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The Drakes of California #2
Champagne Kisses
He held up his cup.
“To a great assistant, whose help this week has been invaluable.” “To your family, especially the elders,” Marissa replied, her tone more serious than Donovan’s. “Whose vision made this day, and this moment.” And just like that the moment shifted. Her words produced an awareness of who they were and where they were and what they both felt but continued to deny.
Donovan’s eyes darkened as he drank in her countenance, focusing on the lips that she licked when nervous, like now. Her eyes searched his as well, noted the fast beat of his heart evidenced by the throb in his neck. She broke the stare and took a nervous sip of wine.
But Donovan wasn’t willing, or able, to let the moment go so quickly. He leaned over, slowly, as if dealing with a skittish mare that might bolt from sudden movement, and placed the lightest of kisses on her forehead.
“That was beautiful,” he said, his eyes travelling once more to her lips before looking back at her. The moment was gone, but for both of them…the memory lingered.
216 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published September 18, 2012
26 people are currently reading
134 people want to read
About the author
Zuri Day
96 books277 followersZuri Day is a hopeful romantic. She believes in happy endings, half-full glasses and dreams coming true. That's why she's thrilled to be a contributing writer to this genre...one of her favorites!
Zuri doesn't remember exactly how old she was when she picked up her first romance novel, but she does remember it was love at first sight. "It was probably a Harlequin," she recalled during a recent interview. "And it thankfully took me away from a fairly dull and routine existence growing up in a small Kansas town."
Things aren't dull and routine anymore. Zuri now resides in Los Angeles with her family and when she isn't writing loves to travel the world, cook vegetarian food, work out, watch sports, attend concerts and theatre and enjoy the simple things in life.
"Many people have given up on love, much less romance," Zuri says. "I'm hoping that somehow, through the love-filled pages of my romance novels, I can ignite the reader's desire to believe again. Because everything is possible, when we believe..."
Zuri doesn't remember exactly how old she was when she picked up her first romance novel, but she does remember it was love at first sight. "It was probably a Harlequin," she recalled during a recent interview. "And it thankfully took me away from a fairly dull and routine existence growing up in a small Kansas town."
Things aren't dull and routine anymore. Zuri now resides in Los Angeles with her family and when she isn't writing loves to travel the world, cook vegetarian food, work out, watch sports, attend concerts and theatre and enjoy the simple things in life.
"Many people have given up on love, much less romance," Zuri says. "I'm hoping that somehow, through the love-filled pages of my romance novels, I can ignite the reader's desire to believe again. Because everything is possible, when we believe..."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
July 23, 2018
The plot is formulaic and the language is over the top. I can't go on. The naive damsel is over done. Hopefully, I will select another book by Ms. Day and find it enjoyable.
I was provided an eArc by the Publisher via Netgalley.
I was provided an eArc by the Publisher via Netgalley.
August 13, 2012
Story: FAIRLY GOOD
Intimacy Level: SWEET/ GOOD
Enjoyment: GOOD
Length: 217 pages
I am a fan of this series since the first book, Diamond Dreams. In Diamond Dreams, you sense a chemistry of sorts between Donovan and Marissa when they first met, and I was excited to read their story in Champagne Kisses. After reading Champagne Kisses, I was please with interaction between Marissa and Donovan and the pace at which the author chose to take things between them. However, I was slightly disappointed, because the intensity I felt in the first book between Diamond and Boss I didn't feel with Marissa and Donovan.
With saying that, Donovan is the serious one of the family and he is always in business mode. He's also been hurt in the past but decides to take a chance with Marissa. Marissa is the no nonsense assistant for Boss Construction. She also has been hurt in the past and keeps herself guarded. Marissa and Donovan's brewing relationship was sweet, as both characters tip toed around each other trying to not screw it up. I actually liked Donovan's insecurity and uncertainty when he is around Marissa. This leads him to ask for advise from his father, and his father's advise was priceless. That definitely brought a smile to my face. They might not have had intensity for my liking, but they definitely had the sweet thing going for me and that was still nice for me.
Of course, I can't close my review without mentioning Papa Dee, That man might be ninety nine, but he has my heart in his pocket. I'm definitely looking forward to Dexter's story, and I'm also intrigued about the mentioning of the Louisiana Drakes. I smell something brewing and hope there will be more to come from the six cousins of Louisiana.
This was a sweet and pleasant romance between two characters who finally came together to give a wonderful read.
http://www.romancenoveljunkies.com
Intimacy Level: SWEET/ GOOD
Enjoyment: GOOD
Length: 217 pages
I am a fan of this series since the first book, Diamond Dreams. In Diamond Dreams, you sense a chemistry of sorts between Donovan and Marissa when they first met, and I was excited to read their story in Champagne Kisses. After reading Champagne Kisses, I was please with interaction between Marissa and Donovan and the pace at which the author chose to take things between them. However, I was slightly disappointed, because the intensity I felt in the first book between Diamond and Boss I didn't feel with Marissa and Donovan.
With saying that, Donovan is the serious one of the family and he is always in business mode. He's also been hurt in the past but decides to take a chance with Marissa. Marissa is the no nonsense assistant for Boss Construction. She also has been hurt in the past and keeps herself guarded. Marissa and Donovan's brewing relationship was sweet, as both characters tip toed around each other trying to not screw it up. I actually liked Donovan's insecurity and uncertainty when he is around Marissa. This leads him to ask for advise from his father, and his father's advise was priceless. That definitely brought a smile to my face. They might not have had intensity for my liking, but they definitely had the sweet thing going for me and that was still nice for me.
Of course, I can't close my review without mentioning Papa Dee, That man might be ninety nine, but he has my heart in his pocket. I'm definitely looking forward to Dexter's story, and I'm also intrigued about the mentioning of the Louisiana Drakes. I smell something brewing and hope there will be more to come from the six cousins of Louisiana.
This was a sweet and pleasant romance between two characters who finally came together to give a wonderful read.
http://www.romancenoveljunkies.com
October 5, 2012
The writing style that I have grown to enjoy from this author is slipping away. This story was lacking in so many areas. There was absolutely zero passion between Donovan and Marissa. There interactions seemed extremely forced. Their love scenes were dull, boring, and uninteresting. I just didn't believe the attraction between them. Marissa's hang up with Steven was a complete joke. What he almost attempted to do to her was not enough for her to be so fearful of him, and jumpy every time she was around him. It took me about a week to get through this book because it just did not hold my attention. The one bright spot in this book was Dexter. He added a bit of comic relief, and some much needed wisdom to Donovan when he needed it. There was a lot of talk about the Drakes of Louisiana, so I foresee a spinoff series in the near future. I've been completely underwhelmed by this series so far, and don't know that I'd like to continue on. I will though read Love On the Run as it is from Kensington, the original publisher that introduced me to Zuri Day books. Hopefully the writing style has returned to the level it was in her earlier books.
October 30, 2012
There was a lot that i could of liked about this book but things kept popping up, making me forget i had enjoyed any of it. The dialog & descriptions during the sex scenes made me feel queasy, some of the quotes could go into the worst things to say or think during sex hall of frame. Oh and Marissa was really ridiculously easy considering she is a very strong believing & practicing christian, her dad is a preacher! Why is she having sex with a man she barely knows & isn't married too?! It didn't make sense for her character. *sign*
I wouldn't recommend this book & I wouldn't read anything else by this author.
I wouldn't recommend this book & I wouldn't read anything else by this author.
April 14, 2019
Ms. Day created Champagne Kisses as a sequel to her first narrative. She guides her readers deeper into the lives of the Drake family business and their entanglements. The storyline is realistic in many aspects and quite fictitious in others. The chemistry among the characters is somewhat strange because the events do not adhere to the norms of faith and behaviors.
Donovan and Marissa are intriguing partners that may confuse the reader. There are some simmering emotional and sensual energies between Donovan and Marissa.
Champagne Kisses is an easy read but not one that will have the audience fanning the flames of desire.
This unbiased review was provided thanks to Netgalley.
Donovan and Marissa are intriguing partners that may confuse the reader. There are some simmering emotional and sensual energies between Donovan and Marissa.
Champagne Kisses is an easy read but not one that will have the audience fanning the flames of desire.
This unbiased review was provided thanks to Netgalley.
April 1, 2023
Enjoyable!
This next book in the series features "Marissa and Donavan" two over achievers (nerds) in business. I enjoy the author's writing and comparison in describing actions or storytelling. On to the next book of the series, "Platinum Promises"
This next book in the series features "Marissa and Donavan" two over achievers (nerds) in business. I enjoy the author's writing and comparison in describing actions or storytelling. On to the next book of the series, "Platinum Promises"
October 2, 2017
Couldn't get into the characters at all. Didn't like them.
October 7, 2018
CHAMPAGNE KISSES
DONAVAN AND MARISSA'S LOVE STORY BURNS UP THE PAGES FROM BEGINNING TO END. THANK YOU ZURI DAY FOR WRITING AN AWESOME SERIES WORTHY OF READING SEVERAL TIMES OVER.
