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Drive Me Crazy
"The quickest way to love isn t always a straight line. "
This was supposed to be Xavier Moreau s long-awaited vacation. A few precious weeks away from his over-scheduled career to see the America his mother loved and still make it to his best friend s wedding in time. Instead, he s ferrying the bridezilla s sister to the nuptials. The luscious Jaime Cruz makes his mouth water, but her near-frenzy to get to Oregon "now" would scrape on his last nerve if he didn t sense that she needs the break as much as he does.
Fresh off a teaching assignment in D.C., Jaime s white-knuckling it. She s got only three weeks to get home, find a job and a place to live, and ensure her sister s big day comes off without a hitch. Except Xavier tosses her three-days-or-bust itinerary out the window. Even more annoying, Jaime finds herself succumbing to his relentless determination to make sure she enjoys every minute of the trip. And falling under the spell of his sizzling touch.
Three weeks and three thousand miles later, Jaime s feet are on home ground, but her heart is pulling her in a completely unexpected direction. Toward Xavier and a new journey that will require the ultimate leap of faith.
Warning: Caution! Dangerous curves ahead. Do not enter if you might be spooked by haunted hotels, embarrassed by sex in the great outdoors, or fear you might yield to a devastating Frenchman willing to drive you to distraction. "
This was supposed to be Xavier Moreau s long-awaited vacation. A few precious weeks away from his over-scheduled career to see the America his mother loved and still make it to his best friend s wedding in time. Instead, he s ferrying the bridezilla s sister to the nuptials. The luscious Jaime Cruz makes his mouth water, but her near-frenzy to get to Oregon "now" would scrape on his last nerve if he didn t sense that she needs the break as much as he does.
Fresh off a teaching assignment in D.C., Jaime s white-knuckling it. She s got only three weeks to get home, find a job and a place to live, and ensure her sister s big day comes off without a hitch. Except Xavier tosses her three-days-or-bust itinerary out the window. Even more annoying, Jaime finds herself succumbing to his relentless determination to make sure she enjoys every minute of the trip. And falling under the spell of his sizzling touch.
Three weeks and three thousand miles later, Jaime s feet are on home ground, but her heart is pulling her in a completely unexpected direction. Toward Xavier and a new journey that will require the ultimate leap of faith.
Warning: Caution! Dangerous curves ahead. Do not enter if you might be spooked by haunted hotels, embarrassed by sex in the great outdoors, or fear you might yield to a devastating Frenchman willing to drive you to distraction. "
194 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 29, 2012
45 people are currently reading
690 people want to read
About the author
Jenna Bayley-Burke
38 books436 followersBy day, USA Today Bestselling author Jenna Bayley-Burke is faster than a speeding toddler, stronger than a stubborn husband, able to leap tall Lego structures in a single bound...but by night, while the family sleeps she writes romance novels where no one ever has to scoop up after the dog, change diapers, clip coupons, drive carpool, do laundry, mop floors, get silly putty out of hair, vacuum, empty the vacuum bag (gross!), exercise, count calories, apply bandaids, clean up puke...wait where was this going? Oh, Jenna writes romance because it is glamorous. Just ask the dog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
August 12, 2012
Originally posted at: http://www.longandshortreviews.blogsp...
A LASR Best Book!
What happens when you cross an organized high school teacher who wants to drive across the country in three days with a Frenchman who wants to enjoy the sights in three weeks? The answer is an unforgettable ride full of sizzling hot, clashing sparks!!!
Jaime Cruz just finished teaching summer school and is all packed and ready to go when her car became another stolen car statistic. Since she was supposed to drive quickly from Washington, D.C., to Oregon to help her younger sister get ready for her wedding, she emailed her sister’s fiancé about her predicament. He arranged to have his best man, Xavier Moreau, give her a ride because he happened to be on the East Coast, on his way to Oregon also. Unbeknownst to everyone else, Xavier has a secret itinerary with many stops to be made along with a background that he wants to keep from everyone he meets.
Jaime is hard working, responsible, and always planning ahead. She's had very few chances at love because she only dates guys who meet the criteria of potential marriageable material. Xavier at first appears to be an irresponsible playboy who grew up privileged, but after driving across the country with him, Jaime finds out he is so much more than who he appears to be. Xavier loves photography, appreciates architecture, works hard at his job, cares about his family, and is passionate about Jaime. The two of them argued and fought a lot because Xavier was bent on derailing Jaime’s plans, but eventually they were convinced they needed each other and worked on compromises. Still, the tug of war between them resulted in a roller coaster of emotions that took them through many states.
Whenever I read about places and scenery, I usually do a bit of skimming. However, with this story, I wanted to savor every moment and every description because I was enjoying Ms. Bayley-Burke’s writing so much. I felt that I was along for the ride through the countryside, enjoying all the sights, sounds, and smells. The vicarious experience of Jaime and Xavier falling in love despite both of them fighting against it was full of funny, exciting, and sexy moments. I enjoyed the trip across America and was sad when it had to come to an end.
It’s not often that I come across a book that makes me laugh, cry, and cheer. I picked this book because I happen to know a young couple who recently drove across country, fell in love, and are now engaged to be married. They actually experienced one thing similar to Jaime and Xavier’s trip (a hotel with a surprise). I put many, many bookmarks in this book of all my favorite scenes. I gave a happy sigh at the end and will definitely tuck this away on my “keeper” shelf. I will also put Ms. Bayley-Burke’s name on my list of authors to watch for. Run, don’t walk, to your nearest bookstore or computer and buy your copy of Drive Me Crazy! Get ready for a wonderful ride... I mean read!!!
A LASR Best Book!
What happens when you cross an organized high school teacher who wants to drive across the country in three days with a Frenchman who wants to enjoy the sights in three weeks? The answer is an unforgettable ride full of sizzling hot, clashing sparks!!!
Jaime Cruz just finished teaching summer school and is all packed and ready to go when her car became another stolen car statistic. Since she was supposed to drive quickly from Washington, D.C., to Oregon to help her younger sister get ready for her wedding, she emailed her sister’s fiancé about her predicament. He arranged to have his best man, Xavier Moreau, give her a ride because he happened to be on the East Coast, on his way to Oregon also. Unbeknownst to everyone else, Xavier has a secret itinerary with many stops to be made along with a background that he wants to keep from everyone he meets.
Jaime is hard working, responsible, and always planning ahead. She's had very few chances at love because she only dates guys who meet the criteria of potential marriageable material. Xavier at first appears to be an irresponsible playboy who grew up privileged, but after driving across the country with him, Jaime finds out he is so much more than who he appears to be. Xavier loves photography, appreciates architecture, works hard at his job, cares about his family, and is passionate about Jaime. The two of them argued and fought a lot because Xavier was bent on derailing Jaime’s plans, but eventually they were convinced they needed each other and worked on compromises. Still, the tug of war between them resulted in a roller coaster of emotions that took them through many states.
Whenever I read about places and scenery, I usually do a bit of skimming. However, with this story, I wanted to savor every moment and every description because I was enjoying Ms. Bayley-Burke’s writing so much. I felt that I was along for the ride through the countryside, enjoying all the sights, sounds, and smells. The vicarious experience of Jaime and Xavier falling in love despite both of them fighting against it was full of funny, exciting, and sexy moments. I enjoyed the trip across America and was sad when it had to come to an end.
It’s not often that I come across a book that makes me laugh, cry, and cheer. I picked this book because I happen to know a young couple who recently drove across country, fell in love, and are now engaged to be married. They actually experienced one thing similar to Jaime and Xavier’s trip (a hotel with a surprise). I put many, many bookmarks in this book of all my favorite scenes. I gave a happy sigh at the end and will definitely tuck this away on my “keeper” shelf. I will also put Ms. Bayley-Burke’s name on my list of authors to watch for. Run, don’t walk, to your nearest bookstore or computer and buy your copy of Drive Me Crazy! Get ready for a wonderful ride... I mean read!!!
June 17, 2012
"The most important thing is to enjoy your life–to be happy–it’s all that matters.”
I was literally shocked with this book. Literally.
I was expecting something funny and witty story but what I get are two adults who goes on a cross-country trip instead of heading direct to the place where they should go. It was full of lust and those mature scenes that my mind can't even handle. Phew.
Xavier and Jaime hit it off from the first time they've seen each other and with that I already guessed what would happen when the story ends and yep I really got it right. Though the story didn’t work quite well for me, I still adored Xavier and Jaime. They’re both fun and I guess each other is all they need to enjoy this trip. Xavier and Jaime are both multilingual. They both share knowledge on different languages. Xavier is fluent in French and American and knows a little of Spanish while Jaime is fluent in Spanish and knows a little of French. Its really funny to hear there endless banter with each other using different languages and me as a reader find myself hooked up with Google translate as I'm reading this one.
I couldn’t really say that the story blow me away but hey the states they visited and places they’ve seen are the ones that blow me away. It really makes me want to go to the states and do some cross-country trip of my own. I was really enjoying reading it as they go from one state to another visiting tourist spots and haunted houses.
In all, it was an okay read. Not something that would definitely blow your mind away. It can get predictable and steamy and definitely for more mature readers. But then, it was a nice read and yeah read it if you're really intrigued. It may not work that great for me, but for you it might. ;)
I was literally shocked with this book. Literally.
I was expecting something funny and witty story but what I get are two adults who goes on a cross-country trip instead of heading direct to the place where they should go. It was full of lust and those mature scenes that my mind can't even handle. Phew.
Xavier and Jaime hit it off from the first time they've seen each other and with that I already guessed what would happen when the story ends and yep I really got it right. Though the story didn’t work quite well for me, I still adored Xavier and Jaime. They’re both fun and I guess each other is all they need to enjoy this trip. Xavier and Jaime are both multilingual. They both share knowledge on different languages. Xavier is fluent in French and American and knows a little of Spanish while Jaime is fluent in Spanish and knows a little of French. Its really funny to hear there endless banter with each other using different languages and me as a reader find myself hooked up with Google translate as I'm reading this one.
I couldn’t really say that the story blow me away but hey the states they visited and places they’ve seen are the ones that blow me away. It really makes me want to go to the states and do some cross-country trip of my own. I was really enjoying reading it as they go from one state to another visiting tourist spots and haunted houses.
In all, it was an okay read. Not something that would definitely blow your mind away. It can get predictable and steamy and definitely for more mature readers. But then, it was a nice read and yeah read it if you're really intrigued. It may not work that great for me, but for you it might. ;)
August 28, 2017
I loved every second of this quirky story! What happens when you go on a cross country road trip with a guy who is friend's with the groom, who's marrying your sister? Well, Jaime Cruz is about to find out!
Jamie is moving home, so she hatches a ride with Xavier Morea. They are driving from DC to Oregon. Whole Jamie thinks this is going to be a fast drive, she doesn't realize Xavier is planning on stopping at all these crazy places along the way. He wants to have fun and have a memorable trip. Falling in love wasn't on with's road map, but then again, the stops weren't for Jamie either. Add in a sexy French man and this was a recipes for an unforgettable story!
I loved every second of this book. I loved Jamie and Xavier! I loved their banter and stops along the way! This was a fantastic read for me!
Jamie is moving home, so she hatches a ride with Xavier Morea. They are driving from DC to Oregon. Whole Jamie thinks this is going to be a fast drive, she doesn't realize Xavier is planning on stopping at all these crazy places along the way. He wants to have fun and have a memorable trip. Falling in love wasn't on with's road map, but then again, the stops weren't for Jamie either. Add in a sexy French man and this was a recipes for an unforgettable story!
I loved every second of this book. I loved Jamie and Xavier! I loved their banter and stops along the way! This was a fantastic read for me!
May 23, 2012
Kitty and Slick's reviews posted on Guilty Pleasures
Kitty's Review
I smiled from the beginning of this book to the end. What a wonderful read “Drive Me Crazy” was. Jamie and Xavier were fun, loving, and oh so sexy when she finally gave into him.
Jamie's attitude throughout the book was hysterical. She was a take-charge, obsessed woman just wanting to go home and get ready for her sister's wedding and starting a new life in Oregon.
Xavier, without Jamie knowing, just wanted to see America through his mother's eyes. She had no idea he was working his mother's bucket-list and taking a vacation before he had to take over the reins as CEO of Marie-Chloe.
From the haunted hotel to the haunted brothel and all the stops between Washington, DC and Oregon, I laughed and smiled. The banter between the two of them was wonderful. The words and character's flew off the pages at you. She actually brought her character's to life and made Jaime and Xavier real; You were J'aime and only hoped that you would meet your Xavier to bring you on this wonderful adventure across America.
I adored this book and cannot wait to read more from Jenna Bayley-Burke. She made this book fun, romantic, and erotic. This was a wonderful book that will have you wanting to go on a road-trip soon.....and not with the girls!
Slick's Review
I don’t know how to start this review without sounding all fan-girl crazy, but you seriously must read this book! It is that damn good. Who the hell doesn’t like a hero who speaks French even when he’s having a sexy dream and is talking in his sleep? Who can’t appreciate a heroine who can talk dirty in something like seven different languages? These are people I want to know and be friends with in real life. People you know are going to make you smile and laugh until your sides ache. People who will go hiking with you or wait until you get that perfect picture. People like Xavier Moreau and Jamie Cruz, the star crossed lovers in Jenna Bayley-Burke’s newest offering Drive Me Crazy.
This book takes place on the road from Washington, DC to Oregon. I adore road trips, so that just added an extra “love it” dimension to this book. The fact that they drove through and saw so many sites that I have visited made it even more real.
Xavier (even his name is sexy) is a CFO of a major design house in France. He’s in America to attend the wedding of his best friend (Jamie’s soon to be brother in law). Unknown to everyone, he’s decided to drive cross country on a very personal mission. I found Xavier’s quest so admirable that it made me fall in love with him even more. He’s a tough business man, dedicated brother, peacemaker, and outrageous flirt. Rich, smart, sexy, mischievous, and at times a marshmallow…yep, one very likeable hero.
Jamie is a contradiction, at times she seems so rigid and unyielding but then you catch these glimpses of a crazy, wild girl. She’s a dedicated teacher, a loving sister, loyal, and very, very organized. She’s sassy and smart, but she’s also broken. She feels disconnected from her family and because of this; she views life a little differently than most. At one point she confides in Xavier about her feelings as a child and I found myself wiping tears away. I know I’m reading a great book, when it makes me cry. I just felt so connected to these two.
So, cross a meandering playboy with a studious control freak driving cross country and you have a plot that is fresh, fun, and blatantly sexy! These two characters are very different but that’s what makes them work. They fill a need in each other. Jamie grounds Xavier and Xavier helps Jamie loosen up. Together they find the love one wished for and one thought he’d never want. Oh, and they have sex; a lot of hot, steamy sex with French and Spanish “pillow talk” and it’s oh so yummy!
While I have read everything Jenna has published and I’ve enjoyed them all, this book takes me back to the first book of hers I read, Compromising Positions. There was something about the two lead characters in that book that spoke to me and I feel the same way about Xavier and Jamie. I love these two people as much as I did David and Sophie from that book. Now if she’d just write me a new book with all four….I’d be in heaven. Hey, a girl can dream! I’m very happy to recommend this book to everyone, read it you won’t be sorry and while you’re at it check out Jenna’s other offerings. Drive Me Crazy gets 5 stars from me and I know this is one book I will read again and again!
Kitty's Review
I smiled from the beginning of this book to the end. What a wonderful read “Drive Me Crazy” was. Jamie and Xavier were fun, loving, and oh so sexy when she finally gave into him.
Jamie's attitude throughout the book was hysterical. She was a take-charge, obsessed woman just wanting to go home and get ready for her sister's wedding and starting a new life in Oregon.
Xavier, without Jamie knowing, just wanted to see America through his mother's eyes. She had no idea he was working his mother's bucket-list and taking a vacation before he had to take over the reins as CEO of Marie-Chloe.
From the haunted hotel to the haunted brothel and all the stops between Washington, DC and Oregon, I laughed and smiled. The banter between the two of them was wonderful. The words and character's flew off the pages at you. She actually brought her character's to life and made Jaime and Xavier real; You were J'aime and only hoped that you would meet your Xavier to bring you on this wonderful adventure across America.
I adored this book and cannot wait to read more from Jenna Bayley-Burke. She made this book fun, romantic, and erotic. This was a wonderful book that will have you wanting to go on a road-trip soon.....and not with the girls!
Slick's Review
I don’t know how to start this review without sounding all fan-girl crazy, but you seriously must read this book! It is that damn good. Who the hell doesn’t like a hero who speaks French even when he’s having a sexy dream and is talking in his sleep? Who can’t appreciate a heroine who can talk dirty in something like seven different languages? These are people I want to know and be friends with in real life. People you know are going to make you smile and laugh until your sides ache. People who will go hiking with you or wait until you get that perfect picture. People like Xavier Moreau and Jamie Cruz, the star crossed lovers in Jenna Bayley-Burke’s newest offering Drive Me Crazy.
This book takes place on the road from Washington, DC to Oregon. I adore road trips, so that just added an extra “love it” dimension to this book. The fact that they drove through and saw so many sites that I have visited made it even more real.
Xavier (even his name is sexy) is a CFO of a major design house in France. He’s in America to attend the wedding of his best friend (Jamie’s soon to be brother in law). Unknown to everyone, he’s decided to drive cross country on a very personal mission. I found Xavier’s quest so admirable that it made me fall in love with him even more. He’s a tough business man, dedicated brother, peacemaker, and outrageous flirt. Rich, smart, sexy, mischievous, and at times a marshmallow…yep, one very likeable hero.
Jamie is a contradiction, at times she seems so rigid and unyielding but then you catch these glimpses of a crazy, wild girl. She’s a dedicated teacher, a loving sister, loyal, and very, very organized. She’s sassy and smart, but she’s also broken. She feels disconnected from her family and because of this; she views life a little differently than most. At one point she confides in Xavier about her feelings as a child and I found myself wiping tears away. I know I’m reading a great book, when it makes me cry. I just felt so connected to these two.
So, cross a meandering playboy with a studious control freak driving cross country and you have a plot that is fresh, fun, and blatantly sexy! These two characters are very different but that’s what makes them work. They fill a need in each other. Jamie grounds Xavier and Xavier helps Jamie loosen up. Together they find the love one wished for and one thought he’d never want. Oh, and they have sex; a lot of hot, steamy sex with French and Spanish “pillow talk” and it’s oh so yummy!
While I have read everything Jenna has published and I’ve enjoyed them all, this book takes me back to the first book of hers I read, Compromising Positions. There was something about the two lead characters in that book that spoke to me and I feel the same way about Xavier and Jamie. I love these two people as much as I did David and Sophie from that book. Now if she’d just write me a new book with all four….I’d be in heaven. Hey, a girl can dream! I’m very happy to recommend this book to everyone, read it you won’t be sorry and while you’re at it check out Jenna’s other offerings. Drive Me Crazy gets 5 stars from me and I know this is one book I will read again and again!
October 7, 2012
4.5 stars
Jaime (or J'aime as Xavier calls her) is on her way to her younger sister's wedding. Her future bro-in-law's best friend, Xavier (yummy Frenchman) is her ride. A trip that should've taken only 3 days became almost 2 weeks as diversions pile on diversions.
The book started a little slow for me but picked up after about 25% into it. The reason being that I couldn't quite get Xavier's reasons for wanting to delay his journey to his best friend's wedding. And also why it was necessary for him to drag Jaime along. If it was purely bed sport, then he could've gotten that from anyone he met along the way.
It becomes apparent that both Jaime and Xavier are in deep denial and they have bucketloads of issues they're in denial from.
I liked that at almost every stop they went to, there was a haunted building - room, hotel, brothel :) I was thinking maybe this was intentional to the storyline. Another thing I liked was that sexy French and Spanish phrases were peppered throughout the dialogue. I'm definitely taking notes.
The story hits a little close for me too since my younger sister is getting married and I'm not so some of the conversations Jaime has with her mother about the state of her singlehood got me teary-eyed. Those words have been said to me before.
I really liked the slow emotional burn between Jaime and Xavier. It took time for their hearts to be engaged and they were literally kicking and screaming against acknowledging it. But when they did, wow.
I would've given this book 5 stars but it really needed an epilogue that would've made the story an even more gratifying read.
Will be hunting down more Jenna Bayley-Burke books.
Jaime (or J'aime as Xavier calls her) is on her way to her younger sister's wedding. Her future bro-in-law's best friend, Xavier (yummy Frenchman) is her ride. A trip that should've taken only 3 days became almost 2 weeks as diversions pile on diversions.
The book started a little slow for me but picked up after about 25% into it. The reason being that I couldn't quite get Xavier's reasons for wanting to delay his journey to his best friend's wedding. And also why it was necessary for him to drag Jaime along. If it was purely bed sport, then he could've gotten that from anyone he met along the way.
It becomes apparent that both Jaime and Xavier are in deep denial and they have bucketloads of issues they're in denial from.
I liked that at almost every stop they went to, there was a haunted building - room, hotel, brothel :) I was thinking maybe this was intentional to the storyline. Another thing I liked was that sexy French and Spanish phrases were peppered throughout the dialogue. I'm definitely taking notes.
The story hits a little close for me too since my younger sister is getting married and I'm not so some of the conversations Jaime has with her mother about the state of her singlehood got me teary-eyed. Those words have been said to me before.
I really liked the slow emotional burn between Jaime and Xavier. It took time for their hearts to be engaged and they were literally kicking and screaming against acknowledging it. But when they did, wow.
I would've given this book 5 stars but it really needed an epilogue that would've made the story an even more gratifying read.
Will be hunting down more Jenna Bayley-Burke books.
June 8, 2012
cute story, book need some editing, but over all is a nice story.
And having just come back from Paris, this was so fitting to read ;)
But the Spanish phrases sucked, it looked like they were translated with google translator, they made no sense whatsoever. This from someone who speaks Spanish as a first language. Can't attest to the french phrases, since I don't speak french, but I just hope they were not as messed up as the ones in Spanish.
And having just come back from Paris, this was so fitting to read ;)
But the Spanish phrases sucked, it looked like they were translated with google translator, they made no sense whatsoever. This from someone who speaks Spanish as a first language. Can't attest to the french phrases, since I don't speak french, but I just hope they were not as messed up as the ones in Spanish.
September 25, 2017
Jaime has a lot going on. She's returning to her hometown, needs to find a job and a place to live, and oh yeah, make sure everything for her sister's upcoming wedding is on schedule. Phew, busy busy. Thank goodness she's always organized. But her ride across country, her future brother-in-law's best friend, insists they have fun on the journey.
Xavier is a workaholic, but he's determined to relax and enjoy the trip by visiting places along the way his Mom loved. No, he didn't expect to have a passenger, a side-seat driver at that, but his best friend is marrying her sister, so... And honestly, he's enjoying messing with her. He's having fun, because of her.
These two may be opposites now that Xavier is trying to change his ways, but their mutual attraction is intense, and worth exploring. Plus, they realize they may have more in common then they ever thought possible, and it seems they're exactly what the other needs to get through family issues, as well as to achieve happiness.
Can these two survive a road trip together? Will Jamie help Xavier as he grieves for his recently deceased mother? Will Jamie's family learn to appreciate her? Is a HEA possible?
One-click now and follow along as two strangers begin a road trip that will change their lives forever.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.**
Xavier is a workaholic, but he's determined to relax and enjoy the trip by visiting places along the way his Mom loved. No, he didn't expect to have a passenger, a side-seat driver at that, but his best friend is marrying her sister, so... And honestly, he's enjoying messing with her. He's having fun, because of her.
These two may be opposites now that Xavier is trying to change his ways, but their mutual attraction is intense, and worth exploring. Plus, they realize they may have more in common then they ever thought possible, and it seems they're exactly what the other needs to get through family issues, as well as to achieve happiness.
Can these two survive a road trip together? Will Jamie help Xavier as he grieves for his recently deceased mother? Will Jamie's family learn to appreciate her? Is a HEA possible?
One-click now and follow along as two strangers begin a road trip that will change their lives forever.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.**
October 6, 2017
There was something missing from the Lust In Translation that stopped me enjoying the book to its fullest. Maybe it was because I couldn’t fully warm to Xavier (although, when he spoke French, I’ll admit I wasn’t immune to the swoon ;]) but like I said, I couldn’t fully warm to him, I guess it was because he was too… demanding of Jaime for my liking. I would love to talk more about that (and another particular scene towards the end of Lust In Translation) but I don’t want to spoil the book for anyone who intends to read it, so I’ll leave it there.
