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Danvers #1
Weekends Required
Claire Walters has worked for Jason Danvers as his assistant for three years, but he’s never appreciated her as a woman—until the day she jumps out of a cake at his friend’s bachelor party.…
To support her ailing mother, Claire is forced to work a second job at a party-planning company. But when her handsome boss ends up with a front-row seat to the action, she’s mortified—and he’s intrigued.
With Danvers International in the middle of an important merger, Jason asks Claire to accompany him on weekend business trips—and suddenly all her fantasies are coming true. Her outspoken best friend thinks that getting a little “executive attention” will solve everything. But Claire sees more in Jason than just sex.
Jason is determined to know how the beautiful, sexy woman in the cake could also be his mousy assistant. The more time they spend together, the more he realizes how much fun it can be to mix business with pleasure. And how much he wants to offer her a happily ever after of her own….
To support her ailing mother, Claire is forced to work a second job at a party-planning company. But when her handsome boss ends up with a front-row seat to the action, she’s mortified—and he’s intrigued.
With Danvers International in the middle of an important merger, Jason asks Claire to accompany him on weekend business trips—and suddenly all her fantasies are coming true. Her outspoken best friend thinks that getting a little “executive attention” will solve everything. But Claire sees more in Jason than just sex.
Jason is determined to know how the beautiful, sexy woman in the cake could also be his mousy assistant. The more time they spend together, the more he realizes how much fun it can be to mix business with pleasure. And how much he wants to offer her a happily ever after of her own….
304 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2011
249 people are currently reading
8124 people want to read
About the author
Sydney Landon
30 books2,802 followershttp://www.facebook.com/sydney.landon...
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Danvers series reading order:
Weekends Required
Not Planning on You
Fall For Me
Fighting For You
No Denying You (12/15/2014)
Always Loving You (2/15/2015)
Betting on You (standalone novella)
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 595 reviews
June 5, 2012
2.5 stars. I'm going to go with definition number one : pleasing; agreeable; delightful
In this case, nice ended up being pretty close to :
First off, let me disclaimer that this book wasn't bad. In fact, Weekends Required was pretty standard CR fare : one couple is attracted to each other, yet they fight their feelings for a while until something happens to bring them together. Throw in a few small obstacles to further the plot along the way and there you go. Standard formula. By all reason, this book probably deserves at least a 3 star minimum rating because it's honestly not bad for a CR. However, when taking my enjoyment into consideration (I'm probably pickier than the average romance reader), I couldn't go higher than a 2.5, which is just shy of 'average' for me, since I'm rounding down instead of up.
Some authors manage to work the formula better than others, whether it's by adding in some laughs, or amping up the steam. These are the books that get either a 3, 4, or the rare 5 star rating from me.
Weekends Required ran somewhere along the lines of definition 1 - nice : pleasing; agreeable. Delightful doesn't really qualify in this case.
However there did happen to be one delightful scene. It's hard not to be amused when the female lead is forced to jump out of a cake at a bachelor party for her boss's friend. Especially when the boss is the potential love interest. Talk about embarrassing!
My thoughts in a nutshell :
I wasn't completely bored with the entire book (there were some good parts).
I neither liked nor disliked this book.
I thought it was pleasant enough to pass the time.
I was mildly entertained during the sex scenes.
I found myself wondering why our heroine was accident prone.
I still hate the use of the nickname baby.
I got tired of Danvers referring to Claire as 'the stripper.'
I failed to care what happened with the story of the mother.
I wasn't sad to see it end.
I doubt I'll remember much about this story.
I doubt I'll read the next one.
April 2, 2012
Weekends Required was an enjoyable read…until it wasn’t. I enjoyed the first (approximately) 80% but the last 20%, was really annoying.
I enjoyed the developing relationship between Jason and Claire, how they fought the attraction while giving in at times. I also enjoyed Jason’s jerkiness when he found out about Claire’s second job.
What I didn’t like was how Jason went behind her back to “help” Claire. And actually, that didn’t bother me either. What really bothered me was the fight that wasn’t. When Claire found out what Jason had done they fought (which was fine), and that led to them falling into bed (again, fine) but then Claire received a phone call about her mother….and the whole issue was dropped. I could understand if the issue was just put off until Claire found out how her mom was doing, but it wasn’t really brought up again.
The big “fight” that later came had to do with Jason asking a creepy neighbor of Claire’s to leave her alone. That’s what finally set Claire off and pushed her into breaking up with him. And it was really anticlimactic. Claire threw in a few other “misdeeds” when she broke up with him but I found myself rolling my eyes and wishing the book would end already.
I think the worst thing to happen to an otherwise good book is a horrible ending. As the book neared the end I couldn’t bring myself to care if they got their HEA. And to make things worse there was an epilogue, which in itself is normally a good thing; and it did show that they got their HEA but just as they were going to announce it to Claire’s mother…nothing. You turn the page and it’s blank. I don’t know if that was author’s intention or if it’s something with the kindle version but the ending was really abrupt and left me feeling like I was missing something.
Overall, the book was decent, and up until the gobblely-gook of the last 20%, I probably would have read it again. Some people might not have an issue with the way the fight went down, but it bothered me.
I enjoyed the developing relationship between Jason and Claire, how they fought the attraction while giving in at times. I also enjoyed Jason’s jerkiness when he found out about Claire’s second job.
What I didn’t like was how Jason went behind her back to “help” Claire. And actually, that didn’t bother me either. What really bothered me was the fight that wasn’t. When Claire found out what Jason had done they fought (which was fine), and that led to them falling into bed (again, fine) but then Claire received a phone call about her mother….and the whole issue was dropped. I could understand if the issue was just put off until Claire found out how her mom was doing, but it wasn’t really brought up again.
The big “fight” that later came had to do with Jason asking a creepy neighbor of Claire’s to leave her alone. That’s what finally set Claire off and pushed her into breaking up with him. And it was really anticlimactic. Claire threw in a few other “misdeeds” when she broke up with him but I found myself rolling my eyes and wishing the book would end already.
I think the worst thing to happen to an otherwise good book is a horrible ending. As the book neared the end I couldn’t bring myself to care if they got their HEA. And to make things worse there was an epilogue, which in itself is normally a good thing; and it did show that they got their HEA but just as they were going to announce it to Claire’s mother…nothing. You turn the page and it’s blank. I don’t know if that was author’s intention or if it’s something with the kindle version but the ending was really abrupt and left me feeling like I was missing something.
Overall, the book was decent, and up until the gobblely-gook of the last 20%, I probably would have read it again. Some people might not have an issue with the way the fight went down, but it bothered me.
November 14, 2012
This was a cute and quick read. Loved Jason :D Wish Claire would have got with the program at times, but with her past it was understandable. Suzy was probably my favorite character- Fanfreakingtastic and funny! I am more excited about the her next book!
August 16, 2018
This was a really weird book for me simply because have you ever read 50 shades of grey? And realized the main hero is kind of a controlling asshole but at least he wasn't mean about it. Like at least Christian grey didn't keep insinuating that you're a prostitute or a stripper. Well, our main hero in this book did and it was YIKES and freaking OUCH. honey, that's not cute and I would find it very hard for me to forgive someone who kept pushing me down with these comments whenever they didn't get their way. Regardless, this story was fun and a mess at the same time. Not a good book persay but trash enough for my trash enthused heart to give it a very low 3/5 stars
June 2, 2012
3.5 Stars
Claire has been working for Jason Danvers as his personal assistant for the last three years. Jason is the president and head of Danvers International. Claire has had nothing but a professional relationship with Jason and doubts he even realizes she's a female. This hasn't stopped her from having lustful fantasies about him and his "Hot Buns." I was cracking up more than a few times over the urges she had over them:
Jason bent over and started to pick up the contents of Claire's make-up bag from the floor. She couldn't help but admire his long, lean form; and those jeans did things for his butt that should be against the law. She had to fight the urge to slide her hand right down that hot set of buns and give them a squeeze.
Anyways, moving on………Claire hasn’t had a boyfriend in three years so this doesn't help her ever growing imagination each time he walks by. Claire has more important things to worry about that having a boyfriend. She's had to provide for her ailing mother with mounting medical costs and care issues. Because of this, she's had to take a second job for a party planning company as wait-staff but also as the girl who jumps out of the cake, scantily clad, at bachelor parties. She takes this job, in spite of her reservations because it pays well. Never in her wildest dreams does she think her boss, Jason would be in attendance at one of these parties! But she would be wrong, very wrong!!
Jason for his part hasn't noticed Claire for anything but her efficiency as an assistant. Yes, he thought she was attractive but Jason never thought of Clair as a knockout. This was all hidden behind prim, proper, and drab clothing. When he catches sight of her jumping out of the cake he can't believe this gorgeous woman has been under his nose the whole time. Now Claire is at the center of way too many men's fantasies, and he doesn't like this one bit. He's determined to find out why his assistant finds it necessary to put herself on display, and he's going to put an end to it!
Jason and his "hot buns" was the star of this story for me! Not only is he a pretty hot picture, he's what every woman would want. He's passionate and caring, wanting to spare Claire any trouble in her life. What starts out as a fling to him turns into so much more. When he finds out all her problems, he wants to do all he can to fix them. Unfortunately, Claire doesn’t take his help so easily. What Jason sees as help, she sees as controlling behavior and interference. While I get some of her reasoning, this for the most part frustrated me. I did admire Claire for her caring and love she gave her mother. I just wish we had less of that story included.
Overall this was a fun, fast, and spicy read and I look forward to the next book revolving around Suzy: Not Planning on You
Claire has been working for Jason Danvers as his personal assistant for the last three years. Jason is the president and head of Danvers International. Claire has had nothing but a professional relationship with Jason and doubts he even realizes she's a female. This hasn't stopped her from having lustful fantasies about him and his "Hot Buns." I was cracking up more than a few times over the urges she had over them:
Jason bent over and started to pick up the contents of Claire's make-up bag from the floor. She couldn't help but admire his long, lean form; and those jeans did things for his butt that should be against the law. She had to fight the urge to slide her hand right down that hot set of buns and give them a squeeze.
Anyways, moving on………Claire hasn’t had a boyfriend in three years so this doesn't help her ever growing imagination each time he walks by. Claire has more important things to worry about that having a boyfriend. She's had to provide for her ailing mother with mounting medical costs and care issues. Because of this, she's had to take a second job for a party planning company as wait-staff but also as the girl who jumps out of the cake, scantily clad, at bachelor parties. She takes this job, in spite of her reservations because it pays well. Never in her wildest dreams does she think her boss, Jason would be in attendance at one of these parties! But she would be wrong, very wrong!!
Jason for his part hasn't noticed Claire for anything but her efficiency as an assistant. Yes, he thought she was attractive but Jason never thought of Clair as a knockout. This was all hidden behind prim, proper, and drab clothing. When he catches sight of her jumping out of the cake he can't believe this gorgeous woman has been under his nose the whole time. Now Claire is at the center of way too many men's fantasies, and he doesn't like this one bit. He's determined to find out why his assistant finds it necessary to put herself on display, and he's going to put an end to it!
Jason and his "hot buns" was the star of this story for me! Not only is he a pretty hot picture, he's what every woman would want. He's passionate and caring, wanting to spare Claire any trouble in her life. What starts out as a fling to him turns into so much more. When he finds out all her problems, he wants to do all he can to fix them. Unfortunately, Claire doesn’t take his help so easily. What Jason sees as help, she sees as controlling behavior and interference. While I get some of her reasoning, this for the most part frustrated me. I did admire Claire for her caring and love she gave her mother. I just wish we had less of that story included.
Overall this was a fun, fast, and spicy read and I look forward to the next book revolving around Suzy: Not Planning on You
August 12, 2012
This was a fun little "gem" of a story. It's a light, easy, and entertaining read that captured my attention and was easy to finish in one sitting.
I love a great office romance, and this one has it all. A great boss/secretary relationship, a business trip that puts them alone together, and a host of entertaining secondary characters that help move the plot along. We are introduced to the couple that will be featured in the next book, and I'm almost looking forward to their story more than Jason and Claire's story!
There were a few things that kept it from being a 5 star read:
* Some parts of the plot lacked believability.....but this is IS fiction:)
* Claire's actions were frustrating from time to time...and there came a point where I wasn't sure that she even deserved Jason!
Even with these minor quibbles, I can definitely recommend this book. Jason was the type of hero that just "works" for me. Alpha, powerful, successful, rich, and completely smitten with the heroine. He's your typical successful CEO and I completely fell for him right along side Claire. Claire had her fair share of baggage and my heart did break for her and the abusive past that had left her scarred and damaged.
As a bonus...I love a good epilogue, and this one had a GREAT epilogue. Very satisfying. I'm immediately moving on to the next book which also says something!
I love a great office romance, and this one has it all. A great boss/secretary relationship, a business trip that puts them alone together, and a host of entertaining secondary characters that help move the plot along. We are introduced to the couple that will be featured in the next book, and I'm almost looking forward to their story more than Jason and Claire's story!
There were a few things that kept it from being a 5 star read:
* Some parts of the plot lacked believability.....but this is IS fiction:)
* Claire's actions were frustrating from time to time...and there came a point where I wasn't sure that she even deserved Jason!
Even with these minor quibbles, I can definitely recommend this book. Jason was the type of hero that just "works" for me. Alpha, powerful, successful, rich, and completely smitten with the heroine. He's your typical successful CEO and I completely fell for him right along side Claire. Claire had her fair share of baggage and my heart did break for her and the abusive past that had left her scarred and damaged.
As a bonus...I love a good epilogue, and this one had a GREAT epilogue. Very satisfying. I'm immediately moving on to the next book which also says something!