DONAVAN AND MARISSA'S LOVE STORY BURNS UP THE PAGES FROM BEGINNING TO END. THANK YOU ZURI DAY FOR WRITING AN AWESOME SERIES WORTHY OF READING SEVERAL TIMES OVER.
March 6, 2019
I think I read this gem before and it still warms my heart.
September 29, 2012
Champagne Kisses by Zuri Day
4 STARS
Champagne Kisses is a Drake family story. Thier are a few love scenes that skimmed over with. Thier is plenty of plot besides the love scenes in this book.
It also deals with a lot of issues that are happening in this modern world. Like stalking, privacy when you are alone is not always safe as you think. hidden pictures take and put on internet. Dumb mistakes that collage students too that haunt you for years.
Being a mother of two collage age girls I worry about some of these issues for a good reason.
I love the Drake family. Thier history,thier love and support for each other is wonderful. They are welcoming people into thier world.
The Drakes inheirited a lot of property. They have built up a good business and now they are expanding even built a resort on it.
Diamond and Jackson just got married and about to leave on thier honeymoon for two weeks. Donovan Drake got a phone call from his assistant that she is in the hospital and has to have surgery.
Donovan cares for her she has been thier for decades. Donovan is heir to Drake Wines Resort & spa. He is the oldest of the three Drake children. Now that his mother has married one off turns her hands to her oldest.
Jackson said how about his assistant help for the two weeks he will be on his honeymoon she could help get the reports entered in the computer and wont spill the beans to anyone.
Marissa Hayes has had bad luck with guys. Even her best friend turned into a jerk and still was. He tried to drug her drink at a bar. But a couple saw him do it and warned her.(Yeah for them) He keeps stalking her she has already changed her job once for him.
Marissa is now very causious now. But boy she is attracted to Donovan.
I look forward to the last Drake brother I am sure that this playboy will have his own book too.
I don't drink achol but it is interesting to read about it and it's history,
I was given this ebook to read in exchange for honest review.
10/012012 PUB Harlequin Imprint Kimani Romance 225 pages
4 STARS
Champagne Kisses is a Drake family story. Thier are a few love scenes that skimmed over with. Thier is plenty of plot besides the love scenes in this book.
It also deals with a lot of issues that are happening in this modern world. Like stalking, privacy when you are alone is not always safe as you think. hidden pictures take and put on internet. Dumb mistakes that collage students too that haunt you for years.
Being a mother of two collage age girls I worry about some of these issues for a good reason.
I love the Drake family. Thier history,thier love and support for each other is wonderful. They are welcoming people into thier world.
The Drakes inheirited a lot of property. They have built up a good business and now they are expanding even built a resort on it.
Diamond and Jackson just got married and about to leave on thier honeymoon for two weeks. Donovan Drake got a phone call from his assistant that she is in the hospital and has to have surgery.
Donovan cares for her she has been thier for decades. Donovan is heir to Drake Wines Resort & spa. He is the oldest of the three Drake children. Now that his mother has married one off turns her hands to her oldest.
Jackson said how about his assistant help for the two weeks he will be on his honeymoon she could help get the reports entered in the computer and wont spill the beans to anyone.
Marissa Hayes has had bad luck with guys. Even her best friend turned into a jerk and still was. He tried to drug her drink at a bar. But a couple saw him do it and warned her.(Yeah for them) He keeps stalking her she has already changed her job once for him.
Marissa is now very causious now. But boy she is attracted to Donovan.
I look forward to the last Drake brother I am sure that this playboy will have his own book too.
I don't drink achol but it is interesting to read about it and it's history,
I was given this ebook to read in exchange for honest review.
10/012012 PUB Harlequin Imprint Kimani Romance 225 pages
September 12, 2012
This book continues the Drakes of California series Day started with Diamond Dreams. The Drakes are a multi-generational family that own a vineyard in Napa Valley. At his sister Diamond's engagement party, a woman catches the eye of Donovan Drake. He invites her to another winery for a drink in order to get to know her better away from his mother's inquisitive stare, and she agrees but never shows up.
Marissa Hayes' reasons for standing Donovan up are for his own good, she believes. But four months later, when her boss (Diamond's new husband) volunteers her services when Donovan's company is in a bind, she has to come to grips with her past and her attraction for her temporary boss.
In the first book in the series, the suspenseful part of the story was resolved a little quickly for me, but it was handled much better this time around. As always, learning about the winery business and the rich history of the Drake family makes this a well-rounded tale.
Marissa Hayes' reasons for standing Donovan up are for his own good, she believes. But four months later, when her boss (Diamond's new husband) volunteers her services when Donovan's company is in a bind, she has to come to grips with her past and her attraction for her temporary boss.
In the first book in the series, the suspenseful part of the story was resolved a little quickly for me, but it was handled much better this time around. As always, learning about the winery business and the rich history of the Drake family makes this a well-rounded tale.
August 26, 2012
This book is the second entry into the Donovan wine series. From the first page the chemistry between Donovan and Marissa is felt. Donovan tried really hard to fight his feelings for Marissa because he felt like she stood him up. Pride can mess you up lol. Both of the main characters have issues that they have to face before they can let themselves be in a serious relationship.
Pros: Like I said earlier, the chemistry between Donovan and Marissa was on point. I really liked how Marissa's boss and Donovan's brother in law was protective of her because she had been hurt really badly before.
Cons: I felt like it took a while for them to really start dating. Also, for me I felt as though the timeline for the story was not very realistic. The span of the story in the book was two weeks.
This was a sweet and enjoyable story that I would read again. It was a good follow up to the first story, Diamond Dreams. I'm looking forward to reading Zuri Day's next story.
Pros: Like I said earlier, the chemistry between Donovan and Marissa was on point. I really liked how Marissa's boss and Donovan's brother in law was protective of her because she had been hurt really badly before.
Cons: I felt like it took a while for them to really start dating. Also, for me I felt as though the timeline for the story was not very realistic. The span of the story in the book was two weeks.
This was a sweet and enjoyable story that I would read again. It was a good follow up to the first story, Diamond Dreams. I'm looking forward to reading Zuri Day's next story.
October 20, 2012
This book tell the story of Donovan who are attracted to Marissa but due to her past, she are not able to reciprocate. But situation threw them to be together and the attractions between them was just so much for them to take. They tried to maintain their relationship strictly on business but they have to acknowledged that it just did not out to be the way they wanted it to be.
I like Donovan and i like the fact that he daringly acknowledged his feeling towards Marissa to his father and grandfather and seeking advice from them.. I also like his way of handlingly the issue that is bothering Marissa and is not quick to judge. Overall, this book is a good read with good story plot!
I like Donovan and i like the fact that he daringly acknowledged his feeling towards Marissa to his father and grandfather and seeking advice from them.. I also like his way of handlingly the issue that is bothering Marissa and is not quick to judge. Overall, this book is a good read with good story plot!
March 11, 2013
Champagne Kisses is the second installment in Zuri Day's Drakes of California series. Donovan and Marissa first met in the Diamond Dreams. I was so happy to see their story continue. Love those Drakes. Waiting for Dexter's story, I know it will be a interesting one.
February 23, 2015
Real love story
Champagne Kisses was more of a real-life scenario. They both had to let down some walls before realizing the genuine love in front of them. I'm glad this was a
"slow stir" compare to the hot & steamy of book one.
Champagne Kisses was more of a real-life scenario. They both had to let down some walls before realizing the genuine love in front of them. I'm glad this was a
"slow stir" compare to the hot & steamy of book one.
February 20, 2020
This wasn’t one of Ms. Days best stories. There was little chemistry between the two leads & went from zero to 💯 with no push pull to the story. Read it if you need to keep up with following the series.
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December 27, 2014Miniseries: The Drakes of California
October 22, 2012
I loved this book.. I am so into trilogies and reading of different families in the same story line. I have to go pick up all of Zuri Days books because of the Drake family...
November 1, 2012
Loved it! My gal did it again!
October 30, 2012
Love the Drakes of California
January 21, 2013
Great read! Loved it and can't wait for Dexter's.
March 3, 2013
This was a great read, the characters had great chemistry. Dexter's story will be worth the wait.
September 6, 2014
So enjoying this series. So glad that I found it. The writing is superb and the character development is wonderful. Getting ready to start book #3.
June 5, 2015
Drake's always get what they want
December 9, 2015
These two were so cute together
May 30, 2016
LOVED IT
A MUST READ THE WHOLE SERIES IS GOOD IT HELD MY ATTENTION FROM THE BEGINNING TOO THE END. CAN'T WAIT FOR THE NEXT BOOK
A MUST READ THE WHOLE SERIES IS GOOD IT HELD MY ATTENTION FROM THE BEGINNING TOO THE END. CAN'T WAIT FOR THE NEXT BOOK
July 30, 2016
Ok I'm a sucker for romance novels where there are big families involved. We so need more stories of love among our people it isn't enough.
January 15, 2017
It was a little dry for me.
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October 10, 2012Great book. Donovan and Marissa were good together. Pick this one up.
November 17, 2012
3 1/2 stars
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews