What do you think?
Rate this book
Love Required #2
No Flowers Required
A sexy category romance from Entangled's Brazen imprint...
He’ll give her everything she desires...except his identity.
Flower shop owner Alexa Conroy had it all before the recession hit and her customers fled to cheaper shopping grounds. Desperate to make ends meet, she sells her dream home and moves into the rundown apartments above her shop. When she spots six feet of sexy distraction—complete with muscles, piercings, and tattoos—ripping up flooring, Alexa knows the karmic windfall she’s due just landed on her doorstep.
And the attraction’s definitely not one-sided.
Dillon James, reluctant heir to the corporation about to foreclose on Alexa’s shop, is not about to jeopardize their scorching chemistry by admitting he’s not the building’s handyman. But with only weeks until her business goes under and his identity is revealed, Dillon must find a way to convince Alexa cooperation isn’t a dirty word, help her save the shop from his brother’s greed, and persuade her that he’s not the enemy...or risk losing the only woman who’s seen the real him.
He’ll give her everything she desires...except his identity.
Flower shop owner Alexa Conroy had it all before the recession hit and her customers fled to cheaper shopping grounds. Desperate to make ends meet, she sells her dream home and moves into the rundown apartments above her shop. When she spots six feet of sexy distraction—complete with muscles, piercings, and tattoos—ripping up flooring, Alexa knows the karmic windfall she’s due just landed on her doorstep.
And the attraction’s definitely not one-sided.
Dillon James, reluctant heir to the corporation about to foreclose on Alexa’s shop, is not about to jeopardize their scorching chemistry by admitting he’s not the building’s handyman. But with only weeks until her business goes under and his identity is revealed, Dillon must find a way to convince Alexa cooperation isn’t a dirty word, help her save the shop from his brother’s greed, and persuade her that he’s not the enemy...or risk losing the only woman who’s seen the real him.
158 pages, Nook
First published August 20, 2012
147 people are currently reading
3703 people want to read
About the author
Cari Quinn
124 books2,152 followersUSA Today bestselling author Cari Quinn grew up wanting to be a singer more than anything else. When she realized she probably wouldn’t be hired as the opening act for the Foo Fighters, she stopped singing and started writing. Now she happily writes about rock stars, MMA fighters, suited heroes, bodyguards and everything in between. And she blasts her music as loud as the neighbors can stand, because hey, she’ll always be a rock star in her own head.
She's also half of the duo Cari Quinn & Taryn Elliott, as well as one half of the USA Today bestselling author Taryn Quinn, who writes steamy small town romantic comedies (among other things.)
Visit Cari at www.quinnandelliott.com to sign up for her newsletter and visit the Word Wenches on Facebook, her fun, sexy reader group with Taryn Elliott! https://www.facebook.com/groups/34642...
She's also half of the duo Cari Quinn & Taryn Elliott, as well as one half of the USA Today bestselling author Taryn Quinn, who writes steamy small town romantic comedies (among other things.)
Visit Cari at www.quinnandelliott.com to sign up for her newsletter and visit the Word Wenches on Facebook, her fun, sexy reader group with Taryn Elliott! https://www.facebook.com/groups/34642...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 283 reviews
February 14, 2020
Change was coming. Time to seize the day, and everything that came with it.
3.5 stars
As for the base of the plot, I had a little You’ve Got Mail movie feeling. Alexa owns Divine Flowers, while Dillon and his family are the owners of the big, greedy Value Hardware, ruining Alexa’s business by selling cheap flowers.
Further episodes could also be great material for a romantic comedy movie, such as making out in the rain, or the auction scene.
Don’t get me wrong, it is a pretty enjoyable, lovely story, with hot yet emotional erotic scenes. I’m sure I would enjoy a movie made out of it.
Characters
Dillon. He is described as a “bad boy”, a rebel. Well, his appearance (tats, piercing and a Harley) perhaps makes him look like one, but actually he is a piece of cake. He is kind, helpful, affectionate, perceptive, and caring. He does charity work, makes rooftop gardens, and aquarelle paintings. He has a perfect body, talent in manual labor, and sense of responsibility for the environment. Perfect gentleman by day, perfectly dirty by night... I picture him like this:
Dillon may be perfect – too perfect, actually – but he is still likeable. Who wouldn’t trust a man like him?
Being with Dillon, more than anything else, made her believe. In romance. In hope. That not everything had to be difficult or hurt.
But Alexa is very wary, with “sadness in her eyes”. But where does it come from? Selling her dream house is sad, okay, but hardly ruins her life. You are not informed about her possible heartbreaks, and why she had built all those walls around herself. She is bitter, apparently with no reason. I found Alexa’s behavior a bit overdramatic. Her stubbornness and hostility toward Value Hardware was pretty narrow-minded too.
The backgrounds of the characters are vague, but their feelings and emotions throughout the story are amazingly well written. Actually, Dillon’s is, not Alexa’s. The characterization is a little unbalanced between the two of them. Dillon’s character is more consequent and clearer than Alexa’s.
Each event has a great timing in the plot, though sometimes I felt the filling parts, well, fillers.
The erotica is exceptionally spicy and filled with emotions, with the wonder of the unprecedented uniqueness, especially from Dillon’s part.
All in all, it is a great story, with a likeable hero, a little hysteric heroine, pretty good romance development, and heated, sizzling erotica. Recommended!
My favorite quotes.
November 25, 2017
The author pretty much had me at hello when she described Dillon.
”tight jeans and a black T-shirt stretched tight over a taut back meant for fingernail marks”
Talk about an attention grabber! When she mentioned the tats, well that was just icing on the cake. I like that he called Alexa Princess. I also like that his character wasn’t the bad boy the author led us to believe in the beginning. He’s actually one of my favorite type of Hero’s. He didn’t fight his attraction to Alexa and he went out of his way to help her failing business because he wanted her to succeed. He was a hard worker and was just a genuinely good guy.
Alexa was a little bit harder character for me. She was the heroine that has a hard time letting people in. She wasn’t excited about Dillons suggestions to help better her business and she had already seen that he wanted to help when she learned the truth of who he was, yet still pushed him away. Thankfully the author didn’t keep us waiting to long bringing these two back together,
Dillon was really what had me in this story and made this worth the read for me. ARC provided by NetGalley.
”tight jeans and a black T-shirt stretched tight over a taut back meant for fingernail marks”
Talk about an attention grabber! When she mentioned the tats, well that was just icing on the cake. I like that he called Alexa Princess. I also like that his character wasn’t the bad boy the author led us to believe in the beginning. He’s actually one of my favorite type of Hero’s. He didn’t fight his attraction to Alexa and he went out of his way to help her failing business because he wanted her to succeed. He was a hard worker and was just a genuinely good guy.
Alexa was a little bit harder character for me. She was the heroine that has a hard time letting people in. She wasn’t excited about Dillons suggestions to help better her business and she had already seen that he wanted to help when she learned the truth of who he was, yet still pushed him away. Thankfully the author didn’t keep us waiting to long bringing these two back together,
Dillon was really what had me in this story and made this worth the read for me. ARC provided by NetGalley.
March 8, 2016
3 Sex Great, No Details Required Stars
* * *
Brazen is named Brazen for a reason. This is a publishing brand who lives up to its mission statement, I bet...I can only imagine when it was discussed in the conference room what the PowerPoint presentation looked like:
Who the target audience would be
What type of formula would be needed
How to cultivate a following
Which is not a bad thing at all. They have created a brand where you know when you want an easy, breezy, smexy read with a dash of heart... a Brazen story will usually deliver. There have been many extremely successful authors who have delivered different series following the Brazen form, launching a huge following. When every element is hit on target, there can be such a rush of fun in the reading.
This story by Cari Quinn had many of the elements needed... she had a sexy male character with a fully fleshed out backstory, personal conflicts he needed to come to grips with and core of goodness. It also didn't hurt he was good with his hands not only in the manual labor of construction, plumbing and gardening... but also with the woman chosen for him by Ms. Quinn, Alexa.
We had the "cute or conflicted meet" where misdirection would take place causing the continuing time bomb waiting to break these two apart later in the story. There also was the quick, undeniable attraction between them... like off the charts style. Exactly Brazen.
What threw this off for me a bit... was Alexa. I didn't get enough understanding of her backstory. She was a flower designer who worked for the original owner of Divine. The owner leaves the store to her when she passes. Alexa now has been running the business for 2 years but with the economy and all the past bills the owner had been carrying... Alexa is close to losing the business. Her competition, Value Hardware, has cut into her business with lower cost items. They may not be as high a quality but they are financially more attractive to the consumer. It causes her to HATE Value Hardware. They own the lease on her shop and have been sending her hate letters about the past due amounts owed. She went to see Cory Santangelo at Value Hardware trying to get a little assistance with the lease of Divine Flowers with no result.
(Here are my Personal Issues- I wished she had been more secure and savvy in the business she was running. Even with economy and past debt, she wasn't savvy enough or was too singularly focused to adjust her ways for the times. Of course, if she had... then all of the elements in the book wouldn't have happened...but because of these factors... I had a difficult time with her regarding the business end of things and her inability to see beyond the immediate.)
The hook is Dillon, our fix it man, is Cory's brother and part of the Hated Family of Value Hardware. It just so happens he has taken James as his last name so when he gives his name to Alexa, he is telling the truth... but also is lying by omission. Which will be the ticking time bomb waiting to go off.
What does go off early and frequently was the sexual escapades between these two. Their first "get together" was movie worthy with rain, roofs and everything in between. There was hot and heavy chemistry and want between them only heightening the knowing of the fall when the truth would come out about Dillon's connection to the dreaded Value Hardware.
Dillon was a likable character doing good works for the community and trying to help Alexa in bringing business to her store. Every idea he gave her was a real winner and although it took awhile for her to see the light...(ugh), she finally was able to see what he suggested worked. Dillon wasn't all perfection, though... he knew he needed to come clean about the family ties...but kept being distracted by his growing emotional feelings for Alexa and hardening cock....
Although I personally had a few issues with Alexa and some of the set ups, over all this fit the Brazen brand.... easy, breezy, smexy- yup really smexy reading without too much time investment.
Overall, it kept me reading to see what would happen...
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * *
Brazen is named Brazen for a reason. This is a publishing brand who lives up to its mission statement, I bet...I can only imagine when it was discussed in the conference room what the PowerPoint presentation looked like:
Who the target audience would be
What type of formula would be needed
How to cultivate a following
Which is not a bad thing at all. They have created a brand where you know when you want an easy, breezy, smexy read with a dash of heart... a Brazen story will usually deliver. There have been many extremely successful authors who have delivered different series following the Brazen form, launching a huge following. When every element is hit on target, there can be such a rush of fun in the reading.
This story by Cari Quinn had many of the elements needed... she had a sexy male character with a fully fleshed out backstory, personal conflicts he needed to come to grips with and core of goodness. It also didn't hurt he was good with his hands not only in the manual labor of construction, plumbing and gardening... but also with the woman chosen for him by Ms. Quinn, Alexa.
We had the "cute or conflicted meet" where misdirection would take place causing the continuing time bomb waiting to break these two apart later in the story. There also was the quick, undeniable attraction between them... like off the charts style. Exactly Brazen.
What threw this off for me a bit... was Alexa. I didn't get enough understanding of her backstory. She was a flower designer who worked for the original owner of Divine. The owner leaves the store to her when she passes. Alexa now has been running the business for 2 years but with the economy and all the past bills the owner had been carrying... Alexa is close to losing the business. Her competition, Value Hardware, has cut into her business with lower cost items. They may not be as high a quality but they are financially more attractive to the consumer. It causes her to HATE Value Hardware. They own the lease on her shop and have been sending her hate letters about the past due amounts owed. She went to see Cory Santangelo at Value Hardware trying to get a little assistance with the lease of Divine Flowers with no result.
(Here are my Personal Issues- I wished she had been more secure and savvy in the business she was running. Even with economy and past debt, she wasn't savvy enough or was too singularly focused to adjust her ways for the times. Of course, if she had... then all of the elements in the book wouldn't have happened...but because of these factors... I had a difficult time with her regarding the business end of things and her inability to see beyond the immediate.)
The hook is Dillon, our fix it man, is Cory's brother and part of the Hated Family of Value Hardware. It just so happens he has taken James as his last name so when he gives his name to Alexa, he is telling the truth... but also is lying by omission. Which will be the ticking time bomb waiting to go off.
What does go off early and frequently was the sexual escapades between these two. Their first "get together" was movie worthy with rain, roofs and everything in between. There was hot and heavy chemistry and want between them only heightening the knowing of the fall when the truth would come out about Dillon's connection to the dreaded Value Hardware.
Dillon was a likable character doing good works for the community and trying to help Alexa in bringing business to her store. Every idea he gave her was a real winner and although it took awhile for her to see the light...(ugh), she finally was able to see what he suggested worked. Dillon wasn't all perfection, though... he knew he needed to come clean about the family ties...but kept being distracted by his growing emotional feelings for Alexa and hardening cock....
Although I personally had a few issues with Alexa and some of the set ups, over all this fit the Brazen brand.... easy, breezy, smexy- yup really smexy reading without too much time investment.
Overall, it kept me reading to see what would happen...
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
February 19, 2016
***3 Stars***
Quick, low angst, entertaining and smut-tastic! Since I didn't have much time to spend with my kindle this week, this was the perfect book for me to squeeze in some reading time to scratch my reading itch.
Dillon was swoony (I love me a man with a tool belt), but it took me a while to warm up to Alexa (yes, I know....me and my heroine issues), but one thing I liked straight away....the woman was no prude!
The climax was a little underwhelming, but I'm glad that the author didn't draw out the drama.
I know exactly what I'm going to get when I pick up a Brazen, which is why they're my easy breezy guilty pleasure reads, and this book fit the bill nicely. I definitely recommend this one if you're looking for a quick, steamy and entertaining read.
November 12, 2012
3.5 Stars
No Flowers Required was a fun, flirty, fast read.
Alexa Conroy is in a bit of a pickle left with a struggling business, Divine Flowers, a high end floral shop which in a depressed economy is not doing too well. She has just sold her dream house to pay off the businesses backed up bills and just moved into an apartment above her flower shop. Just one more problem is Value Hardware, a large store drawing business away by their promises of flowers at a discount. To add insult to injury, the owners of Value Hardware own the building that houses her shop and apartment, and with every overdue notice, her hatred of them grows just a little more.
Enter Dillon James, his family owns Value Hardware and the building Alexa lives in is his baby. He’s renovating it personally with a focus on making it green for the benefit of the environment. Yes, his family is big business, but he is trying to make a difference in the world with his money. When Alexa mistakes him for the building’s handyman, he goes along with the mistaken identity. It’s nice for a change to have someone interested in him for him, and not for his money. He keeps up the charade when he finds out the hatred Alexa has for Value Hardware because he really likes her and is worried once she finds out who he really is, she’ll cut him loose.
No Flowers Required reminded me a lot of the movie You’ve Got Mail with Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan. I loved that movie so, while this story was a bit predictable, I enjoyed it. I would’ve enjoyed this story more if I liked Alexa more from the beginning. Up until about 40% of the story, I didn’t really care for her. She was pretty unlikeable and very rude to Dillon. Personally, I don’t know what he even saw in her at first. Maybe that she was feisty? At any rate, she ended up softening and becoming much more likable and sweet, which is a good thing because I usually don’t like a story if I can’t connect with or like the main character. Dillon on the other hand was a complete sweetheart the entire story. The fact that he was HOT, with delicious tattoos, and could fix things didn’t hurt my appreciation for him AT ALL! I leave you with a steamy quote:
He cast a sideways glance at her, and the tipped toward each other like bowling pins pulled by magnets. Her lips were so close, a breath away. If he leaned in, if he just could taste her once---At the last second, he jerked back. Christ. Her pupils were dilated, her lips parted. She’d been ready for that kiss. Hell, she’d wanted it too.
No Flowers Required was a fun, flirty, fast read.
Alexa Conroy is in a bit of a pickle left with a struggling business, Divine Flowers, a high end floral shop which in a depressed economy is not doing too well. She has just sold her dream house to pay off the businesses backed up bills and just moved into an apartment above her flower shop. Just one more problem is Value Hardware, a large store drawing business away by their promises of flowers at a discount. To add insult to injury, the owners of Value Hardware own the building that houses her shop and apartment, and with every overdue notice, her hatred of them grows just a little more.
Enter Dillon James, his family owns Value Hardware and the building Alexa lives in is his baby. He’s renovating it personally with a focus on making it green for the benefit of the environment. Yes, his family is big business, but he is trying to make a difference in the world with his money. When Alexa mistakes him for the building’s handyman, he goes along with the mistaken identity. It’s nice for a change to have someone interested in him for him, and not for his money. He keeps up the charade when he finds out the hatred Alexa has for Value Hardware because he really likes her and is worried once she finds out who he really is, she’ll cut him loose.
No Flowers Required reminded me a lot of the movie You’ve Got Mail with Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan. I loved that movie so, while this story was a bit predictable, I enjoyed it. I would’ve enjoyed this story more if I liked Alexa more from the beginning. Up until about 40% of the story, I didn’t really care for her. She was pretty unlikeable and very rude to Dillon. Personally, I don’t know what he even saw in her at first. Maybe that she was feisty? At any rate, she ended up softening and becoming much more likable and sweet, which is a good thing because I usually don’t like a story if I can’t connect with or like the main character. Dillon on the other hand was a complete sweetheart the entire story. The fact that he was HOT, with delicious tattoos, and could fix things didn’t hurt my appreciation for him AT ALL! I leave you with a steamy quote:
He cast a sideways glance at her, and the tipped toward each other like bowling pins pulled by magnets. Her lips were so close, a breath away. If he leaned in, if he just could taste her once---At the last second, he jerked back. Christ. Her pupils were dilated, her lips parted. She’d been ready for that kiss. Hell, she’d wanted it too.
April 10, 2017
I do not know what has happened to me. The Brazen books that I used to like, no longer work well for me. This one was ok, but the last 30 mins (I was re reading via audible) made me want to punch something! I got that he was lying. I knew it would have to come out. Heroine was a pretty tough broad. I figured she would give him hell. He deserved it! Do not care that he was remorseful and he meant well, he LIED. He should not get off the hook easy. He should have to grovel!
While I hate a liar, I seem to hate someone who rolls over to one more! So while I should be upset with the hero for lying, I find myself more upset with the heroine. Ridiculous I know. All in all, it was not that bad and I enjoyed it up until the end. But something rubbed me wrong about the wrap up. If I go into all the things that bothered me, I would give away the end...
Safety Gang Safe.
While I hate a liar, I seem to hate someone who rolls over to one more! So while I should be upset with the hero for lying, I find myself more upset with the heroine. Ridiculous I know. All in all, it was not that bad and I enjoyed it up until the end. But something rubbed me wrong about the wrap up. If I go into all the things that bothered me, I would give away the end...
Safety Gang Safe.
October 11, 2012
After selling her house and relocating to above her flower shop, Alexa Conroy has done everything in her power to save her shop. Her biggest hurdle though still taunts her, super store Value Hardware can provide cheap alternatives, while not the sort of arrangements she would do but her customers seem to be flocking to her competitor.
Her new apartment is in desperate need of repair, thanks to the help of super sexy Dillon James with his tattoos and hard core body, Alexa is finding a pleasant distraction from her current woes.
Dillon knows he should come clean with who he is, one of the owners of Value Hardware and that it is his brother who is helping force her out of business. He tries, but when a kiss leads to a little bit more, he can't find a way to come clean. He better figure it out quick though because he is finding he doesn't want to be far from Alexa's reach.
Cute story, Alexa is a little bit of a drama queen but it seems to meld well with Dillon. Dillon wants Alexa to succeed and goes out of his way to help her when she needs it. The story is setup to have another sequel in the series.
Her new apartment is in desperate need of repair, thanks to the help of super sexy Dillon James with his tattoos and hard core body, Alexa is finding a pleasant distraction from her current woes.
Dillon knows he should come clean with who he is, one of the owners of Value Hardware and that it is his brother who is helping force her out of business. He tries, but when a kiss leads to a little bit more, he can't find a way to come clean. He better figure it out quick though because he is finding he doesn't want to be far from Alexa's reach.
Cute story, Alexa is a little bit of a drama queen but it seems to meld well with Dillon. Dillon wants Alexa to succeed and goes out of his way to help her when she needs it. The story is setup to have another sequel in the series.
March 15, 2019
4 1/2 stars
It was funny, it was sexy, and I really enjoyed Alexa and Dillon's romance and the dynamics between them!
I'm looking forward to reading the other books in this series in future.
(I definitely want to know more about Cory and Victoria. I often get a kick out of the enemies-to-lovers trope!)
It was funny, it was sexy, and I really enjoyed Alexa and Dillon's romance and the dynamics between them!
I'm looking forward to reading the other books in this series in future.
(I definitely want to know more about Cory and Victoria. I often get a kick out of the enemies-to-lovers trope!)
September 23, 2012
Infinite stars!!!
I'm so in love with this book. There are things I look for in a book that make it a favorite. This book had it all.
The sweetest romance ever. Heart poundingly good. I could swoon at all of the sweet moments between Dillon and Lex.
Lots of steamy moments that were perfect. Just enough to satisfy and never cheesy.
A strong respectable leading woman who did NOT get on my nerves with her insecurities and annoying whining (like a lot of girls in books I've read lately). Alexa was independent but able to concede she needed help from others and let down her walls. Which she had to in order to fall in love with Dillon.
And Dillon. Oh how perfect is Dillon James. Sexy tattooed bad boy/handyman - YES. Sexy intelligent businessman with a heart of gold - YES! This guy was amazing. The best of both worlds. He found out who he really wanted to be while he helped Alexa build herself back up and have the confidence she needed to succeed. And although there was a minor set back - I was so pleased things didn't get drawn out and stupidly put off. When you are in love - you can get through anything.
I also loved the length of this book. Not too long, not too short. Was to the point but had plenty of build up and suspense. I didn't feel anything was rushed and the timing of their relationship was so smooth and perfect. It felt realistic and had my heart racing and wanting more every time I put it down.
I can't say enough good things about this book except I highly recommend. A new favorite on my list!
I'm so in love with this book. There are things I look for in a book that make it a favorite. This book had it all.
The sweetest romance ever. Heart poundingly good. I could swoon at all of the sweet moments between Dillon and Lex.
Lots of steamy moments that were perfect. Just enough to satisfy and never cheesy.
A strong respectable leading woman who did NOT get on my nerves with her insecurities and annoying whining (like a lot of girls in books I've read lately). Alexa was independent but able to concede she needed help from others and let down her walls. Which she had to in order to fall in love with Dillon.
And Dillon. Oh how perfect is Dillon James. Sexy tattooed bad boy/handyman - YES. Sexy intelligent businessman with a heart of gold - YES! This guy was amazing. The best of both worlds. He found out who he really wanted to be while he helped Alexa build herself back up and have the confidence she needed to succeed. And although there was a minor set back - I was so pleased things didn't get drawn out and stupidly put off. When you are in love - you can get through anything.
I also loved the length of this book. Not too long, not too short. Was to the point but had plenty of build up and suspense. I didn't feel anything was rushed and the timing of their relationship was so smooth and perfect. It felt realistic and had my heart racing and wanting more every time I put it down.
I can't say enough good things about this book except I highly recommend. A new favorite on my list!
May 1, 2016
A fast, great read. I did not connect with the characters and I felt like the ending was rushed. However, I will continue with this series.
January 15, 2020
3.5 stars - Sweet little contemporary romance novella with likeable protagonists
October 26, 2012
That was my kind of dirty fun! No Flowers Required was pretty steamy, especially with Dillon smokin up the pages. If my apartments handyman was that hot, I would be breaking things in the apartment all the time! :)
October 20, 2012
Amanda's review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
4 Stars
When I saw that Cari Quinn’s No Flowers Required was up for review I jumped at the chance to read another one of her stories. She has a good track record with me and this one was another good story of hers. It was a fun, sexy read and definitely one that I found entertaining. Alexa Conroy is in financial trouble with her flower store business and has recently sold her dream home and moved into an apartment above the store. She is hoping the money from the sale can put a dent in her debt to pay for the rent on the shop in a recession economy. What doesn’t help her situation is that the local hardware, Value Hardware, is also selling plants and flowers cheaper and taking business away. Needing help with a leaky sink she goes looking for help and comes across a handyman in the next apartment. What she didn’t bargain for is a hot looking guy and an instant attraction to him.
Dillon James would rather work with his hands and refurbish the apartments and homes for returning veterans than help his older brother in the running of the Value Hardware chain of stores. He sees Alexa and also is attracted to her and doesn’t correct her in thinking he is just a handyman. When he finds out that she has a strong hatred for Value Hardware he doesn’t confess who he really is and the deception begins. He didn’t mean to lie to her but he truly cared for her and wanted her to see HIM for the man is his now and not the money behind the name. But will she understand his reasons for lying and not think worse of him? Can they build something from the definite chemistry that they have between them to a real relationship? All good questions he ponders after spending more time with her and really liking her and helping her make her business a success.
I could understand what Dillon did and he explains it in his POV throughout the story. He helps her make improvements to her store and hopes she takes these suggestions and runs with them. Thankfully she did. At the same time he builds her confidence with small tokens of flowers that truly touches Alexa in ways no one else has before. She’s leery at first but she lets him get closer and the hot sex they have together is just icing on the cake. And boy howdy is it ever HOT! Little by little Alexa’s business improves and she’s got money coming in. Alexa is a strong woman and wants to stand on her own and make this business work. She took it over after her friend Roz died and wants to bring it back into the black. I can understand her wanting to do it on her and not feeling indebted to anyone and the satisfaction of it being all her hard work.
When the time comes for Dillon to tell her the truth of who he is her reaction is what I expected. She doesn’t wallow but stands up to him and demands answers to the question of why he did what he did. I like the fact that she doesn’t let him off the hook but gives him another chance. What may not have been clear was why Alexa was reluctant to open her heart to anyone. What caused her to feel betrayed and scared to love? If that was explained a little better I think I would have liked her more and given it more stars.
No Flowers Required is the second story in the Love Required series but I didn’t read the first and definitely see it as a standalone story. Ms. Quinn writes a good plotline and characters that are quite likeable. I wish there had been an epilogue telling me what happens to them but I have a good feeling that there is a HEA for Alexa and Dillon. There is another story coming out soon for Dillon’s brother Cory so I hope we get a chance to see them in that book.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
4 Stars
When I saw that Cari Quinn’s No Flowers Required was up for review I jumped at the chance to read another one of her stories. She has a good track record with me and this one was another good story of hers. It was a fun, sexy read and definitely one that I found entertaining. Alexa Conroy is in financial trouble with her flower store business and has recently sold her dream home and moved into an apartment above the store. She is hoping the money from the sale can put a dent in her debt to pay for the rent on the shop in a recession economy. What doesn’t help her situation is that the local hardware, Value Hardware, is also selling plants and flowers cheaper and taking business away. Needing help with a leaky sink she goes looking for help and comes across a handyman in the next apartment. What she didn’t bargain for is a hot looking guy and an instant attraction to him.
Dillon James would rather work with his hands and refurbish the apartments and homes for returning veterans than help his older brother in the running of the Value Hardware chain of stores. He sees Alexa and also is attracted to her and doesn’t correct her in thinking he is just a handyman. When he finds out that she has a strong hatred for Value Hardware he doesn’t confess who he really is and the deception begins. He didn’t mean to lie to her but he truly cared for her and wanted her to see HIM for the man is his now and not the money behind the name. But will she understand his reasons for lying and not think worse of him? Can they build something from the definite chemistry that they have between them to a real relationship? All good questions he ponders after spending more time with her and really liking her and helping her make her business a success.
I could understand what Dillon did and he explains it in his POV throughout the story. He helps her make improvements to her store and hopes she takes these suggestions and runs with them. Thankfully she did. At the same time he builds her confidence with small tokens of flowers that truly touches Alexa in ways no one else has before. She’s leery at first but she lets him get closer and the hot sex they have together is just icing on the cake. And boy howdy is it ever HOT! Little by little Alexa’s business improves and she’s got money coming in. Alexa is a strong woman and wants to stand on her own and make this business work. She took it over after her friend Roz died and wants to bring it back into the black. I can understand her wanting to do it on her and not feeling indebted to anyone and the satisfaction of it being all her hard work.
When the time comes for Dillon to tell her the truth of who he is her reaction is what I expected. She doesn’t wallow but stands up to him and demands answers to the question of why he did what he did. I like the fact that she doesn’t let him off the hook but gives him another chance. What may not have been clear was why Alexa was reluctant to open her heart to anyone. What caused her to feel betrayed and scared to love? If that was explained a little better I think I would have liked her more and given it more stars.
No Flowers Required is the second story in the Love Required series but I didn’t read the first and definitely see it as a standalone story. Ms. Quinn writes a good plotline and characters that are quite likeable. I wish there had been an epilogue telling me what happens to them but I have a good feeling that there is a HEA for Alexa and Dillon. There is another story coming out soon for Dillon’s brother Cory so I hope we get a chance to see them in that book.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
October 13, 2013
No Flowers Required sets up a great plot with issues that are very relevant to small businesses today. The characters are personable and relatable. The sexy scenes had me turning on the fan to lower the temperature in the room!... Especially when about a specific tattoo that drives a sexy someone’s lust levels through the roof (you’ll have to read to find out deets) :-p Dillon is a very strong male lead and through Cari’s writing, we are able to see how very much he desires Alexa. He is also diverse, as most of us are in real life. He likes his tattoos, bikes, and piercings but he also digs helping out the less fortunate, a greener environment, and helping his friends/family succeed. Dillon’s main supporting character has a very discernible personality, making it easy to feel emotion throughout the plot by placing yourself in Alexa’s shoes. There is something redeemable about the brooding, workaholic Cory. I would love to read more about him. I would have liked to have seen a little more character development in Alexa. I feel like we get to see just a piece of what she is capable of and I didn’t feel as much depth through action as I did with Dillon. If you want to add a healthy helping of heat to your day, this is the book for you!
August 27, 2012
Ok were do I find a 'handyman' like Dillon?!?
Simply loved the chemistry between Alexa & Dillon! And let me tell you the love scenes were smoking sizzling hot!! No wonder they needed the rain ;)
Too bad we didn't get a Epilogue :( would have liked to know if they get married, if there gonna be babies etc.. lol BUT I was told by Cari Quinn herself that there are gonna be more books in the Love Required series and in those were gonna get a peek at Dillon and Alexa"s life! :)
Simply loved the chemistry between Alexa & Dillon! And let me tell you the love scenes were smoking sizzling hot!! No wonder they needed the rain ;)
Too bad we didn't get a Epilogue :( would have liked to know if they get married, if there gonna be babies etc.. lol BUT I was told by Cari Quinn herself that there are gonna be more books in the Love Required series and in those were gonna get a peek at Dillon and Alexa"s life! :)
September 26, 2012
Everything about this book was so good, from the smokin' hot love scenes to the characters themselves. Cari Quinn perfectly portrayed the feelings that we all get in a new relationship, from excitement to insecurity about the other person's feelings. I highly recommend this book!
July 6, 2020
I enjoyed this one- Dillion was great, a very likable character. Alexa could be difficult at times, but she came around. The ending was sweet :-)
November 2, 2017
Received an ARC for my fair review for netgalley. I did enjoy this book, I loved Dillon! He was such a sweet guy trying to help Alexis out, and be known for himself. Sigh.. Alexis, she was a go getter, she knew what she wanted and even though times were tough and her self doubt was starting to catch up, she didn't give up, and Dillon helped her with that. They were a good couple, of course the lie of who Dillon really was blew up, but the outcome brought out their fighting spirit..now to Cole's book.
June 7, 2014
4 stars
This was a very good story. I liked both Alexa and Dillon and really enjoyed their story. This is the first story I've read by this author and based off this I’m likely to read more of her work in the future.
Alexa had things pretty easy growing up and once she was an adult she was a carefree party girl. However; things changed when the owner of the flower shop she worked in as a flower designer died and left her the business. Unfortunately, the business came with a lot of past due bills and Alexa has been trying desperately to keep her shop up and running. She recently had to sell her dream home in order to use the money she got from the sale to pay off some overdue bills and keep the shop going. Since selling her home, Alexa moved in to a studio in the building above her shop…unfortunately she had issues with the place as soon as she moved in.
Dillon is the son of a family that has done well for itself and has a thriving business consisting of 10 Value Hardware stores and a number of income properties. Dillon and his brother, Cory, are supposed to be taking over the family business sooner than expected as their parents are retiring and moving to a better climate for his father’s health. Dillon isn't much on working in an office and tends to do the more physical side of the work, like fixing up the income properties they own. Dillon tends to enjoy life and not take it as seriously as some seem to think he should.
Alexa is trying to settle in to her new apartment but while trying to get water for cleaning; her faucet sprays her with water and then starts leaking. Alexa goes to find the building manager and finds someone pulling up flooring in an empty apartment. The worker ends up being Dillon and she gets him to come to her apartment and work on her sink thinking that he’s the building’s handyman. While Dillon is over there, it becomes apparent that Alexa hates the Value Hardware stores and wonders why. He intends to tell her who he is but it doesn't end up happening before he has to leave to get a part for her sink. Later, after a particularly depressing dinner with her pregnant and very happily married best friend, Alexa isn't in the greatest of moods. She goes to the building roof for some peace and quiet and runs in to Dillon while there. Things spike between them and they jump each other in a storm of sexual heat. They have a hot and sexy interlude on the roof (in the rain which I kind of liked) but Alexa states that it’s only for one night and then that’s it. They split off afterwards but both of them have trouble brushing the encounter off and secretly they both want to see each other again. Dillon isn't sure what to do though because he likes Alexa and wants to see her again but knows she’ll get pissed when she finds out who his family is. Dillon decides to find out why Alexa dislikes Value Hardware so much and finds out that Cory is trying to push Alexa's business out of the building they own in order to move the business of a woman he wants to date in to Alexa's storefront. It soon becomes clear that Cory behaved like a jerk towards Alexa and she probably has some valid reasons for the dislike.
Dillon visits Alexa again and finds that he wants to help her. He also likes her shop and sees a lot of potential in it. Dillon has his MBA and thinks he could help Alexa but knows if he tells her who his family is, she’ll refuse to let him help her so he uses this as an excuse to not tell her who he is. They start spending time together both in and out of bed. Alexa is happily surprised as Dillon comes around more and spends time with her and actually seems interested in her shop. Dillon makes some suggestions which cause her to bristle a bit but she soon realizes that some of his suggestions are good ones and when she implements them they help her business. Dillon is happily surprised to find that while working with Alexa, he’s found some of the love of business he thought he’d lost (which is why he tended to work more on the physical work of the family business) and starts looking forward to taking on more of the work once his parents retire. After a couple weeks, things are going very well for Dillon and Alexa and they’re both falling for each other. Alexa's business has picked up and she’s starting to get her confidence back. She’s also very grateful to Dillon for being there to encourage her when she was down and the suggestions he made that helped her business do better. Dillon is very happy with the way things are going except that he still has to tell Alexa the truth about his family and he’s not thrilled about her reaction. As expected, Alexa doesn't take the news well when he tells her and there’s heartbreak and drama on both sides as they both try to work through things. Fortunately, Dillon isn't willing to give up on Alexa and with some thinking and soul-searching, Alexa comes to the right conclusions and they end the story starting their HEA together.
I enjoyed this story a lot. Alexa and Dillon are both very good characters and I couldn't help liking them. The plot is pretty typical for this type of story but it was well done and I couldn't help rooting for Dillon & Alexa to get their HEA. I'd recommend this story. 2 thumbs up. :D
This was a very good story. I liked both Alexa and Dillon and really enjoyed their story. This is the first story I've read by this author and based off this I’m likely to read more of her work in the future.
Alexa had things pretty easy growing up and once she was an adult she was a carefree party girl. However; things changed when the owner of the flower shop she worked in as a flower designer died and left her the business. Unfortunately, the business came with a lot of past due bills and Alexa has been trying desperately to keep her shop up and running. She recently had to sell her dream home in order to use the money she got from the sale to pay off some overdue bills and keep the shop going. Since selling her home, Alexa moved in to a studio in the building above her shop…unfortunately she had issues with the place as soon as she moved in.
Dillon is the son of a family that has done well for itself and has a thriving business consisting of 10 Value Hardware stores and a number of income properties. Dillon and his brother, Cory, are supposed to be taking over the family business sooner than expected as their parents are retiring and moving to a better climate for his father’s health. Dillon isn't much on working in an office and tends to do the more physical side of the work, like fixing up the income properties they own. Dillon tends to enjoy life and not take it as seriously as some seem to think he should.
Alexa is trying to settle in to her new apartment but while trying to get water for cleaning; her faucet sprays her with water and then starts leaking. Alexa goes to find the building manager and finds someone pulling up flooring in an empty apartment. The worker ends up being Dillon and she gets him to come to her apartment and work on her sink thinking that he’s the building’s handyman. While Dillon is over there, it becomes apparent that Alexa hates the Value Hardware stores and wonders why. He intends to tell her who he is but it doesn't end up happening before he has to leave to get a part for her sink. Later, after a particularly depressing dinner with her pregnant and very happily married best friend, Alexa isn't in the greatest of moods. She goes to the building roof for some peace and quiet and runs in to Dillon while there. Things spike between them and they jump each other in a storm of sexual heat. They have a hot and sexy interlude on the roof (in the rain which I kind of liked) but Alexa states that it’s only for one night and then that’s it. They split off afterwards but both of them have trouble brushing the encounter off and secretly they both want to see each other again. Dillon isn't sure what to do though because he likes Alexa and wants to see her again but knows she’ll get pissed when she finds out who his family is. Dillon decides to find out why Alexa dislikes Value Hardware so much and finds out that Cory is trying to push Alexa's business out of the building they own in order to move the business of a woman he wants to date in to Alexa's storefront. It soon becomes clear that Cory behaved like a jerk towards Alexa and she probably has some valid reasons for the dislike.
Dillon visits Alexa again and finds that he wants to help her. He also likes her shop and sees a lot of potential in it. Dillon has his MBA and thinks he could help Alexa but knows if he tells her who his family is, she’ll refuse to let him help her so he uses this as an excuse to not tell her who he is. They start spending time together both in and out of bed. Alexa is happily surprised as Dillon comes around more and spends time with her and actually seems interested in her shop. Dillon makes some suggestions which cause her to bristle a bit but she soon realizes that some of his suggestions are good ones and when she implements them they help her business. Dillon is happily surprised to find that while working with Alexa, he’s found some of the love of business he thought he’d lost (which is why he tended to work more on the physical work of the family business) and starts looking forward to taking on more of the work once his parents retire. After a couple weeks, things are going very well for Dillon and Alexa and they’re both falling for each other. Alexa's business has picked up and she’s starting to get her confidence back. She’s also very grateful to Dillon for being there to encourage her when she was down and the suggestions he made that helped her business do better. Dillon is very happy with the way things are going except that he still has to tell Alexa the truth about his family and he’s not thrilled about her reaction. As expected, Alexa doesn't take the news well when he tells her and there’s heartbreak and drama on both sides as they both try to work through things. Fortunately, Dillon isn't willing to give up on Alexa and with some thinking and soul-searching, Alexa comes to the right conclusions and they end the story starting their HEA together.
I enjoyed this story a lot. Alexa and Dillon are both very good characters and I couldn't help liking them. The plot is pretty typical for this type of story but it was well done and I couldn't help rooting for Dillon & Alexa to get their HEA. I'd recommend this story. 2 thumbs up. :D
September 6, 2012
When I pick up a book, I am first and foremost looking for an escape from reality. Not that reality is all that bad but sometimes my imagination needs an opportunity to take over the reins and for everything else to take a back seat. I also need a credible and intense romantic attachment between the characters, they don’t need to be taking each other’s clothes every five minutes but I need to feel the chemistry between them, I need sparks, I need possession, I need desperation. Finally, I need a solid plot. Events can’t be random, disjointed, difficult for me to justify and they can’t be out of character. Everything else is a bonus. I adore books that make my heart race, stutter, fall, break, ache, but I also very often look for quite the opposite.
Having said all that, I am somewhat deadlocked when it comes to this book.
The story is cute, enjoyable, maybe predictable but that is not always a bad thing. It let my mind flap around it, fed the escapist junkie in me and that satisfied me. The story had a solid plot, a premise it followed through and that satisfied me too. The attraction between Alexa and Dillon was palpable, deliciously out of control and very emotional. No need to tell you how satisfied that made me. Where I think it failed to get my full attention was in the characterisation of the main players. I won’t deny that there was good character development but there was not enough of a ‘journey travelled’ for them, in my opinion.
Alexa remains a mindboggling enigma for me. To say that her behaviour perplexed me at times would be an understatement. I did not quite understand her deep hate for her competitor and landlord - one does not usually detest so passionately a landlord that is only asking for rent to be paid on time. Even the competing business angle is not enough to justify the intensity of her feelings towards Value Hardware. Furthermore, Alexa was portrayed as controlled, determined, loyal, guarded with her own feelings and heart, but we never got to find out why she had such reservations about letting herself love. This was in stark contrast with her passionate personality, her devotion to her friends and family. All this made it very difficult for me to bond with her as a reader. She felt very foreign to me and I just couldn’t connect.
Dillon is a far more likeable character than Alexa. I really liked his interactions with his brother, his affection towards his mother, his caring nature towards everyone that meant something to him in his life. He was much nicer to Alexa than she ever was to him. While he was openly wearing his feelings for her on his sleeve, doing everything in his power to make her happy, she was mainly after the physical side of their relationship.
While he brought her flowers and bought her daisy rugs for her bathroom, she jumped him whenever she saw him. Even her progression into ‘feelings territory’ felt slightly unnatural in the end. It almost implied that she loved him only out of gratitude for all he had done for her. Dillon’s feelings for Alexa, on the other hand, were touching. His demonstrativeness and protectiveness towards her made my heart melt, not to mention how tender he was with her when she needed him the most and how much faith he had in her abilities. He definitely ticked all the boxes in my book.
This is a story about people falling in love with each other for all the right reasons, free from all the complications that usually cloud our minds when it comes to letting go. Alexa, in essence, did not fall in love with the façade of a man but rather with the core of the man itself - she felt in love with a man who she thought had very little in life, a hard-working handyman that she learned to trust with her heart for the very first time.
For Dillon this was a journey of acceptance of one’s roots and responsibilities. We got an insight into the man that he has been and the one he wanted to be. I did not feel that his ‘sin’ towards Alexa was a grave one and I believe that he gave her everything and took very little from her. I guess it wasn’t ultimately about the lies, but rather about the reasons behind those lies and whether deception is sometimes the only thing that can save us from our own prejudices.
I am very torn about this book because I find myself wishing to really really like it but at the same time I seem to be stuck in wanting to be somewhat overly critical of the characters. However, I did enjoy this book. It might have not blown my socks off or left any life-changing impressions but it was an easy, pleasant and angst-free read and sometimes that is exactly what the heart needs.
~ N ♥
See this review on my blog!
Having said all that, I am somewhat deadlocked when it comes to this book.
The story is cute, enjoyable, maybe predictable but that is not always a bad thing. It let my mind flap around it, fed the escapist junkie in me and that satisfied me. The story had a solid plot, a premise it followed through and that satisfied me too. The attraction between Alexa and Dillon was palpable, deliciously out of control and very emotional. No need to tell you how satisfied that made me. Where I think it failed to get my full attention was in the characterisation of the main players. I won’t deny that there was good character development but there was not enough of a ‘journey travelled’ for them, in my opinion.
Alexa remains a mindboggling enigma for me. To say that her behaviour perplexed me at times would be an understatement. I did not quite understand her deep hate for her competitor and landlord - one does not usually detest so passionately a landlord that is only asking for rent to be paid on time. Even the competing business angle is not enough to justify the intensity of her feelings towards Value Hardware. Furthermore, Alexa was portrayed as controlled, determined, loyal, guarded with her own feelings and heart, but we never got to find out why she had such reservations about letting herself love. This was in stark contrast with her passionate personality, her devotion to her friends and family. All this made it very difficult for me to bond with her as a reader. She felt very foreign to me and I just couldn’t connect.
Dillon is a far more likeable character than Alexa. I really liked his interactions with his brother, his affection towards his mother, his caring nature towards everyone that meant something to him in his life. He was much nicer to Alexa than she ever was to him. While he was openly wearing his feelings for her on his sleeve, doing everything in his power to make her happy, she was mainly after the physical side of their relationship.
“His face might as well have been set on stun for its effect on her traitorous body.”
While he brought her flowers and bought her daisy rugs for her bathroom, she jumped him whenever she saw him. Even her progression into ‘feelings territory’ felt slightly unnatural in the end. It almost implied that she loved him only out of gratitude for all he had done for her. Dillon’s feelings for Alexa, on the other hand, were touching. His demonstrativeness and protectiveness towards her made my heart melt, not to mention how tender he was with her when she needed him the most and how much faith he had in her abilities. He definitely ticked all the boxes in my book.
This is a story about people falling in love with each other for all the right reasons, free from all the complications that usually cloud our minds when it comes to letting go. Alexa, in essence, did not fall in love with the façade of a man but rather with the core of the man itself - she felt in love with a man who she thought had very little in life, a hard-working handyman that she learned to trust with her heart for the very first time.
“You broke down every one of my walls … They were so strong that no one ever got through. No. One. … You were the only one I trusted.”
For Dillon this was a journey of acceptance of one’s roots and responsibilities. We got an insight into the man that he has been and the one he wanted to be. I did not feel that his ‘sin’ towards Alexa was a grave one and I believe that he gave her everything and took very little from her. I guess it wasn’t ultimately about the lies, but rather about the reasons behind those lies and whether deception is sometimes the only thing that can save us from our own prejudices.
I am very torn about this book because I find myself wishing to really really like it but at the same time I seem to be stuck in wanting to be somewhat overly critical of the characters. However, I did enjoy this book. It might have not blown my socks off or left any life-changing impressions but it was an easy, pleasant and angst-free read and sometimes that is exactly what the heart needs.
~ N ♥
See this review on my blog!
September 1, 2017
Standalone/Cliffhanger: Standalone but part of a series
Ages of H and h: in their late 20s
Multi-Luv'n/Ménages:
Was There Descriptive Sex:
Descriptive Sex &/Or Drama Between H/h With OW/OM:
>>If So, Before or After H/h Hookup:
Contains Cheating:
Amount of Sex In The Book:
HEA/HFN/etc Ending:
Will This Meet My 'Safety Gang' Buddies' Approval:
Any Triggers/Warnings: No
>>Detail: N/A
Do You Recommend This Book: Yes.
Will You Re-read This Book: No
Ages of H and h: in their late 20s
Multi-Luv'n/Ménages:
Was There Descriptive Sex:
Descriptive Sex &/Or Drama Between H/h With OW/OM:
>>If So, Before or After H/h Hookup:
Contains Cheating:
Amount of Sex In The Book:
HEA/HFN/etc Ending:
Will This Meet My 'Safety Gang' Buddies' Approval:
Any Triggers/Warnings: No
>>Detail: N/A
Do You Recommend This Book: Yes.
Will You Re-read This Book: No
September 28, 2012
Sigh. You gotta love a sexy tattooed hero who is handy with his...tools.
Alexa is hanging on by a thread financially. Reformed party girl, Alexa inherited the Divine flower shop from her employer. The shop was already in the red and Alexa finds herself falling deeper and deeper into debt thanks to Value Hardware. No one wants fancy flower arrangements anymore and the cheap mass produced products that Value Hardware churns out is hurting her business. Also she just sold her house and has moved into an apartment above her shop. When the plumbing goes haywire, Alexa is on the hunt for a handyman. And does she find one.
Dillon does his own thing. He works for a charity that helps build homes. He makes repairs around the apartments that his family owns and he's an all-around good guy. So it's not with malice intent that he doesn't tell Alexa that his family is destroying her business. Dillon is attracted to Alexa and wants to help her the best way he knows how. He knows that he must tell the truth about who he really is but he doesn't want to lose her.
I enjoyed No Flowers Required mostly due to Dillon. He is a good guy and he's sexy as hell. He feels bad that he lied to Alexa but works to help her get on her feet by making suggestions on how to bring business to her flower shop. This doesn't negate the fact that he lied, but his heart was in the right place. It's hard to tell someone you're attracted to that you're part of the evil empire that's destroying your life.
I couldn't quite connect with Alexa. I felt that there was a missing piece. She was very closed off emotionally even though Dillon did not do anything (to her knowledge) to not earn her trust. I got the feeling that there were events that took place in her past that made her this way but we don't find out about them. What made her tick? I don't think we even scratched the surface with Alexa. Dillon was by far the more likable character. I felt that he was written really well where I found a hard time connecting with Alexa.
I felt that the romance was one-sided with Dillon wanting it to be more than just sex but Alexa kept herself closed off. Jake and Noelle, from No Dress Required, make an appearance in this book. It was nice revisiting them.
Overall, No Flowers Required is an enjoyable book. I loved Dillon. Alexa was ok. I hope the next book is Cory, Dillon's brother. He needs to work off some stress and frustration stat!
Alexa is hanging on by a thread financially. Reformed party girl, Alexa inherited the Divine flower shop from her employer. The shop was already in the red and Alexa finds herself falling deeper and deeper into debt thanks to Value Hardware. No one wants fancy flower arrangements anymore and the cheap mass produced products that Value Hardware churns out is hurting her business. Also she just sold her house and has moved into an apartment above her shop. When the plumbing goes haywire, Alexa is on the hunt for a handyman. And does she find one.
Dillon does his own thing. He works for a charity that helps build homes. He makes repairs around the apartments that his family owns and he's an all-around good guy. So it's not with malice intent that he doesn't tell Alexa that his family is destroying her business. Dillon is attracted to Alexa and wants to help her the best way he knows how. He knows that he must tell the truth about who he really is but he doesn't want to lose her.
I enjoyed No Flowers Required mostly due to Dillon. He is a good guy and he's sexy as hell. He feels bad that he lied to Alexa but works to help her get on her feet by making suggestions on how to bring business to her flower shop. This doesn't negate the fact that he lied, but his heart was in the right place. It's hard to tell someone you're attracted to that you're part of the evil empire that's destroying your life.
I couldn't quite connect with Alexa. I felt that there was a missing piece. She was very closed off emotionally even though Dillon did not do anything (to her knowledge) to not earn her trust. I got the feeling that there were events that took place in her past that made her this way but we don't find out about them. What made her tick? I don't think we even scratched the surface with Alexa. Dillon was by far the more likable character. I felt that he was written really well where I found a hard time connecting with Alexa.
I felt that the romance was one-sided with Dillon wanting it to be more than just sex but Alexa kept herself closed off. Jake and Noelle, from No Dress Required, make an appearance in this book. It was nice revisiting them.
Overall, No Flowers Required is an enjoyable book. I loved Dillon. Alexa was ok. I hope the next book is Cory, Dillon's brother. He needs to work off some stress and frustration stat!
November 7, 2012
After reading this hot-hot-hot story, I officially have another author to add to my watch list!! This was my first time reading Cari Quinn's work, and I loved this gem of a story! Dillon was dreamy and his dirty pillow talk had me weak in the knees on more than one occasion, and although maybe not quite as dramatic as it was made out to be, I felt for Lexi with the horrible luck she'd had over the past year. I so wanted her to let down her walls and give into Dillon's attempts to win her over, and when her problems became something that he was determined to make better for her, I was swooning big time!! Lexi was in such a bad way financially, you can't help but feel the worry and paranoia she has over losing everything, and the damsel in distress in me was so relieved when Dillon swooped in not to save her, but to build up her confidence and push her in the right direction enough to get her out of the sinkhole! All his caring and sweetness made the animal he became behind closed doors all the more enticing, and he definitely had my pulse racing!!
It was obvious that the secret Dillon kept from Lexi was going to bring about the big climax of the story, but I liked the bit of heartbreak it gave the story. I think it was more earth-shattering for Dillon than it was for Lexi, which just made him amazing in my book!! I love that he never gives up on Lexi even when she shoves him away, and they really prove their love to each other in the end with a really sweet finish. I'm definitely excited to see more of them in the next book, which I'm assuming will be Cory's story...and I'm hoping it's with a certain young lady named Vicky!! =)
It was obvious that the secret Dillon kept from Lexi was going to bring about the big climax of the story, but I liked the bit of heartbreak it gave the story. I think it was more earth-shattering for Dillon than it was for Lexi, which just made him amazing in my book!! I love that he never gives up on Lexi even when she shoves him away, and they really prove their love to each other in the end with a really sweet finish. I'm definitely excited to see more of them in the next book, which I'm assuming will be Cory's story...and I'm hoping it's with a certain young lady named Vicky!! =)
January 7, 2016
The second book in the Love Required series by Cari Quinn. No Flowers Required turned out to be a pretty good read. Alexa Conroy is struggling trying to keep her business afloat. She had to sell her home and move to a small studio apartment where she meets handyman, Dillon James. Unknown to Alexa, Dillon is really her landlord and also owns the building her business is in. It was more of a novella so we didn't get a lot of back story, plus, I'm not a great fan of deception and the story wasn't perfect but it was cute and sweet and hot and a good read overall.
February 9, 2014
Another hit from one of my favorites! NO FLOWERS REQUIRED was a definite hit for me. This is a cute story about mistaken identity, finding yourself, and discovering what you've wanted all along just happened to land right in your lap.
I think Cari Quinn is a fantastic writer and when I'm looking for a romance with the right amount of spice and story, I know to turn to her. And this book was no exception.
I think Cari Quinn is a fantastic writer and when I'm looking for a romance with the right amount of spice and story, I know to turn to her. And this book was no exception.
November 3, 2012
3.5 star
This was a great, cute, quick read, I enjoyed the way the story flowed, even though it was very predictable, it kept me wanting to read more, there sure was enough steam in this book to fog the windows, and the way it finished I'm sure there's another book in this series, ill sure be reading, need to know more about Cory!!!
This was a great, cute, quick read, I enjoyed the way the story flowed, even though it was very predictable, it kept me wanting to read more, there sure was enough steam in this book to fog the windows, and the way it finished I'm sure there's another book in this series, ill sure be reading, need to know more about Cory!!!
tbr-later
January 25, 201525 January 2015: $0.99 on Kindle
September 1, 2012
OMG...LOVED THIS STORY! I sure hope there is more to come! Can't wait to follow Alexa and Dillon while watching Cory's life change!
January 13, 2013
Review up on MBR's Realm of Romance
Rating=4.75/5
Rating=4.75/5
April 12, 2020
This was a cute and light romance between a small flower shop owner (Alexa) and her landlord (Dillon) – who is also the owner of a large hardware store stealing business from her flower shop. Dillon lies when they meet, Alexa assumes he’s the building’s handyman so the entire conflict stems from a huge lie. The book reminded me of the movie “You’ve Got Mail”.
Alexa is going through a really hard time financially, which makes her bitter. Her obsessive hate of Value Hardware seemed unfounded for the most part. It made me wonder if flowers were sold anywhere else in town. Overall she’s described as a sad person but it seems there’s more to her personality that’s not really explained. I did like them together once they got past the initial conflicts, mostly because Dillon is a sweetheart. He tries to help her out when he finds out about her problems. I also liked Alexa’s brother and his wife. And Dillon’s brother Cory sounds like an interesting character.
Overall it was ok. My reading tastes have changed over the years because I have a feeling I would’ve enjoyed this story more if I read it when I added it to my TBR a few years back.
Alexa is going through a really hard time financially, which makes her bitter. Her obsessive hate of Value Hardware seemed unfounded for the most part. It made me wonder if flowers were sold anywhere else in town. Overall she’s described as a sad person but it seems there’s more to her personality that’s not really explained. I did like them together once they got past the initial conflicts, mostly because Dillon is a sweetheart. He tries to help her out when he finds out about her problems. I also liked Alexa’s brother and his wife. And Dillon’s brother Cory sounds like an interesting character.
Overall it was ok. My reading tastes have changed over the years because I have a feeling I would’ve enjoyed this story more if I read it when I added it to my TBR a few years back.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 283 reviews