We were only 5% in to the book and Xavier was already talking/thinking like he knows her, not to mention the whole hand kiss scene where she tears up. Yes, I know you could call it insta-lust but it felt too serious for that, it was too much too soon for me to be honest.
Carrying on from the insta-lust thing, I felt that the characters were too quick to fall in love. I would’ve loved a nice, slow-burning romance, road trip romances are the best storylines to do it with in my opinion because you have the entire road trip to develop the romance but unfortunately there was none of that.
Then there was the “unlike most women” line, I tried to ignore it, I mean it’s common in Young Adult and New Adult books these days so I should be used to it right? But I couldn’t ignore it. I look forward to the day when writers stop using that phrase in their books.
Not everything was disappointing though, I liked how both main characters spoke multiple languages, it was something we don’t see much of in books and it made for some hilarious misunderstandings.
I know it (probably) doesn’t sound like it from everything I’ve written above but Lust In Translation was good – despite everything. Although, I do think it had way more potential to it that unfortunately wasn’t utilised.
We were only 5% in to the book and Xavier was already talking/thinking like he knows her, not to mention the whole hand kiss scene where she tears up. Yes, I know you could call it insta-lust but it felt too serious for that, it was too much too soon for me to be honest.
Carrying on from the insta-lust thing, I felt that the characters were too quick to fall in love. I would’ve loved a nice, slow-burning romance, road trip romances are the best storylines to do it with in my opinion because you have the entire road trip to develop the romance but unfortunately there was none of that.
Then there was the “unlike most women” line, I tried to ignore it, I mean it’s common in Young Adult and New Adult books these days so I should be used to it right? But I couldn’t ignore it. I look forward to the day when writers stop using that phrase in their books.
Not everything was disappointing though, I liked how both main characters spoke multiple languages, it was something we don’t see much of in books and it made for some hilarious misunderstandings.
I know it (probably) doesn’t sound like it from everything I’ve written above but Lust In Translation was good – despite everything. Although, I do think it had way more potential to it that unfortunately wasn’t utilised.
September 2, 2017
What a great story this was riding along across the country with the uptight Jaime who is leaving her life in DC to head back to Oregon, not enthusiastically with no car, no job and no place to live.
She's going back for her sister's wedding and waiting for her ride, the groom to be's best friend Xavier. Xavier has his own cross country agenda, follows his own time schedule and after showing up half a day late to pick up Jaime, pushes her right out of her tightly maintained little boxes.
Once she starts to relax into this fly by the seat of his pants Xavier, who is crossing off things to see that he found in his recently deceased mother's journal. His family is wealthy, he's from France and the family owns a couture house. He left too in part to force his sister and father to try and get along, sick of playing the intermediary. Trent's wedding was a good excuse.
Both are multi-lingual and it's fun to watch these two banter much less steam up any location that Xavier can find and wow does he find them. He loves taking photos and his camera is never far away.
These two slowly develop feelings for each other that are good but come with some pieces of both their histories attached. My heart broke for Jaime at times. You'll see when you read the story.
There are some things that cannot be replaced. Her family is selfish, her mother is flipping insulting and the sister.... It's a wonderful thing Xavier did taking his time crossing the country slowly arriving only a few days before the wedding saving her from having to deal with some of the family things.
Lots of surprises for her when she arrives home. She's angry too that she doesn't want Xavier to go and meanwhile he's fending off phone calls from his sister because of his father. This book has some greta humor in it and the changing languages adds to the fun. His sister gives him some good advice when it comes to women though, one in particular and well.... will it work or won't it?
Loved this story and all the curves and touring the country with these two characters. Wow what a ride!
**arc from NetGalley and Entangled in exchange for a fair review**
She's going back for her sister's wedding and waiting for her ride, the groom to be's best friend Xavier. Xavier has his own cross country agenda, follows his own time schedule and after showing up half a day late to pick up Jaime, pushes her right out of her tightly maintained little boxes.
Once she starts to relax into this fly by the seat of his pants Xavier, who is crossing off things to see that he found in his recently deceased mother's journal. His family is wealthy, he's from France and the family owns a couture house. He left too in part to force his sister and father to try and get along, sick of playing the intermediary. Trent's wedding was a good excuse.
Both are multi-lingual and it's fun to watch these two banter much less steam up any location that Xavier can find and wow does he find them. He loves taking photos and his camera is never far away.
These two slowly develop feelings for each other that are good but come with some pieces of both their histories attached. My heart broke for Jaime at times. You'll see when you read the story.
There are some things that cannot be replaced. Her family is selfish, her mother is flipping insulting and the sister.... It's a wonderful thing Xavier did taking his time crossing the country slowly arriving only a few days before the wedding saving her from having to deal with some of the family things.
Lots of surprises for her when she arrives home. She's angry too that she doesn't want Xavier to go and meanwhile he's fending off phone calls from his sister because of his father. This book has some greta humor in it and the changing languages adds to the fun. His sister gives him some good advice when it comes to women though, one in particular and well.... will it work or won't it?
Loved this story and all the curves and touring the country with these two characters. Wow what a ride!
**arc from NetGalley and Entangled in exchange for a fair review**
August 29, 2017
4 fun and sexy stars!!!
Eeeek!! This book was SUCH A FUN READ!!
And that is exactly what this book was - an adventure! Jamie is a school teacher who ALWAYS follows the rules. Residing in D.C. she needs to make the trek across the country to Oregon for her sisters wedding. The grooms best friend, Xavier, is also in town and she joins him in his quest across the country.
Ummmm... yes please! Sign. Me. Up! Xavier has plans of his own for this trip, following the list of American destinations that his mother left him... and trying to get into Jamie's pants. Xavier is seriously incredibly sexy. He speaks a million languages and is ridiculously swoon worthy. His family owns a top fashion company in Paris and he is used to women always trying to get to her for ulterior motives. I love how Jamie was so protective of him and totally had no interest into his families fortune.
And I just loved Jamie! Seriously, if there is a character that is most like me - it's her! Jamie is incredibly cautious and does not do anything that's outside of her plan or disruptive to others. I love how Xavier was always trying to ruffle her up and get under her skin. Seeing her become so proud of her impulsivity was so cute!
This book was super fun and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a light hearted read. This is the perfect book to end the summer!
My ARC copy of the book was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for a fair, unbiased review.
For more of my reviews:
* Main Blog: Fern's Book Blog
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Eeeek!! This book was SUCH A FUN READ!!
"This is an adventure. When was the last time you did something exciting? Something just to enjoy it?"
And that is exactly what this book was - an adventure! Jamie is a school teacher who ALWAYS follows the rules. Residing in D.C. she needs to make the trek across the country to Oregon for her sisters wedding. The grooms best friend, Xavier, is also in town and she joins him in his quest across the country.
"I'm going to spend the next two weeks making you amazingly happy and trying to kill you with orgasms. No maps, no plans. Just pleasure."
Ummmm... yes please! Sign. Me. Up! Xavier has plans of his own for this trip, following the list of American destinations that his mother left him... and trying to get into Jamie's pants. Xavier is seriously incredibly sexy. He speaks a million languages and is ridiculously swoon worthy. His family owns a top fashion company in Paris and he is used to women always trying to get to her for ulterior motives. I love how Jamie was so protective of him and totally had no interest into his families fortune.
And I just loved Jamie! Seriously, if there is a character that is most like me - it's her! Jamie is incredibly cautious and does not do anything that's outside of her plan or disruptive to others. I love how Xavier was always trying to ruffle her up and get under her skin. Seeing her become so proud of her impulsivity was so cute!
This book was super fun and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a light hearted read. This is the perfect book to end the summer!
My ARC copy of the book was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for a fair, unbiased review.
For more of my reviews:
* Main Blog: Fern's Book Blog
October 25, 2012
Honestly, I never thought I'd end up loving this book. I was going to bump this one down my list, but then I sat there at the airport, just having finished a BDSM book that left a lot to be desired, and decided to find something cute. I'd just downloaded this one, and it looked promising so I figured I'd give it a go for a few chapters and see where it went. It went straight through to my favorites shelf. I couldn't put the book down, so I ended up reading until 5am when I simply just passed out. :D
I loved Xavier and I loved Jaime. I won't even hold it against the author that she spent so much time getting the religious aspect in there (there was a wedding).
What drew me to this book, was the promise of a road trip. Having been on a few of those, I'm a sucker for road trip books. Especially if there is a promise of a hot romance as well.
There are so many things I loved about this book, the constant banter between Xavier and Jaime, them getting hot and heavy, their bickering, them trying not to fall in love - and a billion little things.
I've already downloaded two more books by this author, and I'm excited about getting started.
I loved Xavier and I loved Jaime. I won't even hold it against the author that she spent so much time getting the religious aspect in there (there was a wedding).
What drew me to this book, was the promise of a road trip. Having been on a few of those, I'm a sucker for road trip books. Especially if there is a promise of a hot romance as well.
There are so many things I loved about this book, the constant banter between Xavier and Jaime, them getting hot and heavy, their bickering, them trying not to fall in love - and a billion little things.
I've already downloaded two more books by this author, and I'm excited about getting started.
October 9, 2017
Lust in Translation is a sweet, sexy adventure.
Xavier is a total workaholic who has decided to take some time off to go across the US from DC to Oregon to complete his deceased mother's checklist. He really doesn't want to bring along a companion, but the last thing he can do is tell his best friend no when he asks Xavier to bring his future sister-in-law along with him as he drives out there for their wedding. And when he sees the beautiful Jaime, he's glad he didn't say no. Falling into a sexy relationship while on their road trip may have seemed like a good idea at the time, but now that they're in Oregon for the wedding, and Xavier's all set to go back to France, can they make a long distance relationship work or will Jaime give up her life in Oregon to jet off to France with Xavier?
I like Lust in Translation. It's a case of opposites attract and I like seeing them bond during their trip. I like seeing Xavier rile Jaime up and bringing her out of her shell. And I like seeing Xavier fall, hard, for sweet Jaime. So give Lust in Translation a read. You won't regret it.
I received an ARC through NetGalley for an honest review.
Xavier is a total workaholic who has decided to take some time off to go across the US from DC to Oregon to complete his deceased mother's checklist. He really doesn't want to bring along a companion, but the last thing he can do is tell his best friend no when he asks Xavier to bring his future sister-in-law along with him as he drives out there for their wedding. And when he sees the beautiful Jaime, he's glad he didn't say no. Falling into a sexy relationship while on their road trip may have seemed like a good idea at the time, but now that they're in Oregon for the wedding, and Xavier's all set to go back to France, can they make a long distance relationship work or will Jaime give up her life in Oregon to jet off to France with Xavier?
I like Lust in Translation. It's a case of opposites attract and I like seeing them bond during their trip. I like seeing Xavier rile Jaime up and bringing her out of her shell. And I like seeing Xavier fall, hard, for sweet Jaime. So give Lust in Translation a read. You won't regret it.
I received an ARC through NetGalley for an honest review.
June 21, 2012
“The most important thing is to enjoy your life– to be happy– it's all that matters.”
A road trip with a hot guy and some oh-so-amazing scenes, what's not to love?
Xavier is the best part of the book. He is the good looking guy, who listens when a girl talks, who speaks french fluently, who likes to have fun and knows how to enjoy life. *swoons*
Jamie is responsible, she has never done anything crazy. She has never been involved in a relationship that has no future, but she is taking a chance with Xavier.
What starts as a no-strings-attached, fun-on-the-trip relationship gets serious and when the time comes to go separate ways they have to figure out their feelings for each other.
The book is light, fun. I love road trips with unusual stops and they go to a "sex-museum".... enough said!!.
Check Out My Blog For More Reviews.
A road trip with a hot guy and some oh-so-amazing scenes, what's not to love?
Xavier is the best part of the book. He is the good looking guy, who listens when a girl talks, who speaks french fluently, who likes to have fun and knows how to enjoy life. *swoons*
Jamie is responsible, she has never done anything crazy. She has never been involved in a relationship that has no future, but she is taking a chance with Xavier.
What starts as a no-strings-attached, fun-on-the-trip relationship gets serious and when the time comes to go separate ways they have to figure out their feelings for each other.
The book is light, fun. I love road trips with unusual stops and they go to a "sex-museum".... enough said!!.
Check Out My Blog For More Reviews.
August 5, 2012
I'd say the best thing about this book is xavier. He seemed like such a great guy - he's handsome, nice, hardworking yet knows how to have fun and he's funny and charming. No wonder she cant help but fall in love with him. Jaime on the other hand started uptight and boring and im glad that he was able to loosen her up and we find out later that she can also be fun and carefree. I like that the story spent a lot of them showing us their 3 weeks together. Despite the short period it was reasonable for them to fall in love given that they were all alone and had the chance to know each other quite well. Someone told me that if u survive going on a trip with a person then you will be friends for life. I agree. I also like how the author was able to resolve the conflict in a simple way without making it look forced and no grand gestures. I can imagine that they will have a good life together in paris.
May 11, 2012
"Wonderful story about not sweating the small stuff and enjoying life."
Full review on Single titles
http://singletitles.com/?p=7211
Full review on Single titles
http://singletitles.com/?p=7211
June 2, 2012
What a great story! Loved the characters and the story line.
June 9, 2012
This was a great book!
July 19, 2012
Really fun read. Great backstory. No side characters, but that was okay because the h/h were very entertaining. Great sex scenes, especially Xavier's wet dream in the car, which was also hilarious.
July 16, 2012
This was my first book by Jenna and I really enjoyed it. Found myself looking forward to getting back to it each night. Will definitely pick up more from her!
September 4, 2016
Sweet and angsty and funny! What a pleasure to read.
For those who might be interested, the main characters are Jewish.
For those who might be interested, the main characters are Jewish.
November 30, 2012
a book that will definitely drive you crazy.fun,adventurous,and naughty read!a combination of light and intense romance love story.thumbs up for Drive Me crazy!
March 20, 2013
This was such a cute story!! I loved it! My only complaint was that i wish there was an epilogue or a sequel or some sort so you know what happens!
October 28, 2012
4.5 - I really liked it a lot and it was free!
September 20, 2017
lust in translation pits sightseeing-minded xavier moreau against destination-focused jaime cruz. she's tagging along with him on a cross-country drive to her sister's wedding in medford. they have two weeks to get there, but she's done the drive in three days. xavier who is visiting from france has no intention of driving through america without stopping to see it.
it's xavier's car so jaime really has no leg to stand on when he insists on stopping at a haunted house. when a ghostly presence has her end up in his bed, xavier presses his luck and soon things get pretty steamy between them. jaime continues to protest that she needs to get home, but she allows xavier to pull her from place to place.
but the end of their road trip means only one thing. he has a life he needs to return to in france. and her family and her future job is in america. it takes a special kind of charm to close that divide, but xavier is certainly up to the challenge.
jaime and xavier are both meant to be conversational in a number of languages, but jaime is supposed to be fluent in spanish and xavier in french. the french bits were fine, but the spanish seemed like it had been run through google translate and never once checked by a native speaker. i refuse to believe that someone who is actually fluent in spanish actually read and approved those phrases because it read like gibberish to me. and i am actually fluent in spanish with working knowledge of italian, french and portuguese. this is a nit i am constantly picking at, but it happens to be a pet peeve.
**lust in translation will publish on september 18, 2017. i received an advance reader copy courtesy of netgalley/entangled publishing (lovestruck) in exchange for my honest review.
it's xavier's car so jaime really has no leg to stand on when he insists on stopping at a haunted house. when a ghostly presence has her end up in his bed, xavier presses his luck and soon things get pretty steamy between them. jaime continues to protest that she needs to get home, but she allows xavier to pull her from place to place.
but the end of their road trip means only one thing. he has a life he needs to return to in france. and her family and her future job is in america. it takes a special kind of charm to close that divide, but xavier is certainly up to the challenge.
jaime and xavier are both meant to be conversational in a number of languages, but jaime is supposed to be fluent in spanish and xavier in french. the french bits were fine, but the spanish seemed like it had been run through google translate and never once checked by a native speaker. i refuse to believe that someone who is actually fluent in spanish actually read and approved those phrases because it read like gibberish to me. and i am actually fluent in spanish with working knowledge of italian, french and portuguese. this is a nit i am constantly picking at, but it happens to be a pet peeve.
**lust in translation will publish on september 18, 2017. i received an advance reader copy courtesy of netgalley/entangled publishing (lovestruck) in exchange for my honest review.
November 5, 2017
Xavier Moreau is determined to have the vacation he wants and no-one is going to change his plans, especially not Jaime Cruz, even though all she wants to do is get back to her hometown quickly. Besides, driving across America gives him the chance to visit all the places his mother loved. Determined to show Jaime how to have fun, instead of sticking to her strict itinerary, Xavier never imagined he'd fall for a control freak that could make him rethink his future. Will the pair get their happy ever after, or will the fact that they live on different continents keep them apart?
What a fun and exciting adventure Ms. Burke has penned in this story where I adored Xavier from the start and couldn't get enough of him. Really, his wanting to drive across America is for a good reason and I liked that he didn't allow anyone to talk him out of it, no matter how hard they tried. The way this story started had me completely hooked, because the hero isn't looking forward to spending time with anyone that doesn't want in on the adventure he plans on taking to get to his friend's wedding. Will Jaime go along with Xavier's plans or will she drive him crazy?
As for the dialogue, it was entertaining due to the main characters back stories, what's happening between Xavier's sister and father that has them at odds; and I loved the way Jaime and Xavier interacted with the hero being totally charming and determined to make sure Jaime enjoys herself instead of believing she needs to follow the plan she had set for their journey. Moreover, I really liked the hero with his determination to see America like his mom always wanted to. I also liked that he opened up to the heroine and wasn't afraid to go after what he wanted, which was to have fun with Jaime and convince her that she doesn't always need to plan things. While Jaime, she's been through a lot lately, and I could understand why she was so determined to convince Xavier to get to their destination quicker than he was planning. Would she be able to sort out of her life when it came to a job and somewhere to live? Things she needs to prove to her family that she can get her life back on track again. Yet, what I liked most of all about the heroine was her reaction to the way Xavier pushes her buttons and gets her to let her hair down and have fun. At least, he made her life interesting, instead of her being so driven and determined to plan everything.