May 29, 2012
This was a cute, sexy romance story. It wasn't as well-developed as some of the really good romance novels are (that ending wrapped up a little too perfectly and too quickly for my tastes), and the characters lacked some of the depth that I prefer to have in this genre, but overall it was entertaining. Claire and Jason were definitely on fire for each other, and the steamy scenes were H-O-T hot!! lol I didn't love the plot with Claire's mom, I found myself skimming through a lot of those scenes. I get that there needs to be a background story around all of the allure and temptation, but this one just didn't keep my interest much. I liked Jason's tendencies to be overprotective, he was sweet and very giving to Claire even though she kind of threw it back in his face most of the time thanks to her history. I wanted to slap her for pushing him away instead of just explaining things to him, but it did give that great heartbreak to the story that I so love!!
Overall, cute story that could have been better with less cheesy dialogue and better character development, but I give it a 3.5 because I enjoyed it!
Overall, cute story that could have been better with less cheesy dialogue and better character development, but I give it a 3.5 because I enjoyed it!
April 24, 2019
This was my first book from this author and I loved the chemistry between our two leads Claire Jason.
The story was well developed and a page turner.
Claire works for Danvers International as as assistant to the CEO Jason. She also supports her mother who has not been well doing a second job that her boss has no clue about. Plus he has no clue to her crush on him,
Jason has never paid much attention to Claire, she does her job and does not bring attention to herself. When he attends a bachelor party and his reliable and conservative assistant jumps out of the cake he sees her in a whole new light.
What these two can’t deny is the intensity of their attraction to each other.
The characters are awesome, her best friend is hilarious and you can’t help but fall in love.
A guaranteed HEA, sexy Alpha and a kick ass heroine.
The story was well developed and a page turner.
Claire works for Danvers International as as assistant to the CEO Jason. She also supports her mother who has not been well doing a second job that her boss has no clue about. Plus he has no clue to her crush on him,
Jason has never paid much attention to Claire, she does her job and does not bring attention to herself. When he attends a bachelor party and his reliable and conservative assistant jumps out of the cake he sees her in a whole new light.
What these two can’t deny is the intensity of their attraction to each other.
The characters are awesome, her best friend is hilarious and you can’t help but fall in love.
A guaranteed HEA, sexy Alpha and a kick ass heroine.
July 11, 2012
Where to start?? This book was full of everything! Drama, heartache, romance, passion, love, witty characters and ended perfectly! I LOVED this book, I couldn't put it down until I knew how everything was going to pan out! I am definitely a huge fan of Sydney and can't wait to read the second book in the Danvers series :) Easily one of my new favs!
April 16, 2015
To start with, after reading about it on Amazon, I was intrigued by the story! It seemed to have so much potential! After reading it, I found that the story wasn't developed to the extent of what I thought it could.... it was so predictable and full of cliches, but that is not always negative... I definitely didn't like that Claire's true reasons for her choices were revealed so early in the book nor that Jason's feelings popped out so suddenly and without any effort!!!
NO! This is not a negative review! The story was sweet and the characters interesting but they lacked something.... The heroine's "daddy issues" were tiring and prevented her from seeing what was in front of her eyes...a loving and caring man that had everything a woman could desire!
It was funny, it was pleasant and worth reading just for the sweet taste left in the end, without the heartache and tears other books of this kind usually bring! Recommended for those looking for a HEA in their books!!! Myself included :o)
NO! This is not a negative review! The story was sweet and the characters interesting but they lacked something.... The heroine's "daddy issues" were tiring and prevented her from seeing what was in front of her eyes...a loving and caring man that had everything a woman could desire!
It was funny, it was pleasant and worth reading just for the sweet taste left in the end, without the heartache and tears other books of this kind usually bring! Recommended for those looking for a HEA in their books!!! Myself included :o)
August 28, 2012
I really liked this book. The author made me smile quite a few times. Like this:
Another part that made me laugh was her her description of her neighbor, William "but call me Billy".
I loved her friend Suzy. She was a fun character and got me excited to read her story.
I know this is kind of a sucky review but I waited too long to review it. :( I can't remember specific thoughts. I just remember liking the over all book.
With the medical bills piling up for her mother, she had gotten desperate for a second income to help make a dent in the constant stream of expenses. While pondering how successful someone such as herself might be as a hooker, and ad in the Sunday paper caught her attention. Okay, so it's Sunday and I shouldn't have been wondering if I could sell my body for extra money while skipping church. Talk about guilt!
Another part that made me laugh was her her description of her neighbor, William "but call me Billy".
I loved her friend Suzy. She was a fun character and got me excited to read her story.
"Girlfriend, you got some explaining to do . I call and call and you never answer. Are we seeing other friends now or something?"
I know this is kind of a sucky review but I waited too long to review it. :( I can't remember specific thoughts. I just remember liking the over all book.
May 18, 2012
Dear Editor of "Weekends Required",
Please stop sleeping on the job.
Sincerely,
Emily
This one had potential but it was lost in about chapter 3 when the excessive use of the character's first names overwhelmed the dialogue. Apparently Jason had been living his entire life with blinders on because as soon as he took his assistant on a weekend "work trip" she became irresistible to him. No build up whatsoever. And what's with Claire being a total klutz? A little mishap is okay but again there was excessive use of this characteristic almost to the point of creating a helplessness in Claire. Couldn't connect with either of the lead characters and the story development was choppy.
Not my cup of tea.
Please stop sleeping on the job.
Sincerely,
Emily
This one had potential but it was lost in about chapter 3 when the excessive use of the character's first names overwhelmed the dialogue. Apparently Jason had been living his entire life with blinders on because as soon as he took his assistant on a weekend "work trip" she became irresistible to him. No build up whatsoever. And what's with Claire being a total klutz? A little mishap is okay but again there was excessive use of this characteristic almost to the point of creating a helplessness in Claire. Couldn't connect with either of the lead characters and the story development was choppy.
Not my cup of tea.
May 31, 2012
More like a 3.5 star rating. I enjoyed it, although it was a little slow to start for me. Once I got into the story, I flew threw it. Jason's character is definitely what made this book enjoyable. There were some cheesy lines, but I was able to overlook that when I was enjoying the storyline. I loved Suzy - her lines were hilarious and I look forward to reading the next book about her!
July 17, 2012
This was not a literary masterpiece by any stretch of the imagination but it was a pleasant read and it ticked all the boxes that I needed ticked - nice romantic story, likeable characters, not too much drama, very little angst, sexy times, predictable ending. I needed a book to soothe my mind after reading quite a depressing story and this book did the trick. I liked it, knowing exactly what to expect from it, I liked the writing style and I am glad I read it. I will even read the sequel.
~ N ♥
http://natashaisabookjunkie.wordpress...
~ N ♥
http://natashaisabookjunkie.wordpress...
December 19, 2014
again, hero is a super dick, heroine a super doormat. he is super/ mega/ uber rich, she is his secretary.. his looks are the most important thing ever, in every situation! and heroine has a magic vagina that is constantly ready! I just can't catch a break...
August 21, 2012
cover & title - 3/5
favorite character - Suz
So i debated if i should leave a bad review or not, to be honest i would rather only post good reviews. The reason i am posting this is because i hate spending money on a dud & i am sure you do too. I must say I am really surprised this made the NY Times best seller list.
This entire book is mind-numbingly flat. The characters are annoying, at points they are totally obtuse. The chemistry is tepid at best. The story-line is a farce & it is actually rather annoying. The fighting that occurs in the book is a feeble attempted to force passion into a dull story. I think i would get more horny reading the bible than i would reading this book.
I would not recommend this book.
For recommendations & reviews of books actually worth reading - http://bookprotagonist.blogspot.co.uk/
favorite character - Suz
So i debated if i should leave a bad review or not, to be honest i would rather only post good reviews. The reason i am posting this is because i hate spending money on a dud & i am sure you do too. I must say I am really surprised this made the NY Times best seller list.
This entire book is mind-numbingly flat. The characters are annoying, at points they are totally obtuse. The chemistry is tepid at best. The story-line is a farce & it is actually rather annoying. The fighting that occurs in the book is a feeble attempted to force passion into a dull story. I think i would get more horny reading the bible than i would reading this book.
I would not recommend this book.
For recommendations & reviews of books actually worth reading - http://bookprotagonist.blogspot.co.uk/
May 28, 2012
What a sweet story. I really enjoyed this one.
October 20, 2013
With my mood clearly not fervoring into jumping to another Young Adult book/series as of the moment (saving my FEELS for Allegiant), I decided to randomly pick from my latest marked books. Well yeah. That's how I ended reading this one.
Weekends Required starts off with Claire working for Danvers Intl. as Jason Danvers' personal assistant. She's been in that position for almost three years already and they've clearly maintained a very professional relationship. But one weekend changed everything ...
Jason has been pushing through with a merger between Danvers Intl and Mericom company. And to do that, he needs to work even on a weekend and obviously with the help of Claire. The catch here is during that specific weekend Jason also needs to attend his friends' bachelor party and wedding. Figures. Claire and Jason ended up travelling to Columbia for the said wedding weekend and will be working on the merger during the free hours. Relax. Laid back. Both of them seeing the other person in a new light. Chemistry. Yada yada.
But wait there's more. A girl needs to do what she needs to do in order to sustain for her mother's medical needs and be able to fend for herself. Claire has this alter-ego/second job and it's quite out of character for her. Poof! Claire pops out of the cake (She's not a stripper!), only to find out that the party she was assigned to that night was at the bachelor party of Jason's friend. ... Well, that's just the start of the story and if you seem interested in it, better pick this one up and read it already!
Story. I actually forgot the blurb for this book, so when I started reading this I was just like "Ohhh maybe they're just gonna be hooking up blah blah blah." But as the story progresses, it proved my assumption wrong. Engk!
This is one of those stories that will make you say that the past is a huge factor of shaping up a person. Weekends Required got it's depth from that. This book is a good take on that idea and I quite enjoyed reading it. Plus points for this book for being a light read.
Oh man. Having dual POVs in a book (especially with main characters) somewhat messes up with my emotions. It's because of the fact that you're being clued in to what they're both thinking and feeling. It sucks to be in that position. It makes me want to jump inside the book, try to shake some sense in to the characters and also console them. But having this element in a story is a huge help in getting to know a great deal about the character's character.
Claire Walters. She's afraid of losing control of her life which was caused by the abuse that they suffered from the hands of her father. It was like every move they make were being controlled by her dad and he used to tell them that they lack intelligence, only dependent to his money dadadada or to sum it all up they were just a bunch of good for nothing people. And that fear of hers happened ...
Jason Danvers. He is Claire's oh-so-hot-boss! It is in his nature to take care of people and fix their problems. (I think you're having a clue already where I'm getting at, am I right?) Well stuff happen blah blah blah and Claire noticed that his ways were sort of similar with his father. Then things got messy from that part... Dagnabit. Honestly, Jason was really way overboard with the things he did. But man was he totally concern for Claire and how sincere he is when he did those stuff. *sigh*
I can say that what happened to him and Claire was "insta-lust upon seeing the other person in a new light" kind of thing (LOL). (How could like years pass without them having a getting to know you in a deeper sense happen? Idk if it's just me or what! Ugh lol help)
Suzy. I love her character. She just lightens up the book with what her playful self out in the open. I kinda ship Grayson and her! I think, they could be a cute couple. She could pretty much help Mr. Uptight loosen up!!!
Bye x
Oh wait. As expected though, Jason and Claire got their HEA!
Weekends Required starts off with Claire working for Danvers Intl. as Jason Danvers' personal assistant. She's been in that position for almost three years already and they've clearly maintained a very professional relationship. But one weekend changed everything ...
Jason has been pushing through with a merger between Danvers Intl and Mericom company. And to do that, he needs to work even on a weekend and obviously with the help of Claire. The catch here is during that specific weekend Jason also needs to attend his friends' bachelor party and wedding. Figures. Claire and Jason ended up travelling to Columbia for the said wedding weekend and will be working on the merger during the free hours. Relax. Laid back. Both of them seeing the other person in a new light. Chemistry. Yada yada.
But wait there's more. A girl needs to do what she needs to do in order to sustain for her mother's medical needs and be able to fend for herself. Claire has this alter-ego/second job and it's quite out of character for her. Poof! Claire pops out of the cake (She's not a stripper!), only to find out that the party she was assigned to that night was at the bachelor party of Jason's friend. ... Well, that's just the start of the story and if you seem interested in it, better pick this one up and read it already!
Story. I actually forgot the blurb for this book, so when I started reading this I was just like "Ohhh maybe they're just gonna be hooking up blah blah blah." But as the story progresses, it proved my assumption wrong. Engk!
This is one of those stories that will make you say that the past is a huge factor of shaping up a person. Weekends Required got it's depth from that. This book is a good take on that idea and I quite enjoyed reading it. Plus points for this book for being a light read.
Oh man. Having dual POVs in a book (especially with main characters) somewhat messes up with my emotions. It's because of the fact that you're being clued in to what they're both thinking and feeling. It sucks to be in that position. It makes me want to jump inside the book, try to shake some sense in to the characters and also console them. But having this element in a story is a huge help in getting to know a great deal about the character's character.
Claire Walters. She's afraid of losing control of her life which was caused by the abuse that they suffered from the hands of her father. It was like every move they make were being controlled by her dad and he used to tell them that they lack intelligence, only dependent to his money dadadada or to sum it all up they were just a bunch of good for nothing people. And that fear of hers happened ...
Jason Danvers. He is Claire's oh-so-hot-boss! It is in his nature to take care of people and fix their problems. (I think you're having a clue already where I'm getting at, am I right?) Well stuff happen blah blah blah and Claire noticed that his ways were sort of similar with his father. Then things got messy from that part... Dagnabit. Honestly, Jason was really way overboard with the things he did. But man was he totally concern for Claire and how sincere he is when he did those stuff. *sigh*
I can say that what happened to him and Claire was "insta-lust upon seeing the other person in a new light" kind of thing (LOL). (How could like years pass without them having a getting to know you in a deeper sense happen? Idk if it's just me or what! Ugh lol help)
Suzy. I love her character. She just lightens up the book with what her playful self out in the open. I kinda ship Grayson and her! I think, they could be a cute couple. She could pretty much help Mr. Uptight loosen up!!!
Bye x
Oh wait. As expected though, Jason and Claire got their HEA!
July 13, 2012
This was a cute enough story. Claire has been working for Jason as a personal assistant for three years. She's had a crush on him all along but he's never noticed her and their boss/employee relationship has always been strictly professional. Claire is experiencing some financial troubles and takes a side job jumping out of cakes at stag parties to make extra money. Unfortunately, one of those parties turns out to be a bachelor party for Jason's best friend. Now, he notices her and he is not exactly thrilled that his employee is working as a stripper on the side. Their first fight is about her side job and it devolves into being over whether she is classified as a stripper or not.
(This part of the book bothers me, btw. It seems like the book goes way overboard to point out the fact that she doesn't strip, doesn't take her clothes off and doesn't give lap dances....yet she still somehow makes a ton in tips. Her job description is depicted as a very sanitized 50's version of a bachelor party pin-up girl. It seems a little far fetched in a contemporary story. Not to mention that she works for who is supposedly a very prominant CEO of a major company. I find it hard to believe that a) she isn't well paid and actually has time for a side job b) she has managed to keep that side job for 3 yrs with no other embarassing reveals in front of clients, collegues etc. until now.)
In record time after seeing jump out of the cake, Jason notices her and decides that he loves her (...again with the far fetched) and wants to help her with her money problems. She has great deal of annoying baggage from her past and as a result, has issues regarding what she perceives as contolling men and her pride won't let her accept his help. She thinks he is trying to control her life by playing Capt. Save-a-ho and paying for sex when it turns out that he has always been generous with his employees and has helped them in times of need. (...again with the far fetched. How is it possible that her best friend, the corporate event planner knows this yet she, his personal assistant for three years doesn't?)
Despite the far fetched nature of some parts of the book, I did enjoy the story. It was also nice to encounter a male lead character that was a "normal" alpha-male. No baggage, no kinky sexual tendencies, isn't motivated by intense jealousy and possessiveness. He's a normal, rational, kinder and gentler version of "Christian Grey". If you have been reading some of the current popular contemporary romances like I have been, you might find that a little refreshing.
(This part of the book bothers me, btw. It seems like the book goes way overboard to point out the fact that she doesn't strip, doesn't take her clothes off and doesn't give lap dances....yet she still somehow makes a ton in tips. Her job description is depicted as a very sanitized 50's version of a bachelor party pin-up girl. It seems a little far fetched in a contemporary story. Not to mention that she works for who is supposedly a very prominant CEO of a major company. I find it hard to believe that a) she isn't well paid and actually has time for a side job b) she has managed to keep that side job for 3 yrs with no other embarassing reveals in front of clients, collegues etc. until now.)
In record time after seeing jump out of the cake, Jason notices her and decides that he loves her (...again with the far fetched) and wants to help her with her money problems. She has great deal of annoying baggage from her past and as a result, has issues regarding what she perceives as contolling men and her pride won't let her accept his help. She thinks he is trying to control her life by playing Capt. Save-a-ho and paying for sex when it turns out that he has always been generous with his employees and has helped them in times of need. (...again with the far fetched. How is it possible that her best friend, the corporate event planner knows this yet she, his personal assistant for three years doesn't?)
Despite the far fetched nature of some parts of the book, I did enjoy the story. It was also nice to encounter a male lead character that was a "normal" alpha-male. No baggage, no kinky sexual tendencies, isn't motivated by intense jealousy and possessiveness. He's a normal, rational, kinder and gentler version of "Christian Grey". If you have been reading some of the current popular contemporary romances like I have been, you might find that a little refreshing.
April 12, 2014
1,5Stars
UGH!!!This totally back fired!
Let me explain:
I am super busy and wanted to listen to something light and fun while I work in the studio.. but also getting my my cute&fluffy fix for the weekend. I was hoping to find a new series to listen to so I could fill my studio time with some cute&fluffy, light fun for the next week.
I got this as an audio-expecting a fluffy romance.
But what I got instead was, well annoying.
I couldn't only not relate to ANY character, there was also no character growth. In short the character building was lacking at best. Each character was so cliche, so predictable that they actually grated on my nerves.
The story line, well I kinda expected predictable- its a romance you know, so it comes with the territory. But I was wrong- it wasn't just predictable it was boring. VERY boring.
The worst thing though- the dialogues. They felt stiff, recycled and half the time just annoyed me.
Though the writing style is not completely terrible, I am not a fan of it. It felt woody and unimaginative at times at other times it was repetitive and felt like Landon was trying to hard.
The only part of this book I thought was actually any good was the smut! Yes, exactly! The SMUT- the only redeeming feature.
Now I happily read books without it- so I am happily rounding this down.
The narrator was ok. Honestly I would have DNFed if I would have read this myself. am not sure if I would recommend the narrator, since I didn't like the book. I think she made the reading more bearable, but I also have heard better narrations.
This book is to cliche and unimaginative for my tastes and it is the perfect example about everything I dislike in a romance novel. Well, except for that smut. That was actually quite yummy. Which is besides the point. Back to the issue at hand: My tenuous relationship with the genre has just been set back by at least ten books. I am not even sure I wanna dare reading or listening to anything in the genre for the foreseeable future.
I don't know if I should just ignore this and jump right back into cute and fluffy- cause I definitely didn't get my cutesy fix or if I should just go back to fantasy. Thing is instead of ranting right now, I really should be working. BUT Weekends Required just totally messed up my audio plans and my happy vibe. I am now forced to scour Audible for something to fix the mess my cute&fluffy fail has caused. Wish me luck or even better send me recommendations for really good audiobooks that I might like!
Needles to say I wont be going on with this series.
UGH!!!This totally back fired!
Let me explain:
I am super busy and wanted to listen to something light and fun while I work in the studio.. but also getting my my cute&fluffy fix for the weekend. I was hoping to find a new series to listen to so I could fill my studio time with some cute&fluffy, light fun for the next week.
I got this as an audio-expecting a fluffy romance.
But what I got instead was, well annoying.
I couldn't only not relate to ANY character, there was also no character growth. In short the character building was lacking at best. Each character was so cliche, so predictable that they actually grated on my nerves.
The story line, well I kinda expected predictable- its a romance you know, so it comes with the territory. But I was wrong- it wasn't just predictable it was boring. VERY boring.
The worst thing though- the dialogues. They felt stiff, recycled and half the time just annoyed me.
Though the writing style is not completely terrible, I am not a fan of it. It felt woody and unimaginative at times at other times it was repetitive and felt like Landon was trying to hard.
The only part of this book I thought was actually any good was the smut! Yes, exactly! The SMUT- the only redeeming feature.
Now I happily read books without it- so I am happily rounding this down.
The narrator was ok. Honestly I would have DNFed if I would have read this myself. am not sure if I would recommend the narrator, since I didn't like the book. I think she made the reading more bearable, but I also have heard better narrations.
This book is to cliche and unimaginative for my tastes and it is the perfect example about everything I dislike in a romance novel. Well, except for that smut. That was actually quite yummy. Which is besides the point. Back to the issue at hand: My tenuous relationship with the genre has just been set back by at least ten books. I am not even sure I wanna dare reading or listening to anything in the genre for the foreseeable future.
I don't know if I should just ignore this and jump right back into cute and fluffy- cause I definitely didn't get my cutesy fix or if I should just go back to fantasy. Thing is instead of ranting right now, I really should be working. BUT Weekends Required just totally messed up my audio plans and my happy vibe. I am now forced to scour Audible for something to fix the mess my cute&fluffy fail has caused. Wish me luck or even better send me recommendations for really good audiobooks that I might like!
Needles to say I wont be going on with this series.
October 22, 2012
This book is the first book in the Danvers Series, and I can't wait to read the rest. The two main characters in this book are Claire and Jason. Claire has been Jason's assistant at Danvers International for the last three years. She has always been very plain Jane, wearing her hair pulled back with brown, beige, or tan clothing. Jason has been very pleased with her work but never saw her as more than an assistant. Claire is very professional but can't help fantasizing about her boss.
A little background on Claire: She comes from a home with an abusive father. He is no longer alive because he died in a car accident along with Claire's sister, Chrissie. Claire's mother is unable to take care of herself as she is suffering from Alzheimers and diabetes. Louise, a very close family friend, helps care for Claire's mother. There is much expense involved in taking care of her mother, so Claire has had to take on a second job which is for Partiez Plus. She jumps out of cakes at bachelor parties.
Claire's worst nightmare comes true when she jumps out of a cake at a particular bachelor party and Jason is at the party. He immediately recognizes her but can't believe how beautiful she is. He is mesmerized and also confused as to why she has this side job. He suddenly because determined to learn more about her and find out why she has this job. He does not like the thought of other men ogling her.
Jason learns of Claire's situation and begins to understand why she has her second job. He tries to be helpful and take charge of things in her life. He believes he is helping her; she believes he is showing controlling tendencies which reminds her of her father. She decides to break things off with him because she does not want to ever be in the same situation as her mother was in. They are both heartbroken because by this time they are both in love.
Claire's mother explains to Jason what Claire's concerns are, so he realizes he needs to change his ways. Claire comes to the conclusion that Jason is really only trying to be helpful and look after her, not control her. They realize they both have things to work on, but they would rather work on those things together rather than be apart.
This is a great love story, but it is also a story about learning how to let go of the past so a future is possible. Both characters have to grow and learn to be trusting. I can't wait to read the second book in the series, Not Planning on You, which I have already downloaded! Weekends Required gets five out of five stars from me.
A little background on Claire: She comes from a home with an abusive father. He is no longer alive because he died in a car accident along with Claire's sister, Chrissie. Claire's mother is unable to take care of herself as she is suffering from Alzheimers and diabetes. Louise, a very close family friend, helps care for Claire's mother. There is much expense involved in taking care of her mother, so Claire has had to take on a second job which is for Partiez Plus. She jumps out of cakes at bachelor parties.
Claire's worst nightmare comes true when she jumps out of a cake at a particular bachelor party and Jason is at the party. He immediately recognizes her but can't believe how beautiful she is. He is mesmerized and also confused as to why she has this side job. He suddenly because determined to learn more about her and find out why she has this job. He does not like the thought of other men ogling her.
Jason learns of Claire's situation and begins to understand why she has her second job. He tries to be helpful and take charge of things in her life. He believes he is helping her; she believes he is showing controlling tendencies which reminds her of her father. She decides to break things off with him because she does not want to ever be in the same situation as her mother was in. They are both heartbroken because by this time they are both in love.
Claire's mother explains to Jason what Claire's concerns are, so he realizes he needs to change his ways. Claire comes to the conclusion that Jason is really only trying to be helpful and look after her, not control her. They realize they both have things to work on, but they would rather work on those things together rather than be apart.
This is a great love story, but it is also a story about learning how to let go of the past so a future is possible. Both characters have to grow and learn to be trusting. I can't wait to read the second book in the series, Not Planning on You, which I have already downloaded! Weekends Required gets five out of five stars from me.
August 25, 2012
This was a cute, sweet fast read and I enjoyed it quite a bit. The MC is adorable, if sometimes a bit self-defeating, but c'mon there's gotta be some conflict, right? I liked how they sort of stayed together during the misunderstanding part, instead of rushing off and stewing about it, this time their mutual need overcame that and kept them engaged, if at odds. It's a romance, and a tenderhearted one at that, too. Suzy, her best friend, is a super charming character, and I'm glad to hear she's getting her own book in the series next. Have fun reading this, I sure did!
August 22, 2015
Vallahi morale en çok ihtiyacım olduğu zamanlarda elime aldım..Bir çırpıda bitirdim..
Yazara devam edeceğim..Birbirini üç yıl farketmemeleri mantık dışı değil bence..Aşkta mantık yoktur bir anda gelir ne olduğunu anlamazsınız...Kurgu yönünden çok işlenmiş bir konu idi ancak bu Beyaz Dizi tarzındaki kitabı çok sevdim...
Jason karakterini çok mükemmel bir erkek görüntüsü ile kontrolcü bir adam dı..Claire'in karakterinde ise zorba bir babanın izleri vardı..
Tam bir şezlong kitabı idi..Çok iyi moral oldu..
Yazara devam edeceğim..Birbirini üç yıl farketmemeleri mantık dışı değil bence..Aşkta mantık yoktur bir anda gelir ne olduğunu anlamazsınız...Kurgu yönünden çok işlenmiş bir konu idi ancak bu Beyaz Dizi tarzındaki kitabı çok sevdim...
Jason karakterini çok mükemmel bir erkek görüntüsü ile kontrolcü bir adam dı..Claire'in karakterinde ise zorba bir babanın izleri vardı..
Tam bir şezlong kitabı idi..Çok iyi moral oldu..
January 3, 2023
Overall rating: 3.5 stars
Plot: 7/10
Ending: 7/10
Writing: 5/10
Hero: 6/10
Heroine: 6/10
Humour: 4/10
Steaminess: 5/10
HEA:
Plot: 7/10
Ending: 7/10
Writing: 5/10
Hero: 6/10
Heroine: 6/10
Humour: 4/10
Steaminess: 5/10
HEA:
June 27, 2023
Claire has been working for Jason Danvers as his assistant for that last couple of years. Jason has never seen Claire as a desirable woman, but all that changes when they go away for a weekend and Jason discovers Claire's secret job. She jumps out of cakes at bachelor parties and works for a party planning company. When she jumps out of his best friend's cake wearing lingerie he is shocked and intrigued. He wants to know what has his normally reserved assistant is doing this job for. He also finds himself drawn to her and wanting to be with her.
