very sexy and intriguing. Although in the end I thought the conclusion was predictable, I was expecting something different, hoping it would impress me with good surprises.
Full review: http://wp.me/p27N1w-1j2
The book cover might seem like a romance comedy or a light, funny romance - at least that's what I thought! I was surprised to read an erotic contemporary romance instead. I admit that nor the title or the cover don't relate very well to the story that was told.
I had some trouble to connect with the main characters, and at first I was very curious about them particularly how their relationship would be like. The secondary cast were very superficial in my opinion, I didn't believe in their motivations and how they behaved towards some tough situations, easily manipulated. I also didn't enjoy the direction the story took by the end, I felt like this book could be better told as a fast paced novela. A more condensed plot might make it more exciting without losing it's track.
However, something captivated me so I would read it till the very last page. The plot was fun and I wanted to see where it would lead. The sex scenes were also very sexy and intriguing. Although in the end I thought the conclusion was predictable, I was expecting something different, hoping it would impress me with good surprises.
Full review: http://wp.me/p27N1w-1j2
January 22, 2012
Author: Kimberly Llewellyn
Publisher By: DeWolfe Press
Age Recommend: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Raven Rating: 4
Blog Reviewed For GMTA
Review:
"Almost a Bride" was a good interesting, fun and hot sexy read by Kimberly Llewellyn. How Kimberly was able to get the two people together for this fun ride was quiet interesting. The story starts out somewhat slow but it does pick up and wow for the ending.
From Ivy Hammond being dumped by her fiance (Travis) who thought she wasn't spicy enough in the bedroom, to her going into a sex appeal study(with a college professor with no real guidelines) with a stranger(Kip Lockehart) who had problems of his own. Now the story get interesting in that sparks will start to fly for this project or shall I say study. I thought Ivy was a good character and Kip was definitely a hero. There are a few of sexual scenes that was hot maybe even erotic .
I did find "Almost a Bride" by Kimberly Llewellyn very enjoyable with some humor, lots of sensuality and romance. I would recommend this novel to any one who would like a fun romantic good read.
Read more: http://www.greatmindsthinkaloud.probo...
March 31, 2012
I received this novel as a giveaway from « Goodreads » but I admit I was a little disappointed ... All the ingredients are there to make a good novel, but even with exquise flavors I have not been carried sufficiently.
Indeed, a lot of well written clichés but in my case the magic wasn't released. A bit like if the author had nicely compile elements supposed to raise and build the intensity and the attraction, but too spice up a dish can sometimes hide his essence ...
Beyond the study which is the heart of the action, I had problems with some elements of the story. Especially with Ivy's brother, I have not seen what he brought.
By cons I confess Kip Lockehart has been well worked by the author. A disrupted past, a bad relationship that leaves him to struggle to exit his business from bankrupcy and a fragility that made him a plausible and endearing character.
A story enjoyable and easy to read. But personally, I have not been swept off my feet.
Lucie
http://newbooksonmyselves.blogspot.fr...
Indeed, a lot of well written clichés but in my case the magic wasn't released. A bit like if the author had nicely compile elements supposed to raise and build the intensity and the attraction, but too spice up a dish can sometimes hide his essence ...
Beyond the study which is the heart of the action, I had problems with some elements of the story. Especially with Ivy's brother, I have not seen what he brought.
By cons I confess Kip Lockehart has been well worked by the author. A disrupted past, a bad relationship that leaves him to struggle to exit his business from bankrupcy and a fragility that made him a plausible and endearing character.
A story enjoyable and easy to read. But personally, I have not been swept off my feet.
Lucie
http://newbooksonmyselves.blogspot.fr...
April 12, 2012
First of all, I would like to give kudos to the author for creating a plausible situation that made the scenarios, that might normally seem over-the top, more or less realistic.
Next, I would say that I found the characters in this book interesting and their individual dilemmas were certainly relatable. However, I felt as if the book was too fast-paced and too short for me to enjoy them and to know them as much as I would have liked. I would have probably liked the book a star more if the characters, and ultimately, the story were given more depth.
Overall, I recommend this book to anyone who wants to enjoy a fast, fun, quirky, and definitely sexy, story.
Next, I would say that I found the characters in this book interesting and their individual dilemmas were certainly relatable. However, I felt as if the book was too fast-paced and too short for me to enjoy them and to know them as much as I would have liked. I would have probably liked the book a star more if the characters, and ultimately, the story were given more depth.
Overall, I recommend this book to anyone who wants to enjoy a fast, fun, quirky, and definitely sexy, story.
January 14, 2012
A very quick read. I thought the premise of hooking up through a sex study was a bit unrealistic. And given that I know a bit about studies etc...Professor Jason violated every ethical rule there is. LOL
Other than that, the romantic build between Ivy and Kip felt natural even though there were thrown together as they were.
I don't think I'd put this on my "re-read" list but for a snowy evening, it was a good enough read to snuggle under the blankies and sink into.
Other than that, the romantic build between Ivy and Kip felt natural even though there were thrown together as they were.
I don't think I'd put this on my "re-read" list but for a snowy evening, it was a good enough read to snuggle under the blankies and sink into.
December 10, 2012
I had a hard time making it thru the introduction of Ivy. Her reason for joining the study was stupid to me. She did alot of things that didn't make sense, and she was incredibly naive. The story started to get better when Kip was introduced. I liked Kip and he was the only reason that I finished the book. If you can make it thru the introduction of Ivy and her friend - keep reading. It gets better, but not much. This book should definitely be free.
January 21, 2012
I just could not get into this book. From the first few pages I was not interested and considered just giving up. I can't even figure out what it is that was so meh for me. I guess I just wasn't that into the characters. It took to almost 20% into the book before it was even the girl and guy together.... *shrugs* I'm usually not too fussy, but this one was not for me I guess....
January 17, 2012
I got this book for free (Kindle download) and read it pretty quickly. It was definitely a fast paced story, and a little - OK, a LOT - far fetched, but it had some steamy and non-cheesy scenes, and some steamy and very cheesy worded ones. I finished it up last night and will say the characters have some potential, they could actually make for a stronger book if we follow them moving forward.
January 20, 2012
Easy reading but shallow throughout. Characters could use more developing, and who is to believe that the
"love" exhibited by Kip and Ivy is true, as opposed to nothing more than good old fashioned lust. It would
never last in real life. Maybe a "chick" book, but don't think most guys will enjoy it.
"love" exhibited by Kip and Ivy is true, as opposed to nothing more than good old fashioned lust. It would
never last in real life. Maybe a "chick" book, but don't think most guys will enjoy it.
Read
December 11, 2012Almost a Bride has been made into an audio book for Audible.com, iTunes, and Amazon. So fun!
February 29, 2012
It was pretty good. It was a lot longer than I expected it to be, but it was nice reading all the little details the author wanted to include.
May 6, 2015
Good
This was a good read but I had a hard time believing some of there romance but anything's possible right.
This was a good read but I had a hard time believing some of there romance but anything's possible right.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews