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All I want is you
A purloined brooch leads to a stolen heart in All I Want is You, Sherrill Bodine’s tantalizing tale of love, hate and the thin line that divides the two.
When vintage boutique owner Venus Smith realizes that her newest acquisition was stolen years ago from the Clayworths, she knows that the right thing to do is return it. Unfortunately, that means facing Connor Clayworth O’Flynn, the man who helped ruin her father.
Connor knows Venus has never forgiven him, so when she proposes a deal—she’ll return the brooch if he helps clear her father’s name—he reluctantly agrees. Now, as action-packed days turn to flirtatious nights, new desires ignite. But can they leave their past behind? Or will their family feud lead to their undoing?
When vintage boutique owner Venus Smith realizes that her newest acquisition was stolen years ago from the Clayworths, she knows that the right thing to do is return it. Unfortunately, that means facing Connor Clayworth O’Flynn, the man who helped ruin her father.
Connor knows Venus has never forgiven him, so when she proposes a deal—she’ll return the brooch if he helps clear her father’s name—he reluctantly agrees. Now, as action-packed days turn to flirtatious nights, new desires ignite. But can they leave their past behind? Or will their family feud lead to their undoing?
336 pages, Hardcover
Published January 1, 2012
4 people are currently reading
383 people want to read
About the author
Sherrill Bodine
13 books48 followersI’m sure growing up in my grandmother’s house, taking care of my developmentally disabled mother, forged who I am, but I don’t believe any one thing defines me. My philosophy of life is that we are all in this together—and we need to embrace one another with as much grace, humor and compassion as we can muster. I see life as big, bigger, biggest, and I want to take everyone along with me on the journey. I not only attend black-tie affairs and work on charity board projects, but I am also just as likely to be taking a grandchild to lunch and a movie. I’m happily married to John, with whom I eloped when I was an 18-year-old freshman in college. It was quite the scandal. We have four beautiful children and 11 grandchildren.
I won my first writing award in the seventh grade in a statewide essay contest about a television broadcast of Hans Brinker and the Silver Skates. Instead of Silver Skates, they sent real skates, which I enjoyed immensely. I’m only sorry I don’t still have them so they could hang in my office.
While moving 22 times across the country and rearing our children, I sold stories to Fate Magazine, Home Life Magazine and True Confessions. In 1988, I sold my first novel and a week later received a two-book contract from Fawcett. Sixteen novels later, I’ve seen The Other Amanda win the Wisconsin Romance Writers of America Write Touch Readers’ Award and Talk of the Town chosen by Cosmopolitan magazine as its “Red Hot Read” for February 2009.
aka: Lynn Leslie and Leslie Lynn
I won my first writing award in the seventh grade in a statewide essay contest about a television broadcast of Hans Brinker and the Silver Skates. Instead of Silver Skates, they sent real skates, which I enjoyed immensely. I’m only sorry I don’t still have them so they could hang in my office.
While moving 22 times across the country and rearing our children, I sold stories to Fate Magazine, Home Life Magazine and True Confessions. In 1988, I sold my first novel and a week later received a two-book contract from Fawcett. Sixteen novels later, I’ve seen The Other Amanda win the Wisconsin Romance Writers of America Write Touch Readers’ Award and Talk of the Town chosen by Cosmopolitan magazine as its “Red Hot Read” for February 2009.
aka: Lynn Leslie and Leslie Lynn
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
November 15, 2015
All I Want is You was kindly provided to me by Netgalley for Grand Central Publishing.
2.5 stars
The Storyline
Her father was forced out as treasurer of John Clayworth and Company and since then things have been more than a bit terse between their families even though her sister Diana still works for the Company and her other sister Athena is marrying into the Clayworth family. When her father refuses to disclose the reason for his termination, Venus decides to take matters into her own hands and find out what happened, even if that means befriending Connor Clayworth O'Flynn, who she's had a crush on since childhood. The two end up teaming up together anyways when Venus ends up in possession of a mysterious brooch that was stolen years ago from the Clayworth family.
Overall Thoughts
I was in the mood for a contemporary romance and decided to pick this one up. It was a bit more focused on this big mystery and the romance actually took the back burner in the story overall. I didn’t feel that the 'romance' was really up to par either as Connor and Venus went from hating each other to doing a complete flip and are suddenly madly in love with one another. Suffice it to say the 'romance' just wasn't there in my opinion and I would've loved to see it take a more central role and also maybe more of a buildup so that it would have been a bit more realistic.
I had a slight issue with the writing style with the points of view. The POV was written from Venus/Connor's perspective but it would often switch up without even a paragraph break to signify the change which I found didn't work well in the least.
The mystery ended up being a bit predictable but it was still nonetheless enjoyable. The romance was steamy and entertaining despite it being a bit cliché. This was an entertaining read for when you’re in the mood for something light and fluffy. All in all, I think I fell victim to a pretty cover.
2.5 stars
The Storyline
Her father was forced out as treasurer of John Clayworth and Company and since then things have been more than a bit terse between their families even though her sister Diana still works for the Company and her other sister Athena is marrying into the Clayworth family. When her father refuses to disclose the reason for his termination, Venus decides to take matters into her own hands and find out what happened, even if that means befriending Connor Clayworth O'Flynn, who she's had a crush on since childhood. The two end up teaming up together anyways when Venus ends up in possession of a mysterious brooch that was stolen years ago from the Clayworth family.
Overall Thoughts
I was in the mood for a contemporary romance and decided to pick this one up. It was a bit more focused on this big mystery and the romance actually took the back burner in the story overall. I didn’t feel that the 'romance' was really up to par either as Connor and Venus went from hating each other to doing a complete flip and are suddenly madly in love with one another. Suffice it to say the 'romance' just wasn't there in my opinion and I would've loved to see it take a more central role and also maybe more of a buildup so that it would have been a bit more realistic.
I had a slight issue with the writing style with the points of view. The POV was written from Venus/Connor's perspective but it would often switch up without even a paragraph break to signify the change which I found didn't work well in the least.
The mystery ended up being a bit predictable but it was still nonetheless enjoyable. The romance was steamy and entertaining despite it being a bit cliché. This was an entertaining read for when you’re in the mood for something light and fluffy. All in all, I think I fell victim to a pretty cover.
February 6, 2012
You can also find this review at Forever Book Lover.
This was an enjoyable read. A touching tale of a daughter (Venus) to prove her father’s innocence against all odds. And, a man (Connor) who wants to reunite the two most important people in his life. For each of them to be successful~ they need each other. The two have a love hate relationship, until they finally admit their true feelings for one another.
This was a light hearted, funny story with a dash of mystery. The storyline was a breath of fresh air; it was a tale that kept me guessing. There was a great cast of characters, how could you not love Aunt Bridget, she had a no holds bar attitude. And then there’s Tony, a man with a hidden secret, but was he willing to lose the love of his life over it? This is my first book from Sherrill Bodine, she has a way with her words, she captures your attention and pulls you in, that you almost think you are part of storyline.
The passion between Venus and Connor was sizzling off the pages. And in the end, both mysteries were resolved; it kept you guessing up until the end and we had a Happy Ever After (actually, I think she ended the book with three HEA's).
“All I want is you” is a book not to miss. I didn’t need to read the first two books to follow along. Now that I have read this one, I want to go back and read the others.
I received this ARC from netGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This was an enjoyable read. A touching tale of a daughter (Venus) to prove her father’s innocence against all odds. And, a man (Connor) who wants to reunite the two most important people in his life. For each of them to be successful~ they need each other. The two have a love hate relationship, until they finally admit their true feelings for one another.
This was a light hearted, funny story with a dash of mystery. The storyline was a breath of fresh air; it was a tale that kept me guessing. There was a great cast of characters, how could you not love Aunt Bridget, she had a no holds bar attitude. And then there’s Tony, a man with a hidden secret, but was he willing to lose the love of his life over it? This is my first book from Sherrill Bodine, she has a way with her words, she captures your attention and pulls you in, that you almost think you are part of storyline.
The passion between Venus and Connor was sizzling off the pages. And in the end, both mysteries were resolved; it kept you guessing up until the end and we had a Happy Ever After (actually, I think she ended the book with three HEA's).
“All I want is you” is a book not to miss. I didn’t need to read the first two books to follow along. Now that I have read this one, I want to go back and read the others.
I received this ARC from netGalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 17, 2011
Spicy! From beginning to end, Sherrill keeps the edge and makes this book an absolute joy to read! Venus Clayworth can't figure out why the Clayworth's fired her father and why he was taking it -- However, she finds it hard to be mad every time Connor Clayworth O'Flynn walks into the room though. When Venus acquires a jeweled mermaid brooch, and finds out it might be a stolen piece from a long time ago, can her and Connor work together in peace to solve the mystery of the brooch and maybe also Venus can find out why her dad was fired, without falling in love with Connor?
With these stories, of course we always know boy gets girl in the end, or does he? The mystery of who really is the thief and why Alastair was fired will have you NOT putting this book down till the last word. I am hooked on Bodine's writing. I couldn't help but laugh throughout the book and she does such a good job making you feel as if you NEED more!!
Good book to read curled up on a Saturday afternoon! Enjoy with your favorite cup of spicy tea!
With these stories, of course we always know boy gets girl in the end, or does he? The mystery of who really is the thief and why Alastair was fired will have you NOT putting this book down till the last word. I am hooked on Bodine's writing. I couldn't help but laugh throughout the book and she does such a good job making you feel as if you NEED more!!
Good book to read curled up on a Saturday afternoon! Enjoy with your favorite cup of spicy tea!
January 9, 2012
***original review posted at Romancing Rakes***
Poor Venus Smith, unlike her name, she feels like she's no goddess. She's been in an on-again, off-again "relationship" with a guy named Brad, her father's been accused of embezzlement at the company he's worked for all his life, she has weird feelings for he man who fired her father and there's just something not right about the brooch she found in the closet of Connor Clayworth O'Flynn's aunt.
Venus runs a store with her sister Diana called Pandora's Box where they sell vintage jewelry and clothing donated or on consignment from some of the well to do residents of Chicago. Her latest acquisition from an old family friend, Bridget O'Flynn, turns her whole world upside down. After a closer look at the piece, Venus realizes that the mermaid brooch is the real, honest to god, one-of-a-kind that was made for Clayworth's Department Store years ago.
Connor feels betrayed by Venus's father, Alistair due to the fact that he funneled money from the company. It was Alistair's signature on the papers, but something doesn't seem to add up. Venus is on a mission to clear her father's name as well as get to the bottom of who stole the mermaid brooch all those years ago and trying to patch up Bridget and Tony's relationship. (Backstory: Tony gave Bridget the brooch but it caused a rift between them. Tony continued to go the Taylor Street (known for an underground gambling den) but Bridget turned a blind eye. When Venus tells them that it's the real thing, another rift is torn between Tony and Bridget.)
Connor wants to get the brooch back from Venus, going as far as lying to her and telling her that Bridget wants it back. Venus refuses to give it back until she figures out a way to lure the thief and clear her father's name. Apparently, there's a connection somewhere. Venus lays out a plan, a truce of sorts, with Connor but doesn't count on falling for him.
Connor can't believe he's going with this cockamamie scheme that Venus has cooked up but he'd do anything for family. Or so he tells himself. Between his mother throwing women at him, his aunt and uncle fighting and not talking, suddenly having feelings for Venus and feeling betrayed by one of the men he looked up to, Connor must sort it all out and realize that it's okay to show emotion even if it's been ingrained into you that emotion is a weakness.
Venus is as stubborn as they come. Once she sets her mind on something, she won't let go until it's done. Clearing her father's name is her number one priority. At least it is until she ends up digging out old secrets in the form of a mermaid brooch in a closet. She must now get Bridget and Tony back and figure out who stole the brooch. After her store gets ransacked, she has no other choice than to involve Connor. As they spend more time together, Venus develops feelings for Connor which in turn confuse her. She must keep her resolve and stick to her mantra of we're just doing this to get Bridget and Tony back and my father's name cleared. Keep telling yourself that girl. *snort*
FAVORITE QUOTE:
OVERALL: I enjoyed my first Sherill Bodine book. It's a wonderful laugh out loud, heartwarming read with a hint of danger. Venus was such a headcase at times that I wanted to shake her and tell her to just let it go and throw herself at Connor. I mean come on! Who wouldn't? Oh yeah. Venus wouldn't because her father was fired from his long time position as treasurer of Clayworth's. There were memorable characters like Aunt Bridget who told it like it is, Diana (Venus's sister) who was like a freaking psychic and Gregori (the kid who Connor was mentoring) who was quite cheeky. Halfway through the book I had my "aha! I know who did it" moment and for once I got it right. Bodine's naming the Smith sister's after goddesses and their father writing a book featuring goddesses brought a smile to my face. Also, the mention of two couples from previous books have peaked my attention. Thanks to the excerpts at the end of the book, I'll be adding the previous two books to The List.
***review copy provided by publisher***
Poor Venus Smith, unlike her name, she feels like she's no goddess. She's been in an on-again, off-again "relationship" with a guy named Brad, her father's been accused of embezzlement at the company he's worked for all his life, she has weird feelings for he man who fired her father and there's just something not right about the brooch she found in the closet of Connor Clayworth O'Flynn's aunt.
Venus runs a store with her sister Diana called Pandora's Box where they sell vintage jewelry and clothing donated or on consignment from some of the well to do residents of Chicago. Her latest acquisition from an old family friend, Bridget O'Flynn, turns her whole world upside down. After a closer look at the piece, Venus realizes that the mermaid brooch is the real, honest to god, one-of-a-kind that was made for Clayworth's Department Store years ago.
Connor feels betrayed by Venus's father, Alistair due to the fact that he funneled money from the company. It was Alistair's signature on the papers, but something doesn't seem to add up. Venus is on a mission to clear her father's name as well as get to the bottom of who stole the mermaid brooch all those years ago and trying to patch up Bridget and Tony's relationship. (Backstory: Tony gave Bridget the brooch but it caused a rift between them. Tony continued to go the Taylor Street (known for an underground gambling den) but Bridget turned a blind eye. When Venus tells them that it's the real thing, another rift is torn between Tony and Bridget.)
Connor wants to get the brooch back from Venus, going as far as lying to her and telling her that Bridget wants it back. Venus refuses to give it back until she figures out a way to lure the thief and clear her father's name. Apparently, there's a connection somewhere. Venus lays out a plan, a truce of sorts, with Connor but doesn't count on falling for him.
Connor can't believe he's going with this cockamamie scheme that Venus has cooked up but he'd do anything for family. Or so he tells himself. Between his mother throwing women at him, his aunt and uncle fighting and not talking, suddenly having feelings for Venus and feeling betrayed by one of the men he looked up to, Connor must sort it all out and realize that it's okay to show emotion even if it's been ingrained into you that emotion is a weakness.
Venus is as stubborn as they come. Once she sets her mind on something, she won't let go until it's done. Clearing her father's name is her number one priority. At least it is until she ends up digging out old secrets in the form of a mermaid brooch in a closet. She must now get Bridget and Tony back and figure out who stole the brooch. After her store gets ransacked, she has no other choice than to involve Connor. As they spend more time together, Venus develops feelings for Connor which in turn confuse her. She must keep her resolve and stick to her mantra of we're just doing this to get Bridget and Tony back and my father's name cleared. Keep telling yourself that girl. *snort*
FAVORITE QUOTE:
Pulling herself together, she sat up. Every woman admitted it was possible to feel physical attraction to a gorgeous guy even if she thought him a jerk.
But what she's never thought possible before this moment was that, jerk or not, she felt sad when Connor left.
OVERALL: I enjoyed my first Sherill Bodine book. It's a wonderful laugh out loud, heartwarming read with a hint of danger. Venus was such a headcase at times that I wanted to shake her and tell her to just let it go and throw herself at Connor. I mean come on! Who wouldn't? Oh yeah. Venus wouldn't because her father was fired from his long time position as treasurer of Clayworth's. There were memorable characters like Aunt Bridget who told it like it is, Diana (Venus's sister) who was like a freaking psychic and Gregori (the kid who Connor was mentoring) who was quite cheeky. Halfway through the book I had my "aha! I know who did it" moment and for once I got it right. Bodine's naming the Smith sister's after goddesses and their father writing a book featuring goddesses brought a smile to my face. Also, the mention of two couples from previous books have peaked my attention. Thanks to the excerpts at the end of the book, I'll be adding the previous two books to The List.
***review copy provided by publisher***
February 26, 2012
Avete presente quei libri che vi capitano sotto mano per sbaglio ma di cui vi innamorate a prima lettura? Beh “All I want is you” è uno di quei libri. Appena ho iniziato a leggerlo in realtà ho pensato che non mi sarebbe piaciuto e stavo per lasciarlo perdere quando, tenendo fede alla mia regola delle dieci pagine, ho proseguito la lettura e ho capito che valeva la pena terminarlo.
La storia è quella di Venus Smith e Connor Clayworth. I Clayworth sono una famiglia ben in vista, ricchissima di Chicago proprietaria dei grandi magazzini John Clayworth Department Store. Alistair Smith lavorava per i Clayworth come tesoriere ma a causa di un suo tradimento è stato licenziato cadendo in disgrazia. Venus, proprietaria con le due sorelle Athena e Diana del Pandora’s Box un negozio di vestiti e gioielli di antiquariato, vuole dimostrare l’innocenza del padre entrando nelle grazie di Connor, suo stretto collaboratore. Il compito non è facile visto che i due si odiano da quando sono ragazzini. Ma quando si aggiunge il mistero di un furto legato allo zio di Connor Tony e sua zia Bridget, i due si uniscono per trovare la verità. Ma la verità non è quella che si aspettano. Riusciranno Connor e Venus a superare le loro discordie e a essere felici insieme?
Sono vari i motivi per cui ho adorato questa romance. Innanzitutto lo stile narrativo di Sherrill Bodine, assolutamente eccezionale, che riesce a comunicare la tensione sessuale tra i due protagonisti legandola alla sottotrama che unisce tutto il libro nel mistero del furto e della responsabilità di Alistair. L’utilizzo della terza persona e l’alternanza dei punti di vista dei protagonisti è fondamentale sia per aumentare la suspense nei punti critici sia per aiutare nell’immedesimazione con i protagonisti. E immedesimarsi in Venusè facilissimo. Venus ha due sorelle bellissime, magre, dolci, due modelle e lei si sente la pecora nera per le sue forme prorompenti per la sua tenacia, presunzione e testardaggine. Ma ha un cuore d’oro, è generosa, dolce e assolutamente altruista. Poi è esperta di moda e gioielli e crea i propri gioielli mettendo insieme pezzi di altri trovati in negozi di antiquariato dismessi o rovinati. E Connor…beh Connor ha il fisico del nuotatore, con un passato burrascoso, due genitori che non gli sono mai stati molto vicini e la convinzione che nella vita ci sia solo il bianco o nero e che non per sopravvivere debba nascondere i propri sentimenti dietro un muro di rigido autocontrollo. È solo Venus che gli permette di lasciarsi andare, di provare ad affrontare la carica emotiva che prova dentro di sé. Ed è così protettivo, autorevole, indimenticabile, l’uomo che ci vuole in determinate situazioni, ma soprattutto l’uomo perfetto per Venus.
Poi lo sfondo della città ventosa, questa Chicago piena di ricchi uomini d’affari, gente esclusiva, parate, feste, serate in cui è d’obbligo il vestito lungo per le dame e lo smoking per gli uomini. E il negozio di Venus, Pandora’s box, il continuo riferimento alla mitologia greca, di cui suo padre è un grande appassionato, creano un’atmosfera speciale, ricca e insostituibile.
Un’altra cosa che ho particolarmente apprezzato della Bodine è l’uso delle emozioni, la costruzione del rapporto tra Venus e Connor. Molto spesso quando si legge una romance si passa sempre un sacco di tempo pensando “Dai baciala” “forza vi muovete?” mentre con la Bodine tutto è ben calibrato. Le mosse dei sue sono orchestrate minimamente, la tensione non supera mai un certo limite il bacio arriva quando ce lo aspettiamo e non dopo pagine in cui smaniamo. Non si arriva mai all’eccesso, l’equilibrio è veramente impareggiabile ed è raro che arrivi alla fine di una storia del genere con il sospirone e la sensazione che il lieto fine sia ben conquistato e non regalato per soddisfare la voglia del lettore.
Il particolare da ricordare? Il divano nello studio di Connor…magia!
Consiglio davvero la lettura, anche voi rimarrete conquistati dalla copertina, con questa ragazza in un vestito bianco molto bello e la sensazione che Connor e Venus sono stati negati della possibilità di conoscersi davvero a causa dei pregiudizi. Poi c’è anche la suggestione del fatto che non tutte le disgrazie vengono per nuocersi. Se il padre non fosse stato licenziato, a Venus non sarebbe mai venuto in mente di aggraziarsi Connor…veramente magico.
Buona lettura.
A me non resta che ringraziare Netgalley e Grand Central Publishing per avermi concesso l’onore di leggere questo libro in cambio di una mia opinione.
La storia è quella di Venus Smith e Connor Clayworth. I Clayworth sono una famiglia ben in vista, ricchissima di Chicago proprietaria dei grandi magazzini John Clayworth Department Store. Alistair Smith lavorava per i Clayworth come tesoriere ma a causa di un suo tradimento è stato licenziato cadendo in disgrazia. Venus, proprietaria con le due sorelle Athena e Diana del Pandora’s Box un negozio di vestiti e gioielli di antiquariato, vuole dimostrare l’innocenza del padre entrando nelle grazie di Connor, suo stretto collaboratore. Il compito non è facile visto che i due si odiano da quando sono ragazzini. Ma quando si aggiunge il mistero di un furto legato allo zio di Connor Tony e sua zia Bridget, i due si uniscono per trovare la verità. Ma la verità non è quella che si aspettano. Riusciranno Connor e Venus a superare le loro discordie e a essere felici insieme?
Sono vari i motivi per cui ho adorato questa romance. Innanzitutto lo stile narrativo di Sherrill Bodine, assolutamente eccezionale, che riesce a comunicare la tensione sessuale tra i due protagonisti legandola alla sottotrama che unisce tutto il libro nel mistero del furto e della responsabilità di Alistair. L’utilizzo della terza persona e l’alternanza dei punti di vista dei protagonisti è fondamentale sia per aumentare la suspense nei punti critici sia per aiutare nell’immedesimazione con i protagonisti. E immedesimarsi in Venusè facilissimo. Venus ha due sorelle bellissime, magre, dolci, due modelle e lei si sente la pecora nera per le sue forme prorompenti per la sua tenacia, presunzione e testardaggine. Ma ha un cuore d’oro, è generosa, dolce e assolutamente altruista. Poi è esperta di moda e gioielli e crea i propri gioielli mettendo insieme pezzi di altri trovati in negozi di antiquariato dismessi o rovinati. E Connor…beh Connor ha il fisico del nuotatore, con un passato burrascoso, due genitori che non gli sono mai stati molto vicini e la convinzione che nella vita ci sia solo il bianco o nero e che non per sopravvivere debba nascondere i propri sentimenti dietro un muro di rigido autocontrollo. È solo Venus che gli permette di lasciarsi andare, di provare ad affrontare la carica emotiva che prova dentro di sé. Ed è così protettivo, autorevole, indimenticabile, l’uomo che ci vuole in determinate situazioni, ma soprattutto l’uomo perfetto per Venus.
Poi lo sfondo della città ventosa, questa Chicago piena di ricchi uomini d’affari, gente esclusiva, parate, feste, serate in cui è d’obbligo il vestito lungo per le dame e lo smoking per gli uomini. E il negozio di Venus, Pandora’s box, il continuo riferimento alla mitologia greca, di cui suo padre è un grande appassionato, creano un’atmosfera speciale, ricca e insostituibile.
Un’altra cosa che ho particolarmente apprezzato della Bodine è l’uso delle emozioni, la costruzione del rapporto tra Venus e Connor. Molto spesso quando si legge una romance si passa sempre un sacco di tempo pensando “Dai baciala” “forza vi muovete?” mentre con la Bodine tutto è ben calibrato. Le mosse dei sue sono orchestrate minimamente, la tensione non supera mai un certo limite il bacio arriva quando ce lo aspettiamo e non dopo pagine in cui smaniamo. Non si arriva mai all’eccesso, l’equilibrio è veramente impareggiabile ed è raro che arrivi alla fine di una storia del genere con il sospirone e la sensazione che il lieto fine sia ben conquistato e non regalato per soddisfare la voglia del lettore.
Il particolare da ricordare? Il divano nello studio di Connor…magia!
Consiglio davvero la lettura, anche voi rimarrete conquistati dalla copertina, con questa ragazza in un vestito bianco molto bello e la sensazione che Connor e Venus sono stati negati della possibilità di conoscersi davvero a causa dei pregiudizi. Poi c’è anche la suggestione del fatto che non tutte le disgrazie vengono per nuocersi. Se il padre non fosse stato licenziato, a Venus non sarebbe mai venuto in mente di aggraziarsi Connor…veramente magico.
Buona lettura.
A me non resta che ringraziare Netgalley e Grand Central Publishing per avermi concesso l’onore di leggere questo libro in cambio di una mia opinione.
February 9, 2012
Review originally posted here: http://thebookpushers.com/2012/02/09/...
Publisher: Forever
Publish Date: Out Now!
How I got this book: NetGalley
When I first saw the blurb for this book I was intrigued, but at the same time the cover made me think this would be more women’s fiction instead of romance. I’m glad to say that this book was most definitely a romance book, and one that I am really glad I picked up.
Venus loves the Boutique she owns with her sisters almost as much as she loves classic costume jewelery. But lately, the only thing she has on her mind is clearing her father’s good name. She has come up with a plan she thinks will work: get close to her long time frienemy Connor O’Flynn.
Connor is an executive at the long standing Clayworth department store, lawyer extraordinaire, and helplessly in lust with Venus – despite the bad blood between their families. But Venus avoids his like the plague, so Connor spends most of his time working and enjoying time with his aunt and uncle. But when Venus starts showing an interest, Connor jumps at the chance to spend more time with her, even if it means listening to her pleas to exonerate her father. Connor agrees to keep an open mind, and is surprised when the threads begin to unravel.
After a somewhat slow start, I have to say I really did get into and enjoy this book. While this one is not listed as being part of a series, it did have a series feel to it. I checked the author’s goodreads page later, and realized that her other books do focus on characters from the same world. At times, early in the story, it felt as if Bodine assumed that readers knew some of the characters and back story. I found myself a little confused and unsure about how everyone in the story was related or why certain characters felt certain ways towards one another. It wasn’t bad enough that it ruined by reading experience, but it was noticeable.
One of the things I really liked about Bodine’s writing is that it combined a fun and flirty romance with a suspenseful mystery and wonderful family dynamics all rolled into one. The relationship between Connor and Venus was filled with sexual tension, especially since the chemistry was so strong between them, but neither acted on it for what felt like FOREVER. But because of that slow building up, I was constantly engaged and excited about their romance.
The suspense and mystery sub-plot was handled really well too. I loved that Venus was so determined to exonerate her father, but that she also wanted to help Connor’s aunt Bridget and uncle Tony. Venus had a kind heart and it showed as she went through great lengths (although sometimes not-well-thought-out lengths) to solve both the mysteries in the story. I was pleasantly surprised that Bodine did a good job of leaving multiple different trails, and that it took me longer than usual to figure out who the bad guy was in the whole story. Very well done in that respect.
The other aspect I really enjoy was the family dynamics between Venus and her sisters, Connor & Venus and his aunt & uncle, Venus and her father, the list goes on. I come from a huge family, as does my husband, so I always enjoy when books can showcase a believable family dynamic. The willingness for Venus to step outside her dedication to her father and help Connor with his aunt and uncle was great. When Connor stepped up to do what he could for Venus’ father I was so touched. Everywhere the book turned, those dynamics were alive and kept a smile on my face.
All in all I enjoyed my first Bodine book, and look forward to reading more in the future. While there were a few things that I felt held the book back a bit, there were also a lot of really wonderful moments that made the book an overall enjoyable read. I think that fans of both romance and women’s fiction alike will enjoy this story.
I give All I Want is You a B-
Publisher: Forever
Publish Date: Out Now!
How I got this book: NetGalley
When I first saw the blurb for this book I was intrigued, but at the same time the cover made me think this would be more women’s fiction instead of romance. I’m glad to say that this book was most definitely a romance book, and one that I am really glad I picked up.
Venus loves the Boutique she owns with her sisters almost as much as she loves classic costume jewelery. But lately, the only thing she has on her mind is clearing her father’s good name. She has come up with a plan she thinks will work: get close to her long time frienemy Connor O’Flynn.
Connor is an executive at the long standing Clayworth department store, lawyer extraordinaire, and helplessly in lust with Venus – despite the bad blood between their families. But Venus avoids his like the plague, so Connor spends most of his time working and enjoying time with his aunt and uncle. But when Venus starts showing an interest, Connor jumps at the chance to spend more time with her, even if it means listening to her pleas to exonerate her father. Connor agrees to keep an open mind, and is surprised when the threads begin to unravel.
After a somewhat slow start, I have to say I really did get into and enjoy this book. While this one is not listed as being part of a series, it did have a series feel to it. I checked the author’s goodreads page later, and realized that her other books do focus on characters from the same world. At times, early in the story, it felt as if Bodine assumed that readers knew some of the characters and back story. I found myself a little confused and unsure about how everyone in the story was related or why certain characters felt certain ways towards one another. It wasn’t bad enough that it ruined by reading experience, but it was noticeable.
One of the things I really liked about Bodine’s writing is that it combined a fun and flirty romance with a suspenseful mystery and wonderful family dynamics all rolled into one. The relationship between Connor and Venus was filled with sexual tension, especially since the chemistry was so strong between them, but neither acted on it for what felt like FOREVER. But because of that slow building up, I was constantly engaged and excited about their romance.
The suspense and mystery sub-plot was handled really well too. I loved that Venus was so determined to exonerate her father, but that she also wanted to help Connor’s aunt Bridget and uncle Tony. Venus had a kind heart and it showed as she went through great lengths (although sometimes not-well-thought-out lengths) to solve both the mysteries in the story. I was pleasantly surprised that Bodine did a good job of leaving multiple different trails, and that it took me longer than usual to figure out who the bad guy was in the whole story. Very well done in that respect.
The other aspect I really enjoy was the family dynamics between Venus and her sisters, Connor & Venus and his aunt & uncle, Venus and her father, the list goes on. I come from a huge family, as does my husband, so I always enjoy when books can showcase a believable family dynamic. The willingness for Venus to step outside her dedication to her father and help Connor with his aunt and uncle was great. When Connor stepped up to do what he could for Venus’ father I was so touched. Everywhere the book turned, those dynamics were alive and kept a smile on my face.
All in all I enjoyed my first Bodine book, and look forward to reading more in the future. While there were a few things that I felt held the book back a bit, there were also a lot of really wonderful moments that made the book an overall enjoyable read. I think that fans of both romance and women’s fiction alike will enjoy this story.
I give All I Want is You a B-
December 27, 2011
Review originally posted at Ramblings From This Chick
When I first picked up this book I was really excited, some of my favorite storylines are those that are enemies to lovers. There is always so much chemistry and sparks occurring between the characters. I just love it. With this book I honestly don't know why I kept reading. Actually I do know why, I was curious to see what was going to happen with the hero and heroine when they finally got together. I really shouldn't have wasted my time because it wasn't worth it. This book was just so lackluster. The chemistry between Conner and Venus was just felt flat and lacking the sparks that I love.
From the beginning I had issues with the storyline. It just seemed to be a bit all over the place and a lot of characters and events just seem to pop up out of nowhere that seem to mess with the flow of the story. I found myself confused by it all more than once. There was just too many characters and interloping storylines going on that just seemed to detract from the Conner and Venus' story. These two are supposed to be the main focus, but I felt like their story was just a side note to the mystery that is going on in the book and the only reason I kept reading this book was to see their relationship progress.
I really needn't have bothered finishing because there just wasn't any sizzle with them. Once they got together that was it, nothing really special happens or there wasn't really much that happened beforehand. They just go from hating each other to instantly in love and it just make no sense to me. It wasn't believable at all. I would have love to see more flirting between them before they jumped into bed with each other. I like reading romances to experience the romance with the characters and I just didn't feel any with Venus and Conner. Their relationship just didn't seem like it had a natural progression. The author constantly tells us how much they both hate each other and then all of a sudden all that hate and resentment is gone? Just didn't make sense to me.
I also hate that somehow everything is wrapped up in a pretty little bow. Somehow all of the problems that occurred in the book are magically fixed and everyone gets a HEA. How does that happen? That isn't realistic at all. It just felt so phony.
I think one of my main issues is I was unable to connect with the heroine Venus. I just did not like her. She is constantly moaning about how much she hates Connor for what he did to her father, yet it's okay to attempt to seduce him to get information. Also, every time something happens she starts to cry. I have never read a book where the heroine cries so much. It seemed like every other page she was crying about something. It was highly annoying.
As for Connor, I found that I really did enjoy him and I loved when we were able to see things through his point of view. I love that he was so protective of Venus and is even willing to sleep in his car in order to be there in case something were to happen. He just wants her to be safe. He may have been a bit stubborn and set in his ways, but he is willing to do anything to protect the ones he loves and cares about.
All in all, I didn't completely hate this book but I definitely did not love it. I might be a bit hesitant to pick up something from this author in the future. This book just had a few too many misses for me to willing pick up another from this author.
**ARC copy provided by NetGalley**
When I first picked up this book I was really excited, some of my favorite storylines are those that are enemies to lovers. There is always so much chemistry and sparks occurring between the characters. I just love it. With this book I honestly don't know why I kept reading. Actually I do know why, I was curious to see what was going to happen with the hero and heroine when they finally got together. I really shouldn't have wasted my time because it wasn't worth it. This book was just so lackluster. The chemistry between Conner and Venus was just felt flat and lacking the sparks that I love.
From the beginning I had issues with the storyline. It just seemed to be a bit all over the place and a lot of characters and events just seem to pop up out of nowhere that seem to mess with the flow of the story. I found myself confused by it all more than once. There was just too many characters and interloping storylines going on that just seemed to detract from the Conner and Venus' story. These two are supposed to be the main focus, but I felt like their story was just a side note to the mystery that is going on in the book and the only reason I kept reading this book was to see their relationship progress.
I really needn't have bothered finishing because there just wasn't any sizzle with them. Once they got together that was it, nothing really special happens or there wasn't really much that happened beforehand. They just go from hating each other to instantly in love and it just make no sense to me. It wasn't believable at all. I would have love to see more flirting between them before they jumped into bed with each other. I like reading romances to experience the romance with the characters and I just didn't feel any with Venus and Conner. Their relationship just didn't seem like it had a natural progression. The author constantly tells us how much they both hate each other and then all of a sudden all that hate and resentment is gone? Just didn't make sense to me.
I also hate that somehow everything is wrapped up in a pretty little bow. Somehow all of the problems that occurred in the book are magically fixed and everyone gets a HEA. How does that happen? That isn't realistic at all. It just felt so phony.
I think one of my main issues is I was unable to connect with the heroine Venus. I just did not like her. She is constantly moaning about how much she hates Connor for what he did to her father, yet it's okay to attempt to seduce him to get information. Also, every time something happens she starts to cry. I have never read a book where the heroine cries so much. It seemed like every other page she was crying about something. It was highly annoying.
As for Connor, I found that I really did enjoy him and I loved when we were able to see things through his point of view. I love that he was so protective of Venus and is even willing to sleep in his car in order to be there in case something were to happen. He just wants her to be safe. He may have been a bit stubborn and set in his ways, but he is willing to do anything to protect the ones he loves and cares about.
All in all, I didn't completely hate this book but I definitely did not love it. I might be a bit hesitant to pick up something from this author in the future. This book just had a few too many misses for me to willing pick up another from this author.
**ARC copy provided by NetGalley**
December 17, 2011
ALL I WANT IS YOU by Sherill Bodine
01/12 – Grand Central Publishing – Mass Market Paperback, 352 pages
If I let go of my feelings for you will you catch them and keep them next to your heart?
Venus Smith has a gift for selecting and creating exquisite pieces of jewelry from the closets of the rich and the estates of the deceased. She and her sisters own the “must see” vintage shop in Chicago where all their masterpieces are displayed and sold. The sisters are emotionally close; but they are also spiritually connected and fight anyone who crosses them. This attitude runs deep for Venus especially toward her nemesis, the always-in control Connor Clayworth O’Flynn. Connor is an integral part of the Clayworth family that runs the successful Chicago department store bearing the family name, which is the standard-bearer of style and taste. Connor is also the man who fired Venus’ father over false accusations and she will not stop until her father’s name is cleared regardless of what she has to do to make that happen.
Venus is always working to find the hidden treasures and in her search through Connor’s aunts closet Venus finds what she believes to be a reproduction of an exquisite, one-of-a-kind antique broach. She falls madly in love and must own it despite the warning that this particular piece of jewelry has a very disrespectful past connected to it. The trouble for Venus does start almost immediately after she takes possession of the broach but the problems seems to be her attraction to Connor kind, not the wicked deeds variety. Yet someone is chasing Venus down, following her around, and her research shows that things are not as they appear at first glance with the broach or Connor. There are so many mysteries about the broach and its existence. Digging to the bottom of the mystery is turning out to cause more problems than it solves and giving Venus too many sleepless nights.
Always having his knight in shining armor on where Venus is concerned Connor wants to protect Venus as much as he wants to kiss her. Their attraction is not supposed to happen but it is definitely something he cannot control. Working together to fix the mess created by her father and broach seems the best and worst of ideas as neither Venus nor Connor can stop the passion between them. Venus may want to hate Connor but the fine line has already been crossed into love for both of them.
The reader will fall in love with these characters, while being mesmerized by the mystery of the broach. You will not want to put the book down and you must embrace the deep love that Venus and Connor have toward each other, despite everything they say to the contrary. Ms. Bodine writes brilliantly of what she knows and possesses which are her great taste and a fabulous sense of style.
01/12 – Grand Central Publishing – Mass Market Paperback, 352 pages
If I let go of my feelings for you will you catch them and keep them next to your heart?
Venus Smith has a gift for selecting and creating exquisite pieces of jewelry from the closets of the rich and the estates of the deceased. She and her sisters own the “must see” vintage shop in Chicago where all their masterpieces are displayed and sold. The sisters are emotionally close; but they are also spiritually connected and fight anyone who crosses them. This attitude runs deep for Venus especially toward her nemesis, the always-in control Connor Clayworth O’Flynn. Connor is an integral part of the Clayworth family that runs the successful Chicago department store bearing the family name, which is the standard-bearer of style and taste. Connor is also the man who fired Venus’ father over false accusations and she will not stop until her father’s name is cleared regardless of what she has to do to make that happen.
Venus is always working to find the hidden treasures and in her search through Connor’s aunts closet Venus finds what she believes to be a reproduction of an exquisite, one-of-a-kind antique broach. She falls madly in love and must own it despite the warning that this particular piece of jewelry has a very disrespectful past connected to it. The trouble for Venus does start almost immediately after she takes possession of the broach but the problems seems to be her attraction to Connor kind, not the wicked deeds variety. Yet someone is chasing Venus down, following her around, and her research shows that things are not as they appear at first glance with the broach or Connor. There are so many mysteries about the broach and its existence. Digging to the bottom of the mystery is turning out to cause more problems than it solves and giving Venus too many sleepless nights.
Always having his knight in shining armor on where Venus is concerned Connor wants to protect Venus as much as he wants to kiss her. Their attraction is not supposed to happen but it is definitely something he cannot control. Working together to fix the mess created by her father and broach seems the best and worst of ideas as neither Venus nor Connor can stop the passion between them. Venus may want to hate Connor but the fine line has already been crossed into love for both of them.
The reader will fall in love with these characters, while being mesmerized by the mystery of the broach. You will not want to put the book down and you must embrace the deep love that Venus and Connor have toward each other, despite everything they say to the contrary. Ms. Bodine writes brilliantly of what she knows and possesses which are her great taste and a fabulous sense of style.
February 2, 2012
Sherrill Bodine is back after two years with her third book set in Chicago high society. In this book Venus Smith is taking on Connor Clayworth O’ Flynn in order to clear her father’s name. In the previous book, Black Tie Affair, Alastair Smith has been eased out of his long time job at Clayworth and Sons under suspicious circumstances. His daughters have no idea of the circumstances due to a negotiated confidentiality statement. Venus has had the hardest time of the three girls accepting what has happened. She particularly blames Connor, who was dear to her father’s heart (and Venus’ heart as well). She decides she will work her way into his life and try to find proof of her father’s innocence. Her plan starts well when she is asked by Connor’s aunt Bridget to help clean out her closet and possibly take some things for the sister’s vintage shop Pandora’s Box. . Venus discovers a beautiful Eisenberg vintage costume broach and purchases it from Bridget. The broach becomes the center of many problems for Venus and Conner and for Bridget and her long time fiancée, Tony. It is connected to a long ago theft at Clayworth’s that was never solved.
Connor and Venus work together to figure out how the broach fits into what happened to her father. They fight the growing attraction between them, an attraction that goes back several years. Things get pretty tense, with misunderstandings everywhere. Relationships and perceptions of the people involved are tested to the breaking point. Connor is a man who doesn’t bend once he has made up his mind and Venus is all stubbornness and full of righteous indignation.
I loved this book! When I read the first book in this series, Talk of the Town, I was totally hooked. Some of the characters from that first book have appeared in all three books and it is great to see how their lives have progressed. There is an especially nice surprise in this book for a favorite character. Venus and her sisters Athena (from book #2), and Diana are interesting characters who find themselves in a very awkward position, socially and professionally. They have to work hard to overcome the obstacles between them and their heart’s desire. It’s a treat to see how they do it.
My only quibble is that Venus should have figured out the bad guy sooner than she did because the clues were there. But, the ending still works and it’s all good. I’m hoping that sister number three, the serene Diana, will have a book of her own and that we won’t have to wait as long
Connor and Venus work together to figure out how the broach fits into what happened to her father. They fight the growing attraction between them, an attraction that goes back several years. Things get pretty tense, with misunderstandings everywhere. Relationships and perceptions of the people involved are tested to the breaking point. Connor is a man who doesn’t bend once he has made up his mind and Venus is all stubbornness and full of righteous indignation.
I loved this book! When I read the first book in this series, Talk of the Town, I was totally hooked. Some of the characters from that first book have appeared in all three books and it is great to see how their lives have progressed. There is an especially nice surprise in this book for a favorite character. Venus and her sisters Athena (from book #2), and Diana are interesting characters who find themselves in a very awkward position, socially and professionally. They have to work hard to overcome the obstacles between them and their heart’s desire. It’s a treat to see how they do it.
My only quibble is that Venus should have figured out the bad guy sooner than she did because the clues were there. But, the ending still works and it’s all good. I’m hoping that sister number three, the serene Diana, will have a book of her own and that we won’t have to wait as long
January 3, 2012
All I Want is You by Sherrill Bodine
4 STARS
All I Want is you made me want to go buy some more books from Sherrill Bodine! It had lot of different characters that I could see that have been in past books and ones that could be having their own books.
It was a fast and enjoyable read.
Venus owns a second hand store of quality old items, she is the jewelery specialist.
Her father was fired a few months ago and he signed a paper that he can't discuss his reasons with anyone and his employers had too. Her fa ther had worked for the same company for years and his daughter Diana still works for them. Their other sister is marrying into the family.
Venus believes her father is inocent of whatever crime he was accused of. Her father said to let it go. Venus can't let it go and figures out a way to find out more by flirting and getting close to the enemy Connor who is in charge of the family
business.
Venus goes to Connor's Aunt to help her clean out her closet and finds a copy of the stolen pin that is valuable even for a copy and Bridget offers it to give it to her.
Tells her that her fiance Tony for the past decades gave it to her but that night has bad memories of it. So Venus buys it and later is wearing it when interviewed by tv show.
Tony see Venus wearing the pin and Bridget & Tony have a big fight over it. Conner gets the idea if he gets the pin back can help them work out their fight.
The next day Venus store is robbed and lots of damage made. Bus she had the pin on her.
After Conner asks her to give or sell him the pin back. Venus takes the pin and really looks at the stones in it and realizes its not a copy but the oringal pin that was stolen long ago. Venus goes to tell Bridget about the pin. Tony looks guilty.
Venus believes in Tony and her father no matter how guilty they look. She is going to lay a trap and find out with her for bait wearing the pin.
I liked the story. I was given this ebook to read in exchange of honest review from Netgalley.
01/01/2012 PUB Grand Central Publishing Imprint Forever
4 STARS
All I Want is you made me want to go buy some more books from Sherrill Bodine! It had lot of different characters that I could see that have been in past books and ones that could be having their own books.
It was a fast and enjoyable read.
Venus owns a second hand store of quality old items, she is the jewelery specialist.
Her father was fired a few months ago and he signed a paper that he can't discuss his reasons with anyone and his employers had too. Her fa ther had worked for the same company for years and his daughter Diana still works for them. Their other sister is marrying into the family.
Venus believes her father is inocent of whatever crime he was accused of. Her father said to let it go. Venus can't let it go and figures out a way to find out more by flirting and getting close to the enemy Connor who is in charge of the family
business.
Venus goes to Connor's Aunt to help her clean out her closet and finds a copy of the stolen pin that is valuable even for a copy and Bridget offers it to give it to her.
Tells her that her fiance Tony for the past decades gave it to her but that night has bad memories of it. So Venus buys it and later is wearing it when interviewed by tv show.
Tony see Venus wearing the pin and Bridget & Tony have a big fight over it. Conner gets the idea if he gets the pin back can help them work out their fight.
The next day Venus store is robbed and lots of damage made. Bus she had the pin on her.
After Conner asks her to give or sell him the pin back. Venus takes the pin and really looks at the stones in it and realizes its not a copy but the oringal pin that was stolen long ago. Venus goes to tell Bridget about the pin. Tony looks guilty.
Venus believes in Tony and her father no matter how guilty they look. She is going to lay a trap and find out with her for bait wearing the pin.
I liked the story. I was given this ebook to read in exchange of honest review from Netgalley.
01/01/2012 PUB Grand Central Publishing Imprint Forever
July 7, 2012
Rhys'review posted on Guilty Pleasures
All Venus Smith’s life she has been the odd sister out, just a little rounded out and a little too opinionated for her own good. If it weren’t for her father she wouldn’t have made it through all the tough times in her life to date, and now the one time that her father needs her help she is lost as to what to do. Befriending the enemy seemed like a good idea at the time, but sometimes getting too close to the flames can get you burnt. Venus is in unknown territory and yet she is loving every minute of it. Will someone trying to steal everything from her, make her trust the enemy more or isolate her to more pain in the end?
Connor Clayworth has no idea the trouble he has brought on himself by being a knight in shining armor to Venus all these years. Not only can’t he stop thinking about her, but she seems to keep pushing him away, only making his obsession notch up another degree. Venus has no idea how Connor sees her, or just what he has done in the past for her, and if he can’t fix the current mess she is in than she may never know. With the help of generous Saint, Connor may just be able to pull off the biggest heist of all, the one for Venus’s heart.
What a great story! I only wish I would have known this was number three is a series, because as good as this one is I can only imagine how great the previous two are. The story of Connor and Venus does get a bit confusing at times (possibly because of lack of previous knowledge from other books in this series) but the end result was funny, heartfelt, emotional and an all-around great read for all ages. If you like a good suspense/mystery book with some comedy and love thrown in for good measure than this is a great book to add to your collection. I can’t wait to see what else Sherrill Bodine comes up with in the future for her readers!
All Venus Smith’s life she has been the odd sister out, just a little rounded out and a little too opinionated for her own good. If it weren’t for her father she wouldn’t have made it through all the tough times in her life to date, and now the one time that her father needs her help she is lost as to what to do. Befriending the enemy seemed like a good idea at the time, but sometimes getting too close to the flames can get you burnt. Venus is in unknown territory and yet she is loving every minute of it. Will someone trying to steal everything from her, make her trust the enemy more or isolate her to more pain in the end?
Connor Clayworth has no idea the trouble he has brought on himself by being a knight in shining armor to Venus all these years. Not only can’t he stop thinking about her, but she seems to keep pushing him away, only making his obsession notch up another degree. Venus has no idea how Connor sees her, or just what he has done in the past for her, and if he can’t fix the current mess she is in than she may never know. With the help of generous Saint, Connor may just be able to pull off the biggest heist of all, the one for Venus’s heart.
What a great story! I only wish I would have known this was number three is a series, because as good as this one is I can only imagine how great the previous two are. The story of Connor and Venus does get a bit confusing at times (possibly because of lack of previous knowledge from other books in this series) but the end result was funny, heartfelt, emotional and an all-around great read for all ages. If you like a good suspense/mystery book with some comedy and love thrown in for good measure than this is a great book to add to your collection. I can’t wait to see what else Sherrill Bodine comes up with in the future for her readers!
January 14, 2012
3 ½ stars – Contemporary Romance
Provided courtesy of Netgalley
Being the owner of a vintage consignment store, Venus Smith knows an exceptional vintage piece when she sees one. After being asked to help a friend clean out a closet, Venus stumbles upon a rare pin in the fascinating shape of a mermaid. There is quite the story behind the mermaid broach, including a scandalous heist year before. The pin was an original, but was reproduced in mass quantities because of its unique quality. Venus finds it funny how quickly Bridget is willing to part with it, but gladly accepts it into her own personal collection. She doesn’t expect all of the crazy things to happen that do once she accepts the pin, including being approached by Connor Clayworth O’Flynn, the man who first had fired Venus’ father from his faithful position of over 40 years, to give it back.
Connor struggles still with the knowledge that Venus’ father, Allistair Smith, betrayed his family and embezzled from them after being a loyal employee and friend for over 40 years. What makes his struggle harder is his undeniable attraction to Venus that has been going on since college. Together, Connor and Venus plot to bring out the original thief in the great mermaid pin heist and hopefully, in turn, right many wrongs that have been done. What neither of them expect is to feel the strong attraction and unavoidable desire that sparks between them.
This was my first read by this author, and I very much enjoyed the story. After getting several chapters into the book, it became obvious that this book was one in a series of stories. Having said that, I at no time felt I was missing out on anything having not read the prior two stories.
Full of suspense, humor, romance, and a warm steam factor, All I Want is You is a great read for any fan of romance. Three and a half stars.
September 30, 2015
Enemy lover storylines usually work well for me. Something about all that hate can really bring up some passion. Now I normally don't go for books with this much fluff, but sometimes you are just in the mood for that and I picked up this in one of those moods.
Venus is the owner of a vintage boutique. She is also the daughter of the ex-accountant for the Clayworth stores. Her father worked for the Clayworths since forever and one day he was fired, not too nicely, for hiding and stealing money. She has now made it her mission to clean her father's name and prove his innocence. Not only to get him his job back, but to make him feel better about himself.
She has always had a hate-hate relationship with Connor Clayworth, who now runs the store. So she sets her sights on him to find out what happened with this father. Her idea is that while in throws of passion he will spill all his secrets. But she wasn't expecting that plot to backfire when he ends up being really nice, and actually being attracted to her.
There is one more story in this book. A lost pendant reappears. Is it a copy or the true pendant stolen from Clayworth stores many years ago? Connor and Venus will be right in the sights of the thief and they have to draw him out to discover who committed the crime.
I actually did enjoy this book, so if you are feeling in the mood for this type of story, and yes there is steam, then give this book a go!
*ARC provided by publisher
Reviewed by Francesca
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January 9, 2012
As the saying goes, it’s not personal. It’s business. In Sherrill Bodine’s latest contemporary romance, her heroine, Venus, completely disagrees. She decides to make things very personal. Venus believes that Connor Clayworth O’Flynn and his company ruined her father’s reputation by firing him unfairly with false accusations. She’s willing to do anything, even cozy up to one of her least favorite people, Connor himself. She has a stroke of luck when she buys an antique broach from Connor’s Aunt Bridget. The broach turns out to be a key piece in a three-decades old mystery, and Connor believes it should be back with his aunt. Despite a longtime lust/hate relationship, they agree to work together. Venus will return the broach if Connor helps to clear her father’s name. In the meantime, sparks fly…
ALL I WANT IS YOU is part romance, mystery and suspense in one. The strained relationship between Connor and Venus made for some spicy chemistry. Venus was fiery and determined to clear her dad’s name, while Connor played it cool as much as he could. They both had their own agenda for “playing nice” together, but neither could deny the strong attraction growing between them. Considering how much Venus was supposed to hate Connor, they moved from friends to lovers very quickly. I was never convinced they actually despised each other. Connor was way too sweet on her. I think my favorite part of the story was the brouhaha over the remarkable broach, which added a cozy mystery flair to the mix. I couldn’t wait to find out how the mystery played out. ALL I WANT IS YOU is a light and fun contemporary romance. Other related books: TALK OF THE TOWN and A BLACK TIE AFFAIR.
ALL I WANT IS YOU is part romance, mystery and suspense in one. The strained relationship between Connor and Venus made for some spicy chemistry. Venus was fiery and determined to clear her dad’s name, while Connor played it cool as much as he could. They both had their own agenda for “playing nice” together, but neither could deny the strong attraction growing between them. Considering how much Venus was supposed to hate Connor, they moved from friends to lovers very quickly. I was never convinced they actually despised each other. Connor was way too sweet on her. I think my favorite part of the story was the brouhaha over the remarkable broach, which added a cozy mystery flair to the mix. I couldn’t wait to find out how the mystery played out. ALL I WANT IS YOU is a light and fun contemporary romance. Other related books: TALK OF THE TOWN and A BLACK TIE AFFAIR.
March 3, 2012
The Deal: Venus Smith co-owns a vintage boutique along with her sisters Diana and Athena, and she has a particular passion for vintage jewelry.
Venus currently isn't on the best of moods and she's blaming Connor Clayworth O'Flynn for it, after all, he's the man responsible for her father being fired from his job at the department stores the Clayworths own.
But when an intriguing brooch falls into her lap and it starts causing trouble, Venus reluctantly forms an alliance with Connor as he wants the brooch back and Venus wants to prove her father's innocence.
Now, Connor and Venus have known each other for a really long time - they met as teenagers - and they have flirted, bickered and fought ever since. And now that they have to work together sparks start to fly
My Thoughts: I really wanted to like All I Want Is You as the cover is lovely and I thought the plot sounded interesting - a bit of mystery and a enemies-to-lovers trope- but I can't say I loved it.
Venus and Connor were all right as characters, though I had a bit of a problem connecting with Venus, Connor fared better, and some of the secondary characters were also nice - like Connor's Aunt. But I also felt like the book was a little bit all over the place, and like the 'mystery' overpowered everything else.
Also, there were so many characters that it was hard to keep them straight, and eventually realized that this is the third (or second?) book in a series of loosely connected books about these same characters, and frankly, this time I did feel like I was missing something because of it.
I do think that if I had known more of the back story of these characters I would have enjoyed it more, but as it was this was on the lower side of OK.
Venus currently isn't on the best of moods and she's blaming Connor Clayworth O'Flynn for it, after all, he's the man responsible for her father being fired from his job at the department stores the Clayworths own.
But when an intriguing brooch falls into her lap and it starts causing trouble, Venus reluctantly forms an alliance with Connor as he wants the brooch back and Venus wants to prove her father's innocence.
Now, Connor and Venus have known each other for a really long time - they met as teenagers - and they have flirted, bickered and fought ever since. And now that they have to work together sparks start to fly
My Thoughts: I really wanted to like All I Want Is You as the cover is lovely and I thought the plot sounded interesting - a bit of mystery and a enemies-to-lovers trope- but I can't say I loved it.
Venus and Connor were all right as characters, though I had a bit of a problem connecting with Venus, Connor fared better, and some of the secondary characters were also nice - like Connor's Aunt. But I also felt like the book was a little bit all over the place, and like the 'mystery' overpowered everything else.
Also, there were so many characters that it was hard to keep them straight, and eventually realized that this is the third (or second?) book in a series of loosely connected books about these same characters, and frankly, this time I did feel like I was missing something because of it.
I do think that if I had known more of the back story of these characters I would have enjoyed it more, but as it was this was on the lower side of OK.
December 31, 2011
This review was posted at Under The Covers
Enemy lover storylines usually work well for me. Something about all that hate can really bring up some passion. Now I normally don't go for books with this much fluff, but sometimes you are just in the mood for that and I picked up this in one of those moods.
Venus is the owner of a vintage boutique. She is also the daughter of the ex-accountant for the Clayworth stores. Her father worked for the Clayworths since forever and one day he was fired, not too nicely, for hiding and stealing money. She has now made it her mission to clean her father's name and prove his innocence. Not only to get him his job back, but to make him feel better about himself.
She has always had a hate-hate relationship with Connor Clayworth, who now runs the store. So she sets her sights on him to find out what happened with this father. Her idea is that while in throws of passion he will spill all his secrets. But she wasn't expecting that plot to backfire when he ends up being really nice, and actually being attracted to her.
There is one more story in this book. A lost pendant reappears. Is it a copy or the true pendant stolen from Clayworth stores many years ago? Connor and Venus will be right in the sights of the thief and they have to draw him out to discover who committed the crime.
I actually did enjoy this book, so if you are feeling in the mood for this type of story, and yes there is steam, then give this book a go!
*ARC provided by publisher
Enemy lover storylines usually work well for me. Something about all that hate can really bring up some passion. Now I normally don't go for books with this much fluff, but sometimes you are just in the mood for that and I picked up this in one of those moods.
Venus is the owner of a vintage boutique. She is also the daughter of the ex-accountant for the Clayworth stores. Her father worked for the Clayworths since forever and one day he was fired, not too nicely, for hiding and stealing money. She has now made it her mission to clean her father's name and prove his innocence. Not only to get him his job back, but to make him feel better about himself.
She has always had a hate-hate relationship with Connor Clayworth, who now runs the store. So she sets her sights on him to find out what happened with this father. Her idea is that while in throws of passion he will spill all his secrets. But she wasn't expecting that plot to backfire when he ends up being really nice, and actually being attracted to her.
There is one more story in this book. A lost pendant reappears. Is it a copy or the true pendant stolen from Clayworth stores many years ago? Connor and Venus will be right in the sights of the thief and they have to draw him out to discover who committed the crime.
I actually did enjoy this book, so if you are feeling in the mood for this type of story, and yes there is steam, then give this book a go!
*ARC provided by publisher
December 24, 2011
i've been reading some really great books this week, and All I Want Is You happened to be yet another fantastic read. I knew it was going to be a cute, fluffy romance just by looking at the cover (which is super pretty) and reading the synopsis on the back. And you know what? Cute and fluffy romances are exactly what I love to read.
Venus was a likable enough main character. I really liked how she owned her own antique shop and had a knack for jewelry design. She was a very strong-willed woman and knew how to get things done. I guess there are more books before this one having to do with her family, but this book held it's own pretty well. I wish there was more time when Venus hated Connor, who ended up being the object of her affection in this book, because according to the references to their past, she had really hated him at one point, including the beginning of the book. I didn't really get the sense of hate from her, so when she was so surprised by how she felt when she was close to him, I was like, really you're surprised? Because I wasn't surprised at all.
Connor seemed a little too perfect, but hey, who am I to complain? He was a very successful businessman and lawyer, had perfect looks, and was a complete gentlemen. It was cute how he softened up a bit whenever he was with Venus, but I wish there was some kind of flaw that could end up making him even more lovable. Other than that, the rest of the story was adorable and a quick read. If you're looking for a nice, light romance this holiday season, then give this one a chance.
Venus was a likable enough main character. I really liked how she owned her own antique shop and had a knack for jewelry design. She was a very strong-willed woman and knew how to get things done. I guess there are more books before this one having to do with her family, but this book held it's own pretty well. I wish there was more time when Venus hated Connor, who ended up being the object of her affection in this book, because according to the references to their past, she had really hated him at one point, including the beginning of the book. I didn't really get the sense of hate from her, so when she was so surprised by how she felt when she was close to him, I was like, really you're surprised? Because I wasn't surprised at all.
Connor seemed a little too perfect, but hey, who am I to complain? He was a very successful businessman and lawyer, had perfect looks, and was a complete gentlemen. It was cute how he softened up a bit whenever he was with Venus, but I wish there was some kind of flaw that could end up making him even more lovable. Other than that, the rest of the story was adorable and a quick read. If you're looking for a nice, light romance this holiday season, then give this one a chance.
May 19, 2014
Vintage Boutique owner Venus Smith is stunned to realize her newest acquisition comes with a larcenous legend. Stolen years ago, the antique mermaid brooch belongs to the Clayworth family. The right thing to do would be to return it, but that means facing Connor Clayworth O'Flynn, the sexy department store heir Venus has had an unrequited crush on since childhood~~and the man who helped ruin her father.
Connor knows that Venus has never forgiven him for what happened between their families. But business isn't personal, even though Venus's father's betrayal still cuts him like a knife. So when Venus proposes a deal~~she'll return his family's brooch if he helps clear her father's name~~he reluctantly agrees. As action-packed days turn into flirtatious fall nights, it isn't long before old memories resurface...and new desires ignite. Can two young lovers leave the past behind? Or must they first admit that all they've ever really wanted...is each other?
My Thoughts...
This is the first book I've read by this author, Sherrill Bodine. This was one of those light, bubbly romance novels with an underlying mystery to solve, which made it a very enjoyable read. "All I Want Is You" was a rousing good time...dishy, delicious, and utterly delightful. I'm a fool for romance with a bit of mystery thrown in so I found this book quite entertaining.
I won this book a year or two ago from another book blogger, but sorry I can't remember who. The book is now a part of my personal library and I enjoyed it enough to award it 3 lovely stars.
Connor knows that Venus has never forgiven him for what happened between their families. But business isn't personal, even though Venus's father's betrayal still cuts him like a knife. So when Venus proposes a deal~~she'll return his family's brooch if he helps clear her father's name~~he reluctantly agrees. As action-packed days turn into flirtatious fall nights, it isn't long before old memories resurface...and new desires ignite. Can two young lovers leave the past behind? Or must they first admit that all they've ever really wanted...is each other?
My Thoughts...
This is the first book I've read by this author, Sherrill Bodine. This was one of those light, bubbly romance novels with an underlying mystery to solve, which made it a very enjoyable read. "All I Want Is You" was a rousing good time...dishy, delicious, and utterly delightful. I'm a fool for romance with a bit of mystery thrown in so I found this book quite entertaining.
I won this book a year or two ago from another book blogger, but sorry I can't remember who. The book is now a part of my personal library and I enjoyed it enough to award it 3 lovely stars.
February 14, 2012
All I Want is You is an enjoyable contemporary romance. As I began reading, there were many characters showing up in the story, and I soon realized that this book followed a couple of others that I haven't read. I believe I would have enjoyed the story and characters more if I would have had the background from the previous books. I liked both of the main characters, and thought that there were some touching moment between them. I did start to get frustrated with the lack of trust they had for one another, as that kept coming into the story. The storyline was interesting, and I would read more by this author.
Venus Smith is very bitter toward Connor Clayworth O'Flynn after he unjustly fired her father. She tries to reign in her growing attraction to Connor, but as they work together to try to solve the mystery of a brooch that was stolen long ago, the feelings between them continue to deepen. As they try to puzzle out the mystery of the brooch and the other tangles they find themselves in, they must decide if they can ever trust one another enough for a relationship.
I enjoyed this book, but recommend reading Talk of the Town and A Black Tie Affair first. I felt that I was missing background information on the characters and story that these two books would provide. I liked the characters of Venus and Connor, and enjoyed the chemistry and sweet moments between them. I received this book as an ARC through Netgalley.
Venus Smith is very bitter toward Connor Clayworth O'Flynn after he unjustly fired her father. She tries to reign in her growing attraction to Connor, but as they work together to try to solve the mystery of a brooch that was stolen long ago, the feelings between them continue to deepen. As they try to puzzle out the mystery of the brooch and the other tangles they find themselves in, they must decide if they can ever trust one another enough for a relationship.
I enjoyed this book, but recommend reading Talk of the Town and A Black Tie Affair first. I felt that I was missing background information on the characters and story that these two books would provide. I liked the characters of Venus and Connor, and enjoyed the chemistry and sweet moments between them. I received this book as an ARC through Netgalley.
January 14, 2012
This book is a quick read and has one of my favorite premises, enemies turned lovers. Venus Smith is a voluptuous co-owner of a vintage boutique. She's been concerned for her father, who was the long time accountant for the Clayworth family and business, and was recently fired without warning. She especially feel animosity towards Connor Clayworth O'Flynn, because he was the closest to her father, and something about him just rubs her the wrong way.
I loved the tension between Venus and Connor, and her determination to get behind the rift between her father and the Clayworths. I felt a little lost when reading the book because this is the second book in a series about the Clayworths and Smiths, and there were events and people that I didn't know about because I hadn't read Ms. Bodine's first two books. I will be going back and reading them, but it would have better if I didn't feel a little at sea.
The mystery is the story is extremely well written. Just when I thought I had it figured out, Ms. Bodine steered the story in a different direction. And when all the revelations were made and finished, there was a great story. I am beginning to wonder what will Ms. Bodine do for Diana's story? I am eager to find out, and until then will be reading her previous books!
I loved the tension between Venus and Connor, and her determination to get behind the rift between her father and the Clayworths. I felt a little lost when reading the book because this is the second book in a series about the Clayworths and Smiths, and there were events and people that I didn't know about because I hadn't read Ms. Bodine's first two books. I will be going back and reading them, but it would have better if I didn't feel a little at sea.
The mystery is the story is extremely well written. Just when I thought I had it figured out, Ms. Bodine steered the story in a different direction. And when all the revelations were made and finished, there was a great story. I am beginning to wonder what will Ms. Bodine do for Diana's story? I am eager to find out, and until then will be reading her previous books!
January 9, 2012
Venus is trying to find out the truth about why her father was fired from the company owned by the Clayworth family, where he had worked for very long time. To find the information, she must be nice to Connor, a man she hates and to whom she has a strong attraction. Connor is trying to get back a brooch his aunt sold to Venus because it was given to her by her long-term "boyfriend," who is upset she sold it. Connor agrees to help Venus if she will return the brooch. Both of them think the other is only being nice to get what they want, but they can't deny their attraction to each other any longer.
All I Want Is You has a sweet love story, passion, and mystery all mixed together. This is a great romance novel that is so much more than just sexy scenes. It caught my attention in the very first chapter and made me keep turning pages to find out what was going to happen. Sherrill Bodine has produced amazing main characters that are described wonderfully and makes you interested in their stories. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys romance novels.
This is a reprint from my blog Krazy Book Lady.
All I Want Is You has a sweet love story, passion, and mystery all mixed together. This is a great romance novel that is so much more than just sexy scenes. It caught my attention in the very first chapter and made me keep turning pages to find out what was going to happen. Sherrill Bodine has produced amazing main characters that are described wonderfully and makes you interested in their stories. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys romance novels.
This is a reprint from my blog Krazy Book Lady.
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August 3, 2016Two families in conflict. The daughter of one must overcome her dislike for the son of the other to help mutual beloved friends. Her plan to lure his secrets out with her womanly wiles fails when she realizes that she is falling for him… yep, this was quite bad.
I could tell almost from the start that I wasn’t going to love this romance. After reading several perfect books in a row, this one was an entertaining diversion into cheesiness. By the end, I was quite enjoying the story but the characters were so over dramatic, and the events so improbable, that I had to skim over some of the more raunchy parts because I couldn’t stop giggling.
The characters never really connected with me in any way. My favorite was not one of the protagonists, but a side character who got unfortunately involved in the whole debacle. I think this book is one in a series though, and perhaps reading them in order would have given be the background necessary to really be involved in the story.
I could tell almost from the start that I wasn’t going to love this romance. After reading several perfect books in a row, this one was an entertaining diversion into cheesiness. By the end, I was quite enjoying the story but the characters were so over dramatic, and the events so improbable, that I had to skim over some of the more raunchy parts because I couldn’t stop giggling.
The characters never really connected with me in any way. My favorite was not one of the protagonists, but a side character who got unfortunately involved in the whole debacle. I think this book is one in a series though, and perhaps reading them in order would have given be the background necessary to really be involved in the story.
May 8, 2012
All I Want Is You was an intriguing romantic read. Full of mystery and charged atmosphere, it made for a very enjoyable read.
Venus has been at war with Connor all her life, and things aren’t any sweeter between them when he ruined her father’s reputation. But then a brooch that has been missing for years brings the pair together and they form an unlikely alliance.
I loved the banter between Connor and Venus and as they slowly fell for each other, giving in to the flirtation.
This book had plenty of twists and turns in the plot to keep things very interesting and Venus and Connor themselves keep the reader glued to the page. A perfect novel for when its pouring outside and you just want to curl up on the couch with a great book.
Venus has been at war with Connor all her life, and things aren’t any sweeter between them when he ruined her father’s reputation. But then a brooch that has been missing for years brings the pair together and they form an unlikely alliance.
I loved the banter between Connor and Venus and as they slowly fell for each other, giving in to the flirtation.
This book had plenty of twists and turns in the plot to keep things very interesting and Venus and Connor themselves keep the reader glued to the page. A perfect novel for when its pouring outside and you just want to curl up on the couch with a great book.
January 24, 2012
As a woman, I can't help but get caught up in a good love story. Filled with fiery passion and betrayal, All I Want Is You makes for an enjoyable reading experience. The characters are easy to relate to and you can't help but cheer them on. Sherrill paints romantic pictures with her words unlike anything I have ever seen before. This would be the perfect book to read to get in the mood for Valentine's Day.
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book, free of charge, for review purposes. All opinions expressed are 100% my own.
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book, free of charge, for review purposes. All opinions expressed are 100% my own.
December 2, 2015
What can I say? It was a typical romance novel. Cheesy, predictable, the plot an after thought and not particularly good writing. But I knew that before I read it. In fact that's why I read it. Sometimes you just need a good trashy non-thinking book. And that's what I got.
If you're in the mood for that kind of read, then this book is a good read. But try really hard not to expect too much of it. You'll be disappointed.
If you're in the mood for that kind of read, then this book is a good read. But try really hard not to expect too much of it. You'll be disappointed.
January 11, 2012
A quick, entertaining read, "All I Want Is You" is enjoyable. A bit more character development and priming of the plot would serve this novel well, making it even more intriguing for readers. However, if one is seeking a romance-mystery novel for a short plane ride or a few hours on the beach, "All I Want Is You" is the perfect read.
Read my full review at www.crazybookreviews.com
Read my full review at www.crazybookreviews.com
March 11, 2012
It's actually more like a 3.75/5 for me. I really enjoyed reading this book. I love that it's set in Chicago and I really liked Venus. I'm hoping Ms. Bodine write another book about the 3rd Smith sister, Diana.
June 12, 2012
Very cute, quick read, but nothing earth-shattering. The chemistry between the characters was good, and I really enjoyed the Chicago setting. I would say that this is a good romance (with a healthy dose of mystery) but it wasn't like I couldn't put it down.
August 6, 2012
I love Sherrill Bodine. Talk of the Town is still my favorite, but this one didn't disappoint at all! Rich descriptions and a hot hero and a little bit of mystery thrown into the mix. Can't wait for the next one!
February 22, 2012
At times, this book was fun and romantic. But some of the language seemed too sappy, old school romance novel. It took me out of the story.
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