When Jason finds out that her mother is sick and Claire is doing this to make ends meet for herself and her family he wants to help but goes about it the wrong way offering her money and to cover her expenses. Claire is stubborn and refuses to take his help but then discovers that he is not doing it to get her into bed but because he sincerely wants to and cares about her.
The two start seeing each other when Jason makes it a requirement that she work on the weekends with him and at first things are going really well but all that changes when Claire discovers a file of Jason's. The file explains that he personally covered a loan she received and got her fired from her other job. She is worried that Jason is too much like her abusive father and terrified of becoming her mother so she ends things with him leaving them both heartbroken. She must work through the ghosts of the past and find out the truth about her past from her mother to get her happily ever after.
I liked this book. Claire was in a tough situation having to work for the party planning place to cover her mother's bills and take of her Alzheimer's medication. I liked that as she and Jason started seeing each other she became more confident and started wearing bolder clothes and colors. It was nice that she had both her mom and Louise in her life to look after her. Jason was a bit controlling but it came from a good place and I was happy that by the end of the book he was working on those personality traits so that he and Claire could have a happy relationship.
When Jason finds out that her mother is sick and Claire is doing this to make ends meet for herself and her family he wants to help but goes about it the wrong way offering her money and to cover her expenses. Claire is stubborn and refuses to take his help but then discovers that he is not doing it to get her into bed but because he sincerely wants to and cares about her.
The two start seeing each other when Jason makes it a requirement that she work on the weekends with him and at first things are going really well but all that changes when Claire discovers a file of Jason's. The file explains that he personally covered a loan she received and got her fired from her other job. She is worried that Jason is too much like her abusive father and terrified of becoming her mother so she ends things with him leaving them both heartbroken. She must work through the ghosts of the past and find out the truth about her past from her mother to get her happily ever after.
I liked this book. Claire was in a tough situation having to work for the party planning place to cover her mother's bills and take of her Alzheimer's medication. I liked that as she and Jason started seeing each other she became more confident and started wearing bolder clothes and colors. It was nice that she had both her mom and Louise in her life to look after her. Jason was a bit controlling but it came from a good place and I was happy that by the end of the book he was working on those personality traits so that he and Claire could have a happy relationship.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 17, 2018
Hafta Sonu Kaçamağı
Sydney Landon
Çerezlik bir seri daha. Akıcı bir kalemle yazılmış. Karekterler yerinde. Tek takıldığım hemen herseyin bir anda olmasi sanırım. Birde kızı kaç yıl hiç görmeyen adam saçları açık olduğunda fark ediyor sonra onu koruması altına alıyor tabi bu bekarlığa veda partisinde pastanın içinden seksi şekilde çıktığı için hız kazanıyor.
Asistan patron ilişkisi
Ama bir şey var kesinlikle kolayca okunup güzel bir tat bırakıyor size. İkinci kitap olan Arkadaşının hikayesini merak ediyorum.
Burada ki erkek karekteri fazla iyi buldum😈 bu denli iyi erkek okumaya alışık değilim
Sydney Landon
Çerezlik bir seri daha. Akıcı bir kalemle yazılmış. Karekterler yerinde. Tek takıldığım hemen herseyin bir anda olmasi sanırım. Birde kızı kaç yıl hiç görmeyen adam saçları açık olduğunda fark ediyor sonra onu koruması altına alıyor tabi bu bekarlığa veda partisinde pastanın içinden seksi şekilde çıktığı için hız kazanıyor.
Asistan patron ilişkisi
Ama bir şey var kesinlikle kolayca okunup güzel bir tat bırakıyor size. İkinci kitap olan Arkadaşının hikayesini merak ediyorum.
Burada ki erkek karekteri fazla iyi buldum😈 bu denli iyi erkek okumaya alışık değilim
April 5, 2012
The only reason why I managed to finish this book as quickly as I did, was because I was stuck in a hospital for two days, with nothing to do but read. Trust me, that is not a good thing. Had I been home, it would have taken me more than a week to get through this one.
Nothing annoyed me as much in this book as how the author used he said she said in the book. Without exception, it was always verb before noun/name. Let's put that to the test where we swap out the names with the nouns, shall we?
Author: Admitted Jason.
Swap 1: Admitted he.
Correct grammar: He admitted.
Swap 2: Jason admitted.
Author: Stammered Claire.
Swap1 : Stammered she.
Correct grammar: She stammered.
Swap 2: Claire stammered.
Author: Offered Jason.
Swap 1: Offered he.
Correct grammar: He offered.
Swap 2: Jason offered.
See where I'm going with this? In dialogue, it's never 'said he/did she' - it's he said/she did'. Noun/name before verb. The other way around only serves to make for awkward reading, and is most often found in fanfiction. There are some books who sport verb before noun, but they are rare.
This is one of the bigger issues with the book, but there are more. Like continuity issues. At one point Claire lives with her mother, then a few pages in, she's living on her own. At first we learn that Jason lives in the penthouse above his offices, then towards the end of the book he lives in a house he designed and has been for years. In the beginning we learn Jason only eats take away since he can't cook, but towards the end he's quite handy in the kitchen and can whip up a number of meals.
We also learn early on that Claire's dad was never physically abusive to anyone, he just yelled a lot and had a mean way with words. Towards the end, it is strongly hinted at that he also was physically abusive to her mom. Again it seemed like the author forgot about very cruicial details and just randomly changed characteristics.
It feels like once a chapter was done, the author completely forgot how the little details went. Which is an issue which is also often found in fanfiction due to one chapter being written, posted, reviewed, and then some time later the author writes another chapter following the same format. In the end so much time has passed by, what was written weeks ago is vague and often details are forgotten.
I'm not claiming this is a rewrite (pulled to publish), but it sure does read like one. Both the author and the book would have benefitted greatly from brining on a good editor who could have picked up on all these things. Using your friends to correct your grammar doesn't help, a professional is a much safer bet.
I nearly fell out of my chair when the author called Claire a drama queen. That was the first time I whole-heartedly agreed with the author. And I was nearly 3/4 done with the book at this point.
In parts, a lot of info-dumping happened all at once, making for a lot of skimming. And it was too heavy on the telling and not a lot of showing going on. A lack of balance, if you will.
A heroine who keeps lying, even if it's explained ad nauseaum why and how much she hated it, it's just... Off-putting. Makes for an even less likeable heroine. Had she avoided the subjects she had to lie about. Had she chosen to not reply when asked about her whereabouts. Anything would have been better than the outright lying.
And I never warmed to the sudden, but very handy solution to all of Claire's financial problems. It seemed to come from left field, and as if it was written in to just wrap up the story already.
Seeing how lately I have been literally attacked over some of my negative reviews, here's a lil' something to chew on from the Goodreads guidelines before you decide to use me as an outlet for your frustraions: "Please don't flag items for having foul language, as Goodreads does not believe in censoring content and will not delete anything for foul language alone. Negative book reviews do not count as inappropriate."
Nothing annoyed me as much in this book as how the author used he said she said in the book. Without exception, it was always verb before noun/name. Let's put that to the test where we swap out the names with the nouns, shall we?
Author: Admitted Jason.
Swap 1: Admitted he.
Correct grammar: He admitted.
Swap 2: Jason admitted.
Author: Stammered Claire.
Swap1 : Stammered she.
Correct grammar: She stammered.
Swap 2: Claire stammered.
Author: Offered Jason.
Swap 1: Offered he.
Correct grammar: He offered.
Swap 2: Jason offered.
See where I'm going with this? In dialogue, it's never 'said he/did she' - it's he said/she did'. Noun/name before verb. The other way around only serves to make for awkward reading, and is most often found in fanfiction. There are some books who sport verb before noun, but they are rare.
This is one of the bigger issues with the book, but there are more. Like continuity issues. At one point Claire lives with her mother, then a few pages in, she's living on her own. At first we learn that Jason lives in the penthouse above his offices, then towards the end of the book he lives in a house he designed and has been for years. In the beginning we learn Jason only eats take away since he can't cook, but towards the end he's quite handy in the kitchen and can whip up a number of meals.
We also learn early on that Claire's dad was never physically abusive to anyone, he just yelled a lot and had a mean way with words. Towards the end, it is strongly hinted at that he also was physically abusive to her mom. Again it seemed like the author forgot about very cruicial details and just randomly changed characteristics.
It feels like once a chapter was done, the author completely forgot how the little details went. Which is an issue which is also often found in fanfiction due to one chapter being written, posted, reviewed, and then some time later the author writes another chapter following the same format. In the end so much time has passed by, what was written weeks ago is vague and often details are forgotten.
I'm not claiming this is a rewrite (pulled to publish), but it sure does read like one. Both the author and the book would have benefitted greatly from brining on a good editor who could have picked up on all these things. Using your friends to correct your grammar doesn't help, a professional is a much safer bet.
I nearly fell out of my chair when the author called Claire a drama queen. That was the first time I whole-heartedly agreed with the author. And I was nearly 3/4 done with the book at this point.
In parts, a lot of info-dumping happened all at once, making for a lot of skimming. And it was too heavy on the telling and not a lot of showing going on. A lack of balance, if you will.
A heroine who keeps lying, even if it's explained ad nauseaum why and how much she hated it, it's just... Off-putting. Makes for an even less likeable heroine. Had she avoided the subjects she had to lie about. Had she chosen to not reply when asked about her whereabouts. Anything would have been better than the outright lying.
And I never warmed to the sudden, but very handy solution to all of Claire's financial problems. It seemed to come from left field, and as if it was written in to just wrap up the story already.
Seeing how lately I have been literally attacked over some of my negative reviews, here's a lil' something to chew on from the Goodreads guidelines before you decide to use me as an outlet for your frustraions: "Please don't flag items for having foul language, as Goodreads does not believe in censoring content and will not delete anything for foul language alone. Negative book reviews do not count as inappropriate."
July 5, 2012
Slick's review posted on Guilty Pleasures
I love “discovering” new authors but I really love it when I realize an author I enjoy hasn’t ever been reviewed on this site. You see, I’ve been following this site for a long time. First I just cyber stalked, sounds naughty doesn’t it? Then I started commenting and finally I applied to be a reviewer and the rest they say is history. I can honestly “blame” Guilty Pleasures with my Amazon.com habit, although Amazon should probably write them a huge thank you note! I absolutely love sharing my love of reading with others and I love, love introducing readers to authors they haven’t read before.
Weekends Required is the first published work by Sydney Landon. It’s a novella but the characters are well developed and there is more to this story than wham, bam, thank you mam’!
Claire has worked as Jason Danver’s administrative assistant for three years. While she’s secretly lusted after him, she’s kept it to herself knowing she can’t afford to loose her job. Claire not only supports herself but takes care of her ailing mother as well. To do this she has a second job with a party service which includes jumping out of cakes for bachelor parties. When Jason sees his buttoned up assistant jumping out of a cake, he about blows a gasket. He can’t believe this is the demure woman he’s worked with for years.
Because this is a novella, the relationship between these two moves fairly quickly. But, since they’ve known each other and worked closely for several years it doesn’t seem out of place. We learn early on the Claire grew up with a controlling and verbally abusive father. Jason grew up taking care of his alcoholic mother and dealing with a workaholic father.
To say their path towards happily ever after was difficult is an understatement. Jason is just an all around great guy, something that Claire doesn’t even realize. What Jason sees as caring, Claire sees as controlling. Claire is so worried about following in her Mother’s footsteps that she really is her own worse enemy. It takes her good friend, the hilarious Suzy, and the woman who she considers a second Mom, Louise, to make her confront how her past is affecting her future.
For a first effort, this is a great story. Although I read it when it was first released, a second reading prior to her latest release left me feeling the same way…happy and eagerly anticipating the next book. I hope you’ll check out this promising new(ish) author. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed!
I love “discovering” new authors but I really love it when I realize an author I enjoy hasn’t ever been reviewed on this site. You see, I’ve been following this site for a long time. First I just cyber stalked, sounds naughty doesn’t it? Then I started commenting and finally I applied to be a reviewer and the rest they say is history. I can honestly “blame” Guilty Pleasures with my Amazon.com habit, although Amazon should probably write them a huge thank you note! I absolutely love sharing my love of reading with others and I love, love introducing readers to authors they haven’t read before.
Weekends Required is the first published work by Sydney Landon. It’s a novella but the characters are well developed and there is more to this story than wham, bam, thank you mam’!
Claire has worked as Jason Danver’s administrative assistant for three years. While she’s secretly lusted after him, she’s kept it to herself knowing she can’t afford to loose her job. Claire not only supports herself but takes care of her ailing mother as well. To do this she has a second job with a party service which includes jumping out of cakes for bachelor parties. When Jason sees his buttoned up assistant jumping out of a cake, he about blows a gasket. He can’t believe this is the demure woman he’s worked with for years.
Because this is a novella, the relationship between these two moves fairly quickly. But, since they’ve known each other and worked closely for several years it doesn’t seem out of place. We learn early on the Claire grew up with a controlling and verbally abusive father. Jason grew up taking care of his alcoholic mother and dealing with a workaholic father.
To say their path towards happily ever after was difficult is an understatement. Jason is just an all around great guy, something that Claire doesn’t even realize. What Jason sees as caring, Claire sees as controlling. Claire is so worried about following in her Mother’s footsteps that she really is her own worse enemy. It takes her good friend, the hilarious Suzy, and the woman who she considers a second Mom, Louise, to make her confront how her past is affecting her future.
For a first effort, this is a great story. Although I read it when it was first released, a second reading prior to her latest release left me feeling the same way…happy and eagerly anticipating the next book. I hope you’ll check out this promising new(ish) author. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed!
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