Overall, Ms. Burke has delivered a wonderful read in this book where there's plenty of chemistry between the main characters that spills over onto the pages to give readers a good dose of romance; and the ending had me liking the decision the heroine made in order to be with Xavier. Finally, she's taking charge of her life and going after what she wants most, instead of just settling for what she planned to do when it came to her future. I would recommend Lust in Translation by Jenna Bayley-Burke, if you enjoy the opposites attract trope or books by authors Hayson Manning, Cindi Madsen, Stefanie London and Kadie Scott.
September 10, 2017
This book has both cursing (including f-bombs) and a lot of on-screen sex. If those things will cause you to leave a bad review, this is definitely not the book for you.
The core of this story was really pretty sweet and I enjoyed watching Xavier and Jamie getting to know one another and having fun together, even when it was reluctant fun. I also liked that Xavier and Jaime, while they have a lot of sex, they also do a lot of talking and interacting. The amount of sex they had could easily have overwhelmed the personal connection, but it didn't and I appreciated that as a reader who enjoys a good plot to go along with the sexy times.
I do wish there had been an epilogue for this one because while the book came to a solid conclusion and a hopeful, happily-for-now ending, there were question I wanted answered that were left unresolved. ***Slight spoilers to the end of this paragraph*** Did Jaime ever stand up to her family or did she continue to be a total doormat where they were concerned? Did she get the family she wanted? Did they actually live happily ever after? Did she move to France and realize that Carla is totally a toxic, horribly judgmental excuse for a “friend” who should never have been consulted about what shoes to wear, let alone something important, personal, and meaningful and that she should lose her number and totally cut ties with her? These are things I really wanted answers to that kept this from being a five star book. (But seriously...Carla was the worst “friend” character I have read about in a book in a long time. She wasn't frank or honest, she was rude, insulting, and a bully. Just because Jaime's standards and values were different than Carla's didn't mean she needed 'deprogramming' or that she was wrong for feeling the way she did. With friends who openly insult you to your face for who you are, who needs enemies to make you feel awful about yourself? Ugh.)
If you enjoy a story with a sexy main male character, a fun plot and a lot of heat, you will enjoy this one. It definitely is a fun "beach read" kind of book.
I requested and was granted an ARC of this story via NetGalley and the publisher. I wasn't obligated to write this review, I did so because I enjoyed this story.
The core of this story was really pretty sweet and I enjoyed watching Xavier and Jamie getting to know one another and having fun together, even when it was reluctant fun. I also liked that Xavier and Jaime, while they have a lot of sex, they also do a lot of talking and interacting. The amount of sex they had could easily have overwhelmed the personal connection, but it didn't and I appreciated that as a reader who enjoys a good plot to go along with the sexy times.
I do wish there had been an epilogue for this one because while the book came to a solid conclusion and a hopeful, happily-for-now ending, there were question I wanted answered that were left unresolved. ***Slight spoilers to the end of this paragraph*** Did Jaime ever stand up to her family or did she continue to be a total doormat where they were concerned? Did she get the family she wanted? Did they actually live happily ever after? Did she move to France and realize that Carla is totally a toxic, horribly judgmental excuse for a “friend” who should never have been consulted about what shoes to wear, let alone something important, personal, and meaningful and that she should lose her number and totally cut ties with her? These are things I really wanted answers to that kept this from being a five star book. (But seriously...Carla was the worst “friend” character I have read about in a book in a long time. She wasn't frank or honest, she was rude, insulting, and a bully. Just because Jaime's standards and values were different than Carla's didn't mean she needed 'deprogramming' or that she was wrong for feeling the way she did. With friends who openly insult you to your face for who you are, who needs enemies to make you feel awful about yourself? Ugh.)
If you enjoy a story with a sexy main male character, a fun plot and a lot of heat, you will enjoy this one. It definitely is a fun "beach read" kind of book.
I requested and was granted an ARC of this story via NetGalley and the publisher. I wasn't obligated to write this review, I did so because I enjoyed this story.
September 27, 2017
So this one is a funny sweet story between french and american who is not. I loved this multi couture thing and that characters were speaking in they native language. The writing was great and so were the both POV Jamie and Xavier. I loved how Xavier call Jamie J’amie and their story is really different. They got stuck together on a road trip an because Xavier has his way they don’t get straight to finish but take a big detour. They have a great adventure; funny, scary and sizzling hot adventure. They have a great time and they come to a lot of conclusion about their lifes the only thing left unspoken are their true feeling toward each other. Really great story with two great develop characters. Both Jamie and Xavier interesting and very likable with amazing chemistry between. The end scene was the one who did not impressed me but is a great funny book.
I volunteered to review an ARC of this book for Netgelly
I volunteered to review an ARC of this book for Netgelly
August 3, 2019
Xavier and Jamie had such an immediate and hot connection. I thoroughly enjoyed him pushing her out of her comfort zone. And he did, many times. It was quite cute, romantic, and a very sexy. He definitely brought out her wild side. But they fit together. I enjoyed how they took their time to get to know each other and listened to one another. But I liked even more how Jamie was not a pushover when it came to what she really wanted. She did not settle for what Xavier was offering and she did not demand more from him like others did. And I loved the ending but wanted a little more, a glimpse of them in the future.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review from the publisher through Netgalley.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review from the publisher through Netgalley.
September 21, 2017
Please note: I received a copy of LUST IN TRANSLATION from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to the publisher and author.
Five stars and here’s why:
Hella-hot, sexy scenes and great writing! **fans herself** Jaime and Xavier are forced to travel to a wedding together and the end result is hilarious. Jaime is an organized and planned person whereas Xavier is taking a detour through life to see all the places his mom loved. When these two are forced to spend time in a car together, all hell breaks loose, sparks fly, and plans go by the wayside. If you enjoy sexy romance with a side of humor, this book is for you. Highly recommend.
Five stars and here’s why:
Hella-hot, sexy scenes and great writing! **fans herself** Jaime and Xavier are forced to travel to a wedding together and the end result is hilarious. Jaime is an organized and planned person whereas Xavier is taking a detour through life to see all the places his mom loved. When these two are forced to spend time in a car together, all hell breaks loose, sparks fly, and plans go by the wayside. If you enjoy sexy romance with a side of humor, this book is for you. Highly recommend